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Should We Play in High School? Participating in Global School Play Day #GSPD2017

Wednesday, February 1, 20174:56 PM

Today, February 1, was the annual Global School Play Day, with over 275,000 students participating around the world. And this year, my 20 tenth grade students were among them. We had a great time playing and talking about the value of play.

Global School Play Day started in 2015 with 65,000 students. The numbers have jumped impressively last year, growing to 177,000 students celebrating play. Their website asks educators to “Light the fire so others will catch the vision of returning the gift of unstructured play,” calling for a day of unstructured play without screens.

The #GSPD2017 website shares these wise words from Plato about the value of play.

Before class, I spread out a series of games around the room: Checkers, Chess, Scrabble, Pictionary, Play Dough, and more. I introduced the students to the concept of #GSPD2017 and let them go. We put our cell phones down, chose games, and played. I also asked students to think about the value of play in schools, especially in high school.

I took some quick pictures and then I put my screens away, too. My cell phone went in my desk, and I played Scrabble with my students. And I did not win.

What’s the value of play in high school?

In the last five minutes of class, I passed out note cards and asked students to reflect on the value of play. Here are some of their responses:

  • Play allows for more social interactions between classmates. It can help with team work skills.
  • Play time is valuable because it shows us how to be creative and to use our brains in a different way.
  • Play keeps your life balanced.
  • Play gives us a chance to relax and give our brains a break.
  • Play is valuable in school because it teaches you to think creatively and in a different. setting than just your classroom. It can let you express yourself and have fun in a healthy, competitive manner.
  • Play is valuable because it makes the brain think and provides a sense of innovation and creativity.

For more about play in my classes, check out Everything I Know I Learned from the #MarshmallowChallenge and Ending the School Year with #BreakoutEDU.

I love these responses and reflections on creativity, socialization, and collaboration. I’ve tried to value play a lot this year and have had success with challenges like #BreakoutEDU and the #MarshmallowChallenge, but would love to see play become a more consistent fixture in my class and school--even (and especially) for high schoolers.

What role does play have in your classroom? Why is play valuable for students? Have you participated in #GSPD? Share your thoughts in the comments or on Twitter @MrSchoenbart.

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Right about now, you’re getting the kids ready for going back to school, in all its glory. You’re shopping for school supplies, meeting new teachers, and getting them updated on important shots. While you may be already considering the flu and cold season, stocking up on the essentials, there is another health concern to watch out for in the crowded school hallways. Though you don’t always hear much about it, scabies can spread easily in children at school.

In one recent case at Winchester Hospital, a patient was admitted for treatment without the staff realizing that he had an active infection. Once he was in the hospital, over 20 staff members began showing signs of scabies and required treatment right away to prevent it from spreading.

According to Winchester Hospital’s statement in the Boston Globe, “Scabies is highly contagious, but also highly treatable.”

Contagious is an understatement when you’re looking at the numbers. The World Health Organization reveals that scabies affects over 100 million people worldwide. People from all races and social classes can get the infection, but it has a high prevalence in children and older adults living in crowded or poor conditions.

Because scabies does happen more often in crowded areas and transfers easily through skin contact, schools offer the perfect opportunity for this infection. Learn to recognize scabies and voice your concerns if you suspect that a child in school is infected.

Should Teens Get Nose Jobs?

What Is Scabies?

Scabies is an infection that occurs because of a human mite called the Sarcoptes scabiei. This tiny mite burrows into the skin, producing an intensely itchy rash. The mites then live in the skin and lay eggs, causing the infection to spread.

As people touch and interact with other humans, the person infected can easily spread it to the people surrounding him. In school, children often stand close together in hallways, and younger classes may even hold hands as they walk in line.

To deepen the problem, people with the infection may not know about a problem for up to 6 weeks since the body takes time to react to a new infestation. Once they do show symptoms, the person may then itch the area, allowing bacteria to settle in and potentially spreading the mites to other parts of the body.

Scabies often occurs around the wrist and forearm, in between the fingers, on the bottom of the feet, around the ankles, and sometimes on the scalp. The infection can also spread to the genitals in many cases.

In rare instances, a person may get crusted scabies, where the rash crusts over due to an over-abundance of the mites living in the skin. If this severe case is not treated immediately, it can lead to complications such as sepsis and kidney damage. Crusted scabies is also even more contagious than its common counterpart because the mites can live within the crust for several days without human contact.

Treating Scabies in Children

If your child’s school does have an outbreak, you should get professional treatment right away. You should not try to self-treat this condition.

Again, many people won’t notice any symptoms for several weeks. If your child has the infection unknowingly, he can cause further problems to family and friends during that time frame.

Once you seek medical treatment, a dermatologist will often prescribe a topical medicine with specific instructions. If a young child is infected, there are options for children as young as one-month old.

For a severe case of scabies, the doctor may prescribe a strong oral medicine. In either instance, he may also recommend taking an antibiotic for bacterial infection and an antihistamine or another medicine to control the itching.

How to Prevent

Since a scabies infection can occur in even neat, clean people, you likely won’t see the risk coming your way. However, if a friend or family member is getting treated for scabies, you should consider treatment as well. To prevent further spreading, you should wash and dry all linens, towels, clothes, and washcloths that you’ve had contact with recently.

If needed, dry clean items that cannot be washed or seal them in a plastic bag for 1 week. Vacuum the entire house and throw away the vacuum bag. You do not need to treat pets since scabies is a human mite.

Scabies is a common infection globally; so you should not feel discouraged if you’re dealing with this problem. However, to avoid them, watch for the common itchy rash in children at school. If you see something of concern, alert a school official and get proper treatment for your child if necessary.

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find_photog find_assist join_asmp
BEST OF 2014, Brian Kaldorf
Pittsburgh, PA
Brian Kaldorf carefully crafts his complex photo illustrations from components that he photographs separately while sculpting highlights and shadows with lighting. Each concept is sketched out in advance and meticulously assembled into a composite to match his initial vision for the piece.

© Brian Kaldorf

© Brian Kaldorf

“I get a vision in my head and do my best to translate it into the photographic medium,” he explains. “I tend to find humor in the everyday, and I try to bring that into the picture-making process. I have a blast creating images, and I want that to come through to the viewer. Every day, I’m thinking about my next picture and how I can build it. I can’t imagine doing anything else.”

ASMP: How long have you been in business?

Brian Kaldorf: Six years.

ASMP: How long have you been an ASMP member?

BK: A little more than seven years ago, I was fortunate to have instructors in school who stressed the importance of an organization like ASMP.

ASMP: What initially prompted you to join ASMP?

BK: A couple of things really, a few of my college instructors were members and the local chapter would often hold informal get-togethers to introduce new members and catch up with old friends. It was and continues to be a great community.

ASMP: What do you consider the most valuable aspect of your ASMP membership?

BK: The knowledge base. I know that I can turn to a fellow member if I have a question or an idea I want to bounce off someone, and not just at the local level. Over and over, the organization has proven itself as a valuable asset in my professional life.

ASMP: What has made you stay an ASMP member since 2007?

BK: The opportunity to help other photographers. I came to photography as a second career later in life and I was very fortunate in that the local chapter had some wonderful members who later became my mentors. I take great satisfaction in knowing that I can return the favor to someone in whose shoes I was standing just seven or so years ago.

ASMP: What is the most important relationship you’ve formed through your ASMP membership?

BK: I’d have to say it would be with one of my first mentors, Richard Kelly. I came to Richard as a pretty green photographer and assistant. I had so many questions and Richard was always there to answer them, and he still is to this day!

ASMP: Do you have a favorite ASMP-related story to share?

BK: I remember going to one of the Strictly Business programs while I was still a student. It was such an eye-opening experience, and it really changed the way I viewed the business side of what I was trying to do.

ASMP: Which ASMP education/advocacy tools do you find most helpful in your day-to-day business and why?

BK: Probably the pricing guides. It can be a difficult thing to determine value and it’s always great to have a resource to validate your thinking.

ASMP: What are your photographic specialties?

BK: I specialize in photo illustration, portrait and product photography

ASMP: What do you consider your most valuable tool or piece of equipment?

BK: As hokey as it sounds, I’d say my imagination. It’s how this whole thing started. I get an idea or vision in my head, and then I do my best to translate that to a photographic medium. Beyond that, I’d say my camera setups — Phase One digital backs for the studio and some location work.

ASMP: What is unique about your approach, or what sets you and your work apart from other photographers?

BK: I think the way I look at things is unique. I tend to find humor in the everyday and I try to bring that into the picture-making process. My postprocessing also lends itself to this approach. When you combine the concept with the style, it works pretty well nine times out of ten.

ASMP: You started your career in architecture, drawing floor plans, elevations and such. What inspired you to transition into photography?

BK: It wasn’t so much inspiration as it was necessity. I was working a nine-to-five desk job in an architecture office and, at the risk of sounding melodramatic, I was quickly dying a creative death. I was into photography and kept doing it more and more, to the point that I was considering going back to school for it. One day I came into the office and the architect I was working for said there just wasn’t any more work. Two weeks later I had enrolled in art school and never looked back.

