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First Outdoor National Athletes of the Week Announced
NEW ORLEANS – The focus of collegiate track & field has now turned to the young outdoor season, where a number of student-athletes showed mid-season form in garnering the first National Athlete of the Week awards of the outdoor season.
More Info: Previous Winners
Texas A&M throwers had quite the weekend in the desert at Arizona State’s Baldy Castillo Invitational, as javelin thrower Sam Humphreys and discus thrower Shelbi Vaughan claimed the male and female DI National Athlete of the Week honors, respectively, marking the first time a pair of teammates have claimed the award for both genders. Humphreys moved into the collegiate top 10 in the javelin with a heave of 267-1 (81-40m), while Vaughan made the most of her collegiate debut with six throws that surpassed the previous Aggie discus record, including a collegiate-leading 185-0 (56.40m).
Jumper Kearah Danville of Angelo State earned the women’s DII award after becoming not just the division leader but the collegiate leader in both the long jump and triple jump. She also won the award for the first week of the indoor season. Thrower Derrick Vicars of Findlay claimed the DII men’s award with the collegiate-leading shot put mark and DII-leading marks in the discus and hammer.
Beth Stam of George Fox not only posted the top DIII heptathlon score of the early season by about 250 points, but she also recorded the second-best javelin mark in DIII to claim the women’s award for the division. Bennett Naden of Claremont Mudd-Scripps ran away at 1500 meters to claim the division’s fastest time in the event by more than five seconds and the DIII male award.
The Award Winners
Division I Men – Sam Humphreys, Texas A&M (Senior)
Humphreys (Laredo, Texas) moved into the 10th spot in collegiate history in the javelin with an impressive 267-1 (81.40m) heave to open his season. The mark was a meet record by more than 11 feet and leads all collegians by nearly 20 feet. In addition to his winning throw, his series also included marks of 266-11 (81.37m), 265-0 (80.79m) and 262-9 (80.09m). The mark is just half a foot shy of his school-record mark of 268-7, which he set last summer en route to winning the U.S. Olympic Trials.
Josh MacDonald, Liberty
De’Anthony Thomas, Oregon
Division I Women – Shelbi Vaughan, Texas A&M (Freshman)
Vaughan (Mansfield, Texas) needed just one throw in the discus to rewrite the Texas A&M record books as her first collegiate attempt in the discus resulted in a school record and 2013 American-best 185-0 (56.39m) – which she improved by a centimeter to 56.40m later in the series – breaking the previous school-record mark of 176-10 (53.91m) from 2003 by more than eight feet. Each of her six attempts could have broken the school record and given her the collegiate lead, which she currently holds by nearly nine feet. Her series included marks of 185-0 (56.39m), 177-1 (53.97m), 182-6 (55.64m), 185-0 (56.40m), 183-3 (55.85m) and 181-10 (55.44m). Vaughan was Track & Field News’ National High School Athlete of the Year and the Gatorade National High School Athlete of the Year for Girls Track & Field last season, and she also plays outside hitter for the Aggies’ volleyball team.
Nicole Oudenaarden, San Diego State
Division II Men – Derrick Vicars, Findlay (Senior)
Vicars (Genoa, Ohio) made a big early season statement in three different throwing events at the Wake Forest Open, winning both the discus and the hammer and finishing runner-up in the shot put. Though he finished runner-up in the shot put this week (62-1/18.92m), Vicars threw 63-9½ (19.44m) a week ago, which remains the top throw among all collegians so far this season. He followed that up this week with DII-leading marks in both the discus (181-7/55.36m) and hammer (194-7/59.30m). He won the discus by more than 15 feet, giving him the No. 10 mark among collegians, and he also ranks No. 12 among all collegians in the hammer.
Franz Burghagen, Alaska Anchorage
Elhadji Mbow, Saint Augustine’s
Division II Women – Kearah Danville, Angelo State (Junior)
Danville (Kingston, Jamaica) finished the weekend as the all-divisions leader and DII Championships auto qualifier in two events following a collegiate-leading jump of 20-5 (6.22m) at the Cactus Cup at Texas A&M-Kingsville. She previously jumped a collegiate-leading 43-5 (13.23m) in the triple jump on March 1 at the UIW Cardinal Invitational prior to her title at the DII Indoor Championships. This past weekend she claimed both the long jump and triple jump (41-11½/12.79m). She is the only DII long jumper to surpass 20 feet so far this season, and she leads the triple jump by more than a foot-and-a-half.
Danielle Williams, Johnson C. Smith
Division III Men – Bennett Naden, Claremont-Mudd-Scripps
Naden (Middleton, Wis.) had a career day at this weekend’s Occidental Distance Carnival, setting career-best marks at both 1500 and 5000 meters, including a DIII-leading time in the former. He ran a 3:50.92 over 1500 meters to finish seventh overall and first among DIII runners, g iving him the No. 19 time among all collegians. The next-fastest DIII runner in the race – who also happens to be No. 2 in the division – was about 5½ seconds back. Two-and-a-half hours later he was back on the track for a career-best 14:57.68 time at 5000 meters – an improvement of 34 seconds and the No. 9 time in the division this season.
Luke Campbell, Salisbury
Demetrius Rooks, Rowan
Division III Women – Beth Stam, George Fox (Senior)
Stam (Siletz, Ore.) kicked off her 2013 outdoor campaign with a bang, posting the division’s best heptathlon score (4,815), which included the No. 2 javelin mark (145-2/44.24m) in the division this season. Her heptathlon win at the Boxer Combined Events was her best score in the heptathlon by nearly 300 points and included career-best marks in the 100 hurdles (16.05) and high jump (5-4½/1.64m). She also added a win in the shot put (42-4/12.90m).
Janey Fugate, Washington & Lee
Kerry Wright, Whitworth
ABOUT THE NATIONAL ATHLETE OF THE WEEK AWARD
Awarded to six collegiate track and field and cross country athletes (male and female for each of the three NCAA divisions) each Monday by the USTFCCCA office, the National Athlete of the Week Award will spotlight exceptional performances by student-athletes from around the nation.
Nominations are open to the public. Coaches and sports information directors are encouraged to nominate their student-athletes; as are student-athletes, their families and friends, and fans of their programs.
The award seeks to highlight not only the very best times, marks and scores on a week-to-week basis, but also performances that were significant on the national landscape and/or the latest in a series of strong outings. Quality of competition, suspenseful finishes and other factors will also play a role in the decision.
Nominations should provide qualitative detail to explain the noteworthiness of the student-athlete’s performance. The manner in which his or her event(s) was won or nearly won; any records (school, conference, collegiate, etc.) broken as a result; the national significance of the time, mark or score; and the credentials of the competition are all pertinent details for quality nominations.
Photos, videos and interviews are also encouraged.
Nominations, which can be competed here, are due each Monday by 12 p.m. EST, and winners will be announced by 4 p.m. EST.

domain: sports


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Celebrating culture was what last Saturday was all about.
Loud music, dancing, food, vendors and dozens of people filled Second Street for Hispanics United of Perry (HUP)’s annual Latino Fest, ¡Viva Perry!.
The celebration kicked off with a parade then a street party followed. Festivalgoers witnessed colorful men, women, boy and girl dancers, from Minnesota, Nebraska and other parts of the state, take over Second and Warford Streets. A petting zoo, food vendors and local businesses were also available for festivalgoers.
Perry High School juniors brought a dunk tank to help raise money for their prom.
Throughout the festival live music or a dj was playing. La Chicanita, of La Ley— a Latino radio station, was hosting the event.
Cinthia Narjano, 16, was named festival queen. Various high school aged girls competed for the crown by selling tickets. The girl that raised the most money got the crown. Narjano raised more than $200. As queen the young lady will be involved in the community and act as a mentor for young ladies. “I’m very pleased to be representing the city of Perry and Perry High School,” the queen said. “I vow to be actively involved in the community, whether it is helping out at the nursing home to participating in next year’s Latino festival.”
The money raised will go towards the HUP scholarship. Rosa Gonzalez, with HUP, said the event went well.
“It’s a big turn out,” Gonzalez said. “We saw people lining up, looking for the parade and people coming there. It’s a lot of hours but people have been showing up and it looks like they are having a lot of fun. We are pleased with how things came out.”
Brothers Javier Andrade, of Perry, and Fernando, of Iowa City, said they enjoyed the festival.
“This is my first time, so far this is great,” Fernando said.
Javier said it’s a change of pace.
“It’s a nice change of pace— having this festival is a nice break from anything and everything that’s going on lately,” Javier said. “It’s a nice thing to have— people the same, like-minded, all in one place. It’s nice to have.”
Yandi Darco, of Perry, brought her child, niece and cousin to the festival.
“I’ve been coming here (Latino festivals in Perry) since I was in kindergarten,” Darco said. “This year is has been better than the last four or five years. I love that it’s on the Main Street and it’s a nice day. There’s also not a lot of people. Last year it was pretty hot and in the park. It’s a lot better here. People can have their own business and it’s spread out. The park was crowded.”
Roberto Gorlejo, of Perry, was one of the festival’s vendors. He was selling various Latino foods including corn on the cob.
“It’s fun,” Gorlejo said.
Iris Diaz, of Perry, was a Quinceanera in the parade.
“Latino Fest is a lot of fun,” Diaz said. “I like this year more because I got to be in it and I like that it’s a way to celebrate culture.”
The ¡Viva Perry! Festival is the primary fundraiser for HUP, with proceeds supporting scholarships for graduating seniors and continuing education. HUP counts on the support of the Perry Community in their efforts. Contributions to the HUP scholarships can be earmarked for HUP to Daniel Rivera at Raccoon Valley Bank: 1202 Second Street, 50220.

