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SERVICES AND BENEFITS FOR HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATIONS
The services and benefits provided by the “California Association of Homeowners Associations” are numerous and extensive. With a consulting fee, the California Association of Homeowners Associations Inc. will review many of your association’s records and documents and make suggestions and recommendations. Upon request we will review your rules and regulations, budget pro forma, reserve study, minutes of meetings, financial reports (not an audit), collection policy and annual disclosure report. We will make recommendations and suggestions as appropriate and provide you with free consulting on specific matters.
These benefits not with standing, strength in unity is the most important function this organization provides community associations. Homeowners united and working together now have a voice in their associations, communities, and cities and in Sacramento. The strength of our combined associations is now being used to our financial advantage while providing solutions to the day to day issues and problems that confront us.
The purpose of the California Association of Homeowners Associations is to provide Community Associations, Condominiums and Common Interest Developments,’ Boards of Directors and homeowners with complete, comprehensive and professional information pertaining to this industry. We are assisting Boards of Directors with information and solutions to their problems which they may not be able to provide for themselves. The “California Association of Homeowners Associations” has been organized to strengthen the real estate investment of our members, establish distinguished professional standards and codes of ethics dedicated to: “Strength In Unity, and the Value and Enjoyment of Property”, and provide a “Standard of Professionalism” for Homeowners Associations, Management Companies and Boards of Directors.
The needs of “Community Associations” are unique: cost of insurance, utilities, maintenance and other budget items continue to increase. In recent years this has resulted in a substantial increase in association dues. Dues go up, costs go up, but for many associations, reserves are not able to keep up with the demand and in the meantime, our community associations continue to get older which in turn requires more maintenance and additional costs and the cycle continues. Conversely, many homeowners such as, those on fixed incomes, first time buyers and homeowners concerned with selling their units are interested in keeping dues as low as possible.
How We Can Help You
The California Association of Homeowners Associations provides homeowners with many additional benefits and services for its members. Community Associations’ needs are evaluated on a daily basis. With members throughout California contacting us and through our comprehensive research, we have gathered a vast wealth of information. We are the foundation for collecting important community association information and a resource for providing solutions to association’s problems. We distribute our information freely to all associations, homeowners, property managers, local governments and to anyone that may have a need for it. Our Internet Web Site is hit an average of 18,000 times a day. Many e-mails and phone calls are received daily. Board members and homeowners now have a place to discuss their problems and seek answers to their questions. The industry is changing and by providing appropriate information and keeping Boards of Directors and homeowners informed, we are playing a significant part in the direction it is headed. When appropriate, accurate information is provided to those that need it, the industry benefits, property values increase and homeowners can enjoy their homes. Our services continue to expand and the benefits we provide, in addition to those mentioned above, include but are not limited to the following:
COST SAVINGS THROUGH STRENGTH IN NUMBERS AND UNITY
Community Associations can realize substantial savings by using the strength of our vast numbers to obtain group purchasing rates. Insurance for example, one of the most expensive budget line items has been examined and reviewed for content. Suggestions have been made to the insurance companies outlining ways by which the insurance may be less expensive but not sacrifice important coverage.
When associations combine their strength and knowledge, costs for attorneys and other professionals can be greatly reduced or perhaps, in certain cases, eliminated.
Selected vendors, with a proven record of service, who are bonded, insured, and licensed are being registered with the California Association to provide services at group volume rates throughout California. There are many functions performed by vendors that are common to most Homeowner Associations where savings can easily be realized. cost savings for items such as roofing, painting, security fences, gates, intercom systems, plumbers, electricians, contractors, security patrol, billing for dues accounting & finance, tree trimming and landscaping etc.

domain: finance


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V. Evaluation of Cross-Immunity against Type 1 Dengue Fever in Human Subjects Convalescent from Subclinical Natural Japanese Encephalitis Virus Infection and Vaccinated with 17D Strain Yellow Fever Vaccine
This issue of the British Medical Bulletin illustrates in a convincing manner the wide scope of modern epidemiology in the study of current medical problems. The topics covered range from such common conditions as hypertension and chronic respiratory disease to such rare diseases as congenital esophageal atresia. It covers studies concerned with functional psychoses and the development of intelligence as well as the more somatic disorders, and extends the scope of epidemiology beyond the study of disease and its causes to the study of the various aspects of health services including screening procedures and the unwanted effects of medications.
In each case, given the limited space and time available to cover a wide area, the authors have wisely decided not to attempt any encyclopedic or superficial treatment of the subject but rather to concentrate on the areas of controversy and current uncertainty. The results are a series of well written concise condensations of the points of current interest in each field.

domain: library


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U.S. and Allies Bring Rare Earth Materials Case to WTO
Mar 16, 2012
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President Obama announced this week that the United States, along with Japan and some European nations, would bring a trade case accusing China of artificially controlling the export of rare earth minerals. The materials are used extensively in a number of electronics devices.
The President said China's rules are intended to restrict exports. "They go against the very rules that China agreed to follow," Obama said. The administration filed the trade case on Tuesday with the World Trade Organization.
"China's restrictions on rare earths and other products violate international trade rules and must be removed. These measures hurt our producers and consumers in the EU and across the world, including manufacturers of pioneering hi-tech and 'green' business applications," said Commissioner Karel De Gucht of the European Commission. "Despite the clear ruling of the WTO in our first dispute on raw materials, China has made no attempt to remove the other export restrictions. This leaves us no choice but to challenge China's export regime again to ensure fair access for our businesses to these materials."
The move broad a positive response from U.S. trade groups, such as the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA).
"CEA today welcomes the Obama Administration's announcement that it will challenge China at the WTO," said CEA President and CEO Gary Shapiro. "If China wants to be a world player in trade, it needs to behave like one. For far too long our member companies, particularly small companies manufacturing here in the United States have been bearing the cost burden of China's unfair practices. We welcome this move and the goal of diversifying the sources of these important minerals used in consumer electronics products."
Back to Breaking News

