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Qatar Petroleum (QP) is exploring for oil and gas in Cyprus and Morocco and joining a project to import liquefied natural gas into Pakistan as part of a strategy to expand the Gulf emirate’s global energy investments, Bloomberg reported.
According to Reuters, QP, the world’s largest LNG producer, has been pursuing deals in Cyprus where it “won a bid for 40% of a plot for exploration” and recently “went into Morocco for exploration,” the company’s CEO, Saad al-Kaabi, said.
QP must cope with local limits on growth as it seeks to expand its LNG business and increase its production and reserves of crude oil and gas, as added Al-Kaabi. In line with the national strategy, QP is merging two liquefied natural gas divisions, Qatargas and RasGas Co Ltd, to save hundreds of millions of dollars following a more-than-two-year slump in oil prices that has forced Gulf countries to reduce state spending.
The company is seeking international opportunities as domestic crude output declines and the government bars drilling in the offshore North Field, source of the gas that transformed Qatar into the world’s leading LNG supplier.
Authorities in the Persian Gulf state of 2.6m people imposed a moratorium at the field in 2005 to assess its gas flow and longevity. Qatar’s crude output was down to 615,000b/d in January from a peak of 880,000 barrels in June 2008, data compiled by Bloomberg show.


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In a recent interview with Korean newspaper Hankook Ilbo, Block B’s Park Kyung talked about his aspirations as a composer and producer. The idol, who made a solo comeback on June 22 with the self-produced song “Instant,” has been steadily proving his talents as a songwriter and a producer. Park Kyung has produced a number […]
The post Block B’s Park Kyung Says He Wants To Produce Music For “Produce 48” appeared first on Soompi.

domain: celebrity


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The Drum Festival 2017 is to take place this Sunday (26) from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the world-renowned Lankan percussion band NAADRO.
The event, a day-long festival of drums at the Viharamahadevi Park open air theatre, will feature performances by international artists as well as the talent of all major local drummers.
The festival is headed by NAADRO founder Rakitha Wickremeratne with the support of the Prime Minister’s Office.
Addressing a press briefing at Temple Trees yesterday, Wickramaratna said, “It is not, as you may think, just another anniversary celebration where the particular group showcases its talent for a few hours. The ‘Bera’ (drum) festival is an all-day long event at the one of the greenest locations in the heart of Colombo, the ideal setting for celebrating sound and rhythm”
The main event would see NAADRO perform in front of an expected crowd of 3000 for period two hours, involving wide range of percussion instruments, not limiting it to drums.
The percussion melodies would be infused by the Orchestra of Mahesh Denipitiya, one of the leading music directors in Sri Lanka.
Pete Locket, a globally known percussionist from the UK will also join NAADRO on stage for the main event. Locket is recognised for skill in blending Western percussion melodies with Asian melodies using Asian percussion instruments.
Other percussionists and drummers who listed to take part with NAADRO in the main concert include: Aruna Sirirwardhana, Elephant Foot, Jananaath Warakagoda, Upula Madhushanka and Peshala Manoj.
The segment ‘Drummers on stage’ will allow all the professional drummers of the Sri Lanka to showcase their talents in solo performances throughout the day. Lelum Rathnayake, Subhash from the band Marians, Dennis from Misty, Shamila from Daddy, Kaushan from Wayo, Billy Fernando from 2 Forty 2, Sumudhi from Music Matters, Jimith Srinanda from Magic Box and Harshan Gallage from Triloka will perfoming solo acts during this segment.
An exhibition will also be part of the festival where over 300 percussion instruments possessed by NAADRO will be showcased. A drum Workshop will be conducted by veteran of the industry and foreign artists, including Pete Lockett (UK), Upula Madhushanka, Jananaath Warakagoda, Peshala Manoj; for amateurs in the field of percussion. Pete Lockett (UK).
The festival will also include events such as the ‘Drum Circle’ where members of the audience will be allowed to try out any beat she/he wants at any time during the event.
In addition, a photo booth, trade stalls and a recording studio will also be featured at the festival.

domain: news


Ever since the introduction of the activity concept in KDE Plasma Workspaces, it has caused confusion to many people. To spread some inspiration I wrote a blog post some time ago with examples of how I used activities. It ended up, much to my surprise, to be one of my most popular posts. This seemed to suggest that many still didn’t know what to use activities for.
Back then I often explained activities as ‘similar to virtual desktops, which are groups of windows, but instead activities are groups of desktop widgets’. However, in 4.6 they have evolved past this stage – now windows are also associated with activities. Therefore I wanted to write a blog post about the current state of activities, but someone beat me to it; a few days ago Jason Lim Yuen Hoe posted a very nice article on activities that brought up most of the points I planned to talk about. I found that the post reflected my own thoughts very well, and if you haven’t read it yet, I recommend giving it a read.
In this post I’ll instead write about my personal vision of how I hope activities will change my workflow. It’s based on my own experience and what I’ve read about activities. Note that it doesn’t necessarily coincide with the vision of the Plasma team, but if there are any inconsistencies I would appreciate if a Plasma developer could point them out in a comment below.
After reading this I hope that you will get a better understanding of what activities are and start to think about how you can benefit from them. I will also try to answer the frequently asked question “Why should I use activities instead of virtual desktops?” and explain when I think you should use what.
How can activities be useful?
Let’s start from the very beginning and ask ourselves “Why do we need activities?”. Many are already familiar with the concept of virtual desktops and use them in a similar way to activities, which makes things more complicated. For that reason I will take the easy route here and assume that virtual desktops don’t exist. While reading you might start to think “Hey! That’s what virtual desktops are for!”, but try to ignore it – I’ll come back to them later.
So for the sake of understanding, let’s forget about virtual desktops for now. Poof. Gone.
Remember this guy? Well, you shouldn’t by now
Most of us use our computers for several different tasks, such as playing games, writing reports, creating graphics and web development. I’m sure you can think of more examples.
For some of the tasks you only need one application. If you want to play a game you start the game and play until you decide to do something else, at which point you close the game. It’s as simple as that.
In the case when one task equals one window it’s easy to keep things organized – when you want to switch task you just need to switch to the right window in the taskbar or start a new application. However, most of us have tasks that require more than one application, and then things start to get messy. In that case we want to use the taskbar to switch between windows for the current task, but it will also show windows that we aren’t interested in at the moment. An example of this is shown in the screenshot below. I started out by working on a report, but after a while I decided to take a break and code a bit on a spreadsheet application. This is only two tasks, but you can see how quickly the taskbar becomes a mess.
So why don’t we just close all unused windows? That’s indeed what many people do, but it requires you to manually close and open applications every time you want to switch task. In addition to that, you have to open the files you want to work with and sometimes rearrange the new windows. This makes switching between tasks time consuming and cumbersome.
A quick word about session management
Some applications support sessions, which is great. Sessions allow you to save a particular state of an application and restore it later. For example, I can open all my source code files in Kate and save it as a session. When I feel like coding again I just need to launch Kate, open my “coding” session and voilà – the application state is as I left it the last time, with all my files open.
KDE Workspaces have supported sessions for a long time, but it has always been on a very basic level. By default it restores the previous session (i.e. the state of your workspace last time you logged out), but you can also set it to restore a manually saved session. It is however limited to one session (Bug 62157), so you can’t have one session for coding, one for editing videos etc.
How activities can change the workflow
Traditionally we start applications and switch between them with the taskbar. As said, this works well if we only have one window per task.
For tasks that require more than one application, instead of starting each application individually we rather want to start a new “session”. One click and everything is set up – the applications are started with the right files open, windows are ordered in the way we prefer and everything belonging to other tasks get out of the way. Switching task should be a simple matter of switching “session”.
Yes, what I’m describing is how I hope activities in KDE Plasma Workspaces will work. But what if the applications in your activity vary a lot – for example, you don’t know in beforehand which game you want to play in your Gaming activity. In this case we don’t want to restore any windows.
The thing is, the concept of activities is not limited to windows, it involves your whole workspace. When switching to your Gaming activity you might not want to restore any applications, but you can set your desktop to show shortcuts to your favorite games. Your application launcher will be populated with gaming-related software and your contact list will show your gaming buddies first etc.
In short, activities make it easier to resume your task and to focus on it. It’s not a way to organize windows – if you find yourself switching between two windows frequently, they probably belong to the same activity, or you’re not concentrating on your current task. Furthermore, with activities it’s effortless to switch between different tasks. You only need to set up an activity once, when you start it later the previous state will be restored and you can start working right away.
Activities versus virtual desktops
I hope I’ve convinced most of you why we need something like activities. The next question is then naturally “We already have virtual desktops, what additional benefits do activities provide?”.
Earlier I talked about the problem with how quickly your workspace gets cluttered when you do several tasks that require many windows. There have been different attempts to solve this, for example by grouping tasks in the taskbar. Virtual desktops allow you to organize your windows in a certain way and only show the group of windows you’re interested in. At first it might sound a lot like what activities do, but I personally think that they are fundamentally different.
First of all, I see virtual desktops as a way to organize windows and nothing more. It’s a nice feature when you have many windows to work with. Activities, on the other hand, is more like a session manager. Not only can you save and restore states of your workspace (this is already possible to some degree with virtual desktops and the current session manager in KDE Workspaces), you can also stop activities if you find that they take too much computer resources.
I’ve never quite managed to use virtual desktops to divide my tasks, although I know that some people do it. To continue with my example of writing a report and coding – sure, I could move all windows related to coding to a separate virtual desktop. But what about my music player? I want to listen to music when I’m working on my report and when I’m coding, so which virtual desktop does it belong to? I usually find myself putting it on a separate virtual desktop.
With activities you can associate a particular window with more than one activity. You should have everything you need for a certain task in an activity, which eliminates the need to switch back and forth between activities (unless you really want to switch task). In the example with the music player I would associate it with both my coding and my report writing activity.
There are other limitations of virtual desktops that make it clear that they were created for a different reason than activities. In earlier versions of Plasma Workspaces you had a fixed number of virtual desktops that you could change, but in recent versions it is possible to add and remove virtual desktops “on the fly”. What happens is that the number of virtual desktops is increased or decreased by 1. This may not sound that bad, until you realize that it always removes the last virtual desktop. It’s probably possible to hack around this, but as far as I understand it’s not that trivial.
Finally, as I said before, activities are not only about windows. In 4.6 only your desktop and windows are affected by switching activity, but in future versions more applications will be activity aware. Such applications can be customized to prioritize showing information that are relevant for your current activity. Here are some ideas of what it could be:
- Favorites in the application launcher
- Entries in the Places sidebar in Dolphin and open/save dialogs
- File search results (showing relevant files/folders first)
- Bookmarks in your web browser
- Contact list in Kopete
- News feeds in Akregator
Are activities unintuitive?
Some people claim that activities are unintuitive and hard to understand. I agree to a certain degree since activities are under heavy development, but I believe that the concept (at least the one described here) is generally easier to understand than virtual desktops.
I’ve seen many new Linux users (using “Linux” as a very broad term here) point and ask what those two/four squares in the panel are. Someone will answer that those are virtual desktops, which further confuses the new users. What are virtual desktops? Even after an explanation most users I’ve observed don’t seem to understand what to use virtual desktops for.
Desktop effects such as the famous cube and desktop grid help a lot, since they make it easier to visualize what virtual desktops are and what happens to your windows when you switch desktop.
If someone asks me what an activity is, I want to be able to have the following conversation:
Me: “So, what activity are you doing at the moment?”
Guy: “I’m analyzing data for a study.”
Me: “So, this is your ‘Analyzing data’ activity. [Explains how to rename an activity.] When you want to do something else, don’t close anything – you can leave it as it is. Just switch to a new activity.”
Guy: “So now I’ve created a new activity and started to write on my report. Is this my ‘Writing report’ activity?”
Me: “That’s right.”
Guy: “Geez, I’m out of ideas on what to write, maybe I should do some more analyzing. Now where did I put that file…”
Me: “No need to search, just switch back to your analyzing data activity!”
So are virtual desktops redundant now?
I don’t think so. There will be people who want to organize the windows within a single activity, and this is what virtual desktops should be used for.
I’m on the same track as Jason (the author of the article I linked to in the beginning) here – if you use virtual desktops to separate windows for different tasks, you might want to switch to activities in the future with only one virtual desktop. However, if you want to group certain windows in a single activity, you can use virtual desktops. Finally, if you only do one task on your computer one activity might be enough, and virtual desktops can be used to organize your windows.
There is an option to associate activities with virtual desktops (it’s still called “Different widgets for each desktop” in 4.6). Personally I think it just makes things more confusing by merging the two concepts – the only benefit I see now is that it makes it easier to switch activity and move windows between activities by using methods intended for controlling virtual desktops. As activities mature further I hope that this option becomes unnecessary.
In this post I’ve talked about my interpretation of activities and how I wish to use them. I want to remind you that what I’ve written here is not official, it’s my personal vision. It is, however, based on the current state of activities and what I’ve read about them, so hopefully the description here isn’t too far from what will become reality.
I’m still experimenting with activities, but I think they need to mature a bit before I can completely change to the new workflow described here. Having said that, I like what I see in 4.6 and I’m excited to discover the state of activities in 4.7.
I sometimes hear people complain that it’s too hard to change activity, so in my next article I plan to write about the methods I know to switch between them. Meanwhile, have fun with your activities, I hope this post has been useful to you.


