text:
I have been working on a photo book, as a practice exercise, in preparation for the international SoFoBoMo '09 book project. The project is a group event where a bunch of photographers all make solo photo books start to finish, in 31 days, at more or less the same time. (SoFoBoMo link)
The purpose of this book was to learn the software, get a sense of the time involved and gain another portfolio piece.
You can preview the first 10 or so pages and/or purchase your own copy on Blurb.com. (Most of the cost covers the printing of the book, but I get a small percentage.)
Have a good Holiday, See you back here on Tuesday.


text:
Jelena Jankovic won her second WTA title this season, clinching the 2015 Prudential Hong Kong Tennis Open championship on Sunday.
Playing Germany’s Angelique Kerber, Jankovic started out trailing in the first set as Kerber managed to gain a healthy lead over the Serbian in the opening phase of the match. After dropping the first set, momentum slowly but steadily shifted in Jankovic’s favour and the former world #1 managed to swing the second-set tiebreak in her direction.
Going into the third set, it quickly became apparent that Kerber was running out of steam, leaving the court for a medical timeout at 0-3. The short break wasn’t enough to derail Jankovic who kept her cool and closed the deal, securing her second WTA title after her successful run in Guangzhou in September.
Jankovic did not have much time to celebrate her successful week in Hong Kong though, since the Serbian left for the airport just two hours after the final, flying straight to Luxembourg for her next tournament. Angelique Kerber, on the other hand, is off to Moscow, before competing in the WTA Finals in Singapore.
The exciting final topped off what was a hugely successful week for the Hong Kong tournament. Having only been held for the second time this year, the tournament made a huge jump in terms of crowd interest in 2015 as the final was played in front of a sold-out stadium, filled with highly-enthusiastic fans.
The fantastic atmosphere resonated with the players as well, all of which vowed to come back to Hong Kong in the future as the Asian metropolis seems to be gearing up to become a major fixture in future WTA calendars.

domain: news


Lost In Japan are an indie rock group from Canada, with Ego being one of their latest tracks to be released.
By Jane Howkins
It starts off slow, with a groovy bass melody pushing the song along until it reaches something of a climax with a guitar solo almost halfway through. It’s a really interesting track, and we loved the way the band diverted from the usual ‘verse chorus verse’ formula that a lot of indie bands have gotten used to. These guys could be big, so check out Ego below!


What Do O2 Sensors Do?
02 sensors measure the amount of oxygen in the exhaust and report the level to your vehicle’s computer. There are O2 sensors before and after the catalytic converter. The upstream O2 sensor controls how much fuel is added to the air/fuel mixture. The downstream O2 sensor makes sure the catalytic converter is working.
If the fuel ratio is lean (not enough fuel in the mixture), the voltage is relatively low — approximately 0.1 volts. If the fuel ratio is rich (too much fuel in the mixture), the voltage is relatively high — approximately 0.9 volts. When the air/fuel mixture is at the stoichiometric ratio (14.7 parts air to 1 part fuel), the oxygen sensor produces 0.45 volts.
Learn the difference between rich and lean fuel mixtures. Proper air fuel ratio is critical to keeping your car running as smoothly as it should be.
Where are Oxygen Sensors Located?
Every car made after 1996 has an O2 sensor upstream and downstream of each catalytic converter. Most vehicles have two O2 sensors. There can be 4 O2 sensors depending on your engine and exhaust. V6 and V8 engines with dual exhaust have four oxygen sensors. A pair of O2 Sensors for each bank of the engine.
Bad O2 Sensor Symptoms
Symptoms of a faulty O2 sensor may include the following:
- Lean or rich running condition
- Poor acceleration
- Engine hesitation
- Black smoke from tailpipe (rich running condition) black smoke is excess fuel exiting the exhaust
- Rough idle
- Vehicle stalling out
- Reduced fuel efficiency
When an O2 sensor fails it will usually trigger your check engine light to turn on. An O2 sensor can fail for many reasons. Use an OBD2 scanner like FIXD to see the specific fault code that triggered the check engine light. Based on this fault code, it will point to how it failed and then move forward with the diagnosis.
You can also use the FIXD Sensor and app to measure the voltage of the O2 sensors and determine if they are faulty and need to be replaced. This will help you understand the root cause of your problem.
ProblemSymptomsFault Code Upstream O2 sensor circuit malfunctionDecrease in MPG, Increased tailpipe emissions, asymptomatic sometimesP0130 Low upstream O2 sensor voltageLack of power, Vehicle running rough, Exhaust odor, asymptomatic sometimes P0131 High upstream O2 sensor voltageVehicle running rough, Lower fuel economyP0132 Downstream O2 sensor circuit malfunctionDecrease in MPG, Increased tailpipe emissions, asymptomatic sometimesP0136 Low downstream O2 sensor voltageLack of power, Vehicle running rough, Exhaust odor, asymptomatic sometimesP0137 High downstream O2 sensor voltageLower fuel economy, rough idle, strong fumesP0138 Faulty oxygen sensor (lean)Lack of power from the engine, rough idle, engine coughing/misfiring, tips of spark plugs are whiteP0171 Faulty oxygen sensor (rich)Lack of power from the engine, rough idle, engine hesitation/misfiring, soot buildup on spark plug diodeP0172 Faulty catalytic converter (possibly due to broken O2 sensor)A lack of power from the engine, decreased fuel efficiency, rotten egg or sulfur smellP0420
O2 Sensor Voltage Range
Sensor NameLocationVoltage RangeReasons For Being Out Of Range Upstream O2 Sensor/Bank 1 Sensor 1Between the exhaust manifold and the catalytic converterThe voltage should fluctuate between 0.1V and 0.9VIf the voltage never exceeds 0.75V, the air/fuel mixture is lean If the voltage never drops below 0.25, the air/fuel mixture is rich If the voltage is steady, there is probably a problem with the sensor itself Downstream O2 Sensor/Bank 1 Sensor 2Between the catalytic converter and the mufflerThe voltage should be steady at about 0.45VIf the voltage is steady and high there is a lack of oxygen in the air/fuel mixture If the voltage is steady and low, there is too little oxygen in the air/fuel mixture If the voltage is fluctuating like the upstream O2 sensor, the catalytic converter may be broken


