For almost a month I have had on my desk a column written by Doug Thompson of the Northwest Arkansas Times from June 3 - “A Shadow Looms Over Fayetteville.” The opening paragraph of his piece is one of the most politically stark and discomfiting I have read in some time:
“Fayetteville: The most hostile spot to the public’s right to know in Northwest Arkansas.”
What’s that you say? The New York City of the Ozarks hostile to the public’s right to know? Say it ain’t so, Joe.
But maybe, just maybe . . .
Thompson began by discussing the matter of the shoving out the door of the Fayetteville Public Library Director. Oh, she was she paid $42,500, in addition to a few benefits and expenses (what sort of expenses?) to leave without making a fuss. Some folks on staff made a fuss, though.
The library board claimed her departure came under the “personnel” exemption of the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.
Marilyn Heifner, of Fayetteville’s Advertising and Promotion Commission flat-out lied to a reporter, and as a punishment was forced to keep her job. Okay, they took away her pay raise.
The Fayetteville School District found itself under scrutiny because of an email written by a teacher, claiming the “personnel” clause again.
The West Fork city government has sometimes treated the the Freedom Information Act as though it was written for the inhabitants of another country altogether.
And a couple of times over the years I have wondered about all of those those emails that former UA Chancellor John White bragged about deleting during yet another past football scandal. Were they part of the public record we’ll never see?
The Heifner/FOIA matter is the most troubling for Fayetteville.
More than any other community in Northwest Arkansas, Fayetteville has set a standard over the years for expecting a certain level of behavior from those we elect to positions of trust. We are the city we are largely because of the citizen activists among us, many of whom have used the FOIA for the causes they believed in.
What was disconcerting about the Heifner affair was that so many people (and some were liberals - go figure) not only publicly supported her, but implied that the FOIA was a bullying tool, and that reporters (and ultimately activists, if you follow the reasoning to its logical conclusion) should simply rely on the word of people in power, and not make waves.
Ph, the occasional ripple is okay. But actual waves? Haven’t we as a city evolved beyond that point?
It’s okay to have the FOIA, but to actually use it? To make people uncomfortable? Why on earth would you want to do that? Can’t we all just get along?
A gentle reminder to the Northwest Arkansas Times about City Council resolutions on such things as “Corporate Personhood”
Recently the Northwest Arkansas Times was a tad critical of the Fayetteville City Council for taking a stand on the issue of “corporate personhood.” The paper has been critical of such a move, even plaintively asking in in the June 12 editorial (“Fayetteville Takes Shot at Personhood”):
“Now that the Fayetteville City Council has announced its position to a U.S. Supreme Court ruling related to corporate personhood, what issue will it tackle next?
“The war in Afghanistan? Immigration? Bashar Assad’s oppressive regime in Syria? Coke vs. Pepsi?”
That was actually the second time a writer in the Times mentioned the Coke/Pepsi question. That’s especially intriguing, in light of the fact the the University of Arkansas has switched soft drink loyalties in recent days.
Climbing out of the Chasm of Digression, though, perhaps it’s time - yet again - to remind the NWA Times that city councils across this great nation of ours have been voting on such resolutions for quite some time.
Fayetteville is far from being the only city in the United States to take a stance on this issue. In Arkansas, fact, our comrades in Eureka Springs have also done the same thing.
But going through my old blogs for my new book, I discovered a gem - okay, I think a lot of my writing falls under the “gem” category” - written in December of 2008, when the City Council voted on a resolution that the NWA Times derided as “toothless.” I’ll just pass on part of that today:
Fayetteville is not alone among cities that are willing to take a stand on issues facing Americans today. In fact, we are, in anything, following a national trend.
1998: Fayetteville City Council honors Tibetans
October 2, 2003: The Chicago City Council passes a resolution condemning the USA Patriot Act.
June 21, 2005: Oakland, California: City Council passes resolution endorsing Department of Peace.
April, 2006 - Salt lake City: City Council supported and passed a “natural family resolution.”
May 22, 2007: City Council of Portland, Oregon, voted a resolution urging the US not to bomb Iran.
December 7, 2007: Indianapolis City Council Passes a resolution that "urges a moratorium on home foreclosures and for Congressional enactment of a Homeowners and Bank Protection Act."
Over 150 local governments across the United States have passed resolutions calling for a moratorium on executions.
These resolutions are the result of citizens coming forward to their city council, and making their case. Those opposed to the action are free to make their case, as well. But when cities pass these resolutions, other cities across the country take notice. And state and national leaders also take notice.
Toothless? I don’t think so.
And all of that “speaking truth to power” nonsense”
Every so often I’ll turn on a cable news show and I’ll hear one one of the inane talking heads going on and on about somebody who “speaks truth to power.”
Except . . .
They always seem to be talking about rich people talking to other rich people. In other words, the powerful taking shots at other powerful people.
They aren’t talking about the nuns who are willing to stand up for social justice, or citizen activists in civil rights or labor movements. They aren’t talking about public access producers or alternative newspaper writers.
No, those people are usually referred to as “gadflies.”
Quote of the Day
A good snapshot stops a moment from running away. - Eudora Welty


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Headache ,eyepain burning
Hi .. I am facing frequent headache and eye pain and burning from couple of days...earlier i have frequent dizziness consulted ENT as requested gone through MRI scan no issue found. And i also consuming tablets for BP ..which is under control . Please suggest
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Headache and Eye pain are the most bothering issues where many find it tough to solve; There are more than 100 reasons for headache associated with eye pain; the most common being 1.Vision related (refractive error) - to be corrected by an ophthalmologist 2.Excessive near work - needs eye relaxation excercises like focusing far objects; massaging the eye balls; multivitamin intake 3.Decreased blinking rate if you are heavy system user which might require certain tear drops 4.Vitamin and mineral deficiency - look for a tablet which contains B COMPLEX along with A, D, E -- a month course is required to look for resolution before analysing the result 5.Stress and tension --- just avoid it. hope this helps :)
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domain: medical


text:
The Mixing House features an acoustically designed control room, large live room, 2 isolation booths, and a comfortable lounge.
The control room is an acoustically designed and treated room featuring a 40 channel Midas console with JBL, Amphion, and Event monitors. There is great selection of microphones from Flea, BeesNeez, Telefunken, Shure, and Sennheiser and a large assortment of outboard equipment from the likes of Locomotive Audio, Weight Tank, Phoenix Audio, CAPI, Cranesong, and Elysia, among others.
The adjoining live room is 20′ x 30′ with 12′ ceilings and can comfortable fit a full band. It features non-parallel walls and ceilings along with an amazing stone feature wall. The studio is equipped with a DW Collectors Series drum kits, numerous snare drums from DW, Ayotte, Pork Pie, and Zildjian cymbals. There is an assortment of vintage and modern amps, guitars, and basses from Fender, Mesa Boogie, Marshall, Ampeg, Gibson, and Becker as well as a 50’s Hammond Organ.

domain: design


As Christmas approaches, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging people to look after their mental health and that of their family and friends during the holiday season.
Amanda O’Neill, senior health and social wellbeing improvement officer with the PHA, said: “Many of us will be looking forward to Christmas when we can spend more time with our family and friends.
“However, for some people this is a very difficult time, perhaps because of the expense involved, stress, bereavement, or feelings of isolation or loneliness.”
Taking time out to remember a few simple ways to help protect your mental wellbeing over the holidays could make all the difference. These could be based around Take Five Steps to Wellbeing:
r Connect: Make time for family and friends over the Christmas period;
r Be active: It may be cold outside, but that doesn’t mean you can’t exercise. Go for a walk or run, cycle, play a game, garden or dance. Exercising makes you feel good;
r Take notice: Stop, pause, or take a moment to look around you;
r Keep learning: Don’t be afraid to try something new, rediscover an old hobby or set yourself a new challenge over the holidays;
r Give: Don’t be afraid to give and accept support – being available for others if they need support should encourage them to be there for you too.
“People often use alcohol to relax, but instead of helping us to cope it can make things worse,” said Amanda. “If you choose to drink, staying within the safe drinking limits and avoid excessive or binge drinking.”
Amanda encouraged people to look out for the welfare of friends, family and neighbours over Christmas.
More information on looking after your mental health and the support available across Northern Ireland can be found at www.mindingyourhead.info.


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Californians, today is the last day you can register to vote for the upcoming midterm election on Nov. 8.
Residents have until 11:59 p.m. to complete their registration online. To be eligible to vote, a person must be:
- A U.S. citizen and California resident
- 18 years old or older on Election Day
- Not serving a state or federal prison term conviction of a felony
- Not currently found mentally incompetent to vote by a court
To register to vote online, eligible residents will need their state driver’s license or ID card number, the last four digits of their social security number and their date of birth, the Register to Vote website stated.
People who don’t have a driver’s license or ID card number can still register to vote online but will need to complete additional steps.
Californians can check this website to see if they are a registered voter in the state if they aren’t sure.
If you miss this deadline, don’t fret, California allows same-day voter registration in person at various polling sites for early voting and on election day.
Teenagers between 16 and 17 can complete a pre-registration form, allowing them to vote on their 18th birthday.

domain: news


text:
The American male vocal ensemble Chanticleer has, over the years since its founding, commissioned and premiered many new vocal works. Several of these are represented on COLORS OF LOVE, which is also an excellent sampling of the ensemble's talents. With twelve male voices--and not just tenors and basses--Chanticleer presents a shining, effortless sound which serves them well in repertoire ranging across five hundred years.
In the Steven Stucky pieces the sounds of the words are as important as the music and the meanings of the words, creating an additional, unusual musical layer in each work. John Tavener's "Village Wedding" blends Byzantine sounds--chant-like melodies over drones--with dancing, madrigalesque sections. And so the program continues, each work a gem of contemporary-yet-tonal 20th-century music. All but one of the pieces on the disc were written in the 1990s, and the program represents a broad range of composers: American, British, Chinese, male, female, young, old. An excellent compilation of "new" music.

