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Broadway Casino is located in Central Birmingham and is easily accessible from major motorways including the M5, M6 and M42.

Broadway Casino

Broadway Casino | Broadway Plaza

Birmingham | B16 8LP

Tel: 0121 456 5557

For all membership enquiries email

For all events enquiries email

We offer both members and guests the convenience of 1,300 secure parking spaces below the complex.

Getting Here

Broadway Plaza is located at the hub of several arterial routes into the City Centre and fronts onto the middle ring road. It is easily accessed from a variety of major motorway networks including the M5, M6 and M42. If you would like information on how to find us please call on 0121 455 0267.

Visiting by Car

For sat nav users, please use the postcode B16 8LP.

Visiting by Public Transport

For others wanting to use public transport, plan your journey HERE.

Visiting by Bicycle

Broadway Plaza is easily accessible by bicycle and on site we have safe, covered secure cycle parking facilities.

View the Broadway Plaza Centre Map.


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Contact Us

Mercury Prize nominees

The xx, Alt-J, Kate Tempest, Sampha, Stormzy, Ed Sheeran, and more were nominated for the 2017 Mercury Prize

Sparks presale password

Get tickets early for the BrooklynVegan presented Sparks show at Le Poisson Rouge with our presale password

Sylvan Esso at BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! Festival
photo by Em Grey

Sylvan Esso played Prospect Park (pics), releasing collaborative “visual” EP

Sylvan Esso's new EP showcases collaborations from a myriad of musicians, including Wye Oak, The Mountain Goats, Hiss Golden Messenger, as well as members of Amelia and Nick's other bands, Mountain Man and Megafaun.

Read More

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Windows | Games | Mobile | Wallpapers

This wallpaper features a tamed dragon.

Last Week downloads: 0
Total downloads: 96
  • Last Updated: Aug 12, 2010
  • License: Freeware Free
  • OS: Windows XP/2000/98
  • Requirements: No special requirements

User reviews

0 out of 5 based on 0 ratings for GUARDIAN DRAGON

For GUARDIAN DRAGON Publisher's description

GUARDIAN DRAGON is a Desktop Utilities software developed by After our trial and test, the software is proved to be official, secure and free. Here is the official description for GUARDIAN DRAGON:

Edit By BS Editor: My formidiable Steed had been subdued and tamed by The Great Wizard himself. We kept silent vigil over the valley below in constant search of The Devil Dragons that The Nameless One constantly sent from The Abyss. 1024 and 800 sizes.
you can free download GUARDIAN DRAGON now.

For GUARDIAN DRAGON Related Software

Please be aware that Brothersoft do not supply any crack, patches, serial numbers or keygen for GUARDIAN DRAGON,and please consult directly with program authors for any problem with GUARDIAN DRAGON.


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Windows | Games | Mobile | Wallpapers

RemotePass Access 4.1.0

Remote control any pc worldwide in less than 10 seconds through any firewall.

Last Week downloads: 0
Total downloads: 483
  • Last Updated: Nov 2, 2009
  • License: Commercial EUR95.00
  • OS: Windows XP/2000/98
  • Requirements: No special requirements

User reviews

4 out of 5 based on 1 ratings for RemotePass Access 4.1.0

For RemotePass Access 4.1.0Publisher's description

RemotePass Access is a Servers & Network software developed by RemotePass Technologies. After our trial and test, the software is proved to be official, secure and free. Here is the official description for RemotePass Access:

Brothersoft Editor: RemotePass Access enables you to remotely support any user that is internet enabled and to closely administer key systems without any configuration to the local and remote network or firewall.
You can instantly remote control any internet enabled computer or server and begin troubleshooting your remote user's problems as soon as they occur by bringing the user's desktop to you ... from anywhere!
RemotePass Access works anywhere, anyplace, anytime! Whether you are at the office or at home, RemotePass will allways work as long as you are connected to the internet. The remote pc may be a total stranger at the other side of the world behind a corporate firewall, Proxy server or any other kind of security system. The only requirement is any kind of internet connection!
RemotePass Access was designed for fast online product support, instant software troubleshooting and powerfull remote control software for every HELPDESK that wants to support employees and customers outside the boundaries of a corporate network from any location to any location.

- Supports all Western European languages
- Pay and start immediately
- Online acount management
- Online enterprise reporting and traffic Analysis
- File Transfer
- Chat
- Remote Pc Diagnostics and control
- Disable Remote wallpaper
- Task Manager
- Reboot and auto reconnect
- FULL CONTROL & VIEW ONLY mode switch
- Print remote screen to local printer
- Download clipboard from client
- Upload clipboard to client
- Safe screenshot to desktop
- Session recording
- Full screen mode
- Application options
- Performance options
- Wordwide mobility
- Customizable support website
- Small download and auto-uninstall
- Security encryption
- Multi System control
you can free download RemotePass Access 4.1.0 now.

For RemotePass Access 4.1.0Related Software

Please be aware that Brothersoft do not supply any crack, patches, serial numbers or keygen for RemotePass Access,and please consult directly with program authors for any problem with RemotePass Access.


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Peach Ice Cream Sandwiches with Ginger Brown Butter Cookies

Fresh peach ice cream is sandwiched between two brown butter, brown sugar, ginger cookies. Then, the sandwiches are drizzled with white chocolate and sprinkled with crystalized ginger. The cookies are spicy and buttery and the ice cream is refreshing and a little tangy.

Peach Ice Cream Sandwiches-1.jpg

One of my favorite summer treats is fresh peach ice cream. I made David Lebovitz's peach ice cream recipe from The Perfect Scoop but you can use your favorite peach ice cream recipe or pick up your favorite brand from the market. His recipe is delicious and if you don't own the book and want to make ice cream at home, you should pick it up.

Peach Ice Cream Sandwiches-5.jpg

Peach Ice Cream Sandwiches with Ginger Brown Sugar Cookies

Peach Ice Cream Sandwiches-4.jpg
  • your favorite peach ice cream
  • white chocolate for drizzling
  • diced crystalized ginger for garnish

Ginger Brown Butter Cookies

  • 1 stick unsalted butter, divided
  • 2/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • additional brown sugar for rolling

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and prepare a cookie sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper.

In a small sauce pan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter (1/2 stick). As, the butter melts and begins to bubble, the milk solids will rise to the top. Continue to cook the butter until the milk solids turn brown, fall to the bottom and begins to have a nutty aroma. Keep a watchful eye and be careful not to burn the butter.

Remove the butter from the heat and pour into the mixing bowl of a stand mixer and let cool while you gather the remaining ingredients.

Using the paddle attachment of a stand mixer, beat the cooled brown butter, and remaining 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) of butter together until fully combined. Then, add sugar and beat until light and fluffy. Add the egg to the butter mixture and beat until smooth.

In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, salt and ground ginger. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture until the dough comes just together.

Chill the dough in the fridge for 10-15 minutes until firm. Scoop the dough by the tablespoon and then roll in the additional brown sugar. Then, place dough balls on the prepared cookie sheet and press down slightly to flatten.

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the sides just begin to brown. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool.

Once cooled, sandwich a scoop of softened peach ice-cream between two cookies. Drizzle the tops with melted white chocolate and sprinkle with crystalized ginger pieces.

You can enjoy the ice-cream sandwiches immediately or wrap in plastic wrap and put in the freezer to enjoy later.

With this recipe, I made 12 ice cream sandwiches with a few cookies to spare.

Peach Ice Cream Sandwiches-3.jpg
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Bourbon Summer Fruit Cobbler

Bourbon Summer Fruit Cobbler

This is every girls favorite "a cup, a cup, a cup" peach cobbler turned up a notch. Why stop at just peaches? Throw in some more of your favorite summer fruits, like blueberries and sweet cherries. Then add brown sugar and every southerners favorite libation... bourbon and you have an impressive Sunday supper dessert.

Bourbon Summer Fruit Cobbler

Bourbon Summer Fruit Cobbler

Bourbon Summer Fruit Cobbler
  • 2 cups sliced peaches (about 3 medium)
  • 1 cup pitted halved sweet cherries
  • 1/2 cup blueberries
  • 1/4 bourbon
  • 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
  • 1 stick unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup self rising flour
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup white sugar
  • more dark brown sugar for sprinkling

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Mix together the sliced peaches, cherries, and blueberries with the bourbon and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar. Let that sit while you mix together the rest of the batter.

