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Are you a franchisor? Do you have contractors? Do you use a staffing agency? Do you outsource functions (food service, cleaning, security, etc.)? Do you have affiliate corporate entities you established to operate separately? Do you have a vertically integrated operation? If you answered any single one of these questions affirmatively, the National Labor Relations Board is gunning for you.
As those entities already in these situations probably are aware, the NLRB has recently expressed a renewed interest in re-defining current standards for determining joint employer liability. Put another way, this means that the Board is trying to make it easier to find employers responsible (and liable) for another employer's employees.
What exactly is a joint employer? Simply stated, a joint employer relationship exists where two separate employer entities actually share or meaningfully affect control of the employment relationship with regard to terms and conditions of employment. This includes joint involvement in things like hiring, firing, discipline, supervision, direction, etc. Joint employers acting in this manner have long been jointly liable for violations of the National Labor Relations Act. In fact, this standard for determining joint employment has been in existence for over 30 years and has been endorsed by federal courts and Congress.
On May 14, 2014, the NLRB first indicated that it was prepared to revisit this standard by requesting briefing from interested parties on a case pending before it, Browning-Ferris, Inc. In that case, the Teamsters claimed that the company was a joint employer with staffing agency employees it uses. Specifically, the NLRB asked whether it should change its current standard – and possibly even adopt a new (and more relaxed) standard.
The NLRB's brief submitted in Browning-Ferris proposed making a joint employer determination based on the totality of the circumstances by examining direct, indirect, and "potential" control of one employer over the employees of another employer. Specifically, the NLRB would look at the "economic realities or dependence" of the employers as opposed to the immediate, direct control the current test examines. Among the variables cited by the NLRB to be considered include tracking sales data, inventory and labor costs, projections of labor needs, involvement in employee work schedules, involvement in setting wages and wage reviews, involvement in the application and screening process, and even productivity.
Just as the ink dried on the Browning-Ferris brief invitation, the General Counsel (GC) for the NLRB announced on July 29, 2014 that it intended to issue complaints against McDonald's USA in 43 pending cases in which it was alleged that McDonald's was a joint employer of the franchisee's employees. That is, McDonald's was going to be named as a joint employer because it allegedly exerts too much control over day-to-day operations of its franchisees. Now, the GC's determination to issue a complaint has no legally binding affect, and absent settlement, the result will be determined through litigation. Clearly, however, by issuing the Browning-Ferris invitation and by issuing the McDonald's complaints, the direction the NLRB would like to go would seem to make franchisors (and other employers) responsible and more frequently liable for franchisee (or contractor, staffing agency, or other entity) employees.
Why is the Board so interested in joint employer status all of a sudden? There are a number of reasons why. First, as the actions of the Board in recent years appear to make plain, the NLRB has been trying to expand its jurisdiction. Currently, unions represent 11.3% of the workforce and only 6.7% of the private sector. Consider, for example, the Board's proposed election rules, its decision about college athletes at Northwestern University, and its continued focus on work rules in non-union settings. All would increase those percentages. Second, the unions' (or union-supported work centers') drive to increase the minimum wage centers heavily on the fast food industry. Historically, the major chains have been insulated from that effort because the franchisee has generally been recognized as the employer, but changing the joint employer test allows the unions to exert pressure on a more recognized corporate entity. This, in turn, could open the door to larger scale organizing by unions.
The approach the NLRB has taken in this area is something all employers should be paying attention to. This is particularly true since other agencies – like the Department of Labor, to name just one example – may likewise consider trying to pursue a lessened standard as applied to the laws they enforce. Beyond just paying attention to what's happening on this front, it's probably a good idea for employers who may be at risk to review existing contracts to ensure that they properly and effectively describe the business relationship, and re-examine the day-to-day realities of the relationship as it relates to the level of separation between the entities.
Unfortunately, this area of the law is in flux right now. Visit the Employment Essentials blog often to stay on top of any additional developments in this area.


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- M&A globally to stay flat at $2.9 trn down from $3.1 trn this year
- Domestic IPOs up to $164bn
- Slow down in Europe, while US and Asia stay on track
- Threats to free trade and investment flows biggest concerns
Cooling macro economic drivers will mean that transaction activity next year will be marginally down on 2018 pulled back by weaker European markets reveals the fourth Global Transactions Forecast issued by Baker McKenzie and Oxford Economics (OE).
The report, based on forecast macro economic indicators from OE along with insights from Baker McKenzie partners in 42 markets worldwide, projects that 2019 is likely to be a year of two halves. Several major transactions announced in 2018 are set to complete in the first half of 2019, while underlying economic conditions should remain strong throughout this period. However, macro drivers will cool the market through the latter half of next year.
The forecast predicts M&A value at $2.9trn for 2019 - down from $3.1trn this year - before falling to $2.3trn in 2020. With some major IPOs scheduled for 2019, we foresee total proceeds at $232bn - up from $220bn in 2018 - before dropping to $154bn in 2020. In 2021 and beyond, with borrowing costs settling at their 'neutral' rates and equity markets enjoying better growth, we see the potential for the start of a new upturn in both M&A and IPOs.
Paul Rawlinson Global Chair of Baker McKenzie comments: "We remain cautiously optimistic about the year ahead, as we believe dealmakers will continue to take the long view in a world where sitting on your hands and waiting for the volatility to die down is not an option. However as we identified 12 months ago there are still real threats to free trade and investment flows and there remains potential for a much more serious outbreak of protectionism and isolation that business, regulators and government must try and guard against."
By region
Across the globe the forecast predicts a mixed picture. Overall another strong year is anticipated in North America 2019, particularly if trade talks become less contentious and partisan. However with US interest rates on their way back up towards a neutral level, and limited scope for further cyclical growth in the economy, the second half of 2019 will see less activity than the first.
With the Eurozone economy now entering a cyclical slowdown, the forecast suggests a further reduction in deal activity in 2019, although in selected European economies including Spain and the UK, the market has remained robust and prospects for 2019 look fair – especially if and it's a big if, Brexit is managed relatively smoothly.
In Asia Pacific we anticipate much of the momentum this year will be maintained into 2019 despite slower world trade growth, which is key for many economies in the region. Globally emerging markets look less vulnerable to rising Fed rates than in the past, meaning US monetary policy will drag less on Asia-Pacific dealmaking in 2019 than during previous cycles. And in LatAm we are seeing more interest from investors in long term opportunities. With new governments taking office in Brazil and Mexico, and the expected resolution of NAFTA uncertainty, we expect stronger dealmaking activity in the next couple of years.
A recovery in oil prices has helped economies in the Middle East and Africa through 2018, although the global oil market has become more volatile as we head into 2019. In the Middle East, continued gradual progress towards more-diversified economies should help build confidence and dealmaking from 2019 onwards, while in Africa signs of financial and economic stability will do likewise.
Ai Ai Wong, Global Transactions leader, Baker McKenzie says: "We are predicting a modest slow down next year but we think that global business, particularly in the emerging markets is in pretty good shape to deal with any economic upsets. The fundamentals for deal making remain strong"
M&A in 2019
In last year's forecast we anticipated an acceleration in M&A dealmaking in 2018, as a range of positive economic factors underpinned confidence before a slowdown in 2019. This picture has largely been borne out. However, some of the activity we had pencilled in for 2018 has been pushed back into 2019 - particularly a slew of megadeals that have been announced but are yet to complete. Our forecast is for global M&A volumes of $2.9trn in 2019.
With the world economy cooling from 2019, however, we predict global M&A values will slip back to $2.3trn in 2020. As we move into 2021, we will see more stabilisation after a period of adjustments: interest rates should have reached a stable level in the US; equity markets will be in a more sustainable position and, barring further escalation in trade tensions in the meantime, companies will have more certainty about their ability to trade across borders. As such, our analysis of key macro drivers - and the historical pattern of M&A cycles - suggests a new upcycle could begin in 2021.
Michael DeFranco, Global Head of M&A, Baker McKenzie says, "We remain cautiously optimistic about the environment for M&A in the years ahead. Further consolidation remains inevitable in many markets and across many sectors that a few macro economic bumps in the road might delay but won't postpone. We see some softening in 2020 but again a cyclical recovery further out. Good businesses will always be on the look out for new opportunities."
The IPO market in 2019
The forecast predicts solid growth in the domestic IPO market in 2019 in North America, Asia-Pacific and Latin America with global deal values set to increase from $151bn to $164bn with a number of flagship issues coming to market. Thereafter, IPOs take a temporary pause in 2020, as potential issuers wait for the adjustment in equity markets to finish.
Cross border IPOs surged in 2018 with both the US and Hong Kong markets particularly buoyant, and we forecast that momentum to continue next year. We anticipate that the total of $68bn for this year will be matched next, driven by increased overseas listings by Chinese tech firms. However we expect a modest slow down in 2020 cooling in line with global equity markets, before a partial rebound the following year.
Koen Vanhaerents, Head of Baker McKenzie's Global Capital Markets Practice Group says, "We've seen a pretty mixed range of IPO activity this year with a strong performance in certain markets like the US and Hong Kong being balanced by weaker numbers in Europe as the Continent has struggled with Brexit uncertainties. We expect a similar picture next year but overall remain optimistic there are significant opportunities out there."
And by sector
Consumer-facing sectors are likely again to have a strong year in 2019 as accelerating wage growth in advanced economies will boost household spending in 2019. Similarly tech and telecoms should have another good year with some key megadeals set for completion.
Pharma and health deal completions have disappointed in 2018. However, with a number of significant deals announced later this year we forecast a modest acceleration into 2019. Likewise, in the finance sector, where deal values cooled in 2018, scope remains for consolidation, and traditional banks' desire to access Fintech will also drive growth.
Finally, a rebounding oil price has likely eased the need for further consolidation in the energy sector, and we expect this industry to continue to ebb as a deal driver. But the basic materials sector has been more active, and there is evidence that new metals and minerals (such as those used in electric vehicles) will be key resources driving dealmaking in the year ahead.
In conclusion
Ai Ai concludes: "Business has become more immune over time to global macro uncertainty and have learnt to live with volatility. Even with a cooling global economy and rising protectionism we remain confident that the environment and appetite for deal making remains strong among corporates wherever they are in the world."