text:
So, did the Rays do a good job in the draft? The short answer: Yes, with an if. The long answer:
Round 1: LeVon Washington, Florida HS: I said in my initial wrap-up of the first three picks that I don't think the Rays got the best player available. Instead, they had a plan and Washington fits it. On tools alone, he's a first round talent. He's one of the fastest runners in the draft and he hit well in the spring. The first question mark about Washington is his arm: he recently had labrum surgery and he hasn't been able to throw very much for scouts as he rehabs it. It should come back and be at least passable for 2B or LF/CF. The other question is if he'll hit enough. Like I said, he hit well in the spring and scouts like his bat. But while he has good bat speed, he's not going to be a power threat, so he'll have to make consistent contact and develop a good plate approach to move through the system.
He's represented by Scott Boras has expressed a willingness to sign quickly. There's good reasons from both sides to get him on the field quicky(for the Rays, he's relatively raw and needs the at-bats, for Washington, it could expedite his path to the majors) so I expect a deal soon. He'll report to either Princeton or the Gulf Coast Rays. Whichever team he's with, I'd expect him to DH at times as to not overwork his recovering labrum.
Round 2: SS Kenny Diekroeger, California HS: This is probably at least a slight overdraft, but better to overdraft someone with supreme athleticism than an okay college pitcher(*cough*WillKline*cough*). Diekroeger has as much upside as any 2nd rounder, but he's still working on translating his tools to the diamond. He took some time to answer a few questions for me, and he said he considers his defense his biggest strength. His actions in the field may need some work, but with his athleticism he'll be able to play somewhere in the middle of the field(SS/2B/CF).
Like Washington, Diekroeger is dealing with an injury(this is going to become a running theme). He hurt his knee(not his elbow, which I've seen reported) sliding into a base and missed the last part of his season. It won't require surgery(it was a less-serious injury to his PCL, not to a major ligament like ACL or MLC). Complicating matters here are a solid committment to Stanford. If he does sign, it'll likely be an over-slot deal very late in the signing period. If a deal is reached, look for the Rays to play it safe with his knee and hold him out until fall instructional leagues.
Round 3: OF Todd Glaesmann, Texas HS: Glaesmann is another high schooler with tools, and the fact he maybe isn't as athletic as Washington and Diekroeger is a testament to how athletic those two are. Glaesmann has the potential to develop 5 above-average tools, and with his strong arm he projects best as a right fielder down the road. He's a Texas A&M commit, and while it may take a slightly over-slot deal to sign him, I haven't seen anything that makes it sound like he'll be a real tough sign. Expect something similar to what 2008 4th rounder Ty Morrison went through: A late sign and a short appearance in Princeton(or the GCL).
Round 4: C Luke Bailey, Georgia HS: This is where it became pretty clear the injury thing wasn't just a coincidence. Bailey was considered the cream of a strong catching crop, but blew out his elbow pitching, requiring Tommy John surgery. Prior to getting hurt, Bailey showed serious 5-tool potential, rare for a catcher. His bat slipped some in the spring, but still grades out at least above-average. He's athletic behind the plate, posting great pop-times with a plus throwing arm, although the surgery complicates that. He's committed to Auburn but is considered signable, and has expressed interest in signing. He'll likely sign late, and if he plays for any Rays affiliate in 2009, it'll be strictly as a DH.
Round 5: 1B Jeff Malm, Nevada HS: Malm might be the best pure hitter taken by the Rays in 2009. He actually saw a lot of playing time in the 2007 Cape Cod High School, playing over 2008 1st-rounder Eric Hosmer. He led Nevada high schoolers in homeruns with 15 this past season, and the only question about his bat seems to be if he can transfer his powe from aluminum to wood. He has a strong left arm, but he's limited to 1st base where he projects as an average defender. He's committed to Southern Cal and has personal ties there, but it seems he wants to sign. If he does, it'll probably be close to the deadline, but with no injury concerns, would see some time with Princeton or the GCL Rays in late summer.
Rounds 6-10: Devin Fuller, Cody Rogers, Brett Nommensen, Kevin James, Derek Dennis: Fuller and Rogers were both junior college guys. Fuller's always showed potential, but never put it together. He was academically ineligible at Arizona State after being a 14th-round pick out of high school. At Chandler-Gilbert, he was good but not great, flashing a fastball at times 94 with life, but other times it was in the high-80s. His secondary stuff is a step behind, but it's showed potential. As for outfielder Cody Rogers, he seems to be a guy who does a lot of things well but nothing really well. Brett Nommensen in the 8th round is a sure-fire slot-or-below guy as a college senior. And if you're going to take a college senior, might as well make it the guy who led divion 1 in on-base percentage.
The Rays went back to the high school ranks for Kevin James, a raw pitcher from Wisconsin. He's projectable and left-handed with a fastball that sits around 90-91. His control is spotty at best and he's never dominated weak high school competition. His breaking pitches also need a lot of work. He's committed to Boston College, but if he doesn't sign it won't be because of bonus demands. Derek Dennis is a another athletic high school shortstop, and another guy whose spring was limited due to injury(a strained ribcage). He's a Michigan commit and considered a tough sign. He said the Rays told him they plan to offer 2nd-round money, but he may want more still.
Rounds 11-15: Alex Koronis, Andrew Bellatti, Hunter Hill, Zach Quate, Pierce Johnson: I'll start with Koronis and Quate, who are the both right-handed college guys who worked as relievers in 2009. Koronis, a junior from the University of Tampa, has more upside, but he's still a shortish righty with a low-90's fastball. Quate will sign quickly and Koronis shouldn't take much longer. Hunter Hill is a junior college guy I couldn't find much on, other than that he'll go to Texas State if the Rays don't ink him.
Bellatti and Johnson are both high school righties. Bellatti is interesting because he's from California, but in a pre-draft article he listed the Tampa Bay Rays as his favorite team. He's committed to Cal State-Fullerton but we'll see if his favorite team drating him makes a difference.
Pierce Johnson was a guy I really liked coming in. He fit right into the Rays plans, having missed 2 months with a broken hand. He's 6'2" and only 165 pounds, so he could add to his 92-93 MPH fastball. He has clean mechanics and locates his fastball well. He mixes in a solid curveball and changeup to boot. There's a lot to like here, but we'll see if a deal can get done. If not, he'll head to Missouri State.
Rounds 16-20: Tyler Bortnick, Alex Diaz, Jacob Partridge, Scott Shuman, Dylan Floro: Bortnick and Shuman are both unremarkable college guys to me, and there's not much information out there about them. Both will likely sign and fill out Hudson Valley's roster, Bortnick at 2nd base and Shuman probably in the bullpen.
Alexander Diaz is an intriguing pick, flashing a lot of raw power out of the Puerto Rican Baseball Academy. He hasn't shown much else, but the potential the bat has is worth signing him. Jacob Partridge and Dylan Floro are both high school pitchers, and we're in the area where signing them gets less likely. Early word is that Partridge plans to honor his commitment to Gonzaga, and Floro will probably go to Cal State-Fullerton and try to improve his stock for 2012.
Rounds 21-25: Matt Swilley, Jake Sullivan, Trevor Peterson, Andrew Heaney, Ryan Wiegand: Three more high school pitchers in Swilley, Peterson, and Heaney. Peterson is probably the most signable, but like I said, in this range it might make more sense to go to college for three years to improve their stock. Sullivan and Wiegand are both college draftees and appear ticketed for Hudson Valley.
Rounds 25-50: It's kind of hard to like or hate anything a team does this late in a draft, because generally the only guys signing are organizational filler types. They took a few fliers(Austin Maddox, James Pazos, etc) but signing any of them would just be a bonus.
Summary: I like what the Rays did, going for upside early. They certainly didn't play it safe, in fact, they pretty much went the other way on that by drafting a lot of guys with injuries. Again, the key is getting guys signed. In a perfect world, they'd sign everyone, but obviously that won't happen and, for example, signing Austin Maddox is little more than a pipedream.
But here's my best-case(within reason) scenario: a) Signing picks 1-10 with the exception of Kenny Diekroeger or Derek Dennis; I'll think they'll sign one of those two. b) Signing picks 11-20 with the exception of Jacob Partridge or Dylan Floro. Realistically neither of those two will sign, but this is best-case. And then one of the HS pitcher trio in the 21-25 range(Swilley, Peterson, Heaney) and one in the 26-30 range(Jensen or Wager). Any signing besides the college seniors in round 30+ would be gravy.
I'll give the picks an A-minus. There are just enough questions about 1st round pick LeVon Washington for me not to give them the A. That grade can go lower if the Rays fail to sign some guys we should, but the only way it will go up is if they get all the high-round guys and Austin Maddox or something. All in all, I liked what the Rays did.
The last thing I want to do is give a huge thanks to the writers over at BaseballAmerica, who do a terrific job of getting information about guys out there. Thanks also to R.J. Anderson at DRaysBay who was helpful in gathering/providing some information. And a thanks to everyone who's taken the time to comment here on the set, we appreciate it.

domain: sports


text:
A special message to Yanis Varoufakis
by system failure
Despite the positive announcements in the right direction by the new Greek government, which we should wait to see in practice, there are some key moves that should be done, related to the economy autonomy and debt relief.
1st: Nationalize central bank
The first important thing is to nationalize the central bank. The Bank of Greece (BoG) appears to be a private institution that determines the economic policy of the country. BoG "is a partially state owned S.A. share company with special privileges, with special restrictions and duties. It cannot operate as a commercial bank and the percentage of shares that can be under Greek state ownership cannot exceed 35%." (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bank_of_Greece) According to koutipandoras.gr, currently the percentage of shares under Greek state is only 6% and no one knows the major private stockholders, while stocks have been put in the Athens stock market. (http://www.koutipandoras.gr/article/9242/i-idiotiki-trapeza-tis-elladas-kai-ta-paradoxa-tis)
How is it possible the central bank to serve nation's interests when it belongs to private bankers? Very simple: It's not. There is currently some difficulty to nationalize the bank due to the complicated status of the ownership regime, but there could be many alternatives to be exploited by the Greek government right now.
2nd: Audit of Public Debt
Write off is not possible without an audit of public debt which must be done by an international committee. In case that SYRIZA and its partner Independent Greeks party haven't already start such an action in the background, they should start it immediately.
This is essential to examine the conditions under which the Greek state was loaded with such a huge debt. It is important to know who speculated from the Greek debt case inside and outside Greece, not only for the Greek people but also for the European people. The part of the debt which would be proved illegal should be written off.
Of course current German and European leadership and eurocrats, as well as domestic Greek oligarchy will fight fiercely such a perspective because most of them serve those interests that speculated with the Greek debt.
3rd: Prepare for Grexit and return to national currency
The government should be prepared for such a condition in case that the European and especially the Germans insist on the cruel line of the catastrophic austerity because eventually, the return to national currency may save Greece from this vicious cycle of death.
The government should take all the necessary actions including technical details. It's possible that the government already has such a secret agenda as a last defence line: “... the ECB will blackmail the government by threatening that will not purchase government bonds, therefore cut liquidity, in case that Greece choose a different path towards the reconstruction of the social state and labor rights, bringing minimum wage at pre-crisis levels, etc. However, the system shows signs of panic, which means that the European officials don't know exactly how SYRIZA will react. In case that SYRIZA has a secret agenda, and be pressed by the lenders beyond red lines, it could nationalize the central bank and return to the national currency, blowing up eurozone.” (http://failedevolution.blogspot.gr/2014/12/various-scenarios-for-national.html)
It is worth to remember that according to a 2011 article in Guardian “Rumours abound in Dublin that the Irish central bank is back printing punts just in case the eurozone does break up. And while that may be true, I don't know, but one would hope that there was some contingency plan in place just in the case the whole euro projected exploded. Then again, given the track record of European policymakers in dealing with the crisis so far, it wouldn't come as too great a shock if there was no plan B in existence.” (http://www.theguardian.com/business/ireland-business-blog-with-lisa-ocarroll/2011/sep/26/eurozone-crisis-ireland-euro-punt)
This would be the worst scenario for the Frankfurt-Brussels axis, as the banksters and the lobbyists will probably see their dream of the new Feudalism breaking to pieces. The experiment in Greece will be terminated for good.

domain: economics


text:
About May (Asian Pacific American Heritage) Month http://asianpacificheritage.gov/about/
Important dates in Asian American history, for more info click link.
ACRS (Asian Counseling & Referral Services) for more info click link.
Southeast Asian Resource Action Center (SEARAC) http://www.searac.org
Asian Pacific Islander Coalition www.apicwa.org
Asian Pacific Americans in Higher Education, for more info click link.
Leadership Education for Asian Pacifics (Leap)
Northwest Asian Weekly news, for more info click link.
National Federation of Filipino American Association link.
Association for Asian American Studies link
Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders link.
King County Library System’s best book recommendation for kids in 2016. https://kcls.bibliocommons.com/list/share/217743566_bestbookskcls/730631337_best_books_2016_-_kids?_ga=1.263517646.357481705.1483038281
The books below are located in the campus library.
Dreamers: An Immigrant Generation’s Fight for Their American Dream by Eileen Truax.
Undocumented: How Immigration Became Illegal by Aviva Chomsky.
Criminalization of Immigration: the Post 9/11 Moral Panic by Samantha Hauptman.
Part Asian, 100% Hapa by Kip Fulbeck.
Mirrors of privilege : making whiteness visible by Shakti Butler.
Yellow : Race in America by Frank Wu.
Growing up brown by Peter Jamero.
Issei and nisei : the settling of Japanese America by Ronald Takaki.
Different battle : stories of Asian Pacific American veterans by Carina del Rosario.
Locating Filipino Americans : ethnicity and the cultural politics of space by Rick Bonus.
Talking to High Monks in the Snow by Lydia Minatoya.
Relationships among Asian American Women by Jenn Lau Chin.
Grandfather’s Journey by Allen Say.
Thousand pieces of gold by Ruthanne McCunn.
Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford.

