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One week down! The new year is just getting started, and 2018 is still full of promise.
And I think that this is the perfect year to face your financial anxieties, nail down a solid money plan, roll up your sleeves, and truly accomplish some incredible things in ensuring your family's financial health.
Toward that end, I talked last week about 5 powerful steps you can take in 2018 to master your money. (You can find that post right here!)
Today, let's see what 6 additional things you can do to make this year your best financial year yet!
6. Save for future expenses automatically.
I love the power of automation.
When you automate your savings, you take away the requirement — and the pressure! — of being perfectly organized when it comes to your finances. Of remembering, scheduling, and juggling all of your financial transactions on time every time. And of spending hours to do it all.
Instead, put your saving on autopilot.
Take a look at your budget. You might have plans to save every month for retirement, for your kids' educational expenses, for a family vacation, for Christmas gifts, for a house, or something else!
Many banks — especially online banks like Ally or Capital One 360 — let you create several savings accounts, so you can designate each one for a specific purpose. Open a holiday shopping account, a second honeymoon account, or a condo downpayment account. Then, it's easy to set up automatic transfers every month to keep those special accounts consistently funded.
If you're contributing to an external source of funds — like a brokerage account — your bank or brokerage likely has the option to set up recurring automatic payments. Just set your amount and frequency, and your contributions will make themselves automatically!
7. Save seriously for retirement.
Speaking of retirement accounts, are you contributing enough to yours? Experts recommend that you sock away a solid 15% of your income in order to set yourself up securely for retirement.
If you're not yet saving for retirement or are setting aside only a few hundred dollars a year, that 15% figure might come as a major shock.
But you can take steps this year to analyze your budget an see where you can make room to contribute even more to your retirement accounts. Also, keep in mind that, if your employer offers a 401(k) matching program, your company's contribution counts toward that 15%.
If you're just getting started with investing, head to your local library. And read up on the details of a Roth IRA, traditional IRA, 401(k), 403(b), and other types of retirement accounts.
8. Invest intelligently.
If you're saving for retirement, you already have investments in your portfolio. If you buy stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and the like, you're probably got an account with a brokerage firm. And you may have investments if you have ownership of a Health Savings Account (HSA) or a college savings account (like a 529 Plan or a Coverdell ESA).
World events and market fluctuations can cause significant changes — good or bad — to any investment portfolio over time. So it pays to give your investments themselves and your investment strategy a good look every year:
- Review your risk profile and make changes to your investment choices if needed.
- Rebalance your portfolio to match your desired level of risk.
- Look for assets with a history of solid returns and tiny fees. (I love commission-free ETFs.)
9. Review your insurance coverages.
It's always a good idea to do an annual review of your insurance policies.
Life brings new circumstances — a new baby, a kid off to college, anticipated medical expenses, and more. Plus, the changing rules of insurance and its legislation can give you whiplash!
Health & Dental Insurance
Heads up! The laws on health insurance are changing (again!) in less than a year.
In the meantime, take stock of your current insurance needs, and make sure you've got the right coverage for you. If you're looking at a big orthodontics bill for your teen or an upcoming surgery, you'll want your insurance to handle that bill and choose an in-network provider.
Home & Auto Insurance
I actually spent more than a decade working as a mathematician in the auto and home insurance industry. And I can't tell you how much peace of mind it brings when you know that your family is protected in case of a car accident or home disaster.
Read over and update your policies if necessary. Ensure that these big-ticket items — and the people who use them — are taken care of.
Life Insurance
Do you need life insurance? What kind do you need? How much should coverage should you have in place?
Check out this post if you don't know the answers to any of these questions!
10. Look into ways to pay for the big stuff without paying taxes.
As part of your investment and insurance strategies, you may want to take advantage of tax-sheltered savings for special circumstances.
For healthcare, look into an HSA or FSA. You'll be able to save tax-free dollars to use on qualified medical expenses.
For childcare, check out a DCFSA. You can cover tuition costs, day care programs, and more up without tax penalty.
For educational savings, look into a 529 Plan or Coverdell ESA. New legislation now allows you to use 529 Plan money — which is invested tax-free — not just for college expenses but for K through 12 costs as well.
11. Be generous.
No matter what your financial situation, it's a sad fact of life that there are almost always people worse off than you. People who are hungry, people who are suffering emotional anguish, and people in pain.
Sometimes you're truly in no position to help, and it's you who actually needs the compassion of other people. But the rest of the time, you're likely in a position to do something for your fellow man
If you're able to do it, monetary contributions go a long way toward so many causes. Just be sure to check out a charity before you give.
And there are so many other ways to bless the world. Give your time, your talent, a listening ear, a hot meal, or a helping hand.
Ready to make a resolution? Which of these 11 money-mastering steps will you start to tackle in the coming weeks? Share in the comments!


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Peach Balsamic (Back by popular demand)
Drizzle over fruit...berries, bananas & pineapple
Blood Orange Aged Balsamic
Great paired with Oliver's Persian Lime Olive Oil or any unflavored oil for salads, rice, meats and sauces.
Smoked Balsamic
Pair with Oliver's Chipotle Olive Oil for red meats or Oliver's Tuscan Herb Olive Oil for a great marinade. Great smokey flavor for veggies !!
Espresso Balsamic
Seriously....This is amazing! Drizzle over vanilla bean ice cream. Use as a glaze or mix with whipping cream for that perfect dessert topping.
You must come in and taste these flavors!

subset: commoncrawl


text: You are looking for someone to spend happenings with you, it was clear for me. And I feel the same way, I'm looking for someone to make some memories and fun together. New things are better to learn, I can teach you and you can do the same thing for me too. You can call me Dulce, it's a popular name here in this escort service, and I'm the owner of this name, no other than me. A unique busty escort, I'm a proud Spanish girl. If you are looking for a good looking, hot and talented lady, then I'm what you are searching for. I'm the right and perfect Latin escort for you, lots of girls are out there, but I'm the only Dulce in this industry that can bring you in the reality of being with the right person. I can do things that others can't, I'm a total package lady, a top and well known performer. Give yourself a real girl, and that's me, no more and no less, Dulce is your girl.


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Monthly Archives: April 2011
Cthulhu Does Cartoons
I know there's a few of these kicking around, but here's a selection of my favourite cartoon characters that have been Cthulhu'd up.
Sniff my Knickers
Robed in Desire Live After 14 Years
Yes, it's been a while, but we are about to return. And what a way to do it!
Visit http://www.Facebook.com/robedindesire for more.
Or visit the sites on the poster for tickets!
Happy Easter
Here's a yummy piece of chocolate to get you in the mood!
Surfing Pikachu
Love this piece of Pikemon art by Demiurgic. See demiurgic.tumblr.com for more.
1st Image From New Rob Zombie Film
Judging from the first image from the new Rob Zombie film, I'm guessing it won't be big on laughs!
Have I Caught a UFO on Film?
My mum lives across the road from the Cardington Hangers in Bedfordshire, UK – once famous for the likes of the R101 and more latterly for being where films like the last Batman or Charlie and the Chocolate Factory were filmed.
For the last few weeks though, airships have reappeared again, and last Thursday I took a picture of the new Good Year one being tested.
As is often the case from an iPhone, it looks like it's miles away, but the setting sun makes it a fairly nice picture anyway. You can see the airship in the sky on the left. But what's the thing in the air next to the hangar on the right?
My first thought was bird, but I couldn't see anything that would explain it when I looked up from the screen. The proportions look odd too for it to be a bird, but I'm no expert!
I'm not a UFO nerd either though, so over to you to decide!
Pictures of the Week #14
My regular pic dump with all sorts of freshness this week!


text: Privacy & Security Terrifying tale of late-night TCP terror ComputerWorld Canada staff @itworldca Published: January 20th, 2005Cory Altheide, a handler, originally posted this on the Internet Storm Center site and gave ComputerWorld Canada permission to print an edited version of the account.It was the first night Bob, a security analyst, was going to spend a night alone in his company's security operations centre (SOC). The ISP Bob works for had just ramped up to 24/7 operations the week before.Before leaving, Bob's colleague Carol had mentioned a general "weirdness" in the DMZ traffic. Bob started poring over the output of his earlier queries to see if he could figure out the cause of this weirdness. Suddenly, he saw it: a new host in the DMZ — one that had apparently come up at the stroke of midnight.After he looked up the latest network diagrams for the DMZ, he found no authorization for a new box. Bob scanned the box to see how risky the situation was. A quick map returned the results:"Remote operating system guess: Linux 2.0.35-37."He wondered whether this was some sort of prank. He typed "root" and the box retorted with "Password:"He reiterated, "root".[root@zion root]#That's when Bob realized it wasn't a joke. This was a real box, and he needed to find out who it belonged to.He listed the contents of /home, and was rewarded with a litany of names he didn't recognize. The one with the most recent activity was "tanderson," and the "w" command showed that root and tanderson were logged in. It also showed that the box had been up for close to 12 days, and that tanderson had logged in on October 18th, 1999. The "date" command confirmed it: the system was also set to a date in 1999.After Googling for a bit, he discovered the "write" command and typed the following: [root@zion root]# write tanderson tty1 It was time to question his suspect."What's up with this box?" Bob typed.tanderson@zion replied, "What? Who are you?""I'm root, who are you?" Bob wrote back."Look, I don't know if your a hacker or whatever but please don't hack my computer right now. I need to finish my work.""You look. You bring a Swiss cheese box up on my DMZ and it's my problem. What the hell are you doing?""Hey, pal, I don't want to fight. I just want to finish this project, OK? I'm on a deadline…""Sorry dude, but your deadline ain't my problem. This box is going to have to come down immediately — it's too risky to leave up."Bob stared at the screen, terrified. The beeping of his calculator watch broke his trance. It was midnight."Connection closed by foreign host."He scooped up the phone and dialed Ted, the night sys admin."Hey Bob, what can I do ya for?""Do you know anything about a box named 'zion' in the DMZ?""Our DMZ?""Bob, there's nothing at that IP," Ted said.Bob quickly pinged it, and attempted to telnet in again. Ted was right, the box was down."It … it was just up. I telnetted right in, it was a Red Hat 5.2 box, and a user named 'tanderson' was logged in …""Tanderson? Are you sure?""Yes, I'm positive. He kept yammering about finishing his project," Bob said."Bob, Thomas Anderson was downsized back in '99. He was working on moving all of our NT servers to Linux, but he never got to finish."Bob, that server's been down for five years."Bob's friends say he can't bring himself to go back to the SOC anymore, and he's looking for telecommuting jobs on Monster. Quick Link: 050025 Related Download Sponsor: CanadianCIO Cybersecurity Conversations with your Board – A Survival Guide A SURVIVAL GUIDE BY CLAUDIO SILVESTRI, VICE-PRESIDENT AND CIO, NAV CANADA Download Now Privacy & Security hacking, Red Hat, servers, viruses


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Delete a Software Image from a Device
To delete a software image from a device, use the vManage Maintenance ► Software Upgrade screen.
- In the title bar, click the WAN Edge, Controller, or vManage tab.
- Select one or more devices from which to delete a software image.
- Click the Delete Available Software button. The Delete Available Software dialog box opens.
- Select the software version to delete.
- Click Delete.
Release Information
Introduced in vManage NMS in Release 15.2.


