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Botanical name: Aesculus hippocastanum
Other names: Horse chestnut
Species: A. hippocastanum - A. hippocastanum is a vigorous, spreading rounded, deciduous tree with palmately-lobed mid green leaves that turn yellow, red or orange in autumn. It bears large white flowers in summer followed by spiny brown chestnuts.
Aesculus hippocastanum is: Deciduous
Flower: Yellow, White in Spring
Foliage: Dark-green in Summer; Reddish-brown in Autumn
Fruit: Green in Autumn
Tree shape: Broad crowned
Toxicity: Ingestion may cause severe discomfort.
Awards: RHS AGM (Award of Garden Merit)
Plant with: Narcissus pseudonarcissus (Wild daffodil)
Propagation methods: Grafting, Seed. REGISTER to read more...
Aesculus hippocastanum (Horse chestnut) will reach a height of 15m and a spread of 12m after 20-50 years.
Suggested uses: Low Maintenance, Wildlife, Architectural, Specimen tree
Cultivation: Grow in well-drained soil. Large tree only really suitable for very large gardens.
|This plant likes...||Garden match|
|Soil types:||Chalky, Clay, Loamy, Sandy (will tolerate most soil types)|
|Soil drainage:||Moist but well-drained, Well-drained|
|Soil pH:||Acid, Alkaline, Neutral|
|Light:||Partial Shade, Full Sun|
|Aspect:||North, South, East, West|
Discuss Aesculus hippocastanum (Horse chestnut) with other Shoot members.
Native to Greece, the horse chestnut was introduced to Britain around 1600. The Turks were said to feed the nuts (conkers) to coughing horses. The name may also come from the horseshoe-shaped scars on its leaves and winter twigs.
"Shoot's 'where to grow' & 'plant details' were invaluable for a novice like me in deciding on planting positions."

domain: biology


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Whoops, painted over the address. No problem, just scrawl the numbers back on there with a Sharpie. Done.
Enjoy the evenings sitting in the comfort of your living room atop your sunset-simulating carpet, wishing you had a picture of a fireplace to hang…
Is that a kitchen… inside a closet? Why yes, yes I believe that is exactly what that is.

domain: artistic


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Is located north of the Selous, is only 283 km away from Dar-es-salaam. The Park is also an important educational centre for students of ecology and conservation. The Mikumi flood plain is… Continue reading →

domain: geography


automatic industrial washing machines
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Adopt touch-type programmable computer control system, it is highly automat ic, safe, stability and anti-shock.
Adopt the international latest complete suspension structure to reduce shock, replace the original shock design by liquid pressure buffer with springs, it can ensure an ideal anti-shock effect even on higher floors. It is with a drum without compartment and a single door structure convenient to loading and unloading, and reduces the labor intensity and improves the clean level.
With fully-closed and rear-drainage structure, it is good for environmental protection, the drum and case are both made of high quality stainless steel with the advantages of stain resistance and durability.


