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Story in this post: “The Monster They Couldn’t Kill”
Story and Pencils by Jack Cole, inker unknown
Web of Evil #11 (Feb., 1954 – Quality Comics Publications)
Jack Cole’s dark and disturbing last published comic book story haunts me. I first read it about 6 months ago, and have read it about a dozen times since. I cannot escape the growing sense that Cole was sending out a personal message in this story: a comment on his 16 year career in comic books, and perhaps a bitter statement about the way the industry had changed. I think Cole drew back the curtain and exposed his own inner psyche in this story. Knowing that he would take his own life in despair just a few years later, this story haunts me.
It’s my own theory that Jack Cole wrote at least 8 of the 16 stories he penciled that appeared in Web of Evil #1-11 (I haven’t seen the first story he did, in Web #1). It seems to me that these stories are all better written and revolve around a character’s psychological breakdown instead of an unexplained supernatural event. A more complete explanation of this theory is available in an earlier posting, here.
In “The Monster They Couldn’t Kill,” Cole creates the character of a scientist who has a serious lapse in judgment and makes himself the test subject of an experiment involving atomic energy. Cole begins the story brilliantly AFTER the experiment, our first indication that this is – either deliberately or unconsciously – a story reflecting BACK on his career in comics. It seems certain that Cole created this story knowing full well it would be his last, since it was his decision to go work for Hugh Hefner at PLAYBOY.
Even though he was dismissive of his comic book work, there can be no doubt for anyone that has read Jack Cole’s stories that he poured his heart and soul into these stories, and realized on some level that they represented an enormous effort on his part. This was a guy that clearly LOVED comics. “The Monster They Couldn’t Kill,” then, is a window into Cole’s feelings as he closed this chapter of his life.
The scientist-monster has no voice in this story. Not until the end do we even know for sure that anything of his mind and humanity remain.
Once again, we have Cole’s favorite theme of crazy inventions, which he used over and over in his graphic stories, starting with some of his earliest work on the DICKIE DEAN, BOY INVENTOR stories (1940).
In this story, the focus is not on the invention at all, but the terrible consequence it has had on it’s inventor, and the people around him. We know that Cole himself was an inventor, so if we switch out the scientist with Cole in this scenario, a chilling personal statement about how he may have regarded himself comes into focus.
It’s almost as if Cole is revealing some deep inner part of himself. A grim-faced scientist pulls aside a curtain on page two and we see what this great inventor has become: a giant idiot, barely recognizable as a human. He wears goggles with slits in them, presumably eye protection from when he irradiated himself.
The goggles and his deformed face and body give him a preternatural look, like something out of a Goya painting. I was struck by the similarity between the post-atomic Dr. Fry and Jack Kirby’s Mole Man villain from his FANTASTIC FOUR stories (which was derived from his 1950’s monster stories):
The psychological overtones are rampant in this story. I also wonder if Cole was thinking about the comic industry, which had grown so rapidly and which had seemingly morphed into a world where he was no longer welcome. The industry had grown at a maniac pace. It’s no subtle clue that Cole names the super-computer in the story “Maniac.”
Dr. Fry is a sort of post-atomic age version of Plastic Man, in that his body is deformed by a brand new technology. Going all the way back to Jack Cole’s first adventure story, Little Dynamite, so many of Jack Cole’s stories are about the power – and chaos - that is unleashed when the human body is stretched, deformed, pulled, stunted, or gigantized.
Like Plastic Man, Dr. Fry is a hero, but for different reasons. Dr. Fry’s growth is out of control. Maniac informs us that he will eventually be larger than the earth. In short order, he’s too large for humans to control. He bursts out of a railroad freight car as if it were made of tissue paper. He tears a building down as if it were made of Legos.
But none of this destruction is mindless, as it turns out. Dr. Fry is well aware that he has become the monster they can’t kill… therefore the only solution left in this desperate situation is… suicide. In the last panel of the last story Jack Cole published, the “monster” is praised for taking his own life and sparing those around him. Suicide as heroism.
Jack Cole took his own life on August 13, 1958, just about four years after he wrote and drew “The Monster They Couldn’t Kill.” He wrote two suicide notes, bought a hand gun, and drove to a road outside of town and shot himself in the head. Sadly, two children on bikes found him, still alive. He died later that day in a hospital.
It has never been clear why this enormously talented and powerful creator ended his life so early, in the prime of his life. His last comic book story, perhaps, holds a clue.
Copyright 2009, Paul C. Tumey

domain: literature


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What is the Lehigh Valley Community Foundation?
A community foundation is a collection of many charitable funds...many stories...each reflecting the diverse ways people choose to help their community and support the causes that matter to them. For decades, the Lehigh Valley Community Foundation has helped donors with their charitable contributions with a simple, powerful, and highly personalized approach.
Allentown, Pa., November 16, 2021—Monique Moreno was recently promoted to Program Associate, a new full-time posi > Read More
Orefield, Pa., November 10, 2021—The Jaindl Companies, owner of the iconic A-Treat soda brand, announced today, the eve of Veterans Day, a progra > Read More
Allentown Pa., October 29, 2021—The Lehigh Valley Community Foundation announced ava > Read More
Allentown, Pa., September 24, 2021—The Lehigh Valley Community Foundation (LVCF) recently honored Bernard J. > Read More

domain: news


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CEO of major crypto exchange Binance, Changpeng Zhao, has shared plans of the company to secure two licenses in the Philippines. He mentioned the company’s plans during a press briefing in Manila.
The company is seeking to obtain the virtual assets service provider (VASP) license and the e-money issuer (EMI) license from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).
The VASP license will allow Binance to legally facilitate cryptocurrency trading the Philippines and allow the conversion of cryptocurrencies to the Philippine peso, the country’s official currency.
Additionally, the EMI license will allow Binance to operate and distribute electronic money in the country.


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Ayana Luxe: Drop Earrings in Rose Gold
Classically modern Drop earrings. Perfect match to the Drop Necklace. Handmade in Sterling Silver, then plated in Rose Gold.
- Metal: Rose Gold Plated Sterling Silver
- Earring Length: 4.3cm
- Drop Width: 1.9cm
- Finish: Polished
925 Sterling Silver plated in 14k Italian Rose Gold
or 4 payments of AUD$ 14.75 with

domain: design


The mattress that you depend on for comfort and rest might also cause you to feel sick and unwell, when not cared for properly. With all the moisture, dust, and dirt that your mattress inevitably absorbs throughout its lifetime, it can be a breeding ground of bacteria and make you more prone to diseases. This is why it is important to clean your mattress regularly and take precautions to make sure you are able to extend its life, especially when switching to a more expensive organic mattress.
Organic mattress protectors are the perfect preservers of mattresses. These covers help make sure that your organic mattress is protected from all kinds of spills and moisture, which may cause the quality of your bed to deteriorate. Mattress covers don’t only protect from wetness and leakage of different types of fluids, but also help prevent constant wear and tear as it they help cover the mattress’ seams and stitches from being torn easily or damaged because of daily wear.
Organic mattress protectors also come in padded formats, which add great comfort in your night’s sleep. With a padded protector, you can feel more relaxed as you rest on your bed or as you prepare for your slumber. Cruel and bitter winter seasons are also made more bearable, thanks to mattress covers that help prevent your body heat from escaping, thus keeping good temperature control in your bed.
Some organic mattress protectors also come with waterproof backings and even an entirely waterproof covering, which completely protects your bed from getting wet or retaining moisture. This helps make your mattress more durable and prolongs its life so you won’t have to constantly replace your old, dingy bedding over the years. Mattress protectors are great hygienic and protective solutions for keeping your organic mattress clean and durable.


