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Ship: Celebrity Infinity
Ship: Celebrity Eclipse
From $2,399.00 (USD)
A new and exciting way to river cruise and to actively discover well-known and off-the-beaten-path treasures along the Rhine.
From $7,290.00 (USD)
Ship: Crystal Mozart
From $999.00 (USD)
Flavors of Portugal & Spain : 2018 - 7-Night Cruise with 3 Nights Pre-Cruise and 3 Nights Post Cruis
From $4,399.00 (USD)
Ship: ms AmaVida
Flavors of Portugal & SpainAt A GlanceOn our cruises, you will enjoy an extensive lineup of included tours.
From $13,960.00 (USD)
Ship: Crystal Esprit
Enchanting Rhine : 2018 - 7-Night Cruise with 4 Nights Pre-Cruise : Zurich to Amsterdam : ms AmaKris
From $3,729.00 (USD)
Ship: ms AmaKristina
Grand cities blend in perfect harmony with their historic past and progressive future in Cologne and Amsterdam.
From $4,900.00 (USD)
Ship: Silver Whisper
From $2,199.00 (USD)
Ship: ms AmaLea
OVERVIEWCRUISE FROM : Vilshofen to BudapestThose longing for the romance of Old World Europe will get to travel into the very heart of the...
From $2,563.00 (USD)
Your European adventure begins with two nights in Germany's capital, Berlin!
From $5,860.00 (USD)
Ship: Crystal Debussy
Ship: SeaDream I
From $5,209.00 (USD)
Ship: Tapestry II
This river cruise highlighting the best of France is certainly grand!
From $919.00 (USD)
Ship: MSC Preziosa
From $1,999.00 (USD)
From vibrant and history-filled Dublin, across rolling green hills to the dramatic coast, experience all of the charms of Ireland on this magical tour of the Emerald Isle. Live like royalty during an overnight stay on the grounds of a castle.
From $2,648.00 (USD)
Retrace the missionary journey of the Apostle Paul, prolific writer of the New Testament letters. Travel through ancient cities and pastoral landscapes. Enjoy a 3-night cruise of the magical Greek Islands of Mykonos, Patmos and Santorini.
From $2,999.00 (USD)
Discover storybook castles and glittering palaces amidst stunning Alpine vistas as you explore Austria, Germany and Switzerland. Begin in Vienna with a visit to Schoenbrunn Palace.
From $6,298.00 (USD)
You'll spend 15 days exploring some of the world's most spectacular scenery on your guided tour of Norway and Iceland.
From $1,879.00 (USD)
On this Italy escorted tour, you'll travel from Rome to Milan with overnights also in Assisi and Padua. Along the way, you'll visit some of the country's most famous sights, including the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St.
From $3,299.00 (USD)
On your escorted Britain and Ireland tour, you'll see bustling cities and charming small towns as you travel to magnificent palaces, castles, and ancient ruins.
From $1,320.00 (USD)
Tour Type: CostSaverBrochure Type: Europe Costsaver 2018The Italian Lakes take centre stage on this journey through northern Italy.
From $3,650.00 (USD)
Tour Type: Regional ExplorerBrochure Type: Europe & Britain First Class 2018Eastern Europe reveals its colourful side on this elaborate encounter with familiar favourites and lesser known gems like Slovenia's Lake Bled and the charming Polish city of...
From $7,595.00 (USD)
Tour Type: DiscoveryBrochure Type: Europe & Britain First Class 2018It's the A to Z of Europe. Thirteen countries - centuries of culture and history, mesmerising natural landscapes and a feast of flavours on one journey of discovery.
From $2,325.00 (USD)
Tour Type: Country ExplorerBrochure Type: Eastern Mediterranean 2018Cast your mind back over millennia, your footprints following those of Alexander the Great, Aristotle and Plato.
From $1,735.00 (USD)
HighlightsAuthentic Local Experiences: Sip an Irish coffee as you enjoy a casual music session at the Marine Bar in Dungarvan. Local guides will impart historic facts and local lore on walking tours of Dublin's Trinity College, Galway and Waterford.
From $1,865.00 (USD)
HighlightsAuthentic Local ExperiencesExpect an unforgettable evening of music, ceremony, theatre and dance with reserved seats for Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo on July 30 to August 20 departures.
From $2,199.00 (USD)
Enjoy "La Dolce Vita" where it all started on the famous Via Veneto, one of the most famous, elegant and expensive streets of Rome and the site of Federico Fellini's classic 1960 film La Dolce Vita.InclusionsGreat Hotels.
From $3,000.00 (USD)
HighlightsAuthentic Local Experiences: Expect an unforgettable evening of music, ceremony, theatre and dance with reserved seats for Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo on July 28 to August 13 departures.
From $2,935.00 (USD)
HighlightsAuthentic Local Experiences: Expect an unforgettable evening of music, ceremony, theatre and dance with reserved seats for Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo on August 3 to August 17 departures.


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Indulge in the epitome of elegance with our enchanting Pink Stone Long Earrings collection. These exquisite accessories exude sophistication and grace, boasting a harmonious fusion of delicate pink hues and captivating stone accents. Elevate your ensemble with the timeless allure of long earrings that add a touch of glamour to any occasion.
Craftsmanship: Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, our Pink Stone Long Earrings are a testament to superior craftsmanship. Skilled artisans painstakingly handcraft each piece, ensuring impeccable construction and flawless finishing. From the intricate metalwork to the precise setting of the pink stones, every aspect of these earrings reflects our commitment to excellence and quality.
Materials: We source only the finest materials to create our Pink Stone Long Earrings, ensuring both beauty and durability. Each earring features high-quality metals such as sterling silver, rose gold, or brass, chosen for their luxurious shine and lasting quality. Adorned with sparkling pink stones such as rose quartz or pink tourmaline, these earrings exude a captivating charm that is sure to turn heads wherever you go. Whether embellished with intricate filigree or sleek minimalist designs, each piece is designed to enchant and delight.
Design: Our Pink Stone Long Earrings collection offers a diverse range of designs to suit every style and occasion. From classic dangles to contemporary hoops, there is something for every taste and preference. Embrace the timeless elegance of traditional motifs or opt for modern designs with a fresh twist. With their versatility and sophistication, our earrings are the perfect accessory to elevate any ensemble and make a lasting impression.
Versatility: Versatility is key in our Pink Stone Long Earrings collection, allowing you to effortlessly transition from day to night with ease. Pair your earrings with a casual outfit for a touch of everyday glamour, or style them with an elegant evening gown for a formal affair. With their understated elegance and refined beauty, our earrings are the perfect complement to any outfit, adding a touch of sophistication to every occasion.
Durability: Crafted with care and precision, our Pink Stone Long Earrings are designed to withstand the test of time. Each earring undergoes rigorous quality control measures to ensure durability and longevity, so you can enjoy wearing them for years to come. Whether you're attending a wedding, a party, or simply going about your daily routine, our earrings will remain a cherished part of your jewelry collection, always ready to adorn you with their timeless beauty and charm.
Conclusion: Elevate your ensemble with the enchanting allure of our Pink Stone Long Earrings, where sophistication meets timeless elegance. With their exquisite craftsmanship, stunning materials, and versatile design, these earrings are sure to become cherished treasures in your jewelry collection. Discover the perfect pair to complement your style and make a statement with effortless grace and sophistication.

domain: artistic


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Farming and Agriculture Accounting Services
When your office is measured in acres, you have a different view of the world.
When your workspace rolls across fields and pastures, you tend to approach life differently.
When your means of providing for your family is based on getting the most out of every harvest or herd, you don’t have time to mess with a lot of financial paperwork.
But if you don’t stay on top of your numbers, your operation can easily suffer. With margins as slim as they already are, you can’t afford to have a bad year because you failed to budget well, manage your cash flow, or take care of your taxes.
CRS CPA knows how vital farming and agriculture businesses are to our communities. We are based in West Tennessee where farming rules the roost. According to the USDA, Tennessee is blessed with over 77,000 farms covering 10.8 million acres (41% of our state). Thanks to farming businesses like yours, we rank 8th in the nation in number of farms.

domain: agronomy


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The Al-Madinah secondary free school in Derby is set to be closed, amid concerns over the quality of teaching and curriculum.
The Department of Education made the following announcement today:
"The vast majority of free schools are performing well but where we have found failure we have acted swiftly and decisively. We have monitored Al-Madinah very closely since problems came to light last year...
... Based on the current situation, we believe the new Board – which began work last week - needs to focus efforts on the primary school in order to bring about the level of improvement required...
... The Board has accepted our decision to close the secondary school and we have offered our full support in helping pupils to find alternative places before the start of the next academic year.”
More top news
Police are searching for a 12-year-old boy who has been missing for over 24 hours.
Cloud spreading north, bringing rain.
Mainly dry followed by outbreaks of rain and low cloud and mist.

domain: news


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Torremolinos Casa Castilla
Opmerking: Het is de verantwoordelijkheid van de hotelketen en/of de individuele eigendom om de juistheid van de foto's die weergegeven worden te waarborgen. Travellerspoint is niet verantwoordelijk voor eventuele onjuistheden in de foto's.
Located in the center of Torremolinos a few minutes walk from the main attractions of this Andalucian village. You will enjoy a day of shopping in the old town for a walk along the beautiful Costa del Sol.
House Castilla is located just five minutes from the main train stations and several bus stops for those who want to know and enjoy other parts of Andalusia.
In House Castilla our priority is to make your stay relaxing and comfortable experience to experience genuine Andalusian. Our friendly atmosphere and makes us the best choice for families with children, young travelers, groups and schools.
In House reception Castilla offer 24 hours a multilingual team. The rooms are decorated in Andalusian style and with everything you need to make your stay more enjoyable: Comfortable beds, TV in every room and space relaxation ut snapper in the common area.
Castilla House offers:
- Continental breakfast served daily
- Daily cleaning
- Computers for use of our customers
- Fully equipped kitchen sharing
- Living room
- Board games
Our professional team is at your service to ensure a unique stay. A hand to provide tourist information to make your visit a memorable one, feel free to request information without obligation:
- Enjoy a flamenco show
- Discover the local cuisine
- Venture into the nightlife
- Learn the surrounding
Let us make your stay unforgettable
Ben je hier geweest? Schrijf een recensie

domain: travel


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music and videos that hit my blip to yours. you're welcome!
Saturday, August 16, 2014
WEEKEND CATCH UP: slam dunk'd feat chromeo & al-p - no price
slam dunk'd feat chromeo & al-p - no price
discovered in the vaults of legendary producer arthur baker's collection, chromeo and mstrkrft's al-p have joined forces to add vocals and FINALLY finish up this track 35 years later. this is the kind of disco we need back in our lives!


