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Banoffee Fences With Herself in 'Count on You' Music Video
Rising indie-pop artist Banoffee's debut album is out in February, and she's released a new single from the LP, "Count on You."
The music video features the Australian artist sparring with herself and others at a fencing camp (a la The Parent Trap), as she sings about comforting someone in the midst of fighting their own inner demons: "I'll sit here 'til the lights go down/You can fall asleep/I'll sit here till the breaks go on/In your head and body."
"This video aims to take some heavy subjects and speak about them in a light-hearted yet eerie way," Banoffee explained in a statement. "Working out this balance was probably the hardest part, although falling into a frog and slug-infested, manky ass pond rivals it for first place. There was a lot of sweat, dirt and laughter involved in the making of this clip and it was a thrill to make."
She added, "My co-director Will McDowell and I had a pretty ambitious vision for the budget we had, and the lead-up was just as hectic as our one shoot day. Training for the fencing scenes and practicing fencing-inspired choreography was so much fun, and like all my videos, I was so happy to be showcasing friends and their skills through my work."
Banoffee, in addition to producing her own music including two EPs, was a member of Charli XCX's backing band when she opened for Taylor Swift's Reputation tour. She will release her debut album Look at Us Now Dad on February 21st via Cascine and Dot Dash.
In October, she released the single "Tennis Fan" featuring Empress Of, with a video directed by Quinn Wilson (Lizzo's creative director). The upcoming album will include a remix of the Sophie-produced "Ripe" with a guest verse by Cupcakke.
Banoffee has also announced four shows in the U.S. this spring, including sets at Austin's South by Southwest Festival.
Banoffee Spring 2020 Tour Dates
March 16-21 – Austin, TX @ SXSW
March 26 – New York, NY @ The Dance
April 2 – San Francisco, CA @ Cafe Du Nord
April 3 – Los Angeles, CA @ Zebulon
More News
Billy Strings Picks and Sings With His Father on New Album 'Me/And/Dad'
- Strings Attached
- By


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I recently sat down for a fireside chat with Rick Reid to get his take on what happened last year in the industry and his outlook for the future of the channel and distribution. So what happened on September 19th, 2016? Watch full Interview on eChannelNEWS and ecnTV.
Later that evening at the 10th Annual Reseller Choice Awards Gala, I also presented Tech Data with another Award for the Best Broad-Based Distributor of 2016 (as well as for other categories) and an extra special Award for being a ten-time winner! Congratulations to Rick and Tech Data Team!
Winning this award for the 10th year is great recognition by the channel for all of the hard work that our team at Tech Data does throughout the year to serve the needs of our customers and we thank them for letting us know by voting for Tech Data!
See all the winners of the 2016 Reseller Choice Awards on eChannelNEWS, or check out my post on Linkedin.

subset: commoncrawl


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16.500 sqm
The preparation of concept designs for a twenty-three-storey apartment tower in Sochi Russia. The project complexity was increased because the full design for the tower had been completed and eight storeys of the concrete frame had been constructed. A pre-requisite of the client's brief was to incorporate the eight floors of construction into the new concept.
This prestigious twenty-free-story residential complex is located in the upscale downtown marina district of Sochi. The landmark building, which includes a single tower, features a wraparound glass curtain wall. It forms a graceful vertical accent in the central harbor skyline.
The contemporary glass tower that rises out of the undulating landscape is designed as a finely detailed structure that blends sustainability with natural and organic references. Composed of a series of folded glass planes, the curtain wall offers the perimeter residences maximum daylight while reflecting unwanted direct sunlight


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Venus Freeze
Venus Viva - Skin Resurfacing
HydraFacial MD
Laser Hair Removal
Eyelid Reconstruction
Lower Lid Lift
Upper Lid Lift
The leading principle at PROJECT GLAMMERS is to empower you with the knowledge to make the right decisions about your beauty needs. Whether you are just learning about aesthetic enhancements or looking to maintain the results, we will guide you through the process and offer support every step of the way. Directed by renown oculoplastic surgeon Dr. Irene Gladstein, we offer the latest cutting edge technologies, state of the art facilities, highly trained and certified staff, along with a welcoming atmosphere and professional work ethics. Our injectable menu includes neurotoxins, skin perfecting procedures and facial and body contouring approaches designed to produce results of your dreams. On the non-invasive end, we offer skin rejuvenation, skin tightening, RF resurfacing, treatments for redness and hyper-pigmentation, laser hair removal, and body contouring for permanent stubborn fat reduction. We encourage you to schedule a consultation where we can customize a treatment recommendation to your individual needs.
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Be the first to hear about Project Glammers news and offers with our newsletter.
Irene Gladstein, MD FACS
Dr. Irene Gladstein is the founder and medical director at PROJECT GLAMMERS. She is a board certified eyelid surgeon and highly skilled injector, with a true passion and a keen eye for aesthetics. Dr. Irene Gladstein is a highly regarded speaker and serves as a physician trainer for Allergan (Botox, Juvederm etc.) and Galderma (Sculptra, Dysport, Restylane etc.). She is also actively involved in the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and serves on the board of Cosmetic Surgery Foundation. Dr. Irene Gladstein's unique approach is in tailoring treatment recommendations specific to each individual, considering their needs and aspirations, leading to the most natural and long-lasting results. Additionally, our trained and experienced associate injectors are an extension of Dr. Irene Gladstein's approach and expertise.
Introducing Kybella, the first and only FDA-approved injectable drug that contours and improves the appearance and profile of moderate to severe fat below the chin, otherwise known as a "double chin.
Dr. Irene Gladstein was selected to become one of the pioneers providers of Kybella based on her extensive expertise in cosmetic injections. She is among the first few surgeons in the USA to offer this treatment, and the very first in Brooklyn, NY, giving our patients exclusive early access to this groundbreaking and unparalleled treatment.
Introducing a revolutionary new technology that will help get rid of your unwanted fat, cellulite and wrinkles once and for all. Venus Freeze is your perfect non-surgical solution to achieving the young and flawless skin that the natural process of aging has stripped you of. This wonderful new procedure can be used to treat all areas of your entire body giving you the tighter skin, free of wrinkles and cellulite, that you've been longing for.
The HydraFacial is the newest technological advancement in skincare and beauty that has the attention of all the stars in Hollywood. The principal feature of this innovative procedure is its ability to hydrate the skin during each step as opposed to drying and irritating like some other resurfacing methods.


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UTM / Jackman Humanities Institute Annual Seminar
Program Purpose:
A year-long undertaking jointly sponsored by UTM and the Jackman Humanities Institute, the aim of the Annual Seminar is to create an intellectual community that vigorously addresses a topic of broad appeal, which lends itself to wider community engagement.
Eligibility Guidelines:
To be eligible for these funds, applicants must be full-time UTM faculty members.
Successful applicants will be eligible to reapply for funding 24 months following the competition deadline in which they were successful.
The seminar will be convened by a UTM faculty member in the humanities or social sciences but can include participants from any academic discipline. Contributors will include senior UTM undergraduates, graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, and other key academic figures from the University of Toronto and beyond. The seminar may be interdisciplinary in nature, to fully explore the chosen theme or problem, but it need not be.
The seminar will organize public events surrounding its activity, which may include readings, symposia, debates, exhibitions, or screenings linked to the theme. The Seminar will also organize and host an annual Distinguished Lecture related to the theme. The UTM campus will be the host site of the Seminar activity, including the Distinguished Lecture, but some events may be held at other locations if appropriate.
One Annual Seminar will be sponsored each academic year. An itemized budget proposal, up to $15,000, must accompany the application. Applications will be reviewed by a panel of arms-length colleagues and the Director (or delegate) of the Jackman Humanities Institute (JHI). Participation in a UTM-JHI joint program does not preclude UTM faculty from participating in other JHI programs.
Post-Award Details:
Final Report: Recipients must submit a 4-5 page final report describing what was accomplished, and how the funds were expended, to the OVPR no later than one year following a successful application. Failure to submit a final report could result in funds being withheld in a subsequent internal competition for which you are applying.
Acknowledgment: The UTM affiliation of researchers and support from the OVPR and the Jackman Humanities Institute should be acknowledged in any research outputs arising from this award.
Unspent Funds: Unspent funds cannot be carried over into the next academic year and must be returned to UTM/JHI.
How to Apply:
A complete application package includes the following material:
** Due to circumstances caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, proposals should include detailed descriptions of how the proposed seminar's events will be delivered through methods that do not require in-person interaction.**
- Completed Cover Sheet
- Proposal: 4 pages maximum (single space, 12pt New Times Roman), in clear
non-specialist language, under these headings:
· Description of Research and Scholarly Activity to be undertaken by the seminar, including aims and outcomes of the seminar with special attention to the public events planned for the seminar
· Organization and leadership for the seminar
· Timetable of events and activities for the year
- List of Participants in the planning group and their affiliations, which can include anticipated participants (1 additional page maximum for the participant table) with the following columns:
· Name
· Affiliation
· Faculty/Postdoc/Grad Student/Undergraduate
- Itemized budget and justification (additional 1 page maximum)