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At the time of the Brexit vote we commented that it would be the end of the year before there was an indication of its effect on property prices. The good news is that forecasts of the UK’s house price boom coming to an end have proved largely unfounded. Ultra-low mortgage rates, record high employment and a lack of housing stock keep prices moving upwards. Figures compiled by the Office for National Statistics and the Land Registry for November show an annual increase of 6.7% and a jump of ￡2,000 from October. In England prices rose by 7.2%, but Wales and Scotland lagged behind with growth of 4.1% and 3.3% respectively.
The fall in the value of the pound has certainly helped to attract foreign buyers back into central London after they were put off by high stamp duty rates. House prices in London rose by 1.8 per cent on a monthly basis in November, reversing the 1.2 per cent drop in the previous month and undoing the dip in prices of ￡8,000 between July and October. Nevertheless, annual house price growth is beginning to slow as property prices begin to reach a peak of affordability for many buyers. The average house price in London still remains significantly higher than anywhere else, however, reaching ￡482,000 in November, compared with ￡313,000 in the southeast and ￡127,000 in the northeast.
However, while trends in house price growth have barely changed since the Brexit vote, the number of housing sales has slumped. There was a 22 per cent drop in property transactions in England during September compared with last year, according to the latest data available. Estate agents have reported a sharp fall in transactions as homeowners consider it too expensive to trade up owing to stamp duty costs or wait to see what happens to the economy. The number of buy-to-let investors is also falling amid the extra 3 per cent stamp duty surcharge on second homes. This is particularly evident in London where the number of completions in London fell by 39.5 per cent to 6,698, compared with 11,065 in September 2015.

domain: finance


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On any given day, the Neon Bus can be found traveling through town.
Its mission? Providing children under the age of 18, or who are in school, with a nutritious, free meal in an air-conditioned bus that is more reminiscent of a 1950s diner than a vehicle that once transported students to and from school.
Frigid forecast forced decision --
Due to the "brutally cold temperatures" anticipated for Thursday, Jan. 8, Wilson County Schools Director Dr. Donna Wright announced Wednesday afternoon that schools will be closed.
However, all 12-month employees will report for work. Additionally, all Kids Club locations will be open and operate on the snow schedule, which is from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Learning Centers will not be open.
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Amazing. Not really sure how he does it. Epstein seems to have a magical sense, especially when creating close-ups, as if there is never a better way to photograph whatever we are looking at.
Like all of his other films I have seen, he is at his best when he doesn’t have to get bogged down in narrative elements, and so the 2nd half, when we jump to the main land, suffers some in comparison to the island scenes. Like the carnival scenes in Coeur Fidele, the re-creation of a fever dream here is what he is best at, pure cinema.


As we wait for lane closures to begin at 10 p.m., a thematically-correct tune for our friends at Kiewit Infrastructure West, the contractor doing the heavy lifting this weekend while bringing down the north side of the Mulholland Drive Bridge. Only thing heavy I’m presently lifting is a fork-full of fried rice.
Still a lot of traffic at 7 p.m. as ramp closures begin.
Here’s what it looked like an hour before closures were set to begin for freeway ramps.
Using the search term “horrible traffic jam” on YouTube:
A cavalcade of officials just held a news conference at the city’s Emergency Operations Center in downtown Los Angeles about the impending closure of the 405 freeway between the 10 and 101 freeways this weekend. Here’s in short what they said:
Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa: please avoid driving in the closure area and, if possible, stay off area roads this weekend.
County Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky: please avoid driving in the closure area, and, if possible, stay off area roads this weekend.
Metrolink Board Chairman Richard Katz: please avoid driving in the closure area, and, if possible, stay off area roads this weekend.
Metro Chief Executive Officer Art Leahy: please avoid driving in the closure area, and, if possible, stay off area roads this weekend.
Here’s the closure schedule:
7 p.m. Friday: ramp closures begin on the 405 freeway between the 10 and 101.
10 p.m. Friday: lane closures begin on the 405.
Midnight Saturday: full closure of the 405 between the 10 and 101.
5 a.m. Monday: 405 freeway reopens.
6 a.m. Monday: ramps reopen.
Once again, our Destinations Discount map with 300-plus restaurants, stores, bike tours, galleries, etc. that are offering discounts to transit riders this weekend. Just show them your TAP card or Metro ticket.
Curious about the 405 project? Here’s the project’s website. The project is adding a northbound carpool lane to the 405, adding a new set of flyover ramps at the Wilshire Boulevard interchange and rebuilding three bridges over the wider freeway — the Mulholland Drive bridge, the Skirball Bridge and the Sunset Boulevard Bridge, which just reopened this past Monday.
Here we go, folks. Carmageddon II is hours away, and if you’re adamant about not staying home all weekend, sipping cold drinks by the pool, go Metro to check out these fine Destination Discounts locations that are offering extra special deals just for this weekend.
Buca di Beppo at Universal City Walk is offering 20% off meals if you show the Metro-exclusive coupon. Enjoy great Italian food and do some shopping while you’re in the area. (Red Line or Metro Rapid 750 to Universal City Station, transfer to free shuttle)
In Hollywood, IRIS from Cirque du Soleil is offering certain tickets for just $40.50 if you reference code METROB at the box office. After the show, pop by Madame Tussauds and get 40.5% off admission if you mention “Carmageddon” at the box office. Schmooze with the crème de la crème of wax celebrities. (Red Line to Hollywood/Highland Station, Metro Bus 217 to Hollywood/Highland)
The downtown LA location of Qdoba Mexican Grill will give you 15% off your bill this weekend if you show your TAP card. Have a burrito or two…or three! (Red, Purple, Blue or Expo Line to 7th/Metro)
Present your TAP card at the box office and save 50% off adult admission at the Natural History Museum. Visit the recently opened Spider Pavilion if you feel like getting touchy feely with some creepy crawlies. Adult tickets are $3 and the discount does not apply at the Pavilion. (Expo Line to Expo Park/USC, Metro Bus 81 to Figueroa/State)


