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Application for admission to the Advanced Psychodynamic Psychotherapy program.
Please note: for all attachments requested for this application, please attach them in a separate e-mail to: Randi Sarsfield. If you are returned to a blank form upon hitting "submit," this indicates your form did not go through for processing -- please contact Randi Sarsfield at 314-361-7075 x 322 or e-mail Randi Sarsfield.
V. REFERENCES Please list two or more references. Your submission of this application form indicates that you give your permission for us to contact the names below.
VI. ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS Please answer the following questions and e-mail your answers to Bobbie Land, Program & Services Coordinator. We ask that you limit your responses to a total of three typed pages.
1. What are your goals in undertaking this program?
2. Briefly describe an incident in your work in which you were pleased with your efforts.
3. Briefly describe an incident in your current work in which you feel you did not do as well as you would have liked. What additional information or guidance would have helped you?
4. How would this program fit in with your professional objectives/plans over the next five years?
5. Describe your experience doing psychotherapy or counseling.
A. Do you intend to use this program for degree credit at an academic institution? Yes/No If yes, please describe your arrangement.
I am submitting my course application along with a completed scholarship application to be considered for scholarships.
I will be mailing a copy of my tax return and financial need statement to: Bobbie Land, St. Louis Psychoanalytic Institute, 8820 Ladue Road, 3rd Floor, St. Louis, MO 63124, or drop them off at our offices.
I understand that my application and progress within this program will be subject to assessment by the instructors in the program and agree to abide by this assessment.
I also understand that this program is not being represented as training for practice in Psychoanalysis but as augmentation of existing theoretical knowledge and clinical skills in advanced psychoanalytically-oriented psychotherapy, for which specific recognition will be given upon graduation.
There is a $75 application fee due at the time you submit your written application. The application fee covers the processing of your application along with your applicant interview which will be scheduled for you in the near future.
Completed applications may be mailed with your application fee to: Bobbie Land, St. Louis Psychoanalytic Institute, 8820 Ladue Road, 3rd floor, St. Louis, MO 63124. Please enclose a check payable to the St. Louis Psychoanalytic Institute.
I will mail in my payment.
I am processing an on-line payment.
Reminder: For your application to be considered for financial aid, your completed application form, tax return, brief statement of financial need and references must be received by April 15th. Applications received later than April 15th will be considered by the Financial Aid Committee only if funds are available.
Application Fee. Note that the Tuition price is for ONE YEAR of the TWO-YEAR program. Tuition will be billed twice a year.


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Diabetes could be a large concern in the aftermath of a large-scale disaster event; especially if nutritional needs are not met.
Hey there, guys and gals, and welcome to another prepper-medical information installment of Ready Nutrition to help you in your quest for information and supplies before the SHTF. Diabetes is an important thing to speak about, as the disease will be even more pronounced when nutritional requirements are not met. In addition, what is a diabetic to do after the “Mad Max” scenario ensues? Let’s learn a little about the disease, how it is treated by the physician, and some holistic measures that can be taken when the time arises after a societal collapse and the looting of the pharmacies has happened.
We will cover some information pertaining to Diabetes Type II in this article. The information presented herein is strictly for informational purposes only and is not meant to diagnose, treat, or prescribe any condition or action for anyone. Only a qualified, licensed, certified, approved physician can do such. Prior to taking any actions or utilizing any information presented, discuss it with your family doctor.
First and foremost, some basics about diabetes and its different types must be perused, especially Types I and II. Diabetes mellitus is defined as a “chronic metabolic disorder marked by hyperglycemia. Diabetes mellitus (DM) results either from failure of the pancreas to produce insulin (type 1 DM) or from insulin resistance, with inadequate insulin secretion to sustain normal metabolism (type 2 DM).” Whew, that was a long one! Chances are, though, if you have been diagnosed with either type, you already know most of what we’ll cover, so be patient until “the rest of the class” catches up.
Hyperglycemia is our main culprit here, the key prefix being “hyper,” Greek for “over” or “very high,” (as opposed to the antonymic “hypo,” meaning “lower/shortage”).
Glycemia relates to sugar; therefore, it can be seen that hyperglycemia is an overly high supply of sugar in the body that leads to problems with its metabolism. Digestion is the process by which foods are broken down into their basic structural components and absorbed and transported where the body needs them. Glycolysis, glycogenesis, and the glucose cycle (very involved processes) all have to do with the breakdown of fats, carbohydrates and complex sugars into simple sugars (glucose) readily absorbable for use by the human body.
Diabetes (in general) presents several problems regarding homeostatic balance. Firstly, it is marked by excessive urination. Types such as Diabetes insipidus, for example, present with massive amounts of daily urination (2-5 gallons/5-10 liters per day) that throw off all fluid electrolyte levels and can lead to death by dehydration. Secondly is the problem of production of insulin by the pancreas. Insulin controls metabolism (not just of sugars, but of protein and fat uptake). Type I diabetic patients do not produce enough insulin on their own to survive.
Type II diabetic patients usually experience an inability to control their blood sugar through diet, exercise, and oral medication. Its onset usually occurs later in life or with illness or injury (these latter two affecting or compromising the body’s ability to produce insulin in sufficient quantities). Veterans who have come into contact with Agent Orange (a defoliant used in the Vietnam War) may attribute it to their Type II diabetes.
Let us be frank: such a problem is beyond the scope of laymen and non-physicians to address except to explain. Even then, limitations are imposed because of the sheer number of variables per individual as to preclude actions except on a case-by-case basis. So what can we do here? Firstly, reiterate what has already been mentioned in articles past: your doctor and hospital with lab facilities and testing methods are critical for you to determine whether or not you are afflicted with Type II diabetes.
Secondly, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” should be one of your “watchword sayings.” If something seems wrong, it probably is wrong. Common sense and the ability to gauge changes in your own body are not hypochondria; they are the signs of taking control of a situation before it takes control over you.
Changes to look out for are nervousness or restlessness, disturbances and changes in your vision (this is a major sign/symptom), abnormal (unattributed) rises in your urine output, headaches, orthostatic hypotension (when, for example, you feel faint when moving from a supine position on the couch to standing up), and general malaise/unwell feelings you don’t normally experience. You also need to monitor your food intake and see what the results are. Do you normally eat a lot of sweets, and all of a sudden you are experiencing problems? The doctor will be asking these questions. You can help out by having that information detailed and readily available in writing: include meals, when they were taken, the amounts, and the effects you felt.
There are several herbal foods that may help those suffering with Type II Diabetes.
Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) is a hypoglycemic herb that has reduced urine sugar levels by 50%. Fenugreek can be taken as capsules, tinctures or decoctions of seeds. Pregnant women must avoid it, as it is a uterine stimulant.
Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) is also a hypoglycemic and it increases insulin production. The leaves are the primary source for help with the diabetes; leaf infusion can be taken as an adjunct to control it.
The first two foods are available in health food stores, on Amazon or in your friendly neighborhood Wal-Mart. As with all things, pay attention to the instructions on the label. A good thing they may be used for: as an adjunct to your emergency kit should supplies of insulin or medication be interrupted (such as by hurricane, shortage, etc). Remember to plan your work and work your plan. Coordinate with your physician and ask about measures to prolong storage of refrigerated insulin, as well as any medications to help you that will not require refrigeration. Be safe and help one another, and continue to prep!

industry_corpus2: Health & Medicine


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AE Lock freezes the camera’s exposure settings, so if you recompose a shot, the camera’s auto exposure system won’t change the shutter speed/aperture settings. This tutorial explains how to use this function.
When shooting on auto, your camera takes an overall metering of the scene.The good news is that you can over-ride this by learning how to use your metering modes.

industry_corpus2: Computing & Telecommunications


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Fulfilling New Orders (100/ORDER)*: When you get a new order on Jumia, the product has to be dropped-off at any Jumia office.
*This cost is inclusive of cost of packaging materials.
These online sales platform require regular updates.
OLX/JIJI OR NAIRALAND. Boosting your ads/thread on these platforms will attract additional cost.
digital marketing services at a fee. Contact us for more details.

industry_corpus2: Others


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By Ann: Have you ever wondered why there are so many phases of the moon? Well, this one can be very helpful when you want to create something good in your life. Of course, the waxing moon was around in Egypt and this is the time where they used the moon and the stars to align the pyramids.
Let’s get to work and create something that is going to help you get what you want. In the olden days, they used to seal the letters with wax stamp. So, what we are going to do is this. Write down everything you want in this life, and please take note. Only the good things.
Pharaoh said this with any order that he gave out. When Moses went up to mount Sinai to get the Ten Commandments, God write them with his own hand on a twin tablet of stone and he said, “So let it be written, so let it be done.” When you create under this moon this way, you are asking it personal between you and the creator the waxing crescent moon is after the first phase of the new moon. The crescent moon sometimes is called the young moon. Dates of October 2017 are as follows 21st, 22nd,23rd,24th,25th, these are the times you put your waxing out. We are masters of our own creation; you are doing this for your life. With faith, hope and trust in the universe (creator) to give to you as an individual everything you need. You must put the waxing out at 12 o’clock midnight and bring it back in after 6am on the morning.
Think about this, everything that we do with paper, working your signature, binding on contracts, bank accounts and the list goes on. When you do this waxing, this is a binding agreement with you and God (creator) so, how silly this may sound to you. Why not try it you have free will? This is another way to create and release to the universal life force. If you have any questions, please contact me. I am here to help you get you where you need to go without the pain of suffering and self-doubt. You can do anything once you put your mind to it, when a person has a vision of how they want their house to be, they start to draw up plans and create that vision this is what you will be doing under the waxing crescent moon.


