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Art can be political. Politics can affect art. Certainly the art world and politics can sometimes feel like a role-playing game.
But there are very few opportunities where art, politics and gaming truly intersect. This week, if you head to the Allegra LaViola Gallery in New York City to see Fiend in the Void, a solo exhibition of works on paper and sculpture by Casey Jex Smith, you'll get a chance to see a Dungeons & Dragons clash of the titans between President Obama and Mitt Romney. The winner decides how the artist will cast his real-world vote in the real-world, 2012 presidential election.
The show's opening reception, Wednesday, October 10th, from 6-8 pm, will feature a live performance – a battle, at it were, with dice.
"Two volunteers will take up the roles of Barack Obama and Mitt Romney and audience members will get to decide the fate of the election using Dungeons and Dragons dice, rules and attacks," said the gallery. "Smith will act as Dungeon Master of the game, and the ultimate prize is his vote."
The winner of the battle determines how Smith casts his actual ballot in his swing-state home of Ohio. (Note: It's Smith who will cast his own vote for the winner of the game, be it Obama or Romney. Nobody will vote FOR him. That would be voter fraud.)
"Romney is a fighter. Obama is a Sorcerer," said Casey Jex Smith in an email. "I will have to dumb down the rules a little so the battle is fast and furious. Romney will have a better thaco but do less damage. Obama will have worse thaco but do massive damage. It will essentially be all D20s and D6s."
"Using the world of sci-fi/fantasy, Dungeons & Dragons, and Mormon imagery as a springboard for exploration," said gallery director Allegra LaViola, "Smith has created a world where Mitt Romney and Barack Obama are not just candidates in a race, but also but also mythical heroes in an imagined world." Smith is a practicing Mormon, who identifies with Romney –"an unusual stance in the arts community."
I asked Smith about his idea behind this show, which includes several characters sheets and other gaming-inspired works (and many works without any explicit gaming references). Why did he turn Obama and Romney into D&D characters?
"I had already done portraits of them as well as John McCain back in the 2008 election. I did a series of male power figures that had an influence on me at the time," Smith said. "I wanted to elevate these figures into mythical heroes through the lens of a language that I loved and was well versed in. The statistics allowed me to say more about the figures in a way that a traditional portrait wasn't able to do. When this year came around, I decided to update the portraits and then create a narrative around their election year battles. My interest in Romney comes from my being a Mormon and watching this 'Mormon Moment' happen with some pride and trepidation."
Smith is, essentially, giving away his vote. I wondered, did this decision represent his ambivalence about the election?
"I have put some serious thought into the idea. I don't give up my vote lightly," he said. "But would it be awful to say that I honestly think either candidate will do an OK job?"
Smith said he voted for Obama in the last election because "I was disgusted with the Republican party." But lately, he felt the spirit of his late father "haunting" him and "prodding" him to vote for a conservative candidate. "I prefer the moderate Romney. I'm on the fence. Undecided," he said. "So being undecided I don't have a problem giving up my vote."
This is Smith's third solo show at the gallery, LaViola said, and one where he decided to "take on religion and politics." As a practicing Mormon, Smith has an interest in religion, and this election cycle, Mormonism has been headline news. Instead of remaining silent about his relationship with his church, Smith has "come out with all guns blazing," LaViola said. "Smith's incorporation of religion, fantasy and art history is both unique and unusual."
Smith's work includes "exquisitely rendered," highly-detailed drawings (often ink on paper). The show also includes sculpture and mixed media works in pencil, color pencil and collage. Casey Jex Smith lives and works in Ohio. He holds a BFA from Brigham Young University and an MFA from The San Francisco Art Institute. He has shown his work at the Drawing Center, Yerba Buena Center of the Arts, and Swarm Gallery, Oakland. His work has been reviewed on artnet.com, Beautiful Decay, Time Out Chicago, and Fecalface.
[Incidentally, in the show, Smith was kind enough to include a work with a subtle shout-out to this blogger. In the below character sheet featuring the likeness of Vin Diesel, Smith outfitted the 14th level fighter named "Divleesin Banesguard" with "Gilsdorf's Studded Leather of Criticality +3." "I was reading and enjoying your book at the time I drew his portrait," Casey told me. "Your book meant a lot to me at the time so I felt like a shout out was necessary." Thank you, Casey. I have arrived.]


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Granger on Movies: 'Tammy'
Following is Fairfield Citizen film critic Susan Granger's review of the new movie, "Tammy:"
Having catapulted to stardom in "The Bridesmaids," "The Heat" and "Identity Thief," Melissa McCarthy has enough clout within the industry to co-write, produce and star in this ridiculously contrived comedy, collaborating with her husband, director Ben Falcone. Once again, she plays a brash, trash-talking woman whose arrogance conceals vulnerability and need for love and acceptance.
Disheveled Tammy is (McCarthy) not having a good day. First, she crashes her car into a deer, then gets fired from her job at Topper Jack's, a greasy, fast-food restaurant. Returning home, she finds her husband (Nat Faxon) romancing their next-door neighbor (Toni Collette).
Furious, Tammy packs her bag and marches off to tell her mother (Alison Janney) that she's leaving town. But Tammy has neither money nor wheels -- until Grandma Pearl (Susan Sarandon) offers a car and more than $6,000 in cash. So angry, aggressive Tammy and her alcoholic, diabetic, promiscuous Grandma embark on a road trip.
At that point, the film completely loses credibility. Saucy, sexy Sarandon is only 24 years older than McCarthy; even in a scraggly gray wig, she makes a far more interesting protagonist. Plus, Janney is 11 years older than McCarthy and 13 years younger than Sarandon.
As they head from Illinois toward Niagara Falls, making a wrong turn that lands them in Missouri, their frustrating encounters with men (Gary Cole, Mark Duplass) are so wretchedly underwritten that there's genuine relief when they arrive at a Fourth of July party, hosted by Grandma's wealthy lesbian cousin (Kathy Bates) and her partner (Sandra Oh).
Problem is: none of this is funny. Adding insult to injury, wasting the talents of Collette ("Little Miss Sunshine"), Janney ("The Help"), Oh ("Grey's Anatomy") and Dan Aykroyd ("Saturday Night Live") on bit parts is a crime, augmented by the idiotic, unfocused antics of obnoxious Tammy as she tries to unload her emotional baggage and reconcile years of rejection and resentment.
On the Granger Movie Gauge of 1 to 10, "Tammy" is a tiresome, tedious 3 -- with McCarthy taking an unfortunate pratfall.

subset: commoncrawl


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Visual Identity by Laura Ferrario
Laura Ferrario Discloses The Le Coffret-Chambres D'hôtes Visual Identity
Laura Ferrario, the thinktank behind the highlighted design Le Coffret - Chambres D'Hôtes - Visual Identity by Laura Ferrario explicates, Le Coffret is a charming design bed and breakfast in the heart of Valle d'Aosta. The project was conceived in absolute respect of the authentic style: therefore the stone walls, wooden beams and antique furniture. A circle symbolizing the sky over the triangle representing the mountain, where the B&B is located, from the idea of the ascent of man into the sky. An Onciale font revised in a modern version to remember the Celtic origins of the Valley rightly balances and supports a strong and important symbol to finally obtain a logo that is easy to identify and easily catches the eye..
Visual Identity by Laura Ferrario Images:
End of the article, click here to go back to previous page, or alternatively go back to Claim Magazine homepage.


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|Admrboltz on Wikipedia
|AmdrBoltz on Memory Alpha
|Admrboltz on WikiTravel
Welcome Edit
Welcome to Memory Alpha! I've noticed that you've already made some contributions to our database -- thank you! We all hope that you'll enjoy our activities here and decide to join our community.
If you'd like to learn more about working with the nuts and bolts of Memory Alpha, I have a few links that you might want to check out:
- How to edit a page includes a basic tutorial about how to use our special wikitext code here on Memory Alpha.
- Naming conventions provides guidelines on how to name a new page that you may want to create.
- The Manual of Style is an overview of the basic guidelines for how to format and style your articles.
- How to write a great article is a list of suggestions that can help you put together an article that might end up on our Featured Articles list someday.
One other suggestion: If you're going to make comments on talk pages or make other sorts of comments, please be sure to sign them with four tildes (~~~~) to paste in your user name and the date/time of the comment.
If you have any questions, please feel free to post them in our Ten Forward community page. Thanks, and once again, welcome to Memory Alpha!
unwritten topicsEdit
The unwritten topics are going fast today! Excelsior 18:06, 15 Jun 2005 (UTC)
- That they are :) AmdrBoltz 18:07, 15 Jun 2005 (UTC)
sniping Edit
No offense, but could you give people maybe 5 minutes to catch their errors or make final corrections before jumping in on making them yourself? It's a little annoying to be working on an article and to find that it has been "sniped" before or as I am attempting to save it. It's not just with what you just did with Sybok, but I've also noticed similar occurances with it being done to other contributors as well. Thanks. --Gvsualan 03:48, 2 Jul 2005 (UTC)
- Yea, sure no problem. --AmdrBoltz 03:49, 2 Jul 2005 (UTC)
{{pna}} Edit
You changed the {{pna}} on Image:Shuttlepod 1 firing plasma cannons.jpg to a {{pna-cite}} and a {{pna-file cleanup}}; but the {{pna}} tag is both for generic things that don't fall under specific pnas, as well as anyplace where it can replace two or more tags. I'm not paticularly perturbed by that, just that it could save you time (and MA, space) in the future to avoid duplicating effort. Cheers. — THOR 18:57, 13 Jul 2005 (UTC)


