In the current regulatory framework of the financial market, securities can only be offered to accredited investors due to the complex nature of hedge funds, private equity deals, venture capital funds, and other private placements. For this reason, more than 97% of Americans cannot invest in the latest startups as the SEC fears that un-accredited investors would sink their life saving into untested startups with no track records.
Currently, the way regulators think about mitigating the risks of affecting the entire population is by limiting the ability of most people to access some of the assets the market can offer. The un-accredited or non-professional investors are not in the financing space and therefore may not fully appreciate the risks associated with investing in securities.
The hurdle security token must overcome whether financial regulators should or should not approach this brand new space of tokenized securities the same way they did for traditional assets. Should the regulators limit the number of investors for the sake of protecting the financial background of un-accredited investors so they would not sink their entire life savings into something they do not fully understand?
Alternatively, will laws and regulations be able to evolve to better suit the growing demand for securities tokens? Jumpstart Our Business Act or JOBS Act is a law adopted by the SEC, which liberalized the private placement exemption.Securities offerings not exceeding US$1.07 million over a 12-month period are exempted from SEC registration, allowing early-stage businesses to offer and sell securities to the investing public using crowdfunding. The JOBS Act enables un-accredited investors to participate in crowdfunding investments in startups legally. However, because of the high risk involved in crowdfunding investments, un-accredited investors are limited to only invest up to 10 percent of their annual income or net worth. The JOBS Act encourage funding of startups, but it also protects the investing public by limiting how much they can invest in financial assets that are high-risk, high return.
The crypto market in the past year has proven that retail investors/un-accredited investors are very interested in extremely speculative asset classes that have high returns, which are previously unavailable to them. We believe that the regulatory development of securities token will accelerate. Moving forward, we hope to see the regulatory bodies in different jurisdictions can work closely with crypto related businesses to establish a new framework that is better suited for securities and asset-backed tokens.


Four years after leaving Germany to live under the Islamic State group, 19-year-old Leonora has fled the jihadists' last bastion in eastern Syria and says it's time to go home.
"I was a little bit naive," she says in English, wearing a long billowing black robe, and a beige headscarf with white spots.
"After three days, I married my German husband," she tells AFP, at a screening centre for the displaced run by the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces.
after he travelled to Syria with his first two wives.
IS had the year before swept across large swathes of Syria and neighbouring Iraq, declaring a "caliphate" in areas it controlled.
Leonora first lived in the extremist group's de-facto Syrian capital of Raqa, but says she was just a housewife.
"I was just at home, in (the) house cooking, cleaning - stuff like this," says the pale faced German, clutching the youngest of her two children, an infant aged just two weeks.
detention, as well as thousands of their wives and children in camps for the displaced.
At first life in Raqa was easy, Leonora says, but that changed when the SDF started advancing against the jihadists, with support from US-led coalition air strikes.
described as IS's brutal rule, which included public beheading and crucifixions.
"Then they lose Raqa, and we started to change our house every week because they lost every week a city," she says.
When they came under attack by the Kurdish-led SDF, Leonora says the IS fighters left their families to fend for themselves.
"They left the women alone, no food, they don't care about you," she says.The enemy was advancing "and you were sitting alone in an empty city with your kids".
The SDF have cornered IS into a patch of less than four square kilometres in recent days.
But investigations published in German newspapers portray Lemke, who is now believed to be 28 and originally from Saxony-Anhalt, as an influential figure among foreign jihadists in Syria.
More than 36,000 people have fled the SDF assault on the so-called "Hajin pocket" since early December, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based war monitor that relies on a network of sources inside the country.
Among them, 3,200 have been detained as alleged jihadists.
Iraq - wait to be driven north to a Kurdish-held camp for the displaced.
After four years under a now near-extinct IS caliphate, Leonora says she wants to go home.
"I want to go back to Germany to my family, because I want my old life back," she says. "Now I know that it was a big, big mistake."


text:
Minnesota Twins Great Joe Mauer Retires From Major League Baseball
Jeff Thurn
Hannah Foslien/Getty Images
The long and successful career of Minnesota Twins great Joe Mauer has come to an official end as he announced his retirement from Major League Baseball on Friday.
The 35 year old played 15 seasons in the majors, all of them with his hometown team, the Minnesota Twins.
For most of his career, Mauer played catcher, only switching to first base and DH over the last few seasons as he dealt with injuries issues including concussions.
Mauer will be remembered as a true pro, a guy who stayed with one team his entire career and a guy that was ultra consistent at the plate.
In addition to his excellence on the field, he was a fan favorite and he held himself with class, making him the epitome of what a role model should be in professional sports.
He ends his career with 2,123 hits, three gold gloves, three batting titles and a MVP.
According to ESPN, he is one of 22 players to win an MVP and play with only one team his entire career and those other 21 are all in the Hall of Fame.
Mauer will be a fringe Hall of Famer, but you take into account all that is mentioned above and there should be a spot in Cooperstown for Joe.
He announced his retirement with a letter on Friday that was released by the organization and will run in both papers in the Twin Cities this weekend.
Enter your email to receive the latest news, contests, concert announcements and more directly to your inbox!
Source: Minnesota Twins Great Joe Mauer Retires From Major League Baseball
Filed Under: Minnesota Twins, MLB
Categories: Articles, Sports

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
Taiwan rescuers pull woman out alive from quake rubble
Published: FEBRUARY 8, 2016 03:26
Updated: FEBRUARY 8, 2016 03:25
Rescuers in the southern Taiwan city of Tainan pulled a woman out alive from the wreckage of a collapsed building on Monday, a Reuters witness said, more than 48 hours after an earthquake hit the island.
The death toll from the quake, which struck early on Saturday at the start of the Lunar New Year holiday, rose to 35 earlier on Monday. More than 100 people are still missing.


They left Michigan with the brain drain. But now, these three Michiganders are bucking the trend and returning to their home state.
Garlin Gilchrist II is exactly the kind of talent that Detroit needed after the economic collapse crippled this once-powerful city. But after the skilled software developer graduated from the University of Michigan, he left the state.
Gilchrist is far from alone in taking this path. It's fitting that he left Michigan in 2005. It's the year young people started fleeing for jobs elsewhere. Starting in 2005, more people ages 22 to 34 left Michigan than came in, according to census data. At its lowest moment in 2006, 68,000 young people moved away from Michigan. And while those numbers have improved gradually in recent years, the state was still losing millennials as of 2012. And worse, the millennials who were leaving Michigan at a highest rate were those with a bachelor's degree or more.
And when he thought he had done enough elsewhere, building a network and skill set not necessarily attainable in his home state, he decided to come back. And now he wants to be part of Detroit's comeback. Gilchrist is the deputy technology director for civic community engagement for the city, connecting residents through open data and digital access.
"There is a really big opportunity in Detroit to create a new model for revitalization and development and inclusion," the 32-year-old says. "I want to tell a different story about Detroit. I want to be able to say that in Detroit, we did it right. In Detroit, we did it in a different way. In Detroit, we did it in a way that took everybody into account."
The decision to move back to Michigan is not always as sentimental or as functional as the path Gilchrist took. For many, it's financial. This is how it was for Brian Sadek, a 32-year-old assistant general counsel for the Wayne County Airport Authority. After graduating from the University of Michigan, Sadek moved to Chicago for law school and to start his career. After a few years, and at good stages to move in their careers, he and he wife listed several cities that they could imagine living in that would be cost-effective and had a thriving urban core. Detroit ended up being their choice.
"It just so happened to be where I was from," says Sadek. "It was really more of a rational, economic-based decision than one that was based on following our hearts. If you look at my wife's and my student loans, and you put that in our monthly budget with our mortgage, we're able live a standard of life as if we weren't saddled with the loans like so many of our generation are saddled with."
Detroit, for its part, seems to be on a different trend than the rest of the state. While the city's population has shrunk by 26 percent since 2000, the number of college-educated residents under 35 has increased by 59 percent, according to 2011 census data.
But Detroit wasn't Steve Cronk's destination. It was Midland, a town of 42,000 people appropriately in the middle of the state, for the 25-year-old mid-Michigan native. He and two of his childhood friends returned to Michigan to create Aberro Creative, a marketing agency that specializes in Web and graphic design, advertising, video production, and promotional consulting. He worked in Washington for the last three years, leaving a prominent political communications firm on K Street.
"There's an underserved market," Cronk says. "There was a need for the stuff that we were doing. In Washington, D.C., you can't walk down 14th Street without bumping into a Web developer. There are practically no Web developers in Midland. There are tons of video producers in Washington, D.C. There's one or two companies in Midland that produce videos."
For people like Cronk, it's not that they're drawn back home solely because of some societal incentive, like family. There's a business hole to fill. Cronk is providing a sophisticated marketing mentality to underserved businesses in the area. Just as many rural towns across the country need doctors, many small towns need entrepreneurs. And it takes less money to start these companies there.
"For people looking for a more traditional career path or looking for something with a little more status or an immediate paycheck after college, there's a stigma that says you need to leave Michigan to do that," Cronk says. "But the small number of people who want to create something new and take some risks while they're young, those are the people who are coming back to the area."
All three men are filling gaps that Michigan needs for a functioning state: Gilchrist has advanced technology experience, Sadek provides legal aid to an important transportation hub, and Cronk gives smaller companies and nonprofits marketing strategies they need. Moving back home to Michigan not only boosted their careers, but arguably helped their home state by reversing the brain drain and filling the leadership vacuum left in the wake of the financial collapse. While they are still going against the trend, Gilchrist lobbies Michigan expats around the country not to give up on coming home.
"The thing that breaks my heart the most is when I have friends or hear people who are from Detroit who say they'll never move back to Detroit," he says. "There is a way to contribute, and I want people to not close themselves off to thinking about what that can look like for them."
Correction: This article has been updated with the correct year Gilchrist left Michigan.