domain: library


text:
Two key challenges facing the horticultural sector are micro-contamination of baby leaf salads and field herbs and poor stand establishment of light seeded crops due to capping of the soil surface. Capping can impede seedling emergence, delay stand establishment and reduce plant populations impacting the quantity and quality of the final yield.
Contamination of baby leafy salads and field grown herbs with soil and/or pathogenic micro-organisms can result in a significant cost to the industry due to analysis costs, product wastage, delayed marketing (reduced shelf-life), supply restrictions, additional hygiene requirements and customer concerns.
The project will provide an oppurtunity for the student to build technicall and practical experience, as well as academic rigure, through an investigation of:
- Optimum application rates and PAM formulations to prevent capping and mitigate soil splash on a range of crust susceptible soils,
- seedling emergence and splash contamination trials,
- Design and development of a PAM sprayer that can be readily retro-fitted to the back of a range of seed drills, d) Field trial assessment of optimal PAM formulations and application rates.

domain: agronomy


text:
Em and Yves, no. 3
Controlled by an Alien, Abby must decide if he’s real before she loses her sanity.
When school principal, Abby Davies, hears clickings in the fillings of her teeth she doesn’t understand why she believes they are messages from aliens.
Changing the world was never part of her career plan … but, letters she didn’t send bearing her signature are showing up in newspapers around the world. The things asked for in the letters are coming true.
To complicate matters even more, the alien controlling Abby has fallen in love with her. Is this her one chance for true love?
EMBRACED – Book three of the Em and Yves sci-fi series brings the alien down to Earth.
Buy EMBRACED to see if Abby survives alien intervention in her life and finds love.

domain: literature


Follow along with TIME’s live coverage of the 2020 Election results here.
It’s finally here.
After a nearly two-year campaign cycle upended by a pandemic, Election Day of 2020 has arrived. Voters will not just select the next President—or give the current one a second term— but will also choose 35 Senators, 435 members of the House of Representatives, 11 Governors, and a myriad of other local officials.
If early voting is any indication, the country is on track to have a record turnout. Over 97.5 million Americans had already cast their ballots as of Nov. 2, according to data compiled by the U.S. Elections Project, or 70% of the total votes counted in the 2016 election.
But just like this election cycle was unprecedented because of the coronavirus, this Election Day —and night—will probably be as well. The official votes are never tallied on election night, but media organizations in the past have been able to project winners based on unofficial counts.
This year, more people than ever have mailed their ballots in for safety precautions, which means they may take longer to be counted and it will be more difficult to project a winner in any race. The process to verify an absentee ballot takes longer, and more than two dozen states have laws that allow ballots to be accepted after Nov. 3.
If the process is taking a while, and we don’t yet know a winner by Wednesday morning, that is fine — it means the system is working as it should be. We’ll carry updates here throughout the day as news happens. Be patient, sit back, and watch democracy at work.
What to expect tonight
With the first polls beginning to close in the 6PM Eastern hour, the night ahead could look different from any previous U.S. presidential election because of the huge numbers of voters who participated in mail-in voting. That may cause delays in counting or misleading results early in the night.
TIME’s Chris Wilson has a handy guide for what to watch as results roll in tonight. One of the earliest important moments we can expect? Keep an eye on results from North Carolina’s mail-in votes and early in-person votes, which could drop shortly after polls close. TIME will be streaming real-time race projections, maps and live footage from both campaign headquarters here.
Biden and Trump’s team preview states to watch
By the end of the day, both Biden and Trump’s campaign had previewed states they view as key to their victory and claimed early evidence of turnout would benefit their side.
Speaking in Wilmington, Delaware, Biden said if he wins Florida tonight, he predicts he’ll win the election. “If Florida came in by 1 it’s over. Done,” he said. But he also said he feels good about his odds to win in other states that, in his view, would portend a Democratic victory: “You can’t think of an election in the recent past where so many states are up for grabs,” Biden said. “The idea I’m in play in Texas, Georgia, North Carolina, Florida— I mean, come on.”
Biden also said he’s confident about voter turnout supporting his campaign: “What I’m hearing is that there’s overwhelming turnout, and overwhelming turnout particularly of young people, of women, and an overwhelming turnout of African American voters, particularly in Georgia and Florida, over the age of 65,” he said. “The things that are happening bode well for the base that has been supporting me.”
But Trump campaign leadership also says they are encouraged by what they’re hearing about Election Day turnout. The Trump campaign had primarily focused its strategy on driving voters to the polls in-person on Election Day, whereas Biden’s team had encouraged people to vote by mail. “We very, very much like what we’re seeing in the places where we’re counting on high, heavy Election Day turnout,” Trump campaign manager Bill Stepien said on a press call.
He said they’re seeing evidence of high turnout in Trump counties in Wisconsin and other battleground states. Stepien pointed in particular to Pennsylvania, Florida, Wisconsin and Arizona as states to watch, saying that Florida is at “nearly a dead heat” and that he predicts in-person voting on Election Day will benefit Trump over Biden. Stepien said Biden’s campaign had hoped to “sew up these elections before Election Day even started” in those states, but “we are driving turnout today, very much making up whatever advantage the Democrats built up heading into Election Day.”
A federal judge ordered the U.S. Postal Service to sweep two dozen facilities to ensure no ballots were left behind in them, and if ballots were found, to deliver them to the requisite election boards. Facilities in the battleground states of Arizona, Michigan, and Pennsylvania were included in the order.
The USPS has been mired in controversy and litigation since the summer, when the newly minted Postmaster General Louis DeJoy implemented a slew of changes that slowed the mail down. DeJoy was a longtime Trump donor and came under intense public scrutiny for the changes, with some Democrats arguing that he was purposely undermining delivery to slow down mail-in ballots. DeJoy ultimately reversed some of the changes, and federal judges imposed an injunction on the ones he had left in place. However, there were still reports of ballots piling up in the weeks leading up to Election Day.
North Carolina results will be delayed
There have been few atypical incidents at polling locations so far this year, according to various watchdog groups tracking sites across the country. But in North Carolina, the state Board of Elections extended hours at four precincts in the state after they opened late. The final precinct will close at 8:15 p.m, 45 minutes after the original closing time.
This is good news for voters, because it means the state is taking precautionary measures to ensure everyone who wants to vote has a chance to do it. It also slows things down: North Carolina doesn’t post any results until all of the precincts have completed voting. Consequently, the nation will have to wait a little longer to see the results from this pivotal swing state, which could determine not just the presidency but control of the Senate.
Two confident candidates
Both candidates appeared in public on Election Day, making some last-minute comments about the state of the race and projecting confidence about the outcome.
At his campaign headquarters in Rossyln, Virginia, on Tuesday morning, President Donald Trump suggested that he does not have an acceptance or a concession speech pre-written. “I’m not thinking about a concession speech or acceptance speech yet,” the President said. “Hopefully, we’ll be only doing one of those two. And you know, winning is easy, losing is never easy. Not for me, it’s not.”
Trump also seized the opportunity to once again tout the size of his campaign rallies: “There’s a tremendous love going on in this country,” he said. “And there’s really a tremendous unity. Nobody’s ever seen that, where you take an airport and the airport’s not big enough to hold the crowds. Nobody’s ever seen a thing like that.”
Biden, meanwhile, has spent the day in the swing state of Pennsylvania, in his hometown of Scranton and then in Philadelphia. In Scranton on Tuesday morning, the former Vice President noted that he won all five votes in Dixville Notch, New Hampshire—one of the first towns in the U.S. to count its votes just after midnight on Election Day. Seemingly referencing Axios reporting that Trump might declare victory prematurely, Biden joked, “Based on Trump’s notion, I’m going to declare victory tonight.”
So far, so good
Before noon Eastern Time on Election Day, federal authorities said they had not detected any major cybersecurity problems with the vote so far, according to the Associated Press.
U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency director Christopher Krebs said he has “confidence that the vote is secure, the count is secure and the results will be secure.” But he warned that Americans should stay vigilant: “There may be other events or activities or efforts to interfere and undermine confidence in the election,” he said. He said everyone should “treat all sensational and unverified claims with skepticism and remember technology sometimes fails.”
Americans have been on edge leading up to Election Day, with preparations for political unrest more widespread and palpable than around any other election in modern American history, TIME’s W.J. Hennigan reports.
More Must-Reads From TIME
- Meet the 2024 Women of the Year
- Greta Gerwig's Next Big Swing
- East Palestine, One Year After Train Derailment
- In the Belly of MrBeast
- The Closers: 18 People Working to End the Racial Wealth Gap
- How Long Should You Isolate With COVID-19?
- The Best Romantic Comedies to Watch on Netflix
- Want Weekly Recs on What to Watch, Read, and More? Sign Up for Worth Your Time


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Expressive. Sometimes garrulous.
Rarely without a smile.
Always with a pen, planner, and camera (phone counts) on hand.
I thought I would end up being a doctor...BUT that is not the case. My sister crushed me when she flat out told me I would end up writing and being in a field where I would need to exercise my creativity. I was only 8 years old at the time. She was right (per usual). Thanks Magic 8-Ball!
Decades later... I write and produce for a living. I wouldn't want to do anything else... with the exception of being a world class sailor! Another life, perhaps.
Growing up, I had a vivid imagination. Writing poetry and fictional stories was what I loved to do most...next to swimming. There was always a story to be told (sometimes about super heroes and haunted mansions) and feelings to express. I have countless journals and notebooks... some are forever lost in dumpster land and others are strewn about somewhere in my house.
Volunteering has been a big part of my life and I grew up loving the YMCA...even joined one of their student clubs where we promoted diversity in the school and in the community. We organized events and created elaborate displays for all to see.
Little did I know, all the small things I loved doing, would add up to something greater in my adulthood.
My passion for the community landed me my first TV gig at the NBC station in Minneapolis. I felt like such an ugly duckling as a teen... zits, frizz and all. I couldn't believe my face would appear on people's television screens. I never dreamed about being on television. In fact, I was perfectly content hiding under the covers during a thunderstorm. Surprisingly, I lasted in front of the camera for several years after that. That experience opened doors to so many other things and allowed me to live in other cities. My journey to different newsrooms and companies helped me discover I wanted to tell stories for the rest of my life, but in my own way, and on different platforms.
Now I'm on my own - teaming up or riding solo on creative projects. I come up with fresh ideas, coordinate logistics and crews, or create things from scratch. I thrive and grow the most when I am working with different teams on a variety of subject matter. Some days I'm writing scripts for a new scientific product, interviewing individuals for a video campaign, tracking details for a live production, balancing budgets, or capturing images and sounds for a local organization.
Every day is different and I love it!
My heart is open to all of the glorious opportunities of creating, informing, and inspiring.
I am living my dream (no one said it would be easy, but it's worth it in the end).


