The European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA) has published guidance on information and communication technology security governance.
The Solvency II Directive (2009/138/EC) requires that insurers and reinsurers have in place effective systems of governance. This includes systems in respect of IT security. EIOPA has developed its guidance on information and communication technology (ICT) security as part of the European Commission’s FinTech Action Plan. The increasing complexity of ICT and frequency of incidents such as cyber-attacks means that management of ICT issues needs to be integrated into the governance and risk-management measures of insurance and reinsurance undertakings.
In publishing these guidelines, EIOPA seeks to provide clarification to insurers and reinsurers on the minimum requirements for information and cyber security, avoid potential regulatory arbitrage in the field of risk-management and foster supervisory convergence in relation to ICT security and governance.
Under the guidelines, boards of insurance and reinsurance companies should ensure that systems of governance adequately manage undertakings’ ICT and security risks. The board should ensure that there are sufficiently well-qualified staff to manage ICT risks and should allocate adequate resources to fulfilling these obligations.
An ICT strategy should be set as part of the overall governance system of the business. A written information security policy should outline high-level principles and rules. An information security function should be established within the business. The guidelines set out requirements for logical, physical and operational security as well as measures to ensure that security is reviewed and monitored regularly. The guidelines require that insurers and reinsurers establish an ICT incident and problem management process to help ensure that critical business functions can be maintained (or resumed) after security incidents.


Download our publication on district energy
This article is part of our publication ‘District Energy’Download now
Design of and choice of system for district heating networks have a major influence on performance in terms of energy efficiency, CO2 emissions and operating costs.
The pipe systems for transmission and distribution of district heating are capital goods for society and the district heating company. The pipe system is a way to provide customers with heat and by extension, comfort and convenience. The functionality of the district heating network has a major influence on how the district heating company performs in relation to energy efficiency, CO2 emissions and operating and maintenance costs.
The technical life span for today’s pre-insulated pipe systems is over 30 years. Therefore, it becomes important to review and optimize the long term Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and thereby ensure the functionality and improve the energy efficiency of the pipe systems and the district heating operations over time. In that way, a modern pipe system safeguards the considerable investments related to transmission and distribution of
The long technical service life of a pipe system means that choosing a high quality solution far outweighs the initial higher cost. Calculations, tests and experience prove that the major part of the TCO stems from heat losses from the pipe systems. Thus, minimizing heat loss during the entire operating period of the system will significantly improve efficiency and thereby lower he operating costs of the network. This is also illustrated by the example from Hillerød in Denmark below.
The TCO was applied in the selection of the pre-insulated pipe system installed in the Danish city of Hillerød.
The different solutions considered by LOGSTOR:
The chosen solution:
The basis for evaluation of the incoming tenders included, in addition to the direct capital costs, operating costs related to the heat loss from the transmission systemduring a 30-year period, which makes up for approx. 40 per cent of the total capital costs. The technical value of the proposed products and solutions was also included in the evaluation.
The project owner decided to install a pipe system based on TwinPipes in insulation series 2 offered by LOGSTOR. This system provided the lowest TCO taking into consideration the investment cost and the heat loss cost over 30 years.
An energy efficient system with approx. 20 per cent energy savings in comparison to a solution based on Twin pipe series 1 and +40 per cent savings in heat loss in comparison to a traditional pair of single pipes in insulation series 2.
Total Costs of Ownership is influenced by several parameters:
The design of the pipe system must be based on the real operating assumptions in a way that secure the minimum expected life span of more than 30 years. This is secured by using the guidelines in the European standard EN 13941 resulting in simplifying the system and reducing the number of
compensators, U-loops etc.
The components must be chosen so thatthey fulfill the functional requirements for the pipe system. This goes for the pipes, T’ees, valves etc. but especially for the jointing system, where the lifespan relies not only on the product itself but also on a proper installation.
The greatest contributor to the TCO is theheat loss from the pipe system. Therefore, it is essential to choose pipe systems with the optimal insulation properties. In addition, heat loss can be reduced by choosing TwinPipe systems instead of a single pipe system, using higher insulation thickness and choosing pipe systems with a diffusion barrier between the outer PE casing and the PUR foam. The diffusion barrier secures that the initial low heat loss remains unchanged during the life span.
In order to monitor the pipe system continuously over its lifespan, the system should be designed with a surveillance system that can detect at any time if there is a defect in the system and moisture is coming into the foam. If this happens, an alarm will be given immediately and repair can be arranged in good time. This ensures the expected long lifespan.


Fukushima radiation fears reach Chernobyl levels
Japan's nuclear watchdog has raised the accident level at Fukushima Daiichi to a level 7 this morning (April 12).
The rating officially makes the accident a ‘major’ incident on the International Nuclear and Radiological Event Scale (INES).
The only other time this rating has been used was during the Chernobyl tragedy, however, estimates show the amount of radioactive material released into the atmosphere is approximately 10% of the 1986 accident.
The Japanese Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency (NISA) issued a new provisional rating due to revised estimates of the amount of radioactivity released, and not because of fears over aftershocks from last month’s earthquakes.
A spokesman for NISA said: “The re-evaluation of the Fukushima Daiichi provisional INES rating resulted from an estimate of the total amount of radioactivity released to the environment from the nuclear plant.
“NISA may revise the INES rating at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant as further information becomes available.”
Originally, authorities in Japan in mid-March rated the core damage at the Fukushima Daiichi one, two and three reactor units caused by loss of all cooling function to have been at level 5 on the INES scale.
They further assessed that the loss of cooling and water supplying functions in the spent fuel pool of the unit four reactor to have been rated at level 3.
© Faversham House Ltd 2023 edie news articles may be copied or forwarded for individual use only. No other reproduction or distribution is permitted without prior written consent.


text:
By Quinn Eastman
The National Institutes of Health has awarded a 2022 New Innovator Award to biomedical engineer Felipe Garcia Quiroz, for his innovative molecular approaches to monitoring clumps of proteins associated with neurodegenerative diseases.
The research will advance sensors that could allow scientists to track disordered proteins thought to drive neurodegeneration – while the proteins move inside living brain cells. Many neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), are characterized by clumps of sticky disordered proteins, which accumulate in aging brain cells.
Quiroz, an assistant professor in the Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering at Georgia Tech and Emory University, is pioneering new molecular tools for visualizing those proteins’ physical state. New Innovator Awards are part of the NIH’s High-Risk, High-Reward Research program and recognize exceptionally creative early career investigators. Supported by the NIH Common Fund, the new award to Quiroz will provide $2.4 million in funding over the next five years.
Quiroz and colleagues at Rockefeller University previously engineered similar sensors to show that certain proteins undergo liquid-liquid phase separation in the skin, like the process seen in a shaken jar of salad dressing or the globules in a lava lamp. During the continual maturation and death of skin cells, these phase-separated proteins are critical for skin barrier function.
“We made a breakthrough in the skin, but to move this technology forward in the context of the brain, we have to develop new molecular tools to look at a different set of disordered proteins,” Quiroz said.
With the new project, Quiroz will take the lessons he learned from the skin and apply them to disordered proteins that are pathological hallmarks of neurodegenerative diseases, such as tau (Alzheimer’s), TDP-43 (ALS) and alpha-synuclein (Parkinson’s).
Quiroz is partnering with Emory neuroscientist Zhexing Wen, whose lab has developed techniques for growing mini-brain tissues derived from human pluripotent stem cells. This model system, which Wen adapted to work with cells from Alzheimer’s disease patients, could allow researchers to see early stages of the pathological clumping of brain proteins.
Current approaches in the clinic to visualize Alzheimer’s tau protein, like PET (positron emission tomography) probes, miss the early stages of protein clumping. “It’s a challenge for the field,” Quiroz said. “Right now, the probes used in the clinic detect events that are occurring too late in the progression of the disease.”

domain: biology


text:
Winter Concert & Art Show in Steuben
- This event has passed.
February 12 @ 3:00 pm
The Henry D. Moore Library and Community Center in Steuben is hosting a winter concert and art show on Sunday, Feb 12, at 3 pm. Musicians Bruce Cassaday and Hugh Bowden will perform and the event will also feature ceramics by Liza Fisher and photographs by Cassaday. There will also be a Valentine’s Day raffle. Admission is by donation. For more information, call 546-7301.

domain: entertainment


text:
When it comes to the operations of an HOA, there’s much that has to be done on a daily basis. Oftentimes, an HOA board may opt to hire a property management company to assist with these day-to-day tasks, such as collecting dues and paying invoices. In addition, management companies can also take on financials, maintenance and contractors, creation of an annual budget, and more, which takes a lot of weight off the shoulders of the board members.
After determining whether your HOA could benefit from a property management company, it’s important to understand what the contract should look like to prevent future problems, and to ensure that the relationship between your HOA and your management company remains intact and successful.
Do you need a management company?
The decision to hire a property management company is typically based on an HOA’s capacity to handle daily tasks efficiently. In smaller-sized HOAs, like a four-unit condo, operations may run smoothly without outside help. In larger HOAs, however, the board of directors may not have the time or resources to carry out every last duty such as bills, maintenance issues, and general homeowner responses.
There will be times when the volunteers who run for the board of directors do not have extensive experience in finance, law, and vendor management. Similarly, the volume of community management responsibilities, like billing and complaint management, may be too time-consuming for many members. In these instances especially, it would be wise to look into hiring an HOA management company.
What are the benefits?
The many benefits of a management company for an HOA in need are apparent. For one, when management companies understand the big picture and structure of an HOA, they can help devise long-term financial plans and utilize its resources to meet needs that are specific to the HOA. Doing so takes away a heavy burden from the members of the board.
In addition to handling daily financial and administrative tasks, all while ensuring that the HOA is operating under the clearly defined rules of the governing documents, management companies can make recommendations and provide options for vendors, insurance, and more.
Delegation of responsibilities:
With a management company in place, it’s not uncommon for homeowners to confuse the responsibilities of the board members with the responsibilities of the management company, and vice versa. In order to keep everyone in the know and impose peaceful order, it’s important for the board members to clearly define for its homeowners the split of responsibilities, particularly in terms of rule enforcement.
Although the management company may enforce community policies on behalf of the board members, the management company is not in charge of setting policies or rules, or determining penalties. They also cannot negotiate disputes between residents and advise on legal matters. Typically, the management company may cover major repairs, regularly scheduled maintenance, landscaping, financials and dues collection, and common area maintenance. This certainly takes a major burden off of the members of the board, who have other important duties to uphold.
Essentially, the relationship between an HOA and its management company is a partnership where each side acts as members of a team working toward a common goal. The board of directors draws up rules, enacts policies, and approves a budget. On the other side, the management company executes this plan (at the board’s discretion), and makes sure that the HOA’s operations work in compliance with the HOA’s governing documents.
Spell out services and fees in the contract:
Because it’s only natural for HOA board members and management companies to have differing opinions on certain matters, a management contract clearly outlines all agreements regarding fees, services, and actions taken in anticipation of a future problem.
The core elements of a management contract should typically outline management fees as well as estimates of man-hours, specifics on the services provided, and a chance to make amendments and cancellations. What’s also important is the contract’s expiration date and termination period — these ensure that if “one party needs to leave the agreement, notification will be given and allow each to part ways in the correct way.”
The best way to make the most out of your contract is to understand it completely. Do not hesitate to work with your management company on going over the ins and outs of each portion before you sign. Having a strong grasp of the contract will bring about confidence in the work that will be done together and allow you to feel peace of mind moving forward.
In any HOA, a select group of daily tasks must be taken on efficiently to ensure a high quality of living. For some, hiring a property management company allows board members to focus on specific tasks while knowing that a select portion of the HOA’s operations are in good hands. Before singing any contract, however, make sure that a property management company is right for you and that you understand and agree with everything in the contract.