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what paid surveys are real With all the anxieties abound concerning a dual dip economic crisis it I it’s not surprising that a lot of people are trying to find ways to supplement their income. From supplying brochures and minding kids to offering things on eBay everyone desires a way to make some extra money. One commonly marketed source of income is finishing paid studies on-line, but is it genuine?
The brief solution is an indeed, yet! Just think about it for a minute there are thousands of companies that are investing millions upon countless dollars yearly on brand-new products as well as advertising and marketing however exactly how do they understand they have obtained it ideal? Certain they could spend a bunch as well as see just how much they make at the end of the day yet the fact is there is a much smarter method. There is a way they can sort the gold out from the lemons at just a portion of the expense which is with Market Research Surveys as well as Emphasis Teams.So exactly how in the world do these firms obtain daily individuals to tell them exactly what things they like as well as don’t like? They do this with paid marketing research surveys and the bright side is they are happy to pay handsomely for it due to the fact that in the long-term it saves them a lot of money! Now prior to you start heading off to the coke and also Walmart web sites and begin trying to find links to their market research location I need to advise you that you possibly will not locate anything. That’s due to the fact that these companies are experts in offering their items, refraining from doing study on marketing them. Like all wise companies they get that work out to an expert specialist company. These firms supply the interface in between big-business as well as everyday people and also are paid by the big corporations to ask the end individual concerning their products.These marketing research business look for a swimming pool of interested individuals to answer surveys about their customers items. Now since they are benefiting a large number of companies as well as are constantly running studies they have the facilities established to look for new panelists, send them study invites by means of email and also most significantly pay them.
When a brand-new consumer joins a market research firm they are sent emails every time a new survey is readily available for them to complete. When completed, the survey business documents this in their database and also credit scores the consumers account with the cash they have simply earned. The cash paid to the pollster varies relying on the size of the study and also exactly how been experts the survey topic is. For instance the study company may just be seeking people who have bought a certain sort of blender or food processor. Not everyone can finish this survey but for those that can, they pay them much more! Cash is usually paid by paypal, check or present coupons for large stores such as Walmart or Sears.
So what paid surveys are real just what is the however concerning them being genuine regarding? That’s an easy one due to the fact that not all market research firms are created equal. There are lots of companies that pay their survey takers well, however there are some that do not pay in any way and also worst still there are some that are aiming to offer you something and also are ‘dressed up’ to appear like a marketing research business. However the good news is that it is simple to tell a great site from a negative site with the help of marketing research company directory sites. These directory sites have done the digging for you and also have actually arranged the wheat from the chaff. An excellent directory will certainly always be complimentary to access and checklist just how you will certainly be spent for each business as well as the area that company is experts in. If the company just pays you with competition entrances as an example you will certainly learn about it up front and also can sign up with a paypal repayment researcher instead. So what are you waiting on begin your second revenue stream with paid market research surveys today!


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Chipping Campden is a small market town in the Cotswolds, described as ‘the most beautiful village street now left on the island’ (G.M. Trevelyan English social history, 1944). The Cotswolds is an area of gently rolling hills famous for its sleepy villages, fine gardens and concentrated ‘Englishness’. The June tour from Cotswold Walks starts with 3 days visiting its private gardens. They are open (for charity) only for a week in June. After that the guests move to another Cotswold town (Barnsley, Bibury or Cirencester) for visits to other gardens, including:
Rockcliffe garden was designed by its owner, Emma Keswick and her taste shines through the the design.
Temple Guiting Manor garden was designed by a well-known designer at the Chelsea Flower Show, Jinny Blom
Barnsley House Garden was owned and designed by Rosemary Verey
Highgrove is the country home of HRH Prince of Wales. He has had a remarkable success as owner, patron, designer and part-time gardener.
Asthall Manor garden is owned and designed by Julian and Isabel Bannerman, who also help Prince Charles with the design of Highgrove.

domain: geography


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"Rampart Detectives Conduct Murder Investigation"
Los Angeles: On May 10, 2002 at approximately 10:00 p.m., Rampart Patrol Officers responded to an "ADW Shots Fired" radio call at 4050 Marathon Avenue. Upon arrival officers observed the victim down at the rear of the location, suffering from gunshot wounds to his upper torso. Los Angeles Fire Department Paramedics arrived and pronounced the victim dead at the scene.
The investigation revealed that a possible suspect was seen walking westbound on Melrose Avenue from Alexandria. Moment’s later approximately four gunshots were heard and the same individual was seen running eastbound on Melrose Avenue towards Alexandria Avenue. The possible suspect was described as a male Hispanic, approximately 25 to30 years of age, medium build, wearing gloves, beige sweater and black pants, carrying a blue or black backpack.
The victim is described as a male Hispanic, approximately 29 years of age. The identity of the victim is being withheld pending notification of his next of kin.
No arrests have been made in connection with this homicide. The motive for the shooting is under investigation.
Homicide Detectives from Rampart Operations Support Division are conducting the investigation. Anyone with information that may assist in this investigation is urged to contact Rampart Homicide Detectives J. Breuer or J. Pere at 213-207-2051. On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at the Detective Information Desk, 1-877-LAWFULL(529-3855).
This press release was prepared by Public Information Officer Eduardo Funes, Media Relations Section, 213 485-3586.


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If you consider becoming a dog owner for the first time, you should think about the kind of dog you want. With hundreds of breeds, it’s hard to know how to get the right one.
Some dogs are more active than others, while others can be problematic for newbies. Assuming you’re not experienced, you should take a look at easy dog breeds. For your comfort, we hand-picked the list of ten best dog breeds for first-time owners.
Why Breed Matters
In case you travel a lot, you may want to choose smaller dog breeds that are easy to go on a trip with. If you're a first-time dog owner, you should consider a puppy that can grow with your family. After all, you can always check Petcube Rescue Program to adopt a pooch in your area. You can also volunteer in your nearest shelter, which is one of the resolutions pets will welcome.
In case you're new to such practice, don't miss our A-to-Z guide on dog adoption. This makes it easier for all the family to adjust to the new dog and learn training tips along the way. Don’t choose a dog for superficial characteristics. For instance, if you like the way that a Pomeranian looks but don't want to deal with a high-energy dog, then you should pass on this breed.
If your favorite dog breed is cute but is known for its temper and is difficult to train, then you should keep looking. It’s definitely advisable to think about all the options, so the following ten dogs for first-time owners are surely worth checking.
Border Collies are one of the smartest breeds of dogs. They’re known for their ability to work and communicate with hoomans. Because of their high energy levels, they may be a bit hard to train, however, they can learn tricks fairly quickly.
They are wonderful around children and family, so they may be ideal dogs for beginners. As their coats shed year-round, remember that grooming is a must for this breed.
Labrador Retrievers are the most popular breed in the world and known for their good temperament and loyalty. They can make great family pets and can adapt easily to children or other pets in the house. They have a short coat, so grooming should be quite simple. They do shed, but you’ll only have to deal with it during spring and fall shedding seasons.
German Shepherds are known for their strong character and diligence. If you’re looking for a dog that will protect you at all costs, German Shepherds are the ones for you. They’re excellent guard dogs and can be trained as service dogs for people with disabilities.
Because of their temperament, a German Shepherd is the best guard dog for a first-time owner. Their high intelligence makes them easy to train, but they will require supervision at all times because of their protective nature. GSDs are known to be very affectionate toward their owners as well as other animals in the house.
Golden Retrievers are playful and smart dogs that are very good with children. As most owners say, Golden Retrievers are quintessential family dogs. They do shed year-round, so regular grooming is recommended for this breed.
They have short hair that requires minimal brushing and grooming each week. They are also very active dogs, so they need plenty of exercise every day, but training is not particularly difficult. It’s no wonder that Golden Retrievers are among the best first-time dogs suitable for large families.
Poodles have an appearance that many people are attracted to, but they are also highly intelligent and very playful. They can be trained easily to be house pets or for competitive activities like agility and obedience trials.
They have a long coat that requires brushing every few days to get rid of loose hair. Poodles shed a lot, so if you’re looking for minimal shedding, this breed may not be the best option for you.
Collies are very intelligent dogs that can live in almost any environment or lifestyle with ease. However, they tend to shed heavily year-round, so your home may become covered in dog hair if you don’t have time to groom them daily or every few days.
Collies have lots of energy, so they need regular exercise and playtime outside for both physical and mental stimulation. They learn fast and their exceptional intelligence is worth mentioning.
Yorkshire Terriers may look small, but they aren’t as fragile as you may think! This breed has a life expectancy of 15 years or more, which makes them an excellent choice for those looking for a long-term companion.
They don’t require much outdoor exercise or playtime and absolutely love cuddling up next to their owners while watching TV or listening to music. Yorkies don’t shed much hair if they’re groomed regularly, but some shedding is common during the spring and fall seasons.
Pomeranians can make great family pets because they love children so much! They are also known for being intelligent dogs that can be easily trained if you have enough time on your hands to spend with them each day.
However, Pomeranians can be nippy if not trained correctly from an early age and may bite if you don’t take care of the situation quickly enough before it gets out of hand.
Poms don’t shed much at all, so there won’t be much hair in your home unless. If you enjoy training and spending much time with your pooch, Pomeranians are among the best dog breeds for first-time owners.
Shih Tzus make great family pets because they are very affectionate towards their pawrents! They aren’t too energetic either, so even though they love playing with their owners, they also love cuddling up next to you when you binge-watch Netflix in your living room.
These little guys are good first-time dogs as they can be trained easily at home or by a professional dog trainer if needed; however, they also make great dogs just the way they are. Shih Tzus shed year-round, but since their fur is short, there won’t be much hair in your house.
Dachshunds are affectionate little dogs that love nothing more than to cuddle up next to you. They are loyal, protective, devoted, and intelligent. Their adorable appearance, combined with playful nature, makes them perfect companions for children.
As long as they’re well socialized from an early age, Dachshunds are generally friendly with other pets as well, which makes them a smart choice for a multi-pet family looking for another canine companion.
Keep in mind that even the easiest dog breeds require love and care. Never lose touch with your doggo with a Petcube camera, which allows communicating and playing with your four-legged friend remotely.
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domain: pet


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The journalist Alfonso Ussia wrote things such as "What does Nandrolone have? / It has lost its rhythm, its tone / although they have moulded him a lovely toupee", in newspaper 'La Razon' on July 14, one day after Argentina lost the World Cup final to Germany.
The tone and opinions expressed in the article entitled "Sonatina" went much further than what could be considered journalistic licence, even taking into account that it was an opinion piece. That at least is the decision made by the provincial court of Barcelona, which punishes 'La Razon', its director, Francisco Marhuenda, and the writer of the article , Alfonso Ussia, to pay 64,590.79 euros to the player Lionel Messi.
The player's company Leo Messi Management made the decision public and stated that the judge explained in his verdict, which confirms the decision made by the Gava courts, that the opinions included in the article are "unnecessary and impertinent for the exposition of the ideas or opinions that the journalist attempts to transmit in the article, and are objectively insulting and offensive despite the dimension of the player's public image and the pluralism, tolerance and open spirit which should reign in a modern society".
The court fixed compensation of nearly 65,000 euros for the damages caused to the player and also decided that the losing parties pay the cost of proceedings. The Argentine player has requested that the full amount be donated to the organisation 'Doctors Without Borders'.