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Meditation for Perfection
Welcome to Malton and our dedication to our beloved Earth. We are guided by the Ascended Master Kuthumi, who once lived here as Francis of Assisi. We hold his devotion to the Elements and the Animal, Plant, and Mineral Kingdoms. May our hearts soar together in this time of transition. "A change of heart can change the world!"
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Eight-Sided Cell of Perfection Energy Map
Adapted from Points of Perception by Lori Adaile Toye
Meditation for Perfection
This Meditation assists the Ascension Alignment by activating the Eight-Sided Cell of Perfection. Mother Mary explains that she has placed this Eight-Sided Cell of Perfection within our hearts, assuring that we will always carry our perfection within. She explains that we are each conceived as an Immaculate Concept. This purity is the truth of our Being; we have simply turned away from our own perfection and the Light of God that Never Fails. Mary tells us that we are held close within her heart, and she can only see us as perfect. [Look for this discourse from Mother Mary in the soon-to-be-released Fields of Light by Lori Adaile Toye, the third book in the upcoming I AM America Trilogy.]
Life force flows through this Perfect Cell in the sequence of the numbering. Following these numbers, you will find a figure-eight configuration if you arch up over two going from three to four. This meditation is best done facing South, so that you will find the Divine Heaven before you and the Cause and Effect behind you, much like the fanning of peacock feathers.
Each Palace within the Perfect Cell holds a Color Ray and a Purpose. We begin in the Temple of Being, the FIRST Palace, our Higher Self, where we flow from the I AM Presence. Here, our Higher Self holds the space for our embodiment and is our Temple of connection to I AM THAT I AM. This first meditation is to find the stillness and silence within, where this core of perfection sustains. This Palace is exceedingly rich in all Colors and deep tidings of the ONE. Feel the same Temple of Being within the heart of the Mother Earth and the joy of her inner connection to All That Is.
From this exquisite Palace, we step South into the Divine Heaven with our Divine Purpose and Self-expression, the SECOND Palace. We have been created for a purpose, as well as for the joy of existence and the expansion into the realms of experience. To meditate upon our Divine Purpose is to feel the dignity of the niche we are designed to fill; even if the specifics of this purpose are not immediately known, just to know that it is there, to feel that there is importance and joy within this purpose, will invite this information to become evident. The Ruby-Gold Color Ray holds our devotion and power of action, with the necessary protection and alignment to stay on course. The Divine Purpose of our Mother Planet can also be felt, with her sentience, focus, and determination, aligning not only with the Divine Will but also with the human will.
Feeling our strength of purpose and the strength of purpose of Babajeran (the Earth Mother), we then move East into the THIRD Palace, that of Sharing, Marriage, and Mate. This is where we can know or sense our Twin Flame or Divine Complement. Being in duality, there is an inner aspect which completes us. The White Ray attends this Palace, and in the purity of this Ray, a profound spiritual Love and total acceptance is felt and carried. Bask in this White Light and know the wholeness of the self. This constant companionship brings forth emotional joy and the sustaining of perfection. Know also that the Earth Mother has a Divine Complement and holds up to seven identities for the Times of Transition (Fields of Light by Lori Adaile Toye).
Flowing around and beneath the Second Palace to the West, we reach the FOURTH Palace, of Family and The World in Cosmic Motion. This fills our sense of belonging in the ONE spiritual family and also within our Star seed family and soul group. To know that they are there creates an opening to feel their presence. This is attended by the Pink Ray of Divine Love. And so, within this Palace, are the rich experiences of the joy of belonging, nurturing, non-judgment, and fruitful desires. We are the family of Babajeran and she also has her larger family within her Cosmic identity, which also gives her support and strength. Meditating upon The World in Cosmic Motion shows “as above, so below.”
From here, we cross over and up to the East, beginning the upper loop of the figure eight, into the FIFTH Palace of Generation of the Forces of Nature, Fruition, and Children. This places us within the continual evolution of life and of generations. Meditating upon The Generation of the Forces of Nature can take us deeply into the generative powers of Nature and a sense of continuity and expansion. This Palace holds the Blue Ray of Divine Truth and the Divine Will. The Blue Ray can also be used for protection. The functions of the rational and intuitive mind can be explored in this Palace.
The Earth Mother is the expression of the Forces of Nature and we can sense her balancing and nurturing generative aspects.
Moving up is the SIXTH Palace of Spiritual Teachers and Guides, attended by the Violet Ray. This Ray blends the Pink Ray of Divine Love with the Blue Ray of Divine Truth, forming the transmuting Ray of Mercy and Forgiveness. This Ray assures that love and truth will be sustained. This Violet Ray is the dispensation for this Time of Change, bringing the dissolution of Karma and transmuting of all impediments to our rightful perfection. To assist this process of evolving, we have guides and spiritual teachers. To stay on a spiritual path assures the coming Golden Age. Taking responsibility for all our creations gives us the power to transmute through self-forgiveness and the forgiving of all. Babajeran has constantly forgiven us and also works with others who assist her.
Moving directly to the North, the SEVENTH Palace, brings forth Abundance, Money, and Growth. This Palace holds the Green Ray of healing and abundance. Within Cause and Effect, this Palace relates to our desire for growth, ability to focus upon what we want, and trusting, so that we can receive joyfully. Visualizing the Green Ray coming up from the ground and through the body, see it circulating all through the body and its organs, much like the circulatory system. Each time this is done, it further promotes healing. The Earth Mother creates with exquisite beauty all that we see in Nature. Feel her creative joy.
To the East then, is the EIGHTH Palace, ‘The World’ Occupations. A world occupation is one of service, fitting into the exchange of energy described as, for every intake is an outtake. This Palace is attended by the Aquamarine-Gold Ray, which promotes the freedom, expression, and awareness of the I AM Presence within. Our Eighth energy body is an alignment body, integrating the previous seven bodies (corresponding to our Chakras) into a body of service. Babajeran has a world and cosmic occupation which can be sensed, supported, and well appreciated!
Completing the upper, or Northern loop, of the figure eight in the West, is the NINTH Palace, the Star of Knowledge and Choice. This Palace is attended by the Yellow Ray of Divine Wisdom, utilizing the literal and expressive intuition, or inner knowing. This Star of Knowledge holds the awareness that choice is the basis of all experience and is the constant reminder of the power of one’s focus. We are at this crucial choice of accepting our perfection and ushering in a Golden Age within the Fourth Dimension, a dimension which sustains and maintains. This expansion will bring harmony and a Oneness that will open us to many new discoveries. The Earth Mother weeps with joy, not only with this alignment, but through the Oneness we feel with her.
This completes the upper loop of the figure-eight, aligning the Cause and Effect of the North, the masculine-informing aspect, with the Divine Heaven of the South, the feminine-nurturing aspect. Mother Mary says this Cell of Perfection is held within a cradle in the heart. Within this cradle is our perfect child self, longing to emerge into the safe and exciting playground of Divine Love and Truth. Each time we return to the Temple of Being to begin this cycle again, it lifts us in a spiral. As there is a constant spin within our chakras, both receiving and releasing, so too does this Cell expand and contract in a constant motion, holding our evolving helixes of DNA in our RNA.
The Ascension Alignment is brought forth as the marriage of the masculine and feminine aspects, birthing Unana (unity consciousness). As we lift through these Palaces of Perfecting, we become the expression of the Dove of Peace and Babajeran becomes the Freedom Star, a planet of love in action.

domain: literature


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Climate change driving spike in dengue cases in South East Asia
By David Lipson on AM
In another sign of the immediate impact of our changing climate, the World Health Organisation is warning countries throughout South East Asia to brace for a significant epidemic of dengue fever for the remainder of this year.
The Philippines has just declared a national alert after a major spike in reported cases, and there are also outbreaks in Singapore, Vietnam and Cambodia.
2019 is now on track to record the highest number of dengue cases ever.
Dr Gundo Veilerm, World Health Organisations Representative to the Philippines
Dr Scott Richie, World Mosquito Program in Cairns