subset: commoncrawl


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Here we have Mahsa and Alejandra, a new duo of ticklish foreign students that agreed to try the tickle experience with us ! The first one is iranian and her friend is colombian, both very ticklish, both very happy to come here with us ! They are currently learning french and they both hope to end their studies in France.
Stocks : The first step for Mahsa the ticklish iranian student is our stocks ! She is very nervous, telling us that she feared to be unable to keep control since her feet are probably her most ticklish area. Well, she was right, her feet are undoubtly ticklish! Aleja and the tickler give her a good shot, tickling her with many tools and with baby oil for the second part. Mahsa reacts to every one of them with deep laughs and a lot of complaints. She even says the F world in english at some point.
Upperbody : Mahsa thought her upperbody would be less ticklish, but she was wrong ! Every inch of her body is ticklish, from her belly to her armpits (which she tried to hide saying "it hurts", while she admits at the end that it was fake). Alejandra shows absolutely no mercy with her friend, tormenting her with an obvious pleasure. She doesn't care of Mahsa's complains, tickling her armpits without hesitation !
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| 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | 2015 | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 |
Fujitsu Develops iOS-compatible Bluetooth® Modules Sunnyvale, CA, United States, August 20, 2012 - In response to the rapid development of iOS devices and software applications, Fujitsu Components America Inc. has announced a family of Bluetooth modules that are compatible with iOS products, such as iPod® touch, iPhone®, and iPad®.
Fujitsu's New 4-Wire Resistive Feather Touch Panels Expand Multi-Touch Applications Sunnyvale, CA, United States, June 04, 2012 - Fujitsu Components America has released a series of dual-touch, 4-wire resistive touch panels optimized for multi-touch functionality. The new panels combine the competitive features of Resistive and Projected Capacitive technology, allowing designers to expand multi-touch functionality into other applications, such as industrial equipment and controls, medical devices and automotive, using 4-wire simplicity.
Fujitsu Introduces Flexible Module Printer for Kiosks Sunnyvale, CA, United States, March 28, 2012 - Fujitsu Components America has redesigned a new modular thermal printer unit, the FTP-639USL100 series, that can be configured to maximize design and installation flexibility for various embedded kiosk designs.
Fujitsu Enhances Wireless Mobile Printer Offering Sunnyvale, CA, United States, January 12, 2012 - Fujitsu Components America Inc. has expanded its mobile thermal printer offering with a 2-inch receipt unit that is compatible with Apple® iOS, as well as Android™ and BlackBerry® operating systems.
Fujitsu Thermal Printer Boasts Ultra High-Speed and Increased Functionality Sunnyvale, CA, United States, January 12, 2012 - Fujitsu Components America has enhanced its FP-510 standalone thermal printer series with an ultra-high print speed and expanded functions to improve throughput efficiency and reduce wait times for receipt, ticket and label printing.
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By Georgia Clark
3 out of 5 stars
What if you could drink a magic elixir and become stunningly gorgeous? Would it change your life for the better? That's what happens in this new novel by Georgia Clark. Evie seems stymied in her job at a "woman's" magazine that cares more about looks and how good someone is in bed than the issues she wants on the forefront. Her roommate and friend Krista, dropped out of law school to chase after that acting dream but isn't having much luck. And Willow, lives in the shadow of her famous father, knowing she has artistic talent but not finding her niche. When Krista is offered the bottle of Pretty, she jumps at the chance, as does Willow. Their looks are changed and their lives change. Evie is the last to jump on board, still hoping that the looks will open the doors into what she really wants to show the world. Each one gets what they want, at first, but things start to go in ways they really hadn't planned.
This is the "be careful what you wish for" story. I had read so many good things about it and was really looking forward to it but I hate to say, I was disappointed. I liked the idea. I laughed at a few lines. What would you do if your looks were suddenly changed and you were one of those airbrushed super models you see everyday? But I didn't like the characters so that made it difficult for me to like much of anything else. I did like Evie the most, I will say that but Krista, she was too over the top. It is a pretty quick read and I am sure there will be others who will love it. (There have been, I've seen the reviews.)
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.


text: Celtic & Anglo-Saxon Studies and Gaelic Studies is an ideal subject combination to add to your study in the lives and legacy of the Celtic, Anglo-Saxon, and Scandinavian peoples. You will explore Gaelic from its Celtic origins to its role today as Scotland's oldest living language. The language, historical perspective and study skills you will develop will give you a great advantage for a wide range of career options, especially with a Scottish or international dimension. Aberdeen has been a centre for Celtic studies for more than a century and is now a leading research centre in all aspects of the northern polar regions including its peoples. You will study literature, culture, history and languages, inspired by leading specialists in the history and literature of Britain, Ireland and Scandinavia in the middle ages, in medieval Celtic and Scandinavian literature and the cultural history of Ireland and Anglo-Saxon England. Gaelic is an area of particular strength at Aberdeen. We have been teaching Scottish Gaelic (Gàidhlig) and culture for a hundred years, led by teachers and researchers passionate about Gaelic, and whose work directly influences Scottish policy on keeping Gaelic alive, healthy and important in Scotland today. Our students and staff play an important role in today's Gaelic-speaking community in the north of Scotland through clubs, activities, networks and organisations. Opportunities for graduates fluent in Scottish Gaelic are very good. Teaching, Gaelic development, arts management and librarianship are all career options and the commitment in Scotland to Gaelic broadcasting means increasing demand for Gaelic graduates to work in the media. You will also have transferable skills sought by employers in other sectors and business.


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If ya haven't heard, we've had a pretty warm week here in the UK.
As soon as the sun shines, the sky is blue and we don't need to stick on our winter coats to leave the house, people in England get VERY excited.
Any glimpse of summer and the legs are out, t-shirts are off (white van men I'm lookin' at chu), lunch hours are spent away from the desk and it is time for long, lazy picnics in the park. My fave.
There's noting better than scooping up a blanket (or in my case, this groovy H&M table cloth), a speaker, yummy treats and strolling down to the nearest green spot with a gal pal for some much needed R&R, catch ups and chuckles.
Oh, AND Pimm's. I'm so keen for summer it hurts.
When Summer comes around, it is aaall about the little things. The simplicity of eating breaky outside, sitting on the doorstep with a cheeky ice cream catching the final drops of the evening sun and exploring the city in all its beauty.
There is something so refreshing about London at this time of year. The cold Londoner exterior melts away and life kicks back into full swing, ain't it mad what a bit of warmth and light can do to a place?
Chillin' on the South Bank as the sun sets with a bottle of wine on a Friday night replaces the standard Netflix binge and puzza. It is far too easy to get wrapped up in your erryday routine and forget the bloody wonderful world outside.
We spent hours frolicking in the sunshine drinking up aaall the vit D (and getting burnt lol), grooving to early 00's R&B (always the one) and taking a few snaps for the ole blog.
I'm pretty sure I've introduced you to Fifi before. She is one of the most intelligent, talented, kind hearted and bloody hilarious gals who has been by my side since we were hyper, trouble making nippers. You have gotta check out her blog, she gives me aaaall the fashion inspso, health and general lyf tips.
I hope you are currently out basking in the sunshine / sat in a beer garden / having your first BBQ of the year. Make the most of it, it will probs be snowing next week! Oh England, I luv u.


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This is an explanation and steps on how to suppress certain dimensional data when the model is not strictly oriented N-S-E-W.
Product TechNotes and FAQs
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Bentley Technical Support KnowledgeBase
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Bentley's Technical Support Group requests that you please confine any comments you have on this Wiki entry to this "Comments or Corrections?" section. THANK YOU!


