H.E. Ahmed Mahboob Musabih, Director of Dubai Customs, has affirmed that DC’s core objectives for the time being are strongly in line with the Government of Dubai’s vision and strategic goals aiming to make Dubai the world’s premier business and tourism destination, while enhancing its current position as the region’s leading trading hub connecting the East and the West.
“Dubai is serving a cross-border market reaching as many as 2 billion people, due to its exceptional logistic infrastructure that has made the emirate a perfect choice for international investors, traders, airlines, and shipping companies,” he said.
Mr. Mahboob further stressed that “What is most special about Dubai is the integrated public services package it offers to investors and merchants across all customs entry and exit points, which saves their time and effort and give real added value to their business transactions.”
Dubai Customs, he said, has embarked on restructuring and upgrading its customs systems since 2008, in collaboration with World Customs Organization (WCO). Subsequently, DC managed to launch new systems – such as Mirsal 2 and Risk Engine – that were vigorously acclaimed by the WCO and other member Customs administrations around the globe.
“Dubai Customs is always keen on cooperating with relevant international organizations and share expertise with all countries, in a way that serves our mission to support legitimate trade and protect global communities and their economies.”
Ahmed Mahboob made these statements when he received a high-level economic delegation from the Dominican Republic. The deputation was headed by Fernando Fernandez, Director of Dominican Customs, and comprised Heriberto Minaya, Deputy Technical Manager, Dominican Customs, alongside Martin Johanson, Executive Director and other officials from DP World in Caucedo Port.
Fernando Fernandez underlined that “The visit is aimed at broadening the scope of cooperation with Dubai Customs whose outstanding successes are internationally renown.” Lauding the noticeable developments achieved in Dubai’s ports, airports and free zones, he said “We are open to the entire world and seek to share expertise with Dubai in multiple areas, particularly the field of Customs.”
He stated that Dominican’s main port of Caucedo has witnessed huge evolutions since DP World was assigned its management eight years ago, presently handling more than 2.5 million TEU containers. Overall, the Dominican ports serve an estimated market of 200 million populace in neighbouring Latin America.
Ahmed Mahboob applauded the visit, saying: “There are many facets of customs cooperation that collectively will increase the value of trade between Dubai and the Dominican Republic, which totalled Dh110 million in 2013”. He noted that there is a close cooperation between Dubai Customs and DP World, which runs a broad network of ports around the world, at the top of which is Jebel Ali Port, the largest port in the region with an estimated capacity of 19 million TEU by the end of 2014.
Mahboob added that the advanced technical systems applied at DC have resulted in remarkably expediting cargo clearance without compromising the security and safety of the community and the economy.
In 2013, nearly 8.5 million customs transactions were completed in all customs entry points in Dubai. 84% of non-risky consignments are cleared automatically in less than two minutes without human interference, while the remaining is handled by the competent departments, namely the Customs Declaration Management, Valuation, Customs tariff and Origin, and others.
“We at Dubai Customs are committed to maintain the right balance between ensuring a streamlined movement of both goods and people and protecting the community and the economy,” Mahboob said.
The Director of Dubai Customs remarked that the cutting-edge work procedures and systems are implemented to keep pace with Dubai’s drive towards being Number 1 globally. He also pointed that Dubai International Airport (DIA) was named the world’s busiest airport for international passenger traffic in Q1 of 2014, with 18.36 million passengers traveling through DIA over the first three months of 2014. Dubai International outpaced other well-established airports such as London Heathrow and Hong Kong International Airport. On the other hand, Jebel Ali Port is fully geared up to accommodate the expected increase in goods and ships in the next few years, ahead of World Expo 2020.
The delegation from the Dominican Customs and Caucedo Port watched a visual presentation about Mirsal2 and the Risk Engine. They were introduced to these systems and their work mechanism as part of Dubai Customs’ business operational model. They also learned about the phases of DC’s recent transformation into a smart government department, delivering its full range of customs services via smart phones and tablets round the clock. The visitors toured the Customs Declaration Management Department at DC to explore automated processes of handling declarations.
Tuesday, June 17- 2014 @ 13:21 UAE local time (GMT+4) Replication or redistribution in whole or in part is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Mediaquest FZ LLC.


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The online trading company Plus500 has signed-off on a jaw-dropping USD 700 million deal to be sold to Playtech, following internal problems with the former firm.
Plus500 is one of the most reputable companies when it comes to trading via the internet, or so many have thought. For years they were the go-to destination when clients wanted to trade services online, however in recent times it has lost that reputation. In late 2014, gambling news stared to emerge about the shaky integrity about the company, as they were rumoured to have some grey practices.
• Plus500 carried a great reputation before the probe
• FAC investigates Plus500 over some dealings
• Playtech can sever the deal at any time
Some officials began to scrutinize them, considering their model and processed did not follow the standard guidelines. In addition, their marketing strategies were also brought into question, as it was rumoured that positive reviews posted online may in fact be fake. Playtech has now decided to buy the company as they aim to broaden their overall services, however they can back out at any time if they desire.
Company’s value depreciated due to regulatory probes
The UK Financial Conduct Authority issued an order to block the accounts of Plus500 in the middle of May. This was part of the reviewing process, after reports surfaced that they were involved in some potentially shady dealings. The review was concerned with uncovering more details as to the anti-money-laundering controls initiated in January. This is what caused the company’s value to depreciate, which is what attracted many short-sellers in the stock market.
Playtech was one of the initial companies to express interest in buying the Israeli-base trading firm, although there were other big names involved as well. Valiant Capital Management didn’t want to miss this great opportunity to profit, as they started betting against Plus500. 55-year-old billionaire hedge-fund manager Crispin Odey also made sure to get in on the action while it was hot. He supposedly purchased stock in the company following the drop in prices of the once prominent online trading provider.
Playtech stated that they would be paying 400 pence per share for Plus500, which represents only a fraction of its value weeks ago. Analysts report that a month ago, the company shares were trading at around twice as much than the current cost of the deal is at the moment. The representatives of Playtech insisted on protecting themselves, should anything go wrong in the meantime. If by some chance the business does not succeed and ends up becoming a potential liability, the agreement can be written-off, mobile casinos report.
The chief executive of Playtech, Mor Weizer, highlighted that importance of making swift and clever decisions in order to maximize on the given opportunity. ”We wanted to act quickly. We see an opportunity. We believe that by combining the two, we will remedy the situation.” He also added that a clause exists in the agreement which would allow them to pull away if the business conditions did not suit them. “There are certain scenarios defined in the agreement that for certain material adverse change affecting the business, the transaction basically becomes void.”
Playtech can still pull out of the deal
The share value of Plus500 went up 8.9 percent due to the acquisition deal, however once the executive of Playtech voiced the specifics of the agreement, the market responded negatively which saw the online trading company lose all of its previous gains. According to online internet casinos, Weizer stressed that there would be more details and points pertaining to “adverse change” conditions of the deal released to the public in the imminent shareholder circular.
The CEO of Plus500, Gal Haber, commented that the FCA (Financial Conduct Authority) discovered “major failings” in the way the company gathered information on its customers’ residential and, more importantly, financial standing. This is what led to the firm losing over two-thirds of its value a little more than a week ago.
Plus500 is not the first online trading provider to be bought by Playtech. Another popular firm called TradeFX Ltd. was also recently purchased by the software company as they aim to provide their numerous client base with more options. Plus500 allows retail customers to trade global contracts for difference, which started late last month following the company’s statement that they were being scrutinized by the authorities.
Simon Young, a prominent fund manager at Aviva Plc, pondered the question if one week would suffice to put all the necessary due diligence in order, considering the probe being carried out by the regulatory body, as per UK gambling laws. Weizer stated that they have done everything within their means make this project work. “I know it’s only a week, but within this week we basically injected all possible resources into this project.” He also commented that they feel at ease now, having completed the important due diligence process. “We managed to go through all the relevant due diligence processes for us to feel comfortable that this is the right transaction for us.”