The Nature Conservancy and the African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) recently presented the Kenyan government with a gift of land that will establish the country’s newest national park. The 17,100-acre Eland Downs property, to be named Laikipia National Park and managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service, will secure critical wildlife movement corridors across central Kenya’s Laikipia Plateau. It is good for conservation, and it will benefit Kenya’s economy and the people of this region.
The future Laikipia National Park’s open savannas host a range of animals, including elephant, eland and the endangered Grevy’s zebra. Lesser-known denizens range from the patas monkey to Somali ostrich to beisa oryx.
Laikipia region enjoys woodland, grasslands and fertile riverbeds where water flowing from the Aberdare Mountains long ago gave rise to the Mutara River to the north, and the Ewaso Nyiro, Suguroi and Segera Rivers to the south. A cascading waterfall flows from the Segera River and in the Valley of Kiseregai Creek, the natural Delamere Springs attract herds of elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, and important populations of Reticulated giraffe, Lelwel’s hartebeest and endangered species such as Grevy’s zebra, Patas monkey and one of the few expanding populations of African Wild Dog.


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What did she accomplish in her lifetime?
- Wrote 723 books, translated into 38 languages
- Sold so many books in a single year, she made it into the Guinness Book of World Records
- During the Second World War Barbara Cartland was Chief Lady Welfare Officer in Bedfordshire looking after 20,000 service men and women.
- Barbara wrote a number of biographies of famous characters from history, including the biography of her brother, Ronald Cartland, who was the first Member of Parliament to be killed in the Second World War.
- In 1978 she sang an Album of Love Songs with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.
- In 1964 Barbara founded the National Association for Health in the UK, of which she was President.
- In January 1988 she received "La Medaille de Vermeil de la Ville de Paris", (The Gold Medal of Paris). This is the highest award to be given by the City of Paris for achievement - 25 million books sold in France.
- In 1981 Barbara was made a Dame of the Order of the British Empire in the New Year's Honours List by Her Majesty the Queen, for her contribution to literature and for her work for the Community.
- She left behind 160 unpublished manuscripts which it is said will be published at some point.
- ...and she adored the color pink!
Learn More About Barbara Cartland!
Information Source: http://www.barbaracartland.com/static/life.aspx?from=1
BC Image Source: http://www.cool-stuff.co.uk/Cartland/index.html

domain: library


Electrolube HTCX is an enhanced version of HTC featuring improved thermal conductivity, lower oil bleed, and lower evaporation weight loss. HTCX is recommended where the efficient and reliable thermal coupling of electrical and electronic components is required or between any surface where thermal conductivity or heat dissipation is important. It should be applied to the base and mounting studs of diodes, transistors, thyristors, heat sinks, silicone rectifiers and semi-conductors, thermostats,power resistors and radiators.
- Very low oil bleed and evaporation weight loss
- Reduced viscosity for ease of application
- Excellent non-creep characteristics
- Very wide operating temperature range
- Excellent thermal conductivity: 1.35 W/m.K
- Low toxicity


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It isn't as sweet as you think !!!
In 1965 a chemist, named James Schlatter, while trying to develop a drug to treat peptic ulcers, happened to lick his finger to pick a piece of paper that had been splashed by the heated chemical with which he was working. He noticed that it was sweet to the taste. This was the accidental discovery of NUTRA-SWEET.
Now over 1,200 products contain aspartame (the chemical name for NUTRA-SWEET) If this chemical would have been marketed as a drug, it most likely would not have passed the scrutiny of the FDA. However, the FDA policy on food additives is much more laxed.
Avoiding chemicals is always using common sense, but many people don't realize that they may be ingesting toxic substances everyday hidden in many of the foods that they are consuming. NutraSweet is such a chemical. It can be found in baking mixes, breath mints, cereals (including many health conscious ones), a whole line of diabetic foods, frozen treats, fruit drinks, gum, hot chocolate mixes, gelatins, laxatives (including metamucil), puddings, prescribed and over the counter medicines, sodas, table top sweeteners, tea beverages and vitamins (including children's).
Many people believe that if it was unsafe then it wouldn't be on the market. Dr. Herbert L. Ley (former FDA commissioner) stated "The thing that bugs me is that the people think the FDA is protecting them, it isn't. What the FDA is doing and what the public thinks it's doing are as different as night and day."
Understanding the components of nutrasweet gives insight into why it is so dangerous. There are three components of aspartame, two of which are amino acids: 40% is aspartic acid 50% is L-Phenylalanine. L-Phenylalanine in nutrasweet is at least 10 X of higher concentration than found in protein, this sudden rush of L-Phenylalanine causes an imbalance in the brain. The third component, methyl alcohol, is a deadly poison that when ingested converts to formaldehyde and formic acid, which poisons the thymus gland.
A possible and safe alternative to Aspartame is Stevia.
The focus of this site is to "educate, validate, and suggest alternative methods for the treatment of health conditions," which are not readily available to those who go through mainstream programs.
To help ensure good results, high quality foods and supplements are vital. Knowing that the cost of supplements can get overwhelming, we provide a wholesale store.
This is a courtesy, not a requirement for you to ask your questions. We are here to help people, not just gain customers.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact me.
***When working with natural health it is beneficial that you have an understanding of the signs of a healing body. ***

domain: medical


For many contrarian investors, the boost in positive market sentiment over the past four months has become a cause for concern and signal that stocks are looking overbought. But that’s not how David Tippen and Ron Meisels, analysts at Phases & Cycles, see it.
“Given the previous period of sustained scepticism, what we have seen in the last few months can be viewed simply as growth in bull market
recognition – not the type of excess that usually characterizes major market tops,” they said in a note to clients Thursday.
While the markets remain susceptible to a short-term pause or pullback over the next two months, Mr. Tippen and Mr. Meisels believe there is plenty of life left in stock markets that have climbed nearly 100% in the past two years.
“All the other interpretations – particularly, that the past 22 months have been a glorified bear market rally – have fallen by the wayside.
“It is to be expected that more investors and advisors (and the financial media) will feel positive about the markets as 2011 begins. But that does not mean the bull market is in its end game. It just means that during this latter half of the bull market more people will come to the party.”


