text:
The following charges stated below apply to ALL accounts including, Investment Trading Account, Joint Investment Trading Account, Stocks and Shares ISA Trading Account, Stocks and Shares Junior ISA Trading Account and SIPP Trading Account.
0.10% per annum above £1m.
This charge is subject to a minimum of £12.50 per quarter. This charge is calculated daily, based upon the value of your investments and charged to the account at quarterly intervals on 31st March, 30th June, 30th September and 31st December each year.
Telephone dealing All telephone dealing instructions will be subject to an additional dealing charge of £25.
Dividend administration charge £2 per dividend administration charge for each distribution (including accumulation distributions) allocated to the account, limited to the value of the distribution allocated where less than £2.
Stamp duty or SDRT on all UK share purchases is payable at the prevailing rate at the time of dealing.
0.5% SDRT on UK share purchases settled through CREST, rounded up to the nearest 1p.
0.5% stamp duty on UK share purchases not settled through CREST, rounded up to the nearest £5.
From 28 April 2014, SDRT & Stamp Duty will no longer be chargeable on transactions in eligible securities on London Stock Exchange’s AIM and High Growth Segment.
Additional SIPP (pension) charges (For complete charges, please see Carey pensions full Fee Schedule on our website). The following SIPP charges are in addition to the above charges. All SIPP fees are subject to VAT, which is currently 20%.
Annual fee depends on the value of your SIPP.
The first year fee is from the date of establishment to 31st December and charged in advance. Renewals are on 1st January each year thereafter.
For the transfer of assets other than cash, excluding property and non-standard investments.
Transfer in from overseas / international Time cost, please contact us. The applicable rate will be advised beforehand.
Calculation of Benefits £150 per quote (in advance). Applies to partial, full or phased.
Client/Trustee meetings £200 plus travel. Hourly rate for senior member of team/Trustee attendance. The applicable rate will be advised before the meeting is set up.
The investments you choose may have their own initial and annual charges and bid/offer spread, set and levied by the manager of that investment. Please read the Key Investor Information Document (KIID), prospectus, factsheet and the key documents for your chosen investment carefully. Stamp duty may also be applicable for certain shares.
The charges above (excluding SIPP) will be shared between JBS and Simply Ethical as agreed between both parties. Simply Ethical or JBS does not receive anything from the above SIPP charges.
The SIPP allows access to standard or mainstream investments only. Please contact us, should you have any queries.

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the following charges stated below apply to all accounts including, investment trading account, joint investment trading account, stocks and shares isa trading account, stocks and shares junior isa trading account and sipp trading account.
0.10% per annum above £1m.
this charge is subject to a minimum of £12.50 per quarter. this charge is calculated daily, based upon the value of your investments and charged to the account at quarterly intervals on 31st march, 30th june, 30th september and 31st december each year.
telephone dealing all telephone dealing instructions will be subject to an additional dealing charge of £25.
dividend administration charge £2 per dividend administration charge for each distribution (including accumulation distributions) allocated to the account, limited to the value of the distribution allocated where less than £2.
stamp duty or sdrt on all uk share purchases is payable at the prevailing rate at the time of dealing.
0.5% sdrt on uk share purchases settled through crest, rounded up to the nearest 1p.
0.5% stamp duty on uk share purchases not settled through crest, rounded up to the nearest £5.
from 28 april 2014, sdrt & stamp duty will no longer be chargeable on transactions in eligible securities on london stock exchange’s aim and high growth segment.
additional sipp (pension) charges (for complete charges, please see carey pensions full fee schedule on our website). the following sipp charges are in addition to the above charges. all sipp fees are subject to vat, which is currently 20%.
annual fee depends on the value of your sipp.
the first year fee is from the date of establishment to 31st december and charged in advance. renewals are on 1st january each year thereafter.
for the transfer of assets other than cash, excluding property and non-standard investments.
transfer in from overseas / international time cost, please contact us. the applicable rate will be advised beforehand.
calculation of benefits £150 per quote (in advance). applies to partial, full or phased.
client/trustee meetings £200 plus travel. hourly rate for senior member of team/trustee attendance. the applicable rate will be advised before the meeting is set up.
the investments you choose may have their own initial and annual charges and bid/offer spread, set and levied by the manager of that investment. please read the key investor information document (kiid), prospectus, factsheet and the key documents for your chosen investment carefully. stamp duty may also be applicable for certain shares.
the charges above (excluding sipp) will be shared between jbs and simply ethical as agreed between both parties. simply ethical or jbs does not receive anything from the above sipp charges.
the sipp allows access to standard or mainstream investments only. please contact us, should you have any queries.


text:
THANK YOU FOR BEING PART OF THE SANDERS GENIUS PD PANEL! YOUR FELLOW PD WOULD APPRECIATE YOUR HONEST FEEDBACK ABOUT HIS/HER STATION…NO MATTER HOW PAINFUL!
WHEN DONE LISTENING, PLEASE CLICK “FINISHED” BELOW.
Finished listening? Click here to start calling their baby ugly!
WAS THE MORNING SHOW ENTERTAINING?
WAS THE CHARACTER OF EACH MEMBER OF THE MORNING SHOW WELL DEFINED?

lowercased:
thank you for being part of the sanders genius pd panel! your fellow pd would appreciate your honest feedback about his/her station…no matter how painful!
when done listening, please click “finished” below.
finished listening? click here to start calling their baby ugly!
was the morning show entertaining?
was the character of each member of the morning show well defined?


text:
Interested in hosting a Golf Outing at Brentwood Golf Club?
Want to warm up before your event? We have a driving range package available for all outings.
Newly Renovated Outside Pavilion – Holds up to 120+ golfers.

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interested in hosting a golf outing at brentwood golf club?
want to warm up before your event? we have a driving range package available for all outings.
newly renovated outside pavilion – holds up to 120+ golfers.


text:
This lunch cooler is the ideal way to make your logo look great!
• Heavy-weight, non-woven polypropylene material stands up well to daily use.
• Non-woven exterior with a foil-lined insulated interior in a striking color block pattern.
• Large front accent pocket and full top zippered main compartment.
• The easiest way to make sure your logo gets seen everyday!
• Also available as part of The Essential Five Gift Set (122030).

lowercased:
this lunch cooler is the ideal way to make your logo look great!
• heavy-weight, non-woven polypropylene material stands up well to daily use.
• non-woven exterior with a foil-lined insulated interior in a striking color block pattern.
• large front accent pocket and full top zippered main compartment.
• the easiest way to make sure your logo gets seen everyday!
• also available as part of the essential five gift set (122030).


text:
I have been to the lake on weekdays, as well as weekends. It can get very busy, particularly on weekends. Although the main carpark is large, a free spot can be hard to find during peak times. I have never had a problem getting a car space on a weekday.
The newly renovated playground and barbeque areas attract families and picnickers. On sunny days and weekends, coffee, ice cream and snack vans are a regular feature in the car park.
The lake trail itself is 2.5km’s and there are 10km’s of trails around the lake. There are two unfenced off lead areas. The off-leash area at the north west end of the lake is the most used section for dogs to play. The creek running nearby is picturesque and there are quite often dogs taking a dip. The other off-leash area is often empty so is great for dogs who prefer to have sniff around rather than boisterous play.
Dogs must be onlead in all other areas, including the two man-made beach areas. The main trail around the lake is an easy, flat walk and is a shared path with plenty of space to step off the track to let cyclists pass. There are seats scattered around the lake to sit and enjoy the view. There are dog waste bags and bins provided in a few places around the lake. Public toilets are located near the main carpark.
The Smokery is approximately a 10 – 15 minute walk from the lake. There are a few 2-person outdoor tables partially undercover. This is the second time I have visited this café and the food was amazing both times. The cappuccino was just how I like it, not overly strong or too milky. Between my husband and myself, we had the pulled pork burger and the Cubano which were both full of flavour. The chips are potentially the best chips I’ve ever eaten and come with a surprise piece of deep fried cream cheese at the bottom of the basket. The owner is lovely and came outside with some meat scraps to feed the dogs and have a chat. I can’t wait until my next visit.
This entry was posted in BLOG: DOG TRAILS WITH A SIDE OF COFFEE. Bookmark the permalink.

lowercased:
i have been to the lake on weekdays, as well as weekends. it can get very busy, particularly on weekends. although the main carpark is large, a free spot can be hard to find during peak times. i have never had a problem getting a car space on a weekday.
the newly renovated playground and barbeque areas attract families and picnickers. on sunny days and weekends, coffee, ice cream and snack vans are a regular feature in the car park.
the lake trail itself is 2.5km’s and there are 10km’s of trails around the lake. there are two unfenced off lead areas. the off-leash area at the north west end of the lake is the most used section for dogs to play. the creek running nearby is picturesque and there are quite often dogs taking a dip. the other off-leash area is often empty so is great for dogs who prefer to have sniff around rather than boisterous play.
dogs must be onlead in all other areas, including the two man-made beach areas. the main trail around the lake is an easy, flat walk and is a shared path with plenty of space to step off the track to let cyclists pass. there are seats scattered around the lake to sit and enjoy the view. there are dog waste bags and bins provided in a few places around the lake. public toilets are located near the main carpark.
the smokery is approximately a 10 – 15 minute walk from the lake. there are a few 2-person outdoor tables partially undercover. this is the second time i have visited this café and the food was amazing both times. the cappuccino was just how i like it, not overly strong or too milky. between my husband and myself, we had the pulled pork burger and the cubano which were both full of flavour. the chips are potentially the best chips i’ve ever eaten and come with a surprise piece of deep fried cream cheese at the bottom of the basket. the owner is lovely and came outside with some meat scraps to feed the dogs and have a chat. i can’t wait until my next visit.
this entry was posted in blog: dog trails with a side of coffee. bookmark the permalink.