ASMP: Are you self-taught as a photographer or did you go back to school to formally study photography when changing careers?

BK: I studied photography at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh. I got my bachelor of science in photography in 2008.

ASMP: Please talk about the process of changing careers. How long did it take to get your photography career off the ground? How many years has it been since you made the transition?

BK: It took a while. I knew it wasn’t going to be easy and I was determined to do whatever was needed to become successful. I started off assisting other photographers and did that for a few years, which proved to be an invaluable learning ground. One photographer in particular told me it would take a solid three years of doing work I didn’t necessarily want to do before the type of work I was after would start taking hold. His statement proved to be pretty on-the-nose. All in all, I’d say it took the better part of four years before I could comfortably say I was a professional photographer full-time.

ASMP: When creating an image, you first make a sketch to use as a guide for the photography. Does this sketching process come from your architectural career and drawing for a living?

BK: I think so. More often than not, it was just a way for me to get my idea across to whoever was working with me. The drawing aspect of architecture just allowed me to articulate a little better what I was trying to say. These sketches are most definitely not artwork! Most of the time they equate to stick figures, but it gets the conversation going about what I’m trying to accomplish.

ASMP: You say you are passionate about “making” pictures rather than “taking” pictures. What do you consider the major differences between these two activities? Do you ever find yourself inspired to “take” a photographic snapshot rather than making a sketch?

BK: When I first got started, I was taking pictures. The camera would come up to eye level, everything looked good, exposure was correct and the picture was taken. Once I got beyond the mechanics of all that is when I started making pictures. Thought goes into it, concepts are fleshed out and compositions are aligned to enhance the overall feel or mood of the finished image. This is how I have worked for the past five or six years. Recently, however, I’m finding this is changing a little bit. I bought a small mirrorless camera and I’m falling back in love with the simple act of taking a picture. I have two little girls and, right now, there is nothing better in the world for me than running around taking their picture. When I’m photographing them, there’s no real, preconceived concept involved, it’s simply just capturing whatever moment presents itself, which is great.

ASMP: You mention that your passion for building models as a child is still evident in your image-making process today. Are there other activities, skills or behaviors from your childhood that you’ve tapped in your professional career?

BK: The model-making is a big thing. I build my images up the way I used to build a model. Every detail is scrutinized. I’m also a big movie fan so I’m sure that plays into a lot of my style and conceptualization.

ASMP: Most of your images are composites. How long have you been making these types of composite images and what is your primary intent in creating this type of imagery?

BK: I’ve been doing composites since I was in school, so about 2006? That workflow was really born out of necessity. When I first got started, it was difficult to create my ideas given my budget (or lack thereof). Therefore, I had to come up with a way to create on the cheap, so to speak. Learning how to composite allowed me to bring a lot of these ideas to life without breaking the bank.

ASMP: Please pick one of your signature images and describe which element came first, as well as what inspired you to photograph the elements individually and then combine them, rather than creating a single image in-camera?

BK: One of my favorite images (Knife Throwing For Dummies) was a composite. That image in particular would have been expensive to create in-camera, so I composited the majority of it. I started with the main subject, the knife thrower, and then moved on to the girl, and then the target board. The schedules for both of those models were difficult to match up, so they were photographed separately. After that, it was a matter of creating the target, lights and curtains. The target was simple foam core and the curtains I bought at a department store. The floor was from my living room, which I had photographed the day before, and the lights were assembled from a single light bulb photographed in a variety of positions. The other reason for doing things this way was because, at the time, I only had one or two strobes, therefore each image component needed to be lit separately. Now I have the ability to light everything all at once, so the procedure has changed a tiny bit.

ASMP: What cameras and related gear do you use for your composites? Do you have a favorite lens or piece of equipment that you depend on the most?

BK: Right now I’m shooting with the Phase One IQ140 series digital back. It produces a gorgeous file that allows me to push the edge in my postprocessing.

ASMP: What is the most integral part of your process in making your composites? What’s the average time it takes you to complete an image?

BK: It really depends on the images. The most integral part is always staying true to the original concept — without that the images tend to fall apart. On average, a composite can take anywhere from an hour to a day. There have been instances where I’m learning a new technique and in those cases a single image can take a month or more.

ASMP: What is your workflow in making these composite images, to ensure that details such as lighting, contrast and perspectives match up between images?

BK: It’s all by feel. I try to match all of my lighting to the feel or mood of the concept. The sketching certainly helps with all of this. If I draw it out, I can pinpoint perspective and lighting and all the important aspects of the concept.

ASMP: You describe your lighting techniques as painting and sculpting the highlights and shadows. What kind of lighting implements do you use to get these effects?

BK: I use Profoto gear, mainly because of its dependability and all of the lighting modifiers available with that system. I try to be precise with my lighting, so that usually means a lot of gridded lights and a lot of egg crates on softboxes. Because I’m building up the highlights and I like everything tightly controlled, a usual setup for a single portrait can consist of six or seven lights.

ASMP: Your style of photography conveys a narrative story in one image. The images are colorful and fun, but some of your images are monochromatic or black and white. How do you decide when to use a particular color palette?

BK: It depends on the mood of the image and its intent. Certain images just make more sense to me as super-saturated, while others read better as black-and-white.

ASMP: What types of software or digital manipulations do you use to create your composite images? How much postproduction time is required to address details and ensure that images appear seamless?

BK: I mainly use Photoshop for the compositing. Over the years, that software has gotten so good in terms of being able to remove subjects from backgrounds that I really haven’t had a need for anything else. The most time-consuming part is to ensure that everything appears really seamless. That seems to take forever, as I will leave an image alone for a while and then go back to it with fresh eyes days later.

ASMP: Is the post-production work as creative for you as the photographic process?

BK: Absolutely. My signature look doesn’t work for every image. It has to service the concept first and foremost. I can’t shoehorn my style into an image that just isn’t working for it. With that mindset, it can be challenging to come up with something in post that really enhances both the concept and the image. In that regard, everyday is a struggle — which I like. It helps to keep things fresh and always evolving.

ASMP: In 2013 you launched a Kickstarter campaign to raise money for a series of images based on your childhood fears. How much time did you put into promoting this venture in order to not only exceed your original request but your stretch goal? What methods did you use to spread the word?

BK: I planned out the campaign a month before actually launching it via Kickstarter. Once it went live, it was a matter of constantly talking about it over all my social media channels. I wanted people to feel engaged and a part of what I was trying to accomplish. I wanted them to feel like it was a collaboration. When things started to stall out, I would come up with some new goal, which would keep the momentum going. It worked — we raised 25 percent more than our original goal.

ASMP: What is the status of that image series today?

BK: The series is still in production. As of right now I have four of nine images completed. To be honest, when I launched the campaign I wasn’t planning on being as busy photographically as I’ve been. It’s been difficult, but we are slowly getting there. In the end, I’m hoping to have an exhibit of the finished work.

ASMP: How do you market your images — via social media, traditional avenues or both?

BK: I used to do e-mail blasts and postcards, but I never really saw a whole lot of return from that. What’s been effective for me is services such as Wonderful Machine and Production Paradise, as well as having an up-to-date and SEO-friendly Web site. These tools have really helped promote me to clients outside of Pittsburgh.

ASMP: Have you worked much with image series rather than a stand-alone image idea in the past?

BK: A few years back, I created a series based on Alice in Wonderland. It was great fun and also very challenging because I wasn’t sure how to go about doing it. There was a lot of learning on the job to get that series created, both on set and in postproduction, but it was a great body of work in the end.

ASMP: Does the fun and energetic feel of your images reflect your personality as well as your studio environment?

BK: Yes! I have a blast making images and I want that to come through to the viewer. Every day I wake up, I’m thinking about the next picture and how I can build it. I can’t imagine doing anything else.

ASMP: How long have you lived in Pittsburgh? How would you describe the local creative community? Do you find this to be a lucrative place for a commercial photographer to be based?

BK: I have been in Pittsburgh for 14 years now and the local creative community is amazing! There are always gallery shows or informal get-togethers — it’s really inspiring. From a photographic standpoint, I don’t know if it’s necessarily a lucrative place for commercial photography. Put it this way — you could do better, you could do worse.

ASMP: When you photograph on assignment, do you ever create image versions that appeal to you personally but might be outside the shoot parameters? If so, do you include those images in the client’s edit? What kind of responses have you received?

BK: Sure, I’ve run into situations where the original idea just wasn’t working for whatever reason. In those cases, I always try to have a back up concept or idea, something that I can say to my client “Hey, we went for the original plan, it may or may not have worked the way we wanted it to, but I also have this to look at.” When this has happened, my clients have been very appreciative. It shows that I’m bringing something more to the table.

ASMP: What is the most important advice that you’d give a young photographer starting out now?