Profile of the performer Free, The: Eurodance group formed in 1994 by Felix J. Gauder and Olaf Bossi, the producers of Das Modul. The performers were Charles Simmons, the frontman and singer, and Iris Trevisan, who left for health reasons in 1995. She was replaced by Ayla J. (Alida).
The Free have had big hits with "Born Crazy", "Lover On the Line", "Dance the Night Away" and later "Loveletter from Space".
In an 2003 interview, Charles Simmons got the question: "Is it possible that "The Free" make a comeback someday?", and he answered: "Honestly, I don't think so. It was fun while it was going on, but we're all doing different things now. Olaf is attending Audio Engineering school, Felix is now producing Jimmy Sommerville, and has a hit project called Novaspace. I'm doing mostly R&B, Hip-Hop and Pop projects, and Alida (Ayla J) is married and lives in the USA. We've all moved on, but The Free was a nice ride".
The page does not contains any audio, text, video media material, protected by copyright law and does not contains any illegal MP3 content. If you want to get acquainted with the music, buy from authorized distributors. Play online without registration Free, The all albums in mp3 download a single file or separately.
Caution! All audio materials of Free, The are presented solely for information. After listening to the trial version, you must remove the file mp3 or buy the product from an authorized supplier.


Chris Pastore's focus at SJP encompasses all aspects of development, construction and project management. His responsibilities include conceptual estimating, design review, pre-construction planning, scheduling, consultant coordination, site planning, environmental and civil due diligence, permitting, procurement, buyout, project management and controls, quality control, and project close-out and turnover.
With more than 20 years of experience, Chris leverages a diverse background that includes experience managing the construction of projects including commercial office, retail, residential, schools and higher education, laboratory fit-outs, hospitals, urban site work, parking garages and marine facilities.
He graduated from Lehigh University with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering.


Emotional state refers to the part of the mental status examination that assesses the client's affect and mood . Affect is the client's current, prevailing feeling state, as in happy, sad, joyful, angry, depressed, etc., and may also be reported as constricted or full, appropriate or inappropriate to content, labile, flat, blunted, exaggerated, and so forth. Mood represents the long-term, underlying emotional well-being of the client.


text:
Hendersonville man drowns in SC lake on Monday
A 20-year-old Hendersonville man drowned in a South Carolina lake Monday afternoon, according to Times-News coverage partner WSPA.
Anderson County Coroner Greg Shore, who was on the scene at Lake Hartwell, told the television station the victim was Joaquin Zavaleth-Astudillo.
An official with the Anderson County Fire Department said dive teams were looking for the body of a Hispanic male.
The coroner said the victim had just finished eating before he went back into the water and went under. Officials think he may have suffered from a cramp.
An Anderson County dispatcher told the Times-News a call came in about a possible drowning around 12:20 p.m. Another dispatch supervisor said late Monday afternoon that a county technical rescue team, the Williford Fire Department, marine boats, the Med Shore Ambulance Service and the county Sheriff's Office responded to the scene, but said she wasn't authorized to provide any more details.
Calls by the Times-News to the Coroner's Office and Sheriff's Office were not immediately returned.


text:
2020 LEASING YOUR LAND FOR SHALE AND SOLAR WEBINAR RECORDINGS AVAILABLE
2020 LEASING YOUR LAND FOR SHALE AND SOLAR WEBINAR RECORDINGS NOW AVAILABLE
Investment in Ohio natural gas power plants tops $15 billion
In recent years, Ohio "has seen proposals for nearly a dozen new natural gas-fired power plants representing more than 9,200 megawatts [MW] and more than $15 billion in investments," energyindepth.org reports. Plants that are currently operational include the 955-MW Oregon Energy Center, representing $880 million in investment; the 908-MW Oregon Clean Energy Center, representing $800 million in investment; and Carroll County Energy, with another $800 million in investment.
OSU Extension specialists explain solar farm leasing for landowners
What do farm landowners need to understand about the solar leasing process? As solar energy companies have "approached several landowners in Madison County" in recent months, asking to lease their land, Ohio State University Extension is hoping to help answer that question, Columbus Messenger reports. Lower solar construction costs and a change in solar energy policy is prompting investors to rush to get projects started; two solar farm projects in Madison County are currently in the pre-application process with the State of Ohio, according to the article.
Ohio State University Extension Energy Team Presents Poster at Extension Annual Conference
Members from The Ohio State University Extension Energy Team presented a Poster at the Extension Annual Conference to share the good work and availability of programming to Extension representatives across the state. Pictured from left: Gwynn Stewart, Extension Educator 3, CD Noble County and Erica Lyon, Extension Educator 2, ANR, Ohio Jefferson/Harrison Counties (Also presenting but not shown were Chris Penrose, Extension Educator, ANR, Professor, Morgan County and Christine Gelley, Extension Educator, ANR, Noble County).
Here comes the sun: Farmers consider solar leasing
LONDON, Ohio — Ohio is rarely thought of as a sunny state, and never less so than in the last 12 months. Still, around the end of 2017, Eric Romich, Ohio State extension specialist for energy development, started getting calls from farmers about companies interested in leasing their land for solar energy projects.
Just as when the oil-and-gas industry moved in years ago, some farmers are seeing a new income opportunity — but there are a lot of factors to consider before signing a lease.
University sees sustainability improvements from energy partnership
University sees sustainability improvements from energy partnershipHighlights after two years include conservation measures, plans for new plant https://news.osu.edu/university-sees-sustainability-improvements-from-en....
Work begins on $300M Scioto Ridge wind farm
Innogy, a German renewable energy company, has officially started work on a 250-megawatt (MW) wind farm in Hardin and Logan counties, The Columbus Dispatch reports. The $300-million Scioto Ridge wind farm "is expected to become operational before the end of 2020," according to the article. With 75 wind turbines, the wind farm "will generate enough electricity for about 60,000 homes," and will create approximately 150 construction jobs and 10 permanent jobs.
Ohio HB 6 - Creates Ohio Clean Air Program
In April 2019, Ohio House Bill 6 titled "Creates Ohio Clean Air Program" was introduced to promote electricity production from clean air resources that improve air quality in this state. The legislation would repeal the existing Renewable Energy Portfolio Standards originally established in 2008 by Ohio Senate Bill 221. Ohio House Bill 6 would create an electricity rate rider for Ohio electric consumers to establish a clean air fund. These funds will first be made available as subsidies for two nuclear power plants in Ohio and the remaining funds will establish a reduced emissions progra
Another step forward for a promising new battery to store clean energy
Researchers find way to build potassium-oxygen batteries that last longer
Researchers have built a more efficient, more reliable potassium-oxygen battery, a step toward a potential solution for energy storage on the nation's power grid and longer-lasting batteries in cell phones and laptops.
Landowner Considerations for solar lease agreements
Large solar facilities with a generating capacity of 50 MW or more must obtain a certificate from the Ohio Power Siting Board. As of February 2019, nine large scale solar cases representing 1,249 megawatts of potential capacity were submitted to the Ohio Power Sitting Board and either approved (3) or pending (6). As a result of this development trend, many Ohio landowners are being approached to lease their land for large scale solar development. Solar leases are complex long-term commitments with various


Our Kodak EasyShare C503 accessories include the compatible Kodak EasyShare C503 AV Cable, Kodak EasyShare C503 Memory Card Reader and Kodak EasyShare C503 USB Cable for your Kodak EasyShare C503.
If you need any assistance with Kodak EasyShare C503 accessories please call us toll free 800-278-4002 9am-5pm CT Mon-Fri or email support@dcables.com anytime and our knowledgeable sales team will assist you in finding the Kodak accessory you are looking for. All Kodak EasyShare C503 accessories come with a Compatability Guarantee and Same Day Shipping.
Item #: R10526 - Kodak EasyShare C503 USB Cable - Download images from your Kodak EasyShare C503 to your computer's USB port.
Item #: R29385 - Original Kodak cable. Kodak EasyShare C503 USB Cable - Download images from your Kodak EasyShare C503 to your computer's USB port.
Item #: R29472 - Kodak EasyShare C503 USB Cable - Download images from your Kodak EasyShare C503 to your computer's USB port.
Item #: R10673 - Kodak EasyShare C503 AV Cable - Display images from your Kodak EasyShare C503 on your TV.
Item #: R29284 - Original Kodak cable. Kodak EasyShare C503 AV Cable - Display images from your Kodak EasyShare C503 on your TV.
Item #: R15804 - Kodak EasyShare C503 Memory Card Reader - Transfer files from your Kodak EasyShare C503 memory card to a computer using this reader.


