HOME renovations are soaring across pockets of Melbourne, as homeowners opt for makeovers over moving.
Our love affair with revamping real estate, signalled by the popularity of reno-warrior television shows like The Block, grew strongest in the middle and outer suburbs.
Pascoe Vale was the state's renovation hotspot, according to building website Hipages, which compared renovation works in the first three months of 2016 with the same period last year.
The number of renovation jobs nearly tripled in the northern suburb, growing by 182 per cent.
Mulgrave, Frankston South, Balwyn and Clayton followed, more than doubling the number of renovation jobs in 12 months.
Langwarrin, Truganina, Hallam and Melton South also topped the list, with Geelong's Highton the only suburb out of Melbourne to make the top 10.
Wardrobes, waterproofing and plumbing were the most popular renovations.
Hipages founder Roby Sharon-Zipser said affordability was a key driver encouraging people to renovate.
"Many families have been discouraged from moving house by recent increases in prices and have decided they'd rather upgrade,'' he said.
"If you sell, where do you move to? But if you're willing to spend a few thousand dollars you may be able to get the better home you want," he said.
Mr Sharon-Zipser said the average renovation spend was $3000 to $4000, while some buyers had lashed out and spent as much as $400,000 on major structural changes.
He said there was a move across the country to make homes more sustainable, with homeowners upgrading plumbing systems, lighting and more modern fittings.
True Blue Homes chief executive officer Darryn Bass, pictured above, said homeowners were preferring to renovate than move, investing potential moving and sale costs back into their home. "The most popular requests were kitchens, bathrooms and laundries.
"If people are comfortable where they are but the home needs attention, they find it better to stay," he said.
He said adding a second storey to homes was also highly sought-after, providing more space, bedrooms and bathrooms.
The changing needs of families, like the arrival of a parent-in-law, was a significant driver for extension works, he said.
Expectations were an important issue for homeowners considering renovating, Mr Bass said.
"People should be comfortable with a builder and get some real feedback to what things will cost," Mr Bass said.
He said many renovators had unrealistic expectations about the costs and time needed for projects, in part due to renovation reality television shows.
He said TV contestants might complete an entire kitchen for relatively little money because the shows were sponsored, but in the real world custom kitchen projects often cost $35,000 to $50,000.
While many homeowners renovated to make the most of their home, many took on the challenge to boost its resale potential.
Buyer's advocate Robert Di Vita, of National Property Buyers, said the vast majority of Melbourne homebuyers were looking for a renovated period home, retaining traditional features and modernising the kitchen and bathrooms.
He said they often also preferred open-plan living in neutral colours and an outdoor entertaining zone.
Mr Di Vita said buyers should get building and pest inspections to make sure there were no hidden surprises in the subfloor and roof cavity and water proofing membrane in wet areas.
For homebuyers looking for a project, buying in the right location and avoiding overcapitalising would help with the eventual resale.
He said renovators should spend no more than 10 per cent of the value of the property on the entire project, aiming for a profit margin of 15 per cent to avoid overcapitalising.
Realestate.com.au data shows nearly a quarter of buyers searching the property portal used keywords to find both renovated and unrenovated projects.
The term "renovated" was the most popular in Melbourne.
The research found the kitchen would be the first room home renovators would tackle.
"You should aim to spend 2 per cent of your property's current value on refurbishing the kitchen, for example," he said.
On the 21st of February 2012, Darryn and True Blue Homes was awarded their Master Builders Green Living accreditation.
What is Master Builders Green Living?
Builders who complete the training and adopt sustainable innovations in their operations will be able to identify themselves as Master Builders Green Living builders . The brand will enable builders to market their services as businesses that are skilled in the design, construction and maintenance of high quality structures that adopt industry best practice for sustainability in the built environment.
The training will provide competencies in designing, building, installing and maintaining environmental innovations and will be linked to branding the service provided by accredited builders under the banner of Master Builders Green Living .
the necessary tools and information to design and construct energy efficient structures that not only meet minimum standards but set a new benchmark in the housing sector for energy innovation.
the ability to improve their customer service and business by providing informative advice to clients about sustainable solutions in the design and construction of their dwelling.
The training goes beyond the mandatory provisions required through the BCA or state/territory or local government regulation. The training is aimed and structured to be delivered to businesses in the building and construction industry involved in the residential sector of the markets covering single lot residences, medium sized residential developments, apartments and units.
Click the certificate image to the above/left to view a larger PDF version.
Read more at the Master Builder's web site.
Darryn went to Whittlesea to offer support and ended up talking to the local CFA crew and left his card. It was blatantly obvious some local trades had lost the lot and were in need of help immediately. They had nothing left… no house, no car, no trailer and no tools.
Congratulations' to Michael Higgins aka "Harry" for his fantastic school efforts – well done!!
HIA have joined with The Trailer Factory in donating tradesmen's trailers to HIA members and bushfire victims. Travis Buckland and Lloyd Butler, pictured at The Trailer Factory's Kilsyth base, were the latest recipients of trailers.
HIA thanks Graham Jones and the team at The Trailer Factory for their kind donation, and Darryn Bass of True Blue Homes for co-ordinating the project.
We wish all our members affected by the bushfires well in their recovery and encourage you to contact HIA if you require any support.


text:
German-American Community Office turns 15
Story and photos by Airman 1st Class Milton Hamilton
(From left to right) Consul General James Herman, U.S. Consulate General in Frankfurt; Kaiserslautern's Lord Mayor, Dr. Klaus Weichel; and Lt. Gen. Richard Clark, 3rd Air Force and KMC commander, pose for a photo at the German-American Community Office's 15th Anniversary ceremony Feb. 15 in Kaiserslautern. Herman, Weichel and Clark represent three different government entities that have come together to form an international partnership through GACO.
The German American Community Office celebrated its 15th anniversary Feb. 15 at its office in Kaiserslautern.
GACO was established in 2003 as a way to provide services to Americans, both military and civilian, as well as Germans who have issues concerning German-American matters.
"GACO was founded after 9/11 by Lord Mayor Bernhard Deubig, who said that all the world's problems can only get solved together," said Kaiserslautern's Lord Mayor Dr. Klaus Weichel.
"GACO is a unique institution and has an excellent reputation as an intermediary between the various cultures. Worldwide, there is no other office like this."
A crowd of approximately 60 people came to the anniversary celebration to commemorate the achievements of GACO.
"Right after Sept. 11 was a difficult time for our country," said Lt. Gen. Richard Clark, 3rd Air Force and KMC commander. "There's a saying that you know who your friends are when they come to your aid during hard times. This office came to assist the military community during these times, and as a result, our partnership went to another level."
GACO has assisted thousands of people in the Kaiserslautern Military Community.
When families come to Germany, they may need help obtaining information about passports, driver's licenses and schools, among other things, said Clark. This office gives them a place within the community that can steer them in the right direction and help them immerse.
To make themselves known to the KMC, GACO participates in local markets and fairs.
"We're grateful for all the help GACO has provided over the years and look forward to a lasting partnership," said Clark.
GACO is located on Lauterstrasse 2 (Rathaus Nord) in Kaiserslautern, across from the city hall. Open hours are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, and 2 to 6 p.m. Thursday. The staff can be reached by phone at 0631-363-3010, via email at info@gaco-kl.de, or through their website at www.gaco-kl.de.
Visitors of the German-American Community Office's 15th anniversary reception socialize while awaiting speeches from Kaiserslautern's Lord Mayor Dr. Kaus Weichel and Lt. Gen. Richard Clark, 3rd Air Force and KMC commander, Feb. 15 in Kaiserslautern.
The U.S. Air Forces in Europe Winds Aloft Woodwind Quintet plays at the GACO's 15th anniversary reception Feb. 15 in Kaiserslautern. The band played background music before and after the ceremony.
86th Dental Squadron knows the drill
A beam of light strikes a metal hook as it grinds against the surface, chipping away at the grime that...

