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Developers plan $33 million worth of mixed-use developments in Midtown Sacramento

The Grupe Company and its partners, SKK Developments, McKinley Partners, and Guardian Capital have acquired two separate parcels located in the 19th, 20th, P, Q, & R streets to develop a “for sale” and “for rent” project in the heart of Midtown Sacramento in the second half of 2016.

The total value of the combined development is approximately $33 million.

“The purchase and development of these two projects represent our business philosophy of building urban projects where generations like to work, live and play”, Mark Fischer president of Grupe Company, “by teaming up with our partners, SKK, McKinley Partners, Guardian Capital, and Bank of the West, collectively with more than 100 years of experience, in depth knowledge and history of building and financing of urban development add tremendous value to the success of the development. “

20PQR, a 32 unit “for sale” three story single family townhomes located on 20th, P, Q & R streets; land development started in October 2016, sales will start in Spring of 2017. The starting price is in mid $600s.

A second project, Q19, is a four story 68 unit “for rent” mixed-use retail and apartment located on 19th and Q streets; Land development started in January 2017 and leasing will start in Spring of 2018. The project consists of a ground floor 1,996 SF retail unit and a mixes of studio, one bedroom, one bath and two bedroom two baths with an average of 624 SF per unit.

The projects are within walking distance to several notable major developments in Downtown and Midtown Sacramento.

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SVD-SSpS Tertiate Course

2017-08-22T12:29:05+00:00March 5th, 2016|Categories: Arnoldus Family, News|Tags: , , , |

We met the participants of the SVD-SSpS Spanish-speaking Nemi-Tertiate Course participant last Thursday, March 3, 2016. Since they cannot speak English, our PowerPoint about our Co-foundress was translated so that they could understand it. We had a lively discussion afterwards. One of them interpreted the questions and answers from Spanish to English and vice versa. [...]

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StamfordRecruiter Since 2001
the smart solution for Stamford jobs

Registered Nurse - RN

Company: Aveanna Healthcare
Location: Stamford
Posted on: August 2, 2020

Job Description:

Job Description:

Registered Nurse (RN) Aveanna Healthcare, the largest home health care company in the U.S., is hiring compassionate Registered Nurses (RN) to provide skilled nursing care to patients in the home setting. We are the hearts of 30,000 caregivers and trusted by over 33,000 families. Qualifications of the Registered Nurse (RN): * Must have good standing license (RN) in the state in which the clinician will practice * Must have at least 6 months of hands on nursing experience * Current CPR certification * Must be willing to provide in home nursing care to infants, children, and adolescents Responsibilities of the Registered Nurse (RN): * One to one patient care in a home environment * Execution of physicians prescribed plan of care and compliant documentation of care provided in system of record * Administration of prescribed medication, treatments and therapies * Patient assessments, coordination of care * Health, promotion, teaching, and training of family members Benefits of the Registered Nurse (RN): * Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance* * 401(k) Savings Plan with Employer Matching* * Easy access to state of the art technology for electronic charting during point of care * 24 Hour 7 Days a Week Team Support for direct clinical and scheduling assistance * Hourly Pay & Weekly Paychecks * Flexible Scheduling (8, 10, and 12 hour shifts; Day/Night/Weekends available) * Paid Training & Continuous Professional Development *benefit eligibility is dependent on employment status Aveanna Healthcare remains focused on our mission of caring for our medically fragile patients during the COVID-19 outbreak. Even in this tumultuous time, we continue to care, and we continue to hire nurses. If you need shifts or work, we are here for you. Our hearts remain focused on making a real difference for kids, adults, and families. And our resolve has never been stronger to keep our patients safe at home Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action: Aveanna provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Aveanna complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Keywords: Aveanna Healthcare, Stamford , Registered Nurse - RN, Healthcare , Stamford, Connecticut

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Wednesday, August 12, 2015

Ants and Watermelon

Each month FSJ coaches are challenged to use the current Kit of the Month to make a card different than those in the kit.  Well, I almost missed the deadline last week but I got it done!  This card uses the July KOTM set Sweet Slice (not available for purchase until October or November.

I used 4 different card stock colors: Limeade Splash, Watermelon Fusion, Whip Cream, and Lemon Drop.  I used Black Licorice ink and Black Licorice Thread.  The circle is made using the Journey Circle dies with the piercing element.

I added some Journey Glaze on the watermelon seeds for a bit more punch.  Looks good enough to eat, almost!

1 comment:

Princess Judy Palmer said...

How fun! I love the BOLD summer colors. All those ants though.... I dunno! They look pretty cute, maybe they don't bite (people, they can have a taste of watermelon I guess).


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Gift Guide for the Granola Mom

She pretty much makes her own everything. Treats, soap, shampoo... containers for said soap and shampoo. She loves the DIY movement. If you don’t have time, or maybe feel like you lack the skill to make a DIY gift for mom, these options are great gifts for tea lovers.


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Week In Review: Friday Mar 25th

You may have noticed that things have slowed down a bit here lately, which is natural with the season drawing to a close. I’m going to back off a bit with the posts and try to keep to just a Mon-Wed-Fri schedule during the off-season as best as I can. Some things I’m planning on doing over the next few weeks include some obvious stuff like recapping the performance of the US/Canadian teams this season and looking back at the careers of some of the folks who are retiring. I have some other stuff up my sleeve as well, but if you have any ideas/questions for analysis about specific nations or athletes, don’t hesitate to drop me a line.

  • A short post on Leif Nordgren who had some very strong results this year for such a young American biathlete.
  • I also of course had to take a look at Finn Hägen Krogh, another youngster who finished the season off with a bang.
  • Finally, I gave a little taste of some of the split timing data I’ve managed to get my hands on this year, highlighting the differences between mass start and interval start races.

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This year the Summer Steps with Step Afrika! camp is VIRTUAL! The Culminating Performance is SUNDAY AUGUST 23, 2020 at 5pm/et and will be streamed online on facebook and youtube. Admission is free. Led by the award-winning and multi-talented artists of Step Afrika!, the Summer Steps With Step Afrika! camp (for students in rising grades 4-12) combines core Step Afrika! values of teamwork, commitment, discipline and academic achievement with excellent performance and artistic training. At the close of the camp, Step Afrika! invites the camp participants, their families and friends and the worldwide community to take a seat in the Step Afrika! virtual theater for the Summer Steps with Step Afrika! Culminating performance featuring the talented camp participants and Step Afrika! artists.   This year's performance will be streamed for an audience tuning in from around the world. This is a must see experience. Mark your calendars, gather your students and join us for an amazing moment! The performance will stream for free on facebook and youtube . Summer Steps with Step Afrika! is generously sponsored by the DC Housing Finance Agency, Daimler, Pepco, Bank of America and RedEye. For more information about Step Afrika! Arts Education initiatives click here.   [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rJZdoWubhIE&feature=youtu.be[/embed]

Buy Tickets Learn More

Step Afrika! is excited to announce the virtual world premiere of Stono on Wednesday, September 9, 2020 – the 281st anniversary of the Stono Rebellion. This event will be streamed on facebook and youtube on Wednesday September 9, 2020 at 8pm/et.   On September 9, 1739, the largest insurrection of enslaved Africans in North America began in South Carolina on the banks of the Stono River. Twenty Africans marched south toward a promised freedom in Spanish Florida, waving flags, beating drums, and shouting ‘Liberty.” This extraordinary act of rebellion in colonial America predates the famed Boston Tea Party of 1773, the first significant act of defiance to British rule over American colonists. Although the Stono Rebellion was suppressed, this little-known event in American history forever changed African American life and culture.   When Africans lost the right to use their drums through The Negro Act of 1740, they began to use their bodies as percussive instruments in response. This act of survival and activism earned them the name of “Drumfolk,” coined by famed folklorist Bessie Jones. Their percussive movement gave rise to some of the country’s most distinctive art forms, including the ring shout, tap, hambone, and stepping. Stono will honor the spirit of resistance and activism that remains a critical part of American freedom. The virtual premiere will be immediately followed by a live panel discussion hosted by C. Brian Williams (Founder and Executive Director, Step Afrika!) and special guests from across the country. Panelists will explore the Stono Rebellion and its relevance to issues regarding political protest and structural inequities that dominate American conversations today. Join us!   Lead Commissioning Support for Stono is provided by Hancher Auditorium at the University of Iowa. Additional support is provided by Events DC and the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities.

Learn More


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Esoteric DV-50 universal player Page 3

The differences were not as drastic going from RDOT to RDOT+FIR as from FIR to RDOT, but the increase in perceived resolution should be significant in any topnotch system. After my experiments, I occasionally switched to the lower-rate upconversion settings, but serious listening was always done in RDOT+FIR.

After settling on a preferred upconversion option, it was time to get down to the nitty-gritty of the Esoteric's sonic particulars. Its overall timbral balance was highly transparent and revealing. On the chamber-orchestra version of Rodrigo's Concierto de Aranjuez, with guitarist Nikolaus Kraft, and Nicholas Ward conducting the Northern Chamber Orchestra (CD, Naxos 8.550729), the intricacies of the smaller ensemble's textures through the DV-50 were outstanding—the woodwinds, long a problem with digital, were especially persuasive.

The Esoteric's balance was not unforgiving or ruthless, but it didn't go at all out of its way to hide flaws in the recording. Philip Glass's Akhnaten, conducted by Dennis Russell Davies (CD, CBS 42457), contains much music of almost unearthly beauty and delicacy, but it is an early digital recording, with all the negatives that implies. The DV-50 let the music flow without concealing the weirdly "plasticky" and slightly veiled sound that is part and parcel of this CD.

