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Toby Keith Covel (born July 8, 1961), best known as Toby Keith, is an American country music singer-songwriter, record producer, and actor.
Keith released his first four studio albums—1993's Toby Keith, 1994's Boomtown, 1996's Blue Moon and 1997's Dream Walkin', plus a Greatest Hits package for various divisions of Mercury Records before leaving Mercury in 1998.
These albums all earned gold or higher certification, and produced several chart singles, including his debut "Should've Been a Cowboy", which topped the country charts and was the most played country song of the 1990s.
The song has received three million spins since its release, according to Broadcast Music Incorporated.Signed to DreamWorks Records Nashville in 1998, Keith released his breakthrough single "How Do You Like Me Now?!" that year.
This song, the title track to his 1999 album of the same name, was the Number One country song of 2000, and one of several chart-toppers during his tenure on DreamWorks Nashville.
His next three albums, Pull My Chain, Unleashed, and Shock'n Y'all, produced three more Number Ones each, and all of the albums were certified multi-platinum.
A second Greatest Hits package followed in 2004, and after that, he released Honkytonk University.When DreamWorks closed in 2005, Keith founded the label Show Dog Nashville, which merged with Universal South Records to become Show Dog-Universal Music in December 2009.
He has released seven studio albums through Show Dog/Show Dog-Universal: 2006's White Trash with Money, 2007's Big Dog Daddy, 2008's That Don't Make Me a Bad Guy, 2009's American Ride, 2010's Bullets in the Gun, 2011's Clancy's Tavern, 2012's Hope on the Rocks, and 2013's Drinks After Work, as well as the compilation 35 Biggest Hits in 2008.
Keith also made his acting debut in 2006, starring in the film Broken Bridges and co-starred with comedian Rodney Carrington in the 2008 film Beer for My Horses.Overall, Keith has released sixteen studio albums, two Christmas albums, and three compilation albums.
He has also charted more than forty singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts, including nineteen Number One hits and sixteen additional Top Ten hits.
His longest-lasting Number One hits are "Beer for My Horses" (a 2003 duet with Willie Nelson) and "As Good as I Once Was" (2005), at six weeks each.
He has sold more than 40 million albums worldwide.Television appearancesKeith performed on a series of television advertisements for Telecom USA for that company's discount long distance telephone service 10-10-220.
He also starred in Ford commercials, singing original songs such as "Ford Truck Man" and "Field Trip (Look Again)" while driving Ford trucks.Keith made an appearance at the first Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (then NWA-TNA) weekly pay-per-view on June 19, 2002, where his playing of "Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue" was interrupted by Jeff Jarrett.
He would later enter the Gauntlet for the Gold main event, suplexing Jarrett and eliminating him from the match.
A short video of the suplex is seen in the clip package when he goes onstage.
He appeared the next week, on June 26, and helped Scott Hall defeat Jarrett in singles action.In 2009, Keith participated in the Comedy Central Roast of Larry the Cable Guy, which aired on March 14, 2009.Keith received the "Colbert Bump" when he appeared on Comedy Central's The Colbert Report.
He holds the distinction of being the only musical artist to have received a five star rating from Stephen Colbert on iTunes.
Keith furthered this connection when he appeared in Colbert's 2008 Christmas special as a hunter.
Keith also made an appearance as a musical guest on the October 27, 2011 episode of the Colbert Report.On October 29, 2011, Keith appeared on Fox Channel's Huckabee with former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee.
He played "Bullets in the Gun" and he joined with Huckabee's house band to play a song at the end of the show.ActingIn the Autumn of 2005, he filmed Broken Bridges, written by Cherie Bennett and Jeff Gottesfeld, and directed by Steven Goldmann.
This feature film from Paramount/CMT Films was released on September 8, 2006.
In this contemporary story set in small-town Tennessee, Keith plays Bo Price, a washed-up country musician.
The movie also stars Kelly Preston, Burt Reynolds, Tess Harper, and Lindsey Haun.Keith wrote and starred in the 2008 movie Beer for My Horses, which is based on the 2003 hit song of the same name recorded by Keith and Willie Nelson.Business venturesIn 2005, Keith opened Toby Keith's I Love This Bar & Grill in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, as well as Tulsa, Oklahoma, and now also has restaurants in Thackerville, Oklahoma; Auburn Hills, Michigan; Kansas City; Las Vegas; Mesa, Arizona; Peoria, Arizona; St.
Louis Park, Minnesota; Foxborough, Massachusetts; Cincinnati, Ohio; Newport News, Virginia; and Denver, Colorado.
Keith does not actually own the new restaurants; the new restaurant is the first in a franchise under Scottsdale, Arizona-based Capri Restaurant Group Enterprises LLC, which purchased the master license agreement to build more Toby Keith restaurants nationwide.
Capri Restaurant Group is owned by Frank Capri, who opened the restaurant in Mesa in the shopping center known as Mesa Riverview and is planning on opening multiple locations across the country.In 2009, Capri Restaurant Group announced that it will open another I Love this Bar & Grill location in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania's South Side Works shopping and entertainment district.February 2010 marked the opening of the Toby Keith's I Love This Bar & Grill in the Winstar World Casino, exit 1 on Interstate 35 in Oklahoma.
Other locations opened in 2010 by the Capri Restaurant Group included those in Great Lakes Crossing in Auburn Hills, Michigan and in the Shops at West End in St.
Louis Park, Minnesota.In early 2009, Keith also established a line of clothing, TK Steelman.Keith supports Ally's House, a non-profit organization in Oklahoma designed to aid children with cancer.
Of the charity, Keith said:This is a special charity to me.
I saw firsthand how a child's cancer diagnosis can devastate a family.
Please join me in supporting these kids through Ally's House.
We're gonna make it better for the kids.In 2011, Keith introduced a new drink named "Wild Shot".
At first it was only available in Mexico, but now is sold and served in America.
It is a featured drink in his restaurant chain, I Love this Bar and Grill.Keith's music career and his various other business ventures have made him one of the wealthiest celebrities in the United States.
The July 15.
2013, edition of Forbes magazine features Keith on the cover with the caption "Country Music's $500 million man".
The article titled "Cowboy Capitalist" by Zack O'Malley Greenburg also contains information regarding Keith's earnings as a musician over the course of his career, such as earning $65 million in the past 12 months, which surpasses the earnings of even more well known musicians such as Jay-Z and Beyoncé and that he hasn't earned less than $48 million a year over the past 5 years.
Keith has written at least one #1 country single over the past 20 years and the partnership between his own label, Show Dog-Universal, and Big Machine Records, which Keith also helped found in 2005.Political beliefsSince 2002, Keith has made numerous trips to the Middle East to bring entertainment and encouragement to US men and women serving on or near the front lines.
"My father was a soldier.
He taught his kids to respect veterans," said Keith.
"It's that respect and the thank-you that we have a military that's in place and ready to defend our nation; our freedom."In 2004, Keith called himself "a conservative Democrat who is sometimes embarrassed for his party".
He endorsed the re-election of President George W.
Bush in the 2004 presidential election and performed at a Dallas, Texas, rally on the night before the election.
Keith also endorsed Democrat Dan Boren in his successful run in Oklahoma's 2nd congressional district and is good friends with former Democratic New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson.
In a January 2007 interview with Newsday, Keith was asked whether he supported the Iraq War.
He responded with "Never did," and said he favors setting a time limit on the campaign.
He also said, "I don't apologize for being patriotic...
If there is something socially incorrect about being patriotic and supporting your troops, then they can kiss my ass on that, because I'm not going to budge on that at all.
And that has nothing to do with politics.
Politics is what's killing America."In April 2008, Keith said that Barack Obama "looks like a great speaker and a great leader.
And I think you can learn on your feet in there, so I don't hold people responsible for not having a whole bunch of political background in the House and Senate." At the same time he remarked, "I think [John\] McCain is a great option too." In August 2008, he called Obama "the best Democratic candidate we've had since Bill Clinton".In October 2008, Keith told CMT that he had left the Democratic Party and has re-registered as an independent.
"My party that I've been affiliated with all these years doesn't stand for anything that I stand for anymore," he says.
"They've lost any sensibility that they had, and they've allowed all the kooks in.
So I'm going independent." He also told CMT that he would likely vote for the Republican ticket, partially because of his admiration for Sarah Palin.In March 2009, Keith received the Johnny "Mike" Spann Memorial Semper Fidelis Award during a New York ceremony held by the Marine Corps-Law Enforcement Foundation.
The trophy is named for the CIA operative (and former Marine Corps captain) who was the first U.S.
casualty in the war in Afghanistan.
"Spending time with our soldiers around the world is something I've always regarded as a privilege and honor," he said.
"I'm certainly happy to accept this award, but I won't forget for a second who's really doing the heavy lifting to keep this country safe.
And that's why I'll keep going back and spending time with those good folks every chance I get."In April 2009, he voiced support for Obama on Afghanistan and other decisions: "He hired one of my best friends who I think should run for president someday...Gen.
James Jones as a national security adviser.
He's sending troops into Afghanistan, help is on the way there.
And I'm seeing some really good middle range stuff.
I'm giving our commander in chief a chance before I start grabbing.
So far, I'm cool with it."Courtesy of the Red, White and BlueOn March 24, 2001, Keith's father, H.K.
Covel, was killed in a car accident.
That event and the September 11 attacks in 2001 prompted Keith to write the song "Courtesy of the Red, White, & Blue", a song about his father's patriotism and faith in the United States.
At first, Keith refused to record the song and sang it only live at his concerts for military personnel.
The reaction to the song, the lyrics of which express clear nationalistic and militaristic sentiments, was strong in many quarters, even to the point that the Commandant of the Marine Corps James L.
Jones told Keith it was his "duty as an American citizen" to record the song.
As the lead single from the album Unleashed (2002), "Courtesy of the Red, White, & Blue" peaked at number one over the Fourth of July weekend.ABC invited Keith to sing "Courtesy of the Red, White, & Blue" on a 2002 Fourth of July concert it was producing, then rescinded the invitation after host Peter Jennings heard the song and vetoed it.
Jennings said the song "probably wouldn't set the right tone".
"I find it interesting that he's not from the U.S.", Keith said of Jennings, who was Canadian.
"I bet Dan Rather'd let me do it on his special."Feud with the Dixie ChicksKeith had a public feud with the Dixie Chicks over the song "Courtesy of the Red, White, & Blue", in 2003 as well as over comments they made about President George W.
Bush on stage during a concert in London.
The lead singer of the Dixie Chicks, Natalie Maines, publicly stated that Keith's song was "ignorant, and it makes country music sound ignorant".
Keith responded by pointing out that Maines did not write her music and he does, and by displaying a backdrop at his concerts showing a doctored photo of Maines with Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein.
On May 21, 2003, Maines wore a T-shirt with the letters "FUTK" on the front at the Academy of Country Music Awards.
While a spokesperson for the Dixie Chicks said that the acronym stood for "Friends United in Truth and Kindness," many, including host Vince Gill, took it to be a shot at Keith ("Fuck You Toby Keith").
In an October 2004 appearance on Real Time with Bill Maher, Maines finally confessed that it was indeed a shot at Keith, and that she "thought that nobody would get it".In August 2003, Keith's representation publicly declared he was done feuding with Maines "because he's realized there are far more important things to concentrate on".
Keith was referring specifically to the terminal illness of a former bandmate's daughter, Allison Faith Webb.
However, he continues to refuse to say Maines' name, and claims that the doctored photo was intended to express his opinion that Maines' criticism was an attempt to squelch Keith's free speech.In April 2008, a commercial spot to promote Al Gore's "We Campaign", involving both Keith and the Dixie Chicks, was proposed.
However, the idea was eventually abandoned due to scheduling conflicts.Personal life and triviaKeith has an honorary degree from Villanova University, which he attended from 1979-1980.
He planned to be a petroleum engineer.An avid University of Oklahoma sports fan, Keith is often seen at Oklahoma Sooners games and practices.
He is also a fan of professional wrestling, being seen in the front row of numerous WWE shows that take place in Oklahoma, as well as performing "Courtesy of the Red, White, & Blue (The Angry American)" live at the first ever TNA Wrestling show on June 19, 2002.
He is also a Free Will Baptist.On March 24, 1984, Keith married Tricia Lucus.
He is the father of three children—two daughters, Shelley Covel Rowland (born 1980, adopted by Keith in 1984) and Krystal "Krystal Keith" LaDawn Covel Sandubrae (born September 30, 1985; signed a contract with Show Dog-Universal in 2013.), and one son (Stelen Keith Covel, born 1997).
He also has one granddaughter (born 2008; mother is Shelley) and one grandson (born 2010; mother is also Shelley).On March 24, 2001 (incidentally, Keith's 17th wedding anniversary), Keith's father was killed in a car accident on Interstate 35.
On December 25, 2007, the Covel family was awarded $2.8 million for the wrongful death of H.K.
Covel.
Elias and Pedro Rodriguez, operators of Rodriguez Transportes of Tulsa, and the Republic Western Insurance Co.
were found liable as they failed to properly equip the charter bus with properly working air brakes.PhilanthropyKeith recently filmed a PSA for Little Kids Rock, a national nonprofit that works to restore and revitalize music education in disadvantaged U.S.
public schools.
Through his encouragement for music education, giving the gift of music is possible in children's lives.ToursBrooks & Dunn's Neon Circus & Wild West Show 2001Unleashed Tour 2002with Jamie O'Neal, Emerson Drive and Rascal Flatts (Select Dates)USO 2002–2013 (11 tours, visiting 15 countries and 3 naval ships)Shock'N Y'all Tour 2003with Blake SheltonBig Throwdown Tour 2004with Lonestar and Gretchen WilsonBig Throwdown Tour II 2005with Jo Dee MessinaWhite Trash With Money Tour 2006Hookin' Up & Hangin' Out Tour 2007with Miranda Lambert, Trace Adkins, Josh GracinBig Dog Daddy Tour 2007Biggest & Baddest Tour 2008-2009with Montgomery Gentry and Trailer ChoirAmerica's Toughest Tour 2009with Trace Adkins Also Julianne Hough(Few Dates)Toby Keith's American Ride Tour 2010with Trace Adkins & James OttoLocked & Loaded Tour 2011with Eric Church & JT HodgesLive in Overdrive Tourwith Brantley GilbertHammer Down Tour 2013with Kip MooreHammer Down Under Tour 2014With Kellie Pickler & Eli Young Band
Shock 'N Y'all
American Ride
How Do You Like Me Now?!
Toby Keith: A Classic Christmas
Honkytonk University
Bullets In The Gun
That Don't Make Me A Bad Guy
Clancy's Tavern
Big Dog Daddy
Pull My Chain
Hope On The Rocks
Drinks After Work
Every Dog Has Its Day
How Do You Like Me Now
As Good As I Once Was
Beers Ago
A Little Too Late
You Ain't Much Fun
Who's Your Daddy?
Courtesy Of The Red, White And Blue


