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221011 S 4543 FY23 NDAA Senate
October 11, 2022
To the Members of the United States Senate:
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce supports the substitute amendment to S. 4543, the “National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023,” which would authorize $847 billion in discretionary spending for national defense commitments at home and abroad. Passage of this important legislation would strengthen and advance the National Defense Strategy and ensure that unfunded procurement, research, and readiness priorities of the services are met. This legislation should serve as a model for bipartisan cooperation as members of both parties have worked together to produce a bill that ensures that America’s servicemembers have the resources they need to defend freedom. We appreciate the Committee’s work in crafting this legislation and ask that you consider our recommendations.
We strongly support a robust defense industrial base and flexibility for federal contractors to provide the goods and services that the Department of Defense needs. Chamber members represent an overwhelming majority of the federal contracting supply chain, from the smallest components to the largest weapon systems for the Department of Defense.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce supports the bipartisan and bicameral Investing in American Defense Technologies Act of 2022, a version of which is included in the Senate Armed Services Committee-passed National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (the Public-Private Partnership Technology Investment Program) and a version of which is included in the House Armed Services Committee-passed National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (the Department of Defense Advanced Technology Investment Incentive Pilot Program). The Chamber supports the bill language introduced in the Investing in American Defense Technologies Act and the defense appropriations required to execute the program. Passage of this critical legislation would strengthen the National Security Industrial and Innovation Base and accelerate the development, transition, and acquisition of advanced technology for national security solutions. This public-private partnership program would incentivize investment in innovative U.S. small businesses and startups developing advanced technologies critical to our national security, leveraging America’s entrepreneurial and innovative spirit to counter ongoing threats.
In addition, the Chamber believes S. 4543 would be improved if it were amended in several key areas:
Strengthening the National Security Industrial and Innovation Base: The Chamber strongly supports a robust defense industrial base (DIB) and flexibility for federal contractors to provide the goods and services that the Department of Defense needs. Chamber members represent all segments of the federal contracting supply chain, from the smallest components to the largest weapon systems for the Department of Defense. The Chamber commends inclusion of section 1042, which would require the Department of Defense to treat previously held security clearances as active within 1 year of an individual separating from the Armed Forces or the Department of Defense. This change would provide better employment avenues for recently separated service members and allow them to utilize their skills in the private sector to support America’s national security mission. In addition, the Chamber supports the inclusion of amendments that further support the NSIB, including provisions that would provide the Department of Defense the statutory flexibility to reimburse its contractor workforce for unforeseen facility closures during a declared emergency. This unique authority would be modeled after section 3610 of the CARES Act (P. L. 116-136), which was essential to ensuring the resiliency of the defense industrial base and provided for the delivery of mission critical military equipment and services.
Modification to Special Defense Acquisition Fund: The Chamber supports modification to Special Defense Acquisition Fund (SDAF) and recommends the Department of Defense (DoD) reprogram its appropriations to infuse additional funding into the Special Defense Acquisition Fund (SDAF) up to the authorized limit of $3.5 billion. We also recommend that DoD work with Congress to increase the current fund limit from a proposed $3.5 billion to $4 billion. An SDAF increase would allow the Administration to acquire platforms necessary for national defense in a time of heightened hostility from Russia and China. The DIB is under vast pressure to ramp up production, often at risk, which is unfeasible for most businesses. Overwhelming bipartisan support for increased defense spending highlights nation-wide endorsement for a sustained and well-funded DIB, as reflected in the FY22 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
Domestic Source Requirements: The Chamber is concerned with acquisition mandates in the bill, which would impose numerous changes to the conditions under which U.S. defense companies could source materials and components to support production and services. Specifically, section 803 would impose additional domestic content requirements for major defense procurement programs. As Congress is seeking to mitigate the broad economic challenges confronting the United States, such additive compliance regimes would strain already fragile supply chains with direct impact upon small business subcontractors. Moreover, by constraining the ability of defense companies to source materials, reduced availability would raise costs and negatively affect production and delivery schedules. “Buy America” mandates now in place are already extensive in scope, and the Chamber is concerned that extending these rules to new product categories and new levels of restrictiveness would have negative impacts on U.S. innovation and competitiveness. As of today, 97% of the federal government’s procurements by value already go to U.S. firms, and strict, longstanding rules in the defense sector already require U.S. production. In this context, implementing even more rigorous “Buy America” regulations threatens to drive up the cost of government projects, undermining their potential to create jobs and spur economic growth. Such legislative changes may also elicit retaliation by foreign governments and encourage them to discriminate against U.S. companies in their own government procurement practices, reducing their purchases from U.S. firms. Finally, expanding the reach of “Buy America” legislation is an insufficient incentive to re-shore supply chains given that most U.S. government procurements already go to U.S. firms. We urge Congress to consider the harmful effects additional “Buy America” rules would have on U.S. businesses and to invite the DIB into conversations shaping these mandates to ensure U.S. industry fully understands the challenges and implications for both our Allied and friendly nation supply chains, as well as potential adverse impacts on innovation.
Working Group on Digital Assets: We support this amendment which would require the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodities Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) to establish a working group on digital assets to analyze the current regulatory landscape and issue recommendations to improve the market. Importantly, the working group on digital assets would include representatives from the private sector to inform its analysis and recommendations. We believe the private sector perspective is critical, especially individuals with hands-on experience with confronting regulatory ambiguities or challenges that are inhibiting innovation. The scope of the analysis and reports required for the working group on digital assets is appropriately tailored and balances innovation with investor protection.
Critical Minerals: We support amendments that increase the security and stability of our domestic critical and strategic mineral supply. This includes amendments that would expand the critical minerals list to include both non-fuel and fuel sources such as uranium. This is a key step in breaking our dependence on critical minerals from foreign countries including Russia and China. The Chamber also supports the regulatory streamlining of domestic critical mineral production and processing to expand our energy independence, increase our national security, and strengthen the struggling supply chain.
Offshore Energy: We strongly support the bipartisan amendment to reverse the Presidential withdrawal in the South Atlantic, Straits of Florida, and the Mid Atlantic Planning Areas of the Outer Continental Shelf for the purposes of granting leases for offshore wind development. Additionally, we oppose any amendments to further restrict access to leasing the Outer Continental Shelf for energy development.
Update Permitting Process: We support amendments that provide more transparency and resources to help speed up the federal environmental permitting process through the Permitting Council established under the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act (FAST-41) provisions. This includes amendments that would use the resources of the Permitting Council to help facilitate agency coordination of permitting timelines and environmental documents as well as post agency progress on a public dashboard to enhance process transparency. These amendments would enable the United States to be a global leader in the industries of the future such as the domestic production and processing of critical minerals needed for the energy transition as well as domestic manufacturing of semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.
INFORM Consumers Act: We support this amendment, which adds the provisions of H.R.5502, the INFORM Consumers Act (INFORM), including revisions by the amendment sponsors. INFORM would help to address the twin scourges of organized retail crime and counterfeiting by providing transparency and accountability when criminal actors attempt to sell illicit goods on online marketplaces. The amendment would require online marketplaces to authenticate the identity of high-volume third-party sellers by obtaining and verifying information including the seller’s name, tax ID, bank account information, and contact information, while ensuring that consumers have sufficient information to identify and contact these third-party sellers following a purchase. Illicit trade is a growing threat to consumer confidence, health, and safety, as well as to legitimate businesses, jobs, and supply chains, including military and high-tech procurements. INFORM is a crucial step in taking control of this challenge and enjoys broad support from online marketplaces and brick and mortar retailers alike, along with major business associations.
National Climate Adaptation and Resilience Strategy Act: The Chamber supports inclusion of S. 3531, National Climate Adaptation and Resilience Strategy Act as an amendment to the NDAA. This important bipartisan legislation, led by Sens. Coons and Murkowski, calls for the development of a national resilience strategy and a Chief Resilience Officer based out of the White House. It would improve interagency coordination and engagement with the broad stakeholder community to reduce the risks from climate change for companies and communities across the United States, prepare ahead of the next crises, and strengthen our national security.
Relief for Children of Foreign National Workers in the U.S.: We strongly supported the inclusion of the bipartisan House NDAA amendment that would provide certainty for over 200,000 young individuals that are the children of long-term, legal nonimmigrant workers in the U.S. These young people face the risk of being removed from the country for the crime of growing up at a time when our immigration system’s visa backlogs are so long that they cannot obtain permanent residency before they reach 21 years of age. There is no logical reason as to why the United States would separate these families and force young people that grew up and were educated in the U.S. to return to countries they barely remember. Inclusion of this amendment would ensure these young people can maintain their legal status in the country and continue building their lives and pursuing their dreams in the country they call “home.”
The Chamber urges you to oppose efforts to weaken this important legislation, including provisions and amendments related to:
Arbitration and Class Action Litigation: We strongly oppose amendments, such as the Blumenthal Amendment (SA 6064), that would limit the availability and usage of pre-dispute arbitration clauses or would prohibit or otherwise limit class action waivers. The Chamber also opposes anti-arbitration language contained in Sections 5205 and 5891-93 of the House passed version of the NDAA. Arbitration is a fair, efficient, and effective system of dispute resolution and the Chamber believes that such limitations would lead to more costly, time-consuming, and adversarial litigation for service members and veterans while only serving to enrich the plaintiffs’ bar.
Per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): We oppose amendments and provisions of the bill that would circumvent existing, well-established regulatory processes and predetermine outcomes related to cleanup of PFAS contaminated sites. We ask you to oppose amendments and language that would further restrict the procurement of PFAS-containing products, the temporary ban on incineration by the Department of Defense, and mandates on Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) effluent guidelines that bypass established regulatory processes. The Chamber will continue to support the ongoing EPA process to evaluate sites, establish appropriate regulatory standards supported by sound science, and facilitate expeditious cleanups.
Language on Contractor Debarment: We oppose the proposed amendment which would bypass and complicate the existing suspension and debarment process that federal contracting officers may already use. This amendment is unnecessary and redundant. Furthermore, the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) provides for remedies and penalties for contractors in violation, which are vigorously pursued by the Department of Labor, that are applied to employers when they violate the FLSA. There is no need for more penalties. Finally, this amendment would invite opponents of a contractor to generate FLSA violation allegations to undermine that contractor's position.
Card Check and Binding Arbitration: We oppose the proposed amendment language which would strip away the ability of workers to vote in a secret ballot election on unionization, instead imposing a “card check” scheme that could expose workers to harassment and intimidation. This amendment would also force employers into binding first contract arbitration, which could allow government-appointed arbitrators to dictate the terms of a contract. This could not only saddle employers with an unworkable contract, but would also deprive workers of the ability to vote on the terms and conditions of employment imposed by such a contract.
NLRA Enforcement: We oppose language that would prohibit the Secretary of Defense from “enter[ing] into a contract” with an employer found to have violated the National Labor Relations Act during the three-year period preceding the proposed date of award of the contract. It would also prohibit a contract award to any company under investigation for violations of the NLRA on the proposed date of award of the contract. These prohibitions are waived if the employee of such an employer is represented by a labor organization for purposes of collective bargaining and the labor organization certifies the employer complies with any relevant CBA or has bargained and will bargain in good faith to reach a CBA. This language would incentivize frivolous charges against employers, interfere with the existing contractor compliance regime established by Congress, and improperly add a new penalty structure to the NLRA that Congress had not included in any amendments to that law.
Credit Reporting Transparency: We oppose amendments which would prevent creditors from making available a full picture of a borrower’s risk of default, which could cause them to be offered a loan they are unable to repay. This approach may unintentionally hurt servicemembers, their spouses, and other consumers, by prohibiting information important to creditors, such as adverse actions, from appearing in those reports. Interventions by Congress into the information that should be reported to credit bureaus or used by financial institutions is not in the best interest of the consumers it purports to help.
Credit Reporting Ombudsman: We oppose this amendment as it is unnecessary given existing authority and resources of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) to assist servicemembers and veterans in resolving credit reporting errors. The CFPB already supervises the largest consumer reporting agencies to ensure they are complying with consumer protection laws, including the Fair Credit Reporting Act. Additionally, the CFPB already has an Office of Servicemember Affairs which works to help military families overcome unique financial challenges by providing educational resources, monitoring complaints, and working with other agencies to solve problems faced by servicemembers.
General Services Administration Federal Procurement Prohibitions: We oppose the amendment that would establish an arbitrary size limitation for private sector companies to provide goods and services to the General Services Administration (GSA) through the e-commerce portal program. This approach would severely limit the GSA from getting the best value for the federal government thus increasing prices. Furthermore, the amendment as drafted would jeopardize small and mid-size businesses who partner with large third-party resellers in support of GSA acquisition objectives.
Software bill of materials (SBOMs): The Chamber has significant concerns with section 1627, which would require DoD to establish requirements for a SBOMs. Congress and the administration are taking a notably uncoordinated approach to policymaking on SBOMs, which is detrimental to the goal of maturing the SBOMs ecosystem. The Senate would set requirements for DoD, and the House would set requirements for the Department of Homeland Security. Meanwhile, the White House is urging agencies to consider requiring SBOMs based on comparatively vague federal guidance. Left unchecked, these varying approaches can be expected to conflict in both design and execution. Instead of rushing to regulate, DoD should study the usefulness and suitability of acquiring a SBOMs for noncommercial, commercial, and open-source software. The legislation also needs to account for federal policies, including the president’s 2021 cybersecurity executive order, and evolving standards and best practices for managing the risk-based disclosure of software vulnerabilities.
Joint Cyber Warfighting Architecture (JCWA): We support funding for the JCWA consistent with the funding levels included in the House-passed version of the FY23 NDAA. U.S. Cyber Command originally created the JCWA as an overarching vision for all cyber systems. It will serve as a guiding concept for the acquisition and integration of the Department of Defense’s (DoD) cyber warfighting systems as well as the means to address DoD’s evolving technological and operational mission requirements. As such, the JCWA will play a critical role in how and why DoD acquires certain digital technologies and cyber defense systems from the commercial sector. Fully funding the JCWA will provide needed clarity to commercial sector providers of cybersecurity hardware and allow DoD’s partners to better support America’s national security mission as well as defend against constantly evolving threats to U.S. critical infrastructure and digital assets, and give DoD the necessary resources to perform its cyber mission.
Federal Contracting Prohibition and Russia Sanctions: A measure included in the House NDAA bill to prohibit the federal government from entering or renewing contracts with companies that do business in Russia (“The Federal Contracting for Peace and Security Act”) is likely to conflict significantly with existing U.S. sanctions, cast confusion over humanitarian exceptions established in U.S. law, and frustrate vitally important efforts to coordinate with allies. The approach to exceptions in this measure is quite distinct from that in U.S. sanctions already in place, and it would complicate the maintenance of exemptions for humanitarian trade (relating to medicine, medical devices, telecommunications, and the agri-food sector) that the White House has explicitly said it will maintain. A large majority of U.S. firms have left the Russian market already or have mostly or entirely suspended their operations, and others are working to exit despite a host of practical and U.S. legal obstacles slowing their doing so. In this context, enacting this measure will heap new difficulties on the application of U.S. and allied sanctions without adding significantly to the substantial pressure sanctions are imposing on the Putin regime. On a related note, an amendment was recently filed to the Senate NDAA package by Sen. Josh Hawley that would prohibit entities contracting with the federal government from doing business in China, which is the third largest market for U.S. exports. This would cause massive disruptions to U.S. commerce and procurement while doing little to address China’s non-market-oriented behavior.
Corporate Board Diversity. The Chamber supports the inclusion of language from the previous House passed bipartisan legislation, Improving Corporate Governance Through Diversity Act of 2019, that would establish a model to organically boost diversity on boards through disclosure, rather than the counterproductive quota-driven strategies that some jurisdictions have attempted, and establish an advisory group that would carry out a study to provide recommendations on private sector strategies to increase gender, racial and ethnic diversity among boards of directors.
Disclosures for Public Companies. This amendment, based on the “Reveal Risky Business in Russia Act,” is broader than described and is at odds with the purposes of securities law. The amendment will require U.S. public companies to publicly disclose in their financial statement if they do business with or in Russia or any country that “invades a sovereign nation state or annexes sovereign territory in an unprovoked war of aggression.” This would mean that publicly listed companies would need to update their securities disclosures to reflect any business they might do in Russia, not necessarily with the Russian state; for example, if they sell their products to Russian citizens or if their goods are produced in the country. This amendment improperly uses the securities laws to achieve foreign policy objectives that should be accomplished via other means. For example, the U.S. has sanctions on some sectors of the Russian economy, export controls are in place, and financial sanctions limit the activity of Russian banks. Furthermore, this would conflict with the White House commitment, reiterated on April 6th, “to exempt[ing] essential humanitarian and related activities that benefit the Russian people and people around the world.”
The Chamber supports S. 4543, the “National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023.” We believe that passage of this bipartisan legislation is a critical step to ensuring our national defense commitments remain strong in a challenging global environment.
Neil L. Bradley
Executive Vice President, Chief Policy Officer,
and Head of Strategic Advocacy
U.S. Chamber of Commerce