text:
I do not agree with my church president’s forced apology over Newtown, Conn.
This morning, I read something in the St. Louis-Post Dispatch that disturbed me greatly. I didn’t say anything about it until I had a chance to confirm with my pastor that it is true.
The business section of the Post-Dispatch had a good article on avoiding college debt. It’s tricky, as even Mizzou costs $22,000 a year now. I’m pretty sure when I was a Tiger, it was more like $10,000 a year, though I had scholarships that knocked that down even more.

lowercased:
i do not agree with my church president’s forced apology over newtown, conn.
this morning, i read something in the st. louis-post dispatch that disturbed me greatly. i didn’t say anything about it until i had a chance to confirm with my pastor that it is true.
the business section of the post-dispatch had a good article on avoiding college debt. it’s tricky, as even mizzou costs $22,000 a year now. i’m pretty sure when i was a tiger, it was more like $10,000 a year, though i had scholarships that knocked that down even more.


text:
Many governmental and commercial organizations have implemented smart cards as their preferred method for Multi-factor Authentication. This post explains how to configure Centrify Identity Service or Centrify Privilege Service to provide authentication using Smart Cards. This article provides the configuration steps to enable Smartcard (certificate)-based authentication for CIS or CPS.
Generally, cryptographic credentials (user certificates) are stored in the smartcard (PIV or CAC card) and the system has a dedicated reader. Upon successful authentication (credentials verified and PIN submitted) the operating system or application will use a standard protocol (like Kerberos) or a one-time-code to grant access to the system or application.
For example, Centrify Server Suite allows the user of Kerberos for SSO to applications like Secure Shell (SSH). Our DirectAuthorize can enforce if the user is allowed to log in with a password or with Kerberos/GSSAPI only.
In the case of Identity Service and Privilege Service, we use a Centrify capability called Zero Sign-on (SZO). SZO provides a one-time token to use for authentication if the Authentication Profile that applies to the user is configured for Certificate-based Authentication. All the user needs to do is navigate to the CIS/CPS site, select the smart card certificate and PIN.
This setup provides strong authentication to access Apps or for Privileged Identity Management scenarios.
Public Key Infrastructure Infrastructure (Enterprise CA, Revocation Infrastructure, well-configured PKI clients) and understanding of how the subject name is being provisioned.
A copy of the Certificate Chain (or Root CA) for your PKI infrastructure.
A SmartCard or Yubikey configured for authentication into your environment.
This post contains instructions to set up a lab. See "Lab - Base Setup"
Strong Disclaimer: This is a PKI-related topic. You should always be workign with your PKI SME with anything related to certificates, trust chains, revocations, etc.
The configuration depends on the deployment option of the service.
Note: If you can't see the Certificate Authorities option, you're not running the App+ edition or in the case of Privilege Service on-premises, you have to perform the activation steps (see below).
Click Browse and select the location of the root ca certificate.
If you are confident that you have a highly-distributed (Internal & Internet facing) Certificate revocation infrastructure, check the "Enable Client Certificate Revocation Check" if you are not sure un-check the box for now.
Note: If you don't know what PKI certificate revocation is, it's time to find your in-house PKI expert and get him or her involved. This is a serious topic.
Set the "Enable authentication policy controls" setting to Yes, if not selected.
The first setting "Use certificates for authentication..." is the main switch. If you un-check this box, the users in scope for this policy won't be able to use smart cards for authentication. This bypasses any controls set under "Login Authentication" in the preceding section.
The second setting "Set identity cookie..." controls whether the cookie is set for the browser. I would not set this flag if you expect users to access via non-managed systems.
The third setting "Accept connections using certificate..." defines whether if users logging in with smart cards or certs are treated as "strongly-authenticated"
Make your selections based on your desired security posture.
Once you type-in the PIN, you'll be redirected to the appropriate portal (User | Cloud Manager | Privilege Manager).
Background: Centrify Privilege Service can be deployed on premises on a Windows Server 2012 R2 system. You need a CNAME record for the Zero Sign-On website and a x.509 certificate with that DNS name.
a) Set-up a DNS CNAME record to with the name hostname[zso].domain.name pointing to the hostname.domain.name. E.g. if your system name is app1.corp.contoso.com, create a CNAME record to app1zso.corp.contoso.com and point it to the original host name.
b) You need an SSL Certificate with the DNSname for the SZO special host.
Run the setup_certauth.ps1 script. The program will ask if the pre-requisites have been met.
Confirm and you'll be prompted to provide the x.509 (SSL) cert for the SZO site.
Once completed, you can return to Cloud Manager and perform the steps outlined above in the: "Configuring the Root CA in Identity Service App+ or Privilege Service (SaaS)" section.

lowercased:
many governmental and commercial organizations have implemented smart cards as their preferred method for multi-factor authentication. this post explains how to configure centrify identity service or centrify privilege service to provide authentication using smart cards. this article provides the configuration steps to enable smartcard (certificate)-based authentication for cis or cps.
generally, cryptographic credentials (user certificates) are stored in the smartcard (piv or cac card) and the system has a dedicated reader. upon successful authentication (credentials verified and pin submitted) the operating system or application will use a standard protocol (like kerberos) or a one-time-code to grant access to the system or application.
for example, centrify server suite allows the user of kerberos for sso to applications like secure shell (ssh). our directauthorize can enforce if the user is allowed to log in with a password or with kerberos/gssapi only.
in the case of identity service and privilege service, we use a centrify capability called zero sign-on (szo). szo provides a one-time token to use for authentication if the authentication profile that applies to the user is configured for certificate-based authentication. all the user needs to do is navigate to the cis/cps site, select the smart card certificate and pin.
this setup provides strong authentication to access apps or for privileged identity management scenarios.
public key infrastructure infrastructure (enterprise ca, revocation infrastructure, well-configured pki clients) and understanding of how the subject name is being provisioned.
a copy of the certificate chain (or root ca) for your pki infrastructure.
a smartcard or yubikey configured for authentication into your environment.
this post contains instructions to set up a lab. see "lab - base setup"
strong disclaimer: this is a pki-related topic. you should always be workign with your pki sme with anything related to certificates, trust chains, revocations, etc.
the configuration depends on the deployment option of the service.
note: if you can't see the certificate authorities option, you're not running the app+ edition or in the case of privilege service on-premises, you have to perform the activation steps (see below).
click browse and select the location of the root ca certificate.
if you are confident that you have a highly-distributed (internal & internet facing) certificate revocation infrastructure, check the "enable client certificate revocation check" if you are not sure un-check the box for now.
note: if you don't know what pki certificate revocation is, it's time to find your in-house pki expert and get him or her involved. this is a serious topic.
set the "enable authentication policy controls" setting to yes, if not selected.
the first setting "use certificates for authentication..." is the main switch. if you un-check this box, the users in scope for this policy won't be able to use smart cards for authentication. this bypasses any controls set under "login authentication" in the preceding section.
the second setting "set identity cookie..." controls whether the cookie is set for the browser. i would not set this flag if you expect users to access via non-managed systems.
the third setting "accept connections using certificate..." defines whether if users logging in with smart cards or certs are treated as "strongly-authenticated"
make your selections based on your desired security posture.
once you type-in the pin, you'll be redirected to the appropriate portal (user | cloud manager | privilege manager).
background: centrify privilege service can be deployed on premises on a windows server 2012 r2 system. you need a cname record for the zero sign-on website and a x.509 certificate with that dns name.
a) set-up a dns cname record to with the name hostname[zso].domain.name pointing to the hostname.domain.name. e.g. if your system name is app1.corp.contoso.com, create a cname record to app1zso.corp.contoso.com and point it to the original host name.
b) you need an ssl certificate with the dnsname for the szo special host.
run the setup_certauth.ps1 script. the program will ask if the pre-requisites have been met.
confirm and you'll be prompted to provide the x.509 (ssl) cert for the szo site.
once completed, you can return to cloud manager and perform the steps outlined above in the: "configuring the root ca in identity service app+ or privilege service (saas)" section.


text:
Most of the working world looks forward to casual Fridays and just about everyone looks forward to the warm spring/summer weather. Casual Fridays and warm weather together is a total win-win, right? Ummm….not always. I say this because, for many of us, warm weather with the option to wear casual clothes can make getting dressed in the morning a bit tricky. During the winter months most of us stick with things like jeans and sweaters or khaki pants and collared shirts for casual Friday’s, but the warmer weather brings more options, and more options means more chances to get it wrong.
I recently moved from Washington DC up to Boston, the North End to be specific, and wanted to share with you a couple Do’s and Don’ts I learned along the way.
Starting a new job is scary but also exciting. Seeing as I just started here at Castle, I am currently experiencing many of these emotions. Everyone here is so friendly and I plan to take full advantage of the beautiful city of Boston just across the bridge. However, each company does things differently which can make people nervous for their first week at work. Having just finished mine, I put together a list of 10 tips for starting a new job.
I have been lucky enough to work with The Castle Group for the last week and it’s been fantastic. Travelling all the way from its PRGN sister agency in London (Spider PR), I was truly welcomed into the team and what a week it has been!

lowercased:
most of the working world looks forward to casual fridays and just about everyone looks forward to the warm spring/summer weather. casual fridays and warm weather together is a total win-win, right? ummm….not always. i say this because, for many of us, warm weather with the option to wear casual clothes can make getting dressed in the morning a bit tricky. during the winter months most of us stick with things like jeans and sweaters or khaki pants and collared shirts for casual friday’s, but the warmer weather brings more options, and more options means more chances to get it wrong.
i recently moved from washington dc up to boston, the north end to be specific, and wanted to share with you a couple do’s and don’ts i learned along the way.
starting a new job is scary but also exciting. seeing as i just started here at castle, i am currently experiencing many of these emotions. everyone here is so friendly and i plan to take full advantage of the beautiful city of boston just across the bridge. however, each company does things differently which can make people nervous for their first week at work. having just finished mine, i put together a list of 10 tips for starting a new job.
i have been lucky enough to work with the castle group for the last week and it’s been fantastic. travelling all the way from its prgn sister agency in london (spider pr), i was truly welcomed into the team and what a week it has been!