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Technology & Innovation⟩Tech & Gadgets
Happy Birthday, Firefox
Connor Brooke Last updated: November 9, 2012
Eight years ago, the internet and everything involved with it from online business to social media was very different than today. Flip-phones were hip and a smart phone was not anywhere on the radar of the average person. Facebook was still a college email-only social site. There wasn't much of a move to social media back then.
All of us were still living in a world dominated by Microsoft. Internet Explorer was our browser, Windows our OS. Then came along a small group of developers at a company called Mozilla.
Firefox Turns 8
Eight years ago today, Mozilla released its own web browser, Firefox, to the world. I never really thought I'd look back on the release of a web browser as an important moment in internet history, but the more I thought about it, the more it makes sense to talk about Firefox today.
Stan Schroeder with Mashable writes, "Mozilla's open source browser was seen as a breath of fresh air." Internet Explorer, aggressively pushed by Microsoft as essentially the only browser available to consumers, was rigid, slow, clunky, and a closed system. Its design was not ideal for the direction of the internet.
With Firefox, the developers at Mozilla embarked on a truly risky endeavor. Who in their right minds would take on a multi-billion dollar juggernaut like Microsoft? Imagine the pressure starting with that project.
Firefox's Mission is now the Direction of the Internet
In hindsight, it's easy to see that Firefox has done well. On their own blog, Mozilla writes of the beginnings of Firefox stating, "We believed that a community of people who understood the power of the web, and who put people above profits, could build something amazing."
The thing that strikes me the most about Firefox is the fact that they were one of the first mainstream open source and user-based projects on the web to really succeed in the spotlight. Adoption of the browser took off like wildfire; the developers had made a browser that people liked. It was different, faster, sleeker and cooler. And it was free!
Firefox, as Dave Neal relates for The Inquirer, was the "first alternative browser to really chip away at Microsoft's Internet Explorer dominance." It was the first small project from small beginnings that reached prominence quickly. It didn't have unlimited funding, it wasn't developed by the greatest minds at some company or on the web, and it wasn't institutional. But it worked.
Firefox's Symbol
In many ways, Firefox stands for the potential of the internet. Never before have people been able to have tremendous impact on the world and on others from very humble beginnings. Its story, however small in the big scope of things, is somewhat David and Goliath-like. I'll admit, the internet would have made it to where it is today, but I like to think that Firefox's example created inspiration that played an important role.
Now crowdsourcing platforms like Kickstarter and Gofundme bring people together to support projects of all shapes and sizes. A small idea can turn into something massive, or at least sell for lots of money (*cough* Instagram *cough*). Social media, content marketing, open source platforms, and inbound marketing have turned the internet from a top-down system into one that is based on users first, and grows from there.
Things were just starting to change in the internet ecosystem towards more open and diverse services and products. Then Firefox burst onto the scene and showed us that we can make whatever we want and we can make it better. Focus on the people and your product will be great. I think this idea is still going strong as the attention to, and effectiveness of, social media and the user experience continue to grow. So, Happy Birthday Firefox. May your next eight years help bring more of the same spirit to the internet.
What direction do you see the internet heading?

