A new-to-Canada 3D scanning technology developed by a Czech company called Control Systems CA has been successfully used to shave-and-pave stretches of highway in the Sudbury and Orangeville areas.
The scanners provide a very precise, in-depth profile of a roadway to determine how far down asphalt needs to be removed. Only the necessary asphalt is stripped during the road rehabilitation process, thereby reducing the construction time and surplus materials on a project.
The process is quite technical but has the potential to reduce the amount of wasted materials, and slash construction time by 25 per cent which results in cost savings, and lower carbon emissions.
“Using advanced and very complicated computer processing we prepare an optimal digital design model for milling and paving,” explains Vitek Obr, chief technology officer and business development manager at the firm, which specializes in laser scanning technologies for mining and construction.
“In this digital process we can identify all problematic areas and solve all problems before we start the milling. This process is very complicated but saves a lot of time in the field which is significantly more expensive.”
Road rehabilitation in Canada often does not involve any type of scanning. Traditionally, milling machines are set to take off a fixed depth of asphalt. Control Systems CA uses Exact Street 3D differential milling which enables operators to use data to adjust the amount of asphalt to be removed.
The technology runs a scan that enables operators to see abnormalities in the pavement and issues like soft spots or areas where water pooling may be present. The data is automatically relayed to the operators.
The technology reduces milling depth in areas of a road that are already low, such as sunken culvert, ruts or potholes, and increases milling in higher points of the road.
According to Control Systems CA, the precise measurements enable pavers to improve the water drainage profile of roads, provide uniform asphalt depths, and lay down a smoother surface.
The technology is used to create a so-called “digital twin” of the road to be rehabilitated. The replica is essentially a very detailed digital model of the road surface. The models are uploaded to a differential milling unit computer which automatically controls the hydraulics of milling machines.
The milling control does not require assistance from a surveying crew or specialist to guide the milling machines. It uses horizontal positioning data from a GPS to set the correct milling depth.
The milling machine “recognizes” the correct milling depth of any road location from the data of the GPS horizontal position, which ultimately results in less asphalt being transported for disposal.
“The milling machine knows exactly what the correct milling depth in any road location, based on GPS horizontal position data,” explains Obr.
Three-dimensional milling is especially helpful for projects in remote locations, where recycled asphalt is in high demand, he says.
For example, a project could have its profile adjusted so that additional recycled asphalt is generated to increase nearby quarry stocks. Alternatively, for a project in a busy, urban centre where existing recycled asphalt stockpiles are significantly full, the model could be adjusted so that the resulting recycled asphalt production is limited.
Obr says the technology will make roads smoother, safer and more comfortable for driving on and also lead to roads that last longer.
“The road construction time and amount of excess milled materials will also be reduced, which will therefore result in fewer CO2 emissions from milling.”
While each project is different, Obr notes that the technology can achieve more than 25 per cent savings on materials as a result of less milling.
“The milling operation is often taking place in full traffic and is dependent on its intensity as well as on the weather,” says Obr. “The project manager often has to make quick decisions when and where to mill based on these factors. The Exact Street precalculated database of milling depths enables the milling to start and re-start anywhere as required without any extra preparations.”
While there are several global players in the 3D scanning technology market, they are producers of surveying equipment and focus on selling hardware and not the entire process of milling.
In addition to the Canadian projects, the technology has been used on thoroughfare rehabilitations in Norway, Sweden, Finland and the Czech Republic.
In 2019, the technology was used on a seven-kilometre road rehabilitation in Orangeville and saved 46 per cent of the asphalt from going to the dump. Last summer, it was used on a five-kilometre stretch of Highway 17 near Sudbury and the project was finished days ahead of schedule.
Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation has been working on new specifications for public road tenders that would require 3D milling on some thoroughfares which is a big step forward, according to Obr.
Meantime, the company is setting its sights on rehabilitating runways at airports. The runways could be milled using several machines at the same time. The technology was used at Stockholm International Airport in Sweden and also at the Prague International Airport in the Czech Republic.


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2016 Evergreen Element
2016 Evergreen Element
A short drive from Glacier National Park, Trails West RV Park Campground is a great place to consider camping with an RV rental while exploring the area. Glacier National Park is filled with amazing scenery in the form of rugged glacial mountains, alpine meadows, pristine forests, and incredible lakes. The park is a haven for those looking for a place where they can hike for days and not see a soul. When the park was established in 1910, it was home to more than 100 glaciers that are slowly melting as a result of climate change. If you are looking for a base camp from which you can explore Glacier National Park, you can't go wrong with this great northern Montana RV campground.Trails West RV Park is open year-round and is close to downtown Shelby where you will find a fantastic selection of shops and eateries. The campground offers 32 spaces accepting RVs of up to 60 feet in length. There are 27 with full hookups, 30/50-amp electrical connections, picnic tables, and barbecues at each site. There are also a dump station, free WiFi, and lovely hot showers for you to use after a long hike in Glacier National Park. You can use the campground's laundry facilities to keep caught up on your laundry, hit the snack bar, buy fresh ice, and even use the self-service RV wash to keep your rental RV clean.Trails West RV Park sits right next door to I-15, which takes you south to Helena, the state capital in just under three hours' drive. In approximately half the time, you can be in Great Falls, home to Malmstrom AFB and the 341st Missile Wing. Here you can find a museum that features numerous aircraft on static display outside such as a B-25J Mitchel bomber from WWII and UH-IF Huey helicopter used in Vietnam. Of course, as a missile base, you would expect there to be at least one missile. You won’t be disappointed as there is a Minuteman III ICBM similar to those housed in the many silos in the surrounding area.
Find the perfect RV for your campsite
Have you ever wanted to sleep at the foot of a mountain or wake up to the sound of the ocean’s waves gently crashing on the shore? When on a road trip, do you like to stop at every weird and wonderful roadside attraction? Do you ever just want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and get out into the great outdoors? Then renting an RV is definitely for you.
Camping in an RV allows you to adventure on your terms. Whether you’re looking to bond over an open fire with family and friends or you just want to get away for a while, there’s no better way to do it than from behind the wheel of an RV.
How Outdoorsy Works
Find the perfect RV
Choose your location, dates, and send the host a request to book.
Delivery or Pickup
Arrange a pick up time with the host or have it delivered to your driveway or destination.
Let us help
Most hosts have the option to deliver and set up the RV right to your destination.
Enjoy the freedom of the open road nd the assurance of 24/7 roadside assistance.
After your trip, return the RV to the host in the same condition you recieved it.
You won't have far to go if you're looking for great outdoor activities when you book an RV in Toole County. It took the city of Shelby several years to build the Roadrunner Trail. The trail consists of just over five miles of pavement, with benches and pet stations. While you hike along the trail, you can enjoy spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains and the Sweetgrass Hills, as it takes you through the grass prairies to be found here in Northern Montana. If you plan to hike the Roadrunner Trail, be sure you are prepared for rapid changes in the weather (even in the summer) as you could experience sun, rain, snow, and wind all in the same day. It's a great place for an easy hike with your family, including four-legged friends, after you get your campervan rental settled into one of the campsites at Trails West RV Park Campground, MT.Williamson Park is a great place to park your rental RV while you tube down the river. The park is actually the endpoint for tubing, but be aware, there are times of the year when the water flows swiftly. Of course, you can also use the river for fishing or cooling off when the summer sun is beating down on you.Trails West RV Park Campground is a 90-minute drive from Giant Springs State Park. This is a great place to visit while renting an RV in the area; be sure you pack a picnic lunch so you can relax and eat next to the Missouri River. The park is home to Rainbow Falls Overlook and the River's Edge Trail that's open to hiking, biking, skating, and more. The area was discovered by famed explorers Lewis and Clark in 1805 and features one of the largest freshwater springs in the nation. While you are here, be sure you check out the nearby Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center to learn more about these famous explorers.
Shelby is the nearest town when you rent an RV near Trails West RV Park. Though relatively small, Shelby has plenty to keep you busy. If you visit the Marias Museum of History & Art, you'll discover one of Shelby's real hidden gems. One of its top displays is about the 1923 Jack Dempsey-Tommy Gibbons heavyweight boxing championship fight. Why here? After oil was discovered here in 1922, the town leaders arranged the fight as a way to lure more people to the town. Among the other displays highlight Native American artifacts, the oil industry, the military, toys, and musical instruments.Shelby is also home to Montana Veterans Memorial, started by a group of six veterans who set up a 110-foot flagpole from which a 30-foot x 50-foot American flag flies 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The flagpole and flag overlook the 163rd Regiment Memorial Highway, the First Special Services Memorial Highway, and the I-15 intersection. Sometime later, six smaller flagpoles were installed from which the flags of the Air Force, Army, Navy, Marine, Coast Guard, and POW-MIA are flown.Who would ever think that a rest area should be anything more than a parking lot, restrooms, and a few vending machines? Allen Herschel, that's who. In 2018, at the age of 85, Herschel invested $85,000 of his own money to restore a 1936 carousel. He continued to add more attractions and created the most unusual rest area in the country. Today the "Carousel Rest Area" is still a rest area with vending machines, but travelers who book a rental RV near Trails West RV Park can take a ride on the carousel while locals host weddings, birthday parties, class reunions, and many other events.
2016 Forest River Flagstaff Hard Wall Pop Up - Cute, Clean, Cozy!
What type of RV should I choose?
Start by determining how many people are planning to travel with you. Going on a solo-journey? Choose a camper van or a teardrop trailer. Bringing the whole family along for the ride? Consider a spacious Class A or five-wheel.
You’ll also want to consider amenities. For example, if you’re planning to cook on the road, you’ll want a kitchenette. If your campground doesn’t have public restrooms, you’ll want to search RVs with bathrooms. Check out full descriptions of our models to help you decide here.
Do the RVs have bathrooms?
Yes. Class A’s, Class B’s, and Class C’s and five-Wheels typically have bathrooms. Depending on where you plan on camping, you’ll want to double-check the availability of restrooms if selecting a rig without a bathroom. Nervous about renting an RV with a bathroom? Owners can help show you how to clean the tank or will offer to do it for you for a fee.
How does check-in work?