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By exploring beaches randomly as the spirit and my other movements up and down the coast dictate, I'm challenging my anal desire to visit Eurobodalla beaches in geographical order, north and south from Potato Point, in sequence. Therefore I leap over ten beaches and land at Narooma Surf Beach, 25 kilometres from home as the highway winds.
The beach curves around from headland to headland. It's backed by a caravan park, a golf course, a cemetery, Little Lake which runs out onto the beach, and a small township of two and a half thousand. Just off shore, Glasshouse Rocks peak, and Montague Island lies low on the horizon, home to seals, penguins and a decommissioned lighthouse. It's late afternoon and the beach is busy, for a south coast beach – a photographer with a tripod, a fisherman, a serious walker, me and my shadow and the perpetual waves. Light-ripples reflect under the sand ridge where the lake meets the sea. When I reach the southern end of the beach I head up an almost invisible track between dune wattles and twisted casuarinas to the headland cemetery. I peer over the edge at every opportunity, down towards the rocky platform leading to Glasshouse Rocks. When I want to return to the beach I can't find the track again, so I walk across the long shadows of the golf course. A kookaburra laughs. A blue wren hovers in the undergrowth. I sit on a chair carved from a tree stump and contemplate the lake outlet and the island in afternoon tranquillity.
I return to the beach a few days later in the middle of the day, when the light is very different, and walk to the northern end, where I am promised, but do not manage to identify, pillow lava. I need a geologist guide who has a gift for turning geology into story so that I can understand the vastness of ancient processes and recognise the results.

domain: artistic


text:
search all 102,093 blends
click & drag the tin to rotate
ingredients & lore
blended with black tea, apple pieces, rose hips, hibiscus, cloves, ginger root, natural passionfruit flavor, cardamom, marigold flowers, mango pieces, natural mango flavor, natural cinnamon flavor, cinnamon bark
teas: passionfruit, mango melange, masala chai
accented with rose hips
I don’t own anything related to Gravity Falls, up to and including the state of Oregon, probably. This is just for funsies.
steep at 212° for 4 mins
This tea contains a moderate level of caffeine
this tea is part of the GRAVITEA FALLS fandom
Love Mabel? This is just one of 12 teas in this fandom. Check out the whole series.
2 additional blends by Michelle Tobin
by Michelle Tobin
white peach, cherry green, spearmint

domain: food


NEWARK, New Jersey (WABC) -- Officials announced a U.S. Postal Service (USPS) mail carrier from New Jersey was arrested Wednesday for discarding mail, including 99 general election ballots sent from the County Board of Elections and intended to be delivered to West Orange residents from his assigned routes in Orange and West Orange.
Nicholas Beauchene, 26, of Kearny, is charged by complaint with one count of delay, secretion, or detention of mail and one count of obstruction of mail. His bail was set at $25,000 with conditions.
Approximately 1,875 pieces of mail - including 627 pieces of first class, 873 pieces of standard class, two pieces of certified mail, 99 general election ballots destined for residents in West Orange, and 276 campaign flyers from local candidates for West Orange Town Council and Board of Education - were recovered from dumpsters in North Arlington and West Orange on Oct. 2 and Oct 5, according to documents and statements made in court.
RELATED: Exclusive: Shocking error found in some Brooklyn mail-in ballots
The mail had been scheduled to be delivered on Sept. 28, Oct. 1, and Oct. 2, 2020, to addresses on certain postal routes in Orange and West Orange. On the delivery dates for which mail was recovered, Beauchene was the only mail carrier assigned to deliver mail to the addresses on the recovered mail.
Federal prosecutors stated that the evidence at this time does not indicate that the defendant's actions were politically motivated.
Officials say the recovered mail was placed back into the mail stream for delivery to its intended recipients. Copies of the recovered mail were made and retained as evidence.
The delay of mail charge is punishable by a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The obstruction of mail charge is punishable by a maximum penalty of six months in prison and a $5,000 fine.
The man who found the discarded mail in a North Arlington dumpster last Friday said he was working when he came across it.
"At first it looked like junk mail circulars and things like that, and then I flipped over a piece and I saw something that said address correction and all that kind of thing," Howard Dinger said. "It's important mail, but thing, flip through a few more pages I saw the ballots on it, and at that point I knew it was serious.
He said he reached out to the post office and then called as a non-emergency to police.
"To be honest, I'm not very political," Dinger said. "I mean the election is important, but I was more concerned about social security checks, you know, credit checks. Things like that. All kinds of stuff, and it's important to a lot of people."
Dinger said he pulled out five mail bins out of the dumpster on Friday.
"Unbelievable amount of mail," he said. "And there's all bundled like for each block. I guess that's about two to 300 pounds of mail."
He added that it's not fair for one person to ruin the reputation of so many good mailmen out there.


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A stronger dairy industry code of conduct would include a formal dispute resolution mechanism and penalties procedure to solve conflicts between farmers and processors, according to Australia’s peak dairy farmer group.
Australian Dairy Farmers recognises and supports the need for enforceable measures to protect farmers as the advocacy body gears up for an extensive consultation process that will consider feedback from milk suppliers.
‘‘We absolutely want to achieve the best outcome for farmers, which is why we are taking a thorough approach to strengthening the industry code of practice and presenting this to industry for consideration,’’ ADF president Terry Richardson said.
‘‘All state dairy farmer organisations supported a review and strengthening of the code of practice, but unfortunately there has been ongoing agitation around which direction the industry should head, which is only distracting us from achieving genuine reform.’’
Industry body the Australian Dairy Industry Council, which Mr Richardson also chairs, has engaged legal counsel to provide technical advice to be incorporated into a second version of the code.
‘‘We are extremely aware that the industry is waiting for an outcome of this review, but we must ensure all reasonable steps are taken to address the issues identified by the ACCC (Australian Competition and Consumer Commission) report in a way that assists farmers,’’ Mr Richardson said.
‘‘While we understand the desire for action, conducting this review in a considered and comprehensive manner should be an expectation that farmers have of their national representative body.
‘‘Whatever decision is made, this will be a significant step with long-term ramifications for the industry, so we must get it right.’’

domain: law


20″ Bearcat Kit
Not all of our kits are twins! We really like the Bearcat…. The Tigercat’s little brother.
The kit includes the foam parts needed to build this model, along with a fully detailed construction manual and some accessories such as the pull-pull control system. The model is not assembled, so the customer needs to supply glue, paint, and other hobby tools, servos, motors, and electronics in order to put it together. This model is designed for a single 2000kV 10gm brushless motor and 2-bladed 6″ propeller (not included but available separately). For a power boost you can also use our 1700kV 17-gm brushless motor and 2-bladed 7″ propeller.
This is a small model and is very easy to build. Its easy to fly but its fairly fast, so keep it close in. You’ll need sharp eyesight and quick reflexes!
The model uses a Yogurt cup for the cowl (not included with the kit but we do have it available and you can order it HERE).
This model is available in three sizes and materials, we kinda went nuts! The 20″ version is available in Blue foam and also “Dollar Tree Foam Board”. We have a 16″ “clipped wing” Rare Bear racer, which is even smaller and harder to see! We offer a larger 29″ size, available in Black Depron or Dollar Tree Foam Board, designed for the “Blue Wonder” motor and outdoor flying. NOTE quantities are limited for these versions. Contact us for details.
This pic shows an early 20″ prototype with a CD-rom motor (roughly equivalent to the 17gm brushless motor that we offer).
The picture below shows off the 29″ foam-board version with an 8×6 prop and our custom-made plastic cowl. (The cowl is $2.50)
|Dimensions||4 × 6 × 24 in|


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With Covid-19 restrictions continuing in Mid Wales and Shropshire it’s important to know that the local property market remains open for business.
Morris, Marshall and Poole with Norman Lloyd has led the way on virtual viewings and valuations to ensure the safety of our customers, employees and home buyers since the start of the coronavirus situation.
And while physical viewings or valuations can take place, we’d only advise these where potential house buyers or sellers are serious about purchasing a specific property or selling their home.
Virtual valuations and viewings
Our virtual viewings include videos, images and in some cases 3D walkabouts. The MMP/NL team are also on hand by phone, email and video calls to discuss any aspect of a house purchase or sale.
“The regional market is very buoyant at the moment, mainly due to the Stamp Duty and Land Transaction Tax holidays up to the 31 March,” said Andrew Turner, a Partner at MMP/NL.
“We’re very much open for business, even if our offices are closed to visitors at the moment. That means we can still value a property and we can still offer viewings under Covid-19 regulations in Wales and England.”
Talk to our team
You can contact MMP/NL via any of its eight offices through email or telephone. Full details are on our website – www.morrismarsahll.co.uk.
MMP/NL has offices in eight towns, including Newtown, Oswestry, Aberystwyth, Welshpool, Llanidloes, Rhayader, Tywyn, Machynlleth and a showroom at Aberdyfi. It also has a specialist Rural Team based at Welshpool Livestock Sales and an associate office in London.
For more information, contact one of its local offices by visiting www.morrismarshall.co.uk.