The Zip Co Ltd (ASX: Z1P) share price surged 10.38% yesterday in another massive day for ASX payments shares. Zip shares closed at $6.07 on Wednesday but exploded to $6.70 at market close yesterday afternoon.
Yesterday’s incredible move means that the Zip share price is now up around 31% since 29 June, just over a week ago.
BNPL, Zip shares rocket ever higher
Zip isn’t the only ASX company making moves in the buy now, pay later (BNPL) space. Other ASX payments shares were also driving ASX investors into a frenzy yesterday. Sezzle Inc (ASX: SZL) shares shot up a stupendous 42% just yesterday, whilst Splitit Ltd (ASX: SPT) shares have doubled over the past month.
Zip’s arch-rival Afterpay Ltd (ASX: APT) has also been leaving investors giddy. Fresh from its short-but-sweet capital raising, Afterpay shares were up more than 12% yesterday and hit a share price above $74 in intraday trade. Like Zip, Afterpay is also up around 30% since 29 June. Happy New Financial Year indeed!
BNPL shares have attracted many growth and momentum investors since the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) market low was hit on 23 March this year. On that day, Zip shares bottomed out at $1.05 and Afterpay at $8.01. That means anyone lucky enough to pick up Zip or Afterpay shares on that day would today be looking at a 538% and 826% gain, respectively, on yesterday’s share prices.
Are we in a payments bubble?
It’s hard to see these sorts of share price movements and not think we are now in ‘bubble territory’. Of course, bubbles are usually only completely evident after the inevitable ‘pop’.
So, what do we know right now about ASX payments shares? Yes, they are in a powerful tailwind of shifting consumer preferences. Yes, they are all growing fast (some more than others).
But we don’t know how this sector is going to look in 10 years’ time. Could Zip bulldoze Afterpay? Could Afterpay buy out Openpay Group Ltd (ASX: OPY)? It’s very early days in this space, and right now the market is treating every payment company like they have already achieved domination. I’m sure at least one of the companies named in this article will be a lot larger and a lot more dominant in this field in a decade’s time. But I’m equally certain that not all of them will be.
If you’re absolutely convinced that one of these companies has what it takes to win this game, by all means, continue to invest according to your bullish thesis. But if you’re not sure, perhaps it would be wise to stay on the sidelines and watch this space for now. Missing out on a winner is tough, but losing permanent capital on a failed investment thesis is a lot tougher.
Where to invest $1,000 right now
When investing expert Scott Phillips has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for more than eight years has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*
Scott just revealed what he believes are the five best ASX stocks for investors to buy right now. These stocks are trading at dirt-cheap prices and Scott thinks they are great buys right now.
*Returns as of June 30th
Sebastian Bowen has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. owns shares of ZIPCOLTD FPO. The Motley Fool Australia owns shares of AFTERPAY T FPO. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Sezzle Inc. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.


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Groove Medicine CD by Various Artists, compiled by Ariel Kalma, of warm ambient mixes of world music that can be used for healing, relaxation, stress relief and as yoga music.
With Groove Medicine you can relax and dream awake on a healing cloud of colour, drums, vocals and grooves. Float in a rhythmic dreamscape of tribal inspiration to soothe and accompany you down a river of warm ambient mixes.
Groove Medicine is compiled from well known and upcoming artists in the worldbeat genre. Groove Medicine will call your consciousness through soft, potent, ancient melodies.
Groove Medicine calms the mind & nervous system through a soothing, immersive sound journey and may be effectively used for massage, bodywork, energy work, etc.
Groove Medicine may be used to relax and restore vital energy through emotional association because it has a peaceful effect when played in the background (office, home, surgery).
Groove Medicine has an “endless” quality so it can be played repeatedly (office, home, store) and remain fresh.
Groove Medicine Tracks:
1. Tzarina: Serenity, 6:12
2. Ariel Kalma: Chillout India, 5:28
3. Karunesh: Solitude,7:02
4. Lee Boice: Dreamscape, 8:32
5. Kim Sanders & Friends: Saba Nefes II,4:17
6. Gabrielle Roth & The Mirrors: Shaman’s Prayer
7. Satgyan: Rumors of Desert-7Mix, 7:23
8. Ariel Kalma: Serenity part 2, 5:29
9. Keiya: African Colours,6:48
Total time: 55:57
Enjoy Groove Medicine CD by Various Artists? See below for more world music, healing music, relaxationmusic and yoga music.

domain: health


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Review: Star Wars The Force Unleashed (DS)
Posted 19 Sep 2008 at 04:13 by Mark Lee
|"Without the gripping story arc, the title would be just 'another' space adventure..."
Showing that the Star Wars universe can solely survive on its rich cast of characters and vast universe, The Force Unleashed sees you playing as Darth Vader's newly created apprentice 'Starkiller'. The title then revolves around the idea that you must prove your worth as a Sith apprentice – chiefly by carrying out Vader's every command. Perfect fodder for a game then!
Whenever a new Star Wars title is announced it's always the story that fans look to and surprisingly, The Force Unleashed has an interesting and memorable one. (ED - which, for any Star Wars game post-1980 is likened to a miracle!)
It's when the plot twists half way through that the story hits you and the game finds itself fitting in nicely with the existing Star Wars saga and actually gains a larger significance to the later trilogies events. And believe us, that's a good thing as it proves to be the defining feature that keeps you going until those final credits have rolled. Without the gripping story arc featuring memorable characters which actually influence the story (and your decisions) the title would be just 'another' space adventure. If you don't care for Star Wars you may as well leave now...
Lucas obviously watches 'The Apprentice' too much!
You start the game as Darth Vader and make your way through Kashyyyk beating the fur out of Wookies in search of "something". Feeling like a training level you follow an incredibly linear, set path and repeatedly slash at the touch screen to use the force and redecorate the landscape.
It doesn't take long for you to realise that this is the way every level will play out. Unfortunately, the game guides you on a predetermined path akin to a 2.5D game like we used to see on the PS1. And although it's all in 3D (and you can therefore stroll through the levels at your own pace) the game isn't helped by being terribly blocky. If it was always taking this path, some pre-rendered backdrops would have been nice! Thankfully when things are up close the models always have brilliant attention to detail and the background events (although not always interactive) are a welcome immersion, never affecting the silky smooth framerate.
Battling enemies is all handled via the touch screen with just the D-Pad/face buttons being used as movement and the L/R buttons being used as both running and shielding. As expected you can use your lightsaber, throw enemies or objects around or even use force lightning. It wouldn't be Star Wars without a little force-play now would it?
As if that didn't give you enough scope to dispense of enemies, you can drag one touch icon into another to create a combo. For instance, drag the jump icon into the lightsaber icon and a jumping slash will be performed. The combo system works well, deepens the further you adventure and offers opportunity for advanced fighting mechanics. True mastery of these techniques are also needed to progress past the numerous boss battles encountered. And thankfully, there are plenty of fun battles to fight through. Some quirky events will also rear their head on the touch screen during pivotal moments in the story and they not only work well but bring a nice change of direction to the monotonous hack-and-slash play. We particularly liked guiding a ship in to crash land and merging one-to-one 'saber duels to a touch screen equivalent.
Force powers occupy the bottom screen and can be manipulated to create combos.
Unfortunately for all of these strong mechanics, as we previously mentioned it is the cumbersome level-guiding from one set piece to the next which will disappoint the most. If the story wasn't there or the opportunity to fight some truly excellent enemies at the end of each planet we would have given up on the game just past the hour mark. A good job then that this can be completed in around four hours – which is possibly the perfect time frame for the limited scope of the title.
Lastly, we must mention the presentation. Sadly the title doesn't have the traditional epic Star Wars presentation. Happily the audio side (as expected) is as good as ever yet the biggest let down for us was the lack of speech and use of comic book stills throughout.
If you're looking for a well told story within the Star Wars universe then Force Unleashed is a good title to sink your teeth into. The levels may guide you by the hand and they may be blockier than the entire LEGO Star Wars universe, yet the combat is interesting enough and the touch screen implementations solid enough to warrant a brief time spent in the arms of "Starkiller".
Our final review scores lie below...
- N-Europe Staff Writer
N-Europe Final Verdict
The enjoyable story, decent combat and overall play mechanics are dragged down by linear level design and a lack of graphical effort, making this title stop just short of being a true force to be reckoned with.
Admirably creates an alluring Star Wars atmosphere
Mechanics all work well enough
Levels are all linear!
Blocky graphics galore!
Very short with shallow multiplayer (multicard) battle mode