domain: geography


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Yesterday I mentioned wanting to put up that stick-on mirror in my hallway, albeit with clips and not stickiness. It urned out to be too thin and flimsy to clip to the wall, so instead I had a New Project! I cut a piece of particle board (I have a bunch from the back of old Ikea bookcases) into a slightly larger rectangle, and since I was (and still am) currently painting that God of War box pink, I figured WHY NOT use the same paint for this project? A couple coats of paint, a couple coats of lacquer, peel-n-stick the mirror and BOOM.
I LOVE IT. The bright pink makes the mirror part look like weird negative space. There are only two problems with it:
1. I did the peeling and sticking on the living room floor, which is a den of dog hair, so I had to tweeze a bunch out when I was done, which was easy but annoying.
2. The particle board is curved! I stupidly put to mirror on the convex side, so it bulges out and makes you look fat. I wet the back and I have it squished under a bunch of heavy tool cases so hopefully it flattens out enough. If not I’ll have to construct some sort of frame to hold it flat.
Also last night, after dropping Sym at her dad’s, I found this cool chest of drawers in the alley where people leave stuff they don’t want.
I wish all the tiny drawers were real but it’s actually just 3 small drawers in the top and three big ones in the bottom. I want to paint it up all cool and store my craft supplies in it, BUT I don’t want to bring it in the house until I’ve confirmed that it isn’t riddled with any sort of bugs. It was starting to rain so Taylor and I carried it down into the covered area outside the door until I can figure out what to do with it.
In other news, today was basically the GROSSEST day ever, work-wise. I normally wouldn’t post pictures of any of the daycare kids, but I’ve cropped this one to protect her identity so I could show you the SNOT ROPES this baby was producing.
Sick. This happened all morning to the point where I had to change her shirt because this one was soaked through with mucus and separate her from the other kids. Anyway she developed a nasty cough and started to get glassy-eyed so I called her parents to come pick her up, and it turns out she has an ear infection. Her mom is gonna keep her home until she’s better, so no more booger baby this week!

domain: design


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Royal experts believe Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s ongoing deal with Netflix is not something ‘worthwhile’.
These claims have been brought to light by GB News, royal commentator Maureen Callahan.
Callahan started it all off by saying, “This is what Harry has called the defining trauma of his life.”
“We know from the press release accompanying his forthcoming memoir that he’s going to use the death of his mother as a launching off point to discuss the way in which his life unraveled to such a degree that he had no choice but to leave the royal family.”
Ms Callahan also offered the couple some pointers and admitted they they should start looking for alternative ways to make money.
“Now, leaving the royal family meant peddling his wares on the open market. And I just don’t think [Harry] had the foresight to realize that getting in bed with this streaming service who produces The Crown, one of the most popular shows in the world, was probably not the best idea.”

domain: celebrity


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CEE Distinguished Lecture Series Welcomes Bill Baker
Bill Baker, structural engineering partner at architectural and engineering firm Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill, will be the inaugural speaker for the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering’s Distinguished Lecture Series.
Baker will give a lecture titled, “Theory is Practical: The Philosophy of Design” at 4 p.m. on Friday, April 29 in the ITW room in the Ford Motor Company Engineering Design Center.
Throughout his distinguished career, Baker has dedicated himself to structural innovation. His best known contribution has been to develop the “buttressed core” structural system for the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest manmade structure. While widely regarded for his work on supertall buildings, his expertise also extends to a wide variety of structures like the GM Entry Pavilion and Millennium Park's Jay Pritzker Pavilion and BP Pedestrian Bridge. Baker is also known for his work on long-span roof structures, such as the Korean Air Lines Operations Hangar and the Virginia Beach Convention Center, as well as for his collaboration with artists like Jamie Carpenter (Raspberry Island-Schubert Club Band Shell), Iñigo Manglano-Ovalle (Gravity is a Force to be Reckoned With), and James Turrell (Roden Crater).
In addition to working at SOM, Bill is actively involved with numerous institutions of higher learning, as well as various professional organizations. He is the recipient of a 2011 ASCE Outstanding Projects And Leaders (OPAL) Lifetime Award for Design. Bill is the 2010 recipient of the Gold Medal from the Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE) and the 2009 recipient and first American to receive the Fritz Leonhardt Preis (Germany). In 2008, the CTBUH awarded him the Fazlur Rahman Khan medal. Baker is a fellow of both the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and the IStructE, and frequently lectures on a variety of structural engineering topics.
In his lecture, Baker will propose a design philosophy to bridge the divide between design and analysis. The founders of modern structural engineering created structures that were inspiring in their form and economical in their execution. While this economy was undoubtedly driven by financial pressures, it was also a result of the ideological purity of the design. At the time, complicated structural designs were simply beyond an engineer’s ability to calculate. However, within the past few years, the explosion of computational power has enabled engineers to design and create structures that are extremely complex and beyond one’s ability to comprehend without the aid of a computer (some are conceptually unfathomable even with a computer). Our modern analytical tools can yield a more efficient structure than one achievable through simpler means, but these same tools can also enable the creation of overly complicated structures that are financially and materially expensive.


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How do I download an online Casino App Safely
Before you download an application for games at online casinos make sure you do some research and discover how to download the tragamonedas gratis de casino software. While you can always get the same experience using an internet browser, there is a great deal of safety in downloading an app. First, check the app store before you download it. Then, you should feel safe playing the game. Online casino apps are generally safe and have been thoroughly tested by other players. You can then play online casino games in a safe and safe.
One thing you should do is sign up for an update or newsletter. Most online casinos will offer a newsletter, and some offer updates via text message. It is essential to be aware of all terms and conditions and reject any offer that is not in your best interests. You might be able to play more games at the same time for some players. This will stop you from being spammed. Unsubscribe if you do not wish to receive these email.
The next step is to sign up to a newsletter, or receive updates from casinos on the internet. You can sign-up for all newsletters. Some newsletters will allow you to sign up to their newsletters through text messages. Be aware that newsletters may contain unwelcome messages. You could also sign-up for the email lists of different casinos on the internet. Signing up for email notifications from multiple websites is the best way to go because they are the most current and relevant.
Before you play an online casino game, it’s crucial to be in control. While many are enjoying the experience but it is essential that you keep your spending in check. If you don’t, you’ll spend more than you should. There are numerous ways to stay within your budget and still enjoy the thrill of playing online. If you want to get the most enjoyment from it, you must be aware of these tips. Be responsible and take your time. Casinos online are a great choice if you don’t have the money or the time.
Casinos online can be more complex than betting on sports however they provide the same benefits. The basic principle of an online casino game is the same. It displays a visual representation of the real casino game as well as it will offer a variety of “instant” games. If you want to play a certain game, you’ll need to be able to download a software client, otherwise you’ll have to play the identical version on your computer.
After winning after a win, it is crucial to withdraw your winnings. If you leave your winnings on the Internet could result in you losing your entire winnings so you should withdraw some of your winnings. If you don’t have the funds to withdraw your winnings, you can always deposit it again. If you lose the money it’s not necessary to think about a withdrawal if you spin casino can’t afford to. There are other options to protect your cash if you have too many.
If you want to play an online casino game, you can choose a number of choices. You can either download a client software to play the games. Or, you can choose from a variety of “instant” games. They can be accessed through a web browser. While some casinos only offer one option However, the majority offer both. It is possible to download a program to play in an online casino. After downloading the software choose the game you would like to play.
Almost all online casinos provide a wide number of games. Blackjack is an excellent game for beginners. It is easy to master and is a great method to begin winning real money. In addition, online casino games often come with special promotions that allow you to win the jackpot. They are extremely popular and can provide you with the best time and you should take advantage of the game.
Online casinos also have various bonuses and promotions that are beneficial for players. Some of these bonuses provide you with free spins on your favorite slots, while others give you cash rewards. You can also play live games with dealers. If you’re a lover of live games, you will be able observe how you can play the game. You will feel more secure and comfortable when placing bets and don’t be worried about hackers.

