The UK government has taken legal advice from a US-born lawyer who worked for Donald Trump’s administration to build its case for unilaterally tearing up post-Brexit trading arrangements for Northern Ireland.
Senior Whitehall insiders said the government had “sidelined” its previous team of external legal advisers on the Northern Ireland protocol. They added that it wanted to establish a case in international law for UK legislation to override parts of the deal signed in 2019 to avoid a return of a north-south trade border on the island of Ireland.
The UK attorney-general, Suella Braverman, is reported to have legally greenlighted the government’s proposed unilateral action on the basis that it is necessary to defend the higher-priority 1998 Good Friday Agreement, which ended conflict in Northern Ireland and which the Johnson government argues is being endangered by the protocol.
The FT revealed in November that the government was looking for fresh legal advice — described by Whitehall insiders as “opinion shopping” — to support its case for legislation to “switch off” parts of the protocol in UK law.
Three people with knowledge of the process said ministers had engaged Thomas D. Grant, an international lawyer based at Cambridge university who was a political appointee to the Trump administration state department and worked on the US national security strategy.
Grant, who has been on a leave of absence from Cambridge since taking up his appointment in Washington DC, lists “sovereignty” and “state immunity” among his legal interests on the website of Wolfson College, Cambridge. Grant did not respond to a request for comment.
At the height of the debate over Brexit in June 2019, Grant also co-authored a pamphlet for the Politeia think-tank with the leading Brexiter lawyer, Martin Howe QC, arguing that the UK should opt for a “no deal” Brexit over a deal that left Northern Ireland with legal ties to the EU.
Among the arguments advanced in the pamphlet, according to Politeia, was that there was “no insuperable problem” about the Irish border, given that it was already a border for VAT and excise purposes.
Braverman’s new legal advice, first reported in The Times, argues that the UK government has the legal right to act to defend the Good Friday Agreement, which the advice says has “primordial significance”, in effect trumping the protocol.
The advice has caused disquiet in some corners of Whitehall. Insiders said it was being described as “stooge opinion” to mollify pro-Brexit Conservative backbenchers and justify the Johnson administration’s determination to confront Brussels over the protocol.
The threat to neuter the protocol has echoes of the 2020 UK Internal Market Bill, when the government of Prime Minister Boris Johnson tabled legislation to unilaterally disapply the arrangement in what it admitted at the time was a “limited” breach of international law.
That admission caused an outcry, including among some Tory backbenchers and prominent peers. It also triggered the resignation of Sir Jonathan Jones QC, then head of the UK government’s legal department.
Jones told the Financial Times this week that the government’s renewed threat to tear up the protocol was “wrong and counterproductive”, and warned that any such move would damage the UK’s international standing.
“Why would any other country want to do deals with the UK, listen to anything we say about the rule of law internationally, or trust us to keep to our commitments in future?” he asked.
Downing Street said that the government continued to take advice from a broad range of legal sources, but declined to comment specifically on the opinion Braverman had given over the Northern Ireland protocol.
“It is longstanding government policy, accepted by governments of all parties, not to comment on whether the attorney-general has given legal advice or the contents of any advice,” a spokesperson said.
Additional reporting by Demetri Sevastopulo


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Happy Halloween, folks!
For week celebs have been gearing up for what most consider the sexiest holiday of the year and now we’re starting to see some of the creative outfits they’ve put together. Paris Hilton held her haunted mansion party at 1 Oak Thursday night, while Kate Hudson also had a halloween bash where the stars turned up. Plus, Power 105 held a concert in New York where Beyonce and Jay Z showed up in the Halloween spirit.
At Hilton’s party, the reality star/socialite wore a playful poodle-inspired costume, while Christina Milian sported a sexy gangster fit. Over at Kate Hudson’s function Nicole Richie was the clear costume winner with her Cruella De Vil look. In NY Beyonce channeled her inner Janet Jackson, while her hubby Jay Z hit the stage as Jason
Check out the gallery below to see some of the hottest looks of the night.
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domain: entertainment


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domain: sociology


Just like you, I put a lot of time and effort into creating deep, fertile soil for my homegrown vegetables. As fall turns to winter, my efforts focus on holding onto what I have, which means covering all exposed soil with mulch for the winter. Organic mulches cushion the soil from compaction and erosion caused by heavy winter rains while safeguarding the soil’s storehouse of nutrients. In addition, winter mulches can enhance the cold tolerance of perennial vegetables, herbs and fruits, helping to insure a strong comeback in spring.
In autumn, the most widely available organic mulches include leaves, compost, pine needles, wood chips, sawdust, and evergreen boughs. Which mulch should you use where? One of the advantages of using the GrowVeg Garden Planner is that you can decide now where you will plant your main crops next year, and tailor your winter mulching to suit the needs of the bed’s future residents. For example:
- Vine crops like squash and pumpkins can be sown or transplanted into a plot prepared the previous fall and mulched through winter with leaves. Because you want the leaves to persist into the next growing season, there is no need to shred them, though coarse chopping with a mower helps keep leaves from blowing about. Research has shown that leaf mulch leads to bigger, better pumpkins, with radically reduced problems with weeds.
- Tomatoes and wood chip mulch doesn’t sound like a likely partnership, but as more gardeners are using wood chip mulch (which often can be obtained free from tree trimming crews), reports keep coming in on the glories of wood chip-covered garden beds. When allowed to decay at the surface, the chips host a huge range of fungi, which enrich the soil along with the decomposed wood chips. Best of all, a perpetual wood chip mulch provides poor habitat for slugs and small rodents compared to most other materials.
- Strawberries thrive when given a moderate mulch of pine needles or straw in late fall, after they have stopped growing, with more mulch added in spring. Sawdust also makes a fine winter mulch for strawberries, as well as blueberries, raspberries and other small fruits.
Beds where I plan to grow broccoli, spinach and other heavy feeders get the best winter mulch of all – four or five layers of whatever organic materials I have on hand – leaves, rotted sawdust, garden waste, etc - stacked and dampened until it’s about 6 inches (15 cm) deep. Then I cover the moistened mulch with a piece of burlap or old garden blanket to create comforter compost – a quilt of biodegradable materials that can be turned under or raked aside in spring.
The folks at the Interbay P Patch Community Garden in Seattle, Washington, take such layered winter mulches even higher with Interbay mulch, wherein beds are stacked with mulch up to 18 inches (35 cm) deep, and then topped with burlap coffee bags. Covers that block light are a special aid to decomposition because they provide good conditions for microorganisms that need darkness to thrive.
Gardeners who grow perennial flowers are familiar with the practice of placing boughs cut from junipers and other evergreens over dormant plants, which protects the crowns from ice and harsh winter winds. I find evergreen boughs equally effective when placed over marginally hardy herbs like rosemary and parsley. Evergreen boughs also can help nurse hardy veggies like spinach through winter, because they shelter the plants while still admitting filtered light.
In home vegetable gardens, tunnels covered with row cover, plastic, or cloth (such as thrift store window coverings) keep soil safe through winter, just like mulches. Tunnels generally keep soil warm and dry compared to surrounding soil, too. While not exactly mulches, tunnels made from cloth or row cover attached to wire arches are a winter treatment worth considering for beds you plan to use for your earliest spring plantings.
Especially in small gardens, don’t forget that pulled plants, piled on the garden’s surface, can be the easiest way to mulch some beds in winter. Until you move the debris piles to a larger compost heap in early spring, each little mound of decomposing material will serve as an oasis for earthworms and other soil-building critters. Little piles of garden garbage also make great habitats for field crickets, which have huge appetites for weed seeds.
Last year we had an unusually snowy winter, and snow can double the beneficial effects of any mulch by maintaining steady temperatures at the surface. But snow cover is always an iffy proposition compared to winter mulching - the most dependable way to safeguard precious garden soil between now and spring.
By Barbara Pleasant


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Bogalake hiking is a beautiful, challenging outdoor adventure that takes you through lush forests, rolling hills, and stunning mountain vistas. It is a great way to connect with nature and enjoy physical activity. The trail can be steep in certain sections, making it a perfect workout for experienced hikers. The scenery is breathtaking, with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
The trail is well-marked and well-maintained, making it easy to follow. There are also several rest areas along the way, where hikers can take a break, and admire the views.
Hiking in Bogalake can be pretty strenuous, but the rewards are well worth the effort. The experience of reaching the summit and taking in the panoramic views is truly unforgettable. The fresh mountain air, combined with the tranquility of the surrounding wilderness, makes for a truly rejuvenating experience.
The lake is 2400 above sea level and covers 15.1 acres of area and the depth is about 150 meters (502 feet). And there is no water source around this lake. The lake is bounded by three sides by mountains. Though there is not enough waterfall near the peaks it’s just a mysterious act of nature the mountain’s peak always totter with water!! Being prepared for this hike is important, as the trail can be pretty challenging.
Overall, Bogalake hiking is an amazing experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just looking for a way to spend a day outdoors, this trail is worth checking out.
Day 1: Lake of Dragon
The trip will start from Bandarban town.
8 AM: Breakfast will be served at Bandarban Town with the standard Bengali food menu.
9 AM: Journey to Ruma Bazar by minibus. If you want we can arrange Chander Gari / 4x4 Land Cruiser.
1 PM: Lunch at Ruma Bazar at a local restaurant with the standard Bengali food menu.
2 PM: Journey to Bogalake by Chander Gari / 4x4 Land Cruiser ( Open roof large Jeep).
4 PM: Reached Boga lake.
To reach Bogalake, you will need to climb a small mountain, which may take half an hour, or if the road is clear, the car will take you to Boga Lake.
The night will be spent by the side of the lake in a wooden tribal house.
Day 2: Chingri Waterfall & Returning with Memories
8 AM: Breakfast will be served with Khichuri, Egg & Vegetables.
9 AM: After breakfast starts hiking to Chingri Waterfall and Mysterious caves around the Bogalake. It will be 2 hours of trekking.
1 PM: Lunch with exotic local dishes.
2 PM: Heading back to Ruma by Chander Gari & Bandarban town by minibus.
6 PM: Reached Bandarban town and roam around the market for a short time.
8 PM: Dinner will be served at a local restaurant with a standard Bengali menu.
Trip will end at Bandarban Twon.

