text:
"How beautiful are these rings?
I’m soooo in love with the designs of Giardinoblu.
The pieces are so pretty and organic, like some of Nature’s most delicate moments; like morning dew.I can look forever at the tiny dainty morning drops on leaves.
It’s such a pure form of beauty."
"I love so much ALL the eco-conscious jewelry that Francesca creates!
You can feel the love and positive vibes in every single piece. They are all unique pieces.
Everything she creates is high quality. It tells a story for you to discover once you wear its magical jewelry.
I adore her work. And she a such a beautiful person that you can feel her truth embedded in her creative work."
"My precious!! I absolutly love this amazing peace of jewlery! It has so much charm and story to tell <3"
their organic beauty and the magic allure are amazing.
Each piece is totally handmade and unreplicable, their preciousness is made by teeny details.
"I'm super excited as my pendants arrived today and I just collected them from my local post office. I cannot thank you enough, I think they are just beautiful. I think the ladies are going to Love them.
I have also had our local printer print me up some copies of the Guide to Rise to go along with them.
I'm feeling super BLESSED to have accidentally stumbled upon you and your beautiful gift.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart!"
"Words fail me.... my ring!!!!!!! OOOHHH she is SOOOO beautiful...... I just cried when I saw her!!! She pierced my heart!!!! She is magnificent! Your artistry--perfection!!!!! I am in love....completely in love!!!!! THANK YOU WITH ALL OF MY HEART!!!!! I have her on my finger!!!!! Perfect fit!!!!! Franci!!!!!! My goodness the love and energy of your work is so powerful and healing......sigh...... I feel SO BLESSED! This I will cherish and treasure my whole life! It expanded my aura and light the moment I put it on my finger! I just must say I am absolutely in love with your work!!!!! She is SO alive; we are already becoming one..... your love and energy just flooded my heart when I read your note, and THEN when I opened the box, and laid eyes on her! It felt like she was always mine!!!! Yes,yes, YES!!!!!!! I am hooked! By far my favorite crystal jewel EVER!!!!!! SO special. I know you poured your heart and soul into this for me.I can feel it so strong!!!! I needed this so much at this time in my life.....the timing was divine!!!!! Light and love and my deepest gratitude, Desiree xxoo"
“Beautiful necklace and seller was brilliant – great communication and excellent service. Would definitely recommend"
"I’ve been a fan of Francesca’s work for quite sometime and I was so happy to be able to get one of her pieces!Even her packaging is so cute and personal!…. gotta love the Italians!!.. And getting a package form Italy always makes me happy!..
"Giardinoblu is the magic place for who wants to grow their little soul, for those who are still amazed and thrilled in the wonders of Nature.
...Alice can looking for the White Rubbit again.."
I recently discover the wonderfull Francesca creations.
Met a lovely artist, with her unique universe, she takes time to listen and understand my wishes…We talk a lot about art, soul, stones, sensibility, nature, energy, creativity …. she creates something really special for me…. this ring got a story…. she realizes a really particular request…i was really touch by that.
Love so much my aquamarine ring, inspired by nature.
Thanks so much Francesca, for your work, your passion, your design and your positive soul."
"Giardinoblu jewelry gets my heart for the unique and refined teste. They're never boring or "constructed". Each piece of jewel shows the passion and dedication that Francesca gives to each piece.
Great workmanship and great design, extremely feminine."
"It's finally here! One of the Giardinoblu creatures is mine. I can't wait to add more pieces to my collection! "
"Her unmistakable style is ever in evolving and each time recognizable...unique jewels!"
Francesca chooses beautiful stones and has an in-depth knowledge of every of them!
I strongly recommend them not only for design but also for those who needs something extra, that only the positive vibes of Crystals can give! "
"Francesca creatures spring from a pure and bright heart . They tell about a journey made of experimentation, enthusiasm, determination... and love for quality and uniqueness.
It's an ever-evolving path, each time different, just like all of us life is.
Browse the images and just follow your heart, it will choose the right your jewel for you"
"It's when a jewel becomes the projection of an idea...when handicraft turns to poetry."
I bought some jewelry on Giardinoblu website! Thanks Francesca, you're amazing, I love them! thank you!
"I received the most beautiful gift today. And this little story of its arrival on my doorstep needs to be shared.
A few months back I was travelling in country NSW in Australia and was scheduled to do an event on the last night of my stay. It was cold.
So I pulled myself together (like I do) to be of service and speak on all things food and nutrition to a small group of people. In the audience there was one shining light that stood out to me. She radiated so much light and we connected after I talked. She shared with an extremely vulnerable heart, her health concerns.
And I offered my support in the coming weeks.
We connected every few days and I helped her see where she could improve. Our connection was in stolen moments and after she felt confident in the knowledge I had shared, I gave her space to absorb all that she’d learnt to she could put all into practice.
What I didn’t know, in the weeks following was that she had had such profound shifts.
Her symptoms lifted, her energy returned, her ability to feel joy crept back into her life.
You see, when asked why do I coach, the answer is always the same.....to help people return to self. To feel joy again.
Today, I received this beautiful gift, all the way from Milan. This beautiful human had this Pink Kunzite necklace made for me. I had truly made my day and I’m so grateful. Who would have thought that a random act of service can create such immense love and joy for all."
"I don’t know how I found Francesca but I am so glad I did. Lots of thought and love goes into everything she makes. It’s not jewelry. It’s so much more.
you work together to pick which kind of specimen to use.
She might know right away or you might know. Or you might have to decide between a few. But she works with the crystals and narrows it down.
Then You pick from her collection which stone you feel drawn to. In my case, I let her tell me what I needed. She picked 6 pieces of Rubellite tourmaline.
And then I picked the from that. It’s absolutely perfect.
And I got it the day if the new moon so it could not have worked out better.
Thank you so much Giardinoblu Jewellery Milan!!"
"Working with Francesca was an absolute dream. I had been wanting to transform a beloved herkimer diamond into a pendant and, after purchasing several jewelry pieces from Francesca and seeing the level of care she puts into her work, I knew she was the only I would entrust my gemstone to.
Francesca loves gemstones and respects their energy, and that was very important to me when choosing someone.
Francesca made the whole creation process simple. She first shared some designs and, once I liked them, I sent her my stone via courier. Once she had it, she got to work, showing me every step of the way, and seeking my approval before moving forward.
I loved how she kept me regularly informed of where we were in the process and listened to my observations. She was kind and courteous at every step of the way, and ended up creating a jewel I will treasure forever.
I couldn't be happier with the necklace Francesca created for me. It's perfect in every way, and beams with positive energy."
Photographer, Stylist & Visual Strategist, Marcela Macias Photography.