Parts & Accessories
Everything from touch-ups to major repairs . If you can see it, we can fix it!
Since you love your Volkswagen, you know that even the smallest scratch deserves expert attention. Downtown Volkswagen can help you! From minor touch-ups or repairs to major collision reconstruction. Because we’re the only ones who love your Volkswagen as much as you do.
Know your rights.
Insist on Volkswagen Original Parts. Insurance companies constantly look for ways to minimize the cost of repairs. This means they could look for the cheapest repair facility in the case of a claim. But this could expose you to sub‑standard workmanship and low-quality parts that can ultimately harm your Volkswagen’s resale value. In fact, the use of aftermarket parts, incorrect paint procedures or faulty installations can even lead to denied warranty coverage, or issues with your lease contract. So know your rights.
Insist on Volkswagen Original service and parts. Only Volkswagen factory-trained specialists can repair your Volkswagen to factory standards using Volkswagen Original parts that protect the corrosion perforation coverage of your Volkswagen vehicle.
Did you know?
Volkswagen vehicles are backed by one of the best corrosion warranties in the industry.
Only a Volkswagen dealer can source new genuine Volkswagen Original parts, installed by factory-trained specialists with Volkswagen technical support.
Volkswagen Original parts and installation are mandatory in order to protect your vehicle’s 12-year unlimited mileage corrosion warranty (except for the Routan, which has a 5-year/100,000 km corrosion warranty).
Volkswagen Original parts also come with a full 1-year/20,000 km limited warranty covering parts and labor when installed by your Authorized Volkswagen Dealership; Downtown Volkswagen.
Any minor accident repair should not void the limited new vehicle warranty and/or the collision warranty if done properly. Downtown Volkswagen can ensure proper repair to factory standards.
Your Volkswagen warranty is valid across Canada at any of our dealers. Visit vw.ca to access our dealer locator or call Volkswagen Customer Care at 1-800-822-8987.
What to do?
In case of a scratch, bump or dent:
Call Downtown Volkswagen to make an appointment to have your vehicle repaired sooner than later. Sometimes even a small dent or a bump can break the protection barrier in your paint or leave a pocket for dirt and debris to collect and cause corrosion.
In case of a collision:
Even if it’s just a bump, stop in a well-lit place away from traffic.
Call the police and request an ambulance if needed.
Gather your driver’s license, registration and insurance to present to the police
Fill out the detachable collision report included in this brochure.
If handy, use your cell phone or a digital camera to take photos of the damage.
If your vehicle isn’t operable, call Volkswagen Roadside Assistance* at 1-800-411-6688.
Contact Roadside Assistance at 1-800-411-6688
Contact roadside assistance for towing service to your preferred Volkswagen dealer within 50 km or the nearest authorized Volkswagen dealership. This service is covered under your new vehicle warranty for the first 4 years/ 80,000 km or for an extra 2 years/ 40,000 km on Certified Pre‑owned warranties. Beyond the warranty coverage, you may request the same roadside coverage for a fee.
A little maintenance goes a long way…
Only Volkswagen Original parts are engineered specifically for your vehicle. Genuine Volkswagen parts have the same fit, finish and quality as the factory parts on your Volkswagen. No retrofitting required. No modifications needed. Just the right part for your car at the right price. German-engineered, built to last, and backed by a limited warranty of 1 year/ 20,000 km*.
The following Volkswagen Original leaflets provide useful maintenance information and tips so you can continue to enjoy your Volkswagen for years to come.
Volkswagen brakes are built to last. Like our cars.
Our batteries are dependable and reliable at nearly all temperatures. That way, your car is too.
Volkswagen absorbing shocks can handle almost anything the road throws at them.
Parts Exchange Program
The Original Exchange Parts Program is better for the environment. And your wallet.
Driving visibility needs to be consistent. So our wiper blades are, too.
Timing Belts & Chains
The timing belt keeps your Volkswagen engine as finely tuned as possible.
HVAC Pollen Filters
Whether you have allergies, or not, you’re going to appreciate clean air in your Volkswagen.
*A limited warranty of 1 year/20,000 km (whichever occurs first) applies when parts or accessories are ordered and installed after the purchase or lease of your vehicle
Looking for more information?
Contact us TOLL FREE: 1-866-386-9689
Like your experience with us?


