A spacious, minimalist shell, with generous display, extensive glazing and room interiors. The driverless electric shuttle by Bosch represents an entirely new class of vehicles, and a new frontier for mobility. The concept is that of autonomous vehicles that circulate silently in city centres, seamlessly connected to the urban infrastructure. We will soon see these vehicles in our cities, and they will be used to transport both goods and people. The implementation of this project requires a whole series of ancillary mobility services, on which Bosch is working, incorporating them into an intelligent, perfectly connected ecosystem that includes platforms for booking, sharing, networking, parking and loading areas, software for vehicle management and maintenance, and the infotainment services used during the trip.
The growth of the shuttle sector is powered by the increasing demand for ride-sharing services: according to the analysts at Roland Berger, by 2020 there will be about a million on-demand shuttles on the roads of Europe, the United States and China, reaching 2.5 million by 2025. Many of these vehicles, available around the clock every day of the year, will be totally electric, and they will become wholly driverless by 2025. For this reason, Bosch has used every square centimetre of its prototype, filling it with the latest technology, comprising the electric propulsion power plants, 360° environmental sensors, connectivity management and on-board IT systems. But these components and systems are just a part of the on-board technology of these vehicles of the future. To make these on-demand vehicles suitable for everyday use, they will have to be interconnected with integrated mobility services.
The smartphone becomes a digital fingerprint
Passengers will be able to book a shuttle using their smartphone, wherever they are. The system’s algorithm will locate the vehicle closest to the user’s position, and it will also find other individuals who wish to take a similar route. The more passengers on each shuttle, the less the trip will cost for all of them. When the shuttle reaches the required rendez-vous, the passengers will use their smartphone to identify themselves, by means of the Perfectly Keyless digital access system that recognizes a passenger’s smartphone as if it were a digital fingerprint, granting exclusive access to the vehicle and implementing the various bookings. The prototype has space for four passenger, two pairs facing each other. The infotainment screens can be used individually or collectively. Connectivity is provided by the on-board Wi-Fi which is perfectly integrated with infotainment systems.


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A jet stream moving at 230 miles per hour is shoving a week’s worth of epic, “potentially ominous” rain and snow toward Southern California, and the first wave that will hit today is stronger than originally predicted, the National Weather Service said late Saturday.
Computer predictions are showing larger and larger amounts of rain and snow will fall overnight and all day Monday: 1 to 3 inches along the coast, 3-6 inches in the foothills and mountains, and up to 3 feet of snow above 6,000 feet.
The weeklong series of storms could become the worst rainstorm to hit Southern California since the El Ni o disaster of 1998, the NWS said Saturday. That storm saw severe coastal and river flooding, and at least $300 million in damage and seven deaths across the state.
“If you think of it like a boxing match, Monday and Tuesday is going to soften us up, and the Wednesday night into Thursday storm is going to be the knockout punch,” meteorologist Bill Patzert at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory told the Pasadena Star-News.
Rain on Monday evening may fall at the rate of an inch an hour, if thunderstorms develop as comparatively warm inland air collides with strong winds coming from the south. But the snow level will be about 6,000 feet Monday, dropping to 4,500 feet Tuesday, keeping the Grapevine and other mountain passes open but wet.
Mountain resorts can expect a foot of snow Monday and Tuesday, with wind gusts of up to 70 miles an hour and blizzards possible.
The strong southerly wind flow means waterspouts could threaten coastal communities, and Bartling said “some of the highest surf conditions we have seen in years” are possible around midweek.
“The area still is in for a very good soaking” the rest of the week, as two additional storms slam into the coast, Bartling said. The second pulse should arrive Tuesday afternoon, “and looks like another 1-3 inch soaker, if not more.”
The third storm, expected Wednesday “still looks to be the most impressive system of the week,” Bartling said. “This system will likely pack a one-two punch, with the first punch Wednesday afternoon and the second punch on Thursday.”
The strong winds from the south will cause heavy precipitation on south-facing mountain slopes, including most of the 250 square miles of mountains north of Pasadena that burned last summer.
In neighborhoods bordering the Station Fire burn area, Los Angeles County crews have scooped clean the 28 catch basins designed to stop rock slides in watersheds and funnel large volumes of water into drainage systems.
Nearly a 20 mile line of fire-denuded hillsides, from Pacoima to Pasadena, has yet to be tested by an intense rain. Experts have warned that rainfall rates of an inch per hour or more could trigger slides.
Long-range forecasts vary for Friday, but it is possible a fourth storm will hit next weekend, the NWS said.

domain: news


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Reload Master Trophy in Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception
Defeat 50 enemies in a row without auto-reloading
How to unlock Reload MasterDepending on how obsessive you are with reloading, this could come naturally as it did for me. You should really aim to earn this the moment you get guns in Chapter 5 so you aren't having to avoid using weapons which only have a single capacity round like the RPG in later Chapters which automatically triggers a reload and resets your count.
To reload, tap whenever you see the bullet count in your current clip get low or even better, after every enemy you kill. Make it a habit, one down, reload, one down, reload etc. You should have unlocked this by Chapter 7, provided you didn't accidentally auto-reload by mistake. The good news is that it is another cumulative trophy and also deaths don't break the count, neither does an encounter with the Brute so don't worry if you run into him during your progress.
On a final note, you can once again utilise the Save/Load method outlined in many of the other trophy descriptions. This works best with a Sniper Rifle from a distance as the clip capacity ensures a few kills per save and holding down the fire button does not eat through the clip the way it does every other gun. You can get a Dragon Sniper in Chapter 8 - The Citadel when the 5 dudes are firing RPGs at you from a distance. The trick is to shoot 4 of them, pause and choose Save Game, pause and then Load Game, and repeat until you have the 50 kills and the trophy will pop, and you'll also unlock 30 Kills: Dragon Sniper while you're at it.

domain: game


The Liberal Democrats have launched a new housing policy to help first-time buyers take a share in their home.
The Rent to Own plans will cater for buyers unable to raise a deposit, allowing them to steadily build up a share in their home through monthly payments, eventually owning the property outright after 30 years.
Buying will be back-loaded so occupants earn a higher share the longer they have been in the home. People who use the scheme will have the right to sell their property on the open market at any time, cashing out their share of the home.
The Lib Dems say applicants will need to pay above market rates to take advantage of the scheme. In addition, they will have to be in steady employment, and will face affordability tests and credit checks.
The Lib Dems say they will aim to deliver 30,000 Rent to Own homes in England by 2020. It remains unclear how the policy will be funded, although the party plans to set out more details later this year.
Deputy prime minister Nick Clegg says: “For working young people the dream of home ownership is increasingly out of reach.
“Prices are so high renters cannot afford to save for a deposit, which means they can never take that first step onto the housing ladder.
“Young people deserve better. Rent to Own will mean, regardless of their background and family circumstance, they will be able to make this a dream a reality.”


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There are many people who are fit, elderly and successfully live alone. They need very little support other than access to the clubs and activities which provide their regular mental, physical and emotional stimulus and wellbeing. Coronavirus has effectively removed their lifeline to the outside world as many may not use technology.
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domain: sociology


Responding to high-tech industry changes, Owens Community College is now
offering Mechanical Engineering Technology students a chance to specialize
in fluid power.
"We want to be sure our graduates are where the future is," said Dr. Paul V. Unger, Vice President of Academic Affair., "We are very pleased to offer the Fluid Power Option as an opportunity for students to learn state-of-the-art skills and find rewarding positions in diverse industries."
Because fluid power can be used in everything from industry to entertainment, there is a great demand for highly-trained technicians to handle that power in a variety of positions.
"By itself, fluid has no power, but when confined and placed under pressure, fluid can transmit power," explained Guenter Brunner, assistant professor and facilitator of Mechanical Engineering Technology, who is coordinating the fluid power classes at Owens. "This is power that can be stored, directed and made to do work."
For instance, through hydraulic or pneumatic systems, fluid power is responsible for such diverse duties as controlling the bucket on a backhoe to making a roller coaster run smoothly.
"Fluid power is useful for heavy lifting, as well as delicate handling - it allows for many kinds of motion," Brunner said. "Fluid power is at work in most warehouses and factories."
Owens students who select the Fluid Power Option will learn how these sophisticated fluid power systems function, how to maintain them and how to maximize their productivity.
Students will major in Mechanical Engineering Technology with a Fluid Power Option. They can concentrate on this area by taking classes in fluid power troubleshooting, interface, electrical controls, system design and analysis.
This is a very rare specialty for colleges to offer among their engineering technology programs, Brunner said. For that reason, many local industries are anticipating this opportunity for their employees to upgrade their skills with this new training.
"It's exciting to continue to develop programs that allow graduates of Owens Community College to gain these high-tech skills and knowledge to go out into the working world in these careers of the future," Brunner said.
A group of Owens students interested in the Fluid Power Option already have formed the "Great Lakes Student Chapter" of the National Fluid Power Society.
Offered on the Toledo-area Campus through the Engineering Technologies division, students will earn an Associate of Applied Science Degree.
Students also may earn a Fluid Power Certificate by taking 27 hours of related coursework. The certificate program primarily is for people working in the industry who wish to upgrade their knowledge and skills in fluid power troubleshooting and maintenance.
For more information on this new option, call (567) 661-7777 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7777.