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


TIRE PRESSURE, 0-60 PSI is rated 4.0 out of 5 by 1.
hello- where is the 2160 tire pressure manufactured? what country?
Thank you for your question. This gauge is engineered by AutoMeter in Sycamore IL however it is manufactured in Taiwan.
How fine does the gauge read? to 0.1lb?
Yes, each increment is 0.1 (1/10) of a lb. A well made and accurate gauge.
Is this gauge AMSE/ANSI B40.1 certified, and if so, what grade is it? It appears to fall into the grade B range.  Thank you.
Thank you for the question. The 2160 Tire Pressure gauge is ASME B40.1 certified with a B accuracy grade.
my tire pressure gage has an air chuck that is not working correctly. can I purchase a replacement air chuck?
In what country are Auto Meter gauges made? Are any made in the U.S.A.?
Thank you for your question. The vast majority of all AutoMeter gauges are made in our factory in Sycamore, IL. Unfortunately, our tire pressure gauges are one of the exceptions, #2160 is manufactured in Taiwan.


text:
12 Sundance-Supported Stories to Watch During Latinx Heritage Month
Patricia Cardoso's 'Real Women Have Curves' had its world premiere in the Dramatic Competition at the 2002 Sundance Film Festival.
By Dilcia Barrera, Shari Frilot, and Ana Souza
Shari Frilot, Ana Souza, and Dilcia Barrera are programmers at the Sundance Film Festival.
Latinx Heritage Month has arrived in the United States in time for us to shine a light on our Latinx community, which has always shown itself to be unapologetically diverse, creative, and resilient, with a richness of stories that traverse cultural, generational, and language barriers. Never has it felt more urgent or pressing for us to understand the Latinx experience and celebrate it than now, in a year of tumultuous change and unprecedented dangers to the community. To celebrate these filmmakers and their work, we've pulled from our archives to put together a list of Latinx stories that have played the Sundance Film Festival over the years.
The Sundance Film Festival has stood by the work of these often silenced voices. Currently, the programming team is blessed to include three Latinas from different countries and experiences, but Shari Frilot's 16 years of work as a fearless champion of this community must be noted and celebrated. Cheers to all the filmmakers, curators, and supporters of Latinx work.
The Infiltrators (2019)
'The Infiltrators' premiered in the NEXT section at the 2019 Sundance Film Festival.
"Directors Cristina Ibarra (in her Sundance debut) and Alex Rivera (Sleep Dealer, 2008 Sundance Film Festival) design a hybrid cinematic language, combining familiar documentary form and scripted narrative to map an uncharted domain: inside an Obama-era immigration detention system. Based on true events, The Infiltrators is both a suspenseful account of a high-stakes mission and an emotionally charged portrait of visionary youth fighting for their community." [Watch it now.]
Read our recent interview with Ibarra and Rivera here
Sleep Dealer (2008)
'Sleep Dealer' premiered in the Dramatic Competition at the 2008 Festival.
"Mexico, 2020 A.D. The dreams of the information revolution have been realized. A high-speed, transnational internet covers the globe, tying distant people and places together. But Jorge Cruz lives on the fringe of this futuristic global village. Jorge is a young Mexican peasant, struggling with his family to maintain a small plot of land in the face of drought and debt. His family needs him, but he has dreams of something better, of leaving, of finding a new life, maybe even in America. When tragedy strikes and his family is killed, Jorge has only one option: to flee north and seek the new life he's always dreamed of." [Watch it now.]
'Knock Down the House' premiered in the U.S. Documentary Competition at the 2019 Festival.
"Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a young, bold Puerto Rican bartender from the Bronx, had to work double shifts to save her family's home from foreclosure. She knows many of her neighbors are also hard-pressed to make a living. In order to bring representation to one of the most marginalized constituencies in America, Alexandria runs for office. This film follows four women—Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Amy Vilela, Cori Bush, and Paula Jean Swearengin—who join a movement of insurgent candidates to topple incumbents in an electric primary race for Congress." [Watch it now.]
La Leyenda Negra (2020)
Patricia Vidal Delgado's 'La Leyenda Negra' played the NEXT section at this year's Festival.
"First-time feature filmmaker Patricia Vidal Delgado lovingly crafts a poignant and emotional coming-of-age story that unfolds against a tense and divided social backdrop. Equally capturing the political turbulence affecting communities and the prickliness of teenage dynamics, La Leyenda Negra examines the price of sacrifices and the rarity of true connection. Drawing on striking black-and-white photography and raw emotion, this quietly bold film marks Delgado as an exciting new cinematic voice." [Stay tuned for a future release date.]
Blast Beat (2020)
Esteban Arango's 'Blast Beat' premiered in the U.S. Dramatic Competition at this year's Festival.
"Esteban Arango's blazing debut feature cracks open a sibling rivalry in an isolating time predating social media. Real-life brothers Mateo and Moises bring honesty and brazenness to this energetic, metal-fueled coming-of-age story that unapologetically confronts the reality of growing up between cultures. Blast Beat is a Latinx anthem for a displaced generation—and it's the anthem we've been waiting for."
[Stay tuned for a future release date.]
Dolores (2017)
Peter Bratt's 'Dolores' premiered in the U.S. Documentary Competition at the 2017 Festival.
"History tells us Cesar Chavez transformed the U.S. labor movement by leading the first farm workers' union. But missing from this narrative is his equally influential co-founder, Dolores Huerta, who fought tirelessly alongside Chavez for racial and labor justice and became one of the most defiant feminists of the twentieth century. Like so many powerful women advocates, Dolores and her sweeping reforms were—and still are—sidelined and diminished." [Watch it now.]
Gentefied (2016)
Before landing at Netflix this year, 'Gentefied' played as a special event at the 2017 Festival.
"Bicultural millennials and old-school pillars of the Boyle Heights neighborhood of Los Angeles hustle to maintain their cultural identity when faced with an influx of outsiders to their traditionally Latino community. Each episode of this comedic drama focuses on a different character as they survey the complications and benefits of modern gentrification. Three episodes of this short form episodic series had their debut at the 2017 Festival before being developed into a longer series that premiered on Netflix earlier this year." [Watch it now.]
Cesar's Last Fast (2014)
Lorena Parlee and Richard Ray Perez's 'Cesar's Last Fast' premiered at the 2014 Festival.
"In 1988, Cesar Chavez embarked on what would be his last act of protest in his remarkable life. Driven in part to pay penance for feeling he had not done enough, Chavez began his 'fast for life,' a 36-day water-only hunger strike, to draw attention to the horrific effects of unfettered pesticide use on farm workers, their families, and their communities. Using never-before-seen footage of Chavez during his fast and testimony from those closest to him, directors Richard Ray Perez and Lorena Parlee weave together the larger story of Chavez's life, vision, and legacy." [Watch it now.]
Fruitvale Station (2014)
Ryan Coogler's 'Fruitvale Station' played the 2013 Festival after going through the 2012 Screenwriters Lab.
"Oscar Grant was a 22-year-old Bay Area resident who loved his friends, was generous to strangers, and had a hard time telling the truth to the mother of his beautiful daughter. He was scared and courageous and charming and raw, and as human as the community he was part of. That community paid attention to him, shouted on his behalf, and filmed him with their cell phones when BART officers, who were strong, intimidated, and acting in the way they thought they were supposed to behave around people like Oscar, shot him in cold blood at the Fruitvale subway stop on New Year's Day in 2009. Director Ryan Coogler makes an extraordinary directorial debut with this soulful account of the real-life event that horrified the nation. Featuring radiant performances by Latinx actress Melonie Diaz and Michael B. Jordan as Grant, a young man whose eyes were an open window into his soul, Fruitvale offers a barometer reading on the state of humanity in American society today." [Watch it now.]
The Sentence (2018)
Rudy Valdez's 'The Sentence' won the Audience Award: U.S. Documentary at the 2018 Festival.
"Drawing from hundreds of hours of footage, filmmaker Rudy Valdez shows the aftermath of his sister Cindy's incarceration for conspiracy charges related to crimes committed by her deceased ex-boyfriend—something known, in legal terms, as 'the girlfriend problem.' Cindy's 15-year mandatory sentence is hard on everyone, but for her husband and children, Cindy's sudden banishment feels like a kind of death that becomes increasingly difficult to grapple with." [Watch it now.]
Empire (2002)
Franc. Reyes's 'Empire' was part of the American Showcase at the 2002 Festival.
"A young Latinx hustler from the south Bronx of New York makes a deal with a successful Wall Street investment banker in order to make a better life for himself and his new family." [Watch it now.]
Real Women Have Curves (2002)
In 2002, Patricia Cardoso's 'Real Women Have Curves' played the Sundance Film Festival.
"Curves on a blossoming young woman can be sexy, but not if you are told you have too many of them. Real Women Have Curves is a humorous and warmhearted look at a Mexican American teenage girl coming of age in a boiling cauldron of cultural expectations, class constrictions, family duty, and her own personal aspirations. In this auspicious debut, Patricia Cardoso gives us a cast of characters we very rarely see—working class Latina woman—with refreshing human complexity." [Watch it now.]
'The Infiltrators' Directors on Releasing Their Immigration Docu-Thriller amid ICE Retaliation
Meet the Artist: Director Anabel Rodríguez Ríos on 'Once Upon a Time in Venezuela'
Lucía Garibaldi on Making Her Debut Feature, 'Los Tiburones'—and What's Next for Her