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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The federal government announced it will provide $14 billion to the provinces and territories to help them reopen their economies safely, an amount Doug Ford said will not be enough to cover the impact of COVID-19 to Ontario, the cost of which he pegged at $23 billion.
Ford said he does not support paid sick days during his press conference today, a doubling down on his government's slashing of paid sick days for workers upon taking office – Official Opposition Leader Andrea Horwath said Ford's refusal to support paid sick days is callous, and puts Ontarians in an unsafe position. Further, it could contribute to a second wave of the coronavirus in Ontario.
Dismal job numbers in Ontario for the month of May were revealed in this month's Statistics Canada Labour Force survey. Official Opposition critic for Economic Development and Job Creation, Catherine Fife, said Ontario remains in economic free-fall while the rest of the country begins to rebound from the shock of COVID-19. "While other provinces have stepped up to protect jobs, support businesses and ban commercial evictions, Doug Ford has sat on his hands," Fife said.
Ford said he will announce details regarding "stage two" of the province's economic reopening early next week - this is despite the fact that the average number of new cases of COVID-19 daily has trended upward for the past week.
The Official Opposition is calling on the Ford government to take over direct management of long-term care homes operated by Sienna, a company that runs 37 long-term care homes in the province. Disturbing reports and data reveal that Sienna homes have had some of Ontario's deadliest COVID-19 outbreaks.
The Official Opposition's critic for Northern Development, Mike Mantha, said Ford's misleading announcement, made earlier this week, for Broadband funding in the north was a re-announcement of funding pledged in 2019 — an amount the Ford government has still only invested a fraction of. "The re-announcement shows Ford is failing to invest in broadband during the pandemic, when families need it most," Mantha said, stressing that New Democrats have called for $1 billion to be invested in broadband, and for the government to deliver high-speed internet to rural and northern communities that need it now.