BK: Just keep shooting. Shoot, shoot and then shoot some more. Shoot through all the mental roadblocks, all the technical stumbles and all the insecurities. It’s the only way you can get proficient at your craft.

ASMP: What projects are you currently planning? Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?

BK: Beyond finishing the Kickstarter project, I’m planning on incorporating light painting into a project. I recently backed a very interesting programmable LED wand on Kickstarter (pixelstick by bitbanger labs) that should allow me to come up with some really creative stuff!


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Breakfast Club

Albert Street runs a free breakfast club program called "Power up @ Brekky Club" every school day. Children enjoy catching up with their friends whilst enjoying a nutritious breakfast. Brekky club is manned by staff and volunteers and provides both hot and cold foods as well as fresh fruit and yoghurt.


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Park, Chul (박철) 교수 상세 프로필

Park, Chul (박철) 사진
Park, Chul (박철)
Seoul National University
Areas of Interest
- Corporate Finance
- Contract Theory
- Banking (Financial Intermediation)
- 1982: Seoul National University B.A. in Economics with minor in Mathematics
- 1995 : University of Chicago Ph.D. in Economics
Thesis: Monitoring and Debt Seniorit Structure
Thesis Committee: Milton Harris, Douglas Diamond, Raghuram Rajan, Robert Lucas, In‐Koo Cho
- August 1995 – June 2002 Assistant Professor
Department of Finance
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

- July 2002 – July 2004 Assistant Professor
School of Accounting and Finance
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

- August 2004 ‐ present Associate Professor
College of Business Administration
Seoul National University

- Summer 2007 Visiting Scholar
Department of Finance
National University of Singapore
Published Journals
- Monitoring and Efficiency: the Case of Debt Contracts, Monitoring and Incentives, 2001
- Trading and Design of Debt Contracts, 1999
- Liquidity and Quality of Information, 1999
- Banks and Markets: A Note on Diamond – Dybvig Model of Banking, 1998
- The Structure of Debt Contracts with Different Degree of Moral Hazard, 1996
- Informational Capacity of Banks, 1995
Authored Books
- Monitoring and Structure of Debt Contracts, Journal of Finance 55 (2000), 2157‐2195.
Financing Modes and Information Structure: Single Round Financing vs. Staged Financing, Journal of Economic Research 8 (2003), 139‐167
- Evaluation of KoMoCo (with Joo Hee Kim and Seung Jin Han), Journal of Management Case Research 41 (2007), 113‐127
- The Behavior of Stock Prices on Ex‐Dividend Day in Korea (with Soo Cheol Park), The Korean Journal of Financial Management 26 (2009), 221‐263
- Cross‐listing of STX Pan Ocean (with Dawoon Kim and Soo Cheol Park), Journal of Management Case Research 43 (2009), 85‐124
- Acquisition of Non‐Fundamental Information in Kyle Model of Speculation, Asian Review of Financial Research 23 (2010), 159‐212
- Voluntary Disclosure of Information, Journal of Economic Research 15 (2010), 147‐170.
Individual Trading Behavior Comparison Around Ex‐Dividend Days Before and After the Dividend Tax
- Changes (with Soo Cheol Park), Korean Journal of Financial Studies (2010), 491‐515
Investors\' Trading Behavior Comparison on Ex‐dividend day (with Soo Cheol Park), The Korean Journal of
- Financial Management 28 (2011), 57‐85.
- Monitoring and Debt Seniority Structure, Ph.D. Thesis, Department of Economics, University of Chicago, 1995


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Killing Ants with Natural Insecticides

Ants can be a nuisance, a threat to those who are allergic to ant bites, and have been known as killers.  It wouldn’t seem possible of such a tiny creature, but their biggest defense seems to be their numbers.  They multiply rapidly, easily, and quickly.  They can take over a yard if left to themselves.  A small child who accidentally falls into a fire ant bed and becomes quickly covered in them will be in misery and pain, sometimes having to be rushed to an emergency room.  A dying animal can be overtaken by them and used as a food source.

Ants eat a wide variety of things.  They’re not nearly as picky as we humans when it comes to their dinner choices.  They don’t even need silverware!  They can carry large weights in comparison to their body sizes.

It’s human nature to immediately grab a can of ant spray or a bag of granules and begin walking the yard to search for their colonies.  If you’ve lived in places like Texas and Louisiana, you know that ant beds can become huge.  The fire ants are aggressive and dangerous.  It’s much better to control an infestation than to wake up one day and realize that your property now belongs more to the ants than to you.

Sometimes insects can become immune to the chemicals sold on the market.  Ant bait and ant poisons can lose their effectiveness due to overuse and years of enduring the same poisons.  The chemicals can also cause harm to other insects and animals.  If you don’t store them properly, your children could become poisoned by them.

While it’s true that many natural insecticides can be dangerous as well, they are safer for our environment and safer overall than chemical poisons, especially if you know how to use, mix, and store them properly.

Natural or organic insecticides are those which come from natural resources.  Boric acid, which is a form of the mineral boron, is used on ant beds.  Sometimes it is mixed with other things like sugar and boiling water.  It can also be mixed as borax soap with sugar and water and is safe to use around pets and small children.  Many people sprinkle it along the entry points in their houses and apartments or campers.

Another natural insecticide to use as an ant control is cayenne pepper, made into a liquid and used as a spray.  You can grow your own pepper plants just for this purpose.  Hot peppers are also used to control or kill other insects.  Just make sure you don’t let your small child have access to your pepper plants.  Hot peppers can sometimes cause blisters when eaten.

Corn meal can be used as ant control; it’s a low-cost alternative to poisonous chemicals.  If you grow your own corn, you may even know how to make your own corn meal.  It’s a food the ants like to eat, but can’t digest.

There are many solutions for natural insecticides that can benefit your pocket book, your plants, and your environment.  It’s a way to treat insects that can help everyone win!

Thad Srinivasan writes for Uniformhaven.com which sells dickies scrubs, dickies scrubs pants and lab coats as well as a lot of other products.

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Posts Tagged ‘Waterloo real estate’

Flipping Houses – The Benefits

Sunday, March 4th, 2012

Normally, it’s the profit that entices people to try their hands on the real estate industry – particularly in flipping houses. If the earnings are significant and quick to come your way, then its one tangible benefit of flipping. Of course there are risks. Most ventures which provide high profit also come with a high degree of risk. Money can be the first thing you’ll have in mind when it comes to flipping. But it’s not the sole reason many flippers chose their job. Moving in Canada? Get the best real estate tips and service from Guelph real estate agent.

So let’s go ahead and talk about your profit first. One of the main reasons why people get into this business is because of the profit. The days are long and the work is hard. This is definitely not the type of work one would ordinarily undertake for the simple love of getting one’s hands dirty. This is real work that leaves you bone weary at the end of the day. However, when all the work is done and you get around to making the sell, you will find that the profit involved in a successful flip is well worth the effort you’ve put into the process.

If a certain real estate or flip doesn’t work, you can not just treat it as though it’s the end of the word. There’s still the option to own the property or have it rented. The profits in these situations are considerable less than a straight out flip but it can prevent financial ruin that is often the risk of a flip gone wrong. The fact that there are options and that you aren’t necessarily left ruined at the end of a bad flip is definitely a benefit. There aren’t many types of investments that allow you the option to save yourself the way real estate does.

Its no denial that property investing can be one of the most frustrating business there is. But mentally, spiritually and economically, flipping can be very rewarding as well. This is something you should keep in mind when determining whether or not this is the right path for you.

For more real estate tips, visit soldwithsteve.ca..

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Dan Pastorini
322 Sugarberry Circle
Houston, TX 77024
Cell: 979-451-9080
Fax: 713-339-4123
Email: Dan Pastorini

Refer A Case
Dan Pastorini joined the Atlas Settlement Group Houston, Texas office as a marketing consultant. He is an effective and innovative marketing expert with extensive media and public relations experience, Dan has demonstrated his ability in high-profile projects, sponsorship awareness, inspirational and motivational public speaking, sales planning and sales management.

Born in San Francisco and raised in Sonora, California, graduated from Bellarmine College Preparatory (San Jose, CA), awarded a baseball scholarship to attend Santa Clara University and majored in Business Administration. He was the #1 draft pick of the Houston Oilers and the 3rd player picked in the entire NFL draft in 1971.

For thirteen years, Dan was one of pro football’s most famous players. He was starting Quarterback for 9 years with the Houston Oilers. In 1978 and 1979, he led the Oilers to the AFC Championship games against the Pittsburgh Steelers. He went on to play for the Oakland Raiders, L.A. Rams and the Philadelphia Eagles. In 1974, he was selected to play in the coveted NFL Pro Bowl, throwing a record 74-yard touchdown pass. He retired from the NFL in 1984.

He is an extraordinary leader with a deep understanding of the power of teamwork and the necessity of motivation. His college education as well as his practical experience, whether on the playing field, the racetrack or in the business world, all demonstrate his interest, understanding and appreciation of these principles.