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Once I turned 30, I began to get a bit more health conscious. Less sugar, more fiber. Small changes. Then at 31, I really pushed the fruits and veggies. But at 32, I found I could no longer eat a slice of chocolate cake and feel decent afterwards. My metabolism slowed and it took more and more effort to maintain my ideal weight. Today I turn 33, and I sometimes feel like my body is just no longer cooperative. I’m on a range of (unavoidable) medications that make me tired, grumpy, and basically feel like a slug. To counteract all those crappy side-effects I need to pour in a really balanced diet to make me feel my best (which still, even on days when my diet is perfect, doesn’t always work). But I’m determined not to feel 33 going on 66, so I push on just trying to eat my best and exercise as much as I can.
For being a “grown up,” I don’t feel very grown up. I would still rather eat Cinnamon Toast Crunch for breakfast than eggs and avocados. But I know if I do eat that sugary cereal I will crash 1.5 hours later and feel even hungrier. The angel on my shoulder says, “Eat balanced! Protein in the morning!” while the sugar devil calls for “Cinnamon Toast Crunch! Cookie Crisp! Chocolate nom nom nom nom!” Luckily, I can bop the sugar devil over the head with this healthy concoction that leaves me sated until lunchtime, and just not, you know, purchase the sugary cereals in the first place.
To make my daily breakfast, I start a day ahead. Prepping 3 of these at a time means there are 3 mornings where I don’t have to think about what’s for breakfast or be tempted by the kid’s leftover pancakes. I just grab a chia parfait out of the fridge, a spoon, and dig in before my stomach gets the best of me. Then on day 3, I make 3 more.
What is kefir? It’s a fermented milk drink, sort of like a liquid yogurt. But unlike sugary yogurt, it packs 10.5 grams of protein per cup without the extra fat and calories. Plus it has more of the good probiotics to aid in digestion (and maintain healthy bowels….yeah I’m talking about that) than yogurt does. If you’re here in the UK, I like Bio-tiful Dairy Kefir that you can purchase on Ocado. In the US there are a ton more choices in the kefir department, from flavors like vanilla to cherry pomegranate. Just watch the sugar on the label–you don’t want to start your morning with a blood sugar blast-off.
Pour 1 cup of kefir into a glass or resealable container (glass jars work great, too).
Add some chia seeds. These pack a wallop of protein, Omega-3’s, and a ton of vitamins and minerals. Adding them to the kefir will give you your entire day’s worth of calcium in one serving.
Next, add oats. Not quick-cook oats that will become mushy, but nice, thick old fashioned oats. Organic and gluten-free, if possible.
Next, add a little bit of fruit compote or fruit jam for flavoring. You can omit this step, but I find that just a touch of sweetness and flavor really makes this breakfast shine. Look for no-added-sugar jams (if you’re using a flavored kefir omit this step).
Stir it all together (or shake, if you’re using a lidded container)…
…until everything is well combined. The mixture will be thin; don’t worry. It will thicken overnight in the fridge as the chia seeds and oats soak up the kefir. Cover and store in the refrigerator overnight and up to 3 days.
In the morning toss on some fresh berries, or if you need to use frozen you can add them before refrigerating the night before.
See how the chia seeds have expanded? Those will help fill you up and keep you going all morning. The oats, too!
What a perfect start to the day. Play with different flavors of jam and/or kefir until you find something that suits you just right. My absolute favorite is plain kefir with strawberry rhubarb jam–it tastes like pie!
Cheers to 33 years, my friends. *Happy birthday to me, happy birthday to me…I look like I’m
32 28, but I act like I’m 12.*
Kefir and Chia Breakfast Parfaits
- 1 cup kefir
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats (not quick-cooking)
- 1 tsp whole chia seeds
- 1 tbsp no-added-sugar jam for flavor (omit if you’re using a flavored kefir)
Combine all ingredients in a resealable container or small bowl. Stir well. Cover and refrigerate overnight or up to 3 days. Top with fresh fruit before devouring!