I have never had someone close to me go through this. I had nothing to fall back on. This experience didn't happen to a friend that you loved. It happened to a friend of a friend. One in three women miscarries. Most happen between the six and tenth week so some women don't even know that it has happened. What I found was that half of our friends had experienced this fate in their life and had never uttered a word. It felt like you weren't privy to the information until you were in the club.
I cried and she cried and this is what I did for her.
Previous articleAre Smartphones Changing the Way We Parent?
I'm a certified pastry chef turned mom blogger. We are moms building a community through balance, laughter, and the knowledge to "going pure." My passion lies in making more nutrient dense choices for my family and turning oldie but goodies into gluten free treats. I am loud, have two kiddos, and love to talk. Many or our stories are wrapped around a recipe or vice versa.


1) At the FDD, the Institute for Science and International Security documents "New Information about the Parchin Site".
2) Dr Shiraz Maher has published an essay titled "The primacy of praxis: clerical authority in the Syrian conflict".
"A close look at the competing claims, actors, and movements for authority within the Syrian civil war reveals three distinct periods of political and religious influence: that of Syrian scholars, who were the first to inject religious language into the revolution; that of Salafi scholars predominantly from the Gulf; and lastly, that of jihadi organizations like ISIS and Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham, who were active on the ground.
3) At the JCPA, Yoni Ben Menachem takes a look at the background to a story first reported by the Jerusalem Post's Khaled Abu Toameh.
"On October 13, 2018, Sheikh Akhram a-Sabri, preacher of the al-Aqsa Mosque, issued a fatwa (ruling in Islamic law) stating that anyone who sells property in the Old City of Jerusalem to Jews no longer belongs to the Islamic religion.
On October 20, 2018, the Jerusalem police and the Israel Security Agency (ISA) apprehended Adnan Gheith, the PA's Jerusalem governor, and Jihad al-Faqih, director of the PA's intelligence office in east Jerusalem, both of whom are supporters of Gen. Majid Faraj. They were arrested on suspicion of abducting a Beit Hanina resident (whose name is known to the author), a known realtor dealing in land and property, whom they suspected of selling a property in the area of Herod's Gate in the Old City.
4) Also at the JCPA, Nadav Shragai discusses a Jordanian request.


A blog post to honor your best ladies that stand next to you on your wedding day. Cheers to all you girl squads out there. You are all unique in your own ways, and have a story unlike anyone else. Love taking moments out of the day to capture the friendships my brides have with their girlfriends.


Brazeway is driven by the philosophy that our people are our most important asset.
We believe that hiring great people and giving them the opportunity and freedom to be creative, will make great things happen.
We do not simply offer jobs at Brazeway. We offer meaningful experiences.
Your next experience awaits you. Please review our career openings and tell us about yourself!
The Brazeway Experience. Engaging, Fulfilling and Rewarding.
creating an environment of: trust, innovation and collaboration.