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Don't settle for a home that doesn't match your family's must-have list. Instead, have the home of your dreams when you turn to the construction professionals from SCS Building & Remodeling based in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin.
Bring your dream home to life. Just call SCS Building & Remodeling to begin the process. We'll design, plan, and construct the home you've always wanted. No matter what you imagine, our team has the experience and tools needed to get the job done right from start to finish. If you can dream it, we can build it, just ask us today.

industry_corpus2: Real Estate & Construction


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New South Scotland (known in Australia as Quadrangle Lawn and formerly known in Zealandia as Nya Ystad) is an Austenasian Crown Dependency situated on the eastern seaboard of the Australian continent. Between June 2014 and September 2016, the polity was administered by the Commonwealth of Zealandia, although de jure Austenasian sovereignty over New South Scotland continued to be acknowledged.
Established on 19 November 2012 as a colony of New Wessex, having formerly been part of an Australian university campus, the colony was ceded to the Empire of Austenasia on 20 January 2013 by Declan I upon the ascension of Jonathan I to the Austenasian Throne. New South Scotland was formally made a Crown Dependency of Austenasia on 25 January, by the First Imperial Decree of HIM Emperor Jonathan I. The then Haakon Lindstrom, also monarch of the nearby nation of Zealandia, was appointed New South Scotland's Governing Commissioner.
A notable incident took place on 30 October 2013, when two constables of the New South Wales Police were escorted out of New South Scotland by a constable of the New South Scotland Constabulary after they were found asking individuals for identification in a rude manner. The New South Scottish constable was helped by a group of socialists visiting from Australia, who sung the Internationale as the two NSW constables were escorted out.
On 22 May 2014, Lindström - who reigned by the regnal name of Astrid as Queen of Zealandia - ordered the Zealandian military to prepare an invasion of New South Scotland. A false version of events was reported to the Austenasian government, which were that Queen Astrid had been threatened with a coup by rogue elements of the Zealandian military and that she would be deposed unless she sanctioned an invasion of New South Scotland. The queen notified the Austenasian government of her apparent inability to suppress the rebellion, which was eventually allegedly pacified by an agreement by which use of half of New South Scotland would be granted to the Zealandian military in exchange for the force's annexation of new territory for the Crown Dependency. However, Lindstrom failed to pass on information to her government in regards to the Empire's wish for a deal, and instead willingly passed on misinformation, falsely accusing Austenasia of hostile designs on Zealandia and provoking her government into going ahead with an invasion of New South Scotland. Before Austenasia had a chance to respond militarily, a massive diplomatic backlash from the intermicronational community forced Zealandia to accept a compromise whereby New South Scotland would be administered independently by the Zealandian queen, but remain under formal Austenasian sovereignty.
Relations between Austenasia and Zealandia remained extremely frosty for over a year over the subject of New South Scotland and Lindstom's actions in relation to it, but began to thaw in 2015 after a treaty was signed formalising the arrangement. Relations between the two nations warmed considerably in mid-2016 as a result of uniting against diplomatic attacks from Sandus, and in July 2016 the Austenasian government was contacted by Lindstrom who informed them that she was unable to continue administering the crown dependency due to her and many members of the Zealandian government and military leaving the university which borders New South Scotland. After negotiations, a treaty was signed returning New South Scotland to full and exclusively Austenasian jurisdiction on 10 September 2016. Later that day, Emperor Jonathan I appointed The Rt Hon. Sir Hugh McFarlane, KCA as New South Scotland's second Governing Commissioner.
New South Scotland is governed by Sir Hugh McFarlane, a friend of Emperor Jonathan I who lives near to the crown dependency. The position had previously been held by Charlotte Lindstrom, who held the position of Governor when New South Scotland was a colony under Wessaxon rule, and ruled as Governing Commissioner in the name of the Emperor before 10 September 2016. Lindstrom established the New South Scotland Constabulary in August 2013 to provide law enforcement in her absence, although this force had become defunct by May 2014.
Since returning to exclusively Austenasian jurisdiction in September 2016, New South Scotland has been governed as a normal Austenasian Crown Dependency, being neither taxed nor having representation in Parliament, with the Emperor holding absolute power (exercised by the Governing Commissioner) over the Crown Dependency, and Austenasian legislation not applying to New South Scotland unless it explicitly refers to it.
1 HM Queen Astrid 25 Jan 2013 10 Sep 2016 Appointed Governing Commissioner of the newly-founded Crown Dependency by Imperial Decree. Monarch of the nearby Zealandia; had New South Scotland administered by Zealandia from June 2014 until September 2016 by agreement with Austenasia as a result of the 2014 New South Scotland crisis. Removed from office upon New South Scotland returning to ordinary Austenasian administration.
2 The Rt Hon. Sir Hugh McFarlane, KCA 10 Sep 2016 Incumbent Appointed Governing Commissioner by Emperor Jonathan I upon the return of New South Scotland to Austenasian administration. Had previously visited NSS as a tourist in March 2015.
New South Scotland has an area of approximately 3.3 square kilometers. The territory is located within the campus of the University of New South Wales (UNSW) and is bordered by the City of Sydney, Australia. The geographical position of New South Scotland means that it regularly frequented by students and teachers attending the university, having a huge effect on the geography, culture and economy of the area. The flora of New South Scotland is not very diverse, only featuring several trees and an extensive grass area. This grass area is used by students as a place to relax, which brings some environmental issues such as food waste which attracts fauna such as the Australian White Ibis. In the interest of preserving the area, groundskeepers at the university maintain the environment by removing litter and mowing the grass. Three pathways also exist, and are used as a major throughway for students and teachers. Drainage pipes and gutters border New South Scotland to protect against minor flooding and rainfall damage; since it is a small catchment area, this task is essential.
Bordering New South Scotland are several areas of varying economic activity, however very little occurs within the borders themselves. Nearby, multiple vending machines can be found, which dispense food and drinks to students. These machines are operated and owned by the university itself, but it is unclear if they generate any profit at all. Numerous shops are located a short distance away from New South Scotland, such as a pharmacy and the university bookshop. A Commonwealth Bank Automatic Teller Machine (ATM) also exists near to these shops which is used to fund transactions across the university. A section of the UNSW Business School is also housed within the large building that is directly next to New South Scotland itself. It is one of the major faculties at UNSW, and teaches a variety of courses regarding economics and commerce and has had a hand in creating some economic activity around the university campus.
New South Scotland is primarily used by university students as a recreational area, which has a huge effect on the culture of the area. The grass area is usually a location where food is eaten and where activities such as games and festivals take place. These types of activities define the culture of New South Scotland and how it behaves, as they have a huge effect on the different environments that exist. New South Scotland also features dozens of international cultures, despite having no citizens. The array of nationalities that students who use the area belong to gives New South Scotland a strong sense of multiculturalism.
Close by to New South Scotland is the university health clinic and dentistry, provided by UNSW itself. Not only does this facility treat students suffering from an array of health complications, but it also acts as an Infectious Control Zone (ICZ), which is used in the case of an epidemic as a location to treat patients. On display at this clinic are pieces of information regarding how to deal with current diseases and what major symptoms are. Whilst these services are technically outside the borders of New South Scotland, should any major disease outbreak occur, New South Scotland itself may well be used as a grounds for dealing with the issue. A pharmacy is also nearby which sells many different medical and cosmetic products.
This page was last edited on 19 April 2017, at 09:54.

industry_corpus2: Subject Education


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Bathtub Repair Guys is here for your needs involving Bathtub Repair in Gautier, MS. Our crew of well trained contractors will give you the products and services that you need with the most innovative technology in the industry. Our supplies are always of the highest quality and we understand how to save money. Contact us today by dialing 888-229-8830 and we will be glad to discuss the options, resolve the questions you have, and arrange a consultation to initiate organizing your project.
Here at Bathtub Repair Guys, we understand that you will need to stay in your budget and save cash everywhere you're able to. On top of that, you will want the absolute best and finest quality of work regarding Bathtub Repair in Gautier, MS. We are going to ensure that our cash saving goals never translate to a decreased standard of excellence. If you do business with our company, you'll have access to the advantages of our experience and high standard products to make sure your project will last while saving time and money. We're able to accomplish this by giving you the top prices around and preventing costly errors. Save your time and money by getting in touch with Bathtub Repair Guys right now. Call 888-229-8830 to speak with our customer support agents, now.
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Many good reasons can be found to pick Bathtub Repair Guys for Bathtub Repair in Gautier, MS. Our supplies are of the very best quality, our money saving practices are practical and efficient, and our customer support scores are unrivaled. Our company has the expertise you need to fulfill your objectives. Call 888-229-8830 to reach Bathtub Repair Guys and examine all your expectations about Bathtub Repair in Gautier.


text: You won't believe the detail! Each appliqué that adorns our signature cardigans is crocheted by hand. Even the sweaters themselves are hand-loomed! Available in Blue with Airplanes. 100% cotton; machine wash. Sizes 6m-6y. *bella bliss® uses the finest cottons available. For best results, lay flat to dry then fluff on low heat.

industry_corpus2: Manufacturing


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Registration for Fall 2018 Tri Town Youth Soccer Rec League is NOW OPEN.
We use demosphere to register our players. Please click at the link below and follow prompts to register your child. If you are a returning player you will need to log in to demosphere or if you are new please register your account with them. All registration is done electronically.
You can pay either via check or credit card for your convenience.
The League is using age divisions based on player ages following New Hamphire State school guidelines as of October 1, 2018: U6, U8, U10, U12, U14, U16 and U19.
Please note that 4-year-olds will be eligible to play in the Tri-Town YSL this year; 4- and 5-year-olds will play in the Under-6 (U6) division.

industry_corpus2: Sports


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Truc Duy’s “Bad Gurr” MV Version 2.0 revealed!
If you thought the first version didn’t really live up to it’s title, then that’s because it was technically the “Good Gurr” version.
Personally, the trailer doesn’t yet fulfill the hype that’s been set, as I was expecting something much more effectively persuasive (like I must see the movie to know), but hey, trailers aren’t necessarily our forte yet so I’ll be down for whatever. One thing’s for sure though, digging those soundtracks!
Who’s getting her smooch on?
So far, so quirky. We’re lovin’ it.
FYI, it’s not a sci-fi movie about R2-D2’s cousin.

industry_corpus2: Film & Entertainment


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It's been one year since I left Suburbia in Northern California and finally moved back to NYC. I've realized even though I moved back to my "old place" it can still feel like a "new place" with similar hopes, dreams and anxieties that I had before.
As nyc2suburbia: I moved to Suburbia and was hopeful. I wanted a change, new beginnings, new friends and family. I'm generally an optimist, but I was disappointed. I didn't like the change and I expected too much from everything and everyone.
As nyc2vin: I moved back to NYC and was confident. I wanted familiarity, but nothing stays the same... everything changes. I learned the hard way that friends move, friends die and family changes. Again I expected too much from everything and everyone, but most of all from myself.
Well I'm back where I wanted to be. It's not my ideal neighborhood but I made it back - and that's a big deal! On this one year anniversary of moving back, it's the perfect time to celebrate new beginnings as history repeats itself..."and that's nyc2vin".