domain: food


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Khaleda's case brought under emergency rules
The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) brought under emergency power rules the case filed against former prime minister Khaleda Zia on September 2. The commission will file a fresh case against her detained elder son Tarique Rahman 'very soon'. Meantime, the ACC pressed charges against detained former BNP lawmaker Mossaddak Ali Falu, four Dhaka City Corporation (DCC) ward commissioners and 11 others in a case filed in connection with embezzling government relief materials. Sources in the ACC said Tarique would be accused of concealing information in his wealth statement submitted to the ACC, and illegally accumulating properties disproportionate to his known sources of income. “The container handling case (accusing Khaleda, her younger son Koko and 11 others) was brought under EPR in response to a petition by investigation officer (IO) of the case,” ACC Secretary Mukhles Ur Rahman told a press briefing. “Bringing the case under EPR means bail could be granted to none of the accused,” he added. The FIR mentioned that a petition is being processed to bring the case under the EPR. -The Daily Star, September 18.
US rights group moves to cancel GSP facility for Bangladesh
A US-based rights group has made a move seeking cancellation of GSP, a system that favours Bangladeshi garment export, alleging the country does not allow labour rights in export processing zones. However, Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority (Bepza) says the move is based on falsehoods. Bepza has drafted a position paper to help the government fight a petition the rights body filed with the United States Trade Representatives (USTR) on October 4. The rights group -- American Federation of Labour and Congress of Industrial Organisations (AFL-CIO) -- has been lobbying for cancellation of GSP facilities for many years. Though GSP (generalised system of preferences) facilities do not offer a lot of benefit to Bangladesh, its cancellation would confirm AFL-CIO's claims that labour rights are violated in Bangladesh. "The complaint of absence of workers rights in the EPZs is not true as about 177 elected workers representation & welfare committees (WRWCs) are actively working in the EPZs of Bangladesh," said a position paper prepared by Bepza in this regard. -The Daily Star, September 18.
Judiciary separation: Govt gets 6 more weeks
The Supreme Court gave government another six weeks' time for making appointments to the newly created posts of judicial magistrate and their support staff with office accommodation in subordinate courts to complete the process of judiciary separation. The apex court order came after perusing the progress report submitted by the government as asked by it earlier with regard to implementation of the process of separating the judiciary from the executive control. A six-member full bench of the Supreme Court, headed by Chief Justice M Ruhul Amin, passed the orders and adjourned until October 31 the hearings on the contempt cases against 13 bureaucrats for impeding the process of separating the judiciary from the executive. Additional Attorney General Salah Uddin Ahmed appeared for the government. In December 1999, the Supreme Court in the Masder Hossain case had given the government a 12-point directive for separating the judiciary. Since then, the successive political governments on several occasions had sought extra time for the implementation of the SC directives, but to no effect. -Unb, Dhaka, September 19.
US expects extra steps to restore democracy
US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State John Gastright meets Chief Election Commissioner ATM Shamsul Huda at his office in the capital The US government expects Bangladesh to take additional steps for restoring democracy as soon as possible. Visiting US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State John Gastright said this at a meeting with Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) ATM Shamsul Huda. The US embassy in Dhaka later issued a press statement on the around one-hour talks held at the CEC's office. "Gastright said the US government looked forward to additional steps by Bangladesh to restore democracy as soon as possible, and the two discussed the steps underway to prepare for elections by the end of 2008," the statement said. "He reiterated the US government's willingness to provide support to the Election Commission. Full democracy is vital to the country. Full participation in the electoral process is vital to democracy," it added. The press statement said Gastright also welcomed the recent relaxation on internal politics and emphasised the important role that political parties, NGOs and civil society can play in the electoral process. -The Daily Star, September 19.
Prof Neem sent to jail on surrender
Prof Neem Chandra Bhowmik, chairman of Applied Physics Department of Dhaka University (DU) and an accused in two cases filed in connection with the August violence on Dhaka University (DU) campus, was sent to jail after he surrendered before a Dhaka court. Meanwhile, a Rajshahi court framed charges against 14 people including two Rajshahi University (RU) professors for violating the Emergency Power Rules and torching a vehicle belonging to the Directorate General of Forces Intelligence (DGFI) during the violence on RU campus in August. Neem, who is sick, was given first class division in jail and the court ordered the jail authorities to ensure his proper treatment if necessary. Metropolitan Magistrate SM Ferdous Alam gave the order after Neem along with his lawyers appeared before the court in connection with the cases filed with Shahbagh Police Station in August. On September 9, police brought charges against four teachers and 15 students of DU for instigating violent protests on the university campus as well as in adjacent areas including Shahbagh. -The Daily Star, September 19.
Gold Smuggling Case
Ershad gets acquitted
A Dhaka court relieved former president and Jatiya Party Chairman HM Ershad of the gold smuggling case. The judgement of the case had been adjourned seven times before for different reasons. Former president Ershad faced numerous charges after he was deposed in a popular uprising in 1990. In August and September last year, he was acquitted of four graft cases following his announcement of joining the BNP-led four-party alliance. The gold smuggling case was filed 16 years ago on July 17, 1990 while president Ershad was in office. Primarily, the persons accused in the charge sheet were Bernhard Rudiger from Germany, David Anthony Chalmar Chaker from UK, former Zia International Airport manager Maj (retd) Ashraf Uddin Sekender, airport security guard Abu Taher, former chairman of Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh Mainul Islam, and Maksudur Rahman. Ershad's name was included in the charge sheet on August 31, 1991, but the trial against Ershad was shelved for several years following a High Court (HC) stay order. -The Daily Star, September 19.
Court declines to hear Khaleda's bail appeal
A Dhaka court declined to hear the bail petition of detained former prime minister Khaleda Zia, saying the court has no jurisdiction to pass any judgment on an appeal for bail in a graft case. Judge Mohammad Azizul Haq at Metropolitan Sessions Judge's Court made the observation that follows a September 12 ruling in which Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (CMM) Jalal Ahmed also declined to hear Khaleda's bail petition citing the same reason. The defence lawyers in their bail petition said the government had filed the case against Khaleda, her younger son Arafat Rahman Koko and 11 other people under sections 409/109 of Bangladesh Penal Code and section 5(2) of Prevention of Corruption Act. Later the case was brought under the Emergency Power Rules (EPR) on September 17 that also curbed the right of an accused to seek bail from any court, they said. But the prosecuting section of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) at the CMM Court did not get the order of bringing the case under the EPR from the authorities concerned till September 18. So, there was no obstacle to granting bail to their client, the defence added.-- The Daily Star, September 21
Corresponding with the Law Desk
Please send your mails, queries, and opinions to: Law Desk, The Daily Star 19 Karwan Bazar, Dhaka-1215; telephone 8124944,8124955,fax 8125155; email: email@example.com,firstname.lastname@example.org