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The 7th meeting of the EU-Georgia Association Council will take place in Brussels on 6 September.
The meeting will be chaired by the Prime Minister of Georgia Irakli Garibashvili. EU High Representative Josep Borrell will lead the EU delegation.
The Association Council will discuss EU-Georgia relations against the background of Georgia’s application for EU membership, with a focus on political dialogue and reforms, economic and sectoral cooperation, trade and trade-related issues, as well as peaceful conflict resolution.
Representatives of the EU and Georgia will also exchange views on foreign and security policy, in particular on regional issues.
Find out more
The European Union public procurement market is now open to Georgian companies, following a decision adopted earlier by the EU-Georgia Association Council.
Georgian companies can view a complete and up-to-date list of public tenders announced by the 27 EU Member States on the Tenders Electronic Daily (TED) website. Every day, TED publishes more than 1,000 tenders in various sectors in electronic format. A single search interface allows businesses to find the tender they need based on criteria such as the nature of the contract and keywords.
“This is an achievement and a milestone in EU-Georgia economic relations and an important step towards the full implementation of the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA) between Georgia and the EU,” the EU Delegation to Georgia said in a press release.
The decision also means that companies registered in the European Union have full access to public procurement tenders in Georgia. The central Georgian e-procurement system is open without restrictions to EU companies.
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EU annual report on Georgia: some progress in Association Agreement implementation and the need for further inclusive reformsTuesday, 16 August 2022 14:23
The European Union has published its annual Association Implementation Report on Georgia, which reviews Georgia’s progress in implementing reforms under the EU-Georgia Association Agreement over the past year. The publication comes ahead of the next EU-Georgia Association Council meeting scheduled for 6 September 2022.
“Georgia continued its reform path under difficult circumstances, against the background of its socio-economic recovery from COVID-19, a tense political environment and Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine,” said the EU High Representative Josep Borrell. “However, we have seen setbacks in the key areas of rule of law, governance and human rights. As Georgia embarks on the new phase of its relations with the EU, with its European perspective, Georgia needs to take a responsible and conscientious approach that matches its stated objectives and its citizens’ aspirations.”
A report prepared by the European External Action Service (EEAS) and the services of the European Commission shows that the EU-Georgia Association Agreement continues to be a driving force for reform. Overall, the process of aligning national legislation with EU legislation under the Association Agreement, including the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area, is well underway and successful. Inclusive and green growth remains central to the EU-Georgia cooperation. In 2021, the EU continued assistance related to COVID-19 and contributed to a strong and sustainable socio-economic recovery, laying the groundwork for the implementation of the Eastern Partnership’s economic and investment plan.
“However, in 2021, challenges threatened to undermine the country’s democratic foundations and there were setbacks with regard to the rule of law. This demonstrates the need for a renewed and serious commitment to democratic consolidation, judicial reforms, and action to reduce political polarisation and to strengthen the rule of law and to guarantee a professional and pluralistic and independent media environment. These are essential priorities for Georgia to advance on its European path,” says a press release by the EEAS.
“The ball is now in Georgia’s court. A serious commitment to democratic consolidation, judicial reforms, strengthening the rule of law as well as fight against corruption and organised crime will be key,” said Olivér Várhelyi, Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement.
The EU-Georgia Association Agreement, which includes a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area, was fully actioned on 1 July 2016. It deepens political ties, strengthens economic ties and respects shared values, and is the basis for EU-Georgian cooperation and EU support to reforms in Georgia.
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Irakli Garibashvili: Handover of the EU Accession Questionnaire puts a huge responsibility on us towards intensifying our efforts on the road leading to EU membershipFriday, 15 April 2022 15:15
Measures to be carried out for filling the EU Accession Questionnaire, which was handed over by the European Commission to Georgia on 11TH April 2022, have been discussed at the 62ND Session of the Government Commission on EU Integration of Georgia. It was held and led by Irakli Garibashvili, Prime Minister of Georgia at the Government Administration today.
The Prime Minister of Georgia highlighted the importance of maximum coordination and active engagement of every institution in making sure that the process of filling is efficient and gets completed in the shortest period of time.
"We filed the EU Membership Application on March 3, thereby advancing to a new stage of EU-Georgia relations. Of course, this decision puts a huge responsibility on our shoulders towards intensifying our efforts on the road of our accession to the European Union. At the meeting today, we discussed the measures to be carried out towards filling the EU Accession Questionnaire handed over by the European Commission to us on April 11. The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia personally held a meeting with EU Commissioner Varhelyi in Luxemburg, who actually handed over the EU Accession Questionnaire to him. We gathered today to discuss the measures that need to be carried out by all of us together. Engagement of every stakeholder is essential, along with maximum coordination to make sure that it gets filled in the most efficient manner and returned timely in the form of a complete document" stated the Prime Minister of Georgia.
Ilia Darchiashvili, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia was the key speaker at the meeting related to the EU Accession Questionnaire today. It was noted that a new stage of EU-Georgia relations started with the handover of the said document. As commonly known, the EU Accession Questionnaire has been handed over to all three countries of the Associated Trio - Georgia, Ukraine and Moldova, and this process is continued in this very format.
The EU Accession Questionnaire will be processed by the Georgian side in a timely manner and returned to the European partners, while the European Commission will release its opinion at the end of June 2022. Efficient and effective filling of the document, which will engage every stakeholder, will be organized in the form of workgroups under the umbrella of personal control by the Prime Minister of Georgia.
Press Service of the Government Administration
On 29-30 March in Tbilisi, the European External Actions Service (EEAS) Managing Director for Common Security and Defence Policy and Crisis Response Mr. Pawel Herczynski and Director General of EU Military Staff Vice-Admiral Hervé Bléjean co-chaired with the Georgian First Deputy Minister of Defence Ms Lela Chikovani the EU-Georgia Consultations on Security and Defence. During the annual consultations and in the context of the military aggression against Ukraine, the sides discussed the regional security situation and ways to further deepen cooperation between the EU and Georgia in the security and defence domain, including tackling hybrid threats, cyber security challenges and fighting disinformation. EEAS delegation also met with the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs, Chairman of Parliamentary Committee for Defence and Security and Chairman of Parliamentary Committee for Foreign Relations.
Irakli Garibashvili: Investment in the volume of 180 MLN USD will significantly facilitate development of the water supply systemThursday, 03 February 2022 17:08
Investment in the volume of 180 MLN USD will significantly facilitate development of the water supply system and qualitative improvement of its management. It was stated by Irakli Garibashvili, Prime Minister of Georgia at an online meeting with Felix Parra Mediavilla, Executive Director of Aqualia and Irakli Gilauri, Chairman and Chief Executive of Georgia Capital today.
The Head of Government of Georgia expressed his gratitude to investors for their demonstrated trust.
Aqualia, being a world leader with an HQ in Spain, has thus become an official strategic investor and partner of Georgia Global Utilities (GGU) - a daughter company of Georgia Capital. Aqualia invested 180 MLN USD by acquiring 80% of Georgian Water and Power. Georgia Capital continues to own 20% in the utility company.
Online meeting was focused on the close relations between Spain and Georgia. According to Irakli Garibashvili, Georgia is a reliable and stable business partner.
The Prime Minister of Georgia noted that the economy of the country grew by 10.6% in 2021. According to him, Georgia has undergone a significant transformation in the last decade and has been advancing fast to a more liberal and free market economy with one of the lowest tax rates in the world and readily-available access to public services.
Advancing positions of Georgia in leading global ratings, due to ease of doing business and economic freedom, were highlighted at the meeting.
Focus was made on the EU-Georgia Association Agreement (AA), along with a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA) and Free Trade Agreements (FTA) with China, EFTA nations, Ukraine, Turkey and CIS countries, which let the investors gain exposure to multi-million consumer markets through Georgia. In addition, Irakli Garibashvili noted that the Government of Georgia makes huge investments in land, marine and railroad infrastructure to position the country as a regional hub of trade and logistics.
Press Service of the Government Administration
The fourth high-level EU–Georgia Strategic Security Dialogue took place on 25 November 2021 in Brussels. The meeting reflected the commitment and interest of both the EU and Georgia to take forward their cooperation in the area of foreign and security policy, in line with the EU-Georgia Association Agreement.
The participants discussed the conflict dynamics in the Georgian regions of Abkhazia and Tskhinvali region/South Ossetia, including recent developments on the ground in relation with Russia, and stressed the importance of the implementation of the EU mediated 12 August 2008 ceasefire agreement. Both sides once again highlighted the important role of the EU Monitoring Mission for peace and security in Georgia, and underlined the necessity of full implementation of its mandate. The European Union reaffirmed its unwavering support for Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders.
They also discussed a number of topical foreign policy issues, including the state of affairs and increasing security challenges in the South Caucasus and the wider region.
The EU expressed appreciation for Georgia's continued and valuable contribution to the EU Common Security and Defence Policy, particularly through Georgia’s participation in EU-led crisis management operations and missions in the Central African Republic and the Republic of Mali. The participants also discussed avenues for increased cooperation in the field of security and defence, including in relation to addressing hybrid threats and increasing Georgia's capacities and resilience. The European Union commended Georgia’s role as a transit hub during the withdrawal from Afghanistan.
The dialogue was co-chaired by Deputy Secretary-General for Political Affairs / Political Director of the European External Action Service Enrique Mora and First Deputy Foreign Minister of Georgia Lasha Darsalia. First Deputy Defence Minister of Georgia Lela Chikovani also participated in the meeting.
Deputy Secretary-General Mora said:
"The EU continues to remain strongly engaged in efforts to achieve peaceful conflict resolution in Georgia by using all instruments at its disposal. The EU also values the role of Georgia as an important partner in promoting security both regionally and internationally. The EU has a clear interest in a secure, stable and prosperous Georgia. We want to actively contribute to durable and comprehensive settlements of all conflicts in the region, including where possible through support for confidence-building, stabilisation, and post-conflict rehabilitation measures. The EU stands ready to provide further impetus for regional cooperation and economic development of the South Caucasus, including as appropriate through the opportunities available under the Eastern Partnership."
Deputy Foreign Minister Darsalia said:
“Georgia and the EU share a common goal of promoting security and stability in Europe and beyond. This interest has been manifested in the high-level Strategic Dialogue that Georgia and EU launched in 2017. Today’s meeting is yet another confirmation that EU and Georgia stand together to strengthen our resilience to hybrid threats and counter through joint efforts challenges such as cyber threats or disinformation. We have also had an exchange on new possibilities to upgrade our security cooperation. Georgia has reaffirmed its interest to engage in the EU PESCO projects. Georgia condemns continuous provocations in and around the occupied territories of Georgia. We updated the EU on the work of the Government Commission on the Georgia’s State Strategy for De-occupation and Peaceful Conflict Resolution. We raised the issue of “Otkhozoria-Tatunashvili” List and recalled the landmark judgement of the European Court of Human Rights. Georgia emphasizes the necessity of peaceful resolution of the Russia-Georgia conflict and, in this regard, underlined the importance of reaching tangible results in the Geneva International Discussions.”
The meetings of the high-level EU–Georgia Strategic Security Dialogue are held once a year and cover issues of common interest in the field of foreign and security policy, including the CSDP.
In a joint statement, MEPs deplore that Georgia’s political leaders did not agree to EU mediator Christian Danielsson’s proposal and announce consequences in terms of EU-Georgia relations.
Following a meeting on 1 April with Christian Danielsson, personal envoy of European Council President Charles Michel for the EU-mediated political dialogue in Georgia, leading MEPs issued the following joint statement:
“We are deeply disappointed with the political leaders in Georgia for their inability to reach an agreement last Tuesday despite the best efforts deployed by the European Union to help put an end to the current political crisis. Both the ruling and the main opposition parties taking part in the discussions are to be blamed for this outcome and a special responsibility lies with the party in government.
We reiterate our strong support to Christian Danielsson’s tireless work and welcome the publication of the proposal he made to the political parties, which further increased the transparency of the mediation process. It is essential to rebuild confidence between political party actors. The content of this proposal is indeed the right way ahead for Georgia: ambitious electoral and judicial reforms, meaningful sharing of responsibilities in the Georgian Parliament and, most importantly, a solution on future elections and on two cases of politicised justice. This solution is politically balanced and respects both the rule of law and the international assessment of the 2020 elections. We also welcome the idea of a Jean-Monnet Dialogue process supported by the European Parliament, when the political situation allows.
Following the refusal from the political parties to compromise, Georgia’s leaders should not expect a return to business as usual from the European Union. The European Parliament in particular will call for consequences in terms of EU financial assistance, including both a suspension of further disbursements of and an increase in conditionality linked to EU Macro Financial Assistance and budget support programmes.
In the meantime, the adoption of ongoing electoral and judicial reforms in the Georgian Parliament requires broad political support and the need to fully implement the recommendations of OSCE/ODIHR and the Council of Europe’s Venice Commission. These reforms are key to rebuild trust. We call on the ruling party to ensure a genuinely inclusive process to avoid the further undermining of both future elections and the judiciary, as well as unnecessarily closing the door to a possible agreement in the future.
We call on Georgia’s leaders to take action immediately. The future of EU-Georgia relations is at stake.”
The increasing frictions between political parties in Georgia following the November 2020 parliamentary elections and the arrest of the opposition leader in mid-February have sparked a major political crisis in Georgia. The EU is actively engaged to help overcome the tensions among Georgia's political parties. Christian Danielsson, European Council President Charles Michel's personal envoy, conducted in Tbilisi two rounds of mediation among the parties and presented a proposal for a way ahead for Georgia. The European Parliament strongly supports his efforts.
Viola von Cramon-Taubadel (The Greens/EFA, Germany), lead member of the Democracy Support and Election Coordination Group for Georgia;
Sven Mikser (S&D, Estonia), European Parliament’s Standing Rapporteur on Georgia;
Michael Gahler (EPP, Germany), European Parliament’s Standing Rapporteur on Ukraine;
Petras Auštrevičius (Renew Europe, Lithuania), European Parliament’s Standing Rapporteur on Belarus.
Joint press release following the 6th Association council meeting between the European Union and GeorgiaWednesday, 17 March 2021 10:48
The European Union and Georgia held the 6th meeting of the Association council on 16 March 2021. The Association council took note of the 2021 Association Implementation Report on Georgia and assessed the state of EU-Georgia relations since the last Association council in March 2019.
The Association council welcomed Georgia's progress on its European path, including in the challenging COVID-19 context, and recognised the efforts of the Georgian Government to contain the virus as well as to ensure targeted social assistance to those in need. Both sides acknowledged the crucial importance of the EU rapid assistance to Georgia in the fight against COVID as a vivid sign of solidarity.
Both sides reaffirmed their continued commitment to bringing tangible benefits to the lives of Georgian citizens across key areas of cooperation: economic development and market opportunities; strengthening institutions and good governance; connectivity, energy efficiency, environment and climate change; enhancing mobility and people-to-people contacts.
The Association council noted that the elections of 31 October and 21 November 2020 were competitive and that, overall, fundamental freedoms were respected. The Association council agreed on the importance of addressing all recommendations related to the shortcomings identified by international observers, including OSCE/ODIHR, through ambitious and inclusive electoral reform in order to strengthen the electoral environment and render it more favourable for the democratic conduct of elections.
The Association council strongly regretted the deepening political polarisation in Georgia. The EU called for a swift resolution to the ongoing political situation, for all parties to step up efforts to de-escalate the situation and come together to identify and agree on common ground. The Association council agreed that it was vital for all actors to continue working, in the EU-supported mediation, to find an early resolution to Georgia's political crisis.
The Association council reiterated its call on all political actors to work together and to maintain open dialogue in Georgia, including with civil society, in order to further strengthen democratic institutions, consolidate pluralistic democracy and advance reforms. Both sides stressed the need to continue the successful cooperation between the EU and Georgia on strategic communication and countering disinformation.
The Association council recalled that a great number of Georgian citizens have benefited from short term visa free travel to Schengen countries in recent years. It welcomed the continuous efforts of Georgia to address violations of the visa-free travel requirements, including the latest legislative amendments to the Law of Georgia on ‘Rules for Georgian citizens on Leaving and Entering Georgia' and underlined the importance of its effective implementation. The Association council underlined the critical importance of sustained efforts by Georgia to continue to fulfil the visa liberalisation benchmarks, in particular in order to strengthen and maintain the recent decrease in the number of unfounded asylum applications lodged by Georgian nationals in the Schengen + area. The EU encouraged Georgia to further enhance cooperation with EU Member States to counter irregular migration and organised crime. Both sides welcomed a renewed working arrangement signed between Georgia and Frontex, as well as Georgia's acquisition of observer status in the European Migration Network.
The Association council welcomed progress made in the implementation of Georgia's Human Rights Strategy and its Action Plan, as well as the important work of the Human Rights Protection Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. The EU recognised Georgia's efforts in this area and encouraged Georgia to continue efforts to effectively implement the anti-discrimination law and to ensure protection for all persons belonging to minorities, and to ensure gender equality. The Council recalled the commitment to the universality of human rights for all, regardless of religion or belief, race, ethnic origin, sex, language, sexual orientation, gender identity, ability or other. The Association council welcomed substantial progress made by Georgia to create an effective labour inspection system, in order to further improve working conditions and address the challenges in this area in line with international and European labour standards. It also discussed the importance of continuing efforts in this direction.
Both sides welcomed the progress made by Georgia in the implementation of the Association Agreement, including its Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (DCFTA). The EU continued to be the most important trading partner of Georgia. The EU and Georgia agreed to identify further products with export potential to the EU, for which EU can provide assistance. Both sides welcomed successful implementation of structural reforms and underlined the importance of ongoing reforms related to the improvement of the investment climate in Georgia. The Association council welcomed the ongoing work to draft a new SME Development Strategy 2021-2025 and the EU side confirmed its readiness to support its implementation.
The Association council welcomed the disbursements of Macro-Financial Assistance to Georgia in November 2020 and urged Georgia to continue the implementation of outstanding agreed policy measures in order to enable the disbursement of the second instalment of COVID Macro-Financial Assistance to Georgia (of which 75 million EUR was disbursed in 2020). The EU encouraged Georgia to ensure the sustainability of already implemented reforms and maintain macro-economic stability.
The Association council reiterated Georgia's strategic role in the field of energy, transport and connectivity and increasingly as a transportation and logistics hub in the region. The EU committed to continue engaging closely with Georgia on the connectivity agenda, including through the gradual completion of the indicative core Trans-European networks of Transport (TEN-T), as a step towards enhancing connectivity and international trade between Europe and Asia. The sides also highlighted the importance of Black Sea connectivity. The EU took note of Georgia's request for support in the elaboration and implementation of a plan for better Black Sea connectivity.
The Association council reiterated Georgia's key role as a partner for European energy security and stressed the country's transit role for Caspian hydrocarbon resources to reach European markets, notably via the Southern Gas Corridor and through the Black Sea, with a view to strengthening EU-Georgia interconnections. The EU stressed its continued commitment to further supporting the roll-out of energy efficiency standards in public buildings, based on legislative reforms in key areas. The EU reiterated its continuous support to reinvigorating Georgia's agriculture and rural sector to improve living conditions in rural areas. The Association council noted the importance of enhanced cooperation in the area of civil protection.
The EU recognised Georgia as a key partner in the region and acknowledged the importance of EU-Georgia cooperation in the field of foreign and security policy. The Association council recalled the issues discussed during the third EU-Georgia Strategic Security Dialogue in October 2019 and looked forward to the next meeting in this format. The EU expressed appreciation for Georgia's continued contribution to EU-led crisis management operations and missions in the Central African Republic and the Republic of Mali, as well as openness to supporting the strengthening of Georgia's capacities and resilience.
The EU reiterated its firm support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia within its internationally recognised borders. The EU reiterated its firm commitment to peaceful conflict resolution in Georgia by using all instruments at its disposal including the policy of non-recognition and engagement. The work of the EU Special Representative for the South Caucasus and the crisis in Georgia and of the EU Monitoring Mission demonstrate this strong commitment.
The Association council took note of the judgement of 21 January 2021 of the European Court of Human Rights Grand Chamber in the inter-State case concerning the armed conflict between Georgia and the Russian Federation in August 2008 and its consequences which concluded that after the 12 August 2008 the Russian Federation, "exercising effective control over Abkhazia and South Ossetia", violated several provisions of the European Convention of Human Rights.
The Association council stressed the critical importance of the Geneva International Discussions for addressing and resolving the challenges stemming from the conflict between Russia and Georgia in August 2008. It also reiterated that full and effective Incident Prevention and Response Mechanisms (IPRMs) are essential for addressing the safety and humanitarian needs of conflict-affected population on the ground. In this regard, the Council welcomed the resumption of Ergneti IPRM meetings and emphasised the crucial importance of resuming the Gali IPRM.
The Council expressed concern about signing a so-called programme on the creation of a common socio-economic space between Russia and Georgian region of Abkhazia as well as other steps further undermining Georgia's sovereignty and territorial integrity, deterioration of the security and human rights situation in the Georgian regions of Abkhazia and Tskhinvali/South Ossetia, especially with regard to intensified military build-up, installation of barbed wire fences and other artificial barriers along the dividing lines, long-term closure of "crossing points". Concerns also include the situation with ethnic discrimination of Georgians, restriction of freedom of movement, including for health care and access to other social services, arbitrary detentions, violation of property rights and education in mother tongue, the persistent obstacles to the safe and dignified return of internally displaced persons and refugees to their places of origin, and deprivation of life of Archil Tatunashvili and Giga Otkhozoria. In this regard, the Association council reiterated that justice should be applied.
The Association council reiterated the obligation for the Russian Federation to fulfil its international obligations including under the EU-mediated 12 August 2008 Ceasefire Agreement, notably to withdraw its military forces from the territory of Georgia and remove all impediments for establishment of international security mechanisms therein. The Association council further urged the Russian Federation to provide EUMM access to the whole territory of Georgia, in line with its mandate. The Association council also called for access for international humanitarian and human rights mechanisms of relevant international organisations.
The Association council stressed the importance of ongoing support to people-to-people contacts and confidence building measures across the divides. In this respect, the Association council recalled its support for the Georgian peace initiative « A Step to a Better Future».
The EU commended Georgia's active participation in the multilateral dimension of the Eastern Partnership and underlined that continued reform efforts in the partner countries are key to the success of the Eastern Partnership and to the EaP Summit scheduled for later this year.
The Association council was chaired by the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Mr Josep Borrell. The Prime Minister of Georgia, Mr. Irakli Garibashvili led the Georgian delegation.
Press Service of the Government Administration
Visa-free regime carries a strong political message of the EU’s trust and support to Georgia – Vakhtang Makharoblishvili
Strasbourg – Speaking before the EU-Georgia Parliamentary Association Committee (PAC) in Strasbourg, the Georgian First Deputy Foreign Minister, Vakhtang Makharoblishvili said that visa liberalization with the EU is not only a tangible result for our citizens, but mostly a great responsibility for the Georgian Government to ensure the sustained good track record of visa free travel.
According to Makharoblishvili, since the inception of the visa-free travel, more than 1 million visa-free visits have been conducted to the EU/Schengen countries from Georgia, thereby demonstrating that the absolute majority of the population abides by the rules of the visa-free regime.
“We continue to be actively engaged with the EU and Member States on addressing the challenges related to the visa-free regime. the Government of Georgia implemented as an immediate response to the first signs of visa-free misuse, - such as the launch of the 3rd wave of intensive target-oriented information campaign, creation of the Schengen mobile application, introduction of legislative amendments and deployment of police attachés to the Member States” – Makharoblishvili said.
He highlighted that the official recognition of Georgia as a safe country of origin and, most importantly, the reduction of asylum procedures contributed to decrease of the number of asylum seekers. Already 16 EU/Schengen states recognize Georgia as a safe country of origin.
On a final note, the First Deputy Foreign Minister reaffirmed Georgia’s strong commitment to its obligations and responsibilities under the visa liberalization. “We will pursue all the necessary steps to overcome the difficulties and will remain in close cooperation with the EU institutions and Member States on the matter” – he said.