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Alfred J. Small/Castle Brands, Inc.
Alfred J. Small is senior vice president and chief financial officer of Castle Brands, Inc., a producer, marketer, and distributor of spirits with a strong portfolio of Irish brands, such as Clontarf Whiskey, Boru Irish Vodka, and Brady’s Irish Cream. He has over fifteen years of experience in finance, operations, and compliance in the spirits industry.
Alfred joined Castle Brands during its early stages in 2004, playing a critical role in taking the company public and its growth over the subsequent years. Previously, he was a practicing accountant at Grodsky Caporrino & Kaufman, LLP. He is a CPA and holds a B.S. from the State University of New York.
He is a fourth-generation Irish American on both sides of his family. His father’s lineage traces back to Co. Tipperary, and his mother’s to Co. Clare. “Growing up in a family proud of its Irish heritage provided me with the work ethic, charity, loyalty and humor to meet all challenges head-on,” he says.

industry_corpus2: Finance & Economics


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Making fountains out of natural materials is not only a good way to de-stress, but can also be a potential money-spinning hobby.
The market for tabletop fixtures made up of natural elements – known popularly as Zen fountains – is growing, judging by the increasing number of people leading hectic lifestyles and looking for ways to de-stress.
Start-up capital is P700 for fountain, and time to finish is 1 hour. Some of the materials can be bought at local gardening stores. Bamboo fixtures may be made or bought ready-made. To cut cost, buy materials from local garden stores outside the malls where space rental is low. Buy decorative stones in bulk.
Measure the length of plastic tube where the submersible pump will be attached. Do this by putting the plastic tube inside the bamboo and then cutting it to size. The submersible pump can then be attached to the end of the plastic tube. Make sure to adjust the lever on the pump to your desired speed.
Put the bamboo and the submersible pump inside the oriental pot. Decorate the container with plants in smaller pots. For this project, the Chinese bamboo plant in a pot was used. Cover the pump, the plant, and the transparent tube with stones.
Pour water into the oriental basin until all its contents are submerged. Add embellishments to the top of the bamboo fixture where the pump was attached. The small clay jar can serve as receptacle for water that flows from the bamboo fixture where the pump is attached.
After assembling the fountain, plug the submersible pump to see if the device is working. Water should be flowing smoothly from the bamboo to the small jar, then back to the bigger basin. The Zen fountain is then ready to be displayed for personal use or for sale.
Take on 10% of the total production cost to account for labor, and then add a 30-peso markup to come up with a selling price of roughly P950 per fountain.


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The Smithsonian Institution’s Ripley Center in Washington, D.C. opened an exhibition of 100 paintings and drawings made in the aftermath of the January 12th earthquake by Haitian children. On view for the past two weeks and continuing through October, the show kicked off with the participation of Elisabeth Preval, wife of Haiti’s current president Rene Preval. She called it a reminder of the fact that Haiti still needs help.
While so much of the news has been bad about the earthquake’s effect on museums, galleries and private collections of Haitian art, there is one small bright spot. At least four of the murals done at mid-century in the Episcopal Holy Trinity Cathedral in Port-au-Prince survived this horrific natural disaster and can be saved. Private dollars from different sources are going toward this effort. The largest donation so far is $276,000 made by the trade association the Broadway League. Each of these entities gave $30,000 to the recovery project — the National Endowment for the Arts, the National Endowment for the Humanities and the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Sciences.. The plan is for U.S. conservators to hand over the reins for most of this meticulous work to Haitian professionals by November, 2011.
Do you like weird art? I guess the answer depends on just how weird in terms of what elements are included. In this case, I am talking about a painting on canvas I bought more than two decades ago in Haiti. This untitled work, measuring sixteen inches by twenty inches, is signed by Jean Claude Mehu, the artist, and dated 1987. It is weird, but also strangely compelling to me, because of its abrogation of one of the first visual art rules — create a central focus.
There is no central focus in my painting. Rather, there are competing points of interest, including the woman in the foreground pouring a pitcher of water inside on what might be rumpled blue clothing or a rock inside her house! In the background is a tree growing out of a table with a neat blue tablecloth on which three fat rats scamper next to the naked light bulb hanging from the ceiling.
Other unexplainable elements abound. Priests in long robes gossip in the background next to a bamboo fence, which is being repaired by a workman. Someone else stands on scaffolding to paint one of three houses in the background. A man in a red and white checkered shirt, blue kerchief, and gray knit cap holds what appears to be a small panther under its arms.
But the weirdest and most confounding bit of all is the bushy-tailed orange squirrel that dominates the right corner of the painting. He is sitting next to a bricked pool with water and is so wildly out of perspective that if the squirrel stood on its hind legs, he could be taller than the woman. What to make of Mehu’s wild imagination? I have pondered this painting many times and never put it up for sale because I cannot get to the bottom of it.
The thing is, it’s beautifully painted with meticulous detail. There are multiple narratives going on, none of which make a complete lot of sense. Once I get started looking at this painting, I cannot stop. With these thoughts in mind, maybe Mehu got it right. He created a painting that grabs the viewer’s attention in a way that one doesn’t want to let go.
For the past two Sundays, I have hosted Haitian art aficionados in my home. One is a veteran collector who lives in Miami, an erudite architect whose taste is eclectic and sophisticated. Another is a folk art lover with a fondness for many cultures, including Haitian. What got this man interested in Haitian art was a gift from Don Francisco, the colorful host of the Spanish-language TV variety show “Sabado Gigante.” It was a Haitian painting that Don Francisco had bought from Dr. Carlos Jara, a fellow Chilean like himself, who lived in Haiti and had a popular gallery there. Carlos was my closest friend before his untimely death in May, 1999. The third visitor was a woman from Hollywood, Florida, who had seen a Vodou flag on my website and wanted to see it in person.
Discussions of Haitian art with people truly interested in knowing more about it are an exciting aspect of being a collector and seller. Looking things up in books, doing Internet research, even staring at paintings of particular beauty are all part of my fascination with this subject. The past two Sundays were filled with these moments and more. I am looking forward to more such wonderful days.
If you want to experience the Caribbean in its full cultural glory, head to Vinoy Park in downtown Saint Petersburg, Florida on June 12 and 13 for the Tampa Bay Caribbean Carnival. There will be DJs, an ethnic parade, a steel band, internationally renowned Caribeean recording artists, a “mas” costume exhibition, food and crafts, which I would assume include the remarkable art of Haiti. Sounds like a good time.
RAM, led by Richard Morse, the affable manager of the famed Hotel Oloffson in the island nation’s capital, set the crowd ablaze with pleasure in sound, sight and movement. Not surprising, considering that RAM rocks the rafters of the Oloffson every Thursday night (or at least it used to) from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Who better to lead this musical resurgence than RAM with its roots-based music, singers and dancers?
If I were Charles’ assignment editor, I would have her researching the visual arts scene to assess the damage to Haiti’s museums, the seminal Le Centre d’Art that launched so many careers, and galleries. Which artists survived the earthquake and who didn’t make it? What is the aesthetic thrust of the art scene? All of these are good questions begging for answers for people who love Haiti and long for its renaissance.


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"Dam to Dam" refers to the section of the North Country Trail from Croton Dam near Newaygo, MI to Hodenpyl Dam near Mesick, MI. It runs from South to North through the Manistee National Forest. At the North end one has the option of staying on the North Country Trail on the West side of the Manistee River or crossing over to the Manistee River Trail on the East side of the river. The Manistee River Trail adds a little distance and has more impressive views of the river. Depending on which side of the river one takes and the exact finish point at the North end the route is roughly 130 miles.
I fastpacked Dam to Dam, using the Manistee River Trail at the North end of the route, on Labor Day weekend 2013. I did it in 3 days, camping 2 nights along the trail. I did the first two days unsupported but had some support from my parents on the third day. I didn't document my exact time, but it was roughly 61 hours from the start Saturday morning to the finish Monday evening.
My goal for Labor Day weekend 2014 is to complete the same trip in 2 days, unsupported. As my plans develop I will post more details and document the trip.
I said I didn't document the exact time, but then I realized I had cell phone pictures of me with the two dams, at the start and at the finish, in the background. The Croton Dam picture was taken at 7:08 am on Saturday August 31, 2013, and the Hodenpyl Dam picture was taken Monday September 2 at 7:18 pm, so my time from Croton Dam to Hodenpyl Dam was 60:10.
I'm planning to fastpack "Dam to Dam" for the second time starting Sunday August 24 at about 6:00 am. I plan to do it solo and unsupported, carrying all my food and gear, and only replenishing water along the way. I'll get water from well pumps at campgrounds and trailheads and from streams along the trail. My route will be from Croton Dam in Newaygo, MI to Hodenpyl Dam in Mesick, MI by way of the North Country Trail and the Manistee River Trail.
To record my time I'll take a cell phone picture at Croton Dam when I start and at Hodenpyl Dam when I finish.
I have Sunday through Tuesday to complete this trek, but my "very ambitious" goal is to do it in 40 hours. I have heard that "Dam to Dam" has been a popular backpacking trip, but I have not heard of anyone doing it in 3 days or less. I'd be interested to know about anyone who has done it in a relatively fast time.
I'll report next week on how it goes!
Did you end up running this again last year? I'm thinking about giving this route a go next year as a fast packing trip!
Last year (2014) I set out to do Dam to Dam again and did not finish it. I went into it tired and just didn't feel I had 130 miles in me. I did about 80 miles in 2 days and quit. This year I plan to give it another shot on Labor Day weekend, unsupported, and see if I can improve on my time. Look for my report after Labor Day.
I went back to improve on my time on Labor Day weekend 2015, but I developed a shin injury and stopped at 70 miles. That means my time from 2013 is still my best time, 2 days, 12 hours, and 10 minutes. It is officially a supported time, because, even though I did the first two days unsupported, I had support on the third day.
I have not heard of anyone doing Dam-to-Dam in a faster time, supported or not. I'm sure there are people who could do it faster, so I would encourage ultrarunners and fastpackers to go for it!