domain: library


text:
Two concerts sponsored by the Rappahannock Community College Student Activities Office will feature "Jabali Afrika," a musical group with a unique blend of fusion and African rhythms. The group will appear on Wednesday, September 14, at 4 p.m., at the Westmoreland Players' Theater (16217 Richmond Road, Callao); and on Thursday, September 15, at 12 noon, at RCC's Glenns Campus (12745 College Drive, Saluda). Admission is free.
Group founders Joseck Asikoye, Victor Elolo, and Justo Otongo were members of the Kenya National Theatre Dance Troupe before breaking away to form Jabali Afrika ("Jabali" means "rock" in the Kiswahili language). Their music has earned recognition throughout Africa, Europe, Japan, and the United States by combining original compositions and traditional African melodies. A wide variety of instruments, accompanied by the vocal harmonies that formed the foundation of modern rock, jazz, gospel, and blues, bring the music alive. African tribal costumes and choreography add authenticity to the experience.
Tickets for the Westmoreland Players Theater performance can be obtained by calling RCC's Warsaw Campus student activities specialist, Charlene Talcott, at 804-333-6734. For information about the Glenns Campus performance, please call student activities specialist Charlene Jones at 804-758-6838.
This item was posted by a community contributor.

domain: artistic


text:
Are you looking for a way to support sustainable farming and help food banks at the same time? Look no further than Heppell’s Potatoes! With every purchase of Heppell’s Potatoes, you are not only getting delicious, high-quality potatoes, but you are also contributing to a great cause.
Why Choose Heppell’s Potatoes?
Heppell’s Potatoes are grown with care and dedication by the team at Ten Servings. Ten Servings is a company that believes in reducing food waste and giving back to the community. For every purchase of Heppell’s Potatoes, Ten Servings donates 10 servings of ugly vegetables to food banks. This means that you are not only supporting sustainable farming practices but also helping those in need.
The Benefits of Supporting Heppell’s Potatoes
By choosing Heppell’s Potatoes, you are making a conscious decision to support sustainable farming practices. The potatoes are grown using environmentally friendly methods, which help to reduce the impact on the planet. Additionally, by purchasing Heppell’s Potatoes, you are helping food banks provide nutritious meals to those who may not have access to fresh produce.
The Impact of Your Purchase
Every time you buy Heppell’s Potatoes, you are making a difference. Your purchase helps to reduce food waste and support local farmers. By supporting Ten Servings and Heppell’s Potatoes, you are contributing to a more sustainable food system and helping to ensure that everyone has access to fresh, healthy food.
Join the Movement
Join the movement towards sustainable farming and supporting food banks by choosing Heppell’s Potatoes for your next meal. Not only will you be getting delicious, high-quality potatoes, but you will also be making a positive impact on the environment and your community.
In conclusion, supporting Heppell’s Potatoes is a win-win situation. You get delicious potatoes, support sustainable farming practices, and help food banks provide nutritious meals to those in need. So next time you are shopping for vegetables, remember to choose Heppell’s Potatoes and make a difference in the world.

domain: food


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Though you may not notice initially, over time cold and snowy weather will affect the structural integrity of asphalt pavement. If the damage is not addressed accordingly, it can lead to expensive and time-consuming repairs. Below we’ll describe some of the different factors of cold weather conditions which can cause damage to asphalt. With this knowledge, you can be proactive in protecting your investment.
Understanding temperature fluctuations
When water freezes it expands and can enlarge existing cracks in paved areas. Additionally, compromised asphalt material can create potholes. As surrounding ice melts, it can seep into the sub-base layer which weakens its structural integrity. In Murfreesboro, sealcoating professionals apply a layer of protective coating on the pavement to make it resistant to water, oil, and other substances.
To salt or not to salt, that is the question
Salt can be used to de-ice asphalt pavements which creates a more stable surface for tires. While salt does not necessarily cause asphalt to deteriorate, it can aggravate any underlying issues. Salt lowers the freezing temperature of water, which can cause water to seep into existing cracks and expand when freezing, which can cause bigger cracks to form. Before the onset of the snow season, get in touch with an experienced asphalt patching provider in Murfreesboro to repair existing potholes and prevent future damages. Finally, melted salt can have a negative effect on plants and wildlife when it mixes with local bodies of water.
Snowplows can unknowingly cause damage
Snowplows are mounted on vehicles and can quickly and efficiently remove snow and ice. They are also an essential tool in locations that experience heavy snowfall. However, they often scrape the surface of asphalt pavements repeatedly, which can remove protective layers and coatings and expose asphalt to the elements.
Although using a snowblower may be a slow and tedious process, it can minimize the risk of damage to protective coverings on the asphalt. Weigh the pros and cons of each alternative before you proceed.
The quality of the sub-base is important
The ability of asphalt pavement to withstand extreme weather conditions mainly depends on the type of sub-base used and how it was installed. Many contractors believe using 5 to 6 inches of full-depth asphalt is a strong sub-base and durable enough for different climates and loads. Some opt for crushed gravel as a sub-base. It pays to invest in a high-quality sub-base. consult with a reputable asphalt paving contractor to determine what meets your requirements and to ensure a professional installation.
Consider porous asphalt
Asphalt has a dark color, which means it can absorb more heat in sunlight. Subsequently, snow and ice melt faster on asphalt than on other surfaces. However, if asphalt is not properly installed and can not manage water runoff, it can lead to the pooling of water. As an alternative, porous asphalt is an eco-friendly material that allows water to drain through and return to the soil and water table.
The key to long-lasting pavements is to work with asphalt repair experts who can help you make qualified and informed decisions on your project.
If you are in need of asphalt patching, repair, or sealcoating in Murfreesboro, contact Hargrove Sealcoating today. A friendly service advisor is available during working hours to answer your questions by calling 931.619.6718.


Occupy Seattle set up tents in downtown Seattle on Tuesday. They want to bring attention to a 3,000 person problem. That's the number of homeless people on the streets of King County each night.
The Occupy demonstrators will march Wednesday morning to a meeting of the Committee to end Homelessness in King County.
The director of King County Human Services knows they're coming. She says in the past eight years, 34,000 homeless have been helped.
We continue to have new people becoming homeless and now it s time to do even harder work, said Adrienne Quinn, Human Services Director.
But homeless advocate Sharon Lee says families and young adults are slipping through the cracks.
When you look at Seattle and how wealthy, how many corporate headquarters we have here, we should be ending homelessness in this great city, she said.
Newly elected Seattle City Councilmember Kshama Sawant was scheduled to speak Tuesday night but she cancelled. Her aids say she was sick.


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How start your startup business from beginning?
You may have many business ideas in your mind, but what do you have to do to turn them into a startup company? Of course, it may sound like an intimidating task, especially for those who had never had a business before. It is true that establishing a business, even a small business, needs hard work, money, energy, dedication, and perseverance. Many businesses fail within the first years of their operation. However, it must also be noted that many startups thrive well even into multi-billion companies.
3 Basic Steps to Establish a Small Business
When you read business books, you may find tens or even hundreds of step to kick start your startup business. Fortunately, they are narrowed into the following steps:
Preparing a business plan
This is the very first thing you need to do before launching your small business. A proper business plan helps you pave the way from the scratches. In addition, a business plan is important if you are seeking for investment capital, in case that you do not have enough money in your account to establish a business. Studies show that people who prepare a business plan properly are more likely to get financial support in terms of business loan or investment capital.
A business plan contains description of your company’s future. Therefore, it is a very helpful tool in growing your business, particularly in the first 3 to 5 years of your business operation. Make sure to learn how to prepare a business plan. If possible, work with an adviser to ensure that it is well prepared.
Getting Appropriate Funding
As mentioned above, a business plan is extremely important if you want to secure funding for the business. The document includes at least balance sheet, profit and loss statement, sales forecast, cash flow statement and other essential things related to business strategies.
If your money is not enough to establish a small business as a standalone owner, you need to find other alternatives. Before considering sending a loan application to a bank lender, you had better negotiated for personal loans with friends, family members, angle investors, or venture capitalists. Try to avoid significant equity in the very beginning phase of your company. Therefore, banks, payday loans, and credit cards might not included in the list of your candidate investors.
Finding Location and Building a Website
Combining a brick-and-mortar and online business is a great strategy for startup. If you have enough money, then you need to lease a property for the business, whether it is an office, manufacturing location, or retail space. Talk to your adviser when choosing from a list of potential business locations. Make sure to choose one that offers great potential for growth. In addition, business location is an important consideration for investors.
Then, building a business website is another important strategy for starting a small business. A website is an effective marketing and branding tool in a long term. Therefore, make sure to build a professional website to represent your business digitally. Then, find a Search Engine Optimization (SEO) specialist to optimize it.
At the first phase of your startup business, you may need to take care of everything, from building a solid team, marketing the business, and building a customer base. Your jobs will be much easier if all of these aspects have been addressed in your business plan.
Ready to get started your own startup? Read more about what to know to grow up your small business faster.