domain: finance


Our online tools make booking, managing your schedule and paying for lessons easy and hassle-free.
Access and compare detailed information about teaching style, experience, education, and more.
If for any reason you're not satisfied after your first lesson, we'll help you find another teacher or refund your entire purchase.
No matter where you live, chances are we can introduce you to an
amazing teacher in your neighborhood. You can take lessons in the
privacy of your own home or at your teacher's location. Start by
searching in your ZIP code to find teachers near you.
What if the teacher who best fits your needs is on the other side
of the country? No problem. Our online lesson platform connects
you with any teacher, anywhere. All you need is a reliable Internet
connection, a webcam, and a microphone.
Your search for the perfect teacher starts with the subject you'd like to learn and your ZIP code. From the list of recommended teachers, compare detailed information about each option before you make your teacher selection.
Take some time to review the teachers in our network. All of our teachers provide detailed profiles, including information about their background, specialties, and teaching style. You can also read reviews from past and current students.
Select your teacher and book online. After you book, your teacher will contact you directly to talk about your first lesson and you'll be able to manage your entire schedule through our free online account.
Take your voice to the next level. Download free video tutorials to start singing like the star you are!
Getting Started with Music Lessons guides you through selecting a teacher & preparing for your first lesson.
Kickstart your guitar playing. Download free video tutorials to learn about chord progressions, strumming, and more!
Arrangement and Composition, Banjo, Bass Guitar, Classical Guitar, Composition, Djembe, Drum, Ear Training, ESL, Guitar, Hand Drums, Japanese, Music Performance, Music Theory, Piano, Singing, Songwriting, Trombone, Trumpet, Tuba, Ukulele, Upright Bass
I've been playing with classical ensembles and rock bands since 2001. Even though I started on classical trombone and rock guitar, I have come to expand my repertoire to a variety of instruments and genres. During my time in college I performed with the University choir, orchestra, and band. I also have organized, wrote/arranged for, and performed with a variety of bands in my home state of New Mexico, as well as Japan, and the San Francisco Bay Area.
Since 2006 I have been an active teacher. This profession has taken me everywhere from working with classical guitar classes in New Mexico high schools to Elementary students in Japan to a variety of private students of various musical instruments and genres everywhere I've been. Since relocating to the Bay Area in 2010, I've had the pleasure of working with lots of great students from kids to adults with a wide range of ambitions. More recently I've also started teaching online lessons via Skype and Google Helpouts with Take Lessons as well.
Philosophy of Learning
Lessons are generally in a relaxed setting and designed to work towards accomplishing student determined goals. While all students will study similar fundamentals regarding technique, theory, and performance, every lesson is as different as every person. What kind of music do you want to make? I'll tell you what you need to do to get there, and help you take the steps to achieve your aspirations.
I also love to help students put together a song, record, and produce it for them so that they can have a recording to share with their friends and family.
Lessons with small children are more focused on just having fun while developing a good musical foundation, but I prefer for them to have as much personal ownership of their lesson as possible like my older students as well.
I also hold events for all my students. (Check out our pictures and videos below!)
Younger students have the "Young Musicians Recital" every few months.
Adult students have a weekly "Jam Session Night" that they're welcome to come to whenever they'd like.
Aside from in-studio lessons, students also have the option to sign up for online lessons via Skype as well as do a drop-in lesson through Google Helpouts.
(*Online lessons offered during different times than in-studio lessons.)
*Unfortunately due to scheduling issues, I'm not currently accepting students for bi-weekly lessons. I can do regular weekly lessons, or occasional drop-in lessons, but bi-weekly appointments make it really hard for me to give the best scheduled times to my existing weekly students. I'm sorry for the inconvenience.
My studio is equipped with:
*Multiple Music Stands
*Vocal and instrument microphones
*Guitars, Basses, and a Banjo
*Two guitar amps and a bass amp
*Various percussion including a fully equipped drum set
*An electric piano console
*A Trombone, Cornet, and Flute
*An extensive physical and virtual music library
*A recording system that students are not only welcome to use but encouraged to
*HD Webcam and condenser microphone for high fidelity online lessons via Skype
Bass Guitar, Clarinet, Guitar, Harmonica, Music Performance, Music Theory, Piano, Saxophone, Trombone, Trumpet, Tuba, Ukulele
Do you want a teacher who keeps you motivated and focused, who can show you all the skills of a well-rounded musician in a relaxed, friendly environment? I am the teacher for you! With a solid foundation in classical technique and experience as a jazz performer, we will tailor a plan for you to achieve your dreams in any style.
Jordan was born and raised in the El Centro, California where he began playing the alto sax in the elementary band program. At the age of 12, he began his study of guitar and drums, performing in several rock and ska bands around his home town and San Diego. At age 14, is where he found his love for brass instruments when he took up the trombone. While in high school he became a featured soloist with the Imperial Valley College Jazz Orchestra, under the direction of the legendary trumpeter Jimmy Cannon. It was this that lead Jordan to accept the Constance Weldon Music Scholarship to attend the University of Miami in Coral Gables, FL.
While performing in South Florida Jordan appeared with major acts including 10,000 Maniacs, and appeared on the Spanish television show "Calle Ocho." He also gained invaluable experience teaching in Miami public schools. His first teaching assignment was at Hialeah-Miami Lakes Senior High School where he directed 3 beginning bands, Concert Band, Wind Ensemble, and their highly decorated Jazz Band. Later Jordan moved into the elementary setting, teaching vocal and instrumental music for grades K-5 at Cypress Elementary.
In 2007, Jordan returned to California to pursue a music career in San Diego. He can be seen performing all over San Diego, Orange, and LA Counties in styles ranging from rock, jazz, funk, blues, hip-hop, Latin, and more. He performs primarily on trombone, piano, and guitar, but is known to pick up percussion, harmonica, and other wind instruments as well. Jordan, along with the rest of the aggressively funky cover band SuperMagnetic, were the grand prize winner of the 2010 Viejas Ultimate Music Challenge 4. In 2011, Tori Roze & The Hot Mess were nominated for a San Diego Music Award in the category of "Best Blues Artist" after the release of their first album "From The Hip." They released their second album "Turbulence" last December, and are heard regularly on local San Diego radio. This album has also been nominated for Best Pop album for the 2013 San Diego Music Awards. This spring, Jordan completed his Master of Music degree in Jazz Studies from San Diego State University.
On stage, Jordan is a talented and versatile performer. He is known for his trombone sound and improvisational ability, as well as his positive relationship with his fellow musicians. In lessons, Jordan is energetic and creative.
*** Lesson Details ***
I enjoy teaching kids and adults of all ages. When I arrive for our first lesson, we'll start by getting to know your musical tastes and aspirations. Then we make a plan. Then we play!
Everybody's path is different, but we must start with a strong foundation in the fundamentals. After we start to establish some technique on your instrument we will explore music that suits you from a practical stand point in your development, and very importantly, stylistically. Together we will plan a curriculum that keeps you motivated toward your goals and that fits your life style.
You can expect a laid back, yet focused environment. Most of all, you can look forward to progress! Hope to see you soon.
*** Studio Equipment ***
Living room with large wall mirror, good lighting, with full size keyboard, weighted
*** Travel Equipment ***
I expect students to provide an instrument for themselves. I also require a student to come prepared with sheet music, pencils, a binder or folder, and the texts from which they would like to study.
*** Specialties ***
I have an extensive background in jazz bands, classical wind ensembles, and improvisation. I also currently perform in both original and cover bands on trombone, keyboard and guitar, in a range of styles including rock, reggae, Latin, and funk. I teach beginning and intermediate piano, guitar, and woodwind instruments, as well as advanced brass.
Flugelhorn, French Horn, Music Performance, Music Theory, SAT, Trombone, Trumpet
B.M. in Music Performance in progress at Georgia State University, Published in International Trumpet Guild Journal
Emphasis on a positive, fun approach to learning music!
Acoustic Guitar, Arrangement and Composition, Bass Guitar, Composition, Ear Training, Flugelhorn, French Horn, Guitar, Music Theory, Trombone, Trumpet, Tuba
I am an experienced music teacher with over 20 years’ playing and performance experience. My specialties are in trumpet and electric bass, with additional experience teaching all brass instruments and beginning guitar. Many of my students are not only successful in their bands but in regional honor bands and Solo and Ensemble competitions as well. I am a member of the Middle Tennessee Band and Orchestra Association, and the National Association for Music Education.
I believe in tailoring each lesson to each student's individual abilities and learning methods. For students in school bands, I try to provide lessons that augment and complement what they learn in band class, focusing on areas of performance that may not receive attention in a group setting. For all my students, regardless of level or instrument, I help them learn music that they want to learn, while making sure they get the fundamental training that they need. I encourage and assist my students in finding opportunities to perform in solo performances and with other groups. I also pride myself in creating an environment where the students are comfortable asking questions to help improve their playing.
Contact me for lessons today to enhance your playing.
*** Lesson Details ***
All my lessons are very personalized based on the student's interests, strengths, and weakness. For all my students, I try to find music for them to play that they are interested in learning while still covering the everything they need to get a solid foundation on their instrument. For my brass players, I place a huge emphasis on tone quality and production.
*** Studio Equipment ***
Eclipse and King trumpets
Music Man, Fender, and Delta basses
Takamine, Fender, and Ibanez guitars
GK, Ampeg, and SWR bass amps
Behringer guitar practice amp
Full recording capabilities!
*** Travel Equipment ***
Music Man bass
Takamine acoustic guitar
*** Specialties ***
Trumpet, brass, electric bass
Arrangement and Composition, Clarinet, Composition, Conducting, Ear Training, Flugelhorn, Flute, French Horn, Music Performance, Music Theory, Piano, Saxophone, Trombone, Trumpet
Michael T. DeFilippis (b. 1991) is an educator, composer, and arranger from Long Island, New York. Michael received his Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education from LIU Post. During his tenure at LIU Post, he studied composition and orchestration with renowned educational composer Carl Strommen, trumpet with Brad Siroky, and conducting with Dr. James McRoy. Michael has had a number of works commissioned from him for ensembles like the LIU Post Wind Symphony and Manhattan School of Music Precollege Brass Ensemble, among other community and public school groups.
In 2011, Michael served as a composer-in-residence with the Manhattan School of Music Precollege Brass Ensemble, and again in 2012 with the Candlewood Middle School 6th Grade Band in Dix Hills, NY. In the summer of 2012, the LIU Post Wind Symphony commissioned a work from him, entitled “Big Sky Country,” which received its world premiere at the John Philip Sousa Memorial Band Shell in Port Washington, New York. The work was then taken on tour and performed overseas in Beijing and Xi’an, China.
Michael is a winner of two awards from the Global Music Awards (2012) for his works “Big Sky Country,” in the ‘composition’ category and for “Inner City Sounds” in the ‘student band’ category. He continues to write music for educational purposes, and currently lists his music on major distributor websites like JWPepper.
*** Specialties ***
Trumpet - Beginner to Advanced
French Horn - Beginner to Intermediate
Music Composition - Beginner to Advanced
Arranging - Beginner to Advanced
Orchestration - Beginner to Advanced
Music Theory - Beginner to Advanced
Ear Training - Beginner to Advanced
Piano - Beginner
Clarinet - Beginner
Trombone - Beginner
Flute - Beginner
Conducting - Beginner
Alto Saxophone - Beginner
I also offer lessons on how to use Finale Music Notation Software - Beginner to Advanced.
CSS, Ear Training, HTML, Music Performance, Music Theory, Trumpet
Sean became serious about trumpet at an early age. A Texas native, he spent the first years of his musical studies in Texas public schools, playing in local band programs.
At the age of 14, after being encouraged by his band director Marsha Anderson, and his primary trumpet teacher John Urness, he applied for admission to Interlochen Arts Academy in Traverse City, Michigan. He was accepted, and studied at the academy for all 4 years of high school, graduating in 2000.
While at Interlochen, he received the fine arts award for trumpet two years in a row. In 1998, he was a finalist for the Colonel George S. Howard Young Artists Competition held by the United States Air Force Band in Washington, D.C.
Sean holds degrees from the Eastman School of Music, and the University of Houston. While at Eastman, he received the prestigious Performers Certificate award for outstanding solo performance. He also pursued two additional years of graduate studies at Arizona State University.
He also has a wide variety of performing experience. Most notably, he was co-principal trumpet of the Hyogo Performing Arts Center Orchestra in the Kansai region of Japan from 2010-2013. He was also a member of the 2010 National Repertory Orchestra in Breckenridge, Colorado.
While studying in Arizona, he performed regularly with the Phoenix Symphony. Additionally, he has appeared as an extra with the Houston Symphony, the Paragon Brass Ensemble, the New World Symphony, and the Texas Brass Ensemble.
As a teacher, he has taught privately and given masterclasses for many schools throughout Texas. While living in the Houston area, he maintained a studio of nearly 60 students. He was also a clinition for the Phoenix Youth Symphony and taught at the Kansai International Music Academy in Japan.
His primary teachers are John Urness, Brian Seitz, John Lindenau, Ed Carroll, Stanley Friedman, Jim Thompson, Jim Vassallo, and David Hickman. He also studied briefly with Armando Ghitalla and Adolf Herseth.
Besides playing trumpet, Sean enjoys riding his motorcycle and building computers and electric bicycles.
He currently resides in Plano, Texas.
"Steven is very professional and extremely helpful. He always has a smile on and is serious about helping you phrase the music. I would highly recommend him to anyone."
"It's been really exciting so far! Jordan has been so helpful, so knowledgeable. I could not have found a better instructor and I'm getting better and better every day."
"My daughter's wedding was weeks away and I had never been able to dance a step. With Jenny's help, I came further than ever before in such short time in any subject."