domain: politics


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What’s the deal with Trikala? This city in Thessaly is visited by local authorities, students and business people from all over Europe for a glimpse into how new technologies promote sustainable development and urban mobility.
It is considered one of the fastest developing cities in Greece, is already headquarters to several large businesses (mostly related to agriculture and stock breeding) and aims to attract companies dealing with innovation and new technologies so that they incorporate the ancient god Asklepios and the idea of wellness into their DNA.
The city is also very clean, orderly and spacious, conveying a feeling of calm and safety to visitors from the start.
Musical traditions, art groups, local products and gastronomy are integral parts of Trikala’s identity, forming an appealing combination. Yet how much has the quality of life changed from the times of the legendary Asklepios, who was, according to tradition, born here, compared to the present day? One possible answer could be that the quality of life is being updated in a significant and profound way because, in the heart of smart sensors, driverless buses, sustainable development and ecological agriculture, there is always man.
People here are cheerful, polite, welcoming, and living in harmony with their surroundings. It could be argued that the people of Trikala are its most powerful marketing tool.
Life flows like water
Walking through the center, everything seems to be friendly, both towards locals and visitors alike. Spacious pedestrian streets facilitate the movement of people on foot and on bicycles; in fact, the bicycle is an important means of transportation, with large parks offering cultural events and opportunities for sports. Special walking, running and cycling routes are combined with renovated hotels, modern hospitality services and a rich gastronomic scene in a city that has not been abandoned by its youth. On the contrary, they keep it fresh and lively.
Trikala is also home to a wealth of history. Ancient Trikke was the birthplace of god Asklepios, which is why its Asklepion – a sanctuary of worship and health treatments – was particularly famous. Sections of it survive today, on the main Stefanou Sarafi avenue.
To the south of the ancient city flows Lithaios, a tributary of the Pineios River, and mythological son of Lithis. A total of four rivers flow through the modern city, but Lithaios is the undoubted protagonist. Images of the river and its ten bridges connecting the two banks, and the tall plane trees creating playful shadows in the water below are romantic picture postcard scenes.
The river itself, and its verdant vegetation, is a vital breath of fresh air and greenery in the city. The youth sit and chat the day away on the small wooden deck, from where you can rent small boats for a ride on the river, while couples admire the view and the city’s dogs enjoy walking and playing on the grass. The everyday quality of life is a reference point in this urban routine, where the word “good” always meets “living.”
The central bridge built in 1886 by French engineers is the most beautiful. A trademark of the city, it connects Asklipiou Street (the largest commercial road) with the central square of Iroon Polytechniou. Crossing the bridge heading north, we enter the traditional Varousi settlement and the Manavika, an area featuring tavernas and ouzeries, while moving south brings us to the more modern, urban part of the city, where you will find a plethora of shops, the town hall, cafes, schools and conservatories.
NORTH: A CITY WITHIN THE CITY
The hill of Profitis Ilias, with the chapel dating from 1896, is ideal for walking and sports. A brief bicycle ride will offer impressive views of the city, of the imposing rocks of nearby Meteora, and the Gate and Loggaki.
Heading downhill from the chapel, there are many dirt paths to choose from and test your strength. We followed Alexandros, our guide from Trekking Hellas Western Thessaly (tel. 24310-87964), who guided us to Varousi, to the base of the Byzantine Castle. This is the only traditional settlement in Thessaly located inside a city, and its picturesque side streets evoke the feeling of a bygone era. Several of the old houses have been restored and re-inhabited, and are wonderful examples of local architecture. For instance, we visited the home of Giorgos Klidonopoulos, president of the Varousi Cultural Association who invited us to his beautiful house, which boasts impressive lilac hues on the inside and outside walls.
Cycling the settlement’s side streets near Agioi Anargyroi we come across the steps leading to the Byzantine Castle, where we visit the Clock Tower to admire endless views on the Thessalian plains.
We return our bicycles and are ready to appease our hunger at Manavika – the city’s former vegetable market that today is filled with various tavernas and ouzeries. In Agias Eirinis square we “encounter” Tsitsanis playing the bouzouki in his balcony. Of course, we are referring to the famous wall painting adorning this narrow street, the attraction of the neighborhood.
Another local celebrity is the dish itself, sausage and leek – try it at any of the restaurants here. We were impressed by the sautéed pork with leek that we tried at “Katogi,” a well-known spot for the city’s gourmands.
SOUTH: CENTURIES OF HISTORY IN ONE SPOT
Kursum Mosque, or the Osman Sah Mosque, dates from 1566-67 and is a characteristic example of Ottoman architecture, the only work by the great Turkish architect Sinan Pasha (1490 – 1588) in Greece. A protected UNESCO World Heritage Site, its impressive 22-meter dome enchants visitors, as no supporting columns are visible from the inside.
South of the mosque is located the Osman Sah Mausoleum and as you walk towards the city center, you come across the Church of Agios Konstantinos and the Twin Ottoman Baths, which features separate entrances for men and women. It was restored in 2006, as it was buried under the additions that were constructed in 1893 to house the old city prisons. These interventions led to the destruction of the impressive domes and many architectural and decorative details, such as the fountains, and some of the galleries.
The Kursum Mosque, the Twin Ottoman Baths and the Byzantine Castle operate everyday 09.00-15.00, free entry, Tel. (+30) 24310.76647.
On the second floor that was built to house the prison cells, you will find the Tsitsanis Museum dedicated to the great musician (temporarily closed due to maintenance works).
The musical tradition of Trikala will take you by surprise. The city boasts five conservatories, two music colleges, one music school, a Philharmonic, and the famous Trikala Choir established by female conductor Terpsihori Papastefanou. Tsitsanis, Kaldaros, Dirvos, Samoladas, Christos Kolokotronis, and Mitropanos have all been connected to the city and its history.
Stelios Karageorgios, artistic director of the Tsitsanis Museum, explains that after the liberation in 1881, the well-off Greeks from central Europe settled here and offered a musical education to all the residents of the city.
The museum hosts an experiential exhibition that explores the life and musical development of Tsitsanis. Be sure to pay it a visit, but first confirm when it will be open to the public again.
Tsitsanis Museum: Tel. (+30) 24310.77977
Walking in the footsteps of Asklepios
For a brief excursion beyond the city of Trikala, exploring in the footsteps of the god Asklepios, be sure to visit Gorgogyri (19km away). According to historical sources, the footpath next to Kefalopotamos river represents the route followed by the ancient god of medicine to collect herbs. There is relevant signage at the beginning of the footpath, though we are accompanied by historian Konstantina Dakoula and wood sculptor Angelos Patsiatzis, who have founded a Social Cooperative Enterprise that aims to showcase the footpath with tours and to ensure its protection.
The first section (1.5 km) is easy and accessible – you will come across four waterfalls and natural pools. The rest of the way to the top requires special equipment, as there is a steep incline and it can get very slippery at times. On route, you will come across chamomile, linden tea, oregano and thyme-oregano, the natural growing tea, wild daisies and roses, madder, Christmas rose, pilewort and lemon balm.
Take note that ten water mills also operate in Gorgogyri, offering clearing services for carpets from all over Greece.
As you leave Gorgogyri, stop at Prodromos village to stock up on sausages from Koutelidas.
Koutelidas: Tel. (+30) 6977.984054.
Glasses filled with tsipouro
Located in Paxa Trikalon, a visit to the Tsilili winery should not be missed in October, the month of tsipouro. It first operated as a distillery in 1989 and, being the first to procure a bottling licence, its geographical provenance was guaranteed: tsipouro from Thessaly.
The winery was added in 1994 and the main vineyards are in the area of Theopetra in Meteora. The company was also the first to offer aged tsipouro: Agioneri (brief ageing) and Dark Cave (aged for at least 5 years in oak barrels). You may also try single variety distillates from whole grapes, featuring intense aromas.
Tsilili winery: Tel. (+30) 24310.85885.
Matsopoulos Mill: Industrial Heritage
A four-story stone structure, the Matsopoulos Mill is one of the most important industrial landmarks in the Balkan area, constructed in 1886 and in operation until 1994. It was bequeathed to the city by its owner, Ioannis Matsopoulos, who was not from Trikala but wanted to be a benefactor to the city in which he lived. Visitors have the opportunity to tour the interior and see the original machines, offering a glimpse into the industrial production process of flour at the end of the 19th century.
The smaller structures in the surrounding area host a theater, cinema, and workshops. During the Christmas season it is transformed into “The Mill of the Elves” and hosts seasonal cultural activities organized by the Municipality of Trikala, attracting visitors from all over Greece.
Tel. (+30) 24310.20000/20090, mylosmatsopoulou.gr.
The Mill is open for visits everyday, 09.00-15.00. Because they are currently conducting works to set up the Mill of the Elves for Christmas, be sure to telephone in advance to confirm the opening hours.
Trikala is located 334 kilometers north of Athens* (3 hours 45 minutes). For fuel and tolls estimate about 70 euros one way. Thessaloniki is 213 kilometers from Trikala (2.5 hours), with the cost of fuel and tolls amounting to 40 euros one way.
* For those coming from the south, follow the Lamia-Karditsa road and enter the Xiniada-Trikala route via the circular intersection at the 24th kilometer.
Trikala River House: (Vironos 2, tel. 24310-32532, theriverhouse.gr). Modern, with light decor, discreet service, views of the river, and on-site parking. It offers breakfast at the Panellinion Hotel (24310-73545), also owned by the Georgiou family, in Riga Feraiou square. Double room with breakfast starting from 60 euros.
Lithaion Hotel: (Othonos 16 and Garibaldi, Tel. (+30) 24310.20690. Fully renovated, next to the river. Double room with breakfast starting from 60 euros.
Gallery Art Hotel: Tel. (+30) 24310.63990, galleryarthotel.gr. Located a few minutes from the city center, with an emphasis on artistic decor. Double room with breakfast starting from 80 euros.
FOOD – DRINK
The day begins with specialty coffee at Retous (Tel. (+30) 24310.63888), operating in the space of a former photoshop. For brunch or light lunches, the place to be is IVY (Kapodistriou 18A, Tel. (+30) 24316.00847), a modern environment that resembles a garden. In a similar vein, Vesper (Karanasiou 9, Tel. (+30) 24313.04291) is housed in a beautiful stone building.
For more traditional flavours head to the Manavika area, where they serve local meats in generous portions at Palia Istoria (Tel. (+30) 24310.77627). At Katogi (Tel. (+30) 24310.20150) try the sautéed pork and leek, grilled meats, local cheese, and tomato goat stew. Picnic (Tel. (+30) 24316.00753) offers quality street food such as burgers prepared with fresh local produce, while Klimataria (Tel. (+30) 24311.01576) is a meze taverna which also offers live music.
Continue with a cocktail at Tankoo (Stefanou Sarafi 6) housed in the premises of the former hammam baths. Last stop at Birologos (Apollonos Shopping Center, Tel. (+30) 24311.01918). A simple atmosphere with tables that resemble desks, here you will enjoy a variety of beers from all over the world as you listen to rock music.
Trikala is known for its meats, its cheeses and its desserts. The butcher shops look like boutiques: tasteful and clean, they appeal to your senses and make you hungry. The market operates daily and has much to offer: local producers sell their produce on organised stalls under quaint awnings. Every area has its grocery stores.
At Zarogianni (Miaouli 16, Tel. (+30) 24310.39659) you will find homemade PDO kaseri cheese (made with milk from Karagouniki breed goats) as well as select products from Greek producers depending on the season – they pay much attention to quality of their food here, everyday. Products that stand out include, Barda peanut butter, Meteora mushrooms, and Bakali honey.
Source select galotyri, anevato and feta cheese from Papia (Tel. (+30) 24310.29363), as well as spoon sweets by Vasiliki in Mesohora.
Finally, you cannot leave Trikala without some halva. You must try the halva at Boulogiorgos (Asklipiou 62 tel. 24310-70112), Gounari (Pylis 74, Tel. (+30) 24310.34991) and Voutselas (Kondyli 65, Tel. (+30) 24310.24351). For something more contemporary but also local, try a piece of spatula (walnut cake with creme patisserie) at Pallas (Vironos 4, Tel. (+30) 24310.26914).