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Tat Li Lau-Dax Table Table
At Design Interviews
Interview with Tat Li Lau : Frank Scott: What is the main principle, idea and inspiration behind your design?. Tat Li Lau : The DAX stock index is transformed into three-dimensional images, and aims to explore mathematics behind the formation of the aesthetic rules. .Frank Scott: What has been your main focus in designing this work? Especially what did you want to achieve?. Tat Li Lau : The main purpose is to project into the future forms of craft, design classics and redefine the concept of luxury in the context of standardized production. The Project gives insight into the practice of contemporary design production, points new tendencies out and presents upcoming 3D and Product trends. It offers exhibition space for the presentation of new design objects and acts as a space for communication and critical reflection. .Frank Scott: What are your future plans for this award winning design?. Tat Li Lau : I really this Design can be mass-production by a Famous Furniture company. .Frank Scott: How long did it take you to design this particular concept?. Tat Li Lau : It's about 2 years. .Frank Scott: Is your design being produced or used by another company, or do you plan to sell or lease the production rights or do you intent to produce your work yourself?. Tat Li Lau : I really this Design can be mass-production by a Famous Furniture company. .Frank Scott: Where there any other designs and/or designers that helped the influence the design of your work?. Tat Li Lau : It's all done by myself. .
Tat Li Lau-Dax Table Table Images:
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Bloggy-Sweet Honey Goodness
Graphics, photos and text (unless stated otherwise) are the intellectual property and copyright of Heather – aka – Sprittibee (2005-2020). Link with small excerpts if you wish. Please contact me for written permission to repost or print entire posts. All graphics and photographs require written permission for any type of use unless permission is granted in the post they are contained in.
Thank you for not violating international copyright law as approved by the Berne Convention. For more information on copyright laws, please visit www.whatiscopyright.org.


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Vaatrik Pallra was a Bajoran, the widow of chemist and collaborator Vaatrik, both of whom lived on Terok Nor during the Cardassian Occupation of Bajor. She and Quark had become friendly during the occupation.
Pallra denied that she killed her husband, although Constable Odo was convinced she did. Her husband was killed by the resistance. Kira Nerys had to kill Vaatrik when he caught her searching his shop for a list of collaborators. Vaatrik had been selling his people out to the Cardassians. After the occupation of Bajor was over, Mrs. Vaatrik asked Quark to get a box with a list of names that was in her husband's old shop. She used this list, which was the names of fellow collaborators in it, to blackmail them for money. After Quark got the list for her, she had Trazko try to kill him. She was arrested by Odo for the attempted murder and blackmail. (DS9: "Necessary Evil")


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Would anyone be interested in restarting the Webzine project?
Types of roles we'd need volunteers for:
Writers (various subjects, reviews, etc etc)
Editors (proof reading)
Layout Editors (Adobe InDesign)
Graphics (Adobe Photoshop or GIMP etc)
Picture Desk (find pictures for articles)
Blogger (someone to look after the blog)
Other (if you think we could use your skill, let us know)
No experience required.
Please reply to this post or send me a PM/message if interested.


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To take a page from Rachel Zoe, "What a disaster!"
An assistant to Bravo TV starlet and celebrity stylist Rachel Zoe has separated from the sometimes over-the-top designer -- who has coined terms such as "I die" and "What a disaster" -- though the circumstances remain unclear, a rep for Zoe told Usmagazine.com.
Taylor Jacobson, who had worked for Zoe for four years, is known for butting heads with the stylist and has been depicted in recent episodes of the TV series "The Rachel Zoe Project" as less enthusiastic to help out her employer.
U.S. & World
It is unclear whether Jacobson quit or was fired. A source told Us that she was let go.
But in Jacobson's own e-mail to friends obtained by the mag she said she was both "saddened and exhilarated," and had "decided to go off and style on my own."
Another Us source echoed the e-mail's positive note. "It was time to move on. She's going to pursue independent styling."


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Don't Bail Out Bernanke
Here is the message members of Congress should send to Ben Bernanke during the Fed chief's annual Capitol Hill testimony this week: He is fighting for his job. With his term up in January of next year, Bernanke needs to be called to account for the Fed's many questionable actions during the financial turmoil of the past year.
Even while correctly identifying the "global savings glut," Bernanke sat by and did nothing about the unsustainable build‐up of leverage in the housing market—the "bubble" which famously burst in late 2008. Bernanke also used Fed financing to bail out Bear Stearns and AIG—hotly political moves which should rightfully have been left to Congress—and oversaw the massive expansion of the Fed's balance sheet from about $900 billion to over $2 trillion. Under Bernanke, the Fed has transcended monetary policy and bank supervision into the world of fiscal policy.
While thus politicizing the Fed on one hand, Bernanke has sought to insulate the bank from congressional pressures by appeasing majority Democrats with various new credit regulations. Both the recently proposed credit card and mortgage rules unnecessarily restrict credit and increase the litigation risk facing banks, while doing nothing to roll back some of the irresponsible lending policies that exacerbated the housing bubble.
Bernanke's pandering to the Left on misguided "consumer protections," and the absence of any debate over the Fed's role in the housing bubble, raise serious questions as to whether Bernanke understands the causes of the current financial crisis. We cannot hope to avoid the next financial crisis without a Fed chairman who understands the current one.


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Cole Shines Again
Back home and back to the kind of baseball expected from the Phillies, solid starting pitching, crisp defense, a couple of long balls and J-Roll scoring multiple runs.
Cole started out a little out of whack, allowing five of the first nine Rockies to reach base, including walking the enemy pitcher in the second inning. After that, he settled in, retired 13 in a row and allowed only four more base runners. At the start of the season, he was slotted in as the #3 starter. He's stepped up and is the ace.
It is the sixth straight season in which Cole has reached double figures in wins. Club record is 13 by Steve Carlton.
The offense overcame a 1-0, first-inning deficit, took a 4-1 lead and then added on in the seventh. Mayberry is warming up with the long ball (homers in three straight games) and Chooch had another pair of extra base hits. If he's not in Kansas City for the All-Star Game, there's something wrong, drastically wrong.
The win ended a six-game losing streak at Citizens Bank Park. Park record is a seven-game spin in August of 2004.
Down On The Farm
**Lehigh Valley lost, 5-3, at Toledo. SS Andres Blanco, 2-4, after 4-5 game on Monday.
**Reading lost, 6-1, at New Hampshire. Lone run came on 12th homer by 1B Darin Ruf.
**Clearwater lost, 8-2, to Dunedin. DH Chase, 1-3, plus a walk. 3B Cody Asche, 2-4, boosting average to .348.
**SAL All-Star Game, North won, 3-2; Lakewood's Colin Kleven was the winner, 1 inning, 2 hits, 0 runs, 1 strikeout.
**Williamsport lost, 5-2, at State College. SS Roman Quinn, 2-5, stolen base; RF Larry Greene, 3rd inning RBI double was first hit as a pro.
**Gulf Coast League Phillies lost, 7-5, at Tigers. RF Dylan Cozens, 2nd round selection, 2-4, 2-run homer in the 3rd for his first pro hit and an RBI single in the 7th.
June 20, 1883: Boston wins, 29-4, the most runs scored against the Phillies. It happens again, June 15, 1887, this time a 29-1 loss to New York.
June 20, 1900: Brooklyn scores seven runs in the 11th inning for a 20-13 lead. When the Phillies stalled in the bottom of the 11th, hoping that the game would be called by darkness, umpire Hank O'Day forfeited the game to Brooklyn.
Hey, don't forget to visit www.phillies.com/alumni.