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Zoysia grass grows during the warm season and spreads very quickly invading your lawn or garden. When the weather is dry, the leaves turn yellow or brown. If it has occupied a large territory, it will be a real headache to get rid of it completely.
Table of Contents
Why You Can’t Remove Weeds Forever
Whichever method you choose, you will most likely have to reuse it, because the seeds of wild species are carried by the wind or birds. They can sprout even from a small piece of the root system, and it is difficult to pull them out completely. Herbicides are also not a guarantee that you will forget about weeds. Besides, many substances are harmful to crops and the environment.
Gardeners advise to properly trim the lawn – do it regularly and never leave bald spots. Timely and sufficient watering and trimming help lawn grasses to develop better. In favorable conditions, they will displace weeds.
At first, identify the plant to be sure that it is Zoysia grass. Use the pictures on the Internet to compare. If you deal with some other weed you can waste lots of time and money and have zero results.
In the south or moderately warm climate conditions, Zoysia grass is preferred due to many reasons. The first is drought tolerance. Also, it is not afraid of foot traffic. In cooler areas, it is very thick, but rich green leaves can turn yellow or beige, which spoils the whole look of the lawn.
Zoysia grass hates sharp fluctuations of temperature. It survives in any stable climate conditions. That’s why it is not preferable for most home gardens. After you have checked the information, go on with the inspection phase.
Inspect the area for the most invaded spots and identify the reasons why exactly these spots are invaded with the weed. Later it will be easier for you to apply herbicide treatment if needed. This creeping weed grows horizontally forming thick mats of grass and chokes all the plants in its way.
13 Methods of Weed Control
Aggressive species interfere with the growth of vegetables, fruit, or crops. If they are not pulled out regularly, they will invade the entire space. Gardening work will become very labor-intensive. It is more convenient to work in the garden with the help of small shovels, hoes, or rakes. The main thing is to do this regularly at the beginning of summer before the seeds appear.
- Digging. It is best to dig up the area with a pitchfork – this way there is less chance that you will damage the roots and a new plant will sprout from them. In the process of digging collect all the roots, and then remove them away from the site.
Cover the free space between the plants in your garden with a dense layer (2-4 inches) of mulch. It will block the sunlight from the seeds and they will not germinate.
- What will fit:
- Pine bark, needles, and cones
- Mown grass
- Wood chips
- Geotextile fabric or black film
Compost, peat, humus may contain seeds of wild species. To check if there are any, pour mulch with water in the spring and cover with film. If green shoots appear after a few days, do not use the mixture. Leave it in a pile for a year. When decomposed, the temperature inside increases greatly, and all seeds die.
- Hand weeding. It is best to pull out the weeds after the rain – they are easier to remove from the moist soil with the root, and this slows down the appearance of new shoots. After you finish weeding, collect the debris and move it outside the area.
- Mechanical weeding. Here a variety of tools will suit. After you remove the root, a hole will remain on the surface of the lawn. It is better to sow it immediately, adding soil. So the lawn will become more attractive faster and there will be no room for a new wild one.
- Folk remedies.There are two powerful recipes with ingredients that can be found in every home or nearby store.
Boiling water with a little soda will do. The solution slows down the growth of grass.Boiling water with salt and vinegar 9%. For one liter of water, you need 2 tablespoons of salt and 10 tablespoons of vinegar. In a day or two, everything that you have processed will die.
- Herbicides. Chemicals help to get rid of weeds and grass not forever, but for a long time. In an area near vegetables, fruit, and trees, herbicides must be used with caution. To achieve the result, three mandatory factors are needed: windless, clear weather, slightly wet leaves, and time. That means that three weeks before treatment, the weeds must not be watered with other means. Read the instructions carefully and follow all safety rules.While working with chemicals never forget about your protection. Take care of your skin with gloves and a long-sleeved shirt, and your eyes with goggles or any other special safety equipment. Be careful when you use a non-selective herbicide as it will kill all plants it comes in contact with. Be accurate in application not to spray it on the rest of the lawn.
Step 1 Prepare the chemical and measure the territory
To get rid of Zoysia grass you can use a non-selective, glyphosate herbicide with no soil activity. This chemical kills all the plants in contact so use it only for spot application. You can use some shield to protect your desired plants. As a shield, any plastic or cardboard box will do. You can apply a line with a dye to border the area which must be treated with a spray.
Do the procedure in calm and not windy weather. When’s the territory invaded by Zoysia grass is impressive you will have to treat all the lawn and continue with reseeding and renovating the surface.
Step 2 Treat Zoysia grass with herbicide
Spray the spots of the weed generously to provide an even coating with the mixture. To get the best effect apply the herbicide when the grass is young at the beginning of summer. Over time when the weed is mature, it gets resistant to herbicide treatment and you will have to repeat the procedure several times.
After several days the grass will start to fade, the blades will turn yellow and brown, and after approximately two weeks Zoysia grass will die. After processing for three to four days, a haircut is not carried out. If the desired result is not obtained, repeat the procedure but increase the dosage by half.
- Mixed vegetable garden. You can grow flowers and vegetables in the same garden. The main idea is not to let the soil be empty. The secondary culture will leave no room for weeds. Planting must be tight. The only point to consider is the compatibility of plants. Combine cucumbers with radishes and tomatoes, peppers with basil.
- Green manure. For the same purpose, green manure is sown. Colza, rape, mustard, phacelia, legumes enrich the soil with nitrogen and fill the free space. Don’t forget to cut green manure and dig the site in the autumn. Besides, it will be a great fertilizer
- Re-seeding. Another option is to re-sow fast-growing vegetables or herbs, for example, salad.
- Fire treatment. The surface is treated with a sliding flame of a blowtorch, without lingering in one place for a long time. After that, the ground is watered with cold water.
- A haircut. If you regularly cut the entire top of the weeds completely, then their number will be reduced. This is because the root system will use up nutrients to grow the stem again. This method will not work with all plants, but why not try it in combination with other methods?
- Black file or cloth. The main idea of this method is to prevent sunlight. Weeds like all other plants need sunlight to grow. You can use a black file, cloth, or any black roofing material. If it is not very heavy fix it with any boards or bricks on the surface of the soil. The only minus of this simple method is that you have to keep the territory covered all the season.
- Drip irrigation. If you water the cultivated plants directly to their roots weeds will suffer from the lack of moisture and die. Don’t splash water from a hose all over the site. Though it is very simple, it stimulates the growth of weeds.
Prevention is better than cure, especially in the case of stubborn Zoysia grass. Take certain preventative steps to be sure that it will not return.
- Trim and maintain the height of your lawn at about 3 inches. This way you will encourage intensive growth of the root system of the preferred species and prevent the reappearance of weeds.
- Don’t forget to add fertilizer at the most appropriate time for example in the fall.
- Water is important to keep your lawn in a good condition. Deep and infrequent watering is the best – one inch of water once a week.
- If you have a problem with poor drainage and you want to increase the aeration of your lawn, rake it regularly.
What will kill zoysia?
There are a few different herbicides that will kill zoysia grass. We recommend using glyphosate-based products like Roundup or Raze. When applying herbicides to zoysia grass, follow the product’s instructions carefully and apply it when the plant is actively growing.
Some other popular herbicides that can be used to kill zoysia include Fusilade II and Finale. Again, be sure to follow the product label instructions carefully and apply the herbicide when the zoysia is actively growing.
It’s important to note that you may need to reapply the herbicide multiple times before the zoysia is completely eliminated. Be patient and consistent, and you will eventually see results.
Will Roundup for lawns kill zoysia grass?
There are a few different herbicides that will effectively kill zoysia grass, but Roundup for Lawns is not one of them. While Roundup may kill other types of weeds and grasses, it has no effect on zoysia. You’ll need to use a specific zoysia-killing herbicide to get rid of this weed.
Some common zoysia-killing herbicides include:
When selecting an herbicide, be sure to read the label carefully. Some products may only be effective on certain types of zoysia grass.
How do you kill zoysia in bermuda grass?
The best way to kill zoysia in bermuda grass is to use a herbicide that contains glyphosate. Glyphosate will kill the zoysia plant without harming the bermuda grass. You can find glyphosate at your local garden center or nursery.
Another method to kill zoysia in bermuda grass is to physically remove the zoysia plants from the ground. This can be done with a spade or trowel. Be sure to remove as much of the root system as possible so that the plant does not regrow.
Once you have removed all of the zoysia plants, it is important to prevent new ones from growing. One way to do this is to apply a pre-emergent herbicide to the area. This will prevent new zoysia seeds from germinating. You can find pre-emergent herbicides at your local garden center or nursery.
By following these steps, you will be able to eliminate zoysia from your bermuda grass and keep it looking its best.
Will St Augustine take over zoysia?
The best thing you can do to get rid of zoysia is to plant st. Augustine in its place. Zoysia is a very difficult grass to eliminate. It has deep roots and an extensive root system that allow it to come back even after being treated with herbicides. The only sure way to get rid of it is by smothering it with another grass or groundcover. St. Augustine is the best choice because it’s a very aggressive grass that will quickly take over any area where it’s planted.
How do you stop zoysia from spreading?
The best way to stop zoysia from spreading is by using a herbicide that contains glyphosate. Glyphosate will kill the zoysia plant and prevent it from growing back. You can find glyphosate at most hardware stores or online.
Another way to stop zoysia from spreading is by physically removing the plant. This can be done by digging up the roots or pulling up the plant. However, this method is much more time-consuming and difficult than using a herbicide.
If you have zoysia on your property, it’s important to take action to prevent it from spreading. Zoysia is an invasive species that can quickly take over your yard and crowd out other plants. By taking steps to control it, you can help keep your yard healthy and beautiful.
How deep are zoysia roots?
The roots of zoysia grass are relatively shallow, growing to a depth of about six inches. However, the grass has a strong root system that can make it difficult to remove. If you’re trying to get rid of zoysia grass, you’ll need to be patient and persistent.
Here are a few tips to help you get rid of zoysia grass:
- Use a sharp hoe or spade to dig up the roots. Be sure to dig deep enough to get all of the roots.
- Apply an herbicide that contains glyphosate or imazapyr. These herbicides will kill the zoysia grass without harming other plants.
- Cover the area with black plastic or a thick layer of mulch. This will smother the zoysia grass and prevent it from coming back.
How do you kill zoysia without chemicals?
The best way to kill zoysia without chemicals is by using a hand-held lawn edger or a spade. You need to remove the entire plant, including the roots. Be sure to wear gloves and long sleeves when removing Zoysia grass, as the plant can cause skin irritation.
If you have a small area of Zoysia grass, you can also try smothering it with black plastic. This method will take longer to kill the grass, but it is an effective way to get rid of it without using any chemicals.
Once you have removed all of the Zoysia grass from your property, be sure to reseed the area with a more desirable type of grass seed. This will help to prevent the Zoysia grass from coming back.
Will boiling water kill zoysia grass?
Boiling water will kill zoysia grass, but it is not a practical method for large areas. You would need to carefully pour boiling water directly onto the leaves of each plant, which is time-consuming and labor-intensive. If you have a small area of zoysia grass that you want to get rid of, boiling water may be a viable option.
Another option is to use an herbicide specifically designed to kill zoysia grass. There are many products on the market that will do the job quickly and effectively. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully, as herbicides can be harmful if used improperly.
Will burning zoysia grass kill it?
The short answer is yes, burning zoysia grass will kill it. However, you need to be extremely careful when doing this because if not done correctly, you can easily start a wildfire. If you live in an area where wildfires are common, it’s probably best to avoid this method altogether.
There are two ways that you can burn zoysia grass: with a chemical herbicide or with a propane torch. We’ll go over both methods so that you can decide which one is best for your situation.
Using a chemical herbicide is the more popular method because it’s less likely to start a fire and it’s also more effective at killing the zoysia grass. You’ll need to purchase a herbicide that contains glyphosate and follow the instructions on the label.
Propane torches are less popular because they’re more dangerous and they’re not as effective as chemical herbicides. However, if you can’t find a glyphosate herbicide or you don’t want to use one for whatever reason, a propane torch is an option. Just be sure to exercise caution and follow all safety protocols.
In general, burning zoysia grass is an effective way to kill it but there are some risks involved. Be sure to weigh those risks before deciding whether or not this method is right for you.
Which is better, bermuda or zoysia?
It’s a common question, and there is no easy answer. Both grasses have their pros and cons. It really depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Bermuda grass is known for being tough and resilient. It can handle heavy traffic and withstands drought well. Bermuda is also a fast-growing grass, so it can quickly fill in any bare spots.
On the other hand, zoysia grass is slower-growing but thicker and more lush than bermuda. It’s also more tolerant of shade than bermuda, making it a good choice if you have areas of your yard that don’t get full sun. Zoysia generally requires less maintenance than bermuda, but it’s more expensive to install.
What are the pros and cons of zoysia grass?
Zoysia grass is a warm-season grass. Zoysia grass has a dense, thick growth habit and can smother out other types of grasses. It is also tolerant of shade and salt, making it ideal for coastal areas. Zoysia grass does have some drawbacks, however. It is a slow-growing grass, so it can take several years to establish a thick lawn. Additionally, zoysia grass goes dormant in the cold weather and turns brown. If you live in an area with freezing winters, zoysia may not be the best choice for your lawn.
How quickly does zoysia grass spread?
Zoysia grass can easily spread up to 12 inches in just one growing season. This means that if you have a small patch of zoysia grass, it won’t be long before it covers your entire lawn.
To make matters worse, zoysia grass is also very difficult to remove once it has taken root. This is because the roots of the plant are very strong and can quickly regrow if they are not completely removed.
If you want to get rid of zoysia grass for good, then you need to use a herbicide that contains glyphosate. Glyphosate is a chemical that kills plants by preventing them from making proteins.
Sometimes Zoysia grass is planted on purpose due to its unique look, but if it’s an unwelcome guest, it will be challenging to say goodbye. Of course, the listed methods will not solve the problem permanently, but some of them will greatly facilitate the life of gardeners.