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Uncover India: Delhi to Kerala
All the treasures of India on one epic trip. Embark on a soul-stirring journey to Nepal, an ancient mountain kingdom whose palaces and temples reveal centuries-old traditions. From the captivating energy of Delhi and Mumbai to the tranquil backwaters and lingering spice aromas of Kerala. Journey to the jungles of Ranthambore, crisscross the Golden Triangle and admire India’s legendary palaces, forts and monuments along the way.
- 22 Breakfast (B)
- 2 Welcome Reception (WR)
- 7 Lunch (L)
- 12 Dinner (D)
- 2 Be My Guest (BMG)
- Jaipur: Savor dinner with a local family at their home in Jaipur.
- Kochi: Visit and have dinner with a local family in their home in Kochi and gain a fascinating insight into their lifestyle.
- Delhi: Take a rickshaw ride through Old Delhi.
- Jaipur: Visit a local market in Jaipur.
- : Travel on a meter-gauge train in the countryside.
- Udaipur: Visit a local market in Udaipur.
- Mumbai: Visit a Dhobi Ghat in Mumbai.
- Periyar National Park: See an Indian martial arts performance.
- Kumarakom: Discover rural life on a walking tour with a local market visit.
- Kochi: See the unique Chinese fishing nets at Fort Kochi.
- Bhaktapur: Observe the skills of a master pottery at a pottery workshop in Bhaktapur.
- Delhi: See Old Delhi's Red Fort.
- Jama Masjid: Admire the red sandstone and marble details of Jama Masjid during your visit to one of the largest mosques in the country.
- Delhi: Visit Agrasen Ki Baoli and take in the arched niches of this citybound step well.
- New Delhi: During your orientation of New Delhi, visit Humayun's Tomb, and see India Gate and the Qutub Minar complex.
- Taj Mahal: View the Taj Mahal, known as one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage.
- Agra: Inside Agra’s red sandstone fortress, witness the fairytale palaces, audiences halls and mosques of the Mughal rulers.
- Agra: See the imposing gate to the Jama Masjid and gain insight into life in Fatehpur Sikri, now a deserted ''ghost town.''
- Ranthambore National Park: Tour Ranthambore National Park for a chance to glimpse the resident animals and birdlife.
- Jaipur: Learn the traditional art of block-printing with a Local Specialist.
- Jaipur: During an orientation of Jaipur, visit the Amber Fort, City Palace and Jantar Mantar Observatory.
- Udaipur: Enjoy an evening cruise on Lake Pichola at the heart of Udaipur.
- Udaipur: Visit the City Palace complex, a testimony to the Rajput passion for art and architecture.
- Udaipur: Stroll through Saheliyon Ki Bari, also known as Garden of the Maidens. Admire the exquisite design of its fountains, pavilions and lotus pools.
- Mumbai: Start your visit of Mumbai at the Gateway of India. Continue past the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and Churchgate Station, and take time to explore the Mani Bhavan museum.
- : Join a Local Specialist on a visit to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park.
- Kumily: Learn about time-tested customs and the cultural significance of spice cultivation during your visit to Kumily Spice Garden.
- Kerala Backwater Day Tours: Cruise the backwaters of Kerala on a traditional houseboat. Get an insider's look at the day-to-day activities of locals as you journey along Kerala's waterways.
- Kathmandu: Tour Kathmandu's Durbar Square and see the Royal Palace.
- Kathmandu: Visit sacred Swayambhunath, known as the Monkey Temple for its mischievous inhabitants.
- Patan: See Patan's Durbar Square, and enjoy a visit to the Krishna Temple and Golden Temple.
- Bhaktapur: Visit Bhaktapur's Durbar Square and stroll along the characteristic streets of this cultural center.
- Delhi: On a walking tour with a guide from the Salaam Baalak Trust which cares for the street children of Delhi.
- Patan: Visit the Tibetan Refugee Center which features the Jawalakhel Handicraft Center.
- : Explore Delhi, Jaipur, Udaipur, Mumbai and Kochi
- : Visit Jama Masjid, Raj Ghat, Humayun's Tomb, Qutub Minar in Delhi, the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort in Agra, Ranthambore National Park, the Amber Fort and City Palace in Jaipur, the City Palace and Garden of the Maids in Udaipur and Mani Bhavan in Mumbai and Kumily Spice Garden and St Francis Church in Kerala.
- : View the Palace of Winds in Jaipur
- : See the Red Fort, Parliament House and India Gate in Delhi, the Gateway of India and the Chhatrapati Shivaji historic railway station in Mumbai
- : Scenic Cruise across Mumbai Harbor to Elephanta Island and the Kerala backwaters on a houseboat
- Deogarh: Stay in a beautifully maintained heritage resort in Deogarh, which was once a magnificent fort.
- : An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
- : Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
- : All porterage and restaurant gratuities
- : All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
- : Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
- : Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
- : Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
- : Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
- : Optional Experiences and free time
- : On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.
- : Flights from Udaipur to Mumbai and Mumbai to Kochi.
- An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
- Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
- All port...
Imagine unmissable experiences you've always dreamed of, getting to know the locals and having everything taken care of every step of the way.
Here's what you'll experience:
Must-sees to local secrets
Visiting bucket list sites are a highlight of traveling, however, traveling on your own can make them hard work. Don't queue with other sightseers for hours, with Trafalgar our experts unlock doors - think exclusive access to the Vatican out of hours or a...
|1||Welcome to Kathmandu|
|2||Stupas and Temples of Kathmandu and Patan Make Travel Matter|
|3||Explore Kathmandu Dive Into Culture|
|4||Kathmandu to Delhi|
|5||Discover the Delights of Old Delhi Dive Into Culture|
|6||See the Sights of Delhi Make Travel Matter Dive Into Culture|
|7||Sunset at the Taj Mahal|
|8||From the Taj to the Tigers|
|9||Roam Ranthambore in Search of Tigers|
|10||Onwards to Jaipur Dive Into Culture Connect with Locals|
|11||Explore Colourful Jaipur|
|12||Venture to Deogarh Stays With Stories|
|13||All Aboard a Rural Railway Dive Into Culture|
|14||Journey to Udaipur|
|15||Uncover Udaipur's Treasures Dive Into Culture|
|16||Fly to Mumbai|
|17||Explore Mumbai's Metropolis Dive Into Culture|
|18||Fly to Kochi|
|19||Nature and Relaxation in Periyar Dive Into Culture|
|20||Onwards to Kumarakom Dive Into Culture|
|21||Cruise the Calm Backwaters|
|22||Explore Multi-Cultural Kochi Dive Into Culture Connect with Locals|