Uplinq Co-Founder Patrick Reily To Address Data Bias and Financial Inclusion at CES(R) 2023, the World’s Preeminent Tech Event
AI pioneer to discuss how artificial intelligence can help expand access to credit lending on a panel with J.P. Morgan
TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / January 4, 2023 / Uplinq Financial Technologies, the first global credit assessment and scoring platform for SMB lenders, today announced that its co-founder and elite mathematician Patrick Reily will speak at CES® 2023, the world’s most influential tech event, at the session “Banking in the Age of AI.”
An economist by trade and 30-year financial industry veteran, Reily is an early AI pioneer whose work to predict macroeconomic expansion and contraction is being used by the U.S. Federal Reserve today. Reily will share the stage with Neha Wattas, Head of Strategy & Insights within the Innovation & Corporate Development group at J.P. Morgan Payments, and Jimmy Soni, award-winning author and former managing editor of the Huffington Post Media Group.
Reily has held senior roles with top U.S. banks, advised the World Bank and G20 on economic growth, and spearheaded the use of AI for lending, fraud, inclusion and development. He is one of the rare recipients of the Malcolm Baldrige Award, the only formal recognition of performance excellence given by the President of the United States.
The Banking in the Age of AI session will be moderated by seasoned technology and financial journalist James Ledbetter, executive editor of Observer Media, former editor-in-chief of Inc., and past head of content of Sequoia Capital.
The CES conference program spotlights technology’s most influential leaders as partners and speakers, sharing insights on premiere technologies and what will continue to redefine the consumer technology industry in the future.
Visit CES.tech for all CES 2023 updates, registration details and the media page for all press resources.
- WHO: Patrick Reily, Uplinq Co-Founder
- WHAT: CES 2023 Session - “Banking in the Age of AI”
- WHERE: LVCC, West Level 2, W232, Las Vegas, NV & Digital
- WHEN: Saturday, January 7, 9:00 - 9:40 AM
As the first global credit & scoring assessment platform for small business lenders, Uplinq is a purpose driven company with a mission to help small business owners gain access to fair and ethical credit, while enhancing SMB lending practices for all lenders globally. Uplinq’s breakthrough technology empowers lenders to approve and manage risks on loans they would have otherwise declined based on traditional loan underwriting criteria, while incorporating environmental, market & community data to better understand the specific loan applicant. Its technology has served as a foundation for more than $1.4 Trillion in underwritten loans. Learn more about Uplinq at uplinq.co and connect with them on LinkedIn or Twitter.
About CES 2023
Owned and produced by CTA, CES 2023 will take place in Las Vegas on Jan. 5-8, 2023 with Media Days taking place Jan. 3-4, 2023. Attendees will experience new technologies from global brands, hear about the future of technology from thought leaders and collaborate face-to-face with other attendees. The show will highlight how innovations in sustainability, transportation and mobility, digital health, the metaverse and more are addressing the world’s greatest challenges. Visit CES.tech for all CES 2023 updates, registration details and the media page for all press resources.
Caliber Corporate Advisers
View source version on accesswire.com:


