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Malawi’s finance minister has come under intense criticism for demanding that opposition members of parliament refund allowances given them as members of parliament. Godall Gondwe reportedly told opposition parliamentarians to either refund monies paid to them or the government would deduct it from their salaries. But opposition parties dismissed Gondwe’s directive as yet another move by President Bingu Wa Mutharika to intimidate them over the controversial Section 65 debate in the National Assembly.
Major opposition parties in the National Assembly are boycotting Parliament because they want the Speaker of parliament to act on Section 65, a constitutional provision which bars legislators from leaving parties that sponsored them into power and joining another party inside Parliament. President Mutharika is expected to lose out if the speaker makes his ruling after several members of the opposition were allegedly lured to switch sides. From Mzuzu in northern Malawi, finance minister Gondwe tells reporter Peter Clottey that his directive is in line with state practices.
“The contention is quite clear, we pay members of parliament what we call a subsistent allowance for attending parliament. We give them a daily subsistence of 15 thousand Kwachas (about 107 dollars) a day, but we give that one-week in advance of their attendance of parliament. And we pay them the amount for five days and they (opposition) did not attend parliament as a matter of fact, and so what we are asking them is to return the money. It is as simple as that. That is really our rule here. You are only given the money to spend if you have attended parliament, they have not,” Gondwe pointed out.
He said the state would recover any unwarranted funds paid to anybody.
“Each time somebody has been overpaid by the government and he is unable to return the money, the government would deduct from his salary. And in this case what we are saying is that if you are unable to return the money we will recover from their salaries. That’s how it is. So it is a legal way of handling the matter,” he said.
Gondwe denied speculation that the recovery of the money has political undertones to intimidate the opposition.
“No that is not the case, and it would not be the first time we are doing it. If you have been overpaid by the government, knowingly, or unknowingly, the government would ask you to pay back that money. If you are unable to do so, the government would recover it from your salary. And in this case, those who cannot return the subsistence that we paid them are to either pay it back straight to the government and if they are not able to we will recover it from their salaries,” Gondwe pointed out.
He reiterated that state practices stipulate that government only pays for work done, adding that the government would recover the monies paid to the parliamentarians who were absent from duties in parliament.
“Nobody asked them to absent themselves from parliament. If there is a contention of a parliamentary nature like Section 65, they are expected to air that in parliament. We could have discussed it in parliament. But they decided not to do so by boycotting parliament. Therefore, as far as the government is concerned, they have not attended parliament voluntarily, and should return the money,” he noted.


Smith & Wesson is well known for high-quality handguns, but it is not generally known that this firm also produced shotguns. Double-barrel shotguns by this famous maker were discontinued about a century ago. However, the Springfield, Mass. firm reentered the shotgun market last year with two repeaters, the principal one being a gas-operated autoloader called the Model 1000.
Designed for field use, the Model 1000 is offered in 12-ga. only; with choice of various barrel lengths and chokes. It has a 2 ¾” chamber and fires standard and magnum 2 ¾” shells without adjustment.
This gun is produced for Smith & Wesson by Howa Machinery, Ltd., Nagoya, Japan. It was developed by Howa and has some minor modifications made by Smith & Wesson engineers.
As usual with gas-operated shotguns, the gas mechanism of the Model 1000 is in the front of the magazine tube, which is concealed by the fore-end. The barrel is fixed during firing, but can be removed easily without use of tools by following the well-written instructions furnished with the gun. This facilitates cleaning and permits changing of barrels. Spare interchangeable barrels with various lengths and chokes are available at extra cost.
Operation is by means of a short-stroke, floating hollow piston designed to give a prolonged push instead of a hammer-like blow. (For detailed explanation of this system, see Question and Answer “M14 Gas Cylinder,” The American Rifleman, Feb., 1963, page 64.)
Powder gas enters the hollow piston through a piston hole aligned with two ports in the barrel, and fills the space within the piston and cylinder. Initial movement of the piston takes the piston hole out of alignment with the gas ports and prevents further entry of gas. The trapped gas expands and drives the piston, piston connector ring, action bar assembly, and breechbolt base rearward. After these parts are driven back approximately 3/8”, the breechbolt base cams the locking block in the breechbolt downward out of engagement with the barrel extension. This gives time for the pressure in the barrel to drop before unlocking occurs.
When the piston hole aligns with the gas-escape slot in the cylinder, gas used to operate the mechanism is exhausted upward through two slots in the top of the fore-end. The piston and connector ring are stopped after 1-3/16” travel, but the action bar assembly and unlocked breechbolt continue to the rear until the fired shell is extracted and ejected. The rearward moving breechbolt cocks the hammer and compresses the action spring in the Buttstock. As the breechbolt is driven forward, it chambers a loaded shell.
A highly-desirable feature of the Model 1000 is its pressure-compensator valve assembly designed to stabilize variations in gas port pressures and thereby adapt the gun to a wide range of loads. Located in the front end of the gas cylinder, this valve assembly has a tough, springy plastic piece between two cylindrical metal parts. Gas pressure causes the plastic piece to be compressed according to the amount of pressure exerted, and thus varies the amount of space for gas expansion.
As with most semi-automatic shotguns, shells are loaded into the magazine through a port in the receiver bottom. A magazine capacity pin extending laterally through the magazine tube reduces total capacity of the gun to three shots as required by Federal Migratory Bird Regulations. Removing this pin increases the magazine capacity to three shells or total capacity of the gun to four. The gas system at the front of the magazine limits its capacity to three rounds although the total length of the tube and fore-end are quite long.
The crossbolt safety in the rear of the trigger guard has a red band that is exposed when the safety is disengaged. It can easily be reversed for left-handed use by following instructions provided with the gun.
A ventilated barrel rib fitted with front and mid-rib metal beads is a standard feature of the Model 1000. The rib is 5/16” wide and is finely checkered to reduce glare. The receiver top in line with the rib is finely grooved.
The gun has pleasing lines and a generally attractive appearance. Both stock and fore-end are well-figured, dark brown walnut with a high-gloss polyurethane finish. Cut checkering on the pistol grip and fore-end is about 20 lines per inch and of generally excellent quality. Fitted to the stock are a black plastic buttplate and grip cap separate from the wood by white plastic spacers. A round plastic inlay in the grip cap bears the Smith & Wesson monogram in silver-color letters on a blue field.
Made of aluminum alloy, the receiver and trigger guard have a black-anodized finish. The steel barrel is finished in a high-luster blue. The breechbolt assembly, trigger, and carrier are chrome plated. Both sides of the receiver are scroll engraved by an acid-etching process.
The Model 1000 shotgun evaluated by The American Rifleman Technical Staff has a 28” modified-choke barrel. This gun shows generally excellent workmanship and finish except that the hell of the buttplate projects slightly above the top of the stock. Also, some checkering in the border areas is not full depth and not quite as well executed as the rest of the checkering. This is a common fault even in many expensive custom guns.
Well proportioned, this gun points naturally, is easy to carry, and can be brought into action quickly. Point of balance is 7” forward of the trigger which makes the weight well distributed between the hands. Loading and unloading is easy, and the gun is convenient to use as a single-loader. The trigger pull weighs 4 ½ to 5 lbs. It has some creep, but this seems to have no adverse affect on the shooting.
The gun tested by the Technical Staff weighs only 6 ¾ lbs. which is light for a 12-ga. shotgun, especially for an autoloader. This is an advantage for an upland field gun where the gun is carried for long periods, but the lightness increases recoil. The recoil is not very great with light loads, and can be endured even in prolonged firing. It is much more pronounced, however, with heavy loads such as 3 ¾-dram equivalent. With magnum loads, recoil is severe. In firing 2 ¾” magnum loads, the heaviest for use in this gun, the computed recoil energy is 45 ft. lbs.
Approximately 475 light, medium, and heavy factory loads of several makes were fired in NRA tests of this gun, and there were only two malfunctions. One malfunction was a failure to chamber caused by the back of the shell swinging out to the right during feeding. The other was a failure of the breechbolt to latch in the open position after the last round in the gun was fired. Many loads firing during these tests were 2 ¾” magnums. Reloaded shells were also fired in the gun, and there were no malfunctions with them. During prolonged firing, the stock became slightly loose. This was easy to correct by removing the buttplate and tightening the back retainer bolt.
Tests for patterning were fired at 40 yds. using 3 ¾ dram equivalent factory loads with 1 ¼ ozs. No. 6 shot and plastic shot-container wads. The average pattern percentage or average number of pellet hits in a 30” circle was 67% for 10 shots, which corresponds to improved-modified choke results from this modified-choke gun. Distribution of pellet hits was only fairly even, with patchiness in many patterns. Point of impact at 40 yds. was 4.7” below point of hold.
The Technical Staff fired the gun extensively in skeet shooting. Handling qualities were generally very good and the gun pointed naturally and quickly. However, the low shooting proved a handicap, and results were only fair with several scores in the teens. The highest score was 23X35. Many targets were not broken cleanly indicating hits by edges of the patterns.
Except for its low shooting, the Model 1000 is a fine gun. Due to its lightness, it would be better suited for hunting upland game than waterfowl which requires use of heavy loads for good effectiveness.
Distributed by: Smith & Wesson, Springfield, Mass. 01101