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Biaggi and Bautista among characters discussing favourite races
Race winners, podium finishers and Championship-winning Crew Chiefs explain their favourite races for YOU to watch
In the latest article from the favourite races series, five more MotoGP™ and MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship personalities discuss and explain their all-time favourite WorldSBK races in history. This week, five people who have worked in both WorldSBK and MotoGP™ select their favourite races that will be made available to fans to watch.
Two-time WorldSBK Champion Max Biaggi selected Qatar Race 1 from 2007 as his favourite race. Having made the switch to WorldSBK for 2007 following a year out of racing, the Italian started the season perfectly as he explains: "For me the best race was Qatar 2007 because after one year out of any race competition I was back in the new category (WSBK) and to win right away (with pole position, race victory and fastest lap). A great emotion that bring me in this new category, which I love."
Alvaro Bautista (Team HRC), who won the 125cc World Championship in 2006, selected Race 2 from Portimao in 2019 as his favourite. Riding with an injury, Bautista rode through the pain barrier all weekend but managed to pick up a fourth place in Race 1 before a stunning victory in Race 2. He said: "One of the best races for me in WorldSBK was Race 2 at Portimao in 2019. It came at the end of what was generally a difficult weekend due to my shoulder injury, and after Race 1 where I had to recover after swerving off the track and use up a great deal of energy to finish fourth.
"On Sunday I was a little tired, because of the injury. Starting from the back, I was able to charge back up through the field to take the lead, and I just kept pushing and giving it my all because I didn't know when I would run out of strength and I wanted the race to be over as quickly as possible. By the last two laps, I simply couldn't take it anymore. But I managed to get to the finish line and won the race by a small margin."
WorldSBK race winner Andrew Pitt, who also competed in MotoGP and is now Crew Chief for Michael van der Mark (PATA YAMAHA WorldSBK Official Team), selected his WorldSBK race victory as his favourite race – Misano 2006 Race 2. Pitt explained: "Misano was like a home race for the team and it's Italy, so the fans were out in force. Fitness was a big factor in the race, and I'd worked hard that year. It was my first WorldSBK race win and the first for the team that year. We'd put in a lot of work to develop the bike and the electronics, so the win was a fitting reward for all our efforts."
For ten-time WorldSBK podium finisher Simon Crafar, Sugo 1997 Race 2 was selected as his favourite race. Crafar, who now works as a MotoGP pit lane reporter, explained that it was the will and determination that made him select it: "You might expect my favourite race to be some epic battle between a lot of riders or maybe my first podium in 1995. But it's none of them, it was Sugo 1997 and from the outside it would probably look quite boring but from the inside it was an epic battle of will and determination, mentally and physically.
"It was always going to be down to Nori Haga and Akira Yanagawa for the win. They were on fire. They were the local boys, local knowledge, factory bikes and great riders. It was down to the rest of us to fight for the last spot on the podium. There was a hard fight for the last spot of the podium. Race 1 early on, I found myself in third position. Haga and Yanagawa were fighting at the front and John Kocinski was behind me. Trying to keep him behind me, I knew if I made one mistake, it was over, and I'd lose that last spot on the podium.
"That was such a long race, doing everything perfectly, no mistake, fast enough to keep him behind me. I managed it and when I stood on the podium, Akira had retired from the race, and so the last spot on the podium was Kocinski. He stood next to me; you know we looked at each other… I am sure he knew what he put me through, and I was proud to know what I put him through."
Silvano Galbusera (Yamaha Factory Racing Test Team Crew Chief) explained how Monza Race 2 from 2009 was his favourite race after a rollercoaster weekend. Galbusera, who was Crew Chief to Ben Spies in 2009 when he won the WorldSBK Championship, and also to Valentino Rossi in MotoGP™ from 2014-2018, said: "My favourite WorldSBK race from anytime is definitely Monza 2009. I can't remember any other race, from anytime, with such a bitter-sweet flavour… On Saturday, Ben had smashed the previous circuit best lap by nearly one second. Race 1 was red flagged after few seconds, because of an accident at Prima Variante. When it was restarted, Ben led it until the last lap but unfortunately ran out of fuel few metres from the finish line and Michel Fabrizio took his very first WorldSBK win. Race 2 went as we all expected, and Ben won in great style, in front of our home race fans. Monza has always been a very special place for all Italians working in the paddock and I think I will never forget that race, because of the mixed emotions I lived throughout the whole weekend."
You can check out Volume 1, Volume 2 and Volume 3 of this series for more classic races!
You can watch more exciting World Superbike action with the WorldSBK VideoPass!


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Herat( Afghanistan): A suicide attack near a mosque in the Western Afghan city of Herat killed at least one person and wounded eight others, police and health officials said on Sunday.
Militant group IS claimed responsibility for the attack, which followed another blast that was claimed by the group in Kabul last week and killed about 30 people near a shrine as the city celebrated Nawruz, the Persian new year.
Deputy police chief Aminullah Amin said that two bombers had tried to enter the mosque but were challenged by security guards who opened fire on them.
"Our Shi'ite brothers were praying in the mosque when two suicide bombers entered the mosque compound. Fortunately, the bombers were identified by Afghan police and local residents," he said.
Amin said that one of the bombers was shot by security guards while the second detonated his explosives. Health officials said one person was confirmed dead, with eight wounded, but the final figures could change.
Herat, one of the most prosperous cities in Afghanistan, has experienced periodic episodes of violence but has not suffered the same level of attacks as the capital Kabul.
While sectarian violence in Afghanistan was previously rare, a series of attacks over recent years, many claimed by IS, have killed hundreds of people, many from the Hazara ethnic minority.
The local affiliate of IS first appeared in Afghanistan three years ago. As well as its main stronghold in the eastern region of Nangarhar, on the border with Pakistan, fighters declaring allegiance to the group have been active in northern Afghanistan.
The group has also claimed numerous attacks in Kabul and other cities, though many experts doubt whether it has the capacity to conduct such attacks alone and believe it may have received help at times from other militant groups.
The violence has occurred alongside a general deterioration in security in Afghanistan as Taliban insurgents have fought government forces across much of the country, killing thousands of civilians every year.


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True Blue Plantation
This well manicured layout features vast fairways and incredible elevations. The rolling terrain and native vegetation of this once thriving indigo and rice plantation makes for one of the most spectacular settings in golf. The rough, sandy areas have been retained and provide striking contrast to the immaculate greens, tees and fairways. This award winning golf course boasts uniqueness and raw beauty. Ranked among the top courses in America, True Blue was recently declared by Golf Digest as the "#1 Public Course in the Myrtle Beach Area," ranked in "America's Top 100 Greatest Public Courses" and ranked in the top ten of the "Top 50 Courses in Myrtle Beach." South Carolina Magazine also ranked True Blue in the top ten "30 Best Courses You Can Play."


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Hi Everyone!
Today I am sharing a peek at the new stamps and dies being released by Your Next Stamp this month.
The September new release blog hop starts tonight at 10 pm EST and all the products will be available in the store.
I have a Waddles card for you!
Both the set and die will be in the YNS store tonight.
Be sure to stop back for the blog hop for a chance to win a gift certificate to the YNS store!
Smiles, Julie
Saturday, September 3, 2016
Your Next Stamp September Release Preview
Posted by firstname.lastname@example.com at 12:00 AM
Labels: YNS, Your Next Stamp
9 comments:
What a beautiful card and sentiment Julie!ReplyDelete
This is adorable, Julie! What a sweet card and set!!ReplyDelete
What a sweet card for Fall. I just adore that sweet lil squirrel..lol. Love the stamp set.ReplyDelete
I see so much potential with both the stamp set and the die! Love this card - puts a smile on my face! I may have to duplicate!!!! ��ReplyDelete
Lovely card!ReplyDelete
Love fall and those stitched squaresReplyDelete
Super cute card! Waddles can always brighten someones day!ReplyDelete
Too cute! I'm thrilled there's a new Waddles set!ReplyDelete
very cute...puts a smile on my face.ReplyDelete
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Is McGee the next Tree Rollins?
By Kevin Broom
My pals at Bullets Forever look at JaVale McGee today in their ongoing 20 Days, 20 Questions series leading up to training camp. I'm also crystal balling McGee, albeit in a different sector of the psychic ether.By design, the Wizards' roster this season is comprised entirely of question marks, potential and hope. Entering his third season, McGee is the personification of the team's current condition. Youth? Check. Physical ability? Check. Potential? Check. Questionable basketball skills? Check. Dubious motivation? Check. Erratic results? Check. Immaturity? Check. What are the Wizards going to get from McGee this season and into the future? In the "positive thinking" column goes stuff like finally getting his asthma diagnosed, the seven pounds of muscle he reportedly added this offseason, and the news that he grew another inch. In the "uh oh" column goes stuff like his on-court production and Lamar Odom's comment during USA Basketball tryouts. Odom concluded high praise for McGee's athleticism (comparing McGee's build to David Robinson's) with, "If he can just get his feel for the game together, he can have an impact on a team. Because it's called basketball, not run and jump." Yeah, I winced too.
With full understanding of the imperfect nature of such comparisons, I took a stroll through stat-land to find some players from league history who started their careers similar to McGee. I did the same thing after McGee's rookie year and found promising comparisons, including Jeff Ruland, Bill Cartwright, Vlade Divac, Patrick Ewing and Dwight Howard.Unfortunately, none of those guys make McGee's "similar" list after year two. The bigs who started their careers like McGee:
- Marreese Speights — softie PF/C for the 76ers
- Anthony Randolph — promising youngster who was traded to the Knicks after two seasons with the Warriors
- Gheorge Muresan — the 7-7 giant whose Bullets career was ruined making a crappy movie with Billy Crystal
- Al Jefferson — made the jump from high school to the NBA; showed tons of promise before wrecking his knee. Now on his third team.
- Steve Johnson (a solid big for several seasons, who made the 1988 All-Star game), Kent Benson (a serviceable pro for many years), Tree Rollins (a defense and rebounding specialist), and Mychal Thompson (number one overall pick who had an underwhelming career, but he did win a couple titles with the Lakers) each showed up in the statistical comparison search, but none are good comps because they played about as many minutes as rookies as McGee played in his first two seasons combined.
Regardless, I don't think the Wizards front office are praying McGee develops into the next Tree Rollins or Mychal Thompson. They're not pinning their hopes for the future around the second coming of Steve Jones.Why didn't the promising comps from his rookie season (Ewing, Howard, etc.) show up after year two? Because those guys progressed faster and earned more minutes in their second seasons. McGee did not. There just isn't a way to massage the search to find more promising historical comps. For example, looking only at players who had similar second seasons generates the following list: Robin Lopez (not bad), Marcin Gortat (not bad), Wang Zhizhi (ugh) and Calvin Booth (blech). Relaxing the criteria a bit adds Brad Miller (who became a good center) and Ryan Anderson, but also brought in hoops immortals like Brad Branson, Tim Thomas, Stanislav Medvedenko and Mike Gminski. Focus on what the Wizards want most from McGee (shot blocking and rebounding), and the players most similar after two seasons are Samuel Dalembert, Greg Ostertag, Kelvin Cato and Andrew Lang. So, let's just forget about last season and go back to that feel-good rookie list. McGee's athletic ability hasn't gone anywhere. Maybe his stint with Coach K and USA Basketball taught him something. Maybe that asthma diagnosis will free him to work harder, practice harder and play better. Maybe Flip Saunders will figure out how to use him. Maybe he and John Wall will make a psychic connection and terrorize the league for the next decade. Maybe.
Box Seats blogger
| September 21, 2010; 1:38 PM ET
Categories: Kevin Broom, Wizards | Tags: JaVale McGee, Washington Wizards
Save & Share: Previous: Nationals progress, predicting success
Next: Random hockey musings
I wish we had a big man coach that could
mentor McGee because he could
be as effective as David Robinson if he
understood his role.
At Worst be Chandler
Posted by: grayterrence | September 22, 2010 1:45 AM | Report abuse
GL, wizs
Posted by: asdw208 | September 22, 2010 2:02 AM | Report abuse
As effective as David Robinson? That'd be nice, but I don't see that as a realistic possibility. Robinson was the best center in the game for a few years. Phenomenal player.
A big man coach is a nice idea, but I think almost all of it comes back to McGee. The Wizards have coaches who can teach him how to play center. The real question is how much work McGee is willing to put in.
Posted by: TheSecretWeapon | September 22, 2010 9:14 AM | Report abuse
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It is time for another CAS Colours & Sketches challenge. Check out the latest challenge -> #19 – colors.
And here is my take:
I thought I'd have some fun with these colors. I pulled out the adorable Aviary set to use.
I chose to use the blue for my base because it is light and the other colors would pop around it.
I used the cage stand to create a bar for the birds.
Design Point: Despite using a Stamp-a-ma-Jig, the bar is crooked and the extra finial is just a smidge not connected. Thankfully it isn't obvious. I didn't try to connect them with a marker because I thought it would draw attention to the gaff. Sometimes it is better to just let the mistake stand, most folks won't even see it.
I'll send this card to Mom for her inspiration wall.
Make sure you check out the other design team members:
I hope you join us at CAS Colours & Sketches!
Thanks for stopping by!
A Little About the Challenge: Posted every Thursday, the challenges alternate between color and sketch (if there is a 5th week you get the double dose of color & sketch).
Ink/Card Stock: Raspberry Ripple, Daffodil Delight, Bashful Blue, Whisper White;
Other: twine, Bashful pattern paper, Fancy Fan embossing folder;


