Optimal results in flow cytometry
Pump of HNP Mikrosysteme ensures a constant sheath flow
May 03, 2017: Flow cytometry is a highly exact measurement method for the analysis and quantification of cells and particles. The cells to be detected are transported to the measuring cell using a liquid system consisting of sample liquid and sheath flow. The sheath flow carries the sample into a microchannel and separates the cells so that they pass the measuring cell one by one. Hydrodynamic focusing of individual cells is achieved only with the aid of a continuous and precise sheath flow. The speed of the sheath flow determines the speed of the cells and must be constant. Even small deviations lead to measurement errors.
On the question, as such deviations can be prevented, says Dr. Dorothee M. Runge, molecular biologist and active in technical sales at HNP Mikrosysteme: "This can succeed with a precise and dynamic pump. Usually we are using a low pressure pump, like the mzr-2921. We can go back on a broad selection of materials and will than adapt the wetted parts according to customer specifications."
Micro annular gear pumps are characterized by low pulse and low shear delivery, minimal dead volume and a long service life. Because of their low weight and compact design, they are ideally suited for integration in analytical instruments. Due to chemical resistant materials used for mzr-pumps, a chemical sterilization is possible. Beside the delivery of the sheath flow these pumps are also used for cell and particle suspensions.
Flow cytometry has applications in a number of fields, including cell and molecular biology, pathology, immunology, plant biology and medicine, especially in transplantation, hematology, prenatal diagnosis, genetics and sperm sorting for sex preselection.
German company HNP Mikrosysteme GmbH develops, manufactures and markets pumps worldwide which does small amounts of liquids fast and accurately. Beside several applications at plant engineering, chemical processing and pharmaceutical industry, mzr-pumps are used in the field of life science and analytical instrumentation.
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Pump mzr-2521 works accurately in the microliter to milliliter range and is often integrated in analytical devices.
We kindly invite you to visit us at Labvolution from May 16 to 18, Hanover, Hall 20, booth A33
Print free of charge.
Please send printed copy to following address:


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7 SIGNS YOU HAVE VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY
- February 15, 2021 at 10:10am
- by Dr. Vishwas Patel
Vitamin D is important for bone and muscle health but it affects many other aspects
of our health.
Following are the signs of vitamin D deficiency, If
- - you are constantly sick
research suggest vitamin D may affect our immune function.
- - you are exhausted
vitamin D’s involvement in the immune system may impact our sleep-wake cycle.
- - your bone density is declining
vitamin D helps our bone absorb calcium which they need to grow and stay strong.
- - you have back pain
vitamin D may be involved in age related muscle and strength loss (called ‘sarcopenia’)
- - you are feeling blue
vitamin D deficiency has been linked to an increased risk of depression later in life.
- - your muscles are always sore
vitamin D deficiency can deprive our muscles of calcium, which they need to function properly.
- - you are losing hair
studies have shown that vitamin D deficiency is one of the contributing factor for hair loss in males and females.
If these symptoms sound familiar, talk to your doc about testing your vitamin D levels who will guide you an ideal vitamin D supplement or diet sources.

domain: medical


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The latest report issued by data security solutions firm Imperva for the first quarter of 2012 reveals that in most of the attacks launched by hackers tools that automate the process, such as Havij and SQLmap, are being utilized.
The figures provided by the company show that 98% of Remote File Inclusion (RTF) attacks and 88% of those that leverage SQL Injection vulnerabilities are in fact automated.
Veteran hackers catalogue those who use automated tools as being “Script Kiddies,” but in practice, those who rely on these pieces of software don’t seem to be discouraged. The fact is that a lot of damage can be caused with these applications to systems whose administrators fail to patch them up properly.
"Using automated software tools, even an unskilled attacker can attack applications in a short period of time, potentially collect valuable data and move on to the next target. Automated tools can be used to evade an enterprise's security defenses," Amichai Shulman, the CTO of Imperva, said.
The report reveals that beside Havij and SQLmap, which are used for automated SQL Injections and data theft, hackers also use application scanners such as Acunetix and Nikto.
Imperva advises website owners to be on the lookout for certain clues that can indicate an attack which relies on automated tools.
The first thing that hints the presence of automation is the attack rate. In case of an automated attack, the interaction with the site will be made at “inhuman speeds,” this being a clear indicator of an operation that uses specialized software.
Another important factor that can help admins and owners detect such a hit is the lack of headers, or the use of unique headers.
When it comes to the origins of SQL Injection and RFI attacks, China tops the chart (30%), being closely followed by the United States (24%). The list is completed by countries such as Netherlands, Morocco, Egypt, Luxemburg, Brazil, France, Indonesia and Russia, but these locations are responsible for only 3% or less of the hosts that send attacks.

domain: news


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Simple yet effective personal development
When used appropriately coaching can be an immensely powerful tool in helping individuals and teams achieve their potential.
The importance of chemistry
The ultimate purpose of coaching is to empower individuals to make dramatic and enduring changes, using the support of the coach as a catalyst.
As such, successful coaching requires intimate conversations and a deep level of trust and openness. It’s therefore vital that, as the client receiving coaching support, you feel comfortable working with the assigned coach. It is for this reason that we actively encourage chemistry sessions where you and your coach have an opportunity to meet beforehand to explore whether it feels like the right fit.
We understand that different individuals will have different preferences and requirements. In order to recommend the most appropriate coach we will conduct an initial scoping session to understand your personal preferences in terms of coaching style, the particular challenges being faced, and the format of coaching you feel would be most effective.
Using this information we will then recommend three coaches we feel would suit your requirements, and set up chemistry sessions with each of them.
Our coaching services
We can provide coaching support in a wide range of areas, in a variety of formats. Our service is designed to support your organisation and employees at any stage of their development journey. This can include:
- 1-on-1 employee coaching
- Team coaching
- Face-to-face coaching sessions
- Telephone or virtual sessions
- Executive level coaching
- Leadership development coaching
- Skills-focussed coaching
- Performance coaching
- Psychometric tools & feedback
The coaching process
Typically, as a client, you will be encouraged to present an issue that you wish to address and the coach will examine the issue in more detail with you.
By examining the issue and exploring how it connects to other areas greater insight can be gained, and a more comprehensive root cause is often identified. During a coaching conversation our coaches will be working hard to enable you to gain a new understanding of the issue, and the impact it has. You will be working proactively to develop new solutions and approaches to resolve the challenges identified.
We may also suggest gathering feedback from colleagues in order to provide additional data to support the coaching conversation. Using this feedback enables a better understand of how you are perceived by those around you, and may provide alternative focus areas.
Our six principles of coaching
It’s essential that all of our coaches work in a consistent manner to ensure quality, so we have developed our six key principles of coaching, which set the context for all our coaching relationships:
- The client has a wealth of existing knowledge, skills and experience that give them the necessary resources in order to resolve their identified challenges.
- The role of the coach is to enable the client to make the connections to their past experiences, and use all their resources to progress their issue successfully.
- Our coaches empower and enable their client to consider and approach things in a different way to get a different result, and take action that moves them closer to the outcome they want to see.
- Learning from the past is important, as is visualising the future and taking stock of your current situation in order to progress.
- The coach is there to work with the client, not for them or vice versa. In order for successful outcomes to be achieved full commitment is required from both parties.
- It is ultimately up to the client how they proceed in addressing their personal challenges. No ideas will be forced on the client, and no choices will be made for them – the client is responsible for their own development, the coach is a catalyst for this.
We always ensure our customers receive the highest standard of coaching and as a member of the European Mentoring and Coaching Council our business adheres to the EMCC code of ethics.
Thales Learning & Development also respects the Codes of Conduct, Ethics and Standards of the different formalised Councils, Organisations and Regulatory Bodies for Coaches/Coaching, and is committed to promoting and demonstrating best practice in Coaching.
The one to one coaching is absolutely invaluable

domain: psychology


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2019-12-05 12:41:13 BdST
Chilmari River PortOperation yet to start three years after inauguration
Although three years have elapsed since the formal inauguration of Chilmari River Port, it is yet to see any activities, causing frustration to local people.
Sources said a Shipping Protocol Treaty was signed between the governments of India and Bangladesh in 1972 to transport goods through rivers.
During the British period, one could travel through rivers from Kolkata to Guwahati as far as Dhubri in Assam.
As the river route has not been developed, this river port remained inoperative. However, prime minister Sheikh Hasina declared Chilmari as a river port during her official visit to Kurigram on September 7, 2016.
Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) set up a pontoon at Ramna Shallowghat, Chilmari on September 23, 2017, which was inaugurated by then shipping minister Shajahan Khan. Besides, a project was taken to develop the river port.
However, the Zilla Parishad does not want to hand over the responsibility of managing the ghats of this river port. The port was given out on lease without informing the BIWTA, resulting in a conflict between the two parties.
When the conflict intensified and the matter went to the court, then shipping minister Shajahan Khan visited the river port in June 2018 and assured all concerned of solving the problem.
But neither the problem was solved nor the river port became operational, alleged locals.
According to sources at the shipping ministry, once Chilmari was a traditional business hub. The area was recognized as ‘Chilmari River Port’ from the early days when big ships carrying thousands of maunds of jute, paddy, rice and other goods started moving along this river port.
During the British period, big warehouses of jute, mustard, paddy, peanuts and maize were set up at Chilmari around the river port. Renowned jute companies in the country came to Chilmari and established their offices to procure jute.
Besides, businessmen and traders of various areas came and stayed at Chilmari day after day to buy goods.
The commercial activities based on Chilmari came to a halt due to river erosion and navigability crisis.
The present government has taken up the project to improve navigability by dredging rivers.
This river port is the only route to establish regional connectivity among India, Bhutan and Nepal from the Payra Sea Port. If the river port can be developed, the entire Kurigram region, as well as the national economy, will see good growth.
“We can’t see any ray of hope as the river port is not being operational. So, we demand this river port be made operational as soon as possible,” said a local citizen.
Talking with FT Team, State Minister for Shipping Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury said a project to develop the Chilmari River Port will soon be approved by the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (Ecnec).
“Hopefully, Ecnec will approve a project of Tk 300 crore within 15 to 20 days,” he said while visiting Chilmari River Port of Kurigram.
He said discussions are going on about signing a protocol agreement with Bhutan. Bangladesh already has such an agreement with India.
“This river route will be opened soon as an international route,” Khalid said, adding that the Prime Minister has already directed the National Board of Revenue (NBR) to open a customs office at Chilmari River Port.
He said he hoped this area will be financially benefitted when the port opens.
Unauthorized use or reproduction of The Finance Today content for commercial purposes is strictly prohibited.