domain: travel


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I eould talk to the parents and school, if nothing was resolved and it continued I would take it up with the police and file charges esp if my child was threatened or hurt. Bit as much as Id want to I would not touch the other child.
What kind of an example does that set for my kids if I turn into a bully?
As a teacher, I confront bullies all the time - verbally not physically. Yes, if a child was bullying my child I would confront them if needed, however, I've taught my children to stand up for themselves (verbally), so hopefully I wouldn't need to.
I marched up to the top of the bleachers at our district stadium to tell a boy and a girl that if they didn't stop teasing and bothering my daughter, I would report them to the police for harrassment.
We'd already involved the school and he'd stop bothering her for a bit and then start up again. I let the band director know exactly what I'd done too. Now the principal, crisis counselor, and band directors are monitoring him and his friends very closely.

domain: sociology


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Well, I know I am! I have created an awesome new Embellishment Kit, just for YOU!!! Reasonably priced, one of a kind, designed for the creative artist. Filled to the brim with unusal finds and fabulous basics, you'll be jumping up and down to get this kit!
Kits will be up on Saturday! Don't forget to stop by! Bring a towel, you'll be drooling!

domain: hobby


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TORONTO (Reuters) - Canadian home improvement retailer and distributor Rona Inc RON.TO on Tuesday reported higher fourth-quarter sales and earnings as traffic and customer spending rose and expenses fell.
Shares of the Boucherville, Quebec-based company, which has been working to return to growth following its restructuring efforts in 2013, were up 8.4 percent at C$14.00 in midday Toronto Stock Exchange trading.
Comparable-store sales rose 6 percent at the retail unit, their second quarterly increase in a row, and 9.3 percent at the distribution unit.
Last year was the company’s first for same-store sales growth since 2006, Rona said.
The company had reduced annual costs by C$110 million ($88.55 million) in 2013 by cutting jobs, closing stores and selling assets, and had said it would focus on sales growth in 2014.
Fourth-quarter net income was C$1.7 million, or 2 Canadian cents a share, compared with a year-earlier loss of C$1.1 million, or 1 Canadian cent per share.
Adjusted earnings from continuing operations, or operating profit before items including finance costs and income tax expenses, rose to 15 Canadian cents a share from 4 Canadian cents.
Analysts on average had expected 12 Canadian cents a share, according to Thomson Reuters I/B/E/S.
Revenue rose 3.2 percent to C$971.3 million, beating analysts’ expectations of C$957.6 million.
The company had net debt of $169.9 million at the end of the quarter.
Reporting by Solarina Ho; Editing by Lisa Von Ahn

domain: finance


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Boston, MA. You can't beat the history. We loved walking the historic trail and seeing the Old North Church where Paul Revere had his famous ride. But, Boston is also new and three dimensional. A great place to be a tourist.
Boston, Massachusetts: I like Boston a lot. The first time I went to Boston I had a Providence overnight and I took the train to Boston to visit a friend in law school. He took me on a quick tour. I'd like to go to Boston and spend several days there. So many historical things to see.
Quincy Market. Credit Information: "Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau." Photos are for use by the press, for promotional materials, for print and the web. Images may not be sold and may not be used on materials for sale without the express written permission of the Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau.

domain: history


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Come to Foxburg Pizza for a sandwich that you'll never forget. On our delicious menu, you can find an extensive choice of gourmet subs and more. We make use of the best relishes and healthy ingredients to achieve the perfect sandwich. So, what are you waiting for? Come and experience the flavors a sandwich can offer!
Give us a call at (724) 659-0123 if you have any questions. You can also write to us by filling in our contact form, available on the "Contact Us" page.

domain: food


Tigers That Talked - 'The Merchant' (Release: 8 Nov '10)
Full of drama and sweeping melodies from the opening track, 'The Merchant' is the perfect album for long winter nights.
First track '23 Fears' is a whirlwind of strings and guitars, that means that try as you might, you cannot help but be sucked into the song. Lead singer and guitarist Jamie Williams’ unique voice add to the drama and melancholy prevalent throughout the album.
It is with title track 'The Merchant' that violinist Glenna Larsen really comes to the fore, with strings swirling around the raw emotion present. But it’s the next song 'Holy Saturday, Gloomy Sunday' that highlights what a band Tigers That Talked could be. Handclaps, stomping drum beats and uplifting melodies - it’s not amiss of something found on a pop album.
Much of the album is very similar to that of sadly missed, and critically acclaimed Grammatics, with both bands receiving plaudits for the album, it will be interesting of this acclaim will deservedly translate into sales for Tigers That Talked.
There are slight letdowns on the album, with tracks 'The Earth And The Urn' and 'Waves' becoming background music at times, with it being very easy to zone out of the lyrics and melodies. This is quickly redeemed however with next track 'Black Heart, Blue Eyes' giving us the clearest indication as to the driving force that the band could be live.
It is the gentle nature of 'Wrestling With The Wolfcubs' that really stood out for me on this album. It’s not hard to do strong, brash songs that make up the album, but this slight change in tempo shows that there is so much more to this band. Final track 'In The Pockets Of Your Winter Coat' is rather like the last hurrah to send off what is a mostly wonderful album, but at over 5 minutes, feels like a drag in comparison to the rest of the album.
'Wrestling With The Wolfcubs' and 'Black Heart, Blue Eyes' are particular highlights, but as a whole album 'The Merchant' is definitely a contender after a couple of listens.
DOWNLOAD: Tigers That Talked - 23 Fears
Until December 26th, purchase 'The Merchant' digitally for a bargain basement price of just £1/$1.50 from the band.
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IP-7-2011 (October 2011)
Author: Barry Poulson and John D. Merrifield
PDF of full Issue Paper
Scribd version of full Issue Paper
Proposition 103 is an initiative that will increase Colorado tax rates and require the state to spend the money on government schools. Prop 103 increases the personal income tax, the corporate income tax, and the statewide sales and use tax for the years 2012 through 2016.
The Fiscal Impact Statement prepared by Colorado’s Legislative Council Staff estimates the cost of the tax increase at $2.9 billion. However, the cost for Colorado taxpayers will be significantly greater than staff estimates. Legislative Council uses static analysis, measuring only the direct impact of the higher taxes on state revenue. They ignore the negative impact the tax increase will have on economic growth and jobs in Colorado.
So, even with built in automatic tax increases Colorado Schools (Unions) need even more money. Now why couldn’t I have guessed that?
Nevertheless, I’m sure that the people of Colorado will vote in favor of this measure. Because after all is said and done the people there are stuck on stupid.