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Bemidji State University's Autism Awareness Workshops continue March 1 with a day-long series of presentations on a variety of autism-related issues.
The workshop will be held in Bridgeman Hall 100 on the BSU campus. The sessions are offered free of charge, but advance registration is required. A boxed lunch is available for $10 and can be reserved at the time of registration.
Morning presentations include "Transition and Autism" from 9-10:30 a.m., providing tips on helping students on the autism spectrum move to higher-level work, and "Autism and Comorbid Disabilities" from 10:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m., providing some basic assistance strategies.
After lunch, the workshop will wrap with a session on early childhood issues and autism, from 1-2:30 p.m., which will offer tips for dealing with regressed speaking, toilet training and socialization for children up to three years of age, and a parent panel with tips on transitioning from school to summer, making friends and handling hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity.
The parent panel will feature guest speaker Pamela Mahan, a retired licensed school psychologist who raised a son with autism.
For additional information or to register for the workshops, visit Bemidji State's Department of Professional Education.
The autism awareness program is sponsored by Bemidji State University's Department of Professional Education.
• Dr. Rachele Schafer, assistant professor of professional education; (218) 755-4046


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We are adding price down items almost everyday! Please check them!
We publish ICHIROYA' News letter once a week. Ichiro, Yuka, or many staff write about kimonos and Japanese culture. You can read back number at
|Tweets by @ichiroya2010
Conversations By Mr. John Marshall
Obi Display Hint
Vogue Published US!
*Enjoy Kimono Photo Album(Photos from customers before we began ICHIROYA Blog.)
Recent Isses of ICHIROYA News Letters
We publish ICHIROYA News Letter, one a week for long time. We already published more than 700 issues for these 17 years. You can find lots of information about kimono and Japanese culture.
We ship our items from post office basically.
There are three options:
Express(EMS) 3-5 business days
Standard(SAL) 2 weeks to a month
By SEA 5 weeks to three months
The shipping may take longer according to each country- we are afraid it seems Standard shipping to USA sometimes takes more than a month.
Express has a tracking website and you can track a parcel easily, so we recommend to choose Express if you need to receive your order by a certain date.
Someitems cannot be shipped by Standard or by SEA because of the size. Please see the shippig cost information of each item in the listing page.
(if you prefer to use FeDEX, please let us know.
We ship our items from JAPAN. You may be charged fee at the custom in your country. We can not know whether your package will be charged or not, and how much it will cost. In any case, the customs duty is the recipient's responsibility.
Our items are old(used) or vintage, so they are basically unreturnable.The items are sent from Japan directly by using international postal service, so international shipping cost is charged- which is different from domestic shipping and it is considered as indivitual import. We answer any questions about your order if needed beforehand. If there is any flaw which are not shown in the listing, we will refund after checking. Please let us know within 14 days after the arrival of the parcel. We cannot accept any returning after 14 days from the delivery date. We cannot accept any returning without any contact to us.
We are trying to set the reasonable price on our site from the beginning. We offer discount only for these cases. We offer 10% discount to the customers who buy over $1000.00 at a time or when the customer's cumulative total becomes over $1500.00(the purchase from ebay auctions and the items from sale and bundle corner are not included)
been a long time since we began wearing western clothes in our daily lives.
But kimono, the Japanese traditional clothes are not something what we want
to leave behind. Ichiroya is opened to offer you the authentic and charming
old kimono on the net. Most of the kimono we offer here are one-of -a-kind
from Kyoto, Osaka, Nara and Kobe. Please take a look at the detailed pictures.
We send the item directly from Japan to your place.
A lot of kimono have been kept carefully in the chest of each family for a long time. We take a gentle care of them and fix if needed and offer you with a reasonable price just as the price of the Japanese flea markets ! We offer kimono, haori(a short jacket), uchikake(a wedding coat) , furisode( flowing- sleeve fancy kimono) and cute children's kimono, too! We also offer a variety of obi(sash belt), haori ties and other accessories to go with kimono. We are constantly adding new items.
kimono are just art created by elaborate work of craftmanship. Some are
handsewn by mothers to get enough warmth. Some have dynamic and stunning
designs. Some have the design s so subtle. Some textiles are woven with
the premium silk, and some are woven with left over silk thread. Some are
worn by a bride in her wedding ceremony only once, but some are worn by
ordinary hardworking mothers everyday. Some are heavily brocaded on exquisite
silk, and some has been untied , redyed and sewn again for the second or
third time use. Some have designs using symbols of prosperity, longevity
or children's health and growth. Some even have militaristic tone handpaintings
in the lining!
charms of kimono are timeless, and we think they are borderless, too. There
were many rules to wear kimono as a garment. But taking them into our life
now, there is no rule. With your artistic flair, they become alive again,
as a garment or an interior decor to brighten up the corner of your home.
Our job is to wake up old kimono and introduce their charms and send them to new homes. If you meet your special kimono in our shop, we will be very happy to wake her (or him)up and tell her to get ready for travel. They will be happy to fly to any place in the world to be used again! Please come to see our old kimono and find your special one.


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OTTAWA — Genuine, passionate, articulate and uninhibited, the youngest candidate in the race for leadership of the New Democratic Party has staked her bid on a rather retro theme — equality.
"Some people think equality, that's something we fought for in the '70s," said 29-year-old Niki Ashton.
"Well, I wasn't around in the '70s, and what I do know is when I look around, that inequality is not only there, but it's increasing."
The Manitoba native elected to Parliament for the first time in 2008 is campaigning on the idea of "new politics" and has unveiled a 10-point plan that aims to restore balance, both socially and economically.
She's appalled that women's issues in Canada are handled as a secondary duty by public works and has promised, if she became prime minister that, in her first 100 sitting days of Parliament, she would appoint a minister for equality to address that and other forms of discrimination, be it race or sexual orientation.
She's vowed to tackle the "Third World living conditions" faced by First Nations, and she supports a national housing strategy and improved pensions. She says she would exercise federal leadership to reduce tuition fees, increase bursaries and provide more training opportunities and that she would create a national childcare program as an "economic generator rather than just a social program" so parents can get out and work.
She says she'd work to stop the "erosion of collective bargaining rights" and would reach out to non-unionized workers, including the many young people who are "facing a life of contract or temporary work."
Ashton has fought to save the Canadian Wheat Board, is against foreign ownership that "doesn't benefit our communities" and has railed against it in her own province, which saw Brazilian mining giant Vale take over Canada's Inco only to shut down its Thompson smelter and refinery despite a $1-billion unsecured loan from the Conservative government.
She's promised to create a "national jobs and growth fund" that would reverse Conservative cuts to regional development programs and include a permanent infrastructure fund that would favour innovative and environmentally sustainable projects.
She's also promoting a move toward a greener economy through the enforcement of existing regulations and investments in innovative green technologies.
As prime minister, she says, she would address the growing "affordability gap" by rolling back Conservative corporate tax cuts and she'd consider a "Robin Hood Tax" on financial transactions to support anti-poverty and climate-change initiatives.
Chatting over coffee between bites of a chocolate chip cookie, her youthful charm is evident in everything from her pink BlackBerry skin, to her animal print stockings, to the words such as "whatchamacallit" she sometimes uses.
While pundits have argued she's a long-shot on account of her youth, she rejects the notion, noting Robert Bourassa was 36 when he first became premier of Quebec in 1970, while Ed Schreyer was 33 when he became premier in Manitoba in 1969, the same age she'll be at the time of the next election.
"I think perhaps we have to throw out some of the stereotypes that we have of what is a politician and what is a leader and engage in the idea of new politics, which is if you have the right ideas and you do the work to engage people, then you can go forward," she said. "Age and gender shouldn't be a barrier."
As for her plan for getting the NDP elected as the government in 2015, she says the party needs to focus on Quebec and the West. She launched her campaign in Montreal as "a sign of respect" for the province that elected an unprecedented 59 New Democrats in May and she says she's committed to making Quebec issues a priority.
She also believes the NDP has a good shot at reclaiming support in its birthplace of Saskatchewan, where the party has been shut out since 2004.
"I really challenge the Conservatives in the House when they talk about how they have the moral authority to speak on behalf of Western Canadians," she said.
"There's a lot of Western Canadians that didn't vote for them and the way they're acting there will be a lot more Western Canadians that won't vote for them."
• Calling Card: Niki Ashton, the
• Age: 29
• MP for Churchill, Man.
• Born, raised and currently lives in Thompson, Man.
• Married to Ryan Barker
• Was the youngest MP in the 40th Parliament.
• For more on the Ashton campaign: www.nikiashton.ca/


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The forint currency is valid from 1 August, 1946. Since that time, there were many changes in the composition of materials, sizes and designs, old face values disappeared, new ones have been released. The lowest face value of our small change was 2 fillér, the highest one until now the 200 forint. Between 1946 and 1999 five filler values (1,2,5,10,20 and 50 filler) were in circulation. Since 1993 eight denominations – 1,2,5,10,20,50,100,200 – of forint coins had been valid as legal tender of Hungary. With some excepts (silver 5 forint of1946-47 and 200 forint coins between 1992-1998), the small change is struck of various types of brasses of base metals. In 1996, the original copper-nickel 100 forint was replaced by a ferrous bicolor coin. The halfsilver 200 forint coins were recalled in 1998, while the 1 and 2 forint denominations in 2008. However, the withdrawn denominations remained and are used as counting units. According to the new Constitution (Basic Law) of Hungary, from 1st January, 2012 the legend of the forint coins Magyar Köztársaság is replaced by the legend Magyarország. Valid coins with old legend remain legal tenders.
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Ha'ena Napali – Hawaii
Many of the early parks and preservation projects accomplished in the United States were through legislative acts by the states. There was recognition of this growing responsibility in a relatively new field of public service. It was through early successes that such American landmarks as Niagara Falls, the California redwoods, and the San Jacinto battleground were saved for prosperity. A few years later, guided by Stephen Mather, the first National Conference on [State] Parks to promote state and other public parks was conceived, organized, convened and actively supported by practically every park and conservation luminary in the country. Held in Des Moines, Iowa in January 1921, it brought together some 200 highly motivated delegates and ignited a "prairie fire" for the development of public parks across America. From the success of this auspicious convocation of modest beginnings grew a national state park movement that has achieved unimaginable success.1 1Adapted from The State Park Movement in America by Ney Landrum
America's State Parks today include more than 2,200 traditional state parks and more than 8,100 additional areas that provide wonderful outdoor recreation experiences and unique historical, scientific and environmental education opportunities. Eighteen and one-half million acres provide for grand diversity – from the vastness of a half-million acre mountainous landscape, to the colorful intricacies of a living coral reef, to the world's longest stalactite formation, to the tallest sand on the Atlantic seaboard, to the historic locations where European settlers first came to America, and much more. This mosaic of the natural resources and cultural fabric of America and the splendor of its beauty are enjoyed by 791 million visitors to state parks annually. Both remote and resort in their offerings, America's State Parks are indeed yours to explore and experience.
Now, as during the past century and the beginning of the state park movement, the support of partners are invaluable to success of parks. America's State Parks have long been recognized their accessibility, and for their effectiveness and management efficiencies.
Support from individuals, friends groups and corporate America are central to continuing to provide and advance quality outdoor recreation experiences and opportunities in America's State Parks and safeguard their importance to the nation's environment, heritage, health and economy.
Join those that are committed to advancing
America's State Parks!
To donate, become a partner or receive more information, email:


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Holder with porcelain tumbler
cod: 52901.34
Clean with a mild soap, apply with a damp cloth, rub lightly, leave it briefly and then rinse with water. Finally polish with a soft, dry cloth. To remove limestone stains, clean with a solution of water (80%) an white vinegar (20%), to sanitize you may a


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The man you see here is Eric Schnupp, the offensive line coach for the Baylor Bears. Saturday afternoon was a rough one for Schnupp and his team; they lost 58-10 to undefeated Kansas. Fortunately, Schnupp was unfazed by the shellacking and found a way to inspire his troops.
Well, we supposed it depends on what kind of inspiration you respond to. If you are fired up when your coach urinates on bars, Schnupp's your man.
Waco police issued a misdemeanor citation charging disorderly conduct-indecent exposure to Baylor assistant football coach Eric Schnupp early Sunday morning after an incident in which a man urinated on a bar at a campus-area club. It happened around closing time Sunday, after the Bears blowout 58-10 loss to Kansas on Saturday.
We respect that Schnupp pulled the stunt on campus; if you're gonna fire up the troops by whizzing in the domestic drafts, it's best to do it where everyone you know can see you.
BU Assistant Coach Cited After Incident In Bar [KWTX]
(Every Day Should Be Saturday has a rather outstanding take on this.)


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[First published November 10, 2005. Among all the democide estimates appearing here, some have been revised upward. I have changed that for Mao's famine, 1958-1962, from zero to 38,000,000. And thus I have had to change the overall democide for the PRC (1928-1987) from 38,702,000 to 76,702,000.
I have changed my estimate for colonial democide from 870,000 to an additional 50,000,000.
Thus, the new world total: old total 1900-1999 = 174,000,000. New World total = 174,000,000 + 38,000,000 (new for China) + 50,000,000 (new for Colonies) = 262,000,000.
Just to give perspective on this incredible murder by government, if all these bodies were laid head to toe, with the average height being 5′, then they would circle the earth ten times. Also, this democide murdered 6 times more people than died in combat in all the foreign and internal wars of the century. Finally, given popular estimates of the dead in a major nuclear war, this total democide is as though such a war did occur, but with its dead spread over a century.]
What is the greatest source of democide?
First, I should note that by democide I mean to define the killing by governments as the concept of murder defines individual killing in domestic society. And it is focusing on this democide, rather than the genocide that is one of its components, which uncovers the true dimensions of mass murder in the world.
Since democide is a government activity or policy, we must consider what type of governments are the worse murderers. Is there a political factor that discriminates between mortacracies–governments characterized by murder–and those who may kill incidentally or situationally? Yes, totalitarianism. Almost without exception, totalitarian governments are or have been mortacracies.
There is much confusion about what totalitarian means in the literature. I define a totalitarian state as one with a system of government that is unlimited constitutionally or by countervailing powers in society (such as by a church, rural gentry, labor unions, or regional powers); is not held responsible to the public by periodic elections via secret ballot, and competitive elections; and employs its unlimited power to control all aspects of society, including the family, religion, education, business, private property, and social relationships. Under Stalin, the Soviet Union was thus totalitarian, as was Mao's China, Pol Pot's Cambodia, Hitler's Germany, and U Ne Win's Burma. Presently, North Korea is a prime example.
Totalitarianism is also an ideology for which a totalitarian government is the agency for realizing its ends. Thus, totalitarianism characterizes such ideologies as state socialism (as in Burma), Marxism-Leninism as in the former Soviet Union, and Italian fascism. Then, of course, there is Nazism, the Nationalsozialistische Deutsche Arbeiterpartei–National Socialist German Workers' Party — although racist and nationalist doctrines dominated, economically, all become subverted to the Party, as under communism; as Hitler said: "We are socialists." Other versions of totalitarianism dot the modern world, such as the socialist Baathist Party that ruled Iraq under Hussein and still rules Syria.
Not all totalitarianism is socialist. Theological totalitarianism, for example, characterized the Taliban, does so for revolutionary Moslem Iran since the overthrow of the Shaw in 1978-79 and Saudi Arabia. Here totalitarianism is married to Moslem fundamentalism.
In short, totalitarianism is the ideology of absolute power.
The worst of the totalitarian governments, however, by far have been the socialist. Socialist self-righteousness, desire to radically reconstruct the fundamental institution of society (throwing out the institutional evolution and cultural learning of generations), the belief that those who disagree are evil, and that one must "break eggs to make an omelet," have led to monumental democide, as for example by the Soviet Union (about 61 million murdered), Mao's China (about 35 million), and so on for all the communist regimes, as well as the nationalist socialists like Germany (21 million), state socialist like Burma, Baathists like Syria and Hussein's Iraq, socialist Libya, and so on. See the figure below.
The details of communist democide are below:
By my count (here) for 1900-1987, totalitarian regimes murdered about 138 million (communist regimes about 110 million out of 169 million overall for all governments. Electoral or procedural democracies murdered 2 million (149 thousand domestic, mainly due to the Spanish Civil War); liberal democracies murdered none of their citizens.
Some, mainly on the left, argue that my figures for communist systems are way too high, while being too low for democracies, especially like the United States. Okay, cut in half all my estimates for communist systems, and double those for democracies. That leaves the communist murdering 55 million versus 4 million for the democracies (almost all wartime democide against enemy civilians). We can even go further and do this again, and the conclusion remains the same–nondemocratic socialism is one of the great threats to human life. In other words, as far as democide is concerned, the major danger, by far, is from the nondemocratic far left.
Be clear, regimes on the right, such as the absolute monarchies and non-socialist fascists like Chiang's Nationalist government of China (10 million murdered) and Japan's WWII military government (6 million), also committed major democide, but overall much less than the Marxists. Truly, we can say of communism, it is death by Marxism.


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As we honor National Chemistry Week, we wanted to highlight the largest living bio-filter system in North America. In the new Papadakis Integrated Sciences Building on the West Philadelphia campus of Drexel University, you will find a bio-filtration laboratory that features a visually captivating wall of plants. The meandering wall of plants that extends upward by five stories includes Algerian Ivy, Ficus and Hibiscus. This network of vegetation grows hydroponically between two layers of material with the texture of a Brillo pad and without soil. The root system acts as a giant air filter and removes indoor pollutants and contaminants. As air is drawn into the wall and passes through the wall, it comes in contact with water.
Hydroponics is the technology of growing plants by using mineral nutrient solutions in water without using soil. The air has chemicals in it and when these chemicals encounter the water, they are absorbed in the root system of the plants. According to research, bacteria and fungi live on the roots of the plants and eat those chemicals, then remove them from the air.
When you can incorporate natural air filtration in your home by using plants to compliment your furnace air filtration system, then you will help to remove the airborne pollutants and contaminants that plague your indoor air and affect your breathing. Make sure that anything problematic with your indoor air such as smoking, dust or routinely changing your indoor air filters is tackled first. Many people are beginning to utilize aquaculture and hydroponics, as they create their indoor residential bio-filtration system with plants. Being proactive by improving the quality of the indoor air you breathe, will help to reduce allergies and other breathing-related problems that could significantly increase your medical costs.