Dan believes that teamwork is the key to success in any endeavor. “It seems as though I’ve always been involved in teamwork, whether its football, racing or business, and the key to success is people working together in a positive environment for a mutual goal.”
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Hooking up Computer to Reciever

Discussion in 'PCs & Music Servers' started by tommy499, Aug 2, 2004.

  1. Cylontymany

    Cylontymany Well-Known Member

    Audio Engine Wireless Rocks!!!

    www.audioengine.com best investment and the best way to do this! Outstanding
  2. johnda

    johnda AK Subscriber Subscriber

    Southold, NY
    I have changed over to a Behringer UCA222 U-Control USB sound card. It sells for around $35. If your computer has USB ports, it plugs into one and then becomes the sound card. Your internal sound card is bypassed. Rather then the mini jack output and inputs of a normal sound card, it uses RCA phono jacks for input and output, which can then connect to your stereo amplifier or receiver. It also has a mini jack for headphones or computer speaker system. I use the mini jack to connect my Cambridge Soundworks speaker system for use on the computer desk. I use 20' long RCA cables to connect to my stereo system at the other end of my study. The Behringer comes with all the software you need for sound editing and recording and is instantly recognized by your computer when it is plugged into the USB port. I highly recommend it.
  3. Mortsnets

    Mortsnets Well-Known Member

    El Cerrito, East Bay, Nor Cal
    Just got a Nuforce Icon Mobile usb dac/headphone amp for $79 and I run the headphone out to aux in and sound is much improved over the laptop headphone out.
  4. Amcrebelfan

    Amcrebelfan Super Member

    Loves Park, IL
    I believe it is audioengineusa.com
  5. nikkofan

    nikkofan Member

    My Old PC

    I have an old Dell Dimension 2400 running XP.
    Audio out was just ok. I purchased a M-Audio Delta 44 PCI card and a Breakout box with 2 in and 2 out. I stream audio, use an iPod with an apple dock and record LP's. I couldn't be happier with the overall sound.
    It brings new life to an old but reliable computer. Found it on eBay and got a good deal.
    Good Luck,
  6. kenwood61

    kenwood61 The KR-4070 started it all Subscriber

    Bend, OR
    Network server or PS3??

    I have a LaCie NAS (network server) hooked up to my ethernet at home. All computers and one Sony PS3 are wired in, and my son has his PS3 connecting wireless from his room. My second audio system is in his room and he currently has his iPod Nano attached to the Tape inputs through a cheap rca to miniplug. That works okay, but one channel drops out when you rotate the miniplug in the iPod, so we're looking into a way to either put his iTune library on the NAS or on the hard drive of his PS3 and wire it to the integrated amp Tape input.

    I'm excited that he actually wants to use the vintage system as opposed to listening from his computer or earbuds/iPod . . . he never cared before :) So I want to help him enjoy the audio system as enough to help him learn to appreciate it.

    His Mac Mini is also wired into the ethernet, so this weekend I hope to try different options and report back which works best. However, if anyone has some good cheap ideas, let me know. I don't plan on buying a DAC or anything else, since our "budget" will only allow a better adapter cable.
  7. dnparadice

    dnparadice New Member

    Coal Creek Colorado
    I have a bit of experience with this. You can put the itunes library on the external hard drive by pointing the location of saved music in itunes to the external hard drive then using the "consolidate library" function in the advanced menu This will move the entire library off the local computer on to the external hard drive which has its positive and negatives. I have a problem in that I have formatted my hard drives with a mac and PS3 does not like that. I think it looks for a FAT-32 formatted hard drive, The PS3 does not see any of my music servers, which is a bummer. They should note on the box of the PS3 "does not play well with mac." If your hard drive is formatted FAT-32, you can use the PS3 to search for music servers on your network from the main menu.
  8. kenwood61

    kenwood61 The KR-4070 started it all Subscriber

    Bend, OR
    The PS3 option won't work for my son. He just wants to use the iPod direct so I need to find out something better than the cheap mini to rca adapter since he can only play in mono. It seems to me that you shouldn't have to "jack" around with how the mini plug fits into the iPod in order to get both channels.
  9. 81spirit

    81spirit Super Member

    Shiloh, Tennessee
    New question here.I presently run a Dell mini tower in the garage for a lot of my listening.Using a mini plug to rca adapter cable.Doesnt sound bad,no hum,just think it could be better.I'm sure factory sound card is nothing special.
    Been looking at dvd or blu ray players that have usb in-analog rca outs-24 bit/192khz dacs.There are some that are relatively cheap-so am I lol.
    Would this be a upgrade?
  10. zeDoktor

    zeDoktor New Member

    To get music on my PS3 I use PS3 Media Server ( http://code.google.com/p/ps3mediaserver/ ) which also works for video and handle all of the transcoding and whatnot for you. This is a decent option because the PS3 has a multitude of possible outputs that you can use (optical, hdmi, and l/r rca). New HT recievers are also coming out with media renderer capability (which means that they can play music from and be controlled by a PC) which is really great. I know Onkyo has a few newer ones with this feature and I'll probably end up buying one when I'm ready for that. To use media renderers I use foobar2000 with the UPnP plugin which can also serve music to your PS3--but not movies. I've had problems with the newest Xbox 360 dashboards and streaming music. Apparently they really want you to use Windows Media to stream music to it or bust.
  11. f1fordguy

    f1fordguy New Member

    iTunes\Compaq Presario\minijack to rca jack adapter\aux in Sansui AU-717\Time Window 1's

    No hum. No static. Sounds wonderful!!

    iTunes\Compaq Pressario\airport express\Onkyo sv70Pro set to 2 channel\klipsch Heresys

    Again, sounds great. Might be my bias but I think the Time Window configuration sounds best and absolutely rocks the house!
  12. Homerx

    Homerx Well-Known Member

    For the Ipod Nano you have a few Options.
    You can get a Ipod Dock which the Nano would plug into using the connection on the bottom. The back of the dock has 2ch stereo outs.

    next option is to take the itunes off the PC and transfer to a Memory card then plug that Directly into the PS3. you can play from the card or copy to the PS3
  13. Deacon Jubal

    Deacon Jubal Active Member

    First of all, I run 25' RCA cables from my M-Audio Delta 44 stereo output to the aux in my receiver. Sounds great.
    My PC also has an HDMI connection. My Pioneer home theater receiver has a HDMI input. I have a fairly large collection of 5.1 music discs DVD-A/DTS, DD, and SACD. I want to archive them on my PC and be able to play them back using some sort of playback software, sending the file to my receiver via a HDMI cable I have that is long enough.

    Question 1: Can these files be ripped onto my computer? If so, what program is necessary to do this?
    2. Would I need a new DVD-ROM to read these?
    3. Is there a playback program that will do playlists and handle these files?
    4. Will I be able to output these files directly to my receiver, or will I require a separate 5.1 sound card?
  14. aabottom

    aabottom Swing

    Interesting questions, I wish I had better answers. The code and procedure for archiving SACD has just been completed, but it takes uniqe hardware [1].

    [1] SACD ripping imminent?, happy reading- 143 posts.
  15. Tom Bombadil

    Tom Bombadil AK Member

    Madison, Wisconsin
    Not much activity on this thread, but perhaps someone will see this and respond.

    Many new PCs have HDMI outputs. Even some of the cheapest laptops. My >10 year old DAC doesn't have an HDMI input. However I see that Monoprice has an HDMI Audio converter, which accepts an HDMI input and produces both coax and Toslink digital output. Don't know if any processing is going on inside of it. Or of what quality that processing might be.

    Anyone have an idea? Would this converter induce jitter or noise?

    It would make things very simple for me if I could run my audio out of the HDMI and into my high-end DAC, which has Toslink, Coax, AES/EBU, and ST glass inputs.

    Last edited: Sep 19, 2013
  16. DonaldF

    DonaldF Active Member

    My PC and receiver both have optical connections and neither is newer than 5 years old. If you have them, this would probably be easiest and best. It would cost about $10 for a cable and you're done.
    Last edited: Sep 18, 2013
  17. Tom Bombadil

    Tom Bombadil AK Member

    Madison, Wisconsin
    That's what I would do, if my PC had an optical output. Those are hard to find on a laptop.
    Last edited: Sep 19, 2013
  18. ronscat

    ronscat Active Member

    South Georgia
    I have a Monoprice HDX-401Ta hdmi 4 port switcher with digital audio outputs that I run into my oldish Panny xr-55 receiver. The Panny doesn't have hdmi inputs but does have digital inputs. I have been running this for a coupla years with no jitter or noise introduced. I don't see it listed any more on Monoprice.
  19. dennismbird

    dennismbird Unconventionally Sound

    Ontario, Canada
    That was what happened to me a while ago. I just grounded all my signals through my power conditioner. Quick and simple.

    Also make sure you eith grab GREAT cables or just make them yourself.