A report in today’s New York Post that former Gov. Eliot Spitzer is considering a run for either comptroller or the U.S. Senate was dismissed by political insiders, with one calling it “complete nonsense.”
The Post reported that Spitzer has spoken privately with friends about entering the political arena.
“This is the Post taking advantage of the dog days of summer to sell newspapers,” said one source with close ties to state government.
Another source laughed off the report.
Also from the Post story:
Spitzer has suggested in recent interviews that he’s not interested subjecting his family to the rigors of another campaign – although he has seemed to stop short of ruling it out.
“If by politics you mean running for office again, I’ve a hard time seeing politics as a career. I wouldn’t want to put my family through the agony,” he told Vanity Fair magazine in its July issue.
“But that doesn’t mean I can’t participate somehow in the public debate about the issues.”


Research and Applications
Sikorski, Wojciech (editor)
Acoustic emission (AE) is a phenomenon in which elastic or stress waves are emitted from rapid, localized change of strain energy in material. The practical application of the AE first emerged in the 1950's, but only in the last 20 years the science, technology and applications of AE have progressed significantly. Currently AE has become one of the most important non-destructive testing techniques. This interdisciplinary book consists of nine chapters, which is a proof of the fact that the AE method is continuously and intensively developing and widely applied in: on-line monitoring of civil-engineering structures (e.g. highway bridges, skyscrapers, dams etc.), fatigue cracks detection and location in pressure vessels and pipelines, damage assessment in fibre-reinforced polymer-matrix composites, monitoring welding applications and corrosion processes, bearing condition diagnostics, partial discharge sources detection and location in power transformers and generators, monitoring the drying process of materials, quality evaluation of fruits and vegetables and in otoacoustic emission analysis.
KeywordsAcoustic & sound engineering
Publication date and place2013
Other technologies & applied sciences


Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu requested that the "Greater Jerusalem Law" not be brought for a vote on Sunday, and the discussion on it delayed.
A senior Jerusalem source said the discussion and vote are being delayed in order to hold "diplomatic preparations" with the American government. However, reports on Friday said the Trump administration will not oppose the law.
The law, if passed, would expand the municipal borders of Jerusalem to include the city of Maaleh Adumim to the east, which is currently home to nearly 38,000 Israelis. In addition, the town of Givat Zeev to the northwest, the city of Beitar Illit to the south, the town of Efrat, and other communities in Gush Etzion would all be incorporated into Jerusalem.
It would not, however, officially annex these areas to Israel.
According to Transportation Minister Yisrael Katz (Likud), the plan would add some 150,000 Jews to the city, increasing the total population to over one million.
At present, Jerusalem is home to nearly 900,000 people, including 540,000 Jews and 330,000 Arabs. Expanding the city’s limits would increase the Jewish population to 670,000, shifting the demographic balance from 61.1% Jewish and 37.3% Arab to 67% Jewish and 32% Arab.


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Stroke and Neurological Rehabilitation
If you have sustained an injury to the nervous system or have a progressive neurologic disease, , you may be experiencing a number of symptoms, such as weakness, muscle stiffness or pain, problems with balance, memory and thinking issues, and speech and language problems. We understand that these symptoms make it difficult to live as fully as you want. We target the complex needs of patients diagnosed with:
● Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
● Parkinson's Disease
● Spinal Cord Injury
● Cerebral Palsy
● Traumatic Brain Injury
● Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
● Stroke Rehabilitation
● Brain Tumors
● Other neurologic conditions
At Weill Cornell Medicine, we use a holistic approach to helping our patients regain as much of their functional abilities as possible. Through our personalized and advanced stroke and neurological rehabilitation care, we will help you return to your daily routines and improve your quality of life.
Why Choose Weill Cornell Medicine?
Convenient, individualized care: The experts at our stroke and neurological rehabilitation center work closely with each patient to develop a tailored treatment plan. Treatment plans are based on your individual needs and goals, as well as a thorough review of your prior medical, neurological and rehabilitation therapy histories.
As a patient, you will enjoy world-class care at our state-of-the-art facility in New York City.
Focus on empowering our patients: We are passionate about educating our patients. We empower you with information, exercises and other tools so that you can manage and improve your overall health, as well as make confident decisions about your care.
Multidisciplinary care from leading experts: When you choose Weill Cornell Medicine, you have access to a network of doctors and specialists. Your rehabilitation medicine specialist will consult with experts in neurology, psychology and other medical professionals, as needed.
We also work closely with physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech-language pathology staff at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, one of the top hospital systems in New York City and the U.S., to coordinate stroke and neurological rehabilitation therapy and achieve the best possible outcome.
Conditions We Treat
The stroke and neurological rehabilitation experts at Weill Cornell Medicine help patients who have been affected by a neurological condition. These include:
○ Ischemic stroke: Occurs when an obstruction (blood clot) cuts off the blood supply to the brain; ischemic strokes make up nearly 90% of all stroke cases.
○ Transient ischemic attack (TIA): Often called a “mini stroke” occurs as a result of a temporary blood clot that cuts off blood supply to the brain.
Coordinated, Multidisciplinary Stroke and Neurological Rehabilitation Care
There are many approaches to stroke and neurological rehabilitation. Your rehabilitation plan will depend on the part of the body or type of ability affected. At Weill Cornell Medicine, our team offers the most advanced and comprehensive treatments available, including:
● Specialized therapy programs: Specialized therapies, such as physical therapy (PT), can help improve your muscle strength and coordination, relieve muscle tension and help you regain range of motion. Occupational therapy (OT) and speech therapy can help you with lost cognitive abilities, such as memory, problem-solving and social skills. You might also need Speech-Language therapy to address aphasia, dysarthria, or other speech problems or difficulties with swallowing. Learn more about physical, occupational and speech and language therapies.
● Medication therapy: Medications might be prescribed to improve alertness, agitation or movement, as well as manage pain or depression.
● Assistive devices: We can help you learn to use an assistive device, such as a walker, cane, wheelchair or leg brace while you regain your mobility or relearn to walk.
● Spasticity treatments: Certain treatments help relieve muscle tension and improve mobility, including botulinum toxin (Botox) and baclofen pump treatments.
● Stroke prevention: Our expert stroke rehabilitation therapists focus not only on your rehabilitation but on preventing future strokes through diet and lifestyle changes.
● Integrative support: Integrating evidence-based, complementary and alternative treatments with the treatments you receive from your neurologist may help relieve many of the symptoms associated with a stroke or other neurological conditions. The Weill Cornell Medicine Integrative Health and Wellbeing Program offers acupuncture, massage therapy, yoga, mindfulness coaching and meditation.
● At-Home Therapies: Weill Cornell Medicine is pleased to begin offering Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS), a novel home-based non-invasive brain stimulation program that will help enhance day to day functions including talking, walking, and moving both your arms and legs. tDCS is a treatment that may help to improve responsiveness to physical, occupation and speech therapy.
This program is designed to provide rehabilitation in the comfort of your own home. Our specially trained therapists will apply the stimulation device to your head and deliver therapy that is focused on repetitive movements that are specific to everyday activities, such as reaching to open a door, walking throughout your home, or speaking aloud.
If you are interested in the program, you will be assessed by a rehabilitation medicine physician who will determine which therapies you may benefit from receiving. They will also determine which area of your brain is suitable for stimulation, based on your injury location and current evidence-based treatment paradigms.
Make an Appointment
Whether you visit us virtually through a video visit or you see us in person, you can be assured that we will deliver the highest standards of care with compassion.
Meet Our Physicians
The physicians at the Weill Cornell Department of Rehabilitation Medicine offer patients the highest level of safety and care. As a top-ranked academic medical center, you have access to our extensive network of specialists who provide seamless care throughout your treatment — to promote long-term physical and mental health.

domain: health


You have searched for London Marathon
LAST UPDATED : Jun 26, 2017, 09.20PM IST
- London Marathon runner carried over line by fellow athlete
A runner who carried an exhausted fellow athlete over the London Marathon finishing line says helping him to the end was more important than the race time. Matthew Rees encountered the staggering racer during final stretch in front of Buckingham Palace.