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May 22, 2017 Jim Franco
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39 minutes ago
Pic of the DAY! ... See MoreSee Less
1 hour ago
Yoga Class will resume Tuesday July7th at 6:15pm outside the Clubhouse. ... See MoreSee Less
Capital District Transportation Authority - CDTA
20 hours ago
As the Capital Region heats up, we're keeping you cool with bus service from Troy, New York to Grafton Lakes State Park !
Service begins today and will run until September 7. For details visit, www.cdta.org/news/grafton-lakes-summer-service-0 ... See MoreSee Less
Comment on Facebook As the Capital ...
When will morning buses back to normal schedule
YeArs ago the CDTA predecessor did this - ran busses. To Thacher State Park when lincoln park pool closed in Albany because of draught.
Wicked! Glad you guys are offering this service. Sorely needed.
That's very nice of the CDTA to do that with their buses
23 hours ago
EV (Electric Vehicle) charging station installation work continues at Adams Station! ... See MoreSee Less
Comment on Facebook EV (Electric ...
I know this is revolting, but I really get a charge out of this!
1 day ago
Looking for a safe activity for 4th of July weekend? Grab a @cdphpcycle bike and ride for just $5/hour!
New safety measures in place to keep you healthy! Download the @cdphpcycle app today and find a bike closest to you. ... See MoreSee Less
2 days ago
Feeling crafty? We have a couple of easy wreath kits available at the Clubhouse. Please feel free to stop by and pick one up. Or, if you are not feeling crafty, but would like a new wreath we have a sample wreath we'd love to give to someone who can put it on their cottage front door. Just let us know 😊 ... See MoreSee Less
2 days ago
Pic of the DAY! ... See MoreSee Less
Comment on Facebook Pic of the DAY!
Wish this were Delmar?
Let's go!!!!!
Please be advised of reroutes in place today due to construction on Hoosick Street. For details: www.cdta.org/service-advisories ... See MoreSee Less
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What happened
Progress continues on our second BRT line as we get ready to welcome customers to the new line in the fall. More to come as we get closer to completion! ... See MoreSee Less
CDTA expands Troy garage to prepare for Blue Line serviceTROY — Workers are busy expanding the Capital District Transportation Authority's Troy...
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Ty god bless
7 days ago
Don't forget our "Virtual Movie Night" is happening tomorrow. The movie is The Bookshop and you can watch it for free with your Bethlehem Library Card on Kanopy (details are in the weekly newsletter from last week). It looks like it is also available on Amazon PrimeVideo, Hulu and DirectTV, if you have those streaming services.
Be sure to share if it was a "thumb's up" here on our Facebook page after you watch the film.
www.imdb.com/title/tt3127022/ ... See MoreSee Less
Comment on Facebook Directed by Isabel ...
If you have had a chance to watch this movie, let us know what you thought. 👍 or 👎.


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Space horror, comedy orgies, revenge-seeking Mossad agents, and, yes, sharks in 3D round out a weekend that is tailor-made to keep you on the beach for as long as possible. You're welcome, "The Help."
Jason Sudeikis and his lifelong friends resolve to have one last bash before his dad sells the house in the Hamptons, promising to go out with a (gang)bang. Co-stars Tyler Labine, Lake Bell, Will Forte, Lucy Punch and Nick Kroll. In limited release, read our review and watch the trailer
The Debt
Sam Worthington and Jessica Chastain are members of a team of Mossad agents sent to Berlin to capture a Nazi war criminal, Helen Mirren plays Chastain's older self, who most come out of retirement to clean up the mess they left behind. In theaters everywhere, read our review and watch the trailer
Apollo 18
It's "The Blair Witch Project: Dark of the Moon"! This new film shows "found footage" that explains the real story behind why we never, ever went back to the moon--assume you 're one of those nuts who believe we actually went there. In theaters everywhere, watch the trailer
U.S. & World
Shark Night 3D
A group of college kids head of to a lake for a weekend of fun, but wind be hunted by a gang of shark-welding hillbillies. In theaters everywhere, watch the trailer
Gainsbourg: A Heroic Life
A film about the late great lecherous pop star, following his life from unhappy childhood as a Russian Jew in WW II France to stardom to misery. In limited release, read our review and watch the trailer
Love Crime
Kristen Scott Thomas and Ludivine Sagnier star in this psychological thriller about a manipulative and sadistic boss in a game of cat-and-mouse with her beautiful and talented assistant--but who's the cat and who's the mouse? In limited release, watch the trailer
Saving Private Perez
The leader of a Mexican drug cartel assembles a ragtag team of to go to Iraq and save his POW brother--yes, it;'s a comedy. In limited release, watch the trailer
Seven Days in Utopia
Lucas Black stars as a struggling pro golfer who relearns golf and life from Robert Duvall. Co-starring Melissa Leo and Deborha Ann Woll. In limited release, watch the trailer


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There have been a great number of photos and videos released since NASA's Curiosity rover touched down on Mars on 06 August 2012. The video above is – without question – the very best of the bunch. Continue reading
Category Archives: Technology
Vision of the future includes embedded augmented reality
It has been a few weeks (okay, two months) since I last posted to The Road Not Taken but when I saw the video below I knew I had to repost it as soon as possible. The futuristic film comes from creators Eran May-raz and Daniel Lazo as a part of their graduation project from Bezaleal Academy of Arts that illustrates some provocative uses for embedded augmented reality. Continue reading
Robotic stair master
I had meant to post this video some weeks ago but got caught up in a number of other social media related discussions that were a bit more salient at the time. That said, I've been a big fan (and critic) of some of the more recent innovations in robotics and this new clip shows some interesting advancements in the anthropomorphic sector of the field. Continue reading
The most engaging brands on Facebook
There's been an enormous amount of press given to Facebook these past few weeks – even more so than the normally copious volumes – due to the impending $100 billion initial public offering. However, even as investment bankers prepare to snap up their shares and subsequently dump them some hours or days later, some companies are beginning to break ranks from the social behemoth. Continue reading
Marketing software round-up
WordStream, a provider of search marketing software and pay-per-click services, published the handy infographic above earlier this week. Titled the "WordStream Internet Marketing 150" the list is a compilation of the top software and software-as-a-service providers "…currently doing business in 10 major business categories, including content marketing and blogging, conversion rate optimization, crowdsourcing, email marketing, marketing automation, pay-per-click (PPC) marketing, search engine optimization, social media management, video hosting and management, and web analytics." Continue reading
Communications through the ages
The richness and sophistication of human communications is often what separates us from the other inhabitants of planet Earth. While we can't say for certain what the various clicks, hoots, howls, and moans of our terrestrial brethren mean exactly, it is fair to say that we're the only group on the third planet from the Sun using YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter. Continue reading
Apple iTunes Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Have you ever wondered what the major themes are in the 27 page Terms of Service and Privacy Policy for Apple's iTunes? Well intrepid reader, wonder no more. Continue reading
A world made of glass
In February of 2011 Corning, the American glass manufacturer founded in 1851, released a video called "A Day Made of Glass" (below). The video portrays a not-too-distant future where most of the surfaces with which we interact are interactive, integrated, and intelligent. Continue reading
Angry Birds in Space
You don't have to be a NASA fan, an Angry Birds fan, or even a Don Pettit fan to truly appreciate how terrific the video above is in the grand scheme of things. There's nothing like zero gravity to help budding minds appreciate the basics of physics – which is clearly on Don's mind – in a way that's probably a bit more enthralling than the classroom. Continue reading
Facebook and Google's ad revenue per user
I like how people say Facebook is eating Google's lunch. The former generates $4.39 per user compared to Google's more than $30. Dig in.—
Marshall Stanton (@marshallstanton) March 27, 2012


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[Intro: Ghostface Killah]
Tommy Hil' rockin' ice niggas
Tommy Hil' ice rockin' niggas who fuck—
Mira, aprende
Take a one on one to this shit, y'all (Yeah)
Get your nostrils clear (Yeah)
Come on, sniff your brains out all my Al Capone, Al Pacino niggas (Yeah, word up)
Who's down with drug smugglin' (Cappadonna, Golden Arms), yo, yo
[Verse 1: Ghostface Killah]
Check out the rap kingpin, the black Jesus
I know a few niggas sniff coke and caught seizures
Peace to half-moon Caesars and all the bitches in the bleachers
Hot weather, sex on the beaches
Jewelry shoppin' out of the country, deluxe luxury
People sayin' that my chains look truck on me
But what about the Wonder Woman bracelet?
Two-oh point three diamond cut engraved rubies kid, I laced it
My sweet tooth gotta nigga throbbin', ready for robbin'
But first, hit Maria's for a butter almond
The bionic microphone and smack mechanic
Move like a bunch of Mexicans with bandanas
Son, it's on, so we can just max a million
I got the spot sewn so we can make a billion
The God's tropical, ladies call me black fruit punch
Rainbow flavor niggas murder niggas for lunch
Peace to the Paris Crew and the avenue, and my nigga Jay Love
Who carry switchblades on the reg, duke
[Verse 2: Cappadonna]
Yo, the first branch, the third leaf, whoever want it got beef
I politic, show love, crush those who dare creep
Into my realm of sunshine, I praise divine
Fine line between Donna, dumb, deaf and blind
He ain't mine, he shook like the faggots in daytime
Crossed over grain while we was bubblin' moonshine
Sippin' on a Moët, laid up, Rae-Gambino
Mastermind the plan, Tony Starks, Cappachino
Developed while your head be swellin' up off of the Nation
Blinded by the ice while I release the confrontation
Donna holy fat bags of weed, ravioli pasta
Bodyguard the Killa Bee songs like Kevin Costner
Infrared all inside your bumbo, rasta
Cappadonna pimp the derby like the mobster
[Interlude: Big Un & Raekwon]
Yeah, yeah
Ayy, spaghetti lame brain-ass niggas
Quarters, nickels, and dimes, bitch, 'cept for overtime, nigga
Any ass money suit me fine
'Cause I'm coming strong, breaking niggas backs, keepin' shit real
If you haven't noticed, bitchy-ass, rusty-ass nigga
Let me tell you this one time
Tony Starks, Raekwon the chef
Cappachino and Golden Arms is coming through mad strong
From the isles of Shaolin
For all them faggot-ass, rusty, chickenhead bitches, too
Shup Shup baby? (Yo)
[Verse 3: Raekwon]
Back in the days, baggin' crack, scrapin' plates
Flippin' cakes who them heavy head niggas hatin' Jakes?
It be us, wall to wall soldiers, hangin' in halls gettin' over
City niggas shoot for blood money, rockin' Rovers
Stay dipped, don't have no money in your pocket in the streets
Why these people mob money in they Jeep?
Crack bums watch your back for jums
Cost me for a fake twenty dollar bill, get 'em son, we ain't the one
Politickin', plus vickin', sick of these Dominicans
Eatin' good, had to shoot my way up out of Bennigan's
That's life, to top it all off, beef with White
Pullin' bleach out, tryin' to throw it in my eyesight
Yo, fuck is on your mind?
Like most other tracks on Only Built 4 Cuban Linx, Raekwon finds Ghostface by his side on the mic.
Also, this track is Cappadonna's debut. He's actually pretty important to Raekwon as he taught Raekwon how to first rhyme and was supposed to be an original member of Wu. He had just got out of prison, and U-God convinced him to come down to the studio to see what was going on. Cappadonna flexed his muscles on this track and impressed everyone around.
Ignore the rumor about the sample coming from Bing Crosby's "White Christmas," because it's actually "Where Do We Go From Here" by Delores Hall.