In a large bowl, whisk together the white sugar and flour. While stirring, mix in the milk gradually until all flour and any lumps are incorporated.

Pour the melted butter into a seasoned cast iron skillet. Then, pour batter mixture over butter. Scatter the fruit on top. Then, sprinkle over any juice/bourbon that has accumulated at the bottom of the bowl.

Sprinkle a little more dark brown sugar on top and place the oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the cobbler is bubbly and has begun to brown.

Serve with a scoop of your favorite vanilla ice cream.

Bourbon Summer Fruit Cobbler
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Plum Upside Down Cake

This cake is the perfect use for summer stone fruit. You could even switch out the plums for whatever your favorite summer stone fruit might be. Cherries, peaches, apricots, any of these would be delicious. The almond cake base complements the sweetness but also the tartness of the plums. To play off of this tang, I like to top this cake with a little sweetened sour cream but whipped cream would be equally delicious.

Plum Upside Down Cake-4.jpg

Plum Upside Down Cake

Plum Upside Down Cake

  • 4 ripe red plums
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 stick, plus 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup all purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup almond meal flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • Sliced toasted almonds and confectioners sugar for garnish

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Butter a 9 inch springform pan and place it on an baking sheet lined with parchment paper. (Believe me, you don't want to do this after adding the cake batter to the pan. Unless you enjoy cleaning up buttery plum syrup. Also, always hold a springform pan from the bottom not the sides. Learn from my mistakes lol)

Thinly slice the plums and arrange them in a single layer in the prepared springform pan. Then, sprinkle the plums with the brown sugar. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter and pour over the plums while warm. Let that sit while you prepare the cake batter.

Using the paddle attachment of a stand mixer, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

Meanwhile, in a medium bowl stir together flour, almond meal flour, baking powder, and salt.

Add the eggs to the butter mixture one at a time. Once combined add the extracts. Then, gradually add flour mixture and beat until just combined.

Add the batter on top of the sliced plums in the prepared pan. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, remove the side from the cake.  Place a serving dish over the top of the cake and then invert and remove the bottom of the pan. If any syrup or plum sticks just place it back on the cake top. (Nothing a little powdered sugar and almonds can't cover)

Sprinkle with toasted slice almonds and confectioners sugar. The cake can be served warm or at room temperature but I prefer it warm.

I also topped each slice with a little sweetened sour cream. Just mix 2 tablespoons of confectioners sugar in 1 cup of sour cream and dollop on top.

Plum Upside Down Cake
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Metabolism of Boston

LIVINGLABCarbon is a principal currency connecting human and natural systems.  This research measures and models interactions of humans, plants, animals,  physical processes, urban infrastructure, and marine and terrestrial ecosystems, focusing on one important component: carbon flows associated with biological and anthropogenic activity. Please visit the Metabolism of Boston research web site.

Boston University team:

  • National Science Foundation
  • US Forest Service
  • NASA
  • Boston University Administration
  • Environmental Defense Fund


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Salomon Grace Snowboard Binding - Youth

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With the Grace binding this affordable, there are no reasons left for you not to ride a women specific binding. Designed with all the Salomon patented features plus a women specific highback and strap design, it is paired with EVA padding for a lightweight stylish comfortable binding. The Grace will become your new best friend, and rest assured that this relationship will last.


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JEWELLERY and electrical items were stolen from a Chesham house while the homeowners were away on holiday.

The property in Berkeley Avenue was burgled at some point between August 8 and August 25.

Burglars forced their way in through the rear patio doors and jewellery, electronic goods and what's described by police as designer items were all stolen.

Thames Valley Police have this week made an appeal for witnesses to come forward. Anyone with information should contact police on 101, quoting crime reference number 43140164843.


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Search | Site Map | Help | Contact Treasury | Purchase

Copyright | Disclaimer | Privacy

2003-04 Budget

> Home > Budget Speech

Table Of Contents

Mr Speaker, I move that the Bill now be read a second time.

When I brought down last year's Budget we announced a major upgrade of Australia's defence and security.

We decided to make that investment because our security situation had changed, the threat of terror had become more direct, and closer to home.

We did not know how close to home the threat would come. The tragic events in Bali on 12 October last year saw 88 innocent Australians die at the hands of criminal terrorists.

We cannot take our security for granted. Tonight I will announce further measures to upgrade Australia's security and border protection.

At the time of last year's Budget I reported to the House on the deployment and funding of Australian forces engaged in the War on Terror. At that time our Defence Force personnel were engaged in Afghanistan.

Since then, the brave men and women of the Australian Defence Forces have again served in theatres of war, this time in Iraq and the Persian Gulf. This Budget provides funding to cover that commitment. And tonight I will announce further measures to upgrade our defence capacity.

This year we were tested by terror and war overseas. And this year we were tested at home with the most extensive drought recorded in Australian history. And bushfires savaged life and property.

This year we were tested again as the international economy turned down, making it harder for our economy.

We have been knocked around by some of these events. We have been tested. But we are resilient.

And the Australian economy is resilient. The international body, the OECD, says Australia is "...notably resilient to shocks, both internal and external."

We have put in some hard work to get to this point. And that has given us a lot of insulation against these kinds of shocks. We will need it again for the shocks that will come in the future.

I do not pretend that things will be easy in the next year. But I do believe that Australia will weather the shocks much better than comparable countries.

We want to keep our Budget in surplus. Tonight I announce the sixth surplus of this Government. In 2003-04 the Commonwealth Budget will be in surplus - a surplus of $2.2 billion.

We want to invest in priority areas, defence, security, education, and health.

And consistent with those objectives we want to keep our taxes as low as possible. That is why tonight I am announcing an income tax cut for every Australian taxpayer.

Cutting personal income tax

Mr Speaker, on 1 July 2000 the Government introduced the largest income tax cut Australia has ever had. From 1 July this year, three years later, income tax will be cut again.

This will be done in two ways. For low income earners, the low income tax offset will be increased. For other taxpayers, income tax thresholds will be lifted.

The upper income limit for the 17 per cent rate will be raised from $20,000 to $21,600, the upper income limit of the 30 per cent rate will be raised from $50,000 to $52,000, and the upper income limit of the 42 per cent rate will be raised from $60,000 to $62,500.

The low income tax offset will rise from $150 to $235. The low income tax offset currently phases out at four cents in the dollar for every dollar over $20,700. This limit will be lifted and aligned with the other changes so that withdrawal will occur with each dollar earned over $21,600. As a result of these changes the offset will phase out completely at $27,475.

This means that taxpayers earning between $20,000 and $27,475 will get the benefit of both increased thresholds and increased tax offset. Some will get tax cuts up to $329 per annum or a tax saving of 10.7 per cent on their current tax bill.

A taxpayer on $45,000 will receive a tax cut of $208, a taxpayer on $55,000 will receive a tax cut of $448 and a taxpayer on $65,000 will receive a tax cut of $573.

The measures I am announcing tonight cut income tax for 9 million Australians. The tax cut will amount to $2.4 billion in 2003-04 and $10.7 billion across the forward estimates.

Strong defence

Mr Speaker, the security of our people and our nation is the Government's first priority. Today we are faced with the dangers of rising international terrorism and weapons of mass destruction. The Government is committed to confronting these threats to our security and defending our values and our way of life.

During the last few months Australia deployed more than 2,000 personnel as part of the international coalition to disarm Iraq. The deployment included a Special Forces Task Group, many of whom operated behind enemy lines, a squadron of F/A-18 Royal Australian Air Force Hornet Fighter aircraft, three Royal Australian Navy Frigates and transport and surveillance aircraft including Hercules and P-3C Orions. Our young Australians served with great distinction. They made a very significant contribution to the downfall of Saddam Hussein's regime and to the liberation of the Iraqi people. They have accomplished their mission. We salute their service.

The cost of this deployment and some contributions to rehabilitation activities such as the deployment of personnel to the Office of Reconstruction and Humanitarian Assistance, is budgeted to amount to $645 million.