domain: geography


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I made this button yesterday, because I feel like wearing my heart on my sleeve.
Last year I decided to stop obsessing about politics, to stop monitoring every website and reading every critical article that came my way, and living half a world away the commitment has not been difficult to keep, but since I arrived in the United States it has become very obvious to me that the tide has turned for the Obama White House, much to my regret.
I am disappointed because I find the constant criticism terribly unfair. I happen to think that President Obama has done as well as he could given the circumstances. He has walked the mire and come out of it with major victories, I just don’t see what there is to criticize, and it’s pretty hard to ignore the fact that on the whole he is not being slammed for gaffes or miscalculations, but simply for being who he is.
I’ll speak frankly now and say that, in general, I consider Republican people to be rather mean and unfeeling folk, who care for no-one except their own kind, but if there is one thing about them that I think is worth emulating, it’s their willingness to stand up for their cause, as well as their unwavering support for their leaders. We Democrats should learn a thing or two about it, and while they can twist and manipulate the discourse in ways that are, in my view, nothing short of dishonorable, I envy them their mastery of the message, and the efficiency and confidence with which they control the discourse.
So if you are Democrat, if you are Liberal, I have a message for you: Make a statement, support your president and stand up for what you believe in, and for goodness’ sake don’t walk away from helping the politicians who share your values, and whether you think Barack Obama has delivered on every promise he made on the campaign trail or not, the only ones who will benefit if you withdraw your support are the same people who nearly ruined the country in the first place.
Do you really want to see Sarah Palin or Newt Gingrich as the President of the United States? Because I’m afraid that’s what’s going to happen if we continue to apologize for what we believe in and fail to learn to be proud of our principles, which history and common sense have shown us are morally upright.
I hope we find our spine and fight the good fight, the country will be the loser if we don’t.
Button made using Da Button Factory.

domain: politics


The Finance Ministry is considering the reduction of the maximum level of permitted cash transactions, as efforts to contain tax evasion continue.
Sources say that the ministry and the Independent Authority for Public Revenue have examined a number of measures in their bid to reduce undeclared incomes, as overtaxation and high social security contributions have led to an increase in the phenomenon.
One of the measures under consideration is the reduction of the 500-euro limit on cash transactions to 400 or even 300 euros. This way cards and e-banking transactions should increase, hopefully bolstering the ministry’s revenues too.
Still, this will only marginally help contain tax evasion, observers note, because enterprises or self-employed professionals that do not issue receipts will continue the practice, while offering their customers a tax-free discount.


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This is a completely revised and updated edition of this text designed to introduce students to the historical, intellectual and social context of computers although the majority of the chapters in this edition are new, the original criteria for selecting essays has been retained the text retains the historical pieces and adds new. Essay by dr senta german stonehenge is an example of the cultural advances brought about by the neolithic revolution—the most important development in human history the way we live today, settled in homes, close to other people in towns and cities, protected by laws, eating food grown on farms, and with leisure. The microcomputer revolution is a phrase used to describe the rapid advances of microprocessor-based computers from esoteric hobby projects to a commonplace fixture of homes in industrial societies during the 1970s and 1980s prior to 1977, the only contact most of the population had with computers was through utility. India's computer revolution: in may 2000 india's lower house of parliament, the lok sabha (house of the people), passed the information technology bill to boost e-commerce and internet-related business. Syndicate this essay here, the children are the individual generative new technologies — from steam engines to computers — that create new wealth it hopes that the forces of the computing revolution will deliver on the old possibilities and necessities of mars colonies and an africa developing along. The computer revolution in the 1990s in america and its impact in shaping american life pages 3 words 833 view full essay more essays like this: not sure what i'd do without @kibin - alfredo alvarez, student @ miami university exactly what i needed - jenna kraig, student @ ucla wow most helpful essay.
A combination of this “carry anywhere” device and a global information utility such as the arpa network or two-way cable tv, will bring the libraries and schools (not to mention stores and billboards) of the world to the home one can imagine one of the first programs an owner will write is a filter to eliminate. Free computer revolution papers, essays, and research papers. It is not very often that such a small inorganic object can drastically change our lives forever such a device that changes the way we work, live, and play is a special one, indeed for over fifty years, a revolution has been taking place in the united states and the world the personal computer has changed the way many.
As concerns accessible computer input, there are alternative paths forward they phone mobile on essay the revolution need to produce and realise their own lists of linking verbs, dates, presidents, and latin will continue in this chapter since design projects which offer students opportunities to encounter. Home computer science computer science - general interest too soon to tell: essays for the end of the computer revolution summary book tools save to my profile · recommend to your librarian book menu book home get access how to get online access. William h gates iii chairman and chief software architect microsoft corporation for me the personal computer revolution started in the mid-1970s, when my friend paul allen and i saw a magazine article about the mits altair 8800 the altair was the first build-it-yourself computer kit for hobbyists for a few hundred dollars.
“computer and information ethics”, in the present essay, is understood as that branch of applied ethics which studies and analyzes such social and ethical impacts of moor's approach to computer ethics is a practical theory that provides a broad perspective on the nature of the “information revolution. Home computer science computer science - general interest too soon to tell: essays for the end of the computer revolution summary book tools save to my profile · purchase a print copy · recommend to your librarian book menu book home get access how to get online. The social meaning of the personal computer: or, why the personal computer revolution was no revolution bryan pfaffenberger university of virginia this essay presents a processual model of thepersonal computing movement that dep pc's birth within the context of complex and. The digital revolution is far more significant than the invention of writing or even of printing douglas engelbart · writing, revolution · cryptocurrency currencies take the concept of money, and they take it native into computers, where everything is settled with computers and doesn't require external institutions or trusted third.
Technological revolution is, a relatively short period in history when one technology is replaced by another technology it is an era of an accelerated technological progress characterized not only by new innovations but also their application and diffusion a difference between technological revolution and technological. We stand on the brink of a technological revolution that will fundamentally alter the way we live, work, and relate to one another impressive progress has been made in ai in recent years, driven by exponential increases in computing power and by the availability of vast amounts of data, from software. There was much jubilation when apsara went critical for the first time,” narrates p v s rao in the opening essay of ' homi bhabha and the computer revolution ' edited by r k shyamasundar and m a pai (wwwoupcom) stored program there was similar excitement, adds rao, when all the subunits.


Oil and gas companies are deploying XALTER technology for training and simulation, to identify subsurface hydrocarbon reserves and to develop extraction plans, processes and products. VR training focuses on safety, cost reduction, disaster preparation, skills training on surface and subsurface drilling tools, equipment inspection and terrain analysis to identify hydrocarbon reserves.
Logistics and supply chain companies are adopting immersive technologies to transform key industries dependent on the global supply chain. Warehouses, production facilities, shipping companies, and retailers rely on XALTER to work faster, safer, and more efficiently across five major areas: Inventory Management; Remote Collaboration and Data Visualization; VR Training; Product Origin Traceability and Real-time Transit Information.
Maritime sector is a capital intense, high-tech venture that requires thousands of global workers to share critical skill sets. Shipping is the main form of transport for global trade. XALTER training facilitates key Maritime functions: Safety, Navigation, Machine Room, Crane Simulator, Fire Suppression and environmental initiatives like Green Ocean Strategies.
XALTER develops virtual, augmented and mixed reality solutions that are delivered though the proprietary XALTER platform. The company has revolutionized the use of 3D modeling and simulation in training and operations support and offers measurable ROI, enhanced safety, content retention and environmental impact metrics.
Now customers can deploy multi-user and multi-platform programs anywhere in the world, gather data and derive valuable insights about their business. Scenario planning, user tracking and subsequent analytics facilitates data visualization on sophisticated dashboards that showcase business intelligence. The program benefits learners, trainers and the client company.
XALTER engineers and training professionals harness the latest research and training technology to provide clients highly individualized solutions. The platform engages learners in immersive VR/AR/MR custom training environments tailored to specific industry sectors and ensures effective knowledge acquisition and skills mastery.


As organizations prepare for a radio frequency identification (RFID) implementation, they often don't understand the preliminary work necessary to begin the project. The importance of a site survey can influence the success or failure of an RFID project.
radio frequency signals
How-to Guide for a Radio Frequency Identification Site Survey A best practice approach to a radio frequency identification (RFID) implementation suggests that, as a preparatory task, a site survey be completed beforehand. A site survey will identify issues and hurdles to an RFID implementation, and suggest helpful, industry-proven techniques to solve these problems. The equipment, connection procedures, and methodology, as well as a list of tips for completing a site survey, are explored in this second


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Density limits and most QR check-ins to be scrapped
VENUE density quotas will be scrapped and Victorians will no longer be required to check into retail, schools and workplaces using QR codes, under fresh changes to COVID-19 restrictions.
Premier Daniel Andrews announced some restrictions will be eased from 6pm tomorrow (Friday, February 18) as the state’s Omicron wave begins to ease.
“Density limits in hospitality and entertainment venues will be gone,” he told reporters today.
“QR check-in requirements will be removed for retail venues, schools, included early childhood educations, and in many other workplaces.”
However, patrons at restaurants and pubs will still be required to check in using a QR code, to ensure those attending are double dose vaccinated.
Additionally, surveillance testing in some key industries will no longer be required and hospital bubbles will be removed.
School students and staff will still be required to undertake fortnightly rapid antigen tests, Education Minister James Merlino said.
International arrivals will no longer have to obtain an international arrival permit and unvaccinated international travellers will have their quarantine period halved from 14 to seven days.
The changes come as the state posts nine deaths and 8501 new COVID-19 cases, including 5661 through rapid antigen tests and 2840 from PCR tests.
Active cases continue to tumble, dropping from 50,967 to 50,042.
There are 401 people with the virus in Victorian hospitals, up four from Wednesday’s number. Of these, 78 COVID-19 patients are in intensive care and 16 require ventilation.
The Victorian government is set to meet with industry leaders tomorrow to discuss how public and private sectors will approach a return to the office as part of a regular information sharing forum.
“We have regularly engaged with business and industry throughout the pandemic. This has included forums, roundtables and one-on-one discussions,” a government spokeswoman said.
Meanwhile, the COVID-19 oversight committee is sitting for the second time since its creation today, as part of the state’s controversial pandemic laws, which passed parliament last year.