lowercased:
"how beautiful are these rings?
i’m soooo in love with the designs of giardinoblu.
the pieces are so pretty and organic, like some of nature’s most delicate moments; like morning dew.i can look forever at the tiny dainty morning drops on leaves.
it’s such a pure form of beauty."
"i love so much all the eco-conscious jewelry that francesca creates!
you can feel the love and positive vibes in every single piece. they are all unique pieces.
everything she creates is high quality. it tells a story for you to discover once you wear its magical jewelry.
i adore her work. and she a such a beautiful person that you can feel her truth embedded in her creative work."
"my precious!! i absolutly love this amazing peace of jewlery! it has so much charm and story to tell <3"
their organic beauty and the magic allure are amazing.
each piece is totally handmade and unreplicable, their preciousness is made by teeny details.
"i'm super excited as my pendants arrived today and i just collected them from my local post office. i cannot thank you enough, i think they are just beautiful. i think the ladies are going to love them.
i have also had our local printer print me up some copies of the guide to rise to go along with them.
i'm feeling super blessed to have accidentally stumbled upon you and your beautiful gift.
thank you from the bottom of my heart!"
"words fail me.... my ring!!!!!!! ooohhh she is soooo beautiful...... i just cried when i saw her!!! she pierced my heart!!!! she is magnificent! your artistry--perfection!!!!! i am in love....completely in love!!!!! thank you with all of my heart!!!!! i have her on my finger!!!!! perfect fit!!!!! franci!!!!!! my goodness the love and energy of your work is so powerful and healing......sigh...... i feel so blessed! this i will cherish and treasure my whole life! it expanded my aura and light the moment i put it on my finger! i just must say i am absolutely in love with your work!!!!! she is so alive; we are already becoming one..... your love and energy just flooded my heart when i read your note, and then when i opened the box, and laid eyes on her! it felt like she was always mine!!!! yes,yes, yes!!!!!!! i am hooked! by far my favorite crystal jewel ever!!!!!! so special. i know you poured your heart and soul into this for me.i can feel it so strong!!!! i needed this so much at this time in my life.....the timing was divine!!!!! light and love and my deepest gratitude, desiree xxoo"
“beautiful necklace and seller was brilliant – great communication and excellent service. would definitely recommend"
"i’ve been a fan of francesca’s work for quite sometime and i was so happy to be able to get one of her pieces!even her packaging is so cute and personal!…. gotta love the italians!!.. and getting a package form italy always makes me happy!..
"giardinoblu is the magic place for who wants to grow their little soul, for those who are still amazed and thrilled in the wonders of nature.
...alice can looking for the white rubbit again.."
i recently discover the wonderfull francesca creations.
met a lovely artist, with her unique universe, she takes time to listen and understand my wishes…we talk a lot about art, soul, stones, sensibility, nature, energy, creativity …. she creates something really special for me…. this ring got a story…. she realizes a really particular request…i was really touch by that.
love so much my aquamarine ring, inspired by nature.
thanks so much francesca, for your work, your passion, your design and your positive soul."
"giardinoblu jewelry gets my heart for the unique and refined teste. they're never boring or "constructed". each piece of jewel shows the passion and dedication that francesca gives to each piece.
great workmanship and great design, extremely feminine."
"it's finally here! one of the giardinoblu creatures is mine. i can't wait to add more pieces to my collection! "
"her unmistakable style is ever in evolving and each time recognizable...unique jewels!"
francesca chooses beautiful stones and has an in-depth knowledge of every of them!
i strongly recommend them not only for design but also for those who needs something extra, that only the positive vibes of crystals can give! "
"francesca creatures spring from a pure and bright heart . they tell about a journey made of experimentation, enthusiasm, determination... and love for quality and uniqueness.
it's an ever-evolving path, each time different, just like all of us life is.
browse the images and just follow your heart, it will choose the right your jewel for you"
"it's when a jewel becomes the projection of an idea...when handicraft turns to poetry."
i bought some jewelry on giardinoblu website! thanks francesca, you're amazing, i love them! thank you!
"i received the most beautiful gift today. and this little story of its arrival on my doorstep needs to be shared.
a few months back i was travelling in country nsw in australia and was scheduled to do an event on the last night of my stay. it was cold.
so i pulled myself together (like i do) to be of service and speak on all things food and nutrition to a small group of people. in the audience there was one shining light that stood out to me. she radiated so much light and we connected after i talked. she shared with an extremely vulnerable heart, her health concerns.
and i offered my support in the coming weeks.
we connected every few days and i helped her see where she could improve. our connection was in stolen moments and after she felt confident in the knowledge i had shared, i gave her space to absorb all that she’d learnt to she could put all into practice.
what i didn’t know, in the weeks following was that she had had such profound shifts.
her symptoms lifted, her energy returned, her ability to feel joy crept back into her life.
you see, when asked why do i coach, the answer is always the same.....to help people return to self. to feel joy again.
today, i received this beautiful gift, all the way from milan. this beautiful human had this pink kunzite necklace made for me. i had truly made my day and i’m so grateful. who would have thought that a random act of service can create such immense love and joy for all."
"i don’t know how i found francesca but i am so glad i did. lots of thought and love goes into everything she makes. it’s not jewelry. it’s so much more.
you work together to pick which kind of specimen to use.
she might know right away or you might know. or you might have to decide between a few. but she works with the crystals and narrows it down.
then you pick from her collection which stone you feel drawn to. in my case, i let her tell me what i needed. she picked 6 pieces of rubellite tourmaline.
and then i picked the from that. it’s absolutely perfect.
and i got it the day if the new moon so it could not have worked out better.
thank you so much giardinoblu jewellery milan!!"
"working with francesca was an absolute dream. i had been wanting to transform a beloved herkimer diamond into a pendant and, after purchasing several jewelry pieces from francesca and seeing the level of care she puts into her work, i knew she was the only i would entrust my gemstone to.
francesca loves gemstones and respects their energy, and that was very important to me when choosing someone.
francesca made the whole creation process simple. she first shared some designs and, once i liked them, i sent her my stone via courier. once she had it, she got to work, showing me every step of the way, and seeking my approval before moving forward.
i loved how she kept me regularly informed of where we were in the process and listened to my observations. she was kind and courteous at every step of the way, and ended up creating a jewel i will treasure forever.
i couldn't be happier with the necklace francesca created for me. it's perfect in every way, and beams with positive energy."
photographer, stylist & visual strategist, marcela macias photography.


text:
Pancakes are usually believed to be one of the best variations of weekend breakfast. They associate with childhood, careless days, sweet childhood memories, and generally with tasty treat. However, far from everyone is able to make this treat on their own.
Today, the idea of a healthy lifestyle becomes very popular. More and more people start thinking about healthier cooking and eating, discover different diets, and look for organic products. This is due to a certain fashion, of course, but such trend is very useful for society in general.

lowercased:
pancakes are usually believed to be one of the best variations of weekend breakfast. they associate with childhood, careless days, sweet childhood memories, and generally with tasty treat. however, far from everyone is able to make this treat on their own.
today, the idea of a healthy lifestyle becomes very popular. more and more people start thinking about healthier cooking and eating, discover different diets, and look for organic products. this is due to a certain fashion, of course, but such trend is very useful for society in general.


text:
African/Lake Malawi cichlids have very specialised feeding habits that have been adapted so that they can survive in their natural habitat. However aquarists tend to make it easier for themselves by getting readily prepared flakes and pellets. But you will have to take into account whether your fish are herbivores or ‘piscivores’ (feed on other fish). Mbuna species are normally herbivore, so they will mainly feed on the algae that grows on rocks, so they must be fed on plant food. These fish cannot digest animal fat and will suffer from indigestion if fed on it.
On the other hand most Lake Malawi cichlids will eat small crustaceans like Brine Shrimps.
A lot of cichlid breeders make up their own homemade food, made from chopped up shrimp and peas.
Thaw out the shrimps and peas and mince them finely in a food mixer, then add the vitamin drops. Finally pour in the dissolved gelatine. The gelatine will bind the mixture, producing a thick paste after it has cooled. Place the paste into a freezer bag, flatten and then freeze. Now this nutritious fish food can easily be cut up into convenient pieces, and given to your fish.
A wide range of foods are commercially available, like flakes and pellets. It has been noticed that cichlids feed very enthusiastically on flakes, while pellets sink to the bottom, so any other inhabitants like catfish can get it. The choice is yours.
A further important source of food for your African cichlids, are frozen foods like white and black mosquito larvae, brine shrimps and krill.
Mixes including beef heart and frozen RED mosquito larvae are not suitable for Lake Malawi Cichlids.
How often you feed your Lake Malawi cichlids depends on their age. Fry (Newly born fish) must be fed more frequently and in smaller portions than older fish. Fry should literally be swimming in food in order to grow quickly and develop properly.
Herbivores are more used to feeding in small portions over the day, so feeding them once a day will not be enough. And you must take care to only put in the right amount of food. It should take about 1 minute for all of the food to be eaten.
Adult cichlids should be fed 2-3 times a day while the fry should be fed 5-7 times a day. If the fish are fed regularly then their aggression should be reduced.
Never feed your fish just after you have switched the light on as they will need reach their full levels of daytime activity. The African cichlids rest at night and it takes them about thirty minutes to become fully active. And for similar reasons, you should not give them their final feed just before turning the light out.
If you don’t think that you will be able to feed your fish at the correct times each day, then you should consider installing an automatic feeding machine.
It is important not to overfeed your fish as your cichlids will consume anything, and in huge quatities if they can, which can harm their health. Healthy African Cichlids will always await their food eagerly.
If an adult cichlid is eating poorly or refusing food then don’t feed them at all for one full day afterwards as it may be overfed. If they still fail to eat after the day off, then they may have contracted a disease.
They are. Were they cichlids or tropical fish? Thank you for your comment by the way.
I love aquarium fish and used to keep quite a few of them. They are a lot of fun and beautiful to watch.

