Unlike a panel of experts at a certain outfit in Bristol, Connecticut, I go back to my pre-season predictions and own up to them.
And like all 16 panelists over at ESPN, I did not pick the Washington Redskins to make the NFL playoffs.
I also did not have the Minnesota Vikings going anywhere near post-season.
But I did pick the Indianapolis Colts for the playoff!
As a one-time Indy coach would say…PLAYOFFS!!!???
To recap my pre-season won-loss predictions on each team…
- I picked the correct won-loss records for four teams, and within a half-game on a fifth.
- I was within one game on 12 other teams, meaning I was only within one win/loss on 17 of 32 teams in all.
- I correctly picked five of the six AFC playoff participants, including all four division winners, which were the same as last year. I also picked two of the NFC Division champs, only missing on the NFC East and the NFC West, where I picked a bit of an upset that didn’t quite happen. In all I got nine of the 12 playoff teams right.
- I had the correct finishing order in two of the eight divisions.
All in all, not a bad body of work – now for the capsule reviews…
New England 13-3 (predicted 12-4)
As I said pre-season, the Patriots would not have a difficult time keeping things on cruise control without much competition in the AFC East. And they wound up with the #2 seed in the playoffs.
Miami 7-9 (predicted 3-13)
I had the Dolphins with an awful record not knowing how quickly Ryan Tannehill would develop, among other factors. Next year will be key in determining whether Miami can make the next step to contender.
NY Jets 6-10 (predicted 6-10)
Turns out I had the record right on easily the most overhyped team in the NFL. In the aftermath, GM Mike Tannenbaum ended up going down on New Year’s Eve along with the Christmas ornaments.
Buffalo 6-10 (predicted 7-9)
The Bills were a Wild Card pick by some prognosticators, I was not among them. If Ken Whisenhunt indeed takes over in Orchard Park, he will have the same deal he had to deal with last few years in Arizona, finding an upgrade at quarterback.
Baltimore 11-5 (predicted 10-6)
The Ravens have a tall order (Denver/New England on road if they can beat Indianapolis) if they are to make my pre-season pick of winning it all come true. The team had little momentum in December, but the Ray Lewis retirement announcement suddenly makes things interesting
Cincinnati 10-6 (predicted 7-9)
The Bengals make the playoffs for third time in four years, but you can tell the team still isn’t getting respect with early Saturday Wild Card slot – which has a ‘First Four’ feel to it. The Bengals are sick of seeing Mike Mayock, I’m sure, so they would like to get past first round this time around.
Pittsburgh 8-8 (predicted 10-6)
Slowly unraveled throughout the year, and 2013 will be key in seeing if Mike Tomlin’s team can turn it around. Ben Roethlisberger and Troy Polamalu are among those now on the back-nine of their careers.
If things get worse Behind the Steel Curtain, they can always give homie Mike McCarthy a call.
Cleveland 5-11 (predicted 6-10)
Winning a pre-season game in Green Bay remains one of the most significant victories in recent Browns history. Now under new management, the Browns will be starting over yet again in ’13.
Houston 12-4 (predicted 11-5)
For much of the season it appeared the Texans had taken the next step to elite, but after limping to the regular season finishing line they have the exact same #3 seed as last year. Houston won in Denver early in the year, but if they get past the WC round next stop would be New England, where they were routed in December.
Indianapolis 11-5 (predicted 8-8)
Not one of the 17 teams that I came within a game of predicting the correct record. How could I possibly be three games off? But almost no one had Blue Horseshoe anywhere close to 8-8, and there were a lot of 2-14/3-13 predictions back in August. That was before the Chuck Pagano health situation occurred, which turned out to be one of NFL stories of this year and any recent year.
Tennessee 6-10 (predicted 7-9)
Going even back to his U-Dub Huskies days, I have never been sold on Jake Locker. This organization has to make a decision soon on whether he is a long-term answer.
Jacksonville 2-14 (predicted 5-11)
I did not predict the Jaguars to do much, and they didn’t even match that expectation. At least if they could repeat 2-14 next year they can be in the Jadeveon Clowney Sweepstakes.
Denver 13-3 (predicted 10-6)
I hedged my bets with the Broncos pre-season not knowing how far back Peyton Manning would be able to make it. If you believe the Vegas books, the Broncos are now slight favorites to win it all – but Brady/Belichick will likely be in the way in the Conference Championship.
If they get past that – a possible Super Bowl re-dux w/Green Bay 15 years later??
San Diego 7-9 (predicted 7-9)
I usually have the Chargers pegged for around the right record, and at least it was bad enough to finally chase Norv Turner/A.J. Smith out. The record is especially bad considering the other garbage in the division.
Oakland 4-12 (predicted 6-10)
Remember when Al Davis proclaimed his team as the “most successful team in pro sports history.” Somewhere Mike Shanahan is LHAO.
Kansas City 2-14 (predicted 8-8)
The team I was farthest off on. Some people had the Chiefs sneaking into the Wild Card. But to put things into perspective, KC had five players selected to the Pro Bowl (including punter Dustin Colquitt, who got lot of practice). By comparison the Green Bay Packers had three Pro Bowl invites. At least there is talent in KC. It can be turned around if they find a QB and the proper front office people.
Washington 10-6 (predicted 6-10)
I thought going in the Redskins had potential but that there would be too much competition in the NFC East, even if RG3 was good out of the box. The Skins proved me wrong, I own up to it.
NY Giants 9-7 (predicted 11-5)
Always hard to figure out this team. There were weeks (routing Niners and Packers) where they looked every bit ready to repeat as champions, and other weeks where they proved not even playoff worthy, which is where NYG wound up.
Dallas 8-8 (predicted 7-9)
It’s hard to believe that the Tony Romo era is now 6 ½ years old, but there are other problems on the team besides him. The Cowboys were losing at some juncture in every one of their 16 league games.
Philadelphia 4-12 (predicted 8-8)
Unbelievable how many people were still drinking the “Dream Team Kool-Aid” before the season. One of the 16 ESPN writers even picked the Eagles to win it all. At least Andy Reid gets to land on his feet. Michael Vick? Not nearly as sure.
Green Bay 11-5 (predicted 11-5)
If I’m not mistaken, I also correctly predicted the exact won-loss record of the Milwaukee Brewers this year. I pretty much know how teams in my neck of the woods are going to wind up. The Packers are good, but not Super Bowl good – and they proved it again last Sunday in Minneapolis. Incredibly, nine of the 16 ESPN writers picked GB to win it all pre-season.
And Greg Jennings? Enjoy next year in Miami. His career will slowly go the Javon Walker route.
Minnesota 10-6 (predicted 5-11)
Remember back in August Adrian Peterson was questionable for Week 1 and was going to split carries with Toby Gerhart early on? I write this while pounding my head for not drafting AP in Round 1 or even Round 2 of fantasy drafts. I just though there was too much talent in the division for the Purple to make this type of quantum-leap.
Chicago 10-6 (predicted 9-7)
Jay Cutler dominates, but I’m not sure exactly what he dominates. Actually, despite the second half slide the Bears were not bad, and they were the only 10-win team to miss the post-season. But not making the playoffs in five of the last six seasons cost Lovie Smith his job. Also, while no teams would dare use injuries as an excuse, Cutler and Brian Urlacher both got hurt at the wrong times down the stretch.
Could Mike Holmgren actually be an option at this late date in his coaching career??
Detroit 4-12 (predicted 7-9)
I predicted a regression with the Lions this year, but they even exceeded my expectations of making stupid mistakes and not being able to close games. Matthew Stafford wound up throwing a league-record 700+ times. That can’t continue. The team has to find a running game somewhere.
Atlanta 13-3 (predicted 12-4)
My pre-season NFC champ pick does have the #1 seed on the NFC bracket. Now they can look forward to their next playoff game on 1/13/13 at 1300 hours. Sounds like a better time to hold a wedding than a NFC Divisional playoff.
Carolina 7-9 (predicted 9-7)
It was a three-way tie for second, six games behind the A-T-L. A four-game winning streak made the Panthers’ final won-loss record respectable, but it might not be enough to save HC Ron Rivera’s job.
New Orleans 7-9 (predicted 6-10)
A roving MSF correspondent reported seeing billboards in the New Orleans market proclaiming commissioner Roger Goodell as Scrooge during the holiday season. The sanctions and distractions before the season did not help – neither did one of the worst run defenses in recent memory.
Tampa Bay 7-9 (predicted 6-10)
The Bucs had their moments this year, and they hit the jackpot selecting RB Doug Martin. Quarterback remains a question mark though. Josh Freeman (54.8% completion) is another whom the jury is very much still out on.
San Francisco 11-4-1 (predicted 11-5)
OK – so I was a half-game off, but if I could somehow predict tie games then I would get in the psychic business. I’m just geeked about Luck/RG3/Russell Wilson/Kaepernick all being in the tournament.
Now if the Niners can only fix their kicking game. Billy Cundiff has been brought in as “competition” for David Akers. Please – don’t have a game come down to a last minute kick, for everyone’s sake.
Seattle 11-5 (predicted 11-5)
The Seahawks were my bold pick to win the NFC West, and it turns out I wasn’t that far off. A probable trip to Atlanta awaits if they can win in Washington in Round 1 of the playoffs. And I actually like Russell Wilson over a banged-up RGIII this weekend.
St. Louis 7-8-1 (predicted 6-10)
The Rams came on this year and progressed a bit faster than I was expecting. The days of the NFC West being a weak division are fast coming to an end.
Arizona 5-11 (predicted 6-10)
The possible hiring of Andy Reid would be a step in the right direction. If he could somehow get Alex Smith to come over as a QB that would even be better – but I have a feeling the 49ers will find a team outside their division to trade him too. There is talent on the Arizona roster though, and still don’t think they’re far off.
“REVISED” SUPER BOWL PREDICTION
I originally had Baltimore beating Atlanta. Maybe I had Primitive Radion Gods too much on my mind, as in…‘Plane takes off from Baltimore, lands on Bourbon Street…’
Actually the Ravens and Falcons are birds of prey still in play – but not many Talking Heads (another great retro band) like their chances.
The Broncos are now a trendy pick along with the Patriots, as everyone has bailed on the Texans.
On the NFC side, everyone is assuming the A-T-L will be one and done at home, with many liking the 49ers and others suddenly jumping on the Seahawks bandwagon.
But don’t you think the entire Ravens franchise will rally around Ray Ray now? As for the Falcons, maybe not getting respect will prove to be the best thing.
I’ll confess I was half-ready to switch to say, a Denver/San Francisco prediction, but what the heck…
I’ll stick with Ravens over Falcons. It’s already been proven that going with the rest of the mainstream media does not always pays dividends…