domain: biology


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Palazzo Spinola, St. Julians, Malta
Brother Paolo Raffaele Spinola of the lords of Roccaforte, Knight of the Order of San Giovanni, Grand prior of Lombardy
Romano Fortunato Carapecchia (1666-1738), to whom the present aspect is due.
Seat of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean (PAM).
On the spinola.it site we are working on the revision of all the repertoires.
Many of these are still to be updated in content and formatting.
Palazzo Spinola, also known as Casa Spinola or Villa Spinola, was built in 1688 by the Order of the Knights of St. John and Father Paolo Raffaele Spinola, Grand prior of Lombardy from 1677 to 1692. Originally, the building had large and extensive gardens, including baroque gardens and vineyards.
According to the Latin inscription above the main entrance, the palazzo and it’s gardens were built for the entertainment of citizen’s and was used for cultural activities. From it’s edification, it was occasionally used as a summer residence by the Grand Master.
The present aspect is due to the design by Romano Fortunato Carapecchia, commissioned by Father Giovanni Battista Spinola, nephew of the first owner, who decided to widen and embellish it in 1733. The building is considered a masterpiece of secular baroque architecture in Malta, especially for it’s elegant clock with a unique craftsmanship.
The Palazzo was damaged during the French occupation of Malta and the crown that surmounted the clock on the façade was symbolically destroyed to mimic the expulsion of the order from Malta. The Palazzo was restored in 1826 and later bought by the Church.
The building rises on a hill whose view over the bay has diminished over the years due to increased building exploitation in the area. Originally it dominated the bay, called Spinola Bay, or more formally St. Julian’s Bay.
It is currently the seat of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean (PAM).
Freely drawn and translated from
Seat of PAM Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean

domain: history


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Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW) is a quarterly report of employment and wages reported by employers covered under New York State’s Unemployment Insurance Law. Data is available for the following geographical areas: New York State, labor market areas, metropolitan areas, metropolitan divisions and counties, from 2000 to the present. The data is by industry and include employment, total and average wages, and the number of establishments for the time period selected (annual or quarterly).
The dashboard below can be used to explore the data in multiple ways.
- Annual QCEW Data- Allows you to retrieve and compare annual industry data for labor market areas by ownership, industry sector, NAICS level, and NAICS title
- Quarterly QCEW Data- Allows you to retrieve and compare quarterly industry data for labor market areas by ownership, industry sector, NAICS level, and NAICS title
- Comparison by Area- Allows you to retrieve and compare annual and quarterly industry data for labor market areas by ownership, industry sector, NAICS level, and NAICS title
- Avg Wages by County- Allows you to retrieve average annual wages by industry and ownership for counties in the state
- Employment by Region- Allows you to retrieve quarterly employment data by ownership for the ten economic development regions of the state
To learn more about how to use Tableau and download data, check out our guide Tableau Tips for the Web.
If you are having trouble accessing the data provided below because you are using assistive technology, please reach out to your local labor market analyst for assistance.
Questions regarding QCEW data or the dashboard should be directed to your local labor market analyst.
A snapshot of the current quarter data by size class is available for statewide industry sectors, see Employment and Wages by Firm Size.
The entire set of currently available NAICS-based QCEW data is available by downloading the file qcew.zip. Note: Prior to 2018, the data in this file is available down to the three-digit NAICS level. For 2018 going forward, the data in this file is available down to the six-digit level.

domain: geography


Top 3 Free AVI to MP4 Converter Answered
If you have recently put some video onto your PC, but find that it won’t play on other devices, then it may be the file type. AVI is an extremely common file type, but at the same time it does not work on many mobile devices. It also requires quite a select style of media player to use. However, converting AVI files to MP4 is really simple, and converting to MP4 allows your video file to work with ease with many devices like your Smartphones and Tablets. It also works with PSPs and other similar handheld devices, making it one of the most versatile file types out
there. There are many great, free to use converters out there that can provide a wide array of features to make your conversion process even more efficient. We have drilled down to find three of the best free to use AVI to MP4 converters available;
HandBrake is well recognized as one of the most efficient open source video converter. It can handle just about any of the “main” video types, including AVI. It’s free to use, it can be used on any platform like Windows or Mac, and it’s got an excellent interface.
It even comes with a wide selection of presets, so you can set your converted file to be whatever size you need it to be. Just select the preset you need from the drop-down menu and convert away! This is one of the simplest to use online converters, and will complete the job in minutes.
The aptly named Format Factory will help you churn out converted files and images in seconds. It provides support for just about any audio or video format you can think of, including images and animations. As well as this, you can rip to DVD or CD straight from the same software.
Free to use, easy to run and simple to master, this effective piece of conversion software supports up to 62 languages. It can even repair damaged audio, and compress the file size to fit onto smaller volumes when needed.
This easy to use cross-platform solution to your conversion needs is one of the most well-known video and audio converters. However, it does not just help you convert the file with ease, it can even record and stream any audio or video you require.
It comes with a variety of extras and plug-ins that can be installed for even better functionality. It may not have the presets and the enhanced features of the above two, but it offers a really slick process nonetheless.
However, these main converters all have their cons. Some of them are a little slow to use, and others are very limited in the features they provide other than converting. As well as this, any additional features you might need are very difficult to install or even locate. If you are looking for something a bit more powerful, albeit at a cost, then Wondershare Video Converter is for you. Wondershare comes in a trial version and a premium version, known as Wondershare Video Converter Ultimate. It provides a full arsenal of great features and additions that you simply do not get with free converters. Here is a tutorial shows you how to convert avi to mp4 with this tool.
For a start, it is roughly 30x faster than any free converter out there on the web at the moment. Using a unique style of APEXTRANS technology, this converts your files faster than you can even start the process!
As well as supporting well over 158 formats of audio, video and image, you can convert your files for DVD usage and burn them all in the one process. You can even add templates to your DVD menus, so you can be as customized as you possibly like. Wondershare isn’t just a conversion program – it’s a full media desktop all in the one file.
Between enhancing the quality of your images and movies to downloading instantly from the likes of YouTube, you can really create a library of stunning, professional files without ever having to turn to a professional.