domain: news


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Attention, hemp enthusiasts! As the cannabis market continues to evolve and expand, you might have come across the latest trend – Delta 8 THC gummies. But how do they compare to the more widely known Delta 9 THC gummies?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the differences between Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC gummies, and why you should consider trying Delta 8 gummies from Herban Bud.
So, let’s dive right in!
Understanding Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants responsible for the “high” typically associated with marijuana use. Delta 9 THC, the most abundant and well-known form of THC, is present in traditional marijuana products and is the compound that drug tests usually screen for.
Delta 8 THC, a lesser-known variant of THC, is found in much smaller quantities in cannabis plants. It is produced through a chemical reaction that converts CBD (cannabidiol) into Delta 8 THC. While it shares similarities in structure and effects with Delta 9 THC, Delta 8 THC has some unique characteristics that set it apart.
Delta 8 vs. Delta 9 Gummies: Potency and Effects
The primary distinction between Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC gummies lies in their potency and effects. Delta 8 THC is less potent than Delta 9 THC, which means you’ll need to consume more of it to achieve the same level of high. However, Delta 8 THC is known for producing a milder, more clear-headed high compared to Delta 9 THC, thanks to its slightly different molecular structure that impacts how it interacts with your body’s endocannabinoid system.
Exploring the Benefits of Herban Bud’s Delta-8 Gummies
Herban Bud’s Delta 8 gummies are crafted with high-quality Delta 8 THC distillate derived from organically grown and harvested hemp plants. A proprietary extraction process ensures that the Delta 8 THC distillate is pure, potent, and free of harmful contaminants. The gummies are also infused with natural fruit flavors and sweeteners, providing a delightful taste experience with each bite.
Each gummy contains an accurate dose of Delta 8 THC, enabling easy control over your intake and the desired level of high. Furthermore, Herban Bud’s gummies are vegan, gluten-free, and made without artificial colors or flavors. If you seek a milder, more clear-headed high, Delta 8 gummies might be the perfect choice for you. The uplifting and energizing effects of Delta 8 THC make it suitable for socializing or completing tasks. It also has potential health benefits, such as reducing anxiety and inflammation.
Trying Herban Bud’s Delta-8 Gummies
Ready to experience the unique effects of Delta 8 gummies for yourself? Visit HerbanBud.com and browse their[DS1] selection of high-quality Delta 8 products, available in a range of flavors and doses to suit your preferences. Herban Bud prioritizes quality, safety, and customer satisfaction, offering fast and discreet shipping to all 50 states.
In summary, Delta 8 and Delta 9 gummies differ in potency and effects, with Delta 8 gummies from Herban Bud offering a unique and enjoyable experience.
The natural flavors, precise dosing, and potential health benefits make these gummies an excellent choice for anyone looking to try a new cannabis product. So, why wait? Visit Herban Bud’s website today and place your order for some delicious and uplifting Delta 8 gummies. The Herban Bud team is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality Delta 8 products and exceptional customer service. They also offer a satisfaction guarantee, so if you’re not completely satisfied with your purchase, they’ll do everything they can to make it right.
Expanding Your Delta-8 Product Selection
In addition to their Delta 8 gummies, Herban Bud offers a diverse range of other Delta 8 products, including tinctures, cartridges, and edibles. They believe that Delta 8 THC has the potential to revolutionize the cannabis industry, and they’re proud to be at the forefront of this movement. Their goal is to provide customers with safe, enjoyable, and effective Delta 8 products that enhance their lives and well-being.
Why Choose Herban Bud for Your Delta 8 Needs?
Herban Bud prides itself on its commitment to quality, safety, and transparency. They use only the finest ingredients and manufacturing processes to create their Delta 8 products, and they consistently provide clear and accurate information about their products and their effects. Strict quality control measures are followed to ensure that their products meet or exceed industry standards for safety and purity.
In Conclusion: Discover the Benefits of Delta 8 THC with Herban Bud
If you’re curious about trying a new and exciting cannabis product, consider Delta 8 gummies from Herban Bud. With their unique effects, natural flavors, and potential health benefits, these gummies are an excellent choice for anyone seeking the advantages of cannabis without the intense high typically associated with traditional marijuana products. Visit Herban Bud’s website today and explore the many benefits of Delta 8 THC!
Embrace the world of Delta 8 THC gummies and experience a new way to enjoy cannabis. Whether you’re a seasoned cannabis consumer or new to the scene, Delta 8 gummies from HerbanBud provide a unique, enjoyable, and potentially beneficial experience. So, don’t miss out on this latest cannabis trend – visit HerbanBud.com today and embark on a journey of discovery with Delta 8 THC gummies!

domain: health


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Red hot stick series!
Follow Jim and his friends on a series of crazy adventures! Just don't bother Jim while he's enjoying his reefer!
Fans of the Madness series will enjoy watching these ninjas fight it out!
Ren and Stimpy fans rejoice, this series takes it up a notch!