industry_corpus2: Travel & Geography


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China could be setting the stage for another boom-and-bust economic cycle as a result of the government’s campaign to curb financial risks.
Red lights flashed for financing after a speedup in credit-fueled economic growth in the first quarter.
Gross domestic product jumped 6.9 percent during the period, racing ahead of the government’s goal of “about 6.5 percent” for 2017.
At a key meeting of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee on April 25, President Xi Jinping sounded a warning that unrestrained financing schemes had gone too far.
“Accurate judgment of potential financial risks serves as a precondition for maintaining financial security,” Xi said, pushing regulatory agencies to tighten their policies.
The PBOC, the China Banking Regulatory Commission (CBRC) and other agencies were already on alert after efforts to cap a surge in January lending largely failed due to a flood of “shadow bank” loans.
The authorities have been particularly worried about loans indirectly financed by popular “wealth management products” (WMPs). The high-yielding instruments are sold to investors by banks but then passed on to “entrusted” managers and investment funds to generate the needed returns, masking the risk.
Critics see such schemes as little more than a shell game that could lead to defaults and the collapse of a shadow financing industry valued by Moody’s Investors Service at U.S. $8.5 trillion (58.5 trillion yuan).
Bank balances of WMPs stood at 30 trillion yuan (U.S. $4.36 trillion) at the end of April, the CBRC said.
Much of the unregulated funding has flowed into sectors that the government has tried to restrict, including property speculation and heavily-indebted state-owned enterprises (SOEs).
By late April, entrusted investments were already showing signs of a downturn due to regulatory warnings, Bloomberg News reported.
The crackdown on financial risk has since spread to a host of other areas.
On May 3, the Ministry of Finance (MOF) ordered provincial governments to “examine their financing practices and rectify all irregularities by the end of July,” the official Xinhua news agency reported.
This month, the CBRC told commercial banks to reclassify and revalue their collateral for loans at least once a year.
Overseas investments by state-owned enterprises (SOEs) will also be subject to stricter auditing, the State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) said.
But the wave of new rules has raised concern that the government’s penchant for administrative measures could be getting out of hand, running the risk of choking off economic growth.
The financing curbs came before the economy showed signs of cooling with reports that April growth of industrial output slipped to 6.5 percent from 7.6 percent in March.
The authorities have been cracking down on financing, the real estate sector, and outbound direct investment (ODI) at the same time, driving the Shanghai Stock Exchange Composite Index down by more than 7 percent from April highs by early May.
“The ongoing tightening campaign addresses longer term challenges rather than alleviating immediate needs of China’s economy. Investors should adapt to these circumstances and prepare for long-term interests,” it said.
The latest PBOC report on April lending suggests that the pressure on shadow financing is having an effect.
Traditional bank loans rose nearly 8 percent from a month earlier to 1.1 trillion yuan (U.S. $159.4 billion), but all- inclusive aggregate financing fell by 34 percent to 1.39 trillion yuan (U.S. $201.5 billion) as shadow lending slumped, the South China Morning Post said.
The crackdown on financing comes at an awkward time as China seeks maximum publicity for its “Belt and Road” initiative to forge new trade routes with promises valued by Reuters at up to U.S. $124 billion (855 billion yuan).
On the sidelines of the Belt and Road Forum in Beijing on May 14, Premier Li Keqiang assured Christine Lagarde, managing director of the International Monetary Fund, that China is “capable of maintaining financial market stability and warding off regional and systemic financial risks,” Xinhua said.
Scott Kennedy, deputy director of China studies at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, said the strong first-quarter GDP may give the government more room to address financial problems without suffering a major economic setback before the CPC’s 19th Party Congress in the fall.
So far, the financial sector has remained “essentially untouched” by the government’s anticorruption push, said Kennedy.
Kennedy cited the influence of Guo Shuqing, who took over as chairman of the CBRC in February, as spurring the shakeup in the financial sector after playing a similar role at the China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) in 2011-2013.
As with all of China’s campaigns and administrative controls, the government may face the consequences of overdoing the crackdown, setting the stage for another boom-and-bust cycle.
“If you go too far, you run the risk of strangling the economy, which you obviously don’t want to do,” Kennedy said in a phone interview.
Banks will be given a “buffer period of four to six months for self-scrutiny and rectification,” said Xiao Yuanqi, head of the CBRC’s prudential regulation bureau.
On Monday, the PBOC-affiliated Financial News said in an editorial that there was “no need to panic” over financial deleveraging. Recent measures were not “a kind of ‘shock therapy,'” the paper said, as quoted by Xinhua.
The outlook suggests that the flurry of new regulations and warnings will gradually subside over coming months.
Official commentaries in China have also sounded a note of caution.
“Deleveraging is no overnight task. It will be a gradual process calling for a delicate balance between tightening regulation and avoiding financial turmoil,” Xinhua said in another commentary on May 4.
A similar approach may be taking place with regard to warnings in March that government agencies were drafting rules to bar overseas investment in real estate and other sectors as part of controls to curb capital outflows and alleviate pressure on the yuan.
As China’s foreign exchange reserves have risen slightly in April for the third month in a row and outflows have eased, so have concerns about new ODI restrictions.
But even if regulators succeed in striking a balance between risk reduction and growth in time for the party congress, uncertainties will remain for investment and liquidity.
The recent history of China’s administrative measures suggests that excessive investment and over-regulation are companion forces in creating asset bubbles as investors seek high returns.
Regulators tried to deflate the housing bubble in 2014 but only succeeded in inflating the stock market.
Excess liquidity was then chased into the bond market and outbound investment, and back into the property sector again.
After the crackdown on WMPs and the financial sector runs its course, where will the money go next?
“That’s a great question,” said Kennedy. “There’s certainly plenty of cash in the system that’s got to find some place,” he said.


text:
Ferdinand Porsche (3 September 1875 – 30 Januar 1951) wis an automotive ingineer an foonder o the Porsche caur company.
↑ "Ferdinand Porsche - Porsche Tradition - Classic World - Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG". Porsche.com. Retrieved 29 May 2014.
↑ The name Porsche is pronoonced [ˈpɔʁʃə] in German an /ˈpɔːrʃə/ in Scots, wi an audible schwa.

industry_corpus2: Automobiles


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The following was written for three:d, the newsletter of MeCCSA, the Media Communications and Cultural Studies Association (PDF, page 9).
Something has happened to self-publishing over the past few years. No longer the last resort for local historians and wannabe poets, it is now a sign of entrepreneurial spirit, an alternative to the limitations of attention-starved journalism, and a way of kicking against the pricks of mainstream publishing. Self-published books have almost tripled in number over the last five years, with a number of authors making the bestseller lists. More than one in ten ebooks bought by UK readers is now self-published.
This entry was posted in blogging and tagged 40k, 8000 holes, BookBaby, Byliner, ebooks, Fred Strebeigh, Ganxy, Hyperink, leanpub, longform, Mampoer, MeCCSA, Media Communications and Cultural Studies Association, Model for the 21st Century Newsroom: Redux, Red Lemonade, Scraping for Journalists, three:d, Unbound, Volpen on November 20, 2012 by Paul Bradshaw.
This entry was posted in data journalism, online journalism and tagged 8000 holes, Carol Miers, ebooks, Geoff Holt, Jack Binstead, longform, Olympic torch relay on August 7, 2012 by Paul Bradshaw.

industry_corpus2: Literature & Emotions


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Unfortunately, his ill-fated exhibition of 1809 held above his family's hosiery shop in Soho, meant he was never lauded by the public in his time.
Nearby, the original artworks are displayed in a re-staging of Blake's failed exhibition. We've a feeling that this time, the works will be received somewhat differently.
The exhibition opens with Albion Rose — Blake's incandescent visualisation of the mythical founding of Britain.
A section is dedicated to Blake's illuminated books such as Songs of Innocence and of Experience (1794), his best-known work as a radical poet — and something still taught in schools today.
Other highlights include Newton (which you may recognise as the direct inspiration for Eduardo Paolozzi's Newton statue outside the British Library) and Ghost of a Flea, which was inspired by a séance-induced vision.
The exhibition culminates with The Ancient of Days 1827, a frontispiece for an edition of Europe: A Prophecy, completed only days before Blake's death.
Elsewhere, William Blake: The Artist focuses on London, the city in which he was born, and whose burgeoning metropolis was a constant inspiration. Another inspiration was Blake's wife, Catherine, who offered both practical assistance and became an unacknowledged hand in the production of his engravings and illuminated books.