    I make all my own cables. Buy good connectors and solder them yourself to high grade wires. Furthermore, making your own cables reduce hum for other reasons. A self made cable will be of correct length, coiling / wrapping cables together induces unwanted current through opposing magnetic fields.

    Lastly, to eliminate hum, try using TV coax cable as your medium. They are shielded very well and are of higher quality than most RCA cables; Which are usually cheap headphone cables.

    So in short: Use shielded cables and ground whatever you can.
    You'd be supprised how good basic connectors can sound when used properly...
    Last edited: Apr 25, 2014
  20. jbl64

    jbl64 Active Member

    Ground Loop Isolater

    You can purchase this at Radio Shack for under $15.00. I have this cable connected to my older Dell {out put} to my Onkyo net receiver via 6ft belkin audio cable. I get no hum at all at full volume. Works great for me and should do the same for you. My newer Dell has HDMI out and that is connected to my Yamaha 7.2 net receiver and works awesome. :music:

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Take on the fest rooms/systems, doo

Discussion in 'AKFest 2007' started by Kegger, Mar 27, 2007.

  1. Kegger

    Kegger R.I.P. 1/12/1966 - 6/1/2017 Super Mod Subscriber

    I did not get a lot of time to travel outside of my own room but I made it the
    point to get to all rooms and spend some time in rooms where I knew people.

    For me the Salk speakers art to behold in both looks and sound, I like magies
    and found the Audio Dimensions ARC/Magie combo great, Brian B is way cool
    and so his choice in the gear, not sure the company but there was a very cool
    tube amp with servos and toroidal outputs plus computer controlled at one end
    of the complex I found awsome both in sound and technology, a few of the other
    profesioinal setups I liked quite well to. (sorry can't remember them all)

    A few of the new AK guy's I got to hear both Speedle and Doc Brown did some
    out of the ordinary setups that truly appitimize what AK is all about, congrats!

    I didn't get much time in RichPa's room and I really really wanted to, what was
    there was some excelent sounding stuff. Sorry Rich!

    Craig/Nosvalves had his new stereo amp and horn setup tweaked out to the hilt
    where it was probably my favorite sounding rig of his to date, it was working good!

    (ED got his main amp finished truly just days before the fest, great job ED)
    ED/Squidward was rockin up some tunes I thought just sounded killer on some
    polk 10's with amps very simular to my own where I asked him to keep a look
    out for a pair for me (we may be able to work something out), Terry/Mrclassicman
    I've heard his system quite a bit and it always sounds nice but his latest speakers
    I was not a fan of when I heard them the first time but what I heard at the fest was
    an awsome sounding rig along with his new wicked cool DIY amps. MR. Dan/Cosmos
    had an interesting introduction to AK fest with "flying speakers" and an amp mishap
    (not the amps fault but previous owner) to where we had to get some help from AK
    members like (Squid/Retro/Nosvalves) then Van Alstine came through in spades to
    set Dan up with all new electronics that brought his system a new level, RetroStereo's
    Spec and AR9 combo I liked quite well (want some of those speakers). What can I say
    that has not been said about our Michigan version of "Wardsweb", Markus111 allways
    makes great looking and sounding equipment his DIY Heil based speakers were in a
    league of there own and his amps sounded great as well, I was lucky enough to get
    to sneak my "new" franken amp into his system to check it out and was very happy!

    (Thought this needed to be in the fest posting area)
  2. wajobu

    wajobu Boing Boom Tschak Subscriber

    Excellent Kegger--thanks!

    I'll make next year...NEXT YEAR!!
  3. luvvinvinyl

    luvvinvinyl Aggie! Staff Member Admin Subscriber

    Windsor, Ontario, Canada
    You had better, sir. You don't want me to go down there and drag you up here.
  4. Markus111

    Markus111 Big Horns & Many Tubes Subscriber

    SE Michigan
    Thanks for the kind words Paul - it's always a pleasure to keep company with you and the gang. And your frankenamp is truly a wolf in sheeps clothing. You've got me seriously thinking about a pair of 6bg6 monoblocs for next year. I've got these transformers just burning a hole in my pocket.......

  5. thebirdscarer

    thebirdscarer New Member

    In the limited time I had at the fest, I found the laidback atmosphere of Kegger's,Mrclassicman and Markus111 rooms very AudioKoolma. I respect the DIY knowledge and skills of these fine gentlemen and was impressed with their work. Also I got to thank Echowars for the know-how that he adds to the site. Doc Brown's room was right up my alley --- playing Wishbone Ash's Pilgrim on his EV SentryIII's in a hotel room was a hoot! STRANGELY, Strawman said his room was on a different floor and had icy cold beer...this also SOUNDED good to me.
  6. Doc Brown

    Doc Brown Active Member

    I liked the Wishbone Ash as much as you did. Glad you brought that by.

    Thanks for the encouragement Kegger. Your rig sounded great.

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6 recommendations to CFPB regarding alternative data

As the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau takes a closer look at alternative data, the American Bankers Association delivered an eight-page comment letter containing a half dozen suggestions about the current and potential use of alternative data and modeling techniques in the credit process.

Along with the suggestions, ABA also raised regulatory concerns, especially when using alternative data might trigger the CFPB to take action for what the bureau could allege as unfair, deceptive, and abusive acts and practices (UDAAP).

Authoring the material was Nessa Feddis, the association’s senior vice president and deputy chief counsel for consumer protection and payments. Feddis began by outlining a foundation of ABA’s stance regarding alternative data.

“As a general matter, banks support the use of alternative data sources to evaluate credit applicants, particularly people with no or ‘thin’ credit files who may be eligible for credit,” Feddis wrote. “The use of alternative data, coupled with mobile channels of access to bank products and services, may have potential to expand financial services and open the door to people who otherwise have limited or no access to mainstream credit.

“However, banks have concerns about the reliability and predictability of some alternative data and about consumer protections promoting privacy and data security,” she continued. "In addition, it should also be emphasized that banks recognize the importance of fair lending and demonstrating that underwriting models are sound.”

Feddis then went into six suggestions that could quell concerns about UDAAP allegations among other aspects of leveraging this technology. The recommendations included:

1. Alternative data providers should be sensitive to consumer privacy and data security and ensure that data are accurate and reliable.

2. Regulators must recognize that application of disparate impact liability in supervision and enforcement causes banks to retreat from using alternative data, limiting inclusion and competition.

3. To promote the use of alternative data in mortgage lending credit decisions, regulators should provide guidance on how banks can test and demonstrate that models comply with the Fair Housing Act’s disparate impact liability, consistent with the Supreme Court’s Inclusive Communities framework, and also meet supervisory safety and soundness expectations about model validation.

4. Regulators must also recognize that the persistent threat of an undefined UDAAP sanction hovers like a dark cloud over financial innovation and will cause banks to retreat from using alternative data.

5. A supervisory approach that reduces banks’ compliance risk will encourage banks to use alternative data as a tool to develop products, especially small dollar loans, designed for people who may not qualify under traditional underwriting standards.

6. The bureau should reconsider its Project Catalyst and No Action Letter policy to promote testing of alternative data and foster innovation without the risk of triggering fair lending and UDAAP liability.

“Banks are enthusiastic, but cautious, about using alternative data and models to innovate and improve customer access to credit and product affordability,” Feddis wrote to close her letter to the CFPB.

“A number of factors impede experimentation and use of alternative data,” she continued. “Fair lending, UDAAP, and model validation challenges, risks and costs are primary obstacles. Lack of assurance about the predictability, reliability and accuracy of the data as well as privacy and data security concerns also cause banks to hesitate.

“Simply put, the compliance and reputation costs and risks can overwhelm the uncertain return,” Feddis went on to say in the letter available here.


text:
Sixt Announces First Quarter Results

Sixt AG, Germany’s largest vehicle rental company and a leading provider of mobility services in Europe, reported first quarter 2012 consolidated earnings before taxes (EBT) of EUR 26.0 million ($33.1 million), compared with first quarter 2011 earnings of EUR 27.8 million, after adjustment for non-recurring income.

The Group’s total revenue increased 4.5% to EUR 380.8 million, compared to EUR 364.4 million for the same quarter last year. Sixt reported overall rental revenue growth of 10.3% to EUR 215.7 million compared to EUR 195.6 million in the first quarter of 2011. Rental revenue in Germany grew 5.7% quarter-on-quarter. Outside Germany, revenue grew 22.1%.

Erich Sixt, chairman of the managing board of Sixt AG: “In the first three months of this year, Sixt performed entirely within expectations. Even in a weakened economic environment, we remain on a growth track, not least of all because of our continuing successes in internationalization. At the same time, we can reconfirm our expectation that Sixt will earn well again in 2012, even if it will be difficult to repeat last year’s record profit.”

Sixt added a total of 39,300 vehicles to its rental and leasing fleet, compared to 33,400 vehicles for the same period last year, an increase of nearly 18%.

Earnings performance was affected by higher operating expenses, reported Sixt, citing growth initiatives such as the expansion of the rental business in the United States and the DriveNow premium car-sharing program, a joint venture between Sixt and BMW. Sixt intends to expand iDriveNow this year.