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The end will come when mankind has been sufficiently warned by a global proclamation of God's Kingdom—a world government that will replace human rulership. (Daniel 7:13, 14) Jesus Christ said: "This good news of the Kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come." (Matthew 24:14) That preaching work, which reflects God's justice and mercy, is part of a composite "sign" marking the time of the end. The sign also includes international warfare, earthquakes, famine, and disease.—Matthew 24:3; Luke 21:10, 11.
Besides foretelling world events, the Bible also gives us a social profile of "the last days." We read: "Critical times hard to deal with will be here. For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, . . . disobedient to parents, . . . without self-control, fierce, without love of goodness, . . . lovers of pleasures rather than lovers of God." *
—2 Timothy 3:1-5.
"There will be food shortages."—Matthew 24:7.
Fulfillment: Famine caused more than 70 million deaths in the 20th century and continues to be a global problem.
What the evidence reveals:
According to the United Nations, hunger is the world's greatest health risk, and 1 in 7 people worldwide currently do not have enough to eat.
"Today's food shortages are not the result of one-time, weather-driven crop failures but rather of four critical long-term trends: rapid population growth, loss of topsoil, spreading water shortages and rising temperatures."—Scientific American.
"In one place after another pestilences."—Luke 21:11.
Fulfillment: Despite medical advances, millions still die each year as a result of infectious diseases. International travel and the world's growing urban population have increased the likelihood that disease outbreaks will spread rapidly.
What the evidence reveals:
Smallpox killed an estimated 300 million to 500 million people in the 20th century.
The Worldwatch Institute reports that during the past three decades, "more than thirty previously unrecognized diseases such as Ebola, HIV, Hantavirus, and SARS have emerged as new threats."
The World Health Organization has warned of the rise of drug-resistant germs, saying: "The world is heading towards a post-antibiotic era, in which many common infections will no longer have a cure and, once again, [will] kill unabated."
People will "betray one another and will hate one another. . . . The love of the greater number will cool off."—Matthew 24:10, 12.
Fulfillment: Hate-fueled genocide has claimed the lives of millions. In numerous countries, armed conflicts and crime have led to cycles of increasing fear and violence.
The Doomsday Clock guages how close humanity is thought to be to total annihilation. But scientists have now warned that humanity is on the verge of being wiped off the face of the Earth.
Reality of earth is Everything has to come to an end, sometime. Everything that has a beginning, has an ending.It is always important to know when something has reached its end .
Ends are not bad things, they just mean that something else is about to begin.
Is there any possibility that life will end on our planet earth ?
The genocidal depopulation plan generally involves poisoning or sterilizing people through the use of chem. trails or water fluoridation. Agribusinesses transnational like Monsanto are often implicated in some sort of scheme to monopolize the world's food supply so it can be easily tainted with deadly toxins. Just about anything that can be said to involve "chemicals" can be implicated in this nefarious scheme: vaccines, alleged covert geo-engineering schemes, genetically modified food, etc. Variants of the theory include those with an anti-abortion tinge who incorporate conspiracy theories about Planned Parenthood, and AIDS conspiracy theorists who believe AIDS was concocted in a laboratory for the purpose of reducing the population. Another variant, largely attributable to Lyndon La Roche, has worldwide nuclear war as part of the conspirators' alleged plan along with a deliberate economic collapse and de-industrialization to force the world back into a "new dark age."
In this video You will get to know about some of the mysterious theories which tells us how earth will be vanished.
#1 Leonardo da Vinci was a true genius .Leonardo is widely considered one of the most diversely talented individuals ever to have lived .
He was constantly observing, experimenting, and inventing, and drawing was, for him, a tool for recording his investigation of nature
Leonardo Da Vinci like many other predicted that the world would eventually end one day. According to da Vinci, this would occur by means of a 'Global Flood' in the years 4006.
He said Seawater will rise above the high peaks of Mountains towards the Sky and will fall down again onto the dwellings of Men.
He believed that this would mark a new start for humanity
#2 Sir Isaac Newton was an English mathematician, astronomer, and physicist , who is widely recognised as one of the most influential scientists of all time and a key figure in the scientific revolution.
Newton's Principia formulated the laws of motion and universal gravitation that dominated scientists' view of the physical universe for the next three centuries
Though he was and still is renowned for his scientific pursuits, Newton was a serious student of the Bible and published several theological works
And when it came to predicting the end of the world, Sir Isaac Newton was just as precise.
He believed the Apocalypse would come in 2060
Newton based this figure on religion rather than reasoning.
In a letter from 1704 , Newton uses the Bible's Book of Daniel to calculate the date for the Apocalypse.
The note reveals a deeply spiritual side to a man more usually regarded as a strict rationalist.
But he confidently stated in the letter that the Bible proved the world would end in 2060
#3 Stephen Hawking is one of the most famous scientists of the last century.
Hawking was the first to set forth a theory of cosmology explained by a union of the general theory of relativity and quantum mechanics.
Regarding end of earth Hawking said advances in science and technology could lead to the end of the world.
He said human aggression, combined with technological advances in nuclear weaponry, may lead to our end
There are an estimated total of 20,500 nuclear warheads in the world today. If the average power of these devices is 33,500 Kilotons, there are enough to destroy the total earth landmass.
Dropping one nuclear bomb is terrible enough—cities leveled, populations vaporized.
He also said that Climate change continues to escalate, with no end in sight.
We don't know where global warming will stop
But the worst case scenario is that Earth will become like its sister planet Venus with a temperature of 250 Celsius and raining sulfuric acid. The human race could not survive in those conditions.
this could be the reason of end of world
Hawking said that artificial intelligence weapons could create "a global arms race" in the future.
Artificial Intelligence technology has reached a point where the deployment of such systems is — practically if not legally — feasible within years, not decades, and the stakes are high: autonomous weapons have been described as the third revolution in warfare, after gunpowder and nuclear arms.
#4 Some doomsday pundits predict that a giant asteroid will someday smash into our planet and blow us all from here
what would happen if an asteroid hit the Earth
1. Any asteroid falling from the sky would have a tremendous amount of energy.
In 2028, the asteroid 1997XF11 will come extremely close to Earth but will miss the planet.
If something went wrong and it did hit Earth, what you would have is a mile-wide asteroid striking the planet's surface at about 30,000 mph. An asteroid that big traveling at that speed has the energy roughly equal to a 1 million megaton bomb. It's very likely that an asteroid like this would wipe out most of the life on the planet.
Really, this is all just a peek.
The Lost Ways 2 is a far–reaching book with chapters ranging from simple things like making tasty bark-bread-like people did when there was no food-to building a traditional backyard smokehouse… and many, many, many more!
Books can be your best pre-collapse investment.
The Lost Ways (Learn the long forgotten secrets that helped our forefathers survive famines,wars,economic crisis and anything else life threw at them)
Survival MD (Best Post Collapse First Aid Survival Guide Ever)
Conquering the coming collapse (Financial advice and preparedness )
Liberty Generator (Build and make your own energy source)
Backyard Liberty (Easy and cheap DIY Aquaponic system to grow your organic and living food bank)
Bullet Proof Home (A Prepper's Guide in Safeguarding a Home )
Family Self Defense (Best Self Defense Strategies For You And Your Family)
Survive Any Crisis (Best Items To Hoard For A Long Term Crisis)
Survive The End Days (Biggest Cover Up Of Our President)
Drought USA (Discover The Amazing Device That Turns Air Into Water)