domain: geography


text:
You can have Easy Salmon using 7 ingredients and 7 steps. Here is how you cook that.
Ingredients of Easy Salmon
- You need of New Potatoes.
- It’s of Olive Oil.
- You need of Asparagus.
- Prepare of Cherry Tomatoes.
- Prepare of Salmon.
- Prepare of Balsamic Vinegar.
- It’s of Basil.
Easy Salmon step by step
- I chopped some New Potatoes and drizzled some Olive Oil. Cook for 15 minutes @ 200c.
- I added some Asparagus. Cook for 15 minutes @ 200c.
- I added some Cherry Tomatoes and Salmon then drizzled some Balsamic Vinegar. Cook for 12 minutes @ 200c.
- I added some Basil, seasoned with Salt, Pepper and Dried Garlic then poured some Sauvignon Blanc.
- Next time I think I’ll throw in some lemon slices and garlic cloves.
- …and try not to burn myself on the roasting tray.
- …and put the lid back on the vinegar properly.

domain: food


text:
Posted on 10/03/2021
For many Australians, our superannuation will be the largest asset we own, so it’s important to make sure we understand how to best manage it.
Fortunately – according to Opel Nelson, Associate Financial Planner at Statewide Super – most superannuation funds (including Statewide Super) offer financial advice to their members which can help them to better understand and set up their superannuation to achieve their best possible outcomes.
“Superannuation doesn’t need to be something that you review all of the time, but it is a good idea to check in with your super from time to time” Opel said.
“To help our Statewide Super members make the most of their super, we offer three different levels of financial advice, with the right one for you, dependent on your needs.”
The three levels of advice Statewide Super offers includes:
“Our Contact Centre or Super Hub staff can help you understand how your super account works, and give you information about decisions you may need to make, such as who you would like recorded as your beneficiaries,” Opel said.
“As a Statewide Super member, you're also entitled to financial advice that relates to your Statewide Super account as part of your membership. This means that you can meet one on one with an associate financial planner, either by phone or face to face to get tailored advice related to your Statewide account in the areas of investments, contributions and insurances,” Opel said.
“An associate financial planner can work with you to make sure that you're getting the most out of your Statewide Super account, and that can be a great introduction to the benefits of personalised financial advice.”
Comprehensive financial planning
“Finally, the third tier of advice at Statewide Super, is comprehensive financial planning,” Opel said.
“This can extend into areas beyond your super to support your broader advice needs, which may include your partner’s financial and super related affairs, retirement planning or even possible Centrelink entitlements. We offer a no obligation first appointment to determine if there are areas where we can help you, and if you agree to proceed with comprehensive persona advice, you will be charged on a transparent fee for service basis.”
If you have any questions about your superannuation, or wish to meet with a financial planner, simply contact Statewide Super at 1300 65 18 65 today.

domain: finance


text:
June 28, 2011
A Case for HEI Participation
UCSF Medical Center and UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital CEO Mark Laret makes the case for LGBT healthcare equality and HEI participation.
Filed Under: Health & Aging
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- Yesterday @HRC stood in solidarity w/ millions around the globe & we won't back down. Stay informed: https://t.co/XaeiJ3xNpj.... via @hrc
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domain: medical


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Yes, this is a dramatic image. But we are talking about the THEATER here.
The very reason so many of us get up in the morning.
December 13 was the last day of small theater in Los Angeles as we’ve known it for the last three decades.
Yes that is a dramatic statement. But sadly, it’s TRUE.
“It doesn’t feel like a big deal because there are no front page stories, even on the art section because, let’s face it, there is no art section. There is no rally in the streets by the theater community. There is no city-wide campaign of support for these actors. But it is a big deal, Los Angeles is about to lose a part of its cultural infrastructure: less theater, less art, less community . . . and that’s a tragedy.” – Anthony Byrnes Opening the Curtain on LA Theater for KCRW ► READ MORE
“December 14 is the day that the stage actors’ union, Actors Equity, implements a plan that will certainly decimate the Los Angeles theater scene, and will hit especially hard the most vulnerable – minority, women-centered and LGBT communities…. Theater has long served to bring a voice to the powerless, and nowhere more than in the small fringe movements that have sprung up from the fearlessness and dedication of underrepresented communities. In one fell swoop, and with little regard for their membership, Actors Equity has muzzled the voices of the many artists who speak truth to power, and joined the ranks of those who would rob them – and the audiences they serve – of their hopes and dreams.
It is indeed a sad day in LA.” – Hoyt Hilsman for Huffington Post ► READ MORE
“Perhaps the most important opportunities provided by the now bludgeoned 99-Seat Plan was the quality of the local culture for the audiences who attended the tens of thousands of performances staged here over the decades. The number and quality of those performances will now inevitably be diminished… In this Brave New World, when the U.S. President-elect is already attacking union leaders and unionism in general, Actors’ Equity Association, with its inimitable lack of foresight, flexibility and empathy, couldn’t have found a more impolitic time to enrage its own membership in its second largest market.” – Steven Leigh Morris for This Stage.LA Magazine ► READ MORE
December 14th Press Release:
Members of L.A.’s “Pro99” theater community continue to gather signatures to demand a new referendum on Actors’ Equity’s 99-Seat Theater Plan, which is scheduled to end today.
“Our community is united. We will prevail.” – Members of Pro99