text:
A 39-year-old registered massage therapist has been charged after one of his female clients was reportedly sexually assaulted during a massage at a Blue Mountains business, OPP say.
The man from the Blue Mountains was charged with sexual assault after a woman reported the alleged incident to police, officers say.
Investigators are looking to speak to anyone who may have more information on the alleged incident or who may want to report similar incidents involving the accused, OPP say.
The accused was held for a bail hearing at the Ontario Court of Justice in Owen Sound on May 26.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Collingwood and The Blue Mountains OPP at 705-445-4321 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477.

domain: law


Pz.Kpfw. V Ausf. F Sd.Kfz. 171 Panther F 2-in-1 Kit
|Stock Number and Description||cyber-hobby.com (Dragon Models Limited) 1/35 Scale Kit No. 13 (‘39-‘45 Series Kit No. 6382); Pz.Kpfw. V Ausf. F Sd.Kfz. 171 Panther F 2-in-1 Kit (Prototype and Production Type)|
|Media and Contents:||861 parts (532 in grey styrene, 170 "Magic Track" links, 142 etched brass, 14 clear styrene, 1 turned aluminum, 1 pre-bent brass, 1 brass tube)|
|Price:||Will be available online from Mission Models|
|Review Type:||First Look|
|Advantages:||Well detailed; best magic tracks yet; great photo-etched detail included; improvements introduced since most recent Panther releases; excellent decals from Cartograf|
Dragon certainly is pushing the boat out with every progressive release and this release from Cyber Hobby is a great example of what can be done with injection moulded plastic at the moment. Hidden within the tight confines of the understated box is a plethora of superbly detailed plastic that impresses straight away. Complimenting the well moulded sprues are usual trimmings that we have come to expect from new Dragon kits in the form of etched, metal wire and “magic track.
As a closer examination of the contents of the kit soon makes apparent, there is little that has not been overlooked, although the only notable omission thus far would have been the welcome addition of the infra red equipment from the “Night Fighting Panther” release from a few years back. Considering it was a technology that the Germans were developing at the time, and the fact that Allied air superiority was forcing the Germans to favour night operations, it is reasonable to theorise that the “what-if?” schemes in this kit would utilise this technology. But I digress.
I mentioned there were “Magic Track” included with this kit, and after several attempts and some less than spectacular renditions (the Tiger Magic Tracks were not all that “Magic” if you ask me) these are the best I have seen yet, as they include the openings in the guide-horns. The only drawback I can note on them is the pair of ejector pin marks and the sprue gate located at the centre of the back of each link, which will be somewhat awkward to clean up. I think the careful use of a diamond file will be required here. However, due to the fact that they are between the guide-horns it would be interesting to see if they will be invisible on the finished model, and thus not require cleaning up at all.
Click the thumbnails below to view larger images:
As the model incorporates a
majority of parts from the impressive G series of Panthers from
Dragon the detail and accuracy of the parts are second to none.
Progressively we are seeing the level of detail represented with the
photo-etched detail set included with these Dragon kits expanding at
an exponential rate. Whereas when Dragon first began including etch
parts they were little more than grilles and perhaps tie down in the
Jagdtiger, however now they are extensive enough to include options
like open or closed chains on the travel lock. Which are 6 part
etched assemblies incidentally. In fact this kit incorporates more
etched parts “out of the box” than any other injection kit I have
seen yet. However, if you are put off by photo-etched parts fear
not, as there are injection moulded alternative parts included in
When it comes to the injection moulded parts, Dragon does not simply allow the etched parts do all of the enhancing, as the level of detail rendered on subjects like the tools is quite impressive. Easily the best I have personally seen to date, there is nothing more that could be expected of them in 35th scale, aside from the latches being operational, which to me is a fair bit superfluous.
The inclusion of clear parts has also become a standard item in Dragon releases, and where it used to include only the periscopes, they now incorporate the headlights, complete with pattern, which for me is a major bonus.
Another part of the model that obviously had some improving done to it since I made the impressive “D” model a while back is the engine deck, as they have included the fan and radiator detail that would be visible through the mesh screening much the same as they did with the recent Tiger releases. Consisting of a four or five part assembly for the crew compartment hating unit, and two types of access hatch variations, it is apparent that there is not going to be any portions of this model that are overlooked when it comes to the attention to detail.
The new sprue to this kit is obviously the one containing the “Schmallturm” or narrow turret as it is called by English speakers. Rather than simply including the older and less accurate one from the previous releases of the Panther F, Dragon has taken the time to correct and further detail this sprue, as well as include the appropriate version of hull along with it.
Printed by a personal favourite decal producer; Cartograf, the decal sheet is in perfect register and offers almost limitless options of vehicle as the numbers are provided in three styles and duplicates of five different digits.
Overall this is a very impressive release despite the fact that it is a “speculative” design and the markings options entirely fictional. At $95.00 US from Dragon USA, this will not be the cheapest kit you get this year, but I would say that it is good value for money considering that it does not really need anything adding to it in order to make something very special.
cyber-hobby.com for the sample