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Bmw 760 - a car that is marketed under the popular worldwide automaker brand Bmw. This car has received 4 stars out of 5 in user ratings. The price of Bmw 760 ranges in accordance with its modifications. Our contributor Iron collected and uploaded the top 10 images of Bmw 760 below.
Price: not available Rating: 10 1102 Iron


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Bake up some erotic cookies for your next adult party with the Candle cookie cutter. Inspired by the 64 Arts of the Kama Sutra, our Candle imprint cookie cutter is perfect for baking sexy cookies for a bachelorette party or to add a sensuous spark to your Valentine's Day baking.
Kama Sutra Position: She lies on her back with a pillow under her head and a second pillow under her hips to keep her pelvis raised. He kneels in front of her raised legs and keeps one knee on the outside of her hips. For more control, she can place her feet on his chest.
• Made from food safe PLA (Biodegradable thermoplastic)
• Measurements are calculated using furthest points of outer sides
• Extra depth for perfect cutting
• Cushioned grip for better control with thick dough
• Hand wash only (Avoid soaking)
• Made in the USA


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Yeah, I went camping. Big deal. So what? Wanna fight about it!? Anyway, there are but a few things to highlight from this venture that, being the city kid I am, found amusing.
I caught the most fish. I can't sleep in an tent to save my life. Frog hunting can be fun, but also cruel.
My friends and I blew up firecrackers all over the place, and in one case (one of mine) scared the living bricks out of one guy as a bottle rocket flew across the lake and exploded in front of his lawn mower. Oh, he got pissed.
Then my friend got into an accident on the way home. Off the road a few miles away from my street.


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January 25, 2019 (Hong Kong) – The Official Hong Kong Blockchain Week will launch March 4-8, 2019, hosted by NexChange. Blockchain business and technology leaders, policymakers and influencers from around the world will converge in Hong Kong.
Over 3,000 blockchain leaders will hear from over 120 speakers from 50+ countries . More than 150 investors and in excess of 100 journalists will converge at HKBCW.
NexChange's Block O2O Global Blockchain Summit 2019 (March 5-6) will be the cornerstone of HKBCW, gathering blockchain professionals, industry thought leaders and top business speakers from across Asia, Europe and the US. Two days, two stages and dozens of speeches, panels, workshops and firesides will feature the hottest blockchain trends, valuable insights, ideas and predictions.
World class speakers will include:
- Cambridge Analytica whistleblower and Digital Asset Trade Association (DATA) co-founder Brittany Kaiser
- Former CFTC Commissioner Bart Chilton
- Head of FinTech at InvestHK Charles D'Haussy
- Hong Kong Futures Commission's, Director of Licensing and Head of Fintech unit Intermediaries Securities Clara Chiu
- Reeve Collins, Founder and CEO of Tether
- Apolo Anton Ohno – Co-Founder Hybrid Block and 8-time Olympic medalist
and many more will hit the stage during the summit.
The Hybrid Summit, held on March 7th, will be hosted by Strategic Programme Partner Hybrid Block in collaboration with Chaineer Blockchain Advisory Group.
The Hong Kong government has made a major push to support research and development of new technologies, including funding for blockchain. Major government departments and research centers are lining up to stand behind Blockchain Week – including Cyberport,
HKSTP, ASTRI, Hong Kong Productivity Council.
Major themes include:
Government and Blockchain
Financial Services and Blockchain
Global Industry and Blockchain
Blockchain Technological Innovations; and
Governance and Blockchain
Will be explored through experiential education, practical workshops, networking opportunities, exhibitions and site tours.
NexChange Group CEO and Founder, Juwan Lee: "It is time for the first official Hong Kong Blockchain Week with the full support of the vibrant global blockchain community."
The website is: www.hkblockchainweek.net
For more information, contact:
Andrew Work
Managing Director, Head of Media Asia and Europe
Tel: +852 3595 3680


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and user-friendly: Firstmag
is an
"all in one"
software specially designed
for retail management !
It is the ideal tool for the management and control of your store. It allows you to quickly and easily register counter sales, edit receipts while improving the management of the business. Customizable, Firstmag adapts to many industries: ready-to-wear, handbags, perfumery, household goods, food ...
-The management of items with or without size / color, weight per meter ...
-Management of sales and receipts
-Inventory management and inventory
-Customer management and retention
-Centralized management by store and consolidated (multi-store version)
- Touch mode used software
-Interface with bank card terminals
-Can be connected to a cleaned out control system
-balance weighing interface
-Very comprehensive and customizable statistical module with specific states
-State generator (invoices, barcode labels) integrated in the software
-Database "client / server SQL" powerful and reliable
Firstmag is also a very evolved and powerful business management software
invoice management, quotes, delivery, payments with many statistics and comparison
and an interface containing the leading accounting softwares.
Firstmag exists in multi-site version in order to manage multiple stores,either independent businesses or franchise, located in the euro area or non-euro area (multi-lingual, multi-currency and multi-legislation).
is compatible with
touchscreen terminals and
almost all peripherals
such as barcode
readers, cash drawers
and ticket printers.
You can consult the form with detailed specifications of the software or download it (PDF).
You can download the demo version from the download area. Firstmag is a software adapted to your business.
Firstmag is definitely the software for your business with these powerful features ...
|Ready to wear
Management of grids of sizes and colors, sizes, depth.
Food, supermarket
Managing the weight sales, per liter, management of barcodes weight or price, interface scales.
Precious metals management, small label management and specific barcodes.
Sales management / second hand purchases.
Ticketing management.
Electronics, computers,
domestic electrical
Ecological fee management, serial numbers and warranties.
Tax-free management and boarding passes


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Sapphire Diamond and Pearl Pendant Earrings -SOLD
A beautiful, elegant pair of sapphire, diamond and pearl pendant earrings; these lovely earrings are set with baguette cut sapphires weighing 0.90ct and diamonds weighing 0.85ct. Total weight 11.8gms. Each earring measures 6.3cms long x 1.1cm wide at the widest point (the pearl). The oval white pearls measure 15mm long x 11mm wide. These earrings are articulated with each section moving independently and two diamond drops just above the pearl. They have a post and butterfly clip to secure them They have been tested as 18ct white gold and the backs are marked 750 (18ct). Vintage, C.1980. Excellent condition.


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Your at-a-glance digest of the latest crop of results
GR and sister title Insurance Times list the main points of this week's 2014 (re)insurer results.
Re/insurer Munich Re posted overall profits of $3.65bn in 2014, a slight decrease on $3.7bn in 2013.
The (re)insurer's 2014 gross premium was $55.7bn (2013: $58.3bn). Reinsurance premiums were $30.5bn.
Munich Re director Torsten Jeworrek said: "Overcapacity and a relatively low number of major natural catastrophes in 2014 added to the competitive pressure, above all in catastrophe business."
But low catastrophe losses meant that Munich Re raised its dividend for 2014 by more than expected to $8.85 per share.
XL Group has reported net operating income of $999.2m for 2014, up from $943m on the previous year.
For its general insurance business, underwriting profit grew by almost 50% to $676m for the year, based on a record combined operating ratio (COR) of 88.2%.
This ratio represents a 4.3 percentage point improvement on 2013's 92.5% COR, largely driven by a five percentage point improvement to the loss ratio.
Chief executive Mike McGavick said: "XL delivered a very strong 2014, including continued progress in insurance and an extraordinary year in reinsurance.
"Of course, these results were helped, in part, by one of the lowest catastrophe years we have seen in years."
PartnerRe's full year net profit soared to $998m for 2014 from $597m in 2013.
Full-year net written premiums were $5.7bn, up 6% from the year before.
PartnerRe interim chief executive David Zwiener noted the "difficult" reinsurance operating environment, but said, "We had an excellent year in 2014, posting an operating return on equity of 13.5%, above our long-term average. While financial markets remained somewhat volatile during the year, we realized sizeable gains in our investment portfolio, which when combined with the strong operating results, culminated in us delivering dividend-adjusted tangible book value growth in excess of 19%."
Beazley's 2014 pre-tax profits fell 18% as a result of lower than average reserve releases and higher foreign exchange losses.
The insurer, which manages five Lloyd's syndicates, reported a profit before income tax of $261.9m, down from $313.3m in 2013, in the year to 31 December.
Its combined operating ratio (COR) also dropped to 89%. The result was a drop on 2013's record 84% COR, but was "in line with the company's five-year average".
Gross written premium at the insurer grew 3% to $2,021.8m.


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Asian Web site operator Chinadotcom said Tuesday it is engaging in a series of cost-cutting measures such as layoffs and the sale of non-core assets, in response to uncertain market conditions. The company said it expects to end the second quarter of 2001 with less than 2,000 employees, compared with 2,417 at the end of December 2000. Since the beginning of 2001, Chinadotcom has scaled back or closed non-core operations in the United States and throughout Asia, including Hong Kong, China and Japan, the company said.
In addition, individual operations in China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Korea and the United States are being consolidated into fewer office locations. Chinadotcom, which builds e-business solutions, distributes content through its portals and sells services through online marketing, said it expects to record certain one-time expenses related to these cost-reduction initiatives.