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Why yes, I am easily distracted by shiny things and books, books, books. Well, really, anything related to literature and the written word.
I recently went to NYC and spent a morning at the New York Public Library. I could’ve spent the whole day—and then some—there. Almost nothing makes me happier than being surrounded by books. I was definitely in my happy place.
I also went to a few indie bookstores, so then I was in complete heaven. And what I realized is sometimes there are little things that make us so happy and they are so easy to do. My happy place is anywhere with books, so when I need a little nourishment for my soul or calming for my spirit, I can go to a bookstore, take a moment, and relax.
In this busy season, that is the perfect remedy for me—and I can get some Christmas shopping done too. What is your happy place? Hope you can take some time to do what makes you happy.
Oooh look at these shiny objects . . .
- Some fun facts about the New York Public Library.
- The top ten best books of 2017
- 13 Literary celebrity lookalikes. Some of these are uncanny.
- Words journalists use that no one ever says—do you use any of these words?
- Why having too many (unread) books is a good thing
- I CANNOT wait until January 19!
- Because this is good news.
I’ve been reading . . . Seven Days of Us by Francesca Hornak, which I finished. I’m now reading Mr. Dickens and His Carol: A Novel by Samantha Silva. This is the time of year I love to read Christmas-themed books.
Seven Days of Us turned out to be good. It took me awhile to get into and I decided to give it the first 100 pages, and if I still didn’t like it, I’d stop. It just started getting better around 100 pages, so I stuck with it. It’s a story about a family stuck in quarantine together over the holidays in their old family home in the countryside of England. Cell reception and wi-fi are spotty so they can’t totally lose themselves in technology, thus they are forced to spend time together.
At first look, the characters are not the most likable but yet they aren’t all together unlikable. They are flawed and they are human, so they’re relatable. They kind of grew on me. The writing itself is ok, and there are some unnecessary pop culture references in the book, but if you can get past that (and the first 100 pages), it’s not a bad book to read.
I’ve been watching . . . Hallmark’s Countdown to Christmas movies.
I’ve been listening to . . . the list and Christmas music.
Still going slowly with the list of 150 greatest albums made by women. Here’s what I listened to this week.
- The Bangles, All Over the Place: I was never a big Bangles fan but I was a fan of their debut album—the one before they became pretty and pop. Listening to it again, I can see why this one was on the list. It broke new ground for women in music.
- Cocteau Twins, Heaven or Las Vegas: I’ve long been a fan of the Cocteau Twins, and I was pleasantly surprised to see Heaven or Las Vegas on this list. Singer Elizabeth Fraser’s voice is beautiful and proves that the voice can be an instrument. “Iceblink Luck” is one of my favorite songs on the album.
Have a wonderful weekend!
(Image found here.)


Hallelujah, brothers: one day after the trial of the case Apple vs. Qualcomm Starting in San Diego (California, United States), companies have just announced that they have finally reached an agreement and will end all lawsuits that have been filed against each other around the world.
And look at this: the deal does involve a payment that Apple make Qualcomm (of undisclosed value). In addition, of course, it also covers all litigation involving Qualcomm and Apple's suppliers in Asia.
The companies are signing a six-year technology licensing agreement, effective April 1, 2019, including an option to extend it for two more years, as well as a supply agreement chipsets valid for “several years”.
This “supply agreement” may therefore indicate that Apple has agreed to re-use Qualcomm modems on iPhones, iPads and other products of its own which may of course have to do with such a 5G race.
The trial of their dispute in San Diego should end, according to forecasts, in May. Fortunately, we will no longer have to keep up with this boring soap opera, which in the end only hurt us as consumers.
Update 04/16/2019 at 16:30
Wall Street, of course, reacted very well to the deal: Qualcomm shares ($ QCOM) are firing 21% right now, quoted at $ 69. Already $ AAPL is rising 0.3% to $ 199.80.
Update II 4/16/2019 6:50 PM
A source Nikkei Asian Review Next talks between the companies said it is now late for Apple to deploy Qualcomm modems on iPhones that will be released this year, but most likely Ma will use it again as a supplier by 2020 (probably on its first 5G smartphones).
"Apple was a little worried that a single modem vendor could affect plans to introduce its first 5G smartphone next year," one of the anonymous sources said.
Apple would already be conducting internal testing of Qualcomm's 5G modems for future iPhones, they say.


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Take a look at the lovely Gemma's top picks from our stunning Stately Manor collection... read more
With the festive season upon us, I’m delighted to be here blogging today at Laura Ashley to show you some of the festive clothing for 2017 from the Stately Manor Collection.
Whether embracing a party and looking for the perfect LBD or looking for some daytime looks for the festive season, there is a beautiful selection available from Laura Ashley this year. I have put together a daytime and evening outfit that’s perfect for this time of year and the season ahead.
Daytime Look – Burgundy Lace Sleeve Jumper and Cream Lux Faux Fur Wrap
Burgundy has been one of my favourite shades to wear this season. I love the pretty lace sleeve detail on this burgundy jumper.Â ItÂ is the perfect dressy day to evening piece that you will reach for again and again. It pairs so well with jeans as it would with some more formal trousers or a skirt.
I have layered the cream lux faux fur wrap over the jumper. This makes a great addition to any dressy daytime outfit for the festive season. The wrap is such a cosy, thick and soft faux fur so it keeps you warm and stylish at the same time as adding a splash of luxe to your wardrobe. It would also make a great accessory to dress up your winter coat.
This beautiful black velvet wrap dress would be perfect for any party or event this winter. I love the flattering shape of the dress with beautiful folds of velvet draping across the midsection. The midi length is also perfect. It’s a beautiful classic style dress that will be in your wardrobe for years to come.
The red faceted bead necklace adds a sophisticated pop of festive colour to the look and coordinates with the lipstick and shoes. The colour red is a key trend this season and it’s also a great colour for the festive outfits. I finished off the look with some tiny pearl earrings.
I hope you have enjoyed my outfits here today and feel inspired to create your own festive looks with Laura Ashley.

domain: design


Welcome to refined living at Adagio by Menkes
A new 29-storey luxury boutique condominium in Yorkville. Designed as an elegant modern retreat in the heart of the city and inspired by the distinguished history of the address. Adagio promises a rewarding life. Allow yourself to be transformed by its glamorous ambience, and enlivened by its proximity to Canada's most prestigious shopping and dining district, right at your doorstep.
Price Staring From
Yonge St & Bloor St W.
Number of Storeys:
Located in the Bloor-Yorkville neighbourhood in Toronto
5-minute drive to the core of Downtown Toronto
1-minute walk to Yonge Station
Surround by to shops, restaurants, library and schools
Nearby to University of Toronto – St. George and Ryerson University
Nearby parks include George Hislop Park, Harold Town Park and Asquith Green
Bloor-Yonge Subway Station within a minute walk
Don Valley Parkway is five minutes from Yorkville
Many retail stores, fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, antique shops, and art galleries are popular tourist attractions
The Metropolitan Toronto Reference Library


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Brill's Encyclopedia of the Middle Ages Online offers an accessible yet engaging coverage of medieval European history and culture, c. 500-c. 1500, in a series of themed articles, taking an interdisciplinary and comparative approach. Presenting a broad range of topics current in research, the encyclopedia is dedicated to all aspects of medieval life, organized in eight sections: Society; Faith and Knowledge; Literature; Fine Arts and Music; Economy; Technology; Living Environment and Conditions; and Historical Events and Regions. This thematic structure makes the encyclopedia a true reference work for Medieval Studies as a whole. It is accessible and concise enough for quick reference, while also providing a solid grounding in a new topic with a good level of detail, since many of its articles are longer than traditional encyclopedia entries. The encyclopedia is supported by an extensive bibliography, updated with the most recent works and adapted to suit the needs of an Anglophone audience.
Brill's Encyclopedia of the Middle Ages Online is a unique work, and invaluable equally for research and for teaching. Anyone interested in the art, architecture, economy, history, language, law, literature, music, religion, or science of the Middle Ages, will find the encyclopedia an indispensible resource.
This is an English translation of the second edition (2013) of the well-known German-language Enzyklopädie des Mittelalters, published by Primus Verlag / Wissenschaftliche Buchgesellschaft.
Anyone interested in the architecture, art, economy, history, language, law, literature, music, religion, or science of the Middle Ages
Gert Melville, Ph.D. (1971), Habilitation (1983), is Senior Professor of Medieval History at the University of Dresden, Germany, and Director of FOVOG, working on medieval monasticism, history of institutions and medieval historiography. He recently published The World of Medieval Monasticism: Its History and Forms of Life (Cistercian Publications, 2016).
Martial Staub, Ph.D. (1997), Habilitation (2003), is Professor of Medieval History at the University of Sheffield, UK, working on medieval urban history, the Church, exile and intellectual history. He co-edited The Making of Medieval History (Boydell and Brewer, 2016).
"This resource provides a structured overview of western Europe in the Middle Ages. Eight larger sections are divided between the two volumes... The articles are arranged within these larger clusters with different levels of coverage from most general to most specific. The set begins with a preface by the editors and an introduction and concludes with an extensive bibliography, a list of contributors, and a separate alphabetical list of authors. The sections of the bibliography are organized in the same order as the contributions. Most entries are concise but informative, and the topics covered range widely.
Summing up: Recommended."
– T. M. Izbicki, in: CHOICE 54/10 (2017)
"The editors and contributing authors have succeeded in producing a user-friendly and easy-to-navigate resource that serves not merely as a reference work in the traditional sense, but also as an up-to-date review of scholarly discourse in the interdisciplinary field of Medieval Studies... Brill’s Encyclopedia of the Middle Ages offers a commendable reference work that convinces through both the quality of its contents and its innovative structure and approach. The contributions are authored by well-established scholars who are recognised internationally as leading experts in their respective fields.. the Encyclopedia offers an impressive collection of thematic studies exploring the European Middle Ages that covers a wide range of important perspectives."
- Benjamin Pohl, in: Plekos 19 (2017)