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Many pet owners have various reasons for not wanting cats on their bed. It could be because they have children and don’t want the cat sleeping in their child’s bed. They may want to prevent their cat from snuggling up with unsuspecting guests in the guest room, or they may not appreciate it when their cat cuddles up in bed and restricts their movement throughout the night. There are numerous reasons to keep your cat off the bed, but it can be quite challenging. So, how can you prevent a cat from getting on the bed?
To prevent a cat from getting on the bed, you can give them their own bed and designated sleeping spot. Offering enticing resting spots can discourage your cat from jumping on the bed. Another effective approach is to make your bed less attractive. The most reliable method is to keep your bedroom door closed and prevent your cat from entering.
Just keep in mind that it might take some experimenting to keep your cat off your bed. If you don’t want your cat on the bed, you’ll likely need to try out different methods to keep them away.
How Do I Get My Cat to Stop Sleeping In My Bed
One effective method for preventing cats from sleeping in their owner’s bed is to provide them with their own bed. Cats are naturally drawn to beds because they are cozy, warm, and provide a sense of comfort and support, especially if they can curl up with blankets or pillows. Additionally, certain types of blankets may remind cats of their mother’s fur or snuggling with their littermates during their kittenhood.
Those are all strong reasons why cats like to sleep in your bed. If you want to stop your cats from sleeping in your bed, you’ll have to provide them with an alternative spot that they can enjoy just as much.
Using cozy materials like padding and soft fabrics in cat beds, as well as padded cat trees and other cat furniture, can be effective in keeping cats off the bed.
You can use towels or blankets that have your cat’s smell on them to tempt them away from your bed and into their own sleeping area.
It can be difficult to get a cat that is accustomed to sleeping in your bed to stop, so this method may not work for you.
You can experiment by keeping your cat out of your room for a few days, and then giving them a cat bed in your room as another option. Your cat may choose to sleep in their bed instead of yours.
If that doesn’t do the trick, there are sprays made specifically for cats that can help keep them away from certain places. These sprays might work for a little while, but if you want a permanent solution, you’ll need to offer your cat another bed and other spaces to go to. Otherwise, they’ll just go back to your bed as soon as you stop using the spray, unless they have another option.
Teaching your cat to enjoy their new cat bed can also be effective, but it requires patience and may not be suitable for those seeking quick results.
Is It OK If My Cat Sleeps In My Bed
Absolutely! If it doesn’t bother you that your cat sleeps in your bed, it’s completely fine to allow your cat to sleep with you in bed. Cats and kittens will adjust their position if you’re moving around too much, and the potential risks to your cat while in bed are relatively low, especially if they are on top of the covers rather than underneath them.
Unless you have an allergy to cats, it is generally recommended to keep your cat off your bed. This is especially important for cat owners with allergies, as they can benefit from avoiding allergens overnight. However, cats may not understand the distinction between staying off the bed only at night and staying off the bed all the time, so it’s best to prevent them from going on the bed during the day as well.
Why Is My Cat Obsessed With My Bed
Your cat is drawn to your bed for various reasons – it’s cozy, warm, carries your scent, and provides comfort and support, making it highly appealing to your furry friend.
10 Tips To Stop Your Cat From Sleeping On The Bed
So, how can we prevent cats from sleeping on the bed? Here are some useful tips to assist you in resolving this issue.
Start Right Away
If you want to prevent your cat from jumping on your bed, it’s important to begin early. This involves teaching your kitten not to climb onto the bed from a young age. If you bring home an adult cat, establish the no bed rule right from the first day.
It is important to be consistent with cats because they are stubborn and won’t follow rules that are not consistently enforced. Avoid making exceptions for your cat to get on the bed during the day or when you’re upset. Instead, find another place to comfort and spend time with your cat so they associate a different space with you.
Get A Cat Bed
Your cat needs comfort and warmth, which is why they might choose to sleep on your bed if there are no other suitable options. Providing a cat bed that appeals to them can be a great way to teach them not to jump on your bed.
Close Your Bedroom Door
If you close the door when you go to sleep, it can teach your cat that the bed is off-limits. However, it’s important to consistently enforce this rule because most cats won’t learn in just one or two days unless other measures are taken to prevent them from getting on the bed.
Use Double Sided Tape On Your Bed
Cats aren’t fans of weird feelings, especially sticky ones. If you put some double-sided tape on the part of the bed that your cat loves, it might make them think the bed isn’t cozy and encourage them to find comfort somewhere else.
Try Cat Repellant Spray
Cat repellent sprays are commonly utilized to deter cats from marking and urinating on your carpet or furniture, but they can also serve as a useful tool for retraining your cat to refrain from jumping on the bed. This method is particularly effective for cats that have previously been allowed on the bed but are now restricted.
Give Your Cat Access To Other Furniture
Cats can be pretty stubborn, but they’ll probably follow the rules faster if there are other great options besides your bed. A cat tree is a good choice, but even allowing your cat to jump on a couch or a particular chair can make them feel cozy without going on your bed.
Make A Bedtime Routine
Establishing a regular routine can also assist your cat in understanding where they are permitted and where they are not. Consider incorporating a ritual, such as giving treats, feeding, or grooming, before bedtime to signal to your cat that it is time to sleep. This consistent pattern can discourage them from spontaneously leaping onto your bed.
Tell Your Cat No Every Time
Cats have the ability to comprehend many human words, and ‘no’ is typically included. Inform your cat ‘no’ whenever they climb onto the bed, and physically remove them from it. Over time, they will grasp the concept that they are not permitted on the bed. However, it should be noted that not all cats will be bothered by this restriction.
Keep Plenty Of Cat Toys
When cats get bored, they often misbehave. To prevent this, it’s a good idea to have plenty of toys and things to keep them entertained. This will help keep them away from your bed and occupied while you sleep.

domain: pet


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Bollywood star actor Anil Kapoor conducted a memorable trip to Egypt where he and his wife Sunita visited Pyramids in Giza as well as Luxor. Many famous people have recently travelled to Egypt. Anil Kapoor and his wife Sunita are exploring Egypt that connects northeast Africa to the Middle East, and their numerous posts and social media images, in which they appear to be dressed like locals during the day and glamming it up at night, while soaking up the country's scenery, sun, weather, and rich history and culture, are inspiring many people to take similar trips.
The 65-year-old Anil Kapoor is one of India’s most famous actors and producers, with more than a hundred films under his belt.His most recent success is the 2022 film Jug Jugg Jeeyo. Born in Mumbai to an artistic family, Kapoor has won multiple awards throughout his over four-decade career for films like Mashaal (1985), Beta (1993), Virasat (1998), Biwi No.1 (2000), Taal (2000), Pukar (2001), No Entry (2006), Slumdog Millionaire (2009), Gandhi, My Father (2009), Mubarakan (2018) and many other films.
The actor took to Instagram and shared some amazing pictures of his dreamy vacation which are giving us some major travel goals! Every frame looks absolutely stunning with the power couple standing against an incredible structure in the country. The duo look super chic in their all-black attire. Anil Kapoor shared a pretty picture from Luxor, Egypt, and captioned, “Love, Double Shot Espresso, Camera & Action….”


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18th Slovyansk Brigade is a military unit of Ukrainian National Guard, formed in 1992 as 13th Regiment. In 1995, the unit was renamed to 15th Regiment.
On December 25, 2023, the regiment was expanded to a brigade and renamed to 18th Brigade.
National Guard’s unit from the city of Slovyansk has been reformed to a brigade.
Here you can find the last known structure of the unit, including their insignias if available.

domain: history


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Stay up-to-date with our latest news and podcasts.
Learn about the latest update developments of The London Institute of Banking & Finance MENA by reading our insightful news articles or by listening to our podcasts on topics creating headlines in today’s and tomorrow’s banking and finance world.
The Ghaya programme: securing a better future
Five tips on how to revise for exams in Ramadan
60 UAE nationals graduate with ambition to pass on their financial knowledge to Abu Dhabi residents and citizens
Embedded finance: the future of financial services?
Alternative data and SME lending: know your customer
How fintech can support sustainability
Managing personal finance: how to manage your money
Islamic finance and sustainability
Looking to the future of finance in the MENA region
UK regulatory changes to help Islamic banks meet liquidity requirements
Ma'an launches new initiative 'Ghaya' to provide the tools for UAE nationals to become financially confident
Thought leadership: Sharing financial information while ensuring that data is secure
Islamic fintech as a force for good
Why training providers should get accreditation and recognition
Accreditation and Recognised Programme service to provide assurance on banking training standards and programmes in MENA
Learning to build a sustainable growth economy: the case of Abu Dhabi
Why demand for sustainable finance is growing
Bankers Programme Launches
Shooting for Mars: how education defines the past, present and future of the UAE
A sustainable finance strategy for the bank of 2030
Sustainable finance: what are the next steps?
Public financing and sustainability
Technological solutions that could change global payments
AI and data analytics in banking and finance
Why we need more women in finance and banking
Size matters: why large banks are working with big tech
Banking on change: launch of a collection of essays to mark the 140th anniversary of The London Institute of Banking & Finance
LIBF launches Certificate in Sustainable Finance qualification
Ways sustainable finance helps the real economy go green
CEO Alex Fraser speaks at Abu Dhabi Sustainable Finance Forum
LIBF BAFT and ICC celebrate 21 years of CDCS
UAE Minister and Executive Chairman of Abu Dhabi Global Market Receives Masters Degree
Stay ahead in the world of banking and finance with our podcasts. We have a range of podcast channels with varying interests whether it's keeping up to date with the latest news, career advice, conversations with industry leaders and much more. You can subscribe by searching 'LIBF podcast' in your chosen podcast app or listen online using the links below.

