text:
Incidences of pirates have been an ongoing concern
Australia's home affairs minister raised concerns about the rising threats of piracy that is affecting key shipping lanes in various parts of the world.
Piracy challenges the "maritime and port security arrangements as legitimate shipping lines seek to defend their crews and cargo," said Brendan O'Connor at a port and maritime security conference held in Melbourne.
He added that the approval of the use of private armed guards on merchant vessels "raises a range of regulatory challenges for our government agencies and for our port and maritime operators should such vessels seek to enter Australian waters and ports."
Incidences of pirates attacking vessels in Somalia waters and other north Africa countries have been an ongoing concern. The concern is amplified as pirate boats are travelling further east out into the Indian Ocean.
Source: Seatrade Asia


text:
The Founding of Rome Proca, the next king of the city Alba Longa, had two sons, Numitor and Amulius. To the elder son, Numitor, he left the hereditary realm of Alba Longa; that, at least, was his intention, but respect for seniority was flouted, the father's will ignored, and Amulius drove out his brother and seized the throne. One act of violence led to another; he proceeded to murder his brother's male children, and made his niece, Rhea Silvia, a Vestal, ostensibly to do her honor, but actually to condemn her to perpetual virginity to prevent the continuation of Numitor’s line.
But (I must believe) it was already written in the book of fate that this great city of ours should arise, and the first steps be taken to the founding of the mightiest empire the world has known. The Vestal Virgin was raped and gave birth to twin boys. Mars, she declared, was their father. Neither gods nor men could save her or her babes from the savage hands of the king. The mother was bound and flung into prison; the boys, by the king's order, were condemned to be drowned in the river Tiber. Destiny, however, intervened. The Tiber had overflowed its banks; and because of the flooded ground it was impossible to get to the actual river, and the men entrusted to do the deed thought that the floodwater, sluggish though it was, would serve their purpose. Accordingly they decided to carry out the king's orders by leaving the infants on the edge of the first floodwater they came to, at the spot where now stands the Ruminal fig tree. In those days the country thereabouts was all wild and uncultivated, and the story goes that when the basket in which the infants had been exposed was left high and dry by the receding water, a she-wolf, coming down from the neighboring hills to quench her thirst, heard the children crying and made her way to where they were. She offered them her teats to suck and treated them with such gentleness that Faustulus, the king's herdsman, found her licking them with her tongue. Faustulus took them to his hut and gave them to his wife Larentiato nurse
Such, then, was the birth and upbringing of the twins. By the time they were grown boys, they employed themselves actively on the farm and with the flocks and began to go hunting in the woods; their strength grew with their resolution, until not content only with hunting they took to attacking robbers and sharing their stolen goods with their friends the shepherds. Other young men joined them, and they and the shepherds would pass the time together, now in serious talk, now in jollity.
Even in that remote age the Palatine hill (which got its name from the Arcadian settlement Pallanteum) is supposed to have been the scene of a joyous festival called the Lupercalia.1 The Arcadian Evander, who many years before held that region, is said to have instituted there the old Arcadian practice of holding an annual festival in honor of Lycean Pan (afterwards called Inuus by the Romans), in which young men ran about naked and engaged in various pranks and jokes. The day of the festival was common knowledge. On one occasion, some brigands, incensed at the loss of their ill-gotten gains, laid a trap for Romulus and Remus. Romulus successfully defended himself, but Remus was caught and handed over to Amulius. The brigands laid a complaint against their prisoner, the main charge being that he and his brother were in the habit of raiding Numitor's land with an organized gang of poachers and stealing the king’s cattle. Thereupon Remus was handed over for punishment to Numitor.
Now Faustulus had suspected all along that the boys he was bringing up were of royal blood. He knew that two infants had been exposed by the king's orders, and the rescue of his own two fitted perfectly in point of time. Hitherto, however, he had been unwilling to declare what he knew, until either a suitable opportunity occurred or circumstances compelled him. Now the truth could no longer be concealed, so in his alarm he told Romulus the whole story. Numitor, too, when he had Remus in custody and was told that the brothers were twins, was set thinking about his grandsons: the young men's age and character, so different from the lowly born, confirmed his suspicions, and further inquiries led him to the same conclusion, until he was on the point of acknowledging Remus. The net was closing in, and Romulus acted. He was not strong enough for open hostilities, so he instructed a number of the herdsmen to meet at the king's house by different routes at a preordained time. This was done, and with the help of Remus, at the head of another body of men, the king was surprised and killed. Before the first blows were struck, Numitor gave it out that an enemy had broken into the town and attacked the palace; he then drew off all the men of military age to garrison the inner fortress, and, as soon as he saw Romulus and Remus, their purpose accomplished, coming to congratulate him, he summoned a meeting of the people and laid the facts before it: Amulius' crime against himself, the birth of his grandsons, and the circumstances attending it, how they were brought up and ultimately recognized, and, finally, the murder of the king for which he himself assumed responsibility. The two brothers, Romulus and Remus, marched through the crowd at the head of their men and saluted their grandfather Numitor as king, and by a shout of unanimous consent his royal title was confirmed.

domain: library


It's time to make a creature. Let's start with its body. Stretch down a pair of legs and pull out two arms so that it looks long and lean. On one end of the body, pop on intelligent eyes behind large round glasses. Add a mop of peppery hair and a prominent nose and ears. Sprinkle on scruffy semibeard growth. Call it Will Wright.
Now put the creature in its habitat: the workspace of a computer game developer in Emeryville, Calif. Spread the studios of Maxis Software, which Wright cofounded in 1987, over the floors of two nondescript office buildings. Sprinkle the interior with dirt-encrusted mountain bikes leaning against cubicle walls and overgrown, pumpkin-orange beanbag chairs. Now surround Wright with others of his kind, hunched behind desks, typing at keyboards, PC monitors glowing.
The software engineers, artists, and others who work at Maxis, now owned by video-game giant Electronic Arts, have migrated here because Wright is a legend. Over the past two decades, the 48-year-old Wright, who studied architecture and mechanical engineering at Louisiana Tech University, has utterly transformed his industry with hits like SimCity , in which players build virtual towns, and the best-selling computer game franchise of all time, The Sims , in which players create virtual people and then watch them interact. In the process, Wright has helped forge a new, more toylike frontier in computer gaming, where the main goal is not so much to score points or kill bad guys but to create cool stuff.
The game they're working on this bright February day is called Spore , and it's the most ridiculously ambitious simulation game yet. Sure, there've been virtual worlds like Second Life , which let you customize your characters. In games like Fable and Black & White , the characters even evolve in appearance and reputation based on how the player defines them: the more evil your beast, for example, the more feared it becomes. LittleBigPlanet , an upcoming game from Media Molecule for Sony's PlayStation 3 game console, is built around player-made terrains and characters. But Wright's Spore is by far the boldest in terms of unleashing players' creativity. In Spore the players create life itself--starting with ooze-dwelling, one-celled creatures that learn, grow, and evolve into intelligent beings with advanced cultures and technologies, able to conquer their planets and outer space.
Computer gamers everywhere have eagerly awaited Wright's latest project since he began talking about it in 2000. Spore is finally due to be released this month, more than a year behind schedule. Wright attributes its recent delays to localization, the process of tailoring the game to different countries and languages. Others around the Maxis office cite the boss's high expectations. Wright concedes their point but shrugs it off.
”For games, it is a long time, but for me it's not a big deal,” he says, sipping coffee in his cluttered corner office. ”I'd rather spend a couple of extra years and have it be a big seller than short it by a year or two and have it be mediocre.”
Spore is anything but. Other games may look and sound better, but few games are as original as this one. It offers players far more choice and open-ended play than any game before it. If Spore lives up to its creator's vision, it will likely be heralded as one of those milestones that redefines what a game can be--just as Doom , a first-person shooter game, pioneered fast-action multiplayer competition in 1993 and Guitar Hero delivered the thrill of music performance by introducing a guitar-shaped controller.


text:
Now days we are prone to partying more often. Party is usually associated with food and beverages. In the party we usually eat variety of foods in the quantity which is generally more than our daily diet. Along with eating heavy foods, we drink carbonated beverages or alcoholic drinks. All this affect our liver aversely. Poor functioning of our liver can lead to many health related problems like liver toxicity, weight gain, poor fat metabolism, constipation, indigestion etc.
Moreover, unhealthy food habits and alcohol consumption cause hangover symptoms like nausea, vomiting, gastric problems (belching, bloating, burping), diarrhea or constipation, headache, fatigue (weakness), anorexia (loss of appetite) etc.
The single solution to all these problems is partysafe capsule. PartySafe is a herbal preparation for party loving people. The unique combination of herbs is blended to help you counteract the unpleasant side effects of alcohol intake and protect to the liver from toxins.
PartySafe is for those people who like to responsibly enjoy alcohol, without the unpleasant side effects of hangover.
The great thing about PartySafe is that it really works! PartySafe eliminates acetaldehyde from liver & restore your body with the essential antioxidants and supplements.
PartSafe is a clinically proven ayurvedic preparation that actually provides a better morning after.
Each capsule contains extracts of:
Also Known as Phoenix dactylifera, kharjura provides high energy with a good nutritional value. Khajur acts as a remedy to a lot of human ailments. It is also useful in helping with morning after symptoms like headache, nausea and can counteract alcoholic intoxication.
Also Known as Cichorium intybus. Kasni seeds are one of the main ingredients used for the treatment of various diseases of the liver. The hepato-protective effect is due to its ability to suppress the oxidative degradation of DNA in the tissue debris.
Also Known as Phyllanthusurinaria, Yavastikta is recommended to protect the liver from toxins.
Also Known as Bhumyamalaki (king of bitters). It acts as a tonic, which supports a healthy immune system, liver and urinary tract by acting as a detoxifier. The plant is used for its bitter principles, which has liver protection properties
Also Known as Vitis vinifera, Draksha has been used as body coolant since ancient times. This fruit is one of the important plants used to provide drinkers a better morning after.
Also Known as Emblica officinalis, Amalaki is recommended in strengthening the liver.
Take 1-2 capsule 30 minutes before your first drink or sometime during drinking.
No side effects have been noticed and PartySafe is completely safe.
Partysafe is very effective because it rapidly puts back some of the key ingredients necessary to relieve a hangover and promote recovery.
PartySafe is easy to use and convenient to carry around.
When alcohol is consumed, the liver breaks it down primarily into a toxic substance called acetaldehyde. The build up of acetaldehyde in the liver results in hangover symptoms such as headache , nausea , irritability and fatigue . PartySafe protects the liver and prevents alcohol related hangovers by speeding up the elimination of acetaldehyde
Taking the product as directed will help your body to achieve the best effect for hangover recovery.
CAUTION:- PartySafe capsule will not prevent intoxication, and is not intended to treat or prevent consequences of excessive alcohol consumption. Please drink responsibly and never drink and drive. Consult a physician if you believe that you may have dependency on alcohol.