domain: game


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Is $45,000 a Lot for a Sexual Harassment Settlement?
A second accuser settled for $35,000.
What’s the going rate for sexual harassment claims?
It’s about what the National Restaurant Association paid to these women.
Many litigants reach a confidential settlement before completing a trial, so tabulating statistics about sexual harassment claims is very difficult. One study looked at 50 sexual harassment settlements (PDF) in cases before Chicago magistrate judges, and found that amounts average around $53,000, with a median of about $30,000.
Employees who take their case to trial—and win—fare significantly better, averaging more than $217,000, according to a separate study. That ratio is normal in employment litigation: Settlements are typically around one-quarter the size of trial verdicts. (The plaintiff wins in about 40 percent of the employment-related cases that make it to the jury.)
More sexual harassment resources and information you may be interested in:
See the full, original post here: https://slate.com/news-and-politics/2011/11/herman-cain-settlement-what-s-the-going-rate-for-sexual-harassment-claims.html
About TriMark Legal Funding
TriMark Legal Funding was founded in 2003 and is one of America's oldest nationwide lawsuit funding companies. TriMark provides pre-settlement cash advances and post-settlement cash advances (sometimes called a "lawsuit loan") to injured plaintiffs on hundreds of different types of personal injury lawsuits, employment litigation, workplace injury and workers compensation lawsuits, and much more
|Personal Injury Lawsuit Funding||Sexual Misconduct Settlement Funding|
Click here to see the original article.

domain: law


ERMES – Extensive road monitoring and early-warning system
Slope stability and ground subsidence along roads and railway tracks are currently monitored using inclinometers and land surveying. These measures lead to substantial logistical challenges and increased costs. THEIA has developed ERMES (Extensive Road Monitoring Early Warning System) to perform large-scale road infrastructure monitoring through satellite data. The system uses multiple advanced remote sensing methodologies to track ground deformation and monitor slope stability and ground subsidence throughout road and railway networks. Using high-frequency remote sensing data, ERMES can determine the speed of deformation and set up an early-warning system for structural health monitoring. This enables efficient, preventive maintenance strategies to be implemented and measures to be optimised to minimise risk.
- Enables regular monitoring of large infrastructure using satellite data
- Optimisation of maintenance costs and operations for road and rail infrastructure
- Reduction of critical outages and increase in security


Firefighters battle Pitt County blaze
Firefighters were called to the scene of a home fire near Wilson Saturday afternoon.
According to Pitt County dispatchers, the firefighters responded around 2:35 p.m.
The fire was on the 5000 block of Stantonsburg road.
Crews have since left the scene of the fire.
No other information was available.
Copyright 2014 by WCTI12. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


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Please note: As a courtesy, please do not reproduce these comments to newsgroups, forums or other online places. Links only please.
The panel's description: "It's been off the air since May, 2007 but Comic-Con fans will get the first look at the exciting prequel shot in South Africa and the upcoming 7th season of the Emmy winning Fox series, as well as chat with the executive producers and stars Kiefer Sutherland and Carlos Bernard."
5:29 PM: Yikes, quite a packed house is here to see Kiefer and company!
5:32 PM: You guessed it - they're running a little late. Based on the name cards, it looks like we'll be seeing David Fury, Evan Katz, Carols Bernard, Howard Gordon, Kiefer Sutherland, Manny Cotto and three others I can't make out because of the glare (laminated name cards - how dare they!).
5:34 PM: I wonder when the electric fence gets installed to keep people from mobbing Wentworth Miller in the next panel.
5:39 PM: Hey it looks like we're finally about to start. Supposedly we're about to see an exclusive preview of the prequel movie.
5:44 PM: It's a short scene in which Jack gets into a gun battle in Africa protecting a bunch of children, ending with a standoff in which another young boy holds a gun up to Jack.
5:45 PM: And they're here: Brannon Braga, Carlos Cotto, Manny Cotto, Jon Cassar, Kiefer, Howard Gordon, Carlos Bernard, Evan Katz and David Fury.
5:46 PM: Howard reveals that the prequel movie was originally supposed to be something short for cell phones, webisodes, etc. but it quickly snowballed into a two-hour movie.
5:48 PM: Kiefer declares the prequel one of the best scripts he ever read. The movie also marks the first on location filming in the show's history. He adds that the young actor he's protecting in the scene in one of the best he's ever worked with.
5:51 PM: Manny says the WGA strike was something of a mixed blessing - sure they were off but it also gave them the extra time to make season seven "really deeper" than previous seasons.
5:52 PM: The moderator (sorry, missed the name) confirms the obvious - Brannon Braga and Carlos Cotto (brother of Manny) have joined the staff as co-executive producers.
5:54 PM: "We know when this is done it's never going to happen again," Carlos Bernard says about the show's success. "And I got a little taste of that," he jokes.
5:56 PM: "It really could be a measure of our desperation that he's back," Howard jokes about Carlos's return. He later adds, "We really didn't like the way he 'died.'" Carlos eventually dishes out some bribe money to Howard.
5:58 PM: Kiefer says the way Carlos comes back is "very '24.'" "I think [the writers] did an amazing job."
5:59 PM: The moderator asks for more hints about the new season. "Carlos is gonna die," Kiefer quips, once again forcing Carlos to dish out more money.
6:00 PM: "We're not trying to reinvent the show," Kiefer says about the new season, noting that they've always try to keep what's working and respond to what's not. Just "make it better, tight and smarter and that's hopefully what you'll see in the seventh season."
6:01 PM: Time for audience Q&A.
6:02 PM: "A lot of people ask us where we get this phone that never dies," Kiefer says about the show's gadgetry. But other than that, they use real - but modified - guns.
6:03 PM: A fan asks about when Jack ever goes to the bathroom. Kiefer admits they actually shot something in which he comes out of the bathroom but it was eventually cut.
6:04 PM: Someone asks how much input Kiefer has on who lives and dies so to speak. "To be honest with you I really don't," he responds. They trust the writers to write, actors to act, directors to direct, etc. He goes on to say he initially objected to Teri's death in season one but was eventually proven wrong. "Which is another reason why I stay out of the way," he adds.
6:06 PM: When asked about the show's torture fetish, David notes this season will see Jack answer for what he's done. "It's kind of necessary for people to get hurt," he says about its context in the show.
6:07 PM: A fan asks what are their favorite episodes. Kiefer diplomatically notes they haven't made his favorite episode yet but adds that in addition to the prequel he's also proud of episode 8-11 of the upcoming season. As for Carlos his favorite is in the upcoming season.
6:10 PM: Howard on if we'll see a "24" feature film - he's resigned to the fact that while the show proper is still on the air, it's too difficult to make a full-fledged film.
6:11 PM: Carlos is asked about his character's evolution. In terms of season one, he notes that the actors only really know about six episodes in advance. They also knew there would be some sort of mole but weren't told who it was.
6:13 PM: Howard on why Africa - "We had run out of geographical areas," he quips, later adding that the writers became intrigued by the concept of child soldiers.
6:15 PM: A fan asks Kiefer about his frequent use of the word "damn it!" He goes on to give us an example. Twice. Too funny.
6:17 PM: "He's just trying to be better," Kiefer says about his arc for the new season. That being said, his self-described coolest moment - "When I chopped off that guy's head off in season two."
6:19 PM: Kiefer on the show's lack of traffic issues, like going from downtown to Van Nuys in 10 minutes. "Our 24 day is a really light traffic day." he notes.
6:20 PM: Evan plugs the show's new characters, all of which were previously announced.
6:21 PM: Kiefer gives everyone a heartfelt thank you for supporting the show. "You all rock," he closes.
6:22 PM: A final treat - the full trailer for "The Exile" prequel. I feel like this is online already but if not - Peter MacNichol! Powers Boothe! Jack getting tortured! Looks fun.
6:26 PM: That's it folks! Only one more to go!
Note: My apologies for the lackluster picture quality - the lighting in room 6CDEF makes it impossible to get a decent shot without moving directly in front of the panel.
Howard Gordon, Kiefer, Jon Cassar, Manny Cotto, Carlos Cotto, Brannon Braga
Evan Katz, Carlos Bernard, Howard Gordon, Kiefer
Carlos Bernard, Howard Gordon, Kiefer, Jon Cassar, Manny Cotto

domain: entertainment


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Compare it by today's games and you've got a challenge.
Steam wrote:The RPG classic FINAL FANTASY VII returns to PC, now with brand new online features!
Character Booster – Find yourself stuck on a difficult section or lacking the funds to buy that vital Phoenix Down? With the Character Booster you can increase your HP, MP and Gil levels to their maximum, all with the simple click of a button, leaving you to enjoy your adventure.
People suck nowadays, remember. Only retards are going to use that feature, anyway.

domain: hobby


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Here's a limited edition poster I did for the forthcoming Logan movie to be released on March 3rd. These posters are available in theaters between Texas and North Dakota, and are part of a collection of 6 different artist variants including Art Adams, Becky Cloonan, Jeff Lemire, Bill Sienkewicz, and Babs Tarr! Check out the rest of the poster designs here. Extra thanks to Erin Tobey for layout and digital effects wizardry on my poster!
X-Men changed my life in so many ways, set me on my comics path, and Chris Claremont's run on the titles practically gave me my social conscience as a 12-year-old. It's so meaningful to be able to contribute to the legacy of the X-franchise like this.