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The performing arts are an integral part of education, which includes dance, music, and theater. Many institutions and schools have discovered the importance of performing arts in the lives of their students, making art a part of their curriculum.
While it provides a unique environment for children to express, capture their passions and emotions, it also encourages creativity, thinking, exploration of new ideas, and most importantly, bringing joy into every part of their life. You can now also join adult performing arts company in West Midlands, UK.
The best drama schools allow students to study art from day one. As students who come from different parts of the country, they contribute to the arts of their culture, which in turn allows them to broaden their perspectives in different traditions from all parts of the world. This is a challenge and plays an important role in its development.
Let's take a look at the benefits of performing arts and how important their presence is in the lives of our children.
1. Earn the trust
Improvisation is one important aspect of performing arts. If you think outside the box, you can do things differently. Confidence in their ideas and skills is part of self-confidence. In addition, increasing self-confidence in school, college, career, and even at work is very important.
2. There is no limit to your imagination
The performing arts improvise students to be creative. They can do it with creative ideas. New ways of learning through imagination are more important than acquiring knowledge alone.
3. Empathy and increased tolerance
When people from different cultures work closely with you to achieve the best quality of service, you will behave better and show compassion and build better tolerance. Understanding the character, the role of different actors from different cultures and backgrounds increases empathy.

domain: artistic


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And right up there on the FF list—weight loss. Sure, slow and steady may win the race, but who wants to plod along like a tortoise, especially when a warm weather getaway is right around the corner? Add these super weight loss foods to your day to get your weight-loss goals on hyperspeed. All of them have been scientifically proven to fry flab in 6 weeks or less! Tighten your seatbelt—in fact, you'll soon be tightening every belt!
"A study by David Jenkins, MD, PhD—the University of Toronto pioneer in low-glycemic eating — demonstrates that eating small portions at frequent intervals is good for your health in a number of remarkable ways. Within the study, they found that people who ate every three hours reduced their blood cholesterol by over 15% and their blood insulin by almost 28%. That's key, because in addition to regulating your blood sugar level, insulin plays a pivotal role in fat metabolism, inflammation and the progression to metabolic syndrome. When your body produces less insulin, you're much less likely to convert dietary calories into body fat.
Fermented foods: These enhance the function of good bacteria while inhibiting the growth of bad bacteria. Sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir, yogurt, tempeh, and miso all contain good amounts of probiotics, which help to increase good bacteria. Researchers have studied kimchi widely, and study results suggest that it has anti-obesity effects. Similarly, studies have shown that kefir may help to promote weight loss in overweight women.
"The American Heart Association recommends that men eat less than 36 grams of added sugar and that women consume less than 24 grams. However, for optimal weight loss, I tell my male clients to consume less than 20 grams of sugar per day and I tell the women to consume less than 15 grams. The easiest way to cut back on the sweet stuff is by consuming less sugary drinks and dressings. Cut the sugar, lose the fat, regain your health and life." — Dr. Sean M. Wells, DPT, PT, OCS, ATC/L, CSCS

domain: food


Two weeks into the COVID-19 (née coronavirus) pandemic and its attendant doldrums, I noticed some A-list singers were performing via Instagram from the discomfort of their homes. Chris Martin and John Legend were among the first to sign up to the One World: Together At Home initiative in mid-March, and more followed until it became the 100-artist global streaming event, dubbed the ‘Living Room Live Aid’, on 18 April.
Here was proof that lockdown was just as testing for everyone, regardless of wealth and status. Of course, confinement in a sprawling LA palace is somewhat easier than house arrest in a downtown apartment, but I couldn’t ignore the sense that we were all in this together somehow.
Full article here


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If you’ve ever considered internet dating someone out of another nation, the chances are excellent that the https://norbertaccountants.co.uk/weddings-nowadays-possess-a-lot-of-different-tendencies idea excites and affaire you. Of course, who isn’t going to want to experience a different traditions and get to know an entirely new group of people? But , just like any type of romance, dating far away single spanish women could be a lot of function. You’ll likely end up being navigating differences in social norms and customs, and even personal ones.
Cultural differences can present a challenge, nevertheless they don’t have to certainly be a barrier. As an example, in France and Philippines, people might be direct and say what they mean without worrying about hurting other’s feelings — as opposed to in america where becoming overly courteous is often the rule during. In addition , Tourists are taught that they have many options, this means you will be difficult to settle on one person when there are numerous other “fish in the sea” to choose from. This could be seen in just how women and men strategy a date or possibly a first hug.
In North Korea, where folks are strictly monitored by the government, dating is almost impossible. However , some couples have been seen to meet in secret, and just spending time with each other is a big deal for the people there. In Japan, individuals are expected to be a little more formal when they are online dating, which can make it tough for some couples. But , there are some folks that embrace the more structured internet dating rules and find them to become very interesting.
With regards to flirting with somebody from another country, do not focus excessive on the vocabulary and customs and instead, focus on those things you have in accordance. This will allow one to build a strong foundation on what to move forward with the romance. For example , when your partner were raised celebrating Halloween in a really different approach than you did, sharing this kind of tradition with them can present you with both a feeling of nostalgia.
As the romance will grow, it will be extremely important to understand what each other’s anticipations are for the future of the relationship. As an example, if your partner is right from Latin America, it’s normal to spend a while “friend zone”ing your love fascination before moving forward to a even more romantic relationship. This is usually a difficult transition for a few people, especially if it feels just like you’re just wasting time.
Sooner or later, you’ll need to evaluate if you want to proceed to the other peoples country or perhaps if long is what will work for you. This is a significant decision that can be extremely emotional, nonetheless it’s also a chance for you to grow your relationship even more and get a truly specific love storyline to tell.
In the end, falling in love with somebody from various country is an extremely rewarding experience. With a tiny bit of planning and communication, you may make the leap and find the happily-ever-after.

domain: sociology


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Two New Bills Could Lower Wyoming Minimum Hunting Age
There's discussion circulating two new Wyoming house bills that could potentially lower the minimum hunting age in the state.
Current Wyoming law requires hunters to be a minimum of 12 years old, as is the case with most states. But new legislation, House Bill 84 and House Bill 115, if passed, could alter Wyoming State Statute 23-2-102, which doesn't allow for anyone younger than the age of 12 to hunt big game. The new legislation would allow for two exceptions permitting younger hunters'. This, according to The Sheridan Press.
Rep. Cyrus Western (R-Sheridan) is sponsoring House Bill 84 and had this to say on the topic:
I think both merit discussion...As long as kids have an adult with them, and they’ve gone through hunter safety protocols, that’s what is important...Unfortunately, the age of 12 is clearly defined in state statute, and there was no work around. My bill just gives the (Wyoming) Game and Fish Commission the ability to grant exceptions.
Western also mentioned that one child with terminal cancer that was not permitted the opportunity to hunt despite her request being made through the Make-A-Wish Foundation due to the fact that she was under the age of 12.
House Bill 115 is proposed by Rep. Jerry Paxton (R-Encampment). The bill would allow 11 year-olds to hunt as long as they turn 12 within the calendar year. Paxton spoke toward his bill:
The purpose of it is, if you have a December birthday like I do, you automatically miss out on a year of hunting as opposed to someone who is born in January...This just evens the playing field so kids with late birthdays can have the same opportunities as those with birthdays earlier in the year.
Currently, House Bill 115 has yet to be introduced, while House Bill 84 has moved past the floor of the House to the House Travel, Recreation, Wildlife and Cultural Resources Committee.
The Most Underrated Restaurants In Cheyenne

domain: politics


Thank you, Tangipahoa Parish Justice of the Peace Keith Bardwell, for perpetuating the Great State of Louisiana's tarnished image as idiots and bigots and fertile home for backward thinking. When you refused to marry an interracial couple, you revealed yourself to be the epitome of what is wrong of our state. And now, you announce "It's kind of hard to apologize for something that really and truly down in your heart you don't feel you've done wrong. I don't regret what I did and if it ever came up again, I'd have to do the same thing" and "I stand by my decision and it is my right not to marry an interracial couple."
Governor Jindal says it is a clear violation of constitutional rights and is calling for an investigation. Let's hope it is not politics as usual in this state and you are removed from your elected position, Mr. Bardwell.
Shame on you and anyone small enough to agree.


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Applying for a mortgage is a very common procedure when it comes to buying a property in Mallorca. But it is also a complex operation not without risks, which is why we advise acting cautiously and requesting information from a qualified professional. You should carefully study the details of your loan (the law allows a period of 3 days in which to do so) and very importantly, always use a trustworthy solicitor who can provide legal security for the important step you are about to take.
Currently it is very easy to be approved for a mortgage in Mallorca if you have savings and certain employment security, however it is very important to negotiate intelligently and carefully with financial entities who offer their mortgage services, which is why it is essential to prepare a dossier with all of the documentation which the bank will ask for if they decide to study your mortgage request process (monthly salary or other deposits, savings, debts, equity…). That is to say, when it comes to applying for a mortgage in order to buy a property in Mallorca you must be able to show that you won’t have issues making the repayments.
In reality, every mortgage can be a minefield, with noticeable differences in regard to the rates of interest, fees, related products (insurance, cards, other associated services…) and especially, the daunting small print in the contract, which we must examine with great attention to detail and with professional guidance if necessary, in order to avoid unpleasant surprises in the future.
It’s important not to pay too much attention to the interest rate on mortgages, as at times they can lead to confusion because, although they might be lower than other mortgages, they can be linked to a series of collateral charges (life or home insurance, pension plans, direct debits, preferential treatment for the use of credit cards by banks…) which can drastically affect the final cost left to pay, without forgetting the setting up charges (don’t forget that it’s not just the buyer who has to pay them) and the notary costs, depreciation policies or for premature cancellations, commissions…etc. It is also worth taking your time to read through the mortgage contract in order to detect (and report if necessary) the presence of possible unjustified clauses (such as the typical Spanish “revision clauses”) and study the time limit for the mortgage and try to find a balance between the number of instalments and the monthly payment to be made.
To summarise, you must keep in mind that a mortgage is a tool which is at your disposal so that you can fulfil a dream which ultimately can result in buying a property in Mallorca that you love and not to just make the bank a profit. Which is why, if there’s a cheaper mortgage product on the market which offers the opportunity to change mortgages, if once you made your calculations you come to the conclusion that it is worth it to do so, there’s no reason for you to be throwing your money away…change banks and mortgages with no problem. And don’t forget that for any query regarding the application for a mortgage to buy your property in Mallorca, you can come to Pollentia Properties; our professionals can guide you through everything so that you can choose the mortgage which is best suited to your interests and resources.
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Too Long; Didn't Read
The Hunger Games series is the reason for the popularity of the Dystopian Triologies. The series is about the revolution and the circle of revolution. People were furious and sick of the ruler class. They wanted to be a ruler, to show that if they can be violent while slaving, they could do much more while ruling. But people need to release their anger healthily. It might be the most stupid idea of the human World War after the First World War, but, again, the second World War happened.