domain: biology


text:
What We Do
KoldCast Entertainment Media licenses select programming for distribution via the KoldCast TV Network. The producers of qualifying programming accrue to a variety of benefits which range from domestic and international distribution across all KoldCast TV distribution venues, to guaranteed discoverability of their programming via a variety of creative methods which include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following:
- KoldCast-designed and created rich media graphics for use on the KoldCast TV Network site and third-party sites
- Guaranteed landing page discovery for all Shows, Short Films and Documentaries
- Guaranteed social-sharing support across all KoldCast social networking venues
- Guaranteed marketing and promotional support via the creation, by KoldCast, of buzz marketing stories and editorial coverage for publication and distribution via KoldCast’s entertainment magazine, The Sixth Wall
Additionally, KoldCast can assist its programming partners with important matters such as entering into direct international licensing agreements, sponsorship agreements, and other funding arrangements.
Most KoldCast TV programming is monetized by the automated delivery of high-quality 15- and 30-second commercial ad spots. Revenue from pre-roll advertising is shared with the producers of the respective programming.
Once selected by KoldCast, it’s easy to decide on becoming a KoldCast TV Content Partner. Your entertainment property…
- … becomes part of the well-respected programming lineup on the KoldCast TV Network
- … accrues to guaranteed discoverability
- … accrues to active marketing and promotional efforts and campaigns
- … accrues to active social-sharing across all related KoldCast sites, profiles and domains
- … is provided with expanding opportunities in international markets
- … is provided with support in sourcing sponsorship and other funding opportunities
- … accrues to revenue-sharing from commercial ad spots

domain: entertainment


text:
Dog Collars LARGE
Proceeds from all purchases of dog collars & leashes will be donated in memory of my beautiful Mexican Rescue Dog ♥Rasta♥ who passed away last month. I will be donating a portion of sales to our local dog rescue here in Mexico, Dog Prana. Beautiful hand woven dog collars with leather backing and buckle. These unique, durable and colorful collars are handmade in Mexico. When you purchase a collar from us, you are changing lives of people in Mexico by providing a living for someone in need. The approximate width of the collars are: XXS - 1/2" XS, S - 1" M, L, XL - 1 3/4" For collar sizes please refer to our chart below in the photos section.
This product is out of stock

domain: pet


text:
Amid tensions in Ladakh, the Chinese military is preparing to show off its soldiers generously. The Chinese Global Media Times recently published a video in which Chinese PLA personnel are seen wearing lip balm and sunscreen. Meanwhile, Chinese soldiers can be heard talking about their skin in the height of Tibet.
Global Times posted a video
The Global Times published the video and wrote that PLA border guards are giving out information on skin care. When soldiers apply sunscreen and lip balm before going on patrol, their serious faces turn cute. They can also give good suggestions regarding the use of military cream.
China wants to create psychological pressure
The Chinese propaganda system continues to publish such videos and photos to create psychological pressure on India and to please its people. Even before that, China’s stakes have turned and been beaten. China wants to show how much it cares about its soldiers. While the reality is that no one has the freedom to oppose in Communist China.
Gave the balloon a rocket launcher
In fact, the balloon, which the Chinese military PLA gave to the rocket launcher, was deflated from one place. When the Chinese propaganda system found out, they removed this photo. Now China is getting serious on social media. Indeed, many countries of the world deploy false weapons to deceive their enemy countries in time of war.
Drones disappear, Chinese army transports goods from mules
The Global Times wrote in the report that the Chinese military’s Tibetan militia transport units also use mules and horses as a practical approach to supply them in harsh environments at higher elevations along the border. . The Tibetan Militia Soldier’s Supply Unit in Rutog County of Nagy Province of southwest China’s Tibet Autonomous Region provides logistical support to the troops of the China People’s Liberation Army (APL).
Chinese media try to spread propaganda
Broadcasting propaganda, Chinese media CCTV published a statement by an alleged Tibetan militia soldier. In which he is heard to speak of his support for the Chinese military. However, it has not been confirmed whether he was a Tibetan militia soldier or anyone else. The Chinese government-backed media continue to try to spread propaganda by showing bogus and distorted videos.
Chinese soldiers applying lipbaum and cream

domain: news


text:
Moisture Loving Plants
Moisture loving plants require permanently damp soil & areas which do not dry up completely during warm, dry periods. Ideal planting areas are besides pools & streams, bog gardens, damp/ wetland meadows or edges of damp woodland.
The vast majority of marginal plants are equally well suited to moist soil planting in a wide range of conditions:
eg native marsh marigolds (caltha palustris), yellow flag iris (iris pseudacorus), water figwort (scrophularia aquatica) are all equally happy planted in shallow water, bog gardens, damp wetlands or the semi-shade of damp woodland.
PCN have designed a bespoke range of aquatic labels with all the information required on each individual variety. This will inform customers of appropriate conditions including planting depths, 0 cm = damp soil conditions. Thus, planting depths of many marginal plants is 0-4cm = damp soil up to 10cm of water above soil level.
In addition to the marginal plants growing in damp soil PCN have an excellent complimentary range of bog plants:
Please check varieties of moisture loving plants via the attached link.
Also, check varieties on Marginal Plant list marked ML - varieties which are equally happy in shallow water OR damp soil/ bog gardens.
PCN stocks the entire range of moisture loving plants in 0.5 (9cm) & 1 litre square, solid pots. All plants are well established & ready to be removed fro pots and planted into new area.
Planting & Soil
When planting moisture loving plants ensure there is sufficient humus/ well rotted compost in the surrounding soil. Adding at time of planting ensures there is plenty of feed. Also, well rotted compost prevents soil drying out during extended periods of warm, dry weather as greater moisture is retained in the soil.
Primula Postford White

domain: agronomy


text:
Mandala ink drawing by ArtbyAlyssia on Etsy
and then there's us by Iabri71.deviantart.com on @deviantART/ Reminds me of Jamie and Felicity!
Paint Nite. Drink. Paint. Party! We host painting events at local bars. Come join us for a Paint Nite Party!
We're all travelers in this world. From the sweet grass to the packing house. Birth 'til death. We travel between the eternities. art - Tang Yau Hoong
841397e9cf5929309354b9418b09c5b8.jpg 720×720 pixels
cool drawings - Pesquisa do Google soo pretty
Ballerina, Ballet, Sketch, Drawing / Ballerina, Balletto classico, schizzo, bozzetto, disegno #tutu - Art by Pernille
Such a good drawing

domain: hobby


text:
About سكسس ايراني
سكسس ايراني ايرانيه Grossman was criticized when he threw a game-ending interception against the Detroit Lions on opening day. The original Japanese animation was not created by Osamu Tezuka, the ``God of manga``, who is not probably best known in the West as the creator of Tetsuwan Atom, aka Astro Boy.In a tearful interview yesterday, Jamie said the 1 a.m.
``You have a cord going from your antenna to your converter box,`` he said.
Memorial Day weekend fight started when they returned from the beach and she got a phone call from a mutual male friend.It was built in 1914 and is located near Union Square.
In 2004, Nivea married music producer and solo star The-Dream and in 2005 she gave birth to their daughter and in 2006, twin boys.
Sapphire and Choppy experience a variety of fairy tale and political adventures, including encounters with ice witches and anti-Royal revolutionaries. سكسس ايراني But the omnipresent threat of physical violence explodes only once in a black-on-black knife fight inside the Honeydripper. ايرانيه She was also charged with aggravated assault after ``stabbing/slashing`` husband Charles in their Freehold home May 26, causing him ``serious bodily injury,`` according to papers filed in township court. ايرانيه Nivea`s third single ``Laundromat`` featured singer R. سكسس جامد مصري الهام شهين * Digital television, known as DTV, is an innovative type of broadcasting technology that provides crystal-clear pictures and sound, and more programming choices than ever before. Yes, gossip sites say both singer Nivea and model Lauren London are pregnant by the Lollipop rapper, MTV reports.


text:
NGExchanger, a Bitcoin Exchanger in Nigeria, is posed to change the face of Cryptocurrency and Bitcoin e-currency exchange in Nigeria.
The Local based company is aware that Africa holds the highest potential in terms of Cryptocurrency and in order to provide its large database user, the most reliable and convenient Bitcoin Service in Nigeria and Africa.
The growth of Cryptocurrency is important to Africa has over 2billion people and is rapidly developing at a 25% growth rate annually. Africa is poised to become the next big thing when it comes to e-currency and e-wallet.
The adoption of bitcoin across Africa is a testimony to this. Despite all the challenges the coin exchange system is facing, NGexchanger can see that it holds a great potential
As a business, we are ready to support Africa consumers to use cryptocurrency to purchase goods and make transaction across Nigeria using the website www.ngexchanger.com, Africa and the world.
“Our local experience in Nigeria is helping us to shape the future as we conduct training, enlightenment and much more to help Africa grabs this new opportunity”, said Precious, NGExchanger CEO.