This idea has been thrown around the SB a fair bit, and I've heard talk about it, but can find no confirmation anywhere, so I figured why not make a write up with a few ideas. Basic premise is simple, finding a way to inflict poison upon a target. with a lack of magic there are few options for DOT, and poison is the main option for it, along with bleed for serrated weapons. the problem is proper implementation. The easiest solution is probably items "coat" a weapon with different liquids for a set amount of time, or alternatively a set amount of hits. Different types of coatings could include basic poison less expensive deals less damage or has a smaller chance to activate few uses high concentration high damage over a shorter time very very valuable and hard to make high infliction rate Paralysis also expensive very low infliction rate "illegal" having this in your possession, if discovered by another player and reported would mark you as orange. stuns the target for a short time. Blood thinner based on a "bleed" mechanic, deals no damage on its own, but increases bleed rates on bleeding weapons. Those are just some options I could think of on the spot. As the devs have said, there will be no ranged combat, but im not sure if the idea of consumable "darts" has been shot down. expensive one time use items, so that they cant be used for combat, that deal no damage but inflict poisons on the target from a distance, it hardly counts as ranged combat. Another option for poisons as well would be in food/drink. poisoning a consumable and giving it to a person to inflict the status effect on them. So what are peoples thoughts on this. If poisons and coatings and such ARE confirmed for AoA, theres a good chance I'll be making my own guild based around poison use.


DeKalb County, GA (September 30, 2020) – On Wednesday, September 30, 2020, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation was requested by the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office to investigate an officer involved shooting.
Preliminary information indicates that at approximately 2:30 p.m., federal deputies with the United States Marshals Service and deputies with the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office were located at a residence in the 3800 block of Kensingwood Trace in Decatur to arrest Demarco Riley, 27. Riley was wanted for murder in connection with the death of Charles Hunt on September 22, 2020, in Decatur.
Deputies knocked and announced their presence at the apartment where Riley was believed to be. Several occupants were removed from the apartment and one of them confirmed that Riley was in an upstairs room. Deputies gave commands for Riley to surrender; however, he refused. During the standoff, one deputy US marshal fired, striking Riley. Deputies rendered medical aid, but Riley was pronounced dead at the scene.
An autopsy will be performed tomorrow by the DeKalb County Medical Examiner’s Office.
No officers were injured during the incident.
This investigation is still active as agents are continuing to conduct interviews and process evidence.
Once the case is completed, it will be turned over to the DeKalb County District Attorney’s Office for review.


text:
About I Love Growing Marijuana
Save Money, MARIJUANA GROW BIBLE I Love Growing Marijuana Coupon Code
Get the Marijuana Grow Bible completely FREE!
Start growing marijuana Today, using the best grow guide available online.
Beginning your journey to grow cannabis is an intimidating path to take, but with the Marijuana Grow Bible you are guaranteed to have the information you need to get going.
I Love Growing Marijuana is the maker of the Marijuana Grow Bible and a trusted cannabis seed store.
Visit I Love Growing Marijuana for the resources of their respected eBook, to catch up on cannabis industry news, as a member of their online Marijuana forum, or to buy cannabis seeds shipped directly to your home. I Love Growing Marijuana is the first place to go to start your journey of growing high quality cannabis.
The Marijuana Grow Bible is one of the most trusted guides to get the biggest yields and most successful grows around. Growing marijuana may seem like a complicated and confusing thing to do, but that is only because you don’t yet have the right tools.
Find all you need to begin growing marijuana or enjoy their resources as a key to getting into the cannabis industry. Learning about growing marijuana is not just for the grower, but is great knowledge for any bud tender or hopeful Cannabis entrepreneur.
Buying cannabis seeds online is completely legal and on their online store you will be able to easily shop to get the best strains available. Shop with confidence knowing you’ll get the proper seeds that will flower and provide trichome rich final buds.
From sprouting to harvesting you’ll find all the resources you need to successfully grow the best buds in town.
If you ever have growing questions reach out to their team for support or use their online forum. Their forum is a fantastic tool to begin you exploration into the growing community, chatting with others like you and also seasoned growers.

domain: hobby


text:
Assemble a team of pros
Advice, insights and news
Free 10-day publishing courses
Free publishing webinars
Free epub & pdf typesetting tool
Launch your book in style
A weekly short story contest
Reedsy is a community of top publishing professionals. Join Reedsy today to browse 1000+ profiles.
Former literary agent, published author, creator of award-winning blog for writers. Has worked with NY Times bestsellers.
New York, NY, USA
Publisher-in-chief of Broken River Books, and freelance editor of crime, mystery, and horror fiction.
Norman, OK, USA
Sign up with
Tell the world about this Reedsy profile
Create your free Reedsy account to browse hundreds of professional profiles.