New to Investing? The State of Minnesota Wants to Help! Yes, you heard that right – the State of Minnesota has taken a friendly approach to rewriting state laws to help "first time" investors get involved in opportunities only previously available to more seasoned investors. In the past there has been strict legislation to ensure that only people with higher incomes or net worth's could invest in certain investment opportunities. This in a way almost facilitated only the rich getting richer. But now that has changed.
STATE REQUIREMENTS – In 2016, investment crowdfunding became a law in Minnesota with the creation of MNVEST. This recent state law allows businesses to solicit and accept smaller investments, like those typically from first time investors, with a cap of $10,000. Until recently this type of investing was illegal. The Securities and Exchange Act of 1932 prohibited companies from marketing financial offerings to, and receiving investments directly from small, non-accredited investors. This has all changed with this recent Minnesota legislation.
ACCREDITATION – For those unfamiliar with the term non-accredited (or conversely, accredited) investors please allow us to explain. An accredited investor is defined as someone who makes in excess of $200,000 per year or has in excess of $1,000,000 in liquid assets. It also means that because they could afford to take more risks, they had access to investments that had the potential to provide an extraordinarily high return on their investment. The old laws banned non-accredited investors from these types of investments because they could not afford the risk of losing their money. MNVEST was signed into law in 2015 and was rolled out in the Fall of 2016. "We think there are a lot of Minnesotans that want to invest in the next great company," says Ryan Schildkraut, director at investment bank Freeland Briese and cofounder of a MNVEST advocacy group that pushed the legislation.
Another distinction in the new laws is the concept of "investment" crowdfunding. As the concept of crowdfunding has evolved different types of crowdfunding have emerged. You could provide money to a company to help them build a new product and as a result of your "investment" receive a sample of that product when completed. But in that case you actually are investing in the production of products and not in the actual company. You don't actually become a shareholder in the business or receive any capital gain from your investment. Then there is investment crowdfunding where your money goes to work making money. That is the gist of the new legislation.
A first-time investor (or again, someone investing smaller amounts of money) faces many concerns and questions as he or she investigates where and how to invest. High on their list is risk, as well as the amount needed to start the process and, of course, what type of investment vehicle will suit your personal needs. In the past only accredited investors who could invest larger sums of money had access to higher risk deals. This was done to protect non-accredited investors. And while start up businesses can be exciting, they can be very risky. In fact investors must be aware that investing in high risk businesses could cause the loss of your investment in its entirety. So to minimize the impact a potential loss could have, in the past, investors had to be accredited. With the new regulations anyone that lives in Minnesota can now invest regardless of being accredited or non-accredited. The amount of investment has been kept lower so it is within reach of more investors, and will have less of an impact should the investor lose their investment. So please keep in mind the risk is still there. Always invest only what you can afford and be sure to conduct a thorough assessment of the business you are investing in.
The businesses featured on this portal are examples of investment opportunities that would not have been available to the average Minnesotan if it were not for the creation of these new regulations.
This website, and the statements made herein, are for informational purposes only and are not an offer to enter into an agreement or an offer of any kind. This investment opportunity is being made under, and in reliance on, Minnesota Statute 80A.461, MNVEST REGISTRATION EXEMPTION. The securities regulator in Minnesota is the Department of Commerce. All investors must be Minnesota residents.
©2017 First Investment Partners All Rights Reserved All investments involve risk. It is your responsibility as an investor to assess the opportunity and determine if you want to invest based upon the merit of the opportunity, your ability to invest, and the opportunity's fit within your investment goals.The information provided above is offered in good faith and is generic in nature. The answers to many of the questions could change substantially depending on the specific investment you are making, your own personal experience, and your investment goals. Be sure to perform your own due diligence, and seek the advice of professionals when needed, to make an educated decision. First Investment Partners is in no way liable for the accuracy of any of the information presented by each individual company. While we do our best to bring you only high-quality investment opportunities, featuring a company on this portal does not constitute an endorsement or warranty of any kind by First Investment Partners. The final decision and 100% of the accountability lies with you, the investor, when it comes to making all investment decisions.
in to view investment opportunities.
If you are a registered user please log in.
We have received your investment pledge. A representative will contact you shortly to confirm the details and arrange funding.
Almost there! Please complete the information below to bookmark (reserve) your investment. Please keep in mind that this pledge is a promise to fund your investment and sign the related subscription agreement. After submitting this form a respresentative from the company will contact you to assist you in submitting your subscription agreement and funds.
you will automatically discuss your options and confirm your information.
I UNDERSTAND AND ACKNOWLEDGE THAT: If I make an investment in an offering through this MNvest portal, it is very likely that I am investing in a high-risk, speculative business venture that could result in the complete loss of my investment, and I need to be able to afford such a loss.
By entering into this transaction with the company, I am affirmatively representing myself as being a Minnesota resident at the time that this contract is formed, and if this representation is subsequently shown to be false, the contract is void.
Sorry, but the maximum pledge amount for this investment is . This pledge exceeds your limit for this opportunity.
If I make an investment in an offering through this MNvest portal, it is very likely that the investment will be difficult to transfer or sell and, accordingly, I may be required to hold the investment indefinitely. By entering into this transaction with the company, I am affirmatively representing myself as being a Minnesota resident at the time that this contract is formed, and if this representation is subsequently shown to be false, the contract is void.
Our servers are indicating that you are attempting to register with an IP address outside of the required territory.
Anyne interested in viewing our opportunities and investing must be a registered resident of the State of Minnesota.
If you are not a resident of Minnesota please discontinue your registration. We would be happy to notify you when opportunities in your locale become available - simply fill out the Contact Us form and mention your interest.
If you are Minnesota resident but are accessing this portal outside the state you may continue however you will be asked to certify that you are a resident of Minnesota when completing your registration.
If this is the case then please close this window and continue.
Your account information has been updated successfully.
Historically only one or a small group of larger, accredited investors could invest in companies. Investment crowdfunding is a way to source money for a company by asking a large number of backers toeach invest a relatively small amount with it. In return, backers receive equity shares of the company.In this case the backers do not need to be accredited – anyone may invest. Investment crowdfunding may also entail obtaining debt,meaning a large group of individuals may invest in a small piece of a larger loan in which the term, terms, rate and anticipated return on investment are provided in advance.
Why is investing on your portal only available to Minnesota residents?
The State of Minnesota has been one of the frontrunners passing legislation allowing non-accredited investors to make investments in privately held companies (provided certain state mandated requirements are followed). Since this is not federal legislation the opportunity is only available to Minnesota residents. If you are not a resident of Minnesota you are not able to participate. Other states are following Minnesota's lead – look online to see if your state offers a similar program and investment opportunities.
I have never invested in anything before and I don't have much to invest – Can anyone really invest?
The new laws allow everyone to invest and include some guidelines that have lowered the prior barriers to entry. In most opportunities investment amounts start low (i.e. anywhere from $1000-5000) which lowers the threshold for many investors to participate. The investment amount is also capped at $10,000 to help minimize the impact should an investor not get the return on investment anticipated, or worse, lose their investment.
In simple terms an accredited investor is someone (or a group or entity) that has enough capital (or liquid equivalents) to make a substantial investment in a company, and should they lose their investment in its entirety, their overall financial status would still not be adversely affected. More specifically, to be an accredited investor, a person must demonstrate an annual income of $200,000 (or $300,000 for joint income) for the last two years with expectation of earning the same or higher income. A person is also considered an accredited investor if he has a net worth exceeding $1 million, either individually or jointly with his spouse. The SEC also considers a person to be an accredited investor if he is a general partner, executive officer, director or a related combination thereof for the issuer of unregistered securities. An entity is an accredited investor if it is a private business development company or an organization with assets exceeding $5 million. An organization cannot be formed with a sole purpose of purchasing specific securities. Also, if an entity consists of equity owners who are accredited investors, the entity itself is an accredited investor. In 2016, the U.S. Congress modified the definition of an accredited investor to include registered brokers and investment advisors. Also, if a person can demonstrate sufficient education or job experience showing his professional knowledge of unregistered securities, he is also considered an accredited investor.
Are your investments safe? Could I lose my money?
Let us start by saying all investments involve some (or many) forms of risk. So there is, of course, the potential to suffer a loss on your investment. As a rule of thumb, typically those opportunities with the greatest rewards will also involve the greatest risk. The burden of responsibility falls on the prospective investor (you) to 1) do your own due diligence to assess the opportunity you are considering investing in, and 2) to make sure that making an investment aligns with your own personal financial needs and goals. That is to say that if you are counting on the money you are investing for future needs such as bills, taxes, college, etc. then you should consider not making the investment. In newer start-up type businesses that are common for these type of offerings, sometimes things can take longer to materialize or the results can be materially different than anticipated. And while the opposite can be true as well (faster than anticipated growth, higher ROI, etc.) we encourage you, the investor, to err on the side of being conservative. Remember if things sound too good to be true they probably are.
How do I make money on the investments?
There are number of ways that investors can realize a return on their investment. For loan investments investors typically earn interest. For equity investments investors might receive periodic dividend payments or a lump sum of cash on the exit or sale of the company. Keep in mind that the opportunities presented are private entities and any equity does not have a public market. This means that it is likely you will not be able to sell your shares unless there is some form of liquidity event which is often controlled by the company you are investing in.
I don't know how to read or interpret some of the documents provided by the company – what should I do?