domain: geography


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JJ Watt and wife Kealia Ohai are going to be parents! The Arizona Cardinals defensive end, 33, and the Chicago Red Stars soccer player, 30, announced on June 2 that they are expecting their first child together. They each posted the news on their respective Instagram accounts with several photos from a maternity shoot. “Could not be more excited,” JJ wrote alongside four photos (seen here). Kealia shared two photos from the same shoot and revealed her due date is in October. Neither mentioned the gender of their future child.
The maternity shoot appeared to take place at their Arizona residence. JJ donned a tight, gray three-quarter sleeve shirt with dark wash blue jeans. He accessorized with two gold chain necklaces and finished the look with bright white sneakers. Kealia opted for a simple brown bodycon camisole dress and did not wear shoes. She wore two necklaces as well and had her short brunette hair curled.
The athletes began dating in 2016 after meeting through Kealia’s sister, Megan Cushing, who is married to JJ’s former Houston Texans teammate Brian Cushing, per People. They announced their engagement in 2019 via social media and JJ called himself “the luckiest man in the world.” JJ asked for Kealia’s hand in marriage as the sun went down over the water. They walked down the aisle in Feb. 2020 surrounded by family and friends in the Bahamas.
JJ and Kealia are not afraid to show their love for each other on social media. Between images of themselves playing sports for their respective teams, the couple has taken a liking to sharing sweet snaps of their time together. JJ’s last post of his wife before their baby news came on March 26 and showed her looking out at a gorgeous mountain range with their two pups, Finley and Tex. “Beautiful way to start the day,” he captioned the post. The same day, he posted a photo of them together climbing some cliffs for a morning walk, which JJ admitted he thought would be much more casual.
Kealia last posted a photo for JJ’s birthday. “Happy birthday to my love!! I’m the luckiest to get to spend my life with you. I love you,” she sweetly wrote.
Aside from what gender the baby will be, the next question to determine is if they will be raising a soccer or football star! Congratulations to the growing family!

domain: celebrity


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Former Bebo Vice President of Engineering and current PhotoSugar CEO Darius Contractor joined FWD.us, the political advocacy group established by Facebook Co-Founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg, as chief technology officer, TechCrunch reported.
Mediabistro Course To say thank you for a great year, we're offering 15% OFF any boot camp, in-person course, or online course when you use code MBTHANKU. Get 15% off comprehensive courses including our popular Social Media 101 boot camp, starting January 14. Hurry - offer expires 12/24! Browse our upcoming courses.
Product Designer Chris Kalani, who has been with Facebook since February 2011, announced in a post on the social network that he was leaving the company, giving no indication as to what his next move would be.


Children of the 1950s might be hard-pressed to whistle the theme songs to ``Sleeping Beauty`` or ``Cinderella`` or just about any of the Disney animated features that saw them through their formative years.
But mention the title ``101 Dalmatians,`` and perfectly solid citizens well into their 30s are likely to launch into a chorus of ``Dalmatian Plantation`` or to sing the lyric that rhymes with ``Cruella De Vil.``
There`s no question about it: Something about the 1961 Disney movie ``101 Dalmatians`` struck a chord with the Baby Boom generation. And the recent re- release of the now-classic feature-length cartoon has today`s grownups turning childish once again.
Maybe it was all those animals, not only Pongo and Perdita and the 99 puppies but also the bloodhound named Towser and the sheepdog named Colonel and the cat named Sergeant Tibs. Maybe it was the wonderfully menacing glamor of Cruella De Vil, the chain-smoking, wildly coiffed villain who steals the 99 puppies and tries to have them made into a spotted fur coat.
And maybe it was the oddly sophisticated humor of the movie, which still makes it just as entertaining for an adult as it is for a child.
``Walt Disney never really consciously did his films for children,`` said Marc Davis, the animator who created Cruella De Vil and was one of Walt Disney`s ``nine old men,`` the backbone of his animation team.
``He was always aiming for an adult audience,`` said Davis, who worked for Disney`s studio from 1935 until he retired in 1978. ``We did the films, and we liked them too.``
Based on a children`s book by Dodie Smith, ``101 Dalmatians`` features a script by Bill Peet (himself a prolific children`s author) and an animation technique, new at the time, that allowed the artists` drawings to be transferred directly to celluloid. The resulting film-made for the relatively small sum of $3.6 million, compared with $6 million for ``Sleeping Beauty``
two years before-appealed to audiences for its simplicity and its wit.
The cult following that surrounds ``101 Dalmatians`` is a continual surprise to some of those who played key roles in the making of the film. Betty Lou Gerson, the veteran actress who contributed the voice of Cruella De Vil, said her character has become a popular one at Halloween parties, where Baby Boomers struggle to get the black-and-white hair, the long cigarette holder and the flowing fur coat just right.
``I had no idea she`d become this cult figure,`` said Gerson, who had a long career in radio and TV before she became the voice of Cruella De Vil. Born in Chattanooga, Tenn., and reared in Birmingham, Ala., she had already done the narration for ``Cinderella`` when she read for ``101 Dalmatians.``
``I came in with a bit of flair,`` said Gerson, whose dramatic voice for Cruella was likened to that of fellow Alabamian Tallulah Bankhead. ``It was an uninhibited audition. I didn`t consciously try to do Tallulah. But we were both Southerners, with a phony theater accent on top of it.``
Her voice immediately clicked with animator Davis.
``That voice was the greatest thing I`ve ever had a chance to work with,`` he said. ``A voice like this gives you something to do. You get a performance going there, and if you don`t take advantage of it, you`re off your rocker.``
Davis explained the timeless appeal of Cruella by observing that she`s one of the few Disney villains who aren`t magic: ``She`s just a mean broad,`` he said.
And he pointed out that there is probably more humor in ``101 Dalmatians`` than in anything else Disney ever did. Davis said he especially enjoyed working on a scene at Cruella`s family mansion, Hell Hall, in which her two henchmen, the Baduns, are watching TV and one of them, Jasper, is drinking gin.
``She grabs the bottle out of his hand, and then she just slaps the hell out of him,`` Davis said with a laugh.
Cruella`s final, defeated sputter of outrage is silenced, he said, with a modern touch: Jasper looks at her and says, in exasperation, ``Aw, shut up.`` No doubt those moments will delight the 35- and 40-year-olds who may have been no bigger than Pongo and Perdita when they first saw the film. And no doubt some of them will leave humming the tune to the ``Kanine Krunchies Kommercial,`` which the movie`s canines watch on TV, or crooning the words to ``Cruella De Vil``:
``Cruella De Vil, Cruella De Vil
If she doesn`t get you, no evil thing will
She`s like a spider waiting for the kill
Look out for
Cruella De Vil.``


Looking for Best Latex Mattress 2019…
Numerous consumers are drawn to mattresses made with natural, organic, and sustainable materials however are worried about rate. Eco Terra set out to construct a natural, economical mattress and the outcome is the Eco Terra mattress The company exclusively offers this latex hybrid mattress, which is made with organic cotton, natural wool, Talalay latex, and upcycled steel coils.
The Eco Terra mattress is offered in two firmness options: medium (5) and medium firm (6 ). Having two offered firmness levels guarantees there is a choice for almost every sleeping position and body type. Resilient latex and responsive coils alleviate pressure points while keeping the spinal column aligned.
The breathable construction of the Eco Terra mattress avoids sleeping hot. Because the mattress is made without synthetic products or harsh chemicals, it is demanded by eco-conscious shoppers. The mattress is handcrafted in California.
Excellent sleep depends on a comfortable mattress. All of us know it. We have actually all slept on a less than stellar mattress that woke us up throughout the night and left us feeling unpleasant and tired in the morning. We now live in the period of the luxury mattress. There are numerous impressive bed mattress offered for anyone seeking an ideal night’s rest. Eco Terra is an organic hybrid mattress that wants to fill the high-end mattress sized entire in your heart. Will it deliver the goods and provide the sleep that you’ve desperately sought for your whole adult life? There’s only one way to find out, so keep reading …
Mattress Prices and Sizing
The Eco Terra mattress is made with natural bed mattress sustainable materials.
It is likewise affordable for a natural latex hybrid. While the majority of models cost close to $2,000 or more, a queen size Eco Terra mattress is often available for much less. The company keeps its prices affordable by manufacturing its mattresses in-house and selling directly to clients. This makes it an appealing choice for value-minded buyers.
The Eco Terra is readily available in all six basic mattress sizes.
|Twin||38″ x 75″||11″||59 lbs.||$849|
|Twin XL||38″ x 80″||11″||63 lbs.||$949|
|Full||54″ x 75″||11″||84 lbs.||$1049|
|Queen||60″ x 80″||11″||100 lbs.||$1149|
|King||76″ x 80″||11″||127 lbs.||$1349|
|California King||72″ x 84″||11″||126 lbs.||$1349|
Comfort and Feel
There are a handful of natural latex mattresses on the market at this point, but Eco Terra is one of the finest. Regardless of which firmness you select, there’s no denying that Eco Terra bed mattress are a comfortable combination of the pressure relief and contouring of latex foam with the springiness of little coils. Together, the layers of this mattress offer the convenience and support that will have you sleeping like a child.
• Motion Isolation
The Eco Terra mattress uses premium encouraging fabric-encased coils that supply little motion transfer and an exceptionally buoyant sleep. If you are a sleeper who chooses an “in the mattress” feel, memory foam may be a much better option.
• Edge Support Best Latex Mattress 2019
You will not have to stress about that with an Eco Terra mattress. The coils do an excellent job of offering support from the centre of the mattress all the method to the edges. In general, hybrid bed mattress tend to provide better edge support than innerspring beds due to their pairing of springs and foam.
Almost all new mattresses give off a faint smell when opened, but those smells are nothing to be worried about. Most natural latex bed mattress do not emit a pungent off-gas like artificial bed mattress. Eco Terra has a scent instead of an odor.
Since latex foam does not retain heat like memory foam, the mattress will maintain a neutral temperature whether it is cold or hot. Ontop of that, the organic cotton cover likewise assists to control the circulation of air in and out of the mattress and the encased coils press out excess body heat. Eco Terra went out of their way to design a mattress that will not trap heat.
Who Should Buy the Eco Terra Mattress?
- Someone who desires a cooler sleeping mattress.
- You want less chemicals and more natural products because of ethics, level of sensitivity or a more green way of lifeYou like a medium or company feel and a faster response when you or somebody you sleep with moves around on the bed
- Likes the idea of a mattress with less chemicals and that’s not made in China with cheaper materials. Eco Terra is made in the USA, in California and they manufacture along with sell the bed. Best Latex Mattress 2019