text:
Eye-catching Cube Shaped Vanilla Scented Lip Moisturizer. Strong ABS plastic with safety seal for added protection. 4 oz/ 12g. FDA Compliant. SPF Free. Also available with an optional matching color silicone rubber carry leash. Leash comes in blue, red, lime and white colors. Available with a spot color or PhotoImage® Full Color Imprint.
For additional Colors add: $0.30(G) plus setup charge.
For Photoimage Full Color Imprint add: $0.30(G) plus setup charge.
Blank Goods: We require a minimum of 2 full production days to ship out blanks. Orders received before 5PM PST will ship 2 business days from the day the order is received. Orders received after 5PM PST will be assigned as received the following day. Production Time if optional leash attachment is requested is 3 full production days.
Please note: Small shifting of imprint cannot be avoided when printing. As each product is manufactured and printed individually, up to 3/16” movement in logo alignment may occur. Lip Moisturizers are intended for individual use and cannot be compared.

lowercased:
eye-catching cube shaped vanilla scented lip moisturizer. strong abs plastic with safety seal for added protection. 4 oz/ 12g. fda compliant. spf free. also available with an optional matching color silicone rubber carry leash. leash comes in blue, red, lime and white colors. available with a spot color or photoimage® full color imprint.
for additional colors add: $0.30(g) plus setup charge.
for photoimage full color imprint add: $0.30(g) plus setup charge.
blank goods: we require a minimum of 2 full production days to ship out blanks. orders received before 5pm pst will ship 2 business days from the day the order is received. orders received after 5pm pst will be assigned as received the following day. production time if optional leash attachment is requested is 3 full production days.
please note: small shifting of imprint cannot be avoided when printing. as each product is manufactured and printed individually, up to 3/16” movement in logo alignment may occur. lip moisturizers are intended for individual use and cannot be compared.


text:
Choosing the right platform is critical. To help us find the right one for you, we’ll need to understand what else you’re doing.
Does your site need to connect with an in-store EPOS system?
Which carrier do you ship products with?

lowercased:
choosing the right platform is critical. to help us find the right one for you, we’ll need to understand what else you’re doing.
does your site need to connect with an in-store epos system?
which carrier do you ship products with?


text:
In a recent research report, Datica uncovered interesting trends in digital health, including healthcare cloud trends. One of the interesting trends we discovered was that, within healthcare, the definition of cloud is no longer only scoped to SaaS any longer as it had been in the recent past. In fact, healthcare companies are turning to cloud infrastructure services to help manage costs and increasing complexities.
In light of this trend, we thought it a good time to once again define the three service delivery models prevalent in healthcare companies today.
SaaS is a model for accessing an hosted application developed by a vendor. Typically, access is through a web app, mobile app, or an API. And it is is usually billed by user, API calls, or seats and billing is subscription-based.
Subscription-based models have implications for customers because of the low capital expense to get started and implications for SaaS vendors because of the security issues and cost considerations. The classic example of SaaS is Salesforce CRM; Salesforce has moved into PaaS (Force.com) but it started as SaaS and still generates the bulk of its revenue from SaaS. There are literally tons of other SaaS vendors we all use daily — Box, Zendesk, MailChimp, Moz, Maketo, and Hubspot are just a few. In terms of customer control, this is the most limited delivery model of cloud computing.
PaaS models allow you to deploy and scale your own application to cloud infrastructure without managing servers and/or databases. You may have some control over the infrastructure but it is limited.
This as the blank slate of cloud computing that has been the driving disruptive force in computing over the last 15 years and is a huge cloud focus for hospital CIOs in 2017. As opposed to SaaS and PaaS, which build layers of abstraction to interact with customers and keep them away from the OS, IaaS vendors provide customers with access to operating system and sometimes network components.
You can think of it as a hosted linux prompt. AWS and Rackspace are the prototypes for this. This is usually the cheapest option. It’s a blank slate, and developers can customize down to the OS level. With that control comes more responsibility and ultimately more time spent on infrastructure. The decision that needs to be made in assessing IaaS is whether time and resources should be spent configuring servers and databases, or does it make more sense to spend a little more money on infrastructure but have more resources for your core product and differentiation. Or, in other words, should you choose a PaaS offering or stay with IaaS?
If you plan on interacting with PHI in any other way beyond simply storing it, you would be wise to consider a PaaS like Datica. Our Datica Platform lets you move fast on the world’s leading infrastructure providers, like AWS or Microsoft Azure, while keeping the compliance folks happy.

lowercased:
in a recent research report, datica uncovered interesting trends in digital health, including healthcare cloud trends. one of the interesting trends we discovered was that, within healthcare, the definition of cloud is no longer only scoped to saas any longer as it had been in the recent past. in fact, healthcare companies are turning to cloud infrastructure services to help manage costs and increasing complexities.
in light of this trend, we thought it a good time to once again define the three service delivery models prevalent in healthcare companies today.
saas is a model for accessing an hosted application developed by a vendor. typically, access is through a web app, mobile app, or an api. and it is is usually billed by user, api calls, or seats and billing is subscription-based.
subscription-based models have implications for customers because of the low capital expense to get started and implications for saas vendors because of the security issues and cost considerations. the classic example of saas is salesforce crm; salesforce has moved into paas (force.com) but it started as saas and still generates the bulk of its revenue from saas. there are literally tons of other saas vendors we all use daily — box, zendesk, mailchimp, moz, maketo, and hubspot are just a few. in terms of customer control, this is the most limited delivery model of cloud computing.
paas models allow you to deploy and scale your own application to cloud infrastructure without managing servers and/or databases. you may have some control over the infrastructure but it is limited.
this as the blank slate of cloud computing that has been the driving disruptive force in computing over the last 15 years and is a huge cloud focus for hospital cios in 2017. as opposed to saas and paas, which build layers of abstraction to interact with customers and keep them away from the os, iaas vendors provide customers with access to operating system and sometimes network components.
you can think of it as a hosted linux prompt. aws and rackspace are the prototypes for this. this is usually the cheapest option. it’s a blank slate, and developers can customize down to the os level. with that control comes more responsibility and ultimately more time spent on infrastructure. the decision that needs to be made in assessing iaas is whether time and resources should be spent configuring servers and databases, or does it make more sense to spend a little more money on infrastructure but have more resources for your core product and differentiation. or, in other words, should you choose a paas offering or stay with iaas?
if you plan on interacting with phi in any other way beyond simply storing it, you would be wise to consider a paas like datica. our datica platform lets you move fast on the world’s leading infrastructure providers, like aws or microsoft azure, while keeping the compliance folks happy.


text:
Aussie Crates recently had to design a custom made duckboard for a very special customer. Usually when we design a duckboard it is only to cover a very small workshop area so that the workers can walk around safely without tripping.
Duckboards are usually used on factories with concrete floors as it provides a comfortable platform for workers who stands in one place as the flex of timbers are easier on legs than concrete.
This time around however, we faced a challenge of making the duckboards over 7 metres long, 310mm high, multilevel and with steps! It wasn’t an easy task but it was one that was happily accepted by our team! We had to come up with something that was functional and easy to be moved around by our customer, yet with different elevation heights.
Aussie Crates proposed an idea, did a CAD drawing for our customer which was accepted and started building the duckboards.
I think the finished product looks pretty good. Who said we were only a timber packaging company?

lowercased:
aussie crates recently had to design a custom made duckboard for a very special customer. usually when we design a duckboard it is only to cover a very small workshop area so that the workers can walk around safely without tripping.
duckboards are usually used on factories with concrete floors as it provides a comfortable platform for workers who stands in one place as the flex of timbers are easier on legs than concrete.
this time around however, we faced a challenge of making the duckboards over 7 metres long, 310mm high, multilevel and with steps! it wasn’t an easy task but it was one that was happily accepted by our team! we had to come up with something that was functional and easy to be moved around by our customer, yet with different elevation heights.
aussie crates proposed an idea, did a cad drawing for our customer which was accepted and started building the duckboards.
i think the finished product looks pretty good. who said we were only a timber packaging company?


text:
Seated, from left: Jamie Owens, Tricia Lavender, Sara Peebles, Elaine Clark, Mayor Marva Gipson, Linda Colvin, Carol McKinzey, Debbie Gentry. Standing, from left: Johnie McKinzey, Brenda Coshatt, Carol Jo Hagerman, Brenda Bailey, Beth Powell, Sallie Alston, Sandra Kuykendall, Jane Gwinn, Mary Tucker, Weezie Noland, Kathy Colvin, Connie Johnston, Jean McBride, Jo Anne Young, and Pat Wilson.
Tuesday, October 9, 2018, Aliceville Gardeners decorated Broad Street with pumpkin people, pumpkins, mums, and hay bales to prepare for the Aliceville Street Fair that was held Saturday, October 20.
The club is grateful for the generous financial support provided by the City of Aliceville and Chamber of Commerce, the hay bales donated by Jeff McClure, and set-up and labor provided by Hubert Colvin, Donnie Sanders, Joe Collins, and Dr. Jim Gentry.

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seated, from left: jamie owens, tricia lavender, sara peebles, elaine clark, mayor marva gipson, linda colvin, carol mckinzey, debbie gentry. standing, from left: johnie mckinzey, brenda coshatt, carol jo hagerman, brenda bailey, beth powell, sallie alston, sandra kuykendall, jane gwinn, mary tucker, weezie noland, kathy colvin, connie johnston, jean mcbride, jo anne young, and pat wilson.
tuesday, october 9, 2018, aliceville gardeners decorated broad street with pumpkin people, pumpkins, mums, and hay bales to prepare for the aliceville street fair that was held saturday, october 20.
the club is grateful for the generous financial support provided by the city of aliceville and chamber of commerce, the hay bales donated by jeff mcclure, and set-up and labor provided by hubert colvin, donnie sanders, joe collins, and dr. jim gentry.