domain: geography


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C1-C4 VALORIZATION IN MEMBRANE REACTORS
Light olefins (propylene and butadiene) and aromatics (benzene, toluene and xylene, known as BTX) are considered as main building blocks in the petrochemical industry, is the feedstock for the production of polymers, commodities and speciality chemicals for daily use.
They were traditionally produced as a by-product in fluid catalytic cracking and steam cracking, but the low selectivity towards the desired olefins and aromatics, in contrast with their continuous growing demand, together with the rising in oil price, is driving the petrochemical industry to find alternative and more attractive solutions for their production. In this contest, C1 to C4 light hydrocarbons emerge as promising raw materials for the production of the corresponding olefins and BTX, through alternative on-purpose technologies, which are the direct dehydrogenation of propane and butane, and the direct aromatization of propane. The BIZEOLCAT project is focused on the improvement of these processes, involving innovative catalysts synthesis methodologies and novel reactor design.
In fact, as a common feature of direct dehydrogenation and aromatization processes, reactions are highly endothermic, requiring high operating temperatures (550-600 °C) and low pressures (0.5-2 bar) to reach a quite high conversion; at these severe conditions, cracking side reactions are favoured, leading to coke formation and consequent catalyst deactivation, making the design of the reactor very challenging.
Existing industrial processes are indeed characterized by very low performance. An optimization possibility to improve those processes is represented by the membrane reactor technology, allowing the combination of reaction and separation in a single unit. In this way, it is possible to perform the dehydrogenation reaction, continuously removing hydrogen as a by-product to shift the thermodynamic equilibrium towards the desired products.
In particular, a fluidized bed membrane reactor, with Pd-based membranes for hydrogen separation, interconnected with a unit for the catalyst regeneration, resulting to be the main source of heat for the reaction itself, will be designed within the BIZEOLCAT project and included in the existing industrial processes under investigation.
Bifunctional Zeolite based Catalysts and Innovative process for Sustainable Hydrocarbon Transformation
Stay tuned! On 17th November 2020 h 12:30 Aitor Gual Gozalbo from Eurecat – Technology Centre of Catalonia will present Bizeolcat Project at the UNPRECEDENTEDVirtualForum organized by Fira Barcelona within SemanaDeLaCiencia 2020.
Bizeolcat will take part in the Tech Transfer Forum that aims to present innovative projects connecting companies with research groups and project funders.
The protagonists sectors are Sustainable construction, Food, Energy, Mobility since they make up the priority sectors of the Circular Economy Action Plan. All the projects are in an advanced phase so that companies, scientists and the community can carry out transfer.

domain: chemistry


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Dipping into your 401(k) plan is tantamount to journeying into the future, mugging your 65-year-old self, and then booking it back to present day life.
To put that in perspective, consider how much workers contribute to retirement plans on average: $175 billion per year. That means people put money in only take out nearly half that contribution later.
There's no question the recession dealt American households a heavy blow, and most workers say they dipped into retirement savings to cover costs like college tuition (constantly rising), their mortgages, credit card debt, and other emergency expenses.
Between 2004 and 2010, early withdrawals doubled from $30 billion to $60 billion, according to the report.
But at what cost?
"You might be cheating your future self," says Catherine Golladay, VP of 401(k) Participant Services at Charles Schwab. "While paying back a 401(k) loan, many people stop saving in their 401(k) plan, which can really derail retirement savings."
And don't forget about the fees. Workers under age 59 1/2 who dip into retirement funds must generally pay back their loan quickly, between 30 to 90 days in most cases. Otherwise, you could wind up paying income taxes on whatever you've taken out, along with a 10 percent early withdrawal penalty.
"Even though you’re borrowing from yourself, you still have to pay back the loan with interest—and with after-tax money, which then gets taxed again when you withdraw it at retirement," Golladay notes.
It's also worth noting that the groups most likely to borrow from their retirement accounts are low-income, middle-aged, and minority workers––arguably the people who can least afford it.

domain: economics


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Forex income boss scam and more tobin tax europea forex
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A Basic Result on the Superposition of Arrival Processes in Deterministic Networks
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Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN) and Deterministic Networking (DetNet) are emerging standards to enable deterministic, delay-critical communication in such networks. This naturally (re-)calls attention to the network calculus theory (NC), since a rich set of results for delay guarantee analysis have already been developed there. One could anticipate an immediate adoption of those existing network calculus results to TSN and DetNet. However, the fundamental difference between the traffic specification adopted in TSN and DetNet and those traffic models in NC makes this difficult, let alone that there is a long-standing open challenge in NC. To address them, this paper considers an arrival time function based max-plus NC traffic model. In particular, for the former, the mapping between the TSN / DetNet and the NC traffic model is proved. For the latter, the superposition property of the arrival time function based NC traffic model is found and proved. Appealingly, the proved superposition property shows a clear analogy with that of a well-known counterpart traffic model in NC. These results help make an important step towards the development of a system theory for delay guarantee analysis of TSN / DetNet networks.


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Nichols Quotes for Screenwriters
In the weeks since the demise of American icon Mike Nichols, I’ve been poring over the man’s pronouncements on page and screen, and have come up with some key quotations which – while not originally directed at screenwriters – contain valuable insights for those of us involved in the filmic storytelling game.
“I’ve always been impressed by the fact that upon entering a room full of people, you find them saying one thing, doing another, and wishing they were doing a third. The words are secondary and the secrets are primary. That’s what interests me most.”
- 1965 interview in The National Observer
Succinctly and quickly Nichols directs us to the heart of what makes a story compelling here, suggesting that in any given scene, conflict is immediately inherent if you look to human nature. There’s the voice we use to present ourselves to others, the actions that betray our truer nature, and the hidden desires that motivate us, often unconsciously. Put this tri-level truism to work when you put your characters in a scene, and you’re good to go from the get.
“Improvisation teaches you what a scene is made of — you know, what needs to happen. See, I think the audience asks the question, ‘Why are you telling me this?’ And improvisation teaches you that you MUST answer it. There must be a specific answer. It also teaches you when the beginning is over and it’s time for the middle, and when you’ve had enough middle and it’s time already for the end. And those are all very useful things in directing.”
- 1968 interview by Nora Ephron
Nichols famously came into his own on stage doing routines, often improvised, with Elaine May, and here he reports on an essential truth he learned about scene construction: A scene can’t live, and sustain an audience’s interest, unless the “why,” the real reason for dramatizing a conflict is delivered, clearly and specifically. Consciously driving towards that why, often discovered in a first or second draft, is an imperative I wish more spec screenwriters would respect.
Improvisation had given Nichols another invaluable directorial impulse: “To damn well pick something that would happen in the scene—an Event.” As Nichols explains it, the Event in any scene subliminally seeks an agreement with the audience on the human experience. “While you’re expressing what happens, you’re also saying underneath, ‘Do we share this? Are you like me in any way? Oh, look, you are. You laughed!’ ” The building of this agreement through observation and detailed comic business was Nichols’s signature.
-- John Lahr in 2000 New Yorker Profile
In interview after interview, Nichols talked about “the event,” and with good reason. In the thickets of writing a draft, it’s easy to lose sight of a story’s core concern. What is it about? Sydney Pollack spoke of this as the “armature” of a project – the theme that everything else in the story must relate to. “Man defeats monster shark” may be the exterior event, but on a relatable, character-driven level, the core event of Jaws is “how a man finds the courage to face his deepest fear.” To ask of any story or scene, “what’s the real event I’m writing about?” is a worthwhile step for your writing process – a bracing, vital way to maintain your story’s focus.
“The big question, ‘To whom is this moment happening?’ is one of the most crucial questions. My favorite, my biggest question is, ‘What is this really like [when something happens]?’ – never mind the conventions. And I love asking that question of the scene and of the actors and of myself. But my private decision to make is: Whose moment is this? Whose experience is it?”
- Commentary to Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf DVD in conversation with Soderbergh
Deciding whose scene it is and then writing from that character's point of view may be one of the most underdeveloped craft techniques in the spec scripts one reads. Nichols was a master of conveying POV. In The Graduate, the sequence of Benjamin Braddock booking a hotel room for his first assignation with Mrs. Robinson is a textbook on conveying a character’s specific experience, beat by beat; Benjamin’s POV is evident in every moment. When you write a scene that addresses how a specific protagonist experiences the event, you’re forming an empathetic bond with your reader, and the importance of this can’t be underestimated.
“A movie's artistic success, success as an experience, depends on the power of the metaphor that is the central engine of the movie. If you have a powerful metaphor, if the audience knows why they're there, you can soar very high… The engine that is the metaphor is everything. It's in the story—it's as simple as that. The story either contains it or it doesn't.
…We do, as an audience, sense purpose. If there's a purpose inherent in a story, in the metaphor that is a given story, we do sense it and we can be tamed by it. An audience is a ruthless, heartless, and unruly monster, and if it doesn't sense purpose then get out of its way, because it's going to be difficult… What does [the story] mean to you, what does it really mean to you, what does it mean to you that you're not even aware of? How can you communicate on that level, of which you are not necessarily even aware or which you cannot necessarily articulate, to an audience?”
-- interview with Gavin Lambert in Film Comment, 1999
There’s not much I can add to the wisdom of this, and the entire interview it comes from is a fantastic read. Nichols is asking the necessary, most vital questions in storytelling here, and it behooves screenwriters to take the often painful time and effort that's necessary, to dig out the answers for themselves. Nichols spent a career plumbing the depths of the stories he told to bring up this kind of gold. That’s one reason why his best films have withstood the test of time and are likely to remain classics, when more flashy auteurist films have lost their initial allure.
It’s sad to no longer have Mike Nichols with us, but what he had to say can remain a screenwriter’s solace and inspiration.