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Two new directors join Board of Welsh Athletics
27/09/2021 00:00, In Blog /
We’re delighted to be able to announce that Jonathan Ford, former Chief Executive Officer of the Football Association of Wales (FAW), and Lorna Kerr, Chief People Officer at Principality Building Society, have joined our Board as Non-executive directors.
“Both are exceptional people and bring a wealth of knowledge, skills and experience that will help and challenge us as we continue to push forward with the implementation of our strategy. Jonathan’s remit will focus on the commercial development of the sport in Wales, whilst Lorna will support around Human Resources and people development. Their appointments continue our transition to a skills based board and will complement the array of talented individuals now working together to drive Athletics in all its forms forward in Wales.”
Steve Perks, Chair of Welsh Athletics, commented:
At FAW, Jonathan led a team of 75, key responsibilities included P&L management, commercial negotiations, stakeholder management, media and brand management as well as the governance of the sport in Wales.
"I'm pleased to be taking on the role - its such a varied and inclusive sport, i'll be challenging the organisation to continue to innovate and modernise so that Athletics can unlock its commercial potential."
Wales witnessed great success during the time Jonathan was CEO, with the National Team qualifying for the UEFA European Championship finals in 2016, for the first time in almost 60 years. A run to the semi-finals, a first for a British Team in 20 years followed by back-to-back qualification with UEFA Euro 2020. Wales also hosted the UEFA Champions League finals in 2017, the largest one-day finals event globally that year.
Immediately prior, Jonathan was European Sponsorship Director of the Coca-Cola Company (TCCC), with responsibility for developing & implementing business building strategies across the company’s brand portfolio throughout Europe through the leveraging of global sports sponsorship programmes. Key campaigns included the 2006 FIFA World Cup, the UEFA European Championships 2008 and the Beijing Summer & Torino Winter Olympic Games.
Lorna has a big passion for running – mostly 10k and half marathons - and yoga and says;
“I also enjoy live music and try to get to as many concerts as I can, I completed a politics degree in Glasgow and an MBA with the Open University, and have been fortunate through work to have had the opportunity to live in many different countries and cultures including South Africa, Jordan and the UAE. I am an HR professional and have experience of working across a number of disciplines but over the past 12 years or so have focused on general HR, and am currently Chief People Officer at the Principality Building Society.”
I’m excited to take on this role with Welsh Athletics and looking forward to helping the organisation continue to put people at the heart of all that it does.”
Her career has mainly been in financial services working for three of the UK’s biggest banks and she has also worked in other organisations such as Royal Mail and Astra Zeneca, as well as being the HR Director for Co-op Insurance and Co-op Central Functions.

domain: news


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People need to consider the substances when picking the bewitching chair width. The secret is to choose the chair substance that is often perfection for some other elements including lines, colors, and also caliber. Woods and Steel are utilized often in creating the furnishings pieces in such a style. Walnut timber is employed commonly for this particular style. Last but not at all the least, the most item quality must be taken into consideration when finding the armchair. Even the chair for this specific style will keep its simplicity and mild look. However a number of these are going to have a higher price tag, folks should maybe not have a uncertainty because they could invest for the optimal/optimally quality.
The following problem to reply once people will buy a bewitching chair width is on the reason why they choose to buy it. It can be dependent on the types of the chairs involving the hobbyist and therapeutic form. Folks can pick the therapeutic one when they’ve chiropractic or medical demands as a result of severe backpain for instance. For more generalized option, the fairfield sofa to decide on might be the hobbyist one which is sold together with conveniences.
But for the classic, there really are one other sorts of bewitching chair width. In terms of your host chair, the example is chaise and slipper chair. Chaise is really a very long chair having a slick structure. It makes it possible for one to elongate your thighs onto the chair, using a semi-reclining angle right back to get a max relaxation. Usually, the back is not covering every one the sitting space so it’s a unique style. You can use the chair for each indoor and outdoor, according to the material of the duvet you utilize. Even the slipper chair can be a Indoor chair with brief legs and armless. Many modern-themed rooms usually utilize this chair due to its layout and one of a kind top. It is additionally has a good versatility therefore it’s possible to place it on just about any space make it a sofa, living area, bed room, or outdoor. Slipper chair will be your choice if you would like your room to be full of today’s sense.
When you visit your colleague’s home, possibly you have at any time noticed an eye-popping chair which looks different from one other chairs inside the room. This type of chair is understood as bewitching chair width. In fact, there are two functions with the chair. The very first function can be as an additional chair, and also the second function would be just as a decoration which may define your space. For your advice, you can find various armless accent chairs. In order to suitably use it, you should be able to comprehend the faculties of each of the types .
The second matter to do will be practicing the sam moore furniture that can burn up fat and also help keep the human body stay fit without needing to visit the gym. You want to train your muscle by simply bending firmly, putting the hands from your face, and turning your system into the right. Hold the posture for several seconds, then switch left. Do this movement 10 times per day. Anyway, you can even place your hands behind the thoughts, then lean forward. Pull your body back and sit back straight. You simply have to take action 15 occasions. Maybe not only your body and palms, but also your legs may also be had to be trained during this simple-but-effective bewitching chair width. Sit comfortablyand bend forward and hold to get moments. You certainly should doit with the right and left legs 15 times. Next, sit a little backward, and put your hands next to your chair. Lift your knees, bend and straighten them 10 occasions. Additionally it is great to sit down securely, near your legs with each other, then rotate it directly into the left then right, do it 10 times each.

domain: design


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To toto is an Italian term meaning tooth. In toto this implies that all the tissue removed for medical investigation was placed on a slide and carefully examined under the x-ray microscope. A tissue sample taken from a human body should be placed on at least one or more x-ray slides before a pathologist can examine it under an x-ray microscope for pathology.
– Tissue samples taken from humans and other animals are placed on slides in a petri dish. The slides are made of a smooth, solid plastic film with a hole in the center. The inside of the film is filled with fluorescent dye solution. The dye has been shown to show the presence of various cells and tissues. The dye can also show the intensity of cell activity. The cells absorb various wavelengths of radiation, which is used by the pathologists to identify the type of tissue.
– Another way to differentiate one type of tissue from another is by using contrast dye. Fluorescent dyes have the ability to absorb certain colors. The contrast dye is added to the toto plate and viewed under the x-ray microscope to reveal the contrast. Contrast is a good method of diagnosing tissue damage, diseases or abnormalities and is used frequently in the diagnosis of diseases such as cancer and degenerative disorders.
– A toto specimen is considered to be a white blood cell (white cell) specimen. Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite that causes a variety of diseases that include infections and chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. It is associated with abnormalities in blood cells and blood vessels. Toxoplasma gondii is not only found in cats; it is present in other animals, too. An example of a toto specimen that contains toxoplasma gondii is a red, brittle bone caused by arthritis. Antibiotics have helped to treat this disease, so you may consider testing your cat for toxoplasmosis, too.
– Ultrasound technology is used to diagnose and monitor many conditions and diseases. An example of an examination using ultrasound is the Sonogram TM. This procedure is performed to detect the presence of abnormal cellular growths in the body. These abnormal growths can be cancerous or benign. Other types of ultrasonic examinations that may be used in the veterinary health setting are the Anal Manometry, Anal Electromyography and vascular ultrasound procedures. You can find additional articles about veterinary medicine and ultrasound by visiting our website.
– The most important thing to remember is that any abnormal readings or changes should be reported immediately to your veterinarian. A toto specimen should be processed and sent to a lab for analysis right away. Don’t wait to see if your cat will test positive because it could mean that something else is wrong. Your vet will be able to get to the bottom of your cat’s problem and help it find relief from its suffering.

domain: biology


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"leaked" the President said.
So disgraceful that the questions concerning the Russian Witch Hunt were “leaked” to the media. No questions on Collusion. Oh, I see...you have a made up, phony crime, Collusion, that never existed, and an investigation begun with illegally leaked classified information. Nice!— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 1, 2018
Yup, that's what happened:
In the wake of the testy March 5 meeting, Mueller’s team agreed to provide the president’s lawyers with more specific information about the subjects that prosecutors wished to discuss with the president. With those details in hand, Trump lawyer Jay Sekulow compiled a list of 49 questions that the team believed the president would be asked, according to three of the four people, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to talk publicly. The New York Times first reported the existence of the list.2 days later and nobody's talking about that anymore. Maybe Giuliani knows what he's doing after all.....