Impact of COVID-19 on Economy, Industry and Company :
The emergence of novel coronavirus has affected the global economy, industry dynamics and company’s top line. The entire ecosystem has to suffer the impact of this pandemic disease which would result in significant demand & supply gap, production delay and weak consumer demand of end products across industries. At Bizizz Market Research, our analyst has done extensive research across industries and identify various methodologies which would assist C-Level executive to counter this ongoing threat and make informed business decision.
Kindly contact us to know more details: https://www.bizizzmarketresearch.com/contact
"The Commercial Refrigeration Equipment market is estimated to be USD 34.441 Billion in 2019 and it is expected to reach more than USD XX Billion by 2028, likely to grow at a CAGR of 6.2% during the forecast period."
Commercial refrigeration equipment refers to freezers and refrigeration used in convenience stores, supermarkets, commercial kitchens, and restaurants. Commercial refrigeration system is combined into remote condensing or single physical unit in which condenser and compressor are located remotely from a refrigerated case. Commercial refrigeration is the method of expelling overabundance warm from a source or a fabric to the encompassing environment to preserve the temperature lower than its encompassing. Commercial refrigeration gear is utilized for protecting nourishment such as vegetables, natural products, meat, and other comparative items by keeping up a temperature of 30C to -40C and expanding the rack life of the item. Generally, a bigger share of the market for fridges is anticipated to be accounted within the near future due to substitution of existing hardware through vitality effective and economical innovation hardware. In expansion, a few refrigeration gears are extraordinarily planned to quickly diminish the temperature of hot nourishment from around 90C to as moo as 30C, in a brief time period to dispose of the risk of bacterial proliferation.
The Rising Number of Hypermarkets, Strength Nourishment Stores, and Grocery Stores will Drive the Commercial Refrigeration Equipment Market
The demand for frozen & chilled items among the customers has expanded due to altering in way of life and fast urbanization. In expansion, quick development within the organized retail division, such as an increment in the number of supermarkets and general stores, advance boosts in general deals of commercial fridges; in this manner driving to the development of the advertising.
The rising number of hypermarkets, strength nourishment stores, and grocery stores all over the globe is additionally anticipated to boost the showcase development over the figure period. Required for decreasing the working costs inside the neighborliness industry has given various development openings for providers advertising energy-efficient gear. The gear can be customized as per the individual’s prerequisites. Be that as it may, a number of advancements, in terms of the plan, have driven to the fabricating of generalized items, suiting the prerequisites of a lion's share of commercial clients.
The Food & Beverage Segment Dominated the Commercial Refrigeration Equipment Market in 2018 in the Component Segment.
Food benefit is anticipated to be the overwhelming application portion over the estimated period due to the rising number of Speedy Benefit Eateries (QSRs) and food trucks across economies and a couple of developing economies. Utilize cold treatment within the food products industry is anticipated to boost item requests within the food & beverages section over the coming a long time.
Refrigerators & Freezers Segment is forecasted to Have the Highest CAGR in the Forecast Period
Rising demand over different segments, such as food, hospitality, and healthcare, is anticipated to fuel the development in the future. Expanded income from healing centers over the past five a long time, owing to the rise in the geriatric populace and require for healthcare, has boosted the deals of ice hardware. The nearness of well-established retail chains and grocery stores will drive the fragment advance.
North America is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the Forecast Period
North America is anticipated to record a CAGR of 4.4% over the estimated period. The U.S. could be an advertising pioneer within the retail industry with the nearness of well-established conveyance channels for all categories of retail companies. A few openings for development exist in U.S. retail showcase for retail suppliers of all sizes, from little-, medium-sized establishment unit proprietors, and coordinate or person dealers to expansive store administrators. The food industry in the Asia Pacific has experienced significant development over the past decade.
Acquisition and merger are the key factors which are adopted by the key players in the Commercial Refrigeration Equipment market. Some of the major companies into Hussmann, Imbera Foodservice, AHT Cooling System GmbH, Daikin, Master-Bilt, Middleby, Nor-Lake, Voltas, Welbilt, Panasonic, Tecumseh, Williams Refrigeration, Dover Corp, Daikin Industries Ltd, Carrier Commercial Refrigeration Inc, Johnson Control Inc, Haier Group Corp, among others.
Commercial Refrigeration Equipment Key Market Segments:
- Transportation Refrigeration Equipment
- Refrigerators & Freezers
- Beverage Refrigeration
- Display Showcases
- Remotely Operated
- Ice Merchandisers & Ice Vending Equipment
By Retail Channel
- Convenience Store
- Specialty Store
- Food Service
- Food & Beverage Retail
- Food & Beverage Distribution
- Food & Beverage Production
- North America
- Asia pacific
- Middle East and Africa
- Latin America


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Title: Night of the Creeps
Dir.: Fred Dekker
Producer: Charles Gordon
Writer(s): Fred Dekker
Company: TriStar Pictures
Starring: Jason Lively, Tom Atkins, Jill Whitlow, and Steven Marshall.
I’m skipping over quite a few movies to talk about this one because I recently just sat down and watched this movie (last week) for the first time.
My initial and first thought about 1986’s Night of the Creeps is… why did it take me so long to watch this movie? I loved this movie. I had fun with this movie. It’s a movie that isn’t taking itself seriously and it’s a b-movie, cheesy horror/sci-fi/comedy and it works.
There is so many things that I loved about this movie that goes beyond just cinematography. I enjoyed the surprises, the acting, the special effects were fun and decent, some character development, there was a lot.
I should start by saying that on Amazon Firestick, for me anyway, there’s a IDMb Freedive app where you can watch movies and television, documentaries, whatever you want for free. There are ads throughout but they are 2 ads at a time, most are just for Amazon original programming and it goes right back to the film, no buffering, etc. You won’t find everything available to watch but there’s a good selection available. Anywho, if this app is available for you, take advantage of it. We don’t like ads but the ads is why the media is free.
Back to Night of the Creeps.
I had heard about this movie. Seen screen captures and mini clips of this movie. I even did an entire post on the tumblr blog and even from that, it seemed like this movie was in the same realm as… The Return of the Living Dead. That movie will also be featured on this blog in the future. This movie captured the 80s. I have seen TONS of horror movies from different decades and there’s something about 80s horror that just sparkles. There’s magical dust on it. There’s something about 80s movies in general that I clearly love more than horror films from earlier or later, doesn’t mean I don’t disrespect them or dislike them. I love them all… catch me on a day when I can go off on one that doesn’t work but you just know an 80s film when you see it.
Night of the Creeps is that movie that when you see it, you know what decade this is.
I love the colors and lighting in this movie. The colors are obnoxiously bright. For me, in my mind, it falls into the category of Creepshow, The Twilight Zone movie, Vamp, Suspiria, A Nightmare on Elm Street, The Shining, Hellraiser, Killer Klowns from Outer Space and so many more where they use color combinations or just in general colors that are appropriately used to create a moment, a capture.
A lot of this comes from me spending many college credits on art and art history and color theory so that’s what immediately draws my attention in film, no matter what the genre is. Horror (fantasy or sci-fi) just happens to be that genre(s) that switches that light bulb on in my mind to see something like how they use color. How do they use lighting? How do they make a scene memorable using visuals and it isn’t about the dialogue?
I can give an example of what I am talking about. The movie has “3” different time periods. And by that I mean, there’s the space/alien aspect, there’s the 1959 scenes and then later the 1986 “current” scenes. There is a scene that eventually gets played out in its entirety where one of the characters is attacked and its initially in black and white, for being in 1959. The scene evolves in a main character’s flashback where we see the color, we see the baby blue Cadillac (I’m assuming) being drenched in bright red blood. It’s almost “cartoon-y”.
It just sucks you into reality like “oh shit, she actually died” versus “oh shit, is she gonna make it or leave or run or something?” NO.
If you have time, please watch this movie. It is very fun. The version that was available for me had the alternative ending so just be aware of that possibility.

domain: entertainment


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Originally from New York, Ed Ehlers has made his home in Northern Virginia since 2000. He lives there with Lisa and their three children. He enjoys the woods and rivers with Max & Tucker, Australian Shepherd brothers.
In addition to writing, Ed enjoys making jewelry from local rock and river glass. You can find his work at CliftonStone on Etsy.
Max & Tucker Adventures are children's books about true stories of dogs rescuing other animals. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Lost Dog and Cat Rescue Foundation and Wildlife Rescue League.
To learn more about Ed Ehlers and his work, please visit his Amazon Author Page amazon.com/author/edehlers and check out etsy.com/shop/CliftonStone.
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domain: literature


Prime Machine Inc was founded in 1975 as a full service 24/7 shop allowing customers to get parts fabricated, machined and installed. Originally the companies focus was large industrial equipment; power generation, rotating equipment, and field machining. Our customers include Utah Power and Light, Kennecott Copper, Gold mines thru out Nevada, and the power plants thru out the Western United States.
During the mid 1980’s Prime Machine expanded operations and capabilities into the Aerospace tool design industry. Our current Aerospace customers include Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, Barnes Aerospace and Hill Air Force Base. To work with these prime contractors Prime Machine generated a Quality program that conformance to AS9100 and ISO 9001 standard.
Prime Machine is known for large scale machining with two full 5-axis machines horizontal milling machines with travels 27 ft. x 14 ft. x 6 ft. with a 60 ton rotary table. Vertical turning lathes capable of swinging 23.5 ft. diameter and 11 ft. under cross rail.
In 2022 Prime Machine added engineering and design services. Software used: NX, Solid works, ANSYS and Mathcad software.
To ensure the quality within the company: Leica Trackers, Faro Trackers and Faro arms are used are used to create N.I.S.T traceable inspections to document all machine calibrations and GD&T tolerances required of manufactured parts.
These inspectors travel thru out the country doing Prime Machine inspections and are contracted to our customers doing their inspection using, Polyworks, Verisurf and Spatial Analyzer software (SA).
Prime Machine is a diversified shop capable of fabrication, machining, field machining, assembly (electrical and pneumatic, load testing up to 450 tons and reverse engineering with design capabilities. We currently employ 120 employees and operate two shifts daily allowing short lead times for most projects.