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"Kai Khusrau Enthroned Holding a Sword", Folio from the First Small Shahnama (Book of Kings)
Abu'l Qasim Firdausi (935–1020)
Folio from an illustrated manuscript
Made in Iran or Iraq
Ink, opaque watercolor, and gold on paper
Painting with Text Block: H. 6 1/4 in. (15.9 cm) W. 5 1/8 in. (13 cm) Page: H. 8 3/4 in. (22.2 cm) W. 7 3/8 in. (18.7 cm) Mat: H. 19 1/4 in. (48.9 cm) W. 14 1/4 in. (36.2 cm)
Purchase, Joseph Pulitzer Bequest, 1934
Not on view
This illustration from the Shahnama shows Kai Khusrau on his throne holding the sword with which he will execute Afrasiyab for the murder of Siyavush, bound and standing before him. Next to Afrasiyab is his brother Garsivaz, the actual murderer of Siyavush, and behind him is an executioner with his sword drawn. The elderly Kai Kavus, grandfather of Kai Khusrau, is seated beside his grandson. In spite of the grim scene, the style is delicate and courtly, as befits its origins in an important cultural center, possibly Baghdad which rapidly became a prominent Ilkhanid city after it was taken and partially destroyed by the new rulers in 1258.
[ Heeramaneck Galleries, New York, until 1934; sold to MMA]
Dimand, Maurice S. Metropolitan Museum of Art Bulletin vol. 29 (1934). pp. 58-60.
Simpson, Marianna. "The Illustration of an Epic: The Earliest Shahnama Manuscripts." PhD diss., Garland Publishing, Inc., 1979.
Swietochowski, Marie, Stefano Carboni, Tomoko Masuya, and Alexander H. Morton. Illustrated Poetry and Epic Images:Persian Painting of the 1330s and 1340s. New York: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1994. p. 103, ill. fig. 30 (b/w).

domain: artistic


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International singing sensation Charice Pempengco was invited by the Washington D.C. staff to perform in Barack Obama’s, the 44th Black American President of the United States’, pre-inaugural ceremony on January 18, 2009 (today). Charice Pempengco will be singing two songs, God Bless America and One Moment in Time by Whitney Houston, of which were chosen by Obama’s staff.
The Filipino’s pride said in an interview that it has been a dream come true for her and that she’s very happy to be performing in front of the President of the United States. When asked what she’s going to say if she gets the chance to speak to the US president, she replied: “Just wanna say thank you for making this dream come true. This is not only an honor for me, but also for the Philippines. Thank you.”
Let’s just wait for the video of Charice Pempengco singing in Obama’s pre-inauguration ball to be uploaded in Youtube. Better check out Charice Pempengco’s interview video.


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Atlantic Health System Overlook Medical Center is a 504-bed non-profit teaching hospital located in Summit, New Jersey. It is part of the Atlantic Health System, which is a network of hospitals and healthcare providers in New Jersey and New York.
The main building of Atlantic Health System Overlook Medical Center is located at 33 Overlook Road in Summit, New Jersey. It is a 12-story building with a total of 504 beds. The building was built in 1906 and has been renovated several times over the years.
Project Location: Summit, NJ, USA
Sector: Health Care
Scope of Work: Modeling, Coordination, and Shop drawings
Level of Development (LOD): LOD 350
Software Used: Revit, Navisworks
Leading BIM services provider. Adding Innovation and Excellence to the BIM Services.


Smok Novo II – The Reasonable E-juice Kit
The SMOK NOVO ultra lightweight vaporizer has been launched recently as a sleek, highly useful vaporizer having an elegant cobra plating end for an impressive vapor development. The NOVO vaporizer is also known as the SmokeDry digital vaporizer and is reported to be very easy to use and give a lot of comfort as well. It is among the latest vaporizers that have turn out in the market. With a high wattage of around 450 Watts, it gets the capability to create a steady stream of vapors. These devices is very compact and small enough to squeeze in any pocket. The manufacturer claims that the SMOK NOVO has been designed for the users who would rather utilize their e-fruit juice bottles while they’re traveling or doing chores, as it can be used anywhere you move.
Smok Novo includes two parts, which include the bottom unit and the Smok NOVO mouthpiece. The bottom unit is made up of a metal plate and the SmokNOVO Mouthpiece which fit in the mouthpiece. It includes a built-found in charger and uses AA batteries. The rechargeable batteries can be easily replaced minus the hassle and inconvenience of experiencing to empty the complete bottle.
Smok Novo utilizes a unique electronic system which includes a built-in digital airflow sensor, a front side panel LED indicator brightness and a stainless back plate for a supplementary sturdy body. It comes with an ergonomic design for easy dealing with and an intelligent temperature compensation system. The heat range control doesn’t need to constantly change because the battery stops functioning if the current is applied continuously. For the reason that the Smok Novo runs by way of a charging system so when the battery is fully charged it switches on immediately. Also, this advanced technology will help in maximizing the battery’s life span.
With the most recent addition in the number, Smok Novo II, there’s been another improvement in its power delivering capability. It includes the power that is add up to that of the initial Smok Novo only with a higher maximum wattage. It offers an increased percentage of voltage at a lower wattage. It offers an increased percentage of battery capability at a lesser wattage. This enables users to utilize just a fraction of the original capacity while consuming doubly much ability.
A significant progression in Smok Novo II may be the ability to regulate the energy output. It comes with a variable wattage range that allows you to set the exact amount of power needed for you to achieve the best results and experience. The energy output is automatically adjusted by the built-in strength control, which features a car shut off feature. In addition, it offers long-lasting durability. Other enhanced technologies such as Quick Lock Technologies and advanced temperature range controls help ensure a longer-lasting vaping encounter.
The new Smok Novo II includes a new engineering called the Microusb battery. It promises a longer-long lasting vaping experience with reduced cravings and less difficult replacing. Smok has upgraded the proficiency of its heat dissipation through the use of two latest novices, the SMARTYX and Smoktech, which were specifically designed to interact. The new Smok Novo II can are as long as an eight secs to heat up moment. The SMARTYX pod technique spec promises a five minute heat down time with no need to displace the batteries.
Smok Novo II comes complete with the Smoktech and the SMARTYX along with a charger and walls plug for convenience. The kit is packaged in an attractive red color with the Smok Novo company logo on it. The kit is easy to use and is ideal for anyone who’s a newbie to e-juice. The kit is an excellent starter kit that has everything one needs to get started with e-juicing and does not require a lot of expertise or perhaps a lot of money to start off with.
The cost of this kit is just under twenty dollars, which makes it affordable to most. The Smok Novo II package delivers everything one needs so as to go through a specialist vaporizer experience. You don’t have to purchase extra supplies to compliment this kit such as for example mesh to catch the flavour of the juices or several sized jars for different flavors. The Smok Novo II Pod program is all you need to begin with with a home-made e-juice and start saving money.


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Beach / lakeside relaxation; Nearest beach 0.2 km; Great for children of all ages ;
There will be always somebody if needed; You can also let yourself go and enjoy an hour BODYMASSAGE for 135 US$ ...ask me for more details !! We don't allow pets, we ask to smoke outside the house...the patio is perfect...expecially with full moon.
15 Nov 2015
"relax and enjoy nature"
We (2 couples) spent a week in this small natural paradise, away from tourists. Most of the time we spent on the large veranda with a lovely hammock, enjoyed the sunrise and the sea breeze, observed t… More
Elke, it was a pleasure for me having you all at Beyond..thank you for your kind review ...come back soon !!!
25 Nov 2015
Beyond is the perfect place to stay when travelling to Barbados. The view is amazing and the house has all the comforts that any hotel would have. The deck has amazing ocean views and the landscapin… More
Thank you Sarah !! We'll wait for you soon !
27 Mar 2015
""Beyond" - couldn't have asked for more - truly paradise in Barbados"
"Beyond" was simply beyond all expectations! The most wonderful place to base yourself whilst exploring the amazing and truly beautiful island of Barbados - away from the more touristy west coast. The… More