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Now showing items 1-1 of 1
Risk communication: the implications for risk management
(Lincoln University. Centre for Resource Management., 1991-12)
This publication is part of a continuing research programme that seeks to examine aspects of risk and uncertainty with respect to environmental management. Previous reports and publications concentrated, firstly, on ...


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Make your own Gin & Create your very own Gin label at home!
At Verde, we love gin and wanted nothing more than to create our own, so the DIY Gin Kit was born. Gin has a long history of being created from simple botanicals with infusion methods using Juniper Berries as the core flavour, and this is exactly how this kit works.
Our Verde DIY Gin Kit has everything you need to get started.
Just add in a bottle of vodka as your inert alcohol. Experiment and enjoy. It is great fun, only takes 24-36 hours and gives you lots of scope for creativity. All the botanicals and equipment you need is supplied. We have used the best quality, fresh botanical ingredience, found recycled glass bottles and long lasting kit equipment. Create great tasting artisan Gin that you can enjoy as an inhouse speciality or give away as gifts and impress your friends.
Add some extra botanicals:
Our original Gin Kit comes with the classic gin botanicals mix made from quality frish botanicals and you can always purchase extras when you're running low. We have also developed two new speciality botanical mixes so you can have some fun & experiment more as you get experienced.
An exciting Pink Party Gin Botanical mix great for summer and parties.
Our special Tasmania Inspired botanicals mix for a clean wilderness experience.
Our diy Gin Kits come with great instructions, a potted gin history so you know what you're up against & some great drink recipes to enhance your gin experience. Try them all, you'll love them!
Available now. Please choose which box colour you would like. All the kits are the same but come in different boxes for all occassions & personalities. Available in lush gold, summer white, moody black or classic eco Kraft.
Made, designed & created in Tasmania, Australia. Exclusive to Verde Hobart. Tasmanian DIY Gin Kit by @verde_hobart


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To use the Media Manager in Joomla, here are the following steps given:
- First, login to your Joomla hosting admin panel with username and password.
- Now select the Content menu option.
- Then go to Media Manager.
- Start creating a new folder, scroll down to the File area.
- To create a new folder, click in the path to the right of the current file path.
- Type the name of the new folder you desire to create.
- Next click the Create Folder button.
- The folder gets created and is seen on the folder tree on the left and the icon on the right.
- Click on the demo folder icon for the new folder, to open it.
- Next scroll down to Upload a new image file into the current folder.
- Select a file to upload, click on the Browse button below.
- Select a file to upload and click Start upload button.
QHoster offers fast and secure Joomla optimized hosting


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Making the work work and be done in harmony, depends a lot on everything that is consistent with the work team, so it is the responsibility of the directors, CEOs and founders of companies that work in harmony to achieve success.
1.- Build pride of belonging: Employees must have to own the place, it is not a place of work, it must be an environment that evokes familiarity.
2.- Trust the employees: Few employees want to be always in the same department, have new responsibilities that allow them to grow and change their perspective of work. In this way you also become familiar with the structure of the company.
3. Keep the team informed: Spreading the latest news, data or information on the market ensures that all team members know what their role is, and if they should change the meaning of the established objective.
4.- Respect the forms: Employees must be treated in a respectable way, learn to value them. One way to show them that you care about them is by remembering their name and job, as well as the number of children or the name of the wife. These are details that are very valuable in the work environment.
5. Help them grow professionally
The training and constant training will help your employees to be more productive, in this way you can enhance their skills and overcome the areas of opportunity they present to improve their performance.
Some employees do not have access to higher positions because they do not feel they have the skills or knowledge to do so. It is important that the leaders of the organization identify this need of the employees and help them to continue their education, to train and acquire the skills that will make them grow as professionals and advance their career plan.


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Travel and hospitality
June 13, 2018
Four Seasons takes guests to a variety of destinations. Image credit: Four Seasons
By Brielle Jaekel
Four Season Hotels and Resorts is leaning into what it believes is a boom in the private air sector as it releases a new set of jet itineraries for 2019.
Share your thoughts. Click here


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Loading Clock Preview...
"Strange Plaque" Clock
Type : SevenSegmentWithColorGridBg
Description :
The clock's display has a typical height and aspect ratio. The clock has a small but comfortable amount of padding at the edges. There is a good amount of space between the digits of the clock's display, so the digits have plenty of breathing room. The clock has an edge glow effect. The edge glow is intensely opaque. The color of the edge glow is black. It is quite fat, but is still distinctly confined to the edges. The clock has a color grid effect as a background. The color at the top left corner is close to grey, with a hint of light slate grey and slate grey. The color at the top right corner is close to goldenrod, with a hint of orange and dark orange. The color at the bottom left corner is close to indigo, with a hint of purple and dark magenta. The color at the bottom right corner is close to saddle brown, with a hint of dark olive green and olive. The digits of the clock's display are made up of several segments. The digits are quite opaque, but it should be quite possible see what is beneath them. Their color is close to dark olive green, with a hint of dark slate grey and dim grey. There is no gap between the digit segments. The digit segments have a drop shadow. The shadow has no offset. The shadow is quite blurred, and its outline is not so clear. The shadow has a fair amount of spread, adding strength. The color of the shadow is close to dark olive green, with a hint of dark slate grey and dim grey. The shadow is completely opaque, and should feel very strong.
The SevenSegmentWithColorGridBg clock combines a traditional seven segment display for the digits, a four corner color smooth gradient background, and an edge glow with themeable color, thickness, and opacity. The individual segments of the digits support theming by color, opacity, segment gap, and a drop shadow. Additionally, digit spacing, overall clock aspect ratio, and edge padding can also be themed.


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The 2016 WTA Finals tennis tournament for women players on the WTA Tour is taking place this week from November 1-6, 2016, on the indoor hard courts at the Hengqin International Tennis Center located in Zhuhai, China. Here is a list of the prize money up for grabs for the women tennis players at the 2016 WTA Elite Trophy.
(Photo by si.robi)
The WTA Elite Trophy is the season ending tournament for women players and only the top 12 women players from the 2016 season who did not qualify for the WTA Finals are eligible to play. The tournament is conducted in round robin format with the top women from that format advancing to the semifinals and then the finals and then a champion.
Total prize money up for grabs at the 2016 WTA Elite Trophy in a cool $2.21 million. A lot of money considering how few women are competing for the money. Not all the prize money is set beforehand as players earn additional money of $92,500 for each match won and $20,000 for each match loss.
- Winner - $450,000 plus bonus money for each match won and lost
The winner of the 2016 WTA Elite Trophy in singles play will earn $450,000 plus bonus money for each match won and lost. Venus Williams (pictured above) earned $635,000 when she won the WTA Elite Trophy last year.
- Runner-up - $150,000 plus bonus money
The runner-up at the 2016 WTA Elite Trophy in singles play will earn $150,000 plus bonus money for each match won and lost. Last year Karolina Pliskova earned $335,000 as the runner-up to the winner.
- Semifinals - $15,000 plus bonus money
Reaching the semis in singles play at the 2016 WTA Elite Trophy is worth $15,000 plus bonus money. Last year the two semifinalists earned $200,000 and $127,500 respectively when they lost in the semifinals.
- Next four players will each earn $112,500
In 2015, the four women who finished in the 5 to 8 slots each earned $112,500.
- Remaining four players each earn bonus money
The remaining four women who finish in the 8 to 12 slots will each earn anywhere from $97,500 to $25,000 each depending upon how they do in their matches.
For more see:


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Hi All
Here are some more examples of weathering Auscision's AKJY and AOOX's, same basic approach, wash of faded green, then wash of matt black, add rust spots, then spray road grime and grimy black, matt clear.
A site for my Model Railway Layouts: Barcoola. This is take on Tarcoola SA the junction between the Trans Australian Railway and the Central Australian Railway. A Town like Alice, my take on Alice Springs. Murray River Bridge, my model of the bridge over the Murray river.
|Here is a green ABFX which was faded then weathered. I started with a mix of Humbrol paints, a little bit of green, white and importantly blue, as you can see by photos, check out Norm Bray's site, its on the link bar on the right. You will find that green mostly fades the yellow out of the pigment, thus this is a very important step. This can be described a a heavy wash.
|I also forgot how easy it is to work with Humbrol paints, and the pigments can always be resurected . Once the fade wash has cured, there needs to be a bit of definition between the outside ribs and the body panels, the ribs will have things constantly rubbing against them where as the panels won't.. After this I added rust colour into the roof panels and side panels.
|to bind all these colours all together , a dusting of Acufex custom mixed road grime, over the roof and under the body, and on an extreme angle on the sides. a light dusting of grimy black, and follow up with a light but consistent coat of matt clear. All that is left to do is a wash of matt black for the bogie detail.
|Here is a shot of all three.
|Here is the finished product, ready to blast across your desert layout, with a string of TOFC.
|The original Austrains DL is on the right, the weathered one is on the left.
|The little details first, using a wash of Humbrol matt black, wash down the Air condtioner grilles and body joint lines. This will give the model definition.
|Using a silver paint pen, paint the windcreen seals, and windscreen wiper blades.
Paint the uncoupler lift bar, yellow, again a paint pen will do the trick.
Paint the inside of the five chime airhorn green.
|Turning to the B end, paint the edge between the yellow B end and the grey roof with a thin line of Green.
Also paint the coupler lift bar Green.
|Wash the bogies with Humbrol matt black.
|Compare the this shot from the one above, even in this early stages the details realy start to pop out.
|The mansard roof sections need to be painted Humbrol 64 grey, the difference between is obvious.
|The foot access holes in the nose and in the mansard section of the roof need to be painted yellow,
As do the door handrails again a paint pen will do the trick.
the recessed sections behind the frame need to be painted matt black.
With a permanent black marker paint out the bogie frame holders.
Compare with the shot below.
|The modified model is top left, note the difference in detail and hue. The middle section of the roof and fans was washed with matt Black.
|Grind up some chalks, deep red, yellow and dark grey, with a flat wide brush , rub the mixture onto the bogies, and them to a lesser extent the body sides, and roof. The nose will also need a vigorous application.
At this point every thing has not quite gone together, we need to mix all these colours in together.
|Here is the end result on the roof not the spread of the exhaust and the Humbrol 64 lifts the roof colour.
|Both B ends