If top quality construction and finishing are on the top of your wish list? This villa deserves your special attention! This villa is being built by one of the best (Dutch-Spanish) construction companies in the Costa Blanca that is known for the very high service level and the distinctive high quality of the villas that they deliver.
This beautiful design villa is therefore highly recommended. The best build quality that you will find in this area, combined with beautiful views and a unique design. This villa has everything on one floor: 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (2 en-suite bathrooms), large living room, ultra modern kitchen, utility room, guest toilet, covered terrace, pool terrace, summer kitchen and swimming pool; all accessible without any stairs. Furthermore, a large garage and various storage spaces under the main building with separate access via a second gate, but of course connected to the main building via a staircase. Only the best materials and finishings are good enough for high quality villa. The villa is currently under construction in the Los Molinos district of Benitachell. The plot is 802 m2, facing south and with a beautiful panoramic view of the surroundings upto the sea. This is a villa for a perfectionist!
Exceptional contemporary villa with breathtaking sea views!


City of Glasgow College (Scottish Gaelic: Colaiste Baile Ghlaschu) is a further and higher education college in Glasgow, Scotland. The well-established and specialist institutions of Central College Glasgow, Glasgow Metropolitan College, and Glasgow College of Nautical Studies were successfully brought together in 2010 to establish the largest college in Scotland regularly referred to as Scotland's 'super college'.
City of Glasgow College is now Scotland's largest college and technical institution and is the number one college in the UK for WorldSkills. Built for 40,000 students, it offers up to 2000 professional and technical courses annually from access level to masters.
The £228 million twin site campus has been designed to adapt to and accommodate the needs of future generations of students and staff.
The Riverside campus, (originally opened in 1969) was extensively rebuilt and officially opened by Scotland's First Minister in 2015, specialises in nautical science and engineering and is situated on the south side of the River Clyde. It is one of only four maritime facilities in the UK delivering Merchant Navy officer training to Chief Engineer and Master Mariner level. Up to 3,000 cadets study at the nautical faculty which is due to celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2019.
City campus, on Glasgow's Cathedral Street, was officially opened by HRH The Countess of Wessex in 2016. The main contractor on both developments was Sir Robert McAlpine with architects Michael Laird and Reiach & Hall.
Both campuses were shortlisted for the prestigious RIBA Stirling Prize for excellence in architecture. Since opening, almost 50,000 visitors have come to see the state of the art learning and teaching facilities.
Marine skills centre with jetty, rescue lifeboats and free fall lifeboat.
City Campus, on Cathedral Street in Glasgow is the larger of the two sites.
City Market, professional hair and beauty salon and restaurant all open to the public.
The City of Glasgow College Students Association is commonly known as CitySA. It has one Sabbatical president with three part-time Vice Presidents of Social & Activities, Learning & Teaching and Diversity and Wellbeing. They are governed by a Student Executive Committee, consisting of the Presidential Team as well as 12 student volunteers. They are currently affiliated with the National Union of Students Scotland where they have had a considerable impact in campaigns such as "Our Future, Our Fight"; they have also been nationally recognized by winning the "College Student Association of the Year Award" in 2012 from NUS Scotland.


text:
using UnityEngine;
using UnityEngine.UI;

[AddComponentMenu("UI/Effects/Gradient")]
public class GradientMeshEffect : BaseMeshEffect
{
    public Color startColor = Color.white;
    public Color endColor = Color.white;
    [Range(-180f, 180f)] public float angle;
    public bool ignoreRatio;

    public ColorGradient GetGradient()
    {
        return new ColorGradient(startColor, endColor, angle);
    }

    public void SetGradient(ColorGradient gradient)
    {
        startColor = gradient.startColor;
        endColor = gradient.endColor;
        angle = gradient.angle;
        graphic.SetVerticesDirty();
    }

    public override void ModifyMesh(VertexHelper vh)
    {
        if (!enabled) return;

        var rect = graphic.rectTransform.rect;
        var dir = RotationDir(angle);

        if (!ignoreRatio)
            dir = CompensateAspectRatio(rect, dir);

        var localPositionMatrix = LocalPositionMatrix(rect, dir);

        var vertex = default(UIVertex);
        for (var i = 0; i < vh.currentVertCount; i++)
        {
            vh.PopulateUIVertex(ref vertex, i);
            var localPosition = localPositionMatrix * vertex.position;
            vertex.color *= Color.Lerp(endColor, startColor, localPosition.y);
            vh.SetUIVertex(vertex, i);
        }
    }

    public struct Matrix2x3
    {
        public float m00, m01, m02, m10, m11, m12;

        public Matrix2x3(float m00, float m01, float m02, float m10, float m11, float m12)
        {
            this.m00 = m00;
            this.m01 = m01;
            this.m02 = m02;
            this.m10 = m10;
            this.m11 = m11;
            this.m12 = m12;
        }

        public static Vector2 operator *(Matrix2x3 m, Vector2 v)
        {
            var x = m.m00 * v.x - m.m01 * v.y + m.m02;
            var y = m.m10 * v.x + m.m11 * v.y + m.m12;
            return new Vector2(x, y);
        }
    }

    public static Matrix2x3 LocalPositionMatrix(Rect rect, Vector2 dir)
    {
        var cos = dir.x;
        var sin = dir.y;
        var rectMin = rect.min;
        var rectSize = rect.size;
        var c = 0.5f;
        var ax = rectMin.x / rectSize.x + c;
        var ay = rectMin.y / rectSize.y + c;
        var m00 = cos / rectSize.x;
        var m01 = sin / rectSize.y;
        var m02 = -(ax * cos - ay * sin - c);
        var m10 = sin / rectSize.x;
        var m11 = cos / rectSize.y;
        var m12 = -(ax * sin + ay * cos - c);
        return new Matrix2x3(m00, m01, m02, m10, m11, m12);
    }

    public static Vector2 RotationDir(float angle)
    {
        var angleRad = angle * Mathf.Deg2Rad;
        var cos = Mathf.Cos(angleRad);
        var sin = Mathf.Sin(angleRad);
        return new Vector2(cos, sin);
    }

    public static Vector2 CompensateAspectRatio(Rect rect, Vector2 dir)
    {
        var ratio = rect.height / rect.width;
        dir.x *= ratio;
        return dir.normalized;
    }
}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
Q: Kafka Streams application producing topic with same message I am facing an issue with my Kafka streams application, where messages are being processed multiple times and the result topic is constantly receiving messages. This issue is only present in production and not in my local environment. Can you help me determine the root cause of this problem, based on the transformer code?
@Override
public KeyValue<String, UserClicks> transform(final String user, final Long clicks) {

                UserClicks userClicks = tempStore.get(user);

                if (userClicks != null) {
                    userClicks.clicks += clicks;
                }
                else {
                    final String region = regionStore.get(user).value();
                    userClicks = new UserClicks(user, region, clicks);
                }

                if (userClicks.clicks < CLICKS_THRESHOLD) {
                    tempStore.put(user, userClicks);
                }
                else {
                    tempStore.delete(user);
                }

                return KeyValue.pair(user, userClicks);
            }

`
When I remove KStore from transformer everything seems to work fine.