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Ahead of the 2026 regulation changes, the F1 teams won’t be able to steal a march by embarking on early aerodynamic or CFD work.
F1 introduces a whole new regulation set for 2026, with sweeping chassis changes to come alongside new power unit regulations.
While the PU regulations have largely been firmed up, the technical regulations for the new cars are not yet fully solidified but, even once they are, teams won’t be allowed to switch their attention over to the new machines too early.
FIA technical regulations updated to ban aerodynamic development
At the recent F1 Commission meeting held during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend, agreement was reached that teams would not be allowed to begin any wind tunnel or CFD work for the new cars until 2025.
With the FIA’s World Motor Sport Council meeting in Baku this week to ratify the changes agreed at Commission level, how this prohibition will be put in place has been revealed through the issuing of the new Sporting Regulation rulebooks.
Under the latest Sporting Regulations published for 2023 and 2024, Article 3 of Appendix 7 reveals that wind tunnel testing may only be carried out using cars that conform with the technical regulations for the 2023, ’24, and ’25 seasons.
“In order to prevent testing which aims to develop for the 2026 season, from 1/12/2023 until 1/1/2025 inclusive, RWTT [restricted wind tunnel testing] may only be carried out using a scale model that substantially complies with the 2023, 2024 or 2025 F1 technical regulations,” reads the rule.
“With the exception of dyno testing aimed to develop brake system components with minimal air ducting and provided such tests do not concurrently test (or in any way provide incidental data or knowledge on) the performance or endurance of parts or systems classified as bodywork, no wind tunnel testing may be carried out using car geometry partially or wholly compliant with and/or substantially derived from drafts and/or published versions of the 2026 F1 technical regulations or FIA proposed 2026 bodywork geometries and concepts.”
Article 4 (e) of Appendix 7 also clarifies a ban on computational fluid dynamics (CFD) research for 2026.
“In order to prevent CFD simulations which aim to develop for the 2026 season, from 1/12/2023 until 1/1/2025 inclusive, RCFDs may only be carried out using geometries that substantially comply with the 2021-2025 F1 Technical Regulations,” the rule states.
Team are permitted to start development on their 2026 cars based on the technical regulation drafts currently available, but will not be able to carry out any wind tunnel or CFD testing of their ideas.
In other changes outlined in the updated Regulations, the FIA has outlined four days of car testing will be put aside for specific testing into the research of how to reduce spray in heavy rain conditions, following some initial testing of a car package during the 2023 season.

domain: news


One reason that people started asking this question was Intel's "other" processor, the Pentium M. This chip could be described as Prescott's polar opposite, with extremely low power consumption, low cooling requirements and very impressive clock-for-clock performance. Some have even done the unthinkable, seriously considering a mobile chip for their desktop PC, of all things. Enough people have had this thought that more than one manufacturer has created a desktop motherboard for the Pentium M. The obvious question is: What's next?
A Pentium M cube, of course.
AOpen's XC Cube EY855-II is an attractive small form factor system with many of the common SFF features (USB 2.0 and Firewire, Gigabit Ethernet and an AGP slot) and at least one very uncommon feature: a 479-pin socket suitable for a Pentium M. But execution is everything, after all. Has AOpen put the right pieces around that nifty socket to create a worthwhile system? We'll soon find out.
|''Biggest ever'' iPhone launch drives strong Q4 Apple financials||28|
|IBM-GlobalFoundries deal faces regulatory hurdles||30|
|You can now pre-order Asus' $199 Win8.1 netbook||27|
|Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare needs 6GB of RAM and 55GB of storage||81|
|Gmail for Android 5.0 Lollipop to support non-Gmail accounts||17|
|GeForce GTX 970 cards from MSI and Asus reviewed||33|
|Biostar mini PC combines Bay Trail quad with USB audio||15|
|GlobalFoundries to acquire IBM's microelectronics business||50|
|Forbes: Microsoft smartwatch to launch within 'next few weeks'||22|


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Why Are There Chicks at Easter?
"I often get asked why I give out Peeps at Easter." said the Easter Bunny.
Christmas. When I Was Nine
Postwar Christmas in America. Memories of a nine-year-old boy raised in a household of Italian immigrants in New York. A Christmas story that Professor Robert Viscusi generously offered us for publication years ago. We propose it again in this difficult Christmas also as a tribute to Bob’s memory, who sadly left us a few months ago. Thanks Bob, and buona lettura to you all.
David Dinkins (RIP) vs Rudy Giuliani: A Tale of Two Mayors
In Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities the French Doctor Manette, after spending 18-years in La Bastille in City # 1 (Paris) is released to live in City # 2 (London) with his daughter Lucie, whom he had never met. The story is used to warn the readers about the terrible conditions that led to the bloody French Revolution, and the even bloodier Reign of Terror. A similar, perhaps slightly less bloody, Tale is reflected in the inglorious record of New York City Mayors that has been a progression of mostly more, and less unflattering comparisons.
Congratulations! It’s A Girl! Kamala Harris, Vice President
Exactly 100 years after women gained the right to vote, we will finally have a woman in the second highest office in the land. And as a woman of color and the daughter of immigrant parents, Kamala Harris crashes through two other glass ceilings. Her mother was born in India and her father was born in Jamaica.
What Does The Triumph of Biden-Harris Represent Historically?
“This is not who we are,” Biden, Harris, and many others insisted during the campaign. Yet we must acknowledge the fact that 70,000,000 Americans voted for Trump. The candidate and President understood his supporters all too well. “I could stand in the middle of Fifth Avenue and shoot some people and I wouldn’t lose voters.”
Nel mezzo del cammin...
“Nel mezzo del cammin di nostra vita,/ mi ritrovai in una selva oscura (Midway upon the journey of our life,/ I found myself within a dark forest).” This powerful beginning could be enough to fall in love with the Italian language. With its musicality, its verbal intelligence, its expressive force...
Together with "The Italian Resilience"
A new project. In this virtual but very concrete space, we will collect stories of Italian resilience from all over the world, from New York to Milan, from Paris to Berlin to Buenos Aires ... There will be stories, interviews, and ideas. We will publish them in different languages, as they come to us, without necessarily looking for translations, but we will be happy if you will help us, perhaps translating and disseminating ------ Un nuovo progetto. In questo luogo virtuale, ma molto concreto, raccoglieremo storie di resilienza italiana da tutto il mondo, da New York a Milano, da Parigi a Berlino a Buenos Aires... Saranno testimonianze, interviste, racconti. Lo faremo in diverse lingue, senza cercare necessariamente traduzioni, ma saremo felici se ci darete una mano magari traducendo e diffondendo...
Beyond Columbus: An Italian American Wake Up Call
Removal of public Columbus statues is happening all over the U.S.A., giving Americans of Italian descent a wakeup call, nudging this sleeping minority to ask, what does this statue really means to their identity as U.S. American citizens.
Italians at the Time of Coronavirus
The thought of a young student in such difficult days. To look to the future ... Through action and inaction, but always aware of others, we can save lives and make it through, hopefully bettered…
Robert Viscusi (1941-2020)
From the Dean Desk of the John D. Calandra Italian American Institute. The death of our dear friend Robert Viscusi, Professor Emeritus of Brooklyn College.
Another Turn of the Key. Nino Marano. 49 Years in Prison
A presentation of Emma D’Aquino’s new book about Nino Marano, a man who spent 49 years in prison. It all started with stolen peppers and eggplants. After being arrested and imprisoned, it’s in prison that Nino became a murderer and never got out. Alternating between moments of hope for redemption and recurring episodes of violence. The sentence gets longer and it becomes almost an excuse to commit new crimes. A difficult and controversial story that opens up to many reflections.
Why Hold a Book Presentation in Italian in New York?
Two Italian language appointments for Emma D’Aquino’s book “Ancora un giro di chiave” edited by Baldini & Castoldi. One of the most renowned Italian news anchors puts together a moving and incredible telling of detainee Nino Marano’s story. Why did we decide to hold them in Italian?
Opinion: Is Italy Protecting LGBTQ Citizens?
As he prepares to spend a year in Bologna, an American student contemplates LGBTQ safety in Italy.
What's Behind a Plate of Meatballs
An Italian TV station makes a show that looks for ‘pure Italians,’ starting from their food choices. The result? Presumption, arrogance and lack of knowledge.
‘Your Italian Hub’ And What of i-Italy?
EDITORIAL. A new communication agency is born. One that goes beyond information. A hub.
Farewell to Durante, the Man Who Promoted Italian-American Culture... in Italy
Writer, journalist, and literary scholar Francesco Durante, 66, died in Capri on Saturday. With astounding range, infinite intellectual curiosity, indefatigable energy, his detached, wry irony, combined with his passionate empathy, helped us make sense of our world and the past.
The EU and Italian Debt: More Tolerance?
Italy's deputy premiers Salvini and Di Maio, governing partners for the past year, have not been on speaking terms for weeks. But under pressure from the European Union over the country's giant debt, they are trying to find a way out, as an EU deadline looms July 9
May Brings Good News on Jobs and the Economy
Despite gloomy predictions, the Italian economy has surged upwards. Showing an increase of 0.1% in the past 12 months, the hike in the GDP is accompanied by an increase in employment. While domestic demand remains timid, exports have increased.
Soft Power & the Role of Young Italians Abroad
Considerations after the Palermo Seminary with 115 young Italians from all over the world
The Way We Were: Humanitarian Missions and Boat People, Yesterday and Today
Overwhelming flows of migrants who board fragile boats to seek refuge and shelter in neighboring countries. The refusal by some of such countries to accept refugees. The blockage of their fragile boats in high waters, exposing them to an uncertain fate. It may sound like today, but it happened forty years ago...

domain: library


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As we continue discussing heart disease awareness, there are lifestyle choices that we can make on a daily basis that will decrease the risks for not only viral and bacterial diseases, but more specifically, heart disease that can lead to heart attacks.
A heart attack occurs when there is not enough oxygen flowing to the heart and sadly, heart disease is the number one killer in the U.S. among both men and women.
The most important ways to prevent a heart attack is by making some lifestyle changes in not only what we eat but also staying active.
We’re living in an era that’s busier than ever, and everything is available at our fingertips. This convenience of running through a fast food drive-thru, sitting at our computers for hours, and much more may be contributing to not only heart disease but affecting our overall well-being.
What are some ways to prevent heart attacks? Dr. Stephen Kopecky, a Mayo Clinic cardiologist, gives tips on how we can prevent heart attacks and live longer.