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JAQK Cellars Black Edition
A collector’s item. A breathtaking, artistic masterpiece. Back In Black.
This beautiful, one-of-a-kind deck is now available – with brand new stock, feel, and finish that rivals your favorite premium decks.
Based on artwork created by an award winning winery in Napa Valley. JAQK Cellars Black Edition features a gorgeous custom tuck case with imported French paper and metallic black foil.
With 52 custom faces and 12 stunning, custom court cards — they combine distinctive design with the peerless quality of the world’s
largest playing card manufacturer – The United States Playing Card Company.
Performance and Looks. In One. Limited Edition. A deck that is as beautiful as it is functional, JAQK playing cards are a collector’s item that will draw compliments every time the cards are cut. Don’t wait, these go fast.
Don’t believe us? The first 2 editions of JAQK Cellars sold out in less than 72 hours.
JAQK Cellars Black Edition:
“It was the first playing cards in my collection. First impression was not ideal; I expected more colorful cards. However in some period of time I’ve realized that the cards are very comfortable and have an original design. Now they are my most favourite.”
“I received these as a promotion (don’t know which one haha) but THEY ARE ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL. God. The box design looks amazing and I honestly do not plan on opening them. For sure a great collectible. Thanks Theory11!”
“I absolutely love these! I collect cards and am a magician, and these cards truly are one of the most beautiful decks I own. They almost seem metallic, and I love the two-tone pips, but the real seller for me is the face cards; they’re spectacular! These also handle beautifully. Overall, I would highly recommend them for any magician or collector!”
“Honestly the most elegant cards I’ve ever handled.”

domain: artistic


L.A.’s Amazing Architecture
When driving down the streets of Los Angeles, you might see an eclectic collection of architecture. From post-war modern to Craftsman to Spanish to Victorian. And that is just the homes. The buildings are equally impressive and unique. Los Angeles is where all great architecture intersects to create a distinctive array of architectural styles. Some of the greatest architects of our time have created the homes and buildings that have contributed to the skyline of Los Angeles including Frank Lloyd Wright, Frank Gehry, George Wyman, John C. Austin, Renzo Piano, Richard Meier, Rafael Moneo, Rudolph Schindler and Richard Neutra. In the past we have profiled some of our favorite buildings in our profile of places to visit in Downtown L.A. including The Bradbury, Union Station, Disney Music Hall and City Hall, but we thought we would introduce you to some more cool structures in and around Los Angeles.
The Ennis House
Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1923 for Charles and Mabel Ennis, this house is located in Los Feliz. This was Lloyd Wrights 4th and largest textile block design, constructed primarily of interlocking pre-cast concrete blocks. Designed after ancient Mayan Temples, this house is a prime example of what is known as Mayan Revival Architecture. The house can be seen in 1982’s cult classic “Blade Runner” and was also shown as the house of vampires in the popular TV series “Buffy the Vampire Slayer”. The house has also been used in commercials and music videos over the years. A historic landmark since the 1970’s, this house is an amazing example of Frank Lloyd Wright’s varied designs.
The LAX Theme Building
LAX isn’t just an airport. Nope. It has a piece of LA history on it. Originally designed to be the central terminal and major hub for traffic at LAX in the early 60’s, this iconic building looks like a flying saucer that has landed. While the terminals were eventually built elsewhere on the property, the dome structure still exists and shows a spectacular 360 degree view of Los Angeles. The building was renovated after being designated a historic-cultural monument in 1993. With a futuristic look and lighting designed by Walt Disney Imagineering, you can visit the observation deck on the weekends to watch the planes land and view the beauty of Los Angeles.
One of Frank Lloyd Wright’s first projects in Los Angeles, The Hollyhock House was first built for Aline Barnsdall and is now a part of Barnsdall Art Park in Los Angeles. While it is known as a Frank Lloyd Wright house, it is said that a lot of the design work was left up to his son Lloyd and his assistant, notable architect Rudolph Schindler. Barnsdall donated the property to the city of Los Angeles in the 1920’s because the cost of the maintenance of the residence was too high. You can now see this incredible example of Lloyd Wright’s work on tours.
The Watts Towers
Probably one of the coolest structures in Los Angeles. Located in South Central, The Watts Towers took 33 years to construct. Its architect, Simon Rodia, was an Italian American sculptor and he had no formal plan for what the towers would look like. Built with found objects, the towers consist of over 75,000 seashells, broken bottles and concrete, mirrors, ceramic tiles, figurines and much more. The story has been told that local children used to bring Rodia broken pottery to use and you can still see the logos soft drink bottles dating from the 1930’s to 1950’s in the sculpture. The towers stand as one of only 9 folk art structures on the National Registry of Historic Places.
The Getty Center
Opened in 1997, this 1.7 BILLION dollar structure was designed by architect Richard Meier. This incredible arts center is located in Brentwood and sits upon a hilltop overlooking Los Angeles. The whole experience of the Getty Center is fabulous at the start – from the hovertrain that takes you from the underground parking garage to the top of the mountain to the amazing 134,000 square foot central garden to the J. Paul Getty Museum. The structure seems like it is almost a part of its mountaintop location. If you want to experience beautiful art, in all forms, this is definitely a “must see” on your vacation to Los Angeles.
These are just a few of the great pieces of architecture here in Los Angeles. To experience all that Los Angeles has to offer, come take a tour with LA Insider Tours and discover how amazing Los Angeles is.


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27+ Kwanzaa Symbols Coloring Pages
Pics. You can spot many more kwanzaa symbols in the picture. You can use our amazing online tool to color and edit the following kwanzaa symbols coloring pages.
Unscramble the pieces to make a picture of a kinara. Find more kwanzaa symbols coloring page pictures from our search. Chanukah menorah coloring page to color, print and download for free along with bunch of favorite chanukah coloring page for kids.
The coloring book is a rare publication;

domain: entertainment


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(E) REAL EGGS *EGGSQUISITE COLLECTION* ONLY 2 LEFT! DUCK EGG! ART-DHB-34-1A-T
REAL EGGS - Eggsquisite!
This Real Duck Egg with the cameo motif has been hand carved, painted, glazed, and decorated by Artisans.
Our Eggsquisite collection is extremely rare and supplies are very limited.
Collector's Item only two (2) left in our stock!
Ring box and / or trinket / treasure box - makes the perfect gift or Communion Gift!

domain: hobby


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London Tower Bridge – a 5 shot HDR photo processed with Photomatix Pro 5 beta 4 and then mixed with a long exposure image for the fountain and the clouds. The Long exposure I made using my 10 stop ND filter from B+W. I did use a final filter High Key from Topaz Adjust to get the more pseuchedelic look.
Some of you might have noticed that a new version of Photomatix Pro 5 is on its way. The official beta 4 is now available and I have had a quick glance at it. After having played around with for a awhile I am a bit disappointed, but there are a few goodies too.
The wording – that is the usability – has changed in general to the better. By using the right words you can do a lot for the ease of use of a software program. For instance instead of calling a feature ‘Align source image – by correcting vertical and horizontal shifts’ it gets a lot easier to understand from the new wording: ‘Align source images – Taken on tripod’. I’m a great fan of usability and this is great usability in it’s essence. Straight talk for normal human beings to understand, not engineer talk that only a small group of people can understand.
There are a couple of others of these wordings that has changed for the better. The Button “Process” has been changed to “Apply and Finish”.
The algorithm for aligning images should be improved, but that is fairly hard to test. I have never really had any problem with the one from Photomatix 4 – but improvements of course is good.
The deghosting as been changed too and is better. However I never use the deghosting tool. I might give it a try or two, but basically I think you get a better result using by blending one of the source image in using layered masks in Photoshop or GIMP.
A couple of new processing methods has been added. Tone mapping has got a ‘Contrast optimizer’ method in addition to the Details Enhancer and the Tone Compressor:
The ‘Contrast Optimizer’ is great for natural looking images, but is not worth much for more creative processing. I will probably not use it for much. The fusion also got an ‘Fusion/Real estate’ optimized for images to show both interior and the outside for real estate photographers. That’s not really me either. So I’m stuck with the Fusion/Natural and Tone Mapping/Details Enhancer.
The details enhancer has got a single change. Luminosity has changed to Tone Compression, but it does exactly the same. In fact the Details enhancer does exactly the same as before. I had hoped for more fun and creative options, but got disappointed on that. I have tried to process images with both Photomatix Pro 4 and Photomatix Pro 5 beta 4, with the exact same settings and the images are identical. That really disappointed me. The noise levels are the same. One of the weaker points in Photomatix Pro is the noise it produces. Of course there are other ways of handling the noise, would just have been nice if the algorithm had been better at handling noise.
I had also hoped for the loop feature to do a perfect processing, so that you would see the real deal, but that is still very poor.
Conclusion of a preliminary review of Photomatix Pro 5 beta 4
There are number of usability improvements in the software, which really makes it easier to use, and some improvements in some of the more automatic parts of the software, like deghosting and auto aligning.
There are also a couple of new processing algorithms, but they are targeted to a different group than the more creative HDR photographers.
But for the more creative side this version is a more or less 1:1 with the old Photomatix 4.
Good thing that if you bought Photomatix 4.2 or later, you get the Photomatix pro 5 for free.
So I’m a bit disappointed.
Try out the beta of Photomatix Pro 5 here – it will still water mark the images if you haven’t purchased it.