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From the born of Internet, web browser is the most commonly used software in the Web World, There have a great variety of web browsers on the internet, the most important web browsers include Internet Explorer, FireFox, Opera, Maxthon, Netscape, Google Chrome and Safari, then which is fastest web browser? There are a thousand Hamlets in a thousand people's eyes, because Internet content is always changing, the web pages load times may get different timings when you run these tests.
For Windows platform, Internet Explorer is most popular web browser, but for many people, Internet Explorer is too strong and too big, it will become slower and slower, there have too many plug-ins and spams launched with Internet Explorer, it will become hard to use and slow very much. Program can use the newest IE8 core, it is a vast improvement over old version, especially in performance.
Fastest Web Browser
Fastest Web Browser is one tab browser, it allow you to view multiple web pages in the same browser without the need to open a new browser session. Each tab functions like a Browser window to display distinct content, but you can switch back and forth between tabs without opening more Browser windows, tabbed browsing lets you view many different websites at one time.
File mirror provided by SoftSea.
Main Features
- Fast - quickly browse and launch;
- Small - standalone program, no installation need, can run from Flash Disk (only 820KB);
- Tabs browser - browse multiple web pages in the same browser;
- Free - one completely freeware;
- Easy to use - no need install;
- Support all Windows versions (98/XP/2000/2003/Vista/7);
- Program can run a 64-bit version of Windows;
- Windows 7 compatibility;
- 100% Clean, no spyware or adware


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Fly your picture on the International Space Station - your pictures!
In May 2009, Belgian ESA astronaut Frank De Winne will fly to the International Space Station. De Winne will spend six months on board the Station and will conduct scientific experiments developed by scientists from different countries worldwide. School children aged 6-12 were invited to take part in a competition to design a t-shirt for De Winne to wear during his mission. This image gallery displays just a handful of the 2000 entries received.


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Product Security
Secure your distributed systems
Information on how to ensure the required security for your SAP Master Data Governance system landscape and all life cycle phases.
Deployment Options
On Premise
Use your own infrastructure or an infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS) provider. Customize and extend the solution with complete control of your environment.
Private Cloud
Experience many of the advantages offered by the public cloud and meet your industry-specific needs in a dedicated, privately-managed cloud environment.
Integration Options
Integration with SAP S/4HANA
Take advantage of next-generation business application by running SAP Master Data Governance with SAP S/4HANA.
Integration with SAP S/4HANA Finance
Align financial postings by distributing master data managed from a central source and with key mapping capabilities.
Configure and enhance master data governance
Improve activities such as financial consolidation, customer service, and supplier onboarding by tailoring SAP Master Data Governance and integrating it with your software landscape.


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Due to the wiring, the Scat Mat is for indoor use only.Close
Touch the power pack. The action indicator light will blink back the number of times it has been activated (subtract one for your touch).Close
The wires are about 1.25 inches apart.Close
You can purchase an additional Scat Mat to be placed within 12 feet of the existing Scat Mat. These connect with a 12-foot cord (included with all extensions except for the Scat Strip. The Scat Stripe extension mats snap together without the cord).Close
Testing the ScatMat
Touch the power pack. The action indicator light will blink back the number of times it has been activated (subtract one for your touch).Close
Stop using the mat immediately. If your Scat Mat is sparking, this indicates that one of the embedded wires has been broken. The sparking is caused by the electrical current attempting to complete its circuit across the broken wire. Please contact our Customer Care Center.Close
If the Scat Mat's red activity indicator light is lit when there is nothing on the mat, there are three possible causes:
If the problem persists, please contact our Customer Care Center.Close
This can be caused by electronic "noise" interference from other nearby electronic items. This interference will not impact the functionality of the Scat Mat.Close
Testing the ScatMat
Check for and remove any conductive objects that may be on the mat.Close
The indicator light is not meant to count higher than six. Once it reaches six flashes, the power pack should be reset by turning it off, waiting a few seconds and turning it back on. This is intentional - while blinking, the activation count the unit is 'disarmed' and not sensing. The count limit was therefore set at a number high enough to perform the 'tattle tale' role, but not high enough to reduce the effectiveness of the Scat Mat. The indicator light may flash once because you've just touched the mat.Close


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A Real 'eye Opener': New Eyelash Enhancer Increases Lash Line Up To 72% With No Side Effects
Description: CITY Lash increases your lash line by up to 72% with no side effects, using clinically proven ingredients and the newest lash treatment technology. In less than 40 days, it stimulates eyelash growth and extends the natural life cycle of the lash, enabling older lashes to last longer while new lashes grow. Even for the most sensitive skin and eyes, CITY Lash is safe, natural, fragrance free, never tested on animals, and contains NO prostaglandin or paraben, which can damage eyes and skin. Some products also sting, and cause redness and irritation as well as discoloration of the skin and eyes. Using clinically tested SymPeptide™, CITY Lash can also be applied to thicken eyebrows. CITY Lash should be used twice daily on clean, dry skin at the base of your upper eyelashes and allowed to dry for several minutes. Then you can apply your normal makeup. Do not apply to your lower eyelashes or contact other skin areas. Applying once daily is acceptable but will delay the growth of longer lashes. Eyelashes typically have only a three-four-month life cycle. Retail $49 at CITYCosmetics.com.
Price: $49.00


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Hi folks,
a short one to wish you all a Merry Christmas.
More importantly a safe one.
Christmas is for family and friends, yet it is often a time when family and friends are taken from us.
Please be safe this holiday period.
The following video is very distressing, but it hits me in the gut every time I watch it (and I have watched it many times).
It reminds me that while I consider myself a good driver, there are many things out of my control and while I am controlling a deadly vehicle, safety is more important that a few minutes shaved off a trip.
Arriving alive is more important than enjoying the view.
The car is neither love nest, nor boxing ring.
Stop and pay attention.
Make sure you are in the right frame of mind before getting behind the wheel.
Pull over if you are tired.
And for all that is precious, do not drive under the influence!
If you have suffered from road trauma, directly or indirectly, the video may not be for you.
If you consider yourself a good driver that can handle anything, then maybe it's worth a watch.
Gnomer and Out!


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Broken Promises for Parents of Autistic Children in CA
Posted On Behalf of Jennifer, San Mateo County (CA)
As a parent of a child with autism, the most important thing I can do is make sure that my daughter continues to receive critical early-intervention therapy. Medical research clearly shows that early and consistent therapy can make a dramatic difference in the kind of future autistic children can lead. My family, and our whole community, have a stake in this treatment.
For that reason, I am both shocked and concerned by California's lack of regard for children with autism. As the state rapidly move families covered by the Healthy Families Program over to Medi-Cal it is still unclear whether children will have the necessary medical services they need.
My daughter is 5 years old and has been receiving autism support services under Healthy Families since she was 27 months. With this support, she receives hours of Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) therapy; the leading treatment for children within the Autism Disorder Spectrum (ASD).
When she was first diagnosed, my daughter had regressed to zero eye contact and was living in a world of her own. Watching her progress through therapy has been a Godsend. Soon, my daughter was making eye contact again and even communicating with us. Here progress has affected our entire family, decreasing our stress level and increasing our quality of life. This treatment has been more than a therapy for my daughter, it has and continues to literally change her life for the better.
Unfortunately, all of these gains and the future benefit for her may be at risk.
Starting in January of this year - despite an outcry of concern by autism advocates, children's health advocates and legislators – California officials began to move to move all children covered by Healthy Families over to the Medi-Cal program. They did so with the assurance that our, "children would not lose any benefits or services they had under Healthy Families."
After initially hearing about the transfer, I immediately reached out to my insurance provider to find out the details of the transition and how it would affect our coverage. I was excited to hear that I, and in turn my daughter, would "not lose any therapy through this transition." However, when I reached out to Medi-Cal directly, they told me the opposite. To my surprise and ultimate confusion, I was told that Medi-Cal "WOULD NOT" cover ABA.
Families that have already been transferred are reporting that the type and quantity of support has been severely cut under Medi-Cal. Recently over 200 children transitioning from Healthy Families to Medi-Cal -- like my daughter -- were informed that they will no longer be able to access critical behavioral health services once transferred to a Medi-Cal health plan without an answer to why or any alternative to this abrupt discontinuation of services. Although the transfer has not yet happened for my child, I have a growing concern that we won't continue to get the treatment she deserves. Today, my daughter continues to reach all her goals, gain skills and now attends a regular preschool with an aide. My hope is to have her attend school independently but without the therapy I don't think her chances will be as great.
I am calling on Governor Jerry Brown and his administration to seek a solution immediately or suspend the future phases of the Healthy Families transition to prevent any further children from losing vital services. Lawmakers, advocates and parents were all told that this transfer would not result in a change in services for our children. It's time for them to make good on that promise.
A Special Thanks from the MomsRising Team to Jennifer for sharing her story!