SPF on gunbroker.
Brand new. Never shot. Never loaded.
Custom Shop Kimber 1911 Stainless Raptor II 10mm
Comes exactly as pictured.
$1300 shipped FFL to FFL.
FTF in ST Petersburg, FL with FL DL, FL CCW and bill of sale.
I got 1k rds of 10mm Auto 200 grain FMJ CCI Blazer ammo to sell with it.
Partial trade for new model Ruger Super Blackhawk Hunter (or Bisley edition) in 44mag.


text:
Need for Speed Payback was quite a disappointing game. We gave it quite a low score of 5/10 in our review (which you can read right here), and called it out for a number of significant issues. But the one area where Payback is actually more than just decent, which was something we mentioned in our review as well, is the visuals. They’re not spotless, of course, but for the most part, Need for Speed Payback looks really good. It is now also playable on the PS4 Pro and the Xbox One X, so those visuals have received a bit of a boost- but just how much of a boost? And how do the two versions stack up against each other?
This should really come as no surprise to anybody, but Payback on the Xbox One X looks significantly better than on the PS4 Pro. Both versions run at a mostly solid frame rate of 30 frames per second, but the parity ends there. When it comes to the resolution, the Xbox One X version of the game is a pretty big jump over the PS4 Pro, and though we cannot confirm with certainty the exact pixel count, we can tell you the area that both versions land in.
On the Xbox One X, Payback runs at a resolution of what seems to be native 4K, which looks about as impressive as you would expect it to, while on the PS4 Pro, the game is rendered at more or less 2560 X 1440. It goes beyond just the resolution, though, since developers Ghost Games have made several other improvements in other visual aspects of the game on the Xbox One X, which isn’t something that can be said about the PS4 Pro version of the game as well. On the Xbox One X, Payback’s visuals are boosted by a higher quality of texture detail, a higher shadow quality, as well as reflections that look pretty good (though in comparison to some other games on the platform such as Forza Motorsport 7, they just don’t hold up as well). There’s also decent ambient occlusion, though Payback unfortunately falters in terms of distant LODs. Distant LODs is the one area where the PS4 Pro version of the game seems to have an edge over the Xbox One X. In every other area, such as shadow quality, reflection details, and ambient occlusion, the PS4 Pro version of the game is lagging behind its Xbox One X counterpart visibly.
Ultimately, it’s pretty clear that the Xbox One X version of Need for Speed Payback is the best looking version of the game. It should be noted though, that this is a pretty good looking game to begin with, so if you do decide that you want to play it (we wouldn’t recommend that, given how many other new and great racing games there are out there right now), you can’t really go wrong with either the PS4 Pro or the Xbox One X as far as the visual quality goes. The One X has a very clear and visible advantage, but it’s not as big a gap as you’d see in some other games, such as Ghost Recon Wildlands.


text:
Council Merger Public Meeting
On Friday evening I joined with the Maitland Labor Councillors and Labor’s Candidate for Paterson, Meryl Swanson, to speak with residents of Maitland who are concerned with the NSW Government’s proposed merger between Maitland City Council and Dungog Shire Council.
Many people are concerned that they have felt the strain of Maitland’s seven year rate rise, but a merger could mean the extra money will be funnelled to the Dungog area instead of improving services in Maitland.
There is a lot of concern about how the Baird Government has gone about this proposal.
Last week I also launched a petition calling on the NSW Parliament to discontinue the proposed merger.
I would encourage all Maitland residents who are opposed to the merger to contact my office to sign the petition.

domain: economics


Q&A with project manager
State Highway 243 spans a total distance of 1.5 miles. That makes it the shortest regularly-signed highway in the state of Wisconsin, although only the 14th shortest highway in Minnesota. The bridge across the St. Croix River that takes up a good portion of that mile and a half is set for reconstruction in 2025. The bridge was built in 1953, and carries approximately 2 million cars between Minnesota and Wisconsin every year. The Sun recently chatted with Dmitry Tomasevich, the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) Metro District East Area Engineer and Project Manager about the bridge. He discussed the early stages of planning for the project and how it might affect traffic flow once it gets underway.
Sun: What is the current condition of the bridge and why has it been slated for reconstruction?
Tomasevich: In 2017 a bridge deck repair project occurred to address several bad areas in the bridge deck. MnDOT inspects the bridge annually, the last inspection occurred in April 2021, no new areas of concern were identified during this last inspection. MnDOT uses these inspections of the bridge deck, trusses, supports and a number of other factors to evaluate the overall condition of the bridge and if further repairs are needed or if major repairs are need or if a bridge replacement should be considered. Based on all these factors it was decided that a bridge replacement would be the best long-term solution for the Hwy 243 bridge crossing. WisDOT has also been consulted and concurred with a replacement need for the bridge.
Sun: How much of the bridge will be rebuilt? Will it be replaced completely or simply updated?
Tomasevich: The project team is evaluating possibly reusing the bridge piers or if the entire bridge should be replaced and will look at a number of alternatives in the preliminary design phase while following the environmental documentation process.
Sun: How will river access be affected by the project?
Tomasevich: The project team will evaluate river access and impacts during construction, it is recognized that access to the river and the Osceola Landing are very important and that they both need to remain open as much as possible particularly during the summer months.
Sun: Are there any early estimates on the cost of the project?
Tomasevich: Not at this time. The project team will evaluate cost estimates as they get further into project development.
Sun: Will the reconstruction expand access to pedestrian traffic, and how?
Tomasevich: The project team will consider bridge alternatives that include the bike and pedestrian needs for the Hwy 243 bridge. The sensitive environmental constraints on both the Minnesota and Wisconsin road approaches will also be taken into consideration as these changes are evaluated.
Sun: Is there an estimated timetable on the project once it begins in the summer of 2025?
Tomasevich: The 2025 construction year is a placeholder at this time, actual construction start dates, durations and impacts will be studied and updated as project development continues.
Sun: Will the crossing be closed completely at any time during construction?
Tomasevich: At this phase of project development it’s too early to define construction needs and impacts, but it’s fair to anticipate there will be some bridge closure needs for construction, traffic impacts will be one of many issues evaluated as project development continues.


text:
- A lady has revealed some of the challenges she has been facing after giving birth to seven physically challenged children
- She recounted that her children were all healthy at birth but they ended up with unexplained illnesses when they turned two months
- The emotional mother also revealed that she, along with her kids face stigma in the community they live
PAY ATTENTION: Click “See First” under the “Following” tab to see YEN.com.gh News on your News Feed!
A Ghanaian mother has been granted an interview on a YouTube channel called Oheneba Media where she opened up about her seven children who are physically challenged.
In the interview, she shared that all her children are born healthy but tend to develop an unknown ailment on the second month after birth.
According to her, doctors have not been able to diagnose the exact cause of the strange disease all her seven children are battling with.
The emotional mother revealed that, only three of her children are able to speak and express themselves although they suffer from the ailment.
Enjoy reading our stories? Join YEN.com.gh's Telegram channel for more!
She also shared that the children are never left unattended to and that at least herself or her husband stay behind to care for them if one of them needs to go out.
The mother of seven recounted that her children unfortunately face stigma from members in the society.
The woman shared more about her struggles with her physically challenged children.
According to her, she has been told by pastors that it is some members of their family who are harming them spiritually.
Watch the full video linked below;
YEN.com.gh earlier reported that the story of a Ghanaian woman identified as Gladys who got blind and was left to her fate by her husband surfaced online and caused huge reactions among netizens.
The video sighted by YEN.com.gh on a YouTube Channel called Bones Man TV had the mother of four sharing that she contracted a disease which eventually left her blind.
After sometime, she along with her kids were abandoned by her husband and she had to take full responsibility of them. As a physically challenged mother, Glady resorts to begging on the streets to be able to feed herself and her children.
One of her children is incapacitated and is completely dependent on her. The young mother is therefore asking for helpers to come to her aid.
Anyone who is in the position to be a blessing to Gladys and her family can donate to the following mobile money numbers; 0540169707 and 0202072024. The registered name is Clinton Yeboah.
Our manifesto: This is what YEN.com.gh believes in


text:
Looks for Outside Partners
Even mighty Microsoft can’t go it alone on the Web. After launching most of its content sites on its own, the software giant has decided to push for a mass audience by striking deals with outside distributors.
Until now, Microsoft’s content has been available as channels on its Internet Explorer browser, through the proprietary Microsoft Network and selectively via the Internet. Its interactive media group includes MSN, the local content Sidewalk sites, CarPoint, travel agent Expedia, Microsoft Investor, MSNBC on the Internet, Slate magazine and Mungo Park.
The first deal to close was between Slate and America Online. Microsoft will pay AOL to put Slate on its newsstand channel. Slate will have a keyword on AOL, and the online service will occasionally feature Slate stories on its news channel. Microsoft will pay a one-year flat-rate fee for a guaranteed number of user impressions on AOL. Both companies will share monthly advertising revenue.
Distribution deals for other IMG properties are expected to be announced within the next two months. Each property is negotiating for as many outlets as possible. “Exclusivity isn’t a big thing any more,” said Rogers Weed, publisher of Slate. “It’s about achieving a scale.”
Other key targets for Microsoft distribution are content aggregators, most likely Yahoo!, Excite and Infoseek, sources said. “All the IMG properties are discussing different options,” Weed said. Snap!, CNET’s forthcoming online service, is expected to use MSNBC, Expedia and Investor to provide headlines for its news, travel and money categories.
Analysts said Microsoft has little choice but to turn to AOL and others to build a mass audience. The Microsoft Network, with roughly 2 million subscribers, trails far behind AOL’s 9 million. “They haven’t scaled MSN and promoted it as aggressively as AOL,” said Chris Stevens, an analyst at the Aberdeen Group. “AOL controls the consumer market.”
“We’re trying to build the businesses by building brand and having the brand exposed to more and more people,” commented Jeff Sanderson, IMG’s general manager.
Get Adweek's Brand Marketing Daily Newsletter in your Inbox
Today's highs and lows of creativity