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As a focussed, dedicated surveying company we pride ourselves on providing great customer service at all times. With all our staff knowledgeable about each project, you can talk to anyone and easily get an update on your project's progress.
We specialise in surveying and subdivisions, including strata subdivisions, engineering surveying, and features and construction surveying; which means we can take care of all your surveying and subdivision requirements.
Perth today is undergoing tremendous growth, with many people subdividing parcels of land in order to maximise profits. We service a variety of clients including private land owners, architects, builders, real estate agents, local government departments, engineering companies, construction companies, and land developers.
Are you looking for professional and experienced licensed surveyors in Perth?
Established in 2007, Horizon Surveys have an enviable reputation as one of the best Perth surveying companies, serving both Perth itself and the surrounding rural areas.
As land survey specialists, we not only have the expertise you need but our services come backed up with many years of industry experience, to make us one of the most respected surveying companies Perth has available.
One thing you will notice about Horizon Surveys is that our team of knowledgeable and qualified staff will always do their utmost to provide you with the highest customer service.
Furthermore, as a customer focused business we make it our aim to provide a service that's not just affordable, but that is backed up with honesty and integrity. We're reliable, we're professional and as, one of the most dedicated licensed surveyors Perth has available, we always ensure that each member of our team is fully up to date with every project that we take on.
This means that there'll always be someone on hand to give you a full update on the progress of your project, whenever you need it.
Over the years we've been in business we've become specialists in surveying and subdivisions. Whether you need a professional surveyor to provide expertise on strata subdivisions, engineering surveying, identification services, or features surveys and construction surveying, Horizon Surveys can help.
We can take care of all your surveying and subdivision requirements, and are well-equipped to look after all kinds of developments and construction projects.
Our clients include local government departments, private landowners, land developers, architects, builders, engineering and construction companies, and real estate agents, so as you can see we really are one of the most respected surveyors Perth has on offer.
And we don't just mean growth of our client base. Here at Horizon Surveys, we're fully committed to helping our company to grow and evolve in order to offer you the best service possible.
Whether that's by investing in our staff or investing in the latest technologies, you'll find that we're the kind of licensed surveyor Perth needs to ensure that it receives the most up to date surveying services.
It's no wonder that we're the Perth surveying company that people can rely on and trust.
We'd love the opportunity to discuss your needs and how we can help you with your project.
Horizon licensed surveyors provide the best surveying services in Perth. We specialise in residential land surveys, site & subdivision surveys.
As every property developer knows, the most important step in any project is to have a quality land survey performed before the work commences. Without that, nothing else will get done.
Obviously you need to make sure you work with a licensed surveyor in Perth, to be certain the information you get is scientifically accurate.
Horizon Surveys is one of the most frequently recommended licensed surveyors in Perth, providing land surveys, strata surveys, and all kinds of other related services.
Being in Western Australia, it is no surprise to find mining tenement surveys also on the list of available services from Horizon.
Perth surveying companies and individual Perth surveyors should be registered with the Land Surveyors Licensing Board of Western Australia (LSLB). This is the only way you can be certain that surveyors in Perth meet all the requirements to hold a Certificate of Competency.
In order to achieve this registration and to be issued with the Certificate of Competency, surveying companies in Perth (and every individual employed in the capacity of working as surveyors in Perth) must pass a number of criteria.
The first requirement for every individual is that they must have a recognized degree in surveying, which is basically your guarantee that the individual understands all the different variables that must be taken into account when performing a site survey.
They then need to complete an additional two years of practical experience under the supervision of another licensed surveyor. This provides you with the additional peace of mind that there are multiple levels of safety built into the licensing process.
The applicant must then also complete a series of set projects, and pass numerous exams including a survey law examination and practical examinations. Having made it through all this, they also must perform well in a professional interview conducted by the LSLB.
If these requirements seem to be very strict, it's because the LSLB and the government of Western Australia realize the importance of surveying, and the terrible consequences that could result from an incompetently performed survey.
The licensing requirements are strict as a means of ensuring that only the best and most competent people can be licensed as surveyors in Western Australia. In this way, the terrible engineering and building accidents that have been seen in some overseas locations can be avoided in our own state.
The importance of this is enhanced by the fact that Western Australia is a mining state, so structural integrity is something we need to pay close attention to.
Around the world in the past five years there have been at least 34 serious major structural collapses resulting in approximately 1900 fatalities and countless more injuries. Almost certainly some of these accidents occurred because of improperly performed surveys and other engineering mistakes.
By holding Australian surveyors to high standards, there have been no major structural collapse accidents in Australia since the Granville Railway Bridge incident in 1977, in which 84 lives were tragically lost. It has been shown since the incident occurred that it was a preventable incident.
All this is to say that due to the rigorous licensing requirements, you are much less likely to see structural failures due to surveying or engineering mistakes in Australia.
You should also make sure any surveyor you work with, in addition to having the correct licensing and registration is also fully insured. Otherwise any legal recourse you may have would be limited to what the surveyor was able to pay.
Not once in the entire history of Horizon Surveys has an error ever been made, but we still have full insurance anyway, because our clients should be able to rely on more than just our word.
You should always check the insurance status of any professionals you work with. This is just a sensible business practice to follow.
The two most important measurements recorded in most surveying jobs are distance and topography. To ensure a building site is level, very precise measurements need to be taken. This needs to be done even when the site is not going to be levelled, so the building engineers will know how to ensure the resulting building will be level.
Distance measurements are also important for establishing and verifying land boundaries. Sometimes due to natural processes, land boundaries can change. In order to make sure land owners are not disadvantaged by forces of nature, periodic checks of land boundaries need to be made.
Surveying also has a role to play in mapping and topological modelling. Another application of surveying is in already constructed buildings. Building surveyors can detect problems such as subsidence and other worrying conditions that can arise in existing buildings.
The simplest answer to what a surveyor actually does is that they measure things very precisely. While this may sound like a simple task, it is actually a very demanding one, and one that places a great deal of responsibility on the surveyor.
Even a tiny error in survey data could lead to serious consequences, which is in fact another good reason to choose your land building project surveyors with care.
It is also always best to work with surveyors who are familiar with the local area. Over many year Horizon Surveys has conducted survey operations all over Perth and surrounding areas, as well as more remote regions of Western Australia.
Working with Horizon Surveys means you can proceed with the confidence that comes from knowing the surveyors on your project are experienced professionals with a good track record and strong knowledge of the local environment.
It is not only builders and property developers who need the services of a land surveyor. Anyone considering buying land should have a survey done as well.
A survey will help you detect problems such as encroachment, boundary errors, and important geographic features such as erosion or subsidence. Knowing about these things in advance could save you many thousands of dollars.
Surveying is one of the most important preliminary tasks that need to be performed before a new construction or development can be commenced. This ensures the integrity of the data when a licensed surveyor has located all the features and land boundaries to provide accurate maps.
But there are many other ways a surveyor can help you. New construction projects are just one of the services a surveyor can assist with.
There are other services available as well, mainly connected with GIS and other geographic needs.
Horizon Surveys Pty Ltd stands out among surveying companies in Perth due to our long history of providing accurate results to our many hundreds of clients.
No job is too big or too small for us, and our Perth surveyors may find themselves involved in a multimillion dollar construction project one day, and checking the boundaries of a two hectare hobby farm the next.
Our tremendous flexibility and eagerness to provide top quality service to every client is what has helped us to reach the top ranks of Perth surveying companies.
It is required for all practising surveyors in Perth to be appropriately licensed by the Land Surveyors Licensing Board of Western Australia (LSLB).
Our Surveyors and team leaders are all qualified with degrees from University (in Surveying) or with Diplomas and Advanced Diplomas (Surveying) from TAFE.
If you work with unlicensed contractors, you compromise the safety and Integrity of your project (because you have no way of knowing if they are truly professional or not).
It is an offence in Western Australia for Surveyors who are not licensed to work on Boundary definition (or the determination of land boundaries).
So always make sure that anyone performing survey work for you is properly licensed and insured. When you hire Horizon Surveys as your surveyor, you never need to be concerned, because we use only licensed surveyors in Perth to work for our company in the determination of Land boundaries.
Horizon Surveys is not just another surveying company. We are committed to providing total excellence in every task we perform, which means you can rely on us for accuracy, accountability, and professionalism.
Getting your surveys from us can save you time and money, while you will always be certain that you are getting quality results. This means safe construction projects, accurate reports, and/or correctly drawn maps.
We are the best survey company in Perth, and we're determined to remain the best. Contact Horizon Surveys today and find out more about our services on (08) 9387 8226.


text: Forest Beach is located in South Chatham on Nantucket Sound. A quiet and charming small beach with limited free parking. Forest Beach has small waves and warm water, making it a family friendly option. Forest Beach Road can be found just west of Pleasant Street in Chatham, off Route 28. Forest Beach is located between Cockle Cove Beach and Pleasant Street Beach.