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Interesting 35MM purple Amethyst pyramids, a beautiful decorative object.
A stunning purple Amethyst pyramid, with a 35MM square base. This will make a nice display piece, and would look beautiful with an LED or another form of light shining through the base.
Some people believe pyramids possess a certain energy, and may help with crystal healing.
Amethyst is a gorgeous purple stone, which has been used for carving for thousands of years. See the link below for more information.
We sell a range of other Amethyst products, including tumblestones, carvings, and cabochons for jewellery – see our Amethyst page for more information about the stone and a list of these products.

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interesting 35mm purple amethyst pyramids, a beautiful decorative object.
a stunning purple amethyst pyramid, with a 35mm square base. this will make a nice display piece, and would look beautiful with an led or another form of light shining through the base.
some people believe pyramids possess a certain energy, and may help with crystal healing.
amethyst is a gorgeous purple stone, which has been used for carving for thousands of years. see the link below for more information.
we sell a range of other amethyst products, including tumblestones, carvings, and cabochons for jewellery – see our amethyst page for more information about the stone and a list of these products.


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Realtors influence the perception of local public schools. They are often the first contact for many people considering a move into a new city. Unfortunately, as is the case in Pasadena, realtors often repeat misinformation without having an up-to-date, accurate understanding about how the local public schools are truly performing.
In Pasadena, the Pasadena Educational Foundation (PEF) in partnership with the Pasadena Education Network (PEN) have been working on a “Realtor Initiative” in an effort to make sure that realtors are better informed about their local public schools. It was great to discover this Partners Trust blog post sharing about the important work being done by both PEF and PEN. Partners Trust also co-sponsored a screening of the GO PUBLIC film last May.
We hope more real estate companies will follow Partners Trust example and make a sincere effort to get to know their local public schools so they are better informed and willing to communicate accurate information to their clients and others. Their voice and influence matters!
Coming up in March, watch for “Realtors Read Across America”, a special effort that is part of Dr. Seuss’ Read Across America the week of March 1. Realtors will visit and read to K-5 graders at the elementary school in the neighborhood where they specialize. A wonderful way to combine a visit to a public school campus, community care and business savvy. WIN, WIN, WIN!

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realtors influence the perception of local public schools. they are often the first contact for many people considering a move into a new city. unfortunately, as is the case in pasadena, realtors often repeat misinformation without having an up-to-date, accurate understanding about how the local public schools are truly performing.
in pasadena, the pasadena educational foundation (pef) in partnership with the pasadena education network (pen) have been working on a “realtor initiative” in an effort to make sure that realtors are better informed about their local public schools. it was great to discover this partners trust blog post sharing about the important work being done by both pef and pen. partners trust also co-sponsored a screening of the go public film last may.
we hope more real estate companies will follow partners trust example and make a sincere effort to get to know their local public schools so they are better informed and willing to communicate accurate information to their clients and others. their voice and influence matters!
coming up in march, watch for “realtors read across america”, a special effort that is part of dr. seuss’ read across america the week of march 1. realtors will visit and read to k-5 graders at the elementary school in the neighborhood where they specialize. a wonderful way to combine a visit to a public school campus, community care and business savvy. win, win, win!


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Effect: The character is unbalanced and can not take any action for one turn.
Cure by: Wears off after one turn. Can be avoided after equipping Balance Rune.

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effect: the character is unbalanced and can not take any action for one turn.
cure by: wears off after one turn. can be avoided after equipping balance rune.


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Yesterday, I attended Lookbook’s brunch at Tavern On Rush. ProjectCity PR did such an amazing job! The table setting was too freakin’ cute! I was loving the florals and centerpieces and the Spring vibe feel. Here’s a glimpse of the table on Instagram. I had such an awesome time sipping on mimosas and bellinis with my favorite girls and of course munching on some amazing food! I highly recommend the tuna tartare and crab cake benedict. The weather was also gorgeous! Everyone was out and in such good moods. It was so nice to finally see some outdoor seating. I couldn’t resist wearing this Asos dress. It was perfect for the occasion. It’s casual but still girly and scored it for $15!! Ridiculous right?! The best part is that it is super comfortable.
Have you entered to win a $25 gift card to Mint Julep Boutique yet? If not, enter in the Rafflecopter widget below. Only a couple days left until it ends!
Great dress!! That is why I love Asos because you can find such great pieces for awesome prices it just takes some hunting skills lol. Sounds like the brunch was fun!
Adorable look! I love that dress, and it is so cute paired with your fun clutch!
Absolutely love this dress! And for $15 how can you beat it?! Gorgeous, as always.
Thanks Alecia! I know, you can't beat the price!
The red dress and denim jacket combination is so perfect!
Happy Monday, darling! Looking fabulous, as always! I really love your outfit!! And I feel so bad that I missed the brunch yesterday! Looked like a lot of fun but my son wasn't feeling well yesterday! What a bummer!
Anyhow, sending you much love!
Thanks Vanessa! No worries! I hope your son is feeling much better!
Your brunch look couldn't be cuter! I love the color of the dress, and the accent of leopard.
Love the dress, this look is so pretty! Lovely blog!
It sounds like such a fun event! You looked great, too! Red is so your color!
Such a great color on you Rach! Love this leopard clutch too.
What a fabulous event you had the pleasure of attending! This color is lovely on you! That dress is such a steal!
Sounds like it was a wonderful event! Love the outfit…the dress is so pretty!
This is such a great color on you. And look at those arms! Werk!
Sounds like so much fun! You chose the perfect outfit for the event. I love the high neck and sleeveless combo. Your leopard bag looks great with the color.
That dress looks great on you!! Bonus when it's on sale AND comfy.
Thanks Jackie! I think the price definitely made the decision easy to make the purchase haha!
Such a pretty dress, gorgeous color!
Cute outfit! Love that pop of color and I'm super excited for spring! Yay!
Thanks Samantha! So excited for warmer temps!
How cool! I had no idea that Lookbook hosted brunch meet-ups. Also you look amazing as always, that dress is just stunning!
Yea I had no idea either! Thank you Liz!
Lovely outfit… I like the orange!
love the dress and the clutch! such a pretty look!
Pretty dress! Love the top portion especially.
I LOVE this dress and can't believe it is ONLY $15…. so tempted, but I'm trying to do a new thing and not show for new pieces! aghhhh!
I know I couldn't believe it either! Haha good luck, that would be so hard for me!
This color was meant for you!!!!!!!
This dress is gorgeous on you! The color is insane and I love it with the leopard clutch!
Thanks Ivete! Hope you have a great weekend!
Love this look! This is such a great dress, the color is so vibrant and great for spring. Love how you paired it with a leopard clutch. Leopard is my fav! So faaaab!!!

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yesterday, i attended lookbook’s brunch at tavern on rush. projectcity pr did such an amazing job! the table setting was too freakin’ cute! i was loving the florals and centerpieces and the spring vibe feel. here’s a glimpse of the table on instagram. i had such an awesome time sipping on mimosas and bellinis with my favorite girls and of course munching on some amazing food! i highly recommend the tuna tartare and crab cake benedict. the weather was also gorgeous! everyone was out and in such good moods. it was so nice to finally see some outdoor seating. i couldn’t resist wearing this asos dress. it was perfect for the occasion. it’s casual but still girly and scored it for $15!! ridiculous right?! the best part is that it is super comfortable.
have you entered to win a $25 gift card to mint julep boutique yet? if not, enter in the rafflecopter widget below. only a couple days left until it ends!
great dress!! that is why i love asos because you can find such great pieces for awesome prices it just takes some hunting skills lol. sounds like the brunch was fun!
adorable look! i love that dress, and it is so cute paired with your fun clutch!
absolutely love this dress! and for $15 how can you beat it?! gorgeous, as always.
thanks alecia! i know, you can't beat the price!
the red dress and denim jacket combination is so perfect!
happy monday, darling! looking fabulous, as always! i really love your outfit!! and i feel so bad that i missed the brunch yesterday! looked like a lot of fun but my son wasn't feeling well yesterday! what a bummer!
anyhow, sending you much love!
thanks vanessa! no worries! i hope your son is feeling much better!
your brunch look couldn't be cuter! i love the color of the dress, and the accent of leopard.
love the dress, this look is so pretty! lovely blog!
it sounds like such a fun event! you looked great, too! red is so your color!
such a great color on you rach! love this leopard clutch too.
what a fabulous event you had the pleasure of attending! this color is lovely on you! that dress is such a steal!
sounds like it was a wonderful event! love the outfit…the dress is so pretty!
this is such a great color on you. and look at those arms! werk!
sounds like so much fun! you chose the perfect outfit for the event. i love the high neck and sleeveless combo. your leopard bag looks great with the color.
that dress looks great on you!! bonus when it's on sale and comfy.
thanks jackie! i think the price definitely made the decision easy to make the purchase haha!
such a pretty dress, gorgeous color!
cute outfit! love that pop of color and i'm super excited for spring! yay!
thanks samantha! so excited for warmer temps!
how cool! i had no idea that lookbook hosted brunch meet-ups. also you look amazing as always, that dress is just stunning!
yea i had no idea either! thank you liz!
lovely outfit… i like the orange!
love the dress and the clutch! such a pretty look!
pretty dress! love the top portion especially.
i love this dress and can't believe it is only $15…. so tempted, but i'm trying to do a new thing and not show for new pieces! aghhhh!
i know i couldn't believe it either! haha good luck, that would be so hard for me!
this color was meant for you!!!!!!!
this dress is gorgeous on you! the color is insane and i love it with the leopard clutch!
thanks ivete! hope you have a great weekend!
love this look! this is such a great dress, the color is so vibrant and great for spring. love how you paired it with a leopard clutch. leopard is my fav! so faaaab!!!