domain: entertainment


text: TITLE: CRAssociates, Inc., B-282075.2; B-282075.3, March 15, 2000 BNUMBER: B-282075.2; B-282075.3 DATE: March 15, 2000 ********************************************************************** CRAssociates, Inc., B-282075.2; B-282075.3, March 15, 2000 Decision Matter of: CRAssociates, Inc. File: B-282075.2; B-282075.3 Date: March 15, 2000 Devon E. Hewitt, Esq., Steve Y. Kim, Esq., Shaw Pittman, for the protester. Robert S. Ryland, Esq., James S. Hostetler, Esq., and Kathleen A. Buck, Esq., Kirkland & Ellis, for United Payors and United Providers, an intervenor. Terrence J. Tychan and Michael Colvin, Department of Health & Human Services, for the agency. Paul E. Jordan, Esq., and Paul Lieberman, Esq., Office of the General Counsel, GAO, participated in the preparation of the decision. DIGEST Source selection decision is not reasonable where it is based on a misevaluation of the protester's and awardee's proposals in numerous areas, and the agency failed to conduct meaningful discussions with the protester. DECISION CRAssociates, Inc. (CRA) protests the award of a contract to United Payors and United Providers (UP) under request for proposals (RFP) No. 282-99-0001, issued by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for health care services for alien detainees. CRA alleges that HHS misevaluated CRA's and UP's proposals, failed to conduct meaningful discussions with CRA, and unreasonably determined that UP's proposal represented the best value. We sustain the protest. BACKGROUND The Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) is responsible for the care and custody of detained aliens located throughout the United States who are held in INS Service Processing Centers (SPC), Contract Detention Centers (CDC), and state, county, or local correctional facilities or jails. The HHS Division of Immigration Health Services (DIHS) supports the INS mission by providing or arranging appropriate and cost effective health care for the detainees. Primary care at all SPCs and some CDCs is provided by U.S. Public Health Service physicians, pharmacists, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and nurses. Specialized services are provided through a nationwide integrated health care system. The RFP at issue here contemplated the award of a cost-reimbursement plus fixed-fee contract for specified health care services for a period of 5 years. According to the RFP's statement of work (SOW), section C.4, the successful contractor is responsible for four tasks. Task I, "staffing," requires the contractor to provide full-time, part-time, and short-term substitution staffing at SPCs and CDCs. The contractor is responsible for identifying, screening, employing, and paying identified practitioners for ongoing needs and unanticipated circumstances such as a sudden influx of aliens or unforeseen shortages of professional staff. Short-term vacancies are to be filled through contractor-developed local staffing pools to meet same-day replacement requirements. Other replacements and provision of consultants are to be provided within specified periods after DIHS requests. Task II, "on-site medical and support services," requires the provision of services such as psychiatric, dental, radiological, and medical laboratory. Task III, "integrated health care support system," requires the establishment of a comprehensive preferred provider network, claims adjudication, and payment processing system, along with computer support systems. Task IV, "fiscal intermediary," requires the contractor to review and pay claims for medical services rendered to detainees. An estimated $198,884,911 in claims are anticipated over the life of the contract and all offerors were required to include this plug figure in their cost proposals. According to the RFP sect. M.3, the technical evaluation was to be based on the completeness and thoroughness of the technical proposals. Specifically, technical proposals were evaluated under the following factors: (1) technical approach (40 points); (2) understanding the problem (15 points); (3) key personnel (15 points); (4) organizational experience (15 points); and (5) adequacy of program management (15 points). The agency also evaluated whether offerors possessed sufficient cash reserves to accomplish task IV. RFP sect. M.4. For competitive range proposals, the agency also evaluated past performance. Under past performance, the agency was to assess the relative risks associated with each offeror, including those associated with an offeror's likelihood of success in performing the contract requirements. Past performance was to be assigned a narrative rating of "excellent," "good," "none," "marginal," or "poor." RFP sect. M.5. Overall, evaluation of the technical proposals was to receive paramount consideration. Cost was to be evaluated on the basis of cost realism "defined as the offerors' ability to project costs which are reasonable and indicate that the offeror understands the nature and extent of the work to be performed." RFP sect. M.2. Award was to be made to the offeror whose proposal was determined most advantageous to the government. Four offerors including CRA and UP submitted proposals by the initial closing date of December 4, 1998. After review of the initial proposals, the agency determined that CRA's and another proposal should be excluded from the competitive range. CRA filed a protest with our Office challenging this determination, in response to which and the agency took corrective action and included CRA's proposal in the competitive range. The agency conducted two rounds of discussions with each of the three competitive range offerors and required them to completely revise their technical and business proposals before final submission at the end of July 1999. The final evaluation scores of the CRA and UP proposals are as follows: Factor (points) /Offeror UP CRA Technical Approach (40) 34.6 25.2 Understanding Problem (15) 14 11 Key Personnel (15) 7.4 8.8 Organizational Experience (15) 10.3 15 Program Management (15) 13.6 10 Technical Total (100) 79.9  70 Past Performance Good Good Evaluated Cost $252,436,233 [deleted] In his tradeoff memorandum, the chairman of the technical evaluation panel (TEP) recommended award to UP because its proposal was the best technically and therefore afforded the least amount of risk. While CRA's evaluated cost was lower, the TEP chairman concluded that CRA's proposal "did not demonstrate . . . a clear, confident, capability to perform." Tradeoff Memorandum, Oct. 21, 1999 (Tradeoff Memo) para. 2. Based on the TEP chairman's recommendation, the contracting officer, as the source selection authority (SSA), awarded the contract to UP. After receiving notice of the award and a debriefing, CRA filed this protest with our Office, which it supplemented after reviewing the agency report. The agency has stayed contract performance pending our decision. ANALYSIS CRA challenges the evaluation of both its own proposal and that of UP. In this regard, it identifies mistakes in the mathematical scoring of the proposals, instances in which the agency treated the offerors unequally, and a lack of meaningful discussions. CRA also challenges the SSA's award determination on the basis that the cost/technical tradeoff was based on the faulty technical evaluation.  In addition, CRA questions the SSA's rationale for finding that CRA's lower cost did not outweigh UP's perceived technical superiority. In reviewing protests against allegedly improper evaluations, it is not our role to reevaluate proposals. Rather, our Office examines the record to determine whether the agency's judgment was reasonable and in accord with the RFP's stated evaluation criteria. Abt Assocs., Inc., B-237060.2, Feb. 26, 1990, 90-1 CPD para. 223 at 4. In order for our Office to perform a meaningful review of an agency's selection determination, an agency is required to have adequate documentation to support its evaluation of proposals and its selection decision. Opti-Lite Optical, B-281693, Mar. 22, 1999, 99-1 CPD para. 61 at 4. The source selection documentation must include the rationale for any business judgments and tradeoffs made or relied on by the SSA, including benefits associated with additional costs. FAR sect. 15.308. Where, as here, the SSA's selection determination is based on the TEP chairman's recommendation, the underlying evaluation which led to that recommendation must adequately support it. Without adequate support for the technical evaluation, an award determination lacks a reasonable basis. Mechanical Contractors, S.A., B-277916, Oct. 27, 1997, 97-2 CPD para. 121 at 3. Here, the record evidences numerous errors in the technical evaluations, compounded by a lack of meaningful discussions and mathematical errors in scoring the proposals, to CRA's detriment. These errors in turn are compounded by a cost/technical tradeoff rationale that is not properly substantiated. While, as explained below, no one of the individual deficiencies by itself warrants sustaining the protest, taken together, the cumulative effect of these shortcomings calls into question the reasonableness of the evaluation and the resulting award determination. Technical Evaluation Errors In CRA's debriefing, the agency identified 13 areas which constituted weaknesses or deficiencies in CRA's proposal, only two of which were specifically relied upon by the SSA. Neither of these identified deficiencies provides adequate support for the SSA's award selection because one reflects unequal treatment of the two offerors and the other represents a matter on which the SSA appears to have placed undue emphasis.  First, under the "understanding the problem" factor, the evaluators deducted a total of [deleted] points because CRA's contract compliance matrix included food service and housing/hygiene inspections, which were agency responsibilities and not SOW requirements. Tradeoff Memo para. 8. Despite the fact that the entry correctly identified these tasks as agency responsibilities, CRA's decision to include the entry led the evaluators, and the SSA in the Tradeoff Memo, to conclude that this "demonstrates a very poor understanding of what the Government is asking for." Id. However, while UP's contract compliance matrix contains a similar entry, its proposal was not similarly downgraded in the evaluation.  It is a fundamental principle of government procurement that the contracting agency must treat all offerors equally; it must evaluate offers evenhandedly against common requirements and evaluation criteria. U.S. Property Management Serv. Corp., B-278727, Mar. 6, 1998, 98-1 CPD para. 88 at 6. Clearly, the agency failed to adhere to this standard with respect to its evaluation of the two offerors' similar entries here. The agency explains that the matrix entry was simply an example of CRA's lack of understanding and identifies several other matters which ostensibly support the SSA's assessment. Although two of these matters were identified by some evaluators, they were not included in the contemporaneous Tradeoff Memo. While we consider the entire record, including statements and arguments made in response to a protest in determining whether a selection decision is supportable, we accord much greater weight to contemporaneous source selection materials than to judgments, such as the selection official's additional rationales here, made in response to protest contentions. Southwest Marine, Inc.; American Sys. Eng'g Corp., B-265865.3, B-265865.4, Jan. 23, 1996, 96-1 CPD para. 56 at 10; Dyncorp, B-245289, B-245289.2, Dec. 23, 1991, 91-2 CPD para. 575 at 7 n.13. This reflects our concern that reevaluations and redeterminations prepared in the heat of an adversarial process may not represent the fair and considered judgment of the agency, which is a prerequisite of a rational evaluation and source selection process. Boeing Sikorsky Aircraft Support, B-277263.2, B-277263.3, Sept. 29, 1997, 97-2 CPD para. 91 at 15. Here, in our view, the contemporaneous record evidences that the agency inappropriately relied on CRA's compliance matrix entry as a basis to downgrade CRA's understanding of the requirement, and the post-protest augmentation and explanation by the agency do not establish otherwise. The other technical deficiency specified by the SSA in the Tradeoff Memo concerned CRA's [deleted]. Tradeoff Memo para. 6. The Tradeoff Memo explains at some length why the evaluators were not convinced that CRA's [deleted]. While we find nothing inherently improper in the agency's assessment of this aspect of CRA's proposal, the record suggests that the SSA placed undue emphasis upon it. As noted by CRA, only one of five evaluators expressed concern with CRA's [deleted]. Protester's Comments at 18. Another evaluator commented favorably on CRA's realistic methods for staffing and the fact that CRA had proposed [deleted], while another observed that CRA had acknowledged [deleted]. Id. Further, as observed by the protester, UP proposed [deleted]. Lack of Meaningful Discussions In discussions, an agency "shall . . . indicate to, or discuss with, each offeror still being considered for award, significant weaknesses, deficiencies, and other aspects of its proposal (such as cost, price, technical approach, past performance, and terms and conditions) that could, in the opinion of the contracting officer, be altered or explained to enhance materially the proposal's potential for award." FAR sect. 15.306(d)(3). It is a fundamental precept of negotiated procurement that discussions, when conducted, must be meaningful and must not prejudicially mislead offerors. Cotton & Co., LLP, B-282808, Aug. 30, 1999, 99-2 CPD para. 48 at 6. SRS Techs., B-254425.2, Sept. 14, 1994, 94-2 CPD para. 125 at 6. While not relied upon in the Tradeoff Memo, the agency identified two other areas as deficiencies at the debriefing. The first concerned CRA's failure to identify [deleted]. The second concerned its proposal to designate [deleted]. CRA's initial, revised, and final proposals addressed these matters in the same fashion, yet neither deficiency was discussed with the protester. While the agency argues that the [deleted] matters were the subject of questions and answers, we could not find any reference to the matters in the discussions record.  