domain: medical


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7 minutes in heaven Adventure Time isn't just for kids... Go ahead... Click it. Lady is...

domain: entertainment


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CompuServe Is No More — But Will Email Addresses Remain Active?
CompuServe, the pioneering online service, quietly ended its 30-year run on June 30. Current owner AOL made the shutdown announcement via email to its dwindling ranks of subscribers, prompting blog eulogies from nostalgic fans — and a little bit of snark from the peanut gallery (“CompuWHAT?”).
The news caught my eye, not only because I’m a former user.
I remember logging on to CompuServe to check stock market quotes and search a Lexis-Nexis-style periodical database during my first reporting job out of college. I also shared one of those now-ludicrous numerical email addresses with about four other reporters.
More relevant to the here and now is the notice that current subscribers can retain their existing CompuServe Classic email addresses.
The process requires subscribers to migrate their old accounts to a new, Web-mail service through an online registration form — but how many of those address will, indeed, remain active?
Subscriber apathy, user error, or technical glitches could cause many of those addresses to stop functioning. And if you’ve got CompuServe address in your email database, that could mean more bounces in the coming weeks.
So take a look at your database. See how many @compuserve.com addresses you’re currently mailing, and watch for bounces or other signs of inactivity in future campaigns. You don’t want to purge those addresses from your list immediately, but you also don’t want the ghosts of past ISPs threatening your list hygiene.
CompuServe Classic Mail Migration:
CompuServe Eulogy from The PaperPC


Silence the Serenade of a Dripping Faucet and Keep the Mood Intact
February 14, 2023
How to Fix a Leaky Faucet and Keep the Mood Alive
A leaking faucet can quickly ruin the mood on Valentine’s Day, a special occasion for couples to celebrate their love or any day. The continuous dripping can be an annoying reminder of all the wasted money and water that occurs. This blog will discuss how to fix a dripping faucet and the common causes and dangers associated with leaking taps.
Dangers of a Dripping Faucet
Although a dripping faucet might seem minor, it can significantly affect finances and health. Over time, the persistent dripping can waste a lot of water, raising the water bill. In addition, the extra moisture from a leaky faucet can foster mold growth, which poses a threat to health and possibly causing respiratory problems.
The leak can also cause water damage, which can be costly to repair and can lead to structural damage that can weaken the structure of building materials. A leaking faucet must be fixed as soon as possible to prevent these risks and save money.
Causes of Leaky Faucets
Many problems can lead to leaky faucets, but some of the most frequent ones are corroded parts and loose or worn O-rings. O-rings are tiny rubber rings that serve as a seal between a faucet’s moving parts. These O-rings may deteriorate or wear over time, which causes water to leak. Corroded components can also result in leaks. The metal will become more porous due to corrosion, leading to leaks.
A worn-out or damaged valve seat is another common reason why faucets leak. It can become worn over time, allowing water to leak from the spout where the washer is located. Mineral buildup, hard water, or simple wear and tear can all contribute to this.
Repairing a Leaking Faucet
To properly repair a leaky faucet, it’s critical to determine its cause. Often, these fixes can be made with a few standard tools, but it’s best to call a qualified plumber if the problem is more complicated or homeowners are not experienced in dealing with plumbing fixtures.
One possible way to fix a leaky faucet is by replacing the faucet cartridge. Replacing a faucet cartridge is relatively simple and can be done with a few common tools. However, the process can vary slightly depending on the sink or faucet type. The first step in replacing a faucet cartridge is to turn off the water supply to the faucet. This will prevent water from flowing out of the faucet when removing the handle. Next, remove the handle by either unscrewing it or prying it off with a flat-head screwdriver.
Once the handle is removed, the faucet cartridge can be accessed. Remove the old cartridge by pulling it out of the faucet, and then insert the new cartridge that matches. Ensure it is securely in place and the valve is aligned correctly. Finally, reassemble the faucet and turn the water supply back on.
It’s important to note that the process may differ depending on the type of sink and faucet. Some may require special tools or more complex steps requiring a professional plumber to ensure that the tap is repaired correctly and safely.
About Sewer Squad Plumbing & Drain Services
Sewer Squad Plumbing & Drain Services is a family-owned and operated business serving Oshawa, ON, residents, and the surrounding areas. They offer upfront pricing, industry-leading warranties, and no overtime charges or after-hour fees. Call them today for tap installation and repair services in Oshawa, ON.


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Read all about the Journal of Global Slavery's Paul E. Lovejoy Prize and first two award winners here.
The Journal of Global Slavery (JGS) aims to advance and promote a greater understanding of slavery and post-slavery from comparative, transregional, and/or global perspectives, as well as methodological and theoretical aspects of its study. It especially underscores the global and globalizing nature of slavery in world history.
As a practice in which human beings were held captive for an indefinite period of time, coerced into extremely dependent and exploitative power relationships, denied rights (including potentially rights over their labor, lives, and bodies), could be bought and sold, were vulnerable to forced relocation by various means, and forced to labor against their will, slavery in one form or another has existed in innumerable societies throughout history. JGS fosters a global view of slavery by integrating the latest scholarship from around the world and providing an interdisciplinary platform for scholars working on slavery in regions as diverse as ancient Rome, Pre-Colombian Mexico, Han dynasty China, the Ottoman Empire, the antebellum United States, and twenty-first-century Mali.
The journal also promotes a view of slavery as a globalizing force in the development of world civilizations. Global history focuses heavily upon the global movement of people, goods, and ideas, with a particular emphasis on processes of integration and divergence in the human experience. Slavery straddles all of these focal points, as it connected and integrated various societies through economic and power-based relationships, and simultaneously divided societies by class, race, ethnicity, and cultural group.
JGS is a peer-reviewed journal that publishes articles based on original research, book reviews, short notes and communications, and special issues. It especially invites articles that situate studies of slavery (whether historical or modern-day forms) in explicitly comparative, transregional, and/or global contexts. Themes may include (but are not limited to):
• the different and changing social, cultural, and legal meanings of slavery across time and space;
• the roles that slavery has played in the development of intersecting and interdependent relationships between societies throughout world history;
• comparative practices of enslavement (through warfare, indebtedness, trade, etc.);
• human trafficking and forced migration;
• transregional dialogues and the movement of ideas and practices of slavery and anti-slavery across space;
• slave cultures and cultural transfer;
• political, economic, and ideological causes and effects of slavery;
• religion and slavery;
• abolition, emancipation, and manumission practices from global or comparative perspectives;
• the psychological effects, memories, legacies, and representations of slave practices.

domain: sociology


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Protect Your Heart with Allicin: A Comprehensive Overview
Unlocking the Power of Allicin: A Comprehensive Guide to Protecting Your Heart
Introduction: In the pursuit of optimal cardiovascular health, individuals often turn to various supplements and natural remedies. One such compound that has gained significant attention for its potential heart-protective properties is allicin, a sulfur-containing compound found in garlic. In this comprehensive overview, we delve into the science behind allicin and explore its potential benefits for heart health.
What is Allicin? Allicin is a bio-active compound that is released when garlic is crushed or chopped. It belongs to the Allium family, which also includes onions and leeks. This sulfur-containing compound is responsible for the distinct odour and flavour of garlic and has been studied for its various health-promoting effects.
The Science Behind Allicin and Heart Health: Numerous studies have investigated the impact of allicin on cardiovascular health. Allicin is believed to exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-platelet properties, which may contribute to its potential benefits for the heart. Additionally, it has been suggested that allicin may help regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels, further supporting cardiovascular well-being.
Antioxidant Properties: Allicin's antioxidant properties play a crucial role in protecting the heart from oxidative stress. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, potentially leading to damage to cells and tissues. By neutralising free radicals, allicin may help mitigate oxidative damage in the cardiovascular system.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Chronic inflammation is a known contributor to cardiovascular diseases. Allicin has been studied for its anti-inflammatory effects, which may help reduce the risk of inflammatory conditions that could impact the heart. The compound may inhibit certain inflammatory pathways, providing a protective effect against cardiovascular inflammation.
Anti-platelet Activity: Abnormal blood clotting and platelet aggregation are associated with an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. Allicin has been suggested to possess anti-platelet properties, potentially preventing excessive clot formation and improving blood flow. This anti-platelet activity may contribute to allicin's cardiovascular protective effects.
Regulation of Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: Maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels is crucial for heart health. Some studies suggest that allicin may help regulate blood pressure by promoting vasodilation and supporting the relaxation of blood vessels. Additionally, it may influence cholesterol metabolism, contributing to the reduction of LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels.
Incorporating Allicin into Your Routine: To harness the potential benefits of allicin for heart health, consider incorporating garlic into your diet. While garlic supplements are available, consuming fresh garlic may offer a more natural and complete source of allicin. However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your dietary or supplement regimen.
Conclusion: Allicin, the bio-active compound found in garlic, holds promise as a natural ally in the quest for heart health. Its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-platelet properties, along with its potential to regulate blood pressure and cholesterol, make it a subject of interest in cardiovascular research. By understanding the science behind allicin, individuals can make informed choices to protect their hearts and promote overall well-being.

domain: biology


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EGDS-School includes the original 361 sets of children, adoptive parents, and birth parents. The University of Oregon works with The Pennsylvania State University and The University of California at Riverside to assist in nationwide data collection efforts. This study is funded by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institute on Drug Abuse, and the Office of Behavioral and Social Science Research (OBSSR), Office of the Director.
In this study, we interview participants as the children enter the early school-aged years and again during the child’s transition into middle school. At each phase, we continue to look at the connection between nature and nurture on children's behavioral development and look at such influences on children's regulatory systems by measuring salivary cortisol levels. During the early school-aged years, each birth parent is visited once, and each adoptive family is visited three times (ages 4½, 6, and 7 years). During middle school (age 11), birth parents complete an interview online, children participate in a child phone interview, and adoptive parents complete questionnaires. In addition to these assessments, we conduct brief check-ins with participants via telephone or survey assessments. School and teacher data are also collected for each child.