domain: artistic


text:
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domain: entertainment


text:
HB2507, titled “religious services; essential services,” goes way beyond declaring religion an essential service in a pandemic (see the previous article in this series). It makes the practice of one’s religion an allowable defense in any civil or criminal case.
We already have a law that does this, ARS 41-1493 through ARS 41-1494 (FERA). The existing law prevents the government from burdening a person’s free exercise of religion unless there is a compelling government interest and the restriction is as narrow as possible. “Person” is defined to include organizations, so FERA already protects religious organizations as well.
However, the new bill removes the compelling government interest limit on religious freedom. In HB2507, religious freedom has almost no bounds; it is completely beyond the reach of government, with a few exceptions that are heinous crimes; and these exceptions were just added by a recent amendment.
None of our other civil rights are boundless. Freedom of speech is subject to time, place, and manner restrictions, and some speech is even criminalized, such as slander or incitement to riot. Freedom of the press does not exempt a reporter from giving up a confidential source when subpoenaed to testify before a grand jury because criminal justice is a compelling government interest. Freedom of association allows workers to form labor unions, but labor unions are regulated by the government. The Equal Protection clause is the basis for many anti-discrimination laws, limiting the freedom to discriminate in the workplace and in public accommodations. But if this bill passes, anyone whose discriminatory action is based on a sincerely held religious belief will be permitted to discriminate. In short, this bill makes the Free Exercise of Religion Clause superior to all other rights guaranteed by the Constitution.
The breadth of this bill–the number and variety of people and organizations it protects, the scope of governmental and even personal actions that are treated as religious discrimination, and the types of conduct that are protected in the name of religion–goes way beyond any laws or court opinions currently in existence.
Expansive definition of discrimination
Here some of the favors that are already granted to religious organizations under current law:
- Tax-exempt status
- Not having to renew that status annually whereas secular non-profit organizations do
- Clergy exempt from reporting child abuse or other crimes revealed in a confession
- Religious organizations/corporations are exempt from inspection of records and furnishing financial statements (e.g. to investigate fraud)
- Minors can consume alcohol in religious context
- Motor vehicles for large religious charitable organizations exempt from gross vehicle weight
- No regulation of the sale of cemetery plots owned by a church
- Religious hospitals can prohibit employees from telling patients about treatment options they don’t agree with
Under HB2507, these privileges would become rights. If the government tries to take them away, it would be considered discrimination against religion. Furthermore, it would become illegal for religious organizations like schools to be denied any funding or benefit given to their secular counterparts.
The Arizona Constitution contains this statement: “No public money or property shall be appropriated for or applied to any religious worship, exercise, or instruction, or to the support of any religious establishment.” (Art.2 Sec. 12.) HB2507 is in direct conflict with the Arizona Constitution in this matter and is bound to wind up in court.
Discrimination allowed under expansive definition of religious organization
Under HB2507, “Religious organization” does not only mean houses of worship but religious societies, corporations, educational institutions, clubs, and associations whether or not they are affiliated with any church. It also includes ministers and religious leaders, employees and volunteers. The Protestant Reformation breakaway from the Catholic Church in the 1500’s interpreted the Bible to say that every member of a church is a minister. Hence, all members of non-denominational evangelical churches would be granted privilege under HB2507.
This definition gives private corporations such as Hobby Lobby, small businesses such as Brush & Nib Studio (see the first article in this series), and any individual business owner the statutory right to discriminate against others if based on their religious beliefs.
All the progress that has been made with anti-discrimination laws beginning with the Civil Rights Act of 1964 goes out the window with this bill. If a white restaurant owner sincerely believes that God created the white race superior to all others, and created other races to serve white people, then he doesn’t have to serve black people in his restaurant. It’s Jim Crow all over again. This is not far-fetched–many Christian nationalists are white supremacists and anti-Semites. Furthermore, white supremacist ideology such as the justification of slavery and anti-semitism is rooted in religious belief.
Currently, discrimination in public accommodations is unlawful in Arizona:
41-1442. Discrimination in places of public accommodation; exceptions
A. Discrimination in places of public accommodation against any person because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin or ancestry is contrary to the policy of this state and shall be deemed unlawful.
B. No person, directly or indirectly, shall refuse to, withhold from or deny to any person, nor aid in or incite the refusal to deny or withhold, accommodations, advantages, facilities or privileges thereof because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin or ancestry, nor shall distinction be made with respect to any person based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin or ancestry in connection with the price or quality of any item, goods or services offered by or at any place of public accommodation.
HB2507 would grant legal immunities to broadly-defined religious institutions, allowing them to discriminate. In fact, it would become discriminatory to not allow them to discriminate. The bill says that it applies to all laws, rules, and regulations made prior to or after its enactment. It trumps existing laws. The recent amendment exempts only certain criminal conduct, not the violation of others’ rights. Any business could discriminate by claiming a violation of free exercise.
However, HB2507 also conflicts with the Arizona Constitution, and a statute cannot override the Constitution. It states:
No law shall be enacted granting to any citizen, class of citizens, or corporation other than municipal, privileges or immunities which, upon the same terms, shall not equally belong to all citizens or corporations. Arizona Constitution, Art. 2 Sec. 13.
Perfect toleration of religious sentiment shall be secured to every inhabitant of this state, and no inhabitant of this state shall ever be molested in person or property on account of his or her mode of religious worship, or lack of the same. Arizona Constitution Article 20 Sec. 1
HB2507 is likely unconstitutional for this and other reasons. All the secular organizations in Arizona should now be able to claim they are being discriminated against–they don’t get all these perks and protections–simply because they are not religious. That should put just about everyone in this state above the law.
Expansive definition of state action
The Free Exercise Clause, and other First Amendment rights as well, prohibit governments from infringing on the liberties guaranteed. That has generally meant laws enacted by legislatures and by executive branch rule makers such as boards, bureaus, agencies and the like. In HB2507, the definition is expanded to include a private person suing or attempting to enforce any law or regulation adopted by the state government. In all the history of civil rights law, it has never applied to private individuals, only government actions. This is a bold departure from any established law. A private person who has been harmed by a church or religious organization or business based on religious belief is prohibited from suing or seeking prosecution (with few exceptions). The free exercise of religion would become a defense in almost any civil or criminal lawsuit. This definition denies the victim the fundamental right of access to the courts for redress of grievances, and also violates the Victims’ Bill of Rights in the Arizona Constitution, which guarantees the victim’s right to seek justice. This definition is likely unconstitutional.
Free Exercise defense to lawsuits including prosecutions
There are very few defenses to criminal actions and they are clearly spelled out in the criminal code–entrapment, justification defenses such as self-defense and defense of others, duress, necessity, and some specific to certain crimes. HB2507 rather nonchalantly adds a new one–the crime was committed while acting under a sincerely held religious belief.
HB2507 was recently amended to list specific statutes for which it cannot be used as a defense in a civil or criminal action. They include homicide, sex offenses, assaults, kidnapping, and some others. Several House Republicans voted for it without the amendment. They either didn’t read it, or they were fine with protecting this type of conduct:
- Pastor Said He Was Sucking Demons Out of Men He Sexually Assaulted, Lawsuit Claims
- A priest, a sex addict and an exorcist: How a secret confession led to sex abuse claim against San Jose diocese
- Presbyterian minister’s accusers file lawsuit over oral sex exorcism allegations
- Priest who starred in ‘The Exorcist’ accused of sexually abusing student in the 1980s
- Priest accused of using exorcisms to sexually assault women
- Woman claims she was molested by Boston priest who used exorcism as ruse
Many articles have been written about the church culture of hiding abuse. Church leaders have power over their parishioners because they are seen as the closest to God, and they groom their entire congregations not to question them; the culture of the church says don’t talk to outsiders about this. For example,
Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you. (Hebrews 13:17 ESV)
Church leaders are still shielded by this bill for hiding abuse. Here are some of the articles:
- Southern Baptist Convention report on sex abuse shines a light on evangelical culture
- Her Evangelical Megachurch Was Her World. Then Her Daughter Said She Was Molested by a Minister.
- Ravi Zacharias’s Ministry Investigates Claims of Sexual Misconduct at Spas
- The epidemic of denial about sexual abuse in the evangelical church
- Abuse By Religious Figures Has Lasting Consequences — But Only for Victims
- These women say they were sexually abused by Southern Baptist leaders. Now they’re forcing a reckoning.
The amendment to HB2507 lists specific statutes to which it does not apply. That means someone went through the criminal code and picked out each one individually. It is astounding what they left out!
- Intentional homicide is exempted but negligent homicide is okay
- Kidnapping is out but unlawful imprisonment and sex trafficking are okay
- Most types of assault are out, but mutilation of a female under 18 is still protected by HB2507
Child molestation, sexual abuse, sexual conduct, and pornography are out, but it’s still ok for church leaders and volunteers to expose their genitals to children and administer alcohol and illegal drugs to them (the exact ways that pedophiles groom children and twist their minds to not report the abuse)
All drug offenses and DUIs can be done in the name of religion. (In a 2009 Arizona case a person charged with DUI claimed marijuana was his religion; he was under the influence all the time; and he still needed to drive. Because of the FERA statute, the state denied him this right as a public safety issue–a compelling government interest. HB2507 doesn’t have this safety valve.)
Theft, robbery, arson, burglary, trespassing, forgery, bribery, and perjury are not listed in the amendment; if done with a sincerely held religious belief that it’s the right thing to do, no consequences. It’s easy to justify wrongdoing in the name of a greater good. Too bad for the victim.
Fraudulent schemes and illegal control of an enterprise (with the concomitant thefts, misrepresentations, forgeries) are now protected acts (Remember the Arizona Baptist Foundation in 2006, Jim and Tammie Faye Bakker in 1988)
It’s still okay for religious groups to picket outside residences and protest at funerals and solicit aggressively (Westboro Baptist Church, notorious for protesting at military funerals with the belief that soldiers deserve to die because they fight for a country that tolerates homosexuality)
Human smuggling, sale of a child, fraud, forgery and conspiracy to commit money laundering are okay now (Paul Petersen, imprisoned former Maricopa County Assessor, should have waited for this. His Mormon mission was in the Marshall Islands, where he procured pregnant women for adoptions in the U.S.)
Religious groups can now disturb the peace, unlawfully assemble, riot, obstruct highways, be terrorists and incite terrorism, and refuse an order to disperse. (If Wendy Rogers and the Oathkeepers say they’re defending God and Country, incidents like January 6 will be above the law–they couldn’t be arrested, be liable for damage to property, or be sued by people they injure.)
This list is not exhaustive but it is terrifying.
The Free Exercise right does not have to reign supreme over all other rights. All our rights are subject to restrictions. They should not be a license to harm others. Our civil rights are supposed to protect us from an overreaching government. This bill is a governmental overreach itself, giving religious organizations immunity from the law no matter who they hurt.
In contrast to HB2507, the federal Do No Harm Act (H.R.1378, 117th Congress (2021-2022) would prevent the abuses of religious freedom described in this article.
The Do No Harm Act clarifies that the Religious Freedom Restoration Act is intended to protect religious freedom without allowing the infliction of harm on other people. It would amend RFRA in order to restore the original intent of the legislation by specifically exempting areas of law where RFRA has been used to bypass federal protections. These include well-settled areas of law designed to protect our most vulnerable populations including child labor and abuse, equal employment and non-discrimination, health care, federal contracts and grants, and government services. The Do No Harm Act therefore ensures that religious freedom is used as a shield to protect the Constitutional right to free exercise of religion and not a sword to discriminate.
Unfortunately the bill is not moving through Congress and its status remains “Introduced.” HB2507 goes the exact opposite direction, using religious freedom not as a sword but a nuclear weapon. Arizona needs a state version of Do No Harm, not this.
-Beth Houck, Secular AZ Legal Committee volunteer attorney
Click below to contact lawmakers to oppose HB2507
 This is the third and final article in a series on the proposed religious freedom bill which has just passed in the Arizona House and moved on to the Senate. You can find the first two articles here:
 Arizona’s Free Exercise of Religion Act (FERA) parallels the federal Religious Freedom Restoration Act (FFRA) which applies only to the federal government.
 State v. Hardesty, 222 Ariz. 363 (Ariz. 2009). By the way, the court had no issue with marijuana use being a sincerely held religious belief.

