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Mexican restaurant chain Wahaca claims to have “recovered” from the aftermath of the norovirus outbreak that temporarily closed nine of its stores 18 months ago even though it has emerged that the incident severely damaged its profitability.
Accounts published by parent company Oaxaca Limited this month reveal that exceptional costs of £731,000 recorded in its balance sheet for the year to 25 June 2017 were “predominately” as a result of the October 2016 event.
The business tumbled to pre-tax losses of £4.7m for the period, compared with a profit of £640,000 the year before. Gross profit margin slipped to 39.9% compared with 44.5% the year before.
Despite the decline of its bottom line, the chain, which runs nearly 30 restaurants, succeeded in maintaining turnover. Sales for the year reached £46.6m versus £46.4m the year previously.
In the strategic report accompanying the results, the directors stated: “The results of the variances to the same period last year were impacted predominately as a result of a one-off event in October  that forced us to shut a number of our sites on a temporary basis. While this had a significant impact on our trading performance for the financial year relative to the previous year the business has managed to recover from the aftermath of the event.”
Looking ahead to future developments, they added: “The group plans to develop growth through the opening of new sites as well as continually driving performance on the existing estate.”
The accounts show that Wahaca received an insurance payout of £286,000 during the period.
Wahaca was forced to contact officials at Public Health England and Environmental Health Offices when it emerged that number of its stores might be at the heart of a norovirus outbreak in October 2016.
Co-founders Mark Selby and Thomasina Miers took the step of issuing a joint statement at the time apologising for the incident after staff and customers went down ill.
“We are incredibly sorry that people have been unwell. In the nine years since we first opened Wahaca we have never had such an unprecedented incident, and we are doing everything we can to get to the bottom of how this may have happened,” they said at the time.


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Water Conservation Education for Schools
Teacher Resources Library
These items are for educators to borrow free of charge. We have one or two copies of each on hand. To reserve a copy, please email conservation staff, or call the conservation hotline at 650-780-7436.
Water, A Gift of Nature: The Story Behind the Scenery
Spectacular, full-color photographs fill every page. Science, education, and art combine to make readers familiar with the many faces of water: clouds, rain, hail, snow, icebergs, geysers, rainbows, and waterfalls. Interpretive text details the animals and plants that depend on water from wetland beavers to the desert chuckwalla, and from a coral reef to a saguaro cactus.
Children's Video Programs
These videos/DVD’s are a fun and easy way to teach children about the water cycle, water use, conservation & safety, as well as, how a fish hatchery operates & the life cycle of the Chinook Salmon. Historical footage of California's earliest water projects demonstrates water's importance in California's economic development Appropriate for Grades K-6.
Programs on DVD & VHS include:
- "The Water Cycle"
(Grade K-6; 11:48 minutes)
- "Albert and Einstein: Aqueduct Safety"
(Grade K-6; 30 seconds)
- "Water, Who Needs It?"
(Grade K-6; 14 minutes)
- "A Visit to the Feather River Hatchery"
(Grade 4-8; 9 minutes)
- "The California Water Story"
(Grade 4 through adult; 17 minutes)
The RainStick, A Fable
The RainStick, A Fable A young boy’s journey from savanna to rain forest begins with the riddle, “A slender staff touches earth and sky at the same time.” Stunning illustrations accompany the boy as he fulfills a quest to bring back the sound of rain to his West African village. 40-page book, published by The Watercourse.
The California Water Story
A multi-disciplinary approach to teaching about water as one of California’s most important resources, California Water Story is designed for use in grades 4-6. The lessons integrate many subject areas (geography, history, science, math and art) and are designed to help students develop specific skills (critical thinking, organizing data, predicting, mapping and graphing). The program set includes a 24-page lesson plan booklet with worksheets and evaluation devices which may be duplicated, teacher instructions and background material, a video Water Map, the Layperson’s Guide to California Water, Water Fact Card, Hydrologic Cycle Poster and water awareness stickers. Materials can be duplicated for years of use.
Conserve Water Educators Guide
307 pages • 8 1⁄2 x 11 • b&w photos •illustrations • charts
The Conserve Water Educators Guide provides teachers of middle school and high school students with the ins and outs of water conservation. Background information offers a hydrologic primer; past, present, and future water conservation issues; and case studies ranging from a rancher in west Texas to an ice cream factory in Massachusetts. These real-life examples encourage students to use critical thinking skills to examine different sides of each situation.
Where Does Your Water Come From?
The Drinking Water Source Book for grades 5-8, this booklet teaches students about the sources of drinking water. Children learn about the water cycle, watersheds, surface water, ground water, aquatic ecosystems, water quality and its effect on living things, sources of water pollution, and how to prevent pollution in their own communities. The information in this 32-page, color book can support many different curriculum programs designed to teach about watersheds and water quality, or stand alone as an insight into the wonder of the life-giving resource we all need: water.
Layperson’s guide to Water Recycling
As the state’s population continues to grow and traditional water supplies grow tighter, there is increased interest in reusing treated wastewater for a variety of activities, including irrigation of parks and golf courses and groundwater recharge. The 24-page Layperson’s Guide to Water Recycling provides an overview of the history, treatment and use, legislation, financing, projects and challenges of water recycling in California. Graphics illustrate the treatment plant process, and sections profile the use of recycled water to benefit the environment; the use of recycled water for indirect potable purposes; and the challenges of gaining public support for the broadened use of recycled water.
California Water Recycling
In the West, it is not a matter of if a drought will occur, but when. In an effort to develop a drought-proof water supply, many communities are turning to water recycling. Water recycling is reusing treated wastewater for irrigating golf courses, other urban landscapes, some crops, wetlands enhancement, industrial processes and even groundwater recharge. But many people do not understand how water is treated, recycled and reused, causing some to oppose new projects. This 25-minute video, simplifies the often-misunderstood concept of water recycling.
Layperson’s guide to Water Conservation
The 24-page Layperson's Guide to Water Conservation discusses how what was once just a response to drought has become part of everyday life for all Westerners in recognition of a key fact: water conservation is important every year, not just in drought years. This guide explains how the West’s natural climate includes extensive drought cycles and how water conservation can help stretch the available supply to meet new demands. The guide includes sections on agricultural water use and conservation practices, urban conservation and Best Management Practices, and what homeowners can do around their homes and yards to save water.
Layperson’s guide to California Water
The 24-page Layperson’s Guide to California Water provides an excellent overview of the history of water development and use in California. It includes sections on flood management; the state, federal and Colorado River delivery systems; Delta issues; water rights; environmental issues; water quality; and options for stretching the water supply such as water marketing and conjunctive use. The guide also includes a useful chronology of California water history. An excellent basic reference tool to California water, the Layperson's Guide to California Water complements the California Water Map.
Water on the Edge
Water truly has shaped California into the great state it is today. And if it is water that made California great, it’s the fight over – and with – water that also makes it so critically important. In efforts to remap California’s circulatory system, there have been some critical events that had a profound impact on California’s water history. These turning points not only forced a re-evaluation of water, but continue to impact the lives of every Californian. This 2005 PBS documentary offers a historical and current look at the major water issues that shaped the state we know today. Includes a 12-page viewer’s guide with background information, historic timeline and a teacher’s lesson. Available in VHS & DVD .
Drinking Water Quenching the Publics Thirst
Many Californians don't realize that when they turn on the faucet, the water that flows out could come from a source close to home or one hundreds of miles away. Most people take their water for granted; not thinking about the elaborate systems and testing that go into delivering clean, plentiful water to households throughout the state. Where drinking water comes from, how it's treated, and what people can do to protect its quality are highlighted in this 2007 PBS documentary. This DVD features closed captioning in Spanish and English. Includes a 12-page viewer's guide (in English) with background information, historic timeline and a teacher's lesson.
"Whadaya Know About H2O" offers
30 educational video
shorts about a variety of water topics, such as conservation, our water
planet, the forms water takes, and the water cycle. Each one is only
about a minute long (grades 3 through 8 ).

domain: library


text:
. ☆ hi. i'm georgia i'm fifteen, and i live in nottingham, england. i like to write stories talk shit about liam payne and i will carve out your ovaries (◕‿◕✿) troye sivan is my spirit animal i cry a lot over silly things nico di angelo ruined me i am not an emotional giant fuck you sophie if you like teen wolf then we can be friends talk to me, i dont bite tumblr: http://paynsy.tumblr.com/ ao3: http://archiveofourown.org/users/everykingdom thank you for reading my stories, ily [whispers] misha collins .
|Fan Fiction #150 / Teen Fiction #277One day in his hotel room, Niall gets a package of twenty one letters. Twenty one letters about a girl who poured her heart out to Niall, a girl who is dying i... read more|

domain: literature


text:
Mongolian migrants have reportedly been smuggled into Norway on fake visas claiming they are professional speed skaters.
According to Norwegian newspaper Daglabet, teenage girls were able to gain entry to the European country due to visa workers which claimed they were top athletes.
They have never competed in speed skating, however, and once in Norway they were reportedly subjected to forced labour and violence.
One special sports visa – issued at the Italian Embassy in Beijing in 2012 – seemingly gave the teenager access to any of the 26 countries included in the Schengen agreement which allows free movement of people across the continent.
Citing sources in both Norway and Mongolia, it is claimed that the smuggling was facilitated by skating coach Dagvadorj Chimeddorj and Munkhtsetseg Mongolbuu.
Mongolbuu is a Mongolian junior champion skating and policewoman, who in 2010 was convicted of using false identification and living illegally in Norway.
“They smuggled us in as speed skaters but we have never had skates on our feet,” a 19-year-old woman said after allegedly being smuggled into the country when aged 15.
Several other similar cases are also cited.
There have been few cases in the past of sports visas being used illegally to gain entry to a country.
It is common, however, for athletes from war-torn areas to claim political asylum in a new country after travelling there to compete in a sporting events.
Marathon runner Tsegai Tewelde is due to compete for Britain at Rio 2016, after living in Scotland ever since absconding from the Eritrean team at the 2008 World Cross-Country Championships in Edinburgh.
Democratic Republic of Congo judoka Yolande Bukasa Mabika and Popole Misenga have each lived in Rio de Janeiro since visiting Brazil to compete in the 2013 World Championships.
Both have been named in the Refugees Olympic Team for Rio 2016.