text:
Mainstream Setting the Stage for 2016 Presidential Primaries
Alicé Leuchte | September 24, 2013
While many Americans have historically relied on the mainstream media for their sole information source, they are starting to realize that what they have actually been getting is the “shakedown.”
For example, there is an interesting development between Senator Rand Paul and the Associated Press surrounding his position on the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare). On September 21, the AP released an article implying Paul was in favor of compromise legislation to fund the ACA:
Sen. Rand Paul says President Barack Obama’s health care law probably can’t be defeated… “I’m acknowledging we can’t probably defeat or get rid of Obamacare,” he said. “But by starting with our position of not funding it, maybe we get to a position where we make it less bad.”
The article later contrasts Rand Paul with other Republican Presidential hopefuls, saying:
Some Senate Republicans, including would-be 2016 presidential rivals Ted Cruz of Texas and Marco Rubio of Florida, have said they would vote to refuse to pay for the health care law, even if it meant shutting down portions of the government. Paul has called closing down the government “a dumb idea.”
Compare the AP article with Paul’s response in Breitbart.com later that day (“Rand Paul Fires Back at AP, Says He’ll Continue to Fight ObamaCare Funding”):
Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) told Breitbart News on Saturday evening that an Associated Press report that claimed he said that Americans “probably can’t get rid of Obamacare” is inaccurate.
Paul said… “It’s kind of interesting that people create it to be news but I’ve said all along and continue to say that I won’t vote to fund Obamacare. I don’t think we should fund Obamacare…. if there is one penny for Obamacare I will vote ‘no.’”
This is a clear illustration why Americans need to be wary of referring to one news source or media network. To compound matters, the AP is an international news network, and their articles are used throughout the mainstream media – and even alternative outlets.
So many stories are simply reposted or recycled from news distribution networks, like the AP – without verifying the accuracy of the information. Like playing “telephone” in grade school, it isn’t hard to understand why so many people have been making important decisions (like who to support for President) based on distorted or even false information.
For example, FoxNews.com posted an article on this topic September 22, entitled “Paul: We probably can’t get rid of ‘Obamacare’.” At the bottom it states, “The Associated Press contributed to this report.”
The reality is that this article is a condensed version of the AP article mentioned earlier, and there was no effort to source this story beyond AP.
Politico and Infowars also missed the boat on this one, both posting articles repeating the same message from AP (“Rand Paul: GOP ‘probably can’t defeat’ Obamacare”). Infowars later added a one-sentence update referring to Rand Paul’s protest to the AP material, but still gave no sources for their update. “A” for effort, but “F” for diligence.
It is important to use discernment when it comes to any news item. All news stories should be regarded as opinion and the primary sources should be reviewed if available – especially on important matters.
Treat your news like your diet. Get your information from a variety of sources, and read your labels.

domain: news


text:
If you’ve decided that you’re going to save your travels until next year but at the same time are desperately craving all the sights, sounds, smells, tastes and invigorating inspiration that comes from a trip to a foreign land, here’s a way you can (almost) get the full travel experience without leaving the house.
Curl up in an armchair and grab a coffee to settle down with one of these great reads that will transport you to faraway lands in an instant, without you leaving the house.
Each of these books paints an evocative picture of the country in which they are set. Dig deep into the different cultures of these lands: get to know their people, their history, their landscapes and look forward to discovering them for real on your future travels.
Whilst we are on the topic of books and travel, I was asked by our fabulous, local, independent book retailer, Haslemere Book Shop, to provide them with my top travel related book choices. If you are interested in checking them out and / or purchasing them, please follow the link.
Travel to Turkey
Birds Without Wings: Louis de Bernières
Many of you will have read and/or watched the film Captain Corelli’s Mandolin which paints a wonderful picture of the Greek island of Cephalonia. Like Captain Corelli, this novel began with a holiday, this time to south western Turkey where Louis de Bernières visited the ghost town of Kayakoy.
Sitting up in the hills above the Mediterranean sea just 8km from Fethiye, Kayakoy is a peaceful village with verdant gardens. The ruins of the old town sit just above. The town was finally destroyed by an earthquake in the Fifties, but it really started to die when the Christian population was deported to Greece as part of the Population exchange between the two countries following World War 1.
Set against the backdrop of the collapsing Ottoman Empire, the Gallipoli campaign and the subsequent bitter struggle between Greeks and Turks, “Birds Without Wings” traces the fortunes of one small community in south-west Anatolia – a town in which Christian and Muslim lives and traditions have co-existed peacefully for centuries. When war is declared and the outside world intrudes, the twin scourges of religion and nationalism lead to forced marches and massacres, and the peaceful fabric of life is destroyed. Philothei, a Christian girl of legendary beauty, and Ibrahim the Goatherd who has courted her since infancy are but two of the many casualties. With the end of a community that once transcended religious differences, their great love seems destined to end in tragedy and madness.
Like Captain Corelli, it delivers a heady mix of love, savagery, war and Mediterranean idyll. The book is populated with characters as real as our best friends and is by turns hilarious and heartbreaking. It’s all about the pleasures of peace, the meaning of home, and the foolishness and fratricide of war, encompassing the whole range of human emotions and behaviours, from the most savagely cruel to the most selflessly compassionate.
Travel to Malaysia
The Gift Of Rain: Tan Twang Eng
The Gift of Rain is the first novel by Malaysian novelist Tan Twan Eng and was long-listed for the Man Booker Prize.
Set on the Malaysian island of Penang in 1939, the main character is sixteen-year-old Philip Hutton, a loner. Half English, half Chinese and feeling neither, he discovers a sense of belonging in an unexpected friendship with Hayato Endo, a Japanese diplomat. Philip shows his new friend around his adored island of Penang, and in return Endo trains him in the art and discipline of aikido.
But such knowledge comes at a terrible price. The enigmatic Endo is bound by disciplines of his own and when the Japanese invade Malaya, threatening to destroy Philip’s family and everything he loves, he realises that his trusted sensei – to whom he owes absolute loyalty – has been harbouring a devastating secret.
Philip must risk everything in an attempt to save those he has placed in mortal danger and discover who and what he really is.
With masterful and gorgeous narrative, replete with exotic and captivating images, sounds and aromas – of rain swept beaches, magical mountain temples, pungent spice warehouses, opulent colonial ballrooms and fetid and forbidding rainforests – Tan Twan Eng weaves a haunting and unforgettable story of betrayal, barbaric cruelty, steadfast courage and enduring love.
Travel to Zimbabwe
Nervous Conditions: Tsitsi Dangarembge
Nervous Conditions is a novel by Zimbabwean author Tsitsi Dangarembga, first published in the United Kingdom in 1988. It was the first book published by a black woman from Zimbabwe in English. It was one of the BBC’s top 100 books that changed the world in 2018 and it won the Commonwealth Writers Prize in 1989.
The semi-autobiographical novel focusses on the story of a Shona family in post-colonial Rhodesia during the 1960s. It illustrates the dynamic themes of race, colonialism, and gender during the post-colonial conditions of present-day Zimbabwe and provides a mine of information about Shona customs.
It tells the story of a Rhodesian girl’s journey in pursuit of education from impoverished homestead to missionary school and finally to private Catholic school.
When the novel opens, 14-year-old Tambu lives on a homestead with her parents and siblings. She is given a chance to go for higher education after the death of her older brother Nhamo. Centring around the experience of several female characters as they either challenge, or come to terms with, the traditional patriarchal structure of their society, the young narrator, Tambu, must show great determination as she overcomes all the obstacles to her progress in life.
It is a powerful read, at once a coming-of-age story, a critique of colonialism, and a protest against a traditional patriarchal society that predates colonisation.
Travel to Denmark
The Year of Living Danishly: Helen Russell
This is a true tale uncovering the secrets of the world’s happiest country.
When she was suddenly given the opportunity of a new life in rural Jutland, journalist and archetypal Londoner Helen Russell discovered a startling statistic: the happiest place on earth isn’t Disneyland, but Denmark, a land often thought of by foreigners as consisting entirely of long dark winters, cured herring, Lego and pastries. What is the secret to their success? Are happy Danes born, or made?
Helen decides there is only one way to find out: she will give herself a year, trying to uncover the formula for Danish happiness. From childcare, education, food and interior design (not to mention ‘hygge’) to SAD, taxes, sexism and an unfortunate predilection for burning witches, The Year of Living Danishly is a funny, poignant record of a journey that shows us where the Danes get it right, where they get it wrong, and how we might just benefit from living a little more Danishly ourselves.
Travel to India
A Suitable boy: Vikram Seth
A Suitable Boy is a novel set in a newly post-independence, post-partition India. With 1,488 pages soft cover, and 591,552 words, the English language book is one of the longest novels published in a single volume. But do not be daunted! It is beautifully written with a light touch so relax and let this book take you on it’s long, colourful journey. You’ll be sad when it comes to an end.
The story follows the story of four families over a period of 18 months, and centres on Mrs. Rupa Mehra’s efforts to arrange the marriage of her younger daughter, Lata, to a “suitable boy”. Lata is a 19-year-old university student who refuses to be influenced by her domineering mother or opinionated brother, Arun.
Her story revolves around the choice she is forced to make between her suitors Kabir, Haresh, and Amit.
The novel alternately offers satirical and earnest examinations of national political issues in the period leading up to the first post-Independence national election of 1952, including Hindu–Muslim strife, the status of lower caste peoples such as the jatav, land reforms and the eclipse of the feudal princes and landlords, academic affairs, abolition of the Zamindari system, family relations and a range of further issues of importance to the characters. The India today is shaped by these events and there couldn’t be a more charming way to get to grips with this important history. Christopher Hitchens gave the novel a glowing review, commenting that the prose “has a deceptive lightness and transparency to it”.
It is no surprise that A Suitable Boy is on the BBC’s list of the 100 most inspiring novels and now it has finally been adapted for TV. Can a TV series ever do justice to such sensitive writing in just 6 episodes? Probably not but who wouldn’t want to see for themselves? It has the perfect slot of 9pm on Sundays and sure to round off the weekend in the nicest possible way. Find it here if you need to catch up!
Travel to Australia
Down Under: Travels in a Sunburned Country: Bill Bryson
This is a travelogue about Australia written by best-selling travel writer Bill Bryson. Bill Bryson describes his travels by railway and car throughout Australia, his conversations with people in all walks of life about the history, geography, unusual plants and animals of the country, and his wry impressions of the life, culture and amenities (or lack thereof) in each locality.
Australia is iconic as the country that doubles as a continent, and a place with the friendliest inhabitants, the hottest, driest weather, and the most peculiar and lethal wildlife to be found on the planet. The book is a deliciously funny, fact-filled, and adventurous performance by a writer who combines humour, wonder, and unflagging curiosity.
Despite the fact that Australia harbors more things that can kill you in extremely nasty ways than anywhere else, including sharks, crocodiles, snakes, even riptides and deserts, Bill Bryson adores the place, and he takes his readers on a rollicking ride far beyond that beaten tourist path. Wherever he goes he finds Australians who are cheerful, extroverted, and unfailingly obliging, and these beaming products of land with clean, safe cities, cold beer, and constant sunshine fill the pages of this wonderful book.
Australia is an immense and fortunate land, and it has found in Bill Bryson its perfect guide.
If any of these books inspire you for a future trip. then please do call 01428 658777 or email [email protected], to see how we can help turn that dream into a reality. We can wait to help you plan your next adventure.