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Buying a House Before It Is Built
Buying a home before it is built carries its own potential price savings. In the real-estate section of your local paper, you will often see advertisements with headlines like “Preconstruction Prices Through September 15,” “Preconstruction Prices for Phase II of Pheasant Run,” or “Special Preview Offer.” What does all of that mean? Is it good for you, or is it just another sales pitch?
As the name suggests, a preconstruction price is the first price at which a home in a new development is offered. At that stage, the lot being developed is probably still no more than a sea of mud and a sales trailer. Developers concede they underprice a little at the beginning to get the ball rolling. Nothing brings in customers more than seeing other people buy.
How much can you save at this stage? Houses sold when development is complete can cost 20–30 percent more than the price of preconstruction homes! Thus, assuming you can wait for your home to be built and the builder is reputable, buying early can be a very good deal indeed. You are locking in a lower price likely to be unavailable later when the homes have been built. Additionally, you will have a say in choosing the tiles, flooring, and paint colors for the home as it is being built. Buying early also gives you a choice of location; you do not have to take what is left.
One drawback is accepting there will be some uncertainty about when you will actually have the house. Sometimes there are construction delays and delivery snags. If you need to get into your new home right away, you may not have the luxury of being able to wait.
It is important you know your builder. It is best to go with someone who has done similar construction and has completed such jobs satisfactorily. Look for a builder with a record of other single-family home projects, not someone who has built shopping centers, for instance, and who is just now dipping into the residential area.
Drive around your potential builder's other projects, even if you have to head thirty miles out of town. Talk to those homeowners if you can, too, and ask them if they are satisfied with their houses. If this is the builder's first job, you cannot know if he will finish. What if the builder disappears with your deposit and leaves the community awash in unpaved roads, half-built homes, and unlandscaped yards? Alas, that has been known to happen — more often than one would like to think.
If you are one of the early residents in a development, will you feel comfortable living virtually alone until more people move in? Maybe you will be the first buyer or perhaps the fifth. In any event, you are likely to be living in a fairly unfinished neighborhood for some time. What about the safety factor? Can children play in the area without the danger of running into construction materials, or worse, machinery? Will you mind the noise of construction?
Once a contract is signed, the sales figure — preconstruction or not — is usually protected, no matter how many times a developer later raises the cost of other homes in the development. If you are concerned about a delivery delay, ask for a clause in the contract requiring the builder to notify you two months in advance of the completion date; thus, you will establish a timeframe for changing residence.
If you are buying a small home and are already considering expanding it in the future, be sure you can do so following local regulations. Also, check the covenants of the new-home community.
Here are some ways to save money when you are buying a home that is not yet built:
Buy at preconstruction prices. If you won't mind not having a house for a while, and it won't matter that you will be one of the pioneering families in the development, you can save substantially.
Select a model home. You may have to wait until a development is almost sold out, but you will probably have a home with all the bells and whistles — put in to entice buyers — at a discounted price. Of course, you'll have to take the model as it comes, and you won't have any choice about options, upgrades, or design features.
Speaking of options and upgrades — skip some of them. Select standard features and fixtures and save the upgrades for later. You don't really need top-of-the-line kitchen cabinets — at least not right away.
Leave a portion of the house unfinished for now. If you can wait a while for that third bath or fourth bedroom, you can save money by having it framed out, then finishing it later.
Don't automatically take the developer's mortgage package. It might be good, but maybe you can do better by shopping around. Check at least three other lenders in your area and compare interest rates and other terms. For a first-time buyer, often the bank you have your accounts with is the easiest lender for you to use.
In some new-home communities, the developer will do all he can to help you buy, including shaving down payment requirements, sometimes to 5 percent (or even requiring nothing down), and offering financing at attractive rates. Developers are able to do this through their relationships with the banks or other lenders who are handling the financing for their projects.
By all means, jot down all of the information the developer provides about mortgages and interest rates. But then do some comparison shopping.
His rate might not be the best, and it is likely to be short term. Discount financing programs are apt to be in force for no longer than three years. After that, they convert to current market rates. So bring out the calculator again to determine how much you can save with what is offered.
What exactly should you check when walking through a newly built house?
Check both the things on the punch list and anything that it does not cover. Inspect everything from the attic for ventilation to the stairs for creaks to the walls to be sure they are straight.
You might be allowed one inspection of your home after it is framed up (so you can see what is going up behind the walls) and then another inspection after the drywall is installed (to avert any problems during the final inspection). Last comes your final walk-through, which will be followed by one by your lender. At the last look at the house before closing, you have the opportunity to assure yourself the builder has completed the job to your satisfaction. Anything that has not been completed or is not up to standard should be jotted down on what is known as a punch list, a sheet prepared for buyers for just that reason.
Do not be so taken with how marvelous the house looks that you do not check every detail. This is your chance to have things set right. Ask the builder to fix any points you ticked off on your punch list before the closing. Then make a final inspection to see that those problems have indeed been corrected.
Sometimes a builder will contest your complaint. If a problem remains unsolved as closing nears, you can delay the closing until all of the questionable points have been cleared up. If the builder offers you cash instead of repairs, decline and ask for the repairs — they could cost more than the builder's cash allowance.
If you have any concerns about the house after it is built, hire a home inspector to take a look at your new home. Inspectors are not only for resale homes!
Be sure that you take walk-throughs. This is not something you want to rush — you will have to live with any unreported faults or pay to have them corrected. Remember that you hold all the cards before the closing. If ever there is a time to get the corrections you want, this is it. Your leverage drops significantly after you take title to the house.

domain: finance


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Welcome to those of you joining me from Your Highway in the Sky and those of you just hopping aboard. I am the 4th stop on our Magical Blogorail.
Anyone who’s ever been to any of the Disney parks knows that Disney is all about the details…those things that make each person feel special. Sure there are rides and restaurants and shopping galore, but you can find those things at any other theme park. So what makes Disney so special? It’s the details of the Disney magic. The Magical Blogorail Green Loop is sharing some of the hidden treasures of Disney today, and here are a few of my favorites…
Did you know that you can get a sprinkle of pixie dust at Tinker Bell’s Treasures in Magic Kingdom? All you have to do is ask the Cast Member there.
Did you know that there is a walking talking “vine” at Animal Kindgdom? Her name is DeVine, and if you’re not careful, she’ll scare the crap out of you!
One of my favorite hidden treasures that’s not so hidden, but is not as known about as other activities is the Disney Junior Dance Party that takes place at Hollywood Studios during evening Extra Magic Hours. We just happened to stumble upon it a few years ago, and it’s still one of my favorite Disney memories. It takes place at the Disney Junior – Live on Stage! location. Mickey and the gang were there dancing with everyone. There was no line which was great, and there was not a large crowd as I would have expected. There was plenty of opportunity for character interaction, but for those with little ones who may be character-shy, it’s simply a great place to be together as a family and be silly, dancing and singing. We had so much fun that night that we spent the rest of the evening dancing there, and then we all skipped and danced as we were leaving the park that night.
We made it a point to return on a later trip and enjoyed it just as much. During both of our visits, there was a Cast Member who was making balloon animals and other objects (crowns, swords, just about anything) free of charge. If you are planning on being at Hollywood Studios during evening Extra Magic Hours, do NOT miss this!!! It’s one of my favorite hidden treasures in all of Disney!
Thank you for joining me today. Your next stop on the Magical Blogorail Loop is Adventures of a Disney Princess.
Here is the map of our Magical Blogorail should you happen to have to make a stop along the way and want to reboard:
1st Stop ~ A Disney Mom’s Thoughts
2nd Stop ~ Walt Disney World: Not Just for Kids
3rd Stop ~ Your Highway in the Sky
4th Stop ~ Disney Living (YOU ARE HERE!)
Final Stop ~ Adventures of a Disney Princess