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The Trinidad and Tobago government said it will divest part of state-owned Petrotrin as it tries to increase crude production, increase efficiency, and return the company to profitability.
In an address to the nation, the Caribbean twin-island nation’s Prime Minister Keith Rowley said it could not be “business as usual” and that the company desperately needed investment in technology and an injection of capital.
“Because of financial constraints at both the level of the state and the company, rectifying this imbalance now can only be effected by imports of external and domestic capital as well as new technology into oil and gas production at Petrotrin,” Rowley said.
“Survival depends on such a successful import demanding the cooperation of all the company’s stakeholders. In this approach there will be opportunities for local equity investment and employee stock ownership in a future profitably restructured company,” he said.
Petrotrin operates a 165,000-b/d refinery and is the largest supplier of refined products to the Caribbean. It also exports gasoline to the US East Coast and to parts of Latin America. It also produces 45,000 b/d of crude oil from its onshore and offshore fields.
Rowley’s announcement came a short time after a strike by the company’s 5,000 workers was called off after they accepted an interim settlement of 5% in wage increases for a 2-year period (OGJ Online, Jan. 5, 2017). After the workers had gone on strike, the government ordered Petrotrin to agree to the pay increase.
Late in 2016 the country’s former energy minister had hinted that the sale of Petrotrin’s Trinmar asset was inevitable. Nicole Oliverre told the Parliament that Petrotrin would be seeking new commercial partnerships under its third-party arrangements to aggressively develop Trinmar’s assets. “The company intends to engage an international consultant to advise on an optimal monetization strategy based on the board’s decision to engage one [joint venture] partner for the entire Trinmar acreage,” Oliverre said.
In a recent memo to workers, Petrotrin Pres. Fitzroy Harewood noted that the company’s revenues had declined by more than 50% from 2012-16. This, coupled with the ongoing decline in refinery margins and lower oil production, resulted in the company realizing 2 years of net aftertax losses.