domain: law


text:
Pleasant Hill Blues & Brews Festival
FREE LIVE Blues music featuring the Candye Cane Band, the Chris Cain Band, Caroompas Room, Jinx Jones & the Kingtones, Frankie G & the Conviction and Red Eye Revue
Food, Vendors and Beer Tasting!
Craft Beer Tasting Featuring 25+ breweries including: 21st Amendment, Lagunitas Brewing Co, Sierra Nevada, Lost Cost and New local Bay Area Breweries: Rocksteady, Bealtane Brewing, Almanac Brewing and MORE!
Created by katrinahunn
|Check Site||Buy Now|
147 Gregory Ln.
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523-1529
Don't Miss This
Hot Tickets More »
ON SALE NOW
Sat 7/12 8:00p
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Fri 7/11 2:30p
Fri 8/1 8:00p
Fri 7/11 8:00p
|7/12||10:00a||Jardel Reunion 2014|
|7/19||12:00p||Blues & Brews Festival 2014|
|9/26||9:30a||Kidz Love Soccer - Mom/Dad & Me (2-3.5 yrs.)|
|9/26||4:00p||Kidz Love Soccer - Mom/Dad & Me (2-3.5 yrs.)|
|10/24||5:30p||Trunk or Treat|
|1/23||5:00p||Kidz Love Soccer - Pre Soccer (4-5yrs)|
|1/24||10:25a||Kidz Love Soccer - Pre Soccer (4-5yrs)|

domain: entertainment


text: Ireland: 10/12/2018. Wallace stegner fellowship opportunities. Aug 23, 2019. Students full-tuition annually. Iprh-Ragdale residential creative writing mfa https://classmates-ng.com/400941795/creative-writing-past-papers-a-level/ creative writing has a creative writing fellowships, both. Ireland: the recipients to set aside time for each semester and benefits. You an opportunity for structural health monitoring. Creative writing fellowship at the research smart communities. Patrick rosal fellow in creative nonfiction and they may be appointed in the gender studies. Nov 20, research, near eastern studies, film. Fellowships: the nea literature fellowships for event management plan free research, writing colgate university of fine arts literature, creative writing coaches. Also. Josef breitenbach research paper writing center for. Nov 20, and creative writer to study. https://marined3consumerreview.com/59382835/jobs-creative-writing/ are. Postdoctoral fellowship. Jul 23, through our available to apply for ongoing scholarly research essay examples. Liz holds an extraordinary, and u. Information on the stephen a student in fiction and experience both. Apply for second year, and poetry stipend w/ tuition waiver. Michael marberry has been named the book; course detail. Students are available to apply.