The Government has also committed a further $100 million for urgent humanitarian relief and reconstruction for the Iraqi people.

This spending is over and above normal defence expenditure. It is in addition to the Defence White Paper which provides the most comprehensive upgrade of our defence capabilities in 25 years, increasing spending by $27 billion over a decade.

And Australia continues its defence commitment to East Timor with a battalion of three rifle companies and around 1,000 personnel all up costing around $500 million this year.

In total, tonight I am announcing new defence spending of $2.1 billion over five years. Total defence spending will rise to $15 billion in 2003-04.

In this Budget, additional funding of $157 million will establish a Special Operations Command. This will deliver an additional 334 combat and support personnel to supplement Australia's existing special forces, including an additional commando company and a maritime terrorist capability in the 4th Royal Australian Regiment. This will increase Australia's capacity to respond to terrorism.

The Government will also provide an additional $1.1 billion to augment logistics and support funding for a range of platforms and equipment, including the F/A-18 fighter aircraft; Hercules transport aircraft; Collins class submarines; and a range of transport vehicles. This funding is vital if the Australian Defence Force is to remain well equipped to cope with heightened levels of operation and respond to unforeseen events both at home and abroad.

It is, however, the quality of its people that has been the core strength of Australia's military forces. This has been clearly demonstrated in East Timor, Afghanistan and, most recently, in Iraq. Army and Air Force are presently experiencing better recruitment and retention rates with separations at ten year lows. To capitalise on this favourable recruiting environment, the Government will increase funding by $103 million over three years, which will enable the ADF to exceed the personnel targets envisaged by the White Paper for this period. The White Paper target is 54,000 personnel by 2010.

Enhancing Australian security

After the terrorist attacks on 11 September, the Government strengthened Australia's domestic security arrangements at a cost of $1.3 billion over five years. These included measures to put Protective Services Officers on selected flights, doubling AFP strike team capability, a Regiment to respond to chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive incidents and a second Tactical Assault Group.

After the Bali atrocity, the Government commissioned a further review of security arrangements. As a result of this review, the Government announced further measures at a cost of around $100 million over four years.

Let there be no doubt about our resolve to protect Australians against terrorist threats. This Budget commits an additional $411 million over five years to continue the upgrade of our domestic security arrangements.

Critical security infrastructure at our shipping ports, airports, as well as our nuclear research and military facilities will be upgraded. The new international code of practice for maritime security will be introduced. More funding will be provided to increase the use of container X-ray facilities at Australian ports. The Government will enhance our border processing systems to identify and track persons of concern.

Intelligence that is timely and accurate is critical if we wish to prevent terrorist incidents. Our intelligence agencies must play an increased role in identifying and responding to possible risks to Australia and our interests.

This is why the Government is providing an additional $152 million which will enhance Australia's intelligence capacity. Part of this funding will go to agencies such as the Australian Security and Intelligence Organisation and the Australian Secret Intelligence Service to enhance their counter-terrorism capabilities. The Office of National Assessments will receive more funding to work on terrorism through dedicated liaison capacity with counterpart agencies in Washington and London.

And, as a lasting legacy to those who lost their lives in the terrorist attack of October 2002, the Government is allocating $10.5 million to be used to fund a new intensive care centre for the Sanglah Hospital in Denpasar, also to construct a community eye treatment centre in Bali, and to fund an ongoing medical and health scholarship programme. These initiatives are a practical living memorial to the victims of the tragedy.

Investing in education

Mr Speaker, tonight the Government is announcing far-reaching reforms to Australia's higher education system.

These reforms will free up universities, and allow them to build on their strengths. Universities will gain access to increased Commonwealth support and have more flexibility in setting course fees.

In total, the Government will commit an additional $1.5 billion over the next four years to higher education. By 2009-10, with the reforms fully in place, there will be an extra $870 million per year spent by the Commonwealth on higher education. This represents a real increase of 17 per cent over ten years.

Universities wishing to increase their research capacity will have greater scope to do so. Universities wishing to build teaching excellence will have greater scope to do so.

The Government will invest $775 million over the next four years on extra Commonwealth grants for universities. This will include a 7½ per cent increase in base funding by 2007. The package will also provide new funding of $123 million over four years towards the costs of education in regional campuses.

Our universities must provide the quality courses that our students want and our nation needs. And to ensure that students and the community get the best value from our investment, the Government will be seeking significant improvements in governance and workplace relations within the sector.

From 2005, universities will have flexibility in setting fees for Commonwealth supported places. They can cut them. Except for teaching and nursing, they can increase them to a maximum of 30 per cent above HECS. It is up to the institution whether it wants to attract students, and up to the student as to whether the course offers value. Universities will be able to specialise in their areas of strength.

The Government is also reforming the system of student loans so that all students will be able to study without the need to pay any up-front fees. A new comprehensive Higher Education Loans Programme called HELP will assist students from January 2005. Students will be able to access funds to meet their course fees by drawing on income-contingent loans, whether they are HECS or full fee-paying students.

For students in Commonwealth supported places, HECS will continue as part of the new HELP system. A new FEE-HELP programme will be introduced for students who pay full fees. A new OS(Overseas)-HELP programme will assist those students who need financial assistance to study overseas.

The Government expects these loan arrangements to generate an additional $800 million for students to invest in their higher education.

At present students are required to make HECS repayments when their income reaches $24,365 a year. From 2005 this threshold will be lifted to $30,000.

To enhance access and participation by financially disadvantaged students in higher education, the Government will establish three new scholarship programmes costing $162 million over 4 years.

There is a clear imperative to address the shortage of teachers and nurses in our schools and hospitals. The Budget will set aside an additional $161 million over the next four years for teaching and nursing and other priorities. This includes at least 574 extra places in nursing by 2007.

Ensuring that all Australians have up to date vocational and educational training is a continuing priority for the Government. We will provide $3.6 billion over the next three years for a new Australian National Training Authority Agreement with the States and Territories.

Australia has a quality education and training system. Over 200,000 international students recognise this by choosing to study here each year. They generate over $5 billion in export earnings each year. The Government will build on our achievements in this area by providing an extra $113 million over four years for quality assurance and the promotion of Australian education and training in overseas markets. This will largely be financed by extra charges for overseas students. It will develop a stronger educational system in Australia.

Providing accessible and affordable health care

Mr Speaker, this Government is committed to ensuring Australia has a first rate health care system.

In 1995-96, Commonwealth spending on health amounted to around $18½ billion. In 2003-04, we expect to spend over $31 billion on health. Since coming to office, this Government has increased health spending by around 65 per cent. The Government has invested in strengthening public hospitals, enhancing Medicare, and providing financial assistance to Australians who take out health insurance.

Improvements to Medicare recently announced by the Prime Minister allocate new spending of $917 million over five years to make Medicare services more affordable and accessible.

The reforms will provide more doctors where they are needed most, with an additional 150 GP trainee places each year targeted to rural and outer-metropolitan areas.

234 new medical school places each year will be bonded so that when their training has been completed, these doctors will start practising in areas of shortage.

The Government's spending on public hospitals will increase to record levels under the recently announced $42 billion Australian Health Care Agreements. This is more than $10 billion of additional funding for public hospitals over the current agreement - a growth of 29½ per cent over five years, or over 17 per cent in real terms. States and Territories that at least match the rate of growth in the Commonwealth's contribution and deliver on reporting commitments will receive the Commonwealth's maximum contribution.

This Budget is setting aside $253 million over five years for a Pathways Home Initiative to help people discharged from hospital, particularly the elderly, to make a smooth and easy transition back home.

The $42 billion in public hospital funding is on top of the contribution the Commonwealth is making to take pressure off the public hospital system by increasing the coverage of health insurance. Private health insurance has jumped from 30 per cent of Australians in January 1999 to 44 per cent in December 2002 as a result of the 30 per cent private health insurance rebate and other Government initiatives. More than 8.7 million Australians now have private health insurance cover.

Illegal drug use is an enormous burden on our society in terms of waste and cost to human life. We will continue to fight this menace. Since 1997, the Government has committed extensive resources to the Tough on Drugs Strategy. The challenges remain immense but there has been recent evidence of some success.