Further, while the agency argues that [deleted] changed in the final proposal, in fact, CRA's [deleted] clearly described its plan to [deleted]. The agency could have raised both matters in its final discussions held on July 19, but did not. While these negative evaluations were not specifically relied upon in the SSA's tradeoff, we cannot conclude that they did not have an impact on CRA's overall rating. Had the agency pointed out these matters, CRA could have added additional information and either changed the staff coordinator's designation or furnished additional information to convince the agency that the additional responsibility would not adversely affect the employee's ability to perform normal duties. Discussions cannot be meaningful where, as here, the agency fails to advise the offeror, in some way, of material proposal deficiencies. CitiWest Properties, Inc., B-274689.4, Nov. 26, 1997, 98-1 CPD para. 3 at 5; Price Waterhouse, B-254492.2, Feb. 16, 1994, 94-1 CPD para. 168 at 9. Mathematical Errors In its comments on the agency report, CRA observed that the agency had not accurately totaled the evaluation scores for CRA's or UP's proposals. Specifically, CRA identified an additional 2 points to which it was entitled and 2 points to which it is clear from the record that UP was not entitled. Protester's Comments at 9-10. When these points are added to CRA's evaluation score, it increases to 72 points and when deducted from UP's evaluation score, it drops to 78. The agency maintains the difference in points would have no effect on its award determination because it was based on the "strengths and weaknesses of the proposals and the reasonableness of the costs proposed." Supplemental Agency Report, Jan. 31, 2000, at 3. While this may be true, the fact remains that the assessment of strengths and weaknesses took into account an evaluation with a larger point spread than that actually reflected in the evaluation. Further, if additional adjustments are made for the evaluation errors and discussion issues addressed above, the point spread could easily be smaller still. For example, based on the contract compliance matrix point deficiency, CRA's proposal lost 2 total points. Either adding these to CRA's total or deducting them from UP's total would reduce the technical point difference to only 4 points. In view of the significant cost difference between the proposals (approximately 23 percent), the smaller point difference in technical merit raises doubt as to whether the technical differences are sufficient to support the SSA's tradeoff determination. Cost/Technical Tradeoff Rationale In addition to the shortcomings associated with the agency's technical evaluation, there is insufficient support in the record for the SSA's determination that UP's technical superiority outweighed CRA's lower cost. The SSA based his tradeoff on UP's incumbent status, CRA's predicted staff retention difficulties, and the likelihood of increased costs associated with CRA. With regard to UP's technical superiority, the SSA focused primarily on UP's incumbent status. For example, he noted UP's sound plan for recruiting, managing, and delivering medical staff and support; continuation of established working relationships with vendors, providers, and suppliers; currently operating preferred provider network; and existing computer databases of medical and ancillary services. Tradeoff Memo para.para. 7, 9-10. He also found UP's preferred provider network to be the largest of any proposed, and that its diversity and locations would be important if there were a "substantial increase in the level of effort required," such as a "large alien influx." Tradeoff Memo para. 9. Because UP was the incumbent, the SSA had the "utmost confidence" in its performance, noting that "[m]aintaining the current circumstances will reduce both start up effort and [performance] risk." Tradeoff Memo para. 7, 9-10. While an agency may properly recognize an incumbent's experience and additional value in making a tradeoff determination, here, the SSA does not acknowledge the relevant "incumbent" experience of CRA's management team members (including the chief executive officer, chief operating officer, and the executive vice president), who held senior management positions at PHP prior to their forming CRA. Protest at 2 n.1; Protester's Comments at 27. In addition, we note that for 2 years, PHP Healthcare Corporation was the incumbent for this requirement, and it submitted the original proposal. It was not until after PHP declared bankruptcy that UP purchased it, including the incumbent contract, and continued in the procurement process. At the time of the SSA's selection decision, UP had performed the contract for less than 6 months. In view of UP's limited experience in performing the contract and the failure to acknowledge CRA's incumbent connection, it appears that the SSA placed undue reliance on UP's incumbent status. With regard to the greater risk associated with CRA's proposal, the SSA found that CRA's [deleted] were less realistic than UP's [deleted]. Tradeoff Memo para.para. 3, 4-5. He also noted that proposed [deleted] appeared low. Id. para.para. 4-5. Consequently, he anticipated additional costs to the government for [deleted]. Id. para. 5. In his view it would "become necessary . . . to instruct [CRA] to increase [deleted] causing a substantial increase in cost to the Government." Tradeoff Memo para. 11. The SSA also was concerned over CRA's ability to successfully perform the requirement without "substantial intervention" by the agency. Id. Although the record is not entirely clear (and, again, our references to the SSA's findings in fact refer to the Tradeoff Memo, which he did not sign), it appears that the SSA was primarily concerned about CRA's ability to perform at the cost proposed. Before we turn to the question of cost-related risks, we note that, if the SSA had any concern about performance risk not based on cost, this view is not substantiated in this record. In this regard, RFP sect. M.5 provided for the evaluation of risk as follows: The Government will assess the relative risks associated with each offeror. Performance risks are those associated with an offeror's likelihood of success in performing the acquisition requirements as indicated by that offeror's record of past performance. Both CRA and UP were evaluated as "good" with regard to past performance. A "good" rating is defined as "[b]ased on the offeror's performance record, little doubt exists that the offeror will successfully perform the required effort." RFP sect. M.5. Here, the record reflects a favorable evaluation of CRA's past performance, and the SSA has not provided any substantiation for his conclusory statements questioning CRA's ability to successfully perform. We recognize that the agency, and the SSA, could properly base a risk assessment on cost realism. The RFP specifically provided: "If a cost realism analysis is performed, cost realism may be considered by the [SSA] in evaluating performance or schedule risk." RFP sect. L.1.(f)(9). Here, however, a cost evaluation was performed by the cost analyst, who found that CRA's proposed costs were reasonable. Specifically, the cost analyst did not take any exception to CRA's proposed [deleted] rates. On the contrary, in the initial cost evaluation of [deleted], the cost analyst observed that the proposal was based on data [deleted]. CRA Cost Analysis, Apr. 28, 1999, note A. In the final cost analysis, the cost analyst noted that [deleted]. Based on the review of supporting documentation, the analyst found CRA's direct labor costs to be "fair and reasonable." CRA Cost Analysis, Aug. 16, 1999, note A. The cost analyst took no exceptions to the [deleted] the same assessment the analyst had of UP's [deleted]. Id., note B. While the cost analyst approved of CRA's [deleted], the cost analyst who assessed UP's costs found [deleted] inadequate. UP Cost Analysis, Aug. 11, 1999, at 1. She recommended acceptance pending submission of proper support. The lack of stated concerns by the cost team does not bar the SSA from reaching his own--and different--conclusions regarding the realism of CRA's proposed costs and the probable cost of that firm's proposal, so long as those conclusions have a rational basis. ITT Fed. Servs. Int'l Corp., B- 283307.2, Nov. 3, 1999, 99-2 CPD para. 76 at 8. However, the SSA's conclusory findings in the Tradeoff Memo that some CRA rates [deleted] do not in themselves provide a rational basis for disagreeing with the cost analysts. Neither the evaluation record, nor any of the protest submissions provide adequate support for the reasonableness of the SSA's stated concerns and, as a result, his tradeoff decision lacks a rational basis. The SSA's understanding of the relative magnitude of the cost difference between the two proposals also is open to question. In this regard, the proposed cost differential is approximately $10 million. In the agency report, the SSA refers to the difference as accounting for approximately "2 � months of work on a 5-year project" and that this is "easily worth the security and assurance attained by awarding to the clearly more competent and capabl[e] offeror." Agency Report, Contracting Officer's Statement of Fact, at 25. Since this assessment was not included in the original determination, it is entitled to less weight than we would otherwise accord it. Boeing Sikorsky Aircraft Support, supra. However, even if the SSA had included this assessment, we would ascribe it little weight. In this regard, the SSA's assessment ignores that both offerors' cost proposals include the same plug amount of nearly $200 million for claims that the contractor must settle. Since this same amount is present regardless of which contractor is selected, it is more accurate to assess cost differences based on the costs associated with each offeror's unique approach. In this case, the $10 million difference should be assessed in light of UP's $52 million proposal and CRA's $42 million proposal. When this is done the cost difference represents more than 1 year of the 5�-year contract period or some 23 percent, not simply 2 � months. Our Office will not sustain a protest unless the protester demonstrates a reasonable possibility that it was prejudiced by the agency's actions, that is, unless the protester demonstrates that, but for the agency's actions, it would have had a substantial chance of receiving the award. McDonald-Bradley, B-270126, Feb. 8, 1996, 96-1 CPD para. 54 at 3; see Statistica, Inc. v. Christopher, 102 F.3d 1577, 1581 (Fed. Cir. 1996). While the agency argues that the matters identified by CRA would not have affected its source selection, we conclude, particularly in light of the multiple, material errors explained above, that the source selection cannot be viewed as reasonable and that the protester was prejudiced by the agency's actions. RECOMMENDATION We recommend that the agency reopen negotiations with the competitive range offerors, obtain best and final offers, reevaluate the proposals, and make a new, properly documented, award determination.  We also recommend that CRA be reimbursed the reasonable costs of filing and pursuing the protest, including attorneys' fees. 4 C.F.R. sect. 21.8(d)(1) (1999). The protester should submit its certified claim for such costs, detailing the time expended and the costs incurred, directly to the contracting agency within 60 days after receipt of this decision. The protest is sustained. Comptroller General of the United States Notes 1. CRA also argued that the SSA failed to exercise his independent judgment in making his award determination because he did not create a separate source selection document. While Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) sect. 15.308 contemplates a separate source selection document, we do not believe the failure to create one is fatal to an otherwise reasonable selection determination. Here the SSA explains in the agency report that he used his own judgment to determine that award to UP was in the government's best interest. Supplemental Agency Report, Jan. 31, 2000, sect. A. In this regard, he states that he consulted with the TEP chairman and contract specialist, and he reviewed and made suggestions for revisions to the TEP chairman's memorandum. Id. Accordingly, in this decision we will consider the memorandum as essentially the SSA's document. 2. Of the six deficiencies challenged by CRA only two appear to be valid without question: CRA's proposal of computer equipment and its orientation schedule. With regard to the computer equipment, [deleted] CRA Proposal at 2-10. An offeror is responsible for affirmatively demonstrating the merits of its proposal and risks the rejection of its proposal if it fails to do so. DBA Sys., Inc., B-241048, Jan. 15, 1991, 91-1 CPD para. 36 at 4. 3. CRA also argues that it received unequal treatment regarding the evaluation of the availability of its psychiatric services. The SOW required services rendered under Task IIIA (Preferred Provider Networks) to be available from providers within 30 miles of designated detention centers. CRA's compliance with this requirement was the subject of discussions and it lost points in the final evaluation under the "technical approach" factor. [deleted]. 4. To the extent the agency relies on a CRA question regarding the government's request for "specific providers in specific instances," we do not believe this is sufficient evidence that the agency's concerns were communicated to the protester. Discussions Memorandum, Apr. 28, 1999, Q.2, at 4. 5. We have not addressed every error alleged by CRA or the agency's responses thereto. We suggest that the agency ensure that all its concerns are raised in discussions, which will afford the offerors the opportunity to address all matters identified by the agency.