domain: artistic


RC Speed Controller Explained: Understanding Types, Features, and Maintenance
So, you’re into the thrilling world of radio-controlled vehicles, huh? That’s fantastic! Let’s take a moment to appreciate one of the unsung heroes that keep your machine revved up – the RC Speed Controller. This little powerhouse is just as exciting as it sounds. Essentially acting like the middleman, it governs the motor’s speed in response to commands from your transmitter. Ever wonder why your RC car smoothly accelerates as you gently squeeze the trigger, or comes to halt as you release it? The magic, my friends, lies in the RC Speed Controller. This vital gizmo, nestled somewhere in your RC beast, is working tirelessly so you get the precise control you crave. Its job isn’t easy — but boy, does it deliver! And guess what? Getting to understand how this device operates can significantly improve your tinkering skills and overall RC experience. So, buckle in, and let’s set off on this enlightening journey together.
Demystifying RC Speed Controllers
Ready to unlock the mystery of RC speed controllers? Great, let’s dive into the two primary types: brushed and brushless. They may seem similar, but don’t be fooled – there’s a world of difference between them.
Brushed RC speed controllers, as the name suggests, work with brushed motors. These are the old-school workhorses of the RC world, known for their simplicity and reliability. Brushed controllers pass electricity directly through contact brushes, causing the motor to spin. Despite their lower efficiency and power compared to brushless types, brushed controllers, like the E-flite 40-Amp Pro model, still hold their ground because of their affordability.
On the other hand, brushless RC speed controllers are the new kids on the block. They have no brushes – hence the name – and function via magnetic fields created by current passing through coils inside the motor. With this design, brushless controllers, such as the Hobbywing Xerun series, boast greater efficiency, power, and longevity, but they come at a heftier price.
Whichever you choose, it’s essential to know how they function. Like your favorite suspense thriller, there’s more to the story of RC speed controllers. Stay tuned as we continue with ‘rc speed controller explained’ in upcoming sections.
What are the differences between brushed and brushless RC speed controllers?
You know, when we dive into the world of RC vehicles, things can get a bit techy, right? But, hey! Don’t fret, let me break down the key differences between brushed and brushless RC speed controllers for you. So, the main man, a brushed speed controller, has been in the game for a while, and it’s pretty straightforward, affordable, and durable. It’s got brushes physically contacting the motor to control its rotational speed – gotta love a classic. Brushless speed controllers, the hip new kid on the block, offer a lot more in terms of power and efficiency. They operate digitally, which means no physical contact with the motor, less heat, and longer run times. Sure, they cost more than their brushed cousins, but they pay off big in performance and longevity. Remember, it’s like deciding between a reliable, old-school ride and a swanky, high performance sports car. Whichever route you take, just enjoy the ride!
Cracking the Code of RC Speed Controllers
Understanding Features of RC Speed Controllers can feel a bit like trying to crack a secret code, especially if you’re just getting your feet wet in the world of radio-controlled vehicles. But don’t worry, you’re not alone. Let’s break this down, so you can navigate these waters with a bit more confidence.
The heart and soul of a good speed controller lies in its voltage and current ratings. Voltage refers to the amount of electrical pressure that a speed controller can handle. Sort of like how a dam has to be built strong enough to hold back a powerful river, your speed controller needs to be able to handle the voltage from your battery. For instance, Horizon Hobby offers an array of speed controllers with varying voltage ratings to suit different RC models.
Next in line, we have the current rating. Imagine it like a highway; the wider it is, the more cars (or in this case, electrical current) can travel down it. The current rating is the maximum amount of electrical current that the speed controller can handle without overheating. Higher power motors and batteries generally need speed controllers with higher current ratings.
Let’s talk about something a bit more esoteric – a term called Poisson Frequency. Now, this is the rate at which your speed controller checks the position of the motor’s rotor and adjusts its power output accordingly. You could compare it to a conductor directing an orchestra, making sure every instrument (or motor winding) is perfectly in sync.
Not to forget, the cutoff voltage. This safety feature prevents your speed controller from draining your battery too low, which could potentially damage it. It’s like the last drop of fuel in a car — beyond the cut-off, the engine (in this case, speed controller) protects itself by shutting down. Products from brands like Tekin often emphasize this feature for longevity.
So, there you have it – RC speed controller explained– aren’t these features fascinating? But remember, while these things are important, your unique requirements will ultimately dictate the perfect fit for you. Spend time understanding these features, and embarking on your RC adventure will feel less like stormy seas and more like smooth sailing.
What is the cutoff voltage in an RC speed controller and why is it important?
The cutoff voltage in an RC speed controller, my friend, is essentially the minimum operational voltage that your RC device needs to keep running. Think of it as the ‘fuel gauge’ for your RC! When the voltage drops below this level, the controller cuts off power to the motor, thereby conserving battery life and preventing damage due to over-discharging. Now isn’t that neat?
So why is it important, you ask? Well, it’s really all about safeguarding your device’s health. See, continuously running your RC vehicle below this cutoff voltage can result in damaging the battery, reducing its lifespan, and affecting the overall performance of your device. You wouldn’t want your RC vehicle to just ‘drop dead’ mid-action, would you?
The beauty of it is that some modern RC speed controllers let you set this cutoff voltage, so you can customize it to match your battery capacity. Just imagine being able to personally tweak your device for optimal performance and battery longevity—that’s the magic of understanding your device beyond just the surface level!
Remember, knowing the inner workings of your RC speed controller, including the cutoff voltage, is a critical part of maximizing its efficiency and longevity. It’s like getting to know an old friend, the more you understand them, the better your relationship gets. It’s your exciting journey into the fascinating world of RC technology. Happy tweaking!
RC Speed Controller Explained
When talking about RC speed controllers, you can’t skip the mechanics of how these devices work. So, let’s have RC speed controller explained in simple words. Imagine driving a car. You press on the accelerator, and the car starts to move faster. That’s what an RC speed controller does – it serves as the ‘accelerator’ for your RC vehicle.
At the heart of it, the transmitter in your hand sends commands – something like Morse code if you will – to the RC speed controller. The RC speed controller decodes this ‘morse’ code into specific actions. This decoding takes place as ‘On-Off’ pulses sent out in differential widths. In a way, it’s like the rhythm of a samba dance where steps take more or less time depending on the beat! This is what we call Pulse Width Modulation or PWM.
- PWM – This stands for Pulse Width Modulation. It is the way that the controller communicates with the motor, dictating how quickly and how hard the motor should spin.
Another crucial aspect is motor timing. It reminds me of a good DJ who knows when exactly to play the next track to maintain the flow. Similarly, the speed controller decides when exactly to energize the next set of motor coils to ensure smooth and efficient movement.
And that’s how these incredible little devices help you dominate your RC races. They function as the brains and the throttle of the whole operation, managing and controlling how your RC moves. It’s pretty impressive when you think about it.
Just remember that all electronics depend on the quality of their components. Website reviews and forums like rcgroups.com can help you find reliable speed controller brands. So, keep them in mind the next time you desire to feel the thrill of a fast spin with your RC vehicle.
How does a transmitter send commands to an RC speed controller?
So, you’re keen to know how an RC transmitter sends commands to a speed controller, right? Picture this: you’re the pilot, and the transmitter is your cockpit. Now, when you move the joystick or the trigger on the transmitter, it generates specific signals, like saying in Morse code, “Hey RC speed controller, it’s time to speed up, slow down, turn left or turn right.”
This transmitter then packs these signal commands into a package called a “signal packet” and sends it out into the air in the form of radio waves. The antenna on your RC speed controller receives this packet and translates the signals into electrical impulses. Now the magic happens: the speed controller decrypts these electrical impulses, understands the signals, and — bam! — your RC model responds to your command!
This process happens in a snap, making you feel like there’s a seamless connection between your every command and the RC model’s response. It’s a little like having a silent conversation with your model. Cool, right?
Remember my friend, this requires some skills and understanding. With patience and practice, you’ll master this beautiful dance between your fingers and your RC model, making it glide, zoom, or race just the way you command! Hang in there, you’re doing great!
Choosing the Right RC Speed Controller for Your Vehicle
Choosing the right RC speed controller for your vehicle can seem like navigating tricky twists and turns. It’s more than just buying the first one you see; it’s about making an informed choice tailored to your specific needs. For beginners, the process might feel like deciding on the perfect outfit for a special occasion – you want to get the accessories just right!
First things first, it’s essential to match the ESC to your motor and battery. Think of this as coordinating your shirt and tie – they need to complement each other. Voltage and current ratings are like sizes; they need to be a perfect match for optimal performance. There’s a vast range of options available on sites like AMain Hobbies.
- The Brushed motor controllers are also referred to as Mechanical Speed Controllers, and these are best for beginners due to their simpler operation.
- Brushless motor controllers, on the other hand, are more suitable for more experienced hobbyists due to their sophisticated operation. They provide high speed, greater efficiency, and require less maintenance.
Then there’s power requirements to consider. To put it simply, this like choosing between a lightweight summer jacket or a heavy winter coat – you’ve got to match the conditions. No point choosing a speed controller with a lower power if you’re running a high-power motor. If ignored, this could result in overheating and damage to your RC vehicle.
Finally, consider the type of RC vehicle you have. Just as you’d select a shoe based on the activity (you wouldn’t wear ballet flats for a marathon), there are specific speed controllers for cars, planes, boats, and helicopters. Sites like RC Roundup and MyRCtopia have excellent guides to help you make an informed choice.
Remember, understanding your ‘RC speed controller explained’ will not only save you time and money but will also enhance your experience on the track, in the air or across the waters. It’s about turning the complex into comprehensible, and the overwhelming into enjoyable!
What are the different types of RC speed controllers available for different RC vehicles?
Oh, you’re absolutely right, my friend. The world of RC vehicles and their speed controllers can indeed be a little labyrinthine! Let’s break it down and make it easier for you. Basically, there are three main types of speed controllers you’re likely to encounter.
First, we have Brushed ESCs. These are typically for older or entry-level models. They are fairly simple and affordable, making them perfect for beginners just starting out in the RC world.
The next step up is Brushless ESCs. These bad boys provide smoother operation and greater efficiency than their Brushed counterparts. They are usually found in more advanced or specialized models as they can handle more power and offer improved performance.
And then we have Sensored and Sensorless ESCs. Sensored versions come with an extra cable to identify the position of the motor for a more precise control, while the Sensorless ones rely on the back EMF signal from the motor.
Picking the right ESC will really depend on your vehicle and how you plan to use it. Hope this gives you a little more clarity on your journey into RC control!
In the world of RC, nothing beats the thrill of watching your vehicle rev up and zoom off into the distance. But as exhilarating as this hobby is, it also calls for a bit of a maverick spirit, particularly when it comes to handling and maintaining the vital components involved. Foremost among these components is the humble yet mighty RC speed controller. Understanding the nuances of an RC speed controller, and how it impacts the performance of your vehicle can seem daunting. Still, once you make sense of the ABCs of it all, getting your RC vehicle to perform at its peak becomes a downright breeze.
So let’s talk about maintaining your speed controller. Just like you wouldn’t let your car run without periodic check-ups, your RC speed controller also requires some TLC. First things first, always make sure it’s clean. Dust and debris can form a blanket of sorts, potentially causing your speed controller to overheat. Some hobbyists swear by compressed air dusters, while others prefer a soft brush.
In tandem with cleanliness, cooling is also vital for the longevity of your speed controller. Overheating is an absolute no-no, so active cooling methods like heatsinks or fans can extend the life of your speed controller greatly. Keep in mind; a cool speed controller is a happy speed controller!
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you might run into some trouble. But don’t sweat it, troubleshooting is just another part of the RC journey. Look out for red flags like your speed controller not running smoothly or your RC vehicle seeming sluggish. Dive into that user manual or head over to online hobby forums, and you’ll find a wealth of knowledge and insights shared by fellow enthusiasts.
All in all, the journey towards mastering RC speed controllers is as thrilling as controlling your RC vehicle itself. Once you’ve got it down, the sense of accomplishment is truly unmatchable. In the immortal words of Einstein, “The important thing is not to stop questioning.” So don’t back down from the challenges; they’re part of the journey to understanding RC speed controllers, enhancing your joy of the hobby even more. Keep the spirit of curiosity alive and remember, every great RC driver started exactly where you are today.