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Evaluation of gustatory function after primary middle ear surgery - Implementing a classification of the intraoperative anatomy of the chorda tympani nerve
Search Medline for
|August 8, 2007
Objective: Postoperative gustatory dysfunction is a well-known complication after otosurgical interventions. The aim of this prospective study is to demonstrate a possible correlation of the anatomic course of the chorda tympani nerve (CTN) in the middle ear and the prevalence of postoperative taste disorders.
Study design: Prospective, clinical study.
Setting: Tertiary care, academic medical center.
Material and methods: Preoperatively, gustatory testing with standardised solutions (sweet, sour, salty, bitter) sprayed on the tongue was performed. Intraoperatively, the course of the CTN was classified by 3 topographical criteria: The angle (A), the height (H) and the depth (D) of the nerve`s emergence from the posterior tympanic bone. In cases of postoperative taste dysfunction the patients were followed-up on a regular basis.
Results: 45 patients (24 male, 21 female, mean age: 46.2) were included in the study. The angle of the nerve`s emergence from the tympanic bone was below 30° in 26 cases, between 30° and 60° in 17 cases and within 60° and 90° in 2 cases. The height of emergence was 17 times in the superior, 25 times in the middle and 3 times in the inferior third of the posterior meatal wall. The depth of emergence lay within the plane of the fibrous tympanic anulus in 9 individuals, 20 times medially to this plane without overlapping bone and 16 times medially but covered by a bony spur. The CTN was preserved in 41 procedures, whereas it had to be sacrificed in 4 cases. Postoperatively, gustatory function was not deminished in 89 % of the cases. A significant correlation to the anatomic course of the nerve could not be found.
Conclusion: The results of this study show a very variable intraoperative anatomy of the CTN, every oto-surgeon needs to be aware of. However, the probability of a postoperative gustatory dysfunction seems to depend on the kind of the applied otosurgical procedure, only. Nevertheless, the hereby suggested classification of the nerve`s anatomic course in the lateral tympanon might be useful in similar studies to come.


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Per my previous post, as of the end of November, I was clear on one of my two core values: compassion.
But the second was proving elusive. "What am I prepared to struggle for," kept playing on a loop in my mind.
The answer came, as is so often does, while I was rocking-out to some favourite music (Loreena McKennit) in the shower.
Yes, the obvious kind. And also much more than that. Play for me is not a simple value at all. It's a wonderful yummy mash-up of rest, creativity, curiosity, learning, growth, exploration, not-taking-myself-too-seriously (one I reeeaaaly struggle with), goofiness, vulnerability, experimentation, down-time, relaxation, rest…etc. Play for me is both purposeful AND purposeless. It is both, at the exact same time. Just like it is with kids.
Why is play so important to me that I would list it as one of my two core values?
Precisely because it is the one where a whole lot of other behaviours and patterns of thinking get tested. Taking myself too seriously, for one, as I've already mentioned. When I was a graduate student the head of the Leadership Scholarship program I was a part of told me "Sue, you're far too wound up, you should really just smoke of doobie". As this was an Ivy League MBA program you can image how off the wall that suggestion was to me!
Yet I had been on the receiving end of variations on this theme for some years: A a short-lived boyfriend had told me in my twenties – "Your walls are raised so high I can walk in right underneath them". Another friend at a similar time : "You're strung so tight I can play you like a guitar".
So play would hardly seem to be a value I was embodying. True, and yet....
It is was precisely because I was so deeply uncomfortable with vulnerability, and - truth-be-told, downright insecure - that I was armoring up and trying to project a certain image. But it was precisely in the moments when I wasn't armored up, when I felt truly comfortable to be me, that I could be goofy, ridiculous, relaxed and chilled out. Earnest, task-focused, highly productive, taking-things-seriously Sue is a part of me yes. And it's a part of me that, when left to run rampant, quickly leads me into a quagmire of shame, blame, judgement, resentment and unhappiness.
"The opposite of play is not work, it is depression" write Dr Stuart Brown, president of the National Institute for Play. Drawing on his own research, as well as latest advances in biology, psychology, and neurology, Brown explains that play shapes our brain, helps us foster empathy, helps us navigate complex social groups and is the core of creativity and innovation. Play is as essential to our health and functioning as rest.
Respecting our biologically programmed need for play can transform work. It can bring back excitement and newness to our job. Play helps us deal with difficulties, provides a sense of expansiveness, promotes mastery of our craft, and is an essential part of the creative process. Most important, true play that comes from our own inner needs and desires is the only path to finding lasting joy and satisfaction in our work. In the long run, work does not work without play.
All of this is so incredibly true for me. When I lose sight of play in my work, all the uglier, sadder and more depressive parts of myself quickly start running rough shod over my energy, my relationships, and my mood.
When I am honoring and living by play as one of my two core values I am me at my best. As a decision-making filter it guides me to decisions and choices that honor what I actually need, not what I think I need to prove myself to myself or to others. It is achievable, internal, conscious and socially-constructive (using the tests of good values from my previous post). When I bring an attitude of play to something I am open, curious, learning and growing. It keeps me out of defensiveness and armoring up. It helps me lean-in compassionately even with those with whom I really struggle.
So, compassion and play. There you have it.
In the next post I will (vulnerably, playfully and compassionately!) share how I am working to operationalize these two values, what tends to lead me to walk away from my values, and what support systems I have put in place to help me protect and nurture my values.
Sue Mann - Coach
Reflections on how we reclaim and sustain our worthiness in the face of falls and challenges.
July 2022


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More and more films premiere on Video on Demand — if they don't simply bypass a theatrical release altogether. Because VOD reviews are often scarce and hard to find, Criticwire created VODetails, a recurring column to help you figure out whether a new VOD release is worth your hard-earned dollar. This time we're looking at "Echotone," a documentary that looks at how urban development and SXSW–which, not coincidentally, starts today–have impacted Austin's creative class.
Director: Nathan Christ
Cast: Bill Baird, Cari Palazzolo
Official Synopsis: "Internationally known as 'The Live Music Capital of the World,' Austin's music culture has led it to become one of the world's most sought-after destinations. As nearly two dozen high-rises pop up throughout the city amidst economic downfall, how does the working musician get along? This lyrical documentary provides a telescopic view into the lives of Austin's vibrant young musicians as they grapple with questions of artistic integrity, commercialism, experimentation, and the future of their beloved city. Directed by Nathan Christ and photographed by Robert Garza, 'Echotone' is a cultural portrait of the modern American city examined through the lyrics and lens of its creative class."
"A representative, if frustratingly impressionistic, regional-cultural update on Austin's now epochal music scene."
Andy Webster, The New York Times:
"The realities in Nathan Christ's impressive documentary 'Echotone' are, sadly, nothing new. But the emotions surrounding them are nevertheless compelling."
"The film doesn't necessarily provide answers, allowing the viewer to leave with his or her own opinions, and maybe even solutions. We clearly see the eternal struggle between the city's population boom and its longstanding role as a defender of live music."
There's a potentially fascinating and appreciably more concise 60-minute documentary to be found somewhere amid the uneven and unfocused 88-minute hodgepodge that is 'Echotone.'"
"Echotone" is now available on Hulu.
Sign Up: Stay on top of the latest breaking film and TV news! Sign up for our Email Newsletters here.