domain: economics


The whole reason someone wants to buy a hot tub
is to be able to relax and enjoy its wonderful therapeutic benefits, not be stuck with a costly utility bill. When you choose an energy efficient, well insulated hot tub, it costs under $1.50 per day to operate – less than a cup of coffee. Below, we will explain the three main reasons why insulation is important in a hot tub and how Hydropool’s insulation technology has evolved.
The three top reasons why choosing a well insulated hot tub will help save you money and increase your enjoyment are:
When you purchase a hot tub with quality insulation, your energy costs are lower because the hot tub is designed to trap and reuse heat from its motor and pipes. Hydropool models also come with a thick, tapered cover that is designed to retain maximum heat and this works so well that on warm summer days, you will not even need to heat the unit at all. For the best energy efficient models on the market, choose one that is certified by the Commission for Environmental Cooperation.
Buying a hot tub is a large investment and you want to make sure that your hot tub is performing as designed. Choosing a model with good insulation features ensures that your hot tub is functioning optimally and is maintaining the proper temperature.
A well insulated hot tub will ensure that the water is always at your preferred temperature and ready to enjoy. Energy efficient models quickly heat and reuse waste heat to maintain a consistent temperature. The better the insulation, the less expensive it is to run your hot tub and the easier it is to enjoy.
Hydropool Insulation History
Heat can escape from a hot tub from the water surface, floor cabinets and pipes. In early Hydropool models, foam insulation was used, which was effective for holding heat but was not able to reuse internal waste heat. This type of insulation also made it difficult to repair or service the hot tub – a technician would have to dig into the plumbing to be able to inspect and diagnose the unit. The next advancement was designing a perimeter insulation system situated throughout the walls of the hot tub and that also retained waste heat. Perimeter insulation was a significant improvement over foam insulation, however, lack of air flow could cause the hot tub’s cabinet to overheat.
Today, Hydropool models are equipped with insulation that is based on NASA’s heat-locking technology. It utilizes what is called Triple Thermal Shield Technology which traps and redirects heat back into the hot tub to be reused, costing less than having to produce new heat. In addition, the hot tubs have thick, durable covers that also retain heat and thermal vents that prevent overheating to provide the most advanced insulation technology with maximum energy efficiency.
Now that you are aware of just why hot tub insulation is so important, you can start looking at the many energy efficient models that we have available. To get started, download our hot tub buyer’s guide here, or visit us at our hot tub store


2D Materials are just the beginning
We are the ARC Research Hub for Advanced Manufacturing with 2D Materials (AM2D).
Supported by the Australian Research Council under its Industrial Transformation Research Hub scheme, AM2D brings together Australian Universities, and national and international industries and institutes to research and develop the application of 2D Materials for water treatment, batteries, functional coatings and other key areas of economic and technological interest.
What are 2D materials?
Usually we think of materials as having length, width and height. If you isolate one or a few layers of a crystalline solid than its atomic layer thickness is dwarfed by its planar dimensions. Such a material resembles a piece of paper except that it has nano-scale dimensions. These are 2D materials.
The archetypal 2D material is graphene. First isolated in 2004 by Andre Geim and Konstantin Novoselov (both whilst at University of Manchester), this hexagonal lattice of carbon atoms exhibited extraordinary properties. From extremely high conductivity and strength, and incredible thermal and optical properties, graphene promises to offer enormous potential as a platform technology.
Graphene is one of hundreds of 2D materials. Other promising 2D materials include tungsten disulfide (WS2), molybdenum disulfide, and silicon nitride (Si3N4). Each having their own unique properties and their own potential applications.
What is AM2D aiming to do?
There has been almost a decade of dedicated global research effort into 2D materials, especially graphene. Despite these efforts and the enormous potential of 2D materials, there remains challenges associated with economic bulk scale synthesis and modification, correspondance between the material and the application, and understanding the full life cycle of 2D materials. AM2D seeks to address these issues whilst adding value to Australian mineral and mining resources.
ABOUT OUR LOGO
In 2022, we ran a logo design competition for high school student entrants.
The winner was Jason Kua (Year 9, Camberwell Grammar School, Victoria) whose logo design elements formed the basis for the AM2D logo.
Jason’s logo design elements include
- a gear to represent manufacturing and creation, and
- the hexagon to represent 2D materials.
Bringing these two elements together, Jason envisaged the hexagon shape as a magnifying glass, positioning 2D materials as a window to the technological innovations of the Hub.
Jason was awarded a certificate from AM2D Director Prof Majumder, a $100 gift voucher and a tour of AM2D’s Monash labs (pictured).
Thank you Jason, what a fantastic contribution!


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CUBA – Cayo Largo del Sur The island is a paradise island with a character of Maledives, be found 180 km before the Caribbean south coast of Cuba, is it 25 kilometers long and 3 kilometers wide with marvelously unending, snow-white powder sugar beaches, settled on the second big Barrier-Riff worldwide, the Canarreos Archipel. To surround of splendid lagoons and many sandbanks, it is suitable for diving and swimming ideally. On the island beside the Marina Cayo Largo is our Dive Resort with the Bungalow Villa Marina Marinera and further in 6-8km are other 5 hotel installations from 3* to 5 *, as well as the cuban style restaurant installation in Playa Sirena. By plane the island is served from Havana and Varadero ones a day. Direct international flights to Cayo Largo are from Milano/Italy twice a week.
Playa Sirena - the perfect Eiland: This paradise beach is closed to our Dive Resort (home beach) and reached by boat.From the other Hotels you take a shuttle bus as well as a boat transfer to the beach paradise Playa Sirena.By means of a splendid boat trip, it goes to the jetty of this heavenly isle. The Playa Sirena is the perfect place for sun, beach and water.
Here is soul leave dangle required. Playa Sirena has a bar and a restaurant. Here you can enjoy the powder-whitens sandy beach and the colorful sea. Here, you can perceive also the offered water sport activities like sailing, surfing, water motorcycle, waterski, snorkels and of course diving. Over the travel management of our Dive Resort aswell in your hotel, you can register for these activities.
Transfer Cayo Largo: From the La Habana airport it goes first to your overnight stay hotel in Havana. In the next morning, it goes to the AirCaribe-Airport with continuation to the island Cayo Largo. The transfer flight lasts approximately 45 minutes. After the arrival, you are brought directly into our Dive Resort or respective hotel from the airport. (our Dive&Travel team waiting at the airport Cayo Largo).
Hotel accommodation Cayo Largo:
On the Island you find 7 Hotels of 3-4* and our 3* Bungalow Villa Marinera Cayo Largo>>>
The Hotels have All Inclusive and the Villa got Full Board or Half Board. Most of the Hotel rooms have a balcony or terrace with sea gaze. Equipment with direct election telephone, Bath/WC, refrigerator, TV, air-conditioning. The central area contains a nice abidance area and the reception. Still, you find a purchase store, hairdresser, Souvenirshop, cafeteria, restaurants and miscellaneous bars in the installations. A big Swimmingpool, pool bar and sun terrace form the center of most hotels. Day beds and parasols at pool and beach are free. The medical supply is around the clock guaranteed. Laundry, dry cleaning and gymnastics area also exist. Babysitters and child care are on wish with the Rezeption for to organize. The daily animation programs offer a Spanish course, music shows as well as evening conversation among others.
From the airport coming on the single connection street of the island, the hotel installations are a bit restored from the street and usually only from wood bridges separated, kilometer long, fine-sandy beaches welcomes you with turquoise-colored water. At the central hotel installation Isla Del Sur considersa purchase possibility with post office, also there is bicycle, squash, table tennis, volleyball, horse riding, moped, and car rental. Important note: Cuba-Diving points out that we don't have any influence on Animations or other programs of the hotels. Certain events don't take place or are not available or non scheduled, no rights can be derived from it with respect to us. In
this context, we refer also to our trip and participation conditions.
Important note: Cuba-Diving points out that we don't have any influence on Animations or other programs of the hotels. Certain events don't take place or are not available or non scheduled, no rights can be derived from it with respect to us. In this context, we refer also to our trip and participation conditions.
dive cuba, Havana, Jardines de la Reina, Maria la Gorda, Isla de la Juventud, Cayo Largo, Playa Giron, Playa Larga, Santiago de Cuba, Cayo Coco, Cayo Guillermo, Cayo Levisa, Playa Ancon, Varadero, Barracuda Diving Center, sprachkaffe-Kuba , scuba-cuba-diving , Cayo Santa Maria, Marea de Portillo, Colony, Guajimico, Wreck Diving, Cuba-Diving, Cayo Sigua, Cayo Largo Diving Center, save-money-diving-cuba ,Cienfuegos , Cuba Diving Prices, Tortuga, La Reina, Caballones, Halcon, Gaviota Diving Center, Cuba-Travel, Dive Course Cuba, Dive Trip Cuba, Scuba Diving Cuba, Live a Board Cuba, Sailing Cuba, Information Cuba, Havana Diving Places, Cuba Diving Places, Travel Cuba Trips, cuba diving resorts, Sail & Dive, Yacht Charter Cuba, Cruising Cuba


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Office of Head Start (OHS), Administration for Children and Families, HHS.
Notice of meeting.
Pursuant to the Improving Head Start for School Readiness Act of 2007, Public Law 110-134, notice is hereby given of one 1-day Tribal Consultation Session to be held between the Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Office of Head Start leadership and the leadership of Tribal Governments operating Head Start (including Early Head Start) programs. The purpose of this Consultation Session is to discuss ways to better meet the needs of American Indian and Alaska Native children and their families, taking into consideration funding allocations, distribution formulas, and other issues affecting the delivery of Head Start services in their geographic locations [42 U.S.C. 9835, Section 640(l)(4)].
October 22, 2014, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Aleutian Pribilof Islands Association, 1131 East International Airport Road, Anchorage, Alaska 99518.
Start Further Info
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Robert Bialas, Regional Program Manager, Region XI, Office of Head Start, email Robert.Bialas@acf.hhs.gov or phone (202) 205-9497. Additional information and online meeting registration is available at http://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/hslc/hs/calendar/tc2014.
End Further Info
Start Supplemental Information
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announces Office of Head Start (OHS) Tribal Consultations for leaders of Tribal Governments operating Head Start and Early Head Start programs.
The agenda for the scheduled OHS Tribal Consultation in Anchorage, Alaska, will be organized around the statutory purposes of Head Start Tribal Consultations related to meeting the needs of American Indian/Alaska Native children and families, taking into consideration funding allocations, distribution formulas, and other issues affecting the delivery of Head Start services in their geographic locations. In addition, OHS will share actions taken and in progress to address the issues and concerns raised in 2013 OHS Tribal Consultations.
The Consultation Session will be conducted with elected or appointed leaders of Tribal Governments and their Start Printed Page 59275designated representatives [42 U.S.C. 9835, Section 640(l)(4)(A)]. Designees must have a letter from the Tribal Government authorizing them to represent the tribe. The letter should be submitted at least 3 days in advance of the Consultation Session to Robert Bialas at Robert.Bialas@acf.hhs.gov. Other representatives of tribal organizations and Native nonprofit organizations are welcome to attend as observers.
A detailed report of the Consultation Session will be prepared and made available within 45 days of the Consultation Session to all Tribal Governments receiving funds for Head Start and Early Head Start programs. Tribes wishing to submit written testimony for the report should send testimony to Robert Bialas at Robert.Bialas@acf.hhs.gov either prior to the Consultation Session or within 30 days after the meeting.
Oral testimony and comments from the Consultation Session will be summarized in each report without attribution, along with topics of concern and recommendations. OHS has sent hotel and logistical information for the Alaska Consultation Session to tribal leaders via email and posted information on the Early Childhood Learning and Knowledge Center Web site at http://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/hslc/hs/calendar/tc2014.
End Supplemental Information
Dated: September 24, 2014.
Acting Director, Office of Head Start.
[FR Doc. 2014-23342 Filed 9-30-14; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4184-01-P