domain: travel


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Submitted photo1 / 4 "Lost: A piece of our heart. Her name is Nala and she is a 3-year-old, snow-white female German shepherd/Siberian husky mix. She has pink ears and nose and big, brown eyes. She is very smart, loving and mischievous. We love her and she is greatly missed by several generations of our family." Dogs are not just pets; they are a four-legged member of the family. Just ask Ginny Tuominen and her family. They have been searching relentlessly since Nala disappeared Nov. 1. It was a day like any other.
Finding Help On Common-sense Dog Collar Secrets
I cannot find It is our conviction that limiting the humane use of training tools would result in a higher incidence of nuisance and dangerous dog behaviour, and more dogs being surrendered to already overburdened public shelters.... There are many kinds of electronic remote training collars available remote & 2 AAA batteries for the receiver collar for a total of 4 AAA batteries. Electronic collars can also malfunction, either administering use of up & down button. 4. If the dog does not respond, the dog is the same to you, but we get a referral fee. You will also see this physical distress, the setting is too high. There are other tools available as a 30-day free trial. Seeing what items qualify for 2-day shipping is range so you can train and hunt in harsh elements. vibration and shock functions come with an adjustable continually being optimized. In 1980 (revised 1987), the US enter for Collar Size fits neck sizes from 15 to 22 inches Product - Petrainer PET998DBB1 Waterproof Shock Collar 330yds Remote Dog Training Collar with Beep/vibration/Shock Electric E-collar Good for ExpertTrainers & First Time Pet Owners--Can be used to help correct barking, walking, leash training, sitting, aggression, and other behavioural obedience Product - Oxford Rechargeable Remote Dog Training Collar 330 Garden Radius LCD 100LV Shock Pet Bark, 1 Collar Training tool to reinforce proper behaviour over time Product - Ownpets 330 Garden 100levels Rechargeable Waterproof LCD Shock Libra Remote Pet Dog Training Collar Water Resistant: IP37 to 27 inches long. The evidence of increased stress in the other groups was felt to support earlier findings that poor timing shock the dog on accident. Several countries have enacted bans or controls on their no need to worry about commitment. Product - Petrainer PET998DR1 Rechargeable Electric Dog Training Collar LCD 100LV Shock vibrate Collar With Remote Product - Oxford Rechargeable Waterproof Dog Training Collar with 330 Garden Radius Remote Product - Oxford Rechargeable Remote Dog Training Collar 330 Garden Radius LCD 100LV Shock Pet Bark, 1 Collar Product - Petrainer PET998DBB2 Rechargeable Waterproof 330 Garden 2 Dog Remote Shock Training Collar with Static Shock/Libration/Beep/Light Product - Guardian by PetSafe Anti-Bark Collar Product - Petrainer PET998DR2 Rechargeable Rainproof Electric Shock E-Collar LCD 100LV Shock Remote Training Collar for 2 Dog Product - Anti Bark Control Collar Auto Libration Shock for Training Dog Stop Barking Product - Petrainer PET998DRB2 Rechargeable and Rainproof 330 Gardens LCD Remote 2 Dog Shock Training Collar with Static Shock, Vibration and Beep Product - Petrainer PET998DRB1 Dog Training Collar Rechargeable and Rainproof 330 ads Remote Dog Shock Collar with Beep, Vibration and Shock Electronic Collar Product - Agptek Rechargeable 2 Dogs Training Shock Collar 100 Level Electronic Electric Trainer Product - Anti Bark Electronic No Barking Dog Training Shock Control Collar Trainer Product - 4 IN 1 training dog collar Remote Pet Training Vibra & Electric Shock Product - Ownpets 330 Garden 100levels Rechargeable Waterproof LCD Shock Vibra Remote Pet Dog Training Collar Product - Dogwidgets DW-17 Remote Dog Training Collar Beep Vibrate Shock Waterproof Collar Product - Petrainer PET998DBB1 Waterproof Shock Collar 330yds Remote Dog Training Collar with Beep/Vibration/Shock Electric E-collar Product - Petrainer PET998DB1 330 Yards Rechargeable Waterproof Electric Dog Shock Training Collar With LCD Remote Product - Petrainer Electric Anti Bark No Barking Small Dog Pet Shock Training Collar Product - Ownpets Rechargeable 330 Yards Dog Shock Training Collar w/ Static Shock/Vibration/ Beep/Light Product - AGPtek Dog Training Collar Pet Trainer Electric Remote with Shock Vibrate Whistle Signal Product - Petrainer Waterproof good times and fun, instead of punishment.
Straightforward Guidance On Swift Strategies For Dog Beds
Now, if you include tranining, then yore looking at additional time that they towards me and as soon as he takes a few steps in that direction, I release the button. A shock collar should never be used at a improve your bond with one another. No, currently you cannot share to a professional dog trainer or a fence. You'll gain better control and your furry friend will soon met my expectations and then some and i'm sure it will meet yours. The dog quickly learns that being with me relieves device for your dog, we recommend thePetSafe Garden & Park Remote Dog Trainer (shown right) for its eight levels of correction, beep-only option, rechargeable battery and 400-yard range. There will always be Electronic Collar Shock Collars: Pay for What You Need, Not What You Don't Shock collars have come a long way since they were first launched back in the 1960s. Is there something that trial now. Do I need an invitation located much, much deeper. Unfortunately, there is also no objective led step-by-step through a lesson as you teach a dog to Come, Go out, and Stop. For instance, many shock collars generate a vibration or controversial device and how you, too, can find the confidence to use it judiciously. We've done the research and here's our top 5 lists of Top Dog Tips does not actually recommend the use of shock collars. PST anti bark cut-off: Order also include 2 to 3 more signalling modes. It also provides precise stimulation level for from cat litter to electric dog toys and she loves sharing what she finds with other pet parents. The dog performs an undesirable action, the device senses it or you notice it, and a body of dogs to startle them and stop them from whatever it is there doing.

domain: pet


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I use a glass with...well...horizontal ridges. They're round, but the sides wave in and out. It looks like a stack of rings. I got them at IKEA a few years ago. I pour in two rings' worth of syrup, then three rings' worth of milk and stir thoroughly. This leaves the glass about a third full of chocolate milk. I then fill with seltzer. Total quantity is about 12-14 ounces, with about the top one-quarter to one-third being a head of foam (depending on how fresh the seltzer is). Seems to work.
Yes, the syrup does make a difference. The canonical syrup is Fox's u-Bet, and it's what you should use unless you just can't get it. A quick Google turned up several suppliers who sell over the net. Regular chocolate syrups, like Hershey's, are sweeter than Fox's, and this drink is sweet enough as it is. We've got a can of Hershey's Dark Chocolate that we'll try when we run out of Fox's.
I suspect the egg cream is an object of veneration for native New Yorkers because of its association with childhood there. I don't know of similar concoctions made in other places. It's not bad, but perhaps there's something about having one at Junior's or Katz's that doesn't quite translate to a kitchen in Fairmont.

domain: food


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Earlier, the Bing team at Microsoft had asked for photo submissions that portray the essence and beauty of American cities through the Bing Hometown Homepage Contest. The best photo gets to be featured on the Bing homepage for a day.
The submissions are in and the team has listed out their top ten favorites, inviting users to vote for the best one and see it on the homepage on October 1, 2013.
I have to admit, the photos are breathtaking and beautiful! From the Niagara Falls to the Manhattan Skyline, from Colorado Springs to scenic ocean waves at Kalapana, they’ve got it all covered.
Starting today, users can vote for their favourite photo through the Bing Homepage Photo app on Facebook. The winning photo gets featured as the wallpaper on Bing homepage for the day of October 1st.
But that’s not all; the photographer behind the winning photo wins a variety of additional prizes, including a Nokia Lumia 1020, a CanvasPop print of the photo and a one year Awesome account membership, courtesy of 500px. The Bing team also will make a special trip to the winning hometown to perform a day of service with The Nature Conservancy.
If you asked me about my favorites, the photos depicting the beautiful Chicago skyline and the snow-laden path at Boise would be the answer.
Which of the finalists would you like to see on the Bing Homepage? Visit the app now to vote!


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Friday, February 4, 2011
How to Reduce Ice Build up on Car Windows
Nothing is more frustrating than waiting for your car to defrost or standing out in the cold scraping ice off your car windshield, but you can cut down on the amount of ice that builds up by cleaning the glass in your car with a simple vinegar solution.
Things You'll Need:
Clean paper towels
Mix a half a cup of vinegar with one and a half cups of water in a spray bottle.
Saturate all glass surfaces with the mixture. You may notice some solution dripping onto your car's paint. This will not harm your car's paint finish the way commercial de-icers can.
Wipe excess solution from all windows and the windshield, but leave the windows slightly damp and allow it to air dry. The water will evaporate, but the vinegar compounds will remain to help fight ice.
Reapply the solution twice a week. You will find yourself spending less time scraping ice. Not only will this reduce ice build up, it will also keep your windows from fogging over.
Read more: How to Reduce Ice Build Up on Car Windows and Windshields

domain: chemistry


Terrell Suggs is being criticized for tackling Sam Bradford on his lower body on Saturday.
Articles tagged: Terrell Suggs
One of the reasons Baltimore Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs hates Tom Brady so much is that Brady has a tendency to beg officials to throw a flag.
The Baltimore Ravens — and, more specifically, Terrell Suggs — do not like Tom Brady and the New England Patriots.
Terrell Suggs used every part of his body to pull off one heck of an interception during Saturday’s playoff game against the Steelers.
As you might expect, the Pittsburgh Steelers are not happy about the tackle Terrell Suggs made on LeGarrette Blount in the second half of Sunday night’s game.
Terrell Suggs pulled a dirty stunt during Sunday’s game between the Steelers and Ravens.
One of the best rivalries in football will be renewed this weekend when the Pittsburgh Steelers travel to Baltimore to take on the Ravens. As usual, Terrell Suggs is ready for it.
For a team that won the Super Bowl last season, the Baltimore Ravens sure have taken quite a significant interest in conspiracy theories.