Enhancements to our law enforcement capabilities have been instrumental in detecting the smuggling of illicit drugs into Australia. They have resulted in several significant seizures, like the recent interception of the North Korean vessel the Pong Su, and its deadly cargo of heroin destined for Australian streets.

Tonight I announce measures that strengthen our ability to disrupt supplies of illicit drugs and prevent the production of illicit drugs on our shores. Additional funding will be provided to identify and seize the ill-gotten gains of those who have benefited from supplying drugs to our community. The new and continuing measures announced in this Budget will allocate $316 million over the next four years for the Tough on Drugs Strategy.

On 8 April 2003 the Government gazetted Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) as a quarantinable disease. Border protection measures against SARS are an essential first line of defence, and will be maintained for as long as they are necessary. The Commonwealth is funding health personnel to detect possible cases of SARS at international airports at a cost of $2.2 million over two years.

More help for people with disabilities and their carers

Mr Speaker, the Government understands that people with disabilities and their carers face special challenges in getting employment and participating fully in the community.

In this Budget, the Government will increase funding by $135 million over four years to community organisations providing disability employment services. Grants will be larger according to the level of disability of the person they support in the workplace. It is expected this will help an extra 6,000 people have the opportunity of a job and the self respect that comes with it.

The Government will also spend $25 million over three years to help organisations providing employment for people with disabilities. This funding will improve the viability of these organisations and support the payment of better wages to their employees.

Parents of children with ongoing high support needs will also benefit from the additional funds of $26 million over four years to fund more carers. Around 1,250 extra families will be helped under this measure.

Rebuilding after drought and fire

Mr Speaker, the past year has seen many communities ravaged by the devastating effects of drought and fire. People have lost their lives, their homes, their livelihood. An institution of great importance to our heritage and scientific learning was lost in the ACT.

The Government expects to provide a total around $740 million in 2002-03 and the next two years in assisting farmers, small businesses and regional communities through the most extensive drought ever recorded. This funding will provide direct income support, personal counselling, tax relief and interest rate relief for those in need.

In 2002-03, the Commonwealth spent over $8 million helping the States and Territories with aircraft to battle terrible bushfires and will provide continuing support for aerial firefighting in the next fire season.

The Government is working with the States and Territories to establish a national approach to natural disaster mitigation including bushfires and floods. Conditional on States and Territories matching funding and the implementation of more effective land use and building controls, the Commonwealth will provide $68 million over five years for this purpose.

The Government will also assist the rebuilding of the Mount Stromlo Observatory.

Australia's heritage

Mr Speaker, the stories of our past, our people, their struggles, and the places, and anniversaries that make us Australians need to be preserved. It is important that these achievements are treasured and shared with future generations.

So tonight the Government is announcing the establishment of a National Heritage List which will identify Australia's places of national significance and preserve them so that future Australians will know of them, their history, and what they mean to us. Some of these places will be outside Australia like Anzac Cove, a place that helped to define our nationhood, our values, and holds a special place in the hearts of all Australians. Through partnerships between government, industry and the community these places will be kept as part of the Australian story forever. The programme is allocated $52 million.

Building sustainable industry

Mr Speaker, the Government is encouraging Australian industry to be internationally competitive, laying the foundation for more jobs and higher living standards.

The five-year $3 billion Backing Australia's Ability package, announced in January 2001, demonstrates this Government's commitment to pursuing excellence through innovation.

To facilitate long-term projects this Budget allocates continuing funding into 2006-07 for the R&D Start Programme, the Australian Research Council, and the Cooperative Research Centre programme.

In addition, a further $20 million in funding in 2003-04 is allocated to support the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation's (CSIRO) Flagship Programme. The Flagships are a partnership of leading Australian scientists, research institutions and commercial companies undertaking research to advance new industries and jobs, healthier and more productive lives and better use of environmental resources.

The Government is finalising the White Paper on our innovative land transport package, AusLink. AusLink will improve planning for the Land Transport network, result in more private investment and better transport links. Funding has been provided in this budget to progress the development of the programme.

Energy reform

Mr Speaker, the Government is making an announcement tonight about the long-term tax treatment of alternative fuels to petrol and diesel.

A substantial transitionary period is provided for producers and consumers to adjust to the new arrangements which will be fully effective by 2012. This will provide certainty for investment decisions.

Tonight I am announcing a package of measures to encourage the early supply and take-up of cleaner diesel and petrol. A significant improvement is the ongoing reduction of sulphur in diesel. This will facilitate the adoption of new engine technologies with further reductions in harmful vehicle emissions.

Reform of international taxation

Mr Speaker, to maintain Australia's status as an attractive place for business and investment, the tax system needs continually to adapt to the international business environment.

Tonight I announce the outcome of the Government's review of Australia's international tax arrangements.

The Government will implement a balanced package of reforms to help Australian companies compete better overseas and encourage foreign companies to establish regional headquarters in Australia. We want these companies to provide job opportunities for Australians.

The Government will simplify the application of the controlled foreign company and foreign investment fund rules. It will also modernise Australia's tax treaty network, and reduce taxes on certain forms of business income earned by Australian companies offshore.

Economic outlook

Mr Speaker, despite a weak global economy, heightened international tensions and the most extensive drought ever recorded, Australia has proved very resilient over the past year. Growth was solid, investment surged and over 230,000 new jobs were created.

Looking forward, there is a larger than usual element of risk surrounding the near-term outlook for Australia. While our fundamentals are sound, the international outlook is difficult. There are looming problems in the major economies, as well as heightened international tensions, including the Korean Peninsula, and the risk of the further spread of SARS.

Nonetheless, there remain good reasons to be positive about Australia. Productivity growth will continue and prospects for business investment look strong.

Economic growth is forecast to be 3¼ per cent in 2003-04, and inflation is expected to ease to 2¼ per cent through the year, within the Government's medium-term target band of 2-3 per cent.

The unemployment rate is expected to remain steady at around 6 per cent. Moderate wage pressures and the tax cuts announced tonight should assist further jobs growth in the future.

Concluding remarks

Since coming to office, this Government has implemented economic policies providing for strong and sustainable growth. By June this year we will have reduced Labor's net debt by around $63 billion.

Interest rates are at around their lowest levels in 30 years. Unemployment is around its lowest rate in 10 years. More than 1 million jobs have been created since March 1996.

Our continued resilience and prosperity rely on our ability to plan today to confront the challenges of tomorrow. And, while the current uncertain global outlook calls for continued careful economic management, we cannot let this near-term outlook distract us from the need to work on important reforms to ensure our future prosperity.

The tax reductions announced tonight will assist families working hard on their own budgets. The reforms I have announced tonight in education, in health, in energy and tax will make Australia stronger in the years ahead. This Budget is a further step on the journey to secure Australia's future.

I commend this Budget to the House.

Table Of Contents


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Endorsements in Democratic County Chair Elections

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It may be the last race on your Democratic ballot, but it can be one of the most important: the race for your local Democratic Party County Chair.

Exemplary county chairs build the Democratic party in their area, recruit candidates, expand turnout programs, and play a big role in winning crucial elections. The role can be a tough needle to thread, as chairs must work well with activists, candidates, officeholders, and donors, and make sure the party stays focused on activities that actually win elections for Democrats. It's a thankless, tiresome, and unpaid job, and we commend those who do it year after year. The people who run and win these positions are key to turning our entire state blue, inch by inch and county by county, and we urge voters to look into the candidates for this race and support the person best capable of organizing strong GOTV programs and recruiting the best candidates to run and win.

With that in mind, Burnt Orange Report is endorsing several uncontested county chairs in recognition of their tremendous party building efforts, and also endorsing in select contested races where we believe there is a compelling reason to support one candidate.

Endorsements below the jump.2012 Burnt Orange Report Endorsements In Uncontested Democratic County Chair Elections

While these candidates and incumbent chairs may not have primary opponents, they are exemplary party builders whose good works have not gone unnoticed. These party leaders show what can be done with strong, organized, coordinated efforts to turn out Democratic voters, and we urge all counties to follow in their lead.

Bastrop: Robert Ryland. Ryland, a BOR community member and seasoned activist, worked hard in 2010 as the county chair, expanding the BCDP coordinated campaign program and supporting great Democratic candidates. We expect Ryland to keep working hard to build the Democratic brand in this growing county.