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|This Article is up to date with Custom Stuff 2
Fencegates use damage values to track their orientation, their open/closed status, and the direction they are opened towards. As such, it's impossible to use damage values to make variations.
Fence Gate Example (CS2 0.9.10 and above)
config.addBlockIdProperty("cobaltFenceGateID"); mod.addBlock("cobaltFenceGate.js", "fenceGate");
id = config.getBlockId("cobaltFenceGateID"); name = "cobaltFenceGate"; material = "iron"; stepSound = "metal"; creativeTab = "decorations"; redstoneOnly = false; displayName[0] = "Cobalt Fence Gate"; hardness[0] = 2; resistance[0] = 30; toolClass[0] = "pickaxe"; harvestLevel[0] = 2; textureFileXP[0] = "cobaltBlock.png"; textureFileXN[0] = "cobaltBlock.png"; textureFileYP[0] = "cobaltBlock.png"; textureFileYN[0] = "cobaltBlock.png"; textureFileZP[0] = "cobaltBlock.png"; textureFileZN[0] = "cobaltBlock.png"; addToCreative[0] = true;
==Fence Gate Block Attributes
Required Attributes
Optional Attributes
textureFile and textureIndex
In CS2 versions for 1.4.7 and below, CS2 0.9.9 or below, textureFile was used to specify the texture sheet and textureIndex was used for identifying the specific icon within the texture sheet. If using CS2 0.9.9 or lower, make sure to use both of these attributes.
redstoneOnly This determines if the door can be opened by hand or only by a redstone signal. If set to false, the door can be opened by hand or by redstone signal. If set to true, it can only be opened using a redstone signal.
Fencegates use damage values to track their orientation, their open/closed status, and the direction they are opened towards. As such, it's impossible to use damage values to make variations.
Example Fence Gate Block (CS1)
An example of a netherbrick fence gate as a custom block. This should be saved with the extension ".block" under '/config/customBlocks'.
name="Nether Brick Fence Gate"; id=125; texturefile="terrain.png"; textureindex=224; type="fencegate"; material="rock"; stepsound="stone"; hardness=2; resistance=30; iddropped=125; opacity=0; damagedropped=0; toolclass="pickaxe"; harvestclass=0;
Fencegate Block Attributes
Below is a table of attributes available to the door type block, including information on notable attributes.
Required Attributes
Optional Attributes
This must be set to 'fencegate' in order for the block to function as a fence gate
As of Custom Stuff 2.2.3 (and earlier) there's an issue with how fencegates drop themselves by default. See Damage Dropped Problem below for more information on this issue.
Setting this attribute to a low value prevents a rather pronounced visual bug. See Importance of the Opacity Attribute below.
Importance of the Opacity AttributeWhen making fence gates the opacity attribute should always be set to a value of zero even if the the material being used not being intrinsically translucent. This is done to prevent a visual 'bug', demonstrated by the picture at right, which causes a shadow on the 'inside' of the fenge gate regardless of light level. This 'glitch' occurs because Minecraft calculates the light level of the area 'inside' the block based on what's immediately below it. Because a block normally blocks all light, the boundary of the fence gate (the cube that defines its space) forces the game to calculate the light level as being 0 on the ground beneath the block. Setting the opacity to zero fixes this issue.
This is also why stairs, slabs, and doors in the vanilla game don't block light entirely even when they logically should.
- Wooden Fences and Nether Brick Fences present in the vanilla game do not correctly connect to fence gates introduced by Custom Stuff. Apparently, no fix for this is possible.[1]


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SmartEngage Platform
Our SmartEngage Platform focuses on Consumer Intelligence (CI), integrating diversely sourced information to instantly and dynamically reach consumers in all channels. The complicated database integration is performed by adGeek. We provide real-time, post-analysis consumer data to marketers and more strategic data applications, while also achieving all-channel marketing deployment.
Open Platform
Interfaces with your existing advertising solutions
Phased Tasks
Advertising tools with integrity, so you can start SEP now
SEP's excellent scalability enables any new data and platform synchronization in the future
Technology is supported by adGeek's AI team
adGeek is co-created with more than1200Asian brands
AdGeek has a comprehensive technical and marketing consultant team to provide customers with full channel marketing solutions and achieve the perfect combination of marketing and technology.


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2207 1367 Alberni Street, Vancouver Listing #: R2482969
One bed and HUGE den in THE LIONS that has quickly become one of Vancouver's premium addresses. Floor to ceiling windows accentuate the breathtaking, sweeping views of Coal Harbor and the North Shore Mountains. Open concept kitchen features a breakfast nook with corner windows and the spacious master bedroom easily accommodates a king size bed and offers plentiful closest space. This home has NEW in-suite laundry, in-suite storage/flex space and an external locker. Not to mention a dedicated parking spot, well fitted gym, recreation room, guest suites, a theatre room and concierge all in the complex. Within walking distance to the shops and restaurants of Robson Street, Harbour Flight Centre & the Vancouver Trade & Convention Centre. Showings by appt only.
Taxes (2020): $2,510.22
- Bike Room
- Elevator
- Exercise Centre
- Guest Suite
- In Suite Laundry
- Storage
- ClthWsh
- Dryr
- Frdg
- Stve
Site Influences
- Adult Oriented
- Central Location
- Marina Nearby
- Recreation Nearby
- Shopping Nearby
Similar Listings
Listed By: Stilhavn Real Estate Services
Disclaimer: The data relating to real estate on this web site comes in part from the MLS Reciprocity program of the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver or the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. Real estate listings held by participating real estate firms are marked with the MLS Reciprocity logo and detailed information about the listing includes the name of the listing agent. This representation is based in whole or part on data generated by the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver or the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board which assumes no responsibility for its accuracy. The materials contained on this page may not be reproduced without the express written consent of the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver or the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board.


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Who We Are
Comhlámh was set up in 1975 by Irish returned development workers
… who defined the organisations principle objective as, "to enable persons who have rendered services overseas in developing countries upon their return to Ireland to bring to bear their own particular experience in order to further international development co-operation."
Membership was subsequently extended to all those who see their work in a global perspective and support our aims. Comhlámh members have always seen overseas development work and volunteering as part of a broader commitment to global development and solidarity. Many of the causes of global inequality, poverty and oppression have their origin in the industrialised countries and can be addressed by education and action.
Comhlámh now considers the stakeholders that we work with as our community, which is made up of our members, development workers, volunteers, sending organisations and those interested in development and global issues.
Accordion 1 Title here
A couple or so years ago, the university where I teach introduced a new way for staff to record information about tutorials, grandly calling it the "Co-Tutor Student Management Relationship System." The name possesses the linguistic features that appeal to managers today: nouns strung together without intervening prepositions, with some of the nouns conveying generally desirable qualities ("relationship," "system"). Despite its pomposity the name is vague: it doesn't tell you what sorts of relationships are being systematically managed or who might be doing the managing.
Accordion 2 Title here
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Accordion 3 Title here
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Making space to breathe
HAWS received enough donations to fund this gorgeous little kitten's life-saving surgery and he is now ready to be rehomed.
To donate please go to his fundraising page.
Gilbert has struggled to survive since day one. Some days it was as if he had forgotten how to suckle. Whilst his brothers grew from strength to strength little Gilbert became dwarfed in comparison. His foster carer needed expert help over the period of about 2 weeks whilst they fought over each millilitre of kitten formula until he finally started to gain weight.
When his brothers were ready to have their first vaccination, Gilbert went along for the ride and we spoke to our vet who made his diagnosis.
We discovered that Gilbert has a congenital deformity called pectus excavatum. Instead of the ribs coming smoothly round to meet his breastbone, they curve sharply inwards, as his sternum is pushed back and up towards the spine. Without surgery, he would be unlikely to live very long, and would become increasingly unwell as his squashed heart and lungs could not support his growing body.
Gilbert is such a bright, cheerful, energetic little fellow and we aren't prepared to give up hope for him.
A CT scan shows Gilbert's chest to be so cramped that his heart is pushed into the space where his left lung should be, and both lungs are constricted at the bottom by the inward curve of his ribs at the front.
A specialist plans to rectify the malformation with a plastic 'corset' which will be sutured to Gilbert's sternum, and gently tightened to draw his bone forward, allowing his heart and lungs to expand.
HAWS is determined to do everything possible to give Gilbert a happy, healthy life. In order to afford this expensive surgery we are looking for £4,000 including his CT scan, and this allows for contingencies.
Update 23/08/19:
We are delighted to tell you that the fundraiser for Gilbert has reached £3,952.50 so his surgery will go ahead next week. A large amount of this has come from two people one who donated £500 and the other an incredible £2000.
We are amazed we have reached this total in just a couple of days.
We always have many other animals which need surgery or specialist care so any extra raised will be used for other just as worthy cases.
Thank you so much everyone.
Gilbert's Facebook page
Gilbert has his own Facebook page. Ask him to be a friend.
Gilbert's fundraising page
Note that enough donations have been made to now fund Gilbert's surgery. Huge thank you to all those who kindly donated.