JAMESTOWN, Va. (WVEC) – There’s a effort to combat and react to sea level rise at Historic Jamestowne.
A study group made up of several organizations is using high-tech tools to monitor ground water on Jamestown Island.
The group is trying to see how sea level rise impacts the island and its historic artifacts.
Gary Speiran is a research hydrologist with U.S. Geological Survey.
He said they're seeing is salty and acidic water around the island, which can cause historic artifacts to deteriorate, making it difficult for them to recover them.
USGS placed a series of wells at five different sites on the island to monitor the water quality.
Speiran is working alongside the National Park Service, and Jamestown Rediscovery.
Speiran said they're nearing the end of a three-year study and already submitted a request for more funding. He and other experts say sites on the island are in danger of being lost, so the idea is to plan ahead.
“If we can understand what's happening we can predict when different sites on the island are going to be impacted,” Speiran said. “We have important history on the island, and as sea level rises, the history that can revealed through the artifacts and the sites across the island will be lost.”
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➤ Download and save the comprehensive Asset Checklist here
➤ If you want more about artist branding, listen to a short presentation on creating a visual brand
If this is you, you’re in the right place.
You’ve spent months, years even, working on new music, you’re finally happy and ready to put them out. It’s been a long time in the making so you want to give them the absolute best shot at success. But, you don’t know where to start.
➤ Where do you truly begin when building from the ground up?
➤ Where do you prioritize your budget when funds are limited?
➤ How do you create a succinct, focused story that introduces you to the world?
These questions get solved through marketing.
In this post I’ll lay out the precise promotional materials required to put your best foot forward for your first single release.
It covers an example of how ASTON, an Australian songwriter and pop artist debuted her music project in December 2020. As a songwriter, she’s penned and featured on Fast & Furious: Hobbs & Shaw (9M streams), multiple Netflix shows, and NBA’s 2K20. She is just stepping out as a forward-facing artist.
Disclaimer: I worked with ASTON on this release but that’s not why I chose to feature her in this post. I think she’s a model example of how a new artist launches her brand. It’s concise, focused, and compelling. Throughout the process, she strives for creative excellence and it shows in the marketing rollout.
Bookmark this post and come back to it every time you’re releasing a new single or artist project. Think of it as your:
- Asset checklist encompassing the core elements of a strong visual brand
- Check-in that you’ve covered your bases before anything goes out
- Bar to beat. Take this as what one artist did and think about how you use these assets creatively to build your artist brand.
If you want this checklist as a saveable Google Doc to save to your Drive then download it here:
➤ CREATE LEADPAGE FOR ASSET DOWNLOAD
Essential assets are the absolute minimum required to launch a new single leveraging the memorability of visuals.
Your goal in creating essential marketing assets is to come out of the gate swinging. Meaning, put your best foot forward by building a visual identity that’s focused, clear, consistent and ultimately memorable.
For ASTON that meant creating a tone that was sharp, bold, confident, and unapologetic.
“As a new artist, I wanted to clearly identify what I looked like. Specifically in the genre (pop) that I am in. With so many names and songs being thrown around these days, I wanted people to start connecting the persona to the music. On the creative side, the visuals needed to be a representation of the artist’s tone which for me was sharp, bold, confident and unapologetic.” – ASTON
With this checklist below, your next step is to come up with concepts of what your essential assets will look like.
- Album artwork
- Single artwork
- Press photoshoot
- Music video treatment & music video
- Color palette
Album artwork is the hero visual the whole campaign branding is built off. For ASTON, this process began in the writing room.
“Throughout the whole process from writing to release, I had mood boards that were sectioned off into artwork, video, logo, aesthetic, and a few more. I was constantly adding and deleting content within the boards until I was set on a clear style that was fluid through all visuals. It had to be so specific that no matter who I shared it with, they’d understand the direction instantly.”
Both album and single artwork should stand out when scaled down to a thumbnail on a cell phone as this is how most new listeners discovering music through streaming platforms will see the artwork.
Front of the packaging of a commercially released audio recording product. The cover is the primary image of a digital download, CD or LP.
Generally, most of the promotional material created for a record campaign will be built off this image, i.e.: digital ads, street ads and in merch.
Primary image accompanying the promotional singles (instant grat tracks) of the record. There can be individual artwork for every track in the streaming era or just promotional singles.
Official photos accompanying the release. These are sent to media, promoters, labels, distributors and other industry connections.
They will feature on all streaming, social and video platforms. After the music video shoot, the press photoshoot is generally the heaviest investment as it can include hair & make-up, stylist, photographer, wardrobe, equipment and location fees.
As the artist, you need to ensure anyone brought in to help execute understands the vision. This allows them to add and enhance your idea rather than detract or deviate.
“You have to be so specific with your vision and be able to articulate that with words and visual representation. If there’s a slight sense of uncertainty when communicating with another person, you may end up with a product you aren’t happy with.” – ASTON
To maximize the day, have a second shooter doing b-roll for social media and pairing the album artwork and press photoshoot together. This way, from the one day you’ll have a library of content for future posting on social media, an album and single cover, and official press photos.
Music video treatment & music video
Our visual memory is more powerful than our audible one. When people see a song, not just hear it, their ability to recall is far stronger.
“When I wrote Girl is a Gun, the music video instantly came to mind as it was written in a very linear storytelling way.”
Music visuals take the audible message of a song and color it in, making it more memorable to new listeners. A strong first music video has 2 things:
- Shows your aesthetic that subconsciously shows the listener where they should place you in their mind
- Your performance that conveys emotion to the listener. You can use this asset to pitch promoters and booking agents interested in what your show may look like, as well as media for sessions/features and labels to show your skill.
‘Girl is a Gun’ music video
Bonus: You’ll need a high-res thumbnail for YouTube. When designing this, ensure the artist is in the image, the colors are bright and it stands out when scaled down to a thumbnail size on mobile.
For a deeper look at how to write music video treatments, this video by director, Jacob Owens is excellent. He lays out the process of music video pitching, common mistakes in writing treatments and balancing story and visuals to get the idea across.
Official stamp to appear on promotional materials as merch, music videos, website and social media.
Appears on promotional materials including album/single artwork, advertising and merch.
ASTON stuck to a color palette that complimented the artwork and press photoshoot of white, black and maroon.
NICE TO HAVE ASSETS
The following assets are optional. If you’re just one person, limited on time or feeling overwhelmed then just choose a few.
Your ‘nice to have’ assets should:
- Continue to push the message of your song further
- Give people a reason to care about your track through storytelling
Nice to haves:
- Remix artwork
- Styling moodboard
- Tour admat
- Social skins
- Merch design
- Visual guideline bible
- Vinyl/CD/cassette layout
- “Coming soon”, release date reveal and “out now” graphics for social media
- Stage or livestream concept
- Website design
- Mockups for merch and physical products. To be used on website and social media
- Visualizer for YouTube
“Coming soon”, release date reveal and “out now” graphics for social media
Social content is where you’ll hook new listeners through storytelling. The actual posts have a promotional purpose but won’t work unless you give people a reason to care.
This starts with you and your story. Your promotional content will go a lot further if the images are striking and captions funny, personal and clearly written by you.
Coming soon & release date reveal
Bonus: post-release content that deepens the connection between listeners and the artist. ASTON created a casual video shot in a studio explaining her story. This can be used to pitch media, playlists, radio, promoters, labels and other industry contacts.
A simple splash page is absolutely fine for your first project. All you need is a landing page to host links, newsletter sign-up and official news. Don’t over think this bit.
There you have it. Your full-blown asset checklist for building from the ground up.
For ASTON, the process of debuting her first single as the forward-facing artist, she stresses the need for managing budget and your own learning curve.
“Learning and budget! Skills to take into consideration are organisation and detail. If you’re going to do parts or the whole thing yourself, you need to be efficient with the learning process, setting out specific time to gain skills in tools such as Photoshop, Premier etc.”
Keep coming back to this post for best practices for launching a new artist project ensuring you put your best foot forward.


Mobius Motors, the manufacturer of the Kenya-made vehicle designated as Africa’s cheapest, will start production of a second and upgraded version of the car next year.
The first model of the vehicle, purposely built for African roads, hit the showroom in October 2014, retailing at Sh950,000 (Sh1.1 million with tax).
The upcoming Mobius II will come with advanced features, including power steering, sealed side windows and lockable doors. It will also have a higher ground clearance, an improved exterior and interior design.
Joel Jackson, the brains behind Mobius, said the company plans to manufacture “significantly” more units than the 50 they produced and sold in the first run last year.
“We are excited about the launch of our new Mobius II model next year, which will see a significant ramp up in production volume,” Mr Jackson told the Business Daily.
“We will be making an announcement about the next production run at the end of December.”
Mobius is already taking preorders from prospective buyers with a deposit of Sh 50,000 which is refundable should buyers change their mind.
The new Mobius, designed with local road conditions in mind, combines the core performance of an off-road car to cover long distances on all roads reliably and comfortably.
The company, however, has only released a pencil sketch of the vehicle, which is exciting Kenyans on social media.
Check it out:


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MWC is right around the corner, and it is set to kick off a busy season of flagship unveiling. Let’s just say, this period along with the holiday season are the two periods in an year where every mobile enthusiast is at his excited best.
The HTC One was one of the most loved and critically acclaimed smartphones of 2013. With it’s all metal body, and super smooth performance, it was no surprise that the device featured in just about every top smartphones of 2013 list. It was a device that lead the revolution of ‘Android phones can be pretty too’ and certainly HTC has it’s task cut out when it unveils it’s successor. So, what do we know about the successor of the HTC One so far? Let’s put all of that under one umbrella in this post.
What will the device be called?
There have been conflicting reports on what the device will be called. Everyone is fairly certain that the code name of the device is HTC M8 after the HTC One was called the M7. Several trade names have been suggested, the most popular ones being the HTC One Plus, HTC One 2, The All New HTC One etc. However, none of them are confirmed, and it would not be till we hear from Peter Chou on the stage that the final name of the HTC M8 could be revealed.
When is the device coming?
The HTC M8 is coming on March 25th. the event would be held bot in New York and London. This was confirmed by HTC on social media with a blok your date both on Instagram and Twitter. Yes, just like you, we cannot wait for March 25th too.
What are the Specs of the device?
It has been almost a month since we have been hearing about the leaked specs of the HTC M8. So far, we know that the device runs the latest Snapdragon 800 SoC and has a metallic chassis very much like the HTC One. The device from the images looks slightly more rounded at the corners than the One. The display on the device is rumored to be about 5 inches and the resolution is expected to be 1080×1920. It is bit of a bummer that the device is not going to be sporting a 2K display like the Samsung Galaxy S V is rumored to have.
The device is also expected to have on screen buttons just like the Nexus series however, there is a massive black bezel at the bottom of the device which has not gone down very well with the HTC fanatics. The phone is also rumored to have a dual ultra pixel camera at the back. It is not very clear what is the purpose of the same, but there definitely seems to be a lot of smoke about the same. No doubt the phone will run Android 4.4 Kitkat.
Any word on the pricing?
Your guess is as good as ours when it comes to pricing. HTC has known to price the devices well north of when it comes to their competitors, and we would be surprised if the HTC M8 is priced cheaply. Given the metal chassis, perhaps a display that is best in the class and the latest SoC, you can be sure the phone will touch the 40K+ mark in India. It would without a doubt be available on every major carrier in the US.