domain: sociology


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By Susan Wilderman, Faculty
For eight weeks between the long dark days of winter and the coming hope of new life in spring, is a special season unique to the Northeast ~ Maple Sugaring. Everything involved in making delightful Pure Maple Syrup requires patience, diligence, and attention to detail. The work required of such a feat is authentic, and involves multiple levels of risk which can lead to deeper learning that goes beyond making Maple Syrup.
This year, we entered the season with twelve students from novice through four-year veteran. Each had the opportunity to develop and deepen their understanding. Students are involved in the whole process learning to adroitly identify healthy Sugar Maples in the winter, to manning the evaporator to transform the sap into Maple Syrup.
In a culture that values instantaneous access to almost anything, Maple Sugaring is different ~ it takes time! The students tapped about 150 trees representing 300 taps, from these taps, they collected 2-3 times per week, with an average collection taking the group 2 hours to complete. After the collecting, the sap was processed through the evaporator. It takes approximately 40-50 gallons of sap to make 1 gallon a Pure Maple Syrup. When the evaporator is running optimally, we can process about 65 gallons of sap an hour. This season the team was able to produce 60 gallons of Syrup (With some quick math that’s 2400-3000 gallons of sap!) All this to say, Sugaring is not a fast process. Attention to detail is essential every step of the way as they learn how to safely enjoy the process.
Learning to enjoy hard work alongside others is a key outcome of this project. Because of the varied experience levels, the class also offers peer mentoring to take place as shared by this third-year student, “This year I strived to help others grow in their sugaring skills and did my best to help others along.” For others, this year offered a second chance to be part of the project with a willing spirit which resulted in personal growth and seeing the value in team collaboration. At the end of the season, several students shared a similar reflection as this four-year student, “Through my time in the program, I have grown an appreciation for the students who came before me, as well as the entire sugar shack history”.
Maple Sugaring is more than making Syrup. It is a refining process that develops students into mature men and women able to manage risk and work with their whole hearts towards a common goal!
Well done students!

domain: agronomy


Ralph Northam, the Democratic nominee for governor in Virginia, is hoping that President Donald Trump puts him over the top — by voicing his opposition.
This week, Northam’s campaign released a TV ad directly tying his Republican opponent, Ed Gillespie, to Trump, whose job-approval rating in the state is stuck in the 30s and low 40s, according to polls in the race.
“If Donald Trump is helping Virginia, I’ll work with him,” Northam says to the camera. “But Donald Trump proposed cutting Virginia’s school funding, rolling back our clean air and water protections, and taking away health care from thousands of Virginians.”
Northam closes, “As a candidate for governor, I sponsored this ad because I’ve stood up to Donald Trump on all of it. Ed Gillespie refuses to stand up to him at all.”
It’s the second recent Northam ad that has mentioned Trump. “Now ‘Enron Ed’ is lobbying for Donald Trump’s agenda, like cuts to Virginia’s school funding and taking away health care from thousands of Virginians,” the earlier ad said.
These advertisements come after Northam’s two-word description of Trump — “narcissistic maniac” — was one reason he defeated Tom Perriello in Virginia’s Democratic primary in June. (Perriello had made his opposition to Trump one of his top issues, but Northam co-opted him with his “narcissistic maniac” line.)
Maybe the most important question in the race, with a month before the Nov. 7 election, is whether Northam's latest messaging against Trump and Gillespie will make a difference in what has been polling as a close race.
Polls show that the president is definitely a weak link for Republicans in Virginia, a state Trump lost to Hillary Clinton by 5 percentage points in 2016.
A recent Monmouth University poll, which showed Northam leading Gillespie by 5 points among likely voters, had Trump’s job approval rating at 40 percent in the state.
Perhaps more important, the president’s approval rating among undecided voters and those preferring a third-party candidate was 10 points lower in that poll — 30 percent.
Another poll, from Quinnipiac University, showed Trump’s job approval at just 32 percent among independent voters in Virginia, suggesting that the persuadable middle in the state is largely opposed to the president.
The Northam campaign tells NBC News that tying Trump and Gillespie to specific policies, like education and health care, is more effective than just stating opposition to the Republican president.
But Gillespie spokesperson David Abrams responded to the ad, asking, "at this point what, exactly, is Ralph Northam running on? He changes his positions daily, doesn’t put forward any real policy proposals, and is largely invisible on the trail. It’s becoming a Seinfeld episode: A campaign about nothing."
In their first debate in July, Gillespie asked Northam how he would work with President Trump given his anti-Trump rhetoric.
“We need to have a governor who can work with the president, the vice president, the administration,” Gillespie said. “What are you going to do as our governor? Call the White House and say, ‘Please put me through to the narcissistic maniac?’”
In their second debate, moderated by NBC’s Chuck Todd, Northam answered, “If we can build up the military in this country, then I will do everything that I can to work with our president.”
"But there are some things that bother me, that are very detrimental to the commonwealth of Virginia," Northam added. "The first was the travel ban. ... My opponent supported the travel ban."
When Todd asked Gillespie if he wanted Trump to campaign for him, Gillespie responded: “I’ll take help from anybody, anywhere. This is going to be a very close race.”
If Northam wins next month, Democrats will see opposition to Trump as a successful strategy for next year’s midterm races, particularly in Democratic-leaning states like Virginia.
But if Gillespie is elected, Republicans will have a playbook on how to win — even when their president isn’t popular.


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Did you know that coconut water is rich in electrolytes and potassium? And that it is an excellent source of thiamin, cytokinins, and potassium? Read on to learn about its benefits for you. You may be surprised to know that it contains fewer calories than you think Health! You may also be surprised to know that it contains only a trace amount of sodium. However, this fact does not mean you should skip it altogether.
Coconut water is a natural source of health electrolytes
Aside from being good for your health, coconut water also contains electrolytes, which are vital for fluid balance in the body. The most beneficial amount of electrolytes is found in mature coconuts. However, it is important to note that coconut water is more expensive than plain water, and you can drink tap water instead of buying bottled varieties. You can also try adding a few drops of fresh lemon or lime to your coconut water if you prefer.
A serving of coconut water contains approximately 480 mg of potassium, which is an unusually high amount. While potassium is generally good for the body, it can be harmful to someone with kidney disease or if you’re taking a high-potassium diet. To reduce the risk of hyperkalemia, limit your intake to two to three cups per day. However, be sure to check with your doctor if you have kidney disease, as too much potassium can be harmful.
Additionally, coconut water contains calcium. This mineral is directly linked to the health of your teeth and bones. Ninety-nine percent of our body’s calcium is stored in our bones. For this reason, we need about 1,000 mg of calcium per day. Coconut water contains a significant amount of calcium, so it may help keep cholesterol levels at a health level. And, because coconut water is gluten-free, it is a great option for those on a diet that’s low in carbs or sugar. か まぐ ら 100 購入 boosts the immune system and keeps you health and prevents infection.
It contains potassium
Coconut water is the clear liquid inside the coconut. It serves as a suspension for the endosperm during early development. As they mature, they move from the suspension stage to the cellular phase and deposit into the rind of the coconut pulp. In our daily lives, we consume coconut water in large quantities to stay health. However, there is more to this liquid than meets the eye. Here are a few surprising facts about this hydrating beverage.
It helps the body’s nerves function properly, helping electrical signals travel from cell to cell. The potassium content of coconut water supports the brain’s ability to send and receive messages. The average adult should consume approximately 3,400 mg of potassium each day. However, people with chronic kidney disease or those taking an ACE inhibitor should limit the amount they consume. In addition, those taking certain medications should avoid coconut water if they are on any of these.
In addition to the benefits to the heart, coconut water contains potassium. This mineral is important for our heart health. When consumed regularly, coconut water can help lower blood pressure and prevent blood clots. It also helps replace electrolytes lost through sweaty exercise. It also helps reduce the risk of heart disease. In addition to helping the heart, coconut water also helps prevent kidney stones. In addition to all of these benefits, coconut water also helps reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s.
It contains thiamin
It is a known fact that coconut water contains thiamin, an important vitamin for the human body. Approximately 8% of the RDA is present in a cup of coconut water. It is also an excellent source of potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, and a small amount of iron and calcium. Coconut water also contains a small amount of manganese. There are many benefits of drinking coconut water, and this article will briefly discuss some of them.
Riboflavin, also known as vitamin B2, is a key nutrient in coconut water. Consuming one cup a day supplies about 8% of your daily value (DV), and has been linked to a lower risk of many diseases and conditions. Riboflavin has also been linked to a higher energy level, health skin, and increased athletic performance. Vitamin B6, meanwhile, supports the nervous system and prevents the buildup of homocysteine, a substance that can lead to cardiovascular disease.
While coconut water doesn’t have as much potassium as other sources of potassium, it is a good source of electrolytes. For instance, one cup of coconut water contains about 600mg of potassium, which is around 17% of your DV. Coconut water is also high in antioxidants. Coconut water also contains caffeic acid and shikimic acid, two phytonutrients with positive health benefits. In addition, it promotes health nerves and heartbeat and regulates muscle activity. It also helps to prevent cramping and fatigue. If you are looking for a natural alternative to sports drinks, coconut water is definitely worth considering.
It contains cytokinins
The health benefits of coconut water are not only cosmetic, but also medicinal. A recent study discovered cytokinins, plant hormones, in coconut water. Research shows these compounds have anti-aging and anti-cancer effects. Additionally, these substances have been linked to neurological diseases. However, it is important to note that there are no published studies proving these benefits in humans. But the benefits of coconut water are still worth investigating.
The active phytohormone found in coconut water is trans-zeatin riboside. This plant hormone is produced by coconut and is present in varying ratios in different parts of the fruit. Early fruit-ripening coconut water contains more cytokinins than later-stage coconuts. These plant hormones have been shown to stimulate multiple roots and shoots. The research suggests that coconut water can be an effective natural supplement for aging-related diseases.
The high mineral content of coconut water makes it a good energy source. It may even protect the heart against myocardial infarction. It also contains a host of trace elements that act as antioxidants and protect the body from toxins. Finally, coconut water helps maintain a health blood sugar level. Among the many health benefits of coconut water, the cytokinins found in it may help prevent or control high blood pressure and stroke.
It contains antioxidants for health
There are many benefits of drinking coconut water. This health beverage is low in calories with 45 to 60 calories per eight ounce cup. It is a good source of B-complex vitamins like riboflavin, niacin, and pyridoxine. Coconut water contains small amounts of vitamin C, an antioxidant known as Ascorbic acid. It also contains enzymes that help with digestion and metabolism. Although it does not have much potassium, coconut water is a good source of both.
Consuming coconut water has a number of health benefits, including the ability to improve cholesterol levels and lower blood sugar. Research suggests that it may lower total cholesterol, bad cholesterol (TG), and raise high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels. It may even protect the heart. The history of coconut water is complex, but studies indicate that it can help with a variety of diseases. Aside from its beneficial effects on cholesterol and blood sugar, coconut water contains antioxidants that may modify the free radicals and protect the heart. Try it today. Improve health with カマグラ ゴールド 通販.
Researchers have studied coconut water in rats that had liver damage. They found that rats treated with coconut water had lower levels of haemoglobin A1c and insulin. These results are encouraging, though further research is needed to confirm the findings. Coconut water may even help manage blood sugar in type 2 diabetics by lowering the levels of glucose and triglycerides in the blood. These studies however are limit and not rely on as a sole source of health information.
It has health anti-inflammatory properties
While coconut water often consume for its many health benefits the anti-inflammatory properties of young and mature coconut water are particularly impressive. These antioxidants act as an invisible shield against oxidative stress and free radicals. Despite the positive effects of coconut water further studies need to confirm its benefits. But these results are promising enough to encourage more consumption of coconut water as a supplement. Here’s what you should know about coconut water.
The anti-inflammatory properties of coconut water long know. It can reduce inflammation and pain in the body, which can be a real blessing if you suffer from chronic inflammation. Coconut water is a natural anti-inflammatory and has properties similar to pharmaceutical drugs used to treat inflammation. This makes it a great remedy for many ailments and conditions. While we know that inflammation can affect the skin, it’s important to keep in mind that some people can’t tolerate the effects of coconut water.
The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits of coconut water have been studied in both humans and animals. Animal studies have shown that coconut water can lower blood sugar levels and prevent damage caused by high blood glucose. It also has the potential to protect gold miners from mercury exposure. Besides, it contains other nutrients like vitamin C and magnesium that can help your body fight off infections. And when it comes to the benefits of coconut water, it’s also worth mentioning that it can help you feel better by preventing nausea and vomiting.