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Some Lagosians on Sunday said celebrating Valentine’s DAY on the same day that most Christians will start observing the 40-day Lenten season might cause some conflicts of interest.
They said this in separate interviews when they were informed that this year’s Valentine Day and Ash Wednesday both fall on Wednesday, Feb. 14.
On Ash Wednesday, Christians are expected to receive Ash on their foreheads, fast by not eating foods and refrain from some social activities.
They are also expected to engage themselves in prayers and in charity works from Ash Wednesday till Holy Saturday when the season of Lenten will be over.
This was to make them, followers of Jesus Christ, to comply with what he did while on earth.
He fasted for 40 days and 40 nights, suffered persecution, died on Good Friday, and rose from the dead on Easter Sunday.
Also during the commemoration of St.Valentine’s Day, usually on Feb. 14 of every year, people celebrate it by sending cards, flowers, chocolates and messages of love to loved ones.
In recent years and with the advent of eateries, youths always invite their spouses to eateries, cinemas and other recreational centers to celebrate the day.
Mr Hillary Okongwu, a legal practitioner, said that the unusual timing of the two events would definitely not affect his celebration of love on Feb. 14.
Okongwu said that while Valentine enjoins him to show love to the world, Ash Wednesday was to him, a gentle reminder of mortality.
He said that it was a reminder that he needed to keep his mind focused on the ultimate goal of making heaven.
“The combined effect of both events shows that I, as a person, must strive to show love to the world as much as I can because no man will live forever.
“The celebration, however, carries a deeper message than the superficial celebration.
“The world is torn apart because of lack of love among men.
“Our family and societal experiences lend credence to the fact that for any meaningful development to take place there must be peace and love.
“ Peace is borne out of love for your fellow man. Lent is ultimately important to keep our spiritual minds rejuvenated and to remind us of our spiritual destination,’’ Okongwu said.
Irebowale Ogebule, an entrepreneur, said that some Christians might not participate in the Ash Wednesday church activities because of their own Valentine programme.
Ogebule said that the fact that this year’s Season of Lent commences on that day means that a lot of people might prefer to ignore it and invest in their love life.
She said that most of the youths would rather hang out with their friends at the cinemas to watch romantic movies.
“I think developing the spirit mind is a personal decision. We don’t have to wait for Lent to do that.
“ Most Pentecostal churches have their own season of fasting and personal intercession with God.
“It is also important to know that the commemoration of Valentine Day has an impact on businesses which contributes to economic growth.
“ Valentine Day celebration can contribute and stimulate the economy of our immediate society. It can be very significant to the core capitalist.
“As you know, no matter what you sell, you will still have people to patronise you on that day.
“People who run eateries, beer parlour, restaurants and clubs will make their sales that day because that is where many people will hangout.
“Meanwhile, we must not forget that because that same day is when most Christians will commencement this year’s Season of Lenten will reduce sales.
“Foods to be consumed by Christians will reduce and of course alcohol sales will practically be at zero level,’’ Ogebule said.
Kehinde Dosunmu, a marketer, said that Valentine Day did not mean anything to him as a member of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).
He said the RCCG fasting and prayer was still ongoing noting that showing love must not be restricted to a day celebration.
He said that he always show love to anyone around him because God is love.
Ms Faith Okeke, an official with Wale Adenuga Production, said the coincidence of the two events, would not affect her from serving her God.
Okeke said that she would participate in the reception of the ash in her church on Feb. 14.
She said that the Season of Lent starting on Ash Wednesday was more important to her than a celebration that would be short-lived.
She said that putting both on a scale; the Christian activities for the day would carry more weight to her more due to its importance.
“The fact is that Christians don’t joke with such days. It is holy and sacred’’, she said.
An events’ planner, Miss Nancy Anuforo said that she might not participate in the religious activities attached to this year’s Ash Wednesday.
Anuforo said that she would be hanging out with her fiancée who would be travelling down to Lagos for both of them to celebrate Valentine Day together.
“Since it is the beginning of the season of Lent, l can still catch up, just let me enjoy myself before the season thickens.
The post Valentine Day, Ash Wednesday celebrations hold same day: Lagosians react differently appeared first on Vanguard News.


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Do you want to know more about the Bible? Are you unsure how to get started? These Bible Study links below will help you understand the Bible more clearly.
Discover will help you understand the major themes of the Bible. You'll find the 26 lessons thought-provoking and inspiring.
Find Bible answers for life's problems in the Amazing Facts Study Guide Lessons. These lessons are easy for everyone!
Do you prefer in-person, face-to-face interaction to study the Bible? Click here to contact us. We have several small group Bible Studies or individual personalized Bible Studies available. Let us open God's Word together and discover what He really wants us to learn!


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Designed as In-house Creative Director for VILLA. VILLA looks to provide the best in retail experience for their customers, and providing a designated space for each brand is a direct way of telling the story of that brand. Designed store layout, selected furniture as well as created brand graphics in line with Jordan Brand oversight.
Designed as In-house Creative Director for VILLA. I was challenged with value engineering the store design for VILLA, with a goal of reducing store opening costs via new modular fixturing, creating evergreen artwork and seasonal merchandise campaign areas that could be produced affordably. Store opening costs were reduced by nearly $200k.
Designed as In-house Creative Director for VILLA. In coordination with adidas, I was asked to design a temporary (1 month) shop-in-shop space at a flagship VILLA location. Retail layout, photography, merchandising and custom fixtures were all designed, executed and installed under my direction.


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When talking about Vietnamese Street Food, we can not skip one stunning and unique in this beautiful country. It is seafood, especially Sweet Snails. There are many ways to make this delicious ingredient. But they all bring one stunning flavor when you taste it.
Today, I will introduce 4 dishes about Sweet Snails, which is most popular ingredient from Vietnamese Street Food. Each dish will give a different interesting flavor. And most young Vietnamese people fall in love with it.
Dish 1: Fried Sweet Snails with Tamarind Sauce.
Clean Sweet Snails. Boil Oil, add minced garlic to fry until its color turn brown yellow. Next, add sweet snail and a little tamarind sauce into pan together. Fry about 5 – 10 minutes. Next add a little fish sauce and season to suit your taste. Continue fry until the sauce becomes thick. Turn off the heat and you can serve it. Remember, use when it is hot is better. Eating with Vietnamese Mint Leaves will bring to you a unique flavor from this ingredient.
Dish 2: Steamed Sweet Snails with Sliced Ginger.
Many people love sweet snails because even you cook it in any way, its natural flavor will not disappear. Steamed sweet snails wilth sliced ginger is one of amazing dishes like that. The combination between ginger, chili and sweet snails will bring an amazing flavor in your mouth. Meat of these snails still keeps the fresh, tough and sweet which will give you many interesting feeling when tasting it.
Dish 3: Grilled Sweet Snails Dish.
Here is one of my favorite Vietnmese Street Food. Using when it is still hot, with dipping sauce and Vietnamese Mint Leaves is the best choice for me in rainy days. The cover of them after grill turn yellow and you can not deny that its flavor is amazing.
Dish 4: Roasted Sweet Snails with Chili Salt.
Most young Vietnamese people fall in love with this dish. The process for making it is really easy. Clean Snails, next steam them about 5 minutes. Then turn off the heat, throw away water and wait to get cold. Next step, add a little salt, chili powder and necessary seasoning for this dish into pan, roast about 2 – 3 minutes, season to suit with your flavor and add more snails into pan, roast more 5 – 10 munite to absorb all seasoning. And finally, you can serve it.
To sum up, with Vietnamese Street Food, each ingredient you can create many different dishes for yorself, family and friends. One of them is Sweet Snails. If you have a chance to visit my country, you should try it at least once time, and I bet you will not regret. However, in your own country, you still can make these stunning dishes through ways I told you above. Good Luck to you.

industry_corpus2: Hospitality & Catering


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Miscarriages occur in around 15-20% of all pregnancies, usually during the first three months (first trimester). Having 1-2 miscarriages is not an indication for future infertility. However, recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) can be a significant factor affecting fertility. Many couples go on to have children after one miscarriage, even two. However, when a woman experiences two consecutive miscarriages, an underlying cause must be considered.
Miscarriage is divided into two groups: early miscarriage and late miscarriage.
Recurrent early miscarriages – Also called RPL, these occur during the first trimester. Recurrent early miscarriage is usually caused from chromosomal or genetic problems of the embryo, and around 60-80% of spontaneous aborted fetus have abnormal chromosome numbers. Another cause of miscarriage is structural problems with the uterus.
Recurrent late miscarriage – This is the result of uterine abnormalities, an incompetent cervix, premature labor, or autoimmune problems.
Blood tests for diabetes, insulin resistance, autoimmune diseases, and diseases related to the pituitary and thyroid glands.
Ultrasound and hysterosalpingiogram for anatomical testing.
Chromosome testing for products of conception after multiple losses (DNA analysis).
Blood clotting studies, especially for people with family history of venous thrombo-embolism.
Random chromosomal abnormalities of the embryo is a factor in 75% of all first trimester losses. For these couples, a karyoptype test can check for a balanced translocation, which indicates chromosome problems. Selecting a chromosomally normal embryo may increase your chances of live birth. This is done through Colorado in vitro fertilization (IVF) where the woman’s eggs and the man’s sperm are combined in the laboratory. Resulting embryos can be tested for chromosomal problems that cause miscarriage.
Around 15% of all repeated miscarriages are related to uterine structural problems. These abnormalities (anomalies) of the uterus are often congenital (somet hing you are born with), such as a double uterus, a septate uterus (divided by a wall), or other malformation.
Some uterine abnormalities form during the woman’s life, such as polyps and fibroids. These growths occur anywhere in the uterus, and may affect pregnancy. In addition, scarring in the uterus can lead to miscarriages. These problems are treated with surgery, which increases your chances of a healthy pregnancy.
Endocrine problems warrant investigation include diseases of the pituitary and thyroid glands, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and diabetes mellitus. Luteal phase defect (LPD) suggests problems with hormones, which can result in miscarriage. Treatment for LPD is ovulation induction and stimulation medications, such as clomiphene citrate (Clomid). In addition, progesterone therapy is popular for helping maintain the uterus lining (endometrium).
Immunological problems develop when the mother produces antibodies that cause blood vessel clotting, which harms the developing fetus. If the fetus does not receive nutrients, it can die in utero, which leads to miscarriage. Several blood tests are used to detect this problem, and it is easily treated with aspirin or heparin.