lowercased:
african/lake malawi cichlids have very specialised feeding habits that have been adapted so that they can survive in their natural habitat. however aquarists tend to make it easier for themselves by getting readily prepared flakes and pellets. but you will have to take into account whether your fish are herbivores or ‘piscivores’ (feed on other fish). mbuna species are normally herbivore, so they will mainly feed on the algae that grows on rocks, so they must be fed on plant food. these fish cannot digest animal fat and will suffer from indigestion if fed on it.
on the other hand most lake malawi cichlids will eat small crustaceans like brine shrimps.
a lot of cichlid breeders make up their own homemade food, made from chopped up shrimp and peas.
thaw out the shrimps and peas and mince them finely in a food mixer, then add the vitamin drops. finally pour in the dissolved gelatine. the gelatine will bind the mixture, producing a thick paste after it has cooled. place the paste into a freezer bag, flatten and then freeze. now this nutritious fish food can easily be cut up into convenient pieces, and given to your fish.
a wide range of foods are commercially available, like flakes and pellets. it has been noticed that cichlids feed very enthusiastically on flakes, while pellets sink to the bottom, so any other inhabitants like catfish can get it. the choice is yours.
a further important source of food for your african cichlids, are frozen foods like white and black mosquito larvae, brine shrimps and krill.
mixes including beef heart and frozen red mosquito larvae are not suitable for lake malawi cichlids.
how often you feed your lake malawi cichlids depends on their age. fry (newly born fish) must be fed more frequently and in smaller portions than older fish. fry should literally be swimming in food in order to grow quickly and develop properly.
herbivores are more used to feeding in small portions over the day, so feeding them once a day will not be enough. and you must take care to only put in the right amount of food. it should take about 1 minute for all of the food to be eaten.
adult cichlids should be fed 2-3 times a day while the fry should be fed 5-7 times a day. if the fish are fed regularly then their aggression should be reduced.
never feed your fish just after you have switched the light on as they will need reach their full levels of daytime activity. the african cichlids rest at night and it takes them about thirty minutes to become fully active. and for similar reasons, you should not give them their final feed just before turning the light out.
if you don’t think that you will be able to feed your fish at the correct times each day, then you should consider installing an automatic feeding machine.
it is important not to overfeed your fish as your cichlids will consume anything, and in huge quatities if they can, which can harm their health. healthy african cichlids will always await their food eagerly.
if an adult cichlid is eating poorly or refusing food then don’t feed them at all for one full day afterwards as it may be overfed. if they still fail to eat after the day off, then they may have contracted a disease.
they are. were they cichlids or tropical fish? thank you for your comment by the way.
i love aquarium fish and used to keep quite a few of them. they are a lot of fun and beautiful to watch.


text:
Is an election recount a good idea?
The Green Party’s Jill Stein is pushing for election recounts in three battleground states. Why and what could come of the effort?
Billionaire Betsy DeVos is a Michigan philanthropist and a Republican activist. She is best known for pushing school vouchers, a way for families to spend public money schools of their choice. She’s also President-elect Donald Trump’s pick to run the Education Department.
Then, will NASA cease doing climate research under a Trump presidency, and if so what would the consequences be?
The author of a new book about the weird creatures of the wild shares his findings.
And finally, a peek into the business of fake news, and the surprising culprits behind it.
What happens if NASA stops climate science research?

lowercased:
is an election recount a good idea?
the green party’s jill stein is pushing for election recounts in three battleground states. why and what could come of the effort?
billionaire betsy devos is a michigan philanthropist and a republican activist. she is best known for pushing school vouchers, a way for families to spend public money schools of their choice. she’s also president-elect donald trump’s pick to run the education department.
then, will nasa cease doing climate research under a trump presidency, and if so what would the consequences be?
the author of a new book about the weird creatures of the wild shares his findings.
and finally, a peek into the business of fake news, and the surprising culprits behind it.
what happens if nasa stops climate science research?


text:
We all know that labeling is deceptive and you have to be careful where you buy supplements these days. But this really has got to make people wake up and realize how bad things have really gotten. The findings in New York State after an independent study of 24 supplements offered in Target, Walmart, Walgreens and GNC reveal a gross negligence and outright mockery of honesty and integrity. The state’s Attorney General found these items didn’t even contain the main ingredient stated and instead were chock full of cheap rice and other not so healthy fillers.
The attorney general’s team tested 24 products in total. Roughly four out of five supplements tested did not contain the medicinal herbs they were supposed to, and were instead rife with “cheap fillers like powdered rice, asparagus and houseplants, and in some cases substances that could be dangerous to those with allergies,” according to a New York Times report.
Walgreens Ginseng supplement labeled as something to increase endurance and vitality was simply garlic and rice powder. Ginkgo biloba supplement from Walmart was found to actually be powdered radish, houseplants and wheat despite the fact that its label said it was wheat and gluten-free.
Walgreens is pulling the problematic supplements from shelves. Walmart plans to reach out to suppliers and take necessary action to ensure the safety of its customers. GNC says the company is willing to cooperate following this investigation, but stood behind its own supplements and testing system. Target so far has not issued a comment.
The attorney general’s office conducted its test by purchasing 78 bottles of the four retailers’ top brands from a dozen Walmart, Target, GNC, and Walgreens stores in the state.
Health care experts have warned about the potential dangers of the unregulated supplement industry for some time, including in a 2012 review published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Certain ingredients, like high amounts of caffeine, pose risks for certain consumers.
Consider getting your supplements from a reliable source like Natural News where you know it is being tested for not only containing that which the label lists but also to be free from toxins and heavy metals. Another very reputable company for good quality supplements is Life Extension.

lowercased:
we all know that labeling is deceptive and you have to be careful where you buy supplements these days. but this really has got to make people wake up and realize how bad things have really gotten. the findings in new york state after an independent study of 24 supplements offered in target, walmart, walgreens and gnc reveal a gross negligence and outright mockery of honesty and integrity. the state’s attorney general found these items didn’t even contain the main ingredient stated and instead were chock full of cheap rice and other not so healthy fillers.
the attorney general’s team tested 24 products in total. roughly four out of five supplements tested did not contain the medicinal herbs they were supposed to, and were instead rife with “cheap fillers like powdered rice, asparagus and houseplants, and in some cases substances that could be dangerous to those with allergies,” according to a new york times report.
walgreens ginseng supplement labeled as something to increase endurance and vitality was simply garlic and rice powder. ginkgo biloba supplement from walmart was found to actually be powdered radish, houseplants and wheat despite the fact that its label said it was wheat and gluten-free.
walgreens is pulling the problematic supplements from shelves. walmart plans to reach out to suppliers and take necessary action to ensure the safety of its customers. gnc says the company is willing to cooperate following this investigation, but stood behind its own supplements and testing system. target so far has not issued a comment.
the attorney general’s office conducted its test by purchasing 78 bottles of the four retailers’ top brands from a dozen walmart, target, gnc, and walgreens stores in the state.
health care experts have warned about the potential dangers of the unregulated supplement industry for some time, including in a 2012 review published in the journal of the american medical association. certain ingredients, like high amounts of caffeine, pose risks for certain consumers.
consider getting your supplements from a reliable source like natural news where you know it is being tested for not only containing that which the label lists but also to be free from toxins and heavy metals. another very reputable company for good quality supplements is life extension.