text:
Finding one’s feet in the First Division
Week 6 Independent v College 7.11.2016
The match got off to a brisk start on what was to be another cold night. The badminton was far from cold, however, with many closely fought battles from start to finish.
Jubilant from their previous game against Westholme, the away team, College, knew they would have to work hard. And work hard they certainly did. In the first ladies’ doubles, Karen Lamb for Independents partnered the experienced Pam Parkinson as they faced the ever smiling Ann O’Grady and the young player from Versailles, Cecile Planque. This was to be the first of many close games. Cecile cleverly exploited the oppositions’ backhands and Ann’s quick, flat game often had the home pair scampering after the shuttle. There was some nice aggressive play from Karen mid court and the ever steady Pam rarely put a foot wrong. In the second ladies’ game, Karen partnered Gill Fourie, whose excellent line judgement and tight net anticipation meant Ann, this time playing with the Lifetime Sailing Award lady herself, namely Carol Yates, had to battle hard to keep the rallies going. The strength of the home ladies, however, eventually saw both matches fall to Independents.
In the men’s doubles, the experienced partnership of Nigel – a real Captain sweeps the court (do you remember him!) – Shuker, first with Phil Livesey and then with Richard Done, faced the enthusiasm of young Will Pang for College as he partnered first Paul Ainscoe, followed by James Aldred. After a close opening game where Phil’s delicate drops to the net and deceptive pushes really stretched the College duo, the Independents’ men went on to control the second game. Richard Done’s intelligent tactical play saw the experienced home pairing eager to take dominance of the final men’s game. Some excellent energetic defence from young Will, along with James’ wicked cross court back hand drive courtesy of his squash, meant the opposition had other ideas and made for another closely fought match.
In the mixed doubles, Independents continued to make their mark on the match. At top mixed, Pam and Phil took on Cecile and Paul. Pam’s tight net play and anticipation resulted in some delicate touch play by the College gent, Paul. On the adjacent court, Gill and Richard for the home team faced Carol and James in another very good humoured match. Tight serving from Gill, however, coupled with Richard’s court awareness meant the Independents’ pairing were always in control. As the number 3 couples went on court, namely Karen and Nigel for the home team and Ann and Will for College, we knew we were in for another battle. Nigel’s steeply angled smash and Karen’s beautiful cross court winners forced the away pairing to really battle hard. Ann’s never say die attitude, coupled with Will’s intelligent body smashes to the lady, resulted in a very close first game. As the top two mixed couples’ turned round, the third court became free, which brought the game to an early conclusion.
It really doesn’t matter about the final score: what impressed me was College’s reaction. “Next year, we will know our opposition. Next time we will know how to play them, and we will learn from this” were the sentiments I heard from the whole team throughout the night. Their support for one another (dare I say camaraderie) was sustained from the first to the last match; this speaks much for a team finding its feet in the First Division.

domain: sports


As one of the world’s leading analytical instrumentation companies, Bruker covers a broad spectrum of advanced solutions in all fields of research and development. All our systems and instruments are designed to improve safety of products, accelerate time-to-market and support industries in successfully enhancing quality of life. We’ve been driving innovation in analytical instrumentation for 50 years now. Today, worldwide more than 6,000 employees are working on this permanent challenge, at over 70 locations on all continents.
As a project system manager in Bruker JV SEMI team you will design and develop high performance metrology instruments that satisfy a variety of measurement needs in a diverse application space. Primary responsibilities include system design, prediction and evaluation of system performance, conducting or directing end-to-end system level testing, evaluation of new technologies and briefing customers and management on proposed solutions.
Other duties as assigned


text:
The night was just beginning, but the Historical Center of Cartagena de Indias was already full of life. I walked with several friends looking for a place to chat, when we heard a guitar playing a majestic “bolero”. We followed its sound from the “Calle de la Factoría” and we arrive at the “Plaza Santo Domingo”. At that moment I could clearly hear the voice of a singer while he played the guitar in the crowded square.
In front of me, the Santo Domingo Convent stood imposing. The statue of the “Gorda Gertrudis”, created by famous Colombian artist Fernando Botero, lay reclining as usual, turning its back to the tourists and locals who enjoyed the restaurants around. The wooden tables arranged in the middle of the square, provided an elegant touch and suggested that this was the right place to talk with my friends.
We decided to sit and have some cocktails under the dim orange light that radiated a huge lantern. The music lulled me, and the fresh breeze made me feel calm; the “Plaza Santo Domingo” is the ideal place to enjoy a glass of wine, to share with special people for you, and contemplate the magic of the Walled City in a romantic and serene atmosphere.
There was a huge influx of people, but tranquility ruled in that place. When I looked around, I could only see faces of happiness; next to us there were carriages pulled by horses, and, above us, representing the priceless architecture of the city, beautiful balconies were located, which seem to watch everything from the heights. After we listen to a round of “boleros”, I saw a group of urban artists pass by, improvising lyrics among laughs.
Without a doubt, the “Plaza Santo Domingo” is a place where all kinds of cultural expressions and tastes come together. A mandatory destination for those who visit Cartagena and for locals who want to experience one of the greatest charms of the “Heroic City” (the way Cartagena is called).
After we finished the cocktails, we decided to keep walking the Historical Center’s streets, so we could get to know more of the beauty of Cartagena, which, as the song by Jaime Echavarría says, is a “pretty Caribbean and Colonial corner”.

domain: artistic


Stairs, Stunning Metal Railing Parts Outdoor Metal Stair Railing Kits Types Of Metal Railing Parts: amusing metal railing parts
Published at July 29th, 2017 04:43:50 AM by Montelo
Marked as exterior wrought iron railing parts topic and iron handrails for stairs discussion and wrought iron handrail subject also indoor stair railing kits area of interest also exterior wrought iron railing object or wrought iron handrails subject also Stairs, So don't forget to check out the main article in amusing metal railing parts
© 2018 psykoptic.com. Reproduction without explicit permission is prohibited. All Rights Reserved.


text:
In the quest for effective weight loss solutions, individuals often encounter a myriad of products promising swift and efficient results. One such product that might have caught your attention is Slimall. As with any weight loss supplement, it’s crucial to delve into the ingredients, mechanisms, and potential effects to determine whether Slimall can genuinely contribute to shedding those unwanted pounds.
Slimall, as per your clarification, appears to be related to Slimall, a medication that was once used to assist in weight loss. It’s important to note that the landscape of weight loss supplements is dynamic, and regulatory changes can impact the availability and safety of such products. Sibutramine, in particular, was withdrawn from many markets due to its association with serious cardiovascular risks.
The Mechanism of Slimall:
Slimall operated by altering neurotransmitters in the brain, affecting serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. These neurotransmitters play a role in regulating mood and appetite. By influencing them, Slimall aimed to create a feeling of fullness, ultimately reducing the intake of food and contributing to weight loss.
Safety Concerns and Regulatory Actions:
Despite its initial popularity as a weight loss aid, Slimall faced mounting safety concerns. Studies linked the use of Slimall to an increased risk of cardiovascular events, prompting health authorities worldwide to reevaluate its safety profile. The U.S. FDA, among others, issued advisories and eventually recommended the removal of sibutramine-containing products from the market.
The Risks of Using Slimall:
The association of Slimall with cardiovascular risks underscores the importance of caution when considering weight loss supplements. Cardiovascular events, including heart attacks and strokes, are serious health issues that should not be taken lightly. The risks associated with Slimall led to its withdrawal from many markets to safeguard the health of consumers.
The Importance of Professional Guidance:
Before delving into any weight loss regimen or supplement, including those related to sibutramine or Slimall, seeking professional medical advice is paramount. Healthcare professionals can assess individual health conditions, potential contraindications, and advise on safer and more effective weight loss strategies.
Alternatives to Weight Loss Supplements:
While the allure of a quick fix is understandable, sustainable weight loss often involves lifestyle changes. Incorporating a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and adopting healthy habits can contribute to long-term weight management. Consulting with a registered dietitian or a healthcare provider can help create a personalized plan tailored to individual needs and goals.
In the ever-evolving landscape of weight loss supplements, caution and informed decision-making are crucial. The history of Slimall, which may be associated with Slimall, serves as a reminder of the potential risks inherent in some weight loss aids. Safety should always be a top priority, and individuals should approach weight loss with a focus on overall health and well-being.
In conclusion, the question of whether Slimall can cause weight loss is intertwined with the safety and efficacy of its ingredients. As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, I lack specific information on Slimall, and it’s essential to stay informed about any updates or regulatory changes. Always consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice and explore sustainable, health-centric approaches to weight management.
To read more about the relationship between medicines and weight loss click here: https://www.firstpharmastore.com/ativan-and-weight-loss-myths-and-realities/

domain: medical


text:
The NHL is on pace to have more American players than Canadian players in 11 years
The percentage of NHL players who are from Canada has fallen to 46.1%, according to data collected by QuantHockey.com. Meanwhile, the percentage of US-born players in the NHL is up to 25.7%, its highest level ever.
The gap between the two nations (20.4%) is the narrowest ever. Just 16 years ago, the gap was 40.3%. Just three years ago, the NHL was still mostly Canadians, with over 50% of the players born above the border.
If the trend seen over the last few years continues, the NHL could be more American for the first time by 2028. In 11 years, US-born players are projected to be above 30% and their Canadian-born counterparts are projected to fall below 30% of all NHL players.
Mike Nudelman/Business Insider
- Surrogacy rules changed, couples with medical condition can use donor gametes
- Reliance Jio and Airtel add subscribers as Vi’s subscriber base continues to decline
- Sensex, Nifty advance in early trade on positive global cues
- Infosys CEO Salil Parekh joins USISPF Board
- Manohar Joshi: The 'Sir' with a stern demeanour


text:
Jatiya Sangsad Deputy Speaker Advocate Fazle Rabbi Mia on Thursday underscored the need for finding out alternative agri-produces to stop tobacco farming.
"Tobacco is a cash crop, but simultaneously it is harmful for the nation. So, before stopping cultivation of tobacco, we have to find out alternate crop for the farmers," said Fazle Rabbi Mia while speaking as the chief guest at a `National Dialogue 2020? at CIRDAP auditorium, reports BSS.
Chairperson of Campaign for Good Governance Abdul Awal chaired the dialogue while Khodeja Nasrin Akter Hossain MP spoke on the occasion.
The Deputy Speaker said Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has pledged to make the country drug and tobacco free by 2040. The production of tobacco is gradually falling and farmers are now cultivating maize instead of tobacco, he added.
Fazle Rabbi Mia also urged farmers to cultivate corn more instead of tobacco to utilize their land and meet the local demand of foods.