A: Usally this problem occures becuase kafka can't save its state, and it's reading the same batch of messages. KStore stores it's state on change log topic, and it stores it by producing messages. If the produces can't produce for some reson, new offset can never be commited.
To resolve the issue, change the minimum number of in-sync replicas to 1 or set the replication factor to 2. By default, Kafka streams creates a replication factor of 1.
Easy way to configure this is through Conduktor, just go to topic config and changes min.insync.replicas property

It cant also be done through kafka CLI by running this command.
kafka-configs.sh --bootstrap-server localhost:9092 --alter --entity-type topics --entity-name configured-topic min.insync.replicas 1

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


As the sorely missed sun finally smiles back into our faces, here, on a roof (sic), overlooking the old town of Berne, memories fly back: Of a couple of cold ones drunk in the spring sun in Zürich exactly three years ago. How lovely it was chatting to one of the laid-backest guys in the electronic scene. Dude, I'm speaking about El Molito, the artist known as The Mole. Colin de la Plante is clearly one of our favourite producers. He should be knighted for the disturbingly infectious, cavernous offering "For the Lost", let alone his fanastic 2009 album "As High As the Sky". We're proud to have him in our midst. Read The Mole's hommage to the records record shops. Sunny greetings from the roof!
Bam Bam – Funkyland (Crispin J Glover Mix)?
Found this in the used bins at Disc Union. Thanks to Disc Union!
Can't stop playing this one lately. it's just so much fun. Been a while since I got it but i'm pretty sure I got it at rotation in montreal when it was still around. Price tag says 14.99$ CAN. Considering how much I used to play it, and the other side 'Remember Your History' I think I got my money's worth. Thanks to Rotation Montreal!
Recloose – Don't Get Me Wrong?
What can I say? Recloose. So good. I still have that first one with the tape sandwich on the cover. Great! Got this one at Melting Point. Thanks Melting Point!
Ed (Edwards Dead) – Burning?
Mark E's label… I dig it. Got this one at Rotation Berlin. Thanks Rotation Berlin!
Daphni – Yes, I know?
What a monster tune. Love the combo of synth and sample. Got this at Spacehall. Sticker's still on there. Thanks Spacehall!
Gramme – I'll make it up?
Seeing this now reminds me that I just saw James Chance play in Bordeaux. What a pleasure to see James still rocking it. I hope Gramme would be complimented by this comparison. It is meant in the most high. Got this at Rush Hour. Sticker's still on it. Thanks Rush Hour!
Bepu N'Gali – I travel to you (Frisvold & Lindbaek meet Todd Terje uptown)?
How does a guy like me not like International Feel and Norwegians … I can't help but love em. I was told that the Viking kings would get buried with their ship as a coffin full of all sorts of booty. Was there some sort of disgrace in not dying at sea? I'm not sure. I know that you wouldn't get into Vahalla unless you died in battle. And once in Vahalla there was an eternal life of play and relaxing and feasts every night. Got this at Oye Records. Thanks Oye!
The Mole – Bleep Blop Robot?
This one's just coming out now. Should be in stores by the time this mix hits the interwaves. On Maybe Tomorrow, the new home to many things moley. Check it out at any good record store near you. The virtual ones should have it too. They've got everything these days. So how about a what's up and thanks to all the virtual shops that are getting records to all the places that sadly no longer or never had shops for their fans. Thanks dot.comers!
K.C.C. – Future III (Richard Sen Edit)?
Great reissue. Loves this melody. And so acid. So so acid. Got this at Hardwax. Thank you Hardwax!
the Viking kings were buried with their ship as a coffin full of all sorts of booty. Was IT some sort of disgrace in not dying at sea?
I think I got this one at the same time as the last one… Because again I can't remember where it was but it somehow rings the same.
This one was a gift from my roommate. Thanks chris!!
And this one. Well I guess i'll just say. Thanks Mike! And Scott! And David! And Chris again!!
Right on. Lots of thanks here. Lots to be thankful for.


Music – Faith Lutheran Church has a rich musical heritage. We offer two styles of worship every Sunday morning We invite you to join us in celebrating our Christian faith through music and worship by becoming involved in the Music Ministry of Faith Lutheran Church. We have a choir, Praise Team and Bell Choir that meet during the week in preparation for the leadership and enhancement of our worship services. There is room for everyone, please join us!!
Our Handbell Choir enhances the worship services by providing inspirational music rotating among the traditional services from September through May and is open to anyone. Reading music and counting rhythms is not a requirement for this choir, but it does help. The Bell Choir practices on Thursday from 6:00 p.m-7:00 p.m. and is directed by Dr. David McCalla, Director of Traditional Music.
Handel's Messiah – Each year Faith Lutheran Church presents Part I of Handel's Messiah. The performance is free and is a gift to the community, everyone is invited to this special event. The choir and musicians come from churches, schools and other organizations from Fort Pierce to Homestead and is directed by our own Dr. David McCalla. The concert is usually on the second Saturday of December. Check our website around that time for more information.
This high-energetic and fun loving ensemble prepares and leads all of the music each week for the 11 a.m. Contemporary Worship in the sanctuary. Please Contact Janet Cunningham to become a part of our Praise Team!
Altar Guild – It is truly an honor and privilege to serve our Lord and fellow members by preparing His House for worship and preparing His Supper for all to partake. This is what the Altar Guild of Faith Lutheran Church does!
Audio/Visual Ministry – The Audio/Visual Ministry is dedicated to running the sound, lights and video elements for all church and school productions. Worship has elevated to a new level. In these modern times, worship often incorporates technology. This is where the Audio/Visual Ministry shines! The mission of our ministry is to make a difference through the intuitive design of worship/production elements and by carrying them out effectively, enriching the experience of worshippers and glorifying His name! WE NEED VOLUNTEERS!! Please contact the church office at 561-848-4737 if interested.
Usher Teams – If you are interested in serving as an usher at Faith Lutheran Church please contact the church office at 561-848-4737. Please be sure to let them know which service that you would like to serve. We usually have 2-4 ushers per service and duties vary from greeting parishioners,handing out bulletins , collecting offerings, directing parishioners towards communion and tidying up after each service.


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Sex predator loses appeal
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GoFundMe started to help provide backpacks and essential items to individuals who are leaving the Okanagan Correctional Centre
Backpacks for ex-cons
Casey Richardson - Oct 30, 2020 / 4:00 am | Story: 314950
A woman working in the nonprofit sector that helps with outreach work to correctional centres has started a GoFundMe to provide ex-convicts with backpacks and basic necessities when they leave.
Yvonne Kaiser was upset to see that recently released convicts left the jail with all their items in a plastic garbage bag and has started raising money towards buying backpacks and essentials items for individuals who are leaving custody.
"I was working for a nonprofit organization doing outreach work in the jail and was approached by an officer that said 'We've got these guys they're leaving with plastic bags is there anything that you can do,'" she explained.
"What can we do so we're not dehumanizing people because what do I put in garbage bags? I put my garbage in it."
When inmates leave a federal institution, they're generally given a duffel bag, but according to Kaiser, provincially that doesn't happen.
"It's a clear garbage bag just on display for everybody...That's where the dumping of all their possessions, letters, documents, pictures of their family, everything gets dumped into it.
"This is supposed to be a happy day for them, they're done with their sentence, they're moving on with their lives, it's a new chapter and instead it was just utter hopelessness."
So, after researching for ideas and answers, Kaiser found one backpack program in Canada that was running successfully. The Elizabeth Fry Society launched the Positive Release program which gives backpacks filled with toiletries and essential items to women as they get out of the Central Nova Correctional Facility in Dartmouth.
"I had the idea in my brain, I just didn't know where to start and they gave me a really good jumping off point."
She added that their help was really monumental and when she reached out to them they sent all their information and resources to help get started.
"It doesn't seem like that much to give them a backpack and some hygiene products... but here's some stuff to get you started and I think that's the biggest thing. Maybe that's just the hope that somebody needs to be like, 'I'm worth something.'"
But the organization Kaiser worked with didn't have funding available to move forward with her idea. So, the first ten bags she built came from her campaigning on Facebook to friends and family to help donate.
"It got an amazing response, one of the guys cried when he left with it. The response from the staff was really good as well."
Currently the focus is on helping those at the Okanagan Correctional Centre, setting them up when they are first released.
"I think the best thing that it does is humanize people, letting them know here's a gift from your community to welcome you back. I think that's a huge thing."
Kaiser stocks up the backpacks with seasonal items like toques, socks, emergency blankets, and hygiene products. There's also water, protein bars and sugary snacks.
"I thought we can at least give them a few items, just a little bit of stuff to help them out, then at least they have somewhere to start."
The bags include resource guides as well.
"I really have a passion for humanizing people that are coming out of the justice system so as a society we're cutting back on stigmatizing them."
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Kaiser saw more of the resources and centres that help them get back on their feet shut down or not take in more clients.
"Their past just travels with them and I'm really of the belief that none of us should walk through life being judged by our worst action, our worst day and having that be the only thing that people see about us."
After the first round of backpacks, Kaiser kept and still is petitioning the cause to non-profits, but got tired of waiting for funding. That's when she went forward with the GoFundMe on Monday.
"I'm really just grateful for everything that's happened in the last four days. I'm blown away by people, their compassion," Kaiser said.
The bags cost around $30 in total with all supplies.
"If we can cut down on costs and there's organizations or people are willing to donate items instead of money, fantastic."
She was worried about being able to handle the negativity that came along with it.
"It's a hard field to work in and you get a lot of negative feedback from people. 'Why do you want to help these people? They've done bad things'...
"The way the Canadian justice system is set up is your punishment is going to jail. That is your payment back to society is the sentence given to you by the judge. All of the other stigma that comes with it, that should not exist."
Right now it's just Kaiser working on the project but she's committed to seeing it through.
"This isn't going anywhere, as long as people are willing to help me I will keep putting these backpacks together...the end goal is to have a continual program where we have a stream of backpacks that are available to the Okanagan Correctional Centre and hopefully we can see it happen provincially."
Find more information and updates on the project on the Second Chance Backpack's Facebook page.
More COVID in schoolsNorth Okanagan - 2:45 pm
Police seize weaponsKamloops - 2:36 pm
Drugs, weapons, cash seizedKelowna - 2:28 pm
Damaged trees have to goOkanagan Centre - 2:22 pm
Cancellations cost $7.3MBig White - 2:07 pm
201 1999 Highway 97 S