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Empathic Listening
Going Beyond Active Listening
Empathic listening is a structured listening and questioning technique that allows you to develop and enhance relationships with a stronger understanding of what is being conveyed, both intellectually and emotionally. As such, it takes active listening techniques to a new level.
In this article, we'll explore how honest and effective use of empathic listening can help you to win the trust of team members, and address the root cause of workplace problems.
(You can check your understanding of empathy more broadly in our article, Empathy at Work.)
Empathic Listening Skills
To use empathic listening, listen patiently to what the other person has to say, even if you do not agree with it. It is important to show acceptance, though not necessarily agreement, by simply nodding or injecting phrases such as "I understand" or "I see."
Try to get a sense of the feelings that the speaker is expressing, and stay mindful of the emotional content being delivered as well as the literal meaning of the words.
Think of yourself as a mirror. Repeat the speaker's thoughts and feelings back to them.
Encourage the speaker to continue with their message by interjecting summary responses. For example, "So you do not feel as though you play a strong enough role on the team." Or, "You feel your talents and experiences would be better utilized in another position." Or, you could say, "You feel as though you are undervalued on this project." This should be done in a neutral way, so as not to "lead" the speaker to your way of thinking.
An empathic listener works to keep the speaker from feeling or becoming defensive. To do this, avoid asking direct questions, arguing with what is being said, or disputing facts. The evidence can be considered later. For now, concentrate fully on what is being said and how the speaker feels.
When the speaker says something that requires additional input, simply repeat the statement as a question. For instance, if the speaker says, "I am not happy in my current position," you can probe further by replying, "You say you are not happy in your current position?" This small amount of encouragement may be all that it takes to prompt the speaker to elaborate further.
Be mindful of what is not being said, too. Often, what the speaker holds back is as important as what they are saying. Pay attention to their body language. Nonverbal signs like keeping the head down, shifting away from you or covering the mouth could signal that they're holding something back, or that they feel uncomfortable.
If the speaker asks for your input, be honest. But, try to refrain from providing input that may influence their thoughts or inhibit further communication.
When you're listening empathically, keep your own emotions in check and do not allow yourself to become emotionally involved. Remember: understand first, evaluate later.
Finally, keep in mind that by earning the speaker's confidence, you are allowing them to communicate more freely. In doing this, you create better outcomes for the speaker, for yourself, for your team, and for the company as a whole.
Where you've earned this trust, make sure you don't betray it.
Empathic Listening Example
As a manager, John prides himself on being there for his team members, and he maintains an open-door policy. He feels that he knows each team member quite well and regularly engages in "personal" conversations with them, staying up to date with the events in their lives, both at work and outside of work.
Recently, he noticed Natalie pulling away from the team. During meetings, she seems distracted and no longer provides the high level of input that the team has come to expect from her.
Other team members have also noticed that she's not looking too well. She was late for her meetings yesterday, which was unlike her, and she seems less interested in work more generally, too.
John approaches Natalie to ask if something is wrong. But she becomes defensive and says, "Why do you ask?" and, "I'm fine."
A few more weeks go by and, still not satisfied with her performance, John continues to become more concerned for Natalie. Previously, she'd been the backbone of a thriving team.
To get to root of the issue, John uses empathic listening techniques to discover the source of Natalie's uncharacteristically poor work performance.
Empathic Listening Techniques
John calls Natalie into his office and simply asks her how he can help. This lowers her defenses and shows that he's willing to support her. Then, he listens to what Natalie says (as well as what she doesn't say), and takes care to avoid interrupting. It's not long before he uncovers the problem: Natalie has been going through a divorce and taking care of an ill parent at the same time.
During their conversation, John acts as a mirror to Natalie. He repeats the points that she's made, so she knows that he understands. He rephrases her comments into questions during pauses in the conversation and asks for further input from her.
John pays attention to Natalie's body language, too. Interestingly, throughout the conversation, this usually confident person kept her head and eyes down. Overall, she seemed defeated.
Counseling and Support
After allowing Natalie to finish, John provides support without judgment. He offers to temporarily lighten Natalie's workload, and reassures her that her responsibilities will be waiting for her when she's ready to return to normal. John also makes Natalie aware of the support and resources that are available to her through the company's HR department, such as counseling and financial planning.
Crucially, John keeps the conversation to himself. He lets Natalie know that what she has said will stay between them. He encourages Natalie to keep him updated on the situation and allows her time to go to the counseling sessions that she plans through the company's HR department.
John took note of Natalie's obvious pain and listened empathically. The result: Natalie took just over a month to get better and when she returned at full speed, her work was better than ever – as was her focus, and her loyalty to John, to the team, and to the company.
Key Points
The role of an empathic listener is to be supportive, kind and caring.
Listen carefully and without judgment. Interject occasionally to show that you've understood what's being said. Where appropriate, repeat key phrases to encourage the speaker to open up.
Pay attention to what's not being said, too. Take note of the speaker's emotional state, their tone of voice, and their body language.
And, when you successfully win their trust and confidence, make sure that you respect it.
This site teaches you the skills you need for a happy and successful career; and this is just one of many tools and resources that you'll find here at Mind Tools. Subscribe to our free newsletter, or join the Mind Tools Club and really supercharge your career!
Comments (9)
Over a month agoHello Ananyaaa,
Thank you for the feedback. Continued success on your new HR journey!
Mind Tools Coach
Over a month agoSuch a great article! Thank you for sharing. Being a newbie in the management and HR space, I often read blogs and articles like this to get new ideas in this space.
Over a month agoHi jbjarnson,
For me identifying what's not being said is a function of how well you know the person. When you have developed a strong relationship with a person, you become familiar with their habits, mannerisms, their communication style and behavior. When the person acts out of character, you recognize that the familiar patterns have been disrupted. If you ask the person if everything is OK and the person responds that, "I'm fine," when clearly they are not, this is the point when something is not being said. The person is choosing not to say what's bothering them.
Mind Tools Team


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Café Brasil is a font designed to represent coffee, especially for use in packaging, brand titles, logos and menus. Based on the shape of a coffee bean, Café Brasil has delicate details and ligatures that represent the liquid, foam and steam of a good cup of coffee.
In March 2014, Café Brasil was chosen to be part of the main exhibition at the "Tipos Latinos 2014".Font Family:


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Aldrich | Official Lunch Men Google Classroom CF Schools Powerschool Seesaw- Leader Notebook Aldrich Leader in Me Mr. Switzer's 6th Grade 10 StrengthsExplorer Themes (1 Free online word cloud generat Cedar Falls CSD Website Parent Guide Student Council Application Mr. Switzer's Class Strengths Art Wall™ | Strength Google News Archive Search Scholastic Hour of Code Week! Aldrich Library Card Catalog MackinVIA Epic!Screencastify Awesome screenshot ColorZilla - Eyedropper, Color Science MathSouthdale6 Reading EdScratch SafeShare for YouTube Writing Aldrich6 Spelling/ Typing Mrs. W's Fantasy Novels Field Day lesson plan Remove Background from Image – Typing Club- CFSchools Code.org Hour of Code week! Natural High Iowa | Test Preparation FastBridge aReading Dystopian Breakout EDpuzzle Origami videos To Do! - Symbaloo
The only website Aldrich 6th Graders and their parents need to know for web tools used in class.
Related keywords:
Created by :Aldrich Elementary 6th ..


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Custom Class: hp-panel news
Latest News
Welcome to the official Downingtown Area School District website!
Please bookmark this site so you can be a frequent visitor to check out the latest news and events happening in DASD!
In honor of National Bullying Month, New York Times bestselling author and Downingtown alumnus Sara Shepard will return to her hometown for a candid conversation on the dangers of bullying. Accompanying her for the program is fellow alumnus and actress Zakiya Young.
Students and staff, and special guest Alisa Reyes, share how and why they celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.
Downingtown Area School District welcomes qualified applicants for a variety of open opportunities in the district. Compensation and benefits vary per position.
Beginning Oct. 1, breakfast will be free for K-8 students following an announcement from Gov. Wolf that the state would be funding the meal for schools participating in the School Breakfast Program for the remainder of the school year.
Letter Day
District Events
Custom Class: hp-panel quicklinks
DASD Fast Facts
Downingtown Area School District is a twenty-first century district with the idealistic warmth and charm of a small town. As a close-knit yet diverse community, the seventh largest in PA, DASD students are challenged, engaged and inspired through a multitude of academic opportunities, passionate educators and innovative teaching methods. DASD values collaborative learning and critical thinking while remaining focused on student wellness and serving the whole child. Boasting some of the top schools in the state and nation, we are proud of our tradition of excellence.
Number of Students
Downingtown Area School District has a student enrollment of approximately 13,250.
Number of Employees
DASD currently employs approximately 1,895 staff.
District Geography
82 square miles comprised of 8 municipalities in the heart of Chester County, PA.
Number of Languages
43 different languages are spoken by DASD students.
Athletic Participation
3,000+ students participate in high school athletic programs, that's 70% of the student body.
Square Footage
1.8 million square feet under management in DASD's 17 locations.


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Happy New Year to you all, and Good Luck for 2014
It has been a quiet time since my last post, nearly seven months ago, time really does fly.
We have had some ups and downs, but came out the other side, onward and upward they say.
I have been waiting for some items to sell before I can afford a couple of things I have been offered, but the bargain of the year so far has to be the new A.O.A indicator I purchased from a company in FLORIDA!
BPB Surplus had it on their website, and dad found it, sent them an email for a price, and hey £18.50 for the item, £15.23 post, and six days later, it arrived fantastic!


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Pros: fun protagonist, cute story, expressive artwork
When Zita finds a strange device in a meteoroid and pushes the button on it her friend Joseph is pulled through the rift that opens. She reacts as any young girl would, by running away and pretending nothing bad just happened. Then she gathers her courage, pushes the button again, and jumps through the rift to go find her friend. Her quest to rescue Joseph takes her to an alien planet that's facing its final days.
Zita's expression when her friend disappears and her subsequent attempt to run and hide reminded me of the times I did something bad as a kid and tried to make it go away by ignoring the problem. But just as in real life, Zita's forced to confront her error and make it right.
Zita's a personable girl, with a lot of courage and heart. She makes friends easily, finding several creatures willing to help her out.
The artwork is very expressive, giving the characters a lot of personality to match the dialogue.
The plot is quick moving, with a few twists. Things wrap up well enough at the end of this comic, but there are 2 other books in the series, Legends of Zita the Spacegirl and Return of Zita the Spacegirl (which comes out in May). The three books together make up the completed story arc.
This is a great kid friendly graphic novel that will inspire readers and hopefully encourage them to read more SF and fantasy adventures.


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The Journal of Libertarian Studies
The Foreign Policy of the Old Right
Tags U.S. HistoryPhilosophy and MethodologyPolitical Theory
Free Downloads:
The categories of "right" and "left" have been changing so rapidly in recent years in America that it becomes difficult to recall what the labels stood for not very long ago. In the case of the left, this have become common knowledge, and we are all familiar with the contracts between "Old Left" and "New Left", as well as with the rapid changes that the "new" Left itself has been undergoing. But in the case of the right-wing, which has rarely been an object of careful scrutiny by journalists or historians, no such categories have come into play.
Volume 2, Number 1 (1978)
Cite This Article
Rothbard, Murray N. "The Foreign Policy of the Old Right." Journal of Libertarian Studies 2, No.1 (1978): 85-96.