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Clashes between Israeli security forces and Palestinians erupted on Saturday at the funeral of a 13-year-old said killed by Israeli gunfire in the West Bank.
Hundreds of Palestinians had gathered to mourn the death of Ali Abu Aliya in the village of al-Mughayyir, where the Palestinian youth was hit in the stomach and died later at a hospital Friday.
Dozens of people threw stones toward Israeli forces and set tires aflame during the gathering. Soldiers responded with intermittent barrages of tear gas.
Late Friday, the top UN political envoy in the region said he was “appalled” by the killing of the teen. Israel should “swiftly” and independently “investigate this shocking and unacceptable incident,” Nikolay Mladenov wrote on Twitter.
Commenting on the death, the Israeli military said “dozens of rioters” hurled rocks at Israeli soldiers and border police, who responded with “riot dispersal means,” including rubber-tipped bullets. It denied that its forces used live ammunition. The boy’s family says doctors said he was hit by live fire.
The protest was against the establishment of a new settlement outpost north of Ramallah.
Local residents have been holding weekly protests against the outpost for three weeks close to the neighboring village of Kafr Malik, resident Mohammad Abu Aliya, a relative of the boy, told The Times of Israel.
Clashes between Palestinian youths and Israeli forces entering Palestinian-controlled areas of the West Bank are common. The military often raids Palestinian towns to arrest people suspected of planning or taking part in attacks.
The Palestinian Red Crescent reported that Ali Abu Aliya was evacuated to hospital after being hit in his stomach and seriously wounded. He arrived at the hospital in critical condition, and later died of his wounds.
שוב נורה למוות ילד באש הצבא – עלי אבו עליא, בן 12, שיצא להפגין ליד ביתו בכפר אלמרייר.
קורבן רצח נוסף בשורה ארוכה של מעשי פשע אכזריים בשטחים הכבושים. די לכיבוש. pic.twitter.com/9bi2al3fQ3
— Ayman Odeh (@AyOdeh) December 4, 2020
A spokesperson for the IDF said the incident “will be looked into.” The spokesperson declined to say whether the IDF was directly responsible for the shooting, saying only that it was “aware of the claims.”
Mohammad Abu Aliya claimed in his call with The Times of Israel that he was present in the Ramallah hospital when the doctor emerged and informed the family that Ali had been shot with live fire.
Asked why a small child would be at such an event, Abu Aliya said: “When there are clashes with the army, most of the village comes, even if it’s just to watch.”
“Dozens of rioters threw stones at IDF and Border Police forces, and even tried to roll large boulders and burning tires from the ridges that overlook the Alon route, risking the lives of passengers on the road,” the IDF spokesperson said.
Another Palestinian witness on the scene, who declined to be identified by name, acknowledged that some of the demonstrators threw stones. But he denied that the Palestinians tried to roll boulders or burning tires onto passersby, calling the claim “nonsense.”
He claimed that the demonstrators were far away from the outpost and from the soldiers, who began to disperse the demonstrators with tear gas as soon as the protest began.
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas condemned the shooting, calling it “a hideous crime.”
“This crime shows the ugliness of the occupation against the defenseless Palestinian people. It is the latest in a daily series of killings that cannot be tolerated,” Abbas said in a statement.
Palestinian officials said four other people were also wounded with rubber bullets.