domain: law


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It’s risky—but it can be done: Andreas Antonopoulos says using a DeFi platform is the best way to earn passive income with BTC.
The Lightning Network is susceptible to attacks that could drain Bitcoin wallets by flooding the blockchain.
Ethereum’s implied volatility dropped below Bitcoin's for the first time ever, but is this a bullish or bearish development?
Professor of Economics, Sergei Guriev, told Cointelegraph how Bitcoin can be used as a tool to combat authoritarian regimes.
You've never heard of Mario Blacutt. That’s because it’s his real name, not a pseudonym.


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Alvarez,Erika Mr.Kegley Health Science/ 4th period 22 September 2015 Teen Pregnancy and Confidentiality Girls that don’t have a education may end up on the streets. In my side I said that girls that get pregnant in a really early age is really sad because they don’t think about their future, dropping out high school and parents kick them out from their houses. It is important for teens to think about their future. Girls that are 15 years old they get pregnant and at the same time they just feel like killing their self because they think that their parents will not respond for that. Yeah of course our parents are not responding for this!
in fact some researchers believe that poor economic circumstances could be a contributing factor to other negative aspects of early motherhood. According to gibbs, fergusson, horwood & boden, (2014) younger mothers report economic hardships to the extent of having insufficient money to meet their daily needs. Besides, compared with elder mothers young mothers prove to be more likely to receive welfare benefits. Furthermore it was proven that younger mothers find it harder to make any saving, and many of those were unable to make any saving at all. More economic related disadvantages of early motherhood include the fact that the mother and her child living standards were more likely to be quite low living in overcrowded conditions, and more likely to be urged to make several moves to relocate during short time
It 's arid, filled with a high rate of illiteracy and paralyzed by ancient traditions (Harlan, 2015). Nearly fifty percent of all women in Yemen were married as children (Harlan, 2015). According to Al Amodi (2013), 14 percent of girls are married before the age of 15, while 52 percent of girls are married before the age of 18 and in some cases, girls might get married at the age of 8. The problem with the practice of underage marriage is that it denies a girl her right to health, education, and choice. Moreover, they are more likely to die while giving birth and are at an increased risk of encountering sexual and physical abuses than women who get married at the age of 18 or older (Yemen: End Child Marriage, 2014).
An online article written by doctors Lisa Haddad and Nawal Nour states, “Some 68,000 women die of unsafe abortion annually, making it one of the leading causes of maternal mortality (13%). Of the women who survive unsafe abortion, 5 million will suffer long-term health complications” (“Unsafe Abortion: Unnecessary Maternal Mortality” ). Death and long term injury from unsafe abortions can be prevented, if those who do not want or cannot afford to have children have methods to prevent pregnancy from even happening. These deaths and injuries are important, because they are extremely preventable, and the fact that prevention is not openly distributed to the public is an injustice. The United Nations’ Declaration of
An instance of a teacher not talking about privilege and poverty, happened while I was observing at Carrollwood Elementary School. A female student, who is Hispanic and about the age of ten, got pulled from her home due to her home life not being an ideal living situation for someone that young. The student got separated from her brother, her mother and since she was unable to stay with her father, she was jumping from foster home to foster home. Prior to this happening, she was an average student in school, according to her teacher but after being separated from her brother, she started becoming a below average student, one of the worst in the class. The teacher explained to me that, since the student was living in poverty, and less privileged than the others in the class, she was unable to concentrate on her classwork as well as her homework.
Early pregnancy may hold a variety of different problems. There are many distinct ways to avoid teen pregnancies. Teen pregnancies are usually when a girl becomes pregnant during or in between the ages of 13-19. “The birth rates have dropped significantly by 8% since 2014. Birth rates dropped 9% for women aged 15-17 and dropped 7% for women ages 18-19,” claims www.guttmacher.org.
A large and vital part of childhood in places all around the world is education. Unfortunately, almost all child brides stop going to school for reasons such as duties as a wife and mother, and sometimes government policies prohibiting return of married girls into schools. For example, In the East African nation Tanzania, schools are allowed to expel child brides (Yakupitiyage). Along with being forced into her marriage, a child bride is robbed of something as valuable and desired as education. Nujood Ali, the first child bride to win a divorce in her country, recalled her wedding day saying that it was not a
In the United States of America 30% of all teen girls who drop out of school cite pregnancy as a key reason (Shuger, 2012) and fewer than 38% of the teen mothers ever earned their high school diploma (Van Pelt, 2012). Adolescent pregnancy trends in percentage terms are quite worrying in Sub Saharan Africa because of the health, social, economic and educational consequences. Niger is worst affected at 51%, Chad at 48%, Uganda at 33%, Tanzania at 28% and Kenya at 26% (Loaiza and Liang,
Gender stereotypes/gaps As mentioned before with girls not even having a toilet to go to in school are leading in girls missing out on school. Having gender gaps between girls and boys is a big reason to why so many children are out of school at a young age. "Over 100 million young women living in developing countries are unable to read a single sentence." (10 barriers to education around the world, 2014) This is due to poverty and conflicts in their country. It is believed in some countries that girls are better off staying at home and do the chores as it is not worth paying the money for a girl to go to school.
Despite almost 30 years of the Convention on the Elimination of All forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), and 20 years of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), today girls make up around 56 per cent of the 77 million children not in school, and women make up two thirds of the adults who are illiterate. Even girls who do enroll in school may have irregular attendance due to other demands on them, and the fact that their education may not be prioritized. Girls are more likely to repeat years, to drop out early and to fail key subjects, and in most countries girls are less likely to complete the transition to secondary schooling. Inequality in society inevitably has an impact on the provision and content of education. Hence, the need to examine and address the

domain: sociology


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Paste a url where
can be downloaded
(link to Spacedock where possible)
2nd Ace combat 7 creation this time the brute of the skies The arsenal bird careful when manurvaring it will flip
No landing btw
It has drones!!!!
not controlable btw
The arsenal bird and the space elavator are meat to go together
A stock aircraft called Arsenal bird. Built with 219 of the finest parts, its root part is probeCoreCube.
Built in the SPH in KSP version 1.6.0.
- Type: SPH
- Class: ship
- Part Count: 219
- Pure Stock
Uploaded with Craft Manager
Hangars that contain this craft

domain: hobby


text:
Injections that are good for growth, blood formation, cell reproduction, protein and tissue synthesis
Groupon Customer Reviews
About This Deal
- Five B12 Shots
- 10 B12 Shots
- 15 B12 Shots
- 25 B12 Shots
B12 Injections: A Nutritional Detour
For some people, B12 injections can be more effective than ingesting supplements. Read on to learn more about this crucial option for getting your vitamins.
B12: a vitamin that helps maintain nerve cells and produce healthy red blood cells, which transport oxygen to body tissue. It's found in dairy, eggs, meat, and fish, as well as fortified cereals and yeast extracts.
Anemia: a lower-than-normal amount of red blood cells, and often the most noticeable symptom of a B12 deficiency. Other short-term symptoms can include fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, and constipation or diarrhea.
Intrinsic factor: a protein that helps absorb B12 via normal digestion. People who have insufficient amounts of intrinsic factor are also at risk of a B12 deficiency since the vitamin cannot be properly absorbed from simply chugging a can of multivitamins.
B12 injections: a source of B12 that can—especially for people with low intrinsic factor—be more effective than supplements. In two to three days, patients tend to see results such as a boost in red blood-cell production, increased energy, shinier hair, and a clearer complexion.
Homocysteine: an amino acid linked to increased risk of Alzheimer's disease. As B12 boosts red-cell production, it also lowers levels of homocysteine.
THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT THAT IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED FEE, OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT.