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December 8th - Christina Gregor
Our lovely friend Christina Gregor showed her Haiti collection at this past CLT Loft Session. Her work speaks to her profound care for social justice and the deeper connection we all have with each other that extends beyond boundaries, both perceived and intangible. Below is just one of the artist statements that accompanied many of her pieces on display.
Story - Christina Gregor
A story is a sacred thing.
A story holds being and bone, trial and error, heart and soul.
A story grapples with truth and perspective.
A story gives you a glimpse of God you could never know without it.
A story can scream fight, forgiveness, romance, loss, pride, vigor and resiliency in a breath.
A story combines the humanity and divine.
A story dances with spirits.
A story resides in memories even though it can physically change us.
A story carries weight - sometimes more than the teller can bear.
But that’s the beauty.
A story was never meant to be carried alone.
It was meant to be told and in turn, shared in the burden.
We were not made to forget.
We were not designed to feel the impact and walk away with hands clean.
We were not formed to hear and see a story without wanting it to be known.
This is how we are known.
This is how we are woven.
This is how we are told.
We are storytellers.

domain: artistic


The innovative and flexible fischertechnik construction system is esteemed by builders and enthusiasts of all ages, across the globe. There are fischertechnik sets available for all levels of expertise, from starter sets for young children to industrial simulation models. fischertechnik also develops many products to help its users pursue robotics. In fact, fischertechnik was the very first construction set to incorporate robotics and programming within its sets. They continue to create new products to keep up with evolving technology. In addition to the popular ROBO TX Explorer, Mini Bots, and the TXT Discovery Set, fischertechnik has recently released a new Robotics BT Smart Beginner Set.
Robotics: BT Smart Beginner Set
This new set is designed to introduce robotics instrumentation and control to users. The “BT” refers to the ability to control models with Bluetooth. You can build 12 real-world models with this set. It includes 380 parts complete with LED light barriers and XS motors plus photo transistors and button sensors. The Bluetooth component, the BT Smart Controller, provides 4 inputs, 2 outputs, USB and Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity. Combined with the downloadable ROBO Pro Light software, you can quickly and easily program your model.
Each model focuses on a different topic important to robotics. From entry level programming with the merry-go-round model to working with switches and light barriers with the punching machine, you’ll learn important concepts. Other models that can be built include a hand dryer, a carousel, a tracked vehicle, a pedestrian light, a lighthouse with blinking light, and a mobile caterpillar machine. You can even build a conveyor belt. If you want to learn more about robotics and programming or looking for tools for teaching others, the fischertechnik BT Smart Beginner Set can help.
fischertechnik also offers a line of products specifically designed for classroom or homeschooling use. The fischertechnik Education line offers solutions for STEM-related related topics such as Electronics, Renewable Energy, and more. The curriculum centered, project-based STEM PREP and STEM Engineering programs encourage inquiry, design, and problem-solving. For younger students, Introduction to STEM I and II sets provide an ideal way to present STEM learning to elementary students. View the academic solutions available from fischertechnik Education.
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The trouble with awards season, especially when it comes to actors who often attract nominations, is that there's a risk that it delegitimizes their work if it doesn't get recognized. If Meryl Streep, say, has countless nominations, than there could be a temptation to think of her performances in less awards-friendly fare as "lesser" work, whereas in fact, the opposite can be true—even in films that are of otherwise questionable quality, the actors can still give remarkable performances.
That's something that we're always conscious of here. And having picked out some underrated and overlooked performances by this year's Oscar-nominated supporting actors and actresses last week, we now turn our eye to the leading categories—ten performers who are all justifiably nominated for great work this year, but who have equally notable turns tucked away in the quieter corners of their resume. Take a look at our picks below, and let us know your own favorites in the comments section.
Christian Bale - "Harsh Times" (2005)
Still only just forty, Christian Bale has had a fascinating career spanning over 25 years that's seen him go from child star to teen musical actor to romantic lead to Bateman to Batman to blockbuster lead to gaunt indie star to the looser, funnier performer that's emerged in David O. Russell's films. But one of his most impressive, and little-seen turns, comes in a film that combines at least a few of the above in "Harsh Times," the 2005 directorial debut of "Training Day" writer David Ayer. In his first-post "Batman Begins" role, Bale plays Jim, a former Ranger with a hair-trigger temper and a fondness for the darker things in life, who spends a few days with his best friend Mike (Freddy Rodriguez) back in L.A., only for the pair to get into all kinds of trouble. It's a fairly unapologetic, more tattoo-heavy tribute to "Mean Streets," with Bale essentially as the Johnny Boy surrogate, and it has most of the flaws of Ayer's other work—some unconvincing badass dialogue, contrived plotting, an uneasy balance between gritty reality and movie bullshit. But it's pretty engaging throughout, and mostly because of Bale's performance: in a turn not quite like anything he's done before or since, he's a self-destructive tornado, the friend that everyone has who's consistently making your life worse, but you love anyway. And Bale, of course, nails the charisma, the monstrous aspects of Jim, and the sad, traumatized ex-soldier underneath. It's far from one of his best movies, but Bale is enormously magnetic throughout.
Bruce Dern - "Black Sunday" (1977)
Given that he's some way from his '70s heyday and not much of a household name among the general public, you could probably argue that many of the performances that made Bruce Dern's name—"Silent Running," "The Driver," "The King Of Marvin Gardens," and even his previous nomination for Hal Ashby's "Coming Home"—could be deemed as underrated these days. But we'll take any chance we can get to shine a light on John Frankenheimer's terrific thriller "Black Sunday," and given that it features one of Dern's best performances, it felt like the perfect choice here. Based on a novel by "Silence Of The Lambs" author Thomas Harris that follows a Palestinian-backed plot to detonate the Goodyear blimp over the Super Bowl, it takes a somewhat silly premise and treats it deadly seriously, with a clever and unique structure that spends as much time with Black September operative Marthe Keller and Dern's traumatized Vietnam vet pilot working with her, as it does with the nominal heroes, Mossad agent Robert Shaw and the FBI's Fritz Weaver. The result is a film that really digs into the motivations of the villains, and in particular, it's Dern that gets a chance to shine, with an atypically accurate portrayal of mental illness for the genre. His Michael Lander is a man broken by his time in Vietcong activity and by being abandoned by both his family and his country, and though he's a maniac, he's one that you feel for more than little. It's by some distance the best performance in the movie, and one that sits alongside the very best of his work.
Leonardo DiCaprio - "Revolutionary Road" (2008)
As far as deeply subversive casting choices go, the idea of reteaming the stars for the biggest cinematic romance of modern times for an adaptation of one of American literature's most bruising and painful tales of marriage has to be right up there. Sam Mendes' "Revolutionary Road" isn't an unqualified success—it's a little too theatrical and distanced in a lot of ways. But a few years on, there's a lot to recommend it, not least the performances. In fact, looking back, it's curious that Leonardo DiCaprio was so overlooked at awards time, as the film clearly sees him doing some of his best work ever. DiCaprio is Frank Wheeler, the perfect-on-the-surface suburban father married to Kate Winslet's April, a sort of Don Draper without the charm or self-confidence, an ambitious, frustrated, semi-feckless embodiment of the American dream. It's an incredibly smart use of DiCaprio, both for the pain brought by his pre-existing screen history with Winslet, and for its use of some of his less-tapped resources, a capacity for portraying weakness and superficiality that's glossed over in something like, say, "Blood Diamond" (but which Martin Scorsese makes full use of in "The Wolf Of Wall Street"). By the devastating conclusion, it's almost impossible to think of anyone else in the role, and we can't think of many higher compliments.
Chiwetel Ejiofor - "Kinky Boots" (2005)
For at least a decade, we've considered Chiwetel Ejiofor about the most exciting actor out there, and so as such, we'd consider almost everything he's done up to this point underrated. From his star-making turn as the quietly heroic immigrant doctor in "Dirty Pretty Things," to South African activist roles in "Red Dust" and "Endgame," to his pretentious musician in Woody Allen's "Melinda and Melinda," to low-key but magnetic supporting turns in things like "Inside Man" and "Talk To Me," to the smart, sinister villain in "Serenity," to terrific ass-kicking lead in David Mamet's "Redbelt," he's one of those actors who knocks it out of the park every time. But the one we'd like to highlight here is the one that's perhaps the part that's furthest from his Oscar-nominated role in "12 Years A Slave," in the mostly unseen British comedy "Kinky Boots" (which has recently got a new lease of life, after being adapted into a hit Broadway musical by Harvey Fierstein and Cindy Lauper). The film itself—which sees Joel Edgerton try to turn around his struggling shoe business by teaming with Ejiofor's drag queen to make the very specific footwear of the title—is very formulaic, and is somewhat problematic in the way that it makes Ejiofor's character so asexual. But the performer is a goddamn force of nature as Simon/Lola, taking a character who so easily be could be a collection of cliches and finding the real person underneath. The gift he shows for comedy (and for music!) here is one that needs to be tapped more, particularly after the heavier work in 'Slave,' keeping Lola light on her feet without abandoning the pathos, and he finds a way to make it theatrical without breaking the reality of the film. It's a truly wonderful performance that elevates the movie around it, and though he got a Golden Globe nomination for the film, the turn deserves a lot more attention than it's had before now.
Matthew McConaughey - "Frailty" (2001)
The narrative has it that, after a promising start to his career with "Dazed & Confused," "Lone Star," "A Time To Kill" et al., Matthew McConaughey squandered his promise on a series of dreadful rom-coms before waking up for his recent career renaissance a few years back. It's neat, but it does overlook a few more interesting parts in that darker decade or so of his career—the guilt-stricken lawyer in 'Thirteen Conversations About One Thing," the ridiculously enjoyable Colonel Kurtz-esque dragon-slayer in "Reign Of Fire" and the desperate agent in "Tropic Thunder." And best of all, there's "Frailty," a pulpy but very well done directorial debut from Bill Paxton. A performance that, more than any, prefigures the kind of work he's been doing more recently (in fact, it's eerily reminiscent of "True Detective" in some ways). It sees McConaughey as Fenton Meiks, a Texan man who walks into the office of an FBI agent (Powers Boothe) and confesses that his father and brother were serial killers who believed that they were killing demons in the name of God. It's a difficult role—he's mostly there as a narrator until the closing stages, and an unreliable one at that—but McConaughey takes to it with aplomb, subduing both his Southern charm and the character's true nature, before being truly chilling when he finally plays his hand. At the time, it felt like an unusual reminder of the promise he once held, now, it seems more like a glimpse of the better things that were to come.