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Here are the Fox/Disney movie mashups you didn't know you needed
Disney has announced its massive takeover of entertainment company 21st Century Fox, merging two of the largest studios in the world.
It means they'll now own the rights to the likes of Deadpool, The Simpsons and Family Guy.
And that gives endless opportunities for character crossovers and movie mashups.
Here are some of our favourite possibilities for future franchises.
The super superhero movie
This is the one that's provoked the most reaction online - partly because stars from the beloved franchises have been tweeting about it.
While X-Men and Avengers are both Marvel comics, the film franchises were owned by Fox and Disney respectively.
There's plenty of crossover of the characters in the comics - and Marvel have already snapped up Tom Holland's Spider-Man from Sony.
We're not sure how that would work for Chris Evans, though.
He plays Captain America in the Avengers, and played the Human Torch in Fox's Fantastic Four.
Wonder how that movie would look?
But spare a thought for either Aaron Taylor-Johnson or Evan Peters, who both play the same character in different franchises.
Aaron Taylor-Johnson is super-speedy mutant Quicksilver in the Avengers, while Evan Peters plays him in X-Men.
If it does merge the movies, Disney will have to bin one of them.
Robots & aliens
Fox's Avatar is still the highest-grossing film ever, on about $2.8bn (£2.1bn) since its 2009 release.
We're sure that's not the reason director James Cameron is planning four sequels to come out in the 2020s.
But what Disney character could seamlessly be added to a story set in the future on the moon of another planet?
The universe's cutest robot, of course.
Pixar's litter-picking Wall-E would at least keep the surface of Pandora clean.
Mr Cameron: It's not too late to tweak those scripts.
The animated classics
They're both cartoons - so this should be easy for the animators to create, right?
Actually, Mickey has featured in Fox-owned The Simpsons before.
There's a photo in one episode of Mickey punching Homer in the stomach, while Goofy is holding his arms.
The Simpsons also go to Itchy and Scratchy Land in another episode, which is clearly based on Disneyland.
And the "original" Itchy and Scratchy cartoon is a clear parody of the first Mickey Mouse cartoon, where Mickey is whistling while driving a boat.
By the way - like most things this century - The Simpsons predicted this takeover almost 20 years ago.
It's a trap!
Luckily, this one's already been done by Family Guy creator Seth McFarlane.
Family Guy, owned by Fox, release three specials parodying the original Star Wars movies.
They star Peter Griffin as Han Solo, Lois as Princess Leia, Chris as Luke, Brian as Chewy - and Meg as various sewage-dwelling aliens and space slugs.
But that was before Disney owned Star Wars - so maybe it's time for another crossover with the newest editions to the franchise?
The real Lion King?
It's not just movies and cartoons that Disney will be getting.
Fox also owns the National Geographic channel, which is known for its wildlife documentaries.
Which means - possibly - a documentary based on the Lion King. With real lions? Maybe?
Unlikely. But we can dream.
Find us on Instagram at BBCNewsbeat and follow us on Snapchat, search for bbc_newsbeat


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Sat, Dec 3, 2016
Clarksville, TN
Run/walk-5K - Individual
Run/walk-5K - Team ( Must have 2 or more participants)
Double Pack (Comic Run 5K and Ugly Sweater Run 5K on 12/3/2016) - Individual
Double Pack (Comic Run 5K and Ugly Sweater Run 5K on 12/3/2016) - Team ( Must have 2 or more participants)
Register by November 7th and recieve a FREE Ugly Sweater Knit Hat!
*Limited Supply*
A fun-run like no other!
When & Where?
Comic Run 5K Run & 1K Run/Walk:
Saturday, December 3 @
Beachaven Winery
1100 Dunlop Lane, Clarksville, TN 37043
10am-12pm (check in begins at 8:30am)
Do I need to be some kind of super runner to be in this race?
Nope! There are plenty of other great 5ks out there to test speed and performance. The Ugly Sweater Fun Run is just about spending a great time with friends and family. You can run, walk, skip, crawl, or dance if you wanna!
What is included with my registration?
How does a team work compared with a solo runner?
You register as a team (2 person minimum, no maximum) rather than as an individual. You get to pick a cool custom team name, anything from "2 Tacky 4 U" to "Santa's Little Helpers." You then get to run/walk together and help each other get really tacky and ugly throughout the 5K course. There is no "relay" component, and team members can finish together as a unit or separately.
Who does it benefit?
We are a local, for profit company that partners with local charities. The Ugly Sweater Fun Run will be benefiting F.U.E.L. for Kids in Clarksville. Read more about them at: www.fuelforkids.org
Can I push a jogging stroller and/or run with my kids?
Absolutely. (Just make sure you've been eating your Wheaties!) Don't forget to gussy up your stroller with something ugly too!
All kiddos 12 and under can run with an adult FREE of charge and do not need to register. Unregistered children do not get a race packet.
Can I run with my dog/cat/lizard?
For the safety of our runners, spectators and animal friends, we do not allow animals at any of our races.
Is there an age limit for younger runners?
No age limits! If they can cover (running, jogging, walking, strolling) the three miles of The Ugly Sweater Fun Run course, and 1K Walk, they can absolutely participate! Remember though, as soon as they turn 13 they will need to register and have a race bib!
Is this a timed run?
Nope. It's a fun-run and a chance to burn a few calories.
Am I able to transfer my registration to another person?
Yes! You can transfer your registration to someone else up to 1 week prior to the event. In order to transfer registrations, you need to send us the name, contact info, email, and shirt size of the person to whom the registration will be transferred to. We can then take care of the rest.
Is there a race packet pick up for the event? How does all that work?
Yes. Details on when and where will be posted on our Facebook page and website, the week of the race as well as emailed to all registered runners approximately 10 days before the event.
Can someone else pick up my packet for me?
You bet! Send them with a printed or electronic copy of your confirmation email.
Are there refunds?
Sorry, no. If the event is held as advertised, we cannot issue refunds. The logistics of setting up and planning the event make it impossible. Just make sure you are good to go before signing up. If for some reason you can't make it to race day, at least come by and get your race packet and say hi!


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Mesirow Financial Expands Institutional Offering with the Launch of Two New Mutual Funds
CHICAGO, January 7, 2019 – Mesirow Financial ("Mesirow" or the "firm") – a leading specialist in investment, risk management and advisory services – announced today that it recently launched two new mutual funds, a High Yield Fund and Small Cap Value Fund.
Mesirow is utilizing the mutual fund structure to complement existing products within their strategies, and its primary focus will continue to be on institutional investors.
"Broadening our offering with specialized mutual funds is a great way to deliver institutional investment management solutions to investors seeking smaller minimums while providing greater liquidity options," remarked Dominick Mondi, President and CEO of Mesirow Financial.
The High Yield Fixed Income Fund, which is managed by the Mesirow Financial High Yield team, began trading on December 3, 2018 under the symbols MFHIX and MFHVX and is led by three portfolio managers: Robert Sydow, Kevin Buckle and James Lisko. This team joined Mesirow in 2017 and has been working together since 1994.
The Small Cap Value Equity Fund, which is managed by the Mesirow Financial Equity Management team, began trading on December 19, 2018 under the symbols MSVIX and MSVVX and is led by two portfolio managers: Kathryn Vorisek and Leo Harmon. Prior to joining Mesirow in 2016, the team had been working together at their predecessor firm, Fiduciary Management Associates, since 2003.
These are the first 40-Act mutual funds that the firm has offered in the past 10 years, although the businesses have more recently served as advisor to third party funds.
About Mesirow Financial
Mesirow Financial is an independent, employee-owned firm founded in 1937. As specialists in investment, risk management and advisory services, we are committed to helping our institutional, corporate and individual clients achieve their objectives. Our professionals are inspired by an entrepreneurial desire to develop tailored solutions designed to deliver measurable results. Mesirow Financial has $28.2 billion in assets under management, and an additional $83.1 billion in currency risk management assets as of September 30, 2018. In addition, Mesirow Financial has $31.5 billion in assets under advisory in fiduciary services. To learn more, please visit mesirowfinancial.com.
Carefully consider the Funds' investment objective, risk factors, charges and expenses before investing. This and additional information can be found in the Funds' full & summary prospectus, which may be obtained at www.mesirowfinancial.com/mutual-funds/ or by calling 1-833-MESIROW. Read the prospectus before investing.
There are risks involved with investing, including the loss of principal. There are risks involved with investing, including the loss of principal. In addition to the normal risks associated with investing, investments in smaller companies typically exhibit higher volatility.
Bonds and bond funds are subject to interest rate risk and decline in value as interest rates rise. High yield bonds have greater risk of default or downgrade and are more volatile than investment grade bonds. Mortgage-backed securities (MBS) are subject to prepayment and extension risk. Small movements in interest rates may quickly and significantly reduce the value of certain MBS. The Fund may invest in derivatives. Changes in market value of fund securities and those securities related derivatives may not be proportionate. Derivatives are subject to illiquidity and counterparty risk. International investments may involve risk of capital loss from unfavorable fluctuation in currency values, from differences in generally accepted accounting principles or from social, economic or political instability in other nations. The fund's use of leverage may accelerate the velocity of potential losses. Investments in MLPs involve risks that differ from investments in common stock including risks related to limited control and limited rights to vote on matters affecting the MLP.