domain: finance


text:
Analytical Biochemistry 476 (2015) 78–80
Contents lists available at ScienceDirect
Analytical Biochemistry journal homepage: www.elsevier.com/locate/yabio
Notes & Tips
A ﬂuorescence resonance energy transfer-based method for histone methyltransferases Kanchan Devkota a,b, Brian Lohse a, Camilla Nyby Jakobsen a, Jens Berthelsen c, Rasmus Prætorius Clausen a,⇑ a
Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark NNF Center for Protein Research, University of Copenhagen, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark c Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark b
a r t i c l e
i n f o
Article history: Received 22 January 2015 Accepted 12 February 2015 Available online 19 February 2015 Keywords: Methyltransferase Assay EHMT1
a b s t r a c t A simple dye–quencher ﬂuorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based assay for methyltransferases was developed and used to determine kinetic parameters and inhibitory activity at EHMT1 and EHMT2. Peptides mimicking the truncated histone H3 tail were functionalized in each end with a dye and a quencher, respectively. When lysine-9 residues in the peptides were methylated, they were protected from cleavage by endoproteinase–EndoLysC, whereas unmethylated peptides were cleaved, resulting in an increase in ﬂuorescent intensity. Ó 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Methyltransferase-mediated methylation of histone and nonhistone targets is involved in human diseases such as cancer, inﬂammatory diseases, and neurogenerative disorders [1–4] and play signiﬁcant roles in processes such as meiosis , germ cell development , and embryo development . The roles of these methyltransferases in various human disorders make them promising targets for drug discovery efforts and treatment strategies. Various enzyme activity assays have been developed during the past few years, generating valuable information to help understand the enzymes’ speciﬁcity and characteristics and to identify potential activators or inhibitors of methyltransferases. An enzyme-coupled ﬂuorescent assay that employs the additional enzymes S-adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase and adenosine deaminase was the ﬁrst reported methyltransferase assay . Several colorimetric , ﬂuorometric, and spectrophotometric assays  have also been used to access the activities of protein lysine methyltransferases (PKMTs),1 and most of them focus on the conversion of the by-product of methylation reaction, S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH), to other products. Radioactive assays that use radiolabeled S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) and look at the transfer of radioactive methyl groups from the SAM to the substrate, which in turn can be quantiﬁed continuously using proximity
⇑ Corresponding author. E-mail address: [email protected]
(R.P. Clausen). Abbreviations used: PKMT, protein lysine methyltransferase; SAH, S-adenosylhomocysteine; SAM, S-adenosylmethionine; EndoLysC, endoproteinase–LysC; MCE, microﬂuidic capillary electrophoresis; FRET, ﬂuorescence resonance energy transfer; H3, histone 3; 5/6-FAM, 5/6-carboxyﬂuorescein; BHQ1, Black Hole Quencher 1. 1
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ab.2015.02.012 0003-2697/Ó 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
scintillation counting, have also been reported . This assay is highly accurate and reproducible, but hazards associated with the handling of radiolabeled products and waste favor the use of ﬂuorescent methods. Several antibody-based assays such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)  and LANCE Ultra assay  have also been widely used, in which an antibody against speciﬁc methyllysine histone marks are employed to capture certain methylation marks. Most of these methods employ expensive reagents and/or expensive speciﬁc instruments for readouts. A drawback of these assays is the variability of speciﬁcity of the antibodies used. Assays employing proteases such as endoproteinase–LysC (EndoLysC) to cleave unmethylated peptide substrates labeled with a ﬂuorophore have also been developed. A recent method employs EndoLysC to cleave the unmodiﬁed substrates, and the separation is achieved by using microﬂuidic capillary electrophoresis (MCE) through a special instrument called EZ Reader II (Caliper). Although the charge of the peptide is not altered after methylation, the difference in size of cleaved and intact peptides allows for difference in charge-to-mass ratio, hence allowing the separation using MCE . In addition, a ﬂuorescence lifetime-based method, FLEXYTETM (developed by ALMAC), has been reported for EHMT2 that uses ﬂuorophore 9-aminoacridine coupled to speciﬁc peptide fragments. The assay reports the use of an EndoLysC cleavage step where methylated peptide fragments are uncleaved. Methylation is measured through a decrease in ﬂuorescence lifetime of approximately 5 ns between product and substrate . Here, we report modiﬁcation of previous assays employing EndoLysC to determine the kinetic parameters and identify potential inhibitors for methyltransferases.
Notes & Tips / Anal. Biochem. 476 (2015) 78–80 Table 1 Peptides used in the study. Peptide
H3 tail (ﬁrst 20 residues) P1 P2 P3 (=P1 methylated) P4 P5 P6 P7
ARTKQTARKSTGGKAPRKQL [6-Fluo]-QTARKSTG-K[BHQ1] [5-Fluo]-QTARKSTGG-K[BHQ1] [6-Fluo]-QTAR-K(Me)-STG-K[BHQ1] [6-Fluo]-ART-K(Me)-QTAR-K[BHQ1] [5-Fluo]-QTARKSTGG-K(Me)-APR-K[BHQ1] [5-Fluo]-ART-K(Me)-QTARKSTGG-K[BHQ1] [5-Fluo]-ARTAQTARKSTGG-K[BHQ1]
Note: The lysine residue (K) in bold represents Lysine 9 residue of Histone H3 which is methylated by EHMT1/2. The lysine residues (K) in italics represent other lysine residues in Histone H3.
Fig.1. Detection principle of the dye–quencher FRET-based EndoLysC assay using peptide fragments corresponding to H3 peptide fragments as substrates. The peptide fragment has only one lysine in it. BHQ1 is the quencher used, whereas 5FAM is the dye used. (A) PKMTs methylate the lysine (K) residue in the modiﬁed peptide substrate, protecting it from cleavage by EndoLysC. (B) In the presence of inhibitors, the lysine (K) residues in the modiﬁed peptide substrate do not get methylated and, hence, are cleaved by EndoLysC, which can be quantiﬁed by measurement of ﬂuorescence intensity (excitation = 490 nM, emission = 520 nM).
In this dye–quencher ﬂuorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based EndoLysC assay (Fig. 1), peptide fragments corresponding to N-terminal histone 3 (H3) peptide chain containing a single unmodiﬁed lysine residue are coupled with a dye (6-carboxyﬂuorescein, 6-FAM) at one end and a quencher (Black Hole Quencher 1, BHQ1) at the other end. The quencher eclipses the ﬂuorescence of the dye when the peptide is intact. On treatment with EndoLysC, a protease that cleaves proteins or peptides in the C-terminal side of lysine residues, the peptide fragment containing unmodiﬁed lysine residue is cleaved and the quencher is no longer able to quench the ﬂuorescence of the dye, resulting in an increase in ﬂuorescence intensity. In the presence of the lysine methyltransferase EHMT1 or EHMT2, the lysine residue K9 in the peptide substrate gets methylated. This modiﬁed lysine can no longer be cleaved by EndoLysC; therefore, no increase in ﬂuorescence intensity can be detected as the peptide remains intact (uncleaved). On the other hand, in the presence of the EHMT1/2 inhibitor, methylation is prevented, which results in unmethylated lysine residues in the peptide fragments that are cleaved by EndoLysC, leading to an increase in ﬂuorescence intensity that can easily be quantiﬁed. Assays were performed with 100 nM EHMT1 and EHMT2 ﬁnal concentrations, and methylation reactions were allowed to proceed for 30 min at room temperature. Final peptide and SAM concentrations in the reaction were 500 nM and 1.5 lM, respectively, in a ﬁnal volume of 25 ll. For inhibition studies, EHMT1/2 was preincubated with BIX01294 for 15 min before adding SAM and peptide. Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) concentrations were maintained at 4% ﬁnal. Then, 1 ll of a 10-ng/ll EndoLysC solution was added to the reaction to stop methylation and was incubated at room temperature for 30 min. Measurements were taken using a TECAN SAFIRE II, with excitation at 490 nM and emission at 520 nM. All of the reactions were done in triplicates in OptiPlate384 white opaque 384-well microplates with a ﬁnal reaction
volume of 25 ll. The methylation buffer used was 50 mM Tris– HCl (pH 8.0), 50 mM NaCl, 1 mM dithiothreitol (DTT), and 0.01% Tween 20. Analyses of the results were done by using GraphPad Prism software (version 6.0). For data analysis, refer to the Online supplementary material (Section S2). The peptides were labeled in the N-terminal end with the dye 5-carboxyﬂuorescein (5-FAM) or 6-FAM and in the C-terminal with lysine modiﬁed at the distal amino group with the quencher BHQ1. A list of peptides used in the study is given in Table 1. Both P1 and P2 showed large increases in ﬂuorescence intensity on treatment with EndoLysC for P1 (see Section S3 in Supplementary material). The shorter peptide P1 was modiﬁed by introducing a methyl group to the lysine that is cleaved to show that this was protected from EndoLysC cleavage, and indeed no difference in ﬂuorescence intensity was observed before and after EndoLysC treatment (see Section S3 in Supplementary material). This demonstrated that EndoLysC could indeed be used to discriminate dye–quencher peptides with methylated lysines from non methylated peptides. We then subjected peptides 1 and 2 to methylation by EHMT1 and EHMT2 at the same conditions as in the LANCE assay, followed by the addition of EndoLysC. However, no change in ﬂuorescence intensity was observed, suggesting that these peptides were not methylated. Hence, longer peptides P5 and P6 were synthesized, extending the amino acids in either side of peptide fragment P2. P5 contained lysine residue (K14) of H3 tail, whereas P6 contained lysine residue (K4) of H3 tail, and to protect this extra lysine from proteolysis by EndoLysC, it was methylated. As a control peptide, P4 was synthesized and treated with EndoLysC to conﬁrm that K4Me would be protected. Both peptides P5 and P6 could be cleaved by EndoLysC, and indeed P6 also acted as a very good substrate for EHMT1 and EHMT2 (Fig. 2), leading to a decrease in the ﬂuorescence intensity observed after treatment with EndoLysC. P7 was tested (modiﬁed P6 with K4 substituted with alanine [K4A]), and it acted as a very week substrate for EHMT1 and EHMT2 (see Section S4 in Supplementary material). As seen in Fig. 2A, EHMT1 (red) and EHMT2 (blue) incubated with peptide P6 as substrate and SAM as cofactor, and followed by EndoLysC treatment (E+P+S+C), were undergoing methylation reaction and, thus, showed lower ﬂuorescence intensity compared with experiments containing methylation mixture without SAM (E+P+C) or the peptide alone (P+C), followed by treatment with EndoLysC. For EHMT2 the ﬂuorescence level for the fully treated peptide (E2+P+S+C) reached the level for the pure peptide (P), whereas for EHMT1 the level was slightly higher, suggesting that P6 had not been fully converted. To optimize the assay conditions and enzymatic methylation kinetics for EHMT1/2, enzyme kinetics (see Section S5 in Supplementary material) and SAM titration were performed using the EndoLysC assay. The apparent Km for SAM (K app m SAM ) was found to be 2.9 lM for EHMT1 and 1 lM for EHMT2 (see Section S6 in Supplementary material). This is similar to the K app m SAM for
Notes & Tips / Anal. Biochem. 476 (2015) 78–80
Fig.2. (A) Proof of assay concept using EHMT1 (E1, red), EHMT2 (E2, blue), and modiﬁed peptide (substrate). E1, EHMT1; E2, EHMT2; P, modiﬁed peptide; S, SAM, cofactor; C, EndoLysC. (B) Dose–response curves for BIX01294 against EHMT1 (red) and EHMT2 (blue) using the EndoLysC assay. The IC50 value for EHMT1 is 0.2 lM (0.04–0.8 lM) and for EHMT2 is 0.3 lM (0.2–0.5 lM). Values in parentheses indicate 95% conﬁdence intervals. (For interpretation of the references to color in this ﬁgure legend, the reader is referred to the web version of this article.)
EHMT1 and EHMT2 found by using LANCE Ultra G9a assay from PerkinElmer (0.5 and 2.2 lM, respectively) . Although K app m values obtained from different experiments cannot be directly compared due to the difference in assay procedures, reagents, and concentrations, the results support the suitability of this assay in determination of EHMT1/2 activity. To further determine the feasibility of identifying potential inhibitors of EHMT1/2 with this assay, experiments were carried out to determine the inhibition of EHMT1/2 by the known EHMT1/2 inhibitor BIX01294. Using this assay, we demonstrated that BIX01294 inhibits EHMT1 and EHMT2 in a dose-dependent manner with IC50 values of 0.2 and 0.3 lM, respectively (Fig. 2B). Although these differ somewhat from the IC50 values determined by the LANCE Ultra G9a assay (see Section S7 in Supplementary material), it is in the range of other results in the literature. In addition, IC50 analysis of Sinefungin analogue 4d, recently reported by our group as an inhibitor of EHMT1 and EHMT2, showed similar values as measured by the LANCE Ultra assay  (see Section S8 in Supplementary material). The assay uses simple reagents and common standard ﬂuorescence plate readers for readouts, making it inexpensive and easy to handle. The peptide fragments can be modiﬁed, making this assay suitable for other lysine methyltransferases and demethylases as well, including arginine methyltransferase inhibitors, by using similar peptide fragments together with EndoArgC that cleave at arginine residues. Acknowledgments We are grateful to the Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research and the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, for K.D.’s PhD Fellowship. The University of Copenhagen Programme of Excellence and the Danish Cancer Society are gratefully acknowledged for ﬁnancial support. J.B. is funded by the ISIM CAR project. Jesper L. Kristensen is gratefully acknowledged for valuable input and strategic discussions. Appendix A. Supplementary data Supplementary data associated with this article can be found, in the online version, at http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ab.2015.02.012.
References  T. Kleefstra, M. Smidt, M.J. Banning, A.R. Oudakker, H. Van Esch, A.P. de Brouwer, W. Nillesen, E.A. Sistermans, B.C. Hamel, D. de Bruijn, J.P. Fryns, H.G. Yntema, H.G. Brunner, B.B. de Vries, H. van Bokhoven, Disruption of the gene euchromatin histone methyl transferase 1 (Eu-HMTase1) is associated with the 9q34 subtelomeric deletion syndrome, J. Med. Genet. 42 (2005) 299–306.  A. Schaefer, S.C. Sampath, A. Intrator, A. Min, T.S. Gertler, D.J. Surmeier, A. Tarakhovsky, P. Greengard, Control of cognition and adaptive behavior by the GLP/G9a epigenetic suppressor complex, Neuron 64 (2009) 678–691.  R. Schneider, A.J. Bannister, T. Kouzarides, Unsafe SETs: histone lysine methyltransferases and cancer, Trends Biochem. Sci. 27 (2002) 396–402.  X. Tian, S. Zhang, H.M. Liu, Y.B. Zhang, C.A. Blair, D. Mercola, P. Sassone-Corsi, X. Zi, Histone lysine-speciﬁc methyltransferases and demethylases in carcinogenesis: new targets for cancer therapy and prevention, Curr. Cancer Drug Targets 13 (2013) 558–579.  M. Tachibana, M. Nozaki, N. Takeda, Y. Shinkai, Functional dynamics of H3K9 methylation during meiotic prophase progression, EMBO J. 26 (2007) 3346– 3359.  M. Tachibana, K. Sugimoto, M. Nozaki, J. Ueda, T. Ohta, M. Ohki, M. Fukuda, N. Takeda, H. Niida, H. Kato, Y. Shinkai, G9a histone methyltransferase plays a dominant role in euchromatic histone H3 lysine 9 methylation and is essential for early embryogenesis, Genes Dev. 16 (2002) 1779–1791.  E. Collazo, J.F. Couture, S. Bulfer, R.C. Trievel, A coupled ﬂuorescent assay for histone methyltransferases, Anal. Biochem. 342 (2005) 86–92.  C.L. Hendricks, J.R. Ross, E. Pichersky, J.P. Noel, Z.S. Zhou, An enzyme-coupled colorimetric assay for S-adenosylmethionine-dependent methyltransferases, Anal. Biochem. 326 (2004) 100–105.  K.M. Dorgan, W.L. Wooderchak, D.P. Wynn, E.L. Karschner, J.F. Alfaro, Y. Cui, Z.S. Zhou, J.M. Hevel, An enzyme-coupled continuous spectrophotometric assay for S-adenosylmethionine-dependent methyltransferases, Anal. Biochem. 350 (2006) 249–255.  A. Dhayalan, E. Dimitrova, P. Rathert, A. Jeltsch, A continuous protein methyltransferase (G9a) assay for enzyme activity measurement and inhibitor screening, J. Biomol. Screen. 14 (2009) 1129–1133.  D. Cheng, N. Yadav, R.W. King, M.S. Swanson, E.J. Weinstein, M.T. Bedford, Small molecule regulators of protein arginine methyltransferases, J. Biol. Chem. 279 (2004) 23892–23899.  N. Gauthier, M. Caron, L. Pedro, M. Arcand, J. Blouin, A. Labonte, C. Normand, V. Paquet, A. Rodenbrock, M. Roy, N. Rouleau, L. Beaudet, J. Padros, R. RodriguezSuarez, Development of homogeneous nonradioactive methyltransferase and demethylase assays targeting histone H3 lysine 4, J. Biomol. Screen. 17 (2012) 49–58.  T.J. Wigle, L.M. Provencher, J.L. Norris, J. Jin, P.J. Brown, S.V. Frye, W.P. Janzen, Accessing protein methyltransferase and demethylase enzymology using microﬂuidic capillary electrophoresis, Chem. Biol. 17 (2010) 695–704.  B.A. Maltman, C.J. Dunsmore, S.C. Couturier, A.E. Tirnaveanu, Z. Delbederi, R.A. McMordie, G. Naredo, R. Ramage, G. Cotton, 9-Aminoacridine peptide derivatives as versatile reporter systems for use in ﬂuorescence lifetime assays, Chem. Commun. 46 (2010) 6929–6931.  K. Devkota, B. Lohse, Q. Liu, M.-W. Wang, D. Stærk, J. Berthelsen, R.P. Clausen, Analogues of the natural product Sinefungin as inhibitors of EHMT1 and EHMT2, ACS Med. Chem. Lett. 5 (2014) 293–297.