domain: medical


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During South Africa's apartheid era, the secretary of its avowedly racist Building Workers' Union, Gert Beetge, said, "There is no job reservation left in the building industry, and in the circumstances, I support the rate for the job (minimum wage) as the second-best way of protecting our white artisans." The South African Nursing Council condemned low wages received by black nurses as unfair. Some nurses said they wouldn't accept wage increases until the wages of black nurses were raised. The South African Economic and Wage Commission of 1925 reported that "while definite exclusion of the Natives from the more remunerative fields of employment by law has not been urged upon us, the same result would follow a certain use of the powers of the Wage Board under the Wage Act of 1925, or of other wage-fixing legislation. The method would be to fix a minimum rate for an occupation or craft so high that no Native would be likely to be employed."
Whether support for minimum wages is motivated by good or by evil, its effect is to cut off the bottom rungs of the economic ladder for the most disadvantaged worker and lower the cost of discrimination.


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66 inches wide, 16 inches deep and 29 inches high.
For metric please multiply by 2.5
A really beautiful Welsh solid elm George II dresser made in around 1740 with two simple frieze drawers. Both drawers solid with nailed up bottom boards and with original elm linings. The front legs are really beautiful, with a wonderful shape and each is pierced and carved with hearts.
The top is a solid board of elm with a fabulously defined and vibrant grain and with a bullnosed front cover. Lots of use over the years has given the surface a very good rippling shape and lovely patina. The upstand at the back is a later addition but is in elm also. There has been some old worm as is usual with early elm but this is long dead and the dresser is structurally sound. There is a Victorian blacksmith forged plate at the rear of one leg – not visible from front or sides.
Very heavy indeed and a provincially made piece, the top is not centred, it overhangs further on one side than the other and appears intended to do this as the top is original. Perhaps it was made for a particular space or purpose. Handles are in original holes but probably early replacements.
Stains, marks, losses, chips – as with all period furniture, it is to be expected that it has had repairs and restoration during the course of its life.
A beautiful provincially made dresser of a most linear and attractive form, with heart carved legs and very rarely seen in solid elm. Of narrow and small proportions, sturdy and very usable, made in Wales in c. 1740


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NeuroMetrix, Inc. (NURO) stock prices skyrocketed by 145.51% some time after market trading commenced on July 20th, 2021, bringing the price per share up to USD$8.00 early on in the trading day.
Breakthrough Designation Granted
July 20th, 2021 saw the company announce that the United States Food and Drug Administration granted Breakthrough Designation for NURO’s Quell device, which is designed to treat symptoms of fibromyalgia in adults. With the company reporting moving forward with regulatory filing, it hopes to launch Quell for fibromyalgia indication by the second half of 2021.
Fibromyalgia is a form of chronic pain that is associated with fatigue, sleep, cognitive, and mood disturbances. With nearly 2 to 6% of the population of the U.S being affected, diagnoses are most often made between the ages of 30 and 50. While the cause of the illness is unclear, studies have indicated abnormalities in the way the brain processes normal sensations and pain. Despite the FDA having approved several drugs for the management of fibromyalgia pain, there is still a significant unmet need for safe and effective non-pharmacological treatments.
Quell is an innovative, non-invasive, nerve stimulation device that is designed to mitigate the effects of fibromyalgia. Covered by 18 U.S utility patents, it sets itself apart as the only wearable neurostimulator that functions with the use of a custom designed microchip. The device provides flexible, accurate, high-power nerve stimulation in a form factor not bigger than a credit card. The device uses position and motion sensing to automatically adjust stimulation output for an optimal patient experience over the course of the entire day. Bluetooth low energy is supported by the device in communication with its app, which is available on both Android and Apple mobile devices.
Breakthrough Device Designation
The FDA Breakthrough Device Program is designed to facilitate the accessibility of breakthrough technologies for the patients that need them urgently. As per the program, the FDA will provide a priority review for NeuroMetrix, as well as interactive communication regarding its development. Furthermore, government policies and programs currently in the works have the potential to facilitate Medicare reimbursement for FDA Breakthrough Devices after they have been granted marketing authorization.
Future Outlook for NURO
Armed with the support of the FDA, NURO is poised to capitalize on the massive market space it finds at its disposal. Current and potential investors are hopeful for the accelerated development and commercialization of Quell so as to maximize gains in shareholder value.


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(VIANEWS) – Shares of Cliffs Natural Resources (NYSE: CLF) jumped 8.28% to $14.59 at 11:22 EST on Monday, after two consecutive sessions in a row of losses. NYSE is rising 2.44% to $13,800.31, after two sequential sessions in a row of losses. This seems, up until now, an all-around up trend trading session today.
Cliffs Natural Resources’s last close was $13.47, 60.43% below its 52-week high of $34.04.
About Cliffs Natural Resources
Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. operates as a flat-rolled steel producer in North America. The company offers carbon steel products, such as hot-rolled, cold-rolled, electrogalvanized, hot-dip galvanized, hot-dip galvannealed, aluminized, enameling, and advanced high-strength steel products; stainless steel products; plates; and grain oriented and non-oriented electrical steel products. It also provides tubular components, including carbon steel, stainless steel, and electric resistance welded tubing. In addition, the company offers tinplate products, such as electrolytic tin coated and chrome coated sheet, and tin mill products; tooling and sampling; raw materials; ingots, rolled blooms, and cast blooms; and hot-briquetted iron products. Further, it owns five iron ore mines in Minnesota and Michigan. The company serves automotive, infrastructure and manufacturing, distributors and converters, and steel producers. Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. was formerly known as Cliffs Natural Resources Inc. and changed its name to Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. in August 2017. The company was founded in 1847 and is headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio.
Earnings Per Share
As for profitability, Cliffs Natural Resources has a trailing twelve months EPS of $-0.07.
The company’s return on equity, which measures the profitability of a business relative to shareholder’s equity, for the twelve trailing months is 63.73%.
Today’s last reported volume for Cliffs Natural Resources is 5892332 which is 59.22% below its average volume of 14451100.
Cliffs Natural Resources’s last week, last month’s, and last quarter’s current intraday variation average was a positive 0.75%, a negative 1.20%, and a positive 3.04%, respectively.
Cliffs Natural Resources’s highest amplitude of average volatility was 2.63% (last week), 3.10% (last month), and 3.04% (last quarter), respectively.
Growth Estimates Quarters
The company’s growth estimates for the ongoing quarter and the next is a negative 58.8% and a negative 54.4%, respectively.
Cliffs Natural Resources’s sales growth is 6.7% for the current quarter and 6.3% for the next.
More news about Cliffs Natural Resources (CLF).


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U.S. Sen. Arlen Specter has been defeated in a Pennsylvania primary in his bid for a sixth term after taking the risky step of switching to the Democratic Party.
Pennsylvania voters will decide today whether to replace Republican-turned-Democrat Arlen Specter in the U.S. Senate and settle contested Democratic and Republican nominations for governor.
Vice president Joe Biden talked with Larry and John this morning about his son’s health, his support for Senator Arlen Specter, and off-shore oil drilling.
|Full Program Grid|
|7:00 PM||CBS Evening News with Scott Pelley|
|7:30 PM||omg! Insider|
|8:00 PM||Two and a Half Men|
|8:30 PM||Mike & Molly|
|9:00 PM||Criminal Minds|
|11:00 PM||KDKA-TV News at 11|
|11:35 PM||Late Show with David Letterman|

domain: news


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Fashion knee-high Canadian Mukluks by Laurentian Chief. Leather suede mukluk with rabbit fur and decorative beading. Rabbit fur pom poms, fleece lined interior and non-slip gum sole. Approximately 40 cm (16") tall.
Limited sizes available in Black.
Women's sizes 5-10
Colours: Black, Grey or Moka
Made in Canada
Product Code: 290316

domain: design


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Fragrance Enhancer 10ml
Fragrance Enhancer (FEO) helps to increase the top note, middle note and lasting note of body fragrance oil. Major designer fragrance oil and fine fragrance oils are cold blended and mixture of fragrance Enhancer.
Direction Use For Fragrance Enhancer : Add 5%-10% into Body Fragrance Oil directly. Click here for More information.