text:
Last Word on Sports is proud to present their hockey podcast, On the Power Play with Ben and Dave. Join Ben Kerr and Dave Gove each week as they take a look around the Hockey World focusing on the big issues of the NHL and elsewhere.
Today on On The Powerplay, we look at the best and worst teams this NHL off-season.
Advanced stats suggest the Carolina Hurricanes had the best off-season. What are the Hurricanes getting and what does it mean? Can Scott Darling solve the goaltending issues?
The Dallas Stars had big pick-ups. Does Ben Bishop fix their goaltending? Where do Alexander Radulov and Martin Hanzal fit? Can Marc Methot shore up the defence or is more needed.
The Washington Capitals took major hits this off-season. How good will they be without Kevin Shattenkirk, Karl Alzner, Nate Schmidt, Marcus Johansson, and Justin Williams?
Can the Chicago Blackhawks recover from their losses, especially on the blue-line?
The New York Rangers upgraded the blue line, but down graded up front. What does it mean?
What is Marc Bergevin doing for the Montreal Canadiens?
Does Patrick Marleau improve the Toronto Maple Leafs? How much? What is going on with their cap?
All this and more as we go On the Power Play.
Chill Puck is proud to bring you On The Power Play. Ensure your drinks are always cold with the Chill Puck. Type in the code “lastword” at Chillpuck.com to get free shipping. Sign up on our facebook page. To be entered to win a free two pack of Chill Pucks, just follow the instructions in the podcast.

lowercased:
last word on sports is proud to present their hockey podcast, on the power play with ben and dave. join ben kerr and dave gove each week as they take a look around the hockey world focusing on the big issues of the nhl and elsewhere.
today on on the powerplay, we look at the best and worst teams this nhl off-season.
advanced stats suggest the carolina hurricanes had the best off-season. what are the hurricanes getting and what does it mean? can scott darling solve the goaltending issues?
the dallas stars had big pick-ups. does ben bishop fix their goaltending? where do alexander radulov and martin hanzal fit? can marc methot shore up the defence or is more needed.
the washington capitals took major hits this off-season. how good will they be without kevin shattenkirk, karl alzner, nate schmidt, marcus johansson, and justin williams?
can the chicago blackhawks recover from their losses, especially on the blue-line?
the new york rangers upgraded the blue line, but down graded up front. what does it mean?
what is marc bergevin doing for the montreal canadiens?
does patrick marleau improve the toronto maple leafs? how much? what is going on with their cap?
all this and more as we go on the power play.
chill puck is proud to bring you on the power play. ensure your drinks are always cold with the chill puck. type in the code “lastword” at chillpuck.com to get free shipping. sign up on our facebook page. to be entered to win a free two pack of chill pucks, just follow the instructions in the podcast.


text:
Honesty time. I have some hoarding tendencies in regards to a few things in my life. Number One hoarding problem would go to cute notebooks. Number Two hoarding problem would go to paper calendars. Number Three hoarding problem would go to office supplies and last but certainly not least… Number Four hoarding problem would go to FONTS! (I know, I’m super coooool with my hoarding.) Today, I am sharing my new Favorite Fall Fonts. And guess what, they are all FREE.
What are your favorite fonts? Share them because I’m always looking for new ones!
If you liked these FAVORITE FALL FONTS, you might like these fonts, too!
These are adorable! Thank you so much for gathering those up!
LOL. Sounds like you are a complete office/craft hoarder. =) Happy weekend!

lowercased:
honesty time. i have some hoarding tendencies in regards to a few things in my life. number one hoarding problem would go to cute notebooks. number two hoarding problem would go to paper calendars. number three hoarding problem would go to office supplies and last but certainly not least… number four hoarding problem would go to fonts! (i know, i’m super coooool with my hoarding.) today, i am sharing my new favorite fall fonts. and guess what, they are all free.
what are your favorite fonts? share them because i’m always looking for new ones!
if you liked these favorite fall fonts, you might like these fonts, too!
these are adorable! thank you so much for gathering those up!
lol. sounds like you are a complete office/craft hoarder. =) happy weekend!


text:
system requires only 12 seconds to open or close.
anti-lock brakes, seat-mounted side SRS airbags and an AM/FM/CD player.
throughout the nation starting in late September.
absorbers, higher spring rates and a larger diameter front anti-roll bar.
a chrome band in each door handle and a white lens on the CHMSL.
-- Stormy Blue Mica and Highland Green Mica replacing two existing colors.
leather -- carry over from the MX-5 soft top.
Ontario, Canada, and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.

lowercased:
system requires only 12 seconds to open or close.
anti-lock brakes, seat-mounted side srs airbags and an am/fm/cd player.
throughout the nation starting in late september.
absorbers, higher spring rates and a larger diameter front anti-roll bar.
a chrome band in each door handle and a white lens on the chmsl.
-- stormy blue mica and highland green mica replacing two existing colors.
leather -- carry over from the mx-5 soft top.
ontario, canada, and in mexico by mazda motor de mexico in mexico city.


text:
The location of the July 15, 2002 flare is shown at left. The other panels compare the scale of Earth to the eruptions. Red shows superheated gas held together by magnetic fields. The time sequence lasts only 80 seconds and yet reveals tremendous amounts of gas leaving the Sun.
A detailed study of a huge solar eruption reveals that a series of smaller explosions combined in a domino effect to fuel the blast.
The findings improve understanding of the Sun's most powerful events and could lead to better forecasting of the tempests, researchers said.
Scientists studied data collected from a radiation flare on the Sun on July 15, 2002. The eruption, ranked as an X-7, was one of the most powerful in recent times. The flare was accompanied by a coronal mass ejection, which is a colossal discharge of electrified gas called plasma. The event was 5,000 million times more powerful than an atomic bomb.
Scientists don't know exactly what triggers such eruptions. They are associated with strong magnetic fields, however, and emanate from sunspots, which are cooler regions of the Sun that correspond to bottled-up magnetic energy.
"Sunspots are at the surface of the Sun, and are essentially the footprints of the magnetic field," explained Louise Harra of the Mullard Space Science Laboratory at University College London. "The magnetic field reaches into the outer atmosphere in the same way as for example a bar magnet has a magnetic field around it."
Researchers had thought the big eruptions are created when magnetic field lines from the core of a sunspot become tangled and reconnect high in solar atmosphere, or corona. The new study contradicts that assumption.
X-7 flare started when plasma from below the Sun's surface broke suddenly through.
"Below the surface of the Sun a dynamo process is working creating magnetic field," Harra explained in an email interview. "When this becomes buoyant it can rise to the surface of the Sun, and into the atmosphere."
The plasma collided with a strong magnetic field at the surface, and the interaction triggered release of "phenomenal amounts of energy," the researchers concluded. There were three eruptions, each triggering the next.
The gas was heated to 36 million degrees Fahrenheit (20 million Celsius) before being flung up into the solar atmosphere at 90,000 mph (40 kilometers per second).
"We have observed the flows of hot gas for the first time, enabling us to see that several small flares combine to create a major explosion," Harra said. "This may eventually enable us to predict large flares before they erupt."
Not all solar flares are accompanied by coronal mass ejections, and nobody knows for sure why.
"It must be a combination of the magnetic field strength and the magnetic configuration that will allow field lines to be opened and hence the release of gas," Harra said.
The observations were made with SOHO spacecraft, a joint project of NASA and the European Space Agency. The results were presented last week at a meeting of the Royal Astronomical Society.