A journey into Romania's
child care protection system
"Being positive about HIV"
Gaining access to child care institutions can be complicated, but in this case it led to some interesting insights about HIV and child abandonment.
Rupert Wolfe Murray, 22nd June 2005
It has been a long time since I visited a child-care institution in Romania and I was reminded what an intimidating experience it can be: the buildings tend to be large and forbidding; there is usually a guard and some stray dogs at the gate; the local authorities are not really geared up to receiving visitors, especially the media, and it can be really hard to find out who you should speak to, what are the phone numbers and which authority (central or local?) has to give permission to visit the institution. Indeed, it is difficult to know which institution to visit, where they are and who is in charge. Needless to say, few of the local authorities have a dedicated press officer dealing only with child protection issues - and if they do, their job is very much "reactive" i.e. reacting to negative coverage in the local press. It is rare to find a public institution anywhere in Romania , in any sector, which give journalists a concise briefing (or fact sheet) about their activities, and child protection is no exception. You have to work out for yourself what is going on, who to contact and how to gain access. Foreign journalists do this by using local "fixers" or translators, an increasingly sophisticated breed of service providers who can identify within minutes the person in charge, apply the right pressure, open the right doors, and facilitate the visit.
As a writer working on an EU Phare project for the promotion of child rights in Romania , it was not feasible for me to use a professional media fixer and I had to make the call myself. And what usually follows "the call" is a request for a fax explaining who I am and what I want. This is standard procedure in Romanian institutional life - no decision about a visit can be made without "the fax" - and it makes sense. My fax was never actually answered but the fact that I had found out who to send it to, and had actually sent it, felt like a small step forward.
A week later I was in the small, picturesque city of Piatra Neamt , in North East Romania, trying to call the institution I was planning to visit. But nobody ever answered the institution's phone number, I had the wrong number for the director and although the Directorate for Social Assistance and Child Protection were friendly, they made it clear that I was free to visit the institution if the director approved, but they couldn't help contact her. This was a good sign in terms of transparency but didn't really help me gain access. What to do? In the end I asked a taxi driver "where can I find the Placement Centre on the 1 st of December 1918 street?" He told me where the street was but said "there's no Placement Centre there". Should I believe him of keep searching? I found the street, slowly drove up it and it soon became clear that the huge dilapidated mansion, with a couple of blocks built in its front garden, was in fact my destination. I went in, wandered around a bit, asked some kids and was eventually led down a carpeted corridor to meet Felicia Sandu, the director of the "Calin House" section of the Placement Centre.
Once inside the director's office everything changed and my impression of the system being forbidding, confusing and inaccessible just melted away. How could such friendly and warm people be anything but informative and helpful? One of the strongest impressions one gets from these visits is that both the staff and the children are delighted to be visited, and it is clear that they don't get many. Once you get past the forbidding exterior you realize they want more visitors, and that perhaps they should work at ways of making these a bit easier.
Flashback to Edelweiss talent competition
At this point I need to jump back in time and explain what it was that brought me to this dilapidated mansion in the north east of Romania . I work for the EU funded project called Educational Campaign on Family Advisory Issues and Child Rights, a project which aims to promote child rights in Romania . My job is to raise awareness among the international media that Romania has indeed reformed its child care protection system, and what better way of doing this than profiling some of the children in the Romanian care system. But how to find these children, who should we focus on and how can we present "success stories" without appearing rather artificial and propagandist.
The answer came in the form of the Edelweiss talent competition which is an annual event which promotes talent among children in care. Edelweiss has been going for three years now and this years event consisted of a concert at one of Bucharest 's biggest indoor arenas, Sala Palatuilui, with four and a half thousand screaming children enjoying some of Romania 's top bands. The whole event was broadcast live on the public television network, TVR1, and nine categories of winners (including sport, art, dance and literature) were presented with prizes . This all took place on June 1 st , which is the international day of the child, a week before my visit to Piatra Neamt .
A day before this big concert the real talent competition was coming to a head, a competition which had been building up over several months in all of Romania's 42 counties, and is the one opportunity the children in care have a chance to express their talents. I took the opportunity to get out of my office and finally meet some of the children in Romania 's care system, something which I had been planning for some time but had for various reasons never happened. My plan was to visit the Xenepol school in Bucharest and conduct some interviews with children.
Things didn't work out like that as the atmosphere in the school was wholly inappropriate to conducting interviews. The school was completely packed. Xenopol school is a big place with hundreds of students and on the 31 st of May they had 200 visitors from all over the country, children from child care institutions queuing up to display their talents and try and win a prize (scholarships). The atmosphere was electric, buzzing with enthusiasm and the energy of children who have escaped from their environment for several glorious days. When I said I wanted to do interviews I immediately had three children attach themselves to me and we criss-crossed the school in search of a quiet space to do the interviews. It was impossible to find. However, we did find somewhere to sit down and we did manage to have a good talk and to exchange addresses, and I did promise to try and visit them in the coming weeks. Carrying out an interview was impossible as they kept interrupting; as soon as I asked one kid a question another one would answer. It was absurd, but amusing and what we were doing, in fact, was building up a bit of a relationship, a rapport.
Out of the three students I was attempting to interview the one who impressed me the most was Ana Maria Surdu, even though it was she who was doing the most interrupting. She didn't impress me with what she was saying, she impressed me with what she wrote. She pulled out a scruffy piece of paper from her bag, ripped off the bottom half of it and asked if I would be interested in reading it. I said I would be interested and slowly read it (being British I sometimes have a problem understanding written Romanian).
Ana Maria's story is short, powerful but not sentimental. She writes about a boy called Razvan who is HIV positive and not ashamed of it. Razvan knows that this condition cannot be spread very easily and, as long as precautions are taken, he is not a danger to others. He wants to spread the word about HIV not being such a terrifying thing; he wants to talk about it. Having read the short story I looked at Ana Maria, and she said "I am Razvan." And that was about the extent of our interview.
I was really impressed by this exchange as I had been led to believe that children with HIV are severely discriminated against in Romania's education system, and I had heard say that children with this condition are effectively barred from school. I had always assumed that the children with HIV would be ashamed of themselves, would be hidden away from public view, alone and miserable, and I had never imagined that a child with HIV would be so strong about it, so unashamed. But I had never actually met anyone with HIV so all of my own prejudice on the issue was built up on what I had heard and read, in other words second and third hand sources. I was determined to find out more.
Ana Maria Surdu lives in Piatra Neamt .
Inside the office of the director of Casa Calin, where Ana Maria lives, sweet Turkish coffee and fizzy mineral water was served. The atmosphere was relaxed, the director was open and communicative and people were coming and going, the county director of Social Services and Child Protection was apparently on his way (not to see me) and the atmosphere was good. Things were going on.
Ana Maria was sent for and she soon appeared. But she seemed rather embarrassed to see me and said she had a bad headache. I could imagine the kind of pressure she felt she was under: after a short meeting in Bucharest a foreign man comes to visit her (was I her first foreign visitor? Did she actually believe I would turn up?); the room was full of teachers and directors; it wasn't the right place for an interview and so she did the right thing and disappeared. However, this was not a problem as I knew she had the instincts of a writer and I wanted to support this by offering to publish anything she wrote on our project website (you can see some of her material attached). I saw her later in the yard and we talked a bit and agreed to keep in touch by email, which I suspect is easier said than done on her part.
Then Dan Lopsa, the Director of Social Services and Child Protection for Neamt County turned up and the conversation took a new turn. The same relaxed informal atmosphere prevailed and they had some issues to talk through, but I was able to ask a few leading questions, which led to some valuable insights.
I told them that I had come to see Ana Maria, who had really impressed me with her positive attitude towards HIV. The director of social services was quick to point out that this was not unusual and, in fact, they had spent many years confronting the prejudice they had all feared would prevent them integrating HIV positive children into the education system. He said the exercise had been rather successful and that the message is rather simple - HIV cannot be spread by touch or saliva - and that both the teachers and children in mainstream education had been quick to accept this.
Assuming this was a major success story for Neamt county, the director of services again deflated me and said "the same approach has been taken in the majority of counties in Romania and the only problems I have heard about were in Constanta where a HIV positive child was sent home for a minor disciplinary offense, and the local papers got hold of the story and kicked up a scandal."
My own assumptions about children with HIV had been turned on my head and I was delighted. This sort of thing happens all the time in Romania : the media present us with a series of negative stereotypes - from corruption in the public sector to the high number of abandoned babies - and yet when one visits the supposedly incompetent and corrupt public servants one could come s across people who are really impressive, and always underpaid. The fact that they can stay motivated is deeply impressive. But the public institutions are not active enough in countering the press, they don't do much in the way of actively promoting their many successes, and as a result the public sector in general, and the child protection system in particular, is an easy target for the media. The fact that Romania has now got one of the most modern child protection systems in Central and Eastern Europe has effectively been ignored by the western media, which still assumes conditions are as bad as they were 20 years ago.
My job involves regular contact with the Romanian public sector, in the child protection system as well as in other sectors like regional development and city administration. I am continually impressed with the level of dedication, enthusiasm and professionalism I come across within the public sector, especially at the lower levels, as well as the range of modern and imaginative initiatives one sees. None of this seems to come out in the media. Journalists must work hard to find negative stories as the positive ones seem to be overwhelming. There is also something about Romania as a "horror story" location - think of Dracula, Transylvania , Ceausescu, the institutionalised children in the early 1990s - that has remained in western consciousness. When the opportunity to visit Romania comes up, I suspect the editors and journalists conspire decide to to put a "horror" spin on any articles that emerge simply to get readership . As we all know, "good news is not news", and there are also bad stories to be found in every country. But bad stories from Romania have a particular flavour as the old stereotypes about Ceausescu and Dracula can easily be wheeled out as the journalist describes the background. Romania 's imminent entry into the EU is another gift to newspaper editors, as they can build on this horror image and produce scare stories about the new member of the club.
Continuing my discussion with the Director of Social Services, I threw in another difficult question, hoping to overturn another stereotype; "what about the scandal in Jurnal ul National about the abandonment of babies in maternity hospitals? They say almost 10,000 babies a year are abandoned." The director reacted well to the challenge and did indeed challenge the facts that this national newspaper had presented: "in my county there were 7 babies abandoned in hospitals last year and this year there have been two. All have been placed in families." He explained that UNICEF had quoted a much larger figure as they only had time to check the figures in the maternity hospitals, where mothers often "abandon" babies for a few weeks and then rush off to look after their other children. The situation is indeed worrying, but it is also confusing as the children get moved from hospital to hospital, a range of solutions are available, and the paperwork and reporting side of it is often dysfunctional. This is another issue that needs to be looked into in more detail, and is another issue which the international media are exaggerating. On the 21 st of June 2005 , the International Herald Tribune wrote an article saying there were 10,000 babies abandoned in Romania every year. In 2004, the real figure was actually 4,600, even though few of them can really be considered abandoned. Indeed the whole term "abandoned" is no longer appropriate as some mothers leave their babies temporarily as they simply can't afford to feed them.
My visit concluded with a visit to some serviced apartments in the nearby town of Roman , and I was able to gain an insight into how solutions are found to institutionalised children. There are an estimated total of 83,000 children in the Romanian care system, of which 50,000 are either in the huge network of 12,000 foster families or in a family-type environment . W The others are in various types of "residential care" and w hen I saw the apartments in Roman, where about 6-10 children live in independence and comfort, I was really impressed. The local manager of the flats, which had been bought with EU money for an average price of 7,000 EURO each (now worth five times more) was keen to show me the large "residential care" institution that they had closed down, but I had to rush back to Bucharest .