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I know this must sound like I'm doing a series dissing famous people. I wrote an article "Going off Austen" which to my surprise but pleasure was picked up by the official Austen magazine for a guest article. Not sure the Gandhi society will want this for their news letter, and I'm not writing to be rude about famous people for the sake of it, although I know I have also critiqued Shakespeare, the films Inception, Batman and generally like going against the grain.
[links no longer valid]
Like Janey, Gandhi began as someone I admired, also in my teens. It began with seeing the 1982 film starring Ben Kingsley, which so impressed me that I chose the scantily clad Indian for my school research project. I am pleased to see that even as a fifteen year old with narrow Christian views that I admired an inclusive Hindu and foreigner; and that I called myself a pacifist as soon as I heard the word – during that course.
But discussing my view of pacifism leads to why I soon parted company with the Mahatma, and why, until I found the project whilst tidying a cupboard, I have not thought about him or watched the film in 20 years.
One of Gandhi's most distinctive ideals was what is translated as "truth weapon". The Attenborough film has many disturbing scenes of Gandhi and his followers being repeatedly hit without hitting back. As the teenage me quoted, Gandhi saw that the hurt should be taken by us, not the opponent. I do not like this.
Ever since Gripper bullied Rowland on school TV series Grange Hill, I have hated to see victims not stand up for themselves, whatever the situation. My pacifism is not to take up arms in war, rebellion, or revenge. It is not to never defend.
Self suffering is another theme I have always rejected, which includes asceticism. I wonder how his wife felt about the decision to have no sex anymore. A sexual guilt that parallels St Augustine's (father of Christianity's Original Sin) came from Gandhi being in bed with his wife whilst his father died in the same house. Understandable, but it is sad to think that Gandhi saw this act as giving into carnality and letting his father down. Gandhi, the same age then as I was when I wrote the project, had spend many hours massaging his ill father's feet. My view now would be that not only had Gandhi cared well for his father, but that his father chose his time of departure when his son was close but otherwise engaged in a positive act, not something unspiritual and undisciplined to feel shameful about.
What most stuck with me is the related subjects which I did not put in that project, but that I clearly recall, two decades on. To prove his lack of attachment to earthly desires, Gandhi would sleep naked with young pretty virgins to show his control. Recalling the elderly King David's young human bedwarmers, this is gross and arrogant and abusive. There is a cult around him, with women flocking to his exposed though wrinkled body. Gandhi is strangely sexual and taunting, giving off a mixed message of abstinence and temptation, perhaps a little distorted by the thin aging body he sported. It also makes me think of the disgraced Sheffield vicar I deliberately won't name who was put in prison for his posse of massaging women, as an abuser.
I was also struck by the cult status around Gandhi when he twice threatened to starve himself to death to quell his angry followers. At once it is a shrewd move, knowing his importance and death would stop the riots; but it's a also egocentric and a form of masochistic blackmail, typically putting the suffering onto himself but demonstrating his truth weapon that you can make others suffer for what's going on in your body. It is not overcoming through love but subjecting your opponent to an inverse torture until they too give in – like the show down with Wonder Woman and the Japanese relocation camp victim, to see whose willpower gives up first.
The possessionless leader is something I have thought about with other Hindus and societies, and may form a post in itself (I have written a sermon on it – the Wisdom of the Smurfs). Living without a home expects others to finance you, that those in the system allow you to stay out of it. And Gandhi's ashrams do not appeal – a life of sewing, toilet cleaning and other practical tasks. You can clean toilets, Gandhi as a spiritual exercise – I shall find something else!
I can see why Gandhi fell off my list of favourite films and favourite or influential people, though it is good to be reminded of him and to work out my own spiritual and political beliefs in contrast to his. However, I do remain inspired that a man could head a movement to achieve so much, and rightly allow India to become free.
One thing did resonate – the story of how he confessed something to his father and instead of remonstrations or punishments, his father cried, and that moved Gandhi more than any chastisements could. Now, there is a sermon in that…


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Four for $50
These Chunky Gumball Necklaces are all the rage! Typically sold for $15, you can order 4 for only $50! I will hand select a random assortment, or you can message me that you'd like them all to have pink, or turquoise, or purple, etc. Perfect for that upcoming slumber party!
**If you would like them all to be 'Ribbon' Necklaces, please note that.


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Annual FM 1960 St. Patrick's Parade to honor first responders from Harvey
First responders will be honored for their efforts during Hurricane Harvey at the annual FM 1960 St. Patrick's Parade this Sunday.
Hosted by Cypress Creek EMS, the parade will begin on FM 1960 and Champion Forest Drive at 2 p.m.
The parade will head east and continue nearly three and a half miles until it reaches the end at Kuykendahl Road.
Motorists may want to avoid FM 1960 on Sunday as the parade route will be closed from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m.
The grand marshal this year will be Jim "Mattress Mack" McInvale, who assisted evacuees by deploying delivery trucks to rescue residents and proving them shelter and food during the record-breaking flooding caused by Harvey.
Among the agencies that will be honored are the Harris County Sheriff's Office, Precinct 4 Constable's Office, U.S. Coast Guard and fire departments in northwest Harris County.
During Harvey, Cypress Creek EMS responded to over 800 calls during the first three hours. In total, the agency responded to more than 12,000 calls from residents to be rescued from floodwaters or for assistance during medical emergencies.
The agency was honored for its efforts and earned the Telecommunicator of the Year Award by the Texas Department of Health Services in November.
The parade will also seek to raise funds for the Cypress Creek EMS Scholarship Fund that benefits education programs the agency hosts for paramedics and emergency medical technicians.
For more information on the parade, visit 1960parade.com


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Colts GM Chris Ballard said the team will look to extend players on contract-years "a little bit down the road" this offseason.
"It's a little bit down the road, but I'll say that is something we want to be able to do," Ballard said, via Kevin Bowen of 1070 The Fan. "We want to be able to extend our own and go to them early, especially the guys who are performing and are doing everything right. Being able to take care of those guys early…it's got to make sense for both sides.
"When we get after the draft and we start getting into May, June, July and August, those are things we will start taking a look into."
- Bowen mentions C Ryan Kelly, OT Anthony Castonzo, TE Eric Ebron, TE Jack Doyle, CB Kenny Moore, and P Rigoberto Sanchez as potential extension candidates to keep an eye on.
- Matt Verderame reports that Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger is expected to end his regular radio show prior to next season and is hoping it "helps his standing" with teammates.
- TCU DEs Ben Banogu has a visit scheduled with the Steelers. (Tony Pauline)
- According to Tony Pauline, the Steelers offensive coordinator Randy Fichtner was on hand at Memphis' Pro Day to observe RBs Darrell Henderson and Tony Pollard.
- Jim Wyatt of the Titans' official site could see the team moving C Ben Jones to guard for next season, but admits Tennessee's decision-makers like how he performed at center.
- However, if the Titans end up selecting NC State C Garrett Bradbury, the Titans will likely convert Jones to guard.
- Wyatt says there was some "chatter" about the Titans allowing ILB Rashaan Evans to play edge rusher, but he believes Evans' best position is still inside linebacker. Wyatt does, however, admit that Evans could occasionally move outside "in some form or fashion."
- As for the possibility of drafting an "early-down" running back, Wyatt does not think the Titans will consider selecting one given that they have Derrick Henry, Dion Lewis, and David Fluellen on the roster at the position.
- Wyatt believes there is a chance the Titans could select Mississippi State DT Jeffery Simmons with their first-round pick.


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Insights on global events that impact America. We are the OPPOSITE of Donald Trump "The Global American® values are based on these principles: We are Promoting AMERICAN values globally !) RESPECT for ALL 2) EQUALITY for ALL 3) JUSTICE for ALL These are AMERICAN values to apply in our lives and actions globally. Michael's story is in: "Better Times Ahead: April Fool" www.BetterTimesAheadAprilFool.com It ends with Agenda for American Greatness--how we get back to No. 1 again.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Why NASA Needs More $$$$ - This is Why
WHY do we need to put MORE $$$ into NASA?
This is why...(as in avoiding future strikes by one of these aircraft carrier sized beasts that could put us back into the stone age)...
Memo to government: Plan Ahead! You can't prepare for this at the last minute...
Posted by Global American at 6:57 AM
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)


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In a blog for the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton Healthcare Quarterly, LISC CEO Maurice A. Jones makes the case for pioneering partnerships between healthcare organizations and community development, uniting to upend the roots of poor health. LISC's collaborations with ProMedica and Bon Secours Health System, among other companies, are powerful examples of how our combined assets, knowledge and experience can begin to close America's longevity gap.
In honor of Independence Day, LISC CEO Maurice A. Jones reflects on how our country has thrived and prospered thanks in large part to the contributions of immigrants. Now is a time, says Jones, to recommit to the American promise of extending opportunity to all. And to that point, we are sharing a video story about our longtime partner, the Washington D.C.-based Latin American Youth Center. For 50 years, LAYC has helped disconnected youth, U.S. born and recent immigrants, navigate the journey to adulthood, so that they can flourish and contribute to the economic and civic life of our country.
LISC CEO Maurice Jones lays out last year's record investments and impact in the hundreds of neighborhoods where we work. And in this season of football playoffs and New Year's resolutions, he reaffirms LISC's ongoing commitment to bringing its A-game to revitalizing communities.