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Needs of ‘Whole Child’ May Factor in ESEA Renewal is the title of an article that appeared in Ed Week today. It reported on a Senate Hearing:
And at a hearing of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee last week, lawmakers agreed that the idea of educating “the whole child” encompasses a wide range of support services, which advocates are hoping could be reflected in the rewrite of the ESEA.
Those include dental and mental health, as well as programs aimed at providing prekindergarten and library services, summer and after-school enrichment, mentoring, college counseling, and increased parent and community involvement. The whole-child concept can also refer to making sure schools attend to students’ nonacademic interests, through programs such as the arts and physical education.
That’s great news, though the sense I get from the article is that the speakers’ perspective on the issue was more of providing these kinds of services “to” instead of engaging “with” parents and others to identify the best ways to get these kinds of services provided.


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Experts Fear Global Wine Industry Lags Dangerously Behind in Embracing Social Media
BY: Elizabeth Hans McCrone SNIPPETS SHARED via wineindustryadvisor.com
I came across this article today, and realized how spot on Monika is about her social media views. A few snippets are here, and the full article link is at the end of this post.
“We have to understand this … that in 25 years, there won’t be people alive who have lived without it.” So predicts Monika Elling, CEO and Founder of Foundations Marketing Group (FMG), a strategic communications and brand building company for the wine and spirits industry.
Elling is referring to social media and other digital communication platforms, citing the critical importance of moving beyond what she calls “retro thinking” to embrace customers where they live in a technologically advanced world.
“They (customers) don’t even think of it as social media,” Elling emphasizes. “They see it as part of their lives, how they gather information. In reality, it’s as much a part of life as is a car (for everyone). We don’t talk about the horse and buggy anymore, right?”
As a noted speaker and author, Elling is sought after for her expertise on social and digital media and their implications for the state of the wine and spirits sector. Her views on these topics are crystal clear.
“Today, everything is visually driven,” Elling observes. “If you don’t have a website that drives your window to the world, you’re left behind. Consumers will see it. It takes a split second to make a decision about your brand – and 80 percent of wineries on a global basis don’t understand this.”
“Today every word has a ripple effect, nothing is said in a vacuum,” Elling warns. “There’s a serious disconnect with understanding how information travels on a brand-building scale. It’s all about where consumers sit. And they are light years ahead on these conversations.”
Elling notes that many “shockingly significant producers” with huge investments in property, winemaking expertise and equipment have “websites that scream of fifteen years ago. And so do their bottle labels,” she adds.
She believes the predicament stems from a type of abstract disengagement with the customer, which she illustrates like this:
“There’s some Baby Boomer guy in the middle of a country (anywhere), sitting on a stunningly beautiful piece of agricultural property with five hundred years of history, making up a label that he thinks a U.S., female, millennial consumer will buy … seriously?”
Her advice, to the industry as a whole, is to develop a business plan that is in alignment on multiple points and strategies, including a communications component that is directed by those with the expertise to handle it.
Well stated Monika! Please see the full article here: wineindustryadvisor.com/2017/09/13/experts-fear-wine-industry-behind-social-media


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Fall & Winter Reads:
Here are some books that I think would be perfect for the upcoming seasons!
- Frozen Fire by Time Bowler
- The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
- If I Stay by Gayle Forman
- Snow Like Ashes by Sara Raasch
- Cruel Beauty by Rosamund Hodge
- The Hollow by Jessica Verday


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The quaint town of Agate is situated on Gran Canaria’s North-West coast, surrounded with magnificent unspoiled landscape and dramatic volcanic backdrops, close to the natural park of Tamadaba. The town centre offers historical buildings, botanical gardens and a few amenities, but the main tourist hub, can be found at Puerto de Las Nieves. Here, you will find a little fishing port beside the black sand beach and pretty little white washed buildings with local restaurants and cafes where you can sample the fresh fish and other regional specialities.The Marina is host to a regular ferry service operating from the port to Tenerife and the trip takes just one hour.View villas in Agaete
Find the ideal villa, one that has everything you could want or need for your dream holiday.
Your new surroundings are waiting to be explored! There’s plenty to see and do in the area.
You'll discover a different side to your destination when you venture further afield.
A regional speciality of Agaete is its goat cheese, which has its own distinctive flavour and smoothness. Freshly caught fish and Canarian wrinkled potatoes are also local to the area.
The largest pine forest in Gran Canaria is here in Agaete. The protected area of Tamadaba Natural Park is situated at the highest altitude of Agaete.
Whilst in Agaete, visit 'el Huerto de las Flores' (The Flower Garden), a botanical garden which can be found in the town centre. Originally a meeting place for poets and meditators, it is now a beauty spot where more than 100 different specia of exotic plants can be found.
The cobbled streets of the old town are home to a few shops and amenities including the casino, cultural centre, town hall and library, Post Office and a pharmacy.
In the main town centre of Agaete, stands the church of Iglesia de la Concepción, just in front of the plaza.
Visiting us from Europe or afar? See our prices in Euros
¿Nos visita desde Europa o el extranjero? Consulte nuestros precios en Euros
Μας επισκέπτεστε από την Ευρώπη ή (από) το εξωτερικό; Δείτε τις τιμές μας σε ευρώ
Você nos visita da Europa ou do exterior? Veja nossos preços em Euros


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Author: Bruce Kraig
Number of Pages: 304
A Rich and Fertile Land investigates the history of food in America, where it comes from and how it has changed over time. From the first Native Americans to modern industrial farmers, people have shaped the North American continent and its climate based on the foods they wanted and the crops and animals they raised. Bruce Kraig looks at the food people have served up from their kitchens or eaten in public dining places throughout American history, as well as considering the impact of technical innovation and industrialization on the creation of modern American food systems. Drawing upon the latest evidence from the fields of science, archaeology and technology, this is a unique and valuable history of the diverse and plentiful food of the United States.

domain: agronomy


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The New Ute Event Center project was created in 2009 when a group of dedicated community volunteers decided to form a non-profit corporation in support of the restoration and renovation of the 1948 Ute Theatre.
Over the past several years, it has been a pleasure to work with dedicated volunteers who have been as passionate as I have been to see the Ute Events Center come together. Without the drive and compassion of volunteers to see a facility such as this come alive, it would not have happened.
As the Interior Designer, I was asked to participate in the project early on with historic research and selection of exterior finishes. During the interior renovations, after speaking with people who either worked there in its early days or participated in events, I learned it was a huge part of Rifle’s Community, bringing families and friends together. I was honored to be able to collaborate with other professionals to bring the UTE back to life.
I came to Rifle for the first time in 1984, raising two boys, working and volunteering in various ways. I moved away from Rifle and lived on the Front Range for ten years, and then returned to Rifle in 2004. I could see the potential for several improvements in the downtown.
The need for a state of the art community events center and performing arts center was foremost on the minds of many, spending countless hours in strategic planning sessions and city council meetings to garner support and funding.
The New Ute Events Center is located in downtown Rifle. That opportunity brings economic and social diversity as well as vitality to the downtown. I believe the UTE will enhance not only Rifle, but Western Colorado.


TAWAU, Jan 15 — A total of 8,555 complaints about high prices of goods were received by the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry (KPDNHEP) from March last year until yesterday.
Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Alexander Nanta Linggi said however, investigations found that the cases occurred only in certain places or were categorised as isolated.
“KPDNHEP eforcement personnel will carry out checks after receiving complaints and take necessary action against the parties involved,” he told reporters after officiating the Keluarga Malaysia sales programme, here, today.
He said consumers should exercise their rights and lodge complaints on unscrupulous trade practices to the authorities.
Meanwhile, Nanta said the ministry was aware of the increase in prices of certain items and would look at the contributing factors.
According to him, the government through KPDNHEP was always looking at strategies to help ease the burden of consumers.
He said these include implementing the Keluarga Malaysia sales programme nationwide that offers a variety of basic goods at prices lower than the market rate.


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Can you substitute cream cheese for butter?Next >>
No, cream cheese is not a better alternative to substitute butter especially in a baking recipe. It will give a dense mixture like a mud-cake or a brownie. You can use margarine or shortening. Lard can also be used as a good alternative. It will help in making flakier pastries.
- Can I use cream cheese instead of butter?
- Is there any substitute for butter in a recipe?