domain: law


text: Drawing inspiration from its namesake, the packaging is imbued with Bat Masterson's life and lore. The bottle's shoulder is reminiscent of 19th-century whiskey flasks, while the small label lets the whiskey's glorious amber hue do the talking. A tribute to Masterson's days as a renowned journalist, the label resembles a clipped-out newspaper column, complete with realistic torn edges. The exterior box features a die-cut window, allowing the label to stand out, yet fit in seamlessly with the newspaper articles printed over the surface. The articles delve into Masterson's life and were custom written in the distinctively verbose turn-of-the-century tone.


Management is an integral part of any industry and hospitality is no exception. A large part of this process used to be carried out manually, or using outdated methods that involve spreadsheets. This was time-consuming and errors would still manage to creep through. Dedicated management systems were hard to come by, and most of them were developed by the large hotels for internal use.
The emergence of cloud based hotel management software opened up a whole new possibility for hoteliers around the world. Private companies began to pop into existence, developing sophisticated management systems that were accessible to any independent hotel. For the first time, small and mid-sized properties were able to utilize the same powerful tools that were once beyond their reach.
Property Management Systems (PMS) began to gain a reputation as a basic necessity in hospitality. There are many reasons why:
- Improved Efficiency –
Repetitive duties such as conducting night audits, assigning housekeeping responsibilities, managing reservations and so on could now be automated with a cloud PMS. This speeds up the various processes and it also decreases the likelihood of having to deal with human errors. Not only does this have a positive effect on the hotel’s revenue, it also reduces the load on staff, allowing them to better focus on the guests.
- Better Distribution –
Distribution is a vital part of a hotel’s business and with the vast magnitude of online platforms available today, hoteliers who don’t maintain a strong online presence could be missing out on these benefits. A good cloud PMS can integrate the property to a channel manager, pushing inventory across multiple OTAs. It can also connect the property to the Global Distribution System (GDS), giving the hotel much better visibility and boosting occupancy.
- Simplified Management –
Updating room inventory across all online platforms including OTAs has always been problematic for hotels. A cloud based hotel management software allows hotels to integrate completely to the channel manager, enabling real-time modification of room inventory across all channels when a booking is made online. 2-way XML connectivity enables the PMS to update availability when reservations are made through offline sources too.
- Extensive Reporting –
Collecting data from each department of the hotel can often be a laborious process. It doesn’t end there – the information needs to be analyzed, numbers need to be verified and discrepancies have to be hunted down. A good cloud PMS offers powerful reporting tools capable of compiling all the information entered into the system and generating dozens of specific, visual reports. This allows managers to spend less time gathering data and more time analyzing it.
According to recent surveys, a large number of hotels continue to use traditional methods to manage their operations. Tradition is hard to break, and owners may be hesitant to stop doing something that hasn’t caused them many problems yet. But it usually only takes a trial on the system for hoteliers to discover the unseen potential that their property has been harboring.


The first Shakespeare film King John was made over a 100 years ago, yet to some people the very idea of putting Shakespeare's plays on to film seems a very suspect one. How can cinema possibly conv...ey the richness and complexity and subtlety of Shakespeare's texts? For some film directors though Shakespeare is the consumate script writer, a playwright whose work lends itself very powerfully and memorably to the big screen. In this programme we'll be looking at some of the notable achievements in the history of Shakespeare on film. Later in the programme we'll be talking to the Polish film maker Roman Polanski about the making of his Macbeth, and we'll also be looking at some scenes from Macbeth recorded in Arizona specially for this programme.