domain: law


Ogilvy’s Chris Garbutt: ‘I find this job very lonely’
This is “View from the Top,” the second in a new Digiday series featuring creative leaders talking about their career paths and leadership perspectives. Read last week’s interview, with JWT’s Matt Eastwood, here.
It has been six months since Chris Garbutt took the creative reins at Ogilvy & Mather East after moving stateside from O&M Paris — and he says he feels “just like a Mad Man,” commuting via train down to the city from Westchester, N.Y. Digiday caught up with him to talk leadership, loneliness and growing up in apartheid-era South Africa.
Who were you inspired by growing up?
Living through apartheid in South Africa was an interesting time. When I came out of school was when Mandela was released. It was an amazing, turbulent time in the country. There was a lot of optimism. Mandela, as a leader was so inspiring for everyone. He set this tone for the country where he thought of this innovative way of change that was previously considered impossible. We were on the brink of revolution, and he saved us, in a way. He understood the economic side of the country, and he maintained peace throughout everything.
I learned a lot from that. I learned you can lead through inspiring and living in a way that’s inspirational. I was three years into my career by then; the country was booming.
Was there anyone in advertising that you particularly learned from?
I was really inspired by Robyn Putter, [former Ogilvy South Africa CEO]. Robyn was audacious. I started under him when he was the global creative director. He was an orphan when he was a kid. He came from having nothing to having everything. He was very driven in building brands and having a vision and convincing clients to follow him. He built a culture of fun. He had a bar in the agency before agencies had bars. It was the real heyday of advertising: Clients were present, retainers were good and the budgets were great to shoot with.
There was also John Hunt, the founder of TBWA/Hunt/Lascaris. He would walk into a room and inspire you. I remember when I worked on Nando’s. I love Nando’s. It was a small account with a small ad spend, compared to its biggest competitor, KFC. I remember one night we were working on a campaign, and we were browbeaten and tired. John walked in and started riffing on it and started acting out a script for us. He was so hokey about it and made us laugh. He had the ability to turn things around. You’d be so fired up about everything when he was there. He had a real presence.
What is the hardest thing about being a leader?
I find this job very lonely. Being creative, you have to expose your inner personality. When you present work you believe in, you’re very vulnerable. But decisions about buying work are based on all the wrong reasons. Clients don’t have a sense of relativity. They’re scared by it. Often you’re alone and fighting that fight. Often you’re not liked in the organization.
So how do you deal?
I love networking and meeting people outside of the industry so you realize you’re not alone. When I was in Paris, I made friends with architects and artists. And I got a lot of exercise. I love surfing. I surf in Montauk now.
How do you find the right people to work with?
I try and gauge people’s passion. My mantra is, whatever it takes. I remember as a junior doing anything it takes to make an idea happen. Creating it, shooting it, building it: whatever it takes to get a person to understand how exciting an idea can be. You need to love what you do.
I can’t stand people who are anesthetized to coming in and going through the motions. To me, it’s all about the love of what you do and the fire inside you and the spark in your eye. I can tell that in a second.
How gaming organization OTK strikes a balance between creator-ownership and more traditional executive experience
Since its formation in October 2020, creator ownership has been a core part of One True King’s DNA. The group is constantly adding new talent to its list of creator–owners, fueling a rapid rise and accolades such as “Best Content Organization” at last year’s Streamer Awards.
When it comes to TikTok, some marketers proceed with caution
For some marketers, the bloom is coming off TikTok.
Digiday+ Research deep dive: YouTube holds strong as a reliable marketing channel for agencies and brands
YouTube might not be considered the most exciting marketing channel out there, but brands and agencies see the platform as a reliable marketing channel that delivers consistent success.
SponsoredIn 2023, the retail media story is bigger than just CPG brands
Sponsored by Best Buy Ads Retail media networks have surged in recent years as retailers leverage first-party data to establish robust media and advertising businesses for brands. While RMNs are most broadly adopted among brands in the consumer packaged goods industry, non-retail and specialty brands are increasingly turning to RMNs for effective performance marketing in […]
Pringles goes all in on social to put college athletes front-and-center for ‘March Mustache’ campaign
Pringles is turning to social media — particularly Instagram — to leverage some of the college athletes playing in the March Madness basketball tournament, with the goal of reaching college basketball fans on second screens.
Short-form video needs better monetization, creator funds aren’t the way to do it
Creator funds have almost been like a stepping stone before a more permanent solution is either considered or put into place.


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Browse, search and watch Jake Gyllenhaal audio, videos and more at KISW Radio.
BJ & MIGS Podcast 03-16-16-9A: Listeners on the loose.
Beat Migs. Jared Fogle got a beat down while in prison. Listeners on the loose. Ryan Castle question of the day.
yet Alanis Cohen but it was a Landis yeah mentality when you. Jake Gyllenhaal . He's not a singer and there's score the most points though aren't they apparently tried to sing you'll be cool there don't
02-04-16 2pm Mens Room roast edition
We play the game known as Big Dummy!
very going to be live like loaded our idea they aren't all. Jake Gyllenhaal are you like a bearded rough looking man. Kind of but also pretty boy. Eulogy Jim Hall that's a that's about it.
such a creep of the movie itself was in our current. Seeing Jake Gyllenhaal are grieving as it did create great movie and then we got like the talented mr. Rick exactly super creep. Newsroom idyllic
10-12-15 3pm Mens Room gets random
The Random Question Question is back!
of this I used to I UK and general party your you'll Jake Gyllenhaal how much you you too excited. All of 38 her her I don't know how but how much it costs 38 miles
BJ & MIGS Podcast 10-07-15-7A How did you get back at a cheater or how did someone get back at you?
Beat Migs. The Fiancee of Victor Cruz just sent a group text to all the women he is dating. Luke warm topic - How did you get back at a cheater or how did someone get back at you?
our first caller hey Sean well do you know which yep port. Jake Gyllenhaal Marley who worked out my girlfriend hey there it was so what else. They got up like inertia they don't stop my
BJGN 10-01-15 - Special Ops - Heroes Reborn
It's Special Ops with Mark Rahner and Rev! They discuss paying tips to comic writers and artists; Rev reviews the movie Everest; they discuss the premiere of Heroes Reborn; and Mark reviews The Martian!
people but those are the two main guys and it really I'm Jake Gyllenhaal does make an appearance in such. And it's actually about the real life events of the 1996 Mount Everest disaster. And focusing on the survival attempts two expedition groups. Calm wind led by a guy named Rob Hall which is led by Clark and then another by Scott Fisher played by Jake Gyllenhaal . And this is kind of one of those things where you're watching this and you like. Why would you. Why would you
BJ & MIGS Podcast 09-29-15-9A The Endzone with Luke Willson!
Beat Migs. There is a new list of the top 5 stupidest reasons why people want to be bumped up to first class. The Endzone with Luke Willson. Ryan Castle question of the day.
Luke Willson 09-29-15
The End Zone with Luke Willson!
so listen we you should probably have a bubble you had called Jake Gyllenhaal C bureau has bubble your injury prone yeah I am guessing I am injury prone IA I really really M cousin and
07-23-15 5pm Mens Room Declares the Elections DOne!
Shot of the Day, Profile This, Headlines and TV Time with Ted
lady are you married tour you get both enjoy Seth Myers tonight Jake Gyllenhaal beyond. He's quite fetching for the latest and then Ashley Benson early on she's quite hot for the gas. Now that you
The Pants Party Ep. 67. Bac
04-02-15 4PM Mens Room welcome The Sonics back to Seattle
Emails, legandary local band The Sonics in studio to talk about their tour and show tonight at The Moore, No S Sherlock

domain: entertainment


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They say one way to your loves heart is through their stomach but we say it's also through doing the dishes!
The One Way dishtowel features original signed and numbered art. The towel is a high quality flour sack made of 100% cotton. The dimensions of the One Way towel are 28" x 28" and it is lightly tea color stained. This is a very absorbent sturdy towel that won’t leave lint on your glasses!
This Ten Four Goods dishtowel is perfect for the person who does the dishes in your life and it makes beautiful wrapping for a very special gift. We believe good towels should be used. The art on your custom signed dishtowel will not fade, however, bleaching and hot water will whiten the original hue of the fabric. Only 300 Ten Four Goods One Way dishtowels will be made
One fall day the artist E. Cheselka painted the mischievous goose featured on this towel...
The Ten Four Goods family can't settle the great tomato debate - fruit or veggie? ...
Mornings are better when your coffee is happy to see you! The Happy Coffee dishtowel...

domain: artistic


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Because running is thirsty work!
Each of our themed tours explores the history of one of London's favourite beverages. Of course, the tour also involves some all-important thirst quenching too!
What liquid does the runner in your life crave? Nothing says you care like a running tour...


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The Potala Palace is located on the hill of Mabur at north-west urban district of Lhasa City ,the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. with a highest altitude in the world. The magnificent building that integrates palaces, castles and monasteries is also the largest and most complete ancient palace complex in Tibet.The Potala Palace is built on a mountain base, with overlapping buildings, temples, and imposing momentum. It is an outstanding representative of Tibetan ancient architecture&... continue reading
Search results for "potala"
I was not enter the Potala Palace when i was in Tibet, just looked around in the outside. it is so great that you can't imagine it, like a mountain strong. As you know, religion is the most important part of Tibet life, and Potala palace is a sacrosanct place, so every day, many people will come here to pilgrimage. here is some photos of the Palace. continue reading
Interact, make friends, share tips and techniques, have fun. Dreamstime wants your ideas and thoughts whether you are a photographer, designer or regular user. Create a blog to tell your story, promote favorite images and photographers, post tutorials or simply exchange opinions with your with fellow dreamstimers.
Don't forget words and pictures go great together so make sure you choose some Dreamstime favorite pics to brighten your article. For inspiration, check out the hottest or the most useful blogs on the left.
Create a blog to tell your story, promote favorite stock images and photographers
Join the discussion in the Dreamstime photography forum. Learn from, and share with, hundreds of professional stock photographers just like you!Photography Forums


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ASHES FROM THE FLAMES
THE TRUTH IS WHAT REMAINS
THE TRUTH IS WHAT YOU SAVE
FROM THE FIRE
A few months back, a fire was raging through our home-town of San Diego. And when an unstoppable fire is barrelling down towards your part of town, you realize just how small you really are. The smoke blocks out the sun, the ash is falling from the sky, and your lungs begin to burn. So you run through the house and make a quick grab of the stuff you can carry, make sure that your family is safe in the car, and you make your escape.
And in that moment of action, you have an epiphany:
Compared to the ones you love, what is ownership? What is property? Stuff? Possessions? In moments of life and death, these obsessions are meaningless. Think about what you would save from the fire. What would you fight for? Or maybe the real question is who- who would you risk your life for? And what about your things, all of that stuff that you paid so much for? In the crucible of the fire, it becomes crystal clear: you let the rest burn.