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This image is a general representation of the item and the actual product may differ slightly in terms of color shading, logo placement, borders, or other small details. Used items may have various cosmetic differences as well.
May not shine under light, but should still be pretty clean,
and not too dirty.
May have a number of marks (5 to 10 at most), and obvious signs of play,
but never a big cluster of them, or any major mark that would be very deep.
Most marks should still not click under a fingernail.
May not look near perfect, but should play fairly well,
with slight surface noise, and the occasional click in part of a song,
but never throughout a whole song or more.
This is clearly a copy that was played by someone a number of times,
but which could also be a good "play copy" for someone new.
Additional Marks & Notes
If something is noteworthy, we try to note it in the comments — especially
if it is an oddity that is the only wrong thing about the record.
This might include, but isn't limited to, warped records, tracks that skip,
cover damage or wear as noted above, or strictly cosmetic flaws.
Amazing soul from one of the greats of the 60s! This album was one of the first that Jerry cut for Mercury – where he'd begun working with the young team of Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff to completely rework the earlier sound he'd forged at Vee Jay Records. The album's still got Jerry singing ... LP, Vinyl record album
Great early work from Melba Moore – recorded at a time when she was winning big accolades for her work on stage as a parody of Diana Ross in Hair – but stepping out here as a hell of a great soul singer on her own! The tunes have a groove that's a bit more complicated than the usual ... LP, Vinyl record album
A stone treasure from one of the greatest soul singers of the 70s – and a set you'll regularly find in the coolest of record collections from back in the day! Billy Paul was always one of the hippest talents on Philly International – mixing together soul and jazz influences with a ... LP, Vinyl record album
An oft-overlooked gem from Parliament – released during the year 1976, and sometimes hidden between monster LPs like Funkentelechy and Mothership Connection – but every bit as great as those two classics! The album's got that tightened-up P-Funk sound that was working so perfectly at ... LP, Vinyl record album
We couldn't think of a better way to describe the sound of Slave than "stone jam"! The band's got a bass-heavy groove, mixed with a lot of soul, in a style that was often copied by many groups in the 80s, but never equalled. The real strength in the band was their songwriting – ... LP, Vinyl record album
Prince in a grand groove – really hitting a new level of funk with a razor-sharp edge – and even blowing away some of his work on previous records! The record's a soundtrack for a film – Under The Cherry Moon – and although that movie never had the success of Purple Rain, ... LP, Vinyl record album
A big hit for the group – and a great album of smooth funky soul! Spirit is a perfect example of the way that Earth Wind & Fire could tighten things up, yet still keep them real – holding onto the deeply spiritual side that first made them great – but also focusing their ... LP, Vinyl record album


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The case was filed by the ED after investigating a November 2020 FIR from the CBI that alleged a multi-crore coal theft scam linked to the Eastern Coalfields mines in the Kunustoria and Kajora areas in and around of Asansol.
Representative image. PTI
Calcutta: Officials from the Directorate of Enforcement (ED) on Saturday conducted search operations at the office of a private tours and travel company in Calcutta as part of its investigation into an alleged charcoal theft scam of several million dollars, sources from the investigative agency said.
Upon information, ED officials went to the office on India Exchange Place in the heart of the city and carried out searches, sources said.
The case, registered under the criminal sections of the Money Laundering Prevention Act, was filed by the ED after investigating a November 2020 FIR from the CBI that alleged a charcoal theft scam of several million dollars related to the Eastern Coalfields mines in the Kunustoria and Kajora areas in and around Asansol.
ED is investigating the money laundering aspect of the scam.
The local coalman Anup Majhi alias Lala is said to be the main suspect in this case.
The ED has made at least two arrests in the money laundering case. One of them is Vikas Mishra, the brother of TMC youth wing leader Vinay Mishra. Vinay Mishra is said to have left the country for some time and has probably also renounced his Indian citizenship.
The second person arrested by the ED at the beginning of the year is the former inspector in charge of the Bankura police station, Ashok Kumar Mishra.
ED summoned Abhishek Banerjee, nephew of West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee and congressman from Trinamool, and his wife for questioning in the matter.

domain: law


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Curry scores 53 as Warriors stay undefeated
NEW ORLEANS – Stephen Curry scored 53 points, taking over the game with a 28-point third quarter, and the unbeaten Golden State Warriors defeated winless New Orleans 134-120 in the Pelicans' home opener Saturday night.
Curry outscored all the Pelicans by two points in the third period, giving the reigning NBA MVP a career high for scoring in a quarter. He wound up shooting 17-for-27 from the field, including 8-for-14 from three-point range, to go with nine assists and four steals.
Draymond Green scored 21 points and Klay Thompson added 19 for defending champion Golden State, which has won its first three games this season.
Anthony Davis had 26 points and 15 rebounds for the injury-depleted Pelicans, who have lost three games under new coach Alvin Gentry.
•JAZZ DOMINATE AFTER HALF: Derrick Favors scored 18 points and the visiting Utah Jazz outscored the Indiana Pacers by 33 in the second half of a 97-76 victory. Favors, one of six Jazz players to score in double figures, also had seven rebounds. George Hill scored 17 points and Paul George added 16 for Indiana. Utah beat Indiana in almost every facet of the game. The Jazz scored 30 points off Indiana turnovers and outrebounded the Pacers 47-34. Utah outscored Indiana 50-26 in the paint. Indiana is still trying to find its identity after an offseason of changes to the team's roster and style of play.
•ANTHONY LEADS KNICKS: Carmelo Anthony scored 37 points and the New York Knicks ruined Washington's home opener, beating the Wizards 117-110. Anthony hit a jumper with 1:35 to play to give New York a 108-106 lead. Langston Galloway added a three-pointer with 1:03 left to make it 111-106. With the Wizards trailing 111-110 with 21.5 seconds to play, Galloway was able to call a timeout in front of his bench with Otto Porter grappling with him for the ball. Anthony added two free throws with 20.4 seconds to play for a 113-110 lead. Bradley Beal had 22 of his 26 points in the second half for Washington, while John Wall added 25. The Knicks won their second road game of the season. They won a total of seven road games last season. Anthony missed his first two field goal attempts — then hit eight straight, including four three-pointers — before his next miss.

domain: game


text: Ready to build your mountain dream home? THIS IS IT. A clean canvas with serene mountain views to be enjoyed from your future front porch. Wooded for as much privacy as you would like and conveniently located minutes from DT Blue Ridge where great restaurants & shopping await you. And situated where Blairsville & Murphy, NC are close by as well. Gated community w/underground utilities, & a perked lot ready to build so what are you waiting for? Let your adventure begin today!

domain: geography


Due to Provincial restrictions to reduce the spread of COVID-19, the City has temporarily closed its indoor recreation and cultural facilities and suspended drop-in and registered programs, except for essential services and virtual programs. Up to date information regarding closures can be found at ottawa.ca
Kanata Leisure Centre and Wave Pool, courses for Babysitting in the spring
Earn some extra money. Learn good babysitting techniques with topics on rights and responsibilities, ages and stages, emergency procedures and introductory first aid.
, 9 am-5 pm,
12 yrs-14 yrs,
Pour les programmes uniquement en français, veuillez faire une recherche dans l’interface en français.