On the Jerome Harris' Quintet's Rendezvous (CD, Stereophile STPH013-2), Harris' amplified acoustic bass guitar had a wonderful roundness and warmth, and Art Baron's plunger-mute solo toward the end of "The Mooche" raised the hair on the back of my neck with its convincingness. The only other place I've heard Stanley Clarke's bass parts in "Justice's Groove," on East River Drive (CD, Epic EK 47489), reproduced with the same fidelity as through the DV-50 is when I've tried a few of them on my Alembic Stanley Clarke Signature bass through my 1970-vintage Hiwatt tube amp.

The Esoteric's spatial presentation was a little more upfront than the Classé Omega's, but somewhat less so than that of the Ayre D-1x. Overall, it was slightly forward of dead-neutral, but the effect was nothing more than a pleasing sense of closeness to and involvement with the musical event. Dynamics were always first-rate, with bass dynamics standing out for special commendation. The rolling thunder of two drummers and two bassists on King Crimson's roaring Vrooom Vrooom (CD, DGM DGM0105) was delivered with enough energy to satisfy even the Beavises and Butt-heads of the world. Nor was the delicacy of solo instruments shortchanged—Bert Jansch's acoustic guitar had a subtle and shaded delicacy reminiscent of analog.

Resolution was outstanding on all types of music. Working out the richly multilayered intricacies of Brian Wilson's Pet Sounds Live (CD, Sanctuary 84556-2) (footnote 2), the DV-50 was right at home. Moving to the luscious, intricate sounds of Leopold Stokowski conducting Liszt's Hungarian Rhapsody 4 (CD, RCA Living Stereo 61503-2), or the even more delicious sonics of Bantock's Celtic Symphony (CD, Hyperion CDA664501), the EV-50 provided all this audiophile needed.

Soundstaging was steadily as deep, high, wide, and handsome as the sources would permit. On such spacious pieces as the Bantock, and "Papsico" from Future Sound of London's The Papua New Guinea Translations (CD, Jumpin' and Pumpin' CD TOT52), that meant mighty impressive.

The DV-50 communicated an exceptional sense of music's flowing lines and real meanings. I'm a big fan of the voice of Fairport Convention's Simon Nicol. He is far from a technically flawless singer, but his gentle, rough-hewn baritone connects with me on a directly emotional level as do few male singers; Nicol is invested in every note he sings. Fairport's Old, New, Borrowed, Blue (CD, Green Linnet GLCS 3114) is not an audiophile recording, and I suspect that it was done direct to an ADAT in a no-frills style, but hearing "Crazy Man Michael" washed all the silly "audiophile" issues away. To hold one's own on a song originally sung by the peerless Sandy Denny is no easy thing, but on this heartbreaking ballad, Nicol does just that. And the following bawdy knees-up, "The Widow of Westmoreland's Daughter," was as much pure fun as the "Michael" was a slice of exquisite sadness.

With the Jerome Harris CD, the DV-50 was uncannily true to the subtle timing relationships that are the heart of good small-group jazz. "A place for everything and everything in its place, at exactly the right time," was the motto for music through the Esoteric DV-50.

Let's You and Him Fight
For the last year-plus, Classé's fabulous Omega player has been my reference for all digital playback (reviewed by Jonathan Scull in November 2001, Vol.24 No.11). The Omega convinced me that SACD is the real future of high-resolution music reproduction, and has been a constant in my listening for reviews and for pleasure. So, of course, I had to compare the Omega and the DV-50 head to head, principally in SACD mode. The competition was done with the incredible VTL 7.5 line stage (review to come), and both players were hooked up with either Nordost Valhalla or Acoustic Zen Silver Reference interconnects. (I used identical cables with both players during comparisons.)

Listening to the same pieces back to back on the Classé and the Esoteric was fascinating. The Classé's presentation was less forward and its images were a tad rounder, more palpable and lifelike. However, with Bruno Walter's recording of Beethoven's Symphony 6 (SACD, Sony Classical SS 6012) and Boulez Conducts Ravel (SACD, Sony Classical SS 89121), the Esoteric had superior transparency, with more air around instruments and sections and more back-of-the-stage resolution. The Omega's balance was richer in the upper-mids/lower-treble range, while the DV-50 had slightly superior bass definition. The DV-50's way with space was really driven home with Michiel Ras's performance of Shostakovich's Preludes and Fugues, arranged for organ (SACD, STS 611130). This wizardly DSD recording by Fritz de With captures the sound of an organ in a church with stunning fidelity, and the Esoteric's ability to illuminate every nook and cranny of the acoustic was convincing.

Picking at the sonic quality of either machine as an SACD player misses the point as much as does complaining about the size of a Bentley's glove box. Ultimately, the choice will boil down to how each player synergizes with the rest of the system it's used in. In a brief comparison of the two players on conventional CDs, the results were similar. In upconverting mode (to 24/192), the Classé had a few squillionths more palpability and timbral richness, but the Esoteric dug more spatial resolution and sheer information out of the pits. To my ears, the Omega ultimately sounded more like a superb LP played back under perfect circumstances, while the DV-50's sound was more like that of an analog master tape. Heads, you win; tails, you win.

The Whole Shebang
The Esoteric DV-50 is the most fun you can have with digital music playback short of the dCS trio reviewed by Michael Fremer in April 2003 (Vol.26 No.4). Given that the dCS gear costs about six times as much as the DV-50, the Esoteric is a screaming bargain, especially considering its hyper-advanced technology, bulletproof build, and exceptional sound. You can even play movies on it.

The complexity of the DV-50's computing power is the antithesis of the "keep it simple" philosophy that, to this day, is the easiest path to the best sound, but there's no arguing with Esoteric's extraordinary results. One word sums up the DV-50: "Bravo!"

Foonote 2: If you are at all a fan of rock music, you need this CD now! To hear perhaps the genre's single greatest genius (Lennon and McCartney, after all, had each other to work with when they were at their best) presenting his crowning masterpiece live with such conviction and grandeur is a treasure beyond price.
TEAC America, Inc.
7733 Telegraph Road
Montebello, CA 90640
(323) 726-0303


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Nuptial Celebration – June 2

We pray for Danielle O’Donnell and Kendall Thamm who were united in Marriage at St. Gianna’s Church on Saturday, June 2, 2018. We pray for this couple who reveal to us God’s dynamic love in our world, and for all who share in this vocation of love.


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Surfing Hokkaido in winter

I remember watching this video of surf legend Sally Fitzgibbon’s documenting on a surf trip to Novia Scotia, Canada. Beat down from the cold, she wept in the car, saying to her dad over and over “I just can’t do it!”. That memory always stuck in my mind when I contemplated surfing Hokkaido in winter. If surf warrior Sally Fitz couldn’t muster the strength to paddle out in sub-zero temps, there’s no way I ever could. Mentally, I never thought I’d have what it takes despite such good surf being on my doorstep every winter.

Nothing will prepare you for that feeling of jumping in for the first time and having to duck dive. It was a painful awakening.

– Sally Fitzgibbons in Subzero surfing in Nova Scotia

Surfing in Hokkaido menas surfboards covered in snow!
“You’ll never know if you don’t go” – Doug Coombs

Fateful friendships

Powder Yoga Niseko became the catalyst for my winter’s most pivotal friendship. A surf coach from Cornwall in the U.K, Alice spotted me reading an old copy of Surfer Girl on my yoga mat between circuit training and Yin class. Following Shavasana, while hiding my sleepy-state beneath my favourite hat, a mesh-back cap paying tribute to the late surfer Andy Irons, she fatefully asked if I surfed. We became instant friends.

Sunrise surf trip in The Land of The Rising Sun
Alice & I on a dawn-patrol mission to find waves in the Land Of The Rising Sun.

Making shit happen

Alice was more prepared than me. Her third winter in Hokkaido, she brought her 6mm wetty with her. Keen to make plans to surf, we met at Yummies restaurant in lower Hirafu. Yummies was the perfect venue for such chats, with Tomu the owner relishing two gaijin girls (the Japanese word for foreigner) discussing pointbreaks and reefs below one of the hand-shaped boards that hung proudly on the wall. Find wetsuits he said, and I’ll show you the way.

As fate would have it, 4x world champion F1 racer Lewis Hamilton came catskiing with me a few days later. He had just been surfing in Iwani, a little fishing town not far from Niseko. When I met him, he was still buzzing from the experience. A shop in Sapporo had rented them all the gear they needed. They shut up shop and drove to meet them in Iwani. I wondered if I would have similar luck to the World-famous Hamilton. In an effort to realize my dream, I reached out to every Hokkaido surf contact I could think of including local surfers that shared photos of surfing Hokkaido in winter, on Instagram. Thankfully, the kindness of the Japanese gave me a few leads. A week later, Alice and I had a drysuit, a bunch of retro boards and a beach date on the Sea of Japan.

Nippon Express Ferry in Japan
Let’s do this. Alice, Charlotte & I seeing the sites on the way down South.

You’ll never know if you don’t go

Alice and I had already scoped much of the coast from Iwani to Otaru of one of our several ‘we need to surf’ dates that we embarked on in my little Honda Jazz car. The south coast however, was never on our minds.