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Let Newport’s stunning landscaping inspire you June 15-17th by enjoying a self-guided walking tour of the city’s most impressive private gardens. The annual Secret Garden Tour invites you to explore these edenic spaces and experience firsthand the reason why Conde Nast Traveler Magazine named Newport “one of the best walking cities in the U.S.” Beginning near the causeway to Goat Island, the Secret Garden tour ambles through more than a dozen stunning gardens within the historic Point District.
These lush outdoor escapes, painstakingly maintained by their owners, are showcased annually to raise funds for the Arts Education programs in the Islands’ public schools. Since 1984, the organizers and supporters of The Secret Garden Tour have been dedicated to enhancing art education and cultural programs in Aquidneck Island Public Schools, funding various programs in music, theater and fine arts for local students. To date, The Secret Garden Tour has given more than $1 million to Aquidneck Island Public Schools towards the promotion of art, music, theater, and other cultural programming.
Daily tours run between10am and 5pm. All tickets are valid for each day. To purchase tickets in advance, visit www.secretgardentours.org for a discounted rate of $20. Check their website for group discounts and further details, and visit www.facebook.com/SecretGardenTours for event updates as well as beautiful, sneak-peek garden photos!
Image courtesy of Cadeaux du Monde


Big Bang breakthrough team allows they may be wrong
American astrophysicists who announced just months ago what they deemed a breakthrough in confirming how the universe was born now admit they may have got it wrong.
The team said it had identified gravitational waves that apparently rippled through space right after the Big Bang.
If proven to be correctly identified, these waves—predicted in Albert Einstein's theory of relativity—would confirm the rapid and violent growth spurt of the universe in the first fraction of a second marking its existence, 13.8 billion years ago.
The apparent first direct evidence of such so-called cosmic inflation—a theory that the universe expanded by 100 trillion trillion times in barely the blink of an eye—was announced in March by experts at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics.
The detection was made with the help of a telescope called BICEP2, stationed at the South Pole.
After weeks in which they avoided the media, the team published its work Thursday in the US journal Physical Review Letters.
In a summary, the team said their models "are not sufficiently constrained by external public data to exclude the possibility of dust emission bright enough to explain the entire excess signal," as stated by other scientists who questioned their conclusion.
The team was led by astrophysicist John Kovac of Harvard.
BICEP2 stands for Background Imaging of Cosmic Extragalactic Polarization.
"Detecting this signal is one of the most important goals in cosmology today," Kovac, leader of the BICEP2 collaboration at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, said back in March.
By observing the cosmic microwave background, or a faint glow left over from the Big Bang, the scientists said small fluctuations gave them new clues about the conditions in the early universe.
The gravitational waves rippled through the universe 380,000 years after the Big Bang, and these images were captured by the telescope, they claimed.
For weeks, some scientists have expressed doubts about the findings of the BICEP2 team.
David Spergel, a theoretical astrophysicist at Princeton University, queried whether what the BICEP2 telescope picked up really came from the first moments of the universe's existence.
"We know that galactic dust emits polarized radiations. We see that in many areas of the sky, and what we pointed out in our paper is that pattern they have seen is just as consistent with the galactic dust radiations as with gravitational waves," Spergel told AFP last week.
He said the question will likely be settled in the coming months when another, competing group, working with the European Space Agency's Planck telescope, publishes its results.
That telescope observes a large part of the sky—versus the BICEP2's two percent—and carries out measurements in six frequencies, compared to just one for BICEP2, according to Spergel.
"I think in retrospect, they should have been more careful about making a big announcement," he said.
More information: Paper: Detection of -Mode Polarization at Degree Angular Scales by BICEP2, journals.aps.org/prl/abstract/ … ysRevLett.112.241101
Journal information: Physical Review Letters
© 2014 AFP


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From Col. Robert Patterson, 1820-1829
Scope and Content
The Patterson Family Papers are an eclectic collection of financial and business records, family correspondence, scrapbooks, 19th-Century newspapers, family histories, and photographs which document three generations of Patterson and Johnston Family personal and business matters. The researcher should be aware that both Col. Robert Patterson and Col. John Johnston gave significant portions of their papers to Lyman Draper, who was gathering documents to write a history of the American frontier in the nineteenth century. These documents are available in the Draper Manuscript microfilm, reels 95 and 118-120, in Special Collections.
Series I, family correspondence, consists of letters exchanged between members of the Patterson and Johnston Families. Correspondence in this series is arranged chronologically within each folder and the span dates are 1810-1867. Col. Robert Patterson’s letters cover the years 1810-1829 and consist of correspondence from the Colonel to various family members, friends, and associates. Majorities of the letters are addressed to his son, Francis, and pertain to business matters. Another portion of correspondence consists of letters from Col. John Johnston to his daughter and son-in-law, Jefferson and Julia Johnston Patterson. These letters cover the years 1832-1860 and discuss Johnston’s business as an Indian agent and trader in Piqua, family and health matters, gossip, and advice. Another set of letters are from Rachael Johnston to her daughter, Julia, and span the years 1833-1840. Childbirth, children, health, and miscellaneous family matters are the major topics of discussion in these letters. Of particular interest in this series are the letters to Julia Johnston Patterson from four of her sons who served in the Union Army during the Civil War. A complete transcription of these letters is contained in Box 14, File 41. The Patterson family’s Civil War correspondence from Series I (Box 1, Files 13-17) can be viewed online in Wright State University’s Campus Online Repository (CORE Scholar): http://corescholar.libraries.wright.edu/special_ms236_correspond/.
Series II and III contain business and financial records covering the years 1780-1963. The bulk of the records, however, are in the 19th century. These records relate primarily to the operation of the Patterson family farm and lumber mill. A portion of Col. Robert Patterson’s land surveys and Quartermaster records are also included. A major portion of Series III, receipts and financial records, is composed of short notes from customers directing the Pattersons to deliver to the bearer of the note a certain amount of unspecified goods. Some of the correspondence in Series II is personal, but the major portion is business and legal in nature. The papers in these two series are arranged chronologically and the span dates are 1780-1963 for Series II, and 1790-1869 for Series III.
Series IV consists of 17 scrapbooks compiled under the supervision of John H. Patterson. These scrapbooks are an eclectic collection of letters and cards, news-clippings on a wide range of subjects, certificates, memorabilia, business and school records, photographs, and family histories. The materials that were not glued down onto pages were placed in file folders and arranged into groups by scrapbook. Of particular interest are scrapbooks 1 and 2, which contain Patterson Family histories and John H. Patterson personal history, and scrapbook 10, which contains material on Col. John Johnston.
The miscellaneous materials in Series V include a Patterson Family genealogy and family tree, materials regarding the Patterson Family Homestead, and three Saturday Evening Posts, published in 1953, which contain articles on John H. Patterson and the National Cash Register Company.
Series VI, photographs, contains a print of a painting of Col. John Johnston, a Jane Reece photographic print of Frank Stuart Patterson, a number of images from the 1913 Dayton Flood, a lithograph of J.H. Patterson, and a file of photographs of Edith McClure Patterson who was a niece of John H. and involved in local and state Republican politics during the 1930’s and 40’s.
Series VII, newspapers, consists of 25 single editions of various newspapers, mostly from Dayton, Cincinnati, and Piqua published during the Civil War and earlier.
- Creation: 1820-1829
- From the Collection: Patterson family (Family)
Restrictions on Access
There are no restrictions on accessing materials in this collection.
From the Collection: 9 linear feet
Language of Materials
From the Collection: English
Part of the Special Collections Repository
Wright State University Libraries
Special Collections and Archives
3640 Colonel Glenn Hwy
Dayton OH 45435-0001 USA

domain: library


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Siemens Energy has signed a framework agreement with Suntech Power Holdings Co. Ltd. (NYSE: STP), the world's largest manufacturer of photovoltaic (PV) modules. The photovoltaic modules to be supplied under this umbrella agreement are for several projects in Europe.
"Siemens is offering EPC solutions for photovoltaic plants," said Martin Schulz, Vice President Photovoltaics Siemens Renewable Energy Division. "With Suntech we have a bankable partner to provide reliable photovoltaic plants to our customers." In the last seven months Siemens has secured orders for photovoltaic plants with a combined capacity of over 80 MW from six different countries. As EPC contractor, the company handles the turnkey construction of solar power plants combining in-house components such as inverters or transformers and independent panel sourcing as well as local sourcing.
Jerry Stokes, President of Suntech Europe, stated: "We are excited to establish a strategic cooperation with a strong partner such as Siemens. We have already started executing on the agreement for projects developed throughout Europe. Siemens' global presence facilitates joint projects in Europe as well as in other parts of the world."
Photovoltaic plants are part of Siemens' Environmental Portfolio. In fiscal 2010, revenue from the Portfolio totaled about EUR28 billion, making Siemens the world's largest supplier of ecofriendly technologies. In the same period, our products and solutions enabled customers to reduce their carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 270 million tons, an amount equal to the total annual CO2 emissions of the megacities Hong Kong, London, New York, Tokyo, Delhi and Singapore.

domain: geography


text:
Retropie Download Troubleshooting
Are you prepared to travel back in time as well as encounter timeless video gaming from your past? If so, then Retropie is the best instrument to suit your needs! Retropie enables you to replicate a number of video gaming techniques on a Raspberry Pi. To obtain the most from your Retropie expertise, it is crucial that you learn how to download ROMs. Let us look into many ways for getting ROMs for Retropie.
How to find ROMs
The initial step is seeking the ROMs you would like. There are plenty of websites offering a wide variety of timeless and classic game ROMs. Some good sites include Emuparadise, That Old Computer, and Emulator Area. Each and every site has distinct features, so make sure you read through each well before deciding on one. Most of the time, most web sites will need you to produce an account just before having the ability to download any documents.
Accessing & Putting in ROMs
After you find the right site, it’s time for you to start off accessing files! It’s significant to not download too many documents at the same time, since this can decelerate your laptop or computer or trigger other troubles like damaged downloads or imperfect installation. When your downloads are full, it’s time for you to install them on to your Raspberry Pi system with Retropie set up on it. This can be accomplished by transporting all of your delivered electronically records onto another storage space product such as a USB flash drive or SD card and hooking up it right to your Raspberry Pi program.
RetroPie Setup Recommendations
After all of your current ROMS have already been transferred on your hyperspin Pi process with an external safe-keeping device, you can still find a couple of things remaining for you to do for every little thing to perform easily. Initial, make certain that all of your current delivered electronically ROMS have been in the correct file formatting (e.g., NES game titles should go into the /nes/ directory). Furthermore, twice-check that each data file continues to be effectively known as prior to setting it up to the system—otherwise, they won’t appear in RetroPie! Once everything is placed effectively, reboot RetroPie and appreciate enjoying some classic games!
No matter if you’re a sentimental gamer looking for some old-institution enjoyable or perhaps someone interested in going through timeless video games from decades prior, accessing and putting together RetroPie with suitable ROMS is easy as pie! With only a few straightforward steps—finding and installing well suited documents on the web transporting them onto another storage space device identifying them correctly, and setting them up into RetroPie—you can be actively playing oldies but treats in no time! Just what exactly have you been awaiting? Get out there and commence reliving those youth thoughts with a bit of awesome retro gaming measures!