Saloca in Wonderland: Boots Opticians & My New Glasses!
Boots Opticians & My New Glasses!
I'm still pretty new to the whole wearing glasses thing. I started wearing them around 2 years ago when I accidentally stuck my hand out to stop a van thinking it was my bus coming up the road.
I'm short sighted which means I have issues with seeing things from far away. Well, when I say far away, I can't read the tv-guide on the television if I'm sat on the couch, so make of that what you will!
Insert Boots Opticians. I was due for an eye test and Mr.Man had such an amazing experience with them I went ahead and booked myself in for an eye test. Did you know you're suppose to get your eyes tested every 2 years? I was a little over the 2 year mark when I booked in. An eye test with Boots costs £25.
Last time I had my eyes tested was in the Asda Opticians. They made me look into a contraption at a picture of a house, then they put these Harry Potter style glasses on my head and some guy got all up in my personal space doing what can only be described as intergalactic dance moves. Nobody had fun that day. Boots was a very different experience.
They started by testing my peripheral vision. For this, I had to stick my head into a machine and count dots as they flashed up on the screen. I then moved onto another machine where I again, looked at a picture of a house until it came into focus. My head was then stuck inside this very daunting looking tent where bright UFO style flashes not only blinded me, but took fancy pants pictures of the back of my eye balls. They then tested my current glasses to find out what my current prescription was, then I went into a room with a more specialized assistant.
We went right through my eye-boggling history, family history, the issues I've been having and it came to light that my sight had altered somewhat dramatically since my last eye test. Explains why I was stopping the wrong buses. She explained that with short-sightedness, your vision tends to plateau in your early to mid 20s...not generally get worse, like mine has done. There are different levels and in two years, most peole go up one, at most 2 levels. I had gone up 4 levels. She said it was nothing to worry about, unusual yes, but my eyes are perfectly healthy. We looked at the photographs of the back of my eyes and she explained to me that everything was fine, no bursting veins or signs of anything nasty. Everything was a-ok, I just needed a much stronger prescription!
I expected to be fitted with the Harry Potter frames next and have lens after lens switched back and forth until I could see the ridiculously tiny letters on the wall. No. No frames. She lowered this contraption down in-front of my face and started pressing buttons on a panel in front of her. The lenses where inside the contraption and everything was remotely controlled by her panel of buttons and nozzles. Talk about modern technology! Nobody was busting funky moves up in my space this time around!
After much 'better or worse', 'red or green', I could finally see the teeny tiny letters clearer than ever before! It was like somebody had switched on the high definition reality vision!
I had a chat with one of the sales girls, my new prescription in hand, and we talked through my options, from Boots own to designer frames, special coatings and special offers. I had a mooch and tried on a few but knew I needed a second opinion so decided to come back that weekend with Mr.Man in tow.
In the end, I picked out two pairs of Boots own brand glasses and a pair of Nine West sunglasses. I've been after a pair of prescription sunglasses for as long as I've needed to wear glasses and had a half price voucher from my Boots card in my purse just waiting to be spent! I had a quick consultation, some measurements of my head were taken, and I was told to come back in a week to pick everything up!
These are the ones I picked. I wanted a light, 3/4 frame, much like my previous pair but in a more neutral colour. The arms are nowhere near as wide as my last ones so I can sneakily look out of the corner of my eyes and actually see now without having to do some awkward head movement. They're so light to wear I barely notice them on my face. The lenses are much wider too so I've got a larger, clearer field of vision! These will likely become my 'going out' glasses.
My second pair, picked out by Mr.Man are completely different! Full, black rimmed frame, square and a little wider than I'm used to, don't they just look smarter, hehe! I was a little skeptical at first, I've never been a full frame kind of girl. The more pairs I tired on, the more I kept coming back to these. They really grew on me so they became my second pair. They're a solid frame, perfect for a bit of a clutz like me. They're solid and much heavier on my face. They're tighter too so don't move around at all on my face. Perfect for work!
Now these are my favourite! I've been after prescription sunglasses for so long! Being able to actually see where I'm going on holiday is going to be a pretty big advantage! Mr.Man picked these ones out and I instantly fell in love with them. They're so comfortable and well fitted, I could easily wear these on a roller-coaster and they wouldn't budge an inch! I love how they're not too big on my face, my face is pretty small! I can't wait to try these babies out if we ever get any real sunshine here in the UK!
My glasses were ready and waiting for me after a week. I tried on every pair and they made some adjustments here and there to tighten them up and bend the bars a little more so they fitted snugly behind my ears.
Walking out of Boots with my new glasses on was amazing! I couldn't believe how much better I could see now! I knew my eyes had gotten worse but I didn't know just how much worse until I put my new glasses on!
Have you been to Boots Opticians? What are you're thoughts? Let me know in the comments below!
Sounds like a much better experience. I loled at you trying to get a truck to be a bus.
Did I ever tell you about the time I tried to fake an eye test because I wanted glasses? At 8 years old, I didn't realise that they could look into your eye and SEE that something was wrong.
Haha that's brilliant that you tried to fake needing glasses! Now you can just buy them in Primark! Oh how times have changed lol!
All the frames are so cute! I always find myself struggling when it comes to that part...so many to choose from! You did good:) I love love the sunglasses. I've been debating prescription glasses but know I definietly should get them.
I couldn't be without my glasses now, I'd be a danger to myself and the world around me haha! If it wasn't for Mr.Man I would have probably still been stood in Boots trying to pick some glasses!!


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Looking Behind the Scenes of a Grucci Fireworks Show on Long Island
Long Island Press
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After the sun sets, turning the sky from blue to black, fireworks technicians count down to when it's time for them to paint their celestial canvas with magnificent fiery bolts of color.
Such celebratory explosions will be seen and heard across Long Island throughout Independence Day weekend. Spectators may not think about how such displays are made possible, while curious minds may envision someone lighting fireworks with a match and running away. But that is no longer how it's done since the professional firework industry was computerized in recent years.
"The technology now has given us the ability to discharge all of the fireworks with the computer system," said Phil Grucci, president and CEO of Bellport-based Fireworks by Grucci. "Back in 1995, we eliminated all of the ignition with manual torches."
Grucci leads the sixth-generation company billed as "America First Family of Fireworks," which has been lighting up the night skies worldwide since 1850—including dozens of nationwide shows planned this month from Las Vegas to the U.S. Virgin Islands.
The fireworks executive recently gave reporters—including one from the Press—a behind-the-scenes look before a pre-Fourth of July fireworks display June 29 at Eisenhower Park, where about 12,000 people were expected in attendance. Like most of their shows, the sights and sounds could be experienced miles away from the ignition site.
Long Island Fourth of July 2015 Parades and Fireworks Shows
The technological advances don't just make it easier for Grucci's staff to launch fireworks, it has also made the shows more appealing to the eye. The crew—known as pyrotechnicians—sits behind a protective shelter fitted with two laptop computers that control the "mortar racks" from where the fireworks are shot.
"With the computerization, it has given us the ability to synchronize and very tightly choreograph beats of music rather than sequences of time," said Grucci. "What that means is we're down to tenths of seconds of accuracy."
The computers can also help the pyrotechnicians start and stop the show whenever they need to adjust the program for issues that arise, such as bad weather conditions.
Although it all may sound simple, the Eisenhower fireworks display took about six months of planning and included more than 2,000 devices—all for a show that lasted 23 minutes and 19 seconds.
"We start in January designing, picking music, making custom products, so we can make it different each year," said Grucci.
Highlights included fireworks forming smiley faces and sunshine shells. One of the fireworks that Grucci brought back was the "Golden Flitter Split Comet," which was first developed by Phil's grandfather.
The technological advances don't benefit only the technicians, either. Grucci has introduced an app for Apple mobile devices that broadcasts the show's music in perfect synchronization with the performance so spectators can better enjoy the fireworks display wherever they may be. The app can be found on their website; grucci.com Now that's illuminating!
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The Long Island Press
Long Island Nurse To Attend Biden-Harris Inauguration in D.C.
Long Island Has Highest Covid-19 Positivity Rate in New York
Cuomo Asks Pfizer To Directly Sell Covid-19 Vaccine Doses To New York
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Timothy Bolger - January 18, 2021
Low Vaccination Rate Among Healthcare Workers Raises Concerns For Cuomo
Mark Hallum - January 18, 2021


text:
title: Uh oh, Something Went Wrong
kind: documentation
---

Head back home and start again.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