Smart investing entails reading a broad variety of information about the opportunity including private placement memorandums, financial statements, forms and agreements, etc. This can all be daunting for smaller or first-time investors. If you are unfamiliar with these materials or uncomfortable assessing any opportunity we encourage you to utilize the resources of trained professionals such as investment advisors, attorneys and accountants to help you thoroughly vet each company and to understand the terms of your investment.
Will First Investment Partners help me with personal investment guidance and advice?
Unfortunately, although our company does provide access to investment opportunities, we are not in the business of providing financial planning guidance or advice to individual investors. If you are unsure about an investment or your personal investment circumstances we would encourage you to seek professional advice from a financial planner, lawyer and/or accountant to assist you.
Due diligence is the fact checking, analysis and research that is done to confirm the information provided to you by the companies on the FIP portal and to assess if the opportunity fits within the framework for your personal situation. If questions arise from your due diligence we encourage you to raise them directly to the company prior to making any investments. And be sure to not rely solely on information provided by the company – while they may have great integrity, when it gets down to it, it is their goal to have you make an investment. So be sure to seek outside information and validation of the information provided by the company.
Why can't I invest more than $10,000 in any one deal? If I am an accredited investor – are your deals for me, and can I invest a higher amount?
The state guidelines have capped the investment amount on all deals on this portal at $10,000, and anyone may invest in these deals, regardless if you are accredited or not. If you are an accredited investor seeking larger investments feel free to contact the company directly to see if they have an investment opportunity that will meet your needs.
What if after investing I change my mind – can I get my original investment back?
Investments are a binding arrangement between you and the company. As such, you are not able to change your mind after making the investment. Once you make any investment you will need to live with this decision. So be sure an opportunity is the right fit for you and your circumstances prior to making any investment commitments.
MNVest is the official name of the legislation that passed in Minnesota that calls for the creation of Minnesota state administrative rules that allow Minnesota businesses to raise capital from Minnesota residents.A Community Public Offering, or CPO, is the unofficial name for an offering made using these administrative rules. Additionally, whether referred to generally as a CPO or, specific to Minnesota offerings, a MN Vest-related offering, both are a form of what is known as Crowdfunding. Crowdfunding gained popularity allowing people to raise money from the general public in return for promotional products or, in some cases, nothing at all. Until now, Crowdfunding did not allow for is a securities transaction, or more simply, the ability for a company/individual to raise capital from the public in return for giving formal ownership in his or her business to those providing funds. Thus Crowdfunding, in the context of MN Vest, now allows for MN-based companies to work with MN-based resident investors to raise money, from the public, and offer an ownership position in the company in return for investment.
How do I raise money – is it debt or equity?
Business owners can set the rules for the investment they seek as long as they fit within the MNVest guidelines. You can choose whether you want to raise money using a debt instrument or selling equity in your company, and you can choose the overall terms such as interest rate for debt or valuation of shares. Keep in mind that your business model and accomplishments will need to substantiate the value you are offering to your investors to be successful.
Do I have to give away a substantial part or even control of my company?
The answer is that it depends on the stage of your business, the strength of your story and business model, and any milestones you have reached. These all help determine value and, in turn, how much of the company the amount of money you want to raise represents in ownership. There are certain guidelines in this area that help establish the value of your company. For example, if you already have sales and profits, your value might be based on a multiple of profit. But at the end of the day the most important factor is how much an investor believes in your management and your chances to deliver on your goals.
What is the largest amount of money I can raise?
As a rule, you can raise up to $1 million without having to provide audited financial statements. You can raise up to $2 million, but the business will need to provide specific historical financial documentation (audited financials) as well as forward looking information.
What is the smallest amount of money I can raise?
There is no minimum amount specified in the MNVest guidelines.
The speed at which funds can be raised varies based on how attractive your deal is. If investors like your deal and you do a good job preparing your information, despite the fact that the maximum investment from any investor is $10,000 (which means you might need a number of investors to reach your goal), you can raise funds quickly. In some cases, as quickly as 30-60 days. But on average, we would recommend planning on taking about 6 months to raise the funds. Of course, there are no guarantees. If investors do not connect with your deal it could take longer. All funds go into an escrow account and once the goal is achieved the company may drawn down the funds to use.
Who manages the investors once they put their money into my company?
First Investment Partners and this portal are merely the conduit you use to make the connection and start a dialogue with the investor. It is your (the company) responsibility to manage all interaction with investors including answering questions, closing their investment, post offering communications, etc.
I don't know how to create some of the documents that I need to supply to investors – can FIP help?
Any good business surrounds itself with advisors to help fill any voids in their knowledge and skill base. We recommend that every business use the services of experienced and successful lawyers, accountants and advisors to ensure they are complying with business rules and regulations from a variety of perspectives. These advisors can typically prepare the information needed to post your business on our portal. Although FIP has access to many of these resources, they are solely for our internal use – we do not provide these services to companies using this portal.
After investing if someone changes their mind do we have to give their money back?
An investors decision is a binding agreement between them and the company. Once a subscription agreement (or note agreement in the case of debt) is completed and funds have changed hands then the investor is fully committed and the funds are owned by the company. The company has no obligation to return any funds to investors who may have changed their minds or whose needs have changed post their investment. As a result, it is incumbent on you, the company, to make sure that you have represented your business accurately and that your prospective investors understand the commitment they are making and are comfortable with it.
I have a business I would like to promote on your portal – what do I do?
Fill out our contact us form as completely as possible and a representative from our company will contact you to discuss your offering and next steps.
What is a pledge or bookmark?
A pledge or bookmark is an investor's commitment to make an investment in a company. Although is not legally binding until a subscription or note agreement is executed and funds are sent, it is a good faith document and should not be entered into lightly.
A subscription agreement is the formal "contract" between the company and the investor and spells out the representations, terms and ownership details for the investor's investment. It is a binding agreement and asks the investor to make certain important representations such as Minnesota residency, which is required to make this type of investment.
How do I send you the funds?
Funds can be sent via paper check or electronic transfer. Details will be provided once a pledge/bookmark has been submitted by the investor and the subscription or note agreement is executed.
Where can I find a copy of the actual Minnesota Statutes about investment crowdfunding?
You can find the full legislation and statues here.
I am having difficulties logging in – how do I get in touch with tech support?
Please contact us should you be having any difficulties using our portal. Our contact form will ask for your contact info and a description of the issue you are experiencing. A tech support person will reach out to you promptly.
If I have invested and have questions do I contact FIP or the company directly?
All questions about your investment should be directed to the company directly. Should you have questions about the FIP portal (such as listing an opportunity) then please contact us.
In order to prevent cyber attacks and data breaches, First Investment Partners will implement Least Privilege and Least Functionality Principles as outlined in NIST 800-53 rev4, as well as industry standard protections for security and data storage.
Users and Administrators will be required to use strong passwords and will be encouraged to use 2-Factor Authentication (2FA) for the site. User accounts and passwords will not be shared by users and multiple failed login attempts will result in the account being locked until the user can complete the lost password/locked account request.
Users and Administrators will not have access to any more data or user information than is minimally necessary to complete the defined tasks of their account's role. Users and Administrators will also have the functionality of their account limited to only those functions necessary, i.e. users can view and buy securities, but not see administrative areas and Administrators can view administrative areas, but cannot purchase securities.
ALL ISSUERS ON THE SITE WILL BE REQUIRED TO FOLLOW THESE RULES AND WILL NOT BE GRANTED WAIVERS FROM THESE SECURITY POLICIES.
o What reasonable steps will be taken immediately and a time frame for remediation of the issue, preferably with assistance from local, state and federal authorities.
what steps First Investment Partners is taking to remedy the situation as necessary.
3. Post a notice in a conspicuous place on the landing page of the portal informing all visitors of the breach and what steps have been taken to remedy the breach.
By accessing the website at https://www.1stinvestmentpartners.com and related subdomains, you are agreeing to be bound by these terms of service, all applicable laws and regulations, and agree that you are responsible for compliance with any applicable local laws. If you do not agree with any of these terms, you are prohibited from using or accessing this site. The materials contained in this website are protected by applicable copyright and trademark law.
to such materials or on any sites linked to this site.
In no event shall First Investment Partners or its suppliers be liable for any damages (including, without limitation, damages for loss of data or profit, or due to business interruption) arising out of the use or inability to use the materials on First Investment Partners 's website, even if First Investment Partners or a First Investment Partners authorized representative has been notified orally or in writing of the possibility of such damage. Because some jurisdictions do not allow limitations on implied warranties, or limitations of liability for consequential or incidental damages, these limitations may not apply to you.
The materials appearing on First Investment Partners 's website could include technical, typographical, or photographic errors. First Investment Partners does not warrant that any of the materials on its website are accurate, complete or current. First Investment Partners may make changes to the materials contained on its website at any time without notice. However,First Investment Partners does not make any commitment to update the materials.
First Investment Partners has not reviewed all of the sites linked to its website and is not responsible for the contents of any such linked site. The inclusion of any link does not imply endorsement by First Investment Partners of the site. Use of any such linked website is at the user's own risk.
First Investment Partners may revise these terms of service for its website at any time without notice. By using this website, you are agreeing to be bound by the then current version of these terms of service.
These terms and conditions are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Minnesota, and you irrevocably submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts in the State of Minnesota.
PRIVACY + SECURITY POLICY Your privacy is important to us.
Identifiable Information (PII) will be encrypted when stored according to industry best practices.
purposes. First Investment Partners explicitly obeys all Do Not Track settings in your browser.