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Today I am thankful for:
That the veil was torn in two.
This is the reason we can come boldly before the throne of God!
This blows my mind!
English Standard Version (ESV)
37And Jesus uttered a loud cry and breathed his last. 38And the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom.

domain: literature


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At Town Creek Marina you'll enjoy a full array of yacht and boating services coupled with an atmosphere of relaxation and hospitality. The only full-service marina in Beaufort, North Carolina, Town Creek Marina offers all the amenities fishermen, pleasure boaters and transient visitors expect with a laidback Southern style that welcomes you and puts you immediately at ease. Town Creek Marina offers spectacular sunsets, City Kitchen waterfront restaurant and bar, easy access to town, and the most amenities of any marina in Beaufort!
Family owned and operated for more than 20 years, Town Creek Marina offers newly renovated floating docks with full-length finger piers on deep water, a full-service boatyard with 50 ton travel lift, marine parts department, in-slip fueling, pump out, Ship's Store, clean restrooms, laundry, free wifi and a courtesy car.
Friendly marina, a very enjoyable stay.
We were absolutely delighted with this marina. Very friendly owners and dock staff. Courtesy car for running errands. Clean facilities. And, a fantastic restaurant above the marina! This is our go to marina whenever we are in the area.
We loved Town Creek Marina! The people were all very friendly and nice. The restrooms and showers were very clean. The docks themselves were very nice and new and they were painting and making things look even better than they do already. It was an easy thing a ride from deer Marina to downtown Beaufort. Highly recommend Town Creek Marina!
Enjoyed the fact that they offered a courtesy car. Very friendly.
Great staff! Full services! Great price! Would go back there anytime! Love that place! Did I mention...great staff! :-)
Great marina to stay in the Beaufort. In the process of re-constructing the floating docks and newer designed pumpout system. City Kitchen is on site restaurant - great food - wonderful wait staff. Main dockage in great shape (first phase of remodel). The staff here is very accommodating and will go out of their way to help you have the best stay possible. Short trip to the Town of Beaufort can be accessed with their courtesy car.


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Between 18 and 25 years old /Between 26 and 35 years old /Between 36 and 50 years old /More than 50 years old /Under 18
All skin types
Day and Night
Plant-based prebiotic complex (yacon, corn, beet) and probiotic extracts lactic substances (Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus acidophilus): rebalance the microbiome, stimulate the skin's defenses, reduce discomfort, hydrate and nourish. Hyaluronic acid: hydrates. Aloe vera: soothes and hydrates. Anti-pollution polysaccharide: limits the adhesion of polluting particles to the skin. Vitamin E: antioxidant. Coconut and borage oils: nourish and soften the skin.

domain: chemistry


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Prof. Stewart McLachlin, Mechanical & Mechatronics Engineering
Mar 24, 2023, 11:30am EC4-2101A
Spinal disorders resulting from aging, injury and disease affect nearly one million people each year in Ontario, with millions spent on interventional treatment costs for the healthcare system. Spine surgery represents a large portion of this expenditure; however, many procedures and devices do not meet the needs of individual patients leading to poor surgical outcomes. This talk will discuss how the Orthopaedic Mechatronics (OrthoTron) Laboratory at the University of Waterloo uses a combination of experimental and computational tools to investigate current challenges in spinal surgery and develop next-generation technologies to address the global burden of disease resulting from spinal disorders.

domain: medical


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Environmental leaders say TCEQ failing Colorado County
Colorado County Citizen: An environmental protection group said last week that the Skull Creek debacle is just another example that the agency has failed at exercising its mandate to protect the state’s environment.
Opponents say planned ExxonMobil plastics plant would devastate Gulf Coast environment
Corpus Christi Caller-Times: A proposed plastics manufacturing facility in San Patricio County would be an environmental nightmare and fall short of its economic forecasts, according to environmental groups.
Neighbors gear up to oppose Austin Community Landfill expansion
KXAN News Austin: Wednesday, people living in Northeast Austin and Travis County gathered at Barr Mansion to align their vision for stopping an expansion of the Austin Community Landfill.
Op-Ed: This new coastal alliance aims to protect South Texas’ natural gifts
Corpus Christi Caller-Times Op-Ed: The quality of life in the Coastal Bend now faces its greatest challenge. It has been targeted as fertile ground for an industrial build-out that will impact the entire region.
Grand Prairie industrial site that leaked cancer-causing chemicals under homes gets Feds’ attention
Dallas Morning News: A Grand Prairie industrial site that leaked cancer-causing chemicals has been placed on the Superfund National Priorities List, which features some of the nation’s most polluted sites.
Report: Texas criteria for polluted site cleanup ‘significantly weaker’ than neighboring states
Texas Tribune: A new report says the standards Texas uses to determine how much — and whether — to clean up contaminated sites are ‘significantly weaker’ than those of neighboring states and the federal government.
Environmental groups speak out at hearing on Exxon air quality permit
KIIITV News: A hearing was held by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality Thursday aimed at finding out just how much opposition to the project there is.
Two Dallas Bars Ditching Plastic Straws
GreenSource DFW: Two Dallas bar owners recently announced they are switching from plastic to paper straws this month.
Clean up of San Jacinto Waste Pits moving forward
Houston Chronicle: A plan for designing the cleanup of the San Jacinto Waste Pits has been agreed upon by the Environmental Protection Agency and the companies responsible for the contamination.


Our Sun Culture tee has a small print on the chest and a large print on the back. Bringing a new day and warming the earth, a tribute to the sun.
We only use eco-friendly waterbased ink, thinking about our environment and those who wear it.
100 % organic cotton GOTS – certified with a Fair Wear Foundation label
Available in Desert Dust
Model Jonathan is 1m83 tall and wearing a size Large


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Home > Archives
Friday August 14, 2009
By DHARMENDER SINGH
BANGI: The 135 maiden batch of volunteers from Rela and the Civil Defence will complete their two-week long training today and are ready to start duties as volunteer police personnel from Sunday.
Trainee Siti Norhidayu Mohd Aini, 21, said although the crash-course style training was not too physically demanding, it was still a challenge because of the tight deadline.
“Most of the trainees here are happy for the chance to learn various things such as aspects of the law, self-defence, how to deal with the public and also the correct technique to apprehend criminals.
“We are ready to do our part in keeping the streets safe,” she told The Star when met at the Civil Defence Training Centre here yesterday.
The resident from Jasin, Malacca is among those shortlisted from more than 1,000 Civil Defence and Rela members following Home Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein’s announcement that members from the two movements would join the volunteer police.
The trainees would be assigned to district police stations in Selangor and Kuala Lumpur where the 50 crime hotspots had been identified.
For Civil Defence member M. Ravi, 37, the training left him more appreciative of the work done by regular policemen.
“In our training, we are told how easily situations can turn violent. It really made me appreciative of them because they leave for work each day knowing they may face life threatening situations,” he said.
Meanwhile, Civil Defence director-general Datuk Abdul Halim Abdul Hamid said he was happy with the commitment shown by the trainees during the two-week stint and was confident of their readiness to serve.
He added that applications for the second batch had already started to arrive and interviews to shortlist trainees would begin today.
He said the second batch would also include Johor.
Neighbours heard cries of children being beaten
RM1mil reward offer for information on Dr M's alleged misdeeds
Body of child found buried in kitchen
‘Wild’ party ends for 51 at popular mall
Money down the drain
Image on Google Street View may be that of missing boy
Copyright © 1995-2015 Star Media Group Berhad (ROC 10894D)(Formerly known as Star Publications (Malaysia) Berhad)


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Anne-Marie Casey is a screenwriter, novelist and playwright.
Current projects include her original TV series idea Wild Irish Girl, set in 1951 in Cong, Mayo, during the filming of ‘The Quiet Man’, for Fields Entertainment, LA, and her original feature film, The Two Shockers, for Screen Ireland and Blue Ink Productions about the extraordinary female writing partnership of Somerville & Ross.
Her first novel, An Englishwoman in New York, was bought and edited by Amy Einhorn for Putnam/Penguin in the US, and, along with her second novel, The Real Liddy James, was also published by Hodder in the UK. An Englishwoman in New York was a Kirkus Reviews best book of the year in the US, and a YOU magazine book club pick in the UK.
Little Women opened in summer 2022 in Pitlochry and Watford to great reviews and enthusiastic audiences and will move to HOME Theatre, Manchester in December this year.
Her stage adaptations of Little Women and Wuthering Heights enjoyed sell-out runs at the Gate Theatre, Dublin. Her new version of Little Women, co-produced by the Watford Palace Theatre (Director Brigid Larmour) and Pitlochry Festival Theatre, UK, opened August to October 2022.
‘Stylish, humourous and compassionate, this is a lovingly crafted adaptation of an American classic.’ **** The Telegraph.
‘Casey…bottles the story’s magic’ **** The Daily Mail
2022/23 – LITTLE WOMEN, stage adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s novel of the same name, co-produced by the Watford Palace Theatre (Director Brigid Larmour) and Pitlochry Festival Theatre, UK, ran from August to October, 2022. Production opening at HOME Theatre, Manchester December 9th 2023.
2023 – SOMERVILLE & ROSS, an original screenplay about an extraordinary female writing partnership in the 1900s. Developed with Screen Ireland, producer Ruth Carter of Blue Ink Films.
2023 – WILD IRISH GIRL, an original TV series about the filming of The Quiet Man. Producer Simon Fields, Fields Entertainment, LA.
2021 – THE STORY OF LUCY GAULT, adapted from the novel by William Trevor and to be directed by Aisling Walsh for Fields Entertainment, LA/Screen Ireland/Parallel Films.
2019/2020- THE MASTER, a film adaptation of the novel by Jolien Janzing for Screen Ireland and David Kelly Productions.
2018 – FLYING BLIND, a pilot episode for a mini-series about the first transatlantic flight for Eggplant TV, Toronto, and Shinawil Productions, Dublin.
2016 – GALWAY BAY, a pilot episode of a TV series for Lightworkers Media and NBCUniversal LA, adapted from the novel by Mary Pat Kelly, set in Ireland in 1840.