Don't you love it when someone puts a new spin on your favorite food?
Today's recipe is wine poached chicken salad, and boy is it delicious!
Chicken with a side of wine? More like chicken cooked with wine! The flavor of this chicken really stands out when you poach it in some nice white wine.
Mix in some of your favorite veggies for the ultimate green treat. You might even wanna share this one with your family and friends.
Cook it up and let us know how it is in the comments below!
Place the broth, wine, onions, garlic, and thyme in a large pot over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, then gently add the chicken breasts in one at a time. The chicken should be fully covered by the liquid. Add more broth, if needed. Return it to a boil.
Once the liquid boils, turn off the heat and cover the pot. Allow the chicken to poach for 30 minutes, then use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and onions from the liquid. Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken and slice the onions. Combine the chicken and onions in a bowl and generously season them with freshly cracked sea salt and black pepper.
On each salad plate, arrange a bed of mixed greens and top with pomegranate seeds, pepitas, jicama, avocado, and a scoop of chicken. Drizzle the salad with Classic balsamic dressing and serve immediately. The chicken should stay good for up to 3 days in your fridge. Enjoy!
Good Food Recipe: Cookie Dough Delight!


In food plants, diacetyl—a flavoring agent used in microwave popcorn and some packaged snacks—has been linked to a sometimes deadly disease called bronchiolitis obliterans, a close relative of COPD. The good news? Taking some easy steps such as closing the lids on mixing vessels can reduce the potential risks.
Byssinosis, also called brown lung disease, is common among textile workers who make upholstery, towels, socks, bed linens, and clothes.


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ROSA MUERTA
ACIDO DORADO
Y QUE
BG Magazine on Rosa Muerta
BG Magazine on Rosa MuertaJune 6, 2017Robert Stone
BG is a gorgeous large format fashion and design magazine from Spain. Photos by Brad Lansill.
Robert Stone – The Dead Rose of the Desert
(Translated from Spanish text by Adriana Argudo)
Under the hot and relentless desert sun in Southern California we find a black silhouette that contrasts and complements its flat brown landscape.
Covered with a mirrored ceiling and surrounded by a screen with black fake flowers composed in strict geometric patterns, it blends with the warmth of the sand and gives life to the dead Southern California desert. Like a lost vernacular that developed over the generations after Manson killed the 60's, the desert became over-run with dirt bikes, and the California dream rotted in the sun, Robert Stone designed a project beyond words with significant architecture that brings feelings from all who know this desert rose. The simple concept and complexity of the spaces result in a consistent and clear style.
Rosa Muerta is buried four feet into the ground with interior ceilings that are ten feet tall while the exterior appears to be too low to be a habitable structure. It's walls are open to the surrounding natural elements, but it's design carefully uses solar shading, thermal mass and breeze catching to regulate the temperature in a place that is an endless summer most of the year. For it's creator, Robert Stone, Rosa Muerta is a perfect aesthetic for it's time and place, a natural expression of the living culture of Southern California.
"Conceptually, I have a really different idea from most architects about where meaning resides in the subject-object relationship. Rather than thinking the meaning resides in the architectural object, or it's abstract form, I consider that it is negotiated anew between the subject, the object and the context."
Building elements of tile, glass and metal are monochromatic black to contrast to the beige view that dominates the area. The most striking and decorative element is the black rose metal work that that contrasts both visually and conceptually with the arid landscape.
Robert Stone is an architect who looks for meaning in the context, not simply in the trends but in the deeper expressions of the surrounding cultural context
"I am interested in the way that a monochrome space makes the building all about texture and sheen. I use flat, gloss, and satin blacks very carefully to create a rich palette of textures. I use monochrome color schemes to make people more self-conscious of their role The buildings are simply backgrounds or frameworks for the meaning and action that people bring to them and act out in them."
As we look at this amazing project, we cannot stop thinking about how Gothic fashion may have found it's way into this great signature work. And, how this project so effortlessly moves this into a more contemporary context.
Stone has presented his work in very different ways from that of more conventional architects. Fashion has been a crucial part of this presentation.
"I don't really identify personally with goth, but I admit that I really respond to the high level of craft in fashion that has a gothic edge to it- Olivier Theyskens, 2003 Gucci, Hedi Slimane. It isn't surprising that the fashion world was the first to respond to my work either. They are used to looking at things that are all-black but are also carefully detailed. They are also used to looking at things that are new, and deciding for themselves if they are interesting. Architects strangely were slow to see the architecture in my work- the roof structure held together with stainless pins, the gravity defying structural tricks, or the concrete detailing, the spatial composition- the things that we architects get off on. They couldn't get past the black color for a long time."
"I think gothic as a style that favors the dark, irrational, and sensual over the rational and modern is a really different thing in different places. In my work I am finding expression for the "real" culture of Southern California- not the adobe fantasy, or mid-century modern fantasy, but the real culture that is both natural and fake, sunshine and noir, religious and godless. But, the gothic style in the Southern California desert is probably something different than it is in Spain or London."
Copyright © 2010-2021 Pretty Vacant Properties


This months offer is our high roast Colombian Medellin Excelso, a medium bodied and well balanced coffee with notes of cocoa and nut and a bright acidity.
Medellín, the "City of Eternal Spring," is the second-largest city in Colombia and the capital of Antioquia region. Antioquia is the birthplace of coffee in Colombia and to this day it's largest growing region.