text:
Russell Herman Conwell (February 15, 1843 – December 6, 1925) was an American Baptist minister, orator, philanthropist, author, lawyer, and writer. He is best remembered as the founder and first president of Temple University in Philadelphia, as the Pastor of The Baptist Temple, and for his inspirational lecture, "Acres of Diamonds". He was born in South Worthington, Massachusetts.

Biography

Early life
The son of Massachusetts farmers, Conwell left home to attend the Wilbraham Wesleyan Academy and later Yale University. In 1862, before graduating from Yale, he enlisted in the Union Army during the American Civil War. Conwell desired to enlist in the war effort shortly after its outbreak in 1861, but could not initially gain the approval of his father, Martin Conwell. His abolitionist father ultimately changed his mind, allowing Conwell to enlist in Company "F" of the 27th Massachusetts Volunteers, better known as the "Mountain Boys". Conwell and the Mountain Boys served in North Carolina and first engaged the opposition at Kinston, North Carolina. There Conwell gained a reputation for self-sacrifice.

During the "Gum Swamp" expedition, he returned to the battlefield to retrieve the bodies of two of his deceased soldiers, and later during the same campaign purposefully drew enemy fire upon his position – resulting in his being shot in the shoulder – in order to gain a tactical advantage on his Confederate adversaries.  On September 25, 1862 he was commissioned as a captain (to rank from September 9, 1862) and placed in command of Company F of the 46th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment. He was mustered out of service, along with his regiment, on July 29, 1863.

After his nine-month enlistment, Conwell returned home to Massachusetts to convalesce after contracting a dangerous fever that plagued him throughout the summer of 1863. Upon regaining health, he volunteered for a three-year enlistment in the Second Massachusetts Artillery and was commissioned as a captain in command of Company D on September 9, 1863. He then returned to North Carolina and was placed in command of a fort in Newport Barracks. After his soldiers there had not been paid for three months, Conwell requested and received permission to travel to Newberne to secure remuneration for his men. While he gained permission to cross enemy lines, he did not secure a permit to be absent from this post, nor did it appear that the 21-year-old Conwell understood the distinction. Twenty miles into his trip, Conwell learned that Confederate forces attacked and overran his company's position. When subsequently reported that the absence of Union officers contributed to the loss, Conwell was placed under arrest and detained in Newberne pending an investigation. It is for this incident Conwell has been accused of desertion by his detractors. Conwell was mustered out of the 2nd Massachusetts Heavy Artillery on May 20, 1864. While he claimed that he was later reinstated by General James B. McPherson, no military records confirm his statement.

Two months into his detention, and prior to the completion of the investigation, Conwell was assigned to Nashville, Tennessee, in June 1864 to join General MacPherson's movement against Atlanta. During the battle of Kennesaw Mountain, now Lieutenant-Colonel Conwell's arm and shoulder were broken during battle from an exploding artillery shell. While recovering from this injury, the atheist Conwell converted to Christianity in large part due to the heroism exhibited by his loyal private assistant, John H. Ring.

Upon recovering from this latest injury, Colonel Conwell was assigned to Washington with a dispatch to General Logan. But Conwell's health compelled him to resign and retire from service, whereupon he received an honorable discharge, as well as a certificate for faithful and patriotic service from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

After the Civil War, Conwell studied law at the Albany Law School. Over the next several years, he worked as an attorney, journalist, and lecturer first in Minneapolis, then in Boston. Additionally, during this period, he published about 10 books, including campaign biographies of Ulysses S. Grant, Rutherford B. Hayes, and James A. Garfield. In 1880, he was ordained as a Baptist minister and took over a congregation in Lexington, Massachusetts.

Baptist minister

Alexander Reed, a leader of the Grace Baptist Church of Philadelphia, heard Conwell preach when he visited him in Lexington, Massachusetts, and recommended that Conwell become a pastor for his congregation. The official "call" was made on October 16, 1882. Conwell's first sermon at Grace Baptist was on November 30, 1882. At this time the church was located at Berks and Mervine. That building was demolished in 1969 to make way for Temple University's Gladfelter and Anderson Halls.

The December 4, 1882 issue of The Public Ledger reported the following about the new minister and church:

Conwell ended evening services by holding an hour of prayer, leading song services, and giving commentary relevant to his sermons. The musical pastor often performed a solo piece during evening services.

Conwell's magnetic personality, high descriptive, practical, and engaging sermons soon drew crowds so large that the church outgrew its capacity to seat all that wanted to come.

Hattie May Wiatt
Reverend Conwell used the story of Hattie May Wiatt and her 57 cents to spur phenomenal fundraising to build a new church. Hattie May lived nearby, and she and other children were gathered outside when Conwell walked up one Sunday morning. Conwell carried Hattie May on his shoulders and sat her in a corner in the back. When he ran into her walking the streets one day, he told her not to worry that one day they'd build a new church so all the children could come in. Hattie May died at six years of age. When she died from diphtheria, she had saved 57 cents to contribute to the cause. The girl's mother told Reverend Conwell that Hattie May had been saving money to help build a bigger church and gave him the coins. Reverend Conwell had the 57 cents turned into 57 pennies, told the congregation the story of little Hattie May, and auctioned the pennies for a return of about $250. In addition, 54 of the 57 pennies were returned to Reverend Conwell, and he later put them up on display.

On June 28, 1886, a nearby house at the corner of Broad and Berks streets, referred to as The Temple because the property owner did not want the house to be called a church until the mortgage was fully paid, was investigated for purchase by the Wiatt Mite Society, which was organized for the purpose of taking the 57 cents and enlarging on them sufficiently to buy the property for the Primary Department of the Sunday school. A few days later, the congregation agreed to purchase the lot. The first payment for the lot was 57 cents. The property was conveyed to the church on January 31, 1887. In that same house, the first classes of Temple College, later Temple University, were held. The house was later sold to allow Temple College to move and the Baptist Temple (now the Temple Performing Arts Center) to grow, and still, more of that money went towards founding the Samaritan Hospital. This story so touched Conwell that he repeated it many times. The transcript for the sermon where Conwell tells this story in full is available at Temple University Libraries.

In September 1887, at the Centennial Celebration of the United States Constitution, money received from the Wiatt Mite Society was given "for the success of the new Temple". This was the first time the name "Temple" was used in place of the church name.

In 1888, the youth group considered becoming a worldwide organization. The pastor was a speaker at a Christian Endeavor convention. Conwell was very impressed by the purpose and enthusiasm of the group. He later recommended the Christian Endeavor to the youth group of the church. On September 10, 1888, the Society of Christian Endeavor was finally organized. The Christian Endeavor youth groups continued to meet at the Church until the 1960s.

Charles M. Davis, a young deacon, approached the pastor with his desire to preach; however, Davis had little education and was without sufficient funds to continue his studies. Conwell agreed to tutor him. Over the next few days, seven prospective students met with Conwell, and Temple College was conceived. Ultimately, Conwell became Dr. Conwell, president of the college, now known as Temple University.

As the membership continued to grow to over one thousand and the Sunday School to even greater numbers, a larger facility was needed. Consequently, on March 29, 1889, a contract was negotiated to build the new church. The ground was broken for the new building on March 27, 1889, and the cornerstone was laid on July 13, 1889.

On February 15, 1891, Conwell preached his last sermon in the old church at Marvine and Berks Streets. He preached the first sermon at the new building on March 1. Sixty people were baptized in the afternoon, and several addresses were given. The Rev. L. B. Hartman, the first minister, was present. The celebration continued throughout the week, and the church was filled to capacity for all of its services. The new church later became known as The Baptist Temple.

The congregation of the church continues today as the Grace Baptist Church.

"Acres of Diamonds"

The original inspiration for "Acres of Diamonds", his most famous essay, occurred in 1869 when Conwell was traveling in the Middle East. The work began as a speech, "at first given," wrote Conwell in 1913, "before a reunion of my old comrades of the Forty-sixth Massachusetts Regiment, which served in the Civil War and in which I was captain." It was delivered as a lecture on the Chautauqua circuit prior to his becoming pastor of the Grace Baptist Church in Philadelphia in 1882 and was first published in book form in 1890 by the John Y. Huber Company of Philadelphia. Before his death in 1925, Conwell would deliver it over 6,152 times around the world.

The central idea of the work is that one need not look elsewhere for opportunity, achievement, or fortune; the resources to achieve all good things are present in one's own community. This theme is developed by an introductory anecdote, credited by Conwell to an Arab guide, about a man who wanted to find diamonds so badly that he sold his property and went off in futile search for them. The new owner of his home discovered that a rich diamond mine was located right there on the property. Conwell elaborates on the theme through examples of success, genius, service, or other virtues involving ordinary Americans contemporary to his audience: "dig in your own backyard!"

In A People's History of the United States, historian Howard Zinn comments that the message was that anyone could get rich if he tried hard enough, while implying that Conwell held elitist attitudes by quoting the following from his speech:

Conwell's capacity to establish Temple University and his other civic projects largely derived from the income that he earned from this speech. The book has been regarded as a classic of New Thought literature since the 1870s. After Conwell's death, proceeds from this speech were dedicated to the Sunday Breakfast Association, a homeless shelter in Philadelphia.

Legacy
Conwell's name lives on in the present-day Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, in South Hamilton, Massachusetts, an interdenominational evangelical theological seminary formed in 1969 by the merging of two former divinity schools, Conwell School of Theology of Temple University in Philadelphia and Gordon Divinity School in Wenham, Massachusetts.

Russell Conwell Middle Magnet School in Philadelphia bears his name as well. The school yearbook is entitled Acres of Diamonds. Temple University's football team wear diamond decals on their helmets and diamond trim on their collars to reference Conwell's "Acre of Diamonds" speech.

The film Johnny Ring and the Captain's Sword (1921) is based upon Conwell's writings regarding his experiences in the Civil War.

The elementary school in Worthington, Massachusetts, his home town, bears his name.