domain: medical


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Cake Project Guides
BABY SHOWER CAKE PROJECT GUIDE - 2
EQUIPMENT REQUIRED: FMM Cot Cutter Set, FMM Gift Tag, FMM It’s a Girl Cutter, FMM Knife & Scriber tool, Non Stick Mat & Non Stick Rolling Pin, White, Green & Pink Modelling Paste, White Flower Paste/Gum Paste, Water & Paintbrush (edible glue if you prefer), White ribbon around the bottom of the bottom tier. 5” Scalloped Edge Round Circle Cutter, Royal Icing.
CAKE: 2 tier 6” x 5” and 8” x 5” cake & 11” cake board covered in white fondant edged with pink ribbon. Pink ribbon around the bottom of the top tier.
Hints & Tips:
- · Always read the project sheet in full before starting the cake!
- · To make modelling paste, add a little tylo to your fondant.
- · Allow the modelling paste shapes to sit and firm up for a short time before attaching to the cake.
- · If the modelling paste is sticking to the tools or mat use the FMM Dab-a-Dust for dusting with either cornflour or icing sugar.
Be very careful when steaming decorations not to burn yourself.
To Make the Cot (Prepare 48 Hours in Advance)
1. Roll out the white flower paste/gum paste. Cut out the cot panels and leave to dry for 24 hours.
To Make the Roses
2. Roll out pink modelling paste and cut out 21 large roses and 3 small roses using the decorating strips from the FMM Gift Tag Cutter set. Roll out white modelling paste and cut out 1 small white rose using the small decorating strip. Sit to one side to dry off a little.
To Make the Rose Leaves
3. Roll out green modelling paste and cut out 5 small leaves and 32 large leaves using the decorating strip. Pinch the bottom of each leaf to give it shape. Sit to one side to dry off a little.
To Make the It’s a Girl Inscription
4. Roll out pink modelling paste and cut out the inscription using the It’s a Girl Cutter. Sit to one side to dry off a little.
To Make the Pink Circle
5. Roll out pink modelling paste and cut out a 5” scalloped edged round circle. Using the pointed end of FMM Knife & Scriber tool push small holes in to each scallop (refer to photograph).
To Make the Cot Bedding
6. Roll out white modelling paste 5 mm thick. Using the Knife & Scriber tool cut out a rectangle smaller than the cot base to fit in the cot like a cot mattress. Roll out white modelling paste 2mm thick, using the FMM Knife & Scriber tool cut out a rectangle shape to make a blanket to fit inside the cot. Roll out pink modelling paste 5 mm thick, using the FMM Knife & Scriber tool cut out a small rectangle shape to make a pillow.
Assembling the Cake
7. Secure the pink circle to the top of the cake with water or edible glue.
8. Using water or edible glue attach the roses and leaves around the bottom tier of the cake, spacing them evenly. Note some roses have 2 leaves and some just 1. Refer to photograph.
9. Attach the It’s a Girl inscription on the front of the top tier with water or edible glue.
10.Decorate the cot blanket with the small pink roses and green leaves. Decorate the cot pillow with the white rose and green leaf. Place the mattress in the cot, cover with the cot blanket and place the cot pillow at the top end of the cot.
11.Secure the assembled cot to the top of the cake with royal icing.
FMM FLUFFY CLOUD PROJECT GUIDE - 1
EQUIPMENT REQUIRED: FMM Fluffy Clouds, FMM Essential Shapes Tappits, FMM Chunky Funky, FMM Smoother, FMM Blossom Set of 3 & Ejector, FMM Flute & Vein Tool, FMM Knife & Scriber Tool, Non Stick Mat & Non Stick Rolling Pin, Red, Yellow, Pink, Green (couple of different shades), Purple, Orange, Blue, Brown & White Modeling Paste, Water & Paintbrush, Rainbow Dust Edible Pen - Black
CAKE: 1 Tier Cake and Board Covered in Light Blue Fondant
HINTS & TIPS
- Always read the project sheet in full before starting your cake!
- To make your own modelling paste, add a little tylo to your fondant.
- Allow your modelling paste shapes to sit and firm up for a short time before attaching to your cake.
- If your modelling paste is sticking to your tools or mat use your FMM Dab-a-Dust.
1. Cut out various cloud shapes in different shades of green. Cut all the bottoms of the clouds so they have a flat edge with the FMM Knife and Scriber Tool. Place 2 on the work mat. Overlap cloud 2 on cloud 1. Place the cutter for cloud 2 over the top of cloud 2 and cut in to cloud 1 below it. Remove any excess paste. Cloud 1 will now fit neatly in to cloud 2 like a jigsaw puzzle. Continue this with the clouds until there is enough to cover the bottom tier of the cake in shrubs. Attach them to the cake with water.
2. Cut out 1 white cloud using cloud cutter number 4 and attach with water on the front centre of the cake to make a sheep.
3. Cut out a large oval shape using the Essential Shapes Tappits with black modelling paste and attach to the sheep’s body. Cut out 2 of the smallest oval shapes with the Essential Shapes Tappit and attach to the sheep’s head with water for eyes. Roll 2 small balls of paste and attach with water on top of the eyes to make pupils. Roll 2 small pieces of black modeling paste for legs and 2 more for the sheeps ears. Attach with water.
4. Cut out 2 green clouds using cloud cutter number 4. Attach them to the cake with water halfway up your cake.
5. Make 2 tree stumps with brown modelling paste. Use the FMM Knife & Scriber tool to emboss the tree trunks. Attach to the cake with water.
6. Cut out clouds in the shapes of your choice with white modeling paste and attach to the cake with water.
7. Cut out 2 cloud shapes number 5 with white modeling paste and allow to dry overnight.
8. Cut out flower blossoms in various colours and attach to the cake with water. Roll small balls of white paste and place in the centre of the flowers.
9. Roll a thin sausage of red, yellow, pink, green, purple, orange and blue modeling paste. Make them all equal thickness. I always start to roll the sausage with my hand then use my FMM Smoother to achieve an even and smooth finish on my rolls of paste.
10. Curve the red modelling paste sausage in a semi-circle shape. Wet the inside edge with a little water then attach the yellow sausage of modelling paste. Wet the inside then add the next colour and continue until all the rainbow colours have been used. Cut both ends so they are nice and even and allow to dry overnight.
11. Once the rainbow is dry it will stand up. Make 2 small cubes of light blue paste and attach with water to the top of your cake to support the rainbow. Attach the rainbow to the cubes of paste with water then attach the 2 white dry clouds in front at the bottom of each end again using water.
12. Cut out an inscription for the cake with the FMM Chunky Funky font tappits in the colour of your choice and attach to the cake with water.
13. Draw 3 small v shapes on the cake with an edible pen to represent birds.