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The letter has been circulating in Brussels for days and in Bern since last Wednesday. It is a note of june 17th from the austrian EU Commissioner Johannes Hahn to Jean-Claude Juncker, the President of the EU-Commission on relations of the EU with Switzerland. The fact that the letter landed quickly in Berne should not be seen as a accident. It is addressed at least as much to the Federal Council of Switzerland as to EU leaders – and, of course, London.
Hahn writes to his boss that Switzerland is benefiting from the EU's internal market, but that it is only "insufficient" adopting its regulation, which leads to unilateral advantages and discrimination against European companies. (He interestingly doesn't think of dismissing the regulation that causes disadvantages for EU businesses.) There are no clear rules for state aid or a dispute settlement procedure that would give the EU legal certainty.
"I have the distinct impression that the Swiss government has been playing for time ever since our political agreement last year," Hahn continues. The Federal Council is unwilling to commit itself to the agreement before the federal elections in October. For this, the Swiss asked for "clarifications". In Hahns view they not "innocent", but would lead to the reopening of the agreement on state aid, free movement of persons and the so called "flanking measures" on wage protection.
Hahn thus admits that the draft framework agreement neither guarantees wage protection, protects state aid, for example of the cantons, nor protects Switzerland from adopting the EU Citizens' Directive. Hahn does not mention, however, that two weeks ago the Federal Council accepted the highly controversial domestic dispute settlement mechanism with an arbitration tribunal subordinated to the EU Court of Justice.
Contrary to the willingness of the EU to swiftly provide the "clarifications" requested, the Federal Council wants to carry out further internal consultations instead of working hard on the "domestic landing zone", Hahn continues. The extension of stock exchange equivalence at the end of 2018 was in his eyes a symbolic incentive for Switzerland so that the Federal Council would sign the agreement quickly and would stand behind the framework agreement.
Hahn writes that he comes to the conclusion that Switzerland's steps in favour of the framework agreement are "clearly insufficient". There was a lack of political will. The expiry of stock exchange equivalence is the "warning shot" that Switzerland "needs". But the EU must also indicate that it will revert it, if Switzerland commits itself credible and lasting "buy-in" for the agreement.
A punishment of Switzerland and a signal to London
Hahn also admits, however, that the phasing out of stock market equivalence will not cause any major disruption to the financial centre. (He maybe discussed this with his mate Susanne Riess…) "We simply cannot accept further attempts of foot-dragging and watering down internal market rules, especially in what is probably the decisive phase regarding Brexit." Hahn thus explains that he is not concerned with the technical question of the equivalence of stock exchange regulation, but with punishing Switzerland and sending a signal to London.
In December 2017, the then President of the Federal Council, Doris Leuthard, described the behaviour of the EU as "discrimination" and the link between this question and institutional issues as "irrelevant and unacceptable". The Federal Council doubted the legality of these "discriminatory decisions". Since this time it is a question of the triangular relationship between Brussels, Bern and London and Switzerland is to a certain extent being turned into a Brexit boy, the illegality is likely to be even more evident.
Published at Tamedia on june 21st, 2019 – there you'll find the letter in full as PDF: https://www.tagesanzeiger.ch/schweiz/standard/der-unfreundliche-brief/story/10305649


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If you've had visions of your perfect nose, chin, or stomach, dream no more, there's an app for that! Actually, there's more than one application that lets you view what you would look like if you underwent procedures such as rhinoplasty, chin implants, or liposuction.
BodyPlastika, designed for the iPhone, allows you to see pictures of what you would look like if you got certain cosmetic procedures including a nose job and cheek implants, among several others. You can even mold areas of your body like your stomach, back and thighs to simulate the effects of liposuction. Here's how it works: You upload a picture of yourself, and then select a tool -- grow, shrink or push-- to work on the area you want improved.Just this week, another South Florida surgeon launched a similar plastic surgery application for the iPhone, iSurgeon, which allows you to visualize what you would look like after undergoing a certain procedure.
These applications can provide resources to patients, and can be done in the privacy of your home, but remember, the only way to ensure the best results is by speaking with your plastic surgeons and discussing your goals. Each person is different, and some say, these applications contribute to unrealistic expectations for patients.


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A passive safety device could let us look inside the Fukushima reactor – or help stop a future disaster from happening in the first place.
Using pulsed lasers in the visible spectrum could let airports and other security checkpoints find trace amounts of explosive compounds — or of just about anything else.
Researchers from the Institute of Photonic Sciences set themselves to solving the main obstacle to a higher-resolution MRI scan: detection of very weak forces.
Subscribe Today to get the latest ExtremeTech news delivered right to your inbox.


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Weight Loss Vitamins or Fat Burning Supplements: What's Your Body's BFF?
Who said that it is easy to lose weight?
Don't Trust Everything That's on the Back of the Package
Vitamin B-12
Vitamin D
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Green Tea
Someone, Help!
Who said that it is easy to lose weight?
If it would have been so easy to lose those "just a few extra pounds of yours" as to consume the two-dollar family meal in 7-Eleven, then all of us would have been astounding the world with the brilliance of our aesthetics.
You could merely lose weight by laying on your couch and watching Netflix (1) or Hulu (2), but unfortunately, that is not the case.
In reality, however, becoming a shredded kind of a lad or lass is not a simple task (though it is still quite manageable.)
Read this article until the very end and discover what is best for the most efficient weight loss: vitamins and minerals or natural dietary supplements.
Don't Trust Everything That's on the Back of the Package
As soon as you enter your local Vitamin Shoppe store, you can see that there is a whole section for weight-loss supplements out there.
Then you might ask yourself, "what are the best fat burning supplements can I buy from here?"
Next, once you pick the product you like, as you scan through the supplement, you can observe that the weight loss itself is promoted as a benefit of many products.
For instance, some claim that vitamin B-12, calcium, omega-3 fatty acids, and green tea supplements can result in overall weight loss.
The claimed benefits range from the overall rival of one's metabolism to commanding one's cells to burn that fat.
Additionally, scientists have not found enough evidence that can support these weight loss claims.
So, I decided to bring this matter down so that you can have a comprehensive understanding of whether vitamins and minerals are capable of helping one burn excessive fat both effectively and efficiently.
Vitamin B-12
It matters not whether one takes a tablet or injects the substance directly into his system, do not raise your expectations too high, thereby placing a lot of trust in vitamin B-12 (3) and its capabilities to boost one's metabolism and burn fat.
Based on the information the Mayo Clinic (4) provided us with, there is no single piece of evidence that can support the claim that B-12 promotes weight loss.
By all means, one's body does need some of that vitamin B-12 in order to support the function of one's nerves and blood cells, let alone it is known to generate DNA.
As ODS recommended, which is an abbreviation standing for the Office of Dietary Supplements (5), to receive one's daily dose one ought to include various products that are known to contain vitamin B-12 in their structure.
By way of example, try to consume enriched whole-grain cereal for breakfast, a tuna salad sandwich for dinner, and an egg frittata for supper. Also, beef liver and clams are known to be abundant in vitamin B-12.
Now, if one is an acute alcoholic, he will certainly benefit from adding products rich in B-12.
What is more, if one has a history of anemia, is a strict vegetarian, or has had bariatric surgery, then he may need more of that Vitamin B-12 as well.
Vitamin D
One's body demands vitamin D in order to absorb calcium, which in its turn keeps one's bones both strong and healthy; however, many authorities are not persuaded that the intake of vitamin D may result in promoting one's weight loss.
There was a study, which was published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (6), over the course of which it was revealed that overweight postmenopausal women who took vitamin D dietary supplements lost more weight when compared to women who did not take that product.
However, more research is required in order to examine these results and determine how vitamin D supplements might influence other people who are on the overweight side of the scale.
Until we acquire more information about this matter, one can receive his ODS-recommended dosage of vitamin D by purchasing low-fat dairy products, fresh juices, and grains that have been enriched and supplemented with this nutrient.
Additionally, different kinds of fatty fish, such as herring, mackerel, and tuna, are also known to deliver modest doses of vitamin D to the consumer. In addition to this, there is the reason why vitamin D is called so-called solar vitamin forasmuch as your body produces this vitamin when you expose your skin to sunlight.
In order to get this vitamin the most natural way possible into your system, consider taking daily walks around your block in order to do both receive some sunlight and exercise (do not forget to use your moisturizer with SPF inasmuch as too much of sun exposure increases the risk of getting sunburn and skin cancer!)
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Even though there were some studies that have revealed that omega-3 fatty acids support weight loss, it is still way too soon to come up with any judgments, as the Mayo Clinic stated in the latest report.
Indeed, omega-3 (7) fatty acids are quite a great addition to your diet.
As the American Heart Association stated, omega-3 fatty acids may protect one's heart and blood vessels from various damages and heart-related diseases.
Personally, I believe that it is always better to receive minerals and vitamins by consuming real products.
One can easily load his system with omega-3 by mostly eating fish products, such as salmon, mackerel, herring, lake trout, sardines, and tuna for these products are known to be very rich in this nutrient.
Sticking to this pescatarian diet by consuming these fish products at least for a couple of times a week should be an integral part of your healthy eating plan.
Fortunately, you can add some excitement and difference by cooking your meal in a different way every now and then.
You can try grilling, broiling, or baking your meals instead of frying that poor fishy fish.
Remember, fish oil weight loss is a pure lie!
So, do various calcium supplements help one lose weight?
As evidence has proven so far, the answer would be "nope."
The defenders of this whole calcium-helps-one-lose-weight theory claim that calcium enhances the breakdown of fat in one's cells.
However, the vast majority of scientists and dietologists suggest that it may actually conflict with one's body's ability to digest fat from the food one consumes.
Nonetheless, according to the ODS, which is an abbreviation standing for the operational data store, most clinical trials have found no connection between the consumption of calcium and weight loss as a consequence of it.
Assuredly, one's body does need calcium in order to support the health of his bones, muscles, nerves, and blood vessels, but the intake of calcium has nothing to do with weight loss.
In order to meet the ODS-recommended objective, try consuming different calcium-rich foods, such as low-fat dairy products, dark leafy greens, tofu, and so forth.
The products I have just listed above are quite low in fat but pretty high in nutrients at the same time, which is a very beneficial addition to one's great weight-loss strategy.
Green Tea
As tempting as it might sound, you will not be able to merely curl up with a good book, foot-spoon your pillow, and drink a cup of green tea (or any other green tea supplement) with an intention to lose some of that fat while being engaged into your deep reading routine.
In other words, a brisk walk or a bike ride will contribute more to the fat-burning routine of yours.
In general, green tea is known to contain antioxidants that can help one protect his heart.
However, according to the investigation which was reported in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, green tea does not have any potential of promoting the efficient and significant weight loss to its consumer.
Someone, Help!
So, if minerals and vitamins do not really help, then is the end of the road?
Luckily, nope, it is not — we are still very far from home.
While both minerals and vitamins can be very helpful when it comes to sustaining the overall health condition of one's body, various natural dietary supplements turn out to be particularly helpful in burning fat.
It is worthy to note that I am not talking about potent weight loss products, such as various fat-burners as those products can be considered pure evil.
I am talking SlimTonus here.
This natural dietary supplement is a weight loss product which truly is capable of making a difference of significance!
SlimTonus will fit in just fine in one's weight loss regime by making an individual taking the supplement the firsthand witness of the dramatic change of his lifestyle.
In its composition, SlimTonus contains the combination of active weight loss ingredients, such as green coffee bean, green tea leaf, caffeine anhydrous, acai fruit powder, etcetera.
These ingredients cannot be considered as minerals and vitamins as well as they cannot be referred to as harmful chemicals (which most fat burners contain in their structure in great abundance.)
In case if you want to learn more about this product, you can read this article here
In all, spending money on vitamins or fat burners that claim to support weight loss is a pure waste of your money.
Instead of purchasing these products, consider investing in a gym membership or buy natural dietary supplements that actually work and do not harm your body, at that!
Remember, there is no such thing as weight loss vitamins or metabolism pills.