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Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has become an increasingly important aspect of business operations in today’s globalized world. Companies are no longer solely focused on maximizing profits; they are also expected to contribute positively to society and the environment. One company that has embraced CSR wholeheartedly is CRH PLC, a leading global building materials company.
CRH PLC recognizes that CSR is not just a buzzword, but a fundamental part of their business strategy. They understand that their success is intertwined with the well-being of the communities in which they operate. As a result, they have implemented a range of initiatives to address social and environmental issues.
One of the key areas of focus for CRH PLC is sustainability. They are committed to minimizing their environmental impact and promoting sustainable practices throughout their supply chain. This includes reducing greenhouse gas emissions, conserving water, and managing waste responsibly. CRH PLC has set ambitious targets to achieve these goals and regularly reports on their progress.
In addition to their environmental efforts, CRH PLC is also dedicated to supporting the communities in which they operate. They believe in creating shared value and have established partnerships with local organizations to address social issues. For example, they have collaborated with non-profit organizations to provide affordable housing and improve access to education and healthcare in disadvantaged areas.
Furthermore, CRH PLC recognizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. They strive to create a work environment that is inclusive and respectful, where employees from diverse backgrounds can thrive. They have implemented policies to promote equal opportunities and have established employee resource groups to support underrepresented groups.
CRH PLC also understands the significance of ethical business practices. They have a robust code of conduct that outlines their commitment to integrity, transparency, and fair competition. They expect their employees and business partners to adhere to these principles and have implemented mechanisms to ensure compliance.
Moreover, CRH PLC actively engages with stakeholders to understand their concerns and incorporate their feedback into their decision-making processes. They believe in open and transparent communication and regularly engage with stakeholders through various channels, including annual general meetings and sustainability reports.
The importance of CSR cannot be overstated in today’s business environment. Consumers are increasingly conscious of the social and environmental impact of the products and services they consume. They are more likely to support companies that demonstrate a commitment to CSR and are willing to pay a premium for sustainable and socially responsible products.
Furthermore, CSR initiatives can also have a positive impact on a company’s bottom line. Studies have shown that companies with strong CSR programs tend to attract and retain top talent, enhance their reputation, and build stronger relationships with customers and other stakeholders. In the long run, this can lead to increased profitability and sustainable growth.
In conclusion, CRH PLC is a shining example of a company that understands the importance of CSR in today’s business environment. They have implemented a range of initiatives to address social and environmental issues, including sustainability, community support, diversity and inclusion, and ethical business practices. By embracing CSR, CRH PLC not only contributes positively to society and the environment but also strengthens their reputation and ensures long-term success.

domain: sociology


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Check out this article, “Bourgeois Meat Market is ‘wild’ this time of year” printed in the Daily Comet this past December. Excerpt, The long lines at the famous meat market in Schriever are shorter and faster than they were last Christmas season — thanks largely to an expansion — but the list of customers waiting […]
Check out the article, “Jerky Was an Accident” printed in the Daily Comet. Excerpt: The secret is out. Beef jerky is the most popular item at the meat market. Bourgeois smokes about 1,000 pounds of jerky a week in two filled smokehouses. It is not only a hit with locals, but overseas as well.
In Garden and Gun magazine’s article titled “100 Southern Foods You Absolutely, Positively Must Try Before You Die”, our famous Bourgeois Beef Jerky is the first food mentioned. Excerpt: “… For fifteen-odd years now I’ve been documenting the stories told at our collective table, paying homage to our cooks by way of words. Still, […]

domain: food


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Taken on a state by state basis, the losses incurred to the U.S. from the loss of out-of-state sales taxes are staggering. Alabama expects to lose $1 billion in sales and use taxes during the next five years; Arizona won't pocket $210.7 million over the next decade; Indiana's hit is $40 million to $114 million annually; and in 2012 alone, Pennsylvania may lose $250-400 million. Michigan lost over $400 million in 2010. And so on.
All told, states and localities lose about $24 billion a year in revenue from untaxed Internet sales, according to National Retail Federation. These losses are growing at a time when public workers, including many school teachers, are being laid off in record numbers. And it's not just money that is lost: brick-and-mortar stores, like bookstores, are disappearing from communities as consumers buy cheaper products online, untaxed.
North Dakota sent a notice to Quill Corp. that it owed use tax (a companion tax to the sales tax) payments for purchases that North Dakota residents had made through Quill Corp.’s catalogue. Quill responded that it did not have nexus in North Dakota because it had no physical operations or employees and hence did not have to collect North Dakota use tax on sales made to North Dakota customers.
The Supreme Court sided with Quill, ruling that a taxpayer must have a physical presence in a state in order to require collection of sales or use tax for purchases made by in-state customers. Physical presence means offices, branches, warehouses, employees, etc. The existence of customers alone (i.e. economic presence) did not create sufficient nexus under the Commerce Clause for North Dakota to impose a sales tax collection burden on Quill Corp.
The exemption from sales tax has particularly been a boon for Amazon, founded two years after the decision, and the 800-pound retailer is understandably trying to hold on to this advantage. Last June, after Connecticut Governor Dannel Malloy "signed a budget bill that includes a so-called 'Amazon tax,' which aims to raise $9.4 million by forcing online retailers to collect sales taxes through affiliates," Amazon informed the Department of Revenue Services that "the company is not obligated to abide by the law because it does not have a physical presence in Connecticut." Those two words, physicial presence, is what separates Connecticut from a windfall.
Other states all around the country, hungry for revenue, are also trying to collect the Internet sales taxes owed to them -- and also running into legal obstacles.
Which brings us to the good news. Last year, a pair of U.S. representatives introduced legislation to close the loophole. The bill, National Journal reported, "would authorize states to force retailers to collect sales taxes, even online firms, and even when their customers reside in states where the companies have no physical presence." That's why last week's news -- that the Consumer Electronics Association, which has 2200 member companies, has thrown its weight behind Senate legislation to close the loophole -- is so heartening:
CEA Chairman Randy Fry, co-founder and president of California-based Fry's Electronics, is in Washington this week to press for action on a bipartisan Senate bill offered by Sens. Mike Enzi, R-Wyo., and Dick Durbin, D-Ill., that would let states require online retailers to collect sales taxes from out-of-state customers. There would be one caveat - states would have to simplify tax structures or sign on to a tax-simplification project launched in 1999 by a group of states.
The hope is that CEA can replicate the success they enjoyed earlier this year, opposing the Stop Online Piracy Act the Senate's Protect IP Act.

domain: law


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The Morrissey-solo Wiki is a continual work in progress, most of the data still needs to be populated. See the To Do page if you want to help.
Hamburg, Germany 1991-05-06 (Morrissey concert)
|Tour||Kill Uncle Tour|
|Date||May 6, 1991|
Set List
This concert was recorded and released on the Live 91 bootleg LP. This LP is missing the final three songs. A Live 91 bootleg CD was also released which includes the entire concert. MP3 versions are available at the usual places.
References and notes
- Set List provided by Passions Just Like Mine


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Japan’s Mitsubishi Corporation has reached an agreement to acquire a 25% stake of the Summit Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) terminal in Bangladesh.
The remaining 75 percent stake of the terminal will remain with local conglomerate Summit Corporation.
The latest agreement follows Mitsubishi and Summit signing a memorandum of understanding in March to jointly pursue an integrated LNG-to-power development.
The LNG terminal is currently under construction and is expected to be operational by March 2019.
The project will include a floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU) to be installed off the coast of Moheshkali, where it will receive and regasify LNG procured by national energy firm Petrobangla. The planned LNG import volumes are about 3.5m tonnes per annum.