Are you looking for careers advice? Why not talk to our A.I. Careers Advisory Service. It will set you on the path to glory in your chosen career, & it doesn't really care about who you hurt to get to the top.
An interactive retro style thingy made with Bitsy (by Adam Le Doux). Use the arrow keys to move & also to interact with sprites & objects.
Created for Ludum Dare 43. You can rate it here.
1. Talk to the advisor.
3. Get to the top rung of the ladder.


Talk about a once in a lifetime experience! One Hour Photois the name of a new photography exhibition that takes its name very seriously. It's a show that puts a literal limitation on your viewing pleasure. One hour, and one hour only, will be the lifespan of each work of art that will be projected for your enjoyment. After just 60 minutes, it will be gone forever.
The idea takes viewing restrictions to the ultimate limit. Each photo will exist for one full rotation of the long hand on the clock. After that brief presentation to the viewing audience, it will live only in the collective memory of those who've seen it.
Forget the preservation of time that photography usually offers. The experience you will have here is the impermanence of time.
You may want to take your stopwatch with you to the show, which opened Saturday at American University. It might help remind you of the fleeting pleasure of a single encounter, and how fast the time flies when you know the clock is ticking.
The photographers participating in One Hour Photo have pledged never to reproduce, display or sell the pieces they have included in the exhibition.
The exhibition runs through June 6 at AU's Katzen Arts Center. The hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.


It is so easy to make your own pizza dough! Once you make your own, you will never buy store-bought pizza dough again. Follow my instructions to use your stand-up mixer or bread machine to make this fantastic Garlic Herb Pizza Dough recipe.
Add all the dough ingredients (in the order listed) in the bread pan of bread machine.
Process according to manufacturer's instructions for a dough setting. NOTE: Do not be afraid to open the lid and check the dough. It should form a nice elastic ball.
Check the dough (do not be afraid to open the lid). It should form a nice elastic ball. If you think the dough is too moist, add additional flour (a tablespoon at a time). The same is true if the dough is looking dry and gnarly. Add warm water (a tablespoon at a time). If you can not judge your dough by looking, stick your finger in and feel the dough. It should be slightly tacky to the touch.
In a large bowl or in the bowl of a 5-quart stand mixer, add all the dough ingredients.
Using dough hook, mix everything together into a uniform dough. The dough should form a nice elastic ball.
Meanwhile preheat the Pizza Stone or tiles to 450 degrees F. for 30 minutes. Prepare your favorite pizza toppings.
When the bread machine has completed the dough cycle, remove the dough from the pan to a lightly oiled surface. Knead the dough several times and form the dough into an oval; cover with a towel and let rest for 10 minutes.
Place the dough on the prepared Pizza Peel. The dough must be docked. NOTE: Thin pizza crusts usually need to be well docked to help control blistering and bubble formation during baking. This just means to prick it all over the middle part (not the edges) so that it doesn't inflate. Either use a Dough Dockers or use a fork to prick the dough thoroughly.
Brush the preheated dough with some olive oil and layer your favorite pizza ingredients (toppings).
Bake for approximately 10 to 15 minutes in your preheated oven until the crust is golden brown on the bottom and the top is bubbly.
Makes 1 (14-inch) large pizza or 2 (6-inch) individual pizzas.
Great info. I'll just add that if your oven goes hotter, go hotter. Will give a more authentic taste and texture. (Wood-fireed pizza ovens go above 900 F) Also, the pizzas will bake faster.


Wow. I just heard that the divorce rate is 50%!
And that 1 out of 4 high school girls have been physically or sexually abused.
You said it. Makes me wonder why? What happens? And what does make a healthy relationship?
If someone cheated on me, I would probably freak out at first… But then I would compose myself and handle the situation responsibly by peacefully breaking up with that person.
I would be very angry, and I would question them as a person. But I would try to stay as calm as I could and talk to her to find out as much information about it as I could. And then I would let her know that she made a big mistake and that what she did was wrong, and make her feel bad, and then break up with her, because anyone who would cheat on me would not be worthy of a relationship with me.
If someone cheated on me I would be distraught and my feelings would be destroyed. I would feel this way because my partner would betray my trust which means they actually never cared about me.
If someone cheated on me I would be very disappointed in my partner. A main part of my relationship would be to build trust and when my partner breaks that trust I will keep my composure and respectfully end the relationship. You can't have a relationship if you don't trust your partner, and as a result I would end it. I would end it by saying "Since you cheated on me i can't trust you anymore so I think we should end it".
If I were cheated on, I would first be in shock and overtime become more and more upset. I would most likely not want to speak with the person who cheated on me until I am completely ready. I also would not be able to forgive this person.
I would make sure it was true and if it was I would either talk to them about it then just ignore them or I would completely and ignore them from the start and I wouldn't like them.
If someone cheated on me (they have) I would end the relationship. It is not worth staying with someone who would cheat on you and break your trust. That trust is very hard to build up again, and the person who cheated is no longer worthy of it. If your significant other cannot control themselves then they get to be alone.


I had installed ffmpeg in my dir to be able to load and watch video with gallery2.
"RemoveOutputFilter avi mpeg mpg "
but if I do this, web site is unaccessible.
Can you tell what I have to do to be able to watch video on IE?