domain: entertainment


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Why Fry Spices? Frying spices in oil gives them a completely different flavor than dry-roasting. When dry-roasted, a spice’s flavor changes in fundamental ways: volatile aromatics begin to cook off, while compounds in the spice recombine to form new flavors that are often deeper, roasted, and earthier.
Should you cook ground spices?
To extract natural flavors and enhance the effect on your dish, heat up spices before cooking. While spices are naturally aromatic, “it’s heat that really wakes up those aromatic oils,” chef Floyd Cardoz, formerly of North End Grill in NYC, explains.
Can you fry powdered spices?
There are two very good reasons for frying ground spices in oil, one chemical and the other physical. First, heating up the spices in oil releases fat-soluble flavor compounds contained within spices like cumin and coriander.
Should ground spices be toasted?
Whether they’re whole or ground, spices generally taste better when they’re toasted. The heat opens up their complex flavors, making them full and smooth instead of harsh and raw.
Should you fry spices before cooking?
Frying spices is the fastest, richest way to build flavor. Next time you start cooking, quickly fry your spices in oil. No amount of simmering will extract as much flavor from them as a spice-infused oil will.
Why should you toast spices?
Toasting your spices is a great technique to know. Toasting spices intensifies their flavor, bringing out the aromatic oils and adding complexity to their taste by layering in a warm, toasty flavor. It also makes your kitchen smell amazing!
How do you fry dry spices?
First of all you need to roast the whole spices, and to do this place them in a small frying pan or saucepan over a medium heat and stir and toss them around for 1-2 minutes, or until they begin to look toasted and start to jump in the pan.
Can I toast ground cumin?
In a dry small heavy skillet toast the cuminseed over moderate heat, swirling the skillet, for 3 or 4 minutes, or until it turns several shades darker and begins to pop.
How do you fry spices without burning them?
Pan frying whole spices is much easier than trying to pan fry ground spices. Keeping them whole ensures that the volatile oils within the spices will stay within the spice and won’t burn off once they have hit the oil.
Should you toast spices in oil?
There’s Only One Reason to Toast Your Spices
Heat expresses the volatile oils within spices, which result in a more complex and bolder flavor. This process can completely transform bitter and sharp-tasting spices into a smoother taste.
Why should whole spices be toasted before grinding?
START Toasting Your Spices
If you’re not doing it already, we highly recommend toasting any and all whole spices to release aromatic oils and bring out a deeper, more complex flavor. Plus, toasting spices dries them out a little, which makes them easier to grind or crush.
Can I roast ground spices?
You can certainly roast ground spices — just keep in mind that it will take only seconds before they’re done. Once your spices are roasted, move them from the pan to a bowl or plate to cool. To grind the cooled spices, you can use a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder or coffee grinder.
What happens when you roast spices?
Dry-roasting is done for a number of reasons. First, it drives off excess moisture and makes the seeds and spices crisper, so they grind more easily. Second, and this is a big one, it changes flavor. As whole spices heat, they release volatile aromatics.
Do spices lose nutrients when cooked?
Whether used fresh or dried, there’s no doubt that herbs can take a dish from good to great with their lively, aromatic flavours. But the question is, do herbs lose their vitamins and minerals when cooked? The short answer is yes.
Do you have to cook cumin powder?
It can be added at any time to a recipe as its flavor doesn’t need heat or time to be released, as is the case with the seeds. More intense and nuanced flavor can be enjoyed by lightly roasting whole cumin seeds and then grinding the seeds in a spice grinder or with a mortar and pestle.
Is ground cumin the same as cumin powder?
What Is Cumin Powder. Cumin Powder which is also popularly known as ground cumin or jeera powder is a spice powder that is prepared by grinding cumin seeds.
How do you use cumin powder in cooking?
How to use cumin powder? You can sprinkle this in your stir fry dishes, curries, soups, salads, chaats etc. It is best to use this when you are about to finish in stir fry and soups. To use it in curries, use it along with coriander powder or garam masala.
How do you fry spices without oil?
You can cook ground spices in broth or lightly dry toast and then add broth or water. It depends on the recipe. If the ground spices are added later in the recipe, the contents of the pan might already be wet. If not, then mix the spices in broth/water and add to the skillet.
How do you know when spices are toasted?
Popping. Some spices will pop as they toast. It’s totally cool if they don’t, but don’t freak out if they do. And you’ll also notice a smell—well-toasted nuts give off a fragrant aroma.
Are ground spices healthy?
Both are used to flavor food, but research shows they’re chock-full of healthy compounds and may have health benefits. “Herbs and spices fight inflammation and reduce damage to your body’s cells,” Moreno says. “That’s because each one is rich in phytochemicals, which are healthful plant chemicals.”
Does heat destroy spices?
Herbs, chiles, and spices alike lose flavor more quickly when they are exposed to heat. When exposed to heat, the oils in herbs and spices dry out.
Do dried spices have health benefits?
Whether you use spices fresh or dried, you’ll still get beneficial compounds. Experts point out that frying or grilling can decrease spices’ antioxidants while microwave cooking, simmering or stewing foods with spices can actually heighten their antioxidant levels.
Should you fry curry spices?
Because the spices are added raw, the paste needs to be fried in hot oil when it is used. The moisture stops the spices from burning until all the water has evaporated out and the oil separates. Once this happens, the liquid base and the main ingredients can be added, just like cooking a curry from scratch.
Can you eat spices without cooking?
As far as I’m aware any herb or spice CAN be eaten raw and hence added at the end of cooking. We cooked a stew with garam masala as we wanted to try something bland. It wasnt very tasteful so I suggested adding the chill powder in hours after the garam masala stew had been cooked.
Is ground cumin healthy?
Cumin has many evidence-based health benefits. Some of these have been known since ancient times, while others are only just being discovered. Using cumin as a spice increases antioxidant intake, promotes digestion, provides iron, may improve blood sugar control and may reduce food-borne illnesses.
What is ground cumin good for?
Nutrition. Cumin contains compounds called flavonoids that work as antioxidants in the body. Antioxidants can help neutralize unstable particles called free radicals that cause cell damage. By neutralizing these particles, antioxidants can help prevent diseases like cancer, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
What flavor does cumin add?
WHAT DOES CUMIN TASTE LIKE? Rich and hearty, earthy and warm, with an edge of citrus, Cumin adds instant depth to any dish. Use ground Cumin rather than whole Cumin seed in recipes where you want the flavor to disperse evenly throughout.
Does cumin have a kick to it?
Cumin is a popular spice particularly in Mexican, North African and Indian cuisines. You will most probably recognise the taste in the unique flavour of chilli con carne, where cumin is one the spices that gives this dish a hot, peppery and spicy kick.
What foods go well with cumin?
Since cumin is a member of the carrot family, it’s only natural to use it in this carrot soup recipe. The spice also plays well with cabbage, parsnip, eggplant, onions, peppers, tomatoes, potatoes, pomegranate, dates, rice, beans, lentils, lamb, beef, chicken, and venison.
Does cumin reduce blood pressure?
Yes, Cumin helps reduce blood pressure. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. It reduces blood pressure by making nitric oxide more available in the blood. Nitric oxide relaxes narrowed blood vessels and lowers blood pressure.
Is frying without oil healthy?
Some oils are advertised as health foods. But no oil is really healthy, not even coconut oil, flaxseed oil, or olive oil. Oil is purely fat (with all other nutrients stripped away) and contains more calories per gram than any other food.
What is frying without oil called?
Pan frying or pan-frying is a form of frying food characterized by the use of minimal cooking oil or fat (compared to shallow frying or deep frying), typically using just enough to lubricate the pan.
What happens if you fry without oil?
No oil is needed to make things crispy in the oven. Food will still brown and crisp up without it and you don’t even need oil to hold seasonings onto food. Take these oil free french fries for example. The moisture in the potatoes is enough for the seasonings to stick to while roasting.
What spices are unhealthy?
The biggest offenders on the list of contaminated spices are common ones sold in grocery stores across the U.S.: coriander, oregano, basil, sesame seeds, curry powder, cumin, and black pepper.
What is the healthiest spice in the world?
10 of the healthiest herbs and spices and their health benefits
- Chili powder.
What are the disadvantages of spices?
It can cause damage to the lining in the stomach, which in turn can cause gastritis, stomach ulcers and even intestinal disease such as colitis.” Ouch! You may like the burning sensation spicy food has on your tongue, but the flipside to that is “spicy food can also cause heartburn and/or reflux disease.
Does heat activate spice?
These receptors detect heat and send a signal to the brain about temperature. So it is an accident of nature that capsaicin activates them, tricking the brain into responding to spicy food as though it were hot.
How do you keep ground spices from clumping?
Store spices in an area that’s cool, dark and dry. The ideal location is in an area away from refrigeration units, steam and cooking elements. In a restaurant, for example, do not keep spices on a shelf above a grill or sink. Minimize light infiltration and slow the oxidation process by storing spices in dark areas.
Does heat enhance spice?
For some spices, the aromatic compounds are released by some heat, but are not destroyed. Thus their effect is heightened. For other compounds, even a small amount of heat will destroy them and thus reduce their effect – see Mischa’s comment.