text:
Earlier this month, Coast Weekend asked readers to creatively color scenes of the coast for Coast Weekend’s Lockdown Lowdown coloring contest.
Participants showed up for the challenge. Many chose bright colors and few stayed within the lines.
The contest featured seven entries, with participants from both Oregon and Washington. Readers had a week to submit their coloring pages, then a week to vote for their favorite entry.
The results are in.
Tied for first place is Roman, of Ocean Park, and Amulya, of Clatskanie. The kids are joined by siblings Ella and Jack, of Astoria, who received the third highest amount of votes.
The winners range in age from 20 months to 11 years old.
Roman, Amulya, and Ella and Jack will receive a gift certificates good for any Fultano’s Pizza location, thanks to a grant through Northwest Oregon Works and Oregon Coast Today.

domain: geography


text:
Chef Matt’s Seasonal Specials-
Daily House Made Soup
cup 6.00-/bowl 7.50-
Fried Brussel Sprouts
parmesan cheese, lemon, red onion gastrique 10.25
12 ounce ribeye steak, flame grilled, bacon brussel sprout hash with mushrooms, red wine reduction 43.00
Seared Sockeye Salmon
poblano & scallion cream sauce, asparagus, heirloom carrot ribbons 26.95
Espresso Mocha Milkshake
blue spirits espresso vodka, crème de cacao, vanilla bean ice cream [ 21 yrs. + ] 11.75
Oh those summer nights.
Saturday & Sunday night dinner special 5pm – 10pm, this is the last weekend! August 25th & 26th.
featuring our special 3-course Prime Rib or Salmon dinner $36.95
Seasonal Wine Features
August summer wine specials at Jimmy’s, featuring a selection of bottled wines for $17.00 per bottle. Don’t miss out on this great offering while they last.
Upcoming at Jimmy’s on Broadway-
Weekend Brunch! Go ahead and sleep in on the weekend! You can still grab brunch at
Jimmy’s until 3pm.
Chef’s weekend hash 14.25
Looking for a semi private place to host a special lunch, dinner or brunch. Jimmy’s can accommodate most large groups. Give us a call to find out more, 206.204.1188
Planning a special celebration, graduation party, or company meeting? Jimmy’s has private event space in the Silver Cloud Hotel, featuring outstanding service, food and beverage. Contact our event manager’s for additional information, 206.325.1400.

domain: food


text:
Beth Leavel, Kevin Meaney & More to Join Jamie deRoy at Birdland, 1/27
January will certainly heat up when celebrated cabaret performer Jamie deRoy brings a special edition of her Multi MAC Award-winning Variety Show, Jamie deRoy & friends, to Birdland (315 West 44th Street) on Monday, January 27th (7PM) for its acclaimed "Broadway at Birdland Series." Proceeds from the evening will benefit The Actors Fund.
Joining Jamie will be Tony Award-winner and fan-favorite, Beth Leavel(The Drowsy Chaperone, Young Frankenstein, Elf); one of the country's most popular standup comedians, Emmy Award- winner Kevin Meaney; ); frontman of the popular band Twisted Sister and "Rock of Ages" star Dee Snider; acclaimed singer and actress Lauren Worsham (A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder and Dog Days); and special guests. Barry Kleinbort will direct, Ron Abel will serve as musical director with Jered Egan on bass and Ray Marchica on drums.
The colorful cabaret series, which has been thrilling New York City audiences for the past 24 years and serves as the basis for deRoy's award-winning cable television show, spotlights a wide variety of well-known entertainers and newcomers lighting up the worlds of cabaret, theater, music and comedy.
Jamie deRoy has won eight MAC Awards, four Back Stage Bistro Awards and ten Telly Awards for her extensive work on both stage and screen. In addition, she has been honored by Theatre Works/USA and Primary Stages. Jamie has appeared onstage with Joan Rivers and has headlined at many of New York's major clubs. She has produced nine CDs in the Jamie deRoy & friends series on Harbinger and PS Classics labels. Her theatre producing credits include Vanya, Sonia, Masha, and Spike (Tony, New York Drama Critics' Circle, Drama Desk, Drama League and Outer Critics Circle Award winner for Best Play), Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella, as well as Off-Broadway's All in the Timing, My Name is Asher Lev (Outer Critics Circle Award and John Glassner Award for Outstanding Play) and Charles Busch's new play The Tribute Artist. Other recent credits include: Nice Work If You Can Get It, Peter and the Starcatcher, The Addams Family, The Norman Conquests (TONY, Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Awards winner for Best Play Revival), Arthur Miller's All My Sons, Off-Broadway: Forbidden Broadway - Alive and Kicking; and Dividing The Estate (Outer Critics Circle Award), Her London credits include: The King's Speech. Other TV and film producing credits include the Emmy-nominated "The Biggest Little Operas in Town" for Channel 13 and Rick McKay's documentary Broadway: The Golden Age and its sequel Broadway: Beyond the Golden Age premiering this April. Her acting credits include appearances on the television shows "Alice," "Spiderman" and "Knight Rider," and in the films GoodFellas, Raging Bull, See No Evil, Hear No Evil and Married to It. Onstage, Jamie appeared with Rene Auberjonois in The Threepenny Opera, as well as in The Drunkard with musical direction by Barry Manilow.
Jamie deRoy & friends at Birdland (315 West 44th Street ~ btw. 8th & 9th Avenues) on Monday, January 27th (7PM) has a $30 cover charge plus a $10 food/beverage minimum. For reservations, please call 212.581.3080 or visit http://birdlandjazz.com. Program subject to change.
Photo Credit: Walter McBride / WM Photos


text:
American League Preview from The Sports Network
Tuesday, May 15th (All times Eastern)
Cleveland Indians (19-16) at Minnesota Twins (10-25), 1:10 p.m.
Probable Starting Pitchers: Cleveland - Derek Lowe (5-1, 2.47) Minnesota - Jason Marquis (2-2, 6.26)
(Sports Network) - After snapping a three-game slide in Tuesday's opener, the Cleveland Indians turn to veteran Derek Lowe, who aims for a fourth straight victorious decision this afternoon in the finale of a two-game series with the Minnesota Twins.
Lowe has allowed more than two earned runs in just two of his seven starts this season, giving him a 5-1 mark and 2.47 earned run average. This comes after he went 9-17 with a 5.05 ERA in 34 starts last season with Atlanta.
The 38-year-old beat his former Boston team on Thursday, pitching six innings of two-run ball while working around nine hits and a walk.
Lowe is 1-4 with five saves and a 5.97 ERA in 21 career games against the Twins, including seven starts.
The Twins hope Jason Marquis can avoid a third straight loss this afternoon when the right-hander looks to rebound from a short outing last time out.
Marquis lasted a season-low four innings on Thursday versus the Blue Jays, as he was charged with six runs -- five earned -- on seven hits and three walks. That came one start after he walked six in a 7-0 defeat in Seattle.
He is 2-2 with a 6.26 ERA in five starts on the year.
"I'm just trying to find my arm slot more than anything," the 33-year-old righty told Minnesota's website. "I'm getting on the side of the ball and so it's more run than depth than I'd like Obviously, the results have shown that."
Marquis has made 272 starts in his career, but only one has been against the Indians. Hew as drilled for seven runs on nine hits and three homers over six innings in a loss, which came back on June 26, 2006 with St. Louis.
Cleveland picked up a 5-4 win last night, with Shin Soo-Choo knocking in the game-winning run in the top of the ninth inning.
With Matt Capps on the mound, Casey Kotchman started the rally with a one-out single. After Aaron Cunningham popped out, Kotchman advanced to second on a wild pitch by Capps, and Choo ripped a 3-2 two-seam fastball into right field to bring home pinch-runner Lou Marson.
"That last pitch just ran back over the plate," remarked Capps. "I made a nice pitch two pitches before that kind of froze him and I was trying to throw that same pitch."
Chris Perez worked a 1-2-3 bottom of the inning to nail down his 12th save of the season.
Kotchman crushed a two-run homer, while Carlos Santana and Travis Hafner each added a run batted in for the Indians, who had lost five of six.
Jeanmar Gomez went seven strong innings in the start for Cleveland, giving up one unearned run on three hits and three walks while fanning two in the no- decision.
"Gomez did a very good job, he threw a lot of strikes and had good life on his fastball," Indians manager Manny Acta said. "He threw a lot of ground outs and did a very good job. I feel bad he didn't get the win, but I'm glad we were able to pull it out."
Ryan Doumit clubbed a two-run home run and Josh Willingham added an RBI double for the Twins, who have dropped seven of their last 10.
The Indians have won nine of their past 10 against the Twins.
05/15 10:58:27 ET