Are there any boat ramps if I do not have a property on the water? Yes, there are a couple of county boat ramps, one in Bokeelia, on the East side of Barrancas Ave., and one off of Maria Drive in St James City, open to the public weekends only. St. James City has a public ramp at Monroe Canal Marina. For more information on Lee County boat ramps, please go to: http://www..n-florida-qetaways.corn/ leecountyboatramps.cfm .
Are there any schools on the island? There is an elementary school for K thru 5th grades. After 5th grade, students must go off island to one of rnany schools. Lee County has "school choice". For rnore information please go to their website: www leeschools net/ For more information regarding School Choice, please go to: http.//studentassiqnrnent leeschools net/.
Are there any beaches on Pine Island? Not really. Pine Island is bordered by mangroves, so we do not have beaches like the barrier islands. Along the bayfront properties, especially in Bokeelia, there does appear to a beach, but be aware, this is all private property. There is a county park at the east end of Tropical Point Drive with picnic tables and wonderful views of Matlacha Pass.
Is there a golf course? Yes, Alden Pines Golf Course is on the north end of the island, in the Pineland community.
Where do you go out to eat? Pine Island is very fortunate to have many wonderful restaurants frorn St. James City, to Pineland and Bokeelia on the north end, to Matlacha. Many serve local seafood fare.
Where do you go for shopping? Pine Island has a shopping center just south of PI Center (aka the 4-way stop) in the Winn Dixie PSza. There is the Winn-Dixie grocery store, CVS pharmacy, Doc Watson's Liquor Store, Laundromat, and a few restaurants. There is a hardware store at PI Center that has quite a variety of boat and household repair items. There are also a couple of marine hardware stores in St. James City. Not far off the island is Cape Coral with Lowes, Home Depot, plus some major stores, i.e. Sarn's Club, BJ's Wholesale Club, Wal-Mart's Target, office supplies, etc., for most anything else, and then Ft. Myers beyond.
How far is the airport? Southwest International airport is just off 1-75, south of Daniels Parkway. There is a new off rarnp to the airport from 1-75. You should allow at least one hour if you are dropping off or picking up passengers. If you are returning a car, then you should allow at least an hour and a half. It depends on the time of day as to how rnuch traffic you will encounter.
Are there any ferries to the outer islands? Yes, there is the Tropic Star in Bokeelia that takes guests to Cayo Costa state park and Cabbage Key, call 239-283-0015 for more information. For other charters, you may .11 Island Girl Charters, 239-633-8142.
What about fishing charters? There are a nurnber of fishing guides on the island. Call for more information.
Are there any boat rentals? St. James City has a couple of boat rentals. You should contact Two Fish Inn Seaport, 239-283-4519, or call Monroe Canal Marina, 239-282-8600. In Bokeelia, you can call Four Winds Marina, 239-283-0250. There are others off island also, so check before you come.


Ron Tuitt teaches on the floor. His papers, briefcase and a small white writing slate are all easily within his reach as about 20 Paterson second-graders surround him, seated on small carpets. They love the unusual setup.
Tuitt, 49, finds the floor more comfortable, because he can stretch out his legs. He suffers from a condition called lymphedema, which causes his legs to swell severely. In recent years the lymphedema has hampered his mobility, making walking extremely painful, sitting in chairs uncomfortable and sending him to the hospital more than once.
But his condition has enhanced his teaching in a surprising way.
His students at School 13 on East 23rd Street learn not just to read and write, they're learning about dedication and perseverance.
Last summer, Tuitt, who has been teaching for 12 years, thought his days in the classroom were finished. First hospitalized for swelling in his right leg in 1999, he later was diagnosed with lymphedema. Last year, the condition worsened. To reach his classroom, located with others in the basement, Tuitt sat and shuffled down the stairs. Then he used crutches to walk to his door. In June he was hospitalized for about two months.
"I thought it was over. This thing beat me," said the language arts teacher whose legs are wrapped tightly in Ace bandages. "I didn't think I could win. The one thing that hurt the most was that I'd never see these kids again."
But he didn't give up. With intermittent physical therapy and a strong will, Tuitt was back in the classroom last fall.
He started using a motorized wheelchair in mid-September, secured with the help of Jo-Ann Carnemolla school secretary, who made the arrangements. Now he can use the elevators located on the other side of the school building to reach the first-floor auditorium and watch his students in the monthly grade-level performances. The school district will soon be installing a computerized interactive SMART Board, which Tuitt can use to display lessons for the whole class without moving around. Even David Rodrigues, the school custodian, pitches in by parking Tuitt's car daily.
His students help him, too. They help him get to and from his car. They assist him every day after school when he practices walking. They run errands for him, like bringing papers up to the principal's office and when he asks for something – crayons, markers, or other lesson materials – it's not uncommon for more than one child to jump up in response.
"It makes me feel good inside," said Shania Wauchope, 7.
"It's fun helping my teacher," said Genesis Gomes, 7.
Lymphedema occurs when unusual amounts of fluid build up in the body, causing swelling, generally in the limbs, according to the National Lymphedema Network. Though there is no known cure, lymphedema can develop when lymph vessels or nodes are missing, removed, or harmed. Tuitt has long struggled with his weight and although obesity does not cause the problem, it can exacerbate it. Tuitt said he is not sure how he developed the condition.
Anne Marie Mulé, a second-grade math and science teacher, said Tuitt's condition fosters a mutual devotion between him and his students.
"I think they recognize how hard it is for him to come in every day, so they realize how important they are," she said.
Vice Principal Denise Wallace, said his students learn from his refusal to be stopped by his health problems.
"I think the disability shows determination," she said. "That they can do whatever they want. They can be successful no matter what obstacles they face."
Tuitt is also a stickler for good manners and discipline. Even from the floor Tuitt catches the slightest infraction and delivers a quick reprimand. His is the only class where most students wear the school uniform. All the children refer to him as "sir."
Even Tuitt himself acknowledges that he's become more creative and stronger as a teacher from his physical struggles. He knows his students benefit as well.
"They know I don't quit," he said. "They understand pain because there are a lot of days I can't hide it. And they know I care."
1 - Ron Tuitt, who suffers from an incurable swelling condition of the legs, known as lymphedema, sits with his class recently at School 13 in Paterson. Tuitt continues to teach with the support and admiration of his students.
2 - Ron Tuitt counts each step as he practices his walking with the support of his second-grade students at School 13 in Paterson. "It makes me feel good inside," says Shania Wauchope, 7, who runs errands for Tuitt.
3 - Second-grader Adriana Garcia, 7, follows along in class from Tuitt's wheelchair at School 13.
4 - Ron Tuitt, right, gets help from Genesis Gomes, 7, outside School 13 in Paterson as he prepares to enter his car. "It's fun helping my teacher," she says.
5 - Luis Palacios, 7, left, a second-grader at School 13 in Paterson, and his teacher, Ron Tuitt, share a laugh during class. Tuitt suffers from lymphedema, a condition that causes severe swelling in his legs. The condition made teaching difficult. "I thought it was over. This thing beat me," he says. Tuitt returned to class in the fall.
6 - Dawyn Santana, 8, listens during class while sitting in teacher Ron Tuitt's wheelchair.
7 - Melanie Ferman, 8, studies under teacher Ron Tuitt's desk. Colleagues say Tuitt's condition fosters a mutual devotion between him and his students.