Selected works
Acres of Diamonds
Life of Charles Haddon Spurgeon, the World's Greatest Preacher, 1892
Every Man His Own University, 1917
Increasing Personal Efficiency, 1917
The Key to Success, 1917
Health Healing and Faith, 1921
Praying for Money, 1921
Subconscious Religion, 1921
Why Lincoln Laughed, 1922
The Romantic Rise of a Great American (biography of John Wanamaker), 1924

References

External links

 "Temple's founder" article at Temple University
 Complete text in paginated format
 Read "Acres of Diamonds" at Project Gutenberg
 Read "Acres of Diamonds" at Temple University website
 Russell Conwell history page at Grace Baptist Church of Bluebell
Russell Conwell "The History of Fifty-Seven Cents" original sermon December 1, 1912

1843 births
1925 deaths
Burials at Monument Cemetery
People from Worthington, Massachusetts
Baptist ministers from the United States
New Thought writers
Yale University alumni
Albany Law School alumni
Presidents of Temple University
University and college founders
Lawyers from Philadelphia
Clergy from Philadelphia
Union Army officers

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


Rosary Screensaver - White, Red, Pink, Orange, Yellow Roses.
Get tons of roses on your Screen, only for $19.95 !
Promo Screen Calendar creates an active calendar with your logo, info and images as desktop wallpapers of your clients. It can be a power marketing tool for your company promotion.
Pool balls randomly moving and colliding in zero gravity! In this Screen Saver, pool balls randomly move about and collide in zero gravity.
Christmas Breakout Screen Saver is a combination Screen Saver and interactive game with a Christmas theme based on the classic arcade game.
Screen Puzzler is a fun Screen Saver type of puzzle-solving game that scrambles your current Screen image for you to recover to it's original.
Allows you to capture anything that you can see on your computer Screen.
Lets you create 3D models with textures and lighting effects for use as 3D Screen savers. The program displays 3D objects that you can rotate and move around on your Desktop.
ABF Splash Screen is a tool for showing any splash screens. Everything you need is to find or create a splash picture. Splash Screen can have a non-rectangular shape.
This is a cool freeware Screen-Saver / game of f16 flying around This is a cool freeware Screen-Saver / game of f16 flying around your desktop, shooting each other and bombing the ground.
This Screen Saver rotates photos of the B-1B Lancer This slideshow-style Screen Saver rotates photos of the B-1B Lancer.
Free screensaver with 3D graphics Check out this FREE screensaver featuring amazing 3D graphics and unique music tracks.
Protect your monitor with photos of the F-18 Hornet. See more than 60 images of the F-18 Hornet and Super-Hornet in the registered version (12 included in the demo version).
The EleFun Multimedia Company has released the first Screen-mate Elefunia. Elefunia is a butterfly which sits at your task bar. This is a marvelous and very interactive butterfly.
This screensaver shows stunning images of US military aircraft, tanks, equipment and more.
Screen OCX is an ActiveX control for capturing and drawing pixels on an application's Screen. There are four simple properties. The pixel property lets you get or put a pixel on the Screen.
Print, save, email anything on Screen fast. Fast &amp\; easy Screen capture for busy people who need simple tools to save time.
Alamoon Image Enhancer automatically enhances and improves colors in your digital images. It is a self-acting, hands free, one-click picture enhancer.
Professional music creation tool. Reason is music software package that offers samplers, analog synths, mixers, step-time drum machines, effects, and a realtime multi-track sequencer.
You don't have to worry about losing the songs and movies any more. You can just drag and drop files from your iPod back to Finder with ease.
Watch Claude Monet fine art on your screen. This slide show screensaver covers 20 paintings by Claude Monet.
Allows you to to turn your CD recorder into an efficient, reliable, and cost-effective backup recovery device.
Nidesoft PSP Video Converter is very easy to use, and supports many video file formats including AVI,MPEG,WMV,MOV,DivX,Xvid, ASF,3GP to PSP video.


text:
Ukrainian M.D. admits killing Donbass combattants
DonbassUncategorized
By Tom Winter Last updated Feb 19, 2018
Sputnik France, June 20, 2016
Translated from French by Tom Winter
The anesthesiologist Alexander Chernov, who worked in the city of Ienakievo in the Donbass, said that in providing emergency care to veterans of the Donetsk People's Republic (DNR) he did whatever he could to cause maximum damage to patients.
In an interview with the online channel Ukrlife.tv, anesthesiologist Alexander Chernov told the chilling story of his "achievements" during fighting in eastern Ukraine. The video was posted on YouTube. According to Mr. Chernov, he only used standard resuscitation drugs.
"I inflicted maximum damage to enemy patients with medication. At first glance, it would look like a heart attack, a stroke, or simply something incomprehensible. Only careful and costly expertise can discover a person's true cause of death," said the doctor/murderer.
The Ukrainian resuscitator added that he had sent in all personal data and diagnoses of patients to the Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) by email and Skype.
"Many of my colleagues, unfortunately, believe that doctors are out of politics. But I continue to assure everyone that the Hippocratic oath should not be an excuse to help the enemy," said Alexander Chernov.
Chernov said that after leaving the DNR he continued to practice medicine in the territories under the control of Kiev.
Alexander ChernovUkrainian M.D
Tom Winter 1507 posts 0 comments
Contributing editor and volunteer translator Tom Winter, retired Classics professor, monitors the news in 6 languages, and sometimes cannot help writing satire, since that's what today's news mostly deserves
Color Revolutions and Culture: Patriotism vs. Nationalism
Can Russia become a superpower?


The Center for Systems Security and Information Assurance (CSSIA) provides this 122-page PDF as part of a series of lab exercises intended to support courseware for CompTIA Security certification. After completing this lab, "students will learn the process of capturing network traffic using three different methods, the tcpdump command, Wireshark, and Network Minor." Users are encouraged to visit the center's site and create a free login to view these and other learning resources.


text:
Looking for a career in fuel cell technology? Now hiring for these positions
On-Demand Power
WATT Imperium™
What is a Fuel Cell?
How does a fuel cell work?
Unlimited Possibilities. One Power Source.
WATT's Imperium is a modular and scalable compact hybrid power solution that cleanly, quietly and efficiently operates on readily available and accessible fuels. See what makes WATT so unique and how our hybrid power management system provides reliable power when and where you need it.
Reliable Power for Smooth Sailing.
Whether you're hosting a cocktail party or planning a long voyage, you can be sure that the ImperiumTM is always operating to serve you power on demand. The ImperiumTM operates as a standalone or integrated system, dynamically supplying and managing power on demand throughout your boat.
RV: Hit the Open Road with Confidence.
Portable, efficient, quiet, and easy to install — WATT's ImperiumTM provides peace of mind for the open road. Your RV's power demands can be high, but WATT's ImperiumTM fuel cell system is powerful enough to run all of your electronics, mile after mile and trip after trip. Open new roads and explore the world with WATT.
Readily-Available Dependable Power.
WATT's Nemesis Hybrid Power System automatically and efficiently provides clean power on demand from easily accessible fuel sources, Working All The Time for your remote power needs. Find out how WATT's Nemesis provides uninterrupted power even in the most remote locations.
WATT Fuel Cell Closes Financing Round Led by EQT
Toby Z. Rice, EQT's President and Chief Executive Officer, to JoinWATT's Board of Directors MOUNT PLEASANT, Pa., Feb. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — WATT Fuel Cell announced today that it has closed a financing round led by EQT Corporation to continue the company's development and commercialization of its solid oxide fuel cell technology. Other participants in… Read more »
WATT Fuel Cell and Peoples Gas Announce Milestone in Residential Fuel Cell Program
Mount Pleasant, PA, December 22, 2020—WATT Fuel Cell ("WATT"), in partnership with Peoples Gas ("Peoples"), has reached a significant milestone on their path to the commercialization of residential fuel cell systems. Utilizing its proprietary additive manufacturing process, WATT has increased its fuel cell stack power more than 100% to over 2000W and improved system efficiency… Read more »
Pittsburgh Technology Council Honors WATT Fuel Cell with a Tech 50 Award for Innovation
Mount Pleasant, PA, October 29, 2018 — WATT Fuel Cell Corporation ("WATT" or the "Company") was awarded a Tech 50 for Innovation in Manufacturing from the Pittsburgh Technology Council at a celebration on October 25th, 2018 in downtown Pittsburgh. WATT was selected for their work developing the company's patented fuel cell technology and proprietary Additive… Read more »
Join Our Newsletter! Stay up-to-date with WATT Fuel Cell Product releases and early adopter information!
Today's Innovation, Tomorrow's Power
Watt Fuel Cell
402 East Main Street, Suite 800
Mount Pleasant, PA 15666
Copyright © 2023 Watt Fuel Cell Corporation. All Rights Reserved. | Sitemap


A partir del lunes 9 de enero de 2017, la Ciudad de Bridgeport cerrará Arctic Street entre Helen Street y Seaview Avenue para reparar el puente. Este cierre durará aproximadamente 6 meses.
Beginning Monday, January 9, 2017, Arctic Street will be closed between Helen Street and Seaview Avenue, by the City of Bridgeport, for bridge repairs. The closing is estimated to last about 6 months.