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LAS VEGAS, October 4 — Dennis R. Pierce was reelected by acclamation to his third full term as National President of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen yesterday at the union's Fourth National Convention in Las Vegas. Additionally, all Advisory Board members were elected without opposition. Their terms of office will begin on January 1, 2019."You have my appreciation and I am honored to serve this great Brotherhood for another four years," President Pierce said. "I have hope for our future and I want you to leave here with hope, too. Thank you."The following officers of the Advisory Board also were reelected by acclamation: E. Lee Pruitt, First Vice President; Stephen J. Bruno, National Secretary-Treasurer; John P. Tolman, Vice President and National Legislative Representative; Marcus J. Ruef, Vice President; Michael D. Twombly, Vice President; Michael D. Priester, Vice President; Richard C. Gibbons, Vice President; James P. Louis, Vice President; David P. Estes, Trustee; and William P. Lyons, Trustee.Elected by acclamation to the office of National Vice President was current National Division Trustee Mark L. Wallace. Brother Wallace was elected by acclamation as National Division Trustee at the BLET's Third National Convention in 2014, and he will fill the office of National Vice President Cole Davis, who is retiring. New to the Advisory Board is General Chairman Alan Holdcraft, BNSF (former ATSF GCA), who was elected by acclamation to the office of National Vice President. Brother Holdcraft fills the vacancy created by National Vice President Gil Gore, who is retiring.Also new to the Advisory Board is General Chairman Richard E. (Dick) Crow, Union Pacific-Northern Region, who was elected by acclamation to the office of National Division Trustee. Brother Crow fills the vacancy created by Brother Wallace, who was elevated to the office of National Vice President. Twelve alternate officer positions also were filled by acclamation today. They are as follows: David P. Estes, Alternate Secretary-Treasurer; Vincent G. Verna, 1st Alternate Vice President and National Legislative Representative; Paul S. Piekarski, 2nd Alternate Vice President and National Legislative Representative; William P. Lyons, 1st Alternate Vice President; Richard E. Crow, 2nd Alternate Vice President; L. Randy Fannon, 3rd Alternate Vice President; Peter Semenek, 4th Alternate Vice President; Patrick Driscoll, 5th Alternate Vice President; Garrison Best, 6th Alternate Vice President; Brian Carr, 7th Alternate Vice President; A. Dan Cook III, 8th Alternate Vice President; and Jeff Thurman, 9th Alternate Vice President.Earlier in the day, delegates enjoyed a video presentation from Nevada Senator Catherine Cortez Masto. She has spent her career fighting for Nevada's working families. She served two terms as Attorney General of Nevada and, in November 2016, became the first Latina and the first woman from Nevada ever elected to the United States Senate."I am fighting every day along side your union to protect organized labor and the rights of union members to fight for good paying jobs and to demand a dignified retirement and affordable healthcare for workers. We stand together in the fight for workers' rights across America and we must not give up... We must do all we can to fight to protect the hard fought gains of union families. Thank you for being a partner in this fight for economic opportunity for all," Senator Cortez Masto said.In the afternoon session, delegates were privileged to hear an informational presentation by National Transportation Board Member Jennifer Homendy. She was nominated to the five-year position in mid-April, and the Senate confirmed her nomination in August of 2018. Homendy previously served as the Democratic Staff Director of the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials, a position she held since 2004. Homendy has also worked as a legislative representative for the International Brotherhood of Teamsters and for the Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO. Homendy discussed the January 6, 2005 fatal train accident and chlorine spill in Graniteville, S.C., which resulted in the death of 9 people and injured more than 500 with inhalation injuries. One of the deaths was BLET member Chris Seeling, who was Secretary-Treasurer of BLET Division 85 in West Columbia, S.C. Brother Seeling was only 28 years old. The accident was one of several fatalities that led to the Congressional mandate for implementation of Positive Train Control (PTC)."Had PTC been implemented on that line, that accident never would have occurred," Homendy said. "The NTSB has issued one safety recommendation after another to the railroads to implement PTC, or some form of it, for nearly 50 years. To me, one death is too many. How many of you have lost a brother or sister on-the-job or known someone who has? No one should lose their life earning a paycheck, especially when actions can be taken to prevent such a tragedy.... As the newest Member of the NTSB, I will continue to advocate for full implementation of PTC and other NTSB safety recommendations, and I commit to each and every one of you that I will work tirelessly to ensure that you and your members are safe." Also in the afternoon session delegates saw a video presentation from Massachusetts Congressman Joe Kennedy III (4th District), who urged members to vote for labor-friendly candidates in the upcoming November elections. "This election is so important. Yes, like all the others, but this one even more so. Because what you fight for, the values that we all fight for, are truly at stake. Whether its making sure that people stand shoulder to shoulder with working men and women to protect our pensions, to invest in our roads and bridges and infrastructure, to make that we rebuild this country road by road, block by block, railroad by railroad. To make sure that men and women can actually get an honest day's pay for an honest day's work. To make sure that our healthcare is going to be there and that our pensions are going to be there too. This is what you fight for and I'm honored to stand right by your side," Rep. Kennedy said. Delegates also received written greetings from Tom Perez, Chairman of the Democratic National Committee (DNC). Perez served as the Secretary of Labor under President Obama. "As the former Secretary of Labor under President of Obama and the Chair of the DNC, I want to congratulate you and the men and women of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen on 155 years of organizing and fighting for working families," Perez wrote. "Your mission, 'to promote and protect the rights, interests, and safety of its members through solidarity, aggressive representation, and education,' has led to many victories for the 55,000 members of the BLET (and) countless workers, families and communities across our nation."Delegates heard the report of the Legislative Committee, chaired by D.K. Brown, Division 517 and Chairman of the Minnesota State Legislative Board. He introduced Committee Members M.D. Frank, Division 899 (Birmingham, Ala.); B.J. Farkas, Division 121 (Indianapolis, Ind.); and P.S. Pfeifer, Division 388 (North Platte, Neb.). Delegates adopted their report without debate. Delegates rounded out the afternoon with further deliberations and consideration of recommendations made by the BLET Bylaws Committee.Additional news updates, photographs and videos will be provided at the BLET's convention website and Facebook page.
Thursday, October 4, 2018
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Studies show prayer and other aspects of religion can reduce stress and promote a positive outlook. I am a person of the Muslim faith since 1999 and have committed to 5 times daily prayer and have thankfully never skipped one in all these years. As a Muslim, Islam teaches me, that God is not in need of my prayers, rather it is I that am in need of them. I have certainly found checking in with God 5 times a day helps me to stay on track, centre myself and hand over the things to Him that I need help with. However, throughout my life I have suffered from periods of mental sickness. Bouts of depression, periods of anxiety, sometimes so overwhelming I suffered from panic attacks and was put on an antidepressant medication designed to lower blood pressure and reduce the symptoms of anxiety . So if I was praying five times a day, fulfilling all my religious duties and mostly trying to connect with God, how did that happen?
Typically, when Muslims seek spiritual guidance from their Imams, or sometimes friends and family, the advice goes something like "pray more" or "depression doesn't exist if you are praying properly" or "You are doing something wrong, if Islam isn't giving you a peace of mind or heart". Such advice, can only produce feelings of inadequacy, plummet self esteem further and just add to the negative voices playing in our minds, creating unnecessary guilt and leaving us wondering why God isn't answering our prayers. Such speakers need to understand the impact of their opinions on those suffering with mental health issues and the impact of that oft-repeated narrative on communities on a wider scale. It is time we recognise there is more to improving mental well being than prayer and other religious rituals alone.
I strongly believe that the path to good mental health is to have a strong spiritual connection with God. However, prayer alone, in and of itself, is not the only way to connect with God. My personal belief, and certainly my experience, is in order to feel mentally healthy we also need to connect with our own self and then our families, friends and communities as well. Connection in all its forms makes the spirit alive in polar opposite to isolation whereby one can sink and feel trapped, unable to reach back out. I take the example of Adam, the first created human being, who was in the Garden of Eden, with everything his heart could desire. But although he talked directly to God and had this amazing connection with Him and was living in the ultimate Paradise, he became sad and did not know why he was feeling low. Then God created Eve – and he felt whole. He was missing human connection. God did not create us to be isolated beings – rather to live in a community, taking strength and support from each other. Running can give us that. Running gives me that.
In December 2014, I was experiencing a period where my mental health was weak. I was having regular connection time with God, with myself (through counselling) and with others, through friends, work and the local mosque. So why, was my mental health deteriorating? I was also a regular gym goer and always have been. I thought all my boxes were ticked and that I was doing all the right things. Lying in bed unable to sleep one night, I visualised myself getting up, in my nightclothes, opening my front door and running out bare foot. Just running, into the night, without purpose, without direction.
In the morning, I put on my trainers and ran/walked to the nearest park. It was cold, it was windy, there were no leaves on the trees or flowers in the flower beds but I felt connected. Connected to nature, to myself and ultimately to God. Burning off the excess adrenaline, I returned home feeling more centred. I felt as if I had literally got rid of some of the difficult emotions and left them in the park. I had been seeing advertisements for the Race4Life that upcoming spring and made a decision to sign up for it. I wanted something to work towards and I felt this would be a good way to set a time bound goal.
I trained hard for that 5k. It gave me a greater sense of purpose. I downloaded a running app on my phone which notified me every time I completed 1km. I realised there was a tree that was exactly 1km from my front door. I set a small goal that I would be able to run to that tree without stopping. The day I did felt like a great achievement. That tree became, and remains a good friend of mine (don't judge me, trees have feelings too don't you know?).
Running increased my self esteem and belief in myself, from the moment I hit that first 1km without stopping I set myself a new goal, extending the distance each time, and believing in myself that I could do it. Running has taught me that connection with the self, means being in tune with my body as well as my emotions and sometimes having to challenge both in order to understand them, just as challenging the spirit strengthens it. There have been times I have cried when I ran, smiled to myself, talked to myself. There were times when I connected with the child in me at various different ages. I would come from a counselling session, having spoken about an experience at a particular age and found that when I went running I was connecting with that little Lynne. I would talk to her, nurture her, tell her she was safe and being looked after by me, the adult Lynne. I would reassure her that I am handling things and I would fulfil her childhood hopes. In this way I was able to find closure in some of the things that had been unresolved, that would often non consciously come into my adult world and affect my responses to situations. I was able to leave my child within to sleep or play, just as she ought to be doing, instead of worrying about the stuff going on in my present adult world.
The day I ran 5km without stopping was a truly amazing feeling. I felt accomplished and my self-esteem increased. I began to believe in myself more. Before I turned up for the Race4Life I had already entered the Richmond Running Festival 10k race later in that year. Because I knew, although it was going to be a challenge, I could achieve it. Only a few months before I never would have believed that possible.
And so it went! I began to increase my goals, surpassing what I thought I could achieve. 10 mile race, Half Marathon, 20 mile race. Until eventually I had completed my first marathon at London 2018 with the greatest amount of self belief, self love and connection to the world, and ultimately God, the One who I believed was giving me the strength to make this all happen. Of course I have just fast forwarded there so let me tell you what happened in between!
So in February 2017 I joined my local running club, Dagenham 88 Runners. Shy and nervous at first, I got to know some of the other members and signed up to club races in a few of the leagues. It was great to be part of this club and be around such positive people who encouraged me all the way. Runners have got to be the most positive community going. There are no losers. The last runner to cross the line always gets the biggest cheer. I have been made to feel valued, appreciated and supported every step of the way. In a recent relay race and we were sorting out teams of four, one of our fastest runners added me, and someone of a similar pace to his team, in unison we said "but we are much slower than you". Did it matter to him? No. Running brings about unity, no matter your speed, your background, race, gender, religion. There is something very special about that. Nothing else matters when we are out running together. It brings people from all walks of life, ages and experience together in unity. To be a part of something so special lifts my heart and makes me feel spiritually connected to this world.
This is not something unique to the modern western world. We can draw from examples of early Muslim history to demonstrate that similar experiences were had to ensure a holistic way of life. The Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, and his wife, Aisha, raced one another in running. Aisha is recorded to have said
"I competed with the Messenger of Allah and overtook him. Later, when I had put on some weight, I once again competed with him, but this time he overtook me and said: 'We're even now.'"
There are many other examples of sports throughout the early Muslim life and through Islamic history. The Prophet Muhammad was also an avid swimmer and wrestler. He even wrestled Arabia's champion wrestler, Rukaana, and defeated him. Interestingly, the Arabic word for sports is Riyadhah which is also the word used for strengthening ones spiritual self, thus, demonstrating the link between the physical and the spiritual self. It also comes from the word Riyadh, which means gardens. Bringing these two meanings together we can see that sports is a place of both physical and spiritual growth and what a lonely garden it would be if there was only one rose. As Adam needed connection, we too need that to become stronger as individuals. Sports provide us with the perfect opportunity to achieve that together and that's why I created the hashtag #runtogetherstandtogether
The running community has truly helped me grow in so many ways. I have learnt to value every part of myself, in connection to myself to God and to the community. I have weeded out negativity from its roots. I have watered positivity and taken nutrients from those who have been a source of light to me along the way.
I have also been on a fundraising journey though out my running career for a number of different charities including Cancer Research, Place2Be Children's Mental Health, and more recently raised £17,000 for water wells in the Gambia with Penny Appeal. Running for an even greater good, to give back to humanity, in some way, and get many people involved, even from their arm chairs has helped me connect globally and brought amazing people and opportunities into my life. I am so happy that my Muslim community have been behind me, cheering me along, donating and encouraging me. I have received messages from other Muslim ladies saying they have been inspired to get into running. It really makes my day when I get a message like that.
Prayer brings me a sense of peace, tranquillity and pleasure. Everything stops for that moment when I put the world aside to connect with my Creator. In Islam we regard any good action as an act of worship and running is definitely a form of worship for me. Through running I have strengthened my connection with God and am grateful to Him for directing me towards it so that I can feel more whole as a person. When I crossed that line at the London Marathon in April 2018, I had brought every piece of myself together and felt like God had got me there, with a massive cheering squad of family, friends and world wide community behind me. That is why I pray, run & repeat.
Lynne Northcott AKA Jogonhijabi
Don't forget to follow me on Instagram, FaceBook, Twitter and YouTube @Jogonhijabi