Bridgeport, CT – Today, Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) announced The WorkPlace will receive a nearly $2 million Youth Apprenticeship Readiness Grant from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The WorkPlace is a workforce development organization that has been serving Southwest Connecticut for over 36 years.
“Education is the path forward for individuals and America to build a strong future in the 21st Century,” said Congressman Himes. “The WorkPlace’s efforts to train young adults in Southwest Connecticut for careers in manufacturing is crucial. If we want Connecticut to remain competitive, we need vocational programs run by organizations like The WorkPlace.”
“The WorkPlace is excited for this opportunity to work with a broad spectrum of community partners to create programming that will help young adults enter manufacturing careers,” said Joe Carbone, President and CEO, The WorkPlace. “The credentials earned by participants in this program will validate for employers their commitment and readiness for employment. We are very thankful for the support our proposal received from Congressman Himes and Connecticut’s delegation.”
According to The WorkPlace, the $1,997,046 grant will be used to develop and support an apprenticeship program aimed at helping young adults pursue careers in the manufacturing industry. The program will produce graduates with industry recognized credentials and will partner with Housatonic Community College’s (HCC) Advanced Manufacturing Program, Justice Education Center, Bigelow Tea, and Microboard Processing, Inc. The program will primarily focus on students who are in the 11th and 12th grades. Young adults without a high school diploma will participate in this program through the Justice Education Center.
The Youth Apprenticeship Readiness Grant will allow educational entities and programs that serve out-of-school youth, school boards, workforce boards, employers, workforce partners, and other apprenticeship intermediaries—to partner to develop and establish new apprenticeship models for youth or expand existing apprenticeship programs for youth. Grant recipients will seek to expand opportunities to prepare 16 to 24-year-old registered apprentices for careers in industries including manufacturing, information technology, cybersecurity, and healthcare. Click here to learn more about the Youth Apprenticeship Readiness Grant.
For more information or with any questions, contact Patrick Malone at Patrick.firstname.lastname@example.org.


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Photographer | Joined Mar 2017
Yes, I would host them again.
"This was Nirav's second time at the space for a photo shoot. He's a fantastic guest and we hope he'll be back."
"Nirav is a very nice and accommodating guest as I had a last minute issue with my house. I definitely recommend him. "
"Nirav was a great communicator and took great care of our space. "


About BrainSensory Technologies Private Limited (https://www.academico.in):
Academico, A Brand of BrainSensory Technologies Pvt. Ltd. is a Techno-Service startup providing all aspects of learning to all age groups of students. We will be developing proprietary algorithms and artificial intelligence to address the huge market opportunity.
Our network extends far beyond our management and staff, so we are able to access expertise and specialist technology at many levels to support our work. We believe that innovation and passion to excel are the drivers of success – they help us improve ourselves, our organization, our country – and ultimately this world that we all share. We work to build long-lasting, trusted relationships that are mutually beneficial. We strive to improve on our strengths and work on weaknesses through continuous feedback support. We are a commercial organization with a strong social mission too. Our vision, mission, and values guide everything that we do.


Greenwashing is the spin you see organizations put on their so-called eco-friendly products and services to make you feel as if they give a hoot.
These companies actually spend more on green marketing, saying "Look! We're green." than they spend on being environmentally sound.
Greenwashing strategies can be as simple as changing the name of a product to sound more natural despite being laden with chemicals to massive green advertising campaigns deliberately misleading or even lying to you.
It could be as simple as using a green box. We may say pish posh I'll never fall for that, but incredibly we do. Some some subconscious eco-friendly psychological level we all probably feel good about buying those green-looking, feeling and sounding products. Oh, we may know better deep down, but in the moment it is easy to reason a purchase only to regret it later.I love Victoria Wood! This is from one of her shows.
"Customers bought our cars based on incorrect fuel-economy data," President Tetsuro Aikawa told reporters during a press conference on Tuesday. "I can't help but apologise."
Do you think anyone who bought Mitsubishi based on their green marketing lies is going to accept that apology? Not bloody likely.
The ultimate spin and example of just how far an industry will go to try and change their image would be the coal industry. Won't go into all the details here. You can read The Guardian article or National Geographic for more information on this lunacy.
However, a closer to home story could be this one. Canada's largest coffee chains are misleading customers about what happens to cups collected in their in-store recycling bins.
A CBC Marketplace investigation reveals that many paper cups collected by some Toronto Starbucks and Tim Hortons for recycling are sent to landfill, not to a recycling plant as many may believe.
Bringing your own cup to these establishments isn't as easy as getting a Gaia Guy bamboo toothbrush into your daily routine but still doable, right? Especially, after reading that those green marketing recycling programs are literally complete rubbish.
I will say that your environmental concerns; be they for renewable resources, only organic, or zero waste I do take them all to heart, because they are my concerns too! I am doing my best to provide eco-friendly goods that are authentic and fairly priced so you can feel good about supporting Gaia Guy and all that it stands for.


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If you are reading this in Ghana, there is a high probability you ever had to provide your Zip code or Postal code during one of your online activities but my guess is you probably used 233, 00233, or 23321. These numbers have been an online Zip code myth for long enough that I personally used it many times but let us try and understand the whole Zip code and Postal code thing first.
What’s the difference between Zip Code and Postal Code.
The two codes are basically the same in their purpose, but the term Zip code is mainly used in the USA; Postal Code is commonly used in other countries.
A postal code (also known locally in various English-speaking countries throughout the world as a postcode, post code, PIN or ZIP Code) is a series of letters or digits or both, sometimes including spaces or punctuation, included in a postal address for the purpose of sorting mail.
A ZIP Code is a postal code used by the United States Postal Service (USPS). The term ZIP is an acronym for Zone Improvement Plan, which was chosen to suggest that the mail travels more efficiently and quickly. So basically US sites will tend to request for your zip code mostly while British or other english speaking sites might request your Postal Code rather than your Zip code. Thing is you can use both Zip code or Postal code interchangably.
Does Ghana have a Zip Code or Postal Code?
Postal codes were adopted in Ghana on 18 October 2017, following the launch of the National Digital Address System. The Digital Address System assigned postal codes and unique addresses to every square in Ghana. Ghana’s postal codes are alphanumeric. The first two characters form the postcode district – the first letter represents the region, and the second character represents the district in which the address is located. The next three to five digits represent the postcode area and identify a more precise location within the area.
How to generate Your Postal Code or Zipcode of your location in Ghana?
With the official adoption of the Digital address system, you can always generate the address of your location or house through the mobile app or web portal. The below image shows me searching flagstaff house via the web portal for the Ghana Post code or Postal code.
Zip Codes or Postal Codes Of Some Locations In Accra
North Ridge – GA015 – GA017, GA028 – GA031, GA052 – GA054, GA076, GA080 West Ridge – GA050, GA051, GA077, GA107
Gold Coast City – GA078, GA079, GA110, GA111
Osu – GA032, GA035, GA055, GA056, GA081, GA082, GA112 – GA115, GA146 – 148
Victoriaborg – GA143 – GA145, GA184 – GA186
Asylum Down – GA027, GA028, GA048, GA049, GA073
Adabraka – GA050, GA074 – GA076, GA100 – GA103
Tudu – GA105, GA106, GA141, GA142
You can use the postal code in delivering your items to a specific location easily though it is always advisable to add a landmark around the location for more accuracy.
Though 00233 or 23321 is not illegal and can still be used in filling your online forms as your zip code or postal code, you should find the Ghana Post Code as a more accurate code to use rather because of the numerous advantages it comes with.


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Negrodamus wrote:Kolkmania wrote:Negrodamus wrote:I'd be willing to let some other team figure out how to use Grant. Historically, the NBA hasn't been too friendly to that archetype of player.
Honest question, since no examples pop up in my head. Which players "busted" in the modern NBA who fit the archetype?
I don't know, Sean May, DeJuan Blair... I know I'll get someone to nitpick Grant Williams as he compares to those two, but it's an undersized PF who was hugely prolific in college. I can probably spend some time looking for more, but it's more of the absence of one in the NBA that should be more telling.
Also, to be clear, I'm not calling Grant Williams a bust at the end of the first round. I think he'll do great overseas/G-League.
Nice Sean May reference! He was such a beast in college. I think you’re missing Shelden Williams from that list. I can respect your outlook on Grant Williams but think he’s more versatile, and more mobile than some of those guys. I mean he’s lack of shooting is almost a deal breaker, but if he slips into second round I’d think about it depending on who’s on the board. He seems like someone the spurs would draft, high bbiq and good character. But he’s not super high on my sixers big board, just don’t think he’ll be a bust either.