domain: artistic


Who would have thought boatbuilding would involve so much math?
I was reading Glen L. Witt’s Boatbuilding With Plywood and realized what should have been obvious to me: The waterline of a boat is calculated beforehand. I guess it makes sense that boatbuilders don’t guesstimate their designs only to drop their boats into the water and see what happens. On top of that, many of the handling characteristics of a boat are built into the design, including balance.
With our cabin shifted back from the center, this would shift the balance toward the back. Add to that the weight of the motor and fuel and we have a potential problem. So far, I’ve been assuming symmetrical bow and stern as many barge boats feature, but in order to increase buoyancy in back and shift the center of buoyancy forward, I can reduce the rake in back to get more of the hull in the water there. This explains some of the barge boat that did feature a smaller stern rake. How would I go about calculating that? That is something I will have to think about.
But as an interesting exercise, I can calculate the waterline height as a function of the rake angles, length and width of the boat, and overall loaded weight of the boat.
I had to go back to my algebra and trigonometry reference books to look up how tangent and the quadratic equation worked. The last equation gives us the waterline height hw as a function of
w = overall width/beam l = overall length h = height from bottom to deck (or to the top of the rake) Θb = angle of bow rake Θs = angle of stern rake Vw = volume at waterline (= the weight of the displacement of loaded boat)
Simply put, the total volume of water displaced is equal to the sum of the water displaced by the bow, stern, and center. The volume of each of these can be calculated geometrically as a function of our unknown, the height of the waterline.
We then solve for the unknown and get an equation in a quadratic form (the forth one from the bottom). So we use the quadradic equation (which I’ve always hated) to solve for hw.
Taking our equation for a spin
Let’s say the total weight of the boat plus gear plus people plus 25% safety margin is 7000 lbs. Then the calculated volume of the boat at the waterline is 193,846 cu in.
We’ll say the boat is 8 foot (96 inches) wide, the length is 20 foot (240 inches), and the height from the bottom to the deck is 2 feet (24 inches). The bow rake angle is 45° and the stern rake is a modest 10°.
So plugging in the numbers, and taking the plus-or-minus of the quadratic formula into account, I get:
hw = 370 inches or -9.28 inches
So either my boat will have a waterline 31 feet above the keel (that is to say, the boat will be underwater), or it will float 9 inches out of the water. No wonder I always dreaded the math part of a real-world problem.
Checking my math… ah I forgot a negative sign! New solutions:
hw = 9.28 inches or -370 inches
That’s much better. If we throw out the negative solution, we have a waterline 9 and a quarter inches above the keel. Cool.