domain: geography


text: On September 7th, the SEC announced that it will launch a series of field hearings to examine the municipal securities markets starting in San Francisco on September 21, 2010. Topics will include disclosure and transparency, credit ratings, and internal controls. Other hearings will be conducted in Chicago, Illinois, Washington, D.C., Tallahassee, Florida, and Austin, Texas. Each hearing will include participants from the local region and will examine different sets of issues, including investor protection and education; financial reporting and accounting; market stability and liquidity; the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board; municipalities as conduit borrowers; offering participants, professionals and market intermediaries; Build America Bonds; and 529 plans. SEC Press Release (with hearing agenda); SEC Release No. 34-62853 (hearing notice).

domain: economics


text:
Studying abroad in a new country is an exciting and fulfilling adventure. However, it if an emergency comes up, you won’t be able to rely on your family doctor or campus medical center from back home. Obtaining the right insurance plan can help make studying abroad a safe and stress-free experience. Below are seven reasons why study abroad health insurance is important for students going abroad.
1. You Can’t Predict an Accident
No one plans to have an accident or get sick. If you find yourself injured or ill, you do not want to deal with the added headache of having to worry about whether you can afford to go to the hospital. When studying abroad, you will be in unfamiliar territory, and managing your health and safety will be different than it was at home. It’s worthwhile to look into obtaining an insurance plan to make sure you have as few unpleasant surprises as possible.
2. Medical Expenses Can Add Up Without Insurance
Purchasing student insurance can help you avoid costly medical expenses down the road. It is hard to anticipate how much different countries may charge you for their health services. Having your insurance figured out before your trip can help reduce the stress of calculating medical costs.
3. An Accident or Illness May Unexpectedly Extend Your Time Away
Paying for hospital bills is one thing, but paying for an apartment, food, or even a visa because you had to stay abroad longer to recover will make your trip all the more expensive. If you can deal with a medical situation quickly and effectively, then you can avoid the costs of staying abroad longer than you need to.
4. Applying for Insurance Is Quick and Easy
Applying for study abroad health insurance won’t take long at all, and will prevent future stress in the case of an emergency. Doing a little “paperwork” before your trip will help avoid doing a lot more later on.
5. There’s a Plan That Works For You
Depending on where you go and how long you stay, there are plans that can meet your specific needs. If you have questions about anything related to your insurance needs, you should be able to easily contact your insurance provider for answers.
6. You Can Speak to Someone who Speaks Your Language
If you have study abroad health insurance, there will be staff from a global emergency medical assistance service available to speak to you in English 24/7, and available in most of the countries you may visit. Whether it’s midnight in Tokyo or an early afternoon in Paris, there are multilingual medical personnel on hand to assist you in case of a medical emergency.
7. It Will Help Mom and Dad Sleep at Night
Aside from the occasional phone call, text message, Facebook post, or Skype session, your parents won’t have as much contact with you as they usually do. It’s no secret that parents tend to worry for their children’s safety. If you’re studying abroad, your parents will feel more secure knowing you purchased study abroad health insurance to make your time away from home as safe as possible. Purchasing study abroad health insurance is not just for your benefit—it will be for your parents too. They will sleep better at night knowing their child has taken charge of their health and safety. Buying study abroad health insurance should be one of the first things you check off your list before studying abroad. If you’re ready to learn more, get in touch with LewerMark for advice.

domain: medical


text:
Cambridge Analytica, overwhelmed by a scandal over how it harvested data from Facebook to influence the last U.S. election, filed for bankruptcy in New York.
The U.K.-based political consulting firm had already said it would cease operations and wind down in its home country and the Chapter 7 petition in New York will address issues raised by U.S. creditors. The filing listed estimated liabilities of $1 million to $10 million.
The American proceeding could also shed light on some of the company’s relationships and finances, as U.S. legal proceedings are more transparent than those in the U.K., and creditors can use bankruptcy law to subpoena information and probe asset transfers.
The company, which did work for U.S. President Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign, said in a May 2 statement on its website that it lost “virtually all” customers and suppliers as a result of reports that it improperly obtained information from tens of millions of Facebook Inc. users.
Robert Mercer, the New York hedge fund manager and backer of Trump, has been a financial backer of Cambridge Analytica, along with Steve Bannon and Breitbart News.
In March, footage came out of the company’s executives bragging about how prostitutes and former spies could be used to ensnare politicians and influence elections. One segment showed Chief Executive Officer Alexander Nix saying that Ukrainian girls “are very beautiful, I find that works very well.” Nix in a BBC interview later said the allegations were “unfounded and extremely unfair.”
Cambridge Analytica said in its May 2 statement that it has “been the subject of numerous unfounded accusations” and that it has been vilified for activities that are not only legal, “but also widely accepted as a standard component of online advertising.”
Cambridge Analytica faces lawsuits in the U.S. over the Facebook data collection. One, for example, seeks class action status on behalf of all New York citizens who were Facebook members and whose information was obtained. They say they face ongoing damages because their private data is in the hands of the company.
Facebook itself has also been sued dozens of times over the data breach, and if it loses suits, could be expected to turn to Cambridge Analytica for damages.
A whistleblower from Cambridge Analytica set off a firestorm in March after he revealed how information was extracted from Facebook and used to influence voters. He testified before a U.K. parliamentary committee, describing the firm as one that dealt with illegal data and hacked material to win elections. He said Trump’s victory was one of the reasons he blew the whistle. House Democrats who met with him in April called his information "disturbing."
— With assistance by Jordan Robertson


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Portrait wins people's choice award
A PORTRAIT of a novelist has won the people's choice award today for the 2011 Archibald Prize during the exhibition of prize contestants at the Tweed River Art Gallery at Murwillumbah.
The same artwork was voted "people's choice" at earlier exhibitions for the art prize at both the Art Gallery of NSW in Sydney and the Victorian venue of TarraWarra Museum of Art in Healesville, outside Melbourne.
A spokeswoman for Tweed Shire Council which runs the Tweed gallery yesterday said 4313 votes were cast in the local People's Choice Award which ran from early August to last Sunday.
The work that received the most public votes in the People's Choice Award at Tweed River Art Gallery was artist Adam Chang's portrait John Coetzee.
The painting depicts novelist John Coetzee.