Surfing in Hokkaido in winter - waves near Otaru
Some of the waves near Otaru on a previous scoping mission

Leaving in the dark on a morning that promised to show the sun (that never happens in January), we picked up Charlotte and embarked on our mission south. The 2-hour drive was not without entertainment. A flat battery resultant of leaving the car lights on for 10 minutes at Seicomart bore a classic “Lost In translation” moment as we asked early workers grabbing their takeaway coffees, if they had jump leads. They were shocked to see three foreign girls, lets alone three girls asking for jump leads!

Surfing in Hokkaido. Waves at Tomakomai
The fun beachy near Tomakomai.

That look of shock carried to the surf later that morning. I remember Alice racing down the line on this right and the local surfer paddling out, eyes wide in absolute astonishment making gasping noises as she sprayed the back of the wave all the way to the beach! Not one but THREE gijin. Girls. Surfing! Their reactions were priceless and made the experience all the more special.

Surer girls changing on the beach in the snow
The beach car park changing room.

That morning, we surfed a 2-3ft beachy break on the shores of Tomakomi for well over 2 hours, alongside a power station billowing smoke of a variety of different aromas. Given the choice between three retro surfboards averaging 5”6, at first, we struggled to get onto the slow, fat waves. But as the tide dropped, the peaks got punchier and we clocked several 100 or so meter rides to the shore. The classic, “I’m going to get one more then go in” game played out between Alice and myself as we ignored the blood and any remaining sensations leave our fingers. The dread changing out of our of our suits in the snow, loomed ever closer. About 6 waves later with zero feeling in our fingers, we both paddled in … Charlotte, being Scottish and slightly nutts, kept surfing for another half an hour.

Retor surfboards in the snow in Japan
Your choice of weapon ladies!

Yoga mat on the snow, car heater (and engine!) on, with bottles of hot water at the ready, we helped each other out of our suits. Without that hot water, I would never have been able to grasp the zip of the wetsuit. My fingers were white icicles. My face was frozen with a permanent smile. We did it, we had surfed Hokkaido in winter!

Surer girls changing on the beach in the snow
Alice all fired up!!!

Surfing Tomakomai in Hokkaido Japan
The power station was always on our mind. So many disturbing smells, we thought we’d grow another head.

Surfer girls surfing in sub-zero water in The Sea of Japan
Alice and I STOKED! Did not grow another head.

Tales of right-hand reefs

The pure joy of that day surfing, kept me buzzing for weeks. While the duckdives were at first painful (more like tiny samurai swords stabbing my skull when I got lazy and the water rushed under my hood when I didn’t duck deep enough), it really wasn’t that bad. Literally frothing to get on some bigger waves, Alice and I kept scheming and whispering throughout our Powder Yoga classes. We had to do it again.

Surfing in Hokkaido in Winter - Alexa Hohenberg is STOKED!
Pure joy – We had to go surfing in the snow again

About three weeks later it stopped snowing and I got a day off from catskiing. A swell was approaching and we were told about a reef up north near Otaru that we should check out. Tomu kindly took one of his handmade boards off the wall of his restaurant and gave it to me to surf. On our way, we saw the most stunning sunrise as we drove over the Yamanashi mountain range towards Saporro. It was going to be another special day on this beautiful, magical island of the rising sun.

Surfing in Hokkaido Japan in Winter
Alice doing her best Japan peace sign.

After grabbing a shortboard for Alice and a drysuit for me from the surf shop in Sapporo, we headed west to the reef. It was awful. Blown out, messy and a long walk in the sideways wind and deep snow, along the train tracks. I looked at Alice and questioned our decision to paddle out. Cars of Japanese surfers were also checking the break. They were amused at our presence and took photos of us for prosperity. We giggled and smiled at their camera.

In an agreement that we wouldn’t paddle out in those conditions back home, we decided to keep up the search. Looking at the wind direction and shape of the coastline, armed with more snacks and coffee, we continued heading west with confidence we could find a better option. Wham’s Club Tropicana blasted through the speakers in an effort to transport ourselves to sunnier climates.

Surfing Otaru in Hokkaido Japan
The reef was firing!

We rolled over a headland into a protected, rocky bay. Right-handers peeled off a reef through thick snowfall. It was a solid 3ft and we had found our spot. Two other local surfers pulled up with the same idea. Fired up, we all suited up together, scrambled over the snow-covered, slippery rocks and paddled out in 5-degree water and a fierce snow storm.

Surfing the waves near Otaru Japan
Lining up nicely

The swell was picking up and on the sets it was a solid 4-5ft. The duck dive in my drysuit got all the more hideous as I couldn’t my buoyant body deep enough on the sets. At times I screamed as I popped out the back of the wave. The water flooding under my hood was excruciating. Ice cream headaches got the better of me. But the waves were so fun, albeit a little shifty and tough to read. Alice and I both scored loads of memorable rides. Duck diving to wipe snow from my eyelashes took the whole experience to a new level of awesomeness. As did the heavy snow that fell while we were out there in the mauve and purple light. We literally couldn’t believe our luck.

Surfing Hokkaido in Winter - Japan surf
Do you seriously want to do this? YUP!

Over two and a half hours passed and it was time to get out. The paddle in looked tricky and I was somewhat apprehensive from the waves smashing violently against the rocks. My fears were realized when a rip dragged me far west of the beach. Alice and the two Japanese guys watched as I got dragged across the dark water. Luckily I found my feet and scampered up the shore, trying not to twist my ankle in the gaps between the snows covered boulders.

Safe back in the van (we took a van this time to change inside of with the heating on), our two new Japanese friends made conversation with us in broken English. One took out his phone and showed us a video. They asked ‘is this you in Tomakomi?”. It was indeed a video of us surfing the week before! It turns out three gijin surfer girls braving the beachies in mid-winter is not a normal Saturday, and we were being discussed in some forum or Facebook page somewhere! We were equally shocked, amused and honoured. It made that day all the more special.

Surfing in the snow in Hokkaido Japan during winter
So grateful to have met this wonderful human. Thanks Alice – We Did It!!

As we got changed we watched as the waves continued to increase in size and sets roll all the way to the beach. We couldn’t believe our luck that day. We scored big time! Hokkaido had delivered yet again, and those memories will be etched in our minds forever.

We didn’t get the chance to surf again that winter. For me, February delivered 18 days of straight storms and every day we the catski operation I was guiding at was in full swing, taking clients to ski neck deep Japow!

Surfing Hokkaido in Winter
Surf check. ONS.

Looking back I’m so glad we made it happened and managed to surf Hokkaido in winter. I honestly didn’t think I would be mentally strong enough to paddle out, so overcoming that fear was a huge achievement. People called us mad and I do think they were right. The water was a balmy 5 degrees and the air minus 8. But I’d do it all again in a heartbeat.

Next year, I’m definitely bringing a wetsuit. I’ve got my eye on this Patagonia one and a dream of getting one of the local shapers like Tomu to make me a surfboard. Because just like Gentemstick creating their Hokkaido soul snow-surfing snowboards, the beautiful soul- inspired surf community craft their own magic sticks to drawn turns on these unique waves.

A massive thank you to Alice for being a huge inspiration, equally as mad as me to persistently pursue our dream of surfing Hokkaido in winter. To Powder Yoga Niseko for creating the incredible community where legends like Alice hangout and meet nut-jobs like me! Thank you to Charlotte for jumping on the last-minute invitation and bringing her incredibly positive energy to the road trip. To Tomu at Yummies Pizza for the encouragement, the pizza and for lending me his hand shaped twin fin literally off the wall of his restaurant. To Major for helping us make our dream a reality and renting us the kit we needed. To the surf community of Hokkaido for the smiles, the gasps, the laughs and the encouragement.

Surfing in Hokkaido in winter is extremely special and we are honoured to have had the opportunity. From the bottom of my heart – Thank you. I’ll see you next year!

Hiya, I'm Alexa. Always on some sort of adventure! I'm excited to share my stories & introduce you to other rad women, also living the dream. I'm here to inspire you to do the same :-)

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Review: Lovely, Raspberry

Poet Aaron Belz, founder of Observable Readings, returns to St. Louis to read from his latest, "Lovely, Raspberry." And that title isn't as sweet as you think it is.

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Back to List

Nicolas D. Zerbib

Nick has more than 20 years of experience in the private equity and investment banking industries.

Nick is a Senior Principal of Stone Point Capital and a member of the Investment Committees of the Trident Funds. Nick joined Stone Point in 1998, and he is actively involved in all of Stone Point’s portfolio investments.

Former Experience

  • Goldman, Sachs & Co.

  • Harvard Graduate School of Business Administration – M.B.A.
  • Amherst College – B.A.

Other Board Representation

  •  Amherst College – Member of the Board of Trustees
  • DealerPolicy – Director


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I'm Only Going to Give You 5 of These Helpful Kitchen Hints

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Home. Our Trips » Asia » Little Mekong Pass

Little Mekong - Freestyle Pass

The Little Mekong Freestyle Pass takes you into Northern Thailand before crossing into Laos. Discover why Laos is so many travellers' favourite Southeast Asian country as you travel from North to South. Return to Bangkok to wrap up a spectacular adventure.

"Freestyle" means flexible. With a Freestyle Pass, you'll travel with a guide and have all your transport organised for you, but you can stay as long as you like in each destination and choose your own accommodation and activities to suit your taste.

Pass Highlights:

What's included:

All Transport

Whether you're travelling on our air-conditioned buses, by boat, train, or even tuk-tuk, all your transport is included and organised for you.

Local Stray Guide

Knowledgeable Stray Guides provide invaluable support and insider insights. Travelling with a guide makes navigating Asia a stress-free experience. Guides can translate for you and book optional activities on your behalf.