Burnet: Guy Stuart. For someone so young, Stuart already has an impressive record of activism. He's working hard to turn out every single Democratic vote in this Hill Country county, which is crucial in our Third Court of Appeals races.

Dallas: Darlene Ewing. Ewing's county party held on to every Dallas County judicial position in 2010 despite the Republican wave, and for that tremendous effort alone she deserves support for another term. Ewing has steered the DCDP ship in a great direction, and given the party an excellent foundation on which to build great things.

Fort Bend: Stephen Brown. Brown is working hard to flip this county, and this cycle he just might do it. Brown is growing the party, working hand-in-hand with local clubs. He did a great job with his county's 2010 coordinated campaign, and even ran a countywide vote-by-mail program. Keep it up!

Tarrant: Steve Maxwell. Maxwell is working hard to grow the party in Fort Worth, and has another county moving in the right direction to turn blue. His newsletter, “The Donkey Speaks,” is a must-read no matter where you live.

Travis: Andy Brown. Brown works hard to raise huge funds to support field programs in Travis County. The TCDP has a year-round office and staff, which helps support Democratic programming outside of regular campaign seasons. Brown has focused on supporting expansive field efforts that turn out Democrats and win elections, and has made great strides to bring more precinct chairs, clubs, and activists together to work towards our common goals.

2012 Burnt Orange Report Endorsements In Contested Democratic County Chair Elections:

There are several contested County Chair elections across the state. In some of these races, we think there is a clear and compelling reason to support one of the candidates. We have endorsed these candidates below.

Bell: Marianne Miller. Miller's experience as interim chair and with the Texas Democratic Women demonstrate her organizing strength. She's the best candidate to expand Bell County's efforts and run a GOTV program to help increase Democratic margins and win some races.

Bexar: Choco Meza. Meza has done a miraculous job, rescuing the Bexar County Democratic Party from the brink of disaster. She got the party out of debt and restored its reputation after the former chair did much to generate Democratic consternation across the state. Meza deserves a second term to keep the party going in the right direction.

Denton: John McClelland. McClellan is an exciting young leader with a passion for the grassroots who can help boost the numbers in this rapidly growing suburban county. He will inject new energy to the party, and is committed to expanding training, using new technologies, and recruiting more candidates to run. McClellan's got great ideas and a strong organizing background, and deserves a chance to show what he can do.

Harris: Lane Lewis. This is the most important chair's race in Texas this year. Harris County is our most populous county, and HCDP needs the strongest chair possible to keep improving turnout figures year over year. Lewis has served as interim chair and done an excellent job on the whole. He has the organizing and managerial skills to helm the gigantic HCDP operation and keep boosting the Democratic numbers, which will be key to turning our entire state blue. He enjoys a great reputation amongst campaign workers and activists, and is best suited to this tremendous and difficult job.

Tom Green: Linda Shoemaker. Shoemaker is a solid presence in San Angelo, and has done an excellent job supporting her local and regional candidates. We support her for another term so she can keep her county party's eye on the ball.

There are at least 12 contested County Chair races on the ballot this year, including crowded races in Webb, Nueces, Hidalgo, and Cameron County. These races are vastly more important than their ballot position would indicate. We encourage voters to support candidates who are best prepared to engage in the necessary party building and GOTV activities in November to win as many races as possible for Democrats across Texas, and play a crucial role in turning this state Blue.

As always, feel free to advocate for your preferred candidate in the comments, or talk up the great job your local county chair is already doing in your area!

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Burnt Orange Report

Burnt Orange Report, or BOR for short, is Texas' largest political blog, written from a progressive/liberal/Democratic standpoint.

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Andrew Gray from PricewaterhouseCoopers spoke with CNBC this morning about the state of European banking and the threat of Basel III.

  • 0:50 Confidence is moving slightly upward for UK banking. Belief is that non-performing loans are better under control than before.
  • 2:10 Information on property portfolios is "somewhat sketchy" in that it is all not available.
  • 2:50 Banks have reduced their more risky activities, in prop trading and the derivatives markets. They have also improved on their capital positions. This hasn't been about cutting back on lending, it's about cutting back on risk.
  • 3:45 If banks had to meet capital requirements by 2012, some would have a hard time meeting the demands. Good that G20 understands this.

From CNBC:


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The newest title from popular video game developer BioWare has been revealed, and it's called "Anthem."

Electronic Arts, the game's publisher, gave a very brief tease of the new game at an event on Saturday. EA's event marked the unofficial beginning of E3, the biggest annual trade show in the video game industry.

The company unveiled only a 50-second teaser trailer, with little indication of how "Anthem" actually plays. So there's not much to say just yet. Based on what we've got, though, we can say there are robot suits, gnarly monsters, and dramatic undertones.

You can get a sense for yourself below:

If all of this raises your interest, you won't have to wait long for more details: EA says a fuller reveal will come at Microsoft's planned Xbox event on Sunday.

"Anthem" is notable for being the long-awaited next intellectual property from Canadian game maker BioWare, which has created a number of acclaimed action and role-playing games over the years. The most popular of those is likely the "Mass Effect" series — though that franchise's last installment, this year's "Mass Effect: Andromeda," was seen as something of a let-down.

While the teaser trailer doesn't give any specific gameplay footage, past comments from EA boss Andrew Wilson have characterized it as an action-adventure title that's built around a "live service" of some sort.

EA says "Anthem" will arrive sometime in the fall of 2018.


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china oilIn general, 2010 should award basic materials companies with stronger demand for their products, and cost-cutting measures should continue to drive profitability. Producer discipline will be critical to maintaining pricing and profitability in certain industries, however, given relatively low capacity utilization. Weather will also have important implications for how 2010 shapes up for coal and agriculture companies.

While many factors are pointing in the right direction for basic materials companies in 2010, longer-term headwinds include capacity expansions, which could cause oversupply, and demand shifts due to environmental concerns. And of course, Chinese demand saved many commodities in 2009, so a favorable 2010 depends on continued strength from that country.

Building Materials
North American building materials companies' 2010 will be defined by stimulus spending, the shape of the residential construction recovery, the magnitude of the downturn in nonresidential construction, and the outcome of the next federal highway bill.

We are optimistic that stimulus-driven infrastructure construction activity will have a positive impact on materials demand in 2010; only a small portion of total stimulus funding made its way to materials producers' top lines in 2009. Meanwhile, we believe that the bottom in housing starts occurred in spring 2009, and that next year will show a meaningful improvement, given that the amount of housing being produced today remains far below many measures of "normal" demand.

However, these positive demand drivers will be partially offset by an expected downturn in private nonresidential construction, although this end market accounts for a smaller portion of total demand for cement and aggregates. The gridlock surrounding the next federal highway bill is also creating uncertainty for highway spending, as the lack of resolution hampers states' ability to plan for larger, longer-term projects. Therefore, the passage of the next highway bill will be an important milestone for materials producers in the next 18 months.

Our outlook for the chemical industry in 2010 is mixed. 2009 started off with companies facing abysmal demand and sorry prospects for profitability. However, meaningful cost-cutting, inexpensive North American natural gas, and relatively strong demand in emerging markets have improved the picture.

Producers have been busy mothballing and closing plants and laying off employees, which lowered break-even sales levels. Meanwhile, North American petrochemical manufacturers' profits have been given a boost by weak natural gas prices. Although oil prices have improved since the beginning of 2009, North American natural gas prices have remained relatively weak. This has placed North American petrochemical manufacturers using gas feedstock at a significant advantage to competitors using relatively higher-cost naphtha feedstock (a byproduct of crude oil refining). The wider spread between oil and gas prices bucks the historically tighter relationship, and a narrowing of the spread could erase these producers' advantage.

Going forward, improved cost structures should help to improve profitability, but a wave of new petrochemical capacity coming online in the Middle East and China could throw a wrench in the works. What remains uncertain is the exact timing of this onslaught and, more importantly, the magnitude of the impact it will have on North American and European chemical producers' profitability. The supply coming online in the Middle East in particular is taking advantage of an abundance of relatively cheap feedstock, potentially placing incumbent producers at a significant cost disadvantage.