In the United States, following a launch in Florida, the company opened at Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport during the quarter, bringing the total number of U.S. locations at major traffic hubs to six. The worldwide network of Sixt franchisees was also expanded in the first quarter with a launch in Thailand.

On 2012 outlook, Sixt reported in its press release:

“Management has reconfirmed its previous projections for 2012. Given the slackening economy in Europe, it assumes this year will be more difficult than last. Sixt expects that rental revenue will continue to rise, and also considers an increase in leasing revenue possible. Results of operations are again expected to be good. However, macroeconomic risks and higher operating costs may well make it difficult to repeat the very high level of earnings from 2011.”

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text:
Symbols of the world's religions

Dr. Abdul Ghani

Hazrat Mohiyuddin Ibnularabi relates that one of his kith and kin, by name Yahya bin Yaghan, was the king of Tilmsan. In his kingdom there lived a great soul known as Abu Abdulla Tonsi who having renounced the world was leading an ascetic life far removed from the haunts of men.

One day the king Yahya with his retinue happened to pass by the place where Abu Abdulla lived, and as they did so one of his men described the Master to the king and pointed to his place of seclusion. The king inquisitively headed his horse in that direction, and finding himself before the saint, bowed reverentially.

Conscious of being draped as he was in rich and costly garments, the king asked the saint, "Sir, is the worship of God permissible in these clothes?"

The saint laughed aloud in reply and on being pressed by the king to give the reason for his laughter, explained, "I laughed at your lack of understanding. Your case is that of a dog who having feasted himself on a carcass and being smeared with blood from top to toe, yet takes particularly good care whilst urinating to raise one leg to save being polluted by stray drops. Your belly is stuffed daily with things that are unlawful, you are overloaded with acts of atrocity and injustice to people, and yet you are anxious to know what style of dress is best pleasing to God."

The words of the saint did not miss the mark, and the message cut deep into the heart of the king. He immediately renounced his throne and kingdom and asked that he be allowed to serve the saint. He was accepted.

After three days of hospitality the saint reminded the king, "A guest is welcome for three days. After this period his allowance may be said to be derived from the poor tax. You have to work now for your living. Here is a piece of rope; go to the forest, cut down firewood and sell it in the market."

The king Yahya willingly submitted to the orders. He began to bring loads of firewood from the jungles, and from the price of their sale he would keep just enough for his sustenance and the remainder he would give away to the poor.

To the end of his days Yahya plied his trade in the very city of which he had been the king. People seeing him in this plight used to shed tears of pity and regret for him. But if any one approached Abu Abdulla for his spiritual help in their worldly difficulties and desires, the saint would invariably direct them to the ex-king saying, "It is better you induce Yahya to pray for you. His prayers for you will be more effective since he has renounced his kingship for God. Who knows, I may have failed in such an ordeal!"

IT SO HAPPENED, pp. 80-81, ed. William Le Page
1978 © Meher Baba Foundation

 Dharma | Anthology | Eternal Beloved | Avatar Meher Baba | HeartMind | Search


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  • 500 hours
 Flight hours on type
  • Team-orientation, flexibility

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Editor in chief:

Alitalia airplanes. Gentiloni calls on the sense of responsibility and regrets Air France's offer

Rome, Italy - Meanwhile Calenda repeats his intention to sell by February

If the offer of 2008 by Air France had been still available "we would take it immediately", the Italian President of the Council of Ministers Paolo Gentiloni said at the end-of-the-year press conference that took place today in Rome, talking about Alitalia. Answering the question about a possible solution for the Italian airline before next elections and about the criteria for choosing among the three takeover bids, Gentiloni recalled: "I was already part of a government that was at the final stage of its experience, the "Prodi II" government and the last Council of Ministers meeting with long time dissolved Chambers had in its agenda a bridge loan for Alitalia, because a solution that a very good Minister of Economy, Padoa-Schioppa, had imagined with Air France had been obstructed by the combined provisions of the oppositions of the time, which politically had winds in its sails, and workers' unions". Gentiloni hopes that a solution "may come quickly", "that the offers that are on the table may also be improved, in some ways it is necessary, and that the employees, workers and public opinion, travellers, customers, may have a great sense of responsibility". The President of the Council does not forget the referendum by which the workers of the airline rejected the proposals of the company last April: "we had done quite a hard job for the new business plan, new investments by the shareholders of Alitalia, it was one of the problems that I had to deal with as soon as I got my assignment at Palazzo Chigi -seat of the Italian Government- and the fact that that solution which I believe was a positive one was rejected by a referendum of the employees was in my opinion a respectable but wrong thing. Therefore let's see the offers, we hope they will get better, we call on everybody's sense of responsibility". Always today in a radio interview the Italian Minister for Economic Development Carlo Calenda repeated his will to close the procedure for the sale of the airline within February: "I want to end this story for the Italian people and most of all I want to spend as little as possible of those 900 million euros - of the brige loean- that today are still untouched in the special administration, but that with the season going downward and oil going up risk to be spent quickly". For further details also see AVIONEWS 1, 2 and 3

AVIONEWS - 1209343
World Aeronautical Press Agency
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Category: Human Rights for Children

Let’s Stop Controlling and Start Listening to Children

The urge to control our kids can be almost uncontrollably strong at times, can’t it? “I just want her to do what I want right now!” But whenever we’re struggling with a child and we want them to submit to our authority, we’re silently taking away everything we’ve said (or were about to say) to […]

Circumcision is Genital Mutilation

OK, now that I’m sure I’ve got your attention, I can’t believe I never realized this before. When we think of genital mutilation, most people think of the African practice of removing a young girl’s external genitalia purportedly to reduce libido. International organizations have joined together to help end the horrific practice of female genital […]


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Not quite ranty

zara's picture

The subject format, where I select which type of rant that I'm posting, strikes me as odd now. I used to rant about specific topics because I had a regular audience that I always needed to please. Now, not so much.

The crickets, they keep me good company.

I am abandoning my old fears. the ones where I wouldn't express my desires for time spent to myself or with different people. Doing things that I really want to do and don't have to corroborate with another person if it's acceptable. I am driving into LA and even the scary Hollywood, West Hollywood areas at night - by myself, in the dark, at night - and navigating just fine. My mom's voice in my head about being safe because I am a woman traveling alone is becoming a distant numb sound.

I went to the New Beverly theater in LA/Hollywood last night, this old revival theater that directors such as Quentin Taratino and Edgar Wright helped bring back from extinction. The theater hosts grindhouse and other style double features for a low price, as well as midnight showings of cult favorites.

They have been trying to get SCOTT PILGRIM VS THE WORLD to catch on as their own ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW deal, which is funny because I had dressed up as a character from the movie for Halloween and while I still have the pink hair, chose not to dress in costume last night.

Which, I learned the hard way, was a mistake. Those in costumes got special edition comic books signed by the co-writer of the movie, the author of the books it's based on, one of the stars - the delightful Brie Larson (also on "The United States of Tara") and Edgar Wright himself.

Yes, the man who directed SHAUN OF THE DEAD, HOT FUZZ and SCOTT PILGRIM was there to introduce the movie, take a few questions and announce that he was running a week-long special "Edgar Wright hasn't seen these films" festival of double features.

Liv was nearly in tears when I told her about it this morning, being a huge fan of Brie. Man, how do you be a mom and do this fun stuff without your kid when you've been doing all this fun stuff with your kid in the past? Granted, I had never taken her to a midnight showing of anything in LA before, but she's always been a part of my activities. And I ENJOY doing stuff without her. Which makes me feel horribly guilty. Because she's a cool kid, a good kid. The hormones though, they suck right now.

I had such a great night. I have so many opportunities to seize. And when I seize them, it feels so satisfactory.

Other sites you should visit: Wear Funny Quotes!


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Lunch Date with Portia and Mauricio

Kyle Richards And Family Out For Lunch In Beverly Hills

Kyle Richards took some time off to spend with her husband Mauricio Umansky and their youngest daughter Portia. The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star grabbed a little lunch at Il Pastaio in Beverly Hills.  Portia clung tight to her daddy while wearing a sweet pair of purple boots.

[Read more…]

Taylor Armstrong Gets Married! Daughter Kennedy Walks Her Down The Aisle – Photos

Semi-Exclusive... Taylor Armstrong Marries John Bluher At The Bel-Air Bay Club

Former Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Taylor Armstrong is a married woman!  Taylor tied the knot yesterday with her former attorney, John BluherTaylor’s wedding took place in Pacific Palisades with her daughter Kennedy, 8, walking her down the aisle!

[Read more…]

Mama’s Night Out

Real Housewife of Beverly Hills and famous mommy Brandi Glanville looks to have enjoyed her 41st birthday this weekend. We just hope she wasn’t enjoying it too much…

The mom of two looked awesome in a sparkly gray mini dress and Louboutin heels, but she consumed so much alcohol, it appears she was quite literally leaning on friends for support. We’re just glad to see there was a designated driver on site as the reality mom left the scene of Fleming’s Restaurant in Beverly Hills.