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Ziggity Zoom's Today's Activity for Thursday, October 2nd is:
Special Halloween Activity
Halloween I Spy Learning Place Mat
Print this Place Mat off for Your Kids and let them search and find the Halloween items.
Get Up and Get Moving Activity
Look and Find: BackyardGet Up, Get Moving and Explore!
Kids love hide and seek and scavenger hunts-so print off this look and find sheet and set them loose in your backyard to get moving and exploring their world.
Tip of the Day for Meals
1 Way to Get through Dinner and have more fun with your kids: Play a Game during Dinner
At first it might seem that the dinner table is the absolute worst place to play during dinner. But with kids the goal is to get through dinner without a melt-down, everyone eating some of their food and to spend time together as a family. There is a time for conversational, formal-type dinners, but I do not think that helps to keep your kids, especially young ones, engaged at dinner time. So leave the formalities to your grown up dinner parties and have a little fun with your kids. You will all enjoy dinner time a little more if everyone relaxes a bit. Of course, there is always a place for manners and teaching at every meal, but a little fun makes meals more enjoyable.
- Name Something that Is: Color, Shape, Food grown in ground, on a tree, or any other group or things.
- I Spy: Play the usual I spy game but everyone has to be able to see it from their seats.
- What Is It?- Someone says 2 to 3 clues and each person takes a turn guessing what it is (ex. do animals or foods that are easy for kids to guess).
- Spin a Tale- A parent starts a story about something the kids like and everyone can add to the story or give ideas to help the storyteller finish the story. So you could tell a story about a Princess or Pirate, a Knight or a funny camping trip or anything you can think of.

domain: entertainment


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Ingredients for 6 people
- 1 box Barilla® Pronto® Penne
- 3 cups cold water
- 1 14-ounce package, smoked beef sausage or kielbasa, sliced into coins
- 1 bunch green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 ½ cups BBQ sauce
- In a 12 inch skillet sauté sausage in olive oil for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
- Pour the whole box of pasta into the skillet then pour 3 cups of cold water into the pan ensuring that the water covers the pasta.
- Turn on the burner to high and set your timer to 10 minutes (optional: add ½ teaspoon salt to taste).
- Cook on high, stirring regularly for approximately 8 minutes.
- Add BBQ sauce, bring to a simmer and cook remaining 2 minutes until most of the water and sauce are absorbed.
- Remove skillet from the heat and stir well. Top with onions and serve immediately.


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This is a 2 in 1 game board with Carrom on one side and Ludo on the other side. Carrom board & Ludo are 2 of the most common all season games enjoyed by both adults and kids alike in India and now you can enjoy them in USA too. Both can be played by 2 to 4 people.
Carrom Board: This is kids size small carom board (20 * 20). It is lightweight & durable and can be enjoyed by adults and kids.
Ludo: Ludo is a simplified version of the Ancient Indian game of Pachisi in which each player rolls a dice on their turn. A player may only enter the board when they roll a one or six. Any roll of a six yields a bonus roll. Pieces can be knocked down and sent back to home when another player lands on a space occupied by another piece. The object is to be the first to move all your pieces from the starting corner to your home base.
What is included in the package
1 Board (20 inches by 20 inches) - Carrom on 1 side and Ludo on the other side
1 Set of Plastic Coins
1 Striker - made of plastic
1 Set of Ludo dice & pieces
WARNING: CHOKING HAZARD - Small parts. Not for children under 3 yrs.

domain: hobby


The mission of the American Red Cross of Greater New York is to prevent and elevate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing volunteers.
WHAT: Due to predictions for an above-normal hurricane season and the complexities of COVID-19, the Red Cross is seeking volunteers to support people when disasters strike.
They will need volunteers, with a valid driver’s license to help support emergency shelters by staffing different areas including reception, registration, feeding, dormitory, information collection, and other vital tasks. They're also seeking help from health services associates/supervisors to assess people's health and provide hands-on care.
TO APPLY: Sign up for the info session using the Eventbrite link below:
Oct 26th: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/123242574859
*This is not a New York Cares Project*


With the anticipation of Rukus’ upcoming project, The Hunger 2, as well as his upcoming performance in the African Kings of Comedy Tour which kicks off in Lagos on May 26th, Rukus felt compelled to “leak” one of his favorite “non-commercial” cuts, “Watching The Moon (Stay)” featuring Houston songstress Marium Echo with his Twitter fans.
The track covers the struggles of love, jealousy, trust, and loneliness within the temptation-riddled music industry. Marium Echo who has been compared to greats such as Jill Scott and Chrissette Michelle, croons over the BroadNMarket produced track while Rukus handles the story-telling duties.
After an overwhelming response, despite its niche nature, Rukus will be shooting a video for the track as well. The Hunger 2 is slated for release late May 2012.[audio:https://www.360nobs.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Rukus-feat-Marium-Watching-The-Moon-Stay.mp3|titles=Rukus feat Marium – Watching The Moon (Stay)]
Rukus ft Marium Echo - Watching The Moon (Stay) (6.2 MiB, 364 hits)


Kalashnikov USA announced the official release of the first KUSA shotguns, the KS-12 and KS-12T, slated to hit the U.S. marketplace.
The company said after extensive testing and extended development, the new models are ready and have begun shipping to U.S. dealers. Chambered in 12 gauge, the semi-automatic, AK style, tactical shotguns feature barrel lengths ranging from 16-inches to 18-inches depending on model. The guns ship with one 10-round magazine.
“We have finally reached the point of being more than satisfied with the remarkable quality and reliability of these products,” CEO of Kalashnikov USA, Brian Skinner said in a press release. “These firearms are truly worthy of the Kalashnikov name. We are extremely proud to introduce these to the market, and are confident of their success in the AK arena.”
The follow-up, the KR-9 9mm platform, is scheduled to be released around the end of the summer according to Kalashnikov USA. The KR-9 will include the KUSA 9mm pistol, the KR-9, the KR-9 carbine and the KR-9 short barreled rifle.
““There will be nothing on the market that will be able to rival these 9mm guns in quality, price, or performance,” Bill Silver, VP of sales at KUSA, said in a statement.
The KS-12 series is on its way to dealers nationwide with several reporting price tags just under the $1000 mark.


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Library Publishing Coalition (LPC) Announces Publication of “An Ethical Framework for Library Publishing, Version 1.0”
An Ethical Framework for Library Publishing, Version 1.0. [was] inspired by discussions at the 2017 Library Publishing Forum, the Framework was created by the members of the Ethical Framework for Library Publishing Task Force, with the assistance of many community members who served as peer reviewers and workshop participants, as well as the staff of the Educopia Institute.
The Framework introduces library publishers to important ethical considerations in a variety of areas and provides concrete recommendations for ethical scholarly publishing. As the version number in the title suggests, this is meant to be an evolving document – to be updated and expanded over time.
Version 1.0 (published July 2018) covers publishing practice; accessibility; diversity, equity, and inclusion; privacy and analytics; and academic and intellectual freedom
We would love to hear from the community about how this document is useful to you and how it could be improved – please email email@example.com with feedback and suggestions!
The Framework is released under a Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license, so it can be freely copied, distributed, and built upon.
Direct to Full Text (HTML Version)
Direct to Full Text (PDF Version)
See Also: More Publications From the Library Publishing Coalition
About Gary Price
Gary Price (firstname.lastname@example.org) is a librarian, writer, consultant, and frequent conference speaker based in the Washington D.C. metro area. He earned his MLIS degree from Wayne State University in Detroit. Price has won several awards including the SLA Innovations in Technology Award and Alumnus of the Year from the Wayne St. University Library and Information Science Program. From 2006-2009 he was Director of Online Information Services at Ask.com.

domain: library


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Next Gen Crypto Altcoins, will the game change? Prior superstars, trusted by many, could write narratives about their Near Death Experiences. They are still in the coma room and don’t look like the soft whispering of their hodlers could inject life into them again. The world of crypto is yet young – and of course, many of these projects will fail hard. Though, over the course of the last 6 months, you can observe how a next-generation of cryptocurrencies arose: advanced tech, inbuilt price stabilizing mechanisms and brand new ideas made use of the blockchain to build the base for new coins and tokens, which have much room to grow. Find a [...]
SmartOptions.io was founded in 2017 with an emphasis on trading, trading signals, and all things crypto-related. In 2020 we added Silver and Gold trading articles for our readers.
We focus our attention on providing useful information to the average Crypto trading enthusiast.
Our goal at SmartOptions is to help you avoid scams, find winning trading solutions so you can grow, and make your crypto trading journey both a fun and profitable experience.


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2BR at 761 Harrison Ave
2BR/1BA at 761 Harrison Ave
Harrison Lenox, South End, Boston
Spacious South End apartment with luxury amenities and sleek, modern finishes. Close proximity to bars, restaurants, public transportation, markets, etc. Pet friendly! No fee!
Private landscaped courtyard
Fully-equipped fitness center
Pet grooming room
On-site Zipcar station
Resident Services Coordinator
Garage parking available
The apartment layout is a 2 Bedroom.
Nearby Public Transportation
0.11 mi at Newton Street Station (Washington Street at Newton Street, Boston)
0.60 mi at Massachusetts Avenue Station (Orange) (380 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston)
0.72 mi at Symphony Station (Massachusetts Avenue at Huntington Avenue, Boston)
The Property / Area (South End)
The 761 Harrison Avenue building is located in Harrison Lenox, South End, Boston.
While the South End hasn't been around as long as some of the other
neighborhoods in Boston, it's among Boston's most vibrant
neighborhoods. South End was originally constructed in 1849 on
tidal marshes and now has transformed into one of the most posh
neighborhoods in Boston. So if you're looking to reside in a
neighborhood with a lot of history that still remains vibrant this
might be a good match for you. By filtering for specific amenities,
finding the perfect apartment in the South End is made easy.
As soon as you get into this neighborhood, you know why it's
different than every other in Boston. The streets are lined with
19th century Victorian style housing and you can find parks
seemingly at every corner. In fact, there are 11 residential parks
in this one single neighborhood. Everything from the sidewalks to
the trees are well maintained, clean, and the crime is low in most
of the neighborhood. Streets are lined with some of the best
restaurants in Boston that…
South End Apartments
Coppa and Toro Boston are some of the restaurants in the area. The area has a number of food options, including Beehive Restaurant, Mela Indian Restaurant, and Stella Restaurant. These are located within 764 yards.
This listing has a HopScore of 80.0 and was posted 17 hours ago.
The listing quality and manager score is poor.
Some of the contributing factors to the HopScore are listed below.
Listing is in a popular/mainstream neighborhood
The apartment is a 2 Bedroom unit offered at a monthly price of $3,475. The person posting the listing did not specify that any pets were allowed. It may be the case that pets are ok and the manager simply has not yet filled out all the details. This is a No Fee apartment, meaning the manager or agent should not ask you for a broker fee (there may still be deposits and other move-in fees paid to the landlord).
We have 27 photos of this particular unit, building, and surrounding areas. (761 Harrison Avenue