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Can you imagine the Earth being polluted to the point where the politicians agree that it is not fabricated by a corporation looking to cash in on pollution cleanup programs? What will be the human initiative? Perhaps a man made machine created to clean up the environment and to take matters in their hands to prevent and remove the threat of anything that will pollute the Earth after the cleanup. Machines aren’t intelligent enough to make that distinction. So, it is up to man to create artificial intelligence to put in the pollution cleanup machines.
After cleaning up the Earth the machines concluded that the main threat to polluting the Earth is man. The machines began to wage war on man eradicating man in their effort to get rid of the pollutants. Eventually man left the Earth’s surface and begin to live underground in a complex series of tunnels and shafts. But the resistance against the machines continues, with the goal to take back the Earth. The resistance teams are led by a mysterious entity called “Voice.” The Voice communicates with the team through transmitted messages in the inner right ear of the team leader.
Does this theme sound familiar? Well it should if you liked watching that short lived science fiction show Cleopatra 2525. I don’t know about you but I liked that show. So now I’m shouting out to all you Cleopatra 2525 fans.
I had forgotten about that television show, I recognized the featured image for this post but I could not remember the name of the show or the characters or much about it, thank you for bringing back a few memories True George.
For some reason I think that I remember seeing a video clip from this show online a few years ago or less for the first time in years.
Yeah, and I like how YouTube is starting to get more legal music and music videos for entire albums for many different musicians that are automatically organized into playlists that are available on automatically generated YouTube channels.

industry_corpus2: Artificial Intelligence


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Grace by Dale Ford - 10" x 8"
Grace poster by Dale Ford. Our posters are produced on acid-free papers using archival inks to guarantee that they last a lifetime without fading or loss of color. All posters include a 1" white border around the image to allow for future framing and matting, if desired.
Thank you, Donna. Your comment, f & v are greatly appreciated.
Thank you for your kind comment, Robin, and for taking the time to make it.
Thank you so much, Jon, for your comment and your vote.
My thanks to Lenore Senior for featuring this image in her wonderful group Old Master - Photographers and Digital Art.
Thanks so much, LeeAnn. I appreciate your kind remarks.
very beautiful. I love the stark contrast of the black and white. Clean, crisp, pure and smooth. EXQUISITE!! Very.
My thanks to First Star for featuring this image in the wonderful group "Digital Touch".
Thank you, Ms Judi, for the comment and for the V/F.


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After initially failing to scandalize a Wall Street Journal story about political donations made by Clinton ally and Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe’s (D) political action committee (PAC) to the wife of an FBI official, conservative media are trying to revive the story. Now they’re trying to hype flawed, speculative allegations of Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton’s alleged role in the fundraising for McAuliffe’s PAC in hopes of undermining the FBI’s investigation into Clinton’s emails.
In an October 23 article titled “Clinton Ally Aided Campaign of FBI Official’s Wife,” the Journal reported, “The political organization of Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe, an influential Democrat with longstanding ties to Bill and Hillary Clinton, gave nearly $500,000 to the election campaign of the wife of an official at the Federal Bureau of Investigation who later helped oversee the investigation into Mrs. Clinton’s email use.” The piece implied that the McAuliffe PAC’s donation may have influenced FBI official Andrew McCabe, who is married to the donation’s recipient, Jill McCabe, in his later investigation of Clinton’s email use.
But just as the initial Journal story fell apart under scrutiny of the timeline -- Andrew McCabe didn’t become involved in the FBI investigation until several months after McAuliffe’s donation to Jill McCabe -- so too does the Daily Mail’s bizarre and complicated suggestion that Clinton headlined a fundraiser because she was able to foresee that resulting donations would months later go to the wife of a man who would later be promoted twice to play a lead role in an investigation that did not yet exist.
What hasn't been proven is that Hillary Clinton did anything improper. Clinton would have had to be a pretty advanced political chessmaster to do a June 2015 fundraiser with the knowledge that, in October 2015, it would benefit the wife of an FBI official who would be promoted to an oversight position into her email investigation the next February. And McAuliffe would have to be an even savvier operator to have recruited Jill McCabe to run for office in March 2015 in the hopes that, sometime down the line, her husband would get promoted to the point of overseeing an investigation that didn't yet exist. There's also no evidence Andrew McCabe actually influenced the email investigation in a way that benefited Clinton. For all we know, he could've been pushing for her prosecution only to be overruled by Comey.
Indeed, perhaps a much simpler explanation for Clinton’s fundraising appearance and the McAuliffe PAC’s donation is that a leading Democrat raised money for the Virginia state party and the governor's PAC to try to swing the legislature to benefit the Democratic governor -- who is also an old friend -- during one of the few major off-year elections in the country.
Yet, even though almost nothing about the story has changed, right-wing media are now hyping the Daily Mail’s “exclusive” to suggest impropriety by Clinton and McAuliffe and a compromised FBI investigation. Fox News’ Tucker Carlson said the situation was “sleazy,” and the pro-Trump Breitbart News suggested the donations are “unusual” and raise questions, despite the continued lack of evidence of any wrongdoing.

industry_corpus2: Politics & Administration


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Silo is a machine on the HackTheBox.
Hack The Box is an online platform allowing you to test your penetration testing skills and exchange ideas and methodologies with other members of similar interests. It contains several challenges that are constantly updated.
This article will show how to hack Silo box and get user.txt and root.txt.
First, we scan the Silo box open ports and see if there are some services are weak.
There are a lots of ports open. Let’s try it one by one.
The HTTP server is running on this box, so let’s start on this service first. Open browser, and visit website.
The webpage is a default IIS Webpage. So, I am assuming that it is not the correct way. But, just in case, we use dirb to enumerate and see what can we find.
Unluckily, we did not find anything. So, let’s move on the next service.
For hacking these services, we can use metasploit. But, After my testing, there is no vulnerability on these services. So, the correct way should be Oracle Database.
After install ODat, the next step is, we need to find which user is using default or weak credentials. This is the List of Oracle default credentials.
Get User.txt is a little bit difficult. First, we need to write a bat script to list users folder to figure out the username.
Then, we use command to upload the file and run the script.
Generally, this box is easy. What you need to do is that spent few hours to install ODat on your Kali Linux. I spent around 2 hours to install this tool. Then, spent 10 mins to root this box. The difficulty of this box should around 5. (4 is for install ODat tool + 1 is for root this box).
There is my another write up of Aragog Box.


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Learn the traditional method of blue tie-dyeing known as Aizome. Create and design your own handkerchief using the natural indigo dye obtained from plants.
Experience hand dying traditional Okinawan cup coasters for you to take home as a souvenir. Learn to paint using techniques from the 15th century Ryukyu Kingdom.
Recreate the delicate and colorful patterns of traditional Okinawa art in this fun experience! Great for kids and groups. Take a home a unique souvenir.
Take real Okinawan coral and use bright colorful dyes to make your very own T-shirt, tote bag or cloth as a truly unique souvenir. Perfect for all ages, make a cute souvenir today.


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What’s the Difference Between Goodman and Amana?
What Contractor Say About Goodman?
One of its unique services is the offer for a lifetime warranty for its compressors. This is quite reassuring for potential clients of the Goodman heat pumps. A faulty compressor could spell doom for a heat pump, in addition to being quite costly to replace. The reason they offer the lifetime warranty is the revolutionary suction accumulator. The primary reason for compressor breakdown is the accumulation of refrigerant in the suction lines. Any refrigerant in liquid form is trapped in this suction accumulator, ensuring trouble-free compressor operation. Other unique features are a gas muffler at the discharge point and a compressor sound blanket. Consequently, one is assured that their heat pump will remain within the noise levels. Most manufacturers claim noise levels can go as low as’ but have no way of assuring clients that.
Today, more and more brands start to use aluminum coils to decrease the cost of manufacture. If your aluminum coils break down, you need to replace the whole coils instead of patching up the hole on the Copper tube. So the repair cost for aluminum coils will be 3-4 times as expensive. Goodman keeps on using the copper tube is good for customers.
The highest efficient Goodman air conditioner is 18 SEER. In most cases, 16-18 SEER is enough for residential using and long-term saving. However, if you want an 18+ SEER or variable cooling air conditioner, we recommend you to check Trane, Carrier, Lennox or American Standard. The highest SEER for Trane and Carrier is 21, and in 2016 Lennox just launch their 26 SEER XC25 air conditioner.
Actually it is very common to see several brands from a same manufacturer in the HVAC industry. In some cases, the only difference is the logo and the units are 100% same. However, this is not the case for most Amana and Goodman models. Here is the quote from BaldLoonie who is the global moderator of HVAC-Talk forum. He has compared the Goodman GSC13 with Amana ASC13 Model for so many details.
Stamped top, hang a fan motor, cheapest way to do it.
Heavy compressor cover for sound reduction.
Heavy duty top and venturi for sound reduction.
2 speed fan motor, extra sound reduction in mild weather.
Copeland Comfort Alert diagnostics module tied in with pressure switches to lock out the compressor in event of problem, saves compressor.
As we can see in the above quote, Amana is actually a high-end product which will take you more money for that.
Note: “Coastal” models have additional anti-corrosion features to protect it from the ocean-related corrosion.
GSZ Series: The GS series was designed for the budget-minded consumer. The two models in the series provide efficiencies of 15 and 16 SEER respectively, and both units have an HSPF rating of 9. Every unit includes a single-stage Scroll compressor, liquid-line filter drier and suction-line accumulator.
DSZC Series: The DSZC series incorporates all the features in the GSZ series and adds a two-stage compressor and ComfortNet Communications System compatibility. Efficiencies range from 16-18 SEER, and 9.5 HSPF for both models.
Goodman has one of the most solid reputations in the HVAC market, yet many people don’t know much about them. Amana and Goodman are come from the same company and Goodman has a lower pricing for most models. Goodman is one of our favorite manufacturing companies and has the most hassle-free warranty of all major HVAC products.
Each Unit includes: Goodman DSZC16 3-ton outdoor condenser, 1300-1400 cfm air handler, programmable heat pump thermostat.
Our system ran perfectly for the first two years after installation. However, it started giving us grief two years later. Since then, we have had the Freon refilled twice. Although it continues to run, the contractor is yet to identify the source of the leak.
The Goodman has been quite troublesome. This is primarily due to the inefficiency in getting rid of condensation. Since installation of the system two years ago, I have noticed mold growing in the house. This has been a huge turnoff for me. Am disappointed and I believe Goodman need to fix this problem with the humidity.
Since I installed the system some time back, it has been running quite smoothly. However, it does get a bit noisy when defrosting. About two weeks ago, the entire unit shut down and I called the contractor. He informed me that the fan had to be replaced. However, they did not have it in stocks and it could take weeks for a new one to arrive.
I bought the system about eleven months ago. During that time, it was operating perfectly without any problems. However, three months ago, I noticed the Freon was leaking, which I topped up myself. When the Freon started leaking again, I contacted the customer service and was told to send my warranty card. However, they lost it and claim there is nothing they can do to help me. I feel very disappointed although the system is still working.
Living near the sea, we go through heat pumps quite fast. While other heat pumps typically last only five or six years around here, our last Goodman unit lasted ten years. We have been using this heat pump for three years and we expect to continue using it for a while.
Have had Goodman for 8 yr.’s and it has been riddled with problems. I have had repairs yearly, some years more than once. I would never recommend this product.
Thanks for submitting your own review, could you tell us your specific model and contractor for installation?
Our furnace has been running all the time since we moved in a couple months ago. The inside furnace runs when the outside unit is quite. Is that normal for a heat pump to operate?
It is normal when the temp drops down, then the furnace will handle the heating jobs.
In most cases, the map is right and you can use our seer tool to find a more accurate balance of initial cost and future savings.
I currently have a 14 yr old 4 ton Bryant Heat Pump that has an evaporator coil that is leaking (in air handler) and has very little R22 left. I am not sure of the CFM output but would like to replace with a Goodman SSZ16 4 ton unit. Will this size work with my current home duct work or will a technician need to come out to get a measurement?
Also I have been told that it is very important to have a qualified technician do the install. Can you recommend a certified Goodman technician for the installation from the Daytona Beach area?
Didn’t you get a certified Goodman technician by using our free estimate tool?
the compressor on my 2007 GSH130601 unit blew the common lug out a few days ago. I want to replace the whole condensor unit with a SSZ140601AJ. WILL that work ? When and why did Goodman stop manufacturing the SSZ140601AJ Condensor units.
Thanks for the great information and advice.
One question though is when I look at split systems I see several manufacturers who produce split systems that work fairly efficiently at -5F or even lower, but I don’t see a Trane, Lennox or other stand-alone heat pumps that even mentions the low temperature performance of their products. Can you explain why?
I live in Tulsa OK, we have both extreme temp in heat of summer and cold of winter, I am a mechanical contractor. When you do pay attention to the compressor maker, all will agree Copeland is best, which is the Heart of the unit, and the warranty of compressor. You will notice Goodman has same compressor and warranty as top 3 manufacturers. When you get into high efficient equipment you lose your savings by the amount of bells and whistles you have on your system, the more bells the more times you will see service call charge and whatever the serviceman wants to throw in on ticket, cause he isn’t coming for free, and that bell or whistle is not going to be free either, even though it has warranty.