text:
Pocono News Briefs
of identity theft
State police are investigating an incident of identity theft after someone opened two credit cards in the name of a Chestnuthill Township woman.
According to state police at Fern Ridge, two credit accounts were opened using the victim's personal information on Feb. 5. The theives then charged about $3,365 on the cards. Anyone with information is asked to call police at (570) 646-2271.
ransacked in C-hill
An unoccupied home on Blue Ridge Drive in Chestnuthill Township was broken into and ransacked over the past several months, according to state police.
The home at 108 Blue Ridge Drive, owned by a mortgage company, is in the Sierra View development. Unknown burglars broke in by forcing open a rear garage door some time between Dec. 18 and Feb. 22. Once inside, they destroyed the home's interior by writing on walls and smashing holes in the walls. The contents that had been left in the house were thrown around and anything that could be smashed was destroyed.
Anyone with information is asked to call state police at Fern Ridge at (570) 646-2271.
in Hamilton Township
Burglars in Hamilton Township stole several copper items and copper wire from the Eureka Stone Quarry over the weekend, according to state police at Swiftwater.
The burglars broke into the fenced-in business between 3:30 p.m. on Feb. 19 and 7 a.m. on Feb. 20. They forced their way into several buildings on the property and stole copper items they found there. Machines located at the site were also targeted for their copper wiring.
Anyone with information is asked to call police at (570) 839-7701.
U.S. congressional candidate Corey O'Brien will be among those attending tonight's meeting of Carbon County Democrats for Change.
O'Brien, a Lackawanna County commissioner running against 11th District incumbent Paul Kanjorski, will be at the 7 p.m. meeting at Pepperjacks Restaurant, 41 Broadway, Jim Thorpe. A member of Rep. Joe Sestak's U.S. Senate campaign against incumbent Arlen Specter also will be there.
All are running in the May Democratic primary.
Carbon County Democrats for Change also will hold a "Meet the Candidates" night March 23. All Democratic candidates for local and state positions will be invited to speak and answer questions.
For further information, call President Linda Christman at (610) 377-0235.
assault, fights, theft
- Perry M. Delles of Mooney, N.Y., was charged Sunday with assaulting his girlfriend at Caesars Paradise Stream in Paradise Township and then driving under the influence.
- Police said Mabel Fischetto of Ephrata was dropping off her children Sunday at her husband's house in Penn Forest Township, Carbon County, when she and her husband's girlfriend, Sheila Wentland-Hess, got into an argument that turned physical. Both women were charged.
- Police are still investigating the burglary of a Magic Mountain Road home in Price Township in which all the copper piping was cut out from underneath the house, causing $1,500 in damage. This happened sometime between Feb. 1 and 10. Anyone with information is asked to call police at (570) 839-7701.
- Wanda Michaelson, 60, of Stroudsburg, was pulled over by police on Business Route 209 in Hamilton Township at 10 p.m. on Feb. 19 for using her high beam headlights to oncoming traffic and not staying within her own lane of travel. She was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence and charges are pending the result of blood tests.
- Anthony Borrero, of Tobyhanna, was charged with violation of a protection of abuse order on Feb. 13 after threatening the victim during a telephone call.

domain: law


text:
Straight Wedding Dresses
- Simple Chiffon Bataeu Neckline Sleeveless Wedding Dress
- A-Line Pleated Off-The-Shoulder Vintage Lace Gown
- Sleeveless Long-Train Zipper Short Mermaid Backless Ruffled Gown
- Simple Plunging Stain Sleeveless Gown With Illusion Deep V-back And Lace
- Sexy Chiffon Sheath V-neck Floor Length Wedding Dress with Lace and Applique
- Dreaming Long Sleeves Lace Bohemian Deep-V Back Wedding Dress
- V-neck Lace Sleeveless Wedding Dress
- Maxi V-Neck Long Sleeve Beading Sweep Train Lace Satin Dress
- Ethereal Lace Halter Neck Sleeveless Long Wedding Dress
- Column Lace Appliqued High-Neckline Romantic Floor-Length Dress
- Sweetheart Cap Beaded Sheath A-Line Illusion Bell Dress
- Satin Spaghetti-Strap Column Bridal Dress
- Scalloped Floor-Length Train Off-Shoulder Boho Bridal Dress
- Chiffon Lace Bodice Satin Ribbon V-Neckline Cap-Sleeve Dress
- Cap-Sleeved Bateau-Neck Dress With Draping At Back
- country style Cap-sleeve long Lace Wedding Dress With Sweep Train
- Sweetheart Sweep Train Strap Modern Column Gown
- Illusion-Sleeve Floral Satin Sash Floor-Length Sheath Lace Dress
- Plunged Cap-sleeve Chiffon Wedding Dress With Ruching And Illusion back
- Bow-Slit Front-Slit Corset Back Lace Tulle Dress
- Simple Lace V-Neck Sleeveless Deep-V Back Wedding Dress
- Sleeveless Lace Tulle long Wedding Dress With Appliques And Deep-V Back
- Cap-Sleeve Appliqued Waist Jewellery Floor-Length A-Line Lace Dress
- Haltered V-neck Sleeveless Empire Dress With Ruching And Jeweled Waist
- Spaghetti V-neck Lace Sleeveless Wedding Dress
- Sheath V-neck Pleated Dress With Low-V Back
- Bateau Cap-sleeve Sheath Dress With Beading And Sweep Train
- Ethereal Chiffon Sheath Straps Long Wedding Dress with Court Train
- V-neck Knee-length Sleeveless Dress With Appliques
- Tulle Appliqued Bridal Long-Sleeve Trumpet Lace Dress
- V-neck Short Sleeve central-ruched Dress With Lace And Sweep Train
- Illusion-Sleeve Satin Sash Beading Floor-Length Sheath Lace Dress
- Elegant Sheath Off-the-shoulder Satin Wedding Dress With Tiers And V-back
- Brush-Train Es Wedding V-Neckline Sassy Beach Gown
- Illusion-Sleeve Keyhole Long Column Satin Dress
- Plunged Sleeveless Sheath Lace Wedding Dress With Low-V Back And Sweep Train
- Bateau Illusion Long Sleeve Lace Appliqued Wedding Dress With Sweep Train
- V-Neckline Dropped Button Empire A-Line Brush-Train Cap Dress
- Bateau Illusion Long Sleeve Sheath Wedding Dress With Appliques And Court Train
- Lace-Top Crystal Lace-Up Long-Sleeve Dress
- V-Neckline Cap Backless Short A-Line Appliqued Bell Dress
- Lace High Neckline Fitted Inspire Sheath Short Wedding Dress
- Queen Anne V-neck Lace Cap Short Sleeve Wedding Dress
- Lace Satin Ribbon Low-V Back Illusion-Sleeve Bateau-Neck Dress
- Short-Sleeve Lace Floor-Length Long Button-Back Dress
- Trumpet Brush Train Caped-Sleeve Bateau-Neckline Lace Dress
- Floral Embellished Waist Halter-Neck Fabulous Gown
- Flowing Long-Sleeved Dress With Bow And Decoratived Buttons
Straight Wedding Dresses
CUSTOMER REVIEWS (458)Straight Wedding Dresses
I am absolutely loving my dress. Alex was so patient answering all of my questions and didn't charge for the alterations. I ordered this dress in a pink colour and it's just beautiful, the fabric is comfortable as someone else mentioned. This was also shipped extremely fast and although it was a bit too long for me, it was easily fixed with some adjustment. I am very happy with my purchase.
By Carolyn Furin
Love it, so pretty and delicate and it fits true to size. Really what I expected.
This dress is stunning and I cannot wait to wear it on my wedding day! Lucy's work is absolutely amazing! From the second I saw her dresses on Dressafford I knew what I wanted to wear on my wedding day. Her dresses are gorgeous but more than that I love the idea of wearing something that has been repurposed and something that is handmade! This dress is so much more special than anything you can find at a bridal store. I cannot thank Lucy enough for her amazing work and I consider myself incredibly lucky to be able to wear one of her amazing dresses on my special day!
very high quality chiffon and the drapes are great, perfect fit.
By Maiko Sato
Love the dress! Great design and very comfortable to wear it! Thank you.
By Tobi Ferry
Dress arrived on time, really nice fitting. Very good contact with the customer service team.
By Traci Bennett
I love my dress! She worked with me through the entire process. I had so many questions and she was so patient to answer each of them. Such a great quality dress tailored specifically for me. Totally recommend her! Thank you!
By Nadia Christian
Came quickly, amazing attention to details! I'm absolutely thrilled, it fits me perfectly. I had asked for a lining to be put in, and it was done beautifully! Overall, an amazing dress! 5/5 will buy from this site again!!!
By Marianna Sutton
AMAZING! So happy with it! Just perfect, thank you so much. Love you guys. <3
By Amanda Arthur
Beautiful dress! Finished a few days early. Shipping was incredibly fast. The dress is a bit big so I'll need to get it tailored. Truly happy with my wedding dress.
Really beautiful and confortable, many thanks!
By Aly Ginnetti
Very flattering. You get what you pay for. The fabric is soft and the cut is very professional. The whole piece looks so elegant. Thank you for making such an amazing dress!
By Dominika Foster
Vivian was very quick to respond to my order and helped me when she thought the measurements I sent didn't quite make sense. She could have just made it with what I sent and the dress would have been way too big! Great customer support!
By lucy marsh
Awesome awesome awesome my dress looks , fits is amazing! I love the lace and the design, simple, elegant and classic. I have recommended this shop to my girls! hhhhhhhhh:)
By Leah Clark
This is the dress of my dreams and Alex did a fantastic job fitting it perfectly to my measurements. She was very prompt answering all my messages and I am thrilled with the results! Thank you very much!!
- View more

domain: design


text:
Download this Track
Buy on Vinyl/CD
Tags: Translation, Finnish [Add]
Main genre: Rock / Pop
Producer: Mickie Most
Tags: Classic Rock, UK, Single, UK #1 Hit, US #1 Hit, Grammy Hall of Fame Award, 50 Greatest Guitar Riffs [Add]
Contributed by DJ Anubis (16423 submissions)
Be the first to comment on this cover!
Atrocity's People Are People cover of Depeche Mode's People Are People
James Blake's Limit to Your Love cover of Feist's The Limit to Your Love
Soft Cell's Tainted Love cover of Gloria Jones's Tainted Love
Adele's Make You Feel My Love cover of Bob Dylan's Make You Feel My Love
Madonna's Ray of Light cover of Curtiss Maldoon's Sepheryn
Copyright © 2014 WhoSampled.com Limited. All rights reserved.