text:
Tracey Thorn "Solo Songs and Collaborations 1982-2015"
17. December 2015, Mario Lasar Everything but the girlRecord of the weekTracey Thorn
Tracey Thorn
"Solo Songs and Collaborations 1982-2015"
(Caroline / Universal)
If I was actually allowed to create a world according to my wishes, I would close the door behind me up until around mid January, lie down on my couch and listen to Tracey Thorn's solo album over and over again, while re-reading her exquisite biography "Bedsit Disco Queen." That might sound pretty lame and misanthropic, but that is actually not what I am going for at all. I am much rather trying to indulge my urge for contemplation and Tracey Thorn is just right for that. And it would only be until mid January, as I have mentioned before.
Up until then I would listen to all of the thirty-four (!) tracks that can be found on the compilation over again, get up once in a while and put the kettle on – maybe during "Venceremos", which is a collaborative piece of work done together with Robert Wyatt and Claudia Figueroa, which has ended up a little too world music, a little too coffee-house-style, making me not too eager to listen to it more than is necessary.
I certainly won't be getting up to get a new cup of tea when "Oh, the divorces" is on – or "Kentish Town", "Hands up to the Ceiling" or "Sister Winter", which is Tracy Thorn's version of a song by Sufjan Stevens. Yet another beautiful cover version: "The Book of Love", originally by Stephen Merritt aka. The Magnetic Fields. I cannot help, but put down the book, when Tracey renders Merritt's lyrics in her sombre and soft voice: " The book of love is long and boring / No one can lift the damn thing / It's full of charts and facts and figures / And instructions for dancing / But I, I love it when you read to me / And you, you can read me anything."
Thorn could read/sing to me from the phone book and I would still find it very enjoyable – ever since the Marine Girls and later with Everything But the Girl, who were the most melancholic, most tender, brainy, shy and yet underdog variety of the popular brand of barjazz-pop-revivals the mid-Eighties had to offer (just think of early Sade, Working Week, Matt Bianco – and among them the clumsy couple Thorn/Ben Watt). Until their outstanding hit "Missing" happened with their album "Amplified Heart" in the year 1994 which turned EGBT into something like superstars, a role that did not quite suit Thorn and Watt too well, who – which is rather indicative of the kind of people they are – seemed fairly uncomfortable with their newly won fame. Even before "Missing", Tracey Thorn had already thought and worked outside of the concept of bands, duos or any other musical ties to work on her own or with other people.
Something that she seems to have done a lot, if you just take a look at the extensive double CD: CD number one is a collection of most acoustic versions and her classic solo pieces, while CD 2 is dedicated to Thorn's tracks which have more of a clubby feel to them. Naturally "Protection", her collaboration with Massive Attack, can be found on there, but also a lot of remixes of songs like "It's all true" and "Why Does the Wind?" – and as is fairly common when it comes to remixes, not all of them are great, not all of them are necessary, though I would not want to be the one to criticise the work of the likes of Tiefschwarz, Ada and Hot Chip. However, in a disco dress/intended for the dance floor, Tracey Thorn's style as vocalist sometimes just seems a bit off. As if she feels a little uncomfortable as soon as there's too much glitter and glamour surrounding her. She describes this feeling of not fitting in (because of her considerable height alone) simply marvellously in "Bedsit Disco Queen" – and yes, somehow she is both, Bedsit and Disco, minus the stroboscope.
Alright, I'll see you in four weeks then, right?
Christina Mohr
What might seem fairly surprising upon listening to the record for the first time is that even though you may have thought yourself to be quite knowledgeable when it comes to Tracey Thorn's work, you might also have to come to realise that you find yourself unfamiliar with a lot of the songs on this compilation – much like I had to. This may be due to the fact that some of the songs chosen for this record are perceived as rather unobtrusive when considered in their original context of each respective album. As it turns out now, to do so was/is rather foolish. It is quite possible that the individual pieces only reach their full potential and a new level of quality, when they are being considered within the context of Tracey Thorn's musical biography. The individual pieces interact and influence each other so to speak, hence forming a new entity of outstanding brilliance.
The album's not being structured in a linear or chronological fashion, helps create the impression that Thorn's work has not yet come to a conclusive end. This compilation underlines the procedural character of her work, which is why the actual term of the "oeuvre" does not seem to make much sense in this particular case as the term seems too much rooted in the sense of completion. Above all Thorn's collaborations with other artists (Style Council and Working Week on CD 1) respectively the remixes of her songs by other artists (e.g. Ada, Morgan Geist or Hot Chip on CD 2) demonstrate Thorn's tendency to seek creative interaction and discourse, underlining her being open to the influence of fellow artists when it comes to her own creative process.
The first CD sports rather "classic" song writing in comparison to the second one that comes across fairly "electronic",. Thorn's tracks appear very accessible and are sparingly orchestrated. Reminiscences of folk pop are ubiquitous. This sense of musical reduction may well be connected to the fact that the space in which the lyrics are unfolding is supposed to not be dominated too much by music. Thorn's lyrics have always been of a certain literary quality, which however, to a certain degree has remained intangible. The world Thorn describes in her songs is permeated by bits and pieces of real life, which is achieved and illustrated by her reference to places that have been borrowed from reality ("Kentish Town", "By Piccadilly Station I Sat Down And Wept"). It is through that that Thorn creates a pleasant sense of familiarity – you can easily lose yourself in the world that she creates and feel at home for a little while, you do however not get the sense that you are now obliged to stay there forever. Another aspect when it comes to her lyrics is the manner in which the potential for transgression and transcendence, for loss of control, is inherent and at times imminent, but then eventually is not implemented (maybe because the protagonists of the songs exercise too much self-control after all).
Tracey Thorn creates music that outlines melodrama without yielding to it fully. It may well be that after all it is a sort of equilibrium that is being aspired to. Somehow there was something distinctly therapeutic about this for me.
Mario Lasar
Various Artists "The Ladies of too Slow to Disco"
DJ Supermarkt has once again unearthed amazing songs, that are perfectly balanced between virtuosity…
The Notwist "Superheroes, Ghostvillains + Stuff"
"It is an object lesson on the modus operandi of the band, without containing the air of just presen…
Arling and Cameron "Good Times"
Alexander's Festival Hall falls under the influence of Dadaist rapping and some summery pop strategi…
Róisín Murphy "Hairless Toys"
There is more than one opinion in pop criticism. We're celebrating the difference and the arguments.…
Die Geschichten der Anderen:
Das Filter
Calling In A Favor
Kaput – Geschichten bei Anderen
Verlagssitz
Kaput - Magazin für Insolvenz & Pop | Aquinostrasse 1 | Zweites Hinterhaus, 50670 Köln | Germany
Herausgeber & Chefredaktion:
Thomas Venker & Linus Volkmann
Autoren, Fotografen, Kontakt
Kaput - Magazin für Insolvenz & Pop
marketing@kaput-mag.com
Urheberrecht /
Inhaltliche Verantwortung / Rechtswirksamkeit
Kaput Supporter
Kaput – Magazin für Insolvenz & Pop dankt seinen Supporter_innen!
By continuing to use the site, you agree to the use of cookies and accept our data policy. More information


I have brought an amazing weight reducing supplement on this page. Heavy weight is the disgusting thing. People who have this problem can better understand. Many women want to lose their extra weight. And, our modern youth want to become slim and smart. That supplement name is Luna Trim. And this Luna Trim helps you to reduce your extra weight in natural way. It will make you slim and smart. This supplement is being demanded in the markets.
I had been facing the disgusting problem of healthy or heavy weight. I had used many weight loss supplements but those all had given me nothing. In other clear words, those all supplements are fraudulent. When I had failed to reduce my extra weight from fraudulent supplements then I decided that I will not spend my money anymore. I have been come to know about Luna Trim by my best girlfriend. First I refused her and told my past experiences. But she told me that this supplement truly works in natural way. Luna Trim is the best weight loss supplement.
Luna Trim works in natural way and helps you to reduce your extra weight. Luna Trim deals with Caffeine to lessen your extra weight in natural way. This supplement helps to reduce additional fats in your body. It washes your stomach in natural way. It burns your fat cells in your body. It prevents your body so that your body could not produce fat in your body again. In other words, supplement solves your prolix problem of heavy weight for good or permanently. All this happens in natural way so that you are not put in any harm. Caffeine is used to reducing your extra weight but it is pure natural ingredient and added in Luna Trim after proven and tested.
Luna Trim is medically verified so that it cannot affect you any side effect in any case. Luna Trim deals with Green Tea Extract ingredient that is another pure herbal and vital ingredient of this supplement. It is added in supplement to maintaining your weight. This supplement keeps you in shape. It will also control your cholesterol level. This supplement also controls your irregular system. Many women want to lose their extra weight but they are afraid by their sugar problem. Luna Trim also controls your sugar level and insulin as well. Now that it is pure natural supplement so that you can better understand that it helps you to reduce your extra weight in natural way.
Luna Trim deals with Caffeine which is the herbal and natural ingredient. It is medically verified natural ingredient and is used for many problems. But Caffeine is used especially for losing your extra weight. Luna Trim deals with all-natural ingredients. It also deals with Green Tea Extract that is also natural ingredient and is used in this supplement to maintaining your weight. Additionally, truly this supplement does not contain any harmful compounds or chemicals, and binders or fillers.
Luna Trim works pure naturally but you have to or should adopt other necessary steps that are in your hand. And that is these steps are necessary so that this weight loss supplement could work for you.
Eating: When you are being treated then you should not eat so many eatables. It is logical that when you eat or drink so much then how can supplement make you loss weighted? You have to only struggle to stopping you to eating or drinking so much. Generally, excessive eating and drinking make you healthy and fat. So eat and drink well and less.
Exercise: Folks know that exercise keeps you fit and energetic as well. People who do exercise maintain their health fit and healthy in the sense of smart. When you are using this weight loss supplement then you are recommended that you should do exercise because it is necessary for you and priceless as well.
You can take and feel these advantages which I am going to tell you below. This weight loss supplement will give you many beneficial advantages.
It will reduce additional fats in your body in natural way.
It will burn your calories.
It will burn your fat cells in your body so that your body could not produce fat again in your body.
It will keep you fit and healthy. It will keep you in shape.
It deals with all-natural ingredients so that it is pure natural supplement. It is most important thing so that you use this supplement without any fear in your mind.
It is time to telling you whole sum up of this supplement. It is weight reducing supplement. It loses your extra weight in natural way and in its own way. It also prevents your body to producing additional fat again in your body. If you have problem of sugar then in that case you have not to worry because Luna Trim cares all about you. It deals with all-natural ingredients and does not contain any harmful chemicals, binders and fillers. It does not affect you any adverse side effect. If you are afraid by your friend about its side effect then it is the best way to check bottle, give order for your trail bottle.
Luna Trim has not any side effects. Now that it is pure natural weight loss supplement so that it cannot contain any harmful chemicals that are caused of side effects. You can also check Luna Trim to your personal doctor. I am sure that your doctor will give your permission that you can use this supplement because this supplement does not affect you any side effect. You only need to read precautions of this supplement that are written on the wrapper of this supplement.
Your product is available at the original website of this supplement. Visit the original website right now and fill the form. Your trial bottle is delivered at your home with delivery free offer.