domain: news


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THE P.O.W. CELEBRITY—Longtime McCain friend and consultant John Weaver has said that John McCain was a media celebrity when he first got off the transport from Vietnam in 1973. After a couple of years in physical rehab, McCain parlayed his celebrity status into a position as a Navy liaison officer to the U.S. Senate in Washington. There, the Navy and McCain cheerfully used each other to promote their agendas among the politically powerful. In 1980, McCain even arranged to marry his mistress, Cindy Hensley, in Washington rather than Arizona. The D.C. venue would serve to deepen McCain’s political contacts in a way that Phoenix or Sedona could not. In addition to having Gary Hart as a groomsman, McCain asked then-Republican senator and future Clinton Defense Secretary Bill Cohen of Maine to be his best man.
McCain’s residency was a problem. Arizona Republicans didn’t know much about him—aside from his status as the nation’s celebrity Vietnam spokesman. Consequently, voters and the press paid more attention to McCain’s rivals: a pro-business, conservative state senator and a woman in the state house who had earned a national reputation as a populist conservative crusader against the Equal Rights Amendment and abortion rights.
“Listen, pal. I spent twenty-two years in the Navy. My grandfather was in the Navy. We in the military service tend to move a lot. We have to live in all parts of the country, all parts of the world. I wish I could have had the luxury, like you, of growing up and living and spending my entire life in a nice place like the First District of Arizona, but I was doing other things. As a matter of fact, when I think about it now, the place I lived longest in my life was Hanoi.”
McCain’s “P.O.W. response” became the perfect political cover and non-answer to tough questions, even as the press dutifully continued to report that McCain didn’t like to discuss his years in captivity.
NICE DEAL IF YOU CAN GET IT—Sometimes the POW response doesn’t work and McCain has to react to circumstances by responding to, or even cozying up to, the press—as he did in 1994 when he helped his wife avoid prosecution for the theft of thousands of dollars’ worth of prescription drugs from a non-profit foundation she directed.
Today show to discuss their “personal tragedy.” And Napolitano used the respite from the attacks of powerful opponents to build the political base that helped make her governor.
Cindy’s confession, redemption, and rehabilitation story provided great national headlines for the McCain family and made them seem more human. But it didn’t play in Phoenix. The state’s largest paper, the conservative Arizona Republic, published an editorial that accused McCain and the state’s GOP of a deplorable double standard:
Westword. “You expect common people to live in fear, but the children of politicians are the first one to get off.” Bush campaign operatives eagerly (and discreetly) circulated the judge’s comments during the 2000 campaign, but the press gave the story a pass.
McCAIN VS. FEINGOLD—McCain’s record as a reformer has always been a bit dodgy. For example, people forget that original McCain-Feingold campaign-finance reform legislation would have banned PACs as well as soft-money advertising by political parties. Even though this provision didn’t make it into the bill that was signed into law, Wisconsin Democrat Russ Feingold decided to comply with it—a decision that nearly cost him his seat in the Senate. In his 1998 re-election campaign, Feingold expanded his policy to refuse PAC donations and soft money ads by imposing a spending cap of “$1 per Wisconsin resident,” or $3.8 million. Feingold even doubled down on his no-soft-money position, threatening to match every dollar party committees spent on his race with cuts in campaign spending. While Feingold was adhering to the letter and spirit of the campaign finance law that he and McCain had sponsored, Feingold’s opponent, millionaire Congressman Mark Neumann, was greatly outspending Feingold with funds from his campaign committee—and millions in issue ads.
McCain’s pick of Sarah Palin to be his running mate is another example of his instinct to react impulsively. In the first news cycle after McCain selected Palin, many in the media focused on the Alaska governor’s right-wing views or her experience—or the lack thereof.
New York Times reported that up to the eleventh hour, John McCain wanted Joe Lieberman as a running mate. But McCain could not sell the independent senator from Connecticut to the G.O.P.’s conservative Christian base. To “shake things up,” McCain selected a woman he had spoken with for less than two hours before choosing her.
Peter Lindstrom is a political consultant in Washington, D.C. His observations on John McCain’s career help to explain the findings of a recent survey by George Mason University’s Center for Media and Public Affairs: In the first six weeks of the general election, evening-news reporting by the three major television networks was critical of John McCain 43 percent of the time, and critical of Barack Obama 72 percent of the time.


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Jane Hamsher has one of the best side by side organizing process comparisons I’ve seen between current organizing elections and organizing in a post-Employee Free Choice Act world.
This is the “secret ballot” process, which is in place right now:
A union decides they want to unionize workers of a particular company. They have to collect cards signed by more than 30% of that company’s eligible workers saying that they want to join the union and allow that union to negotiate with management on their behalf. The union usually does this by talking to workers and gathering signatures outside the work place, frequently at their homes, because companies have a bad habit of firing workers who try to organize (Dean Baker estimates one in five lose their jobs).
The union then turns the cards over to the NLRB, who verifies them and calls for an election. Now in practice, although the union only has to have cards signed by more than 30% of the workers they usually present 50%, because they know there is going to be intense pressure put on workers by employers and professional “union busters,” and they don’t want to waste their time unless they think there is serious support.
The NLRB is required to then set a date for a “secret ballot” election within 42 days, during which time workers are usually subject to various forms of intimidation. It’s easy for employers to ask for and receive extensions, however. When the “secret ballot” election is finally held, it’s conducted on the work premises, and workers have to file past the watchful eyes of their supervisors in order to cast their ballots. This is the “right” to “secrecy” that the anti-union forces seem to be so committed to preserving.
If more than 50% of workers vote to recognize the union to represent them, the union is recognized and they can begin negotiating with the employer for a first contract.
This is how majority sign-up (“card check”) would work under the Employee Free Choice Act:
A union decides they want to unionize workers of a particular company. They have to collect cards signed by more than 50% of that company’s eligible workers saying that they want to join the union and allow that union to negotiate with management on their behalf.
The union then turns the cards over to the NLRB, who verifies them.
If more than 50% of the cards are verified by the NLRB, the union is recognized and they can begin negotiating with the employer for a first contract.
“Secret ballot” isn’t “more secret,” it’s an extra step. In both cases, the union is responsible for getting cards signed and turning them over to the NLRB, so they know who has signed them. The “secret ballot” is just an extra hurdle that workers have to surmount if they want to recognize a union.
This is all to point out that the “secret ballot” canard pushed by big business lobbyists and GOP hacks is just that – spin meant to confuse the public (and voting members of Congress) about what is at issue with the Employee Free Choice Act. Business lobbies and Republican elites don’t give two shakes about protecting workers during union organizing drives. They only care about protecting the lop-sided structure of current NLRB regulations of how unions can be formed that gives businesses a huge leg up to block unionization. Employee Free Choice creates a level playing field and puts the decision about when and how to form a union back in the hands of workers.


A flow switch operates by conveying a trip motion (relay, reed switch, paddle) to another machine within the system, usually a pump. The trip signal will indicate to the pump to turn on or turn off. It is necessary to provide damage protection and circuit cooling or adjust flow rates that are too high or too low.
Flow switch is a device that monitors the flow of air, steam or liquid. It sends a "trip signal" to a different device in the system, such as a pump. The flow switch can indicate to the pump to shut off or to turn on. Some of the general uses are for pump protection, for cooling-circuit protection and alarms for too high or too low flow rates.
The GE-315 Series Paddle Water Flow Switch is a new design, adopt micro switch 5A 250V max, stabili...
Proper water flow is the necessary guarantee for the reliable operation of central air conditioning host. Improper water flow may cause the evaporator of water chiller to freeze, high condensation pressure, compressor "bite" and other failures. Therefore, appropriate water flow detection method is an important guarantee to avoid the failure of air conditioning host. In view of the importance of water flow detection, considering the maintenance cost of users in the future, many projects have begun to require the selection of the type of water flow switch.
Liquid flow switches can be used for air conditioning, hot water space heating systems, pump systems, water cooled equipment, blending or additive systems, liquid transfer systems, fire sprinkler systems, water treatment systems, swimming pool chlorination and industrial laser coolant systems. Air flow switches can be used for clean room filter systems, duct type heating, exhaust ventilating, air supply systems and air treatment systems.
The necessity of water flow detection of central air conditioning system water flow detection of central air conditioning system is the premise and guarantee to ensure the normal operation of the refrigeration system. First of all, the central air conditioning system is to ensure the reliable heat exchange of the heat exchanger by taking the cooling capacity and heat away from the flowing water. Without water flow, there is no so-called refrigeration or heating. Secondly, when there is no water flow or water flow is small, for the evaporator, the load of the evaporator is reduced, and the evaporation temperature is reduced. If the compressor operates continuously, the evaporator will freeze.
If the evaporator can't be protected from freezing in time, the evaporator may expand and crack, causing the water side and the refrigerant side of the refrigeration system to collude, and the whole refrigeration system will be scrapped. In addition, if the water flow of the system is too low, the return pressure will be too low for a long time, and the lubricating oil discharged from the compressor will not return to the compressor smoothly, which may cause the compressor to "bite the cylinder". When there is no water flow or the water flow is small, for the condenser, the temperature and pressure of condensation rise, resulting in the flow of refrigerant at the outlet of the condenser through the expansion valve greatly reduced, and the cooling capacity decreased.
Add: Building 17 &22, No.2928, Chuan Zhou Highway, Shanghai, 201319, China