Strademark iconAccess to Strademark Places

These are the special off-the-beaten-track destinations on the route that make Stray stand out from the crowd. You can see them marked with a heart on the map because they're the places our travellers love.

smartphone Stray Mate - Trip Manager Portal

View your itinerary and manage your travel on-the-go. Flexibility at its finest!

 Reserved Accommodation

There will be a bed reserved for you at every Stray overnight stop. If you would like to book it, let your Stray Guide know and pay-as-you-go directly to the accommodation.

trekkingTop rated activities

There are some awesome local experiences included with your pass:

  • Travel on the overnight sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.

  • Visit the dazzling and bizarre White Temple in Chiang Rai.

  • Sit back and watch the world go by on a 2-day cruise down the Mekong River.

  • Discover the Pak Ou caves full of thousands of Buddha statues from over hundreds of years.

  • Tour the city sights of Vientiane.

  • Learn about the secret war on Laos at the COPE Centre.

  • See Buddha's footprint at Wat Prabat Phonsone.

  • Visit That Ing Hang Stupa, a Buddist temple from the 16th century.

  • Swim at the base of the Tad Ngeuang waterfall, surrounded by lush coffee plantations.

What we're all about...

tick for website 01We’ve redefined the ‘traditional tour’ to give you the flexibility and freedom you crave.
Hop-off, stay longer and explore. It’s your time, your way.

tick for website 01Stray are the experts in taking you off the beaten track in Southeast Asia.
We’re all about seeking out secluded destinations and one-of-a-kind experiences.

tick for website 01We believe we have a responsibility to make a positive impact on the communities we visit.
Supporting local operators and hiring local guides means that you can learn more about the culture and get more out of your trip.

tick for website 01Travel is about creating lasting connections and sharing experiences.
Stray travellers are open minded adventurers who make the most of every moment.

tick for website 01We'll keep you safe and stress-free, with guidance and support every step of the way.
We’ll do the organising, you come along for the ride.

Little Mekong - Freestyle Pass

Due to COVID-19 all Stray trips are suspended until 1 November 2020. A new timetable will be available 1 August 2020. Please check our Service Updates page for more information.

Sawadee, Sabaidee (hello) and welcome to Stray! Your adventure kicks off in the buzzing Asian metropolis of Bangkok, Thailand. If you arrive early in the day, feel free to check out the vibrant markets and ancient temples that make up only a small side of this multifaceted city. Be at our Stray Shop at 3pm to meet your Stray Guide and your new travel mates for a Welcome Meeting introduction. We’ll cover how Stray works and answer any questions you have before heading to the train station to board the overnight train to Chiang Mai. The overnight sleeper train is an experience within itself for those who have never been on one before, complete with lie flat beds and a restaurant carriage. It’s the most fun way to travel to Chiang Mai and get to know your new travel mates!

Included: Overnight sleeper train to Chiang Mai

Welcome Meeting with your Stray Guide and group

We arrive into Chiang Mai train station around midmorning. As the largest city in Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a popular place to hop off for many travellers and an amazing city full of endless activity options, such as Thai cooking classes, bike tours or Muay Thai kickboxing. Once a kingdom unto itself, there are over 300 Buddhist temples to discover and it is worth visiting the old walled city to see the Tapae Gate. In the evening, don’t miss browsing the famous night market to score a bargain or you can check out the lively music scene.

Optional: Thai cooking course, Muay Thai boxing, trekking, kayaking, mountain biking

Today is free for you to explore this historically rich city or venture outside the city to discover the natural beauty of northern Thailand. Chiang Mai is the perfect base for some of Thailand's best guided hikes and treks, as well as the top spot for adventure activities like mountain biking, abseiling and whitewater rafting. This evening you can enjoy dinner at one of the many great restaurants then browse the night market, take in a ladyboy show or the Muay Thai boxing or head out for a few drinks with friends.

Elephant Nature Park, Thai cooking course, Muay Thai boxing, trekking, kayaking, or get the adrenaline pumping with whitewater rafting, abseiling or mountain biking!

This morning we depart Chiang Mai to head for the Thailand-Laos border. We’ll make a stop near Chiang Rai to check out the famous and intriguing White Temple (Wat Rong Khun). Wat Rong is a unique modern Buddhist temple that features some curious statues and murals that include images from Star Wars and The Matrix, Freddie Kruger’s head hanging in the trees and a giant Predator emerging from the garden. We stop here long enough to grab a snack, stretch our legs and take a few photos before we continue on to cross the border into Laos. Once in Laos we take a short tuk-tuk ride to the small town of Houay Xai, our stop for the night.

Visit an ethnic lantern village near Chiang Rai (must hop off for this activity).
White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) visit

Leaving Houay Xai you’ll board our private slow boat to cruise down the Mekong River to the tiny secluded village that will host you for an overnight homestay experience.  Sit back and soak up this incredible journey as you wind your way through lush farmland, thriving jungle and rugged mountain scenery, drifting past water buffalo, locals fishing, and kids splashing in the shallows. We arrive in the village in the late afternoon. Here you will get a taste of traditional Lao village life by staying with a family in their home. Experience a special Baci (welcoming) Ceremony,  try the local whiskey, and explore the village. This is a true highlight of any trip to Southeast Asia and exclusive to Stray!

See More moment: Experience a traditional Baci Ceremony performed to bring visitors to the village good luck and good health. This ancient ritual is said to protect you as you travel and is a heart-warming chance to connect across cultures.

Do More moment: Your contribution to the village funds annual projects to improve infrastructure and make a difference in this community.

Village stay includes accommodation in an indigenous family home, traditional Baci Ceremony, dinner, breakfast, local activities and contribution to the village fund/project ($17 USD)

We wave goodbye to the village and jump back aboard our private boat to head downriver to the famous limestone Pak Ou Caves. Pak Ou is an important pilgrimage site for Lao people, and here you will see thousands of Buddhist images that have been placed throughout the caves over hundreds of years. Back on board our boat a short trip takes us to the UNESCO World Heritage town, Luang Prabang. Luang Prabang has an old world feel that gives you the sense you’ve stepped back in time into a picturesque postcard setting. The fusion of French Colonial architecture with traditional Lao design set against a backdrop of misty mountains and lush green jungle makes this a truly majestic place.

Pak Ou Caves entrance

Today is free for you to enjoy all this UNESCO World Heritage town has to offer. Luang Prabang is home to the National Palace Museum, Wat Xieng Thong (the oldest monastery in town) and plenty of other ancient Buddhist temples and sacred sites to explore. Many people take a trip to the famous Kuang Si waterfalls, where the bright turquoise spring waters looks like it’s been Photoshopped, or you can get hands on by becoming an organic rice farmer for the day on the unforgettable Rice Experience. Alternatively, you can spend the day cycling or trekking, take a cooking class, or head to the night market for a hassle-free bargaining experience and some delicious cheap local food.

Kuang Si Waterfall + bear sanctuary, Rice Experience, traditional cooking class, cycling, trekking or kayak the river.

It’s an early start as we head south through mountainous terrain on one of the most scenic journeys you’ll experience on the Laos travel route. Travel past hill-tribe villages, vast green valleys and rolling hills. Our journey today takes us to the little riverside town Vang Vieng, formerly known as the best place to take tubing trips down the Nam Song River to visit riverside bars and indulge in cheap booze. These days you can still go tubing, but now you get to enjoy the beauty of Vang Vieng's landscape without the sound of pounding bass in the background.

River tubing, cycling, kayaking, rock climbing, caving, visit the Blue Lagoon.

With its stunning natural scenery, Vang Vieng offers ample outdoor activities to choose from. We recommend hiring a bike to explore the town and visiting the Blue Lagoon, one of the best natural swimming holes in Laos. There are also great rock climbing and kayaking options. The fun doesn’t stop after an adventure filled day either! This evening check out one of several international restaurants for a taste of home or head to one of the bars to really get the party started.

River tubing, cycling, kayaking, rock climbing, caving, visit the Blue Lagoon.

Today we cruise through to the capital of Laos. On arrival in Vientiane your Stray Guide will point out the city’s main attractions including Putaxai, Pha That Luang, That Dam, the Presidential Palace, and the COPE centre – a non-profit organisation that educates visitors and raises awareness for victims of UXO (Unexploded Ordinance) and the Secret War. After check-in at our centrally located accommodation, you are free to explore the city, get a massage, go shopping or people watch at one of the local restaurants by the river.

City highlights of Vientiane with your Stray Guide, COPE centre

An early escape this morning takes us away from the crowds and south to Kong Lor in the Phu Hin Bun National Park.  About an hour into the journey we visit Wat Prabat Phonsone, the ‘Buddha’s Footprint,’ a popular and important pilgrimage site for local communities. Arriving in remote Kong Lor with the afternoon sun, you’ll feel a sense of peace as you drive through the sleepy rural villages lined with crop fields and rice paddies and surrounded by stunning limestone karst mountains. Relax after the drive by popping down to the river for an afternoon swim, swinging in a hammock at your accommodation or sampling a delicious Lao meal at one of the little restaurants in the village.

Wat Prabat Phonsone (Buddha's Footprint)

Take advantage of your free day with the chance to explore the underground river that winds its way through a mountain! The must do activity here is a guided boat trip that will take you deep into the abyss of the stunning 7km long Kong Lor Cave. Discover impressive columns, stalagmites and stalactites illuminated and protruding from the limestone rock as you travel by motorboat through this colossal cave system.This area is also a photographer’s paradise and a great place to get out and go trekking or just kick back to soak up the views over a cold Beer Lao.