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Pickering, Ontario
– Speaker maker Monitor Audio will enter the tabletop-radio market in the U.S.
with first-quarter shipments of tabletop FM/Internet radio with integrated iPod/iPhone
The $449-suggested
AirStream 20 incorporates FM tuner, front-facing dock and Wi-Fi, which enables
streaming of thousands of Internet radio stations and music stored on a
networked PC. The new model is compatible with all iPod/iPhone models,
including the latest iPhone 4, the company said.
The AS20 features
low-resonance aluminum chassis, touch-sensitive menu buttons on top, a
top-mounted control dial, and two full-range drivers designed and voiced by the
British-owned company.
Consumers navigate
an iPod/iPhone menu by using the AS20's intuitive control dial and touch-sensitive
buttons. Access to music from other personal players is via 3.5mm input jack. Other
features include an Ethernet port, dual alarm-clock functions and
black-and-white LED display.
It will be displayed at International CES.
- Vizio TV Focus: Gaming, Video, Voice Remote - June 4, 2021
- TCL Adopts Quantum Dots, Mini LEDsTo Raise 4K Ultra HD TV Performance - August 15, 2019
- Vizio 4K TVs Go Wider, Higher, Deeper - May 21, 2019


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The transit systemToronto Transit Commission
The pressInterview on Global Toronto
Adham Fisher holds his backpack in his hands and weaves around two men on the Union Station escalator. They do a double-take as he sprints toward the waiting train.
In Fisher's world of record-setting transit riding, every second counts and dirty looks are expected.
"One train missed could be the end of the fastest time," he explains.
The 27-year-old Brit came to Toronto to visit every TTC subway station as quickly as possible. He tries this all over the world - and attempts official Guinness records where they exist, in London and New York. To date, he has yet to break any, but came within 19 minutes of the New York City record last week - with a time of 23 hours, 11 minutes and 24 seconds.
Fisher applies the Guinness rules to every attempt, even those not officially recognized, like Toronto. He visits each station in the system and jots down the arrival and departure times from each "down to the second." He collects witness signatures every step of the way and takes photos of each station as the doors open and shut.
"You have to be prepared to annoy a lot of fellow passengers, especially in rush hour," says the man who always gets on a subway car, no matter how full it is.
Fisher works seasonally at Formula One campsites. He funds these transit trips out of pocket.
On Wednesday, his TTC research mission does not begin well.
He sleeps late on account of some residual jet lag, his phone dies, and the TTC station he visits is out of weekly passes so he has to buy a day pass, which doesn't swipe.
But this is why research is important. With a notebook and map in hand, he says "aha!" frequently and jots down which subway car and door are closest to his next destination.
"Carriage three, door four," he says, noting the quick getaway from the Sheppard line to Yonge.
"I consider myself quite spatially aware," he says, when asked if he's ever been hit by a car.
Fisher made his first all-station attempt in 2004. He doesn't know why he continues, except for the fact that it's fun. He doesn't know how long the attempt will take this Thursday. While Torontonians have made videos of visits to every station, the TTC isn't aware of any official timed record, and it appears Fisher is setting the unofficial time to beat.
But Wednesday's trial run isn't leaving him very hopeful, thanks to slow buses and his lack of general TTC knowledge.
"I think the whole thing will be a disaster," he says.
Last week, Adham Fisher attempted to ride the entire TTC subway system in record time. So how did he, um, fare?
BY: Katie Underwood
Constantly missing your morning train? Talk to Adham Fisher the 27-year-old Brit has raced transit systems the world over, first against the London Underground in 2004 and twice against our very own TTC last week, in an attempt to visit the all of our city's subway stops in world-record time. We asked him about getting around, getting recognized and which would win in the heavily-publicized LRT/subway showdown. (Are you listening, Karen Stintz?)
So, of all the Guinness world records to beat, why this one?
I'm not talented enough to try any other Guinness record, like pushing an orange along the ground with my nose for a mile. Then again, I have not broken a transit record yet; perhaps I am not cut out for that either. I once wondered if it were possible to go to every London Underground station in one day, found out there was a Guinness Record for doing so as quickly as possible, and went from there. One also exists for New York but no other city. I do others because I want to, but with the same determination as official attempts.
What do you do to prepare?
It is useful to go to each station where one will transfer, note the best carriage and door position to be closest to the exit, and plot the best passage to the next train. Also, to study the timetables and find out which stations have toilets.
You did your transit challenge twice last week in Toronto. How did Day One compare to Day Two?
My first attempt on Thursday, April 12, yielded a time of two hours, 46 minutes and 1 second, which was much better than I thought; I had originally estimated 4 hours. It might have been faster if I managed to catch a bus instead of running one stretch, but I was vaguely pleased.
The second attempt on Friday, April 13, was unluckier: I took someone with me who had heard about me and wanted to see how the whole thing worked. We waited almost eight minutes for a bus at one point, then I left him behind to run to catch a train, which I missed by a few seconds; I would have come very close to the Thursday time with that one. He caught up later. At our next transfer, there were two trains in the station and the signs indicated that the one on the right platform would leave first. However, the one on the left platform departed and we noticed that the right platform had been designated the second train but there was no first-train sign for the left. That was very annoying. We finished in under three hours again: two hours, 57 minutes and 32 seconds.
Did you have a most memorable Toronto encounter from the trip?
There were many memorable encounters. On Thursday, my photograph was on the front page of the Metro and as I was riding the subway in the evening rush hour, many people were reading it and recognizing me: three asked me to sign their papers! The same day, I was invited to a meeting with Brad Ross, Executive Director of Communications at the TTC's head office and he showed a lot of interest in what I was doing.
What are your future plans? Any chance of parlaying this into a reality show?
Chicago will be my next stop to have another go at the L-train, but I seem to have started something there and the "record" has been beaten three times in as many months, so it will be difficult. If anyone seriously thinks that this is a viable option for a reality show, I will consider offers. But I am a pessimist.


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Watch WrestleMania 28 live for free!
WWEUnveiled will be streaming WrestleMania 28 live for free on April 1st, so don't miss the action on the grandest stage of them all!
Watch Free WWE PPV streams Live!
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CM Punk Responds To Arrest Rumors
Vince McMahon and Triple H Disagreeing Lately
Fan who attacked Orton states why he did it
ENCA.com out of Johannesburg, South Africa, has picked up on the story of a fan attacking Randy Orton during the Cape Town live event, and the following is an article excerpt:
An over eager fan was met with a boot to the head from WWE wrestler Randy Orton in Cape Town yesterday after he jumped into the ring and hit Orton in the groin.
Local wrestling fan Tshepo Sekhabi, who quit his job in Johannesburg to attend the event, left yesterday night's WWE world tour in Cape Town with a black eye and swollen face after getting kicked just under the eye by Orton.
The World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) is currently performing events across South Africa as part of its World Tour.
Sekhabi (20) scaled the security barrier and easily evaded the events security guards to enter the ring where Orton was celebrating a victory against fellow wrestler Big E Langston.
Sekhabi had time to pause and size up Orton, who was standing on the rings corner ropes, before executing a shocking blow to the wrestlers groin.
Orton fell to the canvas following the hit as security rushed in to apprehend the assailant. Security managed to haul Sekhabi out of the ring, but not before the 'Apex Predator' managed to cross the ring and deliver a solid kick to his attackers head.
An equally irate Langston, real name Ettore Ewen, also had to be restrained by security from accosting Sekhabi outside of the ring.
Sekhabi was escorted to the casino's security offices where he was issued with a five-year ban notice.
In the offices Sekhabi, who said he doesn't drink or take any drugs, eagerly posed for photos and willingly gave a statement to security personnel.
Calling himself "Jozi, the wrestling machine" Sekhabi said he planned the attack before he arrived said "I just don't like Randy Orton, this was an opportunity for me so I got up there and made a name for myself."
Justin Gabriel heel turn?, WWE Network update!
- Jo Jo Offerman's relationship with Justin Gabriel could lead to a Gabriel heel turn if the story line on "Total Divas" plays out with Gabriel taking advantage of Offerman's naivety.
-During today's WWE conference call, Vince McMahon noted that all options are still open for the WWE Network. Vince said that rights fees coming up could be tied into the Network.
CM Punk's relationship with Vince and Brock
Credit: CBS Chicago
CM Punk recently spoke about his relationships with Vince McMahon & Brock Lesnar. Here are the highlights…
On His Relationship With Vince McMahon: "The relationship is certainly different and that's something that's always evolving. My relationship with Vince today is different than it was in April. It's something that constantly changes."
On Brock Lesnar: "There are a lot of people back there who say me and Brock are very very similar. Unapproachable, bad attitude. A kind of cloud hanging over our heads. But to me, he's a sweetheart. I have no bad stories about Brock, yet."
Y2J predicts Bryan will win against Cena
A fan recently asked former WWE Superstar Chris Jericho for his thoughts on the current number one contender to the WWE Championship, Daniel Bryan, on his official Twitter page (@IAmJericho). Jericho's response was simple, but encouraging. "Amazing," exclaimed Jericho. "Next WWE champ."
Daniel Bryan challenges John Cena for the WWE Championship at the upcoming SummerSlam pay-per-view on Sunday, August 18th.
The reason RVD lost quickly to Del Rio
On Friday's SmackDown broadcast (taped Wednesday in Corpus Christi, Texas), Rob Van Dam lost in under a minute to Alberto Del Rio after the ECW Original was distracted by the match official, leading the World Heavyweight Champion to strike him with brutal kick to the face. The reason for the match outcome was because Del Rio had broken a rib or ribs the night before in a match against Sheamus and was therefore unable to properly compete.