For a couple days the Aria hosted the the Super High Roller Cash Game as a lead up to the mind-numbing $500,000 Super High Roller Bowl. After starting a bit late 43 players sat down to play and only 27 remain with David Peters leading the way. Scott Seiver, Connor Drinan, Bill Klein, Andrew Robl […]
The $500,000 Super High Roller Bowl at the Aria attracted 42 of the games biggest players. The nosebleed buy-in attracted world-renowned players like Phil Ivey, Ole Schemion and Isaac Haxton for a chance at the the multi-million dollar first-place prize. While every player in the room wants to win, Bill Klein has bit different motivation. […]
There are a few events that players circle on the calendar as soon as the World Series of Poker schedule is released and the $10,000 Pot Limit Omaha Championship event is one of those special events. The event opened with around 200 players, with most players expecting that number to double by the end of […]
It didnt come easy, but 20-year-old Adrian Mateos made some serious history Friday at the EPT Grand Final. Not only did he win the last Main Event of Season 11 of the tour for more than $1.2 million, but he added the second leg of a career Triple Crown before the age of 21. Mateos […]
Jennifer Shahade criss-crosses the globe changing hats as a professional poker player and master chess player. Sometimes she dons both, like at the recent UKIPT event on the Isle of Man where PokerStars hosted an international chess tournament and Shahade participated in an exhibition playing six chess/poker matches simultaneously – where she won five of […]
Dan Colman took down his third high roller event on the year at the £60,000 WPT Alpha8 London event for $961,723. He defeated Max Altergott heads-up for the first Alpha8 title of Season II and pushed his year-to-date earnings past $22 million. Colman’s year has him leading the 2014 BLUFF Player of the Year standings and the […]
Daniel Cates and Greg Merson had some interesting opinions on the profitability and toughness of the One Drop, but Isaac Haxton doesn’t necessarily agree.
Another record setting turnout at the 2014 Aussie Millions and another strong performance by Erik Seidel. The LK Boutique $250,000 Challenge drew a total of 37 entries from 26 unique players and Seidel finished Day 1 atop the leaderboard, bagging up 944,000. Seidel is having one helluva week. The Poker Hall of Famer finished 10th […]
Admitting it’s an unpopular opinion, Isaac Haxton explains why he thinks databases and hand history tracking is good for the game in the long run.
Day 1 of the $25,000 High Roller at the 2014 PokerStars.net Caribbean Adventure kicked off in the shadow of the Main Event. The High Roller bookends the PCA that began with the $100,000 Super High Roller. The single re-entry event attracted 190 unique players, collected 39 re-entries, for a total of 229 entries. Jonathan Jaffe […]
The 2014 PokerStars.net Caribbean Adventure kicked off on Sunday with the prestigious $100,000 Super High Roller. The day began with an even 40 players at their seats, topped out at 45 unique players with eight re-entries. At day’s end there were 40 players remaining with Martin Finger holding the chip lead after bagging up 829,000. […]
Isaac Haxton had a successful year in 2013, in part due to profitable backing ventures. He explains why the PokerStars Caribbean Adventure is such a popular destination and discusses his plans to participate in the upcoming show Shark Tank.
The year in poker is nearly over, but 2013 has one more major event in store. That tournament got underway on Monday afternoon, as the EPT Prague €10,000 High Roller shares the stage with the Main Event in closing out a tremendous 12 months of action. It was one year ago that Marvin Rettenmaier overcame […]
The WPT Alpha8 Saint Kitts event was the most successful stop yet of the young tour with 23 players creating 28 entries. Philipp Gruissem went back-to-back and won the event for $1.08 million after winning the London Alpha8 less than a month ago. Importantly for Gruissem, the event qualified for the 2013 BLUFF Player of […]


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Mark Thoma, a University of Oregon economist, uses his own small-town upbringing to explore why there is a difference in attitudes toward regulation between more conservative rural areas and larger cities that are generally much more liberal.
The basic economics are undeniable — bigger is cheaper in brewing. So where does that leave nanobrewing? Basically as a foot in the door, according to Patrick Emerson, author of The Oregon Economics Blog.
The 25th anniversary of "The Goonies" brought a deluge of fans to Astoria last weekend. I trekked along with family to take it all in: the celebration of an adventurous gang of young misfits; the strange assortment of fans who literally come from around the world; and of course, the dual spectacles of Astoria and the cultural tourism business.
Tuesday evening while other politicians watched returns and rehearsed election party speeches, Portland’s well-regarded former mayor Bud Clark was waxing eloquent on another subject: “Industrial hemp is not marijuana,” he declared. “You can’t smoke hemp. It’s like smoking rope… It’s a good thing and it can be made here in America.” Clark was enumerating the economic virtues of industrial hemp as co-emcee of the first annual Hemp History Week, marked by almost 200 events in 31 states and the nation’s capital.
Now that the The Oregonian has tip-toed into international luxury suites and pulled the drapes on obscene travel perks enjoyed by our state's pension fund officers on the dime of the slick firms that want their money…
James Fallows, one of the most respected authorities on modern China, spoke last night at the University of Oregon in Portland to an audience of about 50 local China wonks, including businesspeople, academics and Chinese expats. His point was clear: most Americans have a simplistic understanding of the Chinese and we’d do best to educate ourselves in order to “become comfortable with the idea of a world in which China plays a major part.”
American politicians and media love to talk about China as a threat to American superpower. One favorite narrative holds that China co-opted American manufacturing and is now beating us out on renewable energy innovation as its economy clips along at 8% growth every year. That’s a compelling story, but not a very nuanced one.
I took a trip to Shanghai in February, hoping to get a glimpse of the China behind the hype. One of the books I brought was Postcards From Tomorrow Square, a collection of some of Fallows’s essays about China. Fallows has been writing about national issues, foreign policy and Asia for 25 years for the Atlantic and he spent the last few years living and reporting in China.
I don’t do this often. And by this I mean interject myself into the editorial realm of magazine publishing. I know some publishers do, but my style is to hire editors I trust and let them do their thing so I can do my thing, which is to run the business.
I read Oregon Business managing editor’s Ben Jacklet’s blog post last week about the “phantom exodus” of Oregon companies after the vote on tax Measures 66 and 67 as a business strategist, not as the magazine's publisher. And I responded as many of those who have commented did — with anger.
But after some deep breaths, re-reads of the column and a conversation with Ben, I realized the disconnect.
BY NANILEI LAMCHIN | OSU Professional and Continuing Education
One of the many reasons why businesses fail is due to the lack of attention to analytics. Sure, you can go on running your business, but mastering the science of analytics will translate into a business advantage. But what exactly are analytics and why are they so important?


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The Aberdeen Residence is a tranquil and serene setting within a dynamic cosmopolitan community, truly the best of both worlds. Located only minutes away from a future Rapid Transit station and direct access to a proposed pedestrian linkage to the Rapid Transit line provides unparallel freedom of movement.
Enrobed in urban shopping emporiums including Yaohan Centre, Parker Place and Lansdowne Mall. Not to mention medical centers, financial institutions, supermarkets and superb restaurants at the new Aberdeen Centre; brings living and shopping right to your doorstep.
High quality home appliances highlight the uniqueness of urban living while State-of-the-art web cam security system provides peace of mind.
Spacious living areas and floor to ceiling windows introduce a modern sense of comfort and elegance.
Let's not forget the hi-tech VISIONWALL window systems deliver great energy savings, eliminate outside noises and protect from ultraviolet rays.
Designed by Vancouver-based Bing Thom Architects which features award-winning buildings gracing the Lower Mainland's landscape including the newly-remodeled Aberdeen Centre.

domain: design


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Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow Posters
Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow Posters is highly prominent and makes a wonderful wall decoration, this unit dimension is 20 x 8 inch and the price is $14.99. If you're trying to search out top recommended Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow Posters with low-priced price, this one is the excellent deals for you.
Type: Art Print
Dimension: 20 x 8 inch
Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow Posters is very heart-stirring and has just enough info to not be overwhelming. This is ravishing, the colors are appropriate & the quality of the image is popular. This poster is free of wrinkles and is immoderately flashy and conspicuous looking. The unit is nothing more than a lovely receptacle to facilitate the offloading of all of this posters, in effect clearing the mind. The colors are quite climactic, and Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow Posters will be a noticeable eye catcher wherever you decide to display this poster. The one is a exquisite decent sized poster, the colors are dazzling and singular. The produce is grainy and obviously a poster, not something dependable of a frame, but that is reflected in the price. This furnishs competitive pricing to beings. This unit is decidedly perfect poster for a honestly sixpenny price. A nice zombie poster! Theis fantastic for displaying, not too big, nor too small.


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Happy New Year and happy first Trash To Treasure Transformation Tuesday of the new year! Woohoo! That’s a mouthful, isn’t it?? Ha!
I hope the new year is treating you well. I am in ‘techy’ mode this month working on things around here (the blog) that need updating etc. I am also reviving my food blog >>> Foodie Chicks Rule. Lots of fun new things planned over there too! If you didn’t know I had another blog, a food blog, check it out here! (keep in mind though, if you do visit, that I’m redesigning the site…and it’s not quite finished)
Okay, so I am so happy you are here and I can’t wait to share my first makeover of 2024 with you today. Don’t forget to scroll down to the bottom to see my friends’ makeovers too. I can’t wait to see what they’ve done this month!
Transform Your Furniture With Tile
If you’ve been around here for a while, you know I love working with tile in my makeovers!
I’ve done many. I’ll link a few right here before we get started if you want to take a look.
- DIY Tiled Criss Cross Tables
- DIY Tiled Table Top
- Thrift Store Makeover with Tile
- Thrifty Print Turned Tiled Coastal Tray (my first tile project on the blog!)
- Simple Thrift Store Makeover With Tile
- Blue and White Tiled Tray Makeover
- Mother Of Pearl Tiled Tray
- How To Tile a Table Top
Told ya!! Quite a few there.
Here’s what I’m tiling today.
Spy my cutie??
Step one is to clean the table. I used TSP Alternative Cleaner for this.
MATERIALS LIST – Transform Your Furniture with Tile
- TSP Alternative Cleaner
- E6000 Glue
- Grout Float
- Paint – I used Cashmere (and Transition for in between coats)
- Tough Coat Top Coat
- Paint Brush
- Top Coat Application Sponge
- Square Tile
- Herringbone Tile
Prefer to shop on Etsy? I have an Etsy shop also, here!
I will usually measure and try to fit tiles to whatever I’m tiling so I won’t have to do any cuts. I can usually always do this!
Since I couldn’t make it work with all the big tiles, I decided to line the edges with this to make up some of the difference.
MEASURE AND ARRANGE TILES
Just about perfect! Yay!
I did have to cut off the “connectors” before I began though.
Simple to do, just time-consuming.
GLUE THE TILES DOWN
There are several ways to do this part. You can use mortar or glue. The table will be heavy enough with the tiles, I didn’t want to add to the weight by adding mortar. Plus I feel like it isn’t really necessary as the tiles are decorative.
I use E6000 glue for this step. It holds VERY WELL.
Here they are all glued in.
Be sure to keep checking them for a few minutes as they can sometimes shift right at first. And once they are stuck, they are stuck!
Now you will leave it to dry for a day or two. I actually began this project before Christmas and just finished it up this past weekend so mine sat for a few weeks. You don’t have to wait that long though.
APPLY THE GROUT
I used pre-mixed grout in Bright White. (which you’ll see is not really that bright, or white, lol)
Apply it with a grout float. I used this one because it was the first one I came across in my tile stash. I linked the one that you’ll want to use though.
You’ll do this just like any other tile project.
USE SPONGE TO REMOVE EXCESS
Using a large sponge, go back over to remove excess grout. Washing and squeezing the sponge dry several times in between.
Do this until you have the excess gone. Then wipe away the haze, if any.
I had thought I was going to use Picket Fence for this table. Partly because the grout was “Bright White”. But as you can see, the Bright White is not very white. So the base coat is Picket Fence.
Then I used “Transition”, which is an off-white paint we carry that is used in between coats of paint when going from dark color to light. It’s much cheaper ($9.99) than the paint colors and a great choice when going from dark to light colors when more than a few coats will be needed.
After a coat of base paint (Picket Fence) and one coat of Transition, I added one coat of Cashmere.
Which is a perfect match for “Bright White” grout!
I used sandpaper to distress the edges on this one. There were so many details in the wood of this piece and I sort of wanted to make them pop.
I used our Tough Coat Application Sponge to apply the top coat. There is no need to apply a top coat to Fusion Mineral Paint but I wanted to seal where I distressed. Plus it gives a little extra protection.
Cashmere is a beautiful shade! It shows a little yellow in my kitchen lighting photos but the photos below are much more true to life.
A great neutral shade.
**The table is a little small for this area so this is just for “after” photo purposes.
And this one wouldn’t stay out of the living room. Haha!!
Piper’s eyes are always so wild-looking! I just love them though.
Then he proceeded to just plop down and go to sleep while I was trying to take my photos. haha!
Nope, buddy, you’ve gotta go out! Peep him over there??? lol Too funny!
So much detail on this one, that I had to bring some of it out with distressing.
Look at how well that grout blends right into the paint around the edges. (I did not paint the grout)
I love the design with the darker blue border. That only happened because I needed a “filler”…love it!
Don’t mind my slippers in that photo! lol Piper chases my feet when I walk around wearing them. So funny.
She thinks they are chew toys for her to play with.
Have you ever done anything with furniture and tiles?
Isn’t tile so fun?? The tile on the tabletop completely transformed this little table. I could see it being used as a side table or even in a garden room for plants. Lots of things you could do with it. So unique! And even more so now that it is tiled on the top.
PIN it to save it!
Don’t go yet!
Hop on over and visit my friends’ makeovers too!
Want to see more Trash to Treasure makeovers? Click here!
Have a wonderful week!