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Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton is set to launch his own eyewear capsule collection for Police as part of the brand's sponsorship deal with the British driver's Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport racing team. Eyewear brand Police stated that the brand's logo would be visible on both sides of the helmets of drivers Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas and in the pit garage, as well as appearing on the team's marketing activities.
In addition, Hamilton, who is a Formula One five-time World Champion, will debut a capsule collection of glasses, as the brand states that he is known for using "eyeglasses as one of his distinguishing style accessories. A preview of the Hamilton collection will be presented during the July edition of the British Grand Prix, while the full lineup is expected to make its debut in September.
This isn't the first time Hamilton's has forayed into fashion, the Formula 1 driver launched a fashion collection with Tommy Hilfiger for autumn/winter 2018, which was also an extension of the designer brand being named the official apparel partner for Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport.


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Miss. Kelli discussed this topic on The Rhode Show with a little help from a friend! Watch it here!
Fire safety is talked about in schools, childcare, afterschool programs and so on. How often is fire safety discussed at home? Do you and your family practice fire drills, where would you go, how would you make sure everyone is out of your house ok? Do you have pets? A lot of families may bring it up and discuss in passing when you change batteries in the smoke detectors; but do you really sit down and discuss as a family what if? Here are some tips and things to think about and put a plan of action in place to keep you and your family safe. Fire doesn't just happen in the school or at night it can happen at any time. Being prepared might just save you and your family's life.
Making a fire escape plan
First, you want to draw out the floor plan in your home. It can be as simple as making blocks on a piece of paper and name each room. Kitchen, babies room, Steven's room, master and so on.
Next, you want to make sure there are two exits out of each room. If fire was blocking the main exit out of a particular room, how will you or your children get out? Do you have fire escapes, or a fire ladder that attaches to a window and drops down, you want to make sure that if you don't have any of these items can you drop your child or yourself safely to the ground. If you cannot drop your child safety to the ground you may want to think about purchasing a ladder.
Lastly, agree on a safe meeting place. You need to have a meeting place outside your home for a couple of reasons. If you cannot get to one of the rooms and a family member is already out of the house. If somehow you get split up on the way outside, this is a place where everyone can gather and know everyone is safe. This place should be close enough to your home, but not close enough where anyone can get hurt. You want to make sure that your meeting place is in front of your home so when the fire department arrives they can see you.Your place should be easy to find in the day or night. Your meeting place should be clearly marked and not an object that can be moved.
When designing your fire plan, make sure to include your pets. Adding pet stickers to your windows in case of a fire when you are not home, emergency personal will know there are pets in your home. If your pet is acting strange making noise in the middle of the night get up and investigate. Pets have a keen sense when danger is near. Listen to them it might save your life. Remember if your pet is in a crate it may be hard to get them during an emergency. Having a plan for your faithful companion is a good idea.
Tips to remember
Making sure windows open with ease, that they are not stuck or nailed down. That screens can be removed easily and that security bars can be opened. If your child is old enough they should be able to complete these tasks in case of an emergency.
Practice having your children including yourself feeling around the house in the dark or with their eyes closed. If your home was on fire and consumed with smoke, it will be very difficult to see anything. By practicing this task your family will have a very good idea how to get around in the dark if you lost electricity during a fire. Children will have fun practicing this but most of all will be able to identify ways out of their home in the dark and or on the floor.
Teach your children about smoke detectors, why they are installed. How they work, what to do if they hear it go off. Even if it is by accident. Most families smoke or heat detectors will go off when cooking and nobody moves or does anything. Tell your children even if they go off by accident still follow the drill. Change the batteries in your detectors twice a year. A great way to remember is when you change your clocks forward or back.
Teach family members how to check doors. How to feel if the door is hot find another way out. Putting a towel or clothing over face to protect their face from smoke or fire.
If their clothing were to catch on fire teach them to stop, drop, and roll. Many injuries can be avoided by doing this.
If you have children or adults with disabilities you want to make sure you add this into your plan. Who or how will you get them out safely.
The key is to remember to have a plan out of your home with two exits out, have a meeting place outside the home, and practice fire drills. Many families discuss this but never do it, don't wait until something happens to have a discussion with your family. Ask your child's school or child care if they have any tips or your local fire department. It's worth to be prepared and safe rather than sorry. October is fire month great time to start practicing.
Resources: About.com, Sparkey.org, and NFPA
Kelli Didomenico brings over 20 years of experience to her role as Vice President of Family Engagement at The Children's Workshop. In her role she welcomes and supports children and families directly but also supports the company's center Directors to encourage families to become actively involved in their child's education through parent committees, family events, and by volunteering in our classrooms. Additionally, she reaches out to form partnerships that enhance the services that The Children's Workshop can provide for its families. Kelli earned a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work from Rhode Island College.