text:
COUNCIL REJECTS PLEA TO RESTORE AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM MONEY
CAROL LEWIS Staff WriterSUN-SENTINEL
The Children's Services Council refused to restore cuts to Delray Beach's after-school program Thursday, despite pleas from city officials who said children will suffer.
"There will be 100 kids on the streets unless we do something to resolve this," Delray Beach City Commissioner David Randolph said. "They could be subject to almost anything."
Delray Beach city officials have been at odds with the council since June, when it proposed cutting subsidies for out-of-school activities to shift money to care for preschool children.
Programs countywide were hit by the decision, but with $61,000 in cuts to the Delray Beach program, city officials say they are among the hardest hit.
"I find it hard to swallow," Commissioner Jay Alperin said. "I'm begging you on behalf of Delray Beach to reconsider."
Delray Beach was expecting $159,505 from the council but received $98,303.
Instead of taking money from their 1995-96 budget, or charging children a $15 monthly fee to make up the deficit, city commissioners opted to cut the program from 400 to 300 children.
Delray Beach City Manager David Harden, who also appealed to the council, said the city pays about $110,000 annually for the program.
The council, created as a special taxing district, collects its own taxes to pay for children's programs. Property owners countywide pay 35 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value.
Council members did not budge Thursday on their budget decisions. They also suggested that cities should be prepared to pay more to subsidize after-school programs.
Officials in other cities dropped the matter in June, after making appeals to the council.
Boynton Beach city commissioners had requested $118,800, but will get $89,000. Instead of cutting any of the 115 slots for the children, commissioners kicked in $8,300.
"We were concerned for the parents and the family," said Debbie Majors, the city's recreation supervisor. "We were grateful to get the $89,100. We know how times are tough on everybody."
The Boca Raton Housing Authority will receive $103,721, the same subsidy as last year, from the council. George Williams, the authority's director, had requested more, but said the allocation was better than a cut.
"We are living with whatever decision," said Williams, who did not attend Thursday's meeting. "It's difficult enough working with the kids to prevent them from going astray. I don't know if we have the energy to go back and ask them to reconsider and reconsider."


text:
Transcript: Survivors of Sexual Assault Confront Jeff Flake
Staff	 Sep 28, 2018
Got to give Trump credit for something. He's neutered every GOP Senator. Profiles in cowardice.... from Facebook…
Denver Public Schools Names Ron Cabrera Interim Superintendent
from Facebook https://denver.cbslocal.com/2018/09/27/interim-superintendent-ron-cabrera-denver-public-schools/ via IFTTT
from Facebook https://www.facebook.com/100001423668686/videos/1886309721426465 via IFTTT
Kayvan Khalatbari
from Facebook https://www.facebook.com/kayvanfordenver/videos/484863658661756/ via IFTTT
Ah, nothing like having a knee drained first thing in the morning... from Facebook https://www.facebook.com/100001423668686/videos/1139210569469721 via IFTTT
Rebel Girls
from Facebook https://www.facebook.com/rebelgirls/videos/244054996306766/ via IFTTT
Warriors for High Quality Schools
Staff	 Sep 7, 2018
we have sunk low in Denver Public Schools. perhaps lower than during the bussing wars in the 70s. We now have a white school board President, Ann Rowe, putting her hands on a black parent activist to stifle dissent and sow fear. I met Jim…
Body-cam vid shows Denver cops cuffed Indy editor as she photographed their badges – The…
Staff	 Aug 29, 2018
Beth McCann blew this one badly. Go back to 2008 and DPD was assaulting reporting during the DNC. Send a god damn message that this is civil rights violation. DPD culture must ABSORB the virtue of transparency to PROTECT them and their…


Compare Excursions is an initiative to provide Tours and Excursions in Tenerife to the over 5 million tourists that visit the Island every year, and more specifically, to the British ones.
Yes, we are British, and Spanish too, so we are the perfect bridge to help you with one thing: getting the best excursions at fair prices, with the highest comfort and security Online.
No matter whether you are still home, or just arrived to your holidays in Tenerife, we are open for you 24/7, all year round.
Think about this, you already booked your flights, hotel and even your car online, so why not booking your excursions online as well?
At Compare Excursions we provide you with a wide variety of tours and excursions, very well organised in categories, where it's easy for you to find the activities you feel like doing while here.
If you are in the mood for an adrenaline rush, you might want to go for a ride on the powerful jet skis at Los Gigantes, or Las Americas! It's amazing fun and you might also spot some dolphins on the go.
A Buggy or Quad Bike Safari might be suit for you too! These vehicles have one thing that makes them unique: direct contact with the elements of nature! Feel the warmth of the sun on your skin, the freshness of the breeze in your face, and yes, the dirt from the ground all over your body too! But guess what! That's precisely why it is one of the most sought after activities here! It is amazing fun, especially for groups!
Have you ever dreamed of flying? Here's your chance to go for it, and what a better place and moment than your holidays in Tenerife. Enjoy an incredible view of the most iconic places of the Island while gliding through the sky with total security. It's an experience that will blow your mind, and make you feel more alive than ever!
Unless you definitely can't stand being on a boat without getting sea-sick, this is a "must" in Canarias that you will surely enjoy. We have different options that you might like to explore.
You might like the Freebird Catamarans, the "F-15", and the "F-One". Luxurious, comfortable and modern, they deliver a unforgettable experience at affordable prices.
There are some thematic ships like the Peter Pan and Shogun, that re-create the ambient and the spirit of pirate ships. These ones are specially popular among families with little children.
Now, if you are more about exclusivity and luxury, then the Opera is your choice. Beautiful, elegant and smaller (with less people in it), you will love the experience aboard.
In all of the above mentioned ships there is a guarantee: if you don't see any whales or dolphins during your sail you can request a money refund. All of them include food and drinks in the fare, so you don't have to worry about it.
Visit some of the most representative places of Tenerife. Stop and take pictures in the most beautiful landscapes. Walk through centuries of history, and taste the flavors of the Canary gastronomy.
You can choose between three different options. Teide – Icod – Garachico – Masca, is a full day Coach Tour that will take you through historic places like the "thousands-years-old" Draco, the wine area of Icod, the mythic volcano El Teide and the wonderful landscapes of Masca among others.
You might also want to visit La Gomera, an island small in size but great in places to visit and full of history and mystery. This is our other full day Coach Tour.
Finally, if you only want to spend half a day in your Coach Tour, you should take our "volcano El Teide" tour. Visit Vilaflor and then go to the Teide National Park. In this tour you will have plenty of time to try going up the top of the volcano in the cable car (it is not included).
Isn't it a wonderful place to visit? If you would like to discover more interesting places and activities in Tenerife, please read the part 2 of this post here.
Could you inform me what style are you using on your site? It looks nice.
Hello! Thank you for contacting us! This is a Wordpress Site, our theme is Adventour, and we are using Elementor for building up the pages.


Many physicians who prescribe powerful painkillers, such as Oxycontin and Vicodin, for injured workers fail to follow the recommended treatment guidelines for monitoring their patients, which results in long-term drug use that may lead to addiction.
The Workers Compensation Research Instituteconcluded that approximately one in twelve injured workers who are prescribed narcotics are still using them three to six months later. The study found that workers prescribed these medications seldom receive recommended drug test monitoring and psychological evaluation, which can help to prevent future addiction.
The study comes amid a rising sea of painkiller addiction in the United States; there has been a 300% rise in the sale of these strong painkillers since 1999. The Workers Compensation Research Institute analyzed nearly 300,000 workers' compensation claims between 2006 and 2009 from twenty-one states, including Massachusetts, and followed the prescriptions associated with them.
The Institute found reassuring news for Massachusetts, the percentage of injured Massachusetts workerswho had long-term use of narcotics decreased from eleven percent to seven percent during the time period studied.
The study attributed the decrease in Massachusetts to including a mandatory physician education program. A law enacted in 2010 requires prescribers to receive training in effective pain management and identification of patients at high risk of abuse, in order to have their license renewed.
Massachusetts also launched a Prescription Monitoring Program, which is a database to stop patients from "doctor-shopping" for highly addictive pain medications. The law requires that doctors sign up and check the database, to see whether a patient has received other narcotic prescriptions in the past year.


Here's the cocktail I drink when I want to dream of going home in the summer.
Pour all the ingredients into a shaker filled with ice. Shake sharply to break the mint leaves. Strain into an old fashioned glass filled with ice allowing the mint fragments to flow into the drink, garnish with a slice of lemon and a sprig of mint.