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Without Your Love (unreleased song)
Selena Gomez & the Scene (feat. Jessie J)
When the Sun Goes Down
AU meme → Zayn Malik as an Abercrombie & Fitch model
AU Meme x Harry breaks up with you People say we shouldn't be together
AU meme: Harry styles Marries banana.
remember when harry gave liam a wet willy on the red carpet
AU meme: Zayn falls in love with Harry at his concert

domain: artistic


Monday, January 10, 2005
A few days ago, I followed a promising link to a pattern for a similar cap. I have started the newsboy cap three (or is it 4?) times since yesterday, using some Tivoli Celtic Aran yarn that I bought it Ireland a couple of years ago. It's become a challege I will overcome.
First time out, I underestimated the stitch gauge (4 stitches to the inch, not 5), then there was the issue with getting the hem applied correctly. Then I decided that the hem wasn't deep enough. Thank the lord that wool yarn is forgiving!
There are no pictures for obvious reasons. The yarn is lying in a puddle. I will cast on again tonight.
Yesterday we (okay, the other half) ran the vacuum cleaner. In the process, he rounded up a bunch of the usual suspects:
Looks like a Mouse-acre!
Think she has too many toys? You don't know the half of it!
What's scary is waking up to find them in a neat little column advancing on the bed. We live in a very Stephen King-esque house!


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Kiwis are loaded with vitamins, fibre and antioxidants. In this smoothie, I have blended them with kefir for its probiotic benefits, along with frozen banana, grapes & some amazing superfoods for a wonderfully sweet, tangy and healthy treat!
For 2 servings, blend together until smooth:
- 1 cup canned organic coconut milk*
- 1/2 cup kefir (coconut or other milk-based kefir)
- 3-4 fresh kiwi (just over 1 cup peeled and diced)
- 1/2 cup frozen green grapes
- 1/2 frozen banana
- 1/4 cup raw shelled pistachios (optional)
- 1 tsp matcha powder
- 1 tsp chlorella powder
- 1/2 tsp spirulina powder
- pure stevia or agave to sweeten as desired
*Notes: For a lighter shake, substitute coconut water.

domain: health


text:
COVID-19 vaccination at the Central Field Hospital in Honiara has entered its second day with the Governor General His Excellency Sir David Vunagi taking the vaccination.
Following the Governor General was the Speaker of National Parliament Patterson Oti, some of the judges and magistrates including the Ombudsman. Some of the COVID-19 frontliners, from the Ministry of health and fisheries, Ports Authority, and Heritage Park Hotel also came in for their first vaccinations.
On the first day of vaccination, total of 220 people were vaccinated which included the Prime Minster, Ministers of the Crown, Permanent Secretaries, COVID-19 oversight committee, vaccine national coordinating committee and technical working group members. This also includes some of the frontline workers from health, Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) and Solomon Airlines to name a few.
According to the updated COVID-19 vaccination roll out plan following concerning increases of COVID-19 cases in neighbouring Bougainville, 7000 doses of the first batch of AstraZeneca will be administered in Honiara initially for priority groups such as front-liners, elderlies 55 years and above, those with underlying health conditions and the rest of the Honiara residents once more vaccines arrives.
17,000 doses will be deployed to Western, Choiseul and Malaita provinces for vaccination of the western border communities. This week the Ministry of Health is gearing up for deployment of relevant national staff to support provincial immunization teams to conduct vaccine awareness and training of vaccinators in these provinces before vaccination roll out for the borderline communities will commence.
COVID-19 vaccines that the government is and will be rolling out are those that are approved for emergency use by WHO and have passed all necessary safety and efficacy requirements making it safe to receive and is effective to prevent sickness, hospitalization and deaths from COVID-19.
Source: MHMS Media