text:
Emma Jane Taylor and Rob Tourtelot
Met: April 2004
Engaged: Dec. 24, 2004
Projected Wedding Date: June 2, 2006
Emma Taylor, 32, one half of the sexpert-columnist duo Em & Lo, plans to marry Rob Tourtelot, 34, a partner at the indie-oriented music-licensing company Pump Audio, at the chic Congress Hall in Cape May, N.J. (down the shore from where she spent her teenage years). The couple met on Nerve.com. Ms. Taylor, a saucy brunette who helped invent the now-standard online-personals questionnaire—“Most Humbling Moment,” etc.—had posted an ad that read, in part: “I don’t talk during previews, and your mother would love me.”
Her most humbling moment, she said, was eating most of her high-school lunches in the stalls of the ladies’ room.
“It was so sweet and vulnerable,” said Mr. Tourtelot, who has close-cropped hair, a fit physique and a gentle manner. Soon after their initial cyber-exchange, he met a mutual friend, an editor at Glamour, for dinner (along with his mother). “ Ohmigod—you and Emma are totally going to have a relationship,” said the Glamour editor. “I can’t believe I never thought of it before.”
“My mom got worked up into a tizzy at that point,” Mr. Tourtelot said.
His first date with Ms. Taylor was at the Sunburnt Cow, a nightspot with vaguely Australian overtones on Avenue C. The writer was sitting at the bar reading P.J. Wodehouse (years of blind dating had taught them both to keep dates short and near a fire exit). “I thought, ‘Oh, I’ll just go in for one quick drink,’” she said. Five—yes, five—vodka tonics apiece later, they were making out like a pair of teenagers.
“We were completely at ease with each other,” Mr. Tourtelot said. “And, of course, we had a lot of drinks.” Still, he wound up dropping her discreetly at her doorstop in Williamsburg.
As Ms. Taylor was soon to be spending a month in her native England, the pair forwent the usual Manhattan dance of unavailability and agreed to go out the very next night. “All of our cards were on the table,” Mr. Tourtelot said. When Ms. Taylor returned, they plunged headlong into a full-fledged relationship. “We moved into the next stage without having to deal with that insecurity,” she said.
Strolling the beach of Cape May with her beau one weekend, Ms. Taylor suggested that he consider buying a place in town. Soon afterwards, he put a down payment on a charming two-bedroom with a backyard there. “I remember thinking: ‘That should be weird. I’ve been dating this guy a couple months, and he’s buying a house,’” she said. “But it felt like this was going to be our house.”
Several months later, Ms. Taylor found herself broke and crashing on a friend’s couch. Mr. Tourtelot suggested that she move into his oak-trimmed Fort Greene one-bedroom, which he shares with his mutt Baci, but she demurred. “I’d never lived with anyone before, and I didn’t want to live with anyone until I was sure,” she said. But her co-writer and business partner, Lorelei (Lo) Sharkey, with whom she’s written four books, helped to persuade her otherwise: “I realized that I was not moving in to make a point.”
The couple was visiting her family in Oxford when Mr. Tourtelot suggested a walk in a torrential downpour. “What are you talking about?” Ms. Taylor said. “It’s miserable!”
“Nonsense, take my Wellies,” said her mother.
Magically, the rain let up as they set out for a nearby hill. At the top, Mr. Tourtelot turned to his ladylove. “It makes me so happy to be here in England with you and your family, and to be on the beautiful walk, and to have you living with me,” he said. “But do you know what would make me really happy?” He dropped to one knee and offered a gold band encrusted with brilliant-cut diamonds, formerly owned by his mother.
“Yes!” blurted Ms. Taylor, suddenly light-headed.
Ian Hawkes and Jocelyn Wendt
Met: March 12, 2002
Engaged: June 17, 2005
Projected Wedding Date: June 25, 2006
After two dates with Jocelyn Wendt, a spunky, bespectacled blonde, Ian Hawkes invited her to his Park Slope studio for movies and snuggling on the futon. Ms. Wendt showed up at his door wearing a pair of cat ears (yikes!) and bearing a basket filled with Goobers and Milk Duds and a bag of popcorn.
“I thought it was hysterical,” said Mr. Hawkes, 28.
“I did it just to be funny, because I’m kind of kooky,” said Ms. Wendt, 27.
That’s what you get for meeting on Match.com! Ms. Wendt, then working at a real-estate office, had distributed Mr. Hawkes’ posted photo to family and friends for approval before signing up as a member herself. “I tailored my profile, hoping this cute redhead would e-mail me back,” she said. Alas, she fell one inch shy of his 5-foot-7 minimal height requirement, so she had to take the initiative herself. They arranged what turned out to be a rather meandering rendezvous at the Brooklyn Museum. “We were totally engrossed in each other,” she said.
After some bad Thai food in the Slope, Mr. Hawkes walked Ms. Wendt to her Ford Escort and gave her a peck on the cheek. “I didn’t think he was interested, and I was kind of sad,” she said. “I had been on a whole bunch of dates before with Match.com, and they were disasters,” Mr. Hawkes said. “I told myself, ‘Don’t expect too much right away.’ I was keeping my cards close to my chest.”
He called her the next day.
A few drinks at 444 Lounge finally led to a proper, glasses-fogging kiss. “Wait,” Ms. Wendt whimpered as Mr. Hawkes made as if to head back to his apartment. “More.”
“It was really cute,” he said. His entrancement only grew when she began ferrying his dirty laundry to her basement apartment in her sister’s house in Sheepshead Bay. “Here’s a cute girl with a car and a washer and dryer,” said Mr. Hawkes, then a production assistant at Parents magazine (he has since been promoted to production associate). “I’m not going to be an idiot—I don’t want to pass that up.”
Five months later, he found a two-bedroom luxury apartment in (brace yourself) Hoboken, with its own washer-dryer. After that lease was up, Ms. Wendt, now office manager and assistant to the editor at Fast Company, joined him in a slightly more modest place, with a closet that flooded every time it rained, where they enjoyed hosting friends for raucous games of Risk.
Mr. Hawkes proposed during a vacation in Myrtle Beach, just as Ms. Wendt was preparing to slide ( kersplash) into an outdoor hot tub, giving her an antique-style single-carat, brilliant-cut diamond set in platinum and flanked by two quarter-carat, pear-cut side stones. Though he’d jokingly proposed before, the real thing came as a complete surprise. “I always figured I’d know,” said the bride-to-be, currently planning a wedding at Flanders Valley Farm in Joisey, “and would have to pretend to be shocked.”


text:
The Insulin Resistance Diet: A Healthy Eating Habit
October 13, 2022
October 13, 2022
Insulin is an all-powerful hormone that allows cells to absorb glucose (a sugar-based energy source) from the foods consumed. Insulin resistance prevents cells from effectively utilising insulin. Or, in the case of type 1 diabetes, the pancreas does not make any insulin at all. This lack of insulin spikes blood sugar levels and makes them higher than they should be. As a result, one might be at a higher risk for type-2 diabetes and other chronic health issues. The best way to manage insulin resistance is to regulate blood sugar daily, with every meal. A healthy insulin-resistance diet is not about cutting out a particular food group. Instead, it requires choosing the right foods from each food group that help keep your blood sugar in check. However, every individual is different. So there’s no fixed diet plan for reducing insulin resistance. For example, your capacity for metabolising a fruit might differ from someone else’s capacity. Hence, it is better to understand the basics of an insulin resistance diet and plan a customised meal plan.
Insulin resistance is when your body no longer responds to insulin the way it ideally should. What you eat determines your level of insulin resistance. A study shows that modern eating habits of increasing the number of animal-based foods while reducing plant-based foods lead to insulin resistance.
Different foods show varying effects on insulin resistance. For example, foods with a high-glycemic index, often known as high-GI foods, rapidly increase your blood sugar and prompt the release of a large amount of insulin. And over time, the body becomes less sensitive to this extra insulin. So, it is better to customise a meal plan that can control insulin resistance and give you adequate nutrition to reach healthy blood sugar targets and weight management goals. It primarily includes foods that digest slowly and help you feel full for longer.
An insulin resistance diet plan is not too restricting. It is all about eating foods that generally fall low on the GI scale. Of course, you can still enjoy some dairy treats, but many kinds of cheese, sweetened yoghurts, and animal milk contain saturated fats. So it’s better to be careful.
Here are some foods from various food groups that you can add to your meal plan.
Understanding and observing the GI values of various foods can help you make smart eating and purchasing decisions on an insulin-resistance diet. Furthermore, you must be aware that whole fruits and vegetables have a lot more fibre, which keeps your blood sugar balanced and you satiated for longer. Also, try swapping your saturated fats for healthier fats, such as fatty fish, nuts, seeds, and avocados.
While eating healthy foods to manage insulin resistance, it is equally important to cut down on certain foods that increase your risk of sudden sugar spikes. Some of them are
It’s essential to cut down on processed foods to manage insulin resistance. You should try to limit sugary drinks and cereals, refined grains like white rice and white bread, and snacks like chips and baked goods. Focusing on the quality of foods you eat rather than the quantity can help reduce your risk of insulin resistance.
The insulin-resistance diet does not necessarily require adding any special foods to combat insulin resistance. Instead, just focus on eating less unhealthy fats, sugar, red meat, and processed starches. Here’s a sample meal plan for an insulin resistance diet.
Please Note: It is just a reference meal plan and may not suit everyone as every individual’s needs are different. Hence, it is best to consult an expert nutritionist to get a customised meal plan.
Diet and exercise are vital factors for increasing insulin sensitivity. Here are some exercise tips that you can incorporate into your routine.
Set your timer and get up every 50 minutes in between your work. Take stairs a few times or do press-ups. It will improve your insulin levels.
Sprinting can deplete the stored carbs in muscles. However, as a powerful exercise mode, it will improve your metabolic adaptations and optimise your blood glucose responses. In the end, it will eventually enhance insulin sensitivity.
If you are more into walking, introduce it as your daily habit. Start with 30 minutes daily, splitting it up into two sessions. Walking after meals significantly improves insulin sensitivity, blood pressure, and weight loss.
Incorporating a wide range of intense physical exercises is best for reducing the effect of insulin resistance. For instance, try to couple a session of HIIT for a week and follow 2-3 weight training sessions with walking the next week.
Weight training can improve insulin sensitivity by allowing the glucose to move from the bloodstream into the muscles. Start with some push-ups and chin-ups. Then proceed to dumbbells and follow weighted lunges, squats, and more.
Minor lifestyle modifications can go a long way in managing your insulin resistance.
Regular physical activity will help your body to balance the blood glucose levels in a better way. High-intensity training is particularly effective in reversing insulin resistance.
The presence of excess fat, especially around the waist area, is one of the primary causes of insulin resistance. In addition, belly fat produces hormones that cause inflammation, which might trigger insulin resistance. Hence ensure to lose some weight with a regular exercise routine and balanced diet.
Consuming more nutrient-dense foods in the first half of the day will aid in improving insulin resistance. Then, make a healthy combination of carbs, protein and fats to keep the body fully functioning and active throughout the day.
Research shows that consuming a nutrition-dense diet with vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, fibre-rich products, dairy products, and healthy fats will positively influence insulin resistance.
An insulin-resistance diet is all about following the basic principles of healthy eating. Following insulin, resistance diet doesn’t mean you have to worry about missing out on delicious foods or not eating enough. Instead, ensure you’re eating plenty of high-fibre, plant-based foods. Also, avoid simple carbohydrates in the morning and early afternoon, as these are the times of day prone to an insulin spike. In addition to eating a balanced diet, it’s vital to embrace exercise and take your medication correctly. Even taking a stroll after a meal or taking the stairs instead of the elevator can make a big difference.

domain: biology


text:
Council is not directly involved in the management of cats but we do encourage responsible cat ownership. For advice and resources about keeping cats, communities and wildlife safe visit:
Stray or lost cats should be taken to Just Cats. For more information visit www.justcats.org.au
Animal welfare and reporting cruelty
There are a number of ways that anyone with concerns about the welfare of an animal can report it confidentially. You can call the National Animal Cruelty Hotline on 1300 139 947. Details taken are passed on to the Tasmanian RSPCA for investigation.
Alternatively, you can send an email to: firstname.lastname@example.org or you can report it online. Your details will remain strictly confidential.