Boruto T-Shirt, displaying The shinobi from Konohagakure’s Uzumaki Clan, son of the 8th Hokage, Naruto Uzumaki, and descendant of the Hyūga clan. This Boruto T-Shirt that represents him when using the Jōgan. The Jogan gives him the abilities to perceive the flow of chakra, enabling Boruto to see the visible changes in one’s chakra and the ability that can determine the Chakra Pathway System like the Byakugan, and its key points pay tribute to our young Genin by acquiring this valuable and faithful Boruto Jougan Eyes T-Shirt !
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US Vice President Mike Pence speaks during a press conference. PHOTO: JUNG Yeon-Je / AFP
WASHINGTON, Sept 21 2017: U.S. Vice President Mike Pence on Thursday urged fellow Republicans to get behind the party's "last best chance" to repeal and replace Obamacare as congressional leaders scrambled to secure enough support ahead of a planned vote next week.
Pence, in an interview on Fox News, said Republicans were close to dismantling the 2010 healthcare law passed by former Democratic President Barack Obama.
"This may well be our last best chance to stop and turn around," he said.
Republicans need 50 votes to pass their latest healthcare overhaul plan before a Sept. 30 deadline in the Senate, where they hold a 52-48 majority. Majority Leader Mitch McConnell intends to bring it to the Senate floor for a vote next week.
President Donald Trump, who has no major legislative wins since taking office in January and is eager to make good on a campaign promise, supports the measure, introduced by Senators Lindsey Graham and Bill Cassidy. (For a Factbox on the plan see )
With no Democratic support for the bill, Republicans remain a handful of votes short. Senator Rand Paul opposes it and at least five others are undecided: Susan Collins, Lisa Murkowski, Dan Sullivan, John McCain and Jerry Moran.
A number of governors - both Republicans and Democrats - oppose the plan, saying it would curb needed funds, impose an unknown system of coverage and strip coverage from vulnerable patients.
Health insurers, hospitals, healthcare industry groups and consumer advocates have also come out against it, instead urging a bipartisan fix to the current law.
Several Republicans defended the measure on Thursday, saying they must make good on their years-long campaign promise to undo Obamacare and that their alternative would empower states.
They pointed to current problems with Obamacare. Although Democrats have said they want to fix the current law, a number of Republican senators said the Graham-Cassidy plan is the only option now.
"This doesn't fix everything with Obamacare," Republican Senator Jeff Flake told MSNBC. "It can't. We're going to have to do that with a bipartisan bill. This is the first step."
Republican Senator Ron Johnson was asked on MSNBC if people would lose coverage or face rising premiums under the plan.
"There are no guarantees," he said.
In July, a Senate vote on a repeal-and-replace bill ended in a stinging 49-51 defeat for Republicans as Collins, McCain and Murkowski voted against it.


Please F*cking Vote South Dakota - Tee
Democracy is alive and well.
Show your support with our 'Please F*cking Vote' tee with a nod to South Dakota.
Available in sizes XS-4XL
- Retail fit
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Runs true to size and 100% true blue voting pride!
Due to high volume, please allow 7-10 business days from order placement for your shirt to arrive.


text:
The three Wise Men came from far away to bring their gifts...
Welcome to the onlineshop from Bachmann Woodcarvings. Here you can find a big selection from our sortiment. Continuously we are expanding the choice in the shopsystem with new products and productcategories.
In our Onlineshop we sell exclusively South Tirolean woodcarvings from superior quality.
If you have any questions or you can´t find what you are looking for, than don´t hesitate to contact us via email or phone.
This hayfork is out of wood and 8cm long.
The kneeling King brings gold for the child.
The Bullock lays behind the cradle. This crib figurine is...
The standing shepherd is holding a lamb in his arms.
This wooden trunk is about 8cm high.
A small crib in a tree trunk is a beautiful gift idea for...
This crib figurine is wood carved and made out of sycamore.
This wooden owl is available in two sizes and two versions.
The Gloria-angel of the Gloria crib is carved out of ash...
This wood carved angel carries a teddy bear in her arms.
Bullock and donkey in a set.
The family set consists out of Josef, Maria, child and a...
This lying lamb has just been born.


- Canada is set to fully legalise cannabis, including for recreational use.
- Cannabis will become a federally controlled, legal, substance on ‘Canada Day,’ July 1 2018
- Minimum age for purchase will be 18, as with alcohol
- Canadians will be allowed to grow four plants per household.
There is some glorious news coming out of Canada this week! The North American state is set to take a historic step and legalise cannabis for recreational use, on a federal level, next year.
From the 1st July 2018, which is also Canada Day, cannabis will be available for legal purchase for everyone, over the age of 18, in Canada. This includes tourists, which could make Canada the new mecca of cannabis!
Cannabis will effectively be treated in the same manner as alcohol once the legislation is passed and codified into Canadian Federal law. While there is still some ambiguity over the details, the government’s task force on cannabis set out the following recommendations:
- Consumers must be 18 to purchase
- Canadians will be allowed to possess up to 30 grams while in public
- Also limits of four plants for those who want to grow their own
- Strict advertising rules, similar to alcohol
Canada’s various provinces will be allowed leeway with their interpretations of the law concerning these rules, but it’s expected that they will stick to the recommended guide-lines.
The provincial governments will have authority over how to manage where cannabis will be allowed to be sold, as well as its price. They’re also being given control over the minimum age, so, if they wish, they can raise it higher than the federal limit of 18.
The plan to decriminalise and regulate recreational cannabis was one of Justin Trudeau’s central campaign promises.
Trudeau, the Canadian Prime Minister and leader of the Liberal Party, has regularly spoken on the need to bring an end to the criminalisation of cannabis users. He has often argued that regulating the use of the drug would not only help prevent children from using it but will also ensure that the profits from the sale of cannabis don’t end up in the control of criminals.
The Financial Post reported that the budding cannabis industry in Canada could explode into a $5-billion market if Trudeau’s Liberals made the drug legal for recreational use, back in 2015. No wonder the Canadian government wanted to prevent that amount of money from entering the pockets of hardened criminals. From 2018 we’ll finally be able to see how much revenue a state can raise from recreational cannabis. Maybe this will inspire more backwards nations, like the UK, to move away from the Draconian drug war.
While it may seem like Canada is one of the more progressive nations in the world in terms of cannabis legislation, there have been horrific raids on legal medical cannabis dispensaries within the country over the past few months.
World famous cannabis activists, the “Prince of Pot,” Marc Emery, and his wife, Jodie, were arrested earlier in March by the Toronto Drug Squad. In an impassioned post on Facebook, Jodie said: “We have had everything taken from us by these actions of the Toronto Drug Squad, Toronto Police, and the Trudeau Liberal Government… but we have survived cruel injustices before, and we will survive this massive effort to destroy us and our hard work.
I know I can live in peace, knowing that we have NEVER hurt anyone – it’s the prohibitionist government and police who have hurt and even killed millions of people in their drug war – and knowing our decades of activism work has helped millions of people worldwide.”
So while there is great news coming out of Canada, we must remember that until the 1st July next year, 100,000s of Canadians are at risk of facing similar injustices from provincial drug squads. Although, hopefully, with this announcement, there will be less of this kind of nonsense.
By Miles Casey


Freedom Aviation’s standby alternator system is for Cessna 182T/T182T/206H/T206H aircraft. More specifically, the system is for Cessna 182 and 206 aircraft equipped with the Garmin 1000 (NAV III) avionics package.
The standby alternator system consists of four major components:
1. Standby Alternator: A BC425-1 alternator from B&C Specialty Products is mounted to the accessory drive pad on the Cessna. This pad was formerly intended for a second vacuum pump. This alternator provides a continuous source of power up to 20 amps without loading the engine anymore than a vacuum pump.
2. Alternator Controller: The BC203-2D alternator controller from B&C Specialty Products performs the automatic switch over function of the system and serves as the system’s voltage regulator. The controller also is where the Standby Alternator Master switch is connected to the “STBY ALT ON” annunciator.
3. Standby Alternator Master Switch: The STBY ALT master switch is added to the pilot’s checklist and should be turned on when the aircraft is started.
4. Standby Alternator Light Indicator (“STBY ALT ON”): A STBY ALT ON light turns on when the primary alternator fails, indicating the standby alternator is carrying the electrical load.
The standby alternator system activates automatically. When the alternator controller senses the primary aircraft alternator has failed, the load is shifted automatically to the standby alternator. The STBY ALT ON light turns on and indicates the standby alternator system has been activated. In the event the load on the aircraft electrical system exceeds the capabilities of the standby alternator, the “STBY ALT ON” light flashes, warning the pilot to shed electrical load.