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The early life and times of alfred stieglitz
This is one of alfred stieglitz’s later photographs of the night in the city, most likely new york city it is titled “from the back window” and was taken in 1915 at first glance, the two illuminated signs stick out to the observer first. Through alfred stieglitz's dedicated photographic work of a half century, he tirelessly promoted photography as a fine art, gathering around him first pictorialist and then modernist photographers. In stieglitz: a beginning light, katherine hoffman focused on the early years of alfred stieglitz's (1864-1946) career and his european roots now, she presents a compelling portrait of his life and career from 1915 to 1946, focusing on his american works, issues of identity, and the rise of . Learn about alfred stieglitz: his birthday, what he did before fame, his family life, fun trivia facts, popularity rankings, and more. Despite its momentary impact, stieglitz’s photo, with its clear, unapologetic take on life, lay unnoticed for four years but when he published it on the cover of his magazine camera work, the steerage presented a radical way of thinking about photography, not as a momentary mimic of painting but a wholly formed and unique type of art.
Alfred stieglitz is credited for altering the perception of people towards photography quiz time amazing stories born today childhood & early life born on . The early life and times of alfred stieglitz pages 2 words 1,194 view full essay more essays like this: alfred stieglitz, photo secession group, the steergate. Alfred stieglitz’s early work often balances depictions of soft, ephemeral, natural processes with motifs drawn from american industry alfred stieglitz – untitled – image via s3com camera notes. Alfred stieglitz was a mountainous presence in the landscape of early-20th-century american modernism, as a photographer, as a thinker and as an art dealer — or, as he preferred to see himself .
In the final decades of his life, stieglitz devoted his time chiefly to running his gallery (anderson galleries, 1921–25 the intimate gallery, 1925–29 an american place, 1929–46), and he made photographs less and less frequently as his health and energy declined when he did photograph, he often did so out of the window of his gallery. Alfred stieglitz was an american photographer who was instrumental in establishing photography as an accepted art form in addition to his photography, stieglitz is known for the new york art galleries that he ran in the early part of the 20th century, where he introduced many avant-garde european artists to the us. While the museum has presented a number of exhibitions devoted to this subject over the years, modern times is the largest and most comprehensive since it presented the collection of alfred stieglitz in 1944 the exhibition opens with the achievements of some of the leading figures of “the eight,” including john sloan and george bellows . Alfred stieglitz is undoubtedly one of the most significant contributors to the history of photography the next thirty years of stieglitz’s life was dedicated . The intensity of these early feelings about photography were typical of stieglitz throughout his life his first official photographic recognition came in europe, including a first prize (awarded by p h emerson) for genre work entered in an 1887 competition.
This is an eloquent image that romanticizes a day spent at the races, which at the time was a familiar part of upper-class life alfred stieglitz going to the start. Early life alfred stieglitz, emmeline and katherine, 1898 katherine, or kitty, was born on september 27, 1898 to emmeline and alfred stieglitz in manhattan, new . “alfred stieglitz, photographer, publisher, gallerist, and impresario, made unparalleled contributions to the introduction of modern art in america and gave unequivocal support to young american modernist painters”. Later in his life, alfred stieglitz devoted most of his time managing his many studios that he had for displaying his photos although he was well known for his passion for photography and well respected, he is mostly known for his promotion of photography as art.
The early life and times of alfred stieglitz
Alfred stieglitz is best known these days as an early genius of photography and as the husband of georgia o'keeffe but historians regard stieglitz, who died more than 50 years ago, as far more than that. Alfred stieglitz (1864 – 1946) was an american photographer and promoter of photography as art in the early history of photography he represents pictorialist movement contrary to scientists, artists looked at photography as a creative medium which was complementary and comparable to pain. The steerage alfred stieglitz but as modernism seeped into the cultural ferment in the early 20th century, stieglitz became mesmerized by the growing cacophony . Focus on: alfred stieglitz alfred stieglitz had a tremendous impact on early 20th-century art the quote is from 1942-- a lot of time for stieglitz to .
- Alfred stieglitz (january 1, 1864 – july 13, 1946) was an american photographer and modern art promoter who was instrumental over his fifty-year career in making photography an accepted art form in addition to his photography, stieglitz was known for the new york art galleries that he ran in the early part of the 20th century, where he .
- Alfred stieglitz (january 1, early life and education stieglitz was born in stieglitz used their times apart to concentrate on his photography and promotion .
Biography: few individuals have exerted as strong an influence on twentieth-century american art and culture as the photographer and art dealer alfred stieglitz born in hoboken, new jersey, in 1864 during the civil war, stieglitz lived until 1946. After the early twenties stieglitz's work turned more and more inward and became increasingly personal, pure, and self-contained at times indeed it expresses the imperious and secretive loneliness of genius confronting death. Alfred stieglitz: alfred stieglitz, art dealer, publisher, advocate for the modernist movement in the arts, and, arguably, the most important photographer of his time. The following year, while enrolled at the technische hochschule in berlin, stieglitz was exposed to photography for the first time alfred stieglitz biography continues sponsored.


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Film: A little more conversation
Julie Delpy and Ethan Hawke are great in Before Sunset but they dont half go on, says Cosmo Landesman
Are you a romantic or a realist? Or perhaps you are a romantic realist? Who they? Romantic realists want the magic of love without the mush of romance. When it comes to romantic films, they want the fantasy of love without avoiding the facts of life. In other words, they wake up and smell the coffee, but are happy to go back to sleep and dream ...
Richard Linklater’s Before Sunrise (1995) was the ultimate film for romantic realists. In it, Jesse (Ethan Hawke), a cute young American travelling around Europe meets Celine (Julie Delpy), a beautiful French girl, on a train. He persuades her to leave the train and hang out with him in Vienna. They walk and talk. And talk. And talk. And talk. And talk ... And, after a magical night together, the morning comes and they part with a farewell kiss and a promise to meet up after


text:
Egyptians stuck in Qatar lockdown fly home despite embargo
Egyptian workers stranded in Qatar in the coronavirus lockdown have flown home, a community group said Monday, in the first of 18 repatriation flights that have overcome restrictions under a regional boycott.
The flight with 174 passengers on board left late on Sunday via neutral Oman to comply with Cairo's ban on direct air traffic from Qatar, Egyptian media reported.
It marks rare coordination between Doha and Cairo, which is part of a Saudi-led alliance of four Arab countries enforcing an embargo on Qatar.
Riyadh, along with the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt, cut diplomatic ties with Doha in June 2017, shut their airspace to Qatari aircraft and severed trade and maritime links with the Gulf country.
They accuse Qatar of supporting radical Islamists and being too close to Iran, charges denied by Doha..
"The first Egyptian evacuation flights took off from Qatar... the rest will come in succession," the Egyptian Association in Doha wrote on its Facebook page alongside an image of passengers on the first leg to Oman.
Once in Muscat the group, who were among 300,000 Egyptians living in Qatar, then switched onto an Egyptian aircraft for the flight to Cairo.
Thousands of Qatar's majority-expatriate workforce have lost their jobs as a result of a downturn caused by coronavirus disruption.
Many have been unable to travel home on normal commercial flights which have been disrupted as countries have imposed restrictions on arrivals to contain the virus.
India has so far operated 33 special charter flights to repatriate almost 6,000 of its citizens stranded in Qatar, according to Delhi.
The news site of Egypt's state-run Al-Ahram newspaper reported that the 174-strong group had arrived in Cairo with passengers required to quarantine at home for 14 days.
Last week Cairo's emigration ministry said 18 flights would bring back home 3,000 Egyptians stuck in Qatar.
Sunday's flight followed a rare street protest on May 31 by stranded Egyptians brandishing passports outside their country's unoccupied embassy.
As global recession looms, Qatar's energy production, hospitality and aviation have been particularly hard hit, with top employers like Qatar Airways and Qatar Petroleum warning of major redundancies.
© 2020 AFP


UPDATE, 9:17 PM:
The Mets have signed Bobby Abreu to a minor league deal.
Abreu has been assigned to Triple-A Las Vegas.
The Mets nearly signed 40-year old Bobby Abreu prior to spring training, but he wound up with the Phillies instead. Now that Abreu has failed to make Philadelphia’s roster, the Mets are again interested. Tweets Jon Heyman of CBS Sport:
Abreu didn’t play in the majors in 2013.
There’s no harm in having extra bodies in Triple-A, but there just doesn’t seem to be a need on this team for Bobby Abreu.
Abreu was a poor defender before the end of his prime, and anything he can offer at this point of his career on the offensive side of things really isn’t worth having him as fodder.
In addition to the outfielders who are major league ready, the Mets also have Cesar Puello – a legitimate outfield prospect who should be ready for his major league debut during the second half of the season.