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text:
Is this a bit more to your liking, Mharie? ;) I don't suppose you'd honestly believe that I'd forgotten entirely that I hadn't posted the final chapter until just now?
Warnings: Same as usual. A bit more heavy, direct innuendo, a bit more vampireism.
Settling and Changes. 3/3
The front door slammed open as Harry eagerly whirled inside. "Charlie!" he cried "God, Charlie! You have to—!" The exclamations prompted Charlie to step out of the kitchen – which he did just in time for Harry to run into him and propel them both to the ground.
"Ugh," Charlie groaned. His back and shoulders took the brunt of the fall and for a moment it felt like he couldn't breathe. But Harry was on top of him and he was saying something but Charlie couldn't really hear what as the words all jumbled together. Bemused, he brought his hands up and rested them lightly on Harry's hips. "Harry?"
The words stopped temporarily as Harry blinked. Harry shook his head, green eyes sparkling. There was a large utterly proud and ridiculous grin on his face. "They want me on the team," he whispered, voice hoarse and husky. "The team, Charlie: England wants me on their national team!" He leaned down, close enough for his hair to tickle Charlie's face. Charlie was by now grinning just as widely as Harry. "Can you believe it? Me, on the team, with all those—"
"—Talented, professional players?" Charlie cut in cheekily. His eyes danced with an inner light. Harry laughed and nodded, so Charlie went on, "Players like you?"
"I…I never thought… You know? I mean, I came here to try and make a living for myself, and now," Harry whispered, not quite sure what he wanted to convey to Charlie. Charlie seemed to understand, though, because his smile toned down a bit and the hands on his hips began rubbing in small circles. Harry found that to be incredibly soothing. "I'm Pansy Potter who keeps falling off the broom during team practice–"
"–and catches the Snitch more times than any other English Seeker currently about, whose Wronski Feint is inhuman and bloody impossible to copy? Whose agility and instinctual, innate ability to fly is out of this world, whose intuition is borderline psychic," Charlie impishly continued, his tone of voice leaving no room for argument but at the same time completely earnest. "You deserve it, Harry. Congratulations," he said seriously.
The lump that formed in his throat at the sudden seriousness in his friend threw Harry off a bit. "Thank you," he answered, not really knowing what else to say. "I guess I just always thought of myself as one of the team. Just another Seeker, you know? But…this…this means I'm like Krum, doesn't it?"
"It does, doesn't it?" Charlie's grip on Harry's hips tightened and Harry unconsciously wet his lips. "Youngest in a century, wasn't that it?"
Harry nodded, his fingers – that he only just now realised were clenched tightly around fistfuls of Charlie's loose, worn cardigan – slowly loosened their grip. His hands moved up, then, almost on their own towards a new destination: Charlie's hair. He began tugging gently at the rough and silky hair almost unconsciously. "Mmmm. Oliver was ecstatic that your replacement was so…adequate."
"You were more than 'adequate'."
"I was eleven; I can't have been."
"Well, either way, you are now." Harry nodded a little. His eyes flickered from Charlie's eyes to Charlie's chapped lips and he was at once uncomfortably aware of how close they were, how Charlie's breath ghosted against his lips and how strong and pleasantly warm the grip Charlie had of his hips was.
"This is okay, right? This…it's okay, isn't it?" Harry mumbled, dimly aware that he leaned even closer. One hand tightened its grip further while Charlie's other came up the grip his neck.
"…define 'this', Harry…"
He'd slept in Charlie's bed before – of course he had! – but not like this. Never like this. Never naked, never with their legs tangled, never woken slowly, hazy and sated and smiling. Never wriggled closer to breathe in the smell of Charlie's neck or leisurely stroked his hand up and down the broad, freckled chest. Never had those muscled arms come up to wrap around him and tug him closer. Never had sleepy, warm kisses pressed to the side of his face and neck.
Never felt so incredibly warm and wanted ever before in all his life.
"Mmmm," Harry mumbled as he pressed himself closer, mouth curling into a smile.
Harry stretched out on a garden chair. His toes burrowed in the lush grass and he wiggled them. The warm sun beat down on his face and Harry couldn't help but smile; he had missed the Burrow. Perhaps not as much as last time – not with the way his and Charlie's relationship had progressed and blossomed – but the Burrow was home in a sense Hogwarts had never been. The Burrow was friendly Weasleys, playfulness and mothering.
Harry stirred lazily and cracked an eye open to glance at Ginny. "Mmm?" Then he blinked and hurriedly stood up, a smile on his face. "Congratulations on Graduating, Ginny." He gave her a friendly hug.
Ginny hesitantly returned it, and then they stepped apart. "Thank you, Harry."
"How did your N.E.W.T.s go?"
"Okay, I think." She shrugged. "Listen, Harry–" The opening of the backdoor interrupted her and they both turned around to see a young man with fair brown hair wearing a neat robe step outside.
Whoever it was, he seemed torn between awe and jealousy as he headed straight for her and grabbed her hand. Harry frowned, and then he pursed his lips. He couldn't be jealous – he shared a bed with her brother, but…he felt something twist in his chest at the sight of someone else holding her hand. He tried to shake the feeling but wasn't altogether successful as his voice came out somewhat subdued as he said, "Why don't you introduce us, Ginny?"
"Sure," Her tone of voice matched his perfectly. "Harry, this is Randolph Burrow–"
"–Ran," he cut in. Ginny shot him a glare before continuing,
"–my boyfriend. Ran, this is Harry."
"Hi." Harry summoned a shaky smile and held out a hand. "Nice to meet you."
Ran narrowed his eyes and slowly reached out to shake his hand at about the same time as Ron and the Twins burst out of the Burrow's back door.
"The English National team?!" someone, probably Ron, exclaimed.
Harry grinned, his unease forgotten in a flash. "Oh, yes."
"Bloody hell, mate!"
Ginny gaped, eyes widening. "Merlin, Harry!"
"It's bloody unbelievable, isn't it?"
Harry stuck his tongue out as Charlie laughed at him. "Not that funny, mate," he muttered petulantly. "She was brandishing a spatula! She didn't even do that when I said I was going to Romania…"
Charlie chuckled, fingers gently tucking Harry's errant hair behind an ear. "Quidditch is dangerous. More and more the higher up you get, and being on that level is about as high up as you can get."
Harry nodded. His face heated slowly at the gentle sensation of fingers in his hair, so near his ear, and he knew he was probably looking horribly in love and stupid, by the way he was grinning. But being like this with Charlie, intimate and caring… It was still so new and caused a delirious rush within him that he never tired of. Besides, the light that danced in Charlie's eyes told of similar feelings. It made Harry feel strangely warm and deliriously happy all at once. "She gave me a hug, too. Once she calmed down a bit." Harry splayed a hand on Charlie's chest and pressed his fingertips down.
"Didn't smack you over the head, then?"
Harry burst out laughing. "She didn't!?"
Charlie shrugged, once. "Dragons are dangerous."
"True," Harry agreed and leaned up slightly from the pillows about the same time as Charlie turned his head. Harry sighed as that mouth, those lips touched his own…so warm, so–
"Why am I not even surprised?"
Charlie pulled his head back and winked at his brother, who had just come in through the door. "Because we went through such an ordeal being subtle, most likely, Billy."
Harry flopped down on the bed and blinked at the ceiling. "…please tell me we weren't that obvious… Do you know how much fun I made of Ron and Hermione for dancing around each other like that?"
"They danced for six years. That's–"
"Neither here, nor there," Bill said, smirking faintly. "When you tell Mum, I want to be there. As your oldest brother, that's my right."
"…Mrs Weasley?" Harry said weakly. "But–"
"She's my mum."
"But she just brandished a spatula at me!"
Stretching out on the grass, eyes closed and arms crossed under his head, Harry relaxed and allowed his mind to wander. It mostly strayed to Charlie and Harry felt himself smiling unconsciously every time as he remembered details, little, inconsequential details. How his hair felt: how it stuck out worse than Harry's own at odd angles in the mornings. How his lips were sort of chapped and rough, but how he still was the most gentle, softest kisser… How he still ruffled Harry's hair, as if he were a younger, troublesome brother, but one Charlie felt extremely affectionate towards and, well, attracted to and not very much like a brother at all. How they had the greatest time, fooling around and being all silly and playful, and how it didn't feel strained or like a serious relationship at all, even though it was. Serious, that is, because Harry had never quite felt this way about another person before.
He had been fond of Ginny, yes, cared for her and liked her and even now he couldn't deny that there was a residual jealousy towards her boyfriend, but…Charlie, Charlie made fire erupt in his stomach and coil outwards, heating his body, making his ears turn red and cause him to smile that stupid daft smile, eyes love-struck and bright. Harry knew, because Charlie looked like that when he looked at Harry, too, sometimes.
And the sex was really great.
"–so what do you think?"
Oh yes, Harry grinned, the sex was really, really great. So what if there was an age difference of eight years? Charlie made him feel hot and wanted and experienced.Charlie said Harry made him feel hot and wanted and young. Harry thought that was kind of stupid, because Charlie wasn't old at all.
Someone yelled, "Harry!" and Harry started, flying up from the grass to sit in an upright position, eyes wide.
Hermione rolled her eyes but she was smiling. "Harry, Ron asked if you would consider dating Lavender."
Harry frowned. "Lavender?"
"Brown? She was in our year–"
"No." Harry shook his head. "No, I don't feel like it." He frowned slightly. "I don't really like dating…too awkward and orchestrated…"
"…then why were you grinning like your greatest dream had just come true?"
Harry blinked. "I was?"
"Oh. Well. I was just thinking about tomorrow." Harry grinned as Ron and Hermione both looked confused. "First practice with the National Team. Big Day."
Charlie didn't really spend much time at his cottage Harry realised halfway through September. Most of the days in the week he spent with his dragons and on the weekends… Sometimes he'd come and stay with Harry, who had by then moved in, or he'd Apparate over and bring Harry with him back. So what had once been Charlie's cottage, very briefly theirs, was now primarily Harry's. He wasn't sure he liked it and he also suddenly understood the Doctor and his apprehension as yet another one of his Keepers were on the verge of falling in love. Love did strange things to people, humans and Vampires alike. It was, Harry mused, a thoroughly unpredictable force.
"Charlie…" Harry slowly trailed a finger down Charlie's naked chest. He tried to find a pattern in the freckles but found himself incapable of doing so. Charlie grunted. "I…did you know the Doctor asked me not to take you away from him?"
Charlie stilled in a very disconcerting way, Harry thought. "Harry," he began, but Harry tapped him lightly on his chest.
"Wait, okay?" Harry frowned. "I…this is my first relationship, you know? I don't really count me and Ginny…we were too young and I was too caught up with other things, and, but…I guess when I told your boss that I'd never do that – make you choose…I was a bit naive. I had a major crush on you, back then. I didn't really know what I was agreeing to, and lately…I don't know, Charlie. A Dragon Keeper is what you are."
"What are you saying, Harry?" Charlie's voice was oddly subdued and he was lying very still.
Harry shrugged slowly, biting his lip. "I honestly don't know."
"This is one of my longer relationships, did you know? I never really get my hopes up because most of the people I've been with expect me to change for them and when I don't…they move on."
The fact that their relationship hadn't even lasted for that long yet made Charlie's statement even more wrong and depressing. Harry bit his lip. "I guess I can see that," he said cautiously. "In a way, I think that's it."
"Harry?" Charlie whispered.
"I don't see you enough. Sometimes it feels like we saw each other more before we started to have sex, you know?"
Charlie laughed a little at that and Harry smiled. He finally dared to relax when a familiar, welcome hand found its way to his hair. "Probably because we didn't know what we'd miss, Dragonfly."
Harry nodded slowly. "Probably," he repeated. Then, "I'm not housewife material, Charlie. I don't think I'll be able to wait around like this forever."
"I'm not asking you to."
"But you love me, right?" Harry hated how insecure his voice came out. Hated how he still was so starved for affection and love. Warmth. Wanting a family. Belonging somewhere; he reckoned he did that with Charlie.
"Yes, Harry, I do. Too much, probably."
Harry swallowed thickly and nodded. "Yeah, me too, I guess."
Outside, the snow was thick, covering the mountainside and the peaks, making it bright despite the darkness of December.
Inside, Harry was bent over the cooker, trying to assemble a fancy dinner worthy of a Weasley dinner party and Charlie's birthday. Charlie was helpful enough to lay the table and clean the cottage, but as far as actual cooking went he was a right disaster. Oh, he knew the basics and he could keep himself fed and properly sustained, but…fancy creations and dishes more complicated than pasta? Not so much.