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Vin Diesel revealed today through his official Facebook page that Marvel Studios has reached out to him, perhaps for a role in an upcoming big screen project.
"Marvel has requested a meeting… no idea what for… haha, you probably know better than me…"
So what do you think folks?
Who would you want to see Diesel play in the Marvel Universe? The voice of Thanos? Vision? Someone else?
Let us know your thoughts below, @NerdFollowing on Twitter or on Facebook


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If you have ever looked into promoting your website you will probably have heard of SEO. So what is SEO exactly and how does it affect your website? In this post we will give you an introduction to SEO that wont give you a headache.
What is SEO?
SEO or Search Engine Optimisation is process of increasing the visibility of a website or a particular web page in the search engine's "organic" (or un-paid) search results. SEO is the technique of optimising a website by developing specific components of a website to increase its position in search engine results, like Google or Yahoo, in so doing improving the number of visitors to your website
For instance, let's say you sell sunglasses for goats, you'll want to be at the top of the search engine results pages when someone types "sunglasses for goats" right? Well the aim of SEO is to get your site up nice and high in those results.
SEO is one the most powerful methods of digital marketing, however it is also the most complex. Nonetheless, when carried out the right way you are able to substantially improve the number and quality of visitors to your website.
The SEO recipe
SEO is a complex mix of numerous different factors related to your website. Below is just a short list of some of these factors
- How the site is designed
- The words and images used on the website
- How the words and images are structured
- How many other websites link back to your website
- The quality of links back to your website
- How and where your website appears in social media
Sounds easy right? Ummm.
The search engines like Google, Bing and Yahoo use a software, often referred to as spiders, to crawl through and scan as many website details as they can. These details are then applied to their own unique algorithm which each search engines has, and this used to decide what the website is about and for what details the website will rank the site.
Sadly, these search engines don't like to freely announce the important points that define their algorithm. If they did, the search engine results will probably be stuffed with weight loss potions and dating websites, therefore they safeguard these factors rather carefully. Additionally, they update their algorithms on a regular basis to reflect what people are searching for. Google on its own makes adjustments to its algorithm in excess of 500 times every year.
Further SEO reading.
To find out more about what is SEO and how it can help your website, make sure to sign up for our newsletter. We'll be giving regular hints and tip to help your rank your website at the top of the search engines.


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CPS - Master's in Human Ecology
Culture, power and sustainability
The master's programme in Human Ecology provides trans-disciplinary perspectives and analytical tools for communicating about problems of sustainability. The programme represents an important complement to technological and natural science approaches to sustainability by focusing on the cultural dimensions of consumption and resource use, cultural perceptions of environment and economy, and social science perspectives on the global distribution of environmental problems.
A central aim is to help students develop skills in communicating across boundaries separating the discourses of different disciplines, cultural traditions, or the interests of business, politics, and social movements.
Career prospects
The capacity to communicate and negotiate issues of global sustainability will be increasingly important for a wide range of professions, including careers in education, journalism, public and private management, development aid, and non-governmental organizations devoted to achieving a globally sustainable development.
In these sectors, trans-disciplinary approaches combining perspectives from both the natural and the social sciences can be expected to be increasingly in demand.
Further programme information:
CPS Contact details
Programme Manager
vasna [dot] ramasar [at] hek [dot] lu [dot] se
Academic Advisor
Ingrid Altamirano
CPS [at] keg [dot] lu [dot] se


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Johns Hopkins' Berman Institute is one of the largest centers of research and education in the field of bioethics in the world. Located in East Baltimore, the Institute studies the ethics of clinical practice, biomedical science, and public health. Issues some of us would be happy never to be asked to form opinions on, such as euthanasia, stem cell research and genetic engineering, are the bread and butter of the Berman Institute.
Surprisingly, amid their quandary ridden bulletin of bioethical news are occasionally sprinkled whimsical film essays.
In an article on the remake/prequel Rise of the Planet of the Apes, research program coordinator Ishan Dasgupta discusses the ethics involved in bestowing human traits on non-human animals.
Even better is the one about Captain America, in which research scientist Dan O'Connor considers whether Steve Rogers's participation in the Super Soldier program counts as "therapeutic misconception."
If your regular movie critic isn't digging deep enough, you could try out the profound treatments of mostly shallow films available in the Berman Bulletin.


text: I recently sent Shelley some birthday goodies and look what I got in the post the other day. Thank you so much Shelley - the card and penny black images are adorable but there was really no need. I'm glad you enjoyed your birthday and can't wait to see what you create with your goodies. Thanks again you are a true friend. Thanks for looking.


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A transmission line is the material medium or structure that forms all or part of a path from one place to another for directing the transmission of energy, such as electromagnetic waves or acoustic waves, as well as electric power transmission. This book presents current research data from across the globe in the study of transmission lines, including fault location fundamentals in transmission and distribution systems; optical fibers used for terrestrial and submarine transmission systems; transmission pole dynamics and design; the impacts of priority service on transmission investment using a mathematical programming model; impedance matching by segmented transmission lines; and wave propagating in the magnetically insulated transmission line.
(Imprint: Nova)


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Claudia studied Nutrition at King's College London. She studied her Masters in Human Nutrition at the University of Guadalajara, where she has worked for the last 18 years as a full-time lecturer in Nutrition. She is a registered dietician by the "Colegio Mexicano de Nutriólogos, A.C.". She was the first coordinator of the degree in Nutrition at the Health Sciences University Centre of the University of Guadalajara in 1997.
Currently she is finishing her PhD in Epidemiology and Public Health at University College London (UCL) at the Health Behaviour Research Centre (HBRC), funded by the "Programa de Desarrollo Profesional Docente" (PRODEP) of the Education Ministry of Mexico.
Her research project involves studying appetitive traits in relation to weight and weight management in adults.


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Krugman correctly points out that depreciation has had a role in the reduction of the manufacturing trade deficit in the US (above). However, he forgets to say that the recession was also instrumental in reducing the deficit. While he is correct that those that are afraid that depreciation would lead to the collapse of the dollar (a hysterical exaggeration), and do not see the positive role of a depreciation, it is also true that the reduction of the deficit is not all good news. A reduction that results from a recession is hardly good news.
Note also that it is important to explain why the manufacturing sector is key for the economy. Nicholas Kaldor used to argue that it is manufacturing growth that drives productivity change (and that productivity in agriculture and services is derived). In that sense, as I noted before, even though employment in the sector have shrunk and the trade balance in the sector has been perennially negative, the US is still the leading innovator in the sector.


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Thanks to Jenn for this week's theme
Haiku is simple!
It is 3 non-rhyming lines of 5, 7, and 5 syllables respectively
(a great way to use your fingers!)
Integrity,I talk about it in the classroom quite a bit. Making in the right choices when no one is watching.
Love the idea that keeping moral values is a power, an inner strength! Lovely post!
That's a powerful and sincere haiku. If only some politicians would adhere to those thoughts!
Our conduct and behavior is based on ethical principles!! If proper values are imbibed then it is surely gaining power and confidence which no one can shake!!
Well thought!!
Power can easily corrupt.
WooHoo! this is posts this week! this is so true I think many Leaders loose sight this, so sad our world is so sad right now.
What an excellent message, Rosidah! Very well said, my friend.
Well said.


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|This article is about a/an mecha robo in Engine Sentai Go-Onger.
- "Engine Fusion! (combination) GunBir-O! Tune up, Go-on!"
- ―pre- & post-combination announcement[src]
Engine Combination GunBir-O (炎神合体ガンバルオー Enjin Gattai Ganbaruō), referred to as "Another King of Engines", is formed when Gunpherd, Birca, and Carrigator combine.
Its techniques include Bircutter Storm (バルカッターストーム Barukattā Sutōmu) where Birca spins so rapidly that he creates a wind vortex that pushes the enemy back or alternatively shields GunBir-O, and Bircutter Wrist Return (バルカッター小手返し Barukattā Kote Gaeshi), where Birca twists its "wrist" to get something submerged in water, much like a fish game in a festivalGP 39: Nostalgic Children.
GunBir-O can also use the Gunpherd Gun and Bircutter Slash attacks. With Engine-O and SeiKuu-O, it can perform Go-Onger Storm, Triple Punch, and Grand Prix Festival.
Its finishing attack is the GunBir-O: Ganbaru Grand Prix (ガンバルグランプリ Ganbaru Guran Puri). Carrigater announces "There is no limit to great strength!'" (剛力無制限 Gōriki Museigen), then GunBir-O performs a colored one-two slash attack with Gunpherd then Birca, then Carrigator participates by chomping onto the unfortunate Banki.
Engine-O G6
See also: Zenith Megazord
- "G6 Formation- Engine Gattai! (combination) Engine-O G6! Tune up- Go On!"
- ―pre- & post- combination announcement[src]
This giant fuses the power of the first 6 Engines into herculean strength, overpowering the Ministers-powered Lens Banki. It can attack with the G6 Kick, a flying kick. GP 10: Starting Alright Additionally, it can travel with Carrigator's wheels at extreme speed, outmaneuvering giant Banki when necessary.
Ren also made the Blaster Souls to use with the Handle Blasters for the G6 Grand Prix, where Engine-O G6 charges through a racing track manifestation, stops, then fires energy constructs of the 6 Engines that compose it at the enemy, destroying him/her. Its suit actor was Hirofumi Fukuzawa.
Other Combinations
GunBir-O Jetras
With Jetras, GunBir-O becomes GunBir-O Jetras (ガンバルオージェットラス Ganbaruō Jettorasu), using Jetras's wings and the Bircutter in its Torabircutter Slash (トラバルカッタースラッシュ Torabarukattā Surasshu). GP 38: The Maidens' Sanctity
GunBir-O Toripter
With Toripter, GunBir-O becomes GunBir-O Toripter (ガンバルオートリプター Ganbaruō Toriputā), using the Gunpherd Gun and Toripter's turrets in its Toripgun Battery Out (トリプガンバタリオット Toripugan Batariotto). GP 44: Protect Christmas Eve
Additional Formations
- GunBir-O combines with Engine Gattai Engine-O and Engine Gattai SeiKuu-O to form Engine-O G9
- GunBir-O combines with Engine Gattai Engine-O, Engine Gattai SeiKuu-O, and Engine Gattai Kyouretsu-O to form Engine-O G12.
Behind the scenes
- This combination's name is either a pun on the Japanese word ganbaru (頑張る) which means to work hard or to do one's best, or the portmanteau of the two Engines' speech quirks, "Ganga gan" and "Baru baruka". The latter is referenced in GP 07: Partner Amigo, after they destroyed Bombe Banki.
- When GunBir-O is formed, Carrigator's head bends at the middle as Gunbir-O moves.
- In its Grand Prix, Birca rotates to face the fist instead of his tail.
See Also
- ValveMax Megazord - Power Rangers counterpart in RPM. See comparison page.