industry_corpus2: Power & Energy


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We are where you come from.
As if nothing has changed since the days when my stubby limbs would sprawl themselves out in front of the boxy television set and clink together my grandma’s tiny glass sea turtle figurines.
It is here, I think, from where my roots grow.
winding their way beneath the gravel pathway leading up to the wooden shingles of this old home.
my teenage father’s mischievous gap-toothed grin egging me on from the wall.
The first time I ever felt homesick was when my father’s parents sold this house—it felt like I was being ripped from the ground.
At eight years old, I planted new seeds, and staked a territorial claim to my living room floor.
lie amongst the wonders of a blossoming garden even during the coldest of winters.
listening to my father’s favorite artists pour their hearts out to me through stereo speakers.
In the name of Better Living, Renovations had conquered my tiny kingdom.
When I turned fourteen, I decided that home could no longer be entrusted to the places I inhabited—they were too fragile, and prone to destruction.
a relic of the one my grandparents had left behind.
I know that this has never been my place to come back to—I’ve always felt like a stranger.
become a strong woman who grows roots within herself and waters her own garden.
that my body is not a home unless it lies next to someone else’s.
But I never settle in.
I feel that I must have stumbled off path.
I allow myself to take root.


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Insights, ideas and solutions that help unlock human promise.
Meet media:scape mini, a new member of the media:scape family that extends the media:scape experience into small and existing spaces. media:scape mini can be placed on top of virtually any surface to transform the space into a high-performing collaborative environment.
media:scape mobile is a new addition to the media:scape family, transporting the media:scape experience anywhere in an organization. Bring media:scape to a diverse range of settings, wherever collaboration may occur.
FrameOne with media:scape offers a benching solution for project teams and functional groups paired with simple, yet powerful technology to share content and take collaboration to the next level. Teams can make decisions easier and innovate faster because information can be shared quickly and seamlessly.
Classrooms often get in the way of active learning. Instructors are introducing new pedagogies, mixing team projects and group discussion with lecture and small group collaboration all in the same time period, but classrooms aren’t keeping up. Verb is an integrated collection of classroom furniture designed to support a full range of teaching and learning styles on demand.
Victor2 recycling center embraces waste reduction and encourages recycling in an organization with upscale and streamlined aesthetics. Multiple surface material options allow you to blend across Steelcase product lines and create a culture of recycling in cafes, conference rooms and collaborative spaces. Victor2 is available as a mobile or freestanding unit and contributes to LEED certification.


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Dark chocolate has a higher percent of cocoa phenols in it compared to milk and white chocolate. The higher amount of cocoa phenols means dark chocolate provides a higher amount of flavonoids, antioxidants and overall heart health benefits. The recommended serving for dark chocolate is about an ounce per day (1).
According to the University of Michigan Integrative Medicine (1), eating dark chocolate could help lower LDL cholesterol, reduce risk of blood clots, help lower blood pressure, boost levels of serotonin and endorphins in the brain and provide valuable minerals like magnesium, calcium and potassium.
Eating dark chocolate as part of a nutritious, balanced diet could add benefit by helping lower inflammation in the body because dark chocolate is high in antioxidants.
If you’re trying to lose weight there is good news. Eating a moderate intake of dark chocolate has not been shown to hinder weight loss efforts.
Not all dark chocolate is the same quality, so it is important to look at the cocoa percent, ingredients and sourcing for dark chocolate in order to get the maximum health benefits from dark chocolate.
Remember, just because a food lists dark chocolate as an ingredient does not mean it is healthy.
Dark chocolate should be at least 60% cocoa (2). You should be able to find the cocoa percent on dark chocolate products, and they can vary from around 60% to over 80%.
A general rule of thumb is the higher the cocoa percent, the higher amount of potential health benefits.
Higher percent cocoa will also mean the chocolate is naturally not as sweet as other lower percent cocoa chocolate.
If you are looking to get a higher value of flavonoids from chocolate (which are the source of antioxidants in dark chocolate), choose dark chocolate with the highest cocoa percent.
Dark chocolate is naturally bitter. Sometimes dark chocolate can have added sugar in it to make it more taste appealing.
For the best health benefits, it is best to choose dark chocolate that has minimal added sugar.
Check ingredient labels for dark chocolate to make sure there is no to minimal added sugar.
In fact, it is recommended to choose chocolate that has minimal other ingredients added like other oils or artificial flavorings.
Bastyr University (3) suggests avoiding chocolate that has been processed with alkali.
Processing with alkali, also called dutching, can lower the beneficial health benefits from dark chocolate.
It can also make the dark chocolate less bitter which is why it is usually done.
Milk can bind to the antioxidants from dark chocolate. Therefore, drinking milk with dark chocolate is not recommended.
If you want to drink milk and eat dark chocolate, it is recommended to eat them separately.
While fair trade may not directly impact the amount of health benefits from chocolate, choosing fair trade means you’re promoting fair wages for chocolate farmers and promoting transparency for safe growing practices.
Organic foods do not use synthetic chemicals, and some, but not all, research suggests some organic foods may have higher antioxidant values.
If you are not sure if a chocolate product or company is far trade, check Fair Trade USA (4).
There is not a lot of research with differences between conventional and organic grown chocolate.
Researchers in a February 2014 article (5) suggest there isn’t any evidence to suggest buying organic chocolate is better for the environment compared to conventional chocolate.
Organic farming can promote biodiversity and lower pesticide use on land, but more research is needed in parts of the world where chocolate is grown.
Some health experts suggest buying organic food when possible may help lower exposure to pesticide residue.
If this is a concern for your personal health, buying organic dark chocolate could help.
More research is needed to determine if organic chocolate has higher antioxidant values.
A growing concern for health and chocolate is the concern for lead contamination.
Lead can be found in water, soil or air which can be transmitted to plants for human or animal consumption.
Lead is considered to be toxic when ingested, and there is no safe level for children.
Low intakes of lead can build up in organs and may be a carcinogen (6).
According to the FDA, chocolate can have no more than 0.1 parts per million of lead.
Some concerns have been raised that certain chocolates could have higher levels of lead or cadmium in them.
As You Sow (7) conducted independent testing on chocolate bars to test for lead and cadmium, another potentially harmful substance.
They discovered some brands should carry a warning label for cadmium and/or lead.
Other companies may also test for lead and cadmium. If you are unsure about if your favorite chocolate brand has been tested for lead and/or cadmium, research the brand to see if you can find any testing.
Eating a moderate serving of 1 ounce most or all days has been shown to provide some benefits associated with blood pressure and contribute as a source of antioxidants that may help inflammation.
While many consider dark chocolate a health food, some medical conditions may warrant abstinence from dark chocolate.
University of Michigan Integrative Medicine (8) suggests people sensitive to caffeine may need to monitor their intake of dark chocolate depending on level of sensitivity.
Cocoa beans do contain caffeine, similar to coffee beans, although the amount is less.
Chocolate contains something called oxylates. People prone to developing kidney stones may benefit from a low oxylate diet which includes limiting intake of chocolate.
Finally, people prone to migraines may also want to watch their intake of dark chocolate.
Chocolate has a compound called tyramine which may trigger migraines in some people.
More research is needed with tyramine food sources and migraines, so it may or may not affect migraine sufferers.

industry_corpus2: Agriculture & Fisheries