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Ginger Cabbage Salad
Khmer salad with crisp cabbage, carrot and ginger root is delicious side dish with barbecue meat or grilled fish. Ginger Cabbage Salad is easy to make at home.
Top Scientist Discovers The REAL Reason Why Most People Struggle To Lose Weight…
Disclosure: Some of the links on this post are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.
|1/2 cup of white vinegar|
|4 tablespoons of sugar|
|1 teaspoon of fish sauce|
|1 teaspoon of salt|
|1/2 head of cabbage, chopped an inch in length|
|2 large carrot, peeled and sliced thin|
|1/2 cup of fresh sliced ginger root|
Directions to make Ginger Cabbage Salad
- In a small bowl, mix vinegar with sugar, fish sauce and salt together, mix well.
- In a large bowl, mix cabbage, carrot and ginger together, pour prepared vinegar sauce over, mix well and set a side for couple hours before serve.
Serve with rice
Related: Green Mango Salad with Dried Fish
Serving Size: 2
Calories Per Serving: 193


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B&W SmartAssembly 6.0 M010 | 113.6 mb
B&W, the world leading supplier of add-on applications for the 3D CAD system PTC Creo Parametric, has released SmartAssembly 6.0 M010 is a process capture tool that allows users to focus on the design process, instead of being bogged down with the repetitive tasks that are present in every design.
It is a development engine that allows users to create UDF’s, assemble existing parts or sub-assemblies, and configure new parts or sub-assemblies with associated drawings from existing company templates. Users develop programs in a simple easy to use language. Most programs are only a few paragraphs regardless of complexity.
The SA hardware module is used to simplify and standardize placement of hardware on any part or assembly.SmartAssembly provides a powerful script language to define complex Creo templates using components, UDF's and any available Features. Dimensions, Parameters and References can be defined in a flexible table-structure that will also drive the dynamic assembly GUI.
SmartAssembly also provides powerful machine design functions, such as bolts and dowel pin connections, library management and many other standard component functions. SmartAssembly is a powerful automation tool for any part or assembly typically placed as a library component as well as large complex assemblies with complex relationships between parts.
Name: B&W SmartAssembly
Version: 6.0 M010 for PTC
OS: Windows XP / Vista / 7even / 8 / 8.1
System Requirements: Pro/Engineer WF 4-5, Creo Element/Pro, Creo 1.0-3.0
Size: 113.6 mb
链接: http://pan.baidu.com/s/1c1PM4Oo 密码: xfs5


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With Blade celebrating its twentieth anniversary, it is time to revisit this early modern vampire blockbuster. […]
This is a film that tries to build its own world and find its own style. Shoddy CGI aside, the film does not look too bad; but a convoluted plot, and story-telling which keeps too many things in the dark, hurt this film. As does the fact that it does not make good use of its interesting characters. […]
The second half of the Breaking Dawn story concludes the 5-film run of the Twilight franchise.
Breaking Dawn, Part 2 is in many ways more interesting than Part 1, but it still feels rather weak. […]
Not actually a vampire tale, but a non-Doylean Sherlock Holmes film I watched by accident. Entertaining, but far from outstanding. […]
The third and (so far) final film in the Lost Boys franchise is not really better or worse than the second. But to me it is more enjoyable, possibly because it seems more willing to poke fun at itself. […]
This sequel to the 1987 film is burdened by a whole bunch of problems, making it a merely passable “also-ran”. […]
Even though some of the characters are underdeveloped (or underused), most elements in The Lost Boys are great and still hold up well after 30 years. There is a reason they call this one a classic. […]
The first film in a well-known B-movie franchise, 1991’s Subspecies offers very little convincing elements and a lot of mediocrity. […]
Vampiro is an unmitigated disaster with no redeeming features, no plot, and a script that seems to have been cobbled together in less than five minutes. […]
Natassia Malthe flounders her way through yet another BloodRayne sequel, but this time the film itself is so bad that that hardly matters.
Avoid at all cost. […]


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It’s official: this year has marked the end of the era of the winner-takes-all battle for global streaming supremacy.
After a dire 2src22, when investors turned on the profligate spending and seemingly endlessly loss-making strategies employed by the global giants as a result of the abrupt and dramatic post-pandemic slowdown in subscriber growth, this year has been about building streaming model 2.src.
For some, such as Disney and Warner Bros Discovery, which runs the streaming services Max and Discovery+, it has been a harsh reality check. For others, most notably Netflix, it has proved a return to form at the top of the market.
Initiatives including a global crackdown on password sharing and the introduction of a cheaper ad-supported tier to appeal to increasingly cost-conscious consumers amid the cost of living crisis has reignited subscriber growth at the world’s biggest streaming service.
From a UK perspective, Netflix is estimated to have more than doubled its number of new subscribers this year, from 54src,srcsrcsrc in 2src22 to more than 1.1 million, according to Ampere Analysis.
This compares with Disney+, which has seen new additions almost halve from 1.35 million to 7srcsrc,srcsrcsrc, while Amazon’s Prime Video will see new user growth drop from 262,srcsrcsrc to 78,srcsrcsrc when estimates are finalised in the new year.
“There is Netflix and then there is sort of everyone else,” says Tom Harrington, head of television at Enders Analysis. “Everyone except Netflix is making losses quarter by quarter. While Netflix hasn’t of course yet balanced its billions in losses it is now making profits and will catch that up pretty quickly now.”
Investors who stripped billions of dollars from the market value of Netflix in a matter of months last year – after it reported its first loss in subscribers in more than a decade as the pandemic-fuelled viewing boom fizzled out – are back on board.
The company’s share price is up about two-thirds this year, adding more than $7srcbn to its market capitalisation – albeit Netflix still remains worth about $1srcsrcbn less than all-time peak levels hit in 2src21.
“Last year was hard, a tough year, but 2src23 has been really strong,” says Larry Tanz, Netflix vice-president and head of content for EMEA, who points to hits including The Crown, Squid Game: The Challenge and the documentary Beckham. “First and foremost content drives the business but we also did a couple of things that were really difficult – a paid sharing [crackdown] and the introduction of advertising – big things to take on in one year which are also proving to be meaningful drivers of the business.”
It is now Disney, which held ambitions of overtaking Netflix and its 247 milli

domain: economics


Gas sensor and manufacturing method thereof
A technology of gas sensor and manufacturing method, which is applied in the direction of instruments, scientific instruments, measuring devices, etc., and can solve the problems that the gas-sensing layer is easy to fall off, the bonding force between the gas-sensing layer and the ceramic substrate is uneven, and the coating of the gas-sensing material cannot be guaranteed. , to achieve the effect of not easy to disappear and stable gas sensitivity
Pending Publication Date: 2022-03-25
SUZHOU INST OF NANO TECH & NANO BIONICS CHINESE ACEDEMY OF SCI
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AI-Extracted Technical Summary
Problems solved by technology
The invention discloses a manufacturing method of a gas sensor, which comprises the following steps: partially oxidizing a substrate to enable the oxidized part to become a gas sensitive part; wherein the substrate is made of a semiconductor material containing metal elements, and a heterojunction is formed between the gas sensitive part and the unoxidized part of the substrate. The problem that a gas sensitive layer of an existing gas sensor is prone to falling off is solved.
Si substrateMaterials science +5
- Experimental program(4)
Description & Claims & Application Information
We can also present the details of the Description, Claims and Application information to help users get a comprehensive understanding of the technical details of the patent, such as background art, summary of invention, brief description of drawings, description of embodiments, and other original content. On the other hand, users can also determine the specific scope of protection of the technology through the list of claims; as well as understand the changes in the life cycle of the technology with the presentation of the patent timeline. Login to view more.


Uzo Aduba is officially an Emmy winner. During Saturday night’s Creative Arts Emmys, the actress won for best guest actress in a comedy series for her portrayal of Suzanne “Crazy Eyes” in NetFlix’s original series, Orange is the New Black.
“I need to say thank you to the cast … I love you guys so much. I don’t know what to say, how incredibly impressed I am to be part of this show day in and day out and to feel your support constantly,” she said after Morgan Freeman presented her with the coveted award. “My sister, I don’t know a better human being. And my mother who came from Nigeria to make a better life for her family.”
While backstage in the press room, the gorgeous actress opened up about working with the show’s creator, Jenji Kohan.
“I feel so full, that’s why the tears come out … I’m stuffed. My cup runneth over right now. Mission accomplished, thank you.”
“The thing I love most about working with Jenji is her want and this burning need to tell the truth, and it doesn’t really matter the cost, what it takes to go here,” she said. “She puts that and instills that in her writing and her writers, and it’s just incredible.”
“Her heart is just mama bear for everybody on that team, not only for the art that she makes, but she wants to create a family there for us. She really does everything in her power to make sure that energy — the love and the life that’s present — stay bright, and that makes it the perfect work environment.”
Aduba also took to Instagram to share her excitement following the awards show.
“I proudly and humbly accept this honor. Thank you so very much. #creativeartsemmys #Uzoamaka #oitnb #teamorange,” she wrote.
Also taking home his first Emmy Award, Scandal’s Joe Morthon. The actor, who plays Olivia Pope’s father on the ABC show took home a golden statuette for outstanding guest actor in a drama.