Everyone had eaten and were well into drinks and the dessert, strawberry shortcake, when Ron ambled into the room, a slight frown on his face. "Harry, mate?"
"Why's your broom in the closet?"
Harry shrugged. There was an earnest, if a fair bit confused, look on his face as he licked his spoon clean. "Where else would it be?"
"No, that's not what I meant." Ron shook his head and slowly sat back down. "I mean, why isn't it at your place?"
"Yes," Hermione piped in, "and why did you cook?"
"Well, Charlie's pants at it and this place is ideal for flying…" and I live here, Harry mentally continued, exchanging a quick glance with Charlie. Fleur was looking absolutely delighted and Bill was chuckling quietly to himself. Harry frowned briefly at them before dismissing them entirely.
"I bought this pan for you." Hermione reached across the table and tapped the pan in question. The pan that had held a stir-fry at one point during the evening but was now empty. Harry realised that they really should have cleared the table.
Harry blinked. "Oh. Um. Charlie's is unable to function properly. And I needed two, anyway." He cringed almost immediately after he said it; it was such a horribly obvious and dysfunctional lie. Charlie's pan was, after all, sitting next to Harry's on the table.
"Harry," Charlie said and raised his eyebrows. Harry pursed his lips, but nodded even as he slumped down on his chair. "Okay?"
"Fine." Harry fingered the spoon in his hand as he shifted to sit straighter again. "Truth is…truth is I live here. I moved in, awhile ago. In… August?"
"Aug–but that's four months ago! Harry–"
"I didn't think it'd matter, all right? I mean, I play Quidditch – why does it matter where I live?" Bill made a choking kind of noise. Charlie helpfully thumped him on the back. Harry swallowed. Right, he knew, didn't he? "All right, there, Bill?"
Concerned, Mrs Weasley put down her spoon. "But, Harry dear, surely you don't sleep on the couch?"
"No, Mrs Weasley," Harry said quietly. He squirmed slightly and suddenly felt very uncomfortable. He felt cornered. This wasn't how they had planned it. This wasn't how they wanted everyone to find out. Truth to be told, though, they hadn't actually discussed it at all, but Harry had a hard time figuring out worse ways for someone to come out as a couple, and this certainly wasn't how he wanted it to come out!
Being exposed by accidental, circumstantial evidence and lousy bad luck.
"Charlie," Harry said and stood, leaning over the table. "I think now would be a good time."
Harry shook his head, mouth set and eyes narrowed. "I don't want it this way! I want to at least have chosen it." Even if there wasn't much choice left by now. "Um. Well, it's…Mr and Mrs Weasley, I, uh… Charlie?"
"We're dating," Charlie blurted casually, his ears characteristically bright Weasley-red. "That's why he's living here–"
"Come, now, Molly, dear–"
"No, Arthur," Mrs Weasley snapped. Harry sank down on his chair again. He studiously refused to meet anyone's eye. His face was just a fraction too pale, and he resorted to biting his lip. "Of all the irresponsible–!" she spluttered. "Harry is just a child!" Harry flinched. "You should know better, Charlie!"
"He's not a child, Mum."
"I'm not sure I ever was," Harry muttered quietly. "If anyone feels like it, there's some mulled wine and gingerbread cookies…" He bit his lip and then stood up again. He mumbled something about needing the loo before he fled the room.
Harry slowed slightly, then squared his shoulders and rushed on, up the stairs and through the bedroom. He only paused long enough to put on the old shoes by the balcony door before stepping out on the snow covered balcony. The snow was thick and deep and his feet sank down completely.
Fleur, evidently much more versed in the magical world, simply brandished her wand and preformed a simple Heating Charm on the patio. The snow was efficiently vaporised and the chilled stone temporarily heated. 'Arry?"
"No, you are not. You are upset, correct?"
Harry shrugged stiffly, leaning heavily on the railing. "I didn't want it to come out like this. I wanted to tell you all on my own terms…maybe in the summer at the Burrow when it didn't matter… Not a little over a week before Christmas… Charlie and I hadn't even talked about it, y'know?"
Harry shook his head, voice devoid of emotions. "No. You and Bill dated for a year before you told anyone, didn't you?"
"Yes," Fleur admitted with a gentle smile. "But our relationship was…not so good, always. 'E distrusted my Veela in'eritance, and zat was complicating."
"Bill thought you were Charming him?" Fleur nodded, her smile changing into something akin to dry amusement and Harry at once got the feeling that there were Incidents and that they were Humorous. Harry flushed slowly as something else occurred to him, something about Veelas and charms and attraction. "Does sexual orientation…?" Harry trailed off.
Oui, Harry mouthed, blinking slowly. "…I never liked you that much. Not like Ron."
"Yes, 'Arry." Fleur nodded amiably. "Which eez why I liked you very much. 'Arry, Molly and Arthur are very 'onourable and–"
"I know." Harry pursed his lips. He breathed out heavily. "I just wasn't prepared; I think that's why I'm overreacting. I fancied that I had at least until summer to familiarise myself with Charlie, living here and…being in a…relationship. You know?" Fleur nodded, her pale arms wrapped round herself.
"Eet eez cold, 'Arry. Can we go back inside?"
"You go. Wait," Harry added just as she turned to do just that, "the purple box under the bed, it's for Bill, from Charlie. He said it was…appropriate given the current conditions?" To Harry's surprise Fleur's pale face reddened somewhat and a hand, most likely on its own, came to rest on her abdomen. Harry shook his head and bit his lip, sort of smiling. "I won't tell, but you should take the box."
At that, Fleur raised an eyebrow and placed her hands firmly on her hips. "'Arry?" she said demandingly.
Harry titled his head to the side, confused. "Oh! Congratulations, Fleur." And he hugged her warmly. "Guess I'm…happy for you?"
"Merci beaucoup," Fleur acknowledged with a slight bow and a gentle smile.
"Zat eez 'zank you very much' in French."
"Oh." Harry grinned and then hissed something that came out garbled and thick and incomprehensible. "That's 'you're welcome' in Parseltongue."
Fleur rolled her eyes and muttered something in French under her breath.
Harry cautiously stepped back inside the kitchen behind Fleur. "Um. All right?" he asked. Charlie nodded slightly and waved him over. "Charlie?"
"Let's do this properly." He stood up and placed a hand on Harry's shoulder. "Mum, Dad." He looked directly at them. Mr and Mrs Weasley both stared back at him and Harry had to quell an irrational urge to squirm. "This is my boyfriend, Harry, and we have been together since…" Charlie trailed off, his forehead crinkling as he thought. Harry looked away. He frowned and his lips moved soundlessly as he tried to figure it out, too.
"Honestly," Hermione muttered, rolling her eyes. Mrs Weasley shot her a sharp, reprimanding glare.
"…April?" Charlie eventually ventured.
Harry shook his head, making an impatient noise in the back of his throat. "May, I think."
Charlie nodded. "Right. We have been together since…May– you know, that doesn't feel right, Harry."
"Yeah…" Harry frowned. "Ron, when did I make the English team?"
Ron blinked. "Um. First of June, I think. Why, mate?"
Harry grinned. "No reason."
Charlie cleared his throat, then continued, "So, we've been together since the first of June–" the twins, along with Ron and Ginny, groaned while Hermione made an exasperated sound. Bill chuckled. Mr Weasley held a hand over his mouth and Mrs Weasley smiled encouragingly. Charlie glared petulantly and Harry crossed his arms. "–since the first of June…what am I doing?"
"You're doing it properly."
"Right." Charlie flashed Harry a brief smile and Harry returned it with a small one of his own. "Harry and I have been together since the first of June. Do you welcome him to the family as my boyfriend and friend?"
Mr Weasley nodded and Mrs Weasley smiled, her eyes suspiciously wet. "Of course we do, dear!"
"Yeah, mate," Ron muttered, "because it isn't like you've been part of the family since you were eleven…"
It was yet another night. Yet another lonely night spent in solitude… Harry really, really didn't like it. Charlie, he knew, kept busy all day long – flying and tending to whatever dragons that happened to be nearby, helping the newly hatched ones get their bearings straight and so on… But Harry, Harry had Quidditch four days a week: Wednesdays and the weekends off. The rest of the time dragged by, slowly
It was like he was new to Romania all over again, only this time he had tasted the Apple of Knowledge and knew exactly what he was missing out on.
"This isn't working," he said as Charlie Apparated inside the kitchen. Harry was leaning against the cooker and his arms were crossed over his chest.
Charlie's face fell. Then he just nodded and looked oddly resigned. Harry abruptly realised that the man had most likely come back far too many times, hearing those words – in different shapes but with the same meaning – to last him a lifetime.
"When you're here–" Harry had long stopped referring to the cottage as 'home' for Charlie, "–it's great."
"Better," Charlie muttered. Harry nodded.
"So you see what the problem is, then?"
"I'm never here."
Harry smiled slightly. "But you are. I…I'm a decent cook, you know? And I don't have Quidditch all days of the week. I've been thinking, you see, and if the Doctor'd integrate me–" Harry never got to finish his sentence as Charlie tackled him to the floor, kissing him senseless and tugging at his clothes.
"Oh, God in Heaven," Harry panted, clutching at his chest weakly, face red and he felt utterly sated. "Fucking love you, Charlie, fucking love you…"
"This is most unusual," the Doctor murmured, but he was smiling very slightly. Harry took that as a good sign.
Harry bit his lip and nodded. "I realise that. But is it possible? I mean, I'd help out, of course, and I obviously know how to fly. I'd stay with Charlie, and I could cook? I kinda like dragons, too, I guess, I just haven't really…studied them."
"The lifestyle of a Dragon Keeper is hardly glamourous."
Harry shrugged. "Living in a cupboard's not that brilliant either. I don't mind; I never have. Being happy, having a home, a family…that's all I ever wanted, and now I have Charlie, and…I don't want to lose him."
"Then we feel the same way, young Harry." Harry had to bite his lips hard to tone down the large grin that otherwise threatened to split his face. Because if that hadn't been the largest 'yes' then Harry didn't know what was. The Doctor took his hand and slowly brought it to his mouth. Harry blinked, but didn't say anything as he had grown used to the almost arrogant behaviour the Doctor displayed and therefore he barely started when one finger was pulled into a warm mouth, then bitten, only so that the Doctor could squeeze out a few drops of his blood on a round, smooth stone. Harry felt a bit confused as to where it had come from: if the Doctor had had it in his hand all along of it he had wordlessly Summoned it. "This is the Calling Device. It will alert you when we move, and when you want to find us, you focus on this stone and you will be pulled in. It is a very safe technique but as it requires the use of blood—"
"—mostly not in use, right?"
"Indeed." The Doctor smiled.
It also reminded Harry uncomfortably of Voldemort and his Dark Mark. Harry swiftly pushed that thought aside with a slight shake of his head. He raised his head and met the dark eyes of the vampire. The smile he summoned was small, but heartfelt. The smile that the Doctor returned Harry's with was shockingly, but perhaps not, similar.
"Thank you," he murmured, and then he impulsively hugged the Doctor. As he began to pull back, however, he found himself held firmly in position.
"Now," the vampire murmured, "if you do not mind, my Harry, I find myself slightly…hungry."
"Eh." Harry froze and swallowed deeply. "You…eat on your…employees?"
"Of course." Harry found it very unjust of the man to run his hand through Harry's hair like that. "With consent, naturally. It simplifies matters greatly. May I, young Harry?"
Biting his lip, Harry nodded slightly. "Has Charlie—?"
"There have been a few occasions, yes."
"Okay, then. Doesn't hurt, does it?"
"I have bitten you before."
It was almost as if he were drunk – the way his legs wobbled and felt highly unsteady. Harry stumbled inside Charlie's tent and promptly fell over the man's outstretched legs and landed face first on the soft carpet. "Ughh," he groaned and didn't bother getting up. The ground was deliriously comfortable and itwas mostly still when he was lying down on it.
"Fuck, Harry," Charlie cursed. "You startled–are you drunk?"
"Nooo," he groaned. Harry rolled over on his back and arched his head back. He languidly waved a hand and pointed at the band–aid. "Bastard bit me! See? That wicked–"
"Endorphins, I see," Charlie muttered. Harry chuckled quietly and held out his arms, beckoning him to come closer. "Dare I?"
Harry nodded slowly as a lazy – seductive – grin slowly formed on his face. "Horny as fuck," he said. He lifted his hips a bit for emphasis and all at once, Charlie was very aware of Harry's…excitement. "See?"
"Oh, yes," Charlie murmured, already on his feet, and then he was kneeling over Harry. "I see. Very clearly." He brought a hand down and palmed the erection and Harry gasped. "I'll fix it–"
"Damn right you will," Harry muttered as he grabbed Charlie by his thick hair. He pulled Charlie down and kissed him. It was a slow and unhurried kiss that belied the aroused state Harry appeared to be in. "With that hot mouth of yours," Harry continued as if he hadn't stopped to kiss Charlie at all. Charlie grinned. Harry frowned. "What?" Disgruntled.
Charlie shook his head. "Nothing. You're hot," was all he murmured. Then they kissed again.
And, THE END!
Fun, wasn't it?