Tribune Media Company (NYSE: TRCO) announced that at a special meeting held today, the stockholders of the Company voted overwhelmingly to approve the previously announced acquisition of the Company by Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc.
More than 99 percent of the votes cast by the Company's Class A common stockholders and Class B common stockholders, voting as a single class, entitled to vote at the special meeting voted to approve the merger, which represents approximately 85 percent of the Company's Class A common stock and Class B common stock outstanding as of the special meeting record date. The Company will file a Form 8-K later today disclosing the full voting results.
"Today's vote is an important milestone in the merger process and confirms that Tribune stockholders strongly support this transaction and the value it delivers," said Peter Kern, Tribune Media's Chief Executive Officer. "We look forward to continuing our work with Sinclair toward the closing of this deal."
Tribune Media Company (NYSE: TRCO) is home to a diverse portfolio of television and digital properties driven by quality news, entertainment and sports programming. Tribune Media is comprised of Tribune Broadcasting's 42 owned or operated local television stations reaching more than 50 million households, national entertainment network WGN America, whose reach is approaching 80 million households, Tribune Studios, and a variety of digital applications and websites commanding 60 million monthly unique visitors online. Tribune Media also includes Chicago's WGN-AM and the national multicast networks Antenna TV and THIS TV. Additionally, the Company owns and manages a significant number of real estate properties across the U.S. and holds a variety of investments, including a 31% interest in Television Food Network, G.P., which operates Food Network and Cooking Channel. For more information, please visit www.tribunemedia.com.


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" ... The end result is a fusion between two of the largest health hazards to ever hit the food industry -- artificial sweeteners and an array of genetically altered organisms. ... The process in which aspartame is created involves combining an amino acid known as phenylalanine with aspartic acid. First synthesized in 1965, aspartame requires bacteria for the sole purpose of producing phenylalanine. ..."
By Anthony Gucciardi (Reposted)
The 1999 investigation found that Monsanto, the largest biotech corporation in the world, often used GM bacteria to produce aspartame in their US production plants. The end result is a fusion between two of the largest health hazards to ever hit the food industry -- artificial sweeteners and an array of genetically altered organisms. Both have led to large-scale debate, with aspartame being the subject of multiple congressional hearings and scientific criticism. Scientists and health advocates are not the only ones to speak out against aspartame, however. The FDA received a flurry of complaints from consumers using NutraSweet, a product containing aspartame. Since 1992, the FDA has stopped documenting reports on the subject.
The process in which aspartame is created involves combining an amino acid known as phenylalanine with aspartic acid. First synthesized in 1965, aspartame requires bacteria for the sole purpose of producing phenylalanine. Monsanto discovered that through genetically altering this bacteria, phenylalanine could be created much more quickly. In the report by The Independent, Monsanto openly admitted that their mutated bacteria is a staple in the creation process of aspartame.
Multiple studies have been conducted regarding genetic manipulation, with many grim conclusions. One study found that the more GM corn was fed to mice, the fewer babies they had. Another study, published in the International Journal of Biological Sciences, found that the organs that typically respond to chemical food poisoning were the first to encounter problems after subjects consumed GM foods. The same study also states that GM foods should not be commercialized.
Consumer groups are now curious as to whether or not other products secretly contain genetically modified ingredients. Due to the fact that the finished product`s DNA does not change when using genetically modified bacteria, it is hard to know for sure. With the FDA ruling against the labeling of GM salmon, it is becoming more of a challenge to determine whether or not a product contains GM ingredients. Consumers are voicing their opposition for GM ingredients going incognito, with the largest growing retail brand being GMO-free products.
Unveiling the secret process in which aspartame is created acts as yet another reminder to stay away from artificial sweeteners, and one should choose natural alternatives such as palm sugar, xylitol, or stevia.
Sources: http://www.independent.co.uk/news/w... http://www.biosicherheit.de/pdf/akt... (PDF) http://www.biolsci.org/v05p0706.htm http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dy... http://blog.nielsen.com/nielsenwire...

domain: chemistry


text: Nine West Holdings, Inc., formerly The Jones Group Inc., incorporated on December 11, 1975, is a women’s footwear and denim company. The Company’s portfolio of brands includes Nine West, Easy Spirit, Anne Klein, Gloria Vanderbilt, and l.e.i. Its products include shoes, boots, bags and accessories, and other collections. The Company is a wholesale partner to the United States retailers. It operates over 250 branded concept stores, and has international licensing relationships with over 1,200 points of sale abroad.

domain: economics


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Marketsquare, a supermarket brand of Sundry Markets Limited, the leading indigenous supermarket chain that is expanding rapidly across the country, has expanded its presence in Nigeria with the opening of its 16th store in Auchi Road Aduwawa in Benin City, Nigeria on Saturday May 1st, 2021.
Supermarkets are the first choice for many customers to buy fresh groceries and their favorite foods Brands in several cities across the country. Marketsquare has worked tirelessly to offer its customers the best quality products at the lowest prices.
The launch of the store, which coincided with the May 1, 2021 celebration, is aimed at to improve the shopping experience of people looking for fresh and packaged groceries and other products in the city.
In his speech at the start-up of the store, said Emmanuel Patrick Isangediok, Marketing Company Manager: “ As the fastest growing retail business, we need to make sure Nigerians have constant access to great products that help improve the quality of their lives. “
“ We have done everything we can to ensure that Nigerians have access to the modern and relevant retail shopping experience in a very convenient way that they source their daily source Needs. We have also given our customers the opportunity to shop online at www.marketsquareng.com, where they can choose to collect their pre-packaged order in-store or bring it to their home or office. ”
“ We would also like to congratulate Nigerian workers on Labor Day 2021 as their daily work has contributed immensely to the development of the nation. We celebrate our employees equally in all branches across the country. They are the ones who give customers the best shopping experience they liked our brand “he added.
Our motto – find more, pay less – is a promise of our unwavering desire to offer customers the best quality products at the lowest available prices.
We would continue to support the Federal Government’s “Buy Local” initiative by ” Store and promote Made in Nigeria “products to support local manufacturers.
Marketsquare is a local chain of supermarkets in Nigeria that started trading in December 2015. Today, Marketsquare has 16 branches across the country and is expanding rapidly across Nigeria.
See below for more information:


|Visit the old website:
||Suzuki Hayabusa Stuff: Tech Specifications
|Featured story lines:
LAMS and Commuter motorcycles Motorcycle Picture Galleries Motorcycle Specs and Pricing
The Honda CRF 250 Rally is another newly released motorcycle and it’s the smallest adventure motorcycle you can buy at the moment. As we know the CRF model designation means that it is a motocross motorcycle and not for road use. However the new CRF 250 Rally is road ready and LAMS or learner motorcycle approved.
In term of looks the CRF250 Rally definitely a good looking motorcycle especially in the HRC or Honda Racing Team inspired clouds and body work. The design is inherently familiar as a rally motorcycle but evolutionary since it does look completely up to date in 2018. It will look at home on the road or off road on a rally etc… as it’s name suggests. This is not a unique situation in 2018 as we had race replica motorcycles and now we have rally replicas just like in the 80’s with WRC with the homologation specials like the Subaru WRX and Mitsubishi EVO series.
In terms a specifications has the same but modded CBR250 engine and has features like a aluminium swing arm, ABS the you can turn off, LED lighting, upgraded USD forks and cool looking spoked wheels as standard and likewise missing on the road going version. For the price around $7300 it’s not overpriced for the spec which is what we expect.
Is the CRF250 Rally worth a considering? Definitely yes, it’s one of the few commuter, on and off road motorcycles at 250cc that anyone can ride and buy. The main reason why the Honda CRF250 Rally is the best model in the 250cc adventure class than the rest is that it looks great! a real rally replica math’s not a sport bike for a change.
|Honda CRF250 Rally Key Specifications|
|Engine:||1 cylinder 4V DOHC (EFI)|
|Power/Torque:||18.2 Kw @ 8500 RPM 22.6 Nm @ 6750 RPM|
|Kerb Weight:||157 Kg Approx|
|Performance:||0-100kph NA seconds Approx
Max Speed 100 Kph Approx
|Fuel Economy:||10 litre fuel tank
Approx 3.5 Lts per 100km
|Seat height:||895 mm|
|Dimensions:||L2210 x W900 x H1425|
|Recommended Retail Price:||$7300 (2018)|


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Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana SAN, has declared that Nigeria’s democracy is fake and cannot be said to be genuine until insecurity is resolved.
He made the remark yesterday at a protest organised by the People’s Alternative Front, held at the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park in Lagos.
Falana said that there is nothing to celebrate because there is no democracy in the country.
He therefore called on the federal government to adequately fund the Nigeria Police Force to resolve the problem of insecurity in the country.
According to him: “Nigeria is in a crisis of terrorism, banditry and armed robbery. And unless these problems are addressed, we cannot have genuine democracy in our country.
“There is no democracy in the country and so, we are not in the position to join public offices at the stadia today to celebrate democracy.
“Section 14 of the Constitution provides that the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.
“We want the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) to be adequately funded, equipped and motivated so that the security of our people can be guaranteed.”
Falana also bemoaned the military’s involvement in the internal security of the country, stressing that the dictates of the constitution should be strictly adhered to.
“We do not want military involvement in the security of the country. Under the Constitution, the Military is to defend the territorial integrity of the country, while the Police Force is obligated to discharge internal security.
“It is part of the legacy of Military dictatorship that the government has abandoned the Nigerian Police Force and is currently using the Armed Forces to secure the country, including the management of elections,” he said.