text:
FRANKFURT, July 16 (Reuters) - Daimler will invest another 600 million euros ($734.6 million) by the end of 2013 in its Rastatt plant in Germany, where it will add a third shift starting in October to meet demand for its line of compact Mercedes-Benz premium cars.
The investment will fund a second phase of expansion for Rastatt, bringing total capital expenditure to 1.2 billion euros, Daimler said on Monday.
“By 2020 at the latest we want Mercedes-Benz to be the number one in the premium segment, also in terms of vehicle sales,” Chief Executive Dieter Zetsche said in a speech in Rastatt on the occasion of the production start of the new A-Class hatchback
“And here our new compacts are among our best weapons in this product offensive. Over the next ten years the global market for premium compacts will grow by almost 4 million vehicles,” he continued.
According to a Daimler spokeswoman, that would lead to a premium compact market of about 10 million vehicles in 2021.
Starting in October a third shift will be added to the plant in Rastatt and 21 additional shifts are planned, mainly in the first half of next year. Mercedes production chief Wolfgang Bernhard said the plant would be running at full tilt even after the second expansion phase is completed.
“I read recently that 40 percent of the car plants in the EU are operating at a loss. I can’t confirm that figure but I can confirm that Rastatt definitely is not one of them,” Bernhard said.
$1 = 0.8167 euros Reporting by Christiaan Hetzner

domain: finance


text:
There are many different funding options available for businesses, we encourage you to review this cross-eligibility chart to decide which program(s) may work best for you.
Bank First is here to help! Contact a Relationship Manager at your local office if you have questions about the options available for you and your business.
Note: Fraudsters take advantage of these uncertain times to present fake resources to businesses or try to impersonate businesses in order to gain information or financing. We urge you to be cautious of new opportunities and be alert for fraudulent activity related to you or your business. Learn more about Wisconsin Tomorrow Small Business Recovery Grant business identity theft letters, business identity theft, and PPP scam attempts on our Fraud and Scams page.
Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) - Round 2
As of Tuesday, May 4, 2021, the Small Business Administration (SBA) has announced that the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) funding has been exhausted for all institutions except community financial development institutions (CFDIs) and minority depository institutions (MDIs).
- Interim Final Rule on Paycheck Protection Program as Amended by Economic Aid Act (revised 3/22/2021)
- Interim Final Rule on Second Draw PPP Loans
- First Draw Bank First PPP Loan Calculator (revised 3/5/2021)
- Second Draw Bank First PPP Loan Calculator (revised 3/5/2021)
PPP LOAN FORGIVENESS - Round 1 & 2
The U.S. Small Business Administration, in consultation with the Department of the Treasury, posted a revised, borrower-friendly Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan forgiveness application implementing the PPP Flexibility Act of 2020. In addition to revising the full forgiveness application, SBA also published a new EZ version of the forgiveness application that applies to borrowers that:
- Are self-employed and have no employees; OR
- Did not reduce the salaries or wages of their employees by more than 25%, and did not reduce the number or hours of their employees; OR
- Experienced reductions in business activity as a result of health directives related to COVID-19, and did not reduce the salaries or wages of their employees by more than 25%.
The EZ application requires fewer calculations and less documentation for eligible borrowers. Details regarding the applicability of these provisions are available in the instructions to the new EZ application form.
Both applications give borrowers the option of using the original 8-week covered period (if the loan was made before June 5, 2020) or an extended 24-week covered period. These changes will result in a more efficient process and make it easier for businesses to realize full forgiveness of their PPP loan.
The forgiveness portion of PPP Round 2 became available through our online portal on May 4, 2021. Bank First customers who have completed their Round 2 applications and have met the minimum covered period of 56 days (8 weeks) will receive an email with information and further instructions.
- SBA Form 3508 Paycheck Protection Program Loan Forgiveness Application (updated 7-30-21)
- SBA Form 3508EZ Paycheck Protection Program Loan Forgiveness Application (updated 7-30-21)
- SBA Form 3508S Paycheck Protection Program Forgiveness Application (updated 7-30-21)
- Loan Forgiveness Requirements and Loan Review Procedures as Amended by Economic Aid Act
PPP Forgiveness for Loans of $150,000 and Under Streamlined
The SBA released a streamlined loan forgiveness application for PPP loans totaling $150,000 or less. The new, simplified Form 3508S includes certifications from the borrower but does not require calculations to be submitted with the application. Applicants still must submit documentation verifying forgivable payroll and non-payroll expenses. Borrowers are further required to retain the documentation supporting their certifications for six years, but do not need to submit it.
A borrower that uses SBA Form 3508S is exempt from any reductions in the borrower’s loan forgiveness amount based on reductions in full-time equivalent (FTE) employees (section 1106(d)(2) of the CARES Act) or reductions in employee salary or wages (section 1106(d)(3) of the CARES Act) that would otherwise apply.
Additional tools you can use:
- Wisconsin Bankers Association (WBA) PPP Forgiveness Q&A
- Bank First Forgiveness Application Guide
- SBA Frequently Asked Questions on PPP Loan Forgiveness (8/4/20)
- SBA Loan Review - Borrower and Lender Responsibilities
- Department of the Treasury - Loan Forgiveness Interim Final Rule
ADDITIONAL SBA LOAN ASSISTANCE OPTIONS
The Small Business Administration is offering additional loan options your business may qualify for, including:
SHUTTERED VENUE OPERATORS GRANT
The Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) program was established by the Economic Aid to Hard-Hit Small Businesses, Nonprofits, and Venues Act, and amended by the American Rescue Plan Act. The program includes over $16 billion in grants to shuttered venues, to be administered by SBA’s Office of Disaster Assistance.
Eligible applicants may qualify for grants equal to 45% of their gross earned revenue, with the maximum amount available for a single grant award of $10 million. $2 billion is reserved for eligible applications with up to 50 full-time employees.
The Shuttered Venue Operators Grant application portal is now open. Applicants may register for a new account and apply for the grant online: www.svograntportal.sba.gov/s/.
- FAQ Regarding Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG)
- SVOG Eligibility Requirements
- SVOG Preliminary Application Checklist
- Cross-program eligibility on SBA COVID-19 relief options
- SVOG-specific version of IRS Form 4506T
- SVOG applicant user guide (coming soon)
COVID-19 ECONOMIC INJURY DISASTER LOANS (EIDL)
- This loan provides economic relief to small businesses and nonprofit organizations that are currently experiencing a temporary loss of revenue. Learn More and determine if your business qualifies.
SBA DEBT RELIEF
- The SBA is providing a financial reprieve to small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn More and determine if your business qualifies.
USDA RURAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS
USDA Rural Development has taken a number of immediate actions to help rural residents, businesses, and communities affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. Learn more.
- Borrowers may receive a 180-day loan payment deferral without prior agency approval for Business and Industry Loan Guarantees, Rural Energy for America Program Loan Guarantees, Community Facilities Loan Guarantees, and Water and Waste Disposal Loan Guarantees.
MAIN STREET BOUNCEBACK GRANTS
Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation introduces Main Street Bounceback Grants. The pandemic took a toll on Wisconsin’s small businesses, and the main streets and commercial corridors that housed them. Now it’s time to bounce back.
The goal of the Main Street Bounceback Grants program is to provide financial support to businesses that move into existing vacant commercial properties, helping to create a foundation for long-term success for themselves and their communities.
• The program provides $10,000 grants to businesses moving into vacant commercial spaces.
• Your business can use the grant funds for lease or mortgage payments, operating expenses, building repairs, tenant improvements and other qualified expenses.
• New or existing businesses that lease or purchase a vacant commercial space as of January 1, 2021 and June 30, 2022, may be eligible for Main Street Bounceback Grants.
LEARN MORE to see if your business qualifies and how to apply!
In addition to the aforementioned lending resources, Bank First may also be able to assist your business with other loan options. Please contact your Bank First relationship manager to discuss which options are the best fit for your individual business. As always, thank you for choosing Bank First!
- U.S. Chamber of Commerce Resources for Business
- Small Business Administration (SBA) Small Business Guidance & Loan Resources
- Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Assistance
- Sign up to receive SBA Updates
- Wisconsin Bankers Association - Summary of COVID-19 Lending Options
- IRS FAQs on Employee Retention Credit


text:
Researchers analyzed how people who feed birds notice and respond to natural events at their feeders by collaborating with Project FeederWatch, a program managed by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology that engages more than 25,000 people to observe and collect data on their backyard birds.
Researchers focused on properties sold between 2002 and 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina, within a half mile of a brewery.
We all know that turning off lights and buying energy-efficient appliances affects our financial bottom line. Now, according to a new study by University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers, we know that saving energy also saves lives and even more money for consumers by alleviating the costs of adverse health effects attributed to air pollution.
A new study published in The Journal of Transportation and Land Use found that people who use ride-hailing are willing to pay more to avoid driving, including the stress and cost of parking. As a result, cities are seeing a reduction in parking demand, particularly at restaurants and bars, event venues, and airports. That reduction could push cities to reconsider and replace parking infrastructure, leading to more vibrant cities and less dependency on cars.
A new deep-mapping computer model can detect visual changes to individual properties, allowing researchers to more rapidly track gentrification within neighborhoods and cities, according to a study published March 13, 2019 in the open-access journal PLOS ONE by Lazar Ilic, Michael Sawada, and Amaury Zarzelli of the University of Ottawa, Canada.
A persistent question among urban ecology researchers has been the long-term impact of urbanization on bird species biodiversity. Specifically, they wonder whether the portions of cities with higher diversity are simply exhibiting an 'extinction debt' -- populations doomed to extinction but not yet disappeared -- or if other factors such as range shifts or local environmental changes play a role in changes in diversity.
Spending time in nature boosts children's academic achievement and healthy development, concludes a new analysis examining hundreds of studies.
When coyote parents are habituated to humans, their offspring are more habituated, too -- potentially leading to negative interactions between coyotes and humans.
When tech companies move into a city, they often encourage a sustainability mindset. However, new research from the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Georgia, Southwestern University, and Portland State, shows that they can also lead to gentrification and emissions that stay the same or increase.
Every day, people share a dizzying amount of information about local communities online. They talk about whether their neighbors are friendly, how well the buses run, what kinds of restaurants are in an area, and much, much more. A new study shows how we can sort through this vast trove of digital data to improve cities and people's quality of life.