Apr 02, 2019 | 2 min read
amazee.io and leading Swiss digital agency, Previon Plus worked together to build a custom on-premises hosting solution for their client, SIX, the operator of the infrastructure for the Swiss financial center.
In an effort to modernize their intranet, which stores the vast amount of non-public information required to operate their business, SIX partnered with Previon Plus to move to agile DevOps, leverage better technologies, and redesign the employee digital experience. With Previon Plus’s expertise in digital platforms, they brought amazee.io on board to deliver a secure on-premise hosting solution in SIX’s datacenter that would support the open source technology being implemented for the new intranet. Moving their systems from Sharepoint to Drupal required a high level of consulting services which included change management, training, and high coordination with Previon Plus and SIX’s Corporate Security, Network, Database, and Intranet teams.
Because security is of utmost priority within highly regulated industries such as finance and SIX IT governance required the project to be hosted within their on-premises servers, amazee.io was tasked with not only enabling rapid deployments but also ensuring the highest levels of data protection. Our custom solution leverages Lagoon to provide a cloud-based server for ongoing development, from which staging and production releases are deployed directly into SIX’s datacenter after passing an automated security scan.
This solution enables Previon Plus to ship weekly releases while meeting strict requirements of stability and security. We were able to facilitate additional requirements including personalized content, single sign-on, and advanced search with Solr which could be tested locally because of the containerization, and ultimately launched the platform far ahead of SIX’s expectations — rather than requiring years, we delivered this complex solution in only two months.


When installing Ferdora 28 on my MacBook Pro 2013 the very first issue I encountered was that the on-board WiFi card was not supported so the drivers need to be installed. This actually longer than it should of...
Firstly check that you have Broadcom Adapter in your MacBook Pro using
lspci | grep Broadcom which should show you this
03:00.0 Network controller: Broadcom Limited BCM4360 802.11ac Wireless Network Adapter (rev 03)
[user@localhost Documents]$ lspci | grep Broadcom 03:00.0 Network controller: Broadcom Limited BCM4360 802.11ac Wireless Network Adapter (rev 03) [user@localhost Documents]$
Secondly the laptop needs to be connected to the internet, this can be done using a thunderbolt/USB to ethernet dongle or USB teather your phone.
The third step is to enter these commands
sudo dnf install -y https://download1.rpmfusion.org/nonfree/fedora/rpmfusion-nonfree-release-25.noarch.rpm https://download1.rpmfusion.org/free/fedora/rpmfusion-free-release-25.noarch.rpm sudo dnf install -y broadcom-wl kernel-devel sudo akmods --force --kernel `uname -r` --akmod wl sudo modprobe -a wl
What does this do?
First command installs RPM Fusion. RPM Package Manager (RPM) (originally Red Hat Package Manager) is a package management system and RPM Fusion provides software that the Fedora Project or Red Hat doesn't want to ship.
The broadcom-wl package contains the proprietary driver for Broadcom wireless adapters provided by Broadcom and the function of the kernel-devel package on Fedora is to provide the headers needed to compile modules for the kernel.
Then modprobe loads the new module into the kernal.
The final step is to reboot
sudo reboot. Once you log in you should see your network adapter in the top right had corner


The Active School strategy involves implementing policies and practices that create active schools by increasing opportunities for physical activity throughout the school day including: active transportation to and from school (Safe Routes to School), quality physical education, active classrooms, active recess, and active before/after school day options.
Healthy School Foods:
All healthy eating initiatives focus on the following four goals: increasing access to fruits and vegetables, decreasing access to foods high in sodium, saturated fat, and added sugars. This does not include the school lunch program.
Healthy Eating in the Communities:
Sherburne County will be focusing on Community Gardens during this round of SHIP funding. This is a new strategy for our agency and we are in the begin phase of planning.
Active Living for Communities:
The objective of this strategy is to increase walking and bicycling in the community and school settings. A comprehensive approach through policy, system and environmental changes are known to lead to physical activity behavior changes when done together. Sherburne County is working jointly with Stearns and Wright Counties on a regional approach to this work.
The goal of this strategy is to decrease Minnesotans’ exposure of secondhand smoke in their homes by increasing their access to smoke-free housing options such as apartments and rental properties.
Healthy eating, physical activity, breastfeeding support, and tobacco-free policies are the focus areas of this strategy.
The objective of this strategy is a comprehensive approach using policy, system and environmental changes to improve nutrition and physical activity practices in child care programs, ultimately leading to changes in young children’s eating and activity habits, preferences and behaviors.
Smoke-free Child Care:
The ultimate goal is adoption of a comprehensive smoke-free child care policy for Sherburne County.
Smoke-free Foster Care: The ultimate goal is adoption of a comprehensive smoke-free foster care policy for Sherburne County.
Health Care: The SHIP approach to Clinical-Community Linkages is founded on true collaboration between health care clinics, local public health agencies and community-based organizations, and healthcare systems.


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St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands-We two old salts have gone to sea both ways: in a luxury liner and in a sturdy little sloop. But when talk turns to cruising, we treasure most the sound of wind in the sails and the harpsichord playing of tinkling masts.
Though we respect those who prefer the routines of a floating hotel, we belong to the legions who wouldn`t trade the independence of small sailboats for all the ice sculpture-decked buffets in the big cruise ship world. Happily, there is now a splendid half-way measure-sailing on a Tall Ship, where you experience the feel of salt spray and the play of dolphins at arm`s length without having to fuss with sails, ropes, masts and winches.
Recently, we realized a dream when we went on a four-day cruise of the Sir Francis Drake in the Virgin Islands. We embarked on a mighty schooner of the kind that moved majestically up the Hudson during the Bicentennial celebration.
The three-masted Sir Francis Drake-originally the Gotewind (Divine Wind)- was built in Germany in 1917 to transport copper from Chile to Hamburg. At the age of 71, she was rechristened and refurbished to take 35 passengers. Her home base is the colorful capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands, Charlotte Amalie.
With a dashingly red-shirted crew-New Zealanders, Europeans and native islanders-who tend passengers and sail the ship, and join in nightly parties, you cruise ``up close and personal.`` You may choose to lean back in the sun with a book, dive off the ship into the gentle Caribbean, or snorkel in waters as blue as an Isle of Capri dream.
Learning the ropes
Or maybe you`d like to ``learn the ropes.`` Help hoist the sails, climb a 17-story mast to the crow`s nest, tackle navigation. A Tall Ship is a fine place to start on the elements of sailing. Meanwhile, the shallow draft design of Sir Francis`s keel allows ``calling`` ashore where large cruise ships can`t go.
You`ll snuggle up to the best dive areas, beaches, cove-front bars and shops. On embarkation day everyone is piped aboard to a rousing medley of sea chanties and resounding ``Heave Ho`s.``
Afternoon departure from St. Thomas is followed by a dinner and party aboard. Each morning Capt. Bryan Petley, a lean Kiwi at sea since the age of 13, gives an after-breakfast talk in the salon.
He chats a bit about the ship and makes suggestions for the day`s sail. A flexible chap, Bryan is amenable to passengers` ideas of where to go and what to see.
Depending on time and tides, you`ll probably anchor in good snorkel and scuba grounds at Peter and Norman Islands. You may sail into Road Town, the capital of the British Virgin Islands on Tortola. Or stop off at the small treasure chest that is Jost Van Dyke Island.
Bound for glory
You won`t travel far, and you won`t be conquering new lands. Yet, as those giant sails boom in the wind, you`ll feel like Icarus bound for glory.
Pleasure-boating came to this corner of the Caribbean only about 25 years ago. Since then, cruisers have multiplied like loaves and fishes. There are flotillas of racing yachts, trim and seaworthy and fit to circumnavigate the world. And just as many diminutive arks so square in the water only a guided missile would sink them.
The Virgins are a friendly salt water neighborhood of contrasts: empty islands, luxury resorts, safe anchorages, marinas, ships` stores, good restaurants and isolated shelling beaches.
Often you`re amid whole fleets of sailboats, their owners as sociable as Bingo players. People chug, sail and swim over to investigate your towering vessel.
The Sir Francis Drake, 162 feet long, 22 feet wide, offers a congenial compromise between the posh of a Sovereign of the Seas and the sometimes primitive fittings of small boats. Cabins are slightly larger than a Pullman train compartment. They have upper and lower beds: some full-size doubles, others side-by-side twins.
You have your own private ``loo`` with hot and cold running fresh water, shower, individually controlled air-conditioning, smoke alarms and sprinkler systems. Many passengers, like us, prefer to pull out an air mattress and sleep topside under curtains of falling stars.
The Virgins typically have brief, misty showers. As Bullet, the chief engineer, insisted, ``This rain is very gentle, madame. It will never hurt you.``
In the afternoon you may suddenly be surrounded by towering triple rainbows that slip like quicksilver from the palm of your hand.
After a day exploring sea caves and coral reefs, everyone may shower, change into fresh shorts and run ashore in the ship`s launch. You may be greeted by the plunking of a steel band, the sweet, sad smell of frangipani and a rising moon the size of an observation balloon.
On Tortola, a ship`s prow figurehead of Julius Caesar weighing 7,000 pounds marks the Pusser`s Rum Store & Bar. Everyone in West End hails Caesar and bellies up to the bar for a Pusser`s Painkiller. The secret`s in the rum. Lance Carter, our movie-star handsome First Mate, brought $24 worth of