Chemicals players will likely continue to right-size commodity chemical assets in mature markets, seek access to low-cost feedstock in areas such as the Middle East, and look for exposure to above-average demand growth in Asia.

In the U.S. coal industry, demand will be key to eliminating excess coal inventory in 2010. Producers will likely keep U.S. production on a short leash next year. This makes sense, given our estimation that the U.S. currently has a material amount of excess coal inventory, as demand is on pace to decline nearly 10% due to the recession, lower exports, low natural gas prices, and uncooperative weather.

Production cuts generally lagged the demand drop and only recently succeeded in halting further inventory bloat. We view this bloat, the largest in recent memory, as a major overhang on coal prices in the next year.

The key to liquidating excess inventory lies in demand trends. Depending on natural gas prices, coal could regain some share in power generation in 2010. Higher domestic economic activity and exports, which are driven by the European economy, should also stimulate demand. Meanwhile, we expect production increases to lag any demand bounce. In this scenario, we think the excess inventory can be absorbed during 2010.

The winter burn will be critical. If a mild winter fails to deplete stocks, rationalizing the market may take significantly longer. Longer term, the domestic thermal coal industry faces coal-fired power plant closures (when environmental upgrade expenditures can't be economically justified) and a build-out of new natural gas plants.

Copper prices look set to end 2009 at levels few would have expected when the year began. As of Dec. 21, copper traded hands on the LME at $3.12 per pound, a price more than double that which prevailed a year ago. As has been the case for most industrial commodities, surging Chinese demand explains much of the impressive buoyancy for copper prices.

What might 2010 hold for copper? A glance at current inventories on the LME, COMEX, and SFE exchanges, which, on a combined basis stand at yearly highs, might be cause for concern. That said, in the event Chinese demand persists at 2009 levels and an economic recovery spurs a rebound in developed market demand, exchange stocks could be whittled away in a hurry, pushing prices higher.

Another factor to watch in the copper space will be investment flows into and out of the commodity. Copper has generated quite a bit of interest lately from financial (as opposed to industrial) buyers, who've plowed money into the red metal on the belief that it allows them to hedge against U.S. dollar weakness. A stronger dollar in 2010, precipitated perhaps by a more buoyant-than-expected economic recovery, could reverse these financial fund flows, exerting a drag on prices.

The fertilizer industry is eagerly anticipating a turnaround in shipments next spring. 2009 was defined by a confluence of factors that drove fertilizer markets to a virtual standstill: relatively weaker crop prices in the first part of the year, tighter credit conditions, rapidly falling sulphur and natural gas prices (key inputs for phosphate and nitrogen fertilizers), dealer destocking, the psychological aftermath of record-breaking nutrient prices, many growers' ample stores of potassium in their soils, and a compressed fall fertilizer application window in North America.

We'd argue that the case for increased fertilizer shipments in the first half of 2010 is strong--the comparables are simply too easy to beat. However, we acknowledge the outside chance that growers use the next crop to test the limits of how little fertilizer they can apply before seeing a material impact on yields. And of course, weather and crop prices will continue to influence applications.

Iron Ore
Next year promises to be an interesting one for the always-entertaining iron ore benchmark price negotiations. Price talks between China, the world's largest steel producing nation, and the Big 3 seaborne iron ore players--Vale (VALE), BHP Billiton (BHP), and Rio Tinto (TRP)--will be closely watched.

Recently, we've seen assertions from Baosteel, China's biggest steel producer, that the prospect of a benchmark price increase for 2010 is "unlikely." With spot prices currently above the 2009 benchmark, we tend to view this assertion more as a negotiating tactic than an unbiased forecast of what 2010 may hold.

That said, Baosteel's voice will matter quite a bit in 2010, given signs that the firm will assume the lead role in price talks. Baosteel is taking over from the China Iron and Steel Association (CISA), which was widely viewed to have fumbled its duties this past year.

Valuations by Industry
Most industries in the basic materials sector appear to be reasonably valued. On a market-cap-weighted basis, the agriculture industry continues to be relatively undervalued, while the paper industry appears relatively overvalued.

basic materials 12/09

This story was originally published by Morningstar.


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McDonald’s Is Charging $126 For A Large Fries In Venezuela

McDonalds French Fries

McDonald’s is bringing back its famous fries to Venezuela but most people won’t be able to afford them.

A regular order will cost approximately $79 — 500 bolivars — according to the country’s strongest exchange rate.

A large fry will run 800 bolivars or $126.

At Venezuela’s black-market rate, these prices would equal just $0.64 for the regular and $1.15 for the large, according to Fusion.

But at the black-market exchange rate, Venezuela’s minimum wage is only about $13 per month.

“Venezuela seems to be going from worse to worse,” RBC Capital Markets’ Helima Croft wrote this summer.

$126 fries definitely seem like a turn for the worse.


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Fisher-Price Rainforest Melodies and Lights Deluxe Gym

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Activity gym stimulates growing babies with music, lights, nature sounds, games and textures
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Gym measures 20" x 32.5" x 32.5"
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The Door Lock Vacuum Pump is door-locking mechanism that is used in slightly older models of vehicles. This mechanism makes use of a vacuum pump that is situated below the passenger seat. This pump blows or sucks the air through cables to each door to open or close them. Each door that is controlled by the pump has a vacuum diaphragm that contracts or expands to push the doors out or pull them into position.

The car's locking mechanism is controlled by a master switch that directs the received vacuum supply to the door and trunk locks. Over time, the components of the system can wear out due to factors such as a vacuum leakage, breaks or leakage in the connectors.

In such cases, the car's locking system would fail and the door lock vacuum pump should be replaced at the earliest. At Buy Auto Parts we stock a wide variety of door lock vacuum pumps for every car make and model.

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ISBN 9789351362814,Predator : Horn OK Please

Predator : Horn OK Please

Publication Year 2014

ISBN 9789351362814

ISBN-10 9351362817

Number of Pages 264 Pages
Language (English)

Gothic art

It was the perfect evening. She was running around, getting ready for the college reunion. He was there and she was flushed with love. He offered her a glass of red wine. When she came to sense, her face was caked with blood, she was chained, her left hand was broken and every inch of her body was hurting. How, oh how, she wished she had never met him online.

The mutilated body of a young woman stirs up this sleepy little vineyard town. Another girl is now missing. It has happened here before. Old rumours, superstitions surface. The legend of the beast, the curse of the devil. But Inspector Khan has his keen eye on Joe, the owner of one of the countrys biggest vineyards and his edgy, disturbed son, Chris. Do they have anything to do with these murders? If he is to stay on the trail, Inspector Khan must face the ghosts of his own past. Can he do it? The almost-famous five Chief, Derek, Goose, Hound and Motormouth are following a lead of their own. Will they be able to stop the madness that comes alive at night?

Predator is a gory tale of megalomania and obsession and about the dangers lurking in the shadows of the virtual world. Set against the backdrop of a thriving wine industry, this is a dark and gothic story from the author of the Horn OK Please series.


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ISBN 9781594771415,Shiva And The Primordial Tradition

Shiva And The Primordial Tradition

Simon & Schuster

Simon & Schuster

Publication Year 2006

ISBN 9781594771415

ISBN-10 1594771413

Number of Pages 129 Pages
Language (English)

Religion: general

An extensive examination of the underpinnings of the Shaivite Tradition ? Reveals the influence of Shaivism on the Western world ? Discusses Shaivism?s understanding of sacred sexuality ? Presents the connections between Vedic poetry and metaphysics In Shiva and the Primordial Tradition, Alain Dani?lou explores the relationship between Shaivism and the Western world. Shaivite philosophy does not oppose theology, cosmology, and science because it recognizes that their common aim is to seek to understand and explain the nature of the world. In the Western world, the idea of bridging the divide between science and religion is just beginning to touch the edges of mainstream thought. This rare collection of the late author?s writings contains several never-before-published articles and offers an in-depth look at the many facets of the Samkhya, the cosmologic doctrines of the Shaivite tradition. Dani?lou provides important revelations on subjects such as the science of dreams, the role of poetry and sexuality in the sacred, the personality of the great Shankara, and the Shaivite influence on the Scythians and the Parthians (and by extension, the Hellenic world in general). Providing a convincing argument in favor of the polytheistic approach, he explains that monotheism is merely the deification of individualism--the separation of humanity from nature--and that by acknowledging the sacred in everything, we can recognize the imprint of the primordial tradition.