domain: chemistry


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Normally, when you find yourself stuck at a 5-hour public hearing, listening to 200 speakers, it gets tough.
That happened at the Board of Supervisors meeting last Tuesday. The meeting was long, the place was freezing, I sat from 9:45 a.m. until nearly 5 p.m. — no lunch break, not even a water break.
But the speakers were interesting. And the topic is fascinating to me (you can go to www.sgvtribune.com and search for “storm drain” or “urban runoff” to see the past stories I’ve written on the topic).
But best of all, Supervisor and Chairman of the Board Mark Ridley-Thomas was a study in how to keep order and do it gtacefully. He was also a master at conducting a public hearing.
It was one of the best run public hearings I’ve been to. And that is saying something since I’ve been covering local news for 32 years in four counties.
Anyway, the Board said the storm water cleanup fee needed more time. Zev said it “was not ready for prime time.” They asked for numerous revisions from the Department of Public Works and County Counsel. It should come back before the Board of Supervisors March 12.
You can click on the link below and read my column about Ridley-Thomas.


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text:
An elevator pitch is a term given to any sales pitch that could, in theory, be delivered in the space of a short elevator ride. It is a fantasy scenario as you are never likely to be called to pitch your book in this way.
However, the idea is that you might find yourself in the elevator with a Person of Interest who can’t, for those twenty or thirty seconds, escape or deflect your attention – so you can use that time to deliver a sales pitch so utterly compelling that that Person of Interest is drawn in and wants to hear more.
Authors should still utilize the concept of Elevator Pitch because it’s a neat conceptual way to understand certain metrics surrounding your book: What is your book’s Unique Selling Point – which in turn determines:
1. How to pitch your book to retail buyers
2. How to pitch your book to reviewers
3. How to pitch your book to readers (online or physically)
You should work with about 30-60 words to cover all the relevant points of your book. Brevity is key, not because the theoretical elevator ride is short, but because you need to isolate what is special about your book. That means discarding nearly everything about the book other than the key aspects. If the Person of Interest in the elevator gets out on the same floor as you and says, “Sounds great, tell me more”, then tell all the other aspects about your book. A great elevator pitch is essential, yes, but it’s never enough on its own. It’s just an appetizer to get people interested to know more about your book.
HAVE A COMPELLING HOOK:
This will make your pitch stand out in the sea of pitches. Create a strong why to ensure the listener or reader understands the reason behind the book. You should also demonstrate tension by showing conflict or obstacles that relate to your readers.
PAIR PROBLEMS WITH SOLUTIONS:
Readers are interested in books that clearly cover their pain points (problems in life) with a clearly demonstrated solution. Ask yourself, ‘Why would readers in my target audience find this interesting?’ The theme should also be very clear in your pitch ie Power, Leadership, Betrayal, Love etc.
STATE YOUR TARGET READERS:
Why is this so important? It allows you and others to precisely understand your readers and meet their specific needs and wants. In the long run, this will benefit you because you will be able to use your time and resources more effectively towards a specific goal. It also enables you to make better strategic marketing decisions.
HERE IS A SUMMARY OF QUESTIONS TO ANSWER TO MAKE YOUR ELEVATOR PITCH:
1. What’s your book about?2. Who is your target reader?3. What problem is your book giving solution to?

domain: literature


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Dikir Maulud ceremonies which have been held at Istana Nurul Iman for 12 consecutive nights in conjunction with the Maulidur Rasul celebration ended last night with the Dikir Maulud closing ceremony.
The ceremony took place in the presence of Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar. The ceremony began with the reading of Surah Al-Fatihah led by Yang Dimuliakan Pehin Khatib Dato Paduka Awang Haji Emran bin Haji Kunchang.
Doa selamat was read by Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia Doctor Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned, the State Mufti. Also present at the ceremony were Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran-Pengiran Cheteria, Cabinet Ministers, Members of the Privy Council, Deputy Ministers, Pengiran-Pengiran Peranakan, Pehin-Pehin Manteri, Manteri-Manteri Hulubalang, Permanent Secretaries and Deputy Permanent Secretaries.
Source: Radio Television Brunei


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by Edgar Cantero
Meddling Kids is the dark update on the Scooby Gang that we didn’t know we needed. Edgar Cantero can’t use the familiar names from our childhood Scooby Doo, but he can take the mystery solving kid detective concept and meld it with the horrors of dealing with your past/growing up.
Cantero’s mystery-horror-comedy takes place 13 years after the kid detectives caught their last monster-turned-bad-guy-in-a-mask. They’re not convinced the guy they caught when they were kids was the real culprit. And they’ve been haunted by what they saw and heard during that last investigation. Three surviving members of the original gang set back out to get to the bottom of it.
The gang not only have to fight the bad guys, they have to fight their inner demons, too. Cantero brings a show that was originally made in 1969 into the present times by confronting what so many 20 somethings all over the world are confronting: drug addiction, confused sexuality, mental illness, denied trauma, loss. Each of the characters has to reckon with their past and try to move on. The book takes you on that journey in a dark and twisted way.
This book will have you skeptical of almost everyone and, somehow, no one. It will have your heart pounding as the characters run from everything but a guy in a mask. You will get to know the characters in a deep way, much deeper than I think a typical horror/comedy lets you. You will root for some and judge others.
One of my favorite characters in the book is Sean, their dog sidekick (of course). Every description of the dog’s actions, thoughts, facial expressions, etc. is just comically perfect. I was consistently impressed at the emotional intelligence Cantero displayed while writing that character. I have to say that the book is otherwise, in my opinion, written in a distinctly male voice. It is hard to explain what I mean by that, but the way he writes is like a really articulate 12 year old telling you the best story he just made up. Which is kind of perfect for a story that gives you the grown up versions of everyone’s favorite 12 year olds.
What’s also cool about this book is just the type of monsters. They’re interesting and different. Because Kerri is a biologist, we get to hear a lot about the science behind the monsters. I loved that. The dark angle on it all is also a learning experience. If you ever wanted to learn about necromancy, that is!
Interested in reading it? Buy it from Amazon here.
Like it? Pin it!