Power to weight ration Bugatti and Ducati could only dream about. A 4 wheel drive monster that goes 0-100 in less than 5 seconds and will cost you tens of thousands less than the new Ferrari 458. This isn’t the newest super car to come over from Europe or Japan, or one of those monsters that Hennessey Performance has created.
This is the Traxxas XO-1. It’s also capable of being driven James Bond style with your iPhone or iTouch. What is it, it’s the newest radio control car that is taking the world by storm. Measuring just 27 inches from read bumper to front and 11.61 inches across, this isn’t your 90’s RC any more. They’ve gone to the gym and used some steroids. Powered by a Traxxas Big Block Brushless (1650 Kv) by Castle this is the fastest RC’s out.
At a price of $1,100 this isn’t cheap either. But what would you expect for something that’ll even put real super cars to shame? The specs are as follow
Length: 27 inches (686mm) Front Track: 11.61 inches (295mm) Rear Track: 11.81 inches (300mm) Center Ground Clearance: 0.59 inches (15mm) Weight: 8.6 lbs (3.9 kg) (w/o batteries)
10.3 lbs (4.67 kg) (with batteries)
Height (overall): 5 inches (127.5mm) Wheelbase: 15.91 inches (404mm) Front Shock Length: 3.27 inches (83mm) Rear Shock Length: 3.39 inches (86mm) Front Tires (pre-glued): Belted Slick Front (4.29″ x 1.7″) Rear Tires (pre-glued): Belted Slick Rear (4.29″ x 2″) Front Wheels: 3.3″ Split-Spoke™ (black-chrome)
with 17mm splined hex
Rear Wheels: 3.3″ Split-Spoke™ (black-chrome)
with 17mm splined hex
Speed Control Type: Castle Mamba Monster Extreme
Motor (electric): Traxxas Big Block Brushless (1650 Kv),
Powered by Castle
Transmission: Single-Speed Overall Drive Ratio: 9.36 (stock, out-of-box) Differential Type: Sealed Hardened Steel Bevel Gear Pitch: Module 1.0 Chassis Structure/Material: 3mm Plate, Dual Plane, 6061-T6 Aluminum Brake Type: Electronic Drive System: Shaft-Driven 4WD Steering: Bellcrank Radio System: TQi™ 2.4GHz Radio System with TQi Docking Base Top Speed: 100+mph Skill Level: 10 Battery Tray Dimensions: 155mm x 50mm x 29mm (adjustable height and length) Included Batteries: Two Traxxas Power Cell LiPo
Batteries (LiPo, 3-Cell 5,000 mAh)
Required Batteries & Charger: 4 “AA” (transmitter)
LiPo Battery Charger
It doesn’t stop there, as there is a long list of after market parts you can buy, including new suspension for it. As of now the site has them as sold out, with a link to be notified when they are available for sale.
If you connect your iPhone to the remote, the fun even gets better.
Traxxas Link collects and records real-time telemetry data as you drive. The Traxxas Link dashboard comes to life showing you speed, battery voltage, RPM, and temperature. The application automatically detects and recognizes Traxxas Link sensors for easy set up and configuration. The dashboard is fully customizable with either dial or digital readout gauges. Up to nine gauges can be displayed at once. Set threshold warnings and log maximums, minimums, or averages. Use the recording function to document your dashboard view, with sound, so that you can keep your eyes on your driving and not miss a single apex. If you forget to record, simply touch Instant Replay anytime to capture the previous minute of fun and unexpected triumphs. The recordings can be named, saved, and shared with others.
Race-proven in the 8-time National Champion Revo, XO-1’s differentials represent the state of the art in power handling and efficiency. Precision silicone gaskets and X-ring seals allow the diffs to be tuned for specific running conditions by varying the viscosity of the fluid inside them. Reinforcing bars within the differentials increase strength to withstand XO-1’s over-the-top power. Differential access for tuning is quick and easy. Just remove the front or rear cover and the entire differential slides right out.
Computer Optimized Aerodynamics
Developed with advanced modeling techniques, XO-1’s stunning form has been shaped by pure function. The front splitter and canards, smooth undertray, rear diffuser and wing work in harmony to harness airflow and convert it to downforce while minimizing drag—critical to achieving 100+mph speeds. XO-1 is the first to deploy a fully developed and functional air-management system in a high-performance radio-control car.
Aggressive Supercar Styling
XO-1’s advanced aerodynamic components are integrated into a unique body developed specifically for high-speed stability and increased downforce, with a powerful, wide-track look. The body is molded in durable 1mm polycarbonate and features a metallic finish available in four colors. The durable, injection-molded rear wing is mounted solidly to transfer downforce to the body and chassis.
Standard and High Downforce Splitters
XO-1 combines extreme high performance with sport driving versatility by including two splitters: the factory-installed standard splitter, and the canard-equipped High-Downforce splitter for 100+mph speed runs. The aggressive canards provide very high downforce to keep XO-1 locked to the pavement. The splitters are constructed of flexible plastic to resist impact damage, and the splitters and canards can be replaced individually in minutes.
Steel-Spline Dual CV Driveshafts
Developed specifically for XO-1, the new SS (steel spline) dual-CV driveshafts are stunning examples of high-strength, low-mass construction and Traxxas’ attention to detail. The splined, nickel-plated shafts slide smoothly as the suspension is compressed, assuring efficient power transfer. The female half-shafts are machined and hardened steel with a durable black-oxide finish. The telescoping shafts handle much greater torque loads than conventional driveshafts. Flexible rubber boots protect the CV joints and splines from dirt and debris.
Heavy-Duty 17mm Hex Hubs
Proven tough by the Brushless Edition E-Maxx, E-Revo, and Summit, Traxxas’ splined 17mm aluminum hex hubs are standard equipment on the XO-1 to make certain its considerable horsepower is transmitted directly to the road. The splined design is extra strong with unsurpassed torque handling to resist twist-out no matter how hard you launch the XO-1 off the line.
Heavy Duty Module 1 Gears
‘Pitch’ refers to a gear’s tooth size—the smaller the number, the bigger the tooth. Electric cars typically use 48 pitch gears; 32 pitch is common for nitro. XO-1’s gear teeth are the largest in the Traxxas line: Module 1, the equivalent of 25.4 pitch. In addition to having larger, more durable teeth, XO-1’s gears are a full 8mm wide to spread drive loads over a greater area to extend wear and increase efficiency. Even the pinion is specialized, made of high-strength steel and developed specifically for the XO-1.
Patent-Pending Cush Drive™
Developed specifically for the XO-1, the patent pending Cush Drive™ absorbs drivetrain shocks with a custom-shaped elastomer damper housed between the spur gear and the drive hub. Under extreme load (such as hard, high-traction acceleration), the elastomer flexes to dissipate shock without interrupting power flow. The result is instant acceleration with no wasted power.
Hard-anodized, Teflon®-Coated GTR Shocks
State of the art in every way, XO-1’s hard-anodized, Teflon®-coated aluminum GTR shocks represent the pinnacle of performance, offering silky smooth damping and a serious factory-works look. Thanks to the extra tough hard-anodized finish, shock performance stays true and consistent for less maintenance and better handling, run after run. Titanium Nitride coated shock shafts slide past X-ring seals for virtually friction-free operation, incredibly responsive suspension action, and extra-long seal life. The durable titanium nitride finish offers durable, smooth, consistent performance.
Speed-Rated Belted Tires
Specially developed for high-speed use, XO-1’s slick tires are the first to be rated for 100+mph. Zero-stretch belting reinforces the soft-compound rubber, and molded inserts support the tread. Black-chrome Split-Spoke wheels set off the 17mm blue-anodized nuts that secure them, and the wheels extra-wide tire mounting area assures 100mph reliability.
Scalable Battery Compartments
XO-1 can accommodate a variety of battery configurations and sizes with its unique, scalable battery compartments and quick-release hold-downs. The compartments’ rear bulkhead can be positioned for 135mm and 155mm pack lengths. The hold-downs can be flipped to hold 23mm and 25mm pack heights. With the optional expansion clips, 38mm to 43mm tall packs can be installed. Removing and installing batteries is easy; just flex the latch open to release the pack, and snap the hold down into the latch to lock it into place.
3mm Aluminum Chassis
XO-1 relies on the proven strength of aluminum plate construction for its chassis. The 3mm 6061 aluminum upper and lower decks are rigid yet lightweight, and the lower plate acts as a heatsink for the power system. The aerodynamic components are fully integrated with the chassis in a combination of art and science that could only come from Traxxas.
Machined Aluminum Motor Mount
For maximum strength and enhanced motor cooling, XO-1 features a new machined-aluminum motor-mounting system. The 8mm thick aluminum resists flex and holds the motor tight under the highest loads. XO-1’s high rpm and torque make proper gear mesh critical, so Traxxas engineers incorporated a unique adjustment screw into the mount to dial in the gear mesh with micro-precision.
Machined Aluminum Shock towers
XO-1 is factory equipped with machined aluminum shock towers to provide stiffness and strength fox maximum control. The rigid shock towers make sure the XO-1’s GTR shocks work efficiently to absorb road imperfections and cornering loads. Vivid blue anodizing highlights the towers against XO-1’s dark-anodized chassis and black parts.
High Strength Machined Aluminum C-Hubs
XO-1’s artfully machined aluminum C-hubs are Traxxas Tough and feature carefully engineered steering and suspension geometry for track-ready performance. The brilliant-blue anodized finish, machined highlights, and the laser-etched TRX logos show off Traxxas’ signature style.
Aluminum Steering Blocks
Precision-machined for total steering accuracy and bulletproof strength, Traxxas Aluminum Steering Blocks deliver razor-sharp handling and precise control at triple-digit speeds. Solid 6061 aluminum construction guarantees road-ready strength and stiffness. The blocks hold heavy-duty 6X12mm bearings selected just for XO-1.
Machined Aluminum Rear Hub Carriers
New Traxxas aluminum stub axle carriers add larger 6x12mm bearings to handle the high-rpm demand of a 100+mph supercar while maintaining the beautiful blue-anodized look of the machined axle carrier.
Ready-To-Race with Two Power Cell LiPo Battery Packs
“100+mph, right out of the box.” That was the goal for XO-1, and Traxxas delivers with everything you need to hit triple digits—including a pair of Power Cell 3S LiPo batteries. Built with custom Traxxas cells and engineered specifically for the high power demands of Traxxas vehicles, Power Cell LiPo packs are fully equipped with oversized discharge tabs, Traxxas High Current connectors, Maxx Cable 12-gauge wire, and standard JST/XH balance plugs for long cycle life, maximum run time, and track-shredding punch. Click here to learn more about Traxxas Power Cell LiPo batteries, the only LiPo packs certified to give you the punch and on-demand power to reach the top speeds your Traxxas model is built to achieve.
Traxxas High-Current Connectors
The XO-1’s brushless system comes equipped with two Traxxas High-Current Connectors. Designed to handle high-current applications, Traxxas Connectors effortlessly funnel the dual battery’s total power to the electronics keeping things running cool and at full capacity. For more info about the Traxxas High-Current Connector click here.
Watertight Receiver Box
XO-1’s receiver is fully enclosed for protection from the elements. The antenna and servo wires route neatly through a special watertight seal, and a custom blue O-ring seals the receiver box to protect the receiver from water. The receiver can be removed for service and aftermarket receivers can be installed without losing the sealing properties of the box. Patent pending.
Digital High-Torque Waterproof Steering Servo
A 100+mph supercar needs a powerful steering servo for responsive performance. The waterproof steering servo (#2075) uses O-ring seals to keep the fun going when things get wet. The Traxxas digital high-torque servo provides precise steering authority and speed for high-speed handling.
Dual-Bellcrank Steering With Integrated Servo Saver
XO-1’s steering bellcranks feature optimized geometry and a cam-type servo-saver to protect the servo’s gears from crash damage without compromising steering precision.
Pro-quality, high-grade, metric hex-drive hardware is used throughout for extra strength, and easy maintenance and repair. The black-oxide rust-resistant finish provides a high tech look and feel.
Rubber-Sealed Ball Bearings
Precision rubber-sealed bearings offer the ultimate in super low-friction performance and maximum protection in dusty environments. They are used in all exposed locations on the truck and are virtually maintenance free.
Heavy Duty 4mm Steel Turnbuckles
Factory fitted, heavy-duty steel turnbuckles allow camber and toe tuning. The XO-1 is completely adjustable right out of the box to fine tune handling agility and high-speed performance. Captured rod ends provide unmatched durability and they simply won’t pop off.