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As with most things, aficionados of gaming often have a tendency towards an overly strong fondness for the retro. Hence the reason everyone still loves the original “Super Mario Bros”, why people continue to lament the decline of Sonic, and why people still punish themselves with the hideous difficulty of early “Castlevania” games.And I, for one, am most certainly a part of this dewy-eyed nostalgia, although if I’m brutally honest those games were not my personal “golden age”; rather, the N64 and Playstation were my generation’s console of choice. But I was still very familiar with those styles of games as a child, and I’m surprised to see the hangover of that period still having a strong effect on video game design today.
|Admit it, getting a game over screen after getting to the boss of labyrinth zone is a kick in the nuts.|
Given how often (particularly older) gamers lament how gaming has lost its way, and become a charmless,
homogenous corporate predictability, I find it strange how often people forget many of the more annoying aspects of older games. So as a counterpoint to this moaning, I’m going to try and remind people how much gaming has improved.
Firstly, save features and save regularity. Many older games do not have a save feature of any kind; you simply had to complete the game in one run, or if you were lucky got a password system. Do you know what’s great? Autosave. Been playing “Oblivion” for 2 hours without saving and it crashes? Sorted. And on a related note, respawn points in general are a massive plus. If I have proven I can reliable do a section of a game, I probably don’t want to have to play five more times just for another crack at the harder section that follows it. Everyone likes a challenge, and I would not want games to be toned down, but involuntary repetition is not challenge, just boredom. This next one may seem a little petty and irrelevant, but the normalising of wireless controls is criminally underrated. I am as guilty as anyone for taking this for granted, but the jump between Wii and Gamecube becomes painfully clear when I trip up passing dogs with my attempts to sit more than 3 feet away from the TV. Wireless controllers are tidier and simply more convenient, not least when you lose you rag, as you can throw them that much further.
|This wireless gamecube controller fetches $130 dollars these days. I can see why!|

domain: game


This is stylish and clean, just 13.5 alcohol, so nothing about it is overblown or jammy. Winemaker David Lake pioneered Syrah in Washington state almost two decades ago, and still makes one of the most balanced and restrained versions. The polished fruit flavors do not stray into the realm of jam or preserves, but offer true-blue blueberry, currant and cherry, with silky tannins. Though young, this satisfying wine has good aging potential over the near term. 16,000 cases produced.
Paul Gregutt is a Contributing Editor for Wine Enthusiast magazine, a founding member of the magazine’s Tasting Panel, and reviews the wines of Oregon and Canada. The author of the critically-acclaimed Washington Wines & Wineries—The Essential Guide, he consulted on the Pacific Northwest entries in current versions of The World Atlas of Wine and The Oxford Companion to Wine.Email: email@example.com.


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Consider this shot of Houston Person, up close and very personal; an intimate portrait that radiates heat right off the page, communicating the iconic master’s artistic passion. Steve Mynett is behind the lens of a career full of such splendid moments. Treating his subjects with a silent reverence, his tools made of glass and metal and computer chips, Mynett is intent on breathing life into the two dimensions of a photograph.
And so it goes: finding the right timing, rhythm, opportunity, lighting and action or inaction. Mynett assesses the visuals with supersonic speed and knows how best to capture jazz being made, with stunning results.
Your first photos and how you caught the bug?
I’m friends with Cory Weeds who owned The Jazz Cellar in Vancouver and still runs Cellar Live records. He was producing a record his band, Crash, had done with B3 Organ Legend Dr. Lonnie Smith. His designer wasn’t quite sure what a B3 organ was so I popped over to take some shots to send to the designer. One of those photos became the cover of the record which the first photo of mine that ever got printed and jump-started my interest in photography.
What is it about a particular musician that inspires you to capture him or her in photos?
I’ve rarely sought out musicians to capture but instead always had my camera at shows I was genuinely interested in checking out. A lot of the people I’ve shot have been close friends or people I’ve shared the stage with and shot countless times.
What kinds of visual compositions are you drawn to? Has this changed or evolved throughout your career?
I’ve generally shot high contrast, mostly black and white shots with a single musician in frame. With the majority of my work shot at the Jazz Cellar that was just what I gravitated to. The light made shooting anything else difficult and I have very few shots I like with multiple musicians.
Talk about a particularly enjoyable shoot.
It’s not a specific shoot, but more of an archetype of a shoot. I’d head down to the Cellar to hear whoever was playing that night, and grab my camera bag on the way out the door. The club would be packed and being a regular I’d know maybe a quarter of the people in the room. I was such a regular there that when I walked in the bartenders used to pour me a beer on sight without even waiting for me to order. I’d shoot 2-3 tunes in the first set, grab dinner. Catch up with friends over the set break. Shoot another 2-3 tunes in the second set and have another drink or two. And then the club would close and musicians and friends would hang out for a bit just shooting the breeze, catching up on what was happening in the scene. That “shoot” happened… man… 400 times over 10 years?
What makes for a difficult subject or setting? How do you overcome that?
The constant fight with the setting is light. Always the light. That and music stands and microphone stands. Light is so inconsistent all over the stage that you might get some great shots of the trumpet player but the drummer (who might be the leader) was impossible to shoot at all. That’s just the gig though, you gotta roll with it. And know how to get some shots that you might not think are A+ shots. It makes a difference if you’re shooting for yourself, or shooting for a client. If it’s a client, you gotta get some shots.
How do you get your subject to relax and just act naturally?
The greatest compliment I got was, “I didn’t even know you were shooting!” either from a patron or musician. If you know I’m there I’m not doing my job well.
The proverbial “Jazz Hands” – what is it about the hands that holds a special fascination, that can tell a whole story, silently?
I had been shooting for 5-6 years and a friend of a friend mentioned that drawing hands was one of the classic drawing/painting foundation studies and how it would be cool to shoot some of those. Obviously there’s the “jazz hands” connotation as well in popular culture.
Over the course of a few years I’d start to see if I could make some shots that way. It was a different challenge for me and this project was a way to think differently about what I was shooting. With the face you capture so much of their personality but when you remove that, it really changes what the photo has to say.
What other types of close-ups do you like to do?
My composition is determined largely by the environment and lighting on hand. The way the stage at the Cellar was set up, I got lots of horn players from the side whereas that shot could be impossible at other clubs. I always found these constraints made photography interesting for me.
A packed club with bad lighting that was doing a recording and had mic stands and baffles everywhere was, on paper, the worst situation to shoot in but it forced me to think differently and find other shots.
Jazz seems to lend itself to moody, grainy, high-contrast B&W shots. What do you enjoy about using color film?
I shoot all digital now and do all post production and potential black and white conversion in Photoshop; but still try to that get moody, grainy, high-conrast vibe that is so iconic for a lot of jazz shots.
How do you decide whom to shoot?
Because I was a musician as well I knew and had relationships with most of those I shot. They would engage me to come down and shoot for them.
I often shot for my own personal interest and musicians would reach out if they needed a photo. I could go through my library and send something their way. It’s all been pretty informal!
Do you play with the light or do you use whatever available light there is?
I always use ambient light. Probably my number one pet peeve with concert photography is people using flash. Do you know how distracting that is for the musician AND the rest of the club? One shot is bad enough but don’t get me started with people that fire off 20 flash shots before someone can get over and ask them to stop. I owned a flash for a few years but I don’t think I ever used it.
Where have your photos been published or exhibited? Where would you most like to be published or shown?
I’ve shot over 50 albums for Cellar Live and another 20 albums for other labels. Through collaboration with the Jazz Cellar and Cellar Live I was lucky enough to have shots used in all major national and local newspapers and in Canada, and some international ones. I also had cover and inside shots featured in a bunch of national magazines.
I think for me the dream would be to have a cover shot on Downbeat or album cover shot for Blue Note records. They have been such iconic pillars in the jazz scene for so long that’s got to be the pinnacle. Maybe one day!
What is your equipment of choice for most of your work?
I’m still working with my Nikon D300 from a few years ago that probably needs an upgrade soon. I shoot 90% of my shots on a Tamron 70-210mm f/2.8 which I got in 2005 and I’ve shot probably over 600 shows on it since. I also use a Nikon 50mm f/1.4 which is a great all-around lens (and probably best bang for your buck you can get) but also is a lifesaver when there’s just no light on stage. I recently added a Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 when I need some wide angle.
What will you be working on this year?
I am shooting a little bit more after some time away and will expand into other kinds of photography. It wasn’t intentional but when the Cellar shut down I did less photography. I’ve found myself more interested in it lately. The break was good but time to get back behind the lens!
For more information, visit http://www.mynettworks.com.
Photos with permission of and by Steve Mynett. Photo above is of Chris Gestrin of The Night Crawlers.
(c) Debbie Burke 2019
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domain: artistic