domain: library


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On Tuesday night, clashes between Philippine forces and heavily armed militants linked to the Islamic State caused panic and destruction in Marawi City, the capital of Lanao del Sur Province on Mindanao. The fight started when government forces tried to capture Isnilon Hapilon, one of FBI's most wanted terrorist.
As of now, the whole city of Marawi is blacked out, there is no light and there are snipers from Islamic State all around the city, according to Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana at a press briefing in Russia, where Philippine President Rodrigo has a four-day state visit.
Lt. Gen. Eduardo Ano, Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff, said more than 50 militants entered Marawi City on Tuesday afternoon. They burned down houses, churches, hospitals and schools to claim the city.
ISIL together with the Maute group, who pledged allegiance to the terrorist group, burned several facilities, the Dansalan college, the St. Mary's Church, city jail, and the Ninoy Aquino school. Some of the students were reportedly trapped inside their schools as clashes between government forces and militants continue. The militants have also taken hostages, including a local priest. They threatened to kill the hostages if the government forces are not recalled.
In an Interview with a local TV network, Noddy Summers, one of the residents trapped inside the city, said they hear loud gun fires for the whole night. She added the shots were so loud that their glass windows shook.
On social media, there are photos from Marawi residents showing armed men walking around the city with black flags of Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS).
In order to "suppress lawless violence and rebellion," Duterte declared martial law on the whole island of Mindanao for 60 days. The president also said the declaration could last a year as he promised it would be similar to the late Ferdinand Marcos dictatorship. "I'll be harsh," he stated.
Duterte was a former mayor of Davao City on Mindanao. Since he became the President last year, he openly said several times the prospect of declaring martial law, usually in connection with his deadly crackdown on the Philippines' drug trade. Critics also pointed out his authoritarian tendencies.


text:
Copyright and License
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domain: law


text:
A list of classes we have found (and been recommended) in the Southern Orange County area:
Aqua Wave (Foothill Ranch) Child swim school which teaches through exploration in a fun, enjoyable and safe environment. Classes teach children to be comfortable in the water, then learn survival and swim techniques.
Swim Venture (Various locations) Swimming lessons for a variety of ages, hoping to teach swim safety and a love of the water and swimming to all our students.
Cal Elite Gymnastics (Rancho Santa Margarita)
Coast Dance Center (Laguna Hills) A variety of dance classes, mommy & me classes, etc. are offered, as well as classics like ballet, tap and jazz.
Gymboree (Rancho Santa Margarita or Aliso Viejo) Classes offer a progression of developmentally appropriate play, music and art classes for children and their parents.
JW Tumbles (Laguna Niguel and Ladera Ranch) Children's gym which helps parents achieve both the physical and social goals they have for their children while allowing each child to grow in their own way, at their own pace, while having the most fun doing it.
The Little Gym (Mission Viejo or San Clemente)
My Gym (Laguna Niguel or Rancho Santa Margarita)
The Tumble Center (Rancho Santa Margarita) A premium early-childhood activity center, whose weekly classes are designed to instill coordination, confidence, and love of an active lifestyle.
Irvine Tutors (Irvine) Irvine Tutors offers one-on-one tutoring in the comfort of your own home. The tutors will meet your child at your convenience: any day, any time. They have tutors available across Orange County abd offer the most qualified tutors in the industry. Tutors are graduates of top universities and are highly experienced in the subjects they teach.
Lango Kids (Various Locations) LangoKids offers Tot and Parent, Preschool and Elementary Spanish, French and Mandarin Chinese classes for kids ages 1-12. For more info you can call Cyndi at (949) 315-5211 or email email@example.com. They are also currently registering for Camp Lango, their language immersion summer day camp for 4-12 year olds. They'll be offering 6 weeks of camp this summer in Irvine. Space is limited to 30 students per language, per week.
Crescendo Music World Crescendo Music World is a private music studio located in Orange County, different from most music schools in that they offer lessons at a price that is affordable to anyone interested in providing their children with a well-balanced musical experience. They accept children ages 3 and up, and offer classes for children with special needs. Small group Violin lessons are offered to Pre-K and Kindergarten students. For the elementary age students, we offer a music ensemble group, where students can play Violin, Viola, and Cello, like a mini-orchestra group.
Music Together / Music Moves (Various locations) A parent-child music program whose weekly classes are designed to teach rhythm, coordination, experimentation and a lifelong love of music.
Sunshine Music Studios (Lake Forest) A fun and welcoming musical experience for kids, where children and their loved ones will learn interactive songs, move to the beat, listen to beautiful recordings, play instruments and explore music.
Music Teachers Association of California for Music Lessons (Various instruments, various locations) MTAC has strict strict membership rules including a BA degree or higher in Music for their members. Visit the website for a complete list of qualified teachers (and their instrument specialties) in your area.
Stroller Fit (Rancho Santa Margarita, Foothill Ranch, Mission Viejo) Exercise with your baby (in stroller). Each class focuses on walking and strengthening your body's core. See website or contact Tracy at for more information.
Stoller Strides (Various locations) Fitness classes for moms, with their kid(s) and stroller. There are often fun playgroup activities after class and the moms are so supportive. Kids enjoy the class and moms can get exercise guilt-free!
YMCA Programs (Various locations) A parent-child program to foster one-on-one child. Depending on the age of the child, different parent participation (mother-son, father-daughter, parent-toddler).
Educational Chess & Art (San Clemente) Chess and Art program for kids. K-12. 3 levels: beginning, intermediate and advanced. Kids will be taught by a top chess expert with an international rating and an artist- 20 years of experience. On a weekly basis. Information and registration on the Educational Chess website.
Bell Tower Foundation (Rancho Santa Margarita) The Bell Tower Foundation offers a variety of programs, including weekly art, music and fitness classes.
Saddleback Unified Schools (Various locations) The school district offers a variety of classes (art, fitness, etc.) for pre-school children. See current brochure for details.
If we have missed a class which you and your child enjoy, please email us at SouthOCKids@gmail.com and we will include it here.

domain: hobby


text:
"A Baptism Blessing" is a beautiful poem that encourages children not to fear, because they'll be protected and loved by God throughout their lives. It's a one-of-a-kind Baptism or Christening gift that can be personalized & framed, making it a keepsake they'll cherish forever!
© Copyright 2004 Barbara D. MacAdam
Unique To 5x7-inch Products:
Unique To 8x10-inch Products:
Thank you for submitting a review!
Your input is very much appreciated. Share it with your friends so they can enjoy it too!
Thank you so much! The plaque was perfect. I want to take this opportunity to express my thanks for giving me a call to question the spelling on the name plate. It was with out a doubt spelled wrong, who else would call to check. Thank you Thank you


text: This cattle feeder ring set includes a feeder ring, one round straw-effect bale and one black and white freisian cow. This Kids Globe feeding ring is an easy way to feed the cows. The feeding ring ensures that cows can eat without all the silage or grass running through the barn. The bars in the ring allow the cattle to reach the food exactly with their heads. The first cow in this set comes with a hay bale. The whole set is made of high-quality material which makes it very strong.