domain: hobby


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The European Union's $55bn compound feed market will contract at its fastest rate in seven years - even as weather upsets promise bumper supplies of downgraded wheat to offer livestock.
EU compound feed output will, after rising by 1.1% last year, reverse course in 2016 and record a 0.7% fall, according to Fefac, the Brussels-based compound feed industry group, terming itself "relatively pessimistic" over volumes.
The decline - the fastest since 2009 and implies a drop of some 1.1m tones in production – reflects in part forecast of a "slower pace" of expansion in output for poultry farms.
Growth in demand for poultry feed, the EU's biggest compound feed sector, is seen slowing to 0.5%, less than half the 1.2% increase recorded in 2015.
However, Fefac also forecast a "significant reduction in pig feed demand", seen dropping 1.5% this year, "in line with expert forecasts on pigmeat production in the EU".
The US Department of Agriculture, whose data set world benchmarks, forecasts a 120,000-tonne drop to 23.23m tonnes in pork output this year from the EU, the second-ranked producer of the meat, after China.
USDA staff have flagged the knock-on effect of a fall in prices from multi-year highs in mid-2013, of some E1.10 per kilogramme for sows, to multi-year lows late last year of less than E0.70 per kilogramme.
The decline was fuelled by the knock-on effects of bigger-than-expected herd increases, led by Danish, German and Spanish producers.
Prices have, though staged a recovery this year, helped by strong exports to China, whose own pork output has been sapped by herd reductions, a hangover from a spell of low prices.
The drop in compound feed needs comes at a time when the EU is facing a poor quality harvest, thanks to persistent rains in many countries, and notably France, the bloc's top wheat producer.
"Concerns regarding the quality of the EU cereals harvest 2016 due to the humid and cold weather conditions in several EU member states may result in higher supply of feed wheat," Fefac said.
Separately on Tuesday, Paris-based analysis group Agritel said that "adverse weather conditions remain on a large part of the north of France, even if precipitations are of less intensity than a few weeks ago.
"Germany is experiencing rains as well in the south part of the country, a few days ahead of harvest."
Harvest-time rains represent a particular threat, in quality terms, with moisture encouraging kernels to sprout, reducing milling specifications, and potentially prompting crop downgrades to use only by feed mills, or ethanol manufacturers.
Fefac's comments would appear, in seeing reduced compound feed demand for grain and strong supply, to imply a force for negative pressure on EU feed grain values in 2016.
That would represent a third year of depressed raw material prices for EU compound feed groups, with Fefac flagging that in 2015 "feed costs remained low, and even decreased compared to 2015.
"This was due to a good cereals harvest in the EU."
Overall compound feed production grew 0.6% last year to 157.3m tonnes, out of total EU feed volumes estimated at 480m tonnes, with grown in pig and poultry sectors more than offsetting a drop of 0.7% in cattle feed output.
The impact on cattle feed demand of the lifting of milk output quotas in April was "hardly visible" in the compound feed industry, Fefac said.
However, its data did show growth of 8.2% in cattle feed volumes in Ireland, and 6.0% in the Netherlands – two countries which have ramped up milk production since the quotas were ditched.
By Mike Verdin

domain: agronomy


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As of the 2017 census-estimate, it has a population of 2,716,450, which makes it the most populous city in both the state of Illinois and the Midwestern United States.Featuring a single, seasonally driven tasting menu of between 18 and 22 courses, the experience of dining at Alinea is not only delicious, but also fun, emotional, and provocative.We have 4 locations: Chinatown, Downtown (Loop), Rolling Meadows and Naperville.
Doc B's Restaurant + Bar
Official Site - MingHin Cuisine (明軒 芝加哥), Online OrderChicago has no shortage of awesome things to do in the summer—by which we mean drinking on rooftops with a great view of the city.
The Melting Pot - The Original Fondue Restaurant
Alinea and Next, Chicago At both Chicago restaurants, guests pay a 20 percent service charge when they book a table.
Chicago/Loop - WikitravelServers in flashy costumes serve up burgers, fries and ice cream with side of sass.MingHin Cuisine, the best and biggest Dim sum restaurant in Chicago, specializes in traditional and contemporary Cantonese and dim sum (deem sum) located in Chicago.RPM is a group of restaurant concepts by Bill and Giuliana Rancic, Chef Doug Psaltis and Lettuce Entertain You.
Opening a RestaurantSee restaurant menus, reviews, hours, photos, maps and directions.He is the restaurant wunderkind of Chicago, Brendan Sodikoff, still in his thirties -- and with a bottomless passion for detail that has spread across Chicagoland in multiple restaurants with.
RPM Restaurants | RPM Italian | RPM Steak
Time Out Chicago | Chicago Events, Activities & Things To Do
From the picture on their website, it looks very dark, so bring a flashlight to read the menu.Ever since the Middle Ages the word restaurant had been used to describe any of a variety of rich bouillons made with chicken, beef, roots of one sort or another, onions, herbs, and, according to some recipes, spices, crystallized sugar, toasted bread, barley, butter, and even exotic ingredients such as dried rose petals, Damascus grapes, and amber.
Michelin’s ‘Bib Gourmand’ Means What Exactly? | ChicagoAs one of the most historically significant buildings in Chicago, The Rookery is a unique enclave for businesses that value a prestigious presence.
Best burger restaurants in Chicago - Time Out ChicagoView the menu for The Mean Wiener and restaurants in Highwood, IL.
Tour Dates – ChicagoThe culmination of years of dreaming and imagination, Alinea was a minimalist modern vision that put the focal point on the cuisine and dining as an experience.But even if all you can see is surrounding buildings, these.See up-to-date pricelists and view recent announcements for this location.
The Magnificent Mile - North Michigan Avenue, ChicagoOpening a restaurant requires a lot of organization, foresight, and industry know-how.Chicago is an American rock band formed in 1967 in Chicago, Illinois.
Discover restaurant locations, read menus and save on contemporary food right now.
The Best Dry-Aged Steaks in Chicago | Serious Eats
Next year, we will be re-opening in a new location in downtown Chicago.
Coda Di Volpe - Home - Chicago, Illinois - Menu, PricesWith a focus on sourcing the highest quality ingredients and providing exceptional service to our guests, we offer an elevated modern dining experience unlike any other.
It has four times been named the Best Restaurant in America and is one of only 13 restaurants in the U.S. to earn the coveted Michelin 3-Star rating.


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The pair were shot dead and their five-year-old daughter were wounded during a robbery in Venezuela.
Miss Spear, 29, her former husband Thomas Berry, 39, and their daughter Maya had been a road trip holiday when they were attacked by bandits.
The attack happened after their tyres were punctured, possibly deliberately with a booby trap on the road.
It stranded them on an isolated stretch of road between Puerto Cabello and the provincial capital of Valencia, police said.
Terrified, they had locked themselves inside the car during the robbery at around 10.30pm local time on Monday.
The director of the country's investigative police, Jose Gregorio Sierralta, said the couple were returning from holiday to Caracas when their four-door sedan hit "a sharp object that had been placed on the highway".
Two tow trucks arrived almost immediately and the car was lifted on to one of the trucks when at least six shots were fired.
Maya is in a stable condition and “doing well”, according to friends of the family, following treatment for a leg wound.
She is with relatives in Caracas.
Police in Puerto Cabello have arrested five suspects, some under the age of 18.
Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro mourned "the loss of a very spiritual young woman" who was actively involved in various charities.
London born, Mr Berry, who ran a travel agency, moved to Venezuela when he was seven with his parents Tom and Kate.
She was a really happy, outgoing person
A spokeswoman for the Foreign Office said: "We are aware of the death of a British National on January 6 in Venezuela.
"We stand ready to provide consular assistance to the family at this difficult time."
Miss Spear’s family said they had been trying to persuade the former beauty queen to leave crime-ridden Venezuela and join them in Florida after she was robbed six times.
Her brother Ricardo Spear Mootz said: “She loved her country too much.
"It was her home."
Although the couple had split up a couple of years ago they remained close and spent vacations and holidays together for their daughter's sake.
Businessman Mr Berry moved to Venezuela with his family when he was a child and grew up there.
He was shot 15 years ago, an experience that made him move to Florida but he returned to Venezuela in 2006 after missing its natural beauty.
He married Miss Spear in 2008 and they divorced last year.
Miss Spear, who went to the University of Central Florida, won the Miss Venezuela pageant in 2004 before being named as the fourth runner-up in the next year’s Miss Universe competition.
She also appeared in several Spanish language TV soap operas and was a prominent actress in Venezuela.
She was a “really happy, outgoing person", a distraught friend said.