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When a significant other is constantly on your case about the same old, same old, it all starts to sound like “Yada Yada.” Just ask Tomi Jones, whose latest promo single (making its world premiere in the Booth) finds her fed up with the nonsense her man is throwing in her ear. Backed by Warren “Oak” Fields synth production, the singer showcases her expressive vocal style as she demands the fella in question shape up before she’s forced to walk out the door. Though this jam is not (yet) attached to any forthcoming project, those digging it can keep it locked to the DJBooth for all the latest from the up-and-coming soul songstress.
First DJ Booth Appearance:
"Tell Everyone" (2014)
Total DJ Booth Features:
Member Reviews and Ratings
- Logic ft. Big Sean - Alright
- Top Remixes of the Month [April 2014]
- Asher Roth - Retrohash
- Iggy Azalea - The New Classic
- Joyner Lucas - Don’t Ask for Nothin
- Top Hip Hop / R&B Music Songs Chart (April 21, 2014)
- Behind The Boards Interview Series: Statik Selektah
- Future - Honest LP
- Win an Exclusive Vinyl Version of De La Soul’s “Smell The Da.I.S.Y.” [CONTEST]
- DJ Whoo Kid Breaks Down His Essential DJ Set-Up
Discover the best new songs, videos, and albums added to the Booth.


This is a great DIY Square Tube 90Deg motor mount for 12mm tubes, it comes with all necessary hardware for mounting and can accommodate a large range of motors.
Motor mounting: Slots from 28mm to 11mm
Perfect for homamade projects of quads and tricopters.I ordered this and got something like the 0-degree one (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=40669), where the shaft axis is parallel to the motor mount's surface. It's not exactly the same, with slightly different flange, different packaging and correct barcode, but definitely wrong item according to the picture on this page. Looking at the other reviews I realized I'm not alone. Luck for me I can actually find use for these 0-degree mounts, and I can't exact complain about the price or the quality; but this doesn't change the fact that I didn't get the 90-degree mounts and my project is put on hold because of this.Wrong tem.
It is not a 90 deg motor mount.
Ordered 2 times and HK sent me a 0 deg motor mount.


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Sir Richard Branson hosted a business summit where leaders were told they would be swept aside by social enterprises if they did not adapt. Photograph: Stephen Chernin/Getty Images
A gathering of sustainability leaders hosted by Sir Richard Branson and Jamie Oliver has been warned that big businesses will be swept aside by emerging social enterprises unless they start changing their business models and contribute more to society.
Boudewijn Poelmann, who founded the hugely successful Dutch Postcode Lottery, which now operates in Sweden and the UK, said that many major businesses would disappear over the next 20 years, to be replaced by emerging social enterprises, unless they took off their blinkers and responded to the environmental and social challenges the world is facing.
“Small companies that are passionate about creating change will take over if big companies do not adapt,” he said. “We already see that with energy, with so many small companies producing sustainable clean energy. The big companies are already starting to feel they are losing out.”


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Do you love reading faith-based Christmas books to your kids during the holidays?
In a sea of secular books, sometimes it’s like weeding through a haystack to find a few faith-based gems to present to our kids.
Don’t get me wrong: I’m not anti-secular when it comes to holiday fun. I’m right there with the rest of ’em when it comes to Christmas trees, the reindeer, and a good ol’ Twas a Night Before Christmas selection.
However, sometimes we just yearn to present the sacred to our children, to instill within them good values, and teach them about faith through the beauty of positive and uplifting literature.
Here are five faith-based Christmas books I hope you’ll enjoy reading to your children this holiday season.
Links to books on Amazon are affiliate links.
1. Three Wise Women by Mary Hoffman
This book is a non-traditional yet reverent twist on the story of the Three Wise Men. Three women, all from different parts of the world, travel a mystical journey to do one thing: give presents to the Baby Jesus.
There is a twist in the end when the gifts they give Jesus are reencountered when the baby grows up to become a man.
2. The Most Precious Gift: A Story of the Nativity by Marty Crisp
This heartfelt story shows a young boy traveling in a caravan that follows the eastern star in search of the newborn king. He is concerned that because he is poor, he won’t be able to give much to the king, compared to the gifts of kings and nobles.
The story ends beautifully when a gift like no other is presented to a one-of-a-kind king.
3. Great Joy by Kate DiCamillo
This touching story is about a young girl named Frances who notices a lonesome organ grinder and monkey on the street outside her apartment. The Christmas season leads Frances to find it in her heart to touch the life of someone who needs great joy.
in the end, she is able to share that joy with someone in a unique way.
4. Angela and the Baby Jesus by Frank McCourt
This is a sweet story of a six-year-old girl named Angela who is concerned about the baby Jesus on the church’s altar where her family lives.
It’s an enjoyable and sweet story for younger children during the Christmas season.
5. The Birds of Bethlehem by Tomie de Paola
If you love Christmas and nature’s birds, this faith-based Christmas book is a sweet one to share with your kids during the holiday season.
It’s about the Nativity story told from a bird’s perspective. All the birds agree that something significant is happening (they can feel it in the air)! They all fly to the stable where the Christ child is being born.
Share Your Favorites
These are all books that I’ve enjoyed reading to my girls when they were younger and still enjoy reading a few of them to my youngest daughter today.
Do any of these speak to your heart? If you have any suggestions for other faith-based Christmas books for kids you can leave them in the comments below!


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Ongiti, Orpha K.
MetadataShow full item record
The Kenyan banking industry has been facing stiff competition from new entrants like mobile phone companies, international banks, and SACCOs. This led to a steady decline in banks’ financial results over the years, as reflected in their profit margins. In an attempt to wither competition, they adopted market expansion strategies to realize a more extensive customer base like opening new branches and operating beyond Kenyan borders. Hence, this research aims to examine value creation strategies and the performance of commercial banks in Kenya. The specific objectives were to establish the effect of cost reduction, revenue-raising, elimination of non-productive and financial innovation strategies on the performance of commercial banks. The study also sought to determine the moderating effect of bank size on the relationship between value creation strategies and the performance of commercial banks in Kenya. The study was informed by the innovation theory, value innovation theory, concentration-stability, concentration-fragility theory, and Schumpeter’s Innovation Theory of Profit. The study targeted all the 41 commercial banks in Kenya. Senior finance and senior operations managers working in the headquarters of the commercial banks were targeted from each bank. The study used both primary and secondary data. Primary data was collected using questionnaires while Secondary information was acquired from the commercial banks’ audited financial statements for the period 2014 to 2018. The obtained quantitative data through questionnaires was keyed into the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) computer software (version 22) for analysis. Both primary and secondary data results revealed that cost reduction, revenue-raising, elimination of non-productive elimination, and financial innovation strategies had a positive and significant correlation with the performance of commercial banks. Findings also indicated that bank size had a moderating effect on the relationship between value creation strategies and the performance of commercial banks in Kenya. Therefore, the study recommended that bank management establish measures that reduce operating, overhead, marketing and staff costs to boost their performance. In addition, commercial banks also ought to eliminate products and services that have extremely low-profit margins, retrench staff and agents whose services have been rendered redundant, and adopt business realignment to exit business lines that have high costs and low-profit margins so as they enhance their organizational performance. They ought to continuously launch new services and products to meet customer requirements. These should include real-time and electronic transactions since they enable the bank to serve customers and positively affect commission fee-based income effectively. Policymakers have to be wary of the increasing level of competition in the banking industry and put in place appropriate competitive strategies to mitigate the challenges that come with the competition. These competitive strategies will enhance their performance and eventual survival in the industry.
Africa Nazarene University
Non-Productive Elimination Strategies
Revenue Raising Strategies
Financial Innovation Strategies
Cost Reduction Strategies


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A while ago you mentioned ads with “digital native” as being a cover for trying to recruit “young” folks and being an ADEA violation… so what do you think of an ad that says (twice) “Young professionals” wanted? LOL That’s not even a cover! See attached…
You may get your passport revoked if you hate on the free kick prowess of French soccer star, Dimitri Payet. Nasty!
But, if you work in a tipped position and you question the generosity of French soccer players when leaving gratuities, then, hasta luego. Not even the National Labor Relations Board can save you. Continue reading
About two years ago, I blogged here about this decision from the NJ Superior Court, Appellate Division, where the court held that an employer and employee could agree to shorten the statute of limitations on employment claims. For example, in Rodriguez v. Raymours Furniture Company, Inc., conspicuously placed in its application materials, was language requiring that any employment-related lawsuit against Raymours be filed within six months of whenever the claim arose. Thus, if one of these employees was later discriminated against, he would have to file his lawsuit within six months (rather than within two years, as New Jersey’s Law Against Discrimination permits).
That’s right folks. It’s time for another edition of “Fact or Fiction” a/k/a “Quick Answers to Quick Questions” a/k/a QATQQ f/k/a “I don’t feel like writing a long blog post.”
There are times when an employee claims that his working conditions have become so intolerable — a really, really bad hostile work environment, that he is forced to resign. That’s a claim of constructive discharge. If that employee later wishes to bring a claim against his former employer, he must do so within a certain period of time.
Does the statute of limitations on a constructive-discharge claim begin to run from the date of the last discriminatory act? Or the date of the resignation?
Because, I’m pretty sure that I’ll get my employment-lawyer-blogger card revoked if I don’t offer a self-deprecating blog post about age discrimination on my 40th birthday. But, feel free to raise my spirits by pledging a pair of tickets to the Philly stop of the Guns N’ Roses reunion tour.
Oh, God! I really am old!