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Bengals-Vikings game airs Saturday on WCPO-TV
UPDATE 11:30 A.M. TUESDAY DEC. 12: Sportscaster Chris Rose, who won a regional Emmy Award at WXIX-TV in 1994, will call the Bengals-Vikings game at 1 p.m. Saturday for the NFL Network and simulcast on WCPO-TV. The 1993 Miami University graduate will do the game with analyst Jason McCourty and sidelines reporter Steve Wyche.
Rose, a Cleveland native, won a 1994 Emmy for his Fox 19 "Gridiron Gurus" segments before going to Fox Sports' Best Damn Sports Show Period; CNN/SI; calling games for the MLB Network and NFL Network; and hosting pre-and postgame shows, MLB's Intentional Talk, Science Channel's Battlebots and many TV poker shows.
ORIGINAL POST 1:10 P.M. MONDAY DEC. 11: Who Dey think they gonna pass up a Bengals TV game for the Miami Redhawks?
WCPO-TV has picked up local TV rights for the Bengals vs. Minnesota Vikings game at 1 p.m. Saturday from the NFL Network, as the Bengals (7-6) need to win their final four games to keep their playoff hopes alive.
The Vikings (also 7-6) currently are the sixth seed for one of the seven NFC playoff slots. The Bengals are not among the top seven teams in the AFC.
Channel 9's coverage starts with a local pregame show at noon, followed by the NFL Network's GameDay Kickoff show at 12:30 p.m. and the game at 1 p.m.
In Cincinnati, ABC's broadcast of the Cricket Celebration Bowl featuring the Howard University Bison against Florida A&M Rattlers starting at noon Saturday will move to WCPO-TV's Bounce subchannel. Bounce is available free over-the air with an antenna on Channel 9.3. It's also on Spectrum cable channel 992 and altafiber cable channel 258.
Miami University, which had boasted that Saturday's bowl game would be the school's first telecast on ABC since 2005, won't appear on the local ABC affiliate until WCPO-TV's NFL Network simulcast ends around 4 p.m.
Kickoff is at 3:30 p.m. for the Mid-American Conference champion Redhawks (11-2) playing the Appalachian State Mountaineers (8-5) in the Avocados From Mexico Cure Bowl at FBC Mortgage Stadium in Orlando, Fla.
ABC's coverage will start on the Bounce channel in Cincinnati. Channel 9 will pick up the Miami bowl game in progress after the Bengals' NFL Network telecast ends.


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Eksperymenty - Łuk elektryczny - Transformator z mikrofalówki - odc.1
Alexei Borisov & Tania Stene - Disclose (PF FSV2)
Tania Stene is a Norwegian interdisciplinary artist. She works with different techniques such as oils/acrylics, photography, collage, video, sound and installation. Originally known as half of the ritual ambient duo Aghast, her newer music is more experimental and noisy. She is known for cover art & photo shoots for some of the biggest Norwegian black metal bands in the '90s, including Darkthrone, Ulver, Thorns, Satyricon, Burzum, Emperor and Sunn O))) live album. Tania Stene used to be married to Fenriz (Darkthrone). She is also known for her cover art of "Bergtatt", "Nattens Madrigal" and "Hliðskjálf", and for official photo shoots of Isengard and Thorns.
Explore contextually related video stories in a new eye-catching way. Try Combster now!

domain: entertainment


01 February 2021, Rome: Fisheries and aquaculture are of critical importance for global food security as well as recovering from the COVID-19 crisis, the Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), QU Dongyu, said today.
The Director-General addressed the opening of the 34th session of the FAO Committee on Fisheries (COFI), which is the only global inter-governmental forum where FAO Members meet to review and consider the issues and challenges related to fisheries and aquaculture. It is being held virtually for the first time.
In his remarks, Qu noted that the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the fisheries and aquaculture sector through changing consumer demands, market access and logistical problems related to transportation and border restrictions. He also highlighted that fisheries and aquaculture are essential for the world economy to build back better from the COVID-19 crisis.
“The fisheries and aquaculture sector has a crucial contribution to make within the Four Betters: Better Production, Better Nutrition, Better Environment and Better Life.”
“The potential of a modern aquaculture to grow and feed the world is extraordinary,” Qu said, noting that 10 percent of the world’s population relies on the fisheries and aquaculture sector for their livelihoods, mostly small producers that need support.
FAO’s State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture (SOFIA) , issued in June 2020, estimates that total fish production is set to increase to 204 million tonnes in 2030, up 15 percent from 2018, with aquaculture’s share growing from its current 46 percent. Aquaculture has been the fastest expanding food production sector globally for the last 50 years, growing at an average of 5.3 percent per year since the turn of the century.
The Director-General invited FAO Members to take advantage of COFI 34 to discuss how the production, processing, trade and consumption of aquatic foods can be transformed as part of a broader agri-food systems transformation, making them more sustainable, resilient and inclusive.
“We know that land alone will not feed us with abundant quantity and food diversity – we need Blue Transformation to secure Blue Food production,” he added, stressing the importance of modernizing traditional fisher culture with innovative approaches and digital technologies.
“Combining fisheries with tourism and educational activities is a way of keeping the cultural heritage alive and creating new values and new job opportunities,” Qu said as an example.
The Director-General also pointed out the benefits of fish in diets, especially for pregnant women, children and in combatting all forms of malnutrition, stressing that fish should be promoted in food and nutrition strategies across the world.
FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries turns 25
FAO’s Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries turned 25 last year. It was adopted by the FAO Conference in 1995, a landmark instrument, which has been guiding efforts towards sustainable fisheries and aquaculture around the world.
A High-level Special Event to be held later today will review the impact of the Code and consider a first-ever COFI Declaration for Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture, that will outline a global vision for the transformation of blue ecosystems. Among the speakers will be the Prime Minister of Norway, Erna Solberg.The anniversary of the Code comes at a challenging time as pollution, climate change, biodiversity loss, unregulated practices and increased competition for the use of marine and coastal areas are threatening aquatic ecosystems and their resources. FAO estimates that 34.2 percent of all marine fish stocks are fished beyond biological sustainable limits, a threefold increase since monitoring started in 1974.
COFI 34 will also review the SOFIA report, the role of small-scale fisheries and the livelihoods of coastal and inland fisheries communities, illegal fishing and fish operations at sea, as well as the critical role of women in the post-harvest and service sector.


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name Mexican Riviera sounds like a Hollywood movie. Enjoy one of the
cruises below and they will make you feel like a movie star for 7
glorious days. They will wine you, dine you, massage you, pamper you
and be taking pictures of you every day.
You will visit Cabo San Lucas,
the "millionaires" sand box and perhaps meet some movie stars.
Then on to Mazatlan, with its majestic backdrop of the Sierra Madre
where many a film has been shot. Finally enjoy a Mexican Lunch Buffet at
a relaxing seaside resort in Puerto Vallarta.
So get ready for some Lights
(Sunlight & Moonlight) - Camera (Ship's Photographer) - Action
(One action packed ship with 3 action packed stops on the 7 Day) You are the
stars! Autograph a credit card for us and we will get the production


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Note: LDS Ancestral File From a copy of a typed sheet, author unknown, on file at Stafford County KS museum. Josiah son of Lieut. Samiel (sic) and Hannah Platt born about 1710 in Norwalk, CT. Died about 1780 Married Sarah Bennett m 1740.
Possibly died in Revolutionary War in Long Island, New York.
Ancestry.com U.S., Sons of the American Revolution Membership Applications, 1889-1970 about Josiah Marvin Name: Josiah Marvin SAR Membership: 76807 Birth Date: 1710 Birth Place: Norwalk, Connecticut Death Date: 1780 Father: Samuel Marvin Mother: Hannah Platt Spouse: Elizabeth DeForest Children: Daniel Marvin
Ancestry.com U.S., Sons of the American Revolution Membership Applications, 1889-1970 about Josiah Marvin Name: Josiah Marvin SAR Membership: 97900 Spouse: Sarah Bennett Children: William Marvin
http://prathergenealogy.com/DB4-11-2010-o/index.htm?ssmain=p2044.htm; Josiah Marvin Josiah was a soldier in the British Army during the Revoluntionary war.He died on Long Island. He died at Long Island, Ny. He was born in 1739 at Norwalk, Conn.
http://www.americanancestors.org/PageDetail.aspx?recordId=132837830 Descendants of Reinold and Matthew Marvin of Hartford CT, 1638 & 1635 by George Franklin Marvin, William Theophilus Rogers Marvin. 1904. p 253. 17. Josiah Marvin, d about 1780. The name of his wife or date of m. not ascertained. Children: 43 Daniel b in Norwalk about 1739. 44 William, b March 24, 1741. 45 Jared. 46. John, who d. in Nova Scotia, a refugee in the Revolution. 47. Josiah, who d. on Long Island, in the British army, during the Revolutionary war. 48. Samuel. (Had four daughters besides the above sons.)
RootsWeb.com is NOT responsible for the content of the GEDCOMs uploaded through the WorldConnect Program. The creator of each GEDCOM is solely responsible for its content.