If you love Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, Patsy Cline and performers from yesteryear, you'll love our Tribute to the Stars series. Each musical tribute show includes lunch or dinner with a performance by talented entertainers that take you back in time! Relax and enjoy the show in the historic ambiance of the Great Hall of Starved Rock Lodge. Tickets to a show make a great holiday, birthday or anniversary gift for parents or grandparents. Seniors tell us they love seeing talented vocalists in the rustic Lodge setting. Book an overnight stay to complete the package!


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Listen to the kids on climate change
By Andria TeatherContributor
Mon., Dec. 2, 2019timer2 min. read
Recently, 11,000 scientists from 153 countries came together to sign a global climate emergency declaration.
It was yet another example of why climate change should be on everyone's minds — and, indeed, seems to be. It even played a central role in the fall federal election.
Not that the election of the Liberal party, which supports action on climate change, has settled things.
In Canada, there are provinces that are vehemently opposed to the carbon tax as well as provinces opposed to the construction of more pipelines. With a minority government, the governing party will now need the support of many others to effect change.
For that, they can turn to youth. Fuelled by the frustration of not having the ability to participate in the electoral process, youth in Canada are searching for a chance to be heard. Youth activism, or "youth quakes" as they have been called since the '60s, in fact, could be that lifeline for this new government — or conversely spell its demise.
And if the momentum youth are creating is supported sufficiently across the country in a manner that will no longer tolerate complacency they could make a real difference.
Once communities across the country realize that climate change action demanded by these youth is positive, both from an environmental and economic perspective, new programs will begin to create effective results.
The challenge we face is to keep these youth, who support Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, focused and listen to the them and their families.
Indeed, to keep this youth-driven momentum moving we must encourage people to look for opportunities to help the environment in their own communities.
For young people, opportunities and support are available through environmental programs like Jane Goodall's Roots & Shoots.
This program began in 1991 when Goodall met with 12 Tanzanian high school students who wanted to tackle urgent problems in their community. That first Roots & Shoots group has multiplied many times, with youth in that organization now taking action in 50 countries around the world.
Sceptics will proclaim that one person or one group can't make any tangible difference.
The evidence however suggests the exact opposite. This is especially true when one person has the courage to speak up, shed light on an important issue and inspire and motivate others to take action as Jane Goodall and, now, Greta Thunberg, have.
We live in an age of instant communication through social media. With powerful tools that give instant access to global audiences in the hands of our youth they will not be satisfied with inactivity on the part of our political leaders.
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If results aren't forthcoming quickly we should follow their example, join in and add to the magnitude of their youth quake.
The earth's survival, after all, is at stake.
Andria Teather is CEO of the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada.