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Clare Coffey, Policy Advisor, ActionAid UK
Momentum seems to be gathering around the Rio+20 energy discussions, thanks to the UN Secretary General’s initiative on Sustainable Energy for All. The initiative sets out three specific objectives on doubling renewables and energy efficiency improvement rates, as well as securing universal access to energy. The three objectives could well be reflected in the Sustainable Development Goals, which are tipped as being the main outcome of the June Summit.
While a true commitment to securing energy for all has to be welcomed as a means to fulfil basic human rights, there is justifiable concern that the initiative will not in fact achieve that. Instead, the fear is that the sustainable energy initiative will be used as a way of promoting inappropriate industrial scale energy facilities in developing countries, worsening the situation of the world’s poorest and only benefitting big companies.
There are particular concerns around the inclusion of large scale biofuels and hydro, as well as nuclear among ‘renewable’ energy definitions. Human rights abuses linked to EU biofuels policy are the subject of an ActionAid report, Fuel for Thought: addressing the social impacts of EU biofuels policies, launched last week in Brussels. According to this, biofuels are the most significant driver of global land acquisitions, with International Land Coalition data suggesting that 37 million hectares of land have been taken globally for biofuels. Biofuels have also played a significant factor in world food price spikes and volatility – with the IMF, World Bank and eight other international organisations calling on G20 countries to remove biofuels mandates and subsidies. Hundreds of millions of people have been adversely affected by biofuels, undermining poverty reduction and economic development efforts.
Staggeringly, biofuels are also no answer to climate change. For the EU alone, official biofuel plans could result in annualised additional emissions of 65 million tonnes CO2, which would be like putting another 29 million cars on Europe’s roads.
In fact, there is much to be learned from the EU. In 2008, the EU reached an agreement for 20% renewable energy by 2020, including a 10% sub-target for renewable energy in transport. This has turned into a de facto biofuels target and has been the cause of huge controversy ever since, with governments now struggling to extricate themselves from the situation. The Rio+20 negotiators must learn from these mistakes and ensure that biofuels are ruled out of the sustainable energy discussions. Anything else would be unforgivable.
Fuel for Thought: addressing the social impacts of EU biofuels policies, ActionAid International, April 2011, http://act.ai/fuel4thought
Bowyer C, Anticipated Indirect Land Use Change Associated with Expanded Use of Biofuels and Bioliquids in the EU – An Analysis of the National Renewable Energy Action Plans, IEEP, updated by B Kretschmer, March 2011 http://www.ieep.eu/assets/786/Analysis_of_ILUC_Based_on_the_National_Renewable_Energy_Action_Plans.pdf


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(CNN) -- Only one in 500 Americans is a black gay or bisexual male, but black men who have sex with men (MSM) account for one in four new HIV infections in the United States, according to a new report by the Black AIDS Institute (BAI).
Just days away from the first International AIDS Conference to be held on U.S. soil in 22 years, the BAI, a national think tank focused on African-Americans, released a somber account detailing how the virus continues to disproportionately infect and kill young black men who have sex with other men.
According to the report, "Back of the Line: The State of AIDS Among Gay Black Men in America 2012" a black gay man has a one in eight chance of becoming infected by the time he's 20 years old. By the age of 40, the likelihood is 60%. It also says black men having sex with men are more affected by the disease than any other group in the developed world.
"Black MSM continue to be first in line when it comes to need, but remain at the back of the line when it comes to assistance," said Phill Wilson, founder and executive director of the Black AIDS Institute. "This report not only highlights the gaps and why they still exist after 30 years, but it also provides a blueprint for how to close the gaps and move those most at risk up to the front."
The number of gay black men with HIV is twice that of gay white men, the report found. In fact, in New York City, cited as one of the three best cities to live in for gay black men, they are 488 times more likely than other males, and 325 times more likely than black heterosexual males, to be diagnosed with the disease. Three years after an AIDS diagnosis, black MSM are less likely to still be alive than their white or Latino counterparts.
And even though the report suggests black men are more likely to take steps to reduced their risk of infection than other MSM, the are still twice as likely to get the virus.
BAI's research also found that health disparities often impede access to health care, and found black MSM are 7 times more likely to have undiagnosed HIV than other gay men.
The Institute is calling for more testing, a scale-up of antiretroviral therapy, a plan to combat homophobia, and the introduction of pre-exposure prophylaxis (also known as PrEP) where the uninfected partner of someone with HIV gets on drug therapy as well. Recent studies show that PrEP can lower the rate of HIV transmission up to 96%. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently approved the drug Truvada for this use.
BAI is also calling for the implementation of a national plan to end AIDS in African-American gay and bisexual men.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), African-Americans overall carry the heaviest burden of HIV. The latest CDC statistics show blacks make up only 14% of the population but have 44% of all new infections. In fact, in 2009 - the most recent data - MSM made up 73% of all new infections in all black men. MSM between the ages of 13 and 29 saw more new infections than any other age and racial group of MSM.
Rep. Maxine Waters (D-California) has been a Congressional leader in the fight to end the spread of HIV/AIDS, and has introduced several pieces of legislation to increase research, screening, treatment and funding.
"Current policies do not adequately address the unique needs of black MSM in America. Local and national leaders must remain vigilant in the fight against AIDS, especially in the black community, which continues to carry the heaviest burden," Waters said. "Unless we change the way we do business, we cannot reverse the epidemic. No one should be forced to the back of the line."


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We hear of lots of people complaining about parking at South Cleveland Hospital, but North Tees is just as bad, if not worse.
I am visiting my mother every day and it has taken at least 30 minutes every day at 3pm to find a parking place, even though I hold blue badges, yet there are lots of grassed areas around the hospital that could be tarmacked to provide more parking spaces.
What do people want, a piece of grass that has to be maintained or a place to park within walking distance of the hospital?
Also whose bright idea was it to put the public toilets at the main entrance for people who are visiting the wards in the main block?
J G STAMP, Norton


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It is another one of those days…chilly, damp and the perfect singer-songwriter music type of day.
Today I am swaying to the tunes of the lovely Miss Brooke Fraser. A native of New Zealand, Brooke will be visiting the Beachland (in the ballroom) next Monday night, May 9th to promote her new album “Flags.”
To listen to some of her songs, like her on Facebook, nice music to get you though today.
I have a pair of tickets to see this show, so drop me a note and let me know if you would like to spend your Monday night with the musical songstress, very talented and beautiful Brooke Fraser (tickets will be give away by Friday at noon). Hope to see you there!


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Mind Body Approach to Healing Chronic Pain w/ Sarah
March 23 @ 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm$40
Those who experience chronic pain can reduce, and better manage, pain by stimulating the relaxation part of the central nervous system. Unlike the fight or flight response, which is a function of the sympathetic nervous system, various exercise and mind-body modalities stimulate the relaxation response, which is a function of the parasympathetic nervous system. Entering a relaxing state allows the muscular system to release hormones that positively affect mood. In terms of pain, relaxation techniques can reduce inflammation and train the brain to react differently when pain flares. The following modalities will be used in class to stimulate the relaxation response: Meditation (visualization, progressive muscles relaxation, guided imagery), Deep breathing, Trigger-point therapy (myofascial release), and pilates.

domain: psychology


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In Austin, one of the hottest real estate markets, home sellers may be getting far less than they deserve!
Austin, Texas is one of the hottest real estate markets in the nation. But selling in a hot market can have a lot of issues for home sellers, and in the FREE webinar, A Wake-Up Call for Home Sellers, real estate industry expert and thought leader Harold Ware, issues a warning:
“No seller wants to get below market value for their home. However, the shocking truth is that according to Fannie Mae, the Federal National Mortgage Association backed by the US government, about 65% of homes sell for below market value. And even in a hot real estate market like Austin, Texas, most homeowners are selling their homes for much less than the maximum potential value.”
How are Austin home sellers getting short changed? Harold Ware explains, “In Austin, 99% of sellers are using antiquated traditional property methods and leaving money on the table. It’s the maximum potential price that sellers should aim for, not just current market value.”
In fact, Harold Ware says that having your home for sale at this time in a hot real estate market like Austin, Texas, can be confusing. “Sellers think that getting an offer above the asking price, even with multiple offers, is the ultimate goal. But the truth is that Austin home sellers could actually be losing up to 20% or more of the maximum potential price for their home if they don’t leverage the principle of price elasticity.”
Home sellers are looking for the missing link to selling their homes for significantly more money. Achieving this goal is possible according to the host of A Wake-Up Call for Home Sellers. Harold Ware says:
“Depending on the price elasticity range of your home, there are many different marketing strategies. I’ve worked with thousands of traditional agents and have never seen even one of them attempt to do a price elasticity assessment using the right data and process. Every home should have a preliminary price elasticity assessment. This is the missing link to selling homes for significantly more than traditional property marketing methods.”
A Wake-Up Call for Home Sellers shares a radical new way of selling real estate that’s making traditional agents obsolete and replacing antiquated property marketing.
Harold Ware adds: “For many people, their home is their biggest asset. Over the past decades, I’ve helped home sellers get 5, 10, or 20% more for their homes than traditional methods. Most home sellers would love to sell their homes for an extra $50,000 or even $100,000, or more. This revolutionary home selling system ensures that home sellers make smart property marketing decisions and avoid costly home selling mistakes. And it’s available to Austin, Texas home sellers now.”
Home sellers who want to learn these valuable insights are encouraged to register for the free webinar, A Wake-Up Call for Home Sellers. In today’s uncertain times, financial well-being matters more than ever.
About Harold Ware, Host of the Wake-Up Call for Home Sellers Webinar:
In his nearly two decades as Maxavenue’s founder and CEO, Harold Ware has helped thousands of home sellers earn 5-20% or more for their homes, and generated billions of dollars of real estate sales nationwide. He’s also helped train over 8,000 top real estate agents and 500 brokers and owners. Now, he’s bringing his revolutionary home selling method direct to consumers.
Registration is now available for the upcoming free webinar A Wake-Up Call for Home Sellers