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Club Penguin has given us a few more sneak-peeks of the plush toys. It looks like there will be an:
Alien Construction Penguin Cheerleader (probably blue too)
Soccer Player (probably blue too) Chef Superhero (probably in pink too)
Bumble Bee
All of these were sold in a catalog before (maybe even are still being sold) so I would check to make sure the clothing isn't in a catalog before you buy one 'cause I bet you will have a code to enter online and get the piece of clothing. I can picture it, soon everyone will be walking around with Bee antennas. See you on CP soon?
Sunrise Moon


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Systems Modelling Techniques Practitioner
This certificate examines candidates on their modelling skills and is primarily concerned with modelling systems from a variety of perspectives. It requires candidates to construct three main types of model reflecting these individual perspectives and to describe the interactions between them.
The syllabus is constructed so that the examination can reflect different modelling notations and hence does not go into the detail of any one specific approach. This allows a choice of structured, object oriented or agile modelling approaches to be examined.
This certification also counts towards the Diploma in Business Analysis and the Diploma in Systems Development.
What are the learning outcomes?
The candidate should be able to:
Justify the need for IT system modelling and modelling techniques.
Explain why it is important to model IT system requirements from different perspectives.
Develop models of system functionality. These models should be either process models with supporting process descriptions or use case diagrams with supporting use case descriptions.
Develop models of system data. These models should be either entity relationship models or analysis class models, both with supporting descriptions.
Develop a dynamic model. This model should be either an entity life history showing the effect of events on an entity or a sequence diagram showing the realisation of a use case.
Evaluate selected models against business objectives and system requirements.
Appreciate how the selected models inter-relate with each other.
Describe how the products of analysis feed into the design and development of a system.
For further information please read the syllabus
Who is it aimed at?
This certification is suitable for those who are engaged in any aspect of systems modelling.
Entry Requirements:
There are no specific pre-requisites for entry to the examination, however candidates should be suitably prepared and possess the appropriate skills and knowledge to fulfil the objectives above.
Topics covered
1.Systems Modelling (5%)
The need for modelling and modelling standards 6 Rationale for the selected approach
The approach and Systems Development Lifecycle
Place of models within the Systems Development Lifecycle
Modelling the IT system from different perspectives
Interaction of the selected models 6 Validating and verifying models
2.Systems Modelling in Context (10%)
Monitoring analysis against business objectives and system requirements
The bridge to design, software package selection and development
UML Version
3. Modelling Functionality (35%)
3.1.Use Case Modelling (25%)
3.2.Activity Diagrams (10%)
4. Static Modelling (25%)
5. Dynamic Modelling (25%)
Structured Version
3. Modelling Functionality (35%)
3.1.Modelling processes using a Data Flow Diagram
3.2.Elementary Process Descriptions
3.3.Types of Data Flow Diagrams – current and required
4. Static Modelling (30%)
5. Dynamic Modelling (25%)
+Call : Vijay : cell: 0-9440089341


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John Hobson Nicholson
John Hobson Nicholson (1911 – 1988) was the son of Frank Nicholson, a house painter and decorator, and the grandson of the Manx artist, John Miller Nicholson. He was educated at Douglas High School, from there entering the family painting and decorating firm as an interior decorator. Although self-taught John Hobson Nicholson went onto establish himself over the next fifty years as one of the most successful Manx painters. He exhibited regularly both on and off the Island, was elected to membership of the Royal Institute of Painters in Watercolours and the Pastel Society, taught at the Douglas School of Art and worked prolifically as a commercial artist. Nicholson was also a leading member of the Isle of Man Art Society and its President until his death in 1988. His studio on Well Road Hill and his gallery in Strand Street, Douglas, were well-known landmarks for the Manx artistic community. He produced a wide variety of work, from landscapes and coastal scenes to maritime subjects in oils, watercolours and pastels. Although he is best-known for his watercolours of the Island, Nicholson also painted in Scotland, Norway, Venice and Hamburg. His work was universally familiar to people on and off the Island owing to the fact he designed Manx stamps, coins and banknotes for the Isle of Man Government from 1958.
His work is much sought after and collected on the Isle of Man and further afield, with Osbourne Antiques recently selling a lovely watercolour painting to NEW ZEALAND!
Osbourne Antiques currently have twelve examples of John Hobson Nicholson's work in stock and we invite you to visit us at 8 Auckland Terrace, Parliament Street, Ramsey, Isle of Man or view online at www.sellingantiques.co.uk/osbourne


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These cheat sheets for minor procedures include common CPT® codes, descriptions, current work and non-facility RVUs, and global days for quick … [Read more...]
Dear Resident, Do you Understand Relative Value Units (RVUs)?
Measuring physician productivity with work RVUs: News flash! Physicians are more interested in medicine than coding. No doctor undertook the … [Read more...]
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A new baby in the family is considered a bundle of joy by friends and family members alike. New "bundled" CPT® codes arriving January 1st each year … [Read more...]
Billing for Multiple Surgical Procedures
Multiple procedures on the same day; Use this step by step procedure to determine if you should bill for more than one procedure, and if so, if you … [Read more...]
Secrets of the Medicare Fee Schedule
The Medicare Fee Schedule is much more than Relative Value Units! It is the source of global days and status indicators. It tells if a service can be … [Read more...]
Risky business, or tempest in a teapot: Are you an audit target?
Some days, it appears we compliance and coding folks are like the boy who cried wolf. We see shadows around every corner. We emulate Captain Kirk, … [Read more...]


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Pont Morvan and its mill became a favourite spot for me to paint during the early 1990's. No matter what the season the old double arched bridge always presented a rustic charm along with the mill which at that time was still in working condition although no longer used. I only saw its massive mechanism in action once and there was a brief period when we hoped that an English enthusiastic might purchase it and start up a milling business. Then an expert pronounced the bridge unsafe and a vast amount of European funds were secured to totally rebuild it. As always with these things it lost all charm; the stone vaulting was replaced with cast concrete and the contrast of local schist stone and granite was replaced with a uniform modern cut granite, while the road over was flattened out and a cumbersome slab topped parapet wall was added. The only thing left of the old bridge was the original granite buttresses. I stopped drawing the bridge and when the mill was eventually sold its workings were promptly gutted and abandoned. The old weir was removed apparently to prevent flooding and the deeper waters beyond where locals had once learnt to swim became shallows.
Quarter of a century has passed and my eye has once again been taken by the old Pont Morvan mill but this time I've stayed away from the river finding a spot further on where from beneath the roadside trees the mill buildings are seen nestling within the winter woods. The sun streams across the shadow filled field while a lone Normandy house cow looks on. Now a rarity these cows have been replaced by the standard black and white Friesians.
There is one further thing that has changed and that is my prices. While those early pictures sold from between £250 to £450 this latest and larger work 92cm x 64cm is for sale at £2250. During all these years I have somehow managed to survive as an artist never having sold a picture from my website or even had an inquiry to buy on line. I don't expect that to change any time soon.


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First Air War
When World War I began in 1914, the air forces of the opposing nations consisted of handfuls of rickety biplanes from which pilots occasionally took pot shots at one another with rifles. By 1918, the fighter had become an efficient killing machine with a growing strategic impact on the outcome of the war. With the help of aviation buffs dedicated to bringing back classic WWI fighters, NOVA joins the team as they uncover the secrets of some of aviation's most colorful and deadly early flying machines and explores how their impact played a key role in the nightmare slaughter of the Western Front.


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2017 Chinese New Year Banquet ( Year of Rooster) will be held on?Sunday?Feb 5, 2017 at Kum Koon ?Garden (257 King Street) at 6:30 p.m.?Tickets are available for ordering now: $50.00/ person, $600.00/ table of 12.
Ordering Tickets:
- Please click on the link to download the tickets order form and fill in all information.2017 Chinese New Year Banquet Ticket Order
- Fax or email the?form back to WCCCC Office manager Amy ?at (204) 944-8308 or [email protected].
Notice: We have 50 tables (600 seats) maximum. First come first served.?