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Medicare's claims database is being opened up for public use, allowing employers, insurers and consumer groups to create report cards on physician and hospital performance. Acting CMS administrator Marilyn Tavenner said the move will lead to greater transparency and accountability in health care and will promote quality and lower costs.
Medicare makes claims data public to encourage comparisons
SmartBrief Job Listings for Health Care
|Senior Research Analyst||
America's Health Insurance Plans (AHIP)
|Manager, Regulatory Affairs||
|Washington DC, DC|
|Senior Counsel - FDA Regulatory Affairs||
|Director, Quality Assurance||
|Provider Relations Manager||
Breakthrough Behavioral, Inc.
|Redwood City, CA|


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Hosted by Clare Jeffery at Cosmic Face Painting & Pampered Delights and ourselves Crazy Jules n Andy Crazy Face Painting we are pleased to announce the 3rd Kent Face Painting Jam to be Held on Tuesday 7th April 2015 at Larkfield Village Hall, New Hythe Lane, Larkfield, Kent ME20 6PU. Refreshments available donation to lunch buffet please for each adult attending. Limited spaces for painty/glittery traders. 4 body painting spaces, Demos through the day. Charity raffle all donations welcome.
We are now taking Paypal pre entry which is discounted to £4 per adult PLUS 1 FREE raffle ticket for guaranteed places so please go to Paypal and pay [email protected]
Entry on the door will be £5 per Adult and £1 per child to cover cost of hall. All proceeds will go to charity. Chosen charities are Macmillian and K9 Rehoming.
The International Face Painting Association is holding their annual conference this year in Newport, South Wales
We are celebrating our 21st Birthday!
Come & Join in the fun and paintiness, Help us turn theis event into the best yet!
More details - http://www.facepaintingassociation.com/events.html
An international, bi-annual event that encourages the collaboration between body painters, models and photographers to create incredible, thought provoking artwork on the human canvas.
The event now in it's 5th year will take place on the 10th and 11th of October 2015. We are proud to be in partnership with the globally renowned Eden Project, providing an exceptional backdrop to the colourful and artistic world of body painting.
On 16th February 2015, we will be attending the Paradise 'zoo project'! This has become the biggest Face and Body painting Jam in the UK. For the sixth year running, the largest gathering of top class body artists spend a day sharing ideas and experimenting with new styles, taking part in competitions and challenges, meeting other painters and not forgetting visiting the big cats and other animals at the Paradise Wildlife Park. www.pwpark.com
More details on www.facadeacademy.co.uk/jam
Face Book Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/215145105330220/
Cameleon Airbrush Drop In Day
Double world champion Matteo Arfanotti is coming to The Face Painting Shop for one day only to give you all the chance to attend his workshop.
Email Jen - [email protected] to book, spaces are limited so get in quick!
Ladies and Gents, we are super excited to be hosting Wiser Oner workshops, on the 13th and 14th of April, Day one is 1 day wildstyle Graffiti £100 - Day two is fine art/optical illusion body painting £100. £50 deposit is to be paid to book your space - the rest payable on the day - Don't pass up this amazing chance to learn from a great artist.
If you book both days the price is : £180.00
Please send your deposit via Paypal to : [email protected] including the date and class you would like to take also add ESSEX to this message. If you have any questions please call us at the shop on 01375768773
We are happy to announce our very first Superstar open day at the shop.
Come along and meet the team, Jennifer, Anna and Maria will also be doing free demos on the day.
Goodie bags for the first 50 through the door & book a workshop recieve 10% off.
Hope to see you all soon
Wednesday 23rd October 2013
In this relaxed informal class you will master the essential techniques required to achieve beautifully layered one stroke roses, pansies, cottage garden flowers and more exotic blooms. We will look at the building blocks for floral one stroke work, practising the basic shapes for petals and foliage before assembling the individual elements in larger eye and cheek, wrist and upper chest or shoulder pieces. We will paint ourselves and then each other, exploring composition and placement for the greatest effect. Double and multi dipping, layering, line work and ‘cutting in’ techniques will also be used to complement our one stroke creations.
Attendees should ideally have some face painting experience (not necessarily professionally) in order to benefit fully from the workshop.
Attendees are welcome to bring a few favourite one strokes, some line work black and white and some brushes, but all of these will be provided, so there is no need if this is not possible. Brierley will also provide one stroke hand-outs to take home. Attendees should wear dark comfortable clothing with short sleeves, or sleeves which can be rolled up.
Brierley Thorpe is a multi-award winning face painter and is the Paintopia 2013 Glitter Artist of the Year. She paints for a wide range of private and corporate events. Her work has featured in Kerrang! Magazine, and she was a featured artist in the summer 2013 issue of Illusion Magazine. Brierley has taught at the London School of Face Painting and runs small classes from her home in east London. She will be instructing at Paintopia 2014 and also at The UK Face and Body Painting Convention 2014. Keep an eye out for part one of Brierley’s one stroke article in the autumn issue of Illusion Magazine.
The Face Painting Shop
1-3 Wharf Road
Stanford Le Hope
Times 10am - 4pm
Cost : £115.00
To book this class please email Brierley at : [email protected]
Spaces are limited to 10 so please book early.
This will be Olga Meleca's first trip to UK,
She will be teaching some of the signature face designs, and the design techniques she employs, that have made her world famous in the field of Face and Body Art.


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Please note that the address for this place is approximate. Upon booking a stay, the rental owner will provide an exact address. Spend 4th of July in San Clemente! Watch the fireworks from the comfort of your private balcony facing the pier. Minimum stay is 5 nights for that week. San Clemente has a beautiful fireworks display and you can have the best seat in town! Have a... Child's Highchair, Dining, Dining Area, DVD Player, Games, Satellite / Cable, Television, Toys, Video Library, Air Conditioning, Clothes Dryer, Garage, Gas Fireplace, Hair Dryer, Heating, Iron & Board, Linens Provided, Living Room, Parking, Parking Off Street, Towels Provided, Washing Machine, Wireless Internet, Coffee Maker, Cooking Utensils, Dishes & Utensils, Dishwasher, Ice Maker, Kitchen, Microwave, Pantry Items, Refrigerator, Stove, Toaster, Balcony, Bicycles, Deck / Patio, Lawn / Garden, Outdoor Grill, Water Sports Gear, Minimum Age Limit for Renters, children welcome, non smoking only, pets not allowed, Family, Guests provide their own meals, townhome, churches, cinemas, health/beauty spa, library, live theater, museums, playground, restaurants, theme parks, zoo, not necessary, antiquing, boating, outlet shopping, scenic drives, shopping, sight seeing, walking, whale watching, wildlife viewing, Ocean View, ATM/bank, groceries, hospital, medical services, cycling, deepsea fishing, fishing, golf, hiking, kayaking, pier fishing, sailing, surfing, swimming, tennis
Be the first to add a review to the Family Friendly - Spacious 3 BD Tri-Level 1/2 Mile Walk to Pier/Beach.
Family Friendly - Spacious 3 BD Tri-Level 1/2 Mile Walk to Pier/Beach
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Central Psychological Inc.
Franklin WI 53132
Central Psychological Inc. provides evidence-based services, including therapy/counselling, assessment, diagnosis, and consultation.
The practice is centrally located in downtown Edmonton at #806, 10050 112 Street in Compass Place. This location is near LRT (Grandin and Corona stations) and on major bus routes, and has nearby street parking including time-dependent free street parking, and a nearby (pay) parking lot. The office space is disability-accessible.
Central Psychological provides most central psychological services, including evidence-supported therapies and major psychological (child and adult) assessments.

domain: psychology


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I'd like to welcome Nick Gibson to Islington as the new manager of the Drapers Arms (Letters, 9 February). It used to be very popular with Labour members after meetings at our office 50 yards away - we will definitely be coming back when it reopens. I should also apologise for not yet answering the email he sent me last week - I've received more than a thousand letters and emails since the start of the year - 7,000-plus if you include the Heathrow email (or "bombing by Greenpeace", as they call it in my office!).
I'd like to offer Nick a bit of background about the street we share: last year, after increasing amounts of antisocial behaviour, not to mention getting a number of bikes pinched, I installed CCTV outside our office. I asked local residents before I did it and they were supportive, as were the police. Crime is one of the top issues in Islington. Unfortunately, much to my frustration and that of the local police, Islington's Lib Dem council has resolutely refused to install cameras to keep us safe. I agree it is a civil liberty issue. My staff, party members and volunteers should be able to come and go from our office without being stolen from and intimidated. The council won't install cameras - so we've got to do it ourselves. And Nick, please reinstate the Old Speckled Hen. I miss it.
Emily Thornberry MP
Lab, Islington South & Finsbury
Re the "open letter" by George Monbiot (10 February): George, I would like to invite you to Salford, and allow some of my young party members and myself to show you round our city. Then you will see why I've been voting Labour in the Commons these past 12 years.
Hazel Blears MP
Secretary of state for communities

domain: politics