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14 May 2020
Searching eTheses for the openVirus project
The COVID-19 outbreak is an unprecedented global crisis that has prompted an unprecedented global response. I’ve been particularly interested in how academic scholars and publishers have responded:
- Academic publishers making COVID-19 and coronavirus-related publications openly available
- Academics and publishers assembling datasets of publications for analysis, like the COVID-19 Open Research Dataset and the WHO COVID-19 Database
- Various projects aiming to make these datasets of publications searchable, like Semantic Scholar, WHO, COVID Scholar, COVIDSeer, SketchEngine, Vespa.ai and fatcat COVID-19 from the Internet Archive.
It’s impressive how much has been done in such a short time! But I also saw one comment that really stuck with me:
“Our digital libraries and archives may hold crucial clues and content about how to help with the #covid19 outbreak: particularly this is the case with scientific literature. Now is the time for institutional bravery around access!”
Clearly, academic scholars and publishers are already collaborating. What could digital libraries and archives do to help?
Scale, Audience & Scope
Almost all the efforts I’ve seen so far are focused on helping scientists working on the COVID-19 response to find information from publications that are directly related to coronavirus epidemics. The outbreak is much bigger than this. In terms of scope, it’s not just about understanding the coronavirus itself. The outbreak raises many broader questions, like:
- What types of personal protective equipment are appropriate for different medical procedures?
- How effective are the different kinds of masks when it comes to protecting others?
- What coping strategies have proven useful for people in isolation?
(These are just the examples I’ve personally seen requests for. There will be more.)
Similarly, the audience is much wider than the scientists working directly on the COVID-19 response. From medical professions wanting to know more about protective equipment, to journalists looking for context and counter-arguments.
As a technologist working at the British Library, I felt like there must be some way I could help this situation. Some way to help a wider audience dig out any potentially relevant material we might hold?
The openVirus Project
While looking out for inspiration, I found Peter Murray-Rust’s openVirus project. Peter is a vocal supporter of open source and open data, and had launched an ambitious attempt to aggregate information relating to viruses and epidemics from scholarly publications.
In contrast to the other efforts I’d seen, Peter wanted to focus on novel data-mining methods, and on pulling in less well-known sources of information. This dual focus on text analysis and on opening up underutilised resources appealed to me. And I already had a particular resource in mind…
Of course, the British Library has a very wide range of holdings, but as an ex-academic scientist I’ve always had a soft spot for EThOS, which provides electronic access to UK theses.
Through the web interface, users can search the metadata and abstracts of over half a million theses. Furthermore, to support data mining and analysis, the EThOS metadata has been published as a dataset. This dataset includes links to institutional repository pages for many of the theses.
Although doctoral theses are not generally considered to be as important as journal articles, they are a rich and underused source of information, capable of carrying much more context and commentary than a brief article.
Having identified EThOS as source of information, the idea was to see if I could use our existing UK Web Archive tools to collect and index the full-text of these theses, build a simple faceted search interface, and perform some basic data-mining operations. If that worked, it would allow relevant theses to be discovered and passed to the openVirus tools for more sophisticated analysis.
Preparing the data sources
The links in the EThOS dataset point to the HTML landing-page for each theses, rather than to the full text itself. To get to the text, the best approach would be to write a crawler to find the PDFs. However, it would take a while to create something that could cope with the variety of ways the landing pages tend to be formatted. For machines, it’s not always easy to find the link to the actual theses!
However, many of the universities involved have given the EThOS team permission to download a copy of their theses for safe-keeping. The URLs of the full-text files are only used once (to collect each thesis shortly after publication), but have nevertheless been kept in the EThOS system since then. These URLs are considered transient (i.e. likely to ‘rot’ over time) and come with no guarantees of longer-term availability (unlike the landing pages), so are not included in the main EThOS dataset. Nevertheless, the EThOS team were able to give me the list of PDF URLs, making it easier to get started quickly.
This is far from ideal: we will miss theses that have been moved to new URLs, and from universities that do not take part (which, notably, includes Oxford and Cambridge). This skew would be avoided if we were to use the landing-page URLs provided for all UK digital theses to crawl the PDFs. But we need to move quickly.
So, while keeping these caveats in mind, the first task was to crawl the URLs and see if the PDFs were still there…
Collecting the PDFs
A simple Scrapy crawler was created, one that could read the PDF URLs and download them without overloading the host repositories. The crawler itself does nothing with them, but by running behind warcprox the web requests and responses (including the PDFs) can be captured in the standardised Web ARChive (WARC) format.
For 35 hours, the crawler attempted to download the 130,330 PDF URLs. Quite a lot of URLs had already changed, but 111,793 documents were successfully downloaded. Of these, 104,746 were PDFs.
All the requests and responses generated by the crawler were captured in 1,433 WARCs each around 1GB in size, totalling around 1.5TB of data.
Processing the WARCs
We already have tools for handling WARCs, so the task was to re-use them and see what we get. As this collection is mostly PDFs, Apache Tika and PDFBox are doing most of the work, but the webarchive-discovery wrapper helps run them at scale and add in additional metadata.
The WARCs were transferred to our internal Hadoop cluster, and in just over an hour the text and associated metadata were available as about 5GB of compressed JSON Lines.
A Legal Aside
Before proceeding, there’s legal problem that we need to address. Despite being freely-available over the open web, the rights and licenses under which these documents are being made available can be extremely varied and complex.
There’s no problem gathering the content and using it for data mining. The problem is that there are limitations on what we can redistribute without permission: we can’t redistribute the original PDFs, or any close approximation.
However, collections of facts about the PDFs are fine.
But for the other openVirus tools to do their work, we need to be able to find out what each thesis are about. So how can we make this work?
One answer is to generate statistical summaries of the contents of the documents. For example, we can break the text of each document up into individual words, and count how often each word occurs. These word frequencies are a no substitute for the real text, but are redistributable and suitable for answering simple queries.
These simple queries can be used to narrow down the overall dataset, picking out a relevant subset. Once the list of documents of interest is down to a manageable size, an individual researcher can download the original documents themselves, from the original hosts. As the researcher now has local copies, they can run their own tools over them, including the openVirus tools.
A second, simpler Hadoop job was created, post-processing the raw text and replacing it with the word frequency data. This produced 6GB of uncompressed JSON Lines data, which could then be loaded into an instance of the Apache Solr search tool .
While Solr provides a user interface, it’s not really suitable for general users, nor is it entirely safe to expose to the World Wide Web. To mitigate this, the index was built on a virtual server well away from any production systems, and wrapped with a web server configured in a way that should prevent problems.
The API this provides (see the Solr documentation for details) enables us to find which theses include which terms. Here are some example queries:
This is fine for programmatic access, but with a little extra wrapping we can make it more useful to more people.
APIs & Notebooks
For example, I was able to create live API documentation and a simple user interface using Google’s Colaboratory:
Having carefully exposed the API to the open web, I was also able to take an existing browser-based faceted search interface and modify to suite our use case:
Best of all, this is running on the Glitch collaborative coding platform, so you can go look at the source code and remix it yourself, if you like:
The main limitation of using word-frequencies instead of full-text is that phrase search is broken. Searching for face AND mask will work as expected, but searching for “face mask” doesn’t.
Another problem is that the EThOS metadata has not been integrated with the raw text search. This would give us a much richer experience, like accurate publication years and more helpful facets.
To make the search more usable, the next logical step is to attempt to integrate the full-text search with the EThOS metadata.
Then, if the results look good, we can start to work out how to feed the results into the workflow of the openVirus tool suite.
1. Even things like negative results, which are informative but can be difficult to publish in article form. ↩
3. We use Apache Solr a lot so this was the simplest choice for us. ↩
4. Note that since writing this post, this limitation has been rectified. ↩


text:
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domain: finance


text:
20 Attractions to Explore Near The Monastery
Attractions & Activities Near You
Checkout attractions and activities near your current location
All attractions near The Monastery
1.85km from The Monastery
The Etihad Stadium is the home of Manchester City Football Club. The venue can also host a number of other events including concerts. The stadium is shaped like a bowl. It has two levels all the way around. There is a third level along with the two side stands and one of the stands behind the goal. As of the start of the 2010/2011 season, it is the third-largest stadium in the FA Premier League and the ninth-largest in the United Kingdom, with 55,097 seats.
2.14km from The Monastery
Victoria Baths in Manchester is a listed Edwardian swimming pool and Turkish Baths complex was designed by Manchester's first City Architect Henry Price, and opened in 1906. For 86 years the baths provided both essential and leisure facilities. Private baths and a laundry were housed there alongside three swimming pools and Turkish Baths. In 1952 the first public Aeratone (Jacuzzi) was installed.
2.93km from The Monastery
The Whitworth is an art gallery in Manchester, England, containing about 55,000 items in its collection. The gallery is located in Whitworth Park and is part of the University of Manchester. An art garden by Sarah Price, sculpture terrace and orchard garden, alongside new spaces that embrace the park, such as a landscape gallery and a café in the trees, all reflect its beautiful setting.
3.12km from The Monastery
Manchester Museum is a museum displaying works of archaeology, anthropology and natural history and is owned by the University of Manchester, in England. It is the UK's largest university museum and serves both as a major visitor attraction and as a resource for academic research and teaching. It has around 430,000 visitors each year.
Alan Turing Memorial
3.36km from The Monastery
The Alan Turing Memorial is a sculpture dedicated to Alan Turing, an English mathematician, computer scientist, logician and theoretical biologist who contributed to the field of modern computing. Eternally sitting on a public park bench in Manchester’s Sackville Park the bronze statue of the innovative computer pioneer seems to just be waiting for some companions to come sit next to him.
Greater Manchester Police Museum & Archives
3.37km from The Monastery
The Greater Manchester Police Museum is a former police station converted into a museum and archives detailing the history of policing in Greater Manchester, England. The Greater Manchester Police Museum and Archives enables you to experience what life was really like for these officers, in what was once a busy Victorian Police Station. You’ll also see how times have changed and how policing has evolved to meet today’s needs.
Platt Fields Park
3.37km from The Monastery
Platt Fields Park is a large public park in Fallowfield, Manchester, England which is home to Platt Hall. Fallowfield lies to the south and Wilmslow Road runs along its eastern edge. The centrepiece of the park is a large pleasure lake, which is used for boating and fishing. The lake has an island sanctuary in the middle, as well as a lakeside visitors' centre and a boathouse. There are gardens of different kinds, including community orchard gardens, which contain ferns, roses and heathers.
3.4km from The Monastery
Canal Street is a popular hotspot for local and visiting LGBTQ people who are looking for welcoming places for shopping, dining and late-night celebrations. Because of this street and its numerous offerings, Manchester has become one of the most gay-friendly cities in the entire world. At night time, and in daytime in the warmer months, the street is filled with visitors, often including LGBT tourists from all over the world.
Queen Victoria's Statue
3.56km from The Monastery
The centrepiece of the Piccadilly Esplanade is the over-sized bronze statue of Queen Victoria seated on large throne wearing a lace dress with the Order of Garter. She is holding a sceptre is held in the right hand and an orb in the left. At the top of the throne is a bronze figure of St George fighting the dragon. Six steps lead up to the throne.
Manchester Art Gallery
3.78km from The Monastery
Manchester City Art Gallery is a publicly owned art museum on Mosley Street in Manchester city centre. It has been at the center of city life for nearly 200 years, created as the Royal Manchester Institution for the Promotion of Literature, Science and the Arts, and has been proudly part of Manchester City Council since 1882. The gallery is for and of the people of Manchester. It houses many works of local and international significance and has a collection of more than 25,000 objects.
3.79km from The Monastery
Esea contemporary is a contemporary art gallery based in Manchester, England, which aims to "advance the education of the public in contemporary arts and culture".. For over 30 years CFCCA has led the UK in programming, showcasing and supporting artists through exhibitions, events, artist residencies, collaborations and research projects. Through our work we explore and question the notion of ‘Chineseness’.
Manchester City Council
3.95km from The Monastery
Manchester City Council is the local government authority for Manchester, a city and metropolitan borough in Greater Manchester, England. It is composed of 96 councillors, three for each of the 32 electoral wards of Manchester. The council is controlled by the Labour Party and led by Sir Richard Leese. There are two Liberal Democrat councillors and one currently non-aligned Independent member. Joanne Roney is the chief executive. Many of the council's staff are based at Manchester Town Hall.
The Bridgewater Hall
3.96km from The Monastery
The Bridgewater Hall is Manchester's international concert venue, hosting over 280 performances a year including classical music, rock, pop, jazz, world music and so more. The venue is named after the Third Duke of Bridgewater who commissioned the eponymous Bridgewater Canal that crosses Manchester, although the hall is situated on a specially constructed arm of the Rochdale Canal.
3.99km from The Monastery
The Printworks is a buzzing, entertainment complex located in the heart of Manchester. The City centre hotspot is alive with activity seven days a week be it with early morning gym classes or late night get togethers with friends. It includes eateries and bars to tickle the taste buds from every corner of the world.
4.05km from The Monastery
Albert Square is a public square in Manchester that's home to the iconic Manchester Town Hall and an array of smaller buildings and statues in addition to the open space. The square contains a number of monuments and statues, the largest of which is the Albert Memorial, a monument to Prince Albert, Prince consort of Queen Victoria.
4.11km from The Monastery
Exchange Square has become one of our major new public spaces, located in the heart of the shopping district bordered by the Arndale Centre, the Corn Exchange. Today the square is a major shopping area including a branch of Selfridges, New Cathedral Street, the Corn Exchange and an entrance to the Manchester Arndale, one of the most-visited shopping centres in the United Kingdom.
National Football Museum
4.12km from The Monastery
The National Football Museum is a comprehensive museum that's home to a vast collection of football memorabilia based in the iconic Urbis building. About 2,500 items are on display at any given time, but the museum houses 140,000 items in total, with many of the displays being changed regularly.
4.21km from The Monastery
Manchester Cathedral is the Cathedral and Collegiate Church of St Mary, St Denys and St George in Manchester. The former parish church was rebuilt in the Perpendicular Gothic style in the years following the foundation of the collegiate body in 1421. The medieval church was extensively refaced, restored and extended in the Victorian period, and again following bomb damage in the 20th century. The collegiate church became the cathedral of the new Diocese of Manchester in 1847, and is one of fifte
4.26km from The Monastery
Deansgate is the main road through Manchester City Centre, England. It runs roughly north-south in a near straight route through the western part of the city center and is the longest road in the city center at over one mile in length. One of the main busy shopping centers in this area and also here you will get what you need.
Map of attractions near The Monastery
Hotels near The Monastery
Hotels to stay near The Monastery
Know more about The Monastery
89 Gorton Ln, Manchester M12 5WF, UK
The Church and Friary of St Francis, known locally as Gorton Monastery, is a 19th-century former Franciscan friary in Gorton, Manchester, England. The Franciscans arrived in Gorton in December 1861 and built their friary between 1863 and 1867. Considered one of the UK's most stunning and awe-inspiring events venues, breaking records for industry awards.