text:
| Aug 7, 2012
| 9:45 AM
Everyone loves a good milestone celebration. We hold surprise parties. We shower the honored guest with gifts, well-wishes and toasts to a healthy and prosperous future. This weekend, the honoree isn’t a living, breathing person, but a local...
| Sep 4, 2012
| 7:57 PM
An energetic black Lab-Great Dane mix named Buddy Miles had a health scare last month after contracting a rare fungus.
His owner, Reid Hyams, of Chicago, noticed that Buddy had lesions on his skin, was reluctant to walk and had red eyes.
| Jun 22, 2012
Chicago has a way of producing fabulously eccentric, fiercely individualistic jazz stars.
From the free-ranging tenor sax solos of Von Freeman and Fred Anderson to the quirky songwriting of Patricia Barber to the explosive reed work of Ken Vandermark,...
| Nov 23, 2012
| 5:55 AM
The Lee Boys were scheduled to perform at Orlando's Plaza Live this weekend, but the plans were changed in honor of a musical friend.
Now, the Sacred Steel-Southern rock ensemble known for putting gospel style into a blender with Jimi Hendrix-worthy...
| Nov 23, 2012
| 1:14 PM
The Beatles audition tape rejected by a record label executive in arguably the biggest blunder in pop history has resurfaced and will go on sale at a London auction next week.
Ted Owen of The Fame Bureau, an auction house specializing in pop...
| Nov 26, 2012
| 8:15 AM
There's a Jake Shimabukuro of any instrument. You could say Jimi Hendrix was the Jake Shimabukuro of the electric guitar, or that Bonzo was Led Zep's resident Shimabukuro behind the skins. You wouldn't be way off the mark to suggest Winston Churchill...
| Nov 13, 2012
| 9:06 AM
Jazz took root in Poland long ago – even before World War II – and the country has prized it ever since.
If the music lived underground in the 1950s, when the Soviet Union considered it "decadent," Polish listeners – and their...
| Oct 3, 2012
| 11:35 AM
Plants and Animals
Wed., Oct. 10, BAR, 254 Crown St., New Haven, (203) 495-1111, barnightclub.com; Fri., Oct. 12, Iron Horse Music Hall, 20 Center St., Northampton, MA, (413) 586-8686, iheg.com.
It used to be that rock and roll was rebellious. If you...
| Oct 3, 2012
| 9:49 AM
1.) AC/DC- Flick of the Switch
2.) Black Sabbath-War Pigs
3.) Led Zeppelin- Communication Breakdown
5.) Fastway- Say What You Will
Milwaukee Joe1.) Pink Floyd- Fearless
2.) Jimi Hendrix- Cross...
| Oct 5, 2012
| 12:11 PM
Glendale Pops subscribers probably don’t know the name or music of 30-year-old Miles Mosley, a bassist and composer who headlines Saturday with the Glendale Pops Orchestra at the Alex Theatre. The pairing is a departure for a series more likely to...
| Jun 28, 2012
| 9:12 AM
Jimi Hendrix and Frank Zappa are long gone, but Gulfstream Park Racing and Casino officials remember when they rocked the racetrack.
That was in 1968 – a year before Woodstock -- at the Miami Pop Festival.
On July 4, Gulfstream (901 S. Federal...


Image by Lisa Williams/Flickr
We're right in the middle of a rhino crisis, with rhino poaching up more than 5000 percent in since 2007, and with this year's poaching count already on track to top last year's total of 668 dead rhinos in South Africa alone. In the midst of all that, the US Fish and Wildlife Service recently issued its first permit in 33 years to bring a rhino trophy back into the United States.
So while wildlife agencies, including the FWS, are fighting to stop the rhino trade, FWS has suddenly granted an exception to black rhino's Endangered Species Act protections banning trade that have been in place, without exception, since 1980. (That's not to mention international bans put in place under the CITES treaty.) John R. Platt at Scientific American has a solid breakdown on the story that I suggest reading; essentially, a rich American paid $215,000 to kill a black rhino in Namibia in 2009, and because Namibia has used those funds for a successful rhino conservation program, FWS granted the exception to its rules.
Black rhinos are endemic to east and southeast Africa, and are distinct from the white rhinos being hunted in South Africa. This is important because while the white rhino has a total wild population in the range of 20,000 or so, there were only 4,880 black rhino at the end of 2010, split across three subpopulations. That low number—and that the population's 1995 low of 2,410 individuals was down more that 97 percent since 1960—led the IUCN to list the black rhino as critically endangered.
The FWS argued that its import exception, announced in late March, was due to the fact that Namibia, where the rhino was shot, is home to a successful rhino conservation program, to which said American hunter gave $175,000 of his fees, according to Platt. That black rhino conservation is working is true, to an extent—while black rhinos have doubled in the last 18 years, they still exist in critically low numbers. And in the middle of so many people, including Fish and Wildlife officers, spending time, effort, and money trying to convince the general public that rhino poaching is a crucial problem, suddenly allowing a guy to import the rhino he shot four years ago is goofball.
I understand the logic FWS is trying to go with here. As I've written before, hunting can be an excellent conservation tool, a fact that a lot of people don't like to admit. The truth is that conservation efforts cost a ton of money, and hunters spend a lot of money to protect lands they hunt on. And sure, FWS is right: $175,000 is a ton of money for rhino conservation efforts in trade for one individual, as long as the money's going to the right people. In this case, FWS said in a statement that it had vetted the program fully:
The Service cannot and will not allow the importation of sport-hunted trophies of species protected under the Endangered Species Act unless a comprehensive review determines that those trophies are taken as part of a well-managed conservation program that enhances the long-term survival of the species.
That, at the very least, helps ease one of the problems I have with big game hunting: a lot of programs are poorly managed, allowing too many kills based on poor population data, charging too little for a kill to make a difference, or simply allowing corruption to take away any benefit a hunter could bring. (By the way, that's a point that a lot of people apparently missed the last time I wrote about this.)
FWS has set an unbelievably frustrating precedent that if a hunter pays enough to a "properly-managed" conservation effort, he may get to bring his trophy home.
But when it comes to rhinos, the problem is altogether different. To its credit, FWS will still evaluate licenses for import of banned species on a case-by-case basis.At the same time, FWS is now saying it can support people paying six figures to hunt endangered species, as long as that money goes to conserving the rest of the species. Here's the thing: Fish and Wildlife has no say in the hunts themselves. The guy had no problem signing up for a rhino hunt four years ago, before FWS had ever allowed importation of the trophy.
All FWS has done now is set an unbelievably frustrating precedent that if a hunter pays enough to a "properly-managed" conservation effort, he may get to bring his trophy home. But that type of back-end incentive only serves to increase demand for rhino hunts—hey, now at least you've got a chance to bring one home—without actually being able to regulate the hunts themselves. Rather than stating clearly that no rhino can come into the US, FWS has said that now maybe you can, if your hunt fits a vague set of guidelines that any operation could claim to offer to prospective hunters.
Beyond any of that, one of the biggest problems in the rhino horn trade—and the wildlife trade at large—is that wildlife products are largely semi-legal. I've called out South Africa before for continuing to allow rhino hunting while at the same time decrying the poaching of its rhinos. It's such an asinine double-standard that you've got Thai prostitutes pretending to shoot rhinos in order to smuggle poached horn out of the country. Without standard regulatory framework, who's to know if a confiscated horn is legal or not?
That's the problem with the Fish and Wildlife decision. In many other circumstances, I'd applaud the agency for thinking about pragmatic conservation decisions—killing a lion or whatever may be unsavory to some, but if the hunting license is worth $100,000, then perhaps it's worth it, which a lot of conservation-minded folks don't understand.
But in this case, saying that the killing of a critically-endangered species is not okay, except for sometimes, is only muddying an already complex issue. Enforcement of the rhino trade is impossibly difficult, thanks to corruption and its quasi-legal status in many countries. Meanwhile, they're disappearing at an incredible clip. The only solution is a unified front—killing rhinos is bad because they're incredibly rare, their horns do nothing, and if you have one, you're getting arrested. Before this decision, the US was one of the countries where that unified front existed (for the most part). Now, even as rhinos are poached faster than ever, the US has said that killing some rhinos, even critically endangered ones, is okay.


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Family Insight’s mission is to enhance the well-being of families and individuals through evidence-based counseling interventions.
Welcome to Family Insight, Chesterfield
We are happy to announce that our new, state-of-the-art Chesterfield location is now open. Our 10,000 sq. ft. facility is located on a beautiful lake in the Midlothian area. It and has multiple treatment rooms for ABA and play therapy, with six adjacent observation rooms for supervision. In addition to multiple outpatient therapy rooms we also have a mock studio apartment and classroom. Our training room seats 75 and is open for public events related to community mental health.
Candace Hopper,LPC, NCC, Board-Approved Supervisor
Regional Site Director
Candace has 18 years of experience working with adults with severe and persistent mental illness in various capacities, including psychosocial rehabilitation, vocational rehabilitation, residential rehabilitation and supervision, co-occurring disorders group therapy, intakes, assessments, and referrals.
Candace is passionate about meeting others where they are and supporting them to increase independence and improve overall quality of life. She believes that with support, every one of our clients can reach their full potential and live the kind of lives they desire. Candace believes that through training and support of the staff providing service to clients, she can continue to help spread understanding and compassion for those living with mental illness.
Angel Gonzalez, QMHP-A
Robert Austin-Villanueva, BCaBA, LABA
Yelynel Peralta, BCBA, LBA
Mariah Tarboro, BCaBA, LaBA
Emily Mozingo, BCaBA, LaBA
Veronica Villafana MA, BCBA,LBA
Coralys Sanchez, BCBA, LBA
Jessica Bradford, BCBA, LBA
Halle Cox, BCaBA, LABA

domain: psychology