A section of Siaya County MPs have condemned Deputy President William Ruto for commissioning the Lower Nzoia Irrigation Project without consulting the area legislators.
While speaking in a fundraiser in Ugenya constituency, Ugunja MP James Opiyo Wandayi raised concerns that the project will displace several residents of the constituencies who are yet to be compensated.
"We will not accept this because it will displace a lot of our people. As we speak, a majority of them are yet to be compensated. Together with my counterparts MPs David Ochieng and Sam Atandi, we will hold consultative meetings to seek a way forward,” Wandayi threatened.
He asked the National government, through the National Irrigation Board (NIB), to compensate the people whose parcels of land will be affected by the Lower Nzoia Irrigation Scheme.
On Friday last week, the Deputy President toured Western Kenya where he launched the Ksh7 billion lower Nzoia irrigation project.
The project will cover Ugunja, Alego Usonga, and Budalangi constituencies.
The Ksh5.8 billion irrigation projects at the Lower Nzoia Scheme was set to kick off in October 2018.
However, it delayed for several years due to issues of land compensation.
It is aimed at boosting rice production and preventing destructive floods in the area.
The lower Nzoia project is funded by the World Bank and German government at Ksh3.9 billion and Ksh1.4 billion respectively and is part of the Big 4 Agenda, meant to increase acreage under irrigation.
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Connecticut Community Foundation has released a new Guide to Giving which highlights the philanthropic endeavors of Greater Waterbury and Litchfield Hills residents to enrich communities in the region and describes customizable charitable giving opportunities for financial and estate planning.
The Guide features the stories of Emily and Eric Anderson of Woodbury, Valerie Friedman of Washington, Samantha and Rob Nobile of Southbury, Lisa Powers and Fred Baker of New Milford, and Dolores Riollano of Waterbury.
Valerie Friedman has established two funds at Connecticut Community Foundation that reflect her passions and her wish to leave a legacy that will benefit Greater Waterbury and the Litchfield Hills forever. One will fund projects that sustain the environment and another will allow the Foundation to make grants in her name to address pressing needs in the community.
Said Friedman, “Problems on a worldwide scale often appear overwhelming. To combat this, we must focus on making a positive impact on our small corner of the universe. And that is where Connecticut Community Foundation comes in.”
Paula Van Ness, president and CEO of the Foundation, said, “Since 1923, thousands of people have created and grown philanthropic funds through the Foundation to help Greater Waterbury and the Litchfield Hills thrive. We expect the Guide to Giving to be a vital resource for financial and estate planners, community residents, and donors and potential donors who wish to make more charitable visions reality.”
View the donor stories and Guide to Giving at www.conncf.org/GuideToGiving.
Pictured: Valerie Friedman Photo by Dorian Mode Photography


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If there are no more rooms available, visit The Everywhere Home, a Casa9 project. Same service, same love for hosting.
El Departamento or “the apartment” is exactly as the name suggests, presenting a relaxed space reminiscent of your musician friend’s apartment. Turntables sit in the corner and an evolving roster of local artists’ work adorns the walls, adding to the casually cool nature of the place. Drop by post-dinner and don’t be surprised if the live music turns a quick drink into an evening of dancing and debauchery.


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Tim Selwyn has been sentenced to two months in prison for sedition and for his role in an axe attack on the Prime Minister's electorate office. He was sentenced to a further 15 months on unrelated fraud charges.
I've already said that the sedition prosecution and verdict (as opposed to the willful damage one) was shameful and an outrage against freedom of speech, and I stand by it. Selwyn should have been - and was - prosecuted for sticking the axe through the window. But he should never have been prosecuted for the pamphlets. While they called for "like-minded New Zealanders to take similar action of their own", this falls far short of the "yelling 'fire' in a crowded theatre" standard which should prevail in a democratic society. They also fell far short of actual incitement, and it is telling that the police chose to resurrect the archiac crime of sedition, with its broad language criminalising not just incitement, but also encouragement of "violence, lawlessness, or disorder", rather than the crime they were indirectly accusing Selwyn of: inciting criminal damage.
The worry now is that the police will use this law to crack down on "non-mainstream" political speech, exactly as they have done in the past. The only way to prevent that is by repealing the law. Hopefully we'll see some progress on that front soon.
Updated: Somehow, I managed to leave the bottom off this when I posted it.


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In his quest to achieve ultimate spiritual contentment, the challenges, complexities and hardships that a monk has to face are immense.
Torn in between spiritual and worldly attachments, the monk faces a grave dilemma as whether to pursue his spiritual goals or be faithful towards the worldly affections. Seasoned dramatist Hector Kumarasiri hopes to do an artistic cinematic analysis on such internal battles and conflicts that a monk has to go through with the launch of his debut movie Abinikmana.
Direction – Hector Kumarasiri
Music Director – Nimantha Heshan
Lyrics- Sunil Ariyaratne
Producers – Sarath Subasinghe, Nimal Chandrasiri, Ruwan Dinesh, Rajitha Wijerathen
Camera Direction – Nimal Nakalanda
The film revolves around the life of ‘Ven Buddadassi’. His spiritual journey faces a major crisis with his maternal parents becoming ill due to a severe sickness. He is faced with no option but to give up his robes in order to help out his ailing parents. The senior monks condemn his actions and turn him in to the laughing stock among the monk community. Free from spiritual commitments, he faces another major crisis as a young, rural beauty called Seedevi falls in love with his serene ways. The film unravels around this fascinating storyline. At a time where everyone is ridiculing the extravagant ways of contemporary Buddhist monks, the film hopes to peek in to their lives and look at the dilemma from their perspective.
An apt foil of senior and young actors has contributed to the film. Veterans Joe Abeywickrama and Irangani Serasinghe act as the parents of Ven Buddassi. Promising actor Sudarshna Bandara plays the main role as Ven Buddassi.
“Sudarshana’s performance is tremendous. I felt he did full justice to the role and performed his part better than I ever expected. He showed great potential and talent,” director Kumarasiri said.
The rest of the cast include, W. Jayasiri, Mahendra Perera, Malkanthi Jayasinghe, Lochana Imashi, Nimal Chandrasiri, Ruwan Dinesh, Manori Wimalathunga, Gamini Ambalangoda, Jeevan Haduneththi, Damayanthi Perera and Kumara Abeywardane.
Though Abinikmana is Kumarasiri’s first reel ride. However he is not an amateur to the field of Art. He has already claimed great critical acclamation through stage dramas such as Loka Dekai Eka Minihai, Dadin Bidin Don, Ha Ha Landey, Devlo Dhoni, Uththamacharaya, Ley Kandulu Dahadiya and Biso, Sinhala Ahasa.
“I feel I have contributed lot to Sri Lankan Art. The movie is almost a gift to the community. I believe all of us are indebted to this world, to this society that we belong. Therefore before we die, we have to pay-back at least some of that debt,” he notes.
However the filming of Abinikmana was done under great difficulties. Hector underwent a life threatening accident and had to be carried in wheel chair during the final days in the filming process.
“I believe in Karma. Yes, the accident must have happened because of some bad thing I may have done. But at the same time, it showed me how lucky I am to be surrounded by such great bunch of friends. My mate Lal Liyanage carried me everywhere in his car. The producers Sarath Subasinghe, Nimal Chandrasiri, Ruwan Dinesh, Rajitha Wijerathne, all of these people backed me and helped me out a lot to finish the screening,” he explained.
The music direction is done by Hector’s son, the lecturer and the master of music, Nimantha Heshan. The lyrics are written by Professor Sunil Ariyarathne. The film is set to launch in June, parallel to the Sambuddhathva Jayanthi celebrations.
Abhinikmana Photo Gallery
Abhinikmana for ‘BHUDDHA JAYANTHI 2011 by Hector Kumarasiri – Original Article from Sandeshaya Sri Lannka – The Art of Sri Lankan Cinema.
Tags: Camera : Nimal Nakandala, Hector Kumarasiri, Iranganie Serasinghe, Joe Abeywickrama, Mahendra Perera, Nimal Nakalanda, Nimantha Heshan, Sinhala Film Abhinikmana, Sudarshana Bandara, Sunil Ariyaratne
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The U.S. Missile Defense Agency wants to use blimps to track incoming rockets. And the agency has tapped three defense contractors to begin drawing up plans for the zeppelins, according to Global Security Newswire.For the next four months, the companies will work on basic concepts for a solar-powered airship that can fly at 65,000 feet. A winner in the sweepstakes will be declared by 2004. And a prototype for this "High Altitude Airship Advanced Concept Technology Demonstration" is scheduled for 2006.
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Craft brewpubs near Coffey Park get lift from fire-ravaged residents returning home
Aside from being the title of the flagship black lager at Moonlight Brewing Co. in Coffey Park, death and taxes are widely known as the only sure things in life.
But here is another: people are passionate about their corner bars, their neighborhood watering holes, the taverns and public houses where they find escape and community — where everyone knows their name.
As the population of Coffey Park goes up, so does attendance at the trio of craft brewpubs that serve as its local watering holes. While Moonlight is closest to Coffey Park, Plow Brewing Co. and Cooperage Brewing Co. are within a couple blocks of one another. They are not quite a half-mile northeast of the Santa Rosa neighborhood returning to life after being burned out during the October 2017 Tubbs fire.
On Thursday afternoon, Brian Hunt sat at a picnic table outside the recently remodeled taproom of Moonlight Brewing, which he founded in 1992 and nearly lost in the blaze.
The Tubbs fire that torched some 1,300 homes missed his business, just off Coffey Lane, by about 700 feet. A part-time firefighter while he was a student at UC, Davis in the late ’70s, he spent the morning after the fire extinguishing embers, shoveling dirt over hotspots.
Business at the taproom plummeted in the aftermath of the inferno. True, many of his Coffey Park regulars had been forced to relocate. But it was more than that, Hunt said.
Driving through the neighborhood, seeing the ruins was “gut-wrenching,” he said. “Sometimes when you go out for a beer, you don’t want to see things that are heavy. And this was heavy.”
“It was sobering,” he added, then smiled at his own bon mot.
Hunt also may have been smiling because business in his taproom is rebounding, as more and more regulars return to rebuilt homes in Coffey Park. As Moonlight’s Instagram account put it earlier this week, “Love seeing familiar faces, and delighted to welcome new ones to the neighborhood!”
“The fire kind of stopped and went around us,” said Tyler Smith, who owns nearby Cooperage on Airway Court, directly behind the 24-Hour Fitness. His fatigued appearance Thursday was not a vestige of the fire, but rather the result of his wife giving birth three days earlier.
While he wouldn’t describe the dip in post-fire business as a “nosedive,” Smith said that “we definitely felt it.”
“Our weekends were always pretty good,” he said, “but Monday through Wednesday, it got pretty quiet.”
The regulars, said Dan Hanes, sales manager at Cooperage, became less regular. “They’d still come back, but people who relocated to Rohnert Park — we’d see them once a month, or once every two months, instead of once a week,” Hanes said.
Holding down a barstool late Thursday afternoon at nearby Plow brewpub on Industrial Drive, Mike Deas recalled the void in his life, when that establishment closed after the fire.
“It was a tough time,” he said. How long had the pub been closed?
“A week,” he replied, drawing a gale of laughter from his drinking partner, Hans. Both men lost their homes on Santiago Drive. Deas has yet to move back in, but never stopped patronizing Plow.
Even though his son spent a decade as general manager of Russian River Brewing Co., Deas preferred Plow, not just for the quality of its beer — he and Hans were savoring pints of Halflinger Pale Ale — for the camaraderie.
“This is my Cheers bar,” Deas said.
“It’s true,” Hans said. “When he walks in, everyone says, ‘Hi Mike!’”
Over at Moonlight, Judy Dittmer and two friends blew off steam after punching the clock at St. Joseph Health in Santa Rosa.
Friday is their customary evening here, but after “an unusually stressful day,” Dittmer said, “someone said, ‘Who’s up for Moonlight?’”
While she enjoys the crisp tones of Reality Czech, Hunt’s highly regarded pilsner, that’s not why she’s a regular. With her house on Crestview Drive in Coffey Park not due to be finished until October, this is where she’s sure to encounter old neighbors and friends.
Atop the piano just inside Moonlight’s taproom entrance are three growlers, blackened and charred and presented to Hunt, who was happy to replace them with new ones.
He’s also happy to be providing customers with something — this may strike some hopheads as sacrilegious — more important than beer.
“Part of what makes us feel at home are routines, things you can count on,” Hunt said. “It’s nice for the people of Coffey Park to find a routine again.”
You can reach Staff Writer Austin Murphy at 707-521-5214 or firstname.lastname@example.org.