See More moment: Stray are the only ones who’ll take you off the beaten track to experience Kong Lor Cave - one of the natural wonders of Laos.

Guided Kong Lor Cave boat trip

We’ll break up the drive today by stopping in the small town of Thakhek, where there’s time to grab some lunch before we continue south. Before arriving in Savannakhet, we’ll stop to visit the Buddhist holy site Wat Ing Hang, reportedly built in the 16th century to honour Buddha’s visit to the area and housing one of Buddha’s bones. Set on the Mekong River as a border town with neighbouring Thailand, Savannakhet historically served as a key transit and trading post and is now the largest town in Southern Laos. The best things to do are wander along the waterfront and check out the fossil collection at the odd but intriguing Dinosaur Museum, then settle in a nice riverside restaurant for dinner.

Wat Ing Hang Temple

Driving south this morning we head first for Pakse, then carry on to explore the refreshingly cool climate of the Bolaven Plateau. The Plateau features a lush green landscape, fertile coffee and tea plantations, and many spectacular waterfalls, including the stunning Tad Ngeuang Waterfall where you can go for a swim. Pakse sits where the mighty Mekong River and Se Don River meet, so take advantage of the many restaurants along the riverfront for a meal served up with unbeatable river views.

Bolaven Plateau, Tad Ngeuang Waterfall entry fee

From Pakse, we’ll carry on south to the backpacker mecca of Si Phan Don, otherwise known as the 4000 Islands. Here you can experience the laidback lifestyle and impressive natural beauty of Laos’s landlocked islands. The island of Don Det serves as a great base to hire a kayak or tube for floating down the river, taking a boat trip to spot rare Irrawaddy dolphins, cycling across to the neighbouring Don Khone Island to discover the remnants of the only steam engine railway in Laos, and marvelling at the thunderous Li Phi waterfall.

Bicycle or tube hire, boat trip to spot Irrawaddy dolphins, fishing

Say goodbye to Laos – it’s an early start when we leave Don Det by local mini-van towards Pakse and then carry on to the Thai border and Ubon Ratchathani, where you board the overnight bus back to Bangkok.

This sector is unguided. If you'd like more detailed information click here.

Overnight bus to Bangkok

Your Stray journey officially finishes when you arrive back in Bangkok in the early morning. We hope you had a blast on your Stray adventure!

Little Mekong - Freestyle Pass

LittleMekong FP Stray Asia route 19 20

Need to Know

Due to COVID-19 all Stray trips are suspended until 1 November 2020. A new timetable will be available 1 August 2020. Please check our Service Updates page for more information.

Some key details...

  • Transport - All transport is included - you'll travel by bus (mostly private, air-conditioned buses with 24 seats), minivans, trains (Thailand only), boats (Laos only) and tuk-tuks.

  • Guides - Stray employs local Guides to ensure you get more out of your trip. Hear the local stories, try their food recommendations, get insider tips and advice. If you hop on and off you'll have several different Guides throughout your journey - they're all absolute legends!

  • Hopping on/off - You don't have to complete the Little Mekong in 17 days, take your time and go with the flow! You can hop-off at any destination along the route and spend more time there, then hop back on with the next group that is coming through. Where we recommend hopping off

  • Booking Buses - It's really easy to manage your trip online using the Stray Mate trip management portal.  You'll receive log in details in your Booking Confirmation email. If you're on a short timeframe, we recommend booking all your buses in advance.

  • Travelling without hopping off - You don't need to hop off if you're short on time - you can travel in the number of days in the itinerary. There are non-travel days throughout the route so you will not be travelling everyday however we recommend allowing extra time to hop off.

  • Departures - Buses run twice a week so the minimum amount of time you can hop off for is 3 days. Use the timetable to plan your trip.
  • Accommodation - Accommodation is not included - we have preferred accommodation options at each overnight stop and a bed reserved for you. You can book this through your guide, or you can opt to book your own. Stray's preferred accommodation is simple and budget friendly.

  • Activities - You can book optional activities through your Stray Guide.
  • Visas - You are responsible for obtaining any visas you require for the countries you are travelling in. Visa requirements vary depending on where you’re coming from and where you going, so we recommend that you contact the appropriate embassy in your country of origin.

  • Travel Insurance - You must have a travel insurance policy to cover you for the entire time you are travelling with Stray. You will be asked for your policy details prior to starting travel.
  • Stray Travellers - Our travellers are from all over the world, are energetic, adventurous and mainly aged between 20-35.  You'll have people who have booked Freestyle Passes and Tours in your group, as the route is exactly the same, it's just the inclusions that are different.

  • Group Size - Max 18, Average 9

  • Unguided sectors - This trip includes an unguided border crossing from Laos back to Bangkok, Thailand as our local guides stay in their country of origin.  Crossing the borders can be a bit of an adventure but your guide will provide support and tell you what to expect. You can also find information about the day in Stray Mate.
  • Book with confidence - You can start travel anytime within 18 months of booking and you can change your start date as many times as you like.  Once you start travelling, you can use your Freestyle Pass  for up to 12 months.
  • Payment Options - If you'd like to secure your place on the trip, but are a little bit short on cash, you can reserve a seat with a 20% deposit. You then have up to 6 months to pay it off - too easy! Better yet - there's no admin fee. You can make payments when it suits you using our Extra Payments page. You just need to have paid for your trip in full 14 days before you start.

Learn more about:


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Welcome to Romania!

Romania is situated in the South-Eastern part of Central Europe and shares borders with Hungary to the North-West, Serbia to the South-West, Bulgaria to the South, the Black Sea to the South-East, Ukraine to the East and North and the Republic of Moldova to the East.

Lying at the crossroads of the major routes between the Western and Eastern world, Romania has always played an important geopolitical role for the stability of the whole continent. With a surface area of 238,391 square km, Romania’s geographical size ranks 12th in Europe and 79th in the world. Romania is the ninth largest country of the European Union by area, and has the seventh largest population of the European Union, with some 20 million people living within the country borders.

The capital of Romania is Bucharest, with a population of more than 2 million.

Authentic, Natural and Cultural are the three words that best describe the country, a place rich in history, arts and scenic beauty.

Romania's landscape is almost evenly distributed between mountains (31%), hills (33%), and plains (36%). These varied landforms spread rather symmetrically from the Carpathian Mountains, reaching over 2,400 m altitude (maximum altitude - the Moldoveanu Peak of 2,544 m), to the Danube Delta and the Black Sea coast.

Read more:
- The Official Tourism Site of Romania;
- A complete guide to Discover Romania;
- How much did you know about Romania – video;

Climate [more]

Culture and traditions [more]

Food [more]

Public holidays [more]

Music summer festivals [more]

Leisure and Sports [more]

Shopping [more]

Conținutul acestui material nu reprezintă în mod obligatoriu poziția oficială a Uniunii Europene sau a Guvernului României.
Pentru informații detaliate despre celelalte programe cofinanțate de Uniunea Europeană, vă invităm sa vizitați
[T: 0.2894, O: 229]


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In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are offering returning patients virtual visits, including telephone and video conferencing . Please call 571–732–0044 to schedule your appointment.

Are you considering a safe way to address aging signs? Injectables are a safe alternative for those seeking non-surgical options for addressing lines and wrinkles. Contact Subach Spinal Solutions in Arlington, VA for safe injectable treatments that reduce the signs of aging.

What Are Injectables?

Injectables use substances like botulinum toxin and hyaluronic acid to reduce signs of aging. Injectables can be administered quickly with less invasive measures. Patients should have no downtime or recovery time and can often continue with their normal routine. Enjoy long-lasting benefits from a single session. Our specialists are trained to administer precise and painless injections for your comfort. Generally healthy adults of varying ages and skin types may benefit from treatments.

BOTOX is a well known injectable solution to reduce lines and wrinkles. This treatment uses botulinum toxin to reduce the muscle movement that causes folds and wrinkles. BOTOX is perfect for smoothing out the skin and eliminating laxity.

BOTOX can non-surgically address forehead creases and brow lines. We often reduce lines around the mouth and crows feet with treatment. Patients will see results in the days following treatment, and results can last three or four months. Most patients can return to work or their normal routine without difficulty, though strenuous activity should be avoided while recovering.

Juvederm is an injectable filler that includes hyaluronic acid as its active ingredient. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the skin and tissue that absorbs moisture. Our specialists precisely inject Juvederm to smooth areas of the face. The results of this treatment can last several months, and you will see improvements over the days following the session.

This treatment creates enhancements that are more subtle than BOTOX. Patients choose Juvederm to address fine lines and moderate creases. Juvederm is an ideal treatment to enhance facial features and add volume to lips. Patients may experience mild swelling but can return to work and their normal routine without any downtime.

Restylane is another filler containing hyaluronic acid to smooth moderate lines like Juvederm. You will begin to see results with Restylane immediately and improvement continues over time. Restylane is FDA-approved for smoothing wrinkles and lines. Our specialists often use Restylane to provide patients with fuller lips and to remove crow’s feet and lines near the lips. The effects of Restylane are subtle and can last 8 to 10 months, so regular retouches are recommended.

Radiesse is an injectable filler for deep lines, wrinkles, and folds in the skin. The treatment is FDA-approved for filling deep wrinkles and increasing facial volume. The treatment works by injecting a synthetic calcium hydroxylapatite gel under the skin. This solution is like the calcium found in natural bones and teeth and stimulates the body’s production of collagen to rebuild the skin and provide elasticity.