domain: artistic


text:
Middle Childhood and Adolescence Paper:APA,Format, Conclusion, References Prepare a 950- to 1,150-word paper in which you describe changes that occur during middle childhood and adolescence concerning family and peer relationships, and how they might influence future development. Be sure to include the following items in your description:
Evaluate the effect of functional and dysfunctional family dynamics on development (e.g., family structure, function, and shared and nonshared environments).
Determine the positive and negative impact of peers and changes in peer relations from middle childhood to adolescence.
Examine additional pressures faced in adolescence compared to middle childhood.
Discuss the development of moral values from middle childhood into adolescence.
Use a minimum of two peer-reviewed sources.
Format your paper consistent with APA guidelines
Are you looking for a similar paper or any other quality academic essay? Then look no further. Our research paper writing service is what you require. Our team of experienced writers is on standby to deliver to you an original paper as per your specified instructions with zero plagiarism guaranteed. This is the perfect way you can prepare your own unique academic paper and score the grades you deserve.
Use the order calculator below and get started! Contact our live support team for any assistance or inquiry.[order_calculator]

domain: psychology


It’s Wednesday and GPS is getting ready for another Wednesday edition of Take 5. Today he’ll be sharing about Wilma Rudolph, the first woman to win 3 gold medals at the Olympic Games. Our musical pairing is “Git On Board, Little Children,” a traditional Negro Spiritual.
Sponsor Black Excellence
Each episode and blog post take $250 to create and produce. Consider sponsoring a day or even a week of these amazing entrepreneurs. Episodes will be included in the FREE online WITNESS Portal for teachers around the world. Sponsors will be named in the blog posts on the VocalEssence website. You are encouraged to sponsor in honor of a loved one or a beloved organization. Just add their name in the Dedication section of the donation form.


text:
Jacques Berlinerblau: Tim Tebow: A Secular Perspective
What do you do with public figures who wear their religion on their sleeves, who use their celebrity to extoll their beliefs, who advocate on behalf of political issues which speak to their faith commitments? Let's call this the Tebow Quandary.
Join the discussion below, or Read more at The Huffington Post.
#1 Jul 18, 2012
Gay people shove their religion in our faces every day. We are supposed to tolerate that. They worship each other and tell us that they screw each other and that makes them special. Why do you question Tim Tebows expression of faith and not these gay and lesbions that shove it in our faces at every turn. They demand rights because of screwing each other? They say not to question their sexuality yet they continually bring it up. If they can do that, then what is wrong with Tim walking in his Christian faith and living it out. He is doing more for sick and disabled children than 99% of the gay and lesbians. Hmm what a screwed up world we have
Add your comments below
|Conference USA Basketball Tournament will retur...||2 hr||huey goins||1|
|Hanks hires boys basketball coach (Aug '09)||19 hr||Hanks Community||58|
|How 19 highly successful people stay in shape||Wed||Three Rounds||3|
|UCLA FOOTBALL NOTEBOOK: Neuheisel says Prince w... (Sep '10)||Tue||Evan||32,266|
|Minnesota Vikings: Examining the options at cen...||Tue||Magnum Man II||6|
|The fat problem with Pablo Sandoval only begins...||Tue||Three Rounds||1|
|Cuban athlete was right to kick 'corrupt' judge... (Sep '08)||Tue||zionist BARn||17|
Find what you want!
Search Sports Forum Now
Copyright © 2016 Topix LLC

domain: sociology


text:
Craig Roberts led one of my favorite movies from last year (Submarine), so the guy’s got my trust for another couple of movies. Up next is Comes a Bright Day, a romantic drama of sorts seemingly wrapped around a heist movie; Imogen Poots (Fright Night), Timothy Spall (Harry Potter), and Kevin McKidd (Brave) also star for debut writer-director Simon Aboud.
The thing’s been getting a couple of positive notes right before it hits the U.K, and I can see why; what’s here looks good. A (possibly) smaller-than-necessary appearance and a terrible final line notwithstanding, I can go with the flow of Day‘s directorial style, performances, and general atmosphere. (It’s also fun to pretend Oliver Tate traveled to the present day and is working in a hotel.) No stateside release has been set right now but, in good time, I’m sure us Americans will get to see what all the fuss is about.
Watch the trailer below (via /Film):
Here’s a lengthy synopsis (via QuietEarth):
SAM SMITH (Craig Roberts) is twenty, bright, ambitious and not unattractive; so earning minimum wage as a bellboy at a 5* luxury hotel isn’t where he wants to be; running a restaurant with his best friend ELLIOT is. He has the people skills, the business plan and the best young chef around, but with a chronic fear of rejection, he lacks those vital investors to make the dream a reality.
MARY BRIGHT (Imogen Poots) is as radiantly beautiful as the jewellery she sells in Clara, London’s most discerning jewellers. Butl ooks aren’t everything. For Mary life is about so much more than material wealth and she’s ready to turn her back on London and escape to the other side of the world.
When Sam meets Mary in the café where Elliot works he is very quickly and very truly smitten. Every other plan and thought goes out of the window as he fights to overcome his fear of rejection and follows Mary back to Clara with the intention of asking her out on a date. Unbeknown to Sam, armed thieves CAMERON (KevinMcKidd) and CLEGG (Josef Altin) also have an appointment at Clara and aren’t planning on leaving without the million pound Stahl Papillon brooch. With the panic button pressed and armed response units swarming into the area Sam, Mary and belligerent, elderly shop owner CHARLIE (Timothy Spall) are taken hostage.
Under extreme threat and with constant twists and turns, what follows puts each of the characters and their short falls under persistent examination. This is a love story that undergoes the severest trial and sacrifice. For all of them, searching for the hidden gem reveals truths that will make their lives infinitely richer.
Has this trailer created any interest in Comes a Bright Day?
Latest posts from The Film Stage


text:
The chief justice of the Ontario Superior Court questioned whether the Canadian Judicial Council was acting within its powers when it decided to reconsider complaints filed against Superior Court Justice Frank Newbould that it had previously dismissed.
Chief Justice Heather Smith raised “serious concerns” about the complaint process in a September 2016 letter to the judicial council.
In the letter, the judicial conduct committee was also asked to consider the “appropriateness” of a decision last spring by Robert Pidgeon, senior associate chief justice of the Quebec Superior Court, to order a new look into the complaints against Newbould.
Following the decision by Pidgeon, the matter was sent to a judicial council review panel.
In a ruling dated Feb. 8, it unanimously decided to appoint an inquiry committee to consider allegations that “if proven” could result in a recommendation that Newbould be removed from judicial office.
The complaints stem from the judge’s actions related to a long-standing land claim dispute in an area where his family has a cottage.
In a statement issued after the review panel’s conclusion was made public on Feb. 13, his lawyer Brian Gover suggested the issue was about perception.
“Justice Newbould apologized in 2014 due to the perception caused by the fact he is a judge,” said the statement.
The judge has since filed an application in Federal Court asking it to quash the review panel’s decision on the basis that it exceeded its jurisdiction.
Gover, a partner at Stockwoods LLP in Toronto, says no date has been set yet for the hearing.
Newbould continues to serve as team leader for the commercial court list in Toronto and notified the federal justice minister and judicial council on Feb. 10 of his intention to retire on June 1.
Mohan Sharma, counsel in the office of Chief Justice Smith, says it is standard for the judicial council to request comment from a chief justice whenever a complaint has been made against a judge in her court.
“It is not uncommon for the chief justice, as a member of the CJC, to write to its executive director about processes engaged in by the CJC,” Sharma explains.
Complaints against Newbould were originally filed by seven people in the summer and fall of 2014, according to documents now made public by the judicial council.
The complaints questioned the appropriateness of Newbould’s public statements and written comments about a land claims dispute with the Saugeen First Nation over the Sauble Beach area on the eastern shore of Lake Huron.
The dispute has been in litigation since 1994 and over the years it has been case managed by two Superior Court judges.
Newbould sent at least four emails or letters to the South Bruce Peninsula council in August 2014 in response to a request for comment from the local mayor.
One of the communications was a detailed eight-page letter. It contains advice on how to defend the claim.
The judge, formerly a senior commercial litigator, wrote that he attempted to contact lawyers for the province and federal government, but they would not speak to him about the matter.
In the letter, Newbould stated that he had contacted Warren Winkler to clarify the interpretation of an issue dating back to when Winkler was mediating the dispute and sitting as a Superior Court judge.
Newbould also disclosed in the letter that he had been able to look at most of the evidence in the dispute and could assist in recommending an outside lawyer to act for the municipality.
“The town should never agree to a settlement that does not spell out clearly that there will never be vehicles or user fees or cigarette sales on the beach,” wrote Newbould.
The application filed in Federal Court argues that Newbould acted in his “personal capacity” as a local resident and not as a judge in expressing his views.
The opinions and content of the letter were reported in the local media a few days after they were communicated to council.
“Justice Newbould says town has strong defence to native land claim at Sauble Beach,” states an Aug. 27, 2014 headline in an online story posted by Bayshore Broadcasting.
The story goes on to detail “recommendations” made by the Superior Court judge to local council, including that it “should not shy away” from defending its position in court.
Nova Scotia Chief Justice Michael MacDonald originally dismissed the complaints in early 2015.
The judge, who chairs the judicial council’s conduct committee, accepted a private apology from Newbould.
The judicial council also sought comment from Smith at this time.
“Chief Justice Smith indicated that she had nothing further to add to the comprehensive and contrite response delivered by Justice Newbould.
“It was up to the Canadian Judicial Council, not the chief justice, to determine whether Justice Newbould’s apology was sufficient,” Sharma explains.
The basis for the complaints, the initial decision and what happened over the next two years were not made public until after the release of the review panel decision last month.
Koren Lightning-Earle, president of the Indigenous Bar Association, asked in June 2015 for a reconsideration of the original decision to dismiss the complaints.
Given that Newbould has indicated he is going to retire, it appears unlikely there will be a hearing, says Lightning-Earle.
“The whole process has been very frustrating,” she states.
“Why has it taken so long,” asks Lightning-Earle. “This is a serious issue.”
Johanna Laporte, a spokeswoman for the judicial council, says there was a “voluminous record” in this proceeding and “complex issues” that had to be decided.
There was also an unexpected delay after the recusal of the original lay member of the review panel.
The land claim dispute remains unresolved and is currently being case managed by Superior Court Justice Edward Belobaba.
After a proposal aimed at reaching a settlement was not accepted, the South Bruce Peninsula council subsequently retained Jonathan Lisus, a partner at Lax O’Sullivan Lisus Gottlieb LLP in Toronto.
He did not respond to requests for comment from Law Times.