domain: sports


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European flat products purchasing activity has been slow over the last month. Consumption in mainland Europe is stagnating. Most fourth quarter deals have now been concluded at the levels prevailing in the third trimester. Producers have been unable to implement their proposed increases due to lacklustre demand and the declining costs of inputs such as scrap, iron ore and coking coal. On the other hand, the strong US dollar is keeping third country imports at bay and supply from Italy is restricted.
German market sentiment is poor at present due to concerns about a recent drop in industrial production. End-users are cautious. They are only purchasing for their immediate needs. Competition in the stockholding sector is tough. Overall, demand is stable but not at a high level.
The French market is quiet with modest demand. Participants are concerned that the situation is static. End-users still have short order books and are fighting for the small amount of business available. Ex-mill flat product prices have generally been stable over the last month, whilst distributors’ resale values have deteriorated. However, there is a feeling that steelmakers may try to lift prices in the first quarter next year. The current euro/US dollar exchange rate is keeping third country imports at a normal level.
As the recession in the Italian economy continues to bite, steel producers are still attempting to impose basis rises. They were, briefly, successful in late September but, since then, prices have dropped back to the level reported in our last issue. The initiative was sparked by a fluctuation in the exchange rate when the euro weakened against the dollar. This was expected to make imported material less attractive. However, Chinese prices were unchanged, despite the currency movements. There is no pressure from Turkish supply, which is currently too expensive. A lack of demand is widespread across all consuming sectors. There are fears that prices may weaken further.
UK service centres report brisk sales in October, with many being even busier than in the previous month. However, resale values are being slightly negatively affected by a degree of destocking at some companies and, reportedly, aggressive selling by Tata’s distribution outlets. Otherwise, they are fairly steady. Stockholders’ buying prices remain the same as a month ago. The proposed rise was not implemented as there was no support from raw material costs. Inventories remain on the low side because of a lack of confidence in future price movements.
There have been no real changes in either basis figures or activity levels in the Belgian market. The economic situation is poor, so steel demand is slow as many end-users have depleted order books. Service centres are battling for every sale, even over small quantities. Their margins are very low. There are few third country import offers and prices are not attractive.
The Spanish economy is slowly getting back on track with more government investment promised for 2015. However, any success in ramping up steel prices was shortlived because of slack demand. It was thought that a fluctuation in the exchange rate would help sustain a rise but this was not the case. Basis numbers remain firm. Third country offers are very close to European figures. A number of distributors report slightly improved sales volumes but activity is inconsistent. Many customers are purchasing on a weekly basis.


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Floating Worldz is all about art.
The home page prominently displays images of the beautiful and unique work of Deborah Pittman, an award-winning artist. Slides change at a slow pace, allowing the visitor to savor the details in each image.
The Gallery features additional images with a tastefully-done interface that allows the viewer to see exactly what they want, even in full-screen mode.
The simplicity of the design allows the beauty and complexity of the artist’s work to take center stage.
Visit Floating Worldz and see for yourself.
I just want to say that I absolutely LOVE my website! With what very little information and images I gave to you, you went above and beyond.
You really exceeded my expectations. Thank you for making it so effortless on my end. I would recommend GreenDreamWeb to anybody that wants a great website.
- Deborah Pittman, artist


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Commercial International Bank Custom Typeface
the multi-script typeface designed for CIB is monolinear , sans serif with multiple weights including italics for a flexible use across different mediums, CIB typeface is legible and usable for small text, however it does contain stylistic features for display type settings
Latin & Arabic
Amr Bakr + Abdo Eid + Zeina Ahmed + Malak Ghoneim + Osman Setto + Nardine Shenouda
Commercial International Bank
In Collaboration with___Boharat Type Foundry
UNVEILING THE VERY FIRST CUSTOM TYPEFACE FOR A BANK IN EGYPT, THE CIB.
A fully-fledged, bi-scriptual typeface that supports not only Basic Latin & Arabic but also Western European Characters, Urdu & Persian. A moden naskh based Arabic script paired with it’s counter Latin sans serif grotesque, in multiple weights for flexible use across different channels. The focus was to create harmony between the Latin & Arabic scripts without losing the essence of either, with a monolinear design that coexists with the organic flow of Arabic Calligraphy. The typeface is built with optimum forms for legibility in small sizes and includes stylistic features for display purposes.
The main feature of authenticity in this typeface, is the cursive responsive Kashida in the mono-linear Arabic script. It is included as a stylistic set,offering a modern take on the genuine humanistic characteristic of Arabic calligraphy. This is a new addition to the category of monoliniar Arabic typefaces and although the kashida is cursive the design maintained coexistence and harmony with the Latin sanserif grotesque letterforms.


I have got to agree, the fuse is there to protect the cable. IEC leads are designed to be detachable so they can be used on different equipment. I have removed ALL 3 amp fuses from our cables as most are rated at 10A or more.
Why fit a 3A fuse to an IEC lead that is rated at 10A then plug it into a piece of equipment that draws 7A ?
3A fuses should not be fitted to IEC cables. I say 7A minimum.


SHIZUGAWA, Japan (AP) — An American helicopter crewman shouted above the din of the rotor: "What do these people need? Do they need food? Do they need medicine?"
The answer — one week after an earthquake and tsunami wiped out much of Japan's northeast coast — is: They need everything.
Aid has started trickling in, but much of it appears ad hoc and many survivors remain isolated and cold and are fending for themselves.
Two American military helicopters touched down on a hilltop above this flattened town Friday with boxes of canned beans and powdered milk for a community center that has become a shelter for those who lost their homes.
But blustery snow, fuel shortages and widespread damage to airports, roads and rails have hampered delivery of badly needed assistance to more than 400,000 survivors trying to stay fed and warm, often without electricity and running water in hastily setup shelters in schools and other public buildings.
A magnitude-9.0 earthquake struck offshore on March 11, creating a tsunami that swept over low-lying areas, carrying boats, cars and even buildings with it and destroying nearly everything in its path. More than 6,500 people are confirmed dead so far, and another 10,300 are missing.
The disaster also damaged a seaside nuclear power plant, which remains in crisis as workers struggle under dangerous conditions to prevent a meltdown and major radiation leaks.
In Hirota, survivors at one shelter are getting water from wells and mountain rivers. Helicopters have delivered some food, but not much. So far, they have instant noodles, fruit and bread. Companies and residents unaffected by the disaster have donated bedding and blankets.
Kouetsu Sasaki, a 60-year-old city hall worker, said the survivors still need gas, vegetables, socks, underwear, wet wipes and anti-bacterial lotion. There is some medicine, but not enough.
"We could be living like this for a long time, so all we can do is stay in good spirits," he said. "People here aren't angry or frustrated yet. ... But it's a big question mark whether we can keep living like this for weeks or months. I try to concentrate on what I need to do this morning, this day, and not think about how long it might last."
The community has been left largely to fend for itself.
When a fire broke out in the rubble, survivors ran from the shelter to put it out with seawater, said Hiroyoshi Murakami, 64, a retired tuna boat radio operator who is volunteering at the shelter.
"The thing we need most is gas," he said. "It's all going to official vehicles. Without gas, we've got no cars. Without cars, we've got no way to go to the hospital. We can't go to places where we could use the phone and communicate with the outside world."
The U.S. military, with 50,000 troops based in Japan, is helping the relief effort, but snow has limited helicopter flights, and American aircraft are also under orders to skirt the area around the nuclear plant to reduce the risk of radiation exposure.
"It's frustrating," said U.S. Navy rescue swimmer Jeff Pearson, 25, of Amarillo, Texas. "But we're doing all we can do. I think we are going to be able to get much more involved very soon."
His helicopter crew, based on the southern Japanese island of Okinawa, was heading farther north from Japan's Jinmachi Air Base in Yamagata city.
A 24-vehicle U.S. Marines convoy reached the base Friday, where the Marines will run a refueling hub, move supplies by road and provide communications support.
Also Friday, Sendai airport was declared ready to receive aid deliveries on jumbo C-130 and C-17 military transport planes. The tsunami had flooded the tarmac, piling up small planes and cars and leaving behind a layer of muck and debris.
"The airport in Sendai is now functional," said Japanese Lt. Col. Hiroya Goto, a military doctor acting as a liaison for the U.S.-Japan military mission. "That's the biggest city that was hit, and now that the runway has been cleared, we expect a lot of help to start coming in."
At the community center in Shizugawa — an area of Minamisanriku town — food is coming from the local government and area volunteers and groups. Survivors eat twice a day. A mobile operator set up a cell phone tower on a truck outside the center.
Koji and Yaeko Sato, husband and wife, sat on the floor of the shelter beside a window where the names of the dead and missing are listed. Their home is gone; the tsunami left only a few large buildings standing. Their car is undamaged, but they have no gas.
Koji, 58, is a carpenter. He usually builds homes. This week, for the first time in his life, he is making coffins — 30 in all working with three others.
Asked what difficulties they are facing, he said: "I haven't had time to think about it. All I have been doing is making coffins."
Talmadge reported from Yamagata. Associated Press writer Foster Klug in Hirota and AP photographer David Guttenfelder in Shizugawa contributed to this story.


| Mar 11, 2011
| 6:58 PM
Leandro Barbosa had 18 of his season-high 29 points in the first half as the
host Toronto Raptors halted a three-game losing skid with a 108-98 win over the
reeling Indiana Pacers on Friday.
Barbosa's big first half contributed to Toronto's 62-48...
| Jan 9, 2012
| 6:23 PM
PORTLAND, Ore. — When Dwight Howard's trade request became public, the superstar center pledged he would play as hard as he could and remain focused while he remained with the Orlando Magic.
It appears Howard has kept that promise.
| Jan 13, 2012
| 6:56 PM
George Hill poured in 22 points and added five steals as the Indiana Pacers overcame the ejection of Danny Granger to post a 95-90 win over the host Toronto Raptors on Friday night.
Former Raptors draftee Roy Hibbert added 15 points and nine rebounds...