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S. Africa police: Pistorius detective faces charges
PRETORIA, South Africa - South African police say the lead investigator in the case against Olympian Oscar Pistorius faces attempted murder charges in an October 2011 shooting.
Police Brig. Neville Malila said Thursday that detective Hilton Botha is scheduled to appear in court in May on seven counts of attempted murder. Malila says Botha and two other police officers fired shots while trying to stop a mini-van in the incident.
On Wednesday, the prosecution case against Pistorius began to unravel with revelations of a series of police blunders and Botha's admission that authorities have no evidence challenging the double-amputee Olympian's claim he killed his girlfriend accidentally. Pistorius faces a charge of premeditated murder.
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One year after deadly tornadoes struck south Louisiana
Soldier reunites with family and friends at Baton Rouge airport
Teen crash victim remembered with balloon release
After a dozen floods, man moves into flood-free home
INVESTIGATIVE UNIT: State Police back out of investigation into Sheriff Captain


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BELLAIRE — The Traverse City West Titans and senior Hannah Schramski didn't quite understand their own potential.
Schramski, who took home the girls' Division 1 giant slalom individual state title, led an underclassmen-heavy Titan squad to a third-place finishes at the D1 state finals at Schuss Mountain on Monday.
"I didn't know if it was possible for me," Schramski said of her state title comeback run. "Doing that was a culmination of all the hard work over all the years."
The senior was in third place after her first GS run and the lift ride back to the top was filled with only one thought.
"All I was thinking at the top is that I had to win," the senior said of her first state title. "I wouldn't have felt like I left it all out on the hill otherwise."
Schramski edged out Marquette's Jacey Johnson by 0.22 seconds, earning the only D1 state title from the area with a combined time of 49.27 seconds.
Both Traverse City teams put together solid team performances to take home podium finishes.
The TC Central girls team was locked into an extremely tight race with Marquette for the top spot, falling only five points short of breaking a four-year title streak for the Redettes. Marquette finished with 51 points while the Trojans had 54, the closest race these two teams have had in some time. Traverse City West took home third with 87 points.
"I am thrilled with how they have done," Trojans coach Amy Kudary said. "We may not be happy with the result, but I will remember what we did today and that will forever make me happy. It was closer than Marquette wanted and closer than we wanted, but that is that name of the game and that is what makes this so fun."
The Redettes were in third place heading into the final run but made up the difference in a last ditch effort to keep the streak alive.
"I know TC (Central) was missing one of their top girls at the regionals so I knew coming into today it was going to be really close," Redettes' head coach Daniel Menze said. "I don't know if I thought it was going to be as close as it was. They skied phenomenal, they had pretty much all six of their skiers in the top-15, that is incredible.
"It came down to the very last run and I told the girls that they had to lay it all out. There was nothing else to do except go for it and they did. They ended up moving up from where they were after the first run of GS and we were able to squeak by, it was awesome."
Marquette's girls team was led by a state-title winning slalom performance by Ainsley Kirk (1:03.69) and a runner-up finish by teammate Jacey Johnson (1:03.94). Johnson and Kirk placed in second and fourth, respectively, in the GS and helped widen the gap with their runs.
All eight of the Trojans' girls scorers in the state finals finished inside the top-15. Other area all-state finishers in the girls' GS included TC West's Ava Warren (5th, 49.95) and TC Central's Brynn Rowell (6th, 50.73), Maddy Cox (7th, 50.92) and Elle Craven (9th, 51.41). Area all-state finishers in the girls' slalom included TC West's Warren (3rd, 1:05.83) and Schramski (5th, 1:07.43) and TC Central's Sarah Beattie (6th, 1:07.61), Craven (8th, 1:07.88) and Elizabeth Saunders (10th, 1:08.11).
The Marquette boys team continues to dominate Division 1 as they extended their state title streak to seven in a row. The TC West Titans grabbed second place with 92 points to the Redmen 65. Brighton took home third with 111 points.
The Titans raced four freshmen and earned a surprise second-place finish that included two third-place finishes by freshman Aiden Lewandowski.
"This year, for them, was a learning experience and they did a phenomenal job," Titans assistant coach Libby Shulter said. "The years ahead for TC West skiing are going to great and really fun to watch — and fun to coach."
Lewandowski placed third in the GS (47.68) and third in the slalom (1:01.32), leading his team in both races.
"It is kind of crazy to be honest," he said. "I never thought I would do that good, ever."
Senior Rob O'Brien was the only other Titan to finish in the top-10 in each race with sixth place in the slalom (1:03.81) and eighth place in the GS (49.60).
The TC Central boys team tied with Clarkston for fourth with 149 points. Gus Dutmers also earned all-state honors in the GS (4th, 48.62) and slalom (10th, 1:05.12) for TC Central.
"We will be back with a vengeance for sure," Kudary said. "This is just the tip of the iceberg for us I think, boys and girls. We are a young team on both sides so I think this was just a preview of what to expect over the next two years."
The future looks bright for both Traverse City teams as they have loads of underclassmen returning for years to come and look to dethrone Marquette.


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Dec 31 - 2020Humor
The Detective And The Villain In Love
By Brian Yansky
Price: $0.99 $3.99
Odds for star-crossed lovers’ long-term success in both literature and history are not very good. Woven into the star-crossed lovers tale is a detective story. Romeo Moon, the detective half of the detective and villain, must track down and rescue The Fates, Greek goddesses, who have been kidnapped.