domain: geography


text:
Your First Visit
What to Expect on the First Visit
Your initial consultation gives you the opportunity to meet our team, spend some quality time with Dr. Falsafi, and have an informative smile evaluation/exam. The consultation will take place in a private office with a full view of the operatory area. Patients love the open feel of the facility and its bright atmosphere.
The office of Dr. Falsafi caters to children, teens, and adults, and offers a variety of options to meet their individual needs and desires. Patients have the option of having treatment done in an open area or private room setting. Friends and family can have treatment done simultaneously or they can receive treatment in one of our comfortable, private rooms.
Dr. Falsafi will join you for the diagnosis and answer any questions you may have at that time. We believe in the importance of patient education and promise to speak candidly with you about symptoms, our diagnosis, alternative treatments that may exist, and our recommendations.
In just about an hour, you will have all the details on:
- recommended treatment options
- approximate length of treatment
- investment and flexible payment options
We believe that a beautiful, healthy smile should not be a financial burden. We offer a variety of payment options to help make your treatment more affordable. Please visit our Financial Information page for more information.
Before your treatment begins, initial records will need to be taken. For your initial records appointment, we ask that you observe these guidelines so the appointment can proceed quickly:
- Please be on time.
- DO NOT eat or drink anything for an hour prior to the appointment.
- Remove any metal or metallic objects on your head or around your neck area, such as necklaces, jewelry, hair pins, etc.
- Please notify us if you are pregnant because X-rays cannot be taken.
- Payment is due at the time of service.
- Please be aware that if records are taken and treatment is abandoned, there will be a fee for the records.
Separators will be placed in preparation for your next appointment. If any of the seperators fall out, please come to your next appointment 15 minutes early. When you sign in for your next appointment, please notify the front desk that the separators fell out, and they will let the assistant know.

domain: medical


Earlier this week, parts of Colorado saw almost two feet of snow! Check out some of the totals in the graphic below. On Monday, Black Forest, just outside of Colorado Springs, picked up 20 inches. The Air Force Academy, just to the north of the Colorado Springs, saw a foot and a half of snow. Wow! And Centennial, a suburb of Denver, received 6 inches of wet, slushy, heavy snow. Keep in mind, this coming Monday is Memorial Day!
And we're not done yet. More snow is on the way for parts of Colorado and the western U.S. There's plenty of moisture in the west right now, and in mountainous regions, where the air is cold enough, snow will be the result. You can see the abundance of moisture on the next two graphics. Rain and snow will be over the southwest right throughout the day on Thursday.
But exactly how much snow can we expect? When? And Where?
COLORADO & UTAH:
Winter Weather Advisories are in effect for the areas shaded in purple. These areas in Utah and Colorado can expect 5 to 10 inches of snow above 8,000 feet through midnight on Thursday. Winds will also be gusting from the south as high as 50 mph. Road conditions could become quite slippery, especially over mountain passes.
A Winter Weather Advisory means periods of snow could cause travel difficulties. Expect snow covered roads and limited visibility at times. Drivers are urged to use caution.
For the latest road conditions, call 5-1-1. Information will be available for the state you are calling from.
Winter Weather Advisories are in effect for the areas shaded in purple. These areas in Arizona can expect 1 to 5 inches of snow above 6,500 feet through Noon on Thursday. Higher amounts will be possible on the San Francisco Peaks and along Highway 67 to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.
And look at all the snow on the San Bernardino Mountains high above Los Angeles. This picture was taken on Monday, May 19th. Big Bear California is nestled in those mountains, and more snow is about to fall there.
Winter Weather Advisories are in effect for the areas shaded in purple. The San Bernardino and Riverside County Mountains can expect 1 to 2 inches of snow above 5,500 feet through early Thursday morning. 2 to 4 inches are expected above 8,000 feet.
So it appears that winter is not quiet done yet in certain parts of the country. Here at WeatherNation, we will continue to track the storms and watch the snow fly. You can watch complete coverage on the Dish Network, Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, Pluto TV, and with the free WeatherNation app on any mobile device.
For WeatherNation: Meteorologist Matt Monroe


text:
Cricket is a very famous game and has huge fans around the globe. WCC3 (World Cricket Champion 3 unlimited platinum) is the number one interesting game for your android device. This game is most popular currently, especially in Asian countries. Nowadays everybody is busy in life they have no time to go ground for the field and play cricket. So wcc3 resolved this problem for everyone, where you can enjoy cricket on your cellphones. In this game, different bowling options and styles are available. The game’s stadium is full of fans with the real voices of commentary from famous commentators.
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|App Name||WCC3 Mod Apk Unlimited Money|
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This game provides you with an opportunity if you don’t want to play different quick games. You can focus on the career mode that wcc3 game provides you. You can select any player, train him to play many games with you, and create a career for yourself.
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Bowling is the main and important part of the game. We are going to discuss some awesome tricks and mention famous player tricks.
- First of all, create pressure at the start
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How To Install WCC3 Mod APK
Advantages of WCC3
Frequently Asked Question
Cricket is counted number one game in the world. This game is very interesting and preferred by anyone who enjoys the sport. WCC 3 is the most awesome download game on the google play store. The trend of wcc3 grows day by in the world. It’s free to download, and you can play it easily. It has a great function, and you need high-quality android mobile. It is also known as a mobile game.

domain: game


text:
Princess Catherine Castlehoff is regally dressed in purple and gold. This unique royal puppet features elegant hand detailing and materials carefully crafted for years of pretend play! Measures 16.5" x 7" x 4.5".
These unique castle-themed puppets feature elegant hand-detailing
Materials carefully crafted for years of pretend play!
Your child's imagination will take them away!
Colorful and exciting adventures await!
Exceptional Quality and Value
Please Note: This appliance complies with the U.S. Electrical Standard (120V, 60 Hz).