EcuTek ECU Connect Tuning
Ecutek tuning is a process that allows for the optimization of a vehicle’s engine management system. This process is carried out using software and tools developed by Ecutek Technologies, a company that specializes in engine management systems and tuning software.
The primary tool used in Ecutek tuning is the ProECU software. This software allows professional tuners and race teams to connect to the engine control unit (ECU) of a vehicle and make real-time adjustments to the engine’s mapping and tuning settings. The software supports a wide range of vehicles and can be used to tune engines that run on gasoline, diesel, or ethanol.
One of the major advantages of using Ecutek’s ProECU software is its ability to make fine-tuning adjustments to the engine. This allows for a much more precise tuning process compared to traditional methods, which can lead to improved performance, efficiency, and reliability of the engine. The software also offers a wide range of advanced features such as real-time monitoring and data-logging capabilities, allowing tuners to make informed decisions when adjusting the engine’s parameters.
Another important tool offered by Ecutek is the RaceROM firmware, which is a custom operating system that is installed onto the ECU of a vehicle. It allows users to access advanced features and functions that are not available through the factory ECU. Some of these features include advanced data logging, custom launch control, and gear-dependent mapping. This can greatly benefit high-performance cars and track vehicles, by providing additional control and safety features.
Ecutek also offers a range of tuning tools and accessories, such as the ECU Connect app. This app allows users to wirelessly connect to their vehicles’ engine control units and make real-time adjustments to the engine’s mapping and tuning settings. It also allows the users to monitor sensors and live data, allowing more efficient and precise tuning on the go.
In conclusion, Ecutek tuning is a powerful and precise method of optimizing a vehicle’s engine management system. The ProECU software and RaceROM firmware, along with the range of tuning tools and accessories offered by Ecutek, provide professional tuners and race teams with the tools they need to achieve optimal performance and efficiency from their vehicles. It is an excellent choice for those looking for fine-tuning and advanced features for their engines.
Benefits of ECUtek Tuning
Ecutek tuning provides a wide range of benefits for vehicle owners and professional tuners. Some of the main benefits of using Ecutek’s products and services include:
- Improved performance: Ecutek tuning allows for precise adjustments to the engine’s mapping and tuning settings, which can lead to improved performance in terms of horsepower, torque, and overall driving experience.
- Increased fuel efficiency: By optimizing the engine’s parameters, Ecutek tuning can also improve fuel efficiency, resulting in lower fuel consumption and costs.
- Advanced tuning features: Ecutek’s ProECU software and RaceROM firmware provide advanced features such as real-time monitoring, data-logging, and custom launch control, which can greatly benefit high-performance vehicles and track cars.
- Customization: Ecutek’s software allows for a high degree of customization, allowing tuners to tailor the engine’s settings to the specific needs of the vehicle and driver.
- Increased reliability: By fine-tuning the engine, Ecutek tuning can also help to increase the reliability of the engine, by reducing stress on the components and avoiding potential issues such as knock or detonation.
- Compatibility: Ecutek’s software supports a wide range of vehicles and can be used to tune engines that run on gasoline, diesel, or ethanol, making it a versatile option for different types of vehicles.
- Remote tuning: With the ECU Connect app, the user can have access to real-time data and control the engine’s mapping and tuning settings remotely, which can make the tuning process faster and more efficient.
In summary, Ecutek tuning offers a wide range of benefits including improved performance, increased fuel efficiency, advanced tuning features, customization, increased reliability, compatibility, and remote tuning capability, making it a popular choice among professional tuners and car enthusiasts.
How to tune your car with ECUtek?
Tuning with Ecutek involves several steps and requires the use of specialized software and tools. The process generally involves the following steps:
- Connecting to the ECU: The first step is to connect the ProECU software to the engine control unit (ECU) of the vehicle. This is typically done using an OBD-II connector and a laptop or PC.
- Data logging: Once connected, the software will begin to collect and record data from the various sensors and systems in the vehicle. This data is used to create a base map of the engine’s parameters, which can be used as a starting point for the tuning process.
- Making adjustments: Once the base map has been created, the tuner can then begin to make adjustments to the engine’s parameters, such as fuel and ignition mapping, boost levels, and other settings. These adjustments can be made in real-time, allowing the tuner to see the effects of each change as they are made.
- Testing: After making adjustments, the vehicle should be test driven on a closed course to check the performance and make sure that the car runs without any issues. The ECU Connect app allows monitoring sensors and live data remotely in real time.
- Repeat and fine-tuning: The process of data logging, adjustments, and testing will be repeated until the desired level of performance is achieved. The tuner may make several rounds of adjustments until the engine is running at its optimal performance level.
- Flashing the ECU: Finally, after the tuning is complete, the ProECU software can be used to flash the new map to the ECU. This step makes the new map the default and it will be in effect every time the car starts.
It’s worth noting that the process of Ecutek tuning can be complex and requires a high level of knowledge and experience. It’s highly recommended that the tuning process is performed by professional tuners or those with extensive knowledge of engine management systems. This is where we have expertise. We have a very excellent track record of tuning major vehicles with ecutek.
We tune the VR30DDTT with ECUtek Ecu Connect. bring your VR30 Infiniti Q50, Infiniti Q60, Volkswagon Golf GTI, Golf R. We will perfectly tune your vehicle with 4 different maps.
Additionally, it’s always important to make sure that the vehicle is in good condition before tuning, and make sure to have the right tools and equipment to do it properly and safely.
EcuTek ECU Connect
Ecutek ECU Connect is a smartphone app that allows users to wirelessly connect to their vehicles’ engine control units (ECUs) and make real-time adjustments to the engine’s mapping and tuning settings. The app can be used in conjunction with Ecutek’s ProECU software and tuning tools, which are designed for professional tuners and race teams. With ECU Connect, users can make changes to the engine’s fuel and ignition mapping, adjust boost levels, and view real-time sensor data. The app is compatible with a wide range of vehicles and can be used to tune engines that run on gasoline, diesel, or ethanol.
To use the ECU Connect app, the user needs to have the Ecutek ProECU software installed on a computer and connected to the vehicle’s ECU. The app allows the user to connect to the ProECU software wirelessly using a smartphone or tablet, and make adjustments to the engine’s parameters remotely. This allows for more efficient and convenient tuning, as the user can make adjustments and monitor the vehicle’s performance in real time while the car is being driven.
In addition to the wireless tuning capability, the app also allows the user to monitor and record sensor data, check and clear diagnostic trouble codes, and display live data with customizable gauges. It also provides an easy and intuitive interface for accessing the many advanced features and functions of the Ecutek ProECU software.
It’s worth noting that the ECU Connect app is not a stand-alone product and requires the Ecutek ProECU software to function. Additionally, the app is only available to Ecutek’s customers who have purchased the RaceROM upgrade.
Where to buy?
You can buy this product from our store
Checkout our youtube channel


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Diablo III, season 8 begins Friday October 21st.
This will be the 8th season for the game and it will have it’s own unique rewards, Conquests and more! It will be starting at 5:00PM PDT for North America, 5:00PM CEST in Europe and 5:00PM KST in Asia.
Season 8 will have a new rotation of cosmetic rewards like the previous seasons. Players will get another chance to gain the pieces of the Conqueror set, but there are two new unique items as well. There will be a new pair of ”wings” inspired by Diablo II’s, “Maiden of Anguish – Andariel”. Andariel was the only female and considered one of Diablo’s closest confidante. Another reward this season will bring is a portrait series in the style of the Burning Hells.
For the Stash
Players who have been enjoying the previous seasons and reached Conqueror should have earned a few extra stash tabs. This season, more tabs will be added in the rewards! To be able to earn it, the following requirements are needed:
– Complete a Tormen XIII Rift in under 5 minutes– Complete a Greater Rift 60 solo– Kill Greed on Torment XIII– Kill Izual on Torment XIII in under 30 seconds– Reforge a Legendary or set item– Augment two Ancient items with Level 40 or greater Legendary Gems– Level three Legendary Gems to 55– Complete two Conquests
Conquests Hardcore Rotation
The Conquests will be rotating this season. For those who are thirsty for a challenge in hardcore, the Lionhearted is back (reach Greater Rift level 75 Solo, hardcore mode). Some other conquest this seasons will include Masters of the Universe (Master 8 of the following Set dungeons) and Master of the Sets which is the hardcore mode for the previous achievement.
Curses (kill 350 or more monsters in a Cursed Chest event at level 70 on Torment X) and Stars Align for hardcore mode. Boss mode will require to kill the selected bosses at mal level on Torment X within 20 minutes of the start of the game (the hardcore version of this is Worlds Apart). Finally, Years of the War and Dynasty will require to reach Greater Rift level 55 Solo with the bonuses of six of the Class sets selected.
Haedrig’s Gift returns this season as well, letting players get a new class set for completing certain chapters in the Season Journey. The sets granted by Haedrig in Season 8 are:
– Immortal King’s Call for Barbarians– Seeker of the Light for Crusaders– Natalya’s Vengeance for Demon Hunters– Uliana’s Stratagem for Monks– Spirit of Arachyr for Witch Doctors– Vyr’s Amazing Arcana for Wizards
Diablo’s 20th Anniversary at BlizzCon
Season 8 will start Friday, October 21 with a lot of returning features from the previous ones. Many players seem to be disappointed by the lack of new content for the season and for the game in general. However, let’s not forget that BlizzCon is right around the corner! News about what’s in store for Diablo III and a retrospective on Diablo’s 20-year legacy will be on the menu on November 4. It will also be the perfect day to ask all of those burning questions during the “dev talk” and Q&A for those who have the chance to be on location. There will be a Diablo 20th Anniversary panel this year for the occasion. The Lead Designer, Senior Game Designer, Lead VFX Artist and Art Director will be sharing some information about what lies ahead for the game.

domain: hobby


text:
Summary and Analysis
Robin and Ralph appear with a silver goblet that Robin has apparently taken from a vintner. Robin is very pleased with this new acquisition, but immediately the vintner appears and demands that the goblet be returned to him. Robin insists that he does not have the goblet and allows himself to be searched. The vintner cannot find the goblet. Meanwhile, Robin begins to read incantations from Faustus' book. These incantations summon Mephistophilis, who appears and puts some firecrackers at their backs and then momentarily disappears. In fright, Robin gives the vintner back his goblet. Mephistophilis reappears and complains that he has had to come all the way from Constantinople because these irresponsible servants used incantations without understanding them. He threatens to change them into an ape and a dog, and then leaves. Robin and Ralph can only think about how much fun and how much food they might have if transformed into these animals.
This comic interlude, which actually contributes very little to the development of the play, is the second scene in a row between Ralph and Robin. The two scenes belong together in showing the result of the men's desire to practice conjuring. Some critics believe that these scenes were later inserted by another author, and there is some dispute whether Marlowe is the author of any of the comic scenes. Generally, in the present condition of the text, the safest thing to assume is that these scenes filled in the time element and provided a type of low comedy which appealed to the less intelligent members of the audience.