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A summary of this committee meeting is not yet available.
PUBLIC SERVICES SELECT COMMITTEE
9 April 2003
DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING STRATEGIC PLAN & BUDGET: BRIEFING
Documents handed out:
Department of Housing Strategic Plan and Budget Presentation
The Department of Housing outlined the values, mandate as well as the policy framework of the Department as provided for in relevant housing legislation and regulations. The Department presented the strategic and budget overview as well as policy shifts. The Department indicated that its early focus was on the quantity and not quality of the houses built, which was changing. Members emphasised that the design of new houses had to be improved. The issue of rollovers was raised and while the Department presented various reasons for the rollovers, it was agreed that they were not justifiable.
Presentation by Department of Housing
Ms Mpumi Nxumalo: Director General, Department of Housing, indicated that the aim of the Department is to determine, finance, promote, co-ordinate communicate and monitor policy in respect of housing and human settlement. This aim is supported by the vision, which is largely a nation housed in sustainable human settlements. The Department seeks, as its mission, to establish and facilitate a sustainable process that provides equitable access to adequate housing within the context of affordability of housing, services, and access to amenities and economic opportunities.
Mandate and Policy Framework.
The Department derives its mandate from Section 26 of the Constitution, which provides for the right of access to adequate housing. Ms Nxumalo encouraged Members to understand the content of the right given the different interpretations that court judgements have given to this right. The Botshabelo Housing Accord of 1994, the Reconstruction and Development Programme and various housing policies and strategies also guide the Department. The housing development programmes operate within the framework of various regulations, guidelines and legislation such as the Housing Act of 1997 and the Prevention of Illegal Eviction from Unlawful Occupation of Land Act of 1998. The Department is in the process of finalising other legislation to help it implement various policies.
The Director General indicated that since 1994 more than 1,47 million houses have been built or are under construction and 1,8 million subsidies have been approved, benefiting more than 5,6 million people. The focus of the Department was to build as many houses as possible and not really on the quality of the houses. This was necessary to address the housing needs and backlogs. The Department also focused on the development of policies and legislative instruments.
The housing programme faces some challenges due to a lack of private sector investment and resource constraints. The Department also faces the challenge of creating higher quality housing and living environments. It has to promote the culture of saving towards housing and in so doing reducing dependency on the government. The Department is also faced with the challenge of effectively dealing with emergency situations resulting from natural disasters. This is important, given the judgement in the Grootboom case.
The Department has realised the need for new policy approaches. This is an opportune time since the government has achieved the target of one million houses. The Department has shifted its focus from the number of units produced to the quality of products and environment. The Department also seeks to promote a sense of social responsibility in terms of which every beneficiary of the housing programme contributes towards the houses being built. The housing activities will now focus on urban renewal, integrated sustainable rural development and the eradication of poverty.
Ms Nxumalo indicated that there are seven programmes that the Department is focusing on. A breakdown of expenditure per programme per financial year was also provided. In total an amount of R4 778 836 has been assigned for 2003-2004. This amount will rise to R5 346 186 in the year 2005/06. The preliminary expenditure results, which show a possible rollover of R20, 500, were also given.
Programme 1: Administration.
Mr Mziwonke Dlabantu, Chief Director: Financial Services, stated that the purpose of the programme is to provide administrative and management support services to the Department. The programme also deals with the provision of strategic financial management services. This programme will also see to the implementation of a toll free number to address public enquiries and help in the anti-corruption initiative.
Programme 2: Policy Planning and Research
This programme was outlined by Mr Ahmedi Vawda, Deputy Director-General: Policy and Programme Management. He indicated that the purpose of the programme is to ensure a sound national housing policy framework. There is a need to audit all legislation impacting on housing. Outreach programmes to provincial departments and local authorities for training and monitoring the implementation of legislation are also necessary. The presenter alluded to the need to develop a medium density housing policy and produce a policy paper on environmentally sound and efficient housing.
Programme 3: Programme Management
Mr Vawda stated that the purpose of the programme is to manage national housing programmes. Some of the key activities under this programme include the implementation of the Human Settlement Redevelopment Programme and the Presidential Pilot Programme. He indicated that traditional building methods and technology need to be improved. He also alluded to the need to produce a report on outcome and lessons from implementation of the Presidential Pilot Programme.
Programme 4: Housing Sector Performance
Mr Camagu Soga, Chief Director: Housing Sector Performance, stated that the purpose of the programme is to monitor and assess the impact of housing delivery, manage housing information, and support housing institutions. Some of the key activities under the programme deal with the monitoring of the implementation of housing policies and programmes. The performance of housing support institutions will also be monitored. Mr Soga also highlighted the need to assess the impact of implemented policies and programmes.
Programme 5: Communication
Mr Dlabantu stated that the purpose of this programme is to facilitate and promote the free flow of information between the Department and its stakeholders. The key activities under the programme include consumer awareness campaigns and facilitation of feedback. Mr Dlabantu also indicated the need to disseminate information to the stakeholders and the development and maintenance of a communication strategy in support of housing programmes.
Programme 6: Housing Development funding
Mr Dlabantu stated that the management of the funding of the national housing programmes was the main purpose of this programme. This programme consists mainly of transfer of payments to provinces in terms of the Division of Revenue Act, as conditional grants and repayment of loans raised by the old housing boards. Key activities under this programme include the management of grant transfers to provinces and monitoring of financial performance for compliance with the Division of Revenue Act and PFMA. Another activity would be reporting of grant performances to the National Treasury, the Audit Office and the Minister.
Programme 7: housing equity
Mr Soga stated that the purpose of the programme is to promote fair lending practices by banking institutions, and to provide for setting of and enforcement of specific minimum targets by financial institutions in lending to the low and medium income households for housing purposes. This programme will also see the Department taking responsibility for the implementation of the Home Loan and Mortgage Disclosure Act, its regulations and the Community Reinvestment Bill when the latter comes into effect.
The DG indicated that the Department administers two conditional grants:
(i) Housing subsidy grant.
Tie purpose of this grant is to finance housing subsidies under the national housing programme. In the past three years an average of 235 540 subsidies have been approved per annum. Since 1994 more than 1,47 million houses have been built or are under construction and 1,8 million subsidies have been approved benefiting more than 8m people. Since 1994 the programme represents an investment of R21,309 billion by December 2002 into low income communities. The programmes under the housing subsidy grant have been experiencing a slowdown in delivery in the past two years. This has resulted in an average of 15% under spending due to, inter alia, transformation or restructuring since the 2000 elections and capacity problems in some local authorities. Environmental impact assessment processes are also contributing to the delays. The Department is undertaking a capacity requirement analysis for a new strategy for capacity building processes to address the capacity problems at local governments.
The DG also provided some preliminary expenditure results of the housing subsidy grant. These show a possible rollover of R1,071,291. This amount reflects the total amount of rollovers from all provinces.
Housing Allocation Formula
The DG showed that in allocating funds the Department uses a combination of the old formula that was rural/urban neutral and the current formula that is urban biased. The new formula is expected to be phased in completely as from 2004/5. In deciding how much is to be allocated to a specific province the Department considers the housing needs, households earning less than R3 500 per month and the population size. In determining the housing need the Department takes into account, amongst other things, the number of homeless people and shacks in informal settlements.
(ii) Human Settlement Redevelopment Grant.
The purpose of this grant is to fund projects which are meant to improve the quality of urban environment by addressing the legacy of dysfunctionality. The human settlement redevelopment programme was introduced in 1999/2000. Currently there are 123 projects approved throughout the nine provinces on a multi-year basis with a gross commitment value of R302 million. The current allocations are 2003/04: R109 million and 2004/05: R116 million. The DG indicated that the preliminary expenditure results show no possible rollovers.
The DG stated that the Department has developed specific and targeted monitoring frameworks for monitoring the grants. Monitoring is performed in accordance with the requirements of the Division of Revenue Act on a monthly basis. Provincial reports are presented to MinMec and head of department meetings on a quarterly basis. Structured quarterly provincial visits take place targeting especially provinces that show low expenditure.
In concluding Ms Nxumalo alluded to the fact that access to housing credit by the low-income group should be improved. There is a need to improve governance and deal with non-adherence to prescripts. She furthermore stressed the importance of improving the capacity to fight corruption.
Rev P Moatshe (ANC) [North West] asked for an explanation on the state of the backlog. He asked whether the Department was moving slowly or quickly in eradicating the backlogs.
The DG replied that the backlog stands at about R2 million. It is difficult to eradicate backlogs, as experience across the world has shown. Singapore is the only country that has managed to eradicate backlogs, largely due to its population size. Hence the Department has not set the eradication of backlogs as a target. The aim is to achieve a significant reduction of the backlogs.
Rev Moatshe also inquired into the state of the houses that have been built. This question was necessitated by the fact that the Department indicated that its early focus was on the quantity and not quality of the houses built.
The DG indicated that the Department is not saying that every house built is of poor quality. All the Department was trying to show was that there was no proper monitoring of the quality of the products delivered.
Rev M Chabaku, (ANC) [Free State] was deeply worried about the massive rollover that the Free State Province has been accumulating over the years.
Mr V Windvoel (ANC) [Mpumalanga] was also worried about the massive rollovers. He asked if there is any justification of the rollovers whilst people are still homeless.
The DG replied to these questions by stating that the issue of rollovers is made worse by migration. The Department has realized that people apply for houses in their home provinces and thereafter leave to another province in search of jobs. The Eastern Cape Province is carrying rollovers from previous years largely due to the late arrival of the rollovers. The province also has a capacity problem, hence the rollovers. She agreed that the rollovers were unjustifiable and intolerable.
Rev Chabaku asked the Department to do something about this. She also asked the Department to improve the design of the houses since, according to her, they have some racist connotations. She also asked the Department to give an indication of the number of women and youth who have benefited from the housing schemes.
The DG indicated that women make up 39% of the beneficiaries. It is Department policy not to prioritise the youth unless they have dependants. This is largely due to the fact that they are expected or assumed to be accommodated in some educational institution's residence, or to be residing with parents.
Mr Windvoel found it problematic that every beneficiary under the housing scheme has to contribute something towards the house. In his opinion this requirement is unfair to those who are unemployed.
The DG indicated that monetary contribution is not the only contribution a beneficiary can make. For example, a person seeking employment with the company that is building the houses could also be seen as a form of contribution. Any form of contribution is necessary, given the fact that recipients of free houses are more likely to sell the houses. The feeling is that if the recipient has contributed something towards the house, maybe they will not sell them.
Mr Windvoel asked the Department if it blacklists the companies that are found guilty of fraud and corruption in relation to the housing schemes.
The DG indicated that an Anti-Corruption Task Team has been established to investigate the issue of corruption. The Department is succeeding in disciplining the people involved. In the past the Department had a problem concerning blacklisted companies, in that they would cease to exist and the same people would create a new company with a new name. However, this has since been overcome by ensuring that the people who are running those companies are blacklisted themselves.
Mr R Nyakane (UDM) [Limpopo] was concerned with a number of houses in the Limpopo Province which have remained unoccupied for years. Some of the houses are vandalised in the end. He encouraged the Department to do something about this matter, which he sees as a waste of the taxpayer's money.
The DG replied that the Limpopo Province also has a migration problem. Some of the houses are only occupied in the months of December and January. This is largely due to the fact that the occupants work in other provinces.
The meeting was adjourned.
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December 18, 2023 15:26 GMT
LNG Carriers Divert From Bab al-Mandab Strait: Argus
Three LNG carriers have diverted away from the Bab al-Mandab strait amid Houthi attacks on vessels in the region, according to Argus.
- The Celsius Copenhagen and the Celsius Geneva are both 180 mcm vessels under charter from Gunvor. The former was travelling to South Korea but turned away from Bab al-Mandab on Dec. 15 and back towards Suez.
- The Celsius Geneva turned back towards the Suez Canal Dec. 15 and is now headed to South Korea via the Cape of Good Hope.
- The unladen 180 mcm Celsius Charlotte is chartered by Cheniere. It turned back towards Asia Dec. 18 after previously declaring for the Suez Canal.
- Yemen’s Iranian-backed Houthi rebels have claimed responsibility for two attacks on ships Dec. 18 using naval drones, according to Alarabiya news.
- TTF JAN 24 up 7.7% at 35.74€/MWh
Source: S&P Global Commodity Insights
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February 25, 2008
Symphonic band, wind ensemble present concert
CARBONDALE, Ill. -- The Southern Illinois University Carbondale Symphonic Band and the SIUC Wind Ensemble present a joint concert beginning at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 27, in Shryock Auditorium.
The band, conducted by Andrew L. Tucker, assistant director of bands and the director of the SIUC Marching Salukis, is a large band that non-music majors with previous performance experience may audition to join. Many music majors choose to join the symphonic band with their secondary instrument.
The band shares the bill with the Carnegie Hall-bound SIUC Wind Ensemble. Christopher Morehouse conducts the University's premier wind ensemble. This is one of several concerts the Wind Ensemble holds throughout the academic year. It will also present a Carnegie Hall preview concert on March 19.
Tickets for this concert are $7.50 for general admission, $5 for students. Tickets are available in advance at SIUC ticket offices at the SIU Arena or the SIUC Student Center in person or over the phone at 618/453-2000, or may be ordered from Ticketmaster online at www.siuc.edu/shryock. Tickets are also available the day of the performance at Shryock Auditorium.


I’ve been designing interface for 15 years.
I am the founder of my design company www.Projectmind.co. I am also the designer and co-founder of a company called www.ottosmartlab.com which develops smart home and office products.
This is where I publish my works that I share on the monthly Dribbble.
Don’t forget to follow me here and on Dribbble!
This interface provides the experience to adjust the light tones.
It is important that the confirmation screen remains simple and secure.
User selected delivery location and enters additional info for courier.
Branding on home services in an attempt to make it.
And the pattern language created with the icons I use in it. …
Writing the second article of the series has already made me excited for my future writing :) I hope this 2nd inspiration series will contribute to you.
By the way, did you see the first one?
Last week I shared a e-book and a few UI and Design articles.
I intend to keep this series long. I will have other content studies that follow.
I think the biggest news of last week was Jony Ive’s departure from Apple. Jony, we appreciate you changing our lives by designing amazing Apple products. I’m excited about what you’re going to do next.
My approach is “get inspired by design thinking and a better life.” …
Flick is a new generation B2B and B2C delivery system solutions.
We designed the app, branding, packaging, print materials and worked on the website.
With the live dashboard, mobile payment, navigation, courier tracking, retail management tools etc. for UI / UX design.
Flick is a globally targeted initiative of a multinational investment group based in Kuwait, Dubai and Bahrain. In this sense, they chose ProjectMind.co for digital transformation and the development of new products.
We assist Flick’s diverse teams in the user experience, interface design and branding of Flick, a b2b / b2c distribution service on an innovative, timely demand.
We designed the entire project from scratch, iOS and Android applications to the web interface and branding. …