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Please note: Not all Business Studies Courses may be offered at Tommy Douglas. It may vary based on student interest, staffing and funding. You can find a Business Studies promotional brochure at the bottom of this page that outlines all courses and clubs offered.
Business Studies Courses
Grade 9: Information & Communication Technology in Business (BTT1O)
Want to stand apart from your competitors? Want to hand in reports that are both jazzy and professional? Want to overcome your fears of public speaking and present with style? Then this course is for you! BTT1O introduces you to information and communication technology in a business environment. Develop top-notch skills using various software programs such as Word, PowerPoint and Excel. You will also
explore possible future occupations in Information Technology. This course will
prepare you for a world of business and communication that relies
increasingly on electronic technology, an area also undergoing continuous
change. You will be able to transfer the skills and understanding acquired
in this course to activities in other courses and outside of the classroom.
NOTE: There is no exam for this course.
Field Trip: Famous Players Movie Theatre, Google
Grade 10: Introduction to Business (BBI2O)
Study and investigate the success and failures of
various well known brands such Coca-Cola, Google, H&M. Develop an understanding of the
functions of business including marketing, accounting, human resources,
information and communication technology, and of the importance of ethics and
social responsibility. This course
builds a foundation for further studies in business and helps you develop the
business knowledge and skills you will need in everyday life.
Field Trip: Hersey's
Chocolate Factory, Vaughan Mills Shopping Centre
Grade 11: Accounting Essentials (BAI3E1)
This course
introduces students to the accounting cycle of a service business. Students
will use computer applications software to record business transactions and to
prepare financial statements. Students will also investigate banking and cash
management, decision making, ethical behaviour, and career opportunities in the
field of accounting.
CREDIT: 1 TYPE: Workplace Preparation
Grade 11: Entrepreneurship ~ The Venture (BDI3C)
Get a chance of running the school store at Tommy Douglas! Be an entrepreneur! Learn how entrepreneurs recognize opportunities, generate ideas, and organize resources to plan successful ventures that enable them to achieve their goals. Through hands-on experience of running and operating a student-run school store, you will have opportunities to develop the values, traits, and skills most associated with successful entrepreneurs; skills that will benefit you in all areas of your life!
NOTE: There is no exam for this course
Field Trip: Cora's, The Franchise Show
Grade 11: Financial Accounting Fundamentals (BAF3M)
Don't cook the books like Enron and WorldCom! Accountants record, classify, summarize, interpret and communicate the financial information about a business. This course introduces you to the fundamental principles, concepts, and applications of financial accounting. You are exposed to the process by which financial transactions and events are recorded, and will learn how to compile and interpret basic financial statements.
Field Trip: Toronto Stock Exchange
Grade 11: The Invidiual and the Economy (CIE3M)
Economics is essential to understanding the world in which
you live and work. What determines the prices of the goods and services on
which you spend your income, and the prices of the stocks and bonds in which
you invest your savings? How does education affect the lifetime earnings of
people? Why do some jobs
pay high wages while other jobs pay low wages? This course explores challenges facing the Canadian economy as well as the implications of various responses to these challenges. You will explore the economic role of business, labour, and government, as well as your own role as individual consumers and contributors, and how all of these influence stability and variability in the Canadian economy.
Field Trip: A Day on Bay sponsored by the Economic Club of Canada
12: Analysing Current Economic Issues (CIA4U1)
This course examines current Canadian and
international economic issues, developments, policies, and practices from
diverse perspectives. Students will explore the decisions that individuals and
institutions, including governments, make in response to economic issues such
as globalization, trade agreements, economic inequalities, regulation, and
public spending. Students will apply the concepts of economic thinking and the
economic inquiry process, as well as economic models and theories, to
investigate, and develop informed opinions about, economic trade-offs, growth,
and sustainability and related economic issues.
CREDIT: 1 TYPE: University
PREREQUISITE: Any
university or university/college preparation course in Canadian and world
studies, English, or social sciences and humanities
12 Business Leadership: Management Fundamentals (BOH4M1)
This course focuses on the development of
leadership skills used in managing a successful business. Students will analyse
the role of a leader in business, with a focus on decision making, management
of group dynamics, workplace stress and conflict, motivation of employees, and
planning. Effective business communication skills, ethics, and social
responsibility are also emphasized.
CREDIT: 1 TYPE: University/College
12: Entrepreneurship: Venture Planning in an Electronic Age (BDV4C1)
This course provides students with the
opportunity to develop and apply entrepreneurial skills through the creation of
a venture plan that capitalizes on the potential of e-commerce. Students will
research and identify an opportunity for a venture. They will then complete the
components of a venture plan that includes a website.
COURSE NOTES: Course introduces students to the business side of Social Media-Digital
Marketing Businesses, by providing hands on experience in implementing social
media campaigns. Topics include: Social Media networks, platforms,
programmatic, Google Analytics, social media planning and creative execution.
CREDIT: 1 TYPE: College
12: Financial Accounting Principles (BAT4M1)
This course introduces students to advanced
accounting principles that will prepare them for postsecondary studies in
business. Students will learn about financial statements for various forms of
business ownership and how those statements are interpreted in making business decisions.
This course expands students' knowledge of sources of financing, further
develops accounting methods for assets, and introduces accounting for
partnerships and corporations.
BAF3M1 - Grade 11 Financial Accounting Fundamentals
12: International Business Fundamentals (BBB4M1)
This course provides an overview of the
importance of international business and trade in the global economy and
explores the factors that influence success in international markets. Students
will learn about the techniques and strategies associated with marketing,
distribution, and managing international business effectively. This course
prepares students for postsecondary programs in business, including
international business, marketing, and management.
12: Sports & Entertainment Marketing (IDC4U1)
Learn about one of the most exciting and
competitive businesses in the world. The field of sports and entertainment
marketing is rapidly growing. Many colleges and universities are offering
courses specializing in sports and entertainment. In this course you will
explore the intriguing world of sports and entertainment from a marketing
perspective. Some of the topics covered will be professional sports,
recreational sports, sports products, public images, celebrities and their
fans, images and licensing, brands, promotion, entertainment events, music,
theatre, home entertainment, internet, entertainment products, legal and
ethical issues, and careers.
CREDIT: 1 TYPE: University


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Your Cybersecurity Powerhouse
Here you are safe
Security Locked and loaded
Delivering high quality solutions to our clients
Your Cybersecurity Powerhouse
Delivering high quality solutions to our clients
A cyber attack not only impact an organization's reputation, but also their stakeholder confidence, market share, revenue and profit, but could also result in legal/regulatory noncompliance and financial penalties. Each group has its own Techniques, Tactics, and Procedures (TTP) they commonly used to exploit vulnerabilities and existing security control.
Cloud Security, Identity and Access, Management Architecture, Incident Response, Intelligence Analysis and Tradecraft Services, Penetration Testing, Passive Reconnaissance, Security Assessment, Security Awareness Training, Threat Mitigation, Vulnerability Assessment, Privacy Impact Assessment.
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"It's important to be aware of what's going on in the world and to think about how you can start to make a difference, even when you're a kid."
Analysis is forthcoming.
Code: S/2016/873
Date: 18 October 2016
Date: 7 October 2016
Code: S/2016/819
Date: 29 September 2016
Out of a total of one hundred and seven (197) statements, one hundred and nine (109) statements (56 per cen
Code: S/2016/793
Date: 19 September 2016
Code: S/2016/796
Date: 16 September 2016
Date: 6 September 2016
Topic: Pursuant to Resolution 2243 (2015), this report covers major developments in Haiti
Analysis is forthcoming.
Analysis is forthcoming.
Analysis is forthcoming.
Code: S/2016/587
Date: 1 July 2016
Code: S/2016/572
Date: 14 June 2016
Code: S/2016/565
Date: 22 June 2016
Code: S/2016/552
Date: 20 June 2016
Analysis is forthcoming.
ISIS has committed the crime of genocide as well as multiple crimes against humanity and war crimes against the Yazid
Period of Time and Topic: Covering the period 26 February 2016 to 16 May 2016, the report
Open Debate: Protection of civilians in the context of peacekeeping operations.
Code: S/2016/532
Date: 10 June 2016
The report was provided to the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1533 (2004) concerning t
The present report is the twenty-seventh submitted pursuant to paragraph 17 of Security Council resolution 2139 (2014
The present report, which covers the period from January to December 2015, is submitted pursuant to the request conta
This report by Amnesty International, Coerced and denied: Forced marriages and barriers to contraception in Burkina F
The 60th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW60) took place at United Nations (UN) Headquarters in N
The present report, which covers the period from January to December 2015, is submitted pursuant to paragraph 22 of S
Analysis is forthcoming.
Code: S/2016/353
Date: 15 April 2016
Code: S/2016/281
Date: 28 March 2016
In August 2015, the United Nations adopted the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the agenda that will guide globa
For March, in which Angola has the presidency of the UN Security Council, the MAP provides recommendations on the sit
The report "Good Girl's Don't Protest" discusses the abuse Sudanese women face at the hands of Government security fo
Following the murder of prominent Indigenous human rights activist, Berta Caceres, environmental and humanitarian gro
Report of the Secretary-General on South Sudan (S/2016/138)
Report of the Secretary-General on the implementation of Security Council resolutions 2139 (2014), 2165 (2014
The report was provided to the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 2206 (2015) concerning S