13 March 2012 - Polyester prices fell in March in India due to the weakness of demand on the market. Production also retreated, our India Correspondent says. Our monthly report offers a comprehensive view of price offers in January in rupee and US$ terms, including polyester staple fibers, POY, FDY and textured yarn prices. Historical charts and data are available, covering the past five years.
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Couples and family counseling is a tough business. As convoluted and complicated as families are, so too can be the directives that guide counselors. Regardless of the many ethical and legal codes that are in place for counselors working with families of all kinds, there are many dilemmas and situations that are brought to the table that simply aren’t specified in written documents (Patten, Barnett, & Houlihan, 1991). Often times, counselors are left to weigh the ramifications of one approach over another which requires knowledge, competency, and an ever present ideal of doing no harm. There may be no correct answer and having a thorough knowledge of the law, ethic codes, and the wishes of the clients is crucial to being a competent counselor (Hecker, 2003). So, how competent is your counselor? Without a rule book for every situation, how do you know he or she can help you?
The counselor you chose for your relationship or family counseling should be aware of ethical codes such as those listed by the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT, 2001), the American Counseling Association (ACA, 2014), and the International Association of Marriage and Family Counselors (IAMFC, 2010) as well as have a full understanding of the legalities involved, both nationally and within your state. And that’s just the beginning.
So, how would you know that about your therapist? Well, simply asking is a good start.
Think about the last time you went to the doctor or dentist or even to your dog’s veterinarian. We tend to roll our eyes when the “spiel” comes and think we know what that person is going to say and tune out. Or we don’t read that piece of paper that the office person has us sign. Or we don’t take a copy, waiving it away because we don’t want to be bothered. In fact, many times, we don’t even question the person’s education or know about his or her experience.
You have a right to all of these things. Don’t be afraid to find out. Listen to the spiel. Read the fine print. Take a copy for future reference. Look for the degrees on the wall. Ask some questions. Look for red flags.
Do your research on your counselor. What is his or her background? What degrees does he or she have? What is the theoretical orientation? What is the office policy on payment, on no shows, on protecting you and your rights? If a counselor seems to sputter through your questions and does not address them fully, this is a red flag.
Does your counselor know what he or she needs to know from you in order to help you in your own growth? One way you can know this is occurring is if your counselor is gathering complete information from you and that your goals and treatment outcomes are talked about and agreed upon. If not, this is a red flag.
Does your counselor know about ethical codes, laws, and principles that are important to the mental health field as a whole? For example, your counselor should be clear on what “confidentiality” means and both of you should be able to initially agree to the term’s semantics both verbally and in written documentation. Sometimes, these are up for negotiation and sometimes they are not. If confidentiality is not brought up, this is a red flag.
One big area of confidentiality that tends to not be brought up until it’s too late is the role of secrets. Yep, secrets. We all have secrets. But how do we handle them in a counseling room? If this isn’t covered in an initially consult, this is a red flag.
Confidentiality issues, such as secret telling, can cause great ramifications within the therapy room if such concerns are not discussed in initial sessions. According to IAMFC Ethical Codes, Section II.B.3 (2010), members of a family are allowed to tell the counselor information individually and fully expect that it not be shared with the rest of the family unless other arrangements have been made beforehand. Hecker (2003) recommends having “secret policies” which are part of the initial consultation with a couple or family that explains what is considered confidential and what is not (p. 501). This way, the family members themselves take a more central part in what happens during therapy. So, if secret policies are not in place, a counselor cannot and will not share these secrets with the other members, as requested. It also means that he or she will not keep your secrets from your partner or family member if agreed upon together initially. This is a big deal – make sure you know before you start spilling. If you don’t, this is a red flag.
Confidentiality is a funny thing. Counselors will keep your secrets. But there is a difference between a moral secret and a legal one. If laws are being broken, such as child abuse or harmful intent, then the counselor is obligated, by both law and ethic code, to break confidentiality. This should be covered in the initial informed consent and also be verbally explained (IAMFC, Section II.C.1-7, 2010, p. 4.). If it’s not, this is a red flag.
So, what this all means is, if you are seeking relationship or family counseling, tough questions may happen. If fact, they should and will. Especially when secrets are involved. A counselor must weigh the ramifications of these ideals for the good of the family and its members. Is this secret creating harm? What are the consequences of keeping the secret? What would happen if this secret was shared? Working with the family toward a healthy state, such as creating trust and respect and working toward negotiation and personal responsibility may be in jeopardy if secrets are kept (Wilcoxon, 1985). Such ramifications of sharing or not sharing need to be explored fully with the member who confided the secret and the counselor in order to understand what needs to take place in future sessions. If it’s not, this is a red flag.
Successful outcomes rely on the therapeutic alliance and the responsibility a counselor has to the family as a whole. The family members’ intentions, beliefs, morals, and goals need to be understood and respected fully. According to the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT, 2001) Ethical Code, Principle 1, Section 1.8, counselors must “respect the rights of clients to make decisions and help them to understand the consequences of these decisions [and] advise the clients that they have the responsibility to make decisions regarding relationships such as cohabitation, marriage, divorce, separation, reconciliation, custody, and visitation” (para. 15). If you don’t think this is happening, this is a red flag.
So, like I said, couples and family counseling is a tough business. For everyone. Red flags are everywhere. But when you know what you are getting into, you can easily turn away from the red flags and get on with the green ones. You deserve the best counselor you can find – they are out there with their green flags waving high, willing to tell you everything you need to make an informed decision. By eliminating red flags right away and knowing what is before you, you can get on with the business of working toward your goals as a healthy couple and family.
So, know thyself? Definitely. Know thy counselor and what counseling is all about before you start? Even better – it will get you to the know thyself bit a whole lot easier.
American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). (2001). Code of Ethics. Retrieved from http://www.aamft.org/resources/LRM_Plan/Ethics/ethicscode2001.asp
Hecker, L. (2003). Ethical, legal, and professional issues in marriage and family therapy. In Hecker, L. L., & Wetchler, J. L., (eds.). An Introduction to Marriage and Family Therapy (1st ed.). Binghamton, NY: The Haworth Clinical Practice Press
International Association of Marriage and Family Counselors (IAMFC). (2010). Ethical Code. Retrieved from http://iamfconline.com/PDFs/Ethical%20Codes.pdf
Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2008). Introduction to couples and family counseling. Couples and Family Counseling. [DVD]. Baltimore: Author.
Patten, C., Barnett, T., & Houlihan, D. (1991). Ethics in marital and family therapy: A review of the literature. Professional Psychology: Research and Practice, 22(2), 171–175. Retrieved from the PsycARTICLES database. (AN pro-22-2-171)
Wilcoxon, S. A. (1986). Engaging non-attending family members in marital and family counseling: Ethical issues. Journal of Counseling and Development, 64(5), 323–324. Retrieved from from the Academic Search Premier database. (AN 4963099)

domain: psychology


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DEAL Foundation supports orphans as well as their widowed mothers under two projects – Widows and Orphans Support program (in which their household needs are met), and DEAL’s Group of Schools (in which educational needs for the orphaned and vulnerable children are met).
Our main objectives in Widows and Orphans Support project are to:
- Meet the basic survival needs of widows & their orphan children.
- Promote an economically stable family life and healthy environment at home and
- Ensure the children will no longer be forced to work to supplement the family income to the detriment of their own educational goals.
It costs just $100 per month to provide cash, feeding, clothing, and various other materials as well as medical support to meet the basic needs for each such family.
All widows and orphans are qualified through a stringent process of filling application forms for each widow and orphan, followed by investigations done at neighborhoods and schools to ensure that all information about the widows and orphans is correct. Various documents including death certificate of the father, school admission records of the orphan and national ID cards are acquired before completing the qualification process. Once qualified, the widowed mothers or guardians and orphans are provided with monthly allowances (short term initiative) or business start –up capital (long term initiative) to help give economic stability to that home so that they can meet their day to day needs – and so they don’t have to send the young children out to work to make money.
ORPHANED & THE VULNERABLE CHILDREN (OVC)
As a result of the high mortality from the HIV/AIDS epidemic in most parts of the republic of Kenya and the wider East African region, the number of orphans and vulnerable children has risen to an alarming 565,500 which is 31.4% of the total 1.8 million orphans in Kenya. The death of one or both parents contributes to; breakdown of the family structure, increased school drop outs, and inevitably poverty especially if the deceased parent was the main bread winner.
We are committed to helping orphans, vulnerable children and their families especially those that have been affected by HIV/AIDS. Access to health care, education, nutrition and business opportunities often provides a turning point for many OVC’s to long-term recovery and a better standard of life.
In the past year with the support of various partners and well wishers both locally and internationally, we have been able to support over 100 children to access healthcare, education, nutrition and psycho-social support.
We pay special attention to Child Headed Households which are on the rise due to increased HIV/AIDS mortality. Last year we supported 2 such families to initiate a horticultural income generating projects planting local vegetables in a revolving scheme that ensures yield all-year round. This not only enhanced their nutrition but also provided much needed income from selling surplus vegetables.
Our target for the next 3 years is to continue providing OVC’s with opportunities for a brighter future through a more holistic approach which for instance prioritizes extending help to caregivers of the OVC’s and access to justice for OVC’s whose rights have been violated.
We want to reach every OVC to give them a better life. You can help us achieve this goal by making a donation or volunteering with your time and skills.
Remember the future of an orphan or vulnerable child depends on it!