Walther PP (Polizei Pistole)
Nazi Germany (1929)
The Walther PP semi-automatic pistol was a hugely popular sidearm after its introduction in 1929, spawning the more-compact PPK line some time later.
Detailing the development and operational history of the Walther PP (Polizei Pistole) Compact Semi-Automatic Pistol. Entry last updated on 11/11/2016; Authored by Staff Writer; Content ©www.MilitaryFactory.com
The PP was a clean and handy pistol design utilizing the basic accepted form as semi-automatic handguns go. The design consisted of a metal slide covering the barrel, internals and recoil spring. The magazine was inserted into the integrated pistol grip in the usual way, the cartridges managed by a simple spring mounted in the magazine's design. The trigger sat within an oblong trigger ring and used to manage the action. A tang ensured a proper feel in the primary hand while the hammer lay exposed at the upper rear of the receiver. The PP utilized fixed iron sights for accuracy - a rear notch system aligned with a front blade, the sights being fitted over the slide in the usual way. The safety lever was set to the left side of the slide with the ejection port over the right side.
The pistol was originally chambered for the 7.65x17mm Browning SR (.32 ACP) cartridge but the line eventually grew to include 9x17mm Short (.380 ACP), .22 Long Rifle, 6.35x15mm Browning SR (.25 ACP) and 9x18mm Ultra (PP-Super) forms. In its 7.65mm chambering, the handgun was allowed eight cartridges from its single-column magazine. Magazine extensions proved popular which increased the surface area at the palm/finger grip when handling the pistol. A barrel extension could be added at the muzzle to increase accuracy to an extent though at the cost of compactness.
The PP utilized a basic "straight blowback" system of operation. Several safety features were incorporated into its design including a "signal pin" above the hammer used to visibly identify a loaded cartridge in the chamber (this safety featured was accordingly dropped during World War 2 wartime production for expediency). Another safety feature employed was a slide-mounted safety catch which forced a long trigger pull to ensure a deliberate action was required. As such, the PP could be carried, loaded and ready to fire, in relative safety by the operator - a strong quality for security- and military-minded personnel requiring fast reaction times.
During World War 2, the PP went on to see issuance to German civilian and military police and various military branches including the Luftwaffe, staff officers and Panzer tank crews. They proved reliable in service and valued for their portability in-the-field. Wartime variants were also produced with poorer finishes to help fulfill the expansive military demand. Manufacture of the PP continued throughout the war and beyond it, seeing licensed (and some unlicensed) production around the globe.
Any available statistics for the Walther PP (Polizei Pistole) Compact Semi-Automatic Pistol are showcased in the areas immediately below. Categories include basic specifications covering initial year of service, country-of-origin and manufacture(s) involved in bringing the weapon to market. Other qualities showcased are related to physical values such as the internal action, available calibers / chamberings, weight and lengths. Global operators are also presented in A-to-Z format as are any model variants available to the series.


- 1 Vital Elements to think about When Getting a Stun Gun in Aubrey Arkansas for Personal Safety
- 2 Are Stun Guns Allowed Where You Reside in Aubrey AR?
- 3 Is the Stun Gun you are Thinking about Buying in Zip Code 72311 Audible to Scare Off your Attacker?
- 4 Can you Hide the Stun Gun Conveniently?
- 5 Can you quickly get a hold of it when you need it for protection from a Aubrey-based aggressor?
- 6 How Much Voltage Does A Stun Gun or Taser Usually Emit?
Vital Elements to think about When Getting a Stun Gun in Aubrey Arkansas for Personal Safety
Numerous others pick devices like stun guns for their self protection purposes. Maintain reviewing to learn these essential inquiries to ask yourself concerning stun guns as you look over your options.
Are Stun Guns Allowed Where You Reside in Aubrey AR?
Self protection gadgets like stun guns do not encounter fairly the degree of lawful examination that real guns do, however there are still often policies as well as policies bordering them. Certain stun batons and also gun could be restricted as something you could possess where you live.
Is the Stun Gun you are Thinking about Buying in Zip Code 72311 Audible to Scare Off your Attacker?
Lots of people that buy stun guns do not want to ever before in fact run a million volts of electrical energy through someone. They simply wish to be able to use the device when confronted with a potential assailant, and also let them see as well as listen to the white warm electrical arc and its thunder clap sound. While any stun gun need to have enough juice to literally incapacitate or subdue a person enough time for you to escape to security, it must additionally put on enough of a program that the untrusted person decides to escape from you rather.
Can you Hide the Stun Gun Conveniently?
A stun gun is not most likely something you want seen on you while you are out and also around in public. Safety and security guards as well as regulation enforcement may also have questions and discussions with you whenever they see you, also if the item in question is legal.
Can you quickly get a hold of it when you need it for protection from a Aubrey-based aggressor?
As long as you want to hide a stun gun in order to avoid awkward moments, responses, and even being barred entry from areas, you should have the ability to pull it out as quickly and easily as feasible when you need it. This is commonly done by either keeping it near the top of the inside of a handbag or perhaps within a layer or coat. There are a variety of devices on the market that could be used to custom-create holsters you could use.
How Much Voltage Does A Stun Gun or Taser Usually Emit?
In addition to stun gun holsters, a variety of various other important self defense products for females as well as men consist of stun master stun batons, pink stun guns, mobile phone stun guns, tasers, technique pepper spray as well as runt stun guns. Some of these items create a considerable amount of charge.
Now that you recognize the necessary requirements to utilize in your search for a stun gun for self defense, you can find the appropriate tool or device for your scenario, location, and also personal requirements.