This air mattress inflates to a huge comfy pad but packs down very small. It is not the warmest.
The Big Agnes Q Core SLX is a massive boat of an air mattress that packs down surprisingly small! It is decently light compared to many of the other models we tested, weighing in at just over a pound. We were eager to try this product that is reminiscent of a pool toy and had mixed feelings about it in the end. It is comfortable and an excellent choice for side sleepers, but is not incredibly warm. A great option for your next car camping adventure or for floating in a reservoir.
We feel like we're on a big floating raft in the ocean on this colossal sleeping pad. The Q Core SLX is super thick, and you'll find yourself floating above your tent mates.
The Q-Core SLX inflates to a huge, thick sleeping pad that takes up a lot of space.
Big Agnes says the Q Core SLX is insulated with WRM high-loft synthetic insulation. Based on the pack size of this pad, we don't think there is much in there. You can feel a small layer of it when it is deflated, but based on our experience sleeping on this pad, it doesn't feel like it is very insulated. We prefer the NeoAir XLite's space blanket type insulation, which seems to create a much warmer barrier between the cold ground and your sleeping body.
The Q Core SLX is not "R-Value" rated, but Big Agnes estimates it will keep you warm up to 15 degrees Fahrenheit. We would hesitate to take this pad out in temperatures that low unless you're bringing a closed cell foam pad like the Therm-a-RestZ Lite Sol and we would not recommend using it in a winter camping setting. There is a lot of cold air moving around under your body in this super thick model, with only a thin layer of insulation to protect you from the ground.
The Q-Core SLX is a comfortable choice for side sleepers. You will be three inches higher than your tentmate.
We had high hopes in this category for the Q Core SLX, though we've learned that thicker doesn't always mean better. It is a super cushy pad that is 4.5 inches thick. If you are a side sleeper, this could be a great choice for you because it's so thick your shoulders won't touch the ground. The Q Core SLX does have I-Beam construction for stability, which we noticed; however, it takes some getting used to the boaty-ness of this pad. We do like that the outer chambers are bigger and give you a cradled feeling, keeping you in the middle of the pad.
We experienced a similar feature while testing the REI AirRail, our most comfortable pad. The pad's materials are quite slippery, so if you're camped on a hill, you may find yourself at the bottom of it quickly. This model also has a one-way inflation valve that makes it easy to adjust how much air you want to keep you comfortable. It also has a gaping valve to deflate it very quickly. These valves are significant, and if they're on top when you're sleeping, you may have the indent of them on your face in the morning.
Big Agnes has used "Aviation grade TPU lamination technology" as a coating on the ripstop material, claiming it is 25% more durable than the previous model. The material has a similar "hand" or feel as the Sea to Summit Comfort Plus Insulated, though the Plus Insulated has two separate chambers. In the case of a puncture, it will still keep you off the ground.
The Q-Core SLX has I-beam stabilizers built into its construction for extra stability on this boat.
This huge air mattress is surprisingly light compared to its inflated size. In fact, the 66-inch size, which we tested, is the second lightest model in this review. By our measurement, it weighs 16.6 ounces. The NeoAir XLite is our sveltest model at 12 ounces, and the heaviest is the hulking REI Trekker.
This one also packs down impressively small, again coming in neck and neck with the XLite. The next smallest package is the Therm-a-Rest Prolite - Women's.
The NeoAir XLite and the Q-Core SLX have about the same packed size.
We would recommend this pad for all your summer base camping and backpacking needs. We would hesitate to stretch the Q Core SLX's use into the colder seasons unless you pair it with a foam pad for better insulation. If you're a side sleeper, this could be the answer to your shoulder woes as it will keep those shoulders off the ground. It is a cushy, comfortable pad that is light and won't weigh you down on extended backpacking trips.
The Q Core SLX retails for $140, which is a decent value for a high-quality pad. If you're planning on spending a lot of time backpacking, we'd recommend dropping the extra $20 to purchase the NeoAir XTherm instead; it will save you four ounces, and you'll have more space in your pack.
The Q-Core has an ample rectangular shape.
This large and cushy sleeping pad packs down super small and is a decent lightweight choice for backpacking and camping. It will cradle you and rock you like you're on a boat, floating high above your tent-mate. We would use it as a summer backpacking pad, but not into the cold seasons unless we had a closed cell foam pad to provide additional insulation.


A new law requiring all new homes built in the city to have solar panels, making South Miami the first city outside California to support such an initiative.
Under the new law passed on 18 July 2017 from South Miami City Commission, new residential construction would require 175 square feet of solar panels to be installed per 1,000 square feet of sunlit roof area, or 2.75 kW per 1,000 square feet of living space, whichever is less.
Home renovations that replace more than 75 per cent of the premise, or extend the structure by more than 75 per cent will have to comply too.
Exceptions are in place, for example if the house is to be built under existing trees.
South Miami Mayor Philip Stoddard, a biology professor at Florida International University said: "Solar reduces the cost of home ownership, it makes houses sell faster, it returns more to a builder, it makes local jobs, and most importantly, it reduces carbon emissions today to help our children and grandchildren have a better future tomorrow".
He also expressed concerns over climate change consequences and the risks that South Miami has to mitigate, especially as sea levels rise.
"We're down in South Florida where climate change and sea level rise are existential threats, so we're looking for every opportunity to promote renewable energy," Stoddard said. "It's carbon reduction, plain and simple. We have a pledge for carbon neutrality. We support the Paris Climate Agreement."
Commissioner Josh Liebman dissented, saying that he is not against solar, but he supports "the freedom of choice", also expressing concerns over the fact that nearly 7 percent of the city's budget comes from fees the utility pays to South Miami.
Jeremy Forestone, Director of the Center for Carbon-free Power Integration at the University of Delaware expressed its satisfaction with the decision, saying that at a time when the Federal Government has stepped back from advocating for renewable energy, action on the local level is critical.
The largest city in the country to mandate rooftop solar panels so far is San Francisco, which passed the respective law in January 2017.
Other cities in California that have mandated solar panels in new buildings are Culver City, San Mateo, Lancaster, Sebastopol and Santa Monica.
The trust of Development Institutions to Egypt is expected to catalyse a further debt and equity inflow of $2 billion, highlighting Egypt's re-emergence as an attractive investment destination.


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text:
Total Produce CEO Praises Colleagues' Efforts In Face Of COVID-19
Published on Apr 2 2020 3:30 PM in Coronavirus tagged: Total Produce / Coronavirus / Rory Byrne
Total Produce chief executive Rory Byrne has praised the "dedication, determination, stoicism and [...] ingenuity" of the fresh produce firm's colleagues around the world, in the face of the growing coronavirus epidemic.
In a statement on the company's website, Byrne noted how the business has been able to transition from centralised offices to networks of "remotely-located, digitally-linked colleagues".
He also noted how the business is raising the bar and doubling down on efforts at its packing, ripening, distribution and processing hubs around the world.
The full statement can be found below.
Rory Byrne, Chief Executive Officer, Total Produce Plc:
"For our industry, our business, our people and for the communities in which we operate, these are challenging times. As the Coronavirus continues to spread across the world, collectively we are facing unprecedented disruption, the impact of which is evident for all to see.
"Amidst all of the upheaval, however, I want to take this moment to reflect on two reasons for optimism, reasons that fuel my conviction that this storm will be weathered and that our industry will rapidly and robustly rebound in its aftermath. The first, is the striking sense of solidarity evident across our industry at this time, the second, the incredible contribution produce people are making to face down the adversity that confronts us.
"I should begin by expressing my profound appreciation to my colleagues in Total Produce and our partners across the world. For each and every one of us, this is a period of great uncertainty. It is also a period that has, in many ways, seen us challenged to reinvent the way we do our business. Total Produce people across the globe have met this challenge with dedication, determination, stoicism and no small measure of ingenuity.
"It has been inspiring to see. Networks of remotely-located, digitally-linked colleagues have replaced centralised offices; staggered, improvised staffing arrangements are replacing conventional shifts in packhouses, ripening facilities, distribution centres and processing hubs right across the group as we endeavour to cover all eventualities. This has required sacrifices, both professional and personal and flexibility on the part of our people.
"Each and every one of you have stepped up to the plate. By staying apart, we are standing together. And we're getting the job done. Thank you.
"And what a job it is that we have. The challenges associated with the spread of the Coronavirus internationally have brought into sharp focus the true value of what it is that we do; securing the international supply chain, assuring the integrity and safety of the produce we sell and delivering to people everywhere the most nutritious, healthy fresh fruits and vegetables from every corner of the globe. Never has this been more important.
"This is why it is so gratifying to see our industry as a whole exhibiting such unity of purpose at this critical moment. Disparate agenda have given way to the solitary common goal of keeping supply channels open, and in Total Produce we are hugely grateful to all of our partners in produce, from seed to store, for their support at this time.
"Our international family of growers, global and local, we know, like our own people, are working tirelessly to keep shelves stocked. At a moment of marked volatility in demand, our customer base across the world is engaging constructively and imaginatively; working with us to manage contingencies and circumvent obstacles. Logistics partners, service providers and industry bodies too, are all playing their part in what is an extraordinary effort, while we are encouraged by the inclusive approach by legislators globally with whom we are in regular contact.
"What we are witnessing, it seems to me, is a remarkable exercise in collaboration, one which augurs well for the prospects of our sector when this crisis passes, as it inevitably will, and one about which we should all be proud.
"In the meantime, as an industry, as a company, as everyday people, we will continue to be tested. We have been tested before. In the past, we have always summoned the resolve and resilience to pass such tests. We will do so again.
"In the days and weeks that lie ahead let's continue to look after one another, protect ourselves, our families, our colleagues, our communities and, of course, our business."
© 2020 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Click subscribe to sign up to ESM: The European Supermarket Magazine
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Check out today's Paper Smooches Challenge.
I'm glad it is Anything Goes so that I can do the spring thing!
I love this little bird from the Paper Smooches spring fling stamp set.
I kept the layout pretty clean and simple, with patterned paper on the bottom.
Ahhh, Spring!! Such a fun and colorful card! Nice job!!
Adorable! What a fun springtime card! Thanks for joining us at Paper Smooches SPARKS!