Radiesse provides patients with much-needed collagen to make their skin healthy and youthful. Collagen fills in spaces for long-lasting skin health as the solution is absorbed into the body. Results can last two to three years after a single session.

Learn More About Injectables

If you are ready for an injectable treatment, contact us today at Subach Spinal Solutions in Arlington, VA, and schedule your consultation. Our specialists can help you find the right injectables to reduce your aging signs and make you feel more youthful.

Subach Spinal Solutions
1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 150
Arlington, VA 22205
Phone: 571-732-0044
Fax: 866-850-1049
Office Hours

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Entrance Exam

Your No1 source for Latest Entrance Exams, Admission info

Career QNA > Career Advice > Value of IGNOU MBA

Value of IGNOU MBA

Is IGNOU MBA through distance mode a good option?

Yes, IGNOU is respected. IGNOU University is one of the best distance mode universities. It’s a comprehensive free public service with more than 2,000 MBA programs listed worldwide.

This university provided thousands of distance programs every year .There are many good companies which consider the students who have completed their degree from this college .It is one of the top distance course providing university.

The admission to this college in done through the MAT,CAT score .The students who have not appear for the MAT,CAT exam can appear for the OPEN MAT Exam which is conducted by IGNOU university itself .

This examination is conducted to select students who have missed the opportunity to appear in the MAT, CAT exam.

The students who have got 50% marks in their graduation can apply for the course.

Check out Complete Information on IGNOU OPEN MAT (MBA Entrance Exam) August 2012 – OPEN MAT- XXXII for January 2013 Admission, here

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Silver aquamarine contemporary necklace with 18ct white gold setting nkl09

Size Guide

Contemporary, unique, bespoke and handmade silver aquamarine necklace with 18ct white gold setting.

I am a huge fan of aquamarine, and realised it was about time I made a necklace with this beautiful stone. The white tones of silver and 18ct white gold setting shows off the stone really well. Sue x.
  • The aquamarine is a beautiful light stone, pear shape, 10mm x 7mm.
  • The setting is 18ct white gold and the pendant and chain are silver.
  • The necklace has a polished finished.
  • The pendant hangs on a silver linked chain and has a traditional clasp with options to wear as 16" or 18". See images.

This necklace is made to order and will take 3-4 weeks, should you need it sooner please do get in touch.

The necklace is fully hallmarked and handmade by Sue in her Herefordshire jewellery making studio which you are very welcome to visit by appointment.

The necklace will arrive in a beautiful box, tied with ribbon and with more details about Sue.

Would you like to chat about this necklace? Get in touch or just call Sue on 01885 488836.

Ring sizing

Standard designs

Sue makes rings to the size you select when ordering. If the ring does not fit, then she will re-size the ring free of charge (once only) providing:

  1. You (the customer) pay £9 to cover Royal Mail Special Delivery costs for returning the ring to you (can be paid online or via bank transfer).
  2. You (the customer) ensure it is returned within 14 days of delivery.

Please contact Sue before returning a ring for a re-size; it is so useful to have a discussion to help gauge how much adjustment is needed.

Please note: rings must be returned via Royal Mail Special Delivery and opting for the appropriate insurance option to cover the cost of the item. Sue Lane is not responsible for the delivery costs of returning a ring for re-sizing or for lost or damaged rings whilst in transit. For more details, please read our Returns Policy.

After 14 days: Sue will happily resize but at a cost based on the time needed to fulfil the work plus postage. Sue can quote for any work before you return the ring.

Commissioned designs

Any item made just for you, that is not one of Sue's standard designs: You (the customer) need to ensure the size is correct before Sue commences any work. If your order doesn't fit, Sue may be able to resize for you depending on the design and stones used. There may well be a charge involved due to the complexity of the design and for working with stones that where not supplied by Sue which may be difficult to work with. Contact Sue to discuss if it is possible and she can let you know the cost involved, including postage.

Not sure of your ring size?

If you are not sure of your ring size, please contact Sue. She can arrange your order and then post out a free ring sizer to you. You then simply call or email with the measurement.


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Note: Certain distracted (detracted) and jealous types of savants (learned men) went on against even “An Account of Access to Spiritualism” improperly (unreasonably) like (they have done with) Minart of Light, Antidote to Qal΄b (Heart). (They) attempted to harm the mission by portraying the false meanings of the correct words through proclaimed propaganda. So, the answers to their objections are being given for the satisfaction of the general pubic.
The fore most point is that the book “An Account of Access to Spiritualism” contains mostly the dreams, revelations and inspirations (divination’s) which occurred in the beginning during mystic path. There has not been claimed as the true faith for any of the revelations or inspirations (divination’s) but every one, along with the writer, has his own judgment that which is true and which will be a deception. Dreams, revelations and divination’s does not fall in Sharī΄at (Islamic Law), it does not matter whether they are unethical.

An Account of Access to Spiritualism; page no.20, the objection is: “This man has called Hazrat Rabia Basri R.A as prostitute.
Answer: The event relating to Hazrat Rabia Basri R.A comes in the books like this, your parents sold Hazrat Rabia Basri R.A to the members of a convoy and those convoy members sold Her R.A to a mistress of brothel. The prostitute caused her to manage the brothel. One day the mistress observed that why was the man not used to come again if once he had visited her. When a man entered the room, the door of room got shut then the mistress of brothel peeped through the whole of door that the man approached Rabia Basri R.A, met the gazes of each other, he was overshadowed by awfulness and his mouth began reciting Allah Allah like having no control. She R.A said to him, “Go, I have united you spiritually with Allah, so (always) keep yourself passionate with the divine love of Allah and don’t ever try to think to come here.” When mistress viewed the whole scene then heart also began trembling and fell into Her R.A foot and applied for being forgiven that I came to know your magnificence today. You are released from now. Hazrat Rabia Basri R.A said, “Would that you never know secrete of me. Whoever had been coming here was use to be blessed with Faqī´r (Darvesh΄ī). I have made four hundred till now.”
Mūjaďdid (revivalist) Alf Sani R.A has written in his Holy Maktoobaat (texts) relating to victories of Maka at page no. 730, 731, “The cursed Iblīs´ (Satan) cannot captivate (disguise) that particular face of Muhammad (PBUH) with which He (PBUH) is buried in Madina Munnawara. (It) can disguise in every that face of Muhammad (PBUH) other than that particular face.”
Mūjaďdid (revivalist) says, “I am saying that it is difficult to know an intention and extracting the orders with that face. Because it is possible that the curse enemy would have come in between and had shown the impossible into the form of possibility and would have thrown the viewer into suspiciousness and would have shown its own expressions and gesticulations in the form of expressions and gesticulations of (PBUH).
(Extracted from “Holy Maktoobaat, Published by: Madina Publishing Company Karachi)

The event relating to Mastani is objectionable in “An Account of Access to Spiritualism”. No doubt, several mistakes against Sharī΄at (Islamic Law) were committed by me in the beginning accidentally and innocence. They were mere an accident and were not my practice and belief. When Allah SWT blessed with divine help and comprehension then I begged before Allah SWT bitterly, repented and prayed for getting forgiveness. In the name of most merciful, most bountiful Allah (SWT)

Chapter 4
There held a discussion on “Heavenly Illumination, Minart of Light and An Account of Access to Spiritualism” between the savants of Ahl-e Sunnat (namely) Maulana Mufti Ahmad Mian Barkati, Hazrat Maulana Qari Abdul Rashid Noori and Mr. Muhammad Arif Maimon the central president of Anjuman Sarfaroshan-e Islam and Mr. Wasi Muhammad Qureshi the central nazm-e Aala in the presence of Maulana Muhammad Saeed Ahmad Asad the central convener of “Pakistan Sunni Itehad” at Gari Khata Hyderabad today dated 26th October 1991 at 11:00 PM night. The mutual consultation resulted that the following phrases will be altered item wise.

No. 1 “They were involved in several bid’at (heresy) even in the sainthood.” (An Account of Access to Spiritualism, Page no. 20). This phrase will be written like this……
“Their sainthood was admitted (true) but some activities against the (rules of) Sharī΄at (Islamic Law) were observed among them.”

No. 2 Some of the Muslims believe in Sheikh Sanaan while the others believe in Mirza Ghulam Ahmad as “Prophet”. (Heavenly Illumination, Page no.10). This phrase will be written like this……
Some human beings believe in Sheikh Sanaan while the others believe in Mirza Ghulam Ahmad as “Prophet”.

No. 3 or had altered the creed, they had fell into severe seduction. (Heavenly Illumination, Page no.10) This phrase will be written like this……
“or had altered the creed, they had become infidel.”

No. 4 Had come under certain effects of Mirzayat (those who follow the teaching of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad) and Wahabiyat (those who don’t believe in sainthood). (An Account of Access to Spiritualism, Page no. 7). This phrase will have addition of these words……
Had come under certain effects of Mirzayat and Wahabiyat. Thanks to Allah SWT, “those effects have gone now”.

No. 5 Naf΄s (self) stirred up…… As the instigation of Naf΄s (self) had come to an end that is why there announced by you, “thanks to Allah SWT that there will be one among st my progeny who will hold this status.” (Heavenly Illumination, Page no.9) This phrase will be eliminated……

No. 6 “and through saliva…… (it) began to strengthen your Naf΄s (self)”. (Heavenly Illumination, Page no.8) This phrase will be eliminated……

No. 7 “and the way without ablution…… Or either have got their waists slanted.” (Heavenly Illumination, Page no.6) Following words will be written after eliminating this phrase……
“The Namaz (prayer) pleasures double in this way.”