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Below are the nutrition facts and Weight Watchers points for BK Breakfast Muffin Sandwich w/ Egg and Cheese from BK .
There are 220 calories in a BK Breakfast Muffin Sandwich w/ Egg and Cheese from Burger King. Most of those calories come from fat (37%) and carbohydrates (41%).
Is the BK Breakfast Muffin Sandwich w/ Egg and Cheese good for you?
Does the BK Breakfast Muffin Sandwich w/ Egg and Cheese taste good?

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below are the nutrition facts and weight watchers points for bk breakfast muffin sandwich w/ egg and cheese from bk .
there are 220 calories in a bk breakfast muffin sandwich w/ egg and cheese from burger king. most of those calories come from fat (37%) and carbohydrates (41%).
is the bk breakfast muffin sandwich w/ egg and cheese good for you?
does the bk breakfast muffin sandwich w/ egg and cheese taste good?


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Mourners lit candles for the Polish government officials who died in Saturday’s plane crash.
Candles flickered Monday in the palms of the 18 people who came to commemorate the plane crash that killed Polish President Lech Kaczysnki and numerous Polish government officials on Saturday. The afternoon vigil was held in Manning Chapel.
“As someone whose great-grandfather was killed in the Katyn massacre that (on) Saturday victims were flying to commemorate … I felt this whole thing struck very close to home,” wrote Sara Weschler ’10, during the silent vigil.
Members of the Polish government were flying in memory of the massacre of Polish soldiers in the Katyn forest during World War II, the very forest that the plane went down in.
“The dark, dark symbolism of the whole situation — the weight that Katyn already carries in the Polish national memory — it’s all too much somehow… as though that place were truly cursed for us,” Weschler wrote.
The chords of a piano punctured the silence that reigned between remarks from University Chaplain Janet Cooper Nelson and Michael Kennedy, director of the Watson Institute for International Studies.
“We’re connected, in ways that I think are probably surprising. So, this is our tragedy,” Cooper Nelson said, mentioning not only the Polish citizens who reside at Brown, but the role Poland plays in academics and the ancestry of people at Brown.
“We are without words to capture all that this tragedy means for those in Poland and beyond,” Cooper Nelson said.
“Let us pray this tragedy does not rehearse a repertoire of mistrust among nations,” Kennedy said, referring to troubled relations between Russia and Poland.
Kennedy hopes to see “mornings of grief turned into days of peace,” he said.

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mourners lit candles for the polish government officials who died in saturday’s plane crash.
candles flickered monday in the palms of the 18 people who came to commemorate the plane crash that killed polish president lech kaczysnki and numerous polish government officials on saturday. the afternoon vigil was held in manning chapel.
“as someone whose great-grandfather was killed in the katyn massacre that (on) saturday victims were flying to commemorate … i felt this whole thing struck very close to home,” wrote sara weschler ’10, during the silent vigil.
members of the polish government were flying in memory of the massacre of polish soldiers in the katyn forest during world war ii, the very forest that the plane went down in.
“the dark, dark symbolism of the whole situation — the weight that katyn already carries in the polish national memory — it’s all too much somehow… as though that place were truly cursed for us,” weschler wrote.
the chords of a piano punctured the silence that reigned between remarks from university chaplain janet cooper nelson and michael kennedy, director of the watson institute for international studies.
“we’re connected, in ways that i think are probably surprising. so, this is our tragedy,” cooper nelson said, mentioning not only the polish citizens who reside at brown, but the role poland plays in academics and the ancestry of people at brown.
“we are without words to capture all that this tragedy means for those in poland and beyond,” cooper nelson said.
“let us pray this tragedy does not rehearse a repertoire of mistrust among nations,” kennedy said, referring to troubled relations between russia and poland.
kennedy hopes to see “mornings of grief turned into days of peace,” he said.


text:
Gold Mining Ball Mill, Buy Various High Quality Gold Mining Ball Mill Products from Global Gold Mining ... Small Ball Grinding Mill for labortory, Gold Mining Ball .
Artisanal and small-scale gold mining accounts for a significant portion of the current global gold ... fine gold particles after grinding the ore in a ball mill and.
Small Scale Mining Ball Mill, Buy Various High Quality Small Scale Mining Ball Mill Products from Global ... Small Scale Mining Machine Ball Mill for Gold Ore.

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gold mining ball mill, buy various high quality gold mining ball mill products from global gold mining ... small ball grinding mill for labortory, gold mining ball .
artisanal and small-scale gold mining accounts for a significant portion of the current global gold ... fine gold particles after grinding the ore in a ball mill and.
small scale mining ball mill, buy various high quality small scale mining ball mill products from global ... small scale mining machine ball mill for gold ore.


text:
One of the largest and most influential trade shows in the electric power industry, E-Power covers all aspects of the power industry chain, including power transmission and distribution, smart grid, power equipment and generating sets, and electrical accessories.
Exhibits of China EPOWER included power generation, power transformation, power transmission and distribution, distributed energy, terminal application, wind energy, and data center equipments and technology. Through the optimization of exhibition area, "generation of electrical energy, power transmission and distribution, and intelligent application " has unified effectively, and better linked the upstream and downstream industry chain and market, provideda procurement, inspection, and communication platform to industry users from all over the world.
Jingrui,Nanjing Electric,Changhong Plastics Group,ROTAREX,Firetec,Accuenergy,Shenjie Environmental,Zhejiang Yu a n y a , H a n g z h o u Ti a n b o , K E P C O , L I N K K , F L O W O I L , A b l o y, R o n g Q i n B u s , E L S P E C , S h a n g h a I Electric,Cummins,Caterpillar,Kohler Power,Wartsila,Mitsubishi,Volvo Penta,Aksa Power,Perkins,Mecc Alte,MAN,Pauway Power,Wuxi Kipor,Mpmc Group,Weichai Power,Guangxi Yuchai,FG Wilson,Sanvani,Googol,Power HF,Kangwo Power,Shanghai Diesel and other companies exhibited, and brought the latest products and services to visitors.

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one of the largest and most influential trade shows in the electric power industry, e-power covers all aspects of the power industry chain, including power transmission and distribution, smart grid, power equipment and generating sets, and electrical accessories.
exhibits of china epower included power generation, power transformation, power transmission and distribution, distributed energy, terminal application, wind energy, and data center equipments and technology. through the optimization of exhibition area, "generation of electrical energy, power transmission and distribution, and intelligent application " has unified effectively, and better linked the upstream and downstream industry chain and market, provideda procurement, inspection, and communication platform to industry users from all over the world.
jingrui,nanjing electric,changhong plastics group,rotarex,firetec,accuenergy,shenjie environmental,zhejiang yu a n y a , h a n g z h o u ti a n b o , k e p c o , l i n k k , f l o w o i l , a b l o y, r o n g q i n b u s , e l s p e c , s h a n g h a i electric,cummins,caterpillar,kohler power,wartsila,mitsubishi,volvo penta,aksa power,perkins,mecc alte,man,pauway power,wuxi kipor,mpmc group,weichai power,guangxi yuchai,fg wilson,sanvani,googol,power hf,kangwo power,shanghai diesel and other companies exhibited, and brought the latest products and services to visitors.


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Service Manual For The 320dl is good choice for you that looking for nice reading experience. We hope you glad to visit our website. Please read our description and our privacy and policy page.
Finally I get this ebook, thanks for all these Service Manual For The 320dl can get now!

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service manual for the 320dl is good choice for you that looking for nice reading experience. we hope you glad to visit our website. please read our description and our privacy and policy page.
finally i get this ebook, thanks for all these service manual for the 320dl can get now!


text:
Catholic Church and the Royal Commission on Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.
MICHAEL KELLY SJ. Six archbishops examined by Australian judge.
An extraordinary piece of evidence presented to the Commission is that up to 7% of Australian Catholic clergy have been child abusers.

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catholic church and the royal commission on institutional responses to child sexual abuse.
michael kelly sj. six archbishops examined by australian judge.
an extraordinary piece of evidence presented to the commission is that up to 7% of australian catholic clergy have been child abusers.


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Lebanon's pro-Western government has drafted a constitutional amendment that would allow army chief Michel Suleiman to become head of state.
The draft law announced Monday would grant General Suleiman an exemption from a constitutional provision that bars senior public servants from running for president while in office.
Lebanon's ruling coalition and pro-Syrian opposition have agreed in principle that the army chief should become president, filling a post that has been vacant for a month. But the two sides remain divided on the make-up of a new government to be established after parliament votes for a president.
The government's draft constitutional amendment must be submitted to parliament for approval. Parliament's pro-Syrian speaker, Nabih Berri, has said he will reject legislation from a government he says is illegitimate because it contains no opposition ministers.
Berri last week postponed a parliamentary vote on a new president for a 10th time to this coming Saturday. He has vowed to keep delaying the vote until the ruling coalition and opposition reach a final agreement.
The Lebanese opposition is demanding guarantees of veto power in a future unity government, as part of a broader deal with the ruling coalition. The government wants the army chief to be elected first.