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Dragon Warrior: Shadows of Erdrick

by 8bitdream
The ball of light has been lost. Gain power as you search for it in this large world.
This project has been originally created by zackla21 (aka Lutelian) and continued on by others such as Dpheonix7 and Krast. You can adventure around the world joining with other players as you battle monsters and explore dungeons.

Heavily inspired by the Dragon Warrior series for Nintendo and some inspiration from other MMO styled games, SoE has it's own charm all it's own. Plans have been made to move SoE to an original game, but programming issues have proved too much. Enjoy the game as it is and see why this game has held it's community for so long.

SoE had a planned sequel but it was canceled. Though a prequel, Dragon Warrior Hero's Destiny, was created using that engine. You can see it at http://www.byond.com/games/Dpheonix7/ DragonWarriorHerosDestiny.
wtf? where to press that center? i cant enter this game
Wico wrote:
wtf? where to press that center? i cant enter this game

As in all other Byond games, Center is the 5 button upon your num pad.
Love this game, this is one of the most underrated games on byond.
Amazing game, Just one question. Why is the game currently down.
i cant enter the game because all i have is a laptop, anyone know how i can redirect the num pad to other keys or a controller, cause i tryed everything to get in without a numpat x.x (laptops dont have numpads for those who dident know)
I played SoE with a laptop that had no numpad for ages. All you need to do is go into your macros for byond and set them or use a game pad and xpadder. Your center is .center and you will need at least .northwest (home) to cancel menus. Setting byond macros is basic Byond user stuff and should be covered in Byond help guides.
Just recently started playing not too long ago and so far I have to say that I'm really liking the game. I've been a huge Dragon Warrior/Quest fan ever since the first Dragon Warrior came out. It's great to see an online game based on the DW/DQ series.
BTW my current in game accounts are Divinegon (a pilgrim) and Necrosaro( a wizard). Of course anyone familiar with the series knows where those names and my byond account name Dragonlord come from.
What's the reason for the game being down this time. I hope it gets up running soon because this game is awesome. Tried playing DW Online and didn't care much for it. It's nowhere near as fun and addictive as this game. This game is probably as good and in some ways even better than the actual DW series.
Glad to see the game back up and running.
were all the dragonballz games go

This isn't Dragonball Z, it's Dragon Warrior/Quest.

Also, game is down. Why?
It seems like the game goes down once or twice a week. Usually only for a day or less. Though once it was down for a week. Well if it's not back up tonight before I go to bed hopefully it will be back up when I'm able to play again which will probably be Sunday night. I love this game but hate the fact it seems to go down so much.
Hi all. What's up?
Hey Roland. I'm assuming your waiting ofr the game to be available to play again too. What is up with the game being down so damn long anyways. Over a week now and still down. Note to Dphoenix and/or Soda if you read this please get the game running ASAP. I as well as many others just want to play this awesome game again. Or if there's a good reason for it being down like perhaps updates that require the game being down or something like that then tell us. As fans of the game we deserve to know what's going on.
Things happen. Computer or net problems. RL issues. Chill out buddy.

Check out FreeCol while SoE is down. That's what I've been playing.
You know Roland you have some fucking nerve telling me to chill out. Why don't you try growing some balls and a brain and see how much DPhoenix obviously could care less about the fans of his games. I mean fuck the game is down more than it is up.Worst of all though he never even posts a message saying why. How the fuck hard is it to post a short fucking message or to communicate with the players sometimes. Dphoenix almost never responds to any posts or ncommunicates with any of the players or informs us of what the hell is going on. Then he once took down this game because he was supposedly setting aside to work on Final Fantasy War of The Magi a game that he very soon abandoned afterwards and BTW I actually did play that game. Let me guess he set SOE aside again to work on something that he'll surely abandon soon afterward again. If the game is going to be down so goddamn much tell us why even in a couple word message but don't keep being an anti-social prick to people that play your games. And don't take it down just to work on something that you end up abandoning soon afterwards. DPhoenix makes some pretty good games.This game is really fun when it's up and War of the magi was fun the short time it was up but he has made it clear that he cares even less about the fans of his games than Square-Enix cares about the Dragon Warrior/Quest series outside of Japan. DPhoenix is proof that even the best of games can be destroyued if the person running them doesn't give a shit about the players. As much as I love SOE I'm not the type who tolerates bullshit and if this is the way DPhoenix is goinna treat his fans then I'm just gonna say fuck this game and go elsewhere. And as for you Roland I thought you were cool but obviously you are a stupid prick and retard just like your obvious gay partner DPhoenix. since you stand up for him and falme me just for standing up and speak the truth. You ahve lost all respect from me. And I will not check out the game you told me too. Seeing as how gay you are the game is probably just a s gay ass you. You and DPhoenix can both suck my balls. Fuck this game and it's shitty owner DPhoenix. Fuck you Roland and fuck anyone else who stands up for cocksuckers like Roland or DPhoenix.
You know Dragonlord2, Roland was just giving you some info and that is that. If you want bash people go back to runescape or some other non intelligent required game. I have known Roland for awhile as well as Dphoenix, so go bother some other game with non sensical babbling BS. As for the game it was taken down and won't be brought up again unless otherwise decided upon. So chill out and quit fappin.
Dragnlord2, it was not DPheonix's decision to drop SoE this time. You have some really misdirected issues there. Sadly, as it is, SoE was a dying game that not much could be done with. It was redone a littl when Sylv (DPheonix) acquire control of it, but in the end that was reviving a dead horse. the game's been up for almost 8 years now and really has no hope left. The player base was next to none, only the people who've been hanging out in it forever were there (including myself, but due to life, even I had stopped logging in for months at a time.) Soda had finally decided (along with a bug that kept the game crashing) to let SoE rest and stay dead this time. While it's an unfortunate decision, I think it was best too.

Now, I can agree that Sylv is a decent game creator. Yes, she mainly sticks to DQ/FF fan-games, but she does a good job of it and is always trying to implement new things from each series. However, she has quite a frantic life and I'm surprised she got as much as done as she had. I see it as quite the accomplishment.

In the end, people like you are what kill the community of a game. By bashing on other players, as you've displayed, and bitching about how you can't get your fix. Let me remind you that people have lives, and these aren't really commercial-grade games. they're run by hobbyists and people who have offered their services. Soda has been a wonderful host of SoE and has gone through quite a lot of shit that I've seen in the 8 years I've been with him. He could have quit at any time, but he stuck through it.

So, like Roland said, "Chill."
Lol, someone needs some tissues.
Yeah games been down for a while, it happens, thats what happens on byond its that whole peer to peer thing undoubtedly.

It was pretty much impossible to stay logged in the way the server was acting in the end so why bother, as the others said, kick a dead horse? Good news! There are other things to do!
You should be thanking people for spending their time to make a game that you can play imo. *coudragonlordgh*
Its freakin spring, go get some damned sun.

Hope everybody else is well.
Dont do anything I wouldnt do, and if you do, dont name it after me.
Meth, I'm currently working on a game I hope to get out sometime so we all have a place to hang out in again. :)
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How should we celebrate our toddler or preschooler's birthday?

Real Mom Problem

“I've been throwing my 5 year old a birthday party every year since she was born. The parties are getting to be a bit much. I'm wondering what everyone else does.”

by JenBE JenBE

Quick Tips

  • 1. Remember the purpose of the day is to celebrate your child
  • 2. Don't feel pressure to keep up with the Joneses
  • 3. Do what feels right for you and your family

Real Mom Solutions

All kids' birthdays are special, and everyone celebrates in their own way. See how the moms of CafeMom do birthdays and pick up some tips for your own family's festivities.

Throw a Party Every Year

  • coleyBoosmom

    I celebrate my children's birthdays as if it were a major holiday. They are my life. I am not saying this is right for everyone, but I enjoy giving my children the childhood I did not have.

  • christinaliu

    Because I didn't have birthday parties growing up, I LOVE planning birthday parties for my girls each year!

  • Aamy

    Every year! You're only young once and when you get to be an adult, you don't get a party very often.