lowercased:
the location of the july 15, 2002 flare is shown at left. the other panels compare the scale of earth to the eruptions. red shows superheated gas held together by magnetic fields. the time sequence lasts only 80 seconds and yet reveals tremendous amounts of gas leaving the sun.
a detailed study of a huge solar eruption reveals that a series of smaller explosions combined in a domino effect to fuel the blast.
the findings improve understanding of the sun's most powerful events and could lead to better forecasting of the tempests, researchers said.
scientists studied data collected from a radiation flare on the sun on july 15, 2002. the eruption, ranked as an x-7, was one of the most powerful in recent times. the flare was accompanied by a coronal mass ejection, which is a colossal discharge of electrified gas called plasma. the event was 5,000 million times more powerful than an atomic bomb.
scientists don't know exactly what triggers such eruptions. they are associated with strong magnetic fields, however, and emanate from sunspots, which are cooler regions of the sun that correspond to bottled-up magnetic energy.
"sunspots are at the surface of the sun, and are essentially the footprints of the magnetic field," explained louise harra of the mullard space science laboratory at university college london. "the magnetic field reaches into the outer atmosphere in the same way as for example a bar magnet has a magnetic field around it."
researchers had thought the big eruptions are created when magnetic field lines from the core of a sunspot become tangled and reconnect high in solar atmosphere, or corona. the new study contradicts that assumption.
x-7 flare started when plasma from below the sun's surface broke suddenly through.
"below the surface of the sun a dynamo process is working creating magnetic field," harra explained in an email interview. "when this becomes buoyant it can rise to the surface of the sun, and into the atmosphere."
the plasma collided with a strong magnetic field at the surface, and the interaction triggered release of "phenomenal amounts of energy," the researchers concluded. there were three eruptions, each triggering the next.
the gas was heated to 36 million degrees fahrenheit (20 million celsius) before being flung up into the solar atmosphere at 90,000 mph (40 kilometers per second).
"we have observed the flows of hot gas for the first time, enabling us to see that several small flares combine to create a major explosion," harra said. "this may eventually enable us to predict large flares before they erupt."
not all solar flares are accompanied by coronal mass ejections, and nobody knows for sure why.
"it must be a combination of the magnetic field strength and the magnetic configuration that will allow field lines to be opened and hence the release of gas," harra said.
the observations were made with soho spacecraft, a joint project of nasa and the european space agency. the results were presented last week at a meeting of the royal astronomical society.


text:
Whether your dental needs are a complete exam and cleaning, a full-mouth restoration, or anything in between, we promise to provide you with exceptional care as we enhance the natural beauty of your smile. Your smile is our first priority, and we’ll give you something to smile about. We look forward to providing you with the personal care you deserve. If you have any questions, concerns, or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact us using the information provided below.
When you need a dentist in Camarillo, CA - look for professionals willing to provide care that's more than just gentle on your teeth. In order to ease your anxiety and get you the care you need for a healthy, radiant smile, our Potts Dental location on Rosewood Ave provides comprehensive service designed to provide you peace of mind.
Whether you need an annual checkup or oral surgery, our dental professionals are committed to delivering effective, efficient solutions. More importantly, we’re committed to providing an office experience that's rooted in comfort and compassion. From our respectful dental team to our friendly and helpful office staff, we believe that you have a right to care that understands and respects your unique concerns.
Conveniently located near the Paseo Camarillo Shopping Center, Drs. Michael and Derek Potts' practice serves the dental needs of patients through the Ventura County area including Oxnard, Ventura, and Thousand Oaks.

lowercased:
whether your dental needs are a complete exam and cleaning, a full-mouth restoration, or anything in between, we promise to provide you with exceptional care as we enhance the natural beauty of your smile. your smile is our first priority, and we’ll give you something to smile about. we look forward to providing you with the personal care you deserve. if you have any questions, concerns, or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact us using the information provided below.
when you need a dentist in camarillo, ca - look for professionals willing to provide care that's more than just gentle on your teeth. in order to ease your anxiety and get you the care you need for a healthy, radiant smile, our potts dental location on rosewood ave provides comprehensive service designed to provide you peace of mind.
whether you need an annual checkup or oral surgery, our dental professionals are committed to delivering effective, efficient solutions. more importantly, we’re committed to providing an office experience that's rooted in comfort and compassion. from our respectful dental team to our friendly and helpful office staff, we believe that you have a right to care that understands and respects your unique concerns.
conveniently located near the paseo camarillo shopping center, drs. michael and derek potts' practice serves the dental needs of patients through the ventura county area including oxnard, ventura, and thousand oaks.


text:
Ouanga Bay used to be the spot for spending relaxing weekends. We exhibits before you Top Most Luxury 5 Star Hotels in Ouanga Bay beach and Resorts in Ouanga Bay beach. Get best modest spending bargains for Best 5 Star Hotels, Boutique Hotels and Small Luxury Boutique Hotels and resorts in Ouanga Bay beach for your extravagance occasions and get-away over the globe. These lavish lodgings are known all through the world for their administrations, magnetic climate and extravagance stay relaxes, these are the inns which the explorers can visit for culminate get-aways and Holidays. Our motivation is to give you the entire database of these extravagance 5 star inns and little extravagance boutique inns and to give modest best spending inn booking bargains.
The beach is too rocky. Wear water shoes. Best beach to visit. The sandbar has breathtaking crystal clear waters which resembles a natural swimming pool, a must see. Ouanga Bay beach is no uncertainty a standout amongst the most famous travel spot in the Haiti for occasions, breaks, special nights and family trip. In any case, it is the hardest assignment for any traveler to discover the best inn online before pick any one. Along these lines, here is the rundown of best 10 lodgings in Ouanga Bay beach which we have shortlisted according to explorers encounters, surveys, prevalent administrations and high sumptuously. Add a zest to your get-away program in Ouanga Bay beach with the lavish inns that welcome you to encounter a magnificent amalgamation of culture, warmth and contemporary civilities. On the off chance that you wish to encounter the regal ways of life once lived by the elites of the yesteryear, at that point go to these spots and lose yourself in the hands of lavishness. Having rendered with high living spaces, global dishes, regal spa and superb meeting offices, these inns have outlined its administrations remembering that the guests may need to work 24 Hour following universal datelines.
The sandbar is surrounded by reefs which makes it ideal for snorkeling. Guests can virtually never leave the beach here by opting to stay in beachfront rooms, an option giving the opportunity to experience the beautiful crashing waves on the silky sand from morning until night. Atmosphere awaits you. Add a flavor to your journey program in Ouanga Bay beach with the extravagant lodgings that appreciated you to experience an awesome amalgamation of Ouanga Bay beach warmth and contemporary civilities. Having rendered with high living spaces, all inclusive dishes, royal spa and splendid social affair workplaces, these lodgings have arranged its organizations recollecting that the visitors may need to work 24 Hour following overall datelines.

lowercased:
ouanga bay used to be the spot for spending relaxing weekends. we exhibits before you top most luxury 5 star hotels in ouanga bay beach and resorts in ouanga bay beach. get best modest spending bargains for best 5 star hotels, boutique hotels and small luxury boutique hotels and resorts in ouanga bay beach for your extravagance occasions and get-away over the globe. these lavish lodgings are known all through the world for their administrations, magnetic climate and extravagance stay relaxes, these are the inns which the explorers can visit for culminate get-aways and holidays. our motivation is to give you the entire database of these extravagance 5 star inns and little extravagance boutique inns and to give modest best spending inn booking bargains.
the beach is too rocky. wear water shoes. best beach to visit. the sandbar has breathtaking crystal clear waters which resembles a natural swimming pool, a must see. ouanga bay beach is no uncertainty a standout amongst the most famous travel spot in the haiti for occasions, breaks, special nights and family trip. in any case, it is the hardest assignment for any traveler to discover the best inn online before pick any one. along these lines, here is the rundown of best 10 lodgings in ouanga bay beach which we have shortlisted according to explorers encounters, surveys, prevalent administrations and high sumptuously. add a zest to your get-away program in ouanga bay beach with the lavish inns that welcome you to encounter a magnificent amalgamation of culture, warmth and contemporary civilities. on the off chance that you wish to encounter the regal ways of life once lived by the elites of the yesteryear, at that point go to these spots and lose yourself in the hands of lavishness. having rendered with high living spaces, global dishes, regal spa and superb meeting offices, these inns have outlined its administrations remembering that the guests may need to work 24 hour following universal datelines.
the sandbar is surrounded by reefs which makes it ideal for snorkeling. guests can virtually never leave the beach here by opting to stay in beachfront rooms, an option giving the opportunity to experience the beautiful crashing waves on the silky sand from morning until night. atmosphere awaits you. add a flavor to your journey program in ouanga bay beach with the extravagant lodgings that appreciated you to experience an awesome amalgamation of ouanga bay beach warmth and contemporary civilities. having rendered with high living spaces, all inclusive dishes, royal spa and splendid social affair workplaces, these lodgings have arranged its organizations recollecting that the visitors may need to work 24 hour following overall datelines.