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lebanon's pro-western government has drafted a constitutional amendment that would allow army chief michel suleiman to become head of state.
the draft law announced monday would grant general suleiman an exemption from a constitutional provision that bars senior public servants from running for president while in office.
lebanon's ruling coalition and pro-syrian opposition have agreed in principle that the army chief should become president, filling a post that has been vacant for a month. but the two sides remain divided on the make-up of a new government to be established after parliament votes for a president.
the government's draft constitutional amendment must be submitted to parliament for approval. parliament's pro-syrian speaker, nabih berri, has said he will reject legislation from a government he says is illegitimate because it contains no opposition ministers.
berri last week postponed a parliamentary vote on a new president for a 10th time to this coming saturday. he has vowed to keep delaying the vote until the ruling coalition and opposition reach a final agreement.
the lebanese opposition is demanding guarantees of veto power in a future unity government, as part of a broader deal with the ruling coalition. the government wants the army chief to be elected first.


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This page will hold all the blog posts made by other people. There have been many people effected by my cancer journey and I would love for anyone who wants to their stories to be able to do so. If you are interested in writing a blog post, please e-mail it to me and I will post it. Some people (ex: Steve) may be making semi-regular posts.
It seems inevitable that as the year draws to a close, we look back over the past 12 months, think of the good (and the not-so-good) things that have transpired, and muse about how the upcoming year may unfold.
For our family, this past year has been like no other – difficult, distressing, demanding, and yet strangely uplifting as it has played out.
Maybe not so odd that a much-quoted-quote from Dickens came to mind during these end-of-year musings. To be sure I had remembered it correctly, I looked up the quote but found when I did that the original phrasing seemed to fall in the wrong order.
The worst of times – the darkness of Lynsey’s brain tumour diagnosis.
The best of times – the rise of an absolutely incredible number of supporters… not just Lynsey’s official Firecrackers team who provided such strong support before, during, and after the Spring Sprint fundraiser for the Brain Tumour Foundation in May, but the many, MANY people – friends, relatives, neighbours, friends of friends, co-workers, even complete strangers – who rallied ‘round with prayers, advice, rides, donations, research, friendship, financial support, and yes, even SOUP!
The year of UN-believability – how was it possible that our beautiful, full-of-energy daughter who had just started out on her very promising career, could be diagnosed with a brain tumour?!
The year of Reality – MRI’s and neurosurgeons don’t lie.
The season of Darkness – the 12 month ‘sentence’ of chemotherapy with its many accompanying challenges and side effects – and, of course, worry.
The spring of Hope – discovering many medical and personal support opportunities, including the discovery of YACC (Young Adult Cancer Canada) and the knowledge that people – around the world in fact! – were, and ARE holding Lynsey in their thoughts.
Months of Despair – the months of despair.
We had nothing before us, we had everything before us – the ‘nothing-ness’ of being POST-chemo coupled with the sense that new possibilities lie before us leaves us open to explore ALL options with a very positive attitude.
…and THAT is as close to Dickensian as I shall EVER be, I’m sure!
During the past year, our family’s life seems to exemplify Levi-Montalcini’s words – many extremely ‘difficult moments’ but definite evidence of ‘the best’ coming from them.
with things in a way that continually blows me away, and makes me feel privileged to be by her side on this journey.
The remarkable rise of supporters around our family is another of those ‘best’ things this year. The old adage about the cream rising to the top really applies here, for we have seen people who were mere acquaintances prior to this year become the closet of friends, and complete strangers encircle our family with support in many forms.
And the last, but certainly not the least of the ‘best’ things have been the stripping away of the insignificant in our lives and a fine-tuning of the focus on everyday joy. Priorities have been sharply realigned – and all in a wonderful way. The reality is that EVERY day is a gift… for EVERYONE, not just people who are struggling with things – and the sooner we all GET this, the better off we will be!
Previously, I wrote about fear and worry. Now I feel enveloped by a strong sense of hope and a lightness that comes with the joy of being intimately connected to remarkable people.
With everyone’s continued support, and with Lynsey as the beacon to light our way, ‘the best’ will continue to rise from the ‘difficult moments’ that may challenge us down the road.
Together, I feel certain we will achieve a HAPPY and HEALTH-FILLED New Year!
For well, about a year now, I have been looking for articles, testimonials, anything, to guide me in some way in my role as a supporter to Lynsey. Aside from what I learned at the YACC conference, there has been very little. From time to time either Lynsey or I will come across something, start reading, and find nothing… new or interesting. The truth is, there was really nothing new or interesting out there to help me to begin with.
Honestly, a year ago, the one thing I knew about supporting someone with cancer and on chemotherapy was to wash my hands a lot.
And it’s not just me; it’s not just the direct supporters who have to feel their way around in the dark with this disease. It’s everyone who comes into contact with someone who has cancer. No one knows what to say, what to offer, or what to do in general.
I think one of the great things that I experienced at the YACC conference was the ability to talk openly about cancer with people other than Lyns. As she alluded to in her last post, we don’t really get to do that with anyone else we know. Again, not your fault. From what I gathered at the conference, it seems to be the ‘norm’.
As the world has seen time and time again, the ‘norm’ can change, but it has to be changed. That is why I stand behind Lynsey and Mary’s challenge to embrace vulnerability and be authentic with each other. I believe open, honest, and authentic conversation will be the only way for everyone involved to offer the thoughts, help and support that we all know they intend to. And not just to Lynsey, to each other.
Like I have said, there’s nothing out there that is going to tell you what to say or do. You can only learn that from expressing yourself authentically, hearing others do the same, and growing from that.
Lyns can’t do it alone, Mary can’t do it alone, I can’t do it alone, and you can’t do it alone. Please, let all of us help each other out with this. Who knows, maybe we’ll come up with something new or interesting.
A sincere thank you to everyone who has already reached out and responded to the challenge, and I look forward to reading what even more people have to share.
P.S. This speaker, Brené Brown, gives an amazing talk on the need for people to embrace their own vulnerability, and how it leads to a healthier lifestyle. I strongly suggest everyone check it out.
…my beautiful daughter has thrown down the gauntlet!
Issued the challenge of authenticity to all of us who love her.
With tomorrow marking exactly one year from the very worst day in our family’s life – the day Lynsey’s tumour was discovered on that hateful MRI – many emotions hurricane around me and muddle together. One emotional descriptor, however, stands out above the rest – the “S” word that Lynsey herself identified in her blog post “The Weekend I Felt Normal” (Nov 9).
For most of this past year, I have dealt with the “S” word in the same way that most of the characters in the Harry Potter books related to “He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named” – that is to say, if “he” (Voldemort) was not actually named out loud, then perhaps he (or in my case, it) won’t be made real.
So ‘SCARED’ was – and very much is – the word.
I can’t shake the image of all of us (our family, that is) being in an extremely wobbly boat during the past year – being tossed around in very choppy waters and certainly thrown about the boat, but all the while being held up and supported within it, and heading in a very specific and prescribed direction.
Now, as the year (and hence the treatment plan) nears ‘completion’, I can’t shake the new image of us having to step OUT of the boat – with no idea of whether there will be solid ground upon which to stand, or just whirling, heaving waters pulling us in an unknown direction.
Despite this unsettling feeling though, I DO feel that if we follow Harry Potter’s lead and speak the word out loud – SCARED – that we can defeat this emotion just as Voldemort was ultimately defeated.
And just like Harry, we too have many friends and supporters who continue to stand by us, fight with us, and help along the way — that means ALL of you who are reading this, and everyone connected to Lynsey in one way or another.
Now it YOUR turn to take up her authenticity challenge.
Together, let’s tackle “SCARED” and send it packing!
This past week, Lynsey invited me to go to one of her medical appointments at the Juravinski Cancer Hospital in Hamilton. Lynsey’s cousin Becky, also a close friend, was already going down with her, and I was both honoured and glad to know that Lynsey felt comfortable enough including me in such a personal and sensitive experience.
One of the things that has impressed me the most about Lynsey, is how open and honest she has been, regarding the struggles she has been facing, since being diagnosed with cancer. Whether it has been the personal feelings and frustrations she has expressed in her blogs, or standing up in front of all the people in attendance at the Spring Sprint Run, or even just during a casual conversation when she articulates her day-to-day worries, she proves time and again how strong she really is.
At the hospital, Lynsey automatically fell into routine, taking a number in the blood clinic waiting area. While we waited for her number to be called, we were talking about the usual everyday, silly-stuff that is of no consequence (for example, what had being happening on the Bachelorette, etc.). We laughed a little and chatted, similarly to how we would if we were at one of our weekly breakfasts or at someone’s house. I started to wonder, (as did Becky), are we being disruptive somehow or not acting as you are suppose to act while in a cancer hospital waiting room? Most of the other patients, all of whom were noticeably older than Lynsey, were quiet and reserved. When we asked if she would have rather we not talk about such unimportant things, she replied, “Nope!” Talking about those things and acting how we ‘normally’ would was what she wanted and needed at the time.
As I am only one of the many people in Lynsey’s life, who have had a glimpse into what she had been going through, it seemed that the routine of driving down to the hospital, having her blood drawn, talking with her cancer doctor about her symptoms and next steps, and finally going to the pharmacy to pick up her chemotherapy medication, had become like second nature to her. All the while, I couldn’t help but think, how ridiculously unfair, that these are the types of activities that now fill up many of her days??
Even though, I am no stranger to hospitals myself, I found that this was such an eye-opening experience and one that I’m glad she chose to share. Lynsey has said that writing her blog and sharing her story has been very therapeutic and has helped her at times to cope. In doing so, I also think she is helping others. Helping people feel less alone and a little more brave, teaching people to be more understanding and compassionate towards others, and to just appreciate life!!
I know this, because I am one of those people!
thanks for sharing this with all of us, and you’re soooo right, we don’t know what they are going through, all we know is that we care and love them and would take it all away for them if we could.