text:
CONFERENCE | THE FUTURE OF ECOTOURISM
Zabola Estate, Covasna
Romania with its beautiful landscapes like the Carpathian mountain region or the Danube Delta, just to name a few, has enormous tourism potential. There is a great deal of interest in the ecological or "sustainable" development of tourism offers.
In order to join forces, ADVANTAGE AUSTRIA Bucharest in cooperation with the Austrian Embassy and and AER – Association of Ecotourism in Romania is organizing the conference
"The future of ecotourism"
Together with experts from Romania and Austria, we explore successful and innovative ideas in the ecotourism sector to encourage optimism about its future path.
- Authorities & Ministries
- Tourism organizations
- Tourism businesses
- Travel agencies
- Natural & cultural preservation organizations
- Media representatives
For more information please see our Conference Program (PDF, 0.2MB) .
If you fit into one of these categories and are interested in participating, please contact us at E firstname.lastname@example.org!


text:
I Wish This Was is a monthly series that transforms ignored, vacant lots and properties in Orlando into something the City Beautiful can be proud of. This series is made possible by our partnership with Interstruct Inc., a leading design and construction group based out of Orlando, and its founder, Ryan Young.
Ryan Young, President and principal architect for Interstruct Inc., developed the following concept for the square, based on the idea of creating a more human-scaled environment that promotes interaction and connectivity; things that we believe are currently lacking in the existing plaza.
At the moment, the courtyard is defined by a strong, angular geometry reinforced by a triangular water feature and series of square planters that dominate the space. If you look from above, the planters actually form a broken grid pattern, which inspired Young to extrapolate the geometry and create a series of octagonal pop-up structures, extruded from the forms he could already see in the plaza.
The pop-up structures could be made with patinated copper and glass to create more interesting surfaces and a suggestion of privacy when in use, but still connected to what was happening around them.
Young’s team started their Wish journey by adding more planters and landscape features to extend the already existing grid. By grouping the pods together, he created a more usable space for events, markets, and pop-up retail, while still maintaining an interactive sculptural quality to the structures, for when they’re not in use.
Young’s team also used remaining octagonal nodes for added green-space, something they thought was lacking in the existing mostly-concrete plaza.
Editor’s Note: If you see an I Wish This Was concept that you’d like to make happen, reach out to us at [email protected].

domain: design


text:
Brent crude futures for July delivery were trading down 11 cents, or 0.3 per cent, at $34.54 per barrel at 0031 GMT.
U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures for July were down 13 cents, or 0.4 per cent, at $31.83 a barrel. The July contract became the front month after WTI futures for June expired on Tuesday, avoiding the chaos of last month's May expiry when prices slid into negative territory.
Oil prices have risen in the past three weeks, with both benchmarks climbing to above $30 for the first time in more than a month on Monday, supported by massive output cuts by major oil producers and signs of improving demand.
However, a bleak economic outlook from the U.S. Federal Reserve put downward pressure on oil prices.
U.S. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said on Tuesday layoffs by state and local governments will slow the U.S. economic recovery, while Boston Federal Reserve Bank President Eric Rosengren said the U.S. unemployment rate is likely to stay at double-digit levels by year-end.
"Crude oil prices gave up earlier gains amid concerns about the long-lasting economic damage the coronavirus has caused," ANZ Research said in a note.
U.S. crude inventories fell by 4.8 million barrels to 521.3 million barrels in the week to May 15, data from industry group the American Petroleum Institute (API) showed on Tuesday.
Official data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA) is due at 10:30 a.m. (1430 GMT) on Wednesday.
Reflecting a slow return of demand, Asia's gasoline profit margins turned positive on Tuesday for the first in nearly two months, giving hope to global oil refiners.
- Front Page
- Pure Politics
- Brands & Companies
- ET Markets
- Indian Bonds Most Attractive in APAC
The Indian benchmark bond is the highest-yielding sovereign security in the Asia-Pacific region, barring that of Pakistan, enticing investors to invest in local debt paper.Local Banks not Keen on Plan to Align Payment Messaging System with Russia
Russian financial institutions want to align their country’s payment messaging system with the Indian messaging platform, but the Indian bankers and authorities are reluctant to pursue the idea.Tata Trusts Taking Legal Opinion on Trust Deed Changes
The Tata Trusts are consulting legal experts to examine the possibility of including a clause in the trust deeds to the effect that the same person cannot head them as well as holding company Tata Sons, while honouring the wills of the founders, top executives close to the development told ET.
Read More News on
Download The Economic Times News App to get Daily Market Updates & Live Business News.

domain: finance


text:
The Joys of LoveBook - 2008
After graduating from college in 1941, Elizabeth Jerrold pursues her dream of becoming a stage actress, landing a position as an apprentice in a summer theater company where she hones her acting skills and falls in love with an aspiring director.
Publisher: New York : Farrar Straus Giroux, 2008
Edition: First edition
Branch Call Number: FICTION LEn
Description: xiii, 255 pages ; 22 cm


The Federal Public Service Commission FPSC has declared the latest 113 plus Private Secretary Assistants Jobs in Advertisement No. 01/2021. All male and female applicants from all over Pakistan can apply online for the most important opportunities on the FPSC official website fpsc.gov.pk . The last date for this vacancy is 22 February 2021
The Public Assistance Commission was set up without precedent for English India in
- After autonomy, the Commission was set up in Pakistan in 1947
under the arrangement of Administration of India Act, 1935. As of now, the
commission is working under article 242of the constitution of Islamic Republic
of Pakistan. It has been given self-rule under the Standards of Business, 1973
what’s more, FPSC Guidelines, 1978 in its working. The Commission has likewise been
given regulatory just as, somewhat, monetary self-sufficiency to play out its
The Commission comprises of an Administrator and Individuals. The Executive is
named by the Leader of Islamic republic of Pakistan, in his watchfulness,
The Commission is helped by the Secretary who gives a connection
among the Commission, its Secretariat and the Public authority Offices.
The term of the workplace of individuals is:
1) An Individual from the Commission will hold office for a fixed term from the date
on which he enters upon office and will not be qualified for re-arrangement.
2) A Part may leave his office by composing under his hand routed to the
Assurance OF Administration OF THE COMMISSION
The Commission may work without the impedance of the Public authority or any
other pressing factor, as Individual from the Commission can’t be taken out from his
office without the exhortation of the Preeminent Legal Board of Pakistan, which
comprises of ;
I) Boss Equity Of Pakistan
ii) Two next most senior Adjudicators of the High Court of Pakistan
iii) Two senior most Boss Equity of High court, (Segment 6 of FPSC Law,
1977 and article 209 of the Constitution).
Taking into account above security an Individual from the Commission can, hence, work
with no pressing factor.
Sythesis OF THE COMMISSION
The Commission comprises of an Administrator and the Individuals. The Director is
named by the Leader of Islamic republic of Pakistan, in his circumspection,
under Article 242 (IA) of the Constitution of Islamic Republic of Pakistan, 1973.
The individuals are named by the President on the guidance of the Head administrator


text:
Designer cakes by paige men's cakes themed birthday cakes star wars theme creative cakes diaper cake occasion stars amazing star wars themed cake Here are some of the best ideas for boy’s birthday cakes with awesome themes that they and their party guests will thoroughly enjoy. The number 50 cake design is nearly as easy as the number 40 cake design above.
Birthday Cakes David's Custom Cakes Modern birthday cakes, Painted
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Birthday cake ideas for the grog lover.
We have options for birthday cakes for the 21st birthday, 30's, 40's, 50's and 60's here below as well as multiple flavor and style options.We'll you've come to the right place. As well as adding some grandeur to a birthday party, these excellent cake designs can bring some real class to any occasion.Web best 50th birthday cakes for him number 50 cake design.
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domain: food


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Gallery Booth Number 102 & 104. PSFAF 2013.
Phone (+44) (0) 207 631 0551
89 Charlotte Street
London W1T 4PU
The Woolff Gallery was opened in 2001 by ambitious owner Nick Woolff.
We are now based in Central London and have an impressive space spread over two floors.
The Woolff Gallery focuses on contemporary art. Many of our artists work in a completely unique style or use unconventional materials. Above all else our artists have an incredible level of technical ability and ‘patience’.
The Woolff group of artists are a cohesive set, each complimenting one-another’s distinctive style.
Zac Freeman, Russell West, Valeria Nascimento, Clay Sinclair, Marcus Egli, Susila Bailey-Bond, Joanne Tinker, Annemarie Wright, Oona Hassim, Keith Haynes.