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Punking Doug McCune
Identites have been protected in this blog post by means of Doug's Safe Sexting application. Any resemblance to persons living or dead should be obvious to them. (You know who you are)
So a fortnight (I wait two weeks to tell anyone anything… so I can use the word fortnight) ago, I had the opportunity, nay the privilege, to attend Doug McCune's "Cool Shit" session at 360|Flex. As many of you may heard, read or watched, there was an… incident that occurred during Doug's session.
Apparently, I have been thrown under the bus as the co-conspirator of said incident.
So let us take a journey… starting two nights prior to Doug's session.
Monday Night
A couple friends and I were hanging around the hotel after partying at the Rock Bottom. We weren't ready to call it a night. So we decided to see what else Indianapolis could offer us and we hit the streets. We quickly found ourselves at Monument Circle. That's when one of my colleagues remembered that there was some sort of crazy bowling in Indy.
We had no idea where to go until we ran into Tanner (a horse) and Sky (a man… I think). He gave us directions to duckpin bowling. However, It was too far to walk, so we went back to the hotel where we ran into some other "accomplices". After a few minutes of trying to figure out what time the duckpin bowling alley closed, one of the Crowne Plaza employees informed us that Jillians had bowling.
We headed over there with the crew. Unfortunately, the bowling alley was full. Undeterred, we went down to the video arcade. We enjoyed Hyper Bowling, Super Shot Deluxe Basketball and Ski Ball. The party came crashing down when a Jillians employee informed us that they will be closing in 30 minutes. With thousands of credits still left on our cards, we decided to see how many tickets we could win before they kicked us to the curb.
So I went to the game that gave us the greatest chance of winning loads of tickets… I'm not sure what it's called. It's the dome game with the circle of lights… Well wouldn't you know it… the first time I hit the button… I hit the jackpot of 375 tickets! I have ninja-like reflexes.
Here is a picture of one of my accomplices with a handful of tickets.
We were able to accrue around 645 tickets in less than 30 minutes, but what do you do with all of those tickets? Well, we decided to cash them out in bouncy balls… all bouncy balls (with the exception of one paratrooper).
Tuesday Night
After a great day at 360|Flex Indy. A group of us decided to try our luck at the bowling alley.
While bowling, we discussed the countless applications of 42 multi-colored, rubber bouncy balls.
Someone mentioned that Doug McCune had tweeted about shaving his chest for his session, and the ideas started flowing. Now as much as I'd love to claim that the brilliant idea of throwing bouncy balls at Doug during his session was all mine… it was truly a group effort.
Wednesday Morning
Wednesday morning rolled around, and I loaded the cup of bouncy balls into my backpack and made my way to the final keynote. We knew Doug's session would be crowded, so we were sure to sit near the stairs that led up to the room where his session would be held.
After the keynote was finished, we rushed up the stairs to Doug's room. It was already packed… people had camped out up there during the keynote.
Luckily, I was able to grab a seat in the front row. As soon as I sat down, I noticed that Doug had left the room, probably to refill his glass with water… or vodka. I quickly grabbed a handful of bouncy balls and went to work. Handing them out to the first few rows and giving them the simple instructions of.. "When Doug takes his shirt off, throw the ball at him".
I wasn't able to hand out all of the bouncy balls, as Doug re-entered the room and made his way to the front.
Then as the story goes… Doug took his shirt off…
There was a visual hesitation the moment Doug took off his shirt. Nobody was going to throw their ball… and it wasn't me… but to whomever threw their ball first… bravo!
And finally… the video speaks for itself…
And there you have it… consider yourself in the know.
I also wanted to thank Doug for being such a great sport about the whole thing. You my friend are a rockstar… Keep up the great work!


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From page 58 of ToyFare Magazine #153:
"The 30th Anniversary of Empire Strikes Back, plus the revelation that Boba Fett will be appearing in the animated Clone Wars series, really triggered our decision," says Derryl DePriest, Vice President, Global Brand Marketing at Hasbro, Inc. "We decided to give fans the one figure that was promised so tantalizingly but never really delivered in the way it was offered. I ordered six of these myself as a kid with the relentless hope that I would get one that fired. Now, 30 years later, my wish is finally fulfilled."
Thanks to BFFC fan Peter G. for the tip and TF.N for typing the excerpt.


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Cartoon characters are helping Kathy Puskas make sure employees at Jergens Inc. learn more about the benefits and wellness initiatives available at the Cleveland company. Many of the 175 people who work for the maker of industrial tools and supplies have had a tendency to ignore information the company sends out on those topics. Thus, Ms. Puskas decided she needed to do something to get their attention. With the help of human resource consulting firm Findley Davies Inc., which has a Cleveland office, Jergens teamed up with nationally syndicated cartoonist and Cleveland-area resident Jenny Campbell, who then helped create the mascots "Chip" and "Scrap." Now, twice a month, a new cartoon featuring the two characters appears on big monitors throughout the plant and in the email in-boxes of salaried employees. Scrap doesn't take the time to learn about his benefits and generally leads an unhealthy lifestyle. Chip, meanwhile, pays attention and is better off for it. The campaign seems to be working so far, since employees have been asking questions about topics in the cartoons, Jergens chief financial officer Wes Howard said in the nomination. Ms. Puskas — who also created a "spread the word" campaign in which benefit information is sent directly to spouses and dependents on Jergens plans — keeps her eye out for new ways to explain benefits while also bringing "a fresh spin to health and wellness," Mr. Howard said in the nomination.
Kathy Puskas
human resources director, Jergens Inc.


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Video: Paula Deen Makes 'Halloween Snakes' on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno
Oh, Paula. She was a guest on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno last night where she made "Halloween Snakes," or Pillsbury crescent roll burritos stuffed with meat, cheese, and mustard. And olives for eyeballs, naturally. During the segment, we get to watch her drop an earring ("Oh no, my earring broke!"), twist open a Pillsbury tube (the pop gets us every time too), and make awkward double entendres about snakes. She also shared her Halloween dress-up plans—she's gonna be a fairy princess, y'all! Watch the clip, after the jump.
Paula Deen on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Part I
Paula Deen on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Part 2
More Paula
- Paula Deen to Launch a Line of Fresh Produce »
- PaulaDeenisms »
- As Imagined: 'Pole Dancing with Paula Deen, Y'all!' »
- Paula Deen's Sweet Potato Biscuits »
- Paula Deen on Conan O'Brien »
- Paula Deen's Deep-Fried Mac&Cheese Bacon Bites »
- Paula Deen Is Trying to Kill Us, the whole series »
- Photo of the Day: The Back of Paula Deen's Head »
All products linked here have been independently selected by our editors. We may earn a commission on purchases, as described in our affiliate policy.