text:
Not feeling well today, so back in bed at eleven in the morning. Sore throat. Sinus pressure. Yuck.
I will say, though, it's nice to be alone up here in my room in the middle of the day with some items I have come to count as dearest companions - my Bible, journal, daily devotion book, thankful journal, and a collection of gel pens.
Currently, I am reading Jesus Calling, by Sarah Young. Filled with lovely little reminders of God's presence and His love for me, this daily devotional helps focus my thoughts either to start my day right or rest peacefully during the night.
Also by my side today is God's Wisdom for a Mother's Heart, by Bobbie Wolgemuth. This has provided hours and hours of conversation starters for the bi-monthly mentoring group I help lead at my church. Though only 128 pages in length, we have used this book for more than a year. The girls in Moms to Moms meet the first and second Wednesday nights of the month, a sort of round-table, open forum where no topic is off limits, but mostly parenting and reassuring that they're going to make it. We study the Word, pray, laugh, cry, teach each other, and we are all growing.
My co-leaders and I agree these young ladies with their children around them are our heroes. Represented are single and married moms, working outside and inside their homes, public/private/homeschooling moms...you name it, we've got it. This is one group we hate to miss. A gift from God. Truly.
My thankful journal is simply a little leather-bound book where I record the gifts God has given me. Eucharisto. Thanks. One Thousand Gifts. 10,000 reasons. Why write them down? Because I dare not forget the goodness of God. In the remembering and the acknowledging I am overwhelmed with reassurance that God is my provider, comforter, healer, friend, joy, strength, and so much more. I am much less likely to lose my focus and wander if I am remembering God's deeds and giving thanks.
Last, but certainly not least, is my personal journal. It may as well be my heart on paper. This is where it all comes pouring forth to be sorted, processed, saved or discarded. You know, keep the good and throw out the chaff. That's what the journal is for - it is fearsome, yet necessary. Necessary for me anyways.
There are a few more books I could talk about. Don't know about you, but I read several at once. These I mentioned were simply the lucky ones to be carried into the sick bed with me today.
Do you have reading materials you count as "dearest companions"? What are they and why are they special to you?
I also have the Jesus Calling devotional, Karen had mentioned it a long time ago, and I finally got it. I've really enjoyed it, it's definitely helped me focus in on that 'personal' time..

lowercased:
not feeling well today, so back in bed at eleven in the morning. sore throat. sinus pressure. yuck.
i will say, though, it's nice to be alone up here in my room in the middle of the day with some items i have come to count as dearest companions - my bible, journal, daily devotion book, thankful journal, and a collection of gel pens.
currently, i am reading jesus calling, by sarah young. filled with lovely little reminders of god's presence and his love for me, this daily devotional helps focus my thoughts either to start my day right or rest peacefully during the night.
also by my side today is god's wisdom for a mother's heart, by bobbie wolgemuth. this has provided hours and hours of conversation starters for the bi-monthly mentoring group i help lead at my church. though only 128 pages in length, we have used this book for more than a year. the girls in moms to moms meet the first and second wednesday nights of the month, a sort of round-table, open forum where no topic is off limits, but mostly parenting and reassuring that they're going to make it. we study the word, pray, laugh, cry, teach each other, and we are all growing.
my co-leaders and i agree these young ladies with their children around them are our heroes. represented are single and married moms, working outside and inside their homes, public/private/homeschooling moms...you name it, we've got it. this is one group we hate to miss. a gift from god. truly.
my thankful journal is simply a little leather-bound book where i record the gifts god has given me. eucharisto. thanks. one thousand gifts. 10,000 reasons. why write them down? because i dare not forget the goodness of god. in the remembering and the acknowledging i am overwhelmed with reassurance that god is my provider, comforter, healer, friend, joy, strength, and so much more. i am much less likely to lose my focus and wander if i am remembering god's deeds and giving thanks.
last, but certainly not least, is my personal journal. it may as well be my heart on paper. this is where it all comes pouring forth to be sorted, processed, saved or discarded. you know, keep the good and throw out the chaff. that's what the journal is for - it is fearsome, yet necessary. necessary for me anyways.
there are a few more books i could talk about. don't know about you, but i read several at once. these i mentioned were simply the lucky ones to be carried into the sick bed with me today.
do you have reading materials you count as "dearest companions"? what are they and why are they special to you?
i also have the jesus calling devotional, karen had mentioned it a long time ago, and i finally got it. i've really enjoyed it, it's definitely helped me focus in on that 'personal' time..


text:
The New York Times offers quite a bit of video content these days, so naturally someone went and made a Kodi addon for it. They’re content is mostly news related, but some of the content is also entertaining, while being informative at the same time. This is a good addon for when you want to watch something quick and interesting, or looking to kill time watching news coverage. It might not be the number one addon, but the New York Times Video addon is certainly worth the price is costs.
The New York Times Video addon for Kodi can be installed in a matter of seconds, since the official Kodi repository is already available on every Kodi device. Installation is far simpler than it would be to install unofficial addons, and basically requires the flip of a switch. Since we’re such nice people, we’re going to walk you through each step of the New York Times Video addon installation process.
Step 6: Choose the New York Times Video Kodi addon from the listing.
Step 9: Launch the New York Times Video addon from the Video add-ons tab.
Step 10: Choose the International section and browse!
Thank you to netw1z for developing this addon, giving the Kodi world access to all the video content that the New York Times has to offer. There are often interesting mini broadcasts that cover a wide range of global topics. We hope you enjoy the New York Times Video addon as much as we do!

lowercased:
the new york times offers quite a bit of video content these days, so naturally someone went and made a kodi addon for it. they’re content is mostly news related, but some of the content is also entertaining, while being informative at the same time. this is a good addon for when you want to watch something quick and interesting, or looking to kill time watching news coverage. it might not be the number one addon, but the new york times video addon is certainly worth the price is costs.
the new york times video addon for kodi can be installed in a matter of seconds, since the official kodi repository is already available on every kodi device. installation is far simpler than it would be to install unofficial addons, and basically requires the flip of a switch. since we’re such nice people, we’re going to walk you through each step of the new york times video addon installation process.
step 6: choose the new york times video kodi addon from the listing.
step 9: launch the new york times video addon from the video add-ons tab.
step 10: choose the international section and browse!
thank you to netw1z for developing this addon, giving the kodi world access to all the video content that the new york times has to offer. there are often interesting mini broadcasts that cover a wide range of global topics. we hope you enjoy the new york times video addon as much as we do!