domain: news


text:
Partnerships for Parks is a unique public-private partnership between City Parks Foundation and NYC Parks that supports and champions neighborhood volunteers by providing the tools needed to advocate and care for neighborhood parks and green spaces. We equip people, organizations, and government with the necessary skills and resources to transform these spaces into dynamic community assets.
Public parks are the settings for our shared experiences. They improve the quality of life for all New Yorkers by providing spaces for social and civic engagement. By developing occasional volunteers into community leaders, we build long-term investment in public space and strengthen the social fabric of our neighborhoods.
There are currently over 1,700 parks in New York City. These places are our backyards, where we connect, play, and celebrate life’s moments. When people come together to care for these spaces, they thrive. And when parks thrive, neighborhoods thrive. Parks are spaces where community members and decision makers can work together to create our city.
Beautify a neighborhood green space through It’s My Park (IMP)! IMP is our signature volunteer program engaging tens of thousands of volunteers each year in hands-on beautification projects throughout our city’s neighborhood parks. It is both a resource for community partners and a service for nonprofit and corporate groups to revitalize local green spaces through cleaning, painting, and gardening. We strive to create an equitable park system by focusing on parks that need extra love.
We offer a wide range of learning and networking opportunities for people interested in caring for local parks and green spaces. Whether you are just starting out or a dedicated partner, we have something for you, including workshops and info sessions, trainings, coaching, and more.
We work hand-in-hand with communities across the city to support our neighborhood green spaces. You can join a community group, create one of your own, design a publication or website, and much more. Our dedicated staff are here to support you every step of the way.
We provide seed funding and other types of grants for people who care for local parks and open spaces across our city.
Generous private support for Partnerships for Parks is provided by The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust, TD Bank, The Monarch Foundation, Altman Foundation, the Greenacre Foundation, the Tiger Baron Foundation, Central Park Conservancy Institute for Urban Parks, and the MJS Foundation. Public support is provided by the NYC Council through the Parks Equity Initiative under the leadership of Speaker Adrienne Adams.
At City Parks Foundation, our mission is to encourage New Yorkers to use their neighborhood parks by offering free environmental education, arts, sports, and community-building programs that bring people into their local green spaces. Please give now if you can—we know that city parks will continue to thrive when all New Yorkers get involved.


These twin mattress was purchased 13 months ago and it was delivered within 3 days to my house. I chose this mattress as the price was reasonable and the size matched the dimensions of our kids beds perfectly. The weight of the mattress as well is very light. We fitted it on our bed almost immediately and took off the cover. I just wiped it clean with a towel and fortunately there was no unpleasant smell coming form the mattress and no stains as well. The mattress is made of a very good material which makes it soft and comfortable to sleep on. My children get their complete sleep on this bed and have never complained about the quality and comfort of the mattress. My kids used to always make the mattress wet earlier but with this mattress, I am able to clean it easily and it dries as well quickly. We ordered another mattress for our bed which was 12'' and it is very soft and washable as well.


text:
Add more products
With over 20 years of metal expertise, Arrow Metal is one of the most trusted specialist manufacturers and suppliers of perforated metal, woven wire and welded wire mesh products in Australia.
With a growing stock of ready-made products in a range of profiles and sizes for immediate dispatch, we can accommodate even the quickest lead times.
If you need customised metal products, we have the ability to bring even the most complex concept to life. Our bespoke perforated metal design service has produced everything from architecture building facades to decorative panels, graphics and metal artwork.


text:
Disincentives for democratic change in China
Publication Date: January 2007
Publisher(s): East-West Center
Author(s): Teresa Wright
Series: AsiaPacific issues ; no. 82
Despite widespread and growing "mass disturbances" in China in recent years, there is little indication of increased public interest in promoting liberal democracy. A key part of the explanation is that, in China, capitalist economic development has emerged from a socialist, planned economy characterized by substantial economic equality. In this context, the emergence of capitalism has brought both greater economic inequality and new forms of dependence on the state. The result is that declining sectors (such as laid-off state-owned enterprise workers) have incentives to support Chinese Communist Party rule, in the hope that the Party will make good on its socialist promises. Meanwhile, rising sectors—and particularly private entrepreneurs—have reason to fear that political reform might threaten their economic prosperity and privileges. In short, China's unique combination of state-led late development and a socialist past has given both the "winners" and "losers" of economic reform a stake in maintaining the political status quo.


text:
They were Blown Away… by her sweet gesture! Grammy winner Carrie Underwood surprised her husband, his teammates and fans on Monday, April 17, before the Nashville Predators faced the Chicago Blackhawks for Game 3 of the NHL playoffs.
Unsuspecting fans inside Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena were floored when the announcer took to the loudspeaker to introduce Underwood as that evening’s performer of the National Anthem. “Please rise and welcome seven-time Grammy winner and longtime Nashville Predators fan Carrie Underwood,” the announcer boomed over the microphone.
— NHL (@NHL) April 18, 2017
Underwood then took to the ice in her husband’s No. 12 jersey, which includes his captain symbol, and even sported matching nail colors to express her unprecedented support for the team. At the end of the performance, the American Idol winner animatedly waved her towel with the town’s Mayor Megan Barry before exiting the rink.
The Predators won its third game of the Western Conference First Round on Monday night, bringing the team another game closer to the Stanley Cup Finals. “Smashville has completely gone crazy!!!! 3-0 baby!!! One more! @predsnhl,” Underwood expressed on Instagram.
A post shared by Carrie Underwood (@carrieunderwood) on
Fisher and Underwood will celebrate their seventh wedding anniversary in July. They share an adorable son named Isaiah, who’s also attended his dad’s games.
— Carrie Underwood (@carrieunderwood) April 1, 2017

domain: sports


text:
Christian Fletcher is Western Australia's most successful landscape photographer. Christian has been consistently providing top quality work and ever improving images for over 28 years.
Christian has a natural ability to see and capture a beautiful image. He has perfected the art of light, composition, colour and post processing. He believes that all great landscape images have to have the ‘perfect light’ at their core, and it is this light that he is most respected for.
Christian is very motivated to be the best. He strives every day to improve his skills. As well as this, he invests much of his profits into his equipment, owning the best photographic camera on the market, using leading industry printers,papers and inks and ensuring that every product that is of top quality.
Christian work is on display at his gallery in Dunsborough and online.
Shop 4, 27 Dunn Bay Road, Dunsborough
Directions: Located in the heart of Dunsborough town centre.


Bitterroot Outdoor Journal – Butterflies Don’t Like Rain
Humans worry about rainstorms that bring large downpours and damaging hail at times. However, on a much smaller scale, Bob Danley reports that butterflies stay out of way of rain because of the considerable damage a single raindrop can do to their wings. (See photo above) In this week's Bitterroot Outdoor Journal, he says some authorities say the impact is comparable to two bowling balls hitting a human. That's why you don't see many butterflies out on cloudy days. The dragonfly population will see a surge with warm, dry weather predicted for next week. Bob provided a photo (see below). Lots of wildflowers are in full bloom in the Bitterroot, with some odd names - Curve-beak Lousewort, Nodding Onion and Purple Dragon-Head.
A programming note - The Bitterroot Outdoor Journal is moving. It will be heard on KLYQ 1240 AM on Wednesday mornings during the 7:30 Bitterroot Morning newscast. Also, it's live on klyq.com and that free (and popular!) KLYQ cellphone app.
Bob says the


text:
WATCH LIVE: JSC interviews Judge Mlambo for Chief Justice position
Gauteng Judge President Dunstan Mlambo comes with an impressive track record as a judicial leader.
CAPE TOWN - Gauteng Judge President Dunstan Mlambo will be the third of four candidates for the position of Chief Justice to be interviewed by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) on Thursday.
Mlambo comes with an impressive track record as a judicial leader.
Mlambo started his judicial career in the Labour Court in 1977 and is now in charge of the country’s biggest and busiest court division.
He has proven administrative ability and juristic prowess, having presided over a number of politically sensitive cases in recent years.
Mlambo was born in Acornhoek, Mpumalanga, in September 1959 and earned his B Proc degree from what is now the University of Limpopo, and later an LLB from Unisa.
Advocacy group, Judges Matter, said that Mlambo’s breadth of experience and ability to steer complex systems towards greater efficiency and effectiveness would stand him in good stead on Thursday.
However, the organisation also noted that lack of experience in the Constitutional Court and his high political profile may count against him.
Acting Chief Justice Raymond Zondo will have his interview with the JSC on Friday.
WATCH: Gauteng Judge President Mlambo's interview for Chief Justice position

domain: law


text:
NBC's new talent show "The Voice" just got a little dirrty.
She joins Cee Lo Green and Adam Levine of Maroon 5 on the panel, giving the show a colorful cast as it prepares to face off with "American Idol."
U.S. & World
"I am so excited to be part of such a wonderful project that celebrates music and the talent behind it. To be given the opportunity to help shape new artists' careers and mentor them to see their dreams come to fruition is a task I welcome with open arms," Aguilera said in a statement. "I am so happy to be working with fellow Grammy Award winners Adam and Cee Lo as I feel there is so much we can all bring to 'The Voice.'"
Show producer Mark Burnett, the man behind such reality-TV mainstays as "Survivor" and "The Apprentice," said that Aguilera "has a perfect voice" and the she was his first choice for a female coach for the show.
Given Xtina's recent public setbacks - she botched the National Anthem at the Super Bowl, fell on-stage at the Grammys, and was arrested for being drunk in public - her presence certainly becomes an x-factor for the new show, making it a something not to be missed when it airs April 26.


text:
[lin_video src=http://eplayer.clipsyndicate.com/embed/player.js?aspect_ratio=16×9&auto_next=1&auto_start=0&div_id=videoplayer-1372722567&height=360&page_count=5&pf_id=9626&show_title=1&va_id=4123894&width=640&windows=2 service=syndicaster width=640 height=360 div_id=videoplayer-1372722567 type=script]
The father of a Struthers boy who was beaten to death by his mother’s boyfriend is calling for tougher child abuse laws.
In memory of his son Teddy Foltz, Shawn Tedesco is building a bench to be placed in Harding Park in Hubbard. The park is special to Tedesco because that is where he spent time with his son.
“This is where I spent the most time with him, and I think it would be a great thing to his memory to have it,” said Tedesco.
Teddy Foltz, 14, was severely beaten and tortured by his mother’s boyfriend Zaryl Bush, who was sentenced to 33 years to life in prison for the teen’s murder.
Tedesco said he paid child support but never had visitation rights. He said he wishes he could have done more for his son.
While he agrees with the plea deal that put Bush behind bars, Tedesco is now calling for stricter child abuse laws.
“I also believe there should be harsher penalties for the torture of a child and there’s a lot of things we want to see happen,” said Tedesco. “The only way you’ll make it happen is if you do something and don’t sit on it.”
Foltz’s mother Shain Widdersheim pleaded guilty to four counts of child endangering, and one count of obstruction of justice in connection with her son’s murder. She will be sentenced Aug. 6.