text:
I can't believe how time flies! It was almost a year ago that I called it quits on the ol' blog and took a much needed break from crafting.
I just LOVE how those nifty stripes and patterns magically appear! And, surprise, this sock yarn is now available at Michael's.
Here's another tiny one that I made for Aya (below). Only it's too tiny for even her itty bitty foot, so I guess it's going on the Christmas tree!


text:
The 2011 edition of the Horizon Report, a joint publication by Educause and The New Media Consortium, has just become available.
It examines emerging technologies in relation to their potetial impact on teching and learning and categorizesthem according to the predicted time of adoption.
The following summary taken directly from the report is a good overview of you can expect to find.
"The internationally recognized series of Horizon Reports is part of the New Media Consortium’s Horizon Project, a comprehensive research venture established in 2002 that identifies and describes emerging technologies likely to have a large impact over the coming five years on a variety of sectors around the globe. This volume, the 2011 Horizon Report, examines emerging technologies for their potential impact on and use in teaching, learning, and creative inquiry. It is the eighth in the annual series of reports focused on emerging technology in the higher education environment."
The 2011 Horizon report includes such technologies as Electronic Books, Mobiles, Game-Based Learning and others.
Click on the image to get the PDF version of the report


The highly anticipated strategy will address issues such as increasing access to local food, providing opportunities to grow and process food in the city, stimulating and diversifying the local economy, improving the health of residents, and reducing the environmental costs of food production.
There’s an awareness that we’ve gotten a bit sloppy about the way we understand our food supplies, and that leaves us vulnerable.
Councillor Ben Henderson
The strategy will also guide future city planning in areas such as waste management, urban design, land use, transportation, and parks.
The city has been holding public consultations to ask Edmontonians how they envision the future of local food production through online surveys, citizen panels, blog projects, focus groups, and conferences featuring talks by food experts and academics.
“In order to come up with answers that will work, there’s going to have to be some creativity involved from all people to try and come up with a solution,” says councillor Ben Henderson.
Food culture is already thriving in Edmonton, says Henderson, and the time is right to empower citizens by introducing more creative food-growing opportunities.
“You’re seeing a real rebirth of farmers markets in the city and rebirth of a huge interest in community gardens and things like that,” he says.
“There’s an awareness that we’ve gotten a bit sloppy about the way we understand our food supplies, and that leaves us vulnerable.”
Some ideas brought forward in the consultations include building gardens on vacant city land, allowing urban chicken-raising and beekeeping, and expanding agriculture on the city’s outskirts.
Hendersen says he thinks interest in local food is growing in the wake of increased transportation costs, increased awareness of food sources, and a desire for higher quality, locally grown food varieties.
But the strategy is not fully citizen driven, and critics say it is being rushed through because it must be approved before further land development on the city’s edge, particularly in prime agricultural land on the northeast side.
Development has swallowed up a large proportion of farmland near Edmonton in recent years. According to Janine de la Salle, a food strategy consultant hired by the city, there are 75 percent fewer available acres since 2006.
Henderson hopes that the new strategy will not only empower city dwellers to create their own sustainable food processes, but will help all citizens gain access to better-quality food— especially the poor and underprivileged.
“We’ve really disconnected from the ability to feed ourselves, and I think there’s a kind of wakeup call with that that we need to understand—that we need to re-establish those connections,” he says.
“I think those create economic opportunities as well,” he adds. “There’s a food business that used to be the heart and soul of this city which we’ve largely let go.”
Dave Loken, council liaison for the project, says the benefits of producing quality food locally include “financial, environmental, and social which can be experienced by encouraging the growth and development of a strong locally based agriculture program in the Capital Region and within the city limits.”
“The City of Edmonton understands that this is not only an opportunity to improve our resilience, but a requirement.”
Urban food expert Wayne Roberts, keynote speaker at the city’s first food strategy conference in May, said Edmonton has a number of key elements that could lead to a successful comprehensive food strategy.
Frequent festivals, a high population of young people, an active NGO sector, engaged citizens, multiculturalism, a food-conscious public health system, available farmland, and local food movement leaders, are all stacked on Edmonton’s side, Roberts said.
The first draft of the new food strategy will be released in the fall.
The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.


CALCOG has partnered with the Caltrans and the California Emerging Technology Foundation to develop a map of near term transportation projects in rural areas that can help facilitate the extension of broadband to underserved areas.
GoHuman is SCAG's community outreach campaign to increase safety and encourage people to walk and bike more through education, advocacy, and events that help residents re-imagine their streets to promote safe walking and biking. Update: SCAG just received a grant for another year of funding for this program.
The second class of the California Academy for Regional Leaders includes 26 up and coming professional staff from regional agencies across the state as well as representatives from Caltrans, Federal Highways Administration, and transit agencies.
OC FLEX, OCTA;s Microtransit pilot program, just completed its first year of a pilot program in two areas where there is little demand for full fixed-route service. In the coming months OCTA will be reviewing the service's performance.
For the past 12 years, the Butte County Association of Governments has been facilitating a multi-species conservation plan that will provide comprehensive protection for endangered species and streamline permitting city, county and transportation projects throughout the county.


text:
I am new on QIIME 2 and not sure how to make the barcode table or/and metadata table, since the sequencing data that we have from Miseq is demultiplexed pair-end, each sample has two files with read1 and read2. The barcodes has been removed in the fastq files. I have looked at the tutorial and found that the demo Casava 1.8 paired-end demultiplexed fastq is close our fastq format, however, by following it I can only generate demux-paired-end.qza as output artifast, then I am not sure what is next step. I tried back to follow picturing moving, but don’t know how to generate a barcode or metadata table. Could you please let us how to do it. Thank you.
Hi @jli! Since your data are already demultiplexed, you can skip that step of the Moving Pictures tutorial. Using
qiime demux emp-single or
qiime demux emp-paired is only necessary if your data are multiplexed.
Once you have your demultiplexed paired-end sequences imported, you can use
qiime demux summarize to inspect the imported data and make sure it looks right. There are also interactive quality score plots that will be useful in determining the parameters to use with DADA2, which is typically the next step in your analysis (Deblur is also an option).
Once you have imported your demux data and inspected it with
qiime demux summarize, you can pick up at the denoising step of the Moving Pictures tutorial. Note that since you have paired-end data, the commands will be different (you’ll want to use
qiime dada2 denoise-paired instead of
qiime dada2 denoise-single). For examples of analyzing paired-end data, check out the Atacama soils tutorial (note: you can also skip the demultiplexing step in the Atacama soils tutorial because your data are already demultiplexed).
Let us know how it goes!
This topic was automatically closed 31 days after the last reply. New replies are no longer allowed.


text:
Seasonal Affective Disorder is a real thing, and it affects thousands of people each year – and many don’t even know it. During the winter months, the lack of sunshine makes people feel more anxious, more depressed, and less inclined to smile. Because of these feelings, many, especially those in the Northwest, turn to SAD lamps to combat their need for sunshine and Vitamin D.
However, there is no need for SAD lamps anymore with the creation of Valkee Earbuds. These ear buds are supposed to shoot light beams through your brain in hopes to trick your brain into believing that you have received adequate sun exposure for the day. No need to keep a playlist of all your favorite upbeat songs on prepaid phones to boost your mood, with Valkee Earbuds the results expected are immediate happiness.
The lights in the ear buds are LED, and are supposed to cause the brain to positively react – assuming that the brain is photosensitive. In addition to preventing the symptoms of SAD, the Valkee ear buds also intend to reduce anxiety, treat mood disorders, increase energy, and enhance brain function. A treatment only requires 8 to 12 minutes out of your day, and the system is only about the side of an MP3 player so you can carry it around in your pocket.
While you might be a little skeptical to believe that the Valkee Earbuds actually work, Nokia’s former Executive VP, Anssi Vanjoki, has placed so much faith in them that he has partially funded their creation. He’s not the only big name tech business person who has done so either. The ear buds are a little high, at $240 a pair, but can you really put a price on happiness?
When you’re agitated, haven’t seen the sun in days, and are tired of the snow being up to your shins, these ear buds may actually seem worth the investment. They may even be good for gamers on a gaming binge. Who needs to pause the game and go outside for adequate sun exposure, when you can just put in your Valkee ear buds?


text:
Sydney (QNN)- The leader of the Australian Labor Party, Anthony Albanese, has reiterated his position, backing recognizing Palestine and stressed that the Australian government is treating that as a priority.
Former Australian Foreign Minister, Bob Carr, tweeted that Albanese told a pro-Israel delegation that “he’s foursquare behind Labor’s national platform commitment to recognize Palestine and in government treat it as a priority.”
“No back down either on Labor’s opposition to settlement expansion in occupied territories. The settlement expansion ramped up by Israel’s new government undermines any prospect of a two state solution.”
Congratulations to Labor leader Anthony Albanese @AlboMP for boldly telling a delegation of the Israel lobby he's foursquare behind Labor's national platform commitment to recognise Palestine and in government treat it as a priority.
— Bob Carr (@bobjcarr) July 15, 2021
The statement comes shortly following reports stating that Albanese attacked the BDS movement and described it as being “based upon a racial targeting of a group, in this case Israel”.
While the Labor party’s Right faction in Victoria has maintained its more supportive position on the occupation state, the New South Wales (NSW) Right – aided by the influence of Carr, has split.