text:
SEF Canada is working with artisanal miners in Ecuador to eliminate mercury in gold processing while developing local economies. SEF Canada’s managing director Suzette McFaul discusses the project’s community-driven approach to developing more sustainable practices in artisanal gold mining.
Miners in the Clean Gold project are transitioning from mercury to cyanide-based processing methods. Image courtesy of SEF Canada.
Clean Gold has partnered with the University of British Columbia and others to form a technical "dream team". Image courtesy of SEF Canada.
Artisanal miners often struggle with the brutal economics of small-scale production and accessing markets. Image courtesy of SEF Canada.
McFaul with a worker on-site in Ecuador.
On 16 August, the Minamata Convention on Mercury entered into force, marking the culmination of a years-long effort to come up with an international response to the shared threat of mercury exposure.
While mercury has been used in industrial processes for hundreds of years, its extreme toxicity poses massive public health risks. Mercury poisoning can cause irreparable brain damage and organ failure, and low-level exposure is a significant cause of premature deaths.
The Minamata Convention, named after the Japanese city that has been living for decades with the consequences of a mass mercury poisoning, brings with it tighter controls for the handling of mercury in industry, as well as provisions for what it calls the “phase-out and phase-down of mercury use in products and processes”.
It also means renewed scrutiny on the use of mercury in artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) in many countries, and artisanal gold mining in particular. Mercury is used extensively in ASM operations, and often in highly unsafe domestic conditions, to process ore and recover gold.
But for small-scale miners working with simple tools and lacking the deep pockets, greater pressure to stop using mercury hasn’t changed the economic fundamentals of their trade. Technical limitations mean that recovery rates are low and the grey market buyers of their gold, often jewellers, offering far below spot value. “And that’s if they don’t get mugged on the way in a cash-based society,” says McFaul.
After being invited to southern Ecuador’s El Oro province in 2014 to see how SEF’s economic development model might help artisanal mining communities, McFaul established Clean Gold Community Solutions (Clean Gold) to take a more holistic approach to improving ASM standards in the region.
The company has partnered with artisanal miners, along with a technical ‘dream team’ led by the University of British Columbia, to make the transition away from mercury processing, while also taking on the upgrade of a local gold processing plant to refine the miners’ products and instilling business development skills to empower the miners as business owners.
The plant, which McFaul says should be up and running “around next week”, will switch out mercury for cyanide in the recovery process, as the latter breaks down much more quickly if released. But the partnership, McFaul stresses, is about more than just replacing a harmful industrial element; it’s about building new, sustainable systems centred around the plant.
In turn, transparency around processing methods and environmental performance facilitates access to markets that will offer close to spot prices for the miners’ gold, rather than the 40-60% of spot price that McFaul says they get from grey market buyers.
At the heart of Clean Gold’s model is prioritising the economic and social health of the whole community that surrounds ASM operations. This starts with only partnering with miners who have invited the company to do so, and developing the local economy is part of the deal.
“The community has to buy in and the community has to win,” says McFaul. “There’s a community foundation that comes out of every Clean Gold project. “The community has to agree, and the miners agree, that part of that community foundation will go into an SEF model to help all the other people in the community.
The approach aims to be the polar opposite of the exploitative, opaque relationships that can characterise mining communities’ interactions with large-scale mining companies. Putting the reins in the hands of the community helps create a virtuous cycle that is key to the wider economic development plan, even if a hands-off approach presents its own challenges.
Clean Gold is keen to expand its methods to ASM communities around the world. Plans are already in place to set up another project in Ecuador next year, and McFaul is hoping that the current plant upgrade and community development scheme will be a strong showcase to help sell the concept to prospective future investors.
If the money can be found, there is apparently no shortage of demand for the Clean Gold model. The company has already visited Guyana, and McFaul says invitations have been extended from neighbouring Colombia, as well as Kenya and Mali.
Certainly there are challenges still to come. If the model is to be a true success on its own terms, it will be vital that miners and local families are as happy with the profit-sharing arrangement as the investors. But if the project in El Oro Province can make its environmental, ethical and business case, it could set a progressive template for cleaning up artisanal gold mining while also encouraging sustainable growth in communities that often live well below the poverty line.

lowercased:
sef canada is working with artisanal miners in ecuador to eliminate mercury in gold processing while developing local economies. sef canada’s managing director suzette mcfaul discusses the project’s community-driven approach to developing more sustainable practices in artisanal gold mining.
miners in the clean gold project are transitioning from mercury to cyanide-based processing methods. image courtesy of sef canada.
clean gold has partnered with the university of british columbia and others to form a technical "dream team". image courtesy of sef canada.
artisanal miners often struggle with the brutal economics of small-scale production and accessing markets. image courtesy of sef canada.
mcfaul with a worker on-site in ecuador.
on 16 august, the minamata convention on mercury entered into force, marking the culmination of a years-long effort to come up with an international response to the shared threat of mercury exposure.
while mercury has been used in industrial processes for hundreds of years, its extreme toxicity poses massive public health risks. mercury poisoning can cause irreparable brain damage and organ failure, and low-level exposure is a significant cause of premature deaths.
the minamata convention, named after the japanese city that has been living for decades with the consequences of a mass mercury poisoning, brings with it tighter controls for the handling of mercury in industry, as well as provisions for what it calls the “phase-out and phase-down of mercury use in products and processes”.
it also means renewed scrutiny on the use of mercury in artisanal and small-scale mining (asm) in many countries, and artisanal gold mining in particular. mercury is used extensively in asm operations, and often in highly unsafe domestic conditions, to process ore and recover gold.
but for small-scale miners working with simple tools and lacking the deep pockets, greater pressure to stop using mercury hasn’t changed the economic fundamentals of their trade. technical limitations mean that recovery rates are low and the grey market buyers of their gold, often jewellers, offering far below spot value. “and that’s if they don’t get mugged on the way in a cash-based society,” says mcfaul.
after being invited to southern ecuador’s el oro province in 2014 to see how sef’s economic development model might help artisanal mining communities, mcfaul established clean gold community solutions (clean gold) to take a more holistic approach to improving asm standards in the region.
the company has partnered with artisanal miners, along with a technical ‘dream team’ led by the university of british columbia, to make the transition away from mercury processing, while also taking on the upgrade of a local gold processing plant to refine the miners’ products and instilling business development skills to empower the miners as business owners.
the plant, which mcfaul says should be up and running “around next week”, will switch out mercury for cyanide in the recovery process, as the latter breaks down much more quickly if released. but the partnership, mcfaul stresses, is about more than just replacing a harmful industrial element; it’s about building new, sustainable systems centred around the plant.
in turn, transparency around processing methods and environmental performance facilitates access to markets that will offer close to spot prices for the miners’ gold, rather than the 40-60% of spot price that mcfaul says they get from grey market buyers.
at the heart of clean gold’s model is prioritising the economic and social health of the whole community that surrounds asm operations. this starts with only partnering with miners who have invited the company to do so, and developing the local economy is part of the deal.
“the community has to buy in and the community has to win,” says mcfaul. “there’s a community foundation that comes out of every clean gold project. “the community has to agree, and the miners agree, that part of that community foundation will go into an sef model to help all the other people in the community.
the approach aims to be the polar opposite of the exploitative, opaque relationships that can characterise mining communities’ interactions with large-scale mining companies. putting the reins in the hands of the community helps create a virtuous cycle that is key to the wider economic development plan, even if a hands-off approach presents its own challenges.
clean gold is keen to expand its methods to asm communities around the world. plans are already in place to set up another project in ecuador next year, and mcfaul is hoping that the current plant upgrade and community development scheme will be a strong showcase to help sell the concept to prospective future investors.
if the money can be found, there is apparently no shortage of demand for the clean gold model. the company has already visited guyana, and mcfaul says invitations have been extended from neighbouring colombia, as well as kenya and mali.
certainly there are challenges still to come. if the model is to be a true success on its own terms, it will be vital that miners and local families are as happy with the profit-sharing arrangement as the investors. but if the project in el oro province can make its environmental, ethical and business case, it could set a progressive template for cleaning up artisanal gold mining while also encouraging sustainable growth in communities that often live well below the poverty line.