lowercased:
this page will hold all the blog posts made by other people. there have been many people effected by my cancer journey and i would love for anyone who wants to their stories to be able to do so. if you are interested in writing a blog post, please e-mail it to me and i will post it. some people (ex: steve) may be making semi-regular posts.
it seems inevitable that as the year draws to a close, we look back over the past 12 months, think of the good (and the not-so-good) things that have transpired, and muse about how the upcoming year may unfold.
for our family, this past year has been like no other – difficult, distressing, demanding, and yet strangely uplifting as it has played out.
maybe not so odd that a much-quoted-quote from dickens came to mind during these end-of-year musings. to be sure i had remembered it correctly, i looked up the quote but found when i did that the original phrasing seemed to fall in the wrong order.
the worst of times – the darkness of lynsey’s brain tumour diagnosis.
the best of times – the rise of an absolutely incredible number of supporters… not just lynsey’s official firecrackers team who provided such strong support before, during, and after the spring sprint fundraiser for the brain tumour foundation in may, but the many, many people – friends, relatives, neighbours, friends of friends, co-workers, even complete strangers – who rallied ‘round with prayers, advice, rides, donations, research, friendship, financial support, and yes, even soup!
the year of un-believability – how was it possible that our beautiful, full-of-energy daughter who had just started out on her very promising career, could be diagnosed with a brain tumour?!
the year of reality – mri’s and neurosurgeons don’t lie.
the season of darkness – the 12 month ‘sentence’ of chemotherapy with its many accompanying challenges and side effects – and, of course, worry.
the spring of hope – discovering many medical and personal support opportunities, including the discovery of yacc (young adult cancer canada) and the knowledge that people – around the world in fact! – were, and are holding lynsey in their thoughts.
months of despair – the months of despair.
we had nothing before us, we had everything before us – the ‘nothing-ness’ of being post-chemo coupled with the sense that new possibilities lie before us leaves us open to explore all options with a very positive attitude.
…and that is as close to dickensian as i shall ever be, i’m sure!
during the past year, our family’s life seems to exemplify levi-montalcini’s words – many extremely ‘difficult moments’ but definite evidence of ‘the best’ coming from them.
with things in a way that continually blows me away, and makes me feel privileged to be by her side on this journey.
the remarkable rise of supporters around our family is another of those ‘best’ things this year. the old adage about the cream rising to the top really applies here, for we have seen people who were mere acquaintances prior to this year become the closet of friends, and complete strangers encircle our family with support in many forms.
and the last, but certainly not the least of the ‘best’ things have been the stripping away of the insignificant in our lives and a fine-tuning of the focus on everyday joy. priorities have been sharply realigned – and all in a wonderful way. the reality is that every day is a gift… for everyone, not just people who are struggling with things – and the sooner we all get this, the better off we will be!
previously, i wrote about fear and worry. now i feel enveloped by a strong sense of hope and a lightness that comes with the joy of being intimately connected to remarkable people.
with everyone’s continued support, and with lynsey as the beacon to light our way, ‘the best’ will continue to rise from the ‘difficult moments’ that may challenge us down the road.
together, i feel certain we will achieve a happy and health-filled new year!
for well, about a year now, i have been looking for articles, testimonials, anything, to guide me in some way in my role as a supporter to lynsey. aside from what i learned at the yacc conference, there has been very little. from time to time either lynsey or i will come across something, start reading, and find nothing… new or interesting. the truth is, there was really nothing new or interesting out there to help me to begin with.
honestly, a year ago, the one thing i knew about supporting someone with cancer and on chemotherapy was to wash my hands a lot.
and it’s not just me; it’s not just the direct supporters who have to feel their way around in the dark with this disease. it’s everyone who comes into contact with someone who has cancer. no one knows what to say, what to offer, or what to do in general.
i think one of the great things that i experienced at the yacc conference was the ability to talk openly about cancer with people other than lyns. as she alluded to in her last post, we don’t really get to do that with anyone else we know. again, not your fault. from what i gathered at the conference, it seems to be the ‘norm’.
as the world has seen time and time again, the ‘norm’ can change, but it has to be changed. that is why i stand behind lynsey and mary’s challenge to embrace vulnerability and be authentic with each other. i believe open, honest, and authentic conversation will be the only way for everyone involved to offer the thoughts, help and support that we all know they intend to. and not just to lynsey, to each other.
like i have said, there’s nothing out there that is going to tell you what to say or do. you can only learn that from expressing yourself authentically, hearing others do the same, and growing from that.
lyns can’t do it alone, mary can’t do it alone, i can’t do it alone, and you can’t do it alone. please, let all of us help each other out with this. who knows, maybe we’ll come up with something new or interesting.
a sincere thank you to everyone who has already reached out and responded to the challenge, and i look forward to reading what even more people have to share.
p.s. this speaker, brené brown, gives an amazing talk on the need for people to embrace their own vulnerability, and how it leads to a healthier lifestyle. i strongly suggest everyone check it out.
…my beautiful daughter has thrown down the gauntlet!
issued the challenge of authenticity to all of us who love her.
with tomorrow marking exactly one year from the very worst day in our family’s life – the day lynsey’s tumour was discovered on that hateful mri – many emotions hurricane around me and muddle together. one emotional descriptor, however, stands out above the rest – the “s” word that lynsey herself identified in her blog post “the weekend i felt normal” (nov 9).
for most of this past year, i have dealt with the “s” word in the same way that most of the characters in the harry potter books related to “he-who-must-not-be-named” – that is to say, if “he” (voldemort) was not actually named out loud, then perhaps he (or in my case, it) won’t be made real.
so ‘scared’ was – and very much is – the word.
i can’t shake the image of all of us (our family, that is) being in an extremely wobbly boat during the past year – being tossed around in very choppy waters and certainly thrown about the boat, but all the while being held up and supported within it, and heading in a very specific and prescribed direction.
now, as the year (and hence the treatment plan) nears ‘completion’, i can’t shake the new image of us having to step out of the boat – with no idea of whether there will be solid ground upon which to stand, or just whirling, heaving waters pulling us in an unknown direction.
despite this unsettling feeling though, i do feel that if we follow harry potter’s lead and speak the word out loud – scared – that we can defeat this emotion just as voldemort was ultimately defeated.
and just like harry, we too have many friends and supporters who continue to stand by us, fight with us, and help along the way — that means all of you who are reading this, and everyone connected to lynsey in one way or another.
now it your turn to take up her authenticity challenge.
together, let’s tackle “scared” and send it packing!
this past week, lynsey invited me to go to one of her medical appointments at the juravinski cancer hospital in hamilton. lynsey’s cousin becky, also a close friend, was already going down with her, and i was both honoured and glad to know that lynsey felt comfortable enough including me in such a personal and sensitive experience.
one of the things that has impressed me the most about lynsey, is how open and honest she has been, regarding the struggles she has been facing, since being diagnosed with cancer. whether it has been the personal feelings and frustrations she has expressed in her blogs, or standing up in front of all the people in attendance at the spring sprint run, or even just during a casual conversation when she articulates her day-to-day worries, she proves time and again how strong she really is.
at the hospital, lynsey automatically fell into routine, taking a number in the blood clinic waiting area. while we waited for her number to be called, we were talking about the usual everyday, silly-stuff that is of no consequence (for example, what had being happening on the bachelorette, etc.). we laughed a little and chatted, similarly to how we would if we were at one of our weekly breakfasts or at someone’s house. i started to wonder, (as did becky), are we being disruptive somehow or not acting as you are suppose to act while in a cancer hospital waiting room? most of the other patients, all of whom were noticeably older than lynsey, were quiet and reserved. when we asked if she would have rather we not talk about such unimportant things, she replied, “nope!” talking about those things and acting how we ‘normally’ would was what she wanted and needed at the time.
as i am only one of the many people in lynsey’s life, who have had a glimpse into what she had been going through, it seemed that the routine of driving down to the hospital, having her blood drawn, talking with her cancer doctor about her symptoms and next steps, and finally going to the pharmacy to pick up her chemotherapy medication, had become like second nature to her. all the while, i couldn’t help but think, how ridiculously unfair, that these are the types of activities that now fill up many of her days??
even though, i am no stranger to hospitals myself, i found that this was such an eye-opening experience and one that i’m glad she chose to share. lynsey has said that writing her blog and sharing her story has been very therapeutic and has helped her at times to cope. in doing so, i also think she is helping others. helping people feel less alone and a little more brave, teaching people to be more understanding and compassionate towards others, and to just appreciate life!!
i know this, because i am one of those people!
thanks for sharing this with all of us, and you’re soooo right, we don’t know what they are going through, all we know is that we care and love them and would take it all away for them if we could.