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Big Sur is one of California's most popular tourist destinations. Cone Peak is a mile above sea level making it the highest coastal mountain in the lower 48 states. And Big Sur enjoys a year-round mild climate. Summers are sunny and dry, and winters are typically wet and cool. There's a reason 3 million tourists visit Big Sur each year. The section of Highway 1 that runs through Big Sur is widely considered as one of the most scenic driving routes in the United States, if not the world. These breathtaking views were one reason that Big Sur ranked second among all United States destinations in TripAdvisor's 2008 Travelers' Choice Destination Awards. So if you like natural beauty, hiking, back packing, mountain climbing, and other active outdoor recreation, Big Sur is sure to enthrall…And whatever you do don't miss out on seeing one of only a few waterfalls on the Pacific Coast that plunges directly into the ocean. Few spots rival this extravagant display of mother nature.
Mountains or ocean? At Nepenthe restaurant and bar, you don't have to choose which gorgeous setting you'd like—you're served complimentary views of both as you drink and dine. If you're traveling down the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) or in Big Sur, don't miss dining at one of Southern California's best restaurants, and Big Sur's most…Read More
One of the best drives on the California Central Coast is through Big Sur. Deep gorges, cut through rugged mountains and pine forests that extend to the edge of sandy beaches. Cascading waterfalls, plunging into the sea below, are a glorious sight to see. California's Central Coast is beyond compare in natural beauty. The area…Read More


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Our sexy blue velvet jumpsuit is a combination of Studio 54 retro style, meeting the early days of Goa fashion. It's made for feeling & looking your best when out for the night and equally as gorgeous to wear at home for the ultimate in luxury loungewear. Elegant, comfortable & designed to flatter you through till dawn. The material is velvet velour & spandex known for its exceptional elasticity, this helps to enhance your natural curves to feel sexy and feminine.
Features a half open back, high neck, small button behind the neck to fasten.
A flattering slim bodice, fitted across the waist with a straight, slightly flared leg.
Made in the UK. Please allow 1 week for delivery.
No refund / exchange only.
Velvet Jumpsuit - Russian Blue
Wear with sparkly heels!
- 90% Velvet Velour Polyester
- 10% Spandex
- Dry clean only.


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A Malaysian defense contractor pleaded guilty Thursday in a corruption scandal of epic proportions, admitting that he bribed "scores" of U.S. Navy officials with $500,000 in cash, six figures' worth of sex from prostitutes, lavish hotel stays, spa treatments, Cuban cigars, Kobe beef, Spanish suckling pigs and an array of other luxury goods.
Leonard Glenn Francis, a businessman who charmed a generation of Navy officers while resupplying their ships in Asia, admitted in federal court in San Diego to presiding over a decade-long corruption scheme involving his Singapore-based firm, Glenn Defense Marine Asia.
The investigation has steadily escalated into the biggest corruption case in the Navy's history, with Francis admitting that he bilked the service out of tens of millions of dollars by overcharging for food, fuel and basic services. Five current and former Navy officials have pleaded guilty so far, and prosecutors have made it clear they are targeting others.
The Navy has also stripped security clearances from two admirals, including the chief of naval intelligence, for their alleged involvement with Francis, although they have not been charged with a crime.
Known in Navy circles as "Fat Leonard" for his girth, Francis, 50, agreed to forfeit $35 million in ill-gotten proceeds and could face up to 25 years in prison. But the most severe impact may turn out to be the blow to the Navy's reputation, given the array of evidence that so many officers were corrupted so easily by a foreign defense contractor.
"It is astounding that Leonard Francis was able to purchase the integrity of Navy officials by offering them meaningless material possessions and the satisfaction of selfish indulgences," said Laura Duffy, the U.S. attorney for the Southern District of California, whose office has led the investigation. "In sacrificing their honor, these officers helped Francis defraud their country out of tens of millions of dollars. Now they will be held to account."
The criminal investigation has spanned eight states and eight Asian countries, with more than 100 law enforcement agents involved, court records show.
In his plea agreement, Francis admitted that he and his firm defrauded the Navy by overcharging for hundreds of Asian port visits by U.S. ships and submarines. To ensure he didn't get caught, he plied Navy officials with an array of temptations, including lavish meals, "top-shelf" alcohol, designer handbags, fountain pens, ornamental swords, computers, furniture and handmade ship models.
Federal prosecutors disclosed Thursday that Francis has provided evidence against two more Navy officials who have yet to be charged: a lieutenant commander and a contract specialist whose names have not been made public.
The unnamed contract specialist, a female civilian official based in Singapore for 20 years, was given a bottomless travel expense account, which she used to visit Bali, Bangkok, Dubai, Turkey and Greece, according to Francis's plea agreement. In exchange, she worked as a mole for Glenn Defense Marine, handing over proprietary contracting information and advocating on the firm's behalf.
The scandal erupted into public view in September 2013, when federal agents lured Francis to a San Diego hotel and arrested him in a sting operation.
The Navy says that it began scrutinizing Francis in May 2010 but that he was repeatedly able to thwart criminal investigators by bribing a senior agent with the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, who fed him sensitive files and helped to cover his tracks.
Although Francis initially fought the charges against him, he agreed to cooperate with prosecutors in recent weeks.
"Today Mr. Leonard Francis has taken accountability for his actions. He looks forward to a brighter future," said Ethan M. Posner, one of his attorneys.
Navy leaders have condemned the unethical behavior of officers involved in the case and have acknowledged that the scandal could grow even worse. Navy Secretary Ray Mabus has pledged to set up a special disciplinary process, led by a four-star admiral, to review allegations against Navy personnel who avoid federal criminal charges but may have run afoul of ethical regulations.
"The Navy holds its personnel to the highest standards and those who fall short are held accountable," Rear Adm. Dawn Cutler, a Navy spokeswoman, said in a statement. "NCIS uncovered the criminal activity associated with this case and continues to cooperate with the Justice Department."
Hours before Francis pleaded guilty Thursday, federal prosecutors won another conviction when a Navy captain, Daniel Dusek, admitted to disclosing military secrets to Francis and his firm in exchange for prostitutes, cash and visits to luxury hotels in Hawaii, Hong Kong and the Philippines.
According to a copy of his plea agreement, Dusek provided classified information about Navy ship schedules dozens of times to Glenn Defense Marine, which held contracts worth more than $200 million to supply Navy vessels throughout Asia.
Dusek's attorney, Douglas L. Applegate, did not respond to a phone call seeking comment.
The Navy announced in October 2013 that it had relieved Dusek of command of the Bonhomme Richard for his alleged involvement in the scandal, but his appearance in court Thursday was the first sign that he had been under criminal investigation.
According to court records, in October 2010, Dusek persuaded the Navy to send an aircraft carrier, the USS Abraham Lincoln, and its strike group to visit a port in Malaysia that was largely controlled by Glenn Defense Marine. As a result, the company was able to easily inflate invoices and overcharge the Navy for a variety of services.
Dusek, then working as deputy director of operations for the 7th Fleet, provided the contractor with classified information about ship movements on dozens of occasions, further aiding the company in its scheme to gouge the Navy during port visits, the records show.
Francis prized the arrangement so much that he called Dusek "a golden asset" in an e-mail to another company executive, noting that he could "drive the big decks" — or aircraft carriers — "into our fat revenue" ports, according to the records.


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In the next few weeks, we will be rolling out a series of updates to the mobile apps to make room for new features, like viewing and adding segments from the app. One of the first changes you'll see is a new flow for previewing &
, as well as an updated job details page on both iOS and Android.
Current flow:
New flow:
In order to make
, we will be removing the job/invoice toggle on the job page. Instead, you can both preview and send your invoice from the invoice button on the top of the job page. On the preview invoice page, you will be able to edit your invoice settings, print your invoice, and add attachments to your invoice. When you click 'Send' on the invoice preview page, you will be able to choose how to send your invoice (email or text), and edit the email your customer will receive.
Coming soon:
The ability to view and add segments from the mobile apps!


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Then & Now Pics of the Guys You Loved In The Early '00s Will Make You Feel Really Old — PHOTOS
I am a child of the early '90s, but my fondest pop culture memories are definitely from the early '00s. My childhood heroine was Britney Spears. I took sides on the great Backstreet Boys vs. NSYNC debate, wanted to be Mia Thermopolis, and swooned over Josh Hartnett. You know the drill.
But as I grew up through the early '00s, so did the celebrity guys that we all collectively had crushes on. Like fancy cheese, these guys only got better with age... and I have the photos to prove it. Feast your eyes on these dudes from the early '00s who looked great then, and even better now.
by Kaitlin Reilly