domain: agronomy


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ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card- Features and Benefits
Flexible Membership Plan
ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card comes in two fee options for you to choose from:
|Monthly Membership Fee
|Rs.1,000 + GST
|Monthly Membership Fee Waiver
|Fee waived off on spending Rs.1 lakh in the previous month
|Rs.12,000 + GST
|Annual Fee Waiver
|Fee waived off on spending Rs.15 lakh in the previous year
According to our opinion, the annual plan would be the best for the majority of the cardholders. Although the monthly plan would also fit in if you intend to do regular monthly purchases on your card.
ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card lets you earn reward points on your transactions. You get-
- 4 reward points on every Rs. 100 spent on all retail transactions except fuel
- 1 reward point on every Rs. 100 spent on insurance & utility, including government transactions
Note: From 5 Feb 2024, rent pay and e-wallet loading transactions will not accrue any reward points.
You can redeem your reward points from varied options available including- movie and travel vouchers, lifestyle products, mobiles, appliances etc.
In our opinion, the reward rate of 4% offered by ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card is not that good when compared to other credit cards of this segment such as HDFC Diners Club Black Credit Card and Axis Magnus Credit Card. The only good thing about the reward points is that you convert the points to cash credit on statement.
Decent Entertainment Benefits
The card comes with satisfactory offers when it comes to entertainment.
- Buy one ticket and get up to Rs. 750 off on the second ticket, up to 4 times every month through BookMyShow
The offer is valid on all movie and non-movie tickets booked through BookMyShow. Click here to know the terms and conditions.
Unlimited Complimentary International Lounge Access
Get unlimited complimentary access to international airport lounges, under the Dreamfolks membership Programme.
Click here to check the list of lounges.
Click here to check the applicable lounge charges, FAQs and programme Terms & Conditions.
Unlimited Complimentary Domestic Lounge Access
Get unlimited complimentary access to select lounges at airports in India with your ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card.
Click here to see the MasterCard Lounge List.
The unlimited access to both domestic and international lounges is definitely an added advantage of the card.
Complimentary rounds of Golf every month
Avail complimentary round/lesson of golf on every Rs. 50,000 or more spent on the card in the previous calendar month, up to a maximum of 4 rounds/ lessons of golf every month.
Click here to know the terms and conditions.
Unlimited Complimentary Domestic Airport Spa Access
Get unlimited complimentary domestic airport spa access, through Dreamfolks Membership.
Click here to check the updated list of spas.
Click here to check the applicable charges and related terms and conditions.
This benefit is one of the most lucrative advantages of this card. If you are frequently flying within India, this will get you decent value back.
For example, if you fly twice every month for an year, that’s 2X12 = 24 Spa visits. Even if the cost of 1 visit is Rs. 1,000, this alone saves you Rs.24,000 a year.
One of the best Credit Card for International Travel
Following are some of the added advantages of ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card which makes it one of the best credit card to use for International Travel:
- Low Mark-up fee of 1.5% on international transactions
- Reduced Annual Percentage Rate (APR) of 1.99% on ATM cash withdrawals
- No over limit fee
- No cash withdrawal fee
- No late payment charges
- No cancellation charges on travel and hotel bookings
Avail 24×7 concierge service that takes care of your every need from finding the right gift and making restaurant reservations to travel and hotel reservations, and even delivering movie tickets at your doorstep and a lot more.
Comprehensive Insurance Cover
The following table gives you an overall look at the insurance benefits:
|Personal Air Accident Insurance
|Rs. 3 crore
|Up to Rs. 25,000
|Travel Documents Loss
|Loss of Checked-in Baggage
|Delay in receipt of checked-in baggage
|$300 in excess of 12 hours
|Missing flight due to trans-shipment
|$250 per hour up to max of 12 hours
|Delay in flight
|$250 in excess of 12 hours
|Lost Card Liability
|Rs. 50,000 – 2 days (pre-reporting) and 7 days (post-reporting)
15% off on your Dining Bills with ICICI Culinary Treats
Get a minimum of 15% discount on your dining bill at participating restaurants through the ICICI Bank Culinary Treats Programme. Please visit www.culinarytreats.com for more details.
Fuel Surcharge Waiver
Get 1% fuel surcharge waived off on fuel transactions at any fuel outlet.
ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card- Fees and Charges
|Monthly Plan – Rs. 1,000
Annual Plan – Rs. 12,000
|Annual Plan – Rs. 12,000
Monthly Plan – Rs. 1,000
|3.40% p.m. | 40.80% p.a.
|Late Payment Charges
|For Statement Balance:
Is the Rs.12,000 Annual Fee worth it?
Keeping aside the rewards rate which is not that good, everything else offered by the card is mostly at par with other super-premium credit cards. It gives you an option to pay an annual fee of Rs. 12,000 or monthly fee of Rs. 1,000. The monthly fee is waived off on reaching spends of Rs. 1 Lakh and annual fee on spending 15 Lakh, which might seem too high for few customers.
Overall, for all the benefits and facilities that can be availed using the Emeralde credit card, the annual/monthly fee seems to be a fair deal if you can get the maximum out of your credit card. If you put a value to the benefits like Spa/Lounges etc. among others, you will find the overall return to be reasonably good.
ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card- Eligibility and Documentation
The ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card can be availed by anyone who has a good credit score and meets the following criteria as well.
|Offered to both Salaried and Self-employed Applicants
|All existing ICICI Bank Global Private Client customers are eligible to apply
|Monthly Income- Rs. 3 lakh or more
Annual Income Tax Returns filed- Rs. 30 lakh or above
|Click here for the list of eligible cities
|Click here for the list of acceptable documents
How to Apply for ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card?
Currently, Paisabazaar.com does not provide ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card. You may apply for the credit card by visiting the ICICI Bank website or branch.
Explore Top credit cards in India
Cards Similar to ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card
|Axis Bank Vistara Infinite Credit Card
Lounge, golf and dining offers
|American Express® Platinum ReserveSM Credit Card
Lounge & healthcare benefits
|Axis Bank Burgundy Private Credit Card
|Rs. 10,000 (for Non-burgundy members)
|0% foreign mark-up, cash withdrawal fee
Unlimited international and domestic lounge access
|Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card
|Unlimited international and domestic lounge access
Club Marriott membership
10 Reward Points on every Rs. 100 spent
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Goods and Service Tax (GST)?
Goods and Services Tax (GST) is an indirect tax (or consumption tax) imposed in India on the supply of goods and services. Currently, it is marked at 18%.
What is ICICI credit card customer care number?
The ICICI credit card customer care number is 1860 120 7777.
How long does it take for a redeemed item to reach me?
It may take up to 2 weeks for an item to reach your billing address. Vouchers will reach you immediately at your registered mobile number and Email address.

domain: economics


text:
Added May 4, 2012: This recall has been expanded. Additionally, some PEOPLE are being infected with Salmonella because of this recall. For more information see here:
Original article starts here:
There has been yet another pet food recall over concerns of Salmonella contamination. This time, some bags of Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul dog food have been recalled.The FDA announced that one bag of the food had tested positive for Salmonella, but so far no cases of illness have been reported. The following lots are currently being recalled:
|Product Name||Bag Size||Production Code||Best By Date|
|Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul Adult Light Formula – dry dog food||35 lb.|| CLF0102B31XCW
|Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul Adult Light Formula – dry dog food||6lb.||CLF0102B3XALW||28/JAN/2013|
This is the second recall this month involving food made by Diamond Pet Food. I recently wrote about a recall on Diamond Naturals Lamb and Rice food which was also about possible Salmonella contamination.
In another post, I asked readers to share their experiences with Kirkland Dog Food which is also made by Diamond. You can read in that post a list of several pet food brands that are manufactured at the Diamond plant.
At this point, no dogs have been reportedly sickened by eating Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul food. However, I would really encourage readers to leave a comment if you feel that your dog has become ill by eating this dog food. And please, share this article to spread the word. The more people who comment, the more likely we are to see if there is a problem.