and what did others think of his work?
July 12, 1817 ("Thoreau" 96), on his grandmother's farm.
age of twenty he legally changed his name to Henry David.
fall of 1836 and graduated on August 16, 1837 (12).
his first lecture, "Society" (21).
the "Transcendental Club" ("Thoreau" 696).
first book, "A Week on the Concord and Merrimack Rivers"
Disobedience," one of his most famous essays.
1995 Grolier Multimedia Encyclopedia 2).
people such as Mahatma Gahndi and Martin Luther King, Jr.
now looked upon as a created work of art ("Thoreau" 697).
subjects such as, the attitudes of society, age, and work.
and unpatched clothes, than to have a sound conscience"
"As for work, we haven't any of any consequence" (78).
instructor as youth, for it has not profited so much as it.
and humanist (The 1995 Grolier Multimedia Encyclopedia 2).
all like the style of Emerson.
sense of his paragraphs with his own vigor and salubrity.
superfluous; all is compact, concrete, as nature is"
caused him to receive both positive and negative criticism.
Thoreau was always very forthright in everything he said.
sentimentalism about Nature...a mark of disease"
world and discovering the self ("Thoreau" 697).
will have for centuries to come.


text:
Q: how to output log info in a python cgi file? I am using cgi (python) as a proxy to solve cross-domain issue of ajax request. i want to log some key info of each request, such as url, and save these info to a file on server. what should I do? I tried python logging module or File I/O module, neither seems work in this environment.
#!C:/Python25/python.exe -u

import urllib2
import cgi
import sys, os

f = open("./proxy.txt","a")

method = os.environ["REQUEST_METHOD"]
f.write(method + "\n")
if method == "POST":
    qs = os.environ["QUERY_STRING"]
    d = cgi.parse_qs(qs)
    if d.has_key("url"):
        url = d["url"][0]

else:
    fs = cgi.FieldStorage()
    url = fs.getvalue('url')

try:
    y = urllib2.urlopen(url)
f.write(url + "\n")
f.close()
except Exception, E:
    print "Status: 500 Unexpected Error"
    print "Content-Type: text/plain"
    print
    print "Some unexpected error occurred. Error text was:", E

the proxy.txt file is still blank after request from client-end...

A: It's probably a combination of using a relative path and file permissions...
Try changing this line:
f = open("./proxy.txt","a")

to an absolute path, e.g.
f = open("C:\Users\foo\Desktop\proxy.txt","a")

Make sure that the effective user running the cgi script has permission to write to the absolute path you choose...


user warning: You have an error in your SQL syntax; check the manual that corresponds to your MySQL server version for the right syntax to use near '>= 'now') ) ORDER BY ASC' at line 1 query: SELECT node.nid, field_dia_y_hora_value FROM node node LEFT JOIN i18n_node i18n ON node.nid = i18n.nid WHERE (i18n.language ='es' OR i18n.language ='' OR i18n.language IS NULL) AND ( (node.type IN ('kontzertuak')) AND (.field_dia_y_hora_value_default >= 'now') ) ORDER BY ASC in /home/kerobia/www/drupal/includes/database.mysql.inc on line 174.
Ez dago kontzerturik izanen hemendik gutxira.
No hay conciertos en breve.
No hi ha concerts aviat.
Diseño y desarrollo INVESTIC con DRUPAL. Ilustrado por Maite Gurrutxaga.


text:
Study Shows Vulvodynia May Be Overlooked in Patients
Heidi Anne Duerr, MPH
New research sheds light on vulvodynia, showing that the disorder is under-diagnosed and inadequately treated. Since the chronic pain associated with vulvodynia can make it difficult to sit or participate in sexual activity, the disorder greatly impacts quality of life for women afflicted with it. The research is published online as part of the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology.
New research sheds light on vulvodynia, showing that the disorder is underdiagnosed and inadequately treated. Since the chronic pain associated with vulvodynia can make it difficult to sit or participate in sexual activity, the disorder greatly impacts quality of life for women afflicted with it. The research is published online as part of the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Dr Barbara D. Reed, professor of family medicine at the University of Michigan Medical School, and colleagues conducted a population-based longitudinal study of adult women (N=2,269) in a four county area in southeastern Michigan. Participants were recruited via random telephone dialing surveys; participation involved a telephone interview, an online or written survey to be completed shortly after study initiation, and a series of follow-up interviews. Current cases of vulvodynia were based on previously validated survey-based diagnostic criteria. Almost one quarter (21.4%) of the participants were 65 years of age or older, and a majority were white (73.5%). The current findings represent data collected from the baseline survey.
The researchers found a 9.2% unweighted prevalence of vulvodynia (weighted prevalence was 8.1%). In addition, the researchers found that another 17.9% of the women reported symptoms suggestive of past vulvodynia. The prevalence of vulvodynia appeared to decrease after the age of 70; after adjusting for the decrease in number of women who were having intercourse, however, the researchers no longer found a decrease in prevalence associated with older age. Reed and colleagues also noted that vulvodynia and pain symptoms persisted among women during menopause even when they are taking hormone therapy.
In comparing those women with vulvodynia and those without the disorder, Reed et al. noticed some trends regarding prevalence. Specifically, the odds of having vulvodynia were statistically increased in younger women, in married women, in those who were employed, in those who had had intercourse in the past 6 months, and in those who were not black. After an adjustment analysis, the risk of vulvodynia remained significant for women who were married, those who were having intercourse in the past 6 months, and women who were not black.
The researchers also looked at pain profiles among women who had been diagnosed with vulvodynia. While a majority of the women only reported provoked pain (64.8%), almost one-quarter (20.3%) of the women reported unprovoked pain (20.3%) and about 15% noted a mixed pain profile. Women most frequent described their pain as "irritating," "burning," and "raw;" slightly over a quarter of the women also described their pain as "itchy."
Based on their findings, the problem of underdiagnosis may be a result of women not reporting their symptoms to their physicians. In fact, Reed et al. found that only 48.6% of the women had sought treatment for their symptoms. Of those who met criteria for vulvodynia and presented to clinicians, almost one third were given one of several incorrect diagnoses, including estrogen deficiency or yeast infection, and only 5.7% (or 2.0% of all women screening positive for vulvodynia) received a diagnosis of vulvodynia or vestibulitis.
"With this knowledge, we better understand how common this disorder is, and who is likely to be affected," Reed explained in a press statement. "Knowing this should make it easier for medical providers to expect to see women with this problem, and will therefore make the diagnosis earlier so that treatment can proceed."
Addtional Information
Measuring Treatment Outcomes in Women With Vulvodynia
Vulvodynia FAQ'sPelvic Pain and Urinary Symptoms in Women With Cesarean Versus Vaginal Delivery: Are There Any Differences?
Reed BD, Harlow SD, Sen A, et al. Prevalence and demographic characteristics of vulvodynia in a population-based sample. AJOG. 2011; August 22 [Epub].
McLeod L. Chronic vulvar pain a reality for more than 100,000 women in southeast Michigan. University of Michigan Health System Press Release. September 14, 2011.
Nipocalimab demonstrates positive data in pregnant patients at risk for hemolytic disease of fetus, newborn
S1E4: Dr. Kristina Adams-Waldorf: Pandemics, pathogens and perseverance
Vaginal metabolites may be early predictors of spontaneous preterm birth
S1E3: Dr. Emily S. Miller: Placental pathology and MVM evidence
Active postnatal care associated with periviable infant survival rate
FDA advisory panel votes to withdraw approval of premature birth prevention drug
The rare condition can lead to life-threatening anemia in the fetus and currently lacks FDA-approved treatments.
This episode of Pap Talk by Contemporary OB/GYN features an interview with Dr. Kristina Adams-Waldorf, Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Adjunct Professor in Global Health at the University of Washington (UW) School of Medicine in Seattle.
In a recent study, an association was found between vaginal metabolites and spontaneous preterm birth.
This episode of Pap Talk by Contemporary OB/GYN features an interview with Dr. Emily S. Miller, with Northwestern Medicine in Chicago.
In a recent study, the infant survival rate among periviable infants varied based on the type of active postnatal care received at certain gestational ages.
An advisory panel for the US Food and Drug Administration voted 14-1 to withdraw 17α-hydroxyprogesterone caproate (Makena; Covis Pharma) from the market.