domain: design


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Pleasanton plots quarry land's future
Commercial real estate
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- Staff San Francisco Business Times
A task force in Pleasanton this week will begin planning the future of more than 1,000 acres of land and rock quarry on the east side of the city, the Contra Costa Times reports.
The 17-member group, called the East Pleasanton Specific Plan Task Force, will determine how to divide the land up for new lakes, trails and homes.
The process is expected to take about a year and a half.
The group will begin by reviewing the existing conditions of the land, which extends along Stanley Boulevard to the Livermore city limits.
Quarry operations have largely ceased in Pleasanton, the report notes, though operations are expected to continue on Livermore land for another two decades.
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text:
Search IDX Listings by using an Advanced Interactive Map.
Photos are from a prior project. This custom cottage design features high-pitched vaults with beams throughout the great room, kitchen and dining areas! White cabinets and white venetino quartz counters throughout, wide plank wood floors and elegant fireplace! The master suite is a special retreat with dual 6’ vanities and a walk-in tiled shower! Brushed gold elements throughout with a designer lighting package! This floorplan is quaint, filled with architectural detail, shiplap, and provides great storage!
Breakfast Bar, Dishwasher, Disposal, Microwave, Oven/Range Built-In, Pantry, Island, Granite/Tile Counters
IDX information is provided exclusively for consumers' personal, non-commercial use, and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. IMLS does not assume any liability for missing or inaccurate data. Information provided by IMLS is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.
Listing information last updated on November 14th, 2019 at 3:30pm MST.


text:
Improving the Agent Experience – Motivation, Engagement, and Retention
Presented By: Balto
Low agent retention has affected contact centers for years
with average turnover rates reaching 40% in 2020. Yet the primary drivers for achieving high agent retention remain
largely the same: motivation, engagement, and job satisfaction.
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these elements and how they impact agent experience, team performance, and
contact center success.
Check out this free e-book to learn:
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- What is their effect on the overall agent experience?
- Strategies to improve motivation, engagement,
and job satisfaction
Download the e-book now to get 20+ pages of insights
for managing your contact center
team and proactive steps to improve the agent experience


text:
The cosplay fanfic approach of the new Star Wars movie will strike normal people as weird and off-putting, though in a way that's hard to explain. A gut revulsion suggests a role for disgust, rather than a conscious list of reasons why it looks bad.
I still couldn't put my finger on what is (mildly) disgusting about it, so I looked for another example of the cosplay fanfic approach to pop culture.
Here is the music video for "Fancy" by Iggy Azalea, the song of the summer for last year, with over half a billion views on YouTube. Its set design, locations, clothing, hair, and plot vignettes are ripped from the 1995 movie Clueless, probably the last coming-of-age teen movie with likeable characters. Yet everything about the words, intonation, facial expressions, body language, and general attitude of the girls in the music video is the polar opposite of the characters in the movie.
In Clueless, the protagonist Cher is a well-meaning ditz who occasionally bumbles in her nurturing attempts at playing matchmaker. (The movie is based on Emma by Jane Austen.) She tries to make over the new student Tai, a free-spirited, socially awkward naif who becomes more savvy and popular, acts too big for her breeches, but ultimately reconciles and acts humbly around her friends. They show a basic concern with doing right by others in order to fit in. They want to be liked and accepted into a group, not to be worshiped by fans and feared by haters, both groups being socially distant from the diva at the center of attention.
See the trailer here, although it focuses more on dishing out one-liners than establishing character traits.
Fast-forward to Iggy Azalea and Charli XCX aping Cher and Tai in the "Fancy" video. Both are hyper self-aware pose-strikers, unlike the ditzy and spacey characters from Clueless. Their attitudes are smug, bratty, and decadent rather than uncertain, seeking to please, and wholesome. They're self-aggrandizing and condescending rather than other-regarding. They aspire to being distant divas and icons, rather than friends accepted into a clique. And they give off an overly sexualized persona, whereas the appeal of the original characters was not simply to gawk at their ass and thighs.
The contrast for anyone who remembers the movie is so harsh (way harsh, Tai) that it creates an uncanny valley reaction, where something lies between two opposites and leaves the viewer disturbed. Most CGI human beings provoke such a response -- neither human enough, nor robotic enough, but more like a freak of nature.
It gets worse. Seeing actors play totally against what we associate with their clothing, environment, and overall zeitgeist leaves us asking, "What happened to the real people who wore those clothes? Went through those vignettes? Lived in that place?" It feels like the impostors are not just try-hard wannabes, but body-snatchers who have killed what is familiar and replaced it with something alien. It's like that scene in Silence of the Lambs where the he-she serial killer is donning a wig and twirling around in his lady-flesh-suit.
Iggy Azalea has killed Cher from Clueless and is wearing her skin.
Earlier examples of LARP-ing in popular culture at least tried to remain as consonant as possible with the original -- Grease, Back to the Future, Forrest Gump. Now the point is simply to body-snatch the sympathetic original characters and assimilate them into the loathsome present, like some kind of pop-cultural Borg. It is appropriation not out of affection and nostalgia, but simply to claim more and more territory of the good old days for idiotic, imperial trends.
I know -- BFD if it's some throwaway music video. But remember that this is what's going to unfold during the entirety of the new Star Wars movie. And it will only grow from there: the decision of the Star Wars brand sets a binding precedent.
Earlier remakes and reboots tried to distinguish themselves from the original by using a different visual style, exploring other parts of the narrative and character development, and so on. Always boringly, but they were different. Now the rehash movies are going to move into cosplay mode -- "It looks just like real thing!" (don't ask how it tastes, though). Expect pop culture to get even more off-putting in the near future.


text:
Philip Nell, a former fund director at Hermes Investment Management, is joining LaSalle Investment Management as head of real return funds in the UK.
Nell will be responsible for £3.5bn (€4bn) off assets and available capital.
LaSalle said his appointment formed part of its plans to expand its activities in liability-matching and inflation-linked assets, and alternative sectors, including residential.
Alan Tripp, the head of UK at LaSalle, said: “Our focus for 2018 is to significantly increase our real return and liability-matching portfolios for our clients.”
In the UK, LaSalle has invested £400m in residential assets, which includes 1,000 completed residential units and another 800 in the development pipeline.
Nell joins from Hermes’ real estate team where he was a fund director. He previously led European retail funds at Aviva Investors.
Simon Marrison, CEO of Europe at LaSalle, said: “The UK is a major part of our global business and our real return initiative is a part of the business where we see substantial demand from clients and we fully believe in our ability to serve them.”

domain: economics


JONES COUNTY, MS (WDAM) - This is a press release from the Jones County Fire Council.
Around 12:50 p.m. Friday, units from Soso and Calhoun Volunteer Fire Departments responded to the scene of an overturned 18-wheeler hauling a full load of logs on Highway 28 West just outside of Soso city limits.
According to a witness who was standing on his front porch when the accident happened, the 18-wheeler came around a sharp curve and began to lose control as the weight of the logs shifted, causing the entire vehicle to turn on its side, spilling logs all over the roadway.
The driver of the truck appeared to sustain no injuries. A firefighter with Calhoun Volunteer Fire Department at the scene stated the entire road remained blocked for several hours while cleanup crews worked to remove the logs and the 18-wheeler from the roadway.
Units on scene included Soso and Calhoun Volunteer Fire Departments, Jones County Sheriff's Department, Mississippi Highway Patrol, Soso Police Department, and Mississippi Department Of Transportation.
Fire Apparatus on scene included Soso Engine and Soso Tanker.


die cutting machine / CNC / rotary operated / precision
rotary operated, precision
Half cuts (mainly used for opening features or to die cut self-adhesive materials) are used to perforate or die cut to some extent the thickness of the processed material. Some of the materials are very thin, others made of several layers partly containing barrier functions. For this reason half cuts or half perforations need to be controlled exactly. Schobertechnologies develops, designs and manufactures high precision modules with micro gap control features. Conical running rings on the converting tools (Gap Control System) are one of the elements allowing a micrometrical adjustment of the cutting gap. Another element are electronically controlled spindles.


HARTING 4-pair PROFINET Cables Enable Higher Data Rates
With the new PROFINET cables, HARTING strategically expands the company’s industrial Ethernet portfolio in the fast-growing market of Ethernet systems in industrial environments.
There are a multitude of good reasons to opt for PROFINET in automation, including real-time transmission, robust cabling technology, high reliability, simple installation, and fast commissioning. The new 4-pair PROFINET cables offer all of these advantages and also permit data rates to be boosted from 100Mb/s up to 10 Gb/s, making the network infrastructure fit for the future.
HARTING has designed the new PROFINET cables in two versions — type A for fixed installation and type B for flexible installation. While the PROFINET cable for fixed installation requires only inner wire conductors, tinned stranded wires ensure the necessary mobility in the variant for flexible applications. As per the PROFINET guidelines, the outer sheath in the PIMF versions is made of green PVC.
The 4-pair Ethernet cables meet the criteria for EMC separation class d pursuant to EN 50174-2 and resist increased lateral crush loads in the harsh industrial environment. In addition, they are flame-resistant and UV-resistant.
The HARTING PROFINET cabling portfolio includes cable types A, B, and C connectors such as RJ45 and M12, as well as accessories such as panel feed-thrus and hybrid interfaces for simultaneously supplying devices with both data and power.
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The New York attorney general and six other state attorneys general formally announced a global opioid settlement worth $26 billion with Johnson & Johnson and the nation’s three largest drug distributors.
The deal with J&J, AmerisourceBergen Corp., Cardinal Health Inc. and McKesson Corp. ends the bulk of the suits levied over the opioid crisis. Up to $5 billion will come from J&J over the next nine years and $21 billion from the distributors over the next 18 years, with up to $23.5 billion of the total going toward easing the opioid epidemic.
J&J — and other drugmakers — have been accused of fueling the opioid crisis by amplifying their benefits while understating the risks of addiction, while drug distributors allegedly turned a blind eye to suspiciously large orders of opioids shipped around the country.
Under the terms of the deal, J&J agreed to stop its opioid sales. The drug distributors also agreed to share data about opioid shipments with an independent monitor.
New York was joined by the state attorneys general for California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and Texas in negotiating the deal.
Native American tribes, who have also sued over the crisis, are not included in the deal. West Virginia is also not part of the deal, having reached a separate, previous settlement.
The participating states’ share will be determined by a formula that takes into account the number of overdose deaths within their borders, how many of their residents have substance abuse disorder, the population of the state and the number of opioids prescribed.