text:
Targeting Muslim Chaplains:
Neo-Conservatives and Christian right-wingers have extended their attacks on Muslims in America (see Grassroots, Spring Issue, “Those who war on Islam”) by focusing on Muslim chaplains in the state and federal prison systems and in the military.
Their overall goal in attacking Muslims is to marginalize Muslims. This is evidenced in a recent Wall Street Journal article in which neo-conservatives lamented that Muslims groups such as CAIR and AMC are still being invited to government functions. These Islam bashers desperately want to see Muslims and Muslim organizations disappear from the public arena.
As part of their strategy, neo-conservatives and Christian right-wingers are now attacking Muslim chaplains. Their clear aim is to eliminate Muslim chaplains, stop the conversion of prisoners to Islam and subvert the right of prisoners to practice Islam while incarcerated.
Colson’s Initial Attacks
The Christian fundamentalist Chuck Colson, whose vicious and unfounded attacks began after 9/11, was one of the first to initiate attacks on Muslim chaplains. Colson wrote in a June 24, 2002 Wall Street Journal article entitled “Evangelizing for Evil in our Prisons,” that Islam in prisons is radical, violent and supported by Saudi Arabia. His solution? First, “prison officials have ample legal authority to deny radical imams access to inmates,” (in other words, get rid of the Muslim chaplains); and second, convert Muslims to Christianity. Evidentially Colson’s problem is not that prisoners embrace religion as a means of reform, but that they may choose Islam over Christianity.
The floodgates of attack upon the Muslim chaplainry opened wide following the arrest of Jose Padilla (Abdullah al-Muhajir) for his alleged association with al-Qaedah. Many articles and right-wing talk shows pointed to the conversion of Abdullah to Islam in an Illinois prison as the source of the problem, inciting fear and backlash against Muslims by painting an ominous picture of a growing and dangerous presence of Islam in prisons.
The Attack on Imam Umar
The most vicious and influential attack was the front-page, Wall Street Journal article of February 5, 2003 by Paul Barrett against Warith Deen Umar, the former, long-time head of Muslim chaplains in New York state. On the pretext of writing an article about Islam in prisons, Barrett spent long hours interviewing numerous NY Muslim chaplains, but his article focused on twisting the words of Imam Umar and concocting a picture of a Wahhabi plot to radicalize Muslim prisoners.
Imam Umar vehemently denies all the accusations in the article. In fact, he has retained counsel and plans to sue the Wall Street Journal. According to Imam Umar, the most blatant distortions were Barrett’s statements that Umar said that the hijackers of 9/11 should be honored as martyrs and that African American inmates would be natural candidates to continue the terrorists’ attacks. Imam Umar says he was quoted correctly from his forthcoming book to say: “Even Muslims who say they are against terrorism secretly admire and applaud…” but Barrett’s added “’applaud’ the hijackers,” which completely alters what Umar actually wrote. In fact, Imam Umar did not say that Muslims applaud the hijackers; he was in fact discussing the Palestinian resistance and suicide bombers. And, it is a fact that Muslims do have sympathy for the Palestinian struggle against the illegal Israeli occupation, although being against terrorism in general.
Refuting Barrett’s second distortion that African American Muslim prisons are candidates to continue the terrorism, Imam Umar states that what he did say was that Islam offers them (Muslim prison converts) a new life, but if they are abused, oppressed and pressured, and derangement occurs, then they might do anything.
Barrett’s article also claimed that Imam Umar had adopted Wahhabism and that with the support of Saudi Arabia was bringing this “harsh form of Islam to NY’s expanding ranks of Muslim prisoners.” What was the proof of Imam Umar’s Wahhabism and radical Islam? His Hajj (pilgrimage to Mecca) was financed by Saudi Arabia. In Barrett’s twisted logic, somehow going to Hajj is sinister—a time of indoctrination to extremist Islam. Such claims would be laughable if they were not so pernicious. Saudi Arabia provides financial assistance to help thousands of Muslims attend Hajj every year. If Barrett had done any investigation, he’d know that the rites of Hajj are physically demanding and time consuming, so as to preclude any logical assumption that Hajj could be used as a time of indoctrination.
Those who know Imam Umar find it incredulous that anyone thinks of him as Wahhabi. Of course, Barrett defines “Wahhabi” in a vague and inadequate fashion as “one who takes a literal interpretation of the Quran and is intolerant of those who disagree.” However, even using this definition, it is clear that Imam Umar is neither a literalist nor an intolerant hater of others who disagree with him. Imam Umar himself says that he does not consider himself a Wahhabi. He says, “I am just a Muslim. I am not on any campaign against Sufism, Shi’ites, or Minister Farakhan.”
Neo-conservatives obviously have little clue about the history and dynamics of Wahhabi thought. As usual with Islam bashers, they don’t find it necessary to get the facts straight; instead they are building up the term “Wahhabism” as an epitome of evil—a catchall bin into which they can then dump any committed Muslim they have a need to discredit.
The most compelling argument against the accusations of Barrett is simply the fact that Imam Umar has had a long and distinguished career within the prison system and, if there were a conspiracy to turn prisoners into terrorists, there would be clear and ample evidence of terrorism and radicalism among ex-prisoners. The reality is that there is none.
Immediately after Barrett’s article appeared, Muslims chaplains were forced into a glaring light of investigation. Politicians such as Senator Schumar (D-NY) called for hearings on Muslim chaplains and neo-conservatives, and Christian right-wingers called for their dismissal or at least a re-examination of their beliefs. Imam Umar suffered greatly as a result of the article: NY state barred him from state prisons and the federal system fired him as a part-time contract chaplain. These actions were taken without even discussing the charges with Imam Umar—unbelievably, state and federal agencies accepted Barrett’s accusations on face value.
Most prison systems did take a second look at their Muslim chaplains but in this first round, Muslim chaplains have emerged unscathed. NY State did not fire any Muslim chaplain due to the accusations in Barrett’s article. The NY Commissioner of Prisons, Goord, held a meeting with the Executive Committee of Muslim Chaplains and repeated what he said in the article, “Muslim chaplains have been very, very positive for us.” Prison officials know the great contributions that Muslim chaplains have made in guiding the large and influential Muslim prison population toward a more constructive relationship with prison authorities. Historically, as in the 1970s Attica rebellion in NY, the influence of Muslim inmates prevented wild excesses, which anger and frustration can breed.
The federal Bureau of Prisons has also supported their Muslim chaplains. Most Muslim chaplains in the federal system have 10 years of service and they have proven themselves as effective leaders. The Bureau did initiate a full review and background check of all Muslim contract chaplains and volunteers. However, the review did not lead to the dismissal of any other chaplain besides Imam Umar. Muslim chaplains have, therefore, survived these initial attacks but the ballgame is not over.
The September arrest of the translator Ahmad al Halabi and the detention of Muslim chaplain James Yee and translator Ahmed Fathy Meholba have opened the door further for those intent on attacking Muslim chaplains. James Yee and Ahmad al Halabi are known within the Muslim community as sincere, balanced Muslims. All three have denied any wrongdoing. In the view of many Muslim observers, these charges are nothing more than misunderstandings (maps of the base could be simply used for direction) or innocent breaches of protocol (harmless messages to be sent to families of detainees).
In the wake of the arrests, Senators Charles Schumer (D-NY) and Jon Kyl (R-AZ) called for and received a Pentagon promise to review the endorsement process for Muslim chaplains. Presently Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) and American Muslim Foundation (AMF) are the endorsers, and each has delegated the endorsing responsibility to other groups: Graduate School of Islamic Social Sciences headed by Dr. Taha Alalwani for ISNA and American Armed Forces and Veterans Affairs Council led by Qaseem Uqdah for AMF.
Daniel Pipes in a recent Wall Street Journal article outlined what the neo-conservatives want: break off relations with the present Muslim endorsers, suspend all Muslim military chaplains, and give the endorsement of Muslim chaplains to “anti-Islamist” organizations such as Kabbani’s Islamic Supreme Council and a little known Shi’ite organization called American Muslim Congress. Talk show hosts Kudlow and Cramer along with the notorious Muslim basher Steve Emerson as their “expert” guest called for the dismissal of Muslim chaplains especially those in the military.
At a Senate subcommittee hearing on October 14th, Kyl, Schumer and Diana Finestein (D-CA) took turns accusing ISNA and AMF as suspected supporters of terrorists and questioning whether they should be endorsers. The pressure is mounting.


IT&E, Isa/Hytz take top spots in Triple J's Volley For a Cause tournament
Four teams took home the top spots of Triple J's Volley For a Cause tournament last weekend. Playoff games took place on May 4 and 5 at the Guam Sports Complex in Dededo.
The IT&E team took home the recreational division championship, while the Isa/Hytz team took home the competitive division championship. The All-Stars took second place in the recreational division, and the Ashy Kids took second place in the competitive division.
The tournament was a fundraising effort to raise funds to support the American Cancer Society’s annual Relay for Life and efforts in cancer research, screenings, supporting patient services and educational programs that give local cancer patients the gift of time, according to news files.
Games started on April 27 until 28, with playoff games in the first weekend of May.