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Wegmans Food You Feel Good About
|about 2 servings per container|
|Serving Size: 4 leaves (85 g)|
|Calories from Fat||0|
|Amount Per Serving and/or % Daily Value*|
|Total Fat||0 g (0%)|
|Saturated Fat||0 g (0%)|
|Trans Fat||0 g|
|Cholesterol||0 mg (0%)|
|Sodium||20 mg (1%)|
|Total Carbohydrate||3 g (1%)|
|Dietary Fiber||1 g (3%)|
Triple washed and trimmed. A cross between Romaine & Iceberg lettuces. Heart healthy. While many factors affect heart disease, diets low in saturated fat and cholesterol may reduce the risk of this disease. Make foods like Lettuce Wraps, part of your plan for heart healthful eating. Product of USA.
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Balls says Isa age will go on... but with reforms. By Melanie Wright and Josephine Moulds
The Government reassured savers this week that tax-free individual savings accounts (Isas) are here to stay.
Ed Balls, Treasury minister, set out plans to reform the rules surrounding Isas as the Government tries to encourage increasingly debt-laden consumers to save.
The Labour Government introduced Isas in 1999 for an initial 10-year period. They have since attracted investment of almost £215bn, with more than one in three adults holding an Isa.
Any interest earned on savings or bonds and any capital gains made on investments in an Isa are tax-free.
Under the existing rules, you can put up to £7,000 a year in a maxi Isa invested in stocks and shares, or up to £3,000 in a mini cash Isa.
While you cannot open both maxi and mini Isas in the same year, you can combine a mini cash Isa with another £4,000 in a mini equity Isa.
The reforms will remove the distinction between mini and maxi Isas, criticised as being too complicated.
Mr Balls said: "This will simplify the regime, making it easier for savers to understand and engage with Isas.
"And it will make Isa products cheaper and easier for the industry to provide.
"Our task is to entrench a culture of saving for people of all ages."
Richard Wastcoat, UK managing director of Fidelity International, said: "Now that the Government has confirmed their ongoing commitment to Isa, we would like to see this taken a step further with an increase in annual limits."
Launch of 'ethical' child trust fund
Parents who are concerned about damage we inflict on the environment may want to consider Family Investment's 'ethical' child trust fund (CTF) account, launched this week.
Family Investments introduced the account after conducting research that found 64 per cent of parents would choose an ethical CTF over a standard one, if the terms and prospective returns were the same.
Any money put into the ethical CTF will not be invested in companies that generate significant turnover from the export of armaments and nuclear weapons, or animal testing of cosmetics.
The account also avoids companies involved in the sale or production of alcohol and tobacco, pornography or intensive farming methods.
The account is a stakeholder plan, which means it will invest in stocks and shares in the first few years and then move into less risky investments, such as cash and bonds, as your child nears the age of 18.
If you apply for the account online, you will be sent a £5 gift voucher, and if you set up a regular direct debit into the account, you will receive a further £20 in gift vouchers.
Alternatively, you can ask for a tree to be planted in a British managed woodland. For more information, visit www.familyinvestments.co.uk, or call 0800 616 695.
Online insurer adds pet cover to range
Online car insurance provider, swiftcover.com this week added pet insurance to its range.
The pet cover, which is underwritten by Axa Insurance, has three different levels – bronze, silver and gold – with the limit for vet's fees ranging from £1,000 to £5,000 depending on the level of cover selected.
All dog plans include third party liability cover.
Silver cover for a three-year-old Jack Russell in the Plymouth PL31 postcode area which would pay out up to £3,000 for vets' fees would cost £59.57, which Swiftcover claims is more than £50 cheaper than equivalent cover with Lloyds TSB.
For more information, visit www.swiftcover.com.
Pitfalls of fee-free mortgage deals
Homebuyers tempted by fee-free deals when remortgaging need to do their sums carefully, warned moneysupermarket.com this week, as fee-free mortgages usually only benefit those borrowing smaller amounts.
Research by the price comparison website found that for mortgages of around £60,000 or more it is often worth paying an application fee and getting a lower rate of interest, rather than opting for a no-fee deal and a higher rate.
For example, a borrower with a £56,000 interest-only mortgage who remortgages to Portman Building Society's fee-free two-year fixed-rate of 5.49 per cent would pay total interest of £6,149 over the fixed-rate period.
If they went for a two-year deal with Nationwide, fixed at the lower rate of 4.47 per cent but with an arrangement fee of £1,598, the total cost over two years would be £455 higher at £6,604.
However, for someone with a £100,000 mortgage, the total interest costs over two years with the same Portman and Nationwide deals would be £10,538 and £10,980 respectively, so the Nationwide mortgage, despite the steep fee, is £442 less expensive that the Portman deal.
Louise Cuming, head of mortgages at moneysupermarket.com, said: "It is great to see lenders being innovative with products, but because mortgages can be so complex, borrowers need to be cautious and ensure they get the best deal.
"Unfortunately, the more money-conscious consumers are, the more likely they are to be attracted to the 'free' part of fee-free – but doing a bit of homework beforehand could expose the pitfalls of a fee-free deal.
"All the best mortgage offers currently charge application fees."
APR reduction on the cards
Barclaycard this week reduced the annual percentage rate (APR) on its Platinum credit card from 17.9 per cent to 14.9 per cent.
The card still offers interest-free balance transfers for the first 12 months, although there is a 2.5 per cent handling fee. Those using the card for purchases will be charged no interest for the first three months. For more information, visit www.barclaycard.co.uk.


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The resort is very easy and informal, all the rooms have a magnificent view on the lagoon.
The owners and all the staff is very friendly and always at your disposal. The restaurant is simple but good , yuo can test a mix of flavours fisch, meet ecc at oriental style. All the resort is ordered and clean. The staff of diving center is at ypur disposal to discover the wonderfull reef around Peleliu, don't forghet a dive at Blue Corner !!
If you like nature and diving Peleliu is a wonderfull place !! I'd like to come back here!

domain: travel


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Find a good example of a work from the early 20th century (ca. 1900-1950) that either reflects the culture or society in which it was created or has affected society in some way. Then choose ONE of the following to discuss:
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- Start a discussion about how the visual appearance of this work reflects its culture/society. (E.g. Many art movements emerged in response to WWI, and the styles and subject matter of the art they created reflect their various opinions of war–did the art movement that your work belongs to have a positive or negative opinion about war? How did they express this opinion through style, subject matter, or choice of materials?)
- Start a discussion about the ways in which the work itself affected society. (E.g. Did it offend people? Who? Why? Did it influence other artists or lead to other avant-garde styles?

domain: sociology


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Hypovitaminosis D is a deficiency of vitamin D. It can result from inadequate
nutritional intake of vitamin D and/or ...
May 28, 2014 ... Here are seven signs and symptoms of vitamin D deficiency -- if you think you
have any of these, you should get your vitamin D levels tested ...
Aug 5, 2014 ... Most people with a vitamin D deficiency won't be aware of it. It doesn't usually
produce noticeable symptoms. However, symptoms are possible.
Feb 26, 2015 ... Read about vitamin D deficiency treatment, causes, symptoms, signs, diagnosis
and daily limits chart. Depression, osteoporosis, allergies, and ...
It is estimated that anywhere from 30 to 100% of Americans, depending upon
their age and community living environments, are deficient in Vitamin D. More
Jan 30, 2016 ... Low vitamin D levels have been linked to health conditions including prostate ...
Symptoms of vitamin D deficiency include bone pain, muscle ...
Oct 30, 2015 ... Signs and symptoms. Vitamin D deficiency is often clinically silent. Manifestations
are as follows: Children are often found to have started ...
Find out who's at risk for vitamin D deficiency, what the symptoms for vitamin D
deficiency are and how to know if you're getting enough vitamin D.
A more severe lack can cause serious problems such as rickets (in children) and
osteomalacia (in adults), described below. Treatment is with vitamin D ...
Jan 8, 2015 ... Magnesium deficiency is, unfortunately, fairly common. It is not so much a
symptom of Vitamin D deficiency insomuch as the two affect each ...