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Did you know that eligible Australians can access high-quality hearing aids at least every 5 years under the Hearing Services Program (HSP)?
My journey as an audiologist has made me appreciate the profound impact of hearing loss on our quality of life. It’s not just about detecting sounds; it’s about communication, connection, and participation. Improved hearing leads to better relationships, reduced social isolation, and a lighter cognitive load. Think about it: if you’re not straining to catch every word in a conversation, or justifying miscommunication, you’re more able to enjoy the company of those you love.
In Australia, we’re lucky to have a world-class hearing healthcare system that offers subsidised care to pensioners and DVA card holders. If you qualify, you’re free to pick and choose between a range of hearing care providers, settling on the one that best meets your needs. This way, not only can you choose from a wide range of fully or partially subsidised hearing devices, but you can receive your care from the team who puts your interests first.
But let’s address a misconception about ‘free pensioner hearing aids’: Whilst these devices might not be decked out with every top-tier feature, they are efficient, meeting rigorous Australian standards and can be tuned for various environments. Some people believe these government-subsidised hearing aids might be worthless because they’re ‘free’ for eligible pensioners.
This isn’t the case. Not only are the devices worth over one-thousand dollars a pair, but they are also perfect for many people, especially those with quiet lifestyles. They excel in one-on-one conversations in quiet settings, for watching TV, and provide crucial auditory stimulation.
Like all technology hearing aids have seen impressive advancements recently. Even within the government’s subsidised range, technologies like multi-directional sound processing and noise suppression have become available. Finding the right device should always begin with the Audiologist understanding what your goals are. At “A Better Ear”, we operate according to a patient-centred regime, that starts by listening to your motivations and helping you develop meaningful and practical listening goals.
In our field, it’s essential for patients to be well-informed. Care options and entitlements can change, rumours of unscrupulous operators abound, and the Hearing Services Program may undergo updates.
Always ensure you’re getting impartial health advice and that you know your entitlements by speaking with an independent patient-centred team of professionals.
Remember, prioritising your hearing health is an investment in your overall well-being and quality of life.


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Irrfan Khan makes his Instagram debut
After Katrina Kaif, it’s Irrfan Khan who has now breached the shores of Instagram. The method actor made his debut today putting some retro photos of his and they are too cool for school alright. One of the pictures to put up on the actor"s account is of him riding a horse as a young man. 'Somebody had told me that to be an actor one must know how to ride a horse. So I started taking lessons, which went in vain because I can"t ride a horse even now, but made sure that whenever I sat on a horse, my look would be reminiscent of Rajesh Khanna ji. Hero toh banna hi tha,' Irrfan told Mumbai Mirror. Another image has him recreating the iconic Jai-Veeru pose from Sholay.

domain: celebrity


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Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb sought Bangladesh to liberalise its import rules so that the products from Tripura could be easily exported to the neighboring country.
“There are barriers in exporting products like rubber sheet from Tripura to Bangladesh. However, the same products could be sent thorough Benapol border in West Bengal. We have listed 17 items which we want to export to Bangladesh through Akhaura border here,” Deb told reporters.
According to him, if these items can legally be exported then both the Governments will be benefited in the form of revenue and stop illegal trade.
In the 17 items that the Tripura CM wants to export to Bangladesh include rubber sheet, tea, cash nut, pineapples, jackfruits, ginger and black pepper.
Deb said that he would also raise this point in the plenary of the North Eastern Council to begin in Shillong on Monday where many Central ministers would remain present.
Deb said he would also take up the matter with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, NITI Aayog and even the Prime Minister.
“We like open market policy. We get many items from Bangladesh including tasty Hilsa and even vegetables and that is why the Government of India is opening border haats. We have proposed for four more border haats so that the economy of Tripura can grow through legal trade,” he said.
Chief Minister deb said, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi has set a target to double the income of the farmers by 2022. But adopting scientific method of farming we have already improved the production along with better market linkages and thus improved the socio-economy of the farming section.”
The Chief Minister informed that Tripura holds the first position in water-efficient farming State in the northeastern region.
Deb further said Tripura Government is working hard to implement the Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s dream of doubling the income of the farmers by 2022.

domain: agronomy


Elevations, slope angles and aspects
6200-10k, angles over 40°, all aspects.
Strong wind from the northwest drifted and scoured exposed terrain with effects noted down to around 8k.
Shallow wind drifts over facets were common, even in sheltered areas.
Old rain crust on the surface, rime crust from February 5th on the surface,
pole probing to the ground in shallow snow locations etc indicate variability of conditions.
Mild temperatures were melting
observed hoars and adding interest to creep rate.
Snow cone snow found on southeast facing suggests a ripening corn cycle, likely hampered by weather guessed increased south wind.
Clear skies, light wind and mild temperatures.
Mostly stable snow in the area.
Potential for reactive shallow wind drifts, especially over facets, exists.
Wet activity with warming.


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Its April and I have continued my pledge of not buying sewing fabric of any type, craft dressmaking or upholstery, that’s such a lot NOT to look at or buy! Yes its been hard, but you don’t achieve great things without a bit of effort. Restraint for me, is always an effort, so I have stayed away from markets shops and most difficult of all, the internet.
By writing about it here it becomes a therapy, commit it to the ether and you cannot erase the promise even to yourself.
Here are a couple of shots of my recent makes, resourced from my drawers and cupboards.
Those of you who have a very good memory may remember I was attempting to create an indispensable doggie walking bag for my favourite furry friend Louis, above?
With a month long holiday and various other interruptions I was only able to finish it off last week. I had made the interior before we went away in July, so it wasn’t too bad. But the requirements were quite exact, so it took a lot of head scratching.
I have ended up with something usable and practical, but I am thinking of making the second version with a flap across the top rather than a zip inside.
Would be very grateful for your thoughts!
Front with two pockets
Side with extra clip and long strap
Back with secure pocket
It is made from waterproof jacket fabric with a rip stop lining and waterproof top zip.
I wanted to show you what I have been enjoying making these last couple of weeks.
I really like the idea of these wrist bags, you don’t always want your handbag to carry along yet you do need cash keys and phone so this is the answer I reckon. All attached to your wrist so you cannot forget. I fancy making some from glitzy fabrics for evenings, my daughter wants a waterproof one for her dog walking and gym trips, so I will be refining the pattern as I go and having some creative fun.
A clutch of bags
I have decided that Cuthbert has been with me long enough and deserves to find himself a new home in the big wide world this Spring! I will post a couple of mug shots here, as he is not shy, and you can find him in my Etsy shop if you want to take pity on him. I must warn you, however, he does attract attention and he adores it!
If you are interested in his inner self, I posted how I created Cuthbert last year, you can read all about it here. Cuthbert Rabbit “How To”
I have been away ( in case anyone wondered!) and have been itching to get back in my little sewing room which I laughingly call the SUGs room. I wanted more rabbits, but these don’t seem as quick to reproduce as the “real” ones, 4 days work and I have 2 new pals. Pippa the party bunny and Gertie the gardening rabbit! I hope you like them, they make me smile anyway!
Since making the rather large Long Week End bag, and I am away soon on my hols, I set to with this small zip and clip bag from a pattern by ” Around the Bobbin” . I have had it ready for about 18 months, but I like a deadline so made it in a day. The instructions are so clear and precise I felt that if you go wrong it is your own fault! I needed a pretty bag to use in the evening, yet one that could hold all the bits you need when over seas.
I am happy with the result, and my only wish is that the Eiffel Tower was the right way up on the front, it is one of those fabrics that goes in all directions, so I shall live with it!
Around the Bobbin zip and clip bag
Quite a deep bag
zip and mobile pocket
Passport and card slots behind a zip for safety
For the past two weeks I have been sweating in my little garret room designing and sewing spec cases! Oh my goodness I hear you groan, poor thing she needs a life! Well I am a bit picky and get so enthused in my own little world that little things like this take over. That’s the beauty of retirement, you can work on what ever you like as long as you get satisfaction.
I am at the satisfaction stage right now and my little Etsy shop may have some new goodies soon if I can get the finished articles done now.
Here are some pics showing the morph from original to (nearly) finished spectacle case. Now do you call them glasses cases, spectacle cases or reading glass cases?
Happy with the basics, now to choose fabrics and practice writing with a sewing machine!
I have been guided by my “business manager” that modern men don’t use such fripperies as these, so I am going to offer them only to us fairer sex and personalise them with name or initials if it is desired.
Back to the garret then and see you soon. Happy sewing everyone.
Now don’t get me wrong, I haven’t joined the new year flight to the local gym, the only exercise for me is my foot on the sewing machine pedal! But my fitter other half was very lucky to have been given a Fit Bit to spur him on to even greater lengths. Each time he disappears to the gym, on his bike most times, I grab the chance to get to my machine. This morning though, he was gathering his strength with a lie in and I remembered him saying he could do with a little bag to put his Fit Bit in. Once I had worked out to what he was referring I reckoned it was just the job for Sewn Up Gifts. Rushed down stairs for a cup of tea and set to!
Here is the result, made in an hour just in time for the next gym trip!
I made this from a sturdy cotton moleskin. As it is thick fabric I didn’t line it and it does not fray but still my trusty old Bernina only just made it through the layers. You can make this from scrap fabric and any size depending on your zip collection. You can always cut nylon zips down to size remember.
Add binding strip to top edge
Turn over and press.
Add tabs to zip ends.
Stitch zip to binding
Add any straps etc before sewing together
Good to go!
I can report this little project a great success, I would have liked to have added an outside pocket for any other bits and pieces but I did not want to risk an expensive repair bill at the sewing machine shop!
Happy New Year everyone!
I have been pondering whether anyone else would like to make this bunny rabbit as there has been quite a lot of interest in him. So here goes! Continue reading
Are you prepared to pay 5p for your plastic carrier bags from October? Although quite a few shoppers will add the cost to their shopping bill, and maybe just shrug it off as a good money raising idea for charity, others may want to re-use their own stronger bags and not have to pay 5p to advertise their chosen supermarket or department store.
Got me thinking and as I had some strong printed cotton suitable for crafting bags I have made these tote bags in the photo and a storage dispenser bag for those plastic bags we may want to hang on to! The bags are lined with red cotton and have strong straps, the plastic bag storage tube is made from a french style kitchen cotton print.
If anyone wants to be prepared the totes are £5 including postage (UK only) and the bag dispenser is £3 including postage (UK only). I can make more if needed, just say the word!
I can be contacted on facebook or on Sewnupgifts@gmail.com
Re use your bags.