domain: pet


scratch resistance test device / damage resistance / materials / continuous-motion
scratch resistance, damage resistance
A continuous load is used for calculation of scratch resistance. The test piece is placed on a mobile base, and a needle is loaded onto its surface. The base is then made to move with the continuous load, until scratching (film peeling) begins. The load can be calculated by using the distance to failure point.
Different needle diameters and materials can be used for appropriate testing of most surfaces. Scratch hardness can be measured by using a fixed load instead of a continuous one. This system does not have an output module.


text:
York midfielder Jonathan Smith has joined Blue Square Bet Premier side Luton on loan until January.
Smith, 26, has found it difficult to force his way back into York manager Gary Mills' starting line-up since being left out last month.
Mills said prior to the FA Cup draw with AFC Wimbledon at the weekend that "two or three" of his fringe players needed to spend time out on loan as they were not currently doing enough to earn recalls.
Smith returned to Bootham Crescent in the summer after spending a season at Swindon, where he was a regular in their npower League Two promotion campaign.
But despite starting in the first 11 games for York this season, Smith has found himself on the substitutes' bench for the last nine matches. He will go straight into Luton's squad for Tuesday night's game at Hereford.


text:
Tag: Deli Sandwiches
Welcome to McAlister’s Deli in Crossville, TN. Join us for hand-crafted sandwiches, fresh salads, ginormous spuds, and our Famous Sweet Tea. Once you’re here, relax..
The Country Cupboard’s sources of products are key to their quality and freshness. They have a great selection of wholesome snacks, natural foods, homemade jams..

domain: food


text:
Land Air Express Chooses Dinsmore M&A Team for Sale to Forward Air Corporation
A Dinsmore M&A team led by Bobby Lucas in the Firm’s Chicago office, is grateful for the opportunity to counsel Land Air Express through its sale to Forward Air Corporation (NASDAQ: FWRD). Headquartered in Bowling Green, Kentucky, Land Air Express operates more than 300 trucks out of twenty-five terminals across the nation offering guaranteed, same-day pickup and delivery.
The $56.5M transaction, funded by Forward Air’s cash on hand and existing credit facility, closed on January 31, 2023. With locations in the U.S., Canada and Mexico, Forward Air Corporation provides expedited LTL services, local pickup and delivery, shipment consolidation and warehousing. The acquisition of Land Air Express expands Forward Air’s national terminal footprint, particularly in the Midwest.
An M&A team of Madison Rittley, Rachel Pressdee and Alex Albers, located in the Firm’s Dayton and Pittsburgh offices, assisted Lucas in the transaction.
“Dinsmore turned to its network of talented attorneys to assemble a team to work with the Schneller family on this important transaction,” Bobby Lucas said. “We are grateful for the support from the Land Air team and are proud to have delivered this result.”


Prof. Hani Naguib (MIE/MSE), Director of the Toronto Institute for Advanced Manufacturing, will be one of four presenters pitching ideas at the Ontario Economic Summit. The annual event is organized by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce and brings together industry representatives, experts and government officials to talk about the province’s economy. The theme for this year’s edition – taking place at the Beanfield Centre at Toronto’s Exhibition Place – is competitiveness. Premier Doug Ford and Mayor John Tory, a U of T alumnus, are scheduled to attend.
Naguib and three other members of the U of T community will take part in a session titled “The Next Big Idea.” Each will present a pitch for how a hypothetical public investment of $100 million in their respective sectors could be utilized to drive competitiveness and economic growth in the province. He will discuss how advanced manufacturing and smart materials can usher in a revolutionary transformation for factories and industry; Goldie Nejat, a professor in the department of mechanical and industrial engineering who holds a Canada Research Chair in Robots for Society, will discuss how socially assistive robots can help adults living with dementia as well as health-care workers; Anne Koven, an adjunct professor in the forestry program at the John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design and executive director of the Mass Timber Institute, will talk about how mass timber and tall wood construction can sustain a mutually beneficial relationship between the forestry industry and thriving urban markets; and Allen Lau, a U of T alumnus and the founder and CEO of data-driven publishing platform Wattpad, will talk about how to nurture Ontario’s tech ecosystem into a global powerhouse.
The session will be moderated by Christine Allen, U of T’s associate vice-president and vice-provost, strategic initiatives, and a professor in the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy.
“The Ontario Economic Summit represents an incredible opportunity to strengthen dialogue between academia, industry and government on how we can all work together for the betterment of our province,” says Allen, who is also the co-founder of medical nanotechnology startup Nanovista.
“I’m delighted that the audience will have the opportunity to learn about how the university’s research and talent are leading the way in the development and application of some of the most revolutionary technologies of our time – innovations that are improving Canadians’ lives and contributing to the economic health of the province.”
Read the full story by Rahul Kalvapalle on the University of Toronto News site


text:
Conservatives in Iowa plan to introduce legislation banning the flag from being flown at the capitol building.
A survey conducted by YouGov and Out magazine shows Warren with a double-digit lead in LGBTQ+ support.
Out100 honorees Gavin Grimm, Chase Strangio, and Aimee Stephens discuss being on the front lines of the fight for LGBTQ+ justice.
Charges in a criminal case were dropped due to “lack of evidence.”
The Netflix docuseries Don’t F**k This Up premieres next month. You've been warned.

domain: sociology


text:
Philistine Press are a non-profit online publisher, based at www.philistinepress.com. All our books can be read online or downloaded for free. The site features fiction, poetry, music and spoken word. And it's great. Our new blog is based at www.philistinepress.wordpress.com
Thursday, 3 February 2011
Emerging Arab Voices
In addition to the Beirut39 anthology I mentioned earlier in the week, there is another new collection of short Arabic fiction which I've just discovered.
Emerging Arab Voices: Nadwa 1, edited by Peter Clark.

domain: artistic


text:
In stormy times there is nothing like a warming bowl of soup to soothe the soul.
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
1 stick celery, chopped
4 large carrots,
chopped into ½cm pieces
2 small or 1 large agria potato, peeled and chopped
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
¼ teaspoon chilli flakes
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
6 cups vegetable
or chicken stock
1 cup split red lentils
3 tablespoons runny honey
⅓cup fresh coriander
¼ cup cream or coconut cream plus extra for serving
3 tablespoons purchased dukkah (see below for how to make your own)
sea salt and ground pepper
2 cups walnuts
1 cup pumpkin seeds
1 cup pine nuts
3 tablespoons cumin seeds
3 tablespoons coriander seeds
3 tablespoons fennel seeds
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon red chilli flakes
2 teaspoons flaky sea salt
½ cup toasted sesame seeds
2 tablespoons black sesame seeds
Heat the oil in a large saucepan over a medium-low heat and add the onion, celery and carrots. Cover and cook for 10 minutes then add the potatoes, spices, garlic, ginger and the stock.
Season with salt and pepper then bring to the boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
Add the lentils and 2 tablespoons of the honey and simmer for a further 25 minutes.
Add the fresh coriander and blitz with a stick blender or in a food processor until smooth then stir in the cream or coconut cream. If you prefer a thinner consistency, just add a little more stock or water.
To serve: Ladle into bowls and top with a swirl of cream or coconut cream, a drizzle of honey and sprinkling of dukkah.
Where’s the meat?
This one is a meat-free zone.
Work it your way
To add extra crunch to a purchased dukkah, add a handful each of toasted sunflower, pumpkin and sesame seeds. Keep in the freezer so it stays fresh
Preheat oven to 180˚C.
Place walnuts, pumpkin seeds and pine nuts on a tray and put in the oven for 8-10 minutes, until nuts are lightly roasted.
Put cumin, coriander, fennel and pepper in a wide pan and dry fry (without oil) for 3-4 minutes until fragrant.
Put the roasted nuts and seeds in a food processor and pulse briefly.
Grind the toasted spices, in 2-3 batches, using a mortar and pestle.
Add the spices, chilli and salt to the nut mixture and and pulse briefly so they are well combined and the nuts are ground into chunks. (I like them to have some texture, not be completely sandy butter!)
Add the sesame seeds and transfer to an airtight container. You can sprinkle the savoury dukkah on anything that takes your fancy – from lamb to salads, pizza, pasta, dips, eggplant – even soup! Makes 3¾ cups.