ABU DHABI // Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed met the Egyptian president in Cairo on Thursday to take stock of regional and global issues.
The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces and Abdel Fattah El Sisi discussed regional challenges, especially interference from foreign parties, the crises in Arab countries and risks to the region posed by terrorist organisations.
They also considered ways to enhance political, developmental and economic cooperation between their countries, reported Wam, the state news agency.
Sheikh Mohammed affirmed UAE support for Egyptians seeking stability and development, while stressing Egypt’s role in serving Arab causes.
“The challenges are tremendous and diverse, and understanding, vigilance, integration and coordination among states are important and vital to create a common Arab vision that is capable of giving the Arab joint action an additional strong push to confront all challenges,” he said. “Inter-Arab solidarity and cooperation is critical in the current phase, and the UAE is always seeking to solidify Arab joint action and views Egypt as the main pillar in that direction.”
Mr El Sisi lauded the UAE and President Sheikh Khalifa for supporting Egypt. He recognised the two countries’ need to cooperate at all levels, as the region requires strong Arab resilience to face common challenges.
“Egypt will stand by the UAE in case of any regional and foreign threats,” he said.
Sheikh Mohammed and Mr El Sisi acknowledged the importance of a concerted effort towards peace and stability, while finding peaceful solutions to crises in some Arab regions to preserve their sovereignty, territorial integrity and capabilities, Wam said.
Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed Al Nahyan, National Security Adviser, Mohammed Mubarak Al Mazrouie, Undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince’s Court, Lt Gen Juma Al Bowardi, Military Adviser to Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, Lt Gen Isa Saif bin Ablan Al Mazrouei, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, and Maj Gen Staff Pilot. Ibrahim Nasser Mohammed Al Alawi, Commander of Air Force and Air Defence attended from the UAE side.
Egyptian prime minister Sherif Ismail and Gen Sedki Sobhi, Egyptian defence minister, attended from the Egyptian side.


text:
Blogger Chungah Rhee of Damn Delicious created a fun twist on a traditional French toast bake that calls for buttery, flaky mini croissants instead of thick Brioche slices. This French toast bake recipe from her latest cookbook Damn Delicious: 100 Super Easy, Super Fast Recipes suggests prepping the night before to give the croissants a chance to soak up all of that sweet egg batter. Sleep in, snooze your alarm a few times, and just pop the pan in the oven when you’re ready to eat. To finish it off in the morning, drizzle the bread pudding-like base with a cinnamon-cream cheese glaze. This make-ahead breakfast casserole is truly the most genius way to use up day-old croissants.Overnight Blueberry Croissant Breakfast BakeIngredientsExcerpted from Damn Delicious: 100 Super Easy, Super Fast Recipes by Chungah Rhee. Copyright © 2016 Chungah Rhee. Reprinted with permission from Oxmoor House, an imprint of Time Inc. Books. All rights reserved.
Make the blueberry croissant bake. Lightly coat a 9 by 13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. Arrange a layer of croissants evenly in the prepared baking dish; top with an even layer of blueberries.
In a large glass measuring cup or another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, maple syrup, lemon zest, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Pour the mixture evenly over the croissants and blueberries. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap, and place in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
When you’re ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F.
Remove the plastic wrap from the pan, and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Make the cinnamon-cream cheese glaze. Combine the cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, milk, and cinnamon in a small bowl, and stir until smooth.
Serve immediately, drizzled with the cinnamon-cream cheese glaze.
AMAZING! Just the right amount of sweetness. Big hit with our guests.

domain: food


Jun. 05, 2018Products
Release Version 2.2 of the “mvImpact Configuration Studio”, or mvImpact-CS for short, has been issued; it comes with a cascade of new features and is now also available for use on a PC.
May. 03, 2017Products
For special image processing applications in the short-wave UV range, i.e. laser technology, semi-conductor inspection and food product inspection Matrix Vision has eqipped the mvBlueCougar-X104bUV with a special Cmosis CMV4000 sensor ...
Feb. 03, 2017News
Both companies are leaders in their respective industries and their expertise is perfectly complementary. Opto Engineering excels in the high-end optics field and holds several innovative patents. Opto Engineering has also created a wide ...
Dec. 05, 2016Webcast
Über Matrix Vision
Kunde und Projekt
Kunde und Projekt
Jul. 05, 2016News
Whether on land, in water or in air, industrial image processing has managed to reach virtually every sector imaginable. Nevertheless, the manufacturers in this industry segment are largely unknown to the public, staying behind the scenes ...
Jun. 07, 2016Products
The mvImpact Configuration Studio, or ICS for short, enables you to get started in industrial image processing thanks to its intuitive and simple operation concept. Used in conjunction with the mvBlueGemini smart camera, users without ...
Oct. 30, 2014Products
Announcing the CMOS sensor IMX174 was a real thunderbolt by Sony: Their first global shutter CMOS sensor set standards in the field of dynamic, speed, quantum efficiency, and noise. For this reason Matrix Vision offers this sensor in a ...
Mar. 26, 2014Products
For all harsh conditions Matrix Vision has introduced the mvBlueCougar-X POE-I with a modular M12 industrial connector concept.
The latest information directly via newsletter.


text:
Lot 44. An Umayyad Gold Dinar from the reign of 'Abd al-Malik (AD 685-705), probably Damascus, dated AH 77/AD 696-697, with three lines of inscription in kufic surrounded by a band of inscription in kufic to each side, anonymous, no mint, in NGC holder graded AU53 (About Uncirculated);20 mm. approx.; 4.29 g. Estimate £ 100,000 - 150,000 (€ 110,000 - 170,000). Courtesy Bonhams.
LONDON - Bonhams is to offer Islamic coins for the first time as part of the forthcoming Islamic and Indian sale on 11 June in London. Leading the sale will be An Umayyad Gold Dinar from the Reign of 'Abd al-Malik (AD 685-705). The Year 77H Dinar is an extremely rare example of the first Islamic coin and has an estimate of £100,000-150,000.
The coin dates from the reign of Abd al-Malik, who was a member of the first generation of born Muslims. It seemed inconceivable to him that the flourishing Umayyad Caliphate did not have a currency of its own – that affairs of state, and everyday commerce, were being conducted using Byzantine coinage, or copies of it, featuring Christian symbols and images of foreign leaders. Following a period of development and transition, which saw the production of a de-Christianised Byzantine solidi – a proto-type gold coin depicting a standing Caliph – The Year 77H Dinar, the first entirely Islamic coin, was produced.
Head of Bonhams Islamic and Indian Department, Oliver White, commented: "The Year 77h Dinar is fascinating, and its significance to early Islamic history cannot be overstated. In an age before printing and modern communications, coinage was the most effective tool a government possessed to sway the hearts and minds of the people. Anyone bearing this coin carried with them a powerful religious message, which explained to new followers the principle tenets of the new faith. The 77h Dinar, the first purely Islamic coin, formed the basis of almost a thousand years of subsequent coinage in the Islamic world – each coin spreading the word of Islam."
The coin is highly symbolic in its simplicity. There is no image, no reference to a ruler or a place. There are only statements of faith and a date, which is noted only in the context of the Hijrah. The central three lines simply read 'There is no god but God alone, He has no associate', with the reverse reading 'God is one, God is eternal, He does not beget, nor is He begotten'. Encircling the inside of the coin is the line, taken from the Qu'ran, 'Muhammad is the messenger of God, who sent him with guidance and the religion of truth that he might make it supreme over all religions', whist the reverse simply states, 'In the name of God, this dinar was struck in the year seven and seventy'.
Though the exact date on which this coin was introduced into circulation is not recorded, the rarity of this issue suggests that it was probably towards the end of the year 77, potentially to coincide with the pilgrimage season at the time of the 'Eid al-Adha. The coin offered is believed to be the only professionally graded example of the coin.
The coin section of the sale will also feature:
Lot 51. An Abbasid gold dinar from the reign of Harun al-Rashid (AD 786-809), Baghdad, dated AH 171/ AD 787-788, with three lines of inscription in kufic surrounded by a band of inscription in kufic to each side, very fine and rare, 18 mm. approx; 3.93 g. Estimate: £6,000 - 8,000. Courtesy Bonhams.
In the year AH 170 caliph Harun al-Rashid broke with tradition and placed his name on the coinage. For the years AH 170-171 his name and title were inscribed across the central reverse field citing him as Harun amir al-mu'minin, 'Harun Commander of the Faithful. Harun al-Rashid is best known as the ruler who appears in some of the tales of the One Thousand and One Nights, some of which are set at his court.
Lot 60. A Mongol gold dinar of a type struck during the reign of Genghis Khan (AD 1206-1227) and posthumously Dihistan, dated AH 639/ AD 1241-1242, with four lines of inscription in kufic ornamented with vegetal motifs surrounded by a band of inscription in kufic to each side, anonymous, practically mint state, 28 mm. approx.; 4.58 g. Estimate: £5,000 - 7,000 (€ 5,600 - 7,800). Courtesy Bonhams.
Lot 48. Two Umayyad silver dirhams from the reign of Hisham (AD 724-743), Cordoba, Andalusia, dated AH 108/ AD 726-727 and AH 119/ AD 737-738; each with four lines of inscription in kufic surrounded by a band of inscription in kufic to one side and three lines of inscription in kufic surrounded by a band of inscription in kufic to the other, areas of minor weakness, otherwise both extremely fine and rare; each 27 mm. approx.; 2.93 and 2.95 g. Estimate: £2,800 - 3,400 (€ 3,100 - 3,800). Courtesy Bonhams.
The Umayyad dirham for Andalusia was mainly struck for the payment of taxes and is very rare.
Other sale highlights include:
Lot 120. A fine gem-set and enamelled gold minute repeater pocket watch made for and bearing the initials of Awn al-Rafiq, Sharif of Mecca, by Constant Piguet Switzerland, circa 1900; 8 cm. max. Estimate: £50,000 - 70,000 (€ 56,000 - 78,000). Courtesy Bonhams.
Awn al-Rafiq was born in Medina in 1841, a member of the Awn clan of sharifs and the fourth son of Sharif Muhammad ibn Abd al-Mu-in ibn Awnswas. On the death of his eldest brother Abdullah in 1877, he became the heir apparent and was summoned to Istanbul and appointed to the Ottoman Council of State with the rank of vizier. When his elder brother Husayn was assassinated in 1880, Sultan Abdulhamid, who suspected the late Emir of conspiring with the British to establish an Arab government in opposition to the Caliphate, decided not to appoint Awn al-Rafiq to the Emirate. The British ambassador in Istanbul, Austen Henry Layard, immediately intervened in the interests of the British who saw Awn al-Rafiq as 'liberal and enlightened', but the Sultan announced that he had already made his decision and appointed the role to a member of the Zayd clan. The Sultan, however, did assure the British that Awn al-Rafiq would be appointed following the death of the new Emir Abd al-Muttalib. Two years later, in 1882, Abd al-Muttalib was deposed and Awn al-rafiq became emir until his death in 1905.
Lot 187. An Indo-Portuguese Silk-Embroidered Linen 'Five Senses' Coverlet (Colcha). Gujarat, 17th Century; 240 x 183 cm. approx. Estimate: £30,000 - 40,000 (€ 33,000 - 45,000). Courtesy Bonhams.
Lot 118.A Large Metal Thread-Embroidered Calligraphic Panel (Hizam) From the Belt of the Qa'ba, Mecca, 20th Century; 296 x 84 cm. Estimate: £20,000 - 30,000 (€ 22,000 - 33,000). Courtesy Bonhams.
The Qa'ba is decorated annually on the 9th day of the month of Dhu al-Hijah, the day during the Hajj on which the pilgrims leave for the plains of Mount Arafat. The four walls are covered with curtains ( kiswah) and are encircled by a band ( hizam) embroidered with text from the Qur'an. The present lot is part of one of these bands.
The practice of decorating the Qa'ba dates back to pre-Islamic times and the Prophet Muhammad himself witnessed the ceremony of the covering of the Ka'ba as a six-year-old child. Under the Mamluks, Egypt became the supplier of the kiswah, and it became traditional to change it annually. Production in Egypt continued under the Ottomans until 1927 when it was decided that the King of Saudi Arabia should provide the textiles, and production was moved to Arabia, where it continues today. When the kiswah and the hizam were replaced, they were cut up and reserved for important dignitaries such as the Sharif of Mecca, but some fragments were also allowed to be sold in special shops near the Bab al-Salam.
The sale will be a live 'behind-closed-doors' auction on 11 June. An auctioneer will be present on the rostrum, and bids will be accepted in the following formats: online, on the phone, or by leaving an absentee bid. All bidding will be done remotely in accordance with the latest government guidelines.