Photos by Malone/FAMEFLYNET

BabyRazzi on Facebook and Twitter

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Feeding Day At The Zoo

Kyle Richardsdaughter Portia got up close and personal with a gorgeous giraffe!  The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star showed off the stunning snap of Portia feeding a giraffe, who bent down to see what the little girl had for him.  What an amazing photo.

Kyle shared that Portia was a little apprehensive and who could blame her? They’re so big!  She shared, “Portia was a little nervous to hand feed this incredibly beautiful giraffe.”

Are you watching the new season of Kyle’s show? It’s shaping up to be a crazy ride!

Photos by Instagram

BabyRazzi on Facebook and Twitter

Scroll down a bit to leave a comment with Disqus!

Lunchtime Links With KIM RICHARDS And Her Daughters

Fashion Fundraiser For Children's Hospital Los Angeles At Kyle By Alene Too

Sarah Michelle Gellar shows off her baby boy! (Celebrity Baby Scoop)
JennaVon Oy reflects on life after baby – one year later. (Celebrity Babies – People)
Ways to stay in your regular clothes during pregnancy. (Lil Sugar)
Kate Gosselin drama over private family photo. (SheKnows Entertainment)
Wiz Khalifa ready for another album – inspired by his son. (BlackCelebKids)
Kanye loves Kim just the way she is. (Hollybaby)
David Beckham still jetting all over the world. (I’m Not Obsessed)
Save money this summer with DIY manicures. (Lady & the Blog)
Which Glee cast member is engaged? (TheCelebrityCafe)
Did Hilaria Baldwin Tweet during a funeral? (Celebzter)

Photos by Fameflynet

BabyRazzi on Facebook and Twitter


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Auto Mechanic - Engines by TSD Training

Auto Mechanic - Engines

By TSD Training

  • Release Date: 2013-01-14
  • Genre: Engineering
Download Now
The file download will begin after you complete the registration. Downloader's Terms of Service | DMCA

The Engines course is designed to teach the knowledge necessary to understand principles of operation, identify types and components, and perform maintenance and troubleshoot internal combustion engines. Information is provided on spark- and compression-ignition engines, engine inspection, and lubrication and cooling systems.

This course is part of our Mechanics and Hydraulics series.

Full illustrations and diagrams included.

- Fundamentals of Spark-Ignition Engines
- Fundamentals of Compression-Ignition Engines
- Engine Inspection
- Engine Lubrication Systems
- Engine Cooling Systems


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® Provides Students with Financial Aid Information and Access to Over 3.7 Million Scholarship and Grant Applications® Provides Students with Financial Aid Information and Access to Over 3.7 Million Scholarship and Grant Applications
Elizabeth Rosselle
By: Elizabeth Rosselle
Posted: August 21, 2017
Experts share their tips and advice daily on, helping subprime consumers navigate the world of personal finance.

In a Nutshell: While scholarship and grant money can go a long way toward making college more affordable, some students might be intimidated by the millions of available scholarships and the lengthy application processes involved with many of them. takes much of the guesswork out of the process by providing students and parents access to more than 3.7 million scholarship and grant applications, while using an algorithm to match students with those scholarships they are most likely to qualify for. The process of applying for scholarships may be time consuming, but it’s well worth the effort if it can reduce student loan debt.

College is expensive. Even those attending in-state public universities saw a record average cost of $24,610 per year in the fall of 2016.

Luckily, scholarships and grants exist that can ease the financial burden on students and their parents. However, one of the biggest drawbacks of financial aid for many people is that the application process can often be overwhelming and time consuming.

For students and parents with busy schedules, it can be difficult to dedicate time to search for scholarships as well as find the energy that it takes to apply. The application process can involve essay composition, video production, audition tapes, and a variety of other tasks to meet the eligibility requirements for each individual scholarship.

While there’s no guarantee you’ll win scholarships or grants even if you apply for them, resources are available that can help you determine which ones are worth your time. For example, is a free financial aid and scholarship website that works directly with scholarship and grant providers and colleges to bring families one of the most widely used college scholarship search sites. Logo

“One of the ways we set ourselves apart is that we’ve really tried to develop and foster a relationship with the scholarship providers so that we can offer the best possible outcomes,” said Kevin Ladd, Chief Operating Officer of

Once upon a time, you’d have to rely on information gathered from guidance counselors or by visiting scholarship fairs, where you might get a one-page list of scholarship offerings, at best. The web has since made the search a little easier, but a basic search still requires a lot of time, and knowing where to begin can be tricky. Because of the sheer volume of scholarships available on, you have access to a huge variety of awards suited to a variety of student profiles.

A Free Search Tool Lets You Narrow Options and Find Perfect Scholarship Matches

One of the many advantages of is the ease of finding scholarship matches. The organization works directly with colleges and universities across the country, and the variety of accessible scholarships means users are able to perform highly targeted searches. The free search tool allows you to narrow your search based on your own academic profile, and the whole process only takes a few minutes.

“We recommend doing a search because you might not think to search for a specific scholarship that you qualify for,” Kevin said. “As long as it’s money for college, do you really care if it is because you play the piano or if it is for some other characteristic you’d never have known might get you free money for college? If you just provide the information for us, we can show you what you qualify for based on that information.”

While the act of applying for scholarships and grants is laborious, the tailored search feature eases the burden, helping you to forego spending time on those you’re less likely to qualify for. You also might come up with a list of options you’d have never considered.

Screenshot of the Scholarship Search on

Entering info helps match students with awards that they are most likely to qualify for.

The huge database means you’re gaining access to far more than the typical list of competitive scholarships commonly found online. Instead, you’re searching one of the most comprehensive digital scholarship databases.

Employees Ensure Each Scholarship Submission’s Quality employees arrive at the office each day to find a queue of scholarship submissions for review. Submissions come directly from the providers, and employees sift through them to ensure that only quality ones are added to their database.

“We come in in the morning and we have a queue; we allow scholarship providers to submit their scholarships for consideration using our online form. We get new scholarship submissions, often in the double digits, pretty much every day,” Kevin said. “We don’t approve all of them. We don’t list any scholarships that charge a fee, nor do we list any that require a credit card or anything of that sort from the student. Further, if somebody reports a scholarship they found on as seeming suspicious, whether because they are unresponsive to being contacted by the student or they can’t reach the website, etc. – we suspend that listing immediately and look into the complaint, only putting it back up on the site once everybody’s concerns have been addressed and satisfied.”

“If a student or parent or an educator reports a scholarship they found on as seeming suspicious, we suspend it immediately and relist only upon verifying its legitimacy.”

The scholarship application process for the students, on the other hand, is automated and based on an algorithm that matches them according to their profile. also works with colleges, many of whom are targeting a specific type of student and will award scholarships to those that fit their profile. If students are willing to be flexible about which university they’ll attend, they may receive additional funding directly from the institution.

Starting Early and Working Hard Throughout the Application Process Pays Off Long Term

Once you’ve begun to build your list of scholarship options, it can be beneficial to start applying as early as possible. Students and parents sometimes start even before a student’s freshman year in high school.

Spending quality time on the application process is well worth it, and if you’re dedicated, you stand to earn much more from scholarships than you might with a typical after-school job like babysitting.

“I found the summer before my freshman year of high school, and I truly believe that it is never too early to start thinking about the future. The Resolve to Evolve Essay was the first scholarship that I entered, and I’m so grateful that I did. I can’t thank enough for this opportunity. In college, I hope to major in business and I am eager for the future.” — Sydney B., $1,000 Resolve to Evolve Scholarship Winner

Another common misconception is that it’s difficult to win scholarships. This can be true if you’re only looking at the extremely competitive and well-publicized awards, like those from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation or the Davidson Fellows Scholarship.

Screenshot of need-based awards on

These are a few examples of some of the need-based scholarships available in the scholarship database.

With, however, you can access such a variety of awards that the odds of winning financial aid money can be high if you search for the right awards and are diligent about applying to as many as fit your profile. The more time you spend preparing quality submissions, the more likely you are to receive a substantial amount of aid.

“It’s a bit of an uphill climb, but if you don’t give it a try, you’re not going to get another chance down the road,” Kevin said. “If you don’t put yourself into it, it’s not going to work. You really have to commit to doing the work and stay organized and be strategic in your pursuit of scholarships and grants. We can help to make it easier to find the opportunities, but it is up to the students to select the best ones and submit a quality application.”

Save Your Future Self a Lot of Money with

Applying for scholarships and grants is a lot of work. Funding a higher education without them, however, leads to many students taking on massive student loan debt. And that could take years in the working world to repay, which is probably why about 44 million people owe over $1.4 trillion in student loan debt.

Having a database that works to help you narrow down your scholarship options is a great place to start, and the long-term benefits of scholarships and grants should never go underestimated. helps to bridge the gap between the $19 billion dollars in award money throughout the country, and the students searching for them.