text:
Our "9/11/11 Ground Zero Dedication Special" with Firefighters and 1st Responders from around the world who competed in the World Police and Fire Games held across New York City were in attendance to support the families of fallen firefighters.
Special footage from an assignment with PG County.
Our current video-webisode features the California State Firefighters Association the the fine work they do to train new volunteer firefighters and to give an opportunity to any member the opportunity to train with some of the best professional firefighter trainers in North America. This is a featured Calaveras Consolidated Fire show as Chief Robitelle from Calaveras is one of the Safety Officers as he continues to donate his time when ever it is needed by the CSFA across all of California.
A Special show filmed in Indiana with the Decatur Township Fire Department during the week of FDIC - This will be a two-part of a four-part series....It's all about physical fitness and cooking at the station with fresh and healty foods that are quick and easy.
The FDIC Experience - Preparation: Commissioner Tom Merrill and Fire Chief Paul Griebner meet up at the station. A 100% Volunteer Fire Department, these dedicated members are there to take care of their community. They are strong advocates of Training and Education. They meet to discuss the upcoming FDIC Expo when a call comes in. Later, they discuss the available classes. Commissioner Merrill not only attends classes, he's also an Educator. Chief Griebner will be attending classes as well. So many great classes, which ones will be available? Most recently firefighter Mike Bastedo made Lieutenant, he's attending his 1st FDIC Experience.
Happy holidays from The Battalion and the Branchville Volunteers.
The FDIC Experience continues with Part 3 the Fraternal Order of Leatherheads Society (F.O.O.L.S.) party all night to close out a great day; the Snyder Crew are somewhere in this crowd. Morning, companies set up their booths. The Commissioner attended classes, now he's an Instructor. The Fire Chief and two Lieutenants attend a class while the Commissioner is a featured guest host on FireEngineering.com Radio. Late afternoon, the sky opens pounding down rain, the Commissioner and the Lieutenant join Chief Halton at the Fun-Run as rain pours down on the event, night- firefighters party at Indy.
The FDIC Experience Starts: Sunday, April 17th, Indianapolis Airport, Part 1: Snyder Fire Department crew appears, grab their luggage and head to town. They check into their Hotel, and head to the Expo for their credentials. The Commissioner checks in with Audio/Visual testing. Day 2, early morning, firefighters arrive at the conference center, most take to the floor. The busses arrive, firefighters board with enthusiasm. Lieutenant Bastedo, a 1st timer at FDIC is on his way to HOTS, they arrive at an abandoned mall. Convention Center, Commissioner Merrill attends a class, "you can never get enough knowledge"
The FDIC Experience Part 2 - Opening Ceremonies: Morning, the hotel dining area, the Chief and the Lieutenants have breakfast and discuss some of the classes they have taken. The meet up with others from Snyder Fire and head to the Convention Center. If you have never been to FDIC, YOU NEED TO WATCH THIS SHOW. This morning is Opening Ceremonies, it starts off with the Editor and Chief of Fire Engineering, Bobby Halton. The Chief commands the stage with a message. The Drums and Pipes end the morning with an emotional video, names of firefighters we've lost.
The Jersey Shore Boardwalk Fire began the afternoon of September 12th. I was filming with Westampton Township Emergancy Fire in New Jersey when the fire started. We watched the blaze take building after building on the big screen TV, I really wanted to filme this event when the call came in, the Assistant Chief was called out to set up the Staging Area, I jumped in the buggy with the Director of Operations and the Chief and off we went. We came into town, set-up the Staging area when Engine 28 from Westampton arrived, I jumped on-board with the crew and we headed towards the biggest fire I had ever filmed, and was the only one allowed to film on the Boardwalk; watch this one.

lowercased:
our "9/11/11 ground zero dedication special" with firefighters and 1st responders from around the world who competed in the world police and fire games held across new york city were in attendance to support the families of fallen firefighters.
special footage from an assignment with pg county.
our current video-webisode features the california state firefighters association the the fine work they do to train new volunteer firefighters and to give an opportunity to any member the opportunity to train with some of the best professional firefighter trainers in north america. this is a featured calaveras consolidated fire show as chief robitelle from calaveras is one of the safety officers as he continues to donate his time when ever it is needed by the csfa across all of california.
a special show filmed in indiana with the decatur township fire department during the week of fdic - this will be a two-part of a four-part series....it's all about physical fitness and cooking at the station with fresh and healty foods that are quick and easy.
the fdic experience - preparation: commissioner tom merrill and fire chief paul griebner meet up at the station. a 100% volunteer fire department, these dedicated members are there to take care of their community. they are strong advocates of training and education. they meet to discuss the upcoming fdic expo when a call comes in. later, they discuss the available classes. commissioner merrill not only attends classes, he's also an educator. chief griebner will be attending classes as well. so many great classes, which ones will be available? most recently firefighter mike bastedo made lieutenant, he's attending his 1st fdic experience.
happy holidays from the battalion and the branchville volunteers.
the fdic experience continues with part 3 the fraternal order of leatherheads society (f.o.o.l.s.) party all night to close out a great day; the snyder crew are somewhere in this crowd. morning, companies set up their booths. the commissioner attended classes, now he's an instructor. the fire chief and two lieutenants attend a class while the commissioner is a featured guest host on fireengineering.com radio. late afternoon, the sky opens pounding down rain, the commissioner and the lieutenant join chief halton at the fun-run as rain pours down on the event, night- firefighters party at indy.
the fdic experience starts: sunday, april 17th, indianapolis airport, part 1: snyder fire department crew appears, grab their luggage and head to town. they check into their hotel, and head to the expo for their credentials. the commissioner checks in with audio/visual testing. day 2, early morning, firefighters arrive at the conference center, most take to the floor. the busses arrive, firefighters board with enthusiasm. lieutenant bastedo, a 1st timer at fdic is on his way to hots, they arrive at an abandoned mall. convention center, commissioner merrill attends a class, "you can never get enough knowledge"
the fdic experience part 2 - opening ceremonies: morning, the hotel dining area, the chief and the lieutenants have breakfast and discuss some of the classes they have taken. the meet up with others from snyder fire and head to the convention center. if you have never been to fdic, you need to watch this show. this morning is opening ceremonies, it starts off with the editor and chief of fire engineering, bobby halton. the chief commands the stage with a message. the drums and pipes end the morning with an emotional video, names of firefighters we've lost.
the jersey shore boardwalk fire began the afternoon of september 12th. i was filming with westampton township emergancy fire in new jersey when the fire started. we watched the blaze take building after building on the big screen tv, i really wanted to filme this event when the call came in, the assistant chief was called out to set up the staging area, i jumped in the buggy with the director of operations and the chief and off we went. we came into town, set-up the staging area when engine 28 from westampton arrived, i jumped on-board with the crew and we headed towards the biggest fire i had ever filmed, and was the only one allowed to film on the boardwalk; watch this one.


text: To explain value, you have to look deeper than features and benefits, and understand how your products add value to your customers in a way that distinguishes you from your competitors. At Metrici, we typically work with partner organisations. This lets us reach more customers than we could by ourselves. It allows us to focus our efforts on our areas of expertise, which are materials, methods and software for automated consultancy tools. It gives partners innovative products to introduce to their customers. With each partner, we have to begin from the start. We have to explain the proposition, explore how it can add value to the partner, and then develop with them appropriate solutions for their customers. Going through this process recently, I have been struck again by a recurring problem. The problem is how to explain how the products bring new value to the partner's customers. This is doubly hard for us. A lot of the benefits of our approach are benefits to the partner. It is much quicker and cheaper to develop consultancy tools using our methods and software than it is to program from scratch. But what are the unique selling points of those solutions to our partners' customers? The solutions have a lot of good features. The partner organisation can add their content. The expert system we use brings an extra level of insight not available from other tools. We can organise materials and assessments, and automate analysis, to make the whole process very streamlined. We can tailor the solution for each customer. Everything is available on the web. These are all good, but they do not of themselves provide a compelling reason for the customer to use the product, or explain how we add value in ways that others do not. After scratching at this for a while, I think I can now explain what our unique value is. Most of the normal ways we try to improve IT involve looking at IT from the viewpoint of the things we are responsible for. We manage projects and teams. We optimise processes. We consolidate technology. Our approach is different because it looks at IT from the viewpoint of whole systems, which cut across the layers of people, processes and technologies that we typically manage. Because we look at IT in a different way, we can spot opportunities that other methods can not see. And because the way that we analyse IT is more closely related to the structure of IT as perceived by its owners and users (who see services and systems, not layers of people, processes and technology), it is much easier for us to articulate the business case for changes and improvements. I can now explain the core value of our products. They identify additional opportunities for increasing business, reducing risk and reducing cost. Like an onion, this is wrapped in layers of other benefits which make it easy to run the process, and easy for partners to provide services, but which can make it harder to understand the tangible, unique, value-adding benefits of the products. Try this for yourself. Can you explain the core value of your products? If you are like me, you may find it harder than you think. © Copyright 2010 Minimal IT Ltd. See the Minimal IT website for the original newsletter and copyright information.

lowercased: to explain value, you have to look deeper than features and benefits, and understand how your products add value to your customers in a way that distinguishes you from your competitors. at metrici, we typically work with partner organisations. this lets us reach more customers than we could by ourselves. it allows us to focus our efforts on our areas of expertise, which are materials, methods and software for automated consultancy tools. it gives partners innovative products to introduce to their customers. with each partner, we have to begin from the start. we have to explain the proposition, explore how it can add value to the partner, and then develop with them appropriate solutions for their customers. going through this process recently, i have been struck again by a recurring problem. the problem is how to explain how the products bring new value to the partner's customers. this is doubly hard for us. a lot of the benefits of our approach are benefits to the partner. it is much quicker and cheaper to develop consultancy tools using our methods and software than it is to program from scratch. but what are the unique selling points of those solutions to our partners' customers? the solutions have a lot of good features. the partner organisation can add their content. the expert system we use brings an extra level of insight not available from other tools. we can organise materials and assessments, and automate analysis, to make the whole process very streamlined. we can tailor the solution for each customer. everything is available on the web. these are all good, but they do not of themselves provide a compelling reason for the customer to use the product, or explain how we add value in ways that others do not. after scratching at this for a while, i think i can now explain what our unique value is. most of the normal ways we try to improve it involve looking at it from the viewpoint of the things we are responsible for. we manage projects and teams. we optimise processes. we consolidate technology. our approach is different because it looks at it from the viewpoint of whole systems, which cut across the layers of people, processes and technologies that we typically manage. because we look at it in a different way, we can spot opportunities that other methods can not see. and because the way that we analyse it is more closely related to the structure of it as perceived by its owners and users (who see services and systems, not layers of people, processes and technology), it is much easier for us to articulate the business case for changes and improvements. i can now explain the core value of our products. they identify additional opportunities for increasing business, reducing risk and reducing cost. like an onion, this is wrapped in layers of other benefits which make it easy to run the process, and easy for partners to provide services, but which can make it harder to understand the tangible, unique, value-adding benefits of the products. try this for yourself. can you explain the core value of your products? if you are like me, you may find it harder than you think. © copyright 2010 minimal it ltd. see the minimal it website for the original newsletter and copyright information.