domain: history


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If you know you had a credit account on your credit reports (such as a credit card account, student loan, or collection account) and it suddenly disappeared, the reason for its removal might not be obvious.
Accounts can disappear for a variety of reasons—whether intentionally or as outright mistakes. We’ll cover the most likely explanations for why your account was deleted and what its removal means for your credit.
Table of Contents
Top 5 reasons why accounts get removed from credit reports
The underlying cause of an account’s removal from your credit report depends on several factors, such as the age, validity, and status of the account.
Here are the most common reasons that accounts get deleted from consumer credit reports.
1. The account was closed years ago
If the account that disappeared from your credit report was closed (inactive), the most likely explanation is that it simply reached its credit-reporting age limit.
Credit accounts don’t fall off your report automatically once they’re closed, but after they’ve been inactive for several years, the credit bureaus delete them automatically.
How long do closed accounts stay on credit reports?
The time it takes for a closed account to be removed from your credit report depends on whether the account was in good standing when it was closed (i.e., whether it was all paid up and you closed it voluntarily, or whether you missed payments on it and your creditor closed it punitively).
As shown in the table below, accounts that are closed in good standing remain on your credit for 10 years, whereas delinquent accounts are removed after 7 years (like most other negative marks that can appear on your credit report). 1 2 3 4
When Are Closed Accounts Removed from Your Credit Report?
|Type of Account||Characteristics||When It’s Deleted||Who Decides|
|Positive account||Labeled as “in good standing” or “paid as agreed”||10 years||The credit bureaus (TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian)|
|Negative account||Associated with late payments, charge-offs, debt settlement, or other derogatory items||7 years||The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)|
Note that paying off a delinquent account after your creditor closes it won’t turn it into an account in good standing. However, you should still pay off closed accounts on your credit report to avoid legal trouble over your outstanding debts in the future.
2. Your creditor changed names
If one of your creditors changed their name or you have an account that was transferred to a different company, then it may seem as though the account has completely disappeared from your credit report.
In reality, your account will probably start showing up under a new name. The rest of the account details should be the same (balance, open date, payment date, etc.).
There may be a gap in between when the account disappears and when it reappears on your credit report. Additionally, it might appear on different credit reports, since not all lenders provide data to the same credit bureaus.
To be sure that your credit reports are complete and accurate, check all three of them with Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion at AnnualCreditReport.com.
3. The account was an error
Mistakes happen all the time in the credit-reporting industry. If you filed a credit dispute with the credit reporting agencies or a lender that was reporting information about one of your credit accounts, the credit bureaus might have accepted your dispute and deleted the account.
It’s also possible that the credit bureaus noticed the mistake themselves and removed the account without receiving a formal dispute notice from you, but this is less likely.
4. Your lender decided to stop reporting the account
If a legitimate account in good standing suddenly vanished from your credit reports, one possibility is that your creditor simply decided to stop reporting it to one or all of the credit bureaus.
Credit reporting is technically a voluntary practice, and lenders aren’t legally required to furnish any information to the credit reporting agencies. It isn’t particularly likely that they’ll choose to stop reporting to one or all of them out of the blue, but it’s possible.
5. The account was removed by mistake
If you’ve got an active auto loan or student loan, credit card account, or another open account that you believe shouldn’t have been removed from your credit report and you’ve ruled out all other explanations, the account may have been deleted by mistake.
To get to the bottom of who made the error, contact the credit reporting agency you got your credit report from (Equifax, TransUnion, or Experian) and the creditor associated with the account.
Of course, if the account that disappeared was delinquent or in collections, you’re better off without it on your credit report, and you might want to simply leave well enough alone.
Can a deleted account be put back on your credit report?
Yes, deleted items can be reinserted into your credit report under certain circumstances.
This most commonly happens if you disputed the account and the data furnishing company (your creditor or debt collection agency) took more than 30 days to respond to your dispute. The credit bureaus are required to remove a disputed item if the company reporting the information doesn’t provide evidence proving that the account belongs to you within 30–45 days. 6
However, the information can be reinserted if the creditor comes up with this evidence after the 30-day mark.
Note that if the deleted account was originally removed because it had been closed or inactive for 7 or 10 years or because you managed to remove a negative item yourself using pay for delete, then it’s likely been reinserted by mistake. If you want, you can submit a credit dispute to have it redeleted.
Is it good or bad when a deleted account reappears on your credit report?
It’s not an inherently good or bad thing when a credit account reappears on your credit report after an absence.
As you’ll see in the section below, if the account was in good standing, then it’ll probably be a good thing for your credit when it reappears. On the other hand, if the account was delinquent, then your credit report (and credit score) will be better off without it, and you might want to take steps to get it removed again.
How credit account removals can affect your credit score
As mentioned, having an account removed from your credit reports can be either a good or a bad thing for your credit score (and the same applies to reinsertion).
Whether an account removal will cause a rise or drop in your credit score depends on how the account was affecting your score in the first place.
For instance, collection accounts are negative marks that hurt your score. Naturally, if you remove a collection account from your credit report, your score will probably improve.
On the other hand, if an old credit card that you closed in good standing falls off your credit report after reaching the 10-year reporting limit, your score will probably drop due to a reduction in the length of your credit history and the loss of the payment history on that account.
To understand exactly what having an account removed from your credit report means for your credit score, take the time to read about how credit scores are calculated, how credit works, and what factors affect your credit score.

domain: finance


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Third Nacelle wrote:
So now you're comparing people from a previous era to ignorant children. Thanks for confirming my original point.
So how would you treat them?
Like dirt? Like in TNG?
I certainly wouldn't coddle them.
The question was never about how they would be treated, but how their worldview would be respected. That you feel they would need to be re-educated shows it wouldn't be respected at all, and indeed many things about 17th century beliefs would not be compatible in our times. Nor would things about 20th century beliefs be combatible in the 24th century.
Everything Picard had to say to Offenhouse was dead on. Yeah, he could have said it nicer, but Offenhouse obviously didn't put much stake in niceness anyway.


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A S T Y L E D S H O O T I N M Y K O N O S
There is something inherently ethereal about the islands of Greece. The great mythology of Ancient Greek gods and goddesses has been around since the 700s BC but still today the islands whisper of celestial beings and awe-inspiring landscapes that are out of this world. Perhaps Greece is our own little taste of heaven right here on earth.
It's no wonder why we love the idea of getting married on the famous island of Mykanos, with its rugged natural beauty and cyan-coloured ocean. Some say the pull to this part of the world is almost spiritual, that its beauty is romance for the soul.
Love 4 Weddings have coordinated this stunning wedding inspiration shoot that captures the fantasy of Greece perfectly. The colour scheme of indigo blue and copper accents is the perfect reflection of the sea with a touch of something heavenly.
Styled by Rock Paper Scissors, the shoot is full of chic decorative elements. An abundance of luscious florals, fresh linens and copper tableware create an ultra-stylish island escape.
The timber picnic tables are covered in colour: copper charger plates, mosaic-like side plates, slices of crystal and bright blue goblets. Even the cake is decorated with colourful crystals. While much of the styling is modern, there are also sentimental elements, including traditional coffee and the iconic white walls of Greece.
The bridal bouquet, floral centrepiece and altar arrangement are lavish and vibrant. The blooms are handpicked and consist of astilbe, peonies, garden roses, delphinium, dahlias and more.
Shoot coordinator, Eleni from Love 4 Weddings described some of her favourite details: "The carefully curated wedding inspiration had so many unique decorative details such as the handwritten Pablo Neruda poem backdrop at the ceremony, the customised tambourines wedding favours, the DIY bar stand with the magnificent blue hued signature cocktails, the indigo watercolor wedding stationary with copper foil… seriously too many heartbreaking beautiful details to behold…”
The Grecian goddess vibes continue through the bridal gown. The equally feminine and sexy dress features a dramatic full tulle skirt and leafy vine embroidery with beading details. The groom's navy suit is well tailored, paired with a crisp, classic white shirt and a very cool wooden bow tie. The fashion is modern, sophisticated and well suited to the overall style of the shoot.
Set at the Rocabella Hotel in Mykonos, overlooking the bay, these images prove that you don't have to forfeit quality or design when you leave your country. The chic destination wedding that you're dreaming of is indeed a swoon-worthy reality.
Love the Greek wedding inspiration? Take a look at Sasha and Nick's beautiful real wedding in Santorini here.
Photographer George Pahountis Design, styling & decoration RockPaperScissors Coordination Love4Wed Venue Rocabella Mykonos Wedding dress Kathy Heyndels Groom attire Giannetos Bridal shoes Kokos Wedding stationery Atelier Invitations Makeup & Hairstyling Georgia Xristodoulou Cakes & Sweets Pavlov's Lab Tablescape rentals White Lilac Bar Catering Bar Academy Hellas Models Fashion Cult

domain: artistic


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The lifting has been somewhat problematic; I keep falling over backwards and/or covering myself in grease. Part of the problem is that my bike is quite large relative to the rack. Specifically, it has big ol' puppy-feet wheels, so I can only use the higher-up spaces and I have to go over the top of the bar on the rack rather than sliding the bike in from the side (thus the falling over backwards; a bike is a large awkward thing to be waving about in the air). But last night fetching it down, I realized I could rest the seat on my hip and kind of lever it from there rather than relying entirely on my arms, and this morning I tried that in reverse and it worked beautifully. Useful things, hips.
The vast majority of the bicycles I've seen on the rack I've been using are also gray, unlike the other racks, which seem to have a more normal color distribution. It's the big gray bike convention; I'm sure they have all kinds of fun things to tell each other while their owners are at work.

domain: hobby


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Spanish Mortgage Calculator
FFA Spanish Mortgage Calculator
Use the Spanish mortgage calculator for a quick and easy way to calculate your monthly mortgage payments. Just enter the mortgage amount you wish to borrow, the term over which you intend to pay it off and the interest rate. Then hit the ‘Calculate’ button.
The monthly mortgage amount is calculated on a capital repayment basis as there are no interest-only mortgage currently in the Spanish mortgage market.
The average mortgage term currently available for mortgage purposes in Spain is 20 years although 25 or 30 years are available on a case by case basis.
Interest rates vary but we recommend that you use our standard exclusive rate mortgage deal of 2.20% to do your initial mortgage calculations. Speak to us to see if you qualify for one of our white label market-leading Spanish mortgage products.
If you would like a Spanish mortgage quotation specific to your particular set of circumstances then please get in contact with one of our Spanish qualified mortgage advisers (ICI’s) for a free consultation.
We will never ask you to put any specific or sensitive fiscal information in any of our online communication vehicles and we caution you in doing so with any other finance companies.
Mortgage Brokers in Spain are required to be qualified and regulated, however, there are some companies that operate who are not. To be sure of obtaining safe and regulated good quality Spanish mortgage advice please contact us at Fluent Finance Abroad.
The figures given by the Spanish mortgage calculator must only be used as a guide. If you require a more specific idea on monthly cost please feel free to contact us and speak to one of our consultants for an independent view on the best Spanish mortgage package for your particular set of circumstances.
How much can I borrow for a Mortgage in Spain?
Are you considering buying your first Spanish property? Whether you’re setting yourself up for a future investment or looking to grab yourself your dream holiday home – the fact is most non-residents will require a mortgage to buy their home in Spain.
As you’d probably expect, the way mortgage lending works overseas differs slightly in that there will be a few extra financial considerations you need to think of, known as associated acquisition costs. These include things such as notary fees, stamp duty and legal and administration expenses.
For residents of Spain, mortgages can go up to as much as 80% of the purchase price or valuation figure. However, for those purchasing a Spanish property from overseas, the maximum amount you can look to borrow is 70%.
Simply click below to input your figures.