No. 8 “One day when Adam A.S…… Iblīs´ (Satan) said, “Now live live, that I wanted” (Minart of Light, Page no. 7-8) This whole phrase will be eliminated.
It has also been decided that: one should contact to Maulana Saeed Ahmad Asad Sahib of Faisalabad, if some body finds any phrase suspicious. By the grace of Allah SWT it will be solved (answered) with reference to Qur’ān´ and sunnah. The scholars of Ahl-e Sunnat and Anjuman Sarfroshan-e Islam will keep mutual love and will defend together the Maslak (conduct-school of thought) Ahl-e sunnat and Jamaat (association).

Author: His Holiness R. A. Gohar Shahi This book is worthy of study and investigation by all religions, all sects and all peoples and it presents a challenge to those who reject spirituality.

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The gold Nobility Shield (*2)

The Suixtil Shield decal – a reminder that your brand is where motor racing earned its letters of nobility. It represents a testament to style and that racing spirit. The shield is printed in, what else, royal blue on a luxurious gold background, sure to contrast nicely. Measures 140 MM by 140 MM (5.5 inches square). Crafted and printed on 3M vinyl specially treated for car paint.

Delivered in pairs (one for each size of the car).

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Summer Prescott Books

SPBP has worked with some of the best authors in the industry. We’re always sad when they go, whether it’s because they’re no longer going to be writing, or that they’ve just decided to move in another direction.

Our collection of books wouldn’t be complete without these wonderful series and standalones from authors who passed through our doors on their journey. Please check out their books – you’ll be glad that you did!

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Italy, Rome

Rome Architectural Sketchbook - IED Rome

when 30 June 2021 - 17 July 2021
language English
duration 3 weeks
fee EUR 2600

Rome Architectural Sketchbook is a multidisciplinary course that explores the various components of architecture in Rome, allowing you to focus on sites, design and visual sketching.

Together with your classmate, having different profiles and artistic skills, you will work on site in various places reflecting diverse periods of art, architecture and history of Rome. The course combines the observation of the historic and contemporary context of the locations, with the development of the creative process and refining of sketching techniques and personal style.

Traditional sketching methodologies and techniques, such as visual sketching and illustration layout as well as photo research and interior design, will be deepened during the program and enhanced by visits to Roman sites and architectural spaces. As Final Project you will complete a personal sketchbook using different representation techniques such as video, photography or modelling.

Course leader

IED Rome

Target group

The course is aimed at people who are interested in the world of art and design and have no prior knowledge or experience in the discipline. Skills such as drawing or sketching can be useful even if not mandatory. Applicants need to show strong motivation and the ability to work in groups.

Course aim

The course is articulated in 2 modules.

During the first part, based on Architectural Sketching, you will learn the basic sketching techniques while visiting the most important historical sites and monuments. Under the guidance of skilled teachers, you will explore the city, drawing, photographing, interpreting everything that is proposed and presented to you.

During the second part, Representation Techniques, you are required to choose between the following three specializations: Fine Arts, Model Making, and Video Production and Photography. The course continues with an in-depth study of the chosen subject and by the end of the course, together with your classmates, you will present your portfolio as well as your thoughts and personal growth during this three week experience.

Throughout the course, you will meet with diverse professionals in the field as part of traditional lecture or showroom visits. Active participation in discussions with guest lecturers and site visit/field trip attendance is fundamental.

Fee info

EUR 2600: Enrollment Fee: 600 €
Tuition Fee: 2000 €

Please visit official website to get all informatian on scholarship opportunities.


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Wham Ridge

Wham Ridge

Wham Ridge and Vestal Peak from the NE Rib of Arrow Peak. West Trinity in the background.
on Oct 31, 2008 2:25 am
Image Type(s): Alpine Climbing
Image ID: 458911

Post a Comment
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EricChu - May 9, 2010 4:25 pm - Voted 10/10

Awesome picture!

Those mountains have an impressive structure - and you captured them in such a superb and dramatic light!

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Hand Sanitizer Liquid Gel 8oz

$ 4.99

This product is currently sold out.

Please fill in the form below if you'd like to be notified when it becomes available.

  • 【99.99% Effective】--- This hand sanitizer is the perfect solution for hand hygiene at home, the office, or while you travel. It stops the transition of dirty stuff and cleanses your skin
  • 【Certified Organic Ingredients】--- Perfect for frequent use. Mild formula is free of parabens, phthalates, preservatives and harsh ingredients; so it does not dry out or irritate skin. Hands feel soft, even after many uses.
  • 【Convenient Size】--- Great for home, office, or gym use. Convenient to travel with as well
  • 【Rinse-Free】--- There is no need to use water, perfect for on the go
  • 【Made in the USA】 -  This antibacterial sanitizer is made in the USA


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Go directly to contents.
Responsible for the service City of Helsinki

Psychiatric housing rehabilitation

  • Service
  • Helsinki
  • Public service

The rehabilitation homes prepare their residents to cope with the symptoms of their illness, to care for their health, and to cope with everyday life and social interaction. The rehabilitation is based on a treatment and rehabilitation plan compiled in cooperation, as well as the weekly programme and various groups.

Personnel is available on weekdays normally from 8 am till 5 pm. There is also a physician's, social worker's and occupational therapist's services available.

To whom and on what terms

Age: 18 or more

The service is intended for residents of Helsinki.

Customers need a referral for the housing rehabilitation. The personnel will interview the potential residents, and the SAS working group will select the residents. The service is subject to a fee.

Background information

Mental health rehabilitees are entitled to support for independent living if necessary. Services are provided first and foremost in the home of the person undergoing rehabilitation. A social instructor, a housing adviser or some other support person provides assistance in finding housing, settling in and organising every-day chores. Support may be provided over the short or long term. Its purpose is to promote the resident’s rehabilitation, autonomy and functional capacity.

Sheltered housing is organised for mental health rehabilitees who need both suitable housing and care and attention. In sheltered housing with 24-hour assistance, care and attention are available round the clock.

A mental health rehabilitee may also be supported by placing him or her in an institution for a while. Long-term institutional care and attention are possible if this is essential for the rehabilitee’s health or safety.

Basic information

The service is provided byCity of Helsinki
Responsible for the serviceCity of Helsinki
Area Helsinki
Available languagesFinnish, Swedish
Text edited by: City of Helsinki
Updated: 7/2/2020


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Cyborg Rubble Men's T-Shirt

$13.99 Reg.$21.99

Cyborg Rubble Men's T-Shirt

$13.99 Reg.$21.99

We’ll let you know as soon as the item is back in stock!

In stock items ship within 1 business day

This is what happens when Cyborg can't respawn.

Cyborg is usually "linked up" with thousands of computers simultaneously -- he's able to assimilate their data, manipulate their software, and absolutely repurpose their programming.

Because of this, one might surmise that Cyborg's video game acumen is unsurpassed -- he could simply manipulate the appropriate programming and breeze through the most difficult levels and brutal speed rounds.

Well, your logical conclusion is completely unsound -- occasionally, Cyborg loses, and the absolute annihilation of his gaming console (and the house that surrounds it) resembles the image adorning our Cyborg Rubble Men's T-Shirt.

Made from 100% cotton, this navy-blue Cyborg t-shirt for men features an illustrated image of an enraged Vic Stone -- he just died at the hands of a twelve-year-old while playing Fortnite.

More Details

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  • Cyborg
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  • Clothing & Apparel,
  • T-Shirts
  • SKU: tscybrgrubble

Are you a risk taker?

$5 Mystery Socks

For just $5 bucks add a little intrigue to your order with a pair of Mystery Socks from DC & Marvel.


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Legendary CMA Awards Moments

When the County Music Association Awards (CMAs) started back in 1967, people didn’t know how wildly glamorous and spectacular this award show would grow to be. Nearly 53 years later, the CMAs have delivered some incredible moments in music history, including:

Charlie Rich’s Slow Burn

Known as the Silver Fox toward the end of his career, Rich was experiencing declining success as country music shifted away from traditional “country” sounds and more towards “pop” sounds and styles. When he was tasked with announcing the Entertainer of the Year award in 1975, Rich made a fiery announcement — literally. The winner that year was John Denver, and Rich, upon seeing the name, lit the announcement card on fire with his lighter. Simultaneously, he announced the winner of the award as “My friend, Mr. John Denver.” Some claim Rich was intoxicated and exhibited poor judgment, while others believe he was protesting the “pop” influences on the CMAs.

Taylor Swift wins Entertainer of the Year

Swift entered the country music scene with unparalleled success. Just before she turned 20 in 2009, Taylor Swift won the Entertainer of the Year Award, making her the youngest winner of this prestigious award. Swift beat out Kenny Chesney, Keith Urban, and Brad Paisley. She was also the first female solo act to win the award in 10 years.

The Queen’s Major Malfunction

In 1978, Dolly Parton accepted her first Entertainer of the Year Award. Before she went on stage to accept the award, Parton experienced a wardrobe malfunction when her dress split down the middle. To cover up the split seam, she borrowed a jacket from Marianne Gordon. In her jovial demeanor, Parton joked, “My daddy said that’s what I get for putting 50 pounds of mud in a five-pound bag.” Parton would go on to win many other awards at the CMAs and perform at the CMA Fest as well.

The Man in Black Lives on

The 2003 CMA Awards were incredibly emotional for many musicians and country fans. Johnny Cash passed away on Sept. 12, 2003, just before the CMAs. To honor the incredible musician, a coterie of legends paid tribute to the Man in Black, including Willie Nelson, Sheryl Crow, and Kris Kristofferson. By the end of the night, Cash was posthumously awarded Album of the Year, Music Video of the Year, and Single of the Year.