domain: politics


text:
TORONTO, Jan. 27, 2016 /CNW/ - Spin Master Corp., ("Spin Master") (TSX: TOY) – a leading global children's entertainment company – has announced today that it has entered into an agreement to purchase the library of board games owned by Editrice Giochi SRL, one of the oldest privately-held toy game companies in Italy. The sale includes the historic Editrice Giochi brand, which has stood for quality game product in the Italian market for more than 70 years.
The strategic acquisition enables Spin Master to expand its award-winning selection of games and licensed products in the Italian market with such well known games as Risiko, Italy's most popular strategic game, and Scarabeo, the leading word game in Italy.
"Editrice Giochi is a recognized leader in games and Spin Master looks forward to building upon this legacy in the years to come," said Ben Gadbois, Global President and COO, Spin Master Ltd. "We are proud that our reputation as a trusted partner has allowed us to add a well-respected company like Editrice Giochi to the Spin Master family."
With a rich legacy in the games category, the Editrice Giochi brand compliments Spin Master's recent acquisition of Cardinal Games , a US-based company whose large library of games and puzzles Spin Master has commenced marketing and selling across Europe.
"Spin Master is committed to building our games presence in Europe," said Dino Canuti, General Manager, Spin Master Italy s.r.l. "These acquisitions build upon the substantial presence established by Spin Master Games and position Spin Master as a leader in the Games market in this region," he added.
The award-winning toy and games company is open to new partnerships and invites dialogue to that end. "As Spin Master continues to grow, we are eager to add to our portfolio and work with companies who, like us, have never forgotten their entrepreneurial spirits," said Anton Rabie, Chair and Co-Chief Executive Officer, Spin Master Ltd. "We invite any interested partners to reach out to Spin Master, we are always happy to have an open dialogue and explore mutually beneficial opportunities."
The transaction is expected to be completed in early February 2016.
About Spin Master Corp.
Spin Master (TSX:TOY) is a leading global children's entertainment company that creates, designs, manufactures and markets a diversified portfolio of innovative toys, games, products and entertainment properties. Spin Master is best known for award-winning brands including Bakugan, Air Hogs®, Spin Master Games™ and the 2015 Toy of the Year, Zoomer™ Dino. Since 2005, Spin Master has received 63 TIA Toy of The Year (TOTY) nominations with 14 wins across a variety of product categories. Spin Master has been recognized with 12 TOTY nominations for Innovative Toy of the Year, more than any of its competitors. Spin Master is among a limited number of companies that not only develop and produce global entertainment properties, characters and content, but also monetize that content through the creation, sale and licensing of products. To date, Spin Master has produced five television series, including 2007 hit series Bakugan Battle Brawlers™ and its current hit PAW Patrol, which is broadcast in over 160 countries and territories globally. Spin Master employs over 850 people globally with offices in Canada, United States, France, Italy, United Kingdom, Slovakia, Germany, Holland, Mexico, China, Hong Kong and Japan.
SOURCE Spin Master Corp.
For further information: Tara Tucker, Vice President, Global Marketing Communications, Spin Master Ltd., [email protected]

domain: entertainment


CLEVELAND -- Heads up, Gordon Square drivers!
The W. 45th Street exit ramp from the Shoreway to Detroit Avenue will close for about three weeks starting Nov. 12.
Shoreway drivers should access Detroit Avenue via W. 73rd and W. 25 streets.
The ramp will close so that the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District can continue construction of the Westerly Storage Tunnel, which started in May. The two-mile tunnel, which will capture and prevent 300 million gallons of sewage from entering the Cuyahoga River, will run beneath the Tremont, Ohio City and Detroit Shoreway neighborhoods.
The Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District says the ramp should reopen Nov. 30.


New Delhi- The government on Wednesday informed Parliament that the Jammu and Kashmir government has not issued any order under which journalists can be stopped from reporting if their work threatens peace and public tranquillity.
Minister of state for home affairs Nityanand Rai stated this in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha.
“The government of UT of Jammu and Kashmir has informed that no such order has been issued,” he stated.
He was asked if the J&K administration has issued orders under which journalists can be stopped from reporting if their work threatens peace and public tranquility, and which directs unauthorised/unregistered journalists to complete their registration or obtain approval of the administration before they can be allowed to perform their duties.
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One of the most innovative features of the M&M CANISTER GUARD®, as the name implies, is the canister, which allows modular loading of the internal parts during valve redressing All internal parts, except for the operating stem is placed in the valve body and turned to the closed position. The canister (in the closed position) is lowered into the valve body and seated with the tap of a hammer handle or wooden dowel. After the canister is in place, it is a simple matter to locate the locking segments in their groove, drop in the support ring, and insert the spiral retainer ring. Redressing is complete. M&M’s CANISTER GUARD® is patented.
M&M’s latest innovation, involves solving two of the most important deficiencies of all other known kelly valves, that of improved ability to close under significant flow and to easily operate under high balanced pressure conditions. Tests at Louisiana State University’s Petroleum Engineering Research and Technology Transfer Laboratory indicate that utilization of M&M’s LITE-TORC™ System drastically improved the ability of a valve so fitted to be closed under heavy flow at torque values manageable by one man with a standard 12″ valve wrench. Further, once closed, well bore pressure can slowly be balanced by pump pressure to allow the valve to be re-opened with less than 30 ft lbs of torque. This innovation has enormous potential to save lives, property and money for a modest additional cost. M&M’s LITE-TORC™ System is patented and available on all CANISTER GUARD® products.
The M&M Canister Guard SURE-STOP™ incorporates dual interior contact points to stop ball rotation in the fully open or closed position. Over rotation of the valve ball has been an industry problem due to inadequate stem stop contact area. The dual contact points, located entirely within the canister itself, adequately stop and keep the rotated ball in the proper opened or closed position without causing undue pressure to the valve body.
The M&M CANISTER GUARD’s® valve body cross section at the stem hole allows it to return to the industry standard 6-3/8 O.D. with significantly improved strength at this critical stress point. M&M’s SURE-STOP™ is patented.
The M&M CANISTER GUARD® incorporates a one way seal on the lower end of the canister, we call it the CHECK-SEAL™ because it operates as a check valve to maintain pressure sealing in only one direction. This allows well bore pressure to bypass the lower canister seat and affect a seal between ball and the upper seat; that is across the strongest portion of the ball. We are aware of no other kelly valve manufacturer that has this important capability designed into its product. M&M’s CHECK-SEAL™ is patented.