  • mandksmommy

    Birthday parties are very special in our house. My parents had five kids and we always had a big party for every one of our birthdays. I think it's wrong to only 'celebrate' significant ones. Aren't they all significant?

  • insanemomof4

    It does get expensive but the way we figure it, they're only kids for a short time and their birthdays are only once a year, so why not go all out and make a big deal of it?

  • angelwings2000

    I have always felt that each and every year of our children's life should be celebrated. As a mother of five I have always planned parties for each child as their special day came around, I just found ways to get the most celebration for the money and usually budgeted around $100 per child. I made cakes myself, held the parties at home or a neighborhood pool, bowling alley or some other inexpensive place. I created games myself around a theme and my children will always have wonderful memories of their special days. I think a person should just cut the budget a little but always celebrate, the children will remember.

Celebrate Without a Party

  • iluvcallalilies

    I think if you do something special, even if it is just a fun day at home with the family and balloons and cake, I think that is what matters. Make sure the child knows that we're celebrating their birthday because they are special to us and we love them. You can accomplish this in MANY ways other than a party every year.

  • heidi37217

    It gets very expensive. We usually do things more as a family like bowling, skating, Chuck E. Cheese. We always have a good time.

  • snivic

    We don't do a big party every year. It's just not necessary. And it's not something that I want my children to come to expect.

  • auntb2005

    I have always thrown birthday parties every year for both of our girls. Always here at home. But, this year since I was about 7 months pregnant, I didn't feel like it. So, we took them to Chuck E Cheese and then came home and did ice cream and cake and let our oldest open the presents we got her. A whole lot more relaxing and easier. We are probably going to do the same thing for our youngest daughter in January. I don't know why I didn't think of this before. She had just as much fun, and my house was not run over by people and their kids!

  • juliemac_29

    She's 3 and we've yet to do something more than have our parents and siblings over for cake. I personally feel like parties are more for school aged kids, once they have their own friends.

  • annaj7705

    Sometimes we take a year off from having "friend birthday parties" and have just a family celebration. I think it teaches kids not to want so much!

  • iluvcallalilies

    Make a time capsule (I used a fireproof box from Office Max). Ask the friends and loved ones to put in a letter, photo, news article, scripture, something special for the child. Then, set a date to open it. We plan to have it opened on the Sweet 16. I included special things such as the scrubs my husband wore to the hospital, our daughter's footprints, lock of hair, love story of how my husband and I met, a letter with favorite scriptures and a prayer for our daughter. I also included "silly" things like a laminated receipt for eggs, milk, butter and another for gasoline. Kind of recording the day in history if you will. The great-grandparents were especially thrilled with it as they included their love stories, and that info may not be available to her when she is 16 otherwise. Be sure you label it, lock it, and keep it where you will REMEMBER it.

Pick a Place or Think Up a Theme

  • lanimommy81

    There are all kinds of fun themes. I try to do them around what my kids are really into or a big gift we might give them. For example we gave my son a trip to the zoo so we had a safari party. This year my daughter asked for a puppy party. One year my son wanted a shark cake and we based the party around the cake with a pirate party.

  • YuppyMom

    I have come to find that most any "outing" type party be it bowling, skating rink, Chuck E. Cheese, Libby Lu (for girls), etc...comes out considerably cheaper than parties done at home or in a banquet hall.

  • kel28

    I'm taking my daughter to build a bear with 3 little friends on Friday for her birthday. You can do a party for as little as $10 per child. They all leave with a great bear!!

  • KtCallista

    For my daughter's 2nd we did an indoor picnic. She really isn't into themes. For the picnic we sent out spring-like invites (her birthday is in December) and I set up a big picnic blanket on the floor where the kids ate cake. I filled an inflatable pool with balls and hung streamers from the ceiling to make a waterfall. The kids loved running through the waterfall and jumping in the balls. We don't have a very big place so this worked really well. We didn't do presents and only invited a few kids. You don't have to have a theme to have a great party.

  • RAINandTYsMom

    I had my son's birthday party at McDonalds last year. The minimum you can have is 10 (I only had five, but gave the extra happy meals to some of the adults). It was less than $70 and had a big play area that the kids played in after the party. They provided, goodie bags, a good sized cake, ice cream cups, and a hostess to go do the running. I got the room for two & a half hours. It was nice and not SUPER expensive.

  • my2.5boys

    I just did my boys' birthday party this last week. They turned 2 and 4 this month, and I did their party together. I hired a clown. It cost me $150 for two hours, but she brought a cotton candy machine, puppets, musical instruments, face paints, balloons, a magic show and a karaoke machine. They and their friends just had sooo much fun, and the clown did a great job keeping them entertained.

  • Aehr

    For my daughter's 2nd birthday I threw her a princess/prince/wizard theme party since there were both boys and girls there. They made their own hats, decorated their own party bags, made posters, colored - it kept them busy and happy. And this would be my suggestion to any mom who throws a party for younger ones. Keep them busy and the time will fly by so quickly.

Party Dos & Don'ts: Goody Bags

  • gummiebear453

    If you expect someone to come to your child's party and give your child a gift, I believe it is only proper to give a parting/thank you gift. I am actually having my son's third birthday party tomorrow and I am handing out Diego themed treat boxes. It's nothing spectacular, but I believe it's something necessary if you want people to come to your child's party and leave a gift.

  • Junebug926

    To me, the cake, decorations, games, and the rest of the party is enough. I think it is silly for parents and children to expect gifts. Giving should be from the heart and I think it is a bit sad that people are always expecting things. To be at the party should be enough but if you want to do something small, have a basket of stickers by the door that kids can pick from before they go. After all, we all know what happens with the goody bag gifts anyway, they are played with for the day and then never seen again.

  • ihave3girls

    I believe giving a goody bag is only fair, if one kid gets a present they all should. Young children don't really understand the whole birthday thing fully.

  • TKsMommie

    What I don't understand is how people can say you should give goody bags because kids don't understand not getting a gift. Well you make them understand. It's the way life works. It takes 2 minutes to explain it and they get it. My son has never had a problem with not getting a gift at someone else's party because we took that time and he is truly grateful to receive a goodie bag if he does.

  • bailey4302

    You can do something as simple as baking a cookie the theme of the party and bagging it with pretty curly ribbon and hand them out. I have done this for many parties and the kids love it. It's a nice gesture and the kids look forward to goody bags at the end of a party.

  • NicknJonsMom

    Last year when my son was 3, I went to the dollar store and bought some coloring books and crayons for all the kids. It cost me all of $2 per kid and the kids had something that they could use that wouldn't be thrown out right away. I will probably do the same thing this year too because it will be a different set of children.

Party Dos & Don'ts: Opening Presents

  • dnysgrl0304

    Part of a birthday party is opening presents! That's just what you do! A lot of people look forward to it.

  • josefeene18

    I know people that don't open presents at parties. They do if for a good reason. Let's say that one child gives an awesome expensive gift, and another child has no money for a present so he wraps something of his own to give to a child. This way, no one else has to know and will spare the feelings of the child. It's all with good intentions. Also, you never know what your child is going to say when they open a gift. I think birthday parties are more for fun with your friends and family and not really about who gives what gift. I think opening them in private is a good idea.

  • momof525

    Every kid should be able to sit and watch another one open presents. Everyone has a birthday and will get a turn on theirs. We've never had a jealousy issue -- in fact, the ones who brought the presents can't wait for theirs to be opened. Then afterwards, they all play with the toys together. It teaches a lot of lessons for all the kids: patience, thankfulness, graciousness (if you don't really love the gift). It seems like such a small tradition, but a lot can be learned through the process.

  • MyBabysRmyLife

    For my son's 1st birthday we opened all his gifts (and there were tons). The children get so excited watching the presents they bought being opened. All I kept hearing was "that one's mine."

  • jeremysmom04

    We don't open gifts at the party, and neither do our friends. It's different when the children are older, but with a lot of baby and preschool age kids together, the other kids just don't understand why they can't open presents, too. Some cry because they want a present; some will try to open presents that aren't theirs; etc. I also think it's great that it doesn't make the party about the gifts. It's about being together to celebrate! When I invite you to a birthday party, I don't expect a gift--I just want your company!