domain: literature


text:
Next Episode of Jane Eyre (1983) is
not planed. TV Show was canceled.
Based on the gothic novel by Charlotte Bronte, Jane Eyre is the story of a governess in Victorian England who after a series of trials and adventures discovers true love with her one-time employer, Edward Rochester.
Looks like something went completely wrong!
But don't worry - it can happen to the best of us,
- and it just happened to you.
Please try again later or contact us.

domain: entertainment


text:
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) says one in three Syrian children have been exposed to war since birth, as the conflict enters its sixth year.
On Monday, UNICEF said in a report that millions of young children in Syria have known nothing since birth but war and have either been forced from their homes, lost parents, or forced to work.
“Every Syrian child under the age of five has known nothing but a lifetime shaped by war – that’s an estimated 2.9 million children inside Syria and at least 811,000 in neighboring countries,” the UN agency said.
According to the report, more than 200,000 children live in areas under siege inside Syria. It also said about 2.1 million kids living inside the country and some 700,000 in neighboring countries were currently out of school.
UNICEF’s regional director for Middle East and North Africa Peter Salama warned that nearly seven million children in Syria were living in poverty as a result of being caught up in the foreign-backed militancy.
“As the war continues, children are fighting an adult war, they are continuing to drop out of school, and many are forced into labor, while girls are marrying early,” Salama added.
Syria has been gripped by conflict since March 2011. According to a report published in February by the Syrian Center for Policy Research, the conflict has claimed the lives of over 470,000 people, injured 1.9 million others, and displaced nearly half of the country’s pre-war population of about 23 million within or beyond its borders.
Editor's note: This article has been edited from the source material

domain: politics


text:
We sought to investigate the peripheral nerve excitability property of early diabetic neuropathy (DN) and provide a logical hypothesis regarding the pathophysiology of subclinical/early stage of DN. The automated nerve excitability test (NET) utilizing the threshold tracking technique (TTT) was performed to measure multiple excitability indices in 30 early DN and 30 normal subjects. Early DN was defined as N0 or N1 stage of Dyck's staging method. The protocols calculated strength-duration time constant (SDTC) from duration-charge curve, parameters of threshold electrotonus (TE) and current-threshold relationship (CTR) from sequential sub-threshold current, and recovery cycle (RC) from double supra-threshold stimulation. Each parameter of test was co-analyzed with clinical and laboratory data including age, sex, BMI, HgbA1c, lipid profile, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Compared to normal or N0 groups, N1 group had 'fanning-in' phenomenon in TE, increased refractory period, and decreased supernormality/subnormality. Linear regression showed that parameters associated with vascular factor were significantly related with STDC: absolute TG values were positively associated with STDC, whereas eGFR values were inversely related with STDC. Nerve excitability can be altered even in the early mild DN. The pattern of alteration suggests depolarizing nerve or nerve ischemia in pathophysiology of subclinical/early DN.
Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

domain: health


text:
History of Latvia between 1919 - 1940
The idea of an independent Latvia became a reality at the beginning of the 20th century. The course of World War I activated the idea of independence. World War I directly involved Latvians and Latvian territory. Latvian riflemen (latviešu strēlnieki) fought on the Russian side during this war, and earned recognition for their bravery far into Europe. During the Russian Civil War (1917–1922), Latvians fought on both sides with a significant group (known as Latvian red riflemen) supporting the Bolsheviks. In the autumn of 1919 the red Latvian division participated in a major battle against the "white" anti-bolshevik army headed by the Russian general Anton Denikin.
Latvia was ostensibly included within the proposed Baltic German-led United Baltic Duchy, but this attempt collapsed after the defeat of the German Empire in November 1918. The post-war confusion was a suitable opportunity for the development of an independent nation. Latvia proclaimed independence shortly after the end of World War I – on November 18, 1918 which is now the Independence Day in Latvia.
A series of conflicts within the territory of Latvia during 1918–1920 is commonly known as the Latvian War of Independence. In December 1918 Soviet Russia invaded the new republic and rapidly conquered almost all the territory of Latvia, Riga itself was captured by the Soviet Army on 4 April 1919, with the exception of a small territory near Liepāja. The Latvian Socialist Soviet Republic was proclaimed on 17 December 1918 with the political, economic, and military backing of the Bolshevik government of Soviet Russia. On March 3, 1919 German and Latvian forces commenced a counterattack against the forces of Soviet Latvia. On 22 May 1919 Riga was recaptured. In June 1919 collisions started between the Baltische Landeswehr on one side and the Estonian 3rd division on the other. The 3rd division defeated the German forces in the Battle of Wenden on June 23. An armistice was signed at Strazdumuiža, under the terms of which the Germans had to leave Latvia. However the German forces instead of leaving, were incorporated into the West Russian Volunteer Army. On October 5 it commenced an offensive on Riga taking the west bank of the Daugava River but on November 11 was defeated by Latvian forces and by the end of the month, driven from Latvia. On January 3, 1920 the united Latvian and Polish forces launched an attack on the Soviet army in Latgalia and took Daugavpils. By the end of January they reached the ethnographic border of Latvia. On August 11, 1920 according to the Latvian–Soviet Peace Treaty ("Treaty of Riga") Soviet Russia relinquished authority over the Latvian nation and claims to Latvian territory "once and for all times".
The international community (United Kingdom, France, Belgium, Italy and Japan) recognized Latvia's independence on January 26, 1921, and the recognition from many other countries followed soon. In this year Latvia also became a member of the League of Nations (September 22, 1921).
In April 1920 elections to the Constituent assembly were held. In May 1922 the Constitution of Latvia and in June the new Law on Elections were passed, opening the way to electing the parliament- Saeima. At Constituent Assembly, the law on the land reform was passed, which expropriated the manor lands. Landowners were left with 50 hectares each and their land was distributed to the landless peasants without cost. In 1897, 61.2% of the rural population had been landless; by 1936, that percentage had been reduced to 18%. The extent of cultivated land surpassed the pre-war level already in 1923.
Because of the world economic crisis there was a growing dissatisfaction among the population at the beginning of the 1930s. In Riga on May 15, 1934, Prime Minister Kārlis Ulmanis, one of the fathers of Latvian independence, took power by a bloodless coup d'état: the activities of the parliament (the Saeima) and all the political parties were suspended.
Rapid economic growth took place in the second half of 1930s, due to which Latvia reached one of the highest living standards in Europe. Because of improving living standards in Latvian society, there was no serious opposition to the authoritarian rule of the Prime Minister Kārlis Ulmanis and no possibility of it arising.
References: WikipediaPrevious historical period: Part of the Russian Empire (1722-1918) | Next historical period: World War II (1941-1944)
Kristiansten Fortress was built to protect the city against attack from the east. Construction was finished in 1685. General Johan Caspar von Cicignon, who was chief inspector of kuks fortifications, was responsible for the new town plan of Trondheim after the great fire of 18 April 1681. He also made the plans for the construction of Kristiansten Fortress.
The fortress was built during the period from 1682 to 1684 and strengthened to a complete defence fortification in 1691 by building an advanced post Kristiandsands bastion in the east and in 1695 with the now vanished Møllenberg skanse by the river Nidelven. These fortifications were encircled by a continuous palisade and thereby connected to the fortified city. In 1750 the fortress was modernized with new bastions and casemates to protect against mortar artillery.

domain: history


text:
Cost of Living in Lebanon
Last updated on Apr 01, 2023
Summary: The cost of living in Lebanon is generally considered to be high. A nice 1 bedroom apartment in Lebanon can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,500 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost anywhere from $800 to $2,500 per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Lebanon is usually around $20 per person.
Is the cost of living in Lebanon high?
We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Lebanon, they wrote:
"The cost of living in Lebanon is generally considered to be high, especially in the capital city of Beirut. Prices for basic necessities such as food, housing, and transportation can be expensive, and the cost of living can vary significantly depending on the area. In addition, the cost of utilities, such as electricity and water, can be quite high. Despite the high cost of living, Lebanon is still a popular destination for tourists and expats due to its rich culture and history," said one expat in Lebanon.
Will I save money living in Lebanon?
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
- Lebanon Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Lebanon
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Lebanon
- Best Places to Live in Lebanon
- Guide to Real Estate in Lebanon
- Pros & Cons of Living in Lebanon
- Cost of Living in Lebanon
- Pros and Cons of Living in Lebanon 2024

domain: travel


text:
Jackie Kennedy's Secret Life
Through recently released tapes and new interviews, PEOPLE reveals a Jackie Kennedy the public never knew
In the three-plus decades that she appeared on the world stage, former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy captivated the country’s imagination. But little personal information was known about the fiercely private widow of President John F. Kennedy.
PEOPLE has learned intimate details about Kennedy’s life through interviews with her confidants. They come on the heels of recently released tapes – seven interviews a bereaved Jackie gave historian Arthur Schlesinger Jr., four months after she was widowed.
These interviews “were hard for her to do. But she felt it was important,” says her former Secret Security agent, Clint Hill.
Her friend John Perry Barlow also talks about what an accomplished flirt she was: “It was the best I’d ever seen because it was based on genuine interest.”
Her feminine wiles were even used to charm diplomats to the “advantage of the American people,” adds Hill, who also discusses why Jackie married Aristotle Onassis, in 1968.
For more on the newly released Kennedy tapes and her life from the people closest to her, pick up this week’s issue of PEOPLE, on newsstands Friday
• Reporting by LIZ McNEIL and SHARON COTLIAR

domain: celebrity


Blumlein requires the use of two Bi-Directional Microphones placed at a 90º angle. Bi-Directional microphones capture the signal in front of them and behind so the room ambience plays a significant factor in the sound. Most microphones have a setting that looks like a figure “8” and can be switched easily into this mode. As you can see by the above image it takes a bit of setup to get the capsules of the microphones as close to one another as possible without having them touch. The next step is getting the 90º angle to face the sound source.
In this case the microphones were moderately close to the acoustic guitar player and the 90º angle was pointing at the highest fret of the guitar which was just past the sound hole. The outcome was a wide and clear signal that could accommodate most recordings for general acoustic guitar tracking. This worked well because the signal was within a small and somewhat quiet room. I found that the signal could be routed in stereo or mono and still work well in most mix situations.
2. One Large Diaphragm Condenser Close Mic
This placement used a single Large Diaphragm Condenser facing the area between the soundhole and the top of the fretboard. The microphone was switched into the Cardioid polar pattern setting to reduce any room ambience from behind the microphone. Cardioid focus the microphone to only retain signals from mostly in front of the microphone. This setting is much more narrow in comparison to a stereo configuration and would be perfect for double-tracking purposes where the player would strum two different performances of the same chord progression and pan them hard left and hard right. By nature the microphone is very sensitive and picks up much of the low end of the acoustic giving it a thick and chunky sound. This caveat makes it the perfect candidate for Acoustic Guitar driven music where the acoustic guitar upholds much of the harmony for track.