“I registered with in hope of winning a scholarship, in order to contribute to my education fund. My education is something that is very important to me and vital to the success of my future. Winning this scholarship only confirms that college was the best idea for my future. This scholarship will allow me to open up new doors to learn and continue pursuing my degree in hopes of graduating. I am so grateful for this amazing opportunity.” — Joshua C.,’s “Tell A Friend” $1,000 Winner

College can seem cost-prohibitive for some families, but the advantages of earning college degrees are indisputable. In fact, college graduates earn an average of 65% more than those who graduate high school, while advanced degrees only widen this disparity.

By taking advantage of the free search at — along with some hard work, dedication, and an organized strategy — you can join the millions of students who have benefited from this popular resource since 1998.


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Bali Surf Report

Surf Guiding | Surf Lessons | Surf Accommodation

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Surf Lesson, Balangan, Bali, Surf Report

April 11th, 2015 by Bali Surf Report

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Intermediate group surfed Balangan this morning, surf was so good we stayed there all day and had 2 great sessions. Surfing conditions were very good, clean and glassy, shoulder to head high on some sets, very good conditions for intermediate group and everybody had fun session (see photos). Advanced group surfed Uluwatu this morning, shoulder to head high on some sets, light offshore winds perfect condition to surf.

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Visiting the Australian Consulate in Bali

Not so long ago I had cause to visit the Australian Consulate in Bali for personal reasons and had a direct appointment with one of the consular staff. A word of warning: If you plan on visiting then take your passport! I, on the other hand, forgot mine and if it wasn’t for my Australian drivers licence and one of my business cards then I would have no chance of getting into the fortress. I use that word’ fortress’ because that is exactly what it is after they moved establishments following the bombing of the Australian Embassy in Jakarta several years ago. Having never been to the Embassy, I expected armed guards out the front with a military touch but a few satpam stood around with walkie-talkies. They still gave Candika and I the once-over-glance of who-are-you and what-the-fuck-do-you-want.

Your first hurdle is getting past the glass-panelled front office of the place. The officials ask you want you want, who are you here to see, and, identification, namely your passport. You are then asked to switch off mobile phones. Once you have convinced them that you are kosher and have no intention of attempting terrorist activity, you are allowed to enter through the first part of the inner-building. The thick metal doors are hard to push open. Word of warning No. 2: Don’t carry anything that could cause harm to a person or suspicious items in your bag or backpack.

I was asked to empty my pockets and trusty travel bag that carries everything a travel writer carries onto a table where it was scrutinised, the items inside listed on an official piece of paper. I actually stuffed up this stage and was given some weird looks. Here’s the reason why and the contents of my bag:

1 Swiss Army Knife
4 spare camera batteries
3 USB sticks
1 Letter opener styled like a Kris
3 pens
1 Digital Camera (the batteries had to be taken out!)
2 notebooks
Assorted rubber bands
Duct tape
Mobile phone (this was taken apart)
Small pair of pliers
Nail file
Small Microlite Towel

There are four officials in the room. Then, you are frisked, and I mean really frisked as though you were a criminal! After that they run a metal scanner over your body in detail. Following this you are asked to put out your hands, palms upwards, and samples are taken for ‘chemical activity’ and the same is done with your clothing. These samples are put through a testing machine and if you are cleared then you proceed through the walk-through scanner and frisked again. All the time you are being watched on the numerous internal CCTV cameras situated around the room. If all goes well then you are allowed to enter the inner-sanctum of the Consulate. Actually, it’s the gardens and in front of you, a path that leads up to the main building. Here, you press the button on the wall, state your business and then the ‘swooshing’ sound of the thick metal doors open but only a fraction. You have to push it further yourself. Once you are inside, the door seals fast behind you. Of course, they are vacuum-sealed doors! Then you approach the receptionist, who is behind glass, and state your business – again!

Word of warning No. 3: Never lose your receipt for the goods taken from you earlier. When you have finished your business you then proceed down the path to the exit which is in fact a small corridor and here you find a glass-fronted office. It is here that you place your receipt in the chute and eventually your goods are returned in the same manner. From the very beginning of getting out of the vehicle in front of the Consulate, going through the whole scanning process, walking up to the main building and returning, your every move is watched on camera. Great security!


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Other programs offer tax, rebate savings on solar, renewable energy

Federal energy tax credits: Homeowners can claim a 30 percent tax credit for eligible renewable energy or energy-efficient home improvements that are in place between Jan. 1, 2009 and Dec. 31, 2020. Information is available at energysavers.gov/taxcredits

Florida solar rebate program: Before funding ran out, this program offered Florida homeowners rebates of $100 for solar swimming pool heaters, $500 for solar water heaters and $4 per watt of energy produced from eligible solar panel systems, up to $20,000 per homeowner. It offered businesses up to $5,000 for solar water heaters and up to $100,000 for solar panels.

FPL programs and rebates: The electric utility offers energy efficiency and renewable energy programs. Information is available at fpl.com. Click on "programs and solutions" under the "my home" tab at the top of the page.

Weatherization: Low-income households can get money for insulation, water heater and air-conditioning replacement and repairs through the state's weatherization program. Info: In Broward County, call 954-792-1121. In Palm Beach County, call 772-597-3667.

Copyright © 2018, The Baltimore Sun, a Baltimore Sun Media Group publication | Place an Ad


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Mule jumping contest new to Howard County Fair

Don't judge a mule's jumping capabilities based on its size alone — the little ones just might catch you by surprise, according to Howard County Fair Chairman Clint Thomas.

"Some of the shorter mules jump higher than the taller mules," he said.

This year, fairgoers will have the opportunity to judge for themselves, with the addition of a mule jump competition to the long list of contests traditionally offered during the two-week event.

The Howard County Fair opens its gates Saturday, Aug. 6, celebrating the county's rural roots for the 66th year.

Visitors can expect the usual range of activities — carnival games and rides, food stands serving up comfort food, crafts and art exhibits, farm animals on display and a full program of contests, including everything from archery to pie eating to an amateur variety show.

And don't forget the pig races, held four times daily.

But along with the traditional offerings come some new additions.

The coon mule jump, which will be held Tuesday, Aug. 9, after the late afternoon mule pulling contest, will feature two height classes of mules jumping over an adjustable pole. The pole will be moved up incrementally, with mules who can't clear the jump eliminated at each round.

Unlike horses, mules can jump without a running start, according to Thomas, who is in charge of the contest.

Thomas said the fair committee decided to add the competition to the fair's offerings because Howard County has a substantial group of people who follow mule shows along the East Coast and wanted to see something offered close to home.

"Carroll County has a mule show and a jump, but there's nothing in Howard County," he said.

The Howard County 4-H club will also inaugurate a robotics competition this year. The group, which focuses on development of life skills in youth ages 5 to 18, has a presence throughout the fair. 4-H projects, which include raising livestock and preparing exhibits on categories as diverse as entomology, woodworking, creative writing and photography, will be on display throughout the fair.

First-time Fair President Blair G. Hill said he took on the position because he had been involved in the 4-H club as a boy, and had been to every Howard County Fair since he was 6 or 7 years old.

"This is my opportunity to give back to the 4-H program that gave me so much," he said.

Hill said the fair this year will feature an agricultural expo, near the entrance, that will showcase "how much agriculture is still being done in the county." Hill said that despite the perception that farming is on the decline in the county, it has retained a lot of nontraditional agricultural operations. "Farming has changed," he said.

Fairgoers can also look forward to the recent installation of air conditioning in the main exhibition hall. "We find that our fair is also the hottest week of the year," Hill said. "Hopefully this will offer patrons some relief."

Located at the Howard County Fairgrounds in West Friendship, the fair will run through Aug. 13. The grounds open at 8 a.m. and close at 11 p.m. every day.

Admission is $5 for fairgoers 10 years and older, and $2 for seniors 62 and up. There is an extra charge for ride tickets.

For more information, visit; for updates visit

Copyright © 2018, Howard County Times, a Baltimore Sun Media Group publication | Place an Ad


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Hold Md. public employees accountable [Letter]

It seems at least once a week or sometimes every day we read a story about some Maryland government agency or employee not getting the job done. Why, for instance, is it always the federal government that has to tell us that inmates are running our prisons or the state doesn't record labor statistics correctly?

As a taxpayer, I want the people who work for me to be held accountable for their job performance and to be audited yearly.

J. Heming, Baltimore

To respond to this letter, send an email to talkback@baltimoresun.com. Please include your name and contact information.

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#23 -- Cornerback Patrick Surtain (1998-04). Arguably one of the best corners to wear a Dolphins uniform, Surtain went to three Pro Bowls. He has tough competition for this spot, though, beating out Troy Vincent and Ronnie Brown.

Miami Dolphins cornerback Patrick Surtain grimmaces after almost picking off a pass in the fourth quarter deep in Arizona Cardinals territory.
Robert Duyos, Sun-Sentinel
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