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Today Roald Dahl would be celebrating his 100th Birthday!!
The #TampaTrio LOVE LOVE LOVE all of his books and each of my children have a favorite book of his.
For Haley it is Matilda.
For Ella it is The Witches.
And for Ronin it is The BFG.
So many fantastic quotes come from Roald Dahl and here are a few of my favorites:
"A person who has good thoughts cannot ever be ugly. You can have a wonky nose and a crooked mouth and a double chin and stick-out teeth, but if you have good thoughts they will shine out of your face like sunbeams and you will always look lovely." - The Twits
"Never do anything by halves if you want to get away with it. Be outrageous. Go the whole hog." -Matilda
"So please, oh please, we beg, we pray Go throw your TV set away And in its place you can install A lovely bookshelf on the wall…" - Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Do you have a favorite Roald Dahl quote or book? Share it with me, I'd love to hear which is your favorite!
I had a fantastic time at the ALA Annual Conference held in Orlando June 22-28.
I attended on Friday June 24th and Saturday June 25th. My agenda was packed full of roundtable discussions, informative presentations, and of course, the exhibit hall.
This year I broke from my tradition of going to conferences alone and brought along my two oldest children. Both avid readers, and lovers of the library, I wanted them to be able to experience some of the joy and wonder that I experienced when I was their age and my parents would take my sister and me to the International Pizza Expo. I loved wandering through the large exhibit hall as a young girl, sampling all sorts of wonderful pizza. I imagined the same experience for my daughter’s but with books and tech instead of pizza. I was right. They were both in utter and total awe.
My girls loved ALA. The highlight for both of them was the chance to meet one of their favorite authors, Jonathan Auxier. Jonathan is the author of the 2015-2016 SSYRA book The Night Gardner, but my daughters love him for his debut novel, Peter Nimble and his Fantastic Eyes. Haley admittedly is his biggest fan, and when I noticed she wrote him a note on an exhibit hall table I quickly snapped a photo, tweeted it to him, and received a reply with an invitation to stop by for his meet and greet. #Number1Fan
We may have been the first in line J
Not only did Haley and Ella each receive a brand new hardback copy of his newest release (the sequel to Peter Nimble) Sophie Quire and the Last StoryGuard (and not an ARC, either!) but Jonathan drew a personalized photo for each of them in the front of the book and posed for a photo with them individually, too.
Jonathan told us two things:
1) He only poses for photos with people who will act like monsters.
2) His personalized drawings will be gory.
He asked Haley what her favorite animal is, real or mythological. She told him a unicorn. He drew a photo inside her book of her being impaled on a unicorn’s horn. He drew blood drops and everything.
He asked Ella what her favorite animal was in the Peter Nimble book and she told him the sea serpent. He drew Ella hanging out of the mouth of the sea serpent.
Jonathan spent close to 10 minutes with us and it was an experience that I am sure Haley and Ella will never forget, and I will always remember hearing the girls say “this was the best day EVER.”
YA books are all the rage. Some of my favorite reads have been YA books and I know I'm not alone in this. In fact one of my friends recently messaged me telling me about a new YA series that she recently started that she is LOVING. Check out the infograf below to help you in selecting your newest YA read!
So...which books did you add to your TBR (to be read) pile??


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According to a press release from the WSL issued on Monday, Filipe has been fined for attempting to storm the judges tower after a Round-Three interference call at Saquarema and is officially suspended from competing in the OK Fiji Pro. “I’m a passionate guy and surfing is my life,” Toledo said in the press release. “After getting an interference in my Round Three heat in Saquarema, I became upset.
The WSL Rules and Disciplinary Committee evaluated the interaction and suspended Toledo from competition until after the OK Fiji Pro, along with a penalty fine of an undisclosed amount. “Filipe (Toledo) is a really good kid and an incredible surfer,” Renato Hickel, WSL Deputy Commissioner, said in the press release. “The WSL is very fortunate to have someone of his caliber on tour and he is constantly progressing the level of surfing in the live arena.
Read more here: Surfer Mag


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If you have been following 3D printing even for just a short amount of time, then you are probably aware that while one surprising innovation after another seems to pop up from every corner of the world, the technology has also been connected with so many others such as robotics, virtual reality, biotechnology, and far more. Now, scientists are mixing a versatile material with 3D printing filament to achieve a novel result in the form of sensor technology that has the potential to be groundbreaking.
In seeking to embed metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) in one, single, usable material (rather than multiple ones, as seemed to be their only initial choice), a team of scientists working together from both the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and American University have been working on a project that could prove to be useful in the world of sensors.With these combinations of metal and organic molecules, the idea is to adapt them for use in sensors, although that is something that has never been done before. The group was attracted to using MOFs because of their lightweight, easy to manufacture quality. The issue is that generally, one MOF is attracted to one chemical only. It latches on as soon as it is exposed to that favorite chemical, but would be difficult to put directly onto a sensor—thus the challenge to one or many of them altogether. On experimenting with 3D printing, the team found that the plastic filament generally used for fabricating different items was a perfect mix with the MOFs. They found they could embed the MOFs through using a 3D printer as the filament allows so many gases to simply pass right through.
The findings were reported recently in their paper “Toward 3D printed hydrogen storage materials made with ABS-MOF composites,” published in Polymers for Advanced Technologies, where the scientists explained more about the mixture. They view the results as having great potential, but in need of further refinement. Currently, the mix holds over 50 times more than plastic can by itself, proving that the MOFs are working from within.
With this new process, the researchers realized that the MOFs may proof extremely helpful in the future in a variety of different industrial applications—especially since they are so buoyant within the mix, not just ending up resting heavily on the bottom.
“The auto industry is still looking for an inexpensive, lightweight way to store fuel in hydrogen-powered cars,” said NIST sensor scientist Zeeshan Ahmed. “We’re hoping that MOFs in plastic might form the basis of the fuel tank.”
The team presses on with improving the process, and a second paper is already being written as they study how MOFs can take in nitrogen and hydrogen.
“The goal is to find a storage method that can hold 4.5 percent hydrogen by weight, and we’ve got a bit less than one percent now,” said Ahmed. “But from a materials perspective, we don’t need to make that dramatic an improvement to reach the goal. So we see the glass—or the plastic—as half full already.”
What do you think of this news? Let us know your thoughts; join the discussion of this and other 3D printing topics at 3DPrintBoard.com or share your thoughts in the Facebook comments below.[Source / Images: NIST]
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The secret to growing broccoli is planting the right variety at the right time. Learn to grow broccoli in your vegetable garden and harvest fresh heads for your table. You can easily figure the perfect time to plant broccoli seeds this fall.
If you want to sow seeds directly in the garden, do so about to 1days before the average first fall frost in your area. If you prefer to grow from transplants, figure the date for getting your plants in the ground by adding days to the . Direct seeding of broccoli plants is possible.
This is especially so with . Before lifting the plants, water them well and water well again after transplanting. Thin directly-sown broccoli to . The plant first produces a large center head. Once cut, the plant will produce smaller side . Overview and Description.
The part we eat is actually the buds of the broccoli flower. If left unharveste the broccoli head will open into small .
An organic broccoli plant. The supermarkets have helped to confuse the issue of what is broccoli and what a calabrese by calling both by either name. The large green heads you see in the photo (and generally referred to as broccoli ) is Calabrese whereas the much smaller heads which can be green, purple or . The word broccoli comes from the Italian plural of broccolo, which means the flowering crest of a cabbage, and is the diminutive form of brocco, meaning small nail or sprout. Why broccoli grown in the fall is so much better than spring broccoli , plus planting tips.
Seeds: Unless you start seeds indoors over the winter, it may be difficult to grow a spring broccoli crop from see because the weather will warm too quickly. Fall crops are much easier to start from seed directly in the garden. Broccoli is often boiled or steamed but . Plant broccoli seeds about ¼ to ½ inch deep, and transplant to the garden in about weeks. While the seedlings are germinating, prepare the planting area well by adding Thrive Complete Plant Foo plus some good home- made . An article with tips to get big broccoli would be most appreciated! I have big beautiful plants and itty bitty broccoli.
A variety prized for its lovely dark blue-green heads and marvelous flavor. Sow mid to late spring, either direct into soil or in pots to plant out later if clubroot disease is a problem in your soil. Firm down well when planting out.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalised calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area. Browse our great range of broccoli plants , with top quality varieties ready to be delivered direct to your door at the best time for planting.

domain: food