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Promotional literature is designed to be the first point of engagement with a new customer. YES, we offer cover book design and creation services for writers and publishers. Making sure your cover book is presented in its best form for the reader. Each cover book is professionally designed to complement the material.
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Tesla Delivers Record Number Of Vehicles, Cuts Prices $2,000Tesla says it delivered over 245,000 electric cars and SUVs last year, nearly as many as all previous years combined.
Regulators Subpoenaed Tesla Production Data, Company SaysU.S. securities investigators have subpoenaed information from Tesla about production forecasts for the Model 3 electric car that were made last year, the company acknowledged in a regulatory filing Friday.
Tesla says order by Monday to get full $7,500 tax creditTesla Inc. says buyers must order cars by Monday to get the full federal electric vehicle tax credit of $7,500.
Another Hairpin Turn For Tesla As Stock Dives On SEC ChargeTesla investors have taken a wild ride as Wall Street values the promise of one of the world's leading electric car makers, the hurdles the company faces as it tries to become a world-class manufacturer, and a mercurial CEO who can get the market buzzing with a single tweet.
Elon Musk Shares His Thoughts And Marijuana On The Joe Rogan ShowThe CEO of electric-car maker Tesla and rocket startup SpaceX spent more than two-and-a-half hours Thursday night talking to podcast host Joe Rogan about what it's like inside his head.
Consumer Reports Raises Concerns Over Tesla Model 3 BrakingLong emergency stopping distances, difficult-to-use controls and a harsh ride stopped Tesla's Model 3 electric car from getting a recommended buy rating from Consumer Reports.
Consumer Reports Won't Recommend Tesla's Model 3Consumer Reports says the car has exhilarating acceleration and handling. But testers were troubled by its 152-foot average stopping distance.
Elon Musk's SpaceX is Testing a Rocket that Aims to Send Astronauts into Space It's time for SpaceX to test out the new rocket it hopes will eventually carry astronauts into space.
Tesla Driver Hits And Kills Bear On HighwayA driver was lucky to escape injury after colliding with a bear that wandered onto an Oregon highway.
GoFundMe Page Raises $5,000 To Buy Elon Musk A New CouchLast week, Elon Musk showed "CBS This Morning" co-host Gayle King the couch he sleeps on when he works late at his Tesla Model 3 factory. The internet was not pleased with the piece of furniture.
Feds Boot Tesla From Investigation Into Fatal CrashElectric car maker Tesla has been booted from the group investigating a fatal crash in California that involved a Tesla SUV and the company's Autopilot system.
Tesla: Crash Was Worsened By Missing Freeway Barrier ShieldA missing or damaged safety shield on the end of a California freeway barrier worsened the impact of a crash involving a Tesla SUV that killed a man last week, the electric car maker said on its website.
Tesla Stockholders Approve Elon Musk Compensation Of More Than $50 BillionA source says Elon Musk could receive stock options that could be worth more than 50 billion dollars. The CEO of Tesla Inc., the electric car and solar panel maker was approved by the shareholders to receive the stocks that will be worth that much if he meets lofty milestones over the next decade, according to a person briefed on the vote.
Tesla Fires Hundreds Of Workers As Part Of Annual ReviewsThe housecleaning swept out workers in administrative and sales jobs, in addition to Tesla's manufacturing operations.
Dozens Of New Stores To Open At Somerset Collection Before Holiday SeasonCheck out the newest stores coming to Somerset Collection for the upcoming holiday season.


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Cannabis advocates are still waiting to see the bill that the Democratic Senate has promised to throw down in an effort to legalize marijuana at the federal level. They are excited about the possibilities. After all, the Democrats have control of Congress this year, so getting marijuana matters pushed through should be a piece of cake. Only that’s not entirely true.
There are still immense challenges in getting any cannabis reform measure through the halls of Congress this year, and some of the roadblocks for legalization begin with the Democratic party itself.
Although Democrats have majority rule in the U.S. Senate, it is only by a slim majority. This means they will need every bit of support from their own part, not to mention some backing from Republicans to get any pot-related measure beyond a discussion. A marijuana bill would need 60 Senators to sign off on it to beat the filibuster, an old Senate rule that demands a super majority on controversial issues.
But Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer won’t even be able to count on the whole of the Democratic Party to help pass marijuana legislation in 2021. Not every one of them favors such action. Senator Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire recently told Politico that “I do not support marijuana legalization.” Senator Jon Tester of Montana concurred. Marijuana legalization would “cause more problems than it solves,” he said. These are two votes that Schumer can’t afford to lose.
Nevertheless, Schumer is brainstorming ways to get the cannabis issue recognized in this Congress. He’s adamant about getting something passed, saying during his recent 420 speech on the Senate floor that “hopefully the next time this unofficial holiday 420 rolls around, our country will have made progress in addressing the massive over-criminalization of marijuana in a meaningful and comprehensive way.” The word on the street is that he’s even willing to make some concessions with his approach (allowing a less comprehensive measure if he thinks it will pass) to ensure some level of pot reform lands on the books. Still, even with compromise there are no guarantees.
It doesn’t even look like a measly cannabis banking bill known as the SAFE Banking Act is earning enough support to fly through the Senate. The bill recently passed the U.S. House of Representatives and is now lingering around the entrance of the upper chamber, waiting for its time to shine. But standing there in the way is Ohio Senator Sherrod Brown, chair of the Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee, and he’s not allowing SAFE Banking to get a fair shake. “This committee’s been too much about Wall Street and not enough about housing, not enough about rural and urban affairs and people’s everyday economic lives, and that’s my focus,” Brown told Cleveland.com. “I will look at this seriously. We’re not ready to move on it.”
The only way Senate Democrats have been able to bypass Republican opposition so far this year and move forward with its agenda is through budget reconciliation. This process is filibuster-proof, as it only requires a simple majority on financial issues. Cannabis advocates have asked Schumer if he will consider using the budget reconciliation to pass his comprehensive cannabis reform bill. And it sounds like he might try. “You will hear in a few weeks the legislation that’ll answer,” Schumer said. But try is the operative word.
Although it is perfectly fair for Senate Democrats to try to weasel their way into federal cannabis legalization by using the budget process, it probably won’t be approved. As we mentioned weeks ago, it would be up to the Senate Parliamentarian to decide if marijuana legalization could pass in this manner. But considering that the parliamentarian is responsible for nixing the Senate’s attempts to pass the $15 minimum wage earlier this year, marijuana legalization probably doesn’t stand a chance. Still, Democrats are going to push the envelope to see what sticks.
Meanwhile, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell has promised that any measure Democrats strongarm through Congress with budget reconciliation will be repealed as soon as the power structure changes. That could be as soon as 2022. It will be interesting to see what happens in the next few weeks. One thing is sure, Democrats will have to move carefully if they want to see cannabis reform land in a way that doesn’t end up a casualty of a savage political dust-up.