text:
Sideboard or bedside lamp
Very nice side table lamp and shade, base is hard plastic clear .Nice neat clean shade creamy white, basket weave pattern $10 Dee
Beautiful Glass Table Lamp Like New
Beautiful Table / Bedside Lamp like new in very good condition bought this year. In working order with globe. Its a pretty modern design with white shade and clear look will look great in any room in the house. Please call / text me for more details. Yasmin
Faux Brown Leather with White Stitching LAMP BASES x 2 $60
Faux Brown Leather with White Stitching LAMP BASES x 2 $60 for both Leather look Lamp bases in great used condition, look great on bedside tables, lounge room or office. Brown with white stitching. 35cm tall. No shades. Small scuff on one of them. Pick up Long Jetty, Erina, Gosford
We found 18 additional ads in surrounding suburbs.Click here to see all results
Bretnall Bedside Lampshades x 2 Lamp
Beautiful Bretnall bedside table lamps x 2 including exra light bulbs in box. Condition is used but excellent. Gives perfect mood lighting. 68cm tall. Pick up only, from Turramurra NSW. Price dropped from $150 to $120 :)
I have two matching bedside/table lamps in excellent condition. Base is dark stained raffia and shades are oblong and a light brown tone. Base is 24cm wide and length is 37 cm Shades are 23cm x 47cm wide Total length is 62 cm. $80 for both. Pickup only please.
Two Stylish Bedside or Table Lamps
Add a little romance to your bedroom or ........ These stylish lamps would make wonderful bedside lamps. Measure aprox. 42 cm H / shade W 35 cm / base W 20 cm. They are in near new condition, no chips or marks. If you want more images or have any questions please just ask. Thank you for your interest.
2 marble and brass table or bedside lamps
Pair of beautiful vintage lamps for sale . Marble square base, brass stand and cream silk shades. 670 mm high. In very good used condition, and in working order. $100 for both lamps.
BEDSIDE TABLE LAMP
Beautiful table lamp, unique design in perfect condition. Buy 1 for $80 or 2 for $150.
Bedside table lamp
Red lip bedside table lamp
Bedside table lamp
Set of two bedside table lamp
Art Deco Reproduction Lamp
Pretty Art Deco bedside/table lamp. Metal base has a bronze effect with its on/off switch conveniently on it's cord. An attractive soft gold/cream effect from it's glass shade and beading. Overall height is 45cm.
LAMP, BEDSIDE OR LOUNGE LAMP
RETRO LAMP, TABLE OR BEDSIDE, GLASS SHADE WITH SOLID COPPER LOOK BASE, HEAVY, EXCELLENT CONDITION, WORKS WELL, $15, PICK UP ONLY, PLEASE PHONE OR SMS OR EMAIL ANYTIME, CHERRYBROOK
white crystal lamp
white crystal lamp table lamp bedside

domain: design


Foster parents group to host Fall Dinner Dance
The Foster Parents Association of Hernando County will host the annual Fall Dinner Dance from 6 to 10 p.m. Oct. 2 at Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10209, 14736 Edward R. Noll Drive.
The event includes a buffet dinner, live band and DJ, prizes and raffle baskets. Candy bags will be given to the children. Music will be provided by Lee Morrison's Able Sacrifice and DJ Dwayne.
Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for ages 4-12. For tickets or information, call Linda Hoins at (352) 754-0377.
Your opinion sought on water limits in district
The Southwest Florida Water Management District is seeking public input on draft 2011 Minimum Flows and Levels Priority List and Schedule, which will determine the order of minimum flows and levels for lakes, rivers, streams and aquifers in the district.
A meeting will be at 6 p.m. Oct. 4 at the district headquarters at 2379 Broad St., south of Brooksville. The meeting will also be conducted simultaneously at the Bartow Service Office, and again at 6 p.m. Oct. 5 at the district's Tampa and Sarasota service offices.
A minimum flow or level is the limit at which further water withdrawals will cause significant harm to the water resources and/or environment. These limits are set by Swiftmud's Governing Board.
The Minimum Flows and Levels Priority List and Schedule for 2010 is available on the website at watermatters.org/projects/mfl/. The draft 2011 list will be made available online following the Governing Board's meeting on Tuesday.
Written comments can be submitted no later than Oct. 15 by mail or e-mail to Marty Kelly, the minimum flows and levels program director, at 2379 Broad St., Brooksville, FL 34604-6899 or [email protected]
For information, call Barbara Matrone toll-free at 1-800-423-1476, ext. 4233, or Marty Kelly at ext. 4235.
Seats available for local Tea Party seminars
Seats are available for "Government Gone Wild: The Tea Party Edition … Government is Broke(n)" seminars that will be presented at several locations. All seminars start at 7 p.m., with doors opening at 6:15 p.m.
•Thursday, Word of Life auditorium, 13247 Word of Life Drive.
•Tuesday, Heritage Pines clubhouse, 11524 Scenic Hills Blvd., off County Line Road.
• Oct. 6, Spartan Manor, 6121 Massachusetts Ave., New Port Richey.
Spearheaded by Hernando County Republican chairman Blaise Ingoglia, the seminar will include information about the federal deficit and national debt.
There is no cost to attend, but seating is limited and reservations are required. No walk-ins allowed. Register online to attend at governmentgonewild.org or call (727) 753-8219.
4-H club taking orders for annual apple sale
The Hernando County 4-H Kaleidoscope Kids are taking orders for the club's annual apple fundraiser.
Those interested can order a half bushel for $18 or a bushel for $32. A bushel is approximately 86 apples. There will be two apples available: Crispin, a hybrid green/yellow apple that is a cross between Golden Delicious and a Japanese apple (a multipurpose apple); and Empire, a hybrid red apple that is a cross between a Red Delicious and a Macintosh (slightly tarter than Crispin).
The apples will be picked, packaged and delivered to the Hernando County Cooperative Extension Service, with a tentative arrival date of Oct. 28. Apples must be picked up that day between 3 and 4 p.m. at the extension office, 1653 Blaise Drive, Brooksville, or between 4:30 and 5:30 p.m. at the Hernando County Government Center parking lot.
Orders must be placed by Sept. 30. All checks are to be made payable to the Kaleidoscope 4-H Club. Call Nancy Moores at (352) 754-4433.
Third Summit for Youth planned for Sept. 30
The Greater Hernando County Chamber of Commerce Education Committee and the Hernando County Education Foundation have announced plans for the third annual Summit for Youth from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sept. 30 at Faith Presbyterian Church, 200 Mount Fair Ave.
Seating is limited to the first 300 people who send an e-mail to [email protected] by Tuesday. There is no cost for the event, but a $7 fee will be charged for those who reserve a spot and don't show up or call to cancel by Monday.
The keynote speaker will be children's advocate Jack Levine, founder of 4Generations Institute and president of Advocacy Resources. Levine served as president of Voices for Florida's Children for 25 years.
Topics to be addressed include the graduation rate, teen pregnancy, substance use/abuse, sexual and domestic violence, gangs, child abuse and neglect, childhood obesity, mentoring, transition/work force, development, and media influence.
The forum will provide a networking opportunity for businesses, schools, social service providers, faith-based organizations, governmental agencies and interested community members.
For information or sponsorship opportunities, contact Tracy Echols at (352) 277-3322 or send e-mail to [email protected]


The third-largest private-sector bank in India seeks a Customer Service solution to match its rapid growth.
A Bank wanted to find a set of solutions (potentially, a chatbot) for handling its growing volume of customer service inquiries driven by double-digit customer growth year-over-year. In particular, an approach more scalable than the traditional alternative of hiring additional customer service personnel.
“[How] could we eliminate the friction between customers and us? [How] could we give faster and much more accurate responses than existing processes? We needed to reduce email volumes and find a cheaper, more sustainable system of customer support”-Head of Digital Banking and Customer Experience
What is a Chatbot and how does it do the job?
Derived from “chat robot”, a chatbot is a computer program that conducts conversations with users via text (or sometimes voice) that is increasingly enabled by machine learning and artificial intelligence. Chatbots have gained traction in several industries and contexts, with customer service a prime application. Yet questions remain about how nascent technology may impact customer service levels, business results, workflows and business processes, employees and the workforce, and the broader industries.
Here’s how Abacus was able to help.
“If we are taking humans, giving them scripts, and making them behave like machines, script after script, then let’s actually have intelligent machines answer queries in the first place!”
Using Abacus’ AI Virtual Assistant, or Chatbot, the bank was able to streamline its customer service process in a cost-effective way without sacrificing quality. Since its initial launch with the bank, Abacus has released updates with new features and improved algorithm performance twice a month to improve Customer Service for the bank.


With the Amazon Product Advertising Python SDK created by Yoav Aviram, developers can interact with the API data features of accessing Amazon product selection, leveraging Amazon product capabilities, and monetizing a website. The repository features an object oriented interface to Amazon products, support to item and item lookup, and compatibility with Google Engine.
Smaato has been at the in-app advertising game for years now. However, the industry has advanced so much in the last few years, that updating its existing SDKs wasn't good enough to support the current environment. Accordingly, Smaato has completely rebuilt its in-app advertising Smaato SDK.
With the mobile app business rapidly growing and with digital content and digital superstores now being a major player in content distribution, so analytics data needs to shift accordingly. Having tools that enable developers and customers to better understand detailed user demographics and how people are actually using their mobile apps can only mean better business decisions, and of course, better revenue. Enter mobile app analytics service, App Annie; a sophisticated tool that tracks an app's metrics and provides accurate App Store market data. The App Annie public API adds even more convenience for App Annie Analytics customers by providing them with access to their account data and reports.


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Could we imagine creating a new surface for the earth? Second Land makes use of simple natural materials like saplings and reeds, drawn locally from the riverside lands and agricultural fields of the Domaine and woven together with massed arrays of liquid-carrying vessels. Workshop participants at the Domaine worked together to construct an interwoven hybrid membrane which covers the land and creates shelter, hoping to discover renewed qualities of fertility. The workshop was preceded by the demonstration of pattern-books and open geometries from the Living Architecture Systems Group and the Hylozoic Series, setting the precedent for common form-languages to emerge.
Domaine de Boisbuchet is a French country estate where Alexander von Vegesack, co-founder and director of the Vitra Design Museum from 1988 to 2011, established a non-profit center for design education. For the past twenty years, the Domaine de Boisbuchet has hosted workshops on design and related disciplines conducted by internationally acclaimed experts and organized design seminars and competitions.
Anais Le Grand
Chung Po Lin