text:
Starting XI Prediction: Solskjaer to keep 4-3-3 formation with Lingard, Rashford, and Martial leading the attack against PSG?
Manchester United return to UEFA Champions League action against Paris Saint-Germain at Old Trafford on Tuesday evening. It is what the Theatre of Dreams is made for, European nights under the floodlights. Last season, United made it to the same stage of the competition, losing to Sevilla and exiting the competition. This season, under the management of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, things may go a bit different for the Red Devils. Confidence is high and United are undefeated in 11 matches, winning ten and drawing one.
Now is perhaps the best time to face the French champions as Neymar is out of the match and striker, Edinson Cavani limped out of Saturday’s 1-0 victory over Bordeaux. PSG are a competent team but playing in France, they do not really have much competition which may be a negative ahead of this game, as United have been challenged in every match they have played, showing the difference between the Premier League and French football.
The Spanish number one was rarely tested against Fulham at Craven Cottage on Saturday but when he was, he was at his best. There are suggestions that the goalkeeper is calling for a £350,000 per week wage to sign a new contract at United, which is fair considering that he is the player who has been the difference for United – more often than not. He seems players like Alexis Sanchez on a high wage, yet in terms of what he offers United, De Gea offers so much more.
United have managed to keep two clean sheets in their last two matches, which shows that some things have changed for United under Solskjaer. Ashley Young and Victor Lindelof were rested against Fulham, with the ‘ice man’ suffering from a knock. I expect both will be back against PSG with Luke Shaw keeping his place and Eric Bailly partnering Lindelof, which has seen both players in good form recently. Solskjaer has Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and possibly Marcos Rojo to select also, keeping options open.
United’s best midfield will be tested against PSG on Tuesday. Ander Herrera, Nemanja Matic, and Paul Pogba. Both Herrera and Matic allow Pogba to play further forward, which has seen the Frenchman play some good football recently, also seeing him score eight goals and five assists in his last ten matches under Solskjaer. This United midfield has the form, the ability and the experience to work the magic against PSG at the Theatre of Dreams.
Marcus Rashford and Jesse Lingard were both rested in the 3-0 victory over Fulham at the weekend, meaning they will both be fresh to face PSG at Old Trafford. Anthony Martial played 70 minutes against Fulham, scoring a sublime goal, also getting an assist, which will mean his confidence will be high ahead of the Champions League match. These three, on their day, can be devastating to any team. If United manage to keep a clean sheet at home, the quarter-finals could be set for United this season.
Preview: U23’s out to fight for their futures against Reading?
Where did it all go wrong for Luke Shaw?

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starting xi prediction: solskjaer to keep 4-3-3 formation with lingard, rashford, and martial leading the attack against psg?
manchester united return to uefa champions league action against paris saint-germain at old trafford on tuesday evening. it is what the theatre of dreams is made for, european nights under the floodlights. last season, united made it to the same stage of the competition, losing to sevilla and exiting the competition. this season, under the management of ole gunnar solskjaer, things may go a bit different for the red devils. confidence is high and united are undefeated in 11 matches, winning ten and drawing one.
now is perhaps the best time to face the french champions as neymar is out of the match and striker, edinson cavani limped out of saturday’s 1-0 victory over bordeaux. psg are a competent team but playing in france, they do not really have much competition which may be a negative ahead of this game, as united have been challenged in every match they have played, showing the difference between the premier league and french football.
the spanish number one was rarely tested against fulham at craven cottage on saturday but when he was, he was at his best. there are suggestions that the goalkeeper is calling for a £350,000 per week wage to sign a new contract at united, which is fair considering that he is the player who has been the difference for united – more often than not. he seems players like alexis sanchez on a high wage, yet in terms of what he offers united, de gea offers so much more.
united have managed to keep two clean sheets in their last two matches, which shows that some things have changed for united under solskjaer. ashley young and victor lindelof were rested against fulham, with the ‘ice man’ suffering from a knock. i expect both will be back against psg with luke shaw keeping his place and eric bailly partnering lindelof, which has seen both players in good form recently. solskjaer has phil jones, chris smalling and possibly marcos rojo to select also, keeping options open.
united’s best midfield will be tested against psg on tuesday. ander herrera, nemanja matic, and paul pogba. both herrera and matic allow pogba to play further forward, which has seen the frenchman play some good football recently, also seeing him score eight goals and five assists in his last ten matches under solskjaer. this united midfield has the form, the ability and the experience to work the magic against psg at the theatre of dreams.
marcus rashford and jesse lingard were both rested in the 3-0 victory over fulham at the weekend, meaning they will both be fresh to face psg at old trafford. anthony martial played 70 minutes against fulham, scoring a sublime goal, also getting an assist, which will mean his confidence will be high ahead of the champions league match. these three, on their day, can be devastating to any team. if united manage to keep a clean sheet at home, the quarter-finals could be set for united this season.
preview: u23’s out to fight for their futures against reading?
where did it all go wrong for luke shaw?


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lowercased:
at “at design group” your privacy is our priority. we are committed to protecting your privacy at all times and in all situations. the information we collect about you when you become a member is used to process your orders and to provide a more personalised experience on our website. our website uses 128 bit encryption in areas of the website where personal information is collected or displayed to increase the security of any information transmitted between your computer and our website. however, please note that we cannot guarantee complete security of all stored information, although, we do everything in our power to ensure that all information is secure.
should there be a requirement for data are to be transferred to someone (other than the individual or the organisation or its employees), we will take reasonable steps to ensure that the data which is to be transferred will not be processed inconsistently with this model code.
the identity of the person(s) designated by our organisation to oversee the organisation's compliance with the principles shall be made known upon request.
we collect personally identifiable information for the sole purpose of registering a user and for transactional purposes on our web site. personal data collected, will not be used for a new purpose unless we obtain consent from users. we are the sole owner of the personally identifiable information collected on this site.
we do not collect sensitive information from users. we assure users that all personal information collected would be used or disclosed only for the purposes for which it was collected.
we will obtain consent from users should we need to use the personal data for a new purpose or for a purpose not previously identified. we assure users that consent will be obtain prior to use of their personal data.
users may withdraw consent at any time, subject to legal or contractual restrictions and reasonable notice. users may only be subjected to consequences because of this decision where the information is required to fulfil the specified and legitimate purposes set out by the organisation.
only the necessary personal data is collected from registered users for business purposes only. both the amount and the type of data collected shall be limited to that which is necessary to fulfil the purposes identified.
we will not disclose, share, transfer, sell or rent personally identifiable information to any 3rd party. we do not send unsolicited marketing email to our users. registered users will occasionally receive email on special promotions we hold. out of respect for the privacy of our users, users may opt-out of receiving these communications by replying to unsubscribe in the subject line in the email.
we have developed guidelines and implemented procedures to govern the destruction of personal data that are no longer required to fulfil the identified purposes.
we would not display or make publicly available, whether through online directories, customer lists or otherwise, the personally identifiable information collected.
we ensure all users that all personal information collected is accurate and kept up to date. we will only make a request to users for updates of personal data if the update is necessary to fulfil the purposes for which the data was collected.
we do not maintain duplicate copies of personal information in different systems.
we ensure all users that appropriate security safeguards are in place to protect personal data against unauthorised access, misuse, disclosure, copying, use, alteration, accidental loss or theft, destruction or damage.
all employees in our organisation are aware of the importance of maintaining confidentiality of the personal data collected from users. circulars are distributed to all employees to ensure they are aware of the compliance.
cookies are pieces of information that your browser stores on your computer's hard drive which identify you when you enter. we may use session cookies to provide a seamless experience on the website and to combine with our log files so that we can understand our website traffic and analyse website usage information in aggregate form.
users can write to us to request to obtain details of personal data submitted to our organisation.
we allow users the right to access their personal information. users can access their personal information by using their respective username and password to gain access to their personal information.
if your personally identifiable information changes, or if you no longer desire our service, you may correct, update or remove your personal data at the member information page or by emailing our customer support.
we will respond to our customer’s request within a reasonable time and we charge / do not charge a reasonable fee / a fee for providing the information or data requested for.
children (users under the age of 18 years) are not eligible to use our services or purchase any products online unsupervised.
we request that children do not submit any personal information to us online. if you are under the age of 18 years, you may only surf the site only if you have obtained consent from your parents/legal guardian or if you are under the supervision of your parent or legal guardian.
when required by law wherein we have a good-faith belief that such action is necessary to comply with a current judicial proceeding, a court order or legal process served on our website.