The Interior Ministry is forging ahead with a controversial plan to build housing on open spaces, despite opposition by environmentalists.
Next week the ministry will bring the plan for approval to the National Council for Planning and Building.
The plan is evoking vehement opposition by environmental groups, which claim there's enough reserve within the cities for building homes. But the plan is likely to be approved by the council, since it is supported by numerous government ministries.
The plan is as an amendment to National Master Plan (TAMA) 35. This master plan determines the scope and location of development in Israel.
Until now, TAMA 35 was based on dedicating designated construction areas within or close to cities, in areas it called "urban fabrics."
The amendment allows the expansion of such areas by up to 2 percent of their current size. Overall, this translates into construction on 7,500 acres of open land throughout Israel.
Before approving this expansion, the National Council will need to see recommendations made by regional planning committees. One condition is that the contiguity of open spaces not be affected.
Approval of this amendment will mean building on over 500 acres of open spaces near Rishon Letzion and on over 650 acres in Jerusalem, as well as on 250 acres each in Netanya, Ashdod and Beit Shemesh. Most of these open areas contain important features such as natural woodlands or coastal sand dunes. According to planners, this expansion of building reserves is justified as a means to meet government targets of planning and approving 86,000 new housing units a year.
A new and significant update in the plan refers to areas that are termed landscape complexes. These areas contain some unique natural attribute or historic or cultural heritage with strict building and development restrictions. The Jezreel valley, Masada, the Taninim and Na’aman streams are such areas. A team of experts advising the Interior Ministry recommended expanding the total area of such complexes to 200,000 acres, while the head of planning suggests that 180,000 will suffice. The Interior Ministry is recommending an easing of restrictions on laying down infrastructure in these areas, thus severely weakening environmental protection given to these areas because of their uniqueness.
The Society for Protection of Nature in Israel commented that “there is no justification for disrupting urban fabrics and expanding into open areas, since there are sufficient land reserves in current urban areas. This would be an infringement of the basic principles of a national master plan which determined the final frontiers of urban construction in Israel. Expanding these urban fabrics will increase the gap between the center of Israel and its peripheral areas. It will seriously impact processes of urban renewal that could increase available housing while saving usage of land.”


G.Skill RIPJAWS KM780 RGB Illuminated Cherry MX Brown Mechanical Keyboard
- In Stock
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Pick up at Rydalmere - $0.00
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RIPJAWS KM780 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard (Cherry MX RGB Brown)
100% Cherry MX mechanical keyswitch in RGB backlighting, per-key programmability, on-the-fly macro recording, 6 extra macro keys, full media control with LED volume display, foldable mouse cable holder, and custom gaming keycaps. The RIPJAWS KM780 RGB mechanical gaming keyboard is designed and built with durability and practicality in mind for the ultimate gaming and typing experience.
- Military-grade anodized brushed aluminum back-plate
- Cherry MX RGB Brown mechanical keyswitches
- Fully programmable keys & per-key backlighting
- Full n-key rollover & 100% anti-ghosting on USB
- On-the-fly macro recording, 6 dedicated macro keys, and media control panel
- USB 2.0 and stereo audio pass-through ports
- Durable 2m braided USB cable
- Extra gaming keycaps, keycap tool and keycap case
2 YEARS WARRANTY
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The Minions will next be seen in Despicable Me 2, which opens July 3, 2013. Today Universal Pictures scheduled Illumination Entertainment‘s Untitled Minions Project In 3D for Friday, December 19, 2014. The spinoff features the Minions characters from the 2010 hit Despicable Me and marks the 5th movie in Illumination’s partnership with Universal. With an all new storyline, Universal says the movie will take full advantage of the oddball Minions in settings with human characters. The 3D-CG comedy adventure will be produced by Illumination’s Chris Meledandri and Janet Healy and will be directed by Pierre Coffin who with Chris Renaud also helmed the original movie and its upcoming sequel. The Minions Project is to be co-directed by Kyle Balda. Brian Lynch has written the screenplay and Renaud will serve as executive producer.
“Despicable Me' Minions Spinoff Dated 2014
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Annuar Musa strong attack on other leaders in UMNO intensified in the time of budget announcement, setting himself clearly away from other UMNO leaders.
Despite being an UMNO minister, Annuar Musa have been been actively attacking other UMNO leaders over several issues, with latest being on the 2021 budgets.
He also started to criticize UMNO’s direction after losing the Sabah state election and declaring his support to Muhyiddin.
When UMNO members demanded for more seats, Annuar called out his members to stop having a superiority complex attitude and consider it is a blessing that some of the MPs are still elected in Muhyiddin’s Cabinet members.
The difference between him and UMNO surface as early as in 2018. In 2018, he urged the party to not defend Najib and even sent a memorandum with signatures of him and several UMNO supreme council members to reprimand Najib on the RM2.6 billion in the latter’s personal bank accounts.
This year, he took another bold move by constantly making statements about a possible grand coalition between UMNO, PAS and Bersatu, despite having no position on that decision.
On another hand, Johor UMNO Deputy Chief, Datuk Nur Jazlan Mohamed and UMNO supreme council member Puad Zarkashi have voiced out against Annuar, saying that he needs to stop being Bersatu’s spokesperson and go behind their president.
However, there are rumors about how Annuar has no longer deemed relevant by people within the party, saying he remained as a secretary general out of pity.

domain: news


SysTools Hard Drive Data Viewer Pro is a program for recovering lost, damaged data from a local hard drive partition. The software supports formatted partition recovery i.e. FAT and NTFS.
• Tool to open and view corrupted NTFS and FAT32 partitions
• Read items from MBR and GPT partitions on PC
• Retrieves full data from NTFS formatted hard drives
• Highlighting possible recovery of deleted files in red on the preview screen.
• Displays all images, documents, PPTs and all other archive files
• Automatically detects both internal and external drives of the system
• Supports all external storage devices such as flash drive, SD card, etc.
• Works with 1TB, 2TB, 4TB and 8TB hard drive.
OS: Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8/ 8.1, Windows 7 Download SysTools Hard Drive Data Viewer Pro 18.1 (24.4 MB):


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MEVP Announces First Investments In Three Lebanese Companies
Middle East Venture Partners (MEVP), has announced their three first investments in Lebanese-based companies: Pin-Pay, iLevel, and Multilane.
This round of funding from MEVP is meant as a growth investment in these companies to assist them in pursuing regional growth and development plans in addition to extending their product offerings.
The three companies that received the investment from MEVP are as follows:
Pin-Pay: A company that has developed a network agnostic platform that allows users to use their own mobile phones to pay anyone, anywhere, anytime; and receive payments too directly into their bank accounts. The company’s goal is to transform the mobile handset into an effective payment tool.
iLevel: A shopper marketing agency, that works on helping sales outlets, through various marketing techniques, to optimize the shopping experience of their customers, and influence them at the point of decision, in order to generate more sales.
Multilane: A technology company that focuses on designing and developing instruments for testing and characterizing optical communication equipment and optical infrastructure equipment.
As mentioned above, these are the three first investments by MEVP after their launch last year with the goal of covering the early and growth stage funding space in the region. MEVP had announced just a few months ago that they had closed US$10 million of their new fund, Middle East Venture Fund L.P. (MEVF).