text:
Tacoronte is not only a city, but also a municipality of Tenerife. Located in the north-east of the island, it is mostly rural. Covering over 11 square miles, the municipality stretches from the volcanic peaks in the centre of the island right down to the Atlantic shore.
The area of Tacoronte is known as a major wine producing region and its reds are considered world class. Vineyards and farms surround the actual city, where you can find many old manorial houses.
Although most of the municipality still consists of farmlands, much of the population has shifted from rural to urban and, in recent years, tourism has become an important industry.
The town was founded, after the Spanish Conquest, by the Portuguese Sebastián Machado, around the hermitage of Santa Catalina that he had built. The place grew during succeeding centuries and in 1911, Alphonse XIII granted it the status of “municipio.”
Where the hermitage used to be now stands the Church of Santa Catalina, which is well worth a visit, along with another fine example of traditional Canarian architecture, the Casa de la Alhóndiga that dates back to the 17th century. This has been modernised and converted into an exhibition and conference centre.
Every March, Tacoronte holds its own "mini" Carnival. A brief celebration heralding the start of Lent, this cannot hope to compete, of course, with the big one in Santa Cruz, but shouldn't be overlooked, nevertheless.
In June, the town, together with several of its neighbours, celebrates "Corpus Cristi", which involves the locals going out and collecting volcanic sand of lots of different colours from the surrounding areas and creating "sand carpets" of unbelievably intricate designs in plazas and on roads.
The main road through the town has a selection of shops and businesses but if you go off the beaten track, down the side streets you will find many more places of interest, including a theatre.
There is an agricultural market, called “El Mercadillo”, that takes place on weekends on the outskirts of Tacoronte along the road to Valle Guerra.
There are plenty of restaurants to be found, with several of these being Chinese. One particular restaurant stands out.
Los Limoneros Restaurant
It's not every restaurant that can boast that members of the Spanish royal family frequent it when they're in the area!
Situated on Carretera General del Norte, this five star restaurant is an absolute gem in the middle of nowhere.
Its decor is elegant and conservative, the tables adorned with fine linen, china and silverware.
Nestling in a rustic setting, it specialises in fresh fish and seafood.
As well as the main restaurant, there is also a terrace for al fresco dining. Private rooms are also available.
Evening meals are served from 6pm onwards. Reservations are recommended.
Telephone: (+34) 922 636 144
For a taste of north Tenerife, you could do worse than visit the municipality of Tacoronte.
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domain: travel


text:
In reflective tones, Lisa Flanagan's narration chronicles the journeys of five young women from Maine's rural Washington county. Author Gigi Georges describes the girls' hopes and dreams and the geographically isolated region in which they're grounded. Flanagan's measured narration suits the documentary-like material as she shares the region's history and sometimes surprising insights--including COVID's long-reaching effect on the fishing industry. The audiobook is at once highly personal and also broadly illuminating as Georges invites listeners to infer larger conclusions about small-town life's values and challenges. These stories from Downeast shed light on the landscape of rural America--and offer hope for its future, which Georges suggests lies in the hearts of girls like these. J.C.G. © AudioFile 2021, Portland, Maine [Published: DECEMBER 2021]
Trade Ed. Harper Audio 2021
DD ISBN 9780063097742 $20.99
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domain: geography


FRIDAY: October 11, 2019: TRAINER Peter Robl has resorted to an important gear change to get All Cylinders “firing” again at Hawkesbury on Sunday.
SUNDAY: October 6, 2019: HAWKESBURY trainers Garry White and Martin McInerney have clinched season breakthroughs at Dubbo and Mudgee respectively.
MONDAY: January 14, 2019: WHAT a difference a day makes!
SUNDAY: November 11, 2018: HAWKESBURY trainers have racked up a half century of winners in just over the first three months of the new season.
WEDNESDAY: October 24, 2018: HAWKESBURY trainer Scott Singleton is unconcerned that his promising mare Stock Up has missed lead-up trials to her resumption on her home track tomorrow.
MONDAY: February 12, 2018: STABLE star Generalissimo resumes this weekend, but Hawkesbury trainer Garry White’s immediate focus is on his home track meeting tomorrow.


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Earlwood Wanderers FC, Kiama JFC, officials and supporters at Kiama Sports Complex last week. EWFC – Johnny Warren Challenge. Earlwood Wanderers FC, Kiama JFC, officials and supporters at Kiama Sports Complex last week. EWFC – Johnny Warren Challenge – Mixed Team Photo – KJFC Photo 01.jpg
THE inaugural Johnny Warren Challenge was played at the Kiama Sports Complex last week between Earlwood and Kiama under-8s beginner football players.
The event was planned to raise awareness of the late Johnny Warren’s great legacy to football.
Johnny’s nephew, Jamie Warren, presented a black and white photo of Johnny Warren playing against Joe Marston in the Canterbury area to Earlwood Wanderers FC representative and coach Theo Fotopoulos. It was part of building a greater connection and bond with Johnny’s background, with a view to keeping his vision alive in football clubs throughout the country.
After 40 minutes, Kiama had won the contest hands down with some great skill and team play. They beat their city cousins 7-0 in a match that was not just about the inaugural contest, but also cementing a foundation to build from towards an annual event.
“In the future, it will be great to create not only events that reconnect with Johnny Warren’s history, but avenues to raise awareness all year round that will connect round-ball communities such as Earlwood, Sydney and Kiama and the South Coast,” Mr Warren, co-organiser and chairperson of the Johnny Warren Football Foundation said.
This story Administrator ready to work first appeared on 苏州美甲学校.


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Aquamarine March Gemstone Birthstone Sterling Silver Mirrored Bead Name Bracelet
This all natural aquamarine gemstone is beautiful and soft colored with semi translucent aqua colored natural beads that is accented with highly detailed shiny mirrored beads small cap outlines against each pastel aquamarine gemstone. The accent silver beads are silver 2mm spacing beads. We use fancy diamond cut beads between the name letters, secure lobster clasp, 1.0" gemstone extender puffed heart charm are all .925 genuine sterling silver.
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