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Just two months ago, Donate Life America, the national coalition of Organ Procurement Organizations in the U.S. announced that they had reached 100,000,000 people registered as donors, a goal they had been trying to reach since 2006. An achievement that is undeniably outstanding.
Nevertheless, being motivated by increasing awareness that thousands of people die without having the possibility of a second chance of life, these organizations are seeking to add an additional 20 million people to the list of selfless heroes in 2012. Raiza Mendoza, Latino public affairs coordinator at Gift of Hope Organ and Tissue Donor Network said that, “this requires intense work with our community. We need to help them see that when they do not need any of their organs any longer, that there are people who have the opportunity to live if they receive a donation. It would help them return to a healthy and normal life for them and their loved ones.”
Read more: http://www.lawndalenews.com/?p=11999


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Love your CAS design, gorgeous card...Thanks for sharing with us at CraftyCatz this week...
This is so beautifully designed. I love the little sentiment on the white paper balancing the larger project on the left, it's just so gorgeous really! Someone will be delighted to receive this card. Thanks for sharing your talent at Pennys Challenges.
Fabulous! I love the colours and the layout works so well. Thanks for joining us at ATSM
This is so lovely Thanks for joining us in our week 42 Anything Goes challenge at PolkadoodlesMichelle DT
Such an adorable card. Thank you for joining us at the Polkadoodles Crafting challenge weeks 42 Helen DT
Lovely CAS card and I love the funky purple and green paper.Thank you so much for joining in the Polkadoodles Anything Goes Challenge this time. Hope to see you again soon. Hugs, VannessaPolkadoodles Design Team

domain: design


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Southlit Supplement August 2015
Southlit Supplement August 2015 is the latest offering from Southlit in this new monthly series in Eastlit. It covers creative writing, literature and artwork focused on South Asia. All of us at Eastlit hope that you enjoy Southlit Supplement August 2015. The banner picture is courtesy of Gill Morris.
Southlit Supplement August 2015 Table of Contents:
Southlit: Information about the history and development of Southlit, the exact countries it covers and submissions.
The Boy, the Baba and the Sea by Mohammed Nazar Syed.
By the Southern Shore by Manoshij Banerjee.
Forgotten & Once there was a Garden by Nosheen Irfan.
The Wounded Womb by Prem Prakash Limbu.
Family Drama by Juanita Kakoty.
The Art of Letting Go by Rimal Ilyas.
L.P. Lee. An Eastlit Interview by Graham Lawrence.
About the Work:
As with Eastlit, the Southlit Supplement publishes work as received. We do not edit work. If you submit, make sure your work is ready to be published.
All work published on the Eastlit website, e-magazine or e-book is done so under license from the copyright holder.


Crop management software, also known as crop planning software, monitors and optimizes the crop production of a farm. With crop management software, farmers, growers, and agronomists can better understand the costs and variables that impact and affect overall crop profitability. Crop management software helps farms maintain clean, accurate, and up-to-date field and crop records. Beyond that, crop management software enables more accurate and precise food tracking and traceability.
While farm management software includes some crop management and reporting functionalities, crop management software is specifically concerned with streamlining and monitoring the crop performance and food supply chain lifecycle. Farms can utilize crop management software to automate and streamline any upcoming food safety audits and compliance reports.
To qualify for inclusion in the Crop Management category, a product must:
At Croptracker, our mission is to make crop production more profitable, efficient, and safe. Since 2006 we have helped growers, packers, cooperations, and associations of all sizes to maintain accurate records, connect their teams, and optimize their operations through our integrated software and consulting services. Track and record nearly everything in your farm - including your sprays, harvests, packing materials, storage, shipping, and teams. Over 50 reports make your audits painless and
This Internet-based software can help you organize all of your crop information in an easily accessible, centralized location. Internet or web-based means you can run the software from any location where there is a high-speed Internet connection, and it means you are always running the most current version.
Core software modules are developed internally by FBS programmers using Windows-based fifth generation languages, open-architecture databases, multi-user access with record-locking, and Internet-delivered software updates. Interfaces have been developed for a wide-range of third-party software (including web-based dashboards), and the system has been optimized to run in Citrix, Terminal Services and Software as a Service (SaaS) environments.
ET Grow provides a central portal for internal crop management, which helps to increase accountability and awareness within your business. Manage multiple zones and locations, and easily track all data of your crops from sowing to delivery with the easy to use app and web solution. This production/inventory function of ET Grow creates a more efficient and well informed environment
Australia's market leader and award winning production recording used by farmers, Department of Agriculture and Agricultural Colleges across the world. Farmers at last have a tool, which will store and analyze all their paddock records simply and efficiently. It covers chemical applications, cotton production, crop monitoring, seeding & planting, fertiliser applications, fodder production, harvest delivery, mapping, Smartphone App - Pocket PAM2.
SugarERP is a sugar management software which includes all the operations of a sugar cane industry right from cane registration & accepting sugar cane from farmers to the output of a sugar. Information of farmers may be member or non-member, area information, Agricultural land details, Harvesting, transporting details, shares, Deposit, quantity & quality of sugar and cane billing etc. Various reports, which are, required for day to day operations & MIS reports, right from cane regis


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Anabelle and I are back in the Philippines. And yesterday, we went out to see the ‘old places’ and do some ‘old things’. Feelings of deja vu struck me immediately: I have been here before. I have done all of this before. Everything was familiar: the sights, the sounds and the smells. And yet I also had persistent feelings of jamais vu: this is all so strange, feeling like I don’t belong. This is all so different from what I remembered.
I have similar feelings in my relationships with people. I have always found joy in meeting friends and family after a long period of time and we are able to just pick up from where we last left off. Like, we have never been apart and we are still part of each others’ lives. But sooner or later, I realize that the other person has lived a big chunk of his of her life of which I was no longer a part; and that I have lived a big portion of my life of which he or she is not a part.
People change and places change even when I am gone. I some how naively think that they would be frozen in time and space when I am not around. This is of course absolutely not true. People move on and place develop like they had a life of their own. I move on and change even when people expect me to remain the same.
In a world of constant change, I long for stability and an anchor to keep me grounded. My faith has been a source of stability for me, with God as an abiding presence. My relationships have kept me grounded as I have tried to live them out in love, a decision I have made based on my faith – that even in the midst of change, somethings never change.
While Jesus was speaking, a woman in the crowd raised her voice and said to him, “Blessed is the womb that bore you and the breasts that nursed you!” But he said, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it!”

domain: literature


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The forthcoming Hrithik Roshan starrer 'Mohenjo Daro' is now scheduled for release on the 22nd of January 2016. This film is set to showcase a beautiful love story which is set in the Indus valley civilization. Hrithik Roshan will be starring opposite newcomer Pooja Hegde in this film.
Filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker's team took to a popular social networking site to announce the release date of this film. It has also been revealed that the shooting of this film will begin during the month of October this year in South Africa. This film is jointly produced under the banner of Ashutosh Gowariker Production Pvt. Ltd. and Disney India.


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On Sunday 27th January the coaches, volunteers and staff from the NIJF convened in the Ulster University, Jordanstown for their first ever coaching conference.
Bringing together a wealth of experience from the guest speakers, the conference focused on “well-being in Judo” and how to make the sport a place that has understanding for the health and well-being of all involved.
Over 75 delegates attended and 23 out of the 30 main clubs in the NIJF were represented, which shows a great response in wanting to be educated on such an important subject matter.
As well as the workshops, informal networking took place on the day with coaches and clubs sharing ideas and initiatives with each other in a relaxed environment away from the mats.
The workshops that took place on the day were:
- Mental well-being in sport delivered by Dr John Kremer
- Anti-Doping delivered by Mark Montgomery (NIJF) and Philip McKelvey (UKAD)
- Safeguarding by Paul Stephenson (NSPCC NI) and Russell Brown (NIJF)
- Pathways for performance and club development delivered by Ciaran Ward (NIJF) and Vicki Kennedy (NIJF)
Vicki Kennedy, Clubs Workforce Officer for the NIJF added:
‘I was very pleased that so many judo clubs took the opportunity to engage with our first coaching conference. This shows the willing to learn and network as a community. The feedback so far has been very positive with coaches and members really enjoying the day. This is definitely something that we can build on moving forwards.’