domain: history


text:
- This topic has 1 reply, 1 voice, and was last updated November 2, 2007 at 12:38 pm by .
- November 2, 2007 at 12:38 pm #243200
Posted by Joy Bauer, M.S., R.D., C.D.N.
If your Thanksgiving plate resembled a family-style buffet doused in lard
laden gravy, worry not. This 72-hr detox plan is the perfect recipe to
combat the Thanksgiving weight-gain disaster. Garnish with 8-10 cups of
water and a daily multivitamin and dive in. Your stuffing will skedaddle and
you’ll be back in your skinny jeans in no time!
Vegetable Omelet with Toast: One omelet made with one whole egg and two egg
whites, and stuffed with vegetables (try spinach, onions, tomato, mushrooms
or zucchini saut?ed in 1 teaspoon olive oil). Cook omelet in a nonstick pan
or coat a regular pan with cooking spray. Serve with one slice of high-fiber
bread (any brand that has 2 grams fiber and no more than 90 calories per
slice). Optional coffee or tea (plain or with skim milk, no sugar)
Soup and Salad: One bowl of minestrone, black bean, or lentil soup
(approximately 2 cups or 300 calories of any prepared brand with nutritional
information, such as Healthy Choice, Amy’s Organic, Campbell’s Healthy
Request). Eat with a mini whole-wheat pita (any brand, 70 calories), and a
green salad tossed with one tablespoon of low-fat dressing (or 1 tablespoon
balsamic vinegar and a small dash of olive oil).
Afternoon Snack: One skim milk cappuccino or latte (optional teaspoon sugar
or Splenda) or 8 ounces nonfat, flavored yogurt (any brand 120 calories or
Sweet Wild Salmon: Mix together 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce and 1
tablespoon honey. Drizzle over a 6-ounce wild salmon fillet and broil for
10-15 minutes, basting every few minutes. Serve over a large mound of
arugula leaves, with 1 cup steamed broccoli.
Cereal with Fruit: 150 calories of any high fiber (five grams or more)
cereal (i.e., Kashi Go Lean, Nature’s Path Flax Plus, Barbara’s Grain Shop,
All Bran, Fiber One). Serve with 1 cup skim milk or low-fat soymilk, and ?
sliced banana or ? cup berries. Optional coffee or tea (plain or with skim
milk, no sugar)
Turkey/Cheese Sandwich: Toast two pieces of reduced-calorie whole-wheat
bread (no more than 60 calories per slice). Layer one slice of bread with 1
teaspoon reduced-fat mayonnaise, unlimited spicy mustard, 2 ounces smoked
turkey (or lean ham) and one slice of low-fat cheese. Top with a thick slice
of tomato, onion and the remaining slice of bread. Handful of baby carrots
and unlimited celery.
1/4 cup of pistachio nuts in the shell + 1 cup of green tea
Steak & Veggies: Green tossed salad with 2 tablespoons low-cal dressing. One
6-ounce fillet mignon or sirloin (trimmed of fat, with optional 2
tablespoons ketchup or steak sauce) served with 1 cup steamed vegetables.
Cottage Cheese with Grapefruit: ? grapefruit with 1 cup nonfat or 1% reduced
fat cottage cheese (or 1 cup non-fat, flavored yogurt) topped with 2
tablespoons wheat germ.
Bauer’s Power Salad: Unlimited lettuce and raw vegetables (tomatoes,
carrots, cucumbers, peppers, mushrooms, etc.) mixed with 2-3 tablespoons of
low-fat dressing (or unlimited balsamic vinegar and 1 teaspoon olive oil)
and topped with one of the following: 4 ounces grilled wild salmon; 6 ounces
grilled chicken breast, turkey breast, tofu, or ham; Plus, the option to add
a 1/2 cup of either chick peas, black beans or low-fat cheese.
One apple + one Laughing Cow Light cheese triangle.
Chinese Take Out: Order steamed seafood, tofu or chicken and vegetable
entr?e (such as steamed chicken and broccoli). Request garlic or ginger
sauce on the side, and order a small container of steamed brown rice.
Pile your plate with the steamed entr?e and flavor it with 1 Tablespoon of
the sauce and unlimited low-sodium soy sauce. Eat it with ? cup brown rice.
- You must be logged in to reply to this topic.


text:
Welcome to my all new, all better site. Kick off your shoes, grab a drink, and make sure to check out everything here.
There’s my new bio page ALL ABOUT NIOBIA (with some really outdated pictures of me), the BACKLIST BOOKSTORE where you can purchase several of my out of prints books, CHAT CENTRAL, seperate pages with my books divided by genre, and the NIOBIA BRYANT CHARITY STORE where you can purchase items with all proceeds going to a worthy charity.
I plan to post at least once a week (if not more) so be sure to drop back in often for news and updates, contest info, any random thing on my mind that day, tour info, and my take on my secret addiction (reality TV shows–I know I am not the only one watching I Love New York 2 and routing for Midget Mack).
As you know, HOT LIKE FIRE, is “officially” available November 6, 2007 but many bookstores have the book in stock already. If you don’t see it in your local bookstores, please ask them to order it for you. I hope you all enjoy Kade and Garcelle’s story and the set-up for the next installation in the HOT HOLTSVILLE series. This is another steamy one so pleased don’t be surprised by the love scenes. I am giving fair warning. LOL.
On November 6, 2007 I plan to launch the official HOT LIKE FIRE contest. Be sure to check back for all the details.
Feel free to leave me a comment. I will have to approve them first because some people don’t have a bit of etiquette or want to fill my online life with spam.
There is a lot coming up in my crazy writing career and I can’t wait to share it all with every one of you.
5 thoughts on “Welcome”
Love the new website had to figure out how to enter but I made it. I have finally found me a copy of Hot like Fire and will start reading it tonight. Looking forward to your next two book in 2008 which is right around the corner. Keep on doing what you do and you will have a reader for life.
Thanks Tina A. Be sure to let me know what you think of it. There’s a contest and chat coming real soon.
I love the look of the new website. I haven’t gotten my copy of Hot Like Fire yet but it should be here soon. I cannot wait to read it.
I have my copy and love it, I enjoyed Hot Like Fire, WOW!!! the love scenes were amazing, gave a sister some ideas:) Ironically I had just finished your book Admission of Love, which I luckly got from the library when went into the store and was looking for another book and found Hot Like Fire . I appreciate you selling some of your books online. I can’t wait for the follow up to Live and Learn, the first was was really good, you thought about the characters long after you finished the book. You are truly an inspiration keep up the good work.
Show and Tell is coming June of 2008 and the girls are crazier than ever. We all know the happily ever after in life is a constant process. With every new day, new challenges and even more drama arises to test those lessons learned. Just wait until you see what the ladies have been up to next.
I wish I had more copies of Admission of Love. It was my first book and I made mistakes in giving them out to people who would ask. I have a post on that very topic coming real soon.
Be good, Anika (you know I love your name).


Joshua Hallaran and the team at Critical Games have worked on this game for more than seven years trying to bottle that feeling of early SNES, PS1 and Gameboy roleplaying games.
Retro inspired videogames are a dime a dozen but what happens if you lean in all the way, play with the nostalgic experiences of those people who grew up with the NES and the Gameboy to make something truly modern.
Joshua Hallaran from Critical Games has been working on 8-BIT ADVENTURES 2 for seven years, studying the classics and creating a true love letter to the pixel graphics and chiptune of the early nineties.
Join the SIFTER Discord to be part of the conversation
SIFTER is produced by Kyle Pauletto, Fiona Bartholomaeus, Daniel Ang & Adam Christou. Mitch Loh is Senior Producer and Gianni Di Giovanni is our Executive Producer. Thanks to Omny Studio for their support of SIFTER.


text:
Rillington Place lefts viewers baffled on Tuesday night.
While those tuning in had nothing but praise for the chilling BBC series, which is based on the true crimes of John Christie, many were distracted by actor Nico Mirallegro, 25.
As former Hollyoaks star portrayed the ill-fated Timothy Evans, he noticeably kept changing his accent from Cockney to Welsh.
Viewers were quick to take to Twitter afterwards to slam the actor afterwards, with some even accusing him of "ruining" the programme.
One wrote: "His changing accent is ruining this.Tho he moved to London when young if he lost his accent why do the Welsh accent at all.#rillingtonplace."
Another then posted: "Why does Nico Mirallgro accent keep going from mockney to very poor Welsh in Rillington Place BBC 1 depending where he is London or Wales.
Moments later, a different viewer tweeted: "@bbc after watching 10 Rillington Place I am a bit confused as to why Tim Evans has a cockney accent in some scenes and Welsh in others."
Shortly afterwards, another commented: "Gripped by #RillingtonPlace, spellbound at Tim Roth's performance, but confused by Timothy Evans' (Nico Mirallegro) ever-changing accent..."
While many of those tuning in weren't too keen on the accent switching, the show's creators Ed Whitmore and Tracey Malone insisted it was intentional.
"Nico wanted to reflect Tim’s malleability and that desire to fit in by using different accents according to who he was talking to," Ed explained.
The new series recreates John Christie's cruel crimes and is presented over three episodes from three different perspectives - as three characters’ lives tragically converge at 10 Rillington Place, in Notting Hill, west London.
*Rillington Place returns to BBC One on Tuesday at 9pm