Post-9/11 Performance of a Lifetime

The terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001 shook the American public. Many of us were left wondering about the safety and future of our country. Few singers were able to embody this feeling better than Alan Jackson, who performed “Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning),” at the 2001 CMA Awards. The audience gave a standing ovation and many performers could be seen crying in the audience.

While these legendary moments have passed, there is still plenty of history to be made at both the CMA Fest and the CMA Awards. Tickets sell out incredibly quickly to the CMA Fest, and the longer you wait to book your accommodations in Nashville, the more expensive and difficult it becomes. If you want a luxury travel experience to the County Music Association Festival, book a luxury vacation package — which includes CMA Fest tickets — with Superior Executive Services.

Superior Salutes

12 Mistakes to Avoid When Booking Luxury Travel

Are you ready to plan your next luxurious getaway? Choosing the right company to help make your travel dreams a reality is key. Discover the top 12 mistakes to avoid when booking luxury travel experiences.

What type of travel are you interested in:

Personal TravelBusiness TravelBoth


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Is Your Website Mobile Ready?

Is Your Website Mobile Ready?

mobilegeddon mobile friendly website Most people that have a business website know that Google is currently the most powerful search engine on the planet and most people understand that Google changes its algorithms on a regular basis but then every so often they really like to shake things up, to keep everyone on their toes and providing the best experience for their website users.

We reported back in 2012 how important mobile would be in the future and it would seem with the latest algorithm update from Google, this prediction was right on the money.

But what does this mean for you?

The bottom line with this latest update is, if you don’t already have a mobile ready website then your website will drop dramatically in mobile search results which could lead to an immense reduction in site visits and revenue!

Those with mobile ready or responsive sites will naturally be bumped up the search list.

Ensuring you still have high quality, relevant and current content on your website which answers your users search queries will mean that your site could still rank well but you will almost 100% guarantee this if you also have a mobile ready or a responsive website because you’ll tick all of your users and Google’s boxes so to speak.

There are two major changes to how Google now performs its algorithm searches as of 21st April 2015.

These are:

1. Google will determine if a website is ‘mobile friendly’ and if it is they will automatically rank that website higher. They will roll this out across the globe in all languages over a short period of time effective from the 21st April. The change will directly affect mobile searches and will have a significant impact on the results they provide the user for that search. If the content is mobile and optimised it will be delivered to the user, if it’s not, it won’t.

Why not test your website now to check if the whole website is mobile friendly with this handy tool from Google: Mobile Friendly Website Test

2. Since late February Google has also been using information from ‘indexed’ apps to help them rank the app for those who have installed the app and are signed in. This means that if you have an app, your app content will be found more easily in user searches meaning that you’ll be ahead of the competition.

It is reported that over 60% of Google searches are now done via a mobile device and a lot of people are going mobile only which means that the desktop computer may one day become a thing of the past.

Just as the reluctance of retail businesses to get on the web saw the crash of many bricks and mortar shops fold here in the UK and across America, the same may be the case for those businesses not willing to move towards mobile. If you don’t give the people what they want, they will of course go looking for it somewhere else and if you’re not there on their mobile device then no doubt your competitors will be.

Google puts the user experience at the heart of everything it does which is why it’s managed thus far to grow so fast and corner the search market. They know the more someone visits their site and the longer someone stays on their site, the more chance there is to sell to them and because people spend hours on end on their mobile device anywhere and virtually every time of the day it would not be wise to ignore this technology shift towards mobile.

Here’s some tips to help you make your site mobile friendly:

– Ensure you have a mobile version of your website or a responsive design so it shows across all mobile devices (responsive is Google’s favourite!)

– Ensure your website is crawlable by the Google bots

– Make sure your whole website is ‘mobile friendly’ because just having your Home Page as mobile friendly won’t cut it

If your site isn’t yet mobile ready or responsive, even though Mobilegeddon started on the 21st April your website won’t be plunged into an alternate Google galaxy far, far away just yet. Having said that, we cannot stress enough how important a change this is and so we strongly advise that you act very soon to ensure your website is mobile ready.

Contact us today for a competitive quote on making your site responsive for mobile devices and capitalise on Google’s latest release because your competitors most definitely will.

Related Articles:

Understanding the Hummingbird Algorithm Update


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Driver Shells

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Aluminum driver shells thread onto all Swan-Matic Capping Machines and accept replaceable urethane, vinyl, and rubber inserts.  A complete range of cap driver shells and renewable driver inserts are kept IN-STOCK. Send sample caps and containers to our engineers at Automation Devices and they will recommend an affordable solution to your cap tightening problem. Occasionally, applications call for a special product. Swan-Matic regularly custom engineers capping equipment to meet the needs of customer's applications. Contact Swan-Matic to see if a serrated shell will best suit your application.


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Indulging into a positive and healthy activity in life is always highly recommended. You must look to surround yourself with things and events that may make you feel satisfied. Being a sportsperson will surely make you a positive and competitive person if you pay heed to the gravity of it. A sport may sound like a lot of fun on paper, but there are many things that it does to our lives behind the scenes. At times we don’t even realize how it impacts our lives in a positive way. For instance, you will notice that people who play sports professionally are almost always in a better position to accept defeat. Same happens when they win, as they don’t go over the board with crazy celebrations and stay civil when they do. In the hindsight, you will see the reflection of sports coming to your natural life. You will see changes occurring in your life and the possibly the best part about it is that you don’t lose your stature. You stay composed as ever and try thinking about things that may be needed to win the next event. In other words, being a sportsperson makes you sober and lets you focus on things that may come in handy when the next event begins. On the other hand, you will notice the following changes in your life:

Dealing with an adverse situation

How badly are you impacted when you listen to a bad news? Does it leave a deep gash on your life or do you prefer to hush it away under the carpet and prefer to move on? Different people tend to make different reactions when they win or lose, so it is expected that you might also do the same. Firstly, one should know that it is perfectly natural if you show emotions and react to a certain situation. But, being a well-trained passionate player, you will do things differently. You will not like to do things like all others do even if you wanted to, as it will not suit your stature. You will know how to deal with different situations and what it takes to handle adverse situations. At the least, it will teach you how to keep yourself composed and stay on top of your sentiments while being rational.

Making the right choice

Success is not something that comes overnight, rather it is the refection of a streak of positive and timely decisions you had taken over a period of time. Same goes for the sporting event. You do not win an event just like that. You do so when many positive and timely decisions play in your favor, and the opponent gives up knowing that you will come up with a better decision each time you are thrown with a challenge. Your fighting spirit will help you survive and overcome challenges. If you play solo and look for better results, you might experience disappointment. Stay positive and play it like a team to see the best results.


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Hospitality training continues during Covid-19 downtime

The spread of COVID-19 has severely affected hotel and tourism businesses in Myanmar. The Union of Myanmar Travel Association (UMTA) estimates that it will take at least nine months for the entire hospitality sector to be operational again.

The hospitality industry in Myanmar is slowly returning to business with hygiene precautions in place after the number of daily new Covid-19 cases has begun to slow down. The Vocational Skills Development Program (VSDP) adapted some of its hospitality training courses to temporarily provide training through e-learning platforms. Training has taken place since early April, with an aim to help hospitality businesses stay relevant and strengthen the capacity building of their staff.

Online training was first implemented for supervisory skills to over 250 participants via the video-conferencing app Zoom, covering topics such as leadership, communication, teamwork, conflict management and time management.

For many participants, it was their very first experience with online learning. Kyaw Myat Thu, a supervisor from Hline Tet Hotel, commented

“Initially, I had my hesitation since I had no prior exposure to e-learning. But it turned out to be timesaving and easily accessible, and I still get to interact with the trainers, ask questions and perform assignments. Of course, with the regular training approach, we are where the action happens as it happens. But at a time like this, remote learning gave me an opportunity to keep on track and expand my knowledge.”

In collaboration with the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism (MoHT), the VDSP also conducted a 6-week digital marketing course in early May for 38 participants from hotels and tourism businesses, The aim was to equip the participants with skills and knowledge to better engage with their online audience and execute effective content planning for different online platforms.

Since 2015, the VSDP has worked with the MoHT, training institutions and over 130 partner hotels to promote skills development and employment in the hospitality sector. As in face-to-face training, the VSDP is supporting the online training participants with accessible vocational education and training recognised by the MoHT. The VSDP aims to promote improved livelihood opportunities for women and men in targeted areas and occupations in Myanmar. The Program is implemented by Swisscontact and financed by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC).

Myanmar News Skills


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Decorative Brass Wheels & Pallets

Finely engraved, solid brass tools in a wide array of decorative designs. Available in over 500 different patterns in 3" pallets, 3" wheels and 1.5" wheels. The brass wheels will require a fork & handle, which is sold separately.

Prefer to view these in person? Download the PDF of our Finishing Tool Catalog.

Still can't find what you're looking for? Custom orders are available. Please inquire.


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Kylie Ryan

Year 3 & 4 Teacher Maungawhau School

Just a short note to say thank you very much for the wonderful drum concert this morning!  Room 11 absolutely loved it!  They have been bubbling around the classroom ‘playing’ along and chatting about how much they enjoyed it and how talented the drummers are!  I think we have some very inspired children in the Middle School now!

From a teacher’s perspective it was fantastic to have the children get up and get involved, thanks so much for all your hard work with it!

See all of our client testimonials