domain: news


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My prince charming came home with this.For me, His Princess! (check out those crowns)They say," The way to a girls heart is diamonds".Not mine! Give me some funky, vintage, costume jewelry any day.
OOOOO!!! Those are LOVELY (I get to price old jewelry in at the antique shop I help out in --very fun.)
What a man!! I love that set, Those crowns are the perfect touch:)Have a great weekend:)
They are gorgeous.Well done to the man.
Awesome! Those are beautiful! Your man did a good job. =)
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With Halloween around the corner, there’s only about a week left to watch the scariest of scary movies. After all, that’s what Halloween is about, right? Here is a list of top 5 scary movies that will put you in the Halloween spirit.
1. The Exorcist
This terrifying movie will have you on the edge of your seat while you watch a 12-year-old girl get possessed by an evil spirit as an exorcist tries to save her.
2. The Silence of the Lambs
Based on a true story, this psychological thriller depicts the story of Dr. Hannibal Lecter and FBI agent, Clarice Starling, who tries to understand the mind of a murderer by interviewing the psychotic cannibal.
When a murderer escapes after being institutionalized his whole life, he stalks a high school girl and her friends while his doctor chases him through the neighborhood streets. Filled with lots and lots of gore, this movie will have you questioning your choice of walking the streets on Halloween night.
4. A Nightmare on Elm Street
After a lynch mob kills him, Freddie Krueger decides to take out his anger on their children, in their dreams. Having trouble sleeping? This movie will definitely keep you wide awake.
5. Amityville Horror
Yet another movie based on a true story, newlyweds move into a house where a murder had been committed. While living in the house, they experience strange things that drive them away. After this, you’ll never want to step foot (let alone move) into an old house.
photo taken from MovieGeekBlog


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On January 19, 2016, Governor Larry Hogan announced changes to the State Employee and Retiree Wellness Program. The changes to this program will reward those who already completed the wellness activity requirements in 2015 and will give those who have not a second chance to do so in 2016.
Here are the details. The surcharges for 2016 and 2017 have been eliminated. This means NO ONE will be charged the $50 surcharge for not having completed the 2015 healthy activities. If you have not completed your 2015 healthy activities, you can still do them in 2016.
The 2016 healthy activities noted in the 2016 State Benefits Guide have been replaced with the 2015 healthy activities. This has several important effects:
- Anyone who completed the 2015 healthy activities by December 31, 2015 will have $0 copays for all Primary Care Provider (PCP) office visits in 2016, including sick visits.
- Those who completed the 2015 healthy activities DO NOT have to complete them again in 2016; the $0 copay will continue through December 31, 2016.
- Those who did not complete the healthy activities in 2015, may complete them now in 2016 and be eligible for the $0 PCP copays once they are completed.
The 2016 healthy activities have changed slightly:
- If an individual had not selected a PCP in 2015, they need to do so in 2016.
- Employees and enrolled spouses may now choose to complete either his/her medical plan’s health risk assessment OR the State Health Risk Assessment to satisfy this activity.
- The Physician Notification Form has been updated so the PCP can sign indicating he/she saw the results of the individual’s health risk assessment.
- Age/gender appropriate screenings are NOT REQUIRED. These may be completed voluntarily.
- Engagement in disease management is NOT REQUIRED. Members can engage voluntarily.
There is NO NEED to submit requests to waive participation in the wellness plan because there is no surcharge applicable for not participating.
If you have any questions about the Wellness Program changes, please call the University Human Resources, Office of Employee Benefits at (301) 405-5654.
Last updated: February 2, 2016

domain: medical


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Ten years of abuse - and girls were failed by everyone
THREE girls who were subjected to years of sexual, physical and emotional abuse were failed repeatedly by the social workers whose job it was to protect them, according to a damning report yesterday.
Over a ten-year period, more than 200 separate reports noted concerns over the girls and the systematic abuse they were suffering at the hands of at least four adults, including their father.
Yet, social workers failed to act, choosing instead to try to keep the family together in their squalid home on the Isle of Lewis.
When the girls were finally placed in foster care and their claims properly investigated by police, they were failed again when the Crown Office decided there was not enough evidence to pursue court action their alleged abusers.
Nine people were charged with serious sex offences involving the girls, aged under 16, following statements from them and their mother, but prosecutors decided not to proceed with the case.
Politicians condemned the treatment of the girls and called for lessons to be learned.
The 162-page report on the case from the Social Work Inspection Agency charts the abuse the girls endured over a decade, beginning when one of them was just 14 months old.
"We found evidence of physical abuse, emotional abuse and neglect, as well as symptoms and behaviour which are strongly suggestive of sexual abuse. We believe that all three children were repeatedly sexually abused," the report concluded.
It described how they were forced to live without proper food, clothing or bedding. One girl routinely slept in a cupboard and another was so hungry she ate cat food, it is claimed.
The abuse began in England, where "family A" came from, and continued when they moved to the Western Isles in 1995.
Between 1990 and 2000, professionals north and south of the Border recorded 222 health concerns and allegations of sexual, physical and emotional abuse and neglect towards the children. In that time, a total of 29 child protection case conferences were held. The children were eventually placed with foster families in 1998 and 2001, but the report said this should have happened much earlier.
The agency said some of the decisions made were "seriously flawed". It said that, mindful of previous child cases, such as that in Orkney, workers had tried to keep the family together rather than focusing on the needs of the children. It said professionals were too willing to believe the accounts of adult family members rather than the children's.
The report said health workers had failed to spot child protection issues that should have been flagged up by the children's health problems, while the Western Isles NHS board did not have the procedures to support staff in protecting the children.
The education minister, Peter Peacock, demanded action from those responsible for child protection in the Western Isles by 30 November. He said: "This report writes yet another horrifying chapter in the continuing exposure of child abuse in Scotland.
"In this case, the professional agencies involved knew of, and recorded, extensive concerns about the girls' welfare and wellbeing over a number of years, but inspectors found they did not intervene early enough."
Bill Howat, the chief executive of Western Isles Council, said: "We accept that there were serious shortcomings in our performance and that is a matter of regret. Our aim is to provide the best possible children's services in the Western Isles, and we must now see where improvements can be made."
The suspected abusers were picked up in dawn raids on Lewis and in Leicestershire, West Yorkshire and Dorset in October 2003 as part of an investigation codenamed Operation Haven. But the following July, the Crown Office dropped its prosecution before the case got to trial.
Ian Latimer, the Chief Constable of Northern Constabulary, said his force had passed 222,000 pages of documents about the case to the Crown Office, and added: "We had a sufficiency of evidence to charge a number of people, and we did. As in all serious cases, the decision as to whether a criminal prosecution should be undertaken is a matter for the Crown counsel alone."
Alasdair Morrison, the MSP for the Western Isles, said: "It is of deep regret that this was not pursued through the courts and that should alarm every right-thinking citizen. People who were identified were not pursued and justice has not been done.
"Anyone examining all this would be alarmed that there was such a substantial body of evidence and the Crown Office decided not to take it further."
He said he hoped the children would raise a private prosecution against their abusers.
Mr Howat said: "We put in enormous efforts in building up the case work for this, and our staff ... found this harrowing and traumatic. They are naturally very disappointed this did not proceed to prosecution."
The Crown Office said: "Crown counsel concluded that the evidence available did not reach the high standard required for a conviction of individual accused persons before a criminal court."
Some of the accused have always maintained their innocence. One, Peter Nelson, said the claims had destroyed his life. "It's only when it happens to you and you haven't done anything that you wonder how many people are put in jail for crimes they did not commit," he said.
Penny Campbell, wife of another accused, said they had been left angry and bitter. "It has changed for ever the way we look at the authorities," she said.
One was so hungry she ate cat food, one had no shoes, one slept in a cupboard
FILTHY rooms. Starving children. Repeated sexual abuse. The horrific ordeal endured by three young girls was laid out in chilling detail yesterday. One girl was so hungry that she ate cat food and another had no shoes to wear, while one slept in a cupboard, according to social work inspectors.
Physical neglect, which included beds soaked in urine and animals roaming through the house, was compounded by violence and sexual abuse. One girl had a burn thought to have been caused by a cigarette, while another was sexually abused by her stepfather, Mr A, and other men at the house in the Western Isles. A witness said she saw the girls drink goat's milk, which they had strained through a pair of dirty pants.
The report states: "We believe that all three children were repeatedly sexually abused, based on our analysis of all the material we have seen."
The story that has shocked the small island community of Lewis involves three girls who cannot be named, but who were born in 1989, 1991, and 1993.
The older girl was the daughter of Mrs A, who has a learning disability and was herself a victim of physical and sexual abuse. In 1990, Mrs A married Mr A, who was convicted in 1986 of indecent assault against his nine-year-old daughter from a previous marriage. Together, they had two more girls.
The oldest girl was put on the child protection register in 1990 when she was just one. Her half-sisters were also later put on the register as being at risk of physical abuse.
The family received almost constant support from social services in England and moved to the Western Isles in 1995.
However, it was found that after the family moved to the Western Isles not all of their records were transferred at the same time. As a result, while Mr A was considered a high risk in England, he was assessed as a low risk in the Western Isles. This was later upgraded.
Investigators believe that had all the records been available to social workers in the Western Isles, an intervention may have come sooner and some abuse could have been prevented.
Mrs A took her oldest child to a GP when she was just 14 months old, worried that she was being sexually abused by her husband. Between October 1990 and November 1991, the girls' nursery recorded 17 occasions when she had a sore genital area or bodily bruising.
Concerns about sexual abuse arose again in 1992, when Mrs A contacted the police. The incidents continued when the family arrived in the Western Isles. In 1996 the girl had a burn thought to have been caused by a cigarette. In 1997, she claimed she was assaulted by her step- father, who was charged, but the case was later dropped. One month later, the girl alleged she was sexually abused.
As a result, the girl was moved to foster parents, where she put on weight and grew by two inches. She returned home later that year, but two months later she again claimed she had been assaulted by her stepfather. In March 1998, she was returned to the foster family, where she remains. Between 1990 and 1998, professionals recorded 46 cases of concern regarding the girl.
The report says concerns about the middle girl increased from 1994 until she, too, was removed from her parents' house. During 1994, she was found to have multiple bruises to her ears, face and shoulder. Over the next few years, social workers reported bruises, weals and burn-like marks on her arm. Burns were also reported in 1997 and 1998.
A home-carer in the Western Isles noted that a number of adults known to Mr and Mrs A visited their home and she said: "To me, it was as if the girls were an exhibition. I just don't like the girls running around half-naked with him [the stepfather] in the house." One adult is said to have admitted to police that he had on a number of occasions touched at least one of the children in an intimate and inappropriate manner.
Later, the report says: "The physical abuse to which the children were subjected may well have been aimed at preventing them from telling about their sexual abuse. In their later disclosures and statements to the police, both the children and their mother described threats and intimidation to keep quiet."
The report described the children's home in Lewis as of a poor standard, one home-carer describing conditions as the worst she had ever seen. In 1999, records show that Mr A was spending 10 a week on a computer while the phone was disconnected for non-payment and the youngest girl had no shoes to wear.
The inspectors said: "We concluded that the children suffered emotional abuse both as a result of the other abuse and neglect they suffered and as a direct result of their parents' failure to consistently meet their emotional needs."
Despite the traumatic lives the girls led, their cries for help went unheeded for some time; inspectors said that professionals, when confronted with conflicting accounts of what happened by adults and children, tended to believe the adults.
The major investigation was sparked off in December 2002, when one of the girls told her foster carer that she had been abused by adults who had visited her parents' home. One girl told police officers of being touched sexually by unrelated men who visited regularly.
Mrs A later denied she knew of any abuse and Mr A, when interviewed by police, denied any knowledge of the allegations.
After discussions between social workers and police, a joint investigation began in January, 2003 and continued until October. It culminated with raids on 3 October at houses in the isles and in England, and initially 13 people were detained.
Nine were later charged with a variety of offences, including rape, but in July last year the Crown Office decided not to take any further proceedings and the case remains closed. However, it is thought the girls, who are receiving legal advice, may make the rare move of using a private prosecution to try to bring the alleged abusers to court.
How the scandal developed
1990: Mr and Mrs A married.
1990: Oldest girl put on child protection register.
1990-1995: English social services convene 12 child protection case conferences.
1995: Family A move to the Western Isles.
1995-2001: Western Isles social services department convenes 17 child protection case conferences.
1997: Oldest child first goes into foster care.
2001: Other children in foster care.
November 2002: One girl makes allegations of abuse.
October 2003: Raids on homes in England and Western Isles - 13 detained, nine later charged.
July 2004: Crown Office drops case.
July 2004: Western Isles Council invites social work inspectors to carry out review of case.