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Chocolate Doughnuts… By Lucy Simmons
By lucy Baking, Dessert, Heart Recipes for Kids, One for the Children, Other Beautiful Snack, british, Celebration, Fun times with the kids
June 1, 2015
Today we filled these sweet, light & airy doughnuts with rich melting dark chocolate, epic...What are you going to fill yours with?...........
- Prep: 15 mins
- Cook: 15 mins
- Yields: 20 Snack size
1. In a large food mixer bowl with a dough hook, place the flour, sugar & salt on one side and the yeast on the other. Add the warmed milk with the beaten eggs and beat for 8 minutes until the mixture is smooth.
2. Turn the speed down low on the mixer and beat for a further 5 minutes gradually adding the small cubes of butter. Increase the speed and beat for another 6 minutes until the mixture is smooth and silky. Cover with cling film and leave in the fridge to rise overnight.
3. Remove from the fridge and place on a lightly floured work surface, knead for about 5 minutes. Roll about 20 balls from the doughnut mixture that should be around 60g each. Flatten each ball, add two squares of chocolate to the centre of each and roll back into balls making sure the chocolate is securely inside.
4. Place the doughnuts on to non-stick or lightly floured tray, cover with a tea towel and leave to prove in a warm place for another hour or until they have doubled in size.
5. Fill a large pan with oil to just above halfway and heat until it reaches around 180 degrees centigrade. Get two of the doughnuts and place them in the hot oil using a spoon, keep turning until they are a lovely golden brown colour on each side. This will take 10-12 minutes, don't allow the oil to get above 200 degrees or the doughnuts will cook too quickly and burn. To keep the doughnuts warm place them on a tray and put in the oven on a low heat.
6. Use 2 bowls of sugar, 1 with added cinnamon to dunk the warm doughnuts in. They are best served warm. Enjoy.


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Lana, the family grows, seats, benches, tables… in wood and metal legs, seats in 2 height sizes…
Lana is the collection of seats designed by creative studio Yonoh for Spanish company Ondarreta. A set of multipurpose seats thanks to its variety of finishes and formats. Metal and wood structure, high and low backs, one or two seats… They adapt to any environment either home or facility.
Two great allies, wood and steel, come together to fit out a variety of spaces, from a waiting room or a living room to the lobby of any hotel.
The wood version draws on the tradition of curved solid wood.
Low and high backrest for the easy chair and sofa. LANA is the perfect piece for any space.
Read more news related Yonoh published at Infurma
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text: A reindeer herd browses near a Koryak camp in northern Kamchatka. The reindeer are semi-domesticated, and a couple of Koryaks can keep the herd under control with whistles and gestures. They do the work of cowboys, but all from on foot. The small camp that shadows the herd usually consists of two or three related families with their tents and a few horses, which shoulder the heavier gear when their owners must move camp. The Koryaks get their food, clothing, tent materials, and most everything else they need from the reindeer. This symbiotic relationship has been going on largely unchanged for thousands of years. Note the yearling with just-developing antlers standing in front of the white reindeer in this photo.


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The Dallas Arboretum Food and Wine Festival is this weekend, and the lineup for Thursday night's Grand Tasting is stacked: Anastacia Quinones of Jose, Blythe Beck of Pink Magnolia, Matt Pittman of Meat Church, Luis Olvera from Trompo, Mozzarella Company's Paula Lambert — we could go on a while. It's a pricey affair — general admission is $150 for nonmembers of the Arboretum — but you'll be sipping wine and eating fancy bites in the Arboretum's gorgeous gardens as the sun sets over White Rock Lake. There's plenty more happening all weekend for the Arboretum Food and Wine Fest, including an afternoon of panels on Saturday, one of which we're moderating as we explore current food trends.
What: The Grand Tasting at the Dallas Arboretum Food and Wine Festival
When: 6-9 p.m. Thursday, March 21
Where: Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, 8525 Garland Road (East Dallas)
Tickets: $125-$250
Ever wanted to learn how to compost in the city? Head to AJ Vagabonds in Bishop Arts on Thursday night for a free workshop fromDallas' Turn Compost
. You'll learn how to compost at home or your apartment and will get an overview of soil biology and compost techniques. The class will be held outside at AJ Vagabonds' sweet outdoor classroom. After the class, head to AJ Vagabonds' sister business, the recently opened Revelers Hall, to check out Bishop Arts' shiny new New Orleans-style jazz bar.
What: Urban Composting Workshop 101
When: 7 p.m. Thursday, March 21
Where: AJ Vagabonds, 336 W. Eighth St. (Bishop Arts District)
On Saturday afternoon, Maroches Bakery in Oak Cliff is celebrating women of color with the Mujeres Market, "a space/platform to uplift all people of color," according to organizers. There will be poetry, an open mic, artists on site and, of course, food vendors and ample Mexican pastries. Entry is donation-based.
What: Mujeres Market
When: 2-8 p.m. Saturday, March 23
Where: Maroches Bakery, 1227 W. Davis St. (Oak Cliff)
Sandwiches are awesome.Tiny
sandwiches are even better because you can eat, like, 500 of them. Try to do just that this weekend at Between the Buns, aDallas Observer
food fest celebrating every kind of slider, from burger to barbecue to fried chicken and everything in between. Your ticket gets you access to unlimited sliders from restaurants like Cattleack Barbecue and Knife, and there's a cash bar to sweeten the deal.
What: Between the Buns
When: 4-7 p.m. Saturday, March 23
Where: The Dallas Farmers Market, 920 S. Harwood St.
The sixth annual Jazz Age Sunday Social is back, giving you an entire day dedicated to 1920s music, food, fashion and culture. Dress up in your '20s finest, dance to the Singapore Slingers and hang out at Industry Alley'swhiskey speakeasy
while you wander the grounds at Dallas Heritage Village.
What: Jazz Age Sunday Social
When: Noon-5 p.m. Sunday, March 24
Where: Dallas Heritage Village at Old City Park, 1515 S. Harwood St. (The Cedars)
Tickets: $15
This weekend, Sandwich Hag owner Reyna Duong — afervent advocate
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of more employment opportunities for people with Down syndrome — is hosting a two-for-one event this weekend: a combination Lunar New Year and World Down Syndrome Day festival. For a $10 cash admission (Folks with Down syndrome and kids 12 and under will get in free), you'll get access to a ton of food vendors, including Haute Sweets Patisserie, ULAM Modern Filipino Kitchen, Momo Shack Himalayan Dumplings, SneakerBaby Macarons and Ka-Tip Thai Street Food. There will be a DJ, interactive lion dancers, free face painting and various art and craft vendors.
What: Lunar New Year & World Down Syndrome Festival
When: 4-8 p.m. Sunday, March 24
Where: Sandwich Hag, 1902 S. Lamar St. (The Cedars)
Tickets: $10 cash at the door


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Apple's decision to do away with the iPhone's headphone jack in 2016 still causes some fans great pain. The free Lightning-to-headphone jack adapter found inside every iPhone box helps by ensuring you can still use your favorite cans with the latest models — but not for long.
Apple will stop bundling the adapter with its next-generation iPhone lineup later this year, according to a new report. If you don't already have one, you'll have to pay to obtain one.
Apple wants use all to use wireless headphones with our iPhones — preferably a set of its own AirPods or Beats. But many don't want to fork out for them, while some music lovers still consider wired alternatives to be far superior.
For those iPhone users, there's a Lightning-to-headphone jack adapter in every iPhone box. Just plug it into your handset's Lightning port and you have a 3.5mm jack that all of your existing headphones will connect to just fine — and you don't have to pay a penny for it.
But whatever you do, don't lose it.
Free adapters will disappear in 2018
If your adapter does go missing, you might have to pay for another one to use with your new iPhone this fall. One analyst expects Apple to stop bundling free adapters with this year's iPhone lineup.
Based on earnings reported by Cirrus Logic, the company that manufactures audio hardware for a number of Apple products, including the iPhone, Cowen analyst Matthew D. Ramsay warns that free dongles are disappearing.
Cirrus' guidance for the second fiscal quarter "all but confirms that Apple will not bundle the DAC headset converter 'dongle' in its new iPhone models," reads Ramsay's note to investors. The same claim was previously made by Barclays analyst Blayne Curtis in April.
A new adapter is just $9
Cirrus produces the DAC chips required for audio conversion inside Apple's Lightning-to-headphone jack adapter, as well as other chips for Apple. In fact, the iPhone-maker accounts for a whopping 76 percent of Cirrus' revenue.
The good news is that those adapters aren't that expensive. Apple sells its official one for just $9, while third-party alternatives — some of which allow charging simultaneously — are also available. You can also buy headphones with Lightning connectors already attached.
Via: AppleInsider