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Groundwater in Southeastern coastal Virginia is depleting due to over-drafting without intentional replenishment. This phenomenon makes the Potomac aquifer susceptible to saltwater intrusion as well as land subsidence, or the gradual settling or sudden sinking of the earth’s surface. The Hampton Roads Sanitation District responded to these issues by using groundwater augmentation as a way to recharge the aquifer, prevent saltwater intrusion, and potentially increase ground elevation.
Arsenic is a global environmental health issue. Since it was recognized in the nineties many techniques have been developed on the remediation on arsenic contaminated drinking water. Solving people’s exposure through drinking water to arsenic is, however, a complex problem.
Our environment is rife with testimonials to the law of unintended consequences. When it comes to water treatment, the compound 1,2,3-trichloropropane (TCP) is the latest surprise making its way through the remediation lifecycle.
It’s the call no water treatment plant superintendent wants to receive, especially not while on vacation. Andy McClure, Superintendent of Toledo, Ohio’s Collins Park Water Treatment Plant, answered his phone to hear his head of operations report that the level of microcystin in the finished water was high, caused by a large harmful algal bloom (HAB) that was impacting the plant’s Lake Erie intake.
The Mazzei Sidestream Venturi Injection – Pipeline Flash Reactor System provides a feasible alternative for dissolution of ozone at the Clark County Water Reclamation District (CCWRD) in Las Vegas, because it allowed for flexibility in basin design to meet geographic site constraints.
Cincinnati-based MadTree Brewing Company is serious about how they make their beer. Their scientific approach means that they also pay close attention to the water they use, a message they’re more than happy to share.
Malta is an archipelago of three islands situated in the Mediterranean Sea, around fifty miles south of Sicily. There are no rivers of any significance on the islands, and the sparse annual rainfall is only about 500 mm. In order to bridge the gap between supply and demand, Malta has long ago started desalination of seawater. The technologies were initially based on evaporation. In 1981 the Government decided to invest in RO desalination capacity.
Flushing contact lenses is contributing to water pollution because lenses do not break down entirely in wastewater treatment systems, according to a new study.
In spite of the recent abundance of water, many of California’s aquifers continue to balance on the edge of water scarcity. Decades of overpumping have reduced the amount of ground water available to supplement surface water resources diminished by drought. The Pure Water Monterey Ground Water Replenishment Project (Monterey Pure), addressed the need to replenish a local aquifer, by piloting Advanced Water Treatment (AWT) processes, to determine the best method to convert secondary wastewater into a pure water resource.
Thousands of Florida residents joined together for a demonstration on Sunday conveying a commitment to clean water.
As a result of Fluence’s reuse solution, this fish processing company has zeroed its water footprint, reducing water consumption to the point that the company no longer needs to buy water, but instead produces a surplus available for irrigation, reuse, or reintroduction into the environment.
During the dry days of the California drought, one Silicon Valley city banned development because officials were unsure there would be enough water for projects.
Vermont is bulking up its drinking water for PFAS by adding three substances to the warning.
As demand on water resources rises, will there be a mad rush to grab up the nation’s last untapped water resources?
Talk about making waves. Cryptocurrency — digital “tokens” or “coins” rooted in computer code and valued for the very fact that they are disconnected from governments and banks — have experienced spectacular rises and falls in recent months. The crypto-economy is already worth hundreds of billions of dollars (REAL dollars!), and it’s anyone’s guess how fast it will grow after that.
Over the past 10 years, DC Water has become the harbinger of the modern water utility. It’s often unconventional approach to tackling age-old problems usually elicits one of two responses from other utility professionals. The first response is one of resignation — if only I had the budget that size permits, I’d be able to do similar things. And the second is one of awe — there’s no way I have the amount of gumption to convince regulators or customers that I have a better way.
Blair Brettmann, Ph.D., assistant professor in Georgia Tech’s School of Materials Science and Engineering, discusses the current state of continuous manufacturing in the pharmaceutical industry, her group’s research into electrospinning and other novel approaches, and how to overcome the challenges to further adoption of continuous processes.
Sevierville, Tennessee is the hometown of internationally known entertainer Dolly Parton and is a popular gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Located in Eastern Tennessee, the city has a population of 16,500 residents and is visited by 16 million tourists per year.
Threatened by water scarcity due to severe drought, Reserva Conchal turned to Fluence’s Nirobox for a sustainable, reliable, and cost-effective seawater desalination solution.
A lot has changed over the past 15 years. Back in the early 2000s, many utilities weren’t interested in understanding what was in their water beyond the contaminant and disinfection byproduct levels they were regulated to comply with. But as Pat Whalen, President and CEO of LuminUltra, explains in this ACE 2018 Water Talk interview, a steady stream of ongoing education and the modern data storage and analytics that cloud computing provides, has developed some rabid fans eager to explore the microbiology of their water systems.
Do you view field service strategically? Leading organizations recognize that service is a great differentiator — stellar field service can be the path to setting your company apart, creating new revenue streams, and driving profits. These organizations are focusing on initiatives such as migrating from break-fix work to outcomes-based service models, better understanding and delivering on customer expectations, and embracing the need to continually improve operations by developing its people, processes, and technology use.
Easton Suburban Water Authority (ESWA) is in the business of providing water to its customers, not managing technology. One summer, Technology Manager Tim Ryan had enough with focusing valuable time and resources on the utility’s Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) IT network and servers.
World Water Day (Thursday, March 22nd this year) does a great job of focusing our attention on water issues. And especially with storms on the East Coast and drought in the West, not to mention the looming possibility that officials will have to shut off the taps in Cape Town sometime this summer, a lot of the messaging around water is pretty much like being smothered in a wet blanket.
Water utilities are installing automated meter reading (AMR) and advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) systems more frequently. These systems often help utilities improve customer relations and provide valuable real-time data to improve operations. The ability for various meters to communicate with AMR and AMI technology has become more important as these systems become commonplace.
When it becomes necessary to expand or blend water supply sources, variety is not necessarily the spice of life. Whether new water sources are surface water or groundwater, fresh, brackish, seawater, or water recovered from aquifer storage, they can ultimately impact water treatment plant (WTP) operations and finished water quality — including compliance with the U.S. EPA Lead and Copper Rule.
EPA recently validated an innovative new technology to guide the cleanup of soils contaminated with arsenic and lead. The new laboratory method, based on a “virtual stomach” that mimics human digestion, estimates the bioavailability of arsenic and lead in soils quickly and inexpensively relative to animal models. This method will increase the accuracy of Human Health Risk Assessments, potentially reducing remediation costs.
Just when we thought the jurisdictional and regulatory issues concerning the federal Clean Water Act and the resulting implications could not get more complicated, recent developments have put that possibility to rest.
In 2014, São Paulo nearly ran out of water. Schools closed, crops faltered and reservoirs were left at a tiny 5 percent of their capacity for the city and its surrounding population of 22 million. It was the worst drought in eight decades.
If your customer base is among the 140 million people who depend upon groundwater for drinking water, irrigation, or agriculture, it is important to know whether you can expect the quality of your source water today to be the same tomorrow. Fortunately, a recent update to the first-of-its-kind assessment of trends in groundwater supply has been announced by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to help you identify emerging problems. The results are detailed in an informative and easy-to-use interactive map.
Reverse osmosis (RO) has become a widely utilized treatment process for diverse applications such as medical and laboratory research, desalination, and treatment of industrial wastewater and municipal water/wastewater. Because of its widespread use and technically advanced nature, a variety of quality parameters should be monitored by those treatment operators who utilize it.
When Park City Water in Utah needed a new system for supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) and human-machine interface (HMI), it picked the same solution chosen by its neighbor, Mountain Regional Water (MRW) District. Both MRW and Park City have seen significant improvements since switching from their previous SCADA systems to Ignition. MRW saves more than $400,000 per year on energy with greater control from Ignition. Park City saves the equivalent of one full-time employee by using Ignition to automate its reports to a state agency.
Clients must set appropriate goals before hiring consultants to ensure the project is completed as efficiently and effectively as possible despite the potential obstacles that can obstruct the path of focus. This article will focus on five essential steps to set appropriate goals for a successful client/consultant relationship
When the plant team at a large semiconductor manufacturer in the northwestern region of the U.S. found its boilers were consuming an unusually large quantity of natural gas, the numbers simply didn’t add up. Something mysterious was going on with the boilers, which incorrectly showed gas consumption above plant permit levels, and this situation would eventually cause regulatory reporting problems later on.
In 2016 Hillsborough County Public Utilities, a forward thinking organization, initiated the first direct potable reuse pilot project in Florida. In its efforts to utilize 100 percent of its reclaimed water, the progressive utility created a successful program to effectively suspend surface water discharges. The pilot project validated direct potable reuse, which is now a key initiative for many central Florida utilities due to the implementation of the Central Florida Water Initiative requiring the additional utilization of reuse water resources.
Water utility managers have a lot of responsibilities, not the least of which is to keep up with the latest in the industry—contaminants, regulations, technology, and trends. And perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) are on the horizon as contaminants that may affect the public health. Water Online spoke with Calgon Carbon about these important emerging contaminants and how best to remove them.
Despite evidence that often points to the contrary, many bodies of water around the country stand as prime examples of how environmental quality can be improved with the proper will and effort.
Without an appropriate control strategy, even the best wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) equipment can struggle to deliver maximum efficiency. Because energy costs represent up to 60 percent of WWTP plant operating expense, air distribution designs and changing loading (biochemical/biological oxygen demand [BOD]/chemical oxygen demand [COD], ammonia) demands require control strategies designed to adapt to all eventualities efficiently. The following checklists, plus important Do’s and Don’ts, can help in identifying an underperforming control strategy and developing a better one.
As a means of encouraging the growth of new technologies and improving operating costs, water and wastewater equipment manufacturers have long advocated for changing the mindset of equipment procurement from low-bid to lowest life-cycle cost evaluation.This have proven to be a very daunting task.
This quick-reference user guide, for engineers and designers, talks about the guidelines and limitations for rapid injection molding. Learn how to get the best possible results for your real plastic molded parts.

domain: geography