The Duchess of Cambridge is visiting Portsmouth as part of a campaign to inspire young people in sport. She's learning more about the 1851 Trust. Sir Ben Ainslie's America's Cup team is involved in the project.
In less than a year's time the aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth will sail into her new home of Portsmouth for the first time. Preparations for her arrival are underway,and the man responsible for bringing her into port has already been appointed. This is the second of Richard Jones' reports.
The aircraft carrier - HMS Queen Elizabeth - the biggest ship ever built for the Royal Navy is nearing completion.
In less than a year she will sail into her new home of Portsmouth, from her current location in Scotland.
HMS Queen Elizabeth already has a crew of more than 500. In the first of two special reports, our reporter Richard Jones looks at how the project is going.
Members of the Royal Family were out in force for the finale of the Queen's 90th birthday celebrations in the grounds of Windsor Castle.
The ITV show, hosted by Ant and Dec, involved more than 900 horses, 1,500 performers and big names from the stage and screen.
Rachel Hepworth joined the celebrations.
A colour archive image shows a young Princess Elizabeth with her sister and their father, George VI.Read the full story ›
The black and white images will feature in the monarch's 90th birthday celebrations on Sunday.Read the full story ›
This weekend marks a very special public celebration of Her Majesty the Queen Elizabeth's ninetieth birthday.
The events and shows at Windsor include more than 1,500 performers from across the globe, hundreds of horses and more than 25,000 spectators.
ITV Meridian's Sangeeta Bhabra and Simon Parkin presented the live programme from the grounds of Windsor Castle, speaking to many of the people taking part both in front of, and behind the scenes. Join us in a celebration of the 90th birthday of Her Majesty the Queen.
The Queen and her husband, the Duke of Edinburgh, will attend the final night of celebrations on Sunday. There will be live coverage of the star-studded event in a programme hosted by Ant & Dec, on ITV from 8.35pm on the evening of Sunday 15th May..
The Queen's love of horses is well documented and that passion is reflected in the celebrations over the next few nights.
As a young princess she enjoyed riding in Windsor Great Park - something she still does today.
The Queen owns and breeds thoroughbreds. Those close to her say horse racing is when she really relaxes. Penny Silvester has been talking to the Queen's Racing Advisor, John Warren, about why her affection for these animals runs so deep.
On Sunday, The King's Troop will perform in front of the Queen and it's taken months of training to get them ready.
The soldiers on horseback were first formed in 1946 to be a show piece during ceremonies of state. Simon Parkin went to see them rehearsing.
The Queen's 90th birthday celebrations in Windsor this weekend are set to be an event to remember. The offering will feature one and a half thousand performers from across the world, 900 horses, 25,000 spectators and a very special guest of honour.
We've met some of the acts taking part and we've been speaking to those who know the Queen personally.
Last-minute sound checks and rehearsals have been happening today in the main arena, ready for this evening's events. But the day started with the 73rd Royal Windsor Horse Show. Here's Mike Pearse.


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10 Best Cats for Seniors
Senior citizens may look for a pet cat to have a feline companion. Cats are a good choice for seniors due to their relatively low-maintenance needs. Some breeds are more energetic and mischievous, however, and may not be the best choice for a relaxed senior household.
Calm, loyal cats that are happy to lay on an owner’s lap and sleep throughout the day are a great choice for seniors. Cat breeds that get along with cats, dogs, and children are also a good choice, especially for grandparents who often babysit the grandkids.
Check out our 10 best breeds of cats for seniors, based on traits like temperament, loyalty, energy level, and sociability. Each person and cat is an individual and what suits one may not suit another. So take into account personality and lifestyle and look for a good match.
The 10 Best Cats for Seniors:
1. Ragdoll Cat
The Ragdoll is a good choice for seniors because of its laid-back personality. Known for being friendly, the Ragdoll typically gets along with other cats, dogs, new people, and children, which is perfect for grandparents who babysit the grandkids on occasion. It has a semi-long coat of silky hair that requires daily brushing to avoid knotting, but is otherwise low maintenance. These cats are on the larger side and may require more space or larger litter boxes and furniture than other cats.
- Larger than common house cats
- Daily brushing
Known as the “Sacred Cat of Burma,” the Birman is a long-haired, color-pointed cat with a long, silky coat, striking blue eyes, and white “gloves” on each paw. They’re large, heavy-boned cats, but they tend to be very gentle. Birman’s love being around other people, cats, and dogs, but they tend to form close bonds with one person, making them a great choice for a senior or retiree who lives alone and wants a companion.
- Larger than common house cats
- Daily brushing
3. Russian Blue
|Activity||Low to moderate|
The Russian Blue is a popular natural Russian breed that’s known for its sweet temper, intelligence and loyalty. Russian Blue cats can be a bit more aloof than other breeds and are great for senior households with low activity. Though not especially active, the Russian Blue can get along well with other cats, dogs, and children but prefers to be close to its one human companion. They can be shy with strangers but form close bonds and are said to be intune with their guardians emotions.
- Can be shy
One of the oldest cat breeds, the Persian is a sweet, gentle, and affectionate cat that forms a strong bond with its human companion. Persians have characteristic round faces with a short muzzle and a long, silky coat that requires daily grooming. While the Persian cat can get along with people, cats, and dogs, it’s not ideal for households with rambunctious young children. They can be prone to health problems and may require more veterinary care as they age. Look for a cat with a slightly longer nose to reduce breathing and other difficulties.
- Not suitable for young children
- Health care
5. British Shorthair
The British Shorthair breed is a pedigreed version of the British Domestic breed and a common household pet breed. British Shorthairs are good-natured and tend to be playful as kittens but mellow out as they age. This is a good choice for seniors due to its independence and laid-back personality—British Shorthairs are happy to amuse themselves and sleep throughout the day and night.
- Energetic as a kitten
The Snowshoe is a sweet-tempered and intelligent cat that gets along with people and other pets. The Snowshoe was first produced in Philadelphia from Siamese parents. The breeders created three kittens with characteristic Siamese markings and white “gloves” on their paws, leading to the name. Snowshoes share many traits with Siamese cats, but they’re not quite as vocal.
The Balinese cat is an intelligent, friendly, and playful cat with striking looks. They have Siamese-style colors and bright sapphire eyes. Unlike more independent breeds, Balinese cats enjoy spending time with people and love attention, so they’re a good choice for people who are home often.
- Loves attention
- May be too lively for some
The Bombay descended from American Shorthairs and the Burmese breed, giving it a good combination of size and temperament. These cats are medium-sized, friendly, alert, and sociable. Because of its agility and strength, the Bombay cat does well with a variety of climbing furniture and jumping platforms for exercise. Otherwise, a Bombay is happy to relax on its own and has low-maintenance grooming needs.
- Needs exercise
9. Havana Brown
The Havana Brown breed is a relative of the Siamese breed and an affectionate, people-oriented cat. They’re highly vocal and happy to lounge in their owner’s lap and chatter in a low voice, perfect for senior owners. These cats also have short coats that are easy to groom and maintain.
The Ragamuffin is a large cat weighing between 10-15 pounds and known for its friendly personality and thick soft coat. They are very sociable and like a lot of attention. They are generally placid and can tolerate livelier households with grandkids visiting and other pets. The plush coat needs weekly grooming to prevent knots and as with all cats they do shed. They like to play with toys and so will enjoy interactive play.
Things to Consider with Cats for Seniors
Cats are excellent pets for seniors or retirees. They’re low maintenance compared to dogs and require less attention. Cats will often find ways to amuse themselves, especially if they have a variety of cat toys and furniture.
Some cat breeds are energetic and can be destructive if they don’t get attention. Most seniors would prefer a mellow cat that’s happy to relax on their lap or spend time playing independently however, some people are happy to spend time playing and grooming. So choose a cat that fits your personality.
Many purebred cat breeds are more susceptible to inherited health problems such as polycystic kidney disease. Look into the health of your future pet and consider health insurance to help with veterinary costs.
If the senior is a grandparent with young grandchildren, it’s essential to choose a cat breed that’s tolerant and comfortable around rambunctious children. Be sure to look for breeders with kittens raised around children or look for rescue cats that are confirmed to be good with children of all ages.
It’s also important to consider the cat’s grooming needs. Cats will groom themselves, but long-haired breeds may need regular grooming to prevent tangles and matting that can be painful. Be sure to choose a shorthaired cat if regular grooming will be difficult.
Along with choosing the right breed for a senior, it may be best to look for older cats in rescues or shelters. Kittens of any breed can be high energy and are often active at night, which may disrupt a senior’s sleep schedule. Older cats tend to be past this boisterous stage of their lives but may need more medical care.
We hope that this list helps you or your senior friend find a suitable feline companion. As you can see from this article, there are plenty of cats that would be purrfect. These cats are not only beautiful but generally have calm, easy-going temperaments.
Featured Image Credit: Africa Studio, Shutterstock

domain: pet


Interview Date: Monday 26 February 2018
Working pattern: Rota to include day shift, back shift & night shift
Before applying for this job, it is important that you read the Applicant Guidance by clicking on this link and the attached Job Pack. These explain the job role and the type of person we are looking for. The main terms and conditions of employment are also available via the above link.
You will contribute to meeting the personal, social and emotional needs of older people and their carers.
Fife Council pays the Scottish Local Government Living Wage Rate to employees earning less than £8.51 per hour. If the hourly rate of pay for the post is less than the Scottish Local Government Living Wage Rate a supplement will be paid.Requirements
Before confirming appointment, you will be required to obtain PVG Scheme Membership through Disclosure Scotland, in addition to which you will be required to register with the Scottish Social Services Council.Responsibilities
You will contribute to meeting the personal, social and emotional needs of older people and their carers, including responsibility for assisting people with personal care, administering medication, care planning, keyworking and activities.The Individual
You will have the ability to achieve an SVQ Level III.
You will safely carry out the activities outlined above, it is essential to have the ability to comfortably kneel on beds and floors and be able to rise without difficulty.
You will work within Health and Safety requirements when using equipment provided for handling situations and being aware of individuals’ risk assessments is essential.
Applications must be made online at myjobscotland.gov.uk