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I have forgotten to make this public, but from some days ago the LibKS 1.3.0 RPM for CentOS 7 and 8 is available. LibKS is defined by FreeSWITCH as a cross-platform kitchen sink library. It is needed if you want to enable signalwire module.
Here the outstanding features of these RPMś:
- PKG package has the right paths for CentOS. CentOS uses /usr/lib64 for 64-bits x86 architecture.
Unfortunately, CentOS 6 was not possible (I did spend around 6 hours trying to do it). The issue here is that libKS requires cMake 3.7+ in order to be compiled. CentOS 6 only has 3.6. I tried to backport cMake 3.12 and 3.14 from CentOS 7, but it seems that there is a bug somewhere that prevents the Makefile utility to be found (yes, I did export MAKE=/path/to/make as suggested in many forums). Anyway, I believe CentOS 6 will reach end-of-life soon this 2020.
Enjoy!blog comments powered by Disqus


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Let's face it: burlesque is the cheeky and sequined underbelly of Seattle. There are several layers involved in burlesque (pun intended), and it evokes equal parts teasing flirtation, smart vulnerability, and amazingly theatrical costumes. Burlesque is empowering, of course, and it can be awfully clever as well.
There's a long history regarding burlesque, the beginnings dating back to ancient Greek satirical plays. In the 1800's it was considered the lowest of the lowbrow theater. However, it was also the most accessible. Through powerful and playful movements and scantily clad performers, burlesque is a tantalizing teaching tool, telling stories and consistently challenging the status quo of beauty and sexuality.
In the late 18th century, theater and burlesque collided, forming "literary burlesque." This type of burlesque often turned popular stories topsy-turvy and asked questions that others feared to ask. Paying homage to history, Noveltease Theatre, a new Seattle burlesque company is taking part in creating lusty literary art. With Sailor St. Claire and Fosse Jack at the helm, this creative duo's aim is to excite audiences by introducing them to classic literature through the constant transforming art of burlesque.
To start, we asked Sailor and Fosse about their own feelings on burlesque, an often misunderstood and scrutinized form of expression.
Sailor: "I like burlesque because I'm a loud woman, and burlesque is a space that allows women to be loud and take up space. It's one of the only performance genres that celebrates and showcases identities and embodiments that have been historically considered excessive or abject. Rather than marginalizing women, queer folks, people of color, trans and nonbinary people, and artists with disabilities for being somehow excessive or outside the norms of the white, cisgender, able-bodied heteropatriarchy, it puts these identities front and center."
Fosse: "For me, it's about looking at things differently, telling stories in ways that touch the audience in both intellectual and visceral ways, and creating things on my own terms. Also, I believe that burlesque is a transformative art form. It changes you, revealing things about yourself even as you reveal yourself to an audience. Body positivity, sex positivity, intersectional feminism, the empowerment of queer identity through physical expression. I think burlesque, at its best, is the ideal art form to experience the person I want to be."
In a city where extended eye contact feels like the end of the world, why does Seattle need Noveltease Theatre in their lives?
Sailor: "Seattle is one of the most literate cities in the country, and I believe here, more than any other place, is a place that can wrap its book-loving brain around the comingling of burlesque, theatre, and literature and see all of those things are artistically valuable simultaneously. And we want to be at the forefront of that change."
Fosse: "At the same time, we are providing our existing fans with new material, offering an alternative lens and format in which to experience a beloved artistic vocabulary ("bump & grind on my mind"). We may also be introducing elements of classic literature, stories, and characters, that our contemporaries may have written off as irrelevant. If so, we are showing that older stories can be reclaimed, and retold by new generations. As an industry that values the legends of our past, I think it is important that we value the stories of the past as well."
You're show coming up on April 13th and 14th, Adventure! Marvelous Tales of the Baron Munchausen is from a book from the 1700's! Is there anything that you can relate back to modern audiences who maybe aren't familiar with this text?
Fosse: "One of the things that we've discovered in adapting the Baron Munchausen tales is that the Baron would definitely be an Insta-celebrity today. He's all about the next adventure, doing impossible things, and capturing those moments for others to enjoy. In fact, we want to tell EVERYONE about the things he does. We're pretty sure that Baron Munchausen was the original 'YOLO' celebrity."
Ready to check out Adventure! on April 12th and 13th and get involved with Noveltease Theatre?
Get Adventure! Marvelous Tales of the Baron Munchausen tickets here. Check out Noveltease Theatre and learn more about Sailor St. Claire and Fosse Jack here.
Sarah E. Miller is a freelance writer, dabbler, collaborator, and an occasionally funny lady. She spends her days writing for a wide variety of people, visiting all the museums, helping creative people expand their visions and dream-scheming up big ideas. She is also the Founder and Marshmallow-in-Chief of the Lonely Arts Club.


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Wikileaks revealed they have documents about Marine Le Pen
Shortly after Julian Assange's whistleblower organisation said they had documents about Francois Fillon, the organisation took to twitter to interrupt the French Presidential campaign process.
Within a short tweet, WikiLeaks said: "From our archives: 1,138 documents on French presidential candidate Marine Le Pen."
Fifty-two minutes earlier, the organisation tweeted: "3,630 documents from our archives on French presidential candidate François Fillon."
Both Le Pen and Fillon – the election's leading candidates according to Polls – have been the subject of police investigations recently.
On Tuesday, the lower house of French parliament was subject to a police raid as investigators assessed claims that Penelope, the wife of the presidential candidate, was paid or an alleged non-existent job.
Facts about WikiLeaks founder, Julian Assange
Mon, August 22, 2016
WikiLeaks Founder, Julian Assange has led a very interesting and controversial life which has been at the centre of global debate
Play slideshow
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It is believed that Julian Assange chooses to live in Sweden because the country's media laws are among the world's most protective for journalists
Fillon and his wife were questioned separately for five intense hours on Monday, after which Fillon said, all the evidence they provided would help the "truth" come to light.
Dampened by the investigation, Fillon said he is the victim of a smear campaign because his wife's work had been "real and legal".
But Marine Le Pen lashed out at a police investigation led to discover whether she defrauded the EU.
A page of documents relating to Marine Le Pen on the Wikileaks site
Mr Assange's company has recently been Presidential campaigns as reports attempted to say he helped Trump win the US election 2016.
In response to the claims, Mr Assange told Peston on Sunday: "I did not have a position in relation to Clinton.
"Yes, we suffered under Obama and Clinton, who engaged in an epidemic against sources, prosecuting three times as many journalists as all previous presidencies combined.
"But we merely exposed the truth behind the candidates."


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There are lots of ways to get people to visit your blog. However if your goal is to make money with your blog then you have to get consistent search engine traffic to your blog. These are the people who buy things and click on ads. The question then becomes just how do you go about getting this kind of traffic. It actually is not all that hard.
Obviously to get consistent search engine traffic to your blog you need to get your blog to rank near the top of the search results. The truth is that the top five results are going to get almost all of the traffic so if you want to get visitors on consistent basis you need to be right at the top. There is no great mystery in how you go about getting there, despite what some people may tell you. There are really only a couple of things that you need to have.
One important part of getting your blog to rank near the top of the search results is to be consistently adding new content. The search engines love new content and they will reward it by putting it near the top of the search results. In most cases this will not be enough to get you to the top of the results but consistently adding new content will give you a temporary bump in the rankings. Combining this with the other important factors to getting search traffic will help improve your rankings dramatically. As an added bonus regularly adding new content will encourage people to come back to your site.
The other key to getting consistent search engine traffic to your blog is back links. It is known by almost all bloggers that links are the largest factor in getting your site to rank well. There is a lot of talk about where to get links and what kind of links you should get the truth is that usually just makes things more complicated than it needs to be. While some links do have more value than others you should take advantage of any opportunity that you have to get a link where it comes from.
The only other factor that you need to think about is the keywords that you want to rank for. A lot of people recommend going after the keywords that have little to no competition. This is usually not a good approach, there is a reason those keywords have no competition. If you want to get consistent search engine traffic to your blog you are going to have to rank for keywords people actually search for in fairly large numbers. Those keywords will have a quite a bit of competition. There is no reason to be afraid of going after the competitive keywords. As long as you do not go after the super hard ones there is no reason that you can not get your blog to rank well.
Source by Ellan Elanzen