domain: pet


text:
Sumar Braswell said she wasn’t hesitant to enter treatment for her opioid addiction.
She’d heard there was going to be a moment where she would be tired of living an addicted lifestyle.
That moment came during her unborn son’s adoption process.
“The parents that I had picked out, they wanted me to sign over my rights,” Braswell said. “It was like a day after that, I couldn’t do it. I went and checked myself into a hospital and detoxed and came to this program.”
That program was the South-Eastern Family Project, a residential treatment center in Newport News for addicted pregnant women.
The center was built to house 16 women. As reports of substance-exposed infants rise across the state, only 10 women are being treated there.
“We’ve been running under capacity for months now,” said Sherry Hunt, communications and business development director for Hampton-Newport News Community Service Board. “We can’t understand that because we know there’s a great need out there, so we’re trying to encourage the women that are ill and need treatment to consider this as an alternative.”
South-Eastern Family Project is a branch of Hampton-Newport News CSB and has been in operation since October 2001.
The center is one of eight Project LINK sites, which provide services to pregnant women who currently are using or at risk of using according to the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services website.
The center employs 20 staff members, Hunt said.
Braswell, 27, who has lived in Virginia Beach for two years began struggling with addiction at 13.
She originally was enrolled at a methadone clinic where she found Project LINK. When Braswell first found out she was pregnant, they offered her treatment at South-Eastern Family Project, but said at the time she wasn’t ready to begin recovery.
When she made the decision to keep her son, she called and was accepted for treatment.
The length of each woman’s stay depends on their insurance, as well as their individual decision. An average stay is 30 to 90 days, said program manager Tammy Klemer.
In order to be treated, a pregnant woman is addicted to a substance or at risk of using. When selecting women for the program, Klemer said potential patients are required to complete an ASAM assessment that examines withdrawal symptoms, medical and behavioral issues, the patient’s support system and home environment, relapse potential and willingness to change.
Klemer said the program receives at least two to three referrals a week and typically houses between six to seven women.
It's feast or famine. We get a lot of referrals at certain times and then other times it's very few referrals.— Tammy Klemer, South-Eastern Family Project program manager
“It’s feast or famine,” Klemer said. “We get a lot of referrals at certain times and then other times it’s very few referrals.”
A day at South-Eastern Family Project is characterized by the structure. It begins with breakfast and medications at 7 a.m. The treatment day starts at 8 a.m. and goes until 4 p.m.
The day can include individual and group counseling sessions, medical appointments and educational groups. Each woman has chores to complete and they take turns making dinner each night.
“It’s always been a very structured program because it’s underneath detox and hospitalization,” Klemer said. “It’s the highest level of care. It has to be because we’re trying to work through these issues as quickly as we can, help them with gaining skills and be ready to walk out the door, creating a discharge plan that helps them support their sobriety when they leave.
“We have a lot to do, and 30 days may seem like a long time but it’s not when you’ve been using for 20 years or 10 years or even five years.”
The program can take referrals from across the state, but Klemer explains there are challenges when it comes to being assessed for treatment, discharge planning and whether the legal system is involved. Sometimes matters have to be alleviated or postponed in order for the women to enter treatment. The farthest the program has had women come from is Charlottesville and Arlington, Klemer said.
Inside the facility
When Braswell arrived at the facility in May, she was overwhelmed during the intake process.
“I felt like I was where I’m supposed to be,” Braswell said. “They made me feel so welcome. I knew I’d made the right decision coming here.”
She said her treatment has been life-changing, but difficult. Like many women in the facility, Braswell’s had to go through her first pregnancy and recovery alone.
Braswell said the most helpful part of treatment has been the peer recovery specialists. There are two at South-Eastern Family Project, and they have been through treatment before and act as support systems for the women, Klemer said.
The program’s structure, Braswell said, has proven critical to her recovery.
“We don’t have time to think about using, we keep our minds busy and productive,” Braswell said. “I mean, we’re learning life skills. Cooking, cleaning, we have chores and it’s not to where they put too much on you to where you feel like you’re gonna break, but it’s enough to learn. When you get out there, if you’re ready, you will make it. You will.”
In 2017, reports of infants born with potential exposure to illegal substances — not including opioids — in the womb reached a height across the state, with 1,543 reported by the Virginia Department of Social Services. In 2001, when the program began, the count was 300 statewide.
In 2001, 95 infants in Hampton Roads were born with substance exposure, which was down from the previous year’s 114. The peak was in 2005, when 182 infants born were exposed in Hampton Roads.
In 2014, Hampton Roads hit a low at 81 births. In 2017, that number rose to 167 infants born with illegal substance exposure, according to the Department of Social Services report.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administrations reported that in combined National Health Surveys on Drug Use and Mental Health from 2007 to 2012, 21,000 pregnant women age 15 to 44 in the United States misused opiates in the past month.
Even though infants may be exposed to substances in the womb, it doesn’t mean they’ll have withdrawal symptoms or long-term difficulties, said Klemer. They might not be born with neonatal abstinence syndrome — the proper term for an infant substance addiction — said Carl Ayers of the Department of Social Services.
Some substances cause preterm labor. Reflux is common among infants exposed to drugs in the womb. Klemer said infants exposed to alcohol may experience cognitive deficits or developmental delays.
When the program began, Klemer said it was rare to have a woman on the medication-assisted treatment used to treat opioid addiction, mainly because Medicaid didn’t cover it.
Now, she said close to 80 percent of the women they treat struggle with opioid addiction. Many of the women abuse multiple substances.
Ayers, director of the Division of Family Services at the Department of Social Security, said opioids weren’t necessarily included in DSS’s substance-exposed infant counts until 2017 because they haven’t always been considered illegal substances.
The Comprehension Addiction and Recovery Act was implemented at the federal level last year, and moving forward, all infants born with substances exposure to legal and illegal substances will be responded to by Child Protective Services.
Klemer can’t quite put a finger on why more women aren’t seeking treatment.
“There’s a lot of shame,” Klemer said. “If you’re addicted and you’re pregnant — I mean, I’ve heard it from every type of person you could hear it from — about what a terrible person that must be that would do that, rather than opening their arms and saying, ‘How can we help?’”
Many times, there’s more holding women back than simply stigma, Klemer said, citing the difficulty to pull it together and enter treatment in the midst of addiction.
Some women already are parents or helping care for family members. Some work, and for others, the legal system interferes with them entering treatment.
Others can’t handle the structure.
“An addiction, it’s you’re feeding that disease and that comes first,” Klemer said. “So when you come into a place like this, we’re healthy lifestyle. We’re feeding your body, we’re feeding your mind and so it’s a radical change and there’s structure and there’s a schedule … and they’re not used to living that way."
The women establish a treatment plan. When forming it, clinical supervisor Gigi Rodriguez said they’re asked what they hope to gain and why they’re there.
“They’re the next verse in their own life,” Rodriguez said. “So they get to tell me, ‘I want to work on this, I want to work on that. I’ve been in treatment before. This didn’t work out.’ Great. So I come in with the recovery part of it and emotional support that they haven’t had.”
She teaches the women about addiction as a disease and that addiction doesn’t have to do with morals or values.
Braswell began the program on a 90-day track. She had her treatment extended and she can stay for up to 60 days following her baby’s birth in late August.
Having the women stay through birth is optimal, Klemer said, so the staff can assess postpartum difficulties.
Before leaving treatment, Rodriguez said the program works to have a plan for continued recovery. Since Braswell doesn’t know where she’ll live after she leaves, she’s still trying to figure out a treatment plan.
Braswell’s been accepted for grants. She’s a graduated medical assistant and eventually plans to go back to school and work in geriatrics.
Whatever happens, it's so much better to go through a bad day clean than a good day being high.— Sumar Braswell, program participant
“Whatever happens, it’s so much better to go through a bad day clean than a good day being high,” Braswell said.
Klemer said some days at South-Eastern Family Project are challenging. Getting everyone on the same page remains one of the largest hurdles.
The challenging days are worth it when Klemer hears from former patients who are doing well.
“We have women that have come back to see us that their babies are no longer babies — because we’ve been doing this for 17 years now — we have young adults,” Klemer said. “These women have raised their children … That’s a good day. No matter what’s happening here, that’s what makes my day.”
She said some come into treatment with no hope.
“They’ve been told that they’re nothing, they feel like they’re nothing, the things that they’ve done in the process of their addictions or the trauma they’ve gone through, they really start to believe it,” Klemer said. “They really feel like they can’t change, and so it’s our job to instill hope for them.”
South-Eastern Family Project
There will be an open house Sept. 12 at the center. Visitors will have an opportunity to tour the building and learn more about the program.
To find out more about the program, visit hnncsb.org/addiction-and-recovery-treatment-services.html.

domain: health


text:
Father John Misty has written a new song for the Adult Swim animated show Brad Neely’s Harg Nallin’ Sclopio Peepio, entitled ‘This Is America’.
The Brad Neely-created sketch show, which airs on the evening-and-late-night programming block on Cartoon Network in the US, has already welcomed the likes of André 3000 and Minneapolis rapper Lizzo as guests during its first season, which began back in July.
Ahead of the season finale on Sunday (September 18), Adult Swim have shared a clip from the show that showcases Father John Misty in cartoon form, singing his new song. ‘This Is America’ sees Father John dryly sing about how Americans have “some time to kill, so we need a thrill / So we die doing the dumbest shit“.
In the video, the songwriter narrates some unlikely and bizarre scenarios where Americans have gotten themselves killed in the past, with the recurring theme being that every deathly scenario features Go-Gurts (known in the UK as Frubes).
Watch the video below.


text:
Aussi en / Also in Français
Ravelry project page : here (including link to pattern)
Hook : H, 5mm
Yarn : Bernat Satin Solids (maybe?)
This was my first intricate project and I am still very pleased with it years later.
But then… but then I went nuts. I decided to modify a Doris Chan Pattern. I decided to ‘open’ the design to get a more standard shawl shape. And this happened.
Ravelry project page : here
Same hook & yarn.
It turned out ok, but not as pretty or useful as I’d hoped an open version would be – no doubt this is due to my absolute lack of talent at the time. My grandmother loved it, though… and that picture of my Baby ACCROchet remains, to this day, one of my faves. Such a sweet angel.
In the interest of transparency, the green border is there to mask some horrendous mistakes when modifying the pattern. I took no notes, sorry, but then again if I had, you’d really hate me.
PS The book this is from, Amazing Crochet Lace, is a must for your crochet-centric library. Trust me.