domain: sociology


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Encouraged to do a version that included all the beautiful fringe, this one is for Kay.Mostly PS13 painting using quick selection technique.
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- Always travel with your proper identification while traveling in a train or flight.
- Always carry a hat or shades for protection from the harsh Sun.
- When hiring a taxi from airports or railway stations get a prepaid taxi.
- In summers Agra is hot, plain cottons are the most practical and coolest.
- Women travelers are expected to be modestly dressed
- In monsoons, an umbrella comes in handy
- In winters, woolens or warm clothing is essential at nighttime.
- To enter a holy shrine, women should wear a long skirt, dress or trousers.
- Avoid tight fitting or revealing clothes especially when traveling alone
- Beware of touts and tricksters cheating tourists.
- Do not accept any type of food from strangers while traveling on trains and busses.
- Eating at roadside cafes can be risky because of unhygienic cooking environments.
- Drinking tap water can be a health hazard. It is best to carry mineral water bottles bought from a reliable store. In summer, extreme heat can cause heat strokes and dehydration, take enough fluids.
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- Durvasa Rishi Ashram
- Kans Tila
- Rangeshwar Mahadev Mandir
- Bhooteshwar Mahadev Mandir
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10 Tips for Indian Pilgrims
Published 4:01 am, 17 Dec 2013
India is rightly known as the land of spirituality, which has been the birthplace of a number of religions. Some of these religions are existent even today all around the world. It is well-known that the people of India strongly follow their religious beliefs, rituals and age-old traditions.
Destinations Traveled While Muktinath Pashupatinath Darshan Yatra
Published 12:16 am, 31 Aug 2013
Agra Tourist Attractions - Taj Mahal
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Mathura - City of Historic And Ancient Temples
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Top 5 Magnificent Temples in South India
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A game that lets you experience living and playing down on the farm
Windows 8 / Windows Vista / Windows 7 / Windows XP
Farming Simulator 2013 is an agricultural simulation game for the PC and mobile devices. While other farm sims feature cute graphics and fanciful farming techniques, players here get to operate virtual farms inspired by the agriculture industry in the United States. Because your virtual farm is a for-profit venture, the game is also a financial simulator. All the crops and other products your farm grows can be sold to local markets. The game teaches some basic skills in logistics, accounting and general business administration.
Farming Simulator 2013 features some other real-world details most farming games don't, including more than 100 detailed vehicles and 20 real brands of top farming machinery and equipment. As you play, you can drive your own threshers, harvesters and tillers from Amazone, Kramer, Horsch, Fahr and Krone.
A traditional tractor trailer must be combined with dozens of other farming machines for successful operation of a real field. Cultivators, plows, seeders, hoppers, sprayers and balers are some of the advanced agricultural equipment you'll encounter in this detailed farming simulator. It's a world away from the cartoon-like agricultural games, but fans of real-world simulation games will appreciate its attention to detail.
As in the real world, you must apply real farming techniques such as seeding, plowing, collecting and fertilizing in the game. Plant potatoes, carrots, beets and onions as some of your starting cash crops. Terrain, irrigation and fertilizers must also be carefully selected to have a successful harvest; specific crops grow best in certain soil, and savvy virtual farmers soon learn where and when to plant.
Animal husbandry is also featured in the missions of Farming Simulator 2013. You can choose to ranch livestock, including sheep and cows, or raise chickens for meat and eggs. Meat and dairy are the main products that can be produced in this part of the simulation game.
Farmers must also build on their land. Classic barns and sheds are some of the most popular additions in the game, but you can also add grain silos and other farm essentials. Over time, you can build a whole complex of agricultural buildings, farmland and animal pens. Best of all, Farming Simulator 2013 allows multiple players to share their agricultural experiences through an online mode.
Large selection of real farming vehicles
Licensed farm equipment brands
Diverse crop harvesting and animal husbandry missions
Realistic 3D graphics
Lack of detailed sounds or an engaging soundtrack
Not much dialogue
Farm development is faster than real time but can still feel slow


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Lotusland Celebrates ~ Birdsong
July 23 @ 3:30 pm - 8:00 pm
This year’s Lotusland Celebrates gala will soar beyond your wildest imagination and flights of fancy!
On Saturday, July 23 from 3:30 until 8:00 in the evening Lotusland Celebrates: Birdsong will be a multi-sensory event featuring craft cocktails, curated wines, a gourmet meal, and live music.
A surprise musical performance will enliven the Gardens with ambient music and sonic vibrations. Discover birding in the biodiverse habitat of Lotusland with gifted Birdoculars by Warby Parker.
Watch for the Lotusland Celebrates online auction to launch in mid-July. Visit lotuslandcelebrates.org to reserve your table or to sponsor the event. For more information or questions about the event, please contact the Lotusland Events Team at email@example.com.
Drawing inspiration from Grammy Award winning music supervisor Randall Poster’s For the Birds: The Birdsong Project with creative consultation by Merryl Brown of Merryl Brown Events, come together for an event in the Garden to raise awareness of bird conservation across the nation. Poster is collaborating with Lotusland in the West and the Brooklyn Botanic Garden in the East for inspiring summer events and programs.
Visit lotuslandcelebrates.org to reserve your table or to sponsor the event.


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The Noble brand knows that patience is a virtue. First, this white wine vinegar spends 5 years aging in oak barrels. Then Egyptian heirloom organic lemon peel is added -- think of an intense Meyer lemon with notes of orange peel and cedar.
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