text:
2-1-1 is the telephone number of a call center that offers information and provides referrals to health and human services for everyday needs and in times of crisis. Services vary from community to community.
Examples of service referrals include:
- Health services and support
- Financial and social assistance
- Housing and utility help
- Food assistance and meal programs
- Senior services and home care
- Government program assistance
- Parenting and family programs
- Disability support services
- Volunteer organizations
- Newcomer services
- Mental health support
Population served: Canadians affected by cancer
Cancer View Canada connects Canadians to online services, information and resources for cancer control. It is an ever-evolving portal that brings together resources for cancer prevention, screening, treatment, and supportive, palliative and end-of-life care.
Through its collaborative tools, Cancer View Canada also links people in the Canadian cancer community to each other.
Population served: Jewish children (infancy through age 21) worldwide, diagnosed with a life-threatening illness as well as those who have serious chronic or genetic conditions
Chai Lifeline meets the nonmedical needs of seriously ill children, their families and communities. Its mission is to enhance lives through programs and services.
- Offers Camp Simcha - a sleep-away camp for children with cancer and other hematological illnesses
- Offers Camp Simcha Special - designed to meet the medical and social needs of children with more than 60 diagnoses
Population served: Children with cancer and their families in Canada
Dedicated to improving the quality of life for children with cancer and their families by funding research and providing support and resources.
- Provides Family Support Kit with information and support for families of newly diagnosed children
- Provides post-secondary scholarships to childhood cancer survivors
- Offers a benevolent fund to assist with funeral expenses
- Provides support groups for parents and survivors
- Offers National Teen Network which allows diagnosed teens to get in touch with teen survivors who have experienced a similar type of cancer - parents can also speak to a teen or the teen's parents
- Offers national newsletters, eNews and Teleconference services
Population served: Families in the U.S. who have lost a child to any illness
Other language(s) : SpanishMission:
To provide highly personal comfort, hope, and support to every family experiencing the death of a son or a daughter, a brother or a sister, or a grandchild, and help others better assist the grieving family.
- Offers in-person support groups via local chapters across the U.S.
- Offers live “chats” through an Online Support Community to encourage connecting and sharing among parents, grandparents, and siblings (over the age of 18) grieving the death of a child. The chat rooms supply support, encouragement, and friendship.
- Webinars, free of charge, on various bereavement issues.
Population served: Children, teens, young adults and their families worldwide
Other language(s) : SpanishMission:
To provide support in a safe place where children, teens, young adults and their families grieving a death can share their experiences.
- Provides a variety of bereavement support groups in the Portland, Oregon area and referrals to support services in other areas of the U.S.
- Provides educational materials about children and grief
- Offers training to local and national agencies.
Population served: All cancer patients, caregivers, survivors, health professionals in Canada. Locations in Ontario and Alberta.
Other language(s) : Translation services available by phoneMission:
Wellspring provides a wide range of cancer support programs and services, at no charge, to meet the emotional, social, psychological and informational needs of people living with cancer and those who care for them.
- Provides information about helpful government programs as well as programs that assist in preparing people for returning to work
- Provides support through groups, short-term counseling and peer volunteers.

domain: sociology


AAP must stick to the roadmap people voted for
AAP must resolve its internal problems and stick to the roadmap that people voted forUpdated: Mar 06, 2015, 01:06 IST
The rate at which the fledgling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is springing surprises is both baffling and bemusing. Even the birth of the party took place amid some unpleasantness because AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal had at that time fallen out with his mentor, Anna Hazare, and Indian Against Corruption colleague Kiran Bedi.
Now comes the exit of academic Yogendra Yadav and advocate Prashant Bhushan from the party’s highest decision-making body, the political affairs committee, after the culmination of a power struggle. Mr Yadav and Mr Bhushan are highly reputed and experienced in their own fields, and their presence could have bolstered the image of the party. Instead what has happened is an unseemly development that gives every indication that behind the democratic garb of AAP there will be a hierarchy that will determine the contours of politics in the coming years. Worse, this has come within three weeks of its stupendous victory in Delhi.
When probed, AAP does reveal some characteristics that show the party to be in the rough and tumble of a transition, and very fast at that. When AAP had formed the government in December 2013 with Congress support, it was behaving more like a mass organisation, with the tendency to take to the streets as its insignia. However, after its poor showing in the Lok Sabha polls, it went into a phase of sullen silence on various things that agitated the minds of its foremost leaders. When the land acquisition law was taken up for diluting some of its provisions, the party was not being able to make much of a case for or against it. This only goes to show the party took electoral defeats with as much despondency as other parties do, thereby proving that power was after all important. And now that power has returned to the party, another round of trouble has started because institutional arrangements for sharing its spoils are not yet in place. Hence the factionalism.
It would be a tragedy and letting down the people of Delhi a second time if the party forgot its original resolutions, which endeared it to the electorate. Apart from corruption, AAP had a standard complaint against other parties, including the Left ones, that they were too hierarchical and undemocratic, which left little scope for initiatives to emerge from below and hence the people’s voice went unheard. To preclude such possibilities the party named itself the Aam Aadmi Party. But the charges and counter-charges made by the two factions only undermine the faith that it is a party with a difference. Both Mr Kejriwal and Messrs Yadav and Bhushan would do well to remember that and bury the hatchet.