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Experience even more of the magic at Walt Disney World Resort with FastPass+. Now, you can experience the Walt Disney World parks the way you want, both before and after your team competes at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.
If you are going to be a Guest of a Disney Resort hotel, learn more about all of the exciting FastPass+ options available with your hotel stay.
Specially-Priced Theme Parks & Resorts
Take advantage of specially-priced Walt Disney World® Theme Park and Resort Packages, available specifically for this event. In addition to the Resort amenities like the ESPN Wide World of Sports Channel, your team will celebrate with heart–pounding rides like Expedition Everest® at Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Park or Rock 'N' Roller Coaster® Starring Aerosmith at Disney's Hollywood Studios®.
Competing at ESPN Wide World of Sports is a magical experience both on and off the field!
For complete details, including any travel purchase requirements for this event, visit the Planning Tab above.
Team Travel Solutions
Our service and expertise ensure an event experience like no other! Traveling with a team can be hard work, so we've designed solutions to help you make the most of your trip. Our Disney Parks Moms Panelists can answer your Disney travel questions, and our team meal delivery options and expert sports photography services allow you to pre-plan for meals and memories. Once you arrive, you'll find first-class event management at a family-friendly environment for team, complete with on-site Guest Relations Cast Members for any day-of needs. Start planning today by clicking the Planning tab above.
Disney's Magical Express
Magical Express offers the perfect game plan for a hassle free arrival to and from Orlando International Airport. This exclusive, complimentary shuttle and luggage delivery service conveniently provides transportation for your team from Orlando International Airport to and from Walt Disney World® owned and operated resorts.*
For more information about Disney's Magical Express, please see the transportation section via the Planning tab above.
*Disney's Magical Express is not available if your team will not be staying at a Hotel of the Walt Disney World Resort.
Professional Quality Competition Venues
Competing at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort means you'll get to play where the pros play. Home of the Atlanta Braves Spring Training and the Walt Disney World® Pro Soccer Classic, ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex features professionally maintained competition venues. Click the Map to the right for a detailed view of the Complex.
July 13, 2020 – July 19, 2020
Registration Deadline:
June 5, 2020
International Registration:
All international teams must be fully registered 45 days before the tournament: May 29, 2020.
This is an FYSA Sanctioned Tournament, which is open to all USSF/FIFA affiliated organizations for boys and girls.
Age Divisions:
Player Eligibility:
Ages 9 through 19 may participate. Ages are based on USYSA guidelines for 2019/2020 birth year and season.
Moderate – High
Team entry fee for nonpackaged (room only) teams:
U9 - U10 (7v7) $850.00
U11 - U12 (9v9) $899.00
U13 - U19 (11v11) $1,150.00
Team entry fee for packaged teams:
Disney Soccer Sales Office
Phone: 407-938-3805
Email Us
You must be registered for an event during this weekend to see participant content.


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14 Night FLL-FLL
14 Night FLL-FLL
Cruise Line: Princess Cruises
Cruise Ship: Enchanted Princess
Departs: Sat, Jan 23, 2021 Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
Arrives: Sat, Feb 06, 2021 Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
Dates & Prices
Special Offers
Up to $200 onboard credit (spending cash) per cabin on this sailingMention Promo Code: PC-AT100
Princess Plus. Best Value. All Destinations. All StateroomsMention Promo Code: PC-44902
Princess Plus. Best Value. All Destinations. All Staterooms
Princess Plus. Best Value. All Destinations. All Staterooms
Promotion Details
- Premier Beverage Package with tips: everything from cocktails, beer and wine to specialty coffees, smoothies and bottled water.
- Unlimited Wi-Fi: The best internet package, you can video chat and text with family back home, stream your favorite shows and check email.
- Full Gratuities paid to the crew on your behalf.
Offer may not be available on all sailings and is capacity controlled, contact your Travel Consultant for applicable sailings.
General Terms (applicable to all portions of Princess Plus) – Available to legal residents of the 50 United States, DC, Canada, and Puerto Rico. One guest's participation in Princess Plus may be dependent on the other guest in his/her stateroom's participation in Princess Plus, as determined by booking method. Princess Plus is contingent on ship capacity and only available on select voyages, while capacity lasts. Princess Plus and its parts are non-transferable, is not redeemable for cash at any point, and may not be combined with other offers or other onboard credits. Drinks, Wi-Fi, and Gratuities are only available on board the ship (not applicable to land portion of cruisetours), may only be used on a single voyage, and expire at the end of such voyage. Only available on cruises/voyages indicated as Princess Plus.
*Fares are per guest and apply to minimum lead-in categories on a space-available basis at time of booking. Fares are non-air, cruise- or cruisetour-only, based on double occupancy and apply to the first two guests in a stateroom. Fares and other values quoted in U.S. dollars.
†Premier Beverage Package applies to guests booked in all stateroom types. It is valid only for guests who are 21 years or older. Guests who are under 21 years of age at the time of sailing can still book Princess Plus, but will receive the Premier Coffee & Soda Package and will not receive any refund or otherwise for that portion of the Offer. A daily limit on alcoholic beverages will apply. Bar tips are included in the package and value per day stated.
‡‡Wi-Fi included for one device per guest. Wi-Fi details will be delivered pre-cruise or to the stateroom. All internet usage subject to Princess Cruises' standard policies, which may limit browsing of sites due to network security and bandwidth usage. Applications that use high bandwidth may be blocked and offerings subject to change with or without notice.
‡Gratuities valid on select items only and are in U.S. dollar amounts. Amount of gratuities paid on behalf of guest may vary based on stateroom type. This amount is paid on the behalf of guests (up to 4) in a stateroom only. Princess Plus does not include gratuities added to bar charges, dining room wine accounts, or Lotus Spa services.
Military Personnel Offer!Mention Promo Code: PC-29611
Military Personnel Offer!
Military Personnel Offer!
Promotion Details
This offer is valid for a maximum of two military personnel per booking.
• This offer is combinable with other Onboard Credit offers.
• This offer is non-transferable.
• This offer cannot be used for casino credits/charges.
• This offer is combinable with most cruise fares. Some restrictions apply.
• Applications to receive this benefit must be made no later than 14 days prior to the cruise departure date.
Offer is valid for eligible military personnel in the United States and Canada only. Maximum of two onboard credit offers per stateroom. This offer cannot be used for casino credits/charges. Onboard spending money is applied to the folio of the veteran or active duty personnel's stateroom. Offer excludes Travel Agent fares. Offer is combinable with other Onboard Credit offers. Other restrictions may apply.
Eligibility includes active military, retired military and disable military veterans with proper verification as outlined below.
Please ensure that documentation provided has the Social Security Number crossed out.
Active personnel currently serving in the following service divisions:
i - United States Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, National Guard or Reserves with a copy of a military verification certificate confirming active duty status available for free online at Servicemembers Civil Relief Act website.
ii - Canadian National Defense -- CF1FC Silver Card with the word Veteran in the lower left corner for retired or the initials CAF for active military.
Retired Personnel defined as A) enlisted personnel or officers with a minimum of 20 years of service, B) medically retired, or C) 100% disabled. Proper identification for United States is DD214, WD AGO (War Department Adjunct General Form) or NAVPERS (Naval Personnel Discharge Form). For Canadians, NDI 75 - Record of Service Identification Card or CF 75 or cert ificate of discharge; is used.
Veterans with an Honorable Discharge serving a minimum of 2 years or 6 months in an active war zone in any of the United States service divisions listed above or in the Canadian National Defense. Proper identification in the form of a DD 214, plus a current photo ID is required. For Canadians, Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) Health Identification Card is used.
|Jan 23, 2021
|Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
|4:00 p.m.
|Jan 24, 2021
|Princess Cays, Bahamas
|9:00 a.m.
|5:00 p.m.
|Jan 25, 2021
|At Sea
|Jan 26, 2021
|St. Thomas, Virgin Islands
|10:00 a.m.
|10:00 p.m.
|Jan 27, 2021
|St. Maarten
|7:00 a.m.
|6:00 p.m.
|Jan 28, 2021
|At Sea
|Jan 29, 2021
|At Sea
|Jan 30, 2021
|Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
|6:00 a.m.
|4:00 p.m.
|Jan 31, 2021
|At Sea
|Feb 01, 2021
|Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
|7:00 a.m.
|4:00 p.m.
|Feb 02, 2021
|Majahual, Mexico
|12:00 p.m.
|8:00 p.m.
|Feb 03, 2021
|Roatan, Honduras
|7:00 a.m.
|6:00 p.m.
|Feb 04, 2021
|Cozumel, Mexico
|10:00 a.m.
|10:00 p.m.
|Feb 05, 2021
|At Sea
|Feb 06, 2021
|Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
|6:00 a.m.
Ship Information
Built Year
Pax Capacity
Registration Country


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Bankside Community Space
It is essential to have regular check ups to maintain the durability of your bike and roadworthiness. At Better Bankside we offer all this for free to our members!
At our drop off & collect bike fixing service the Dr Bike mechanics will check:
- General roadworthiness
- Brake pads & cables are functioning properly
- Gears are functioning properly
- Wheels are spinning/aligned correctly
- Tyres well inflated and no indication of any inner tube punctures
Depending how long it takes to complete the work on your bike, the mechanics may be able to carry out additional repairs. Mechanics will also diagnose and note any serious problems which are too complex/time-intensive to fix at this session and advise what work needs to be done to correct the issue. All participants will receive a feedback sheet outlining the repairs undertaken and work still needed.
We have a limited number of spaces, and run on a first come first served basis, so book early to avoid disappointment!
Jan 21 2015


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I have a 2006 Dodge Ram 2500 pickup truck with a Cummins diesel. The accumulator charging nipple rusted out and the accumulator needs to be replaced.
When we tried to connect the replacement accumulator to the coil nipple protruding from the firewall, they would not firmly connect. You can insert the connector fully into the nipple but they do not "click" into a firm connection. Tried two accumulators with same result. The old accumulator has no problem connecting.
Mechanic says the entire coil assembly under the dash needs to be replaced (at great cost). Is there a work around to avoid replacing a perfectly good coil assembly?
Accumulator connector will not connect with firewall nipple
Friendly format provided to inquire about automotive a/c systems.
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