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I forgot to mention in part one that the reason I'm blogging about people I meet is because I think that is one of the richest parts of travel for me. I get a bit worn out seeing sites, dealing with crowds and public transportation, and trying to decipher menus, etc. We've stayed at a lot of hostels and guest houses this trip and they typically cater to a lower economic caste and younger clientele. We're not in the younger caste, but Lori pulled this off for us by finding cheaper lodging and, having done so, we have encountered all sorts of interesting people. English is often the shared language- Spanish on occasion, so sitting down at the table with people from all over makes for interesting conversations and exchanges.
When we left Busan on the ferry and crossed to Japan on a diesel waterbed, we made our first Japanese stop in Nagasaki. We stayed on the other side of Nagasaki at a guest house in a fishing village named Mogi. As soon we entered the place, even before we registered, I met a young Israeli who had been traveling in China and who wanted to become a musician. He and I spent some time playing music ( I don't think I blogged about my acquisition of my Made in Korea guitar. In fact, I think that there is a direct relationship between the getting the guitar and my reduction in blog production. Sorry) and he turned out to be quite good and I didn't appreciate that one damn bit. He writes songs as I do and did appreciate it when I introduced him to a helpful musical tool, the circle of fifths. I'm thinking if this guy hits it big he better by remember me in his Grammy speech for helping him sort out his sound.
I also met a tall, good looking Spaniard who I thought was maybe a Spanish James Bond or involved in some kind of clandestine activity. He joined me for a swim on a beautiful afternoon and he encouraged my interest in teaching at an international school. As I was peddling away from him on the hotel rental bike, I looked back at him and saw him laying in the warm sand much like a tall, dark Spanish-speaking dolphin. That image pretty much dissuaded me from my conviction that he was a covert operative. But, if you think about it, isn't that just what a covert operative wants to do? Don't they want you to think that they are anything but a spy? That guy is totally deep cover.
From Nagasaki we traveled to Hiroshima. Actually, I stayed a day more at the fishing village while Cata and Lori went ahead. I was very much tired of packing and unpacking so I hung out looking for Spanish intelligence types. When I arrived in Hiroshima, at our skyscraper hostel, Lori was on the roof terrace with two young Canadian fellas from Vancouver Island, British Columbia. These guys were taking their Japanese beer taste-testing quite seriously and sharing with us how they don't like the Prime Minister of Canada because he won't let them catch any more fish. They were kind of woodsy, outdoor guys and it was interesting listening to them while surrounded by about 100,000 Japanese apartment buildings.
When Lori and Cata went to bed, I joined my fellow North Americans in search of karaoke. After 3-4 failed landings, it began to dawn on me that maybe it was operator error rather than a paucity of Karaoke venues in Japan. Eric, the Canadian electrician most frustrated with Trudeau, was in charge of Karaoke location and GPS operation. He was also in charge of his own inebriation and the two did not a successful Karaoke experience make. Still, I enjoyed hanging with them. Eric apologized profusely that we didn't find a Karaoke joint. When I told him not to fret and stop apologizing, he stated that's what Canadians do.
We bid goodnight. I made my way to the Peace Park in Hiroshima and my Canadian companions hightailed it back to the hotel to relieve themselves of digested beer, having been reluctant to do so in a dark alley fearing the legal consequences for public urination.
I arrived at the Peace Park around 10-11 pm carrying my guitar and transitioning from a frivolous romp with a couple drunk kids to a powerful encounter with the reality of the nuclear attack of Hiroshima. Thanks to Eric, he told me to visit the dome of the conservatory which was still standing after the Aug 9th, 1945 bombing. At night the whole park had a solemnity to it. There was a memorial to the victims of the bombing, an eternal flame that will only be extinguished once our globe is rid of nuclear weapons, and the Prefecture Building. As I walked along in silence, encountering each of those spaces, tears welled up in me-even as they do now in this writing. Of course, I have seen photos of the domed prefect building and the surrounding desolation left by the bomb, but to see it in person, illumined as it was on this night, was particularly moving.
I found a place to sit on some slick steps leading to a water channel. I have been working on a song about the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki I call "Flashes of Light." With so few people around, I felt comfortable to sing out there. The experience was not heart rending, but it was sobering and I feel grateful that I have had the opportunity to see that place. As someone who came of age in the Cold War, I identify with the fear and dread caused by nuclear weapons and their proliferation. I came close to weeping when I read that the Hiroshima flame will only be extinguished when the last nuclear weapon is gone.
Done with my soliloquy, I zipped up my guitar began to head back to the hostel. I didn't make it very far before I met a lovely couple sitting on the same steps who complimented me on my song. Olley was from London and his girlfriend was from Ireland but they both currently live in New Zealand where she (her name escapes me) is doing graduate work in geology and Olley is restoring houses. Turns out that Olley is a helluva guitarist and played mine very nicely which upset me. We discussed Brexit, her interest in teaching at a secondary school once done with her training, and random YouTube videos about which I knew nothing. Olley very much had the mannerisms of British comedian Eddy Izzard and that comic's easy way with the F word, which I enjoyed.
We didn't speak much of the domed building or that space there in that park that evening. I think sometimes places and experiences can be such an enormity that one finds it difficult to find words to use in those contexts, should a person even want to do so. We did acknowledge that our western educational system tends to give short shrift to the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Most of our school students know about the events but I think its rarely delved into. I was glad I could say that I intend to do more than I have on the bombings now that I have been to Nagasaki and Hiroshima.
Part three will finish this up and probably be the last blog I post before returning to Los Estados Unidos tomorrow.
Peace and Love from Yokohama, Japan.


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Something horrible was about to happen. I could feel it. Some energy force was about to overwhelm the planet; or perhaps an enormous asteroid was about to strike. Life was about to end, and I knew there were only seconds remaining. I clenched every muscle in my body. I specifically remember clenching my arms and throwing them outward, hoping the mere flutter of a butterfly's wings could make what was coming simply go away.
It did. Suddenly everything was okay again.
Sometime later, I walked among boats and along a beach. I looked down and saw a young girl running on the beach, a huge smile on her face. But behind her was an identical spectral image of herself, except she wasn't smiling, she was screaming. Whatever was about to happen earlier was about to happen again. I didn't think my butterfly breeze could stop it this time. It was terrifying. Not so much for me, but for that little girl I saw. She was so happy and had her whole life ahead of her.
And then I woke up.
Change is hard. It certainly is for me, anyway. Whenever I sense a change coming, I tend to have apocalyptic dreams. Let's put it this way: I'm ready for electromagnetic pulse bombs decimating industrial cities, hanging out with a U.S. congressman and staff walking along I-80 trying to survive a zombie takeover, falling asleep and not being able to open my eyes while sailing the boat into a slip (yes, that is a terrifying thought), flooding on a Biblical scale and much more.
For all of the change I bring or allow into my life, I'm pretty bad at it. Like most people, the personal losses bring on the most difficult changes. Last Sunday would have been my Dad's 81st birthday. He's been gone for 37 years and I'm not certain I've accepted it yet. My mother-in-law has been gone for 11 years — same. My Mom, gone for more than a year … ditto. My best friend? Gone for six months. Nope. Not accepted.
I'm not prescient. I don't always know when change is coming but when I do, the night hours turn into some pretty bizarre and unsettling mind-fed cinema. And this time I do know things are changing. Among the other "perks" of getting older, I can't hear as well as even a few months ago.
My audiologist wasn't certain my hearing would last long enough to warrant the expense, but in May I purchased new hearing aids — they are of the latest technology, controllable from my iPhone and Apple Watch. They were so good that at first I had to turn them down. Then, not long after, I had to turn them up a little. Now I have to turn them up all the way. There is no way for them to be turned up more. For those familiar with the rockumentary film, This Is Spinal Tap, these hearing aids go to 11 — and that's where I leave them now. I have to prepare for a different life. I really can't complain, but that doesn't mean I don't worry about it, either.
I read lips when I can, and there is a hearing center in Manhattan that offers training in professional speechreading (otherwise known as lip reading). But, of course, speechreading has its limitations.
On the cusp of Halloween, I have a ghost story that touches on that subject. Years ago, Michelle and I took part in a ghost tour on the Queen Mary. The famous and stately old ocean liner is permanently moored in Long Beach, Calif., and has been converted into an unusual and remarkable hotel. It is also said to be haunted. I'm not one to believe in hauntings but the tour gave us access to the nooks, crannies and bowels of the ship that would otherwise be off-limits, and I certainly am into that sort of thing.
In some ways, it was rather creepy — at least enough so that among the nine or 10 people in our group, only three of us were willing to follow the ghost guide into the hold of the ship, where several men had reportedly been killed, and was said to be the source of unexplained phenomena. So the four of us went in, sat down and shut off our flashlights, leaving us in pitch darkness. The guide called out to the unknown, asking if anyone was with us. I left a digital recorder running throughout.
My hearing aids at the time had the microphones in the back, and I could distinctly make out whispering, as though it was occurring only inches behind my head. I later asked the guide what it was that she had been whispering. She told me that she hadn't been whispering at all.
Later that night I listened to the recording and among the groans and creaks of an old ship, two distinct sentences came out — words that I didn't hear when we were down in the hold. The first was a voice saying, "Tell her." I have no idea what that meant but I later passed it on to the guide.
The second was more bewildering. Quite clearly I could hear a voice ask, "Can you see words in the dark?"
No, obviously I have to lip-read — and I can't see words in the dark. There is no way the guide could have known that about me. While I'm still not sold on the idea of hauntings, I still don't have an explanation for that experience. It wasn't scary, per se, but it certainly was unusual — and it somehow seemed directed at me.
I won't be able to see words in the dark. And increasingly, I can't hear, or rather, understand them in any light.
Change is coming and I can't change that. I have to learn to do things differently. And that's not so different from a whole lot of people. I really can't complain. As I write this, news reports of a major earthquake on the other side of the world are coming in. I'm comfortable and safe in Florida on a beautiful autumn morning. I can do things; I can even improve things. As mentioned, I hope to take that professional speechreading course. I can change my job to suit my limitations — and some of those changes are actually attributes. With my digital recorder, freed from the bonds of having to hear every word, I can pay more attention to people, to their true and inner selves. I like that. I think that despite that I can't hear everything at the moment, that is the most respectful I can be — giving my undivided attention to them as they are.
I don't know what the future will bring but my dreams are, as they have in the past, apparently preparing me for the worst. That's okay because the worst has never yet happened, and I don't expect it to now. So I'm losing my hearing. We've all lost something — some more than others — and we still manage to find our way. Life is miraculous like that. Soon, I suspect, that will start coming out in my dreams, and I'll find my new, albeit changed, place in the world. I know I'm not alone in that sort of thing — you may well have endured more change than you care to think about. But we go on, we improve, we live the gift of life. What dreams may come are likely to be good ones.


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In 2019, we're going to be happy and healthy! Here are some tips on where to go, what to do, and what to eat to be your best YOU this year!
Luckily, our Air-Tan salons are all close to an exercise studio of some kind. Our Downtown salon has Pure Barre Indy just around the corner where they host classes to work every single muscle in your body. Our Broad Ripple salon also has a Pure Barre right across the street as well as The Yoga Studio two doors down. In Fishers, we have fans of Barre Code which is similar to Pure Barre. Barre Code has amazing, welcoming instructors and is a great way to get going in the morning! Our newest location in Greenwood will be in the same lot as Orangetheory Fitness and Club Pilates! SO… you have options!
Eating right is also a huge part of taking care of your body, mind and soul! Researching a meal plan that fits your needs and lifestyle is the best. As a rule of thumb, however, drink more water, consume less sugar, and avoid processed foods! Whenever you have a choice at meal time to choose a salad or chicken tenders with fries, make the right choice – the salad.
Both exercise and a clean diet are huge parts of being happy and healthy, but there are a few things outside of that that contribute! You want to take care of your mental health also. Make sure you get plenty of sleep, take some time to yourself when needed, and get an Air-Tan to get that little boost!
If you have any questions or want to book an appointment, give us a call!
Broad Ripple- 317-254-8267
Fishers- 317-576-8267
Downtown- 317-395-7151
We also offer online booking! Click here or download the MindBody app and search for Air-Tan.