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Ontario Wood WORKS! award winners announced: Sustainable, cost-saving wood solutions just the beginning
Multi-Unit Wood Design Award Winner - Woodland Village Stacked Townhomes, London, ON; Architect: Orchard Design Studio Inc. and GB Architect Inc.; Engineer: Strik Baldinelli & Associates Ltd. (CNW Group/Ontario Wood WORKS!)
Special to the Ontario Construction Report
A select group of Ontario's leading architects, engineers, and project teams received Wood Design Awards at the 13th annual Wood WORKS! celebration in Toronto in November. The awards program recognizes people and organizations that, through design excellence, advocacy, and innovation, are advancing the use of wood in all types of construction across the province.
"Wood design in Ontario is experiencing a renaissance," says Marianne Berube, executive director of the Ontario Wood WORKS! project. "We received 102 nominations this year, the most we've received in any given year, which is impressive when you consider that all of these projects have recently been built in Ontario."
"There are many reasons for the increased use of wood in contemporary architecture," said Berube. "People understand and appreciate wood's environmental benefits and, in many applications, designers and developers are also reporting significant time and cost savings. Also, new products and design innovations have expanded opportunities for using wood. Around the world we're seeing that it is a viable option for all types of construction including midrise buildings, sustainable urban densification, and even tall wood buildings," the WoodWORKS news release said.
Winning projects this year include Algonquin College's new Perth Campus, a 107,000 sq. ft. four-storey retirement residence and "a community centre whose appealing wood design is credited with helping contribute to the overwhelming success of the facility and significant growth in recreation and leisure activity in Richmond Hill," the news release said.
A total of 12 awards were presented at the event. "We are privileged to have this chance to celebrate the people who, through their work with wood, enrich our built environment and lead the way for future excellence and innovation in wood design and building," said Berube.
2013 Ontario Wood WORKS! award winners:
Ontario Wood
Sponsored by Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources
Project: The Westhill, Waterloo, ON
Architect: Robert J Dyck Architect & Engineer Inc.
Engineer: Robert J Dyck Architect & Engineer Inc.
The use of structural wood components provided many benefits. To begin with, the cost savings were significant, allowing upgraded architectural features that were not possible with alternate structural framing methods. There were reduced capital costs. There were also reduced site overhead costs, reduced designer construction phase costs, and reduced construction financing costs all due to the reduced construction time. As well, since the schedule had the structural framing occurring over the winter and early spring, there was a significant savings of the winter protection and heating that would have been required for alternate framing methods. The use of wood structural framing which reduced the construction time also allowed earlier occupancy. Wood framing methods also simplified the design and construction of the "landmark" roof feature.
Green Building Wood Design
Green Building Wood Design Award Winner – Algonquin College, Perth Campus, Perth, ON ; Architect: GRC Architects Inc.; Engineer: Adjeleian Allen Rubeli Ltd. (Credit: Roy Timm, c/o Algonquin College) (CNW Group/Ontario Wood WORKS!)
Sponsored by OWL Distribution
Project: Algonquin College, Perth Campus, Perth, ON
Architect: GRC Architects Inc.
Engineer: Adjeleian Allen Rubeli Ltd.
Algonquin College's Perth building is a student focused learning facility designed to offer an intimate and friendly setting for learning and hands-on experience. Wood structure, exterior cladding, and interior finishes all contribute to the achievement of a comfortable, easy to maintain, and energy efficient campus building. One of the most noticeable features of the building is its wooden structure. Selected partly for its low embodied energy, the majority of the wood structure was sourced from FSC-certified distributors and retailers, further reducing the environmental impact of the construction. Selective sourcing of the other materials yielded over 17.5% total recycled content. Efforts were also taken to reduce the negative impacts of transporting materials to the site by sourcing over 55% of all building materials (by cost) regionally. These factors contributed to the achievement of LEED gold for this facility.
The entrance to the building is demarcated by a substantial hand-hewn wood column which stands as a sculptural form to prop up the roofline and invite entry. A second entrance is again highlighted with "tree-trunk" columns, simply de-barked to demand acknowledgement of the natural material. In addition to the exposed elements, wood trusses and wood framing were used for all exterior walls, interior partitions, and the roof. The wood siding consists of rough sawn white pine. This siding, together with the wood columns, was milled and supplied from within a few kilometers of the site in Lanark. Cladding the exterior walls and soffits in wood achieves a warm and welcoming aesthetic that integrates well into the local fabric.
Further to the geographical and environmental reasons for using wood, program function informs the incorporation of wood and enhanced environmental practices of this learning facility. The building is comprised of two wings: an academic wing and a construction wing. The academic wing includes state-of-the art classrooms, student amenities and administration offices. The construction wing houses two large workshops and trades laboratories for the specialized programs in heritage carpentry and masonry and for the advanced housing programs that focus on green building construction methods.
Interior Wood Design
Interior Wood Design Award Winner – Lululemon Yorkdale, Toronto, ON; Design Team: Lululemon Athletica, Brothers Dressler, Quadrangle Architects (CNW Group/Ontario Wood WORKS!)
Sponsored by Tembec
Project: Lululemon Yorkdale, Toronto, ON
Design Team: Lululemon Athletica, Brothers Dressler, Quadrangle Architects
The Lululemon store at Yorkdale Shopping Centre in Toronto utilizes 35, 000+ blocks of recycled wood from a myriad of tree species to compose a 23-foot high pixilated image of a fallen leaf. In contrast to the mall's typical array of conventional glass and stone storefronts, Lululemon distinguishes itself with this public artwork, comprised entirely from reclaimed woods in their 29 natural pigmentations.
Wood was chosen because its warm and welcoming qualities underscore Lululemon's brand affiliation with yoga, harmony and balance. The maple leaf image and various local wood varieties that compose it help give the store a regionally specific identity. The wood pieces used were remnants from The Brothers Dressler's furniture workshop and include the staves of a tanning barrel, shipping pallets, a demolished school, submerged wharf beams, as well as off-cuts from countless furniture pieces. The interior of the store showcases other unique and thoughtful applications of wood including a steam bentwood chandelier, a water station made from veneer mill ends of a walnut tree, and a white oak veneer cash desk.
Residential Wood Design
Sponsored by Weyerhaeuser
Project: Kennisis Lake House, Haliburton, ON
Architect: Altius Architecture Inc.
Engineer: CUCCO engineering + design
The clients' desire for a sculptural form that is highly tuned to the nuances of their site, as well as their specific programmatic needs, was the driving force of the residence's organic architecture. A rich interaction of interior spaces is achieved through subtle and dramatic level changes, overlook, millwork and screens. The relationship of those interior spaces to exterior living space, views, site topography and solar orientation adds another layer of complexity to the architecture.
The folding, wing-like roofs planes are stretched out over a heavy timber skeleton appearing to hover over the rock, lifted by breezes off the lake. These series of roofs are pinned down to the site by the mass of three natural stone wood burning fireplaces which play against the soaring exposed heavy timber structure to recall the cottage traditions of Ontario. Natural materials and locally sourced products such as granite, heavy timber, cedar shingles and wood siding allow the structure to appear like it has grown out of, and belongs to, the forest and rock that it hovers over. These materials and finishes are also chosen for their renewable and recyclable properties as well as their low-embodied energy to minimize the building's environmental footprint.
Multi-Unit Wood Design
Multi-Unit Wood Design Award Winner – Woodland Village Stacked Townhomes, London, ON; Architect: Orchard Design Studio Inc. and GB Architect Inc.; Engineer: Strik Baldinelli & Associates Ltd. (CNW Group/Ontario Wood WORKS!)
Architect: Orchard Design Studio Inc. and GB Architect Inc.
Engineer: Strik Baldinelli & Associates Ltd.
Woodland Village Townhomes was a challenging project because of tight timelines and aggressive budgetary goals. In addition to these usual demands, Orchard's own goal is to produce buildings that are environmentally responsible. Keith Reycraft of Orchard Design Studio said that wood frame construction is always a natural choice for them because it is inherently one of the most environmentally conscious structural systems available. "We have also found that it is extremely economical and efficient to construct. Reliable sourcing and availability ensure that we can meet tight schedules onsite. Wood is a sustainable resource not only in terms of the environment. Because it is a Canadian product we ensure that this investment helps to sustain the Canadian economy. We use wood frame construction in nearly all our buildings of four storeys or less to maximize its use under current height restrictions for combustible construction."
Institutional- Commercial Wood Design >10 M
Sponsored by Resolute Forest Products
Project: Oak Ridges Community Centre, Richmond Hill, ON
Architect: Perkins+Will Canada
Engineer: Smith + Andersen
Oak Ridges Community Centre houses a variety of recreational activities for the city of Richmond Hill, including: a six lane swimming pool, leisure pool, gymnasium, fitness centre, eco-centre and multi-purpose rooms. Wood, and its seamless flow throughout the design, has helped contribute to the overwhelming success of the facility in creating a new hub for community life and in leveraging significant growth in recreation and leisure with the city.
The design team was inspired to draw upon personal memories of lodges, cabins and cottages to inform the design. These collective memories and rustic palettes became the guiding principle for the structural systems, material selection, lighting and colour of the Centre. Wood construction with stone walls and wood paneling set the overall tone.
Wood plays an important role in achieving the project's overall sustainability goals and LEED Silver target. A balanced set of initiatives have been employed to maximize conservation of water, energy and resources in the construction and operation of the building. Wood was chosen as the primary building material for its renewability and regional availability. It also holds clear benefits from a life cycle assessment perspective and its ability to sequester carbon as a means of reducing and offsetting harmful CO2 emissions.
Wood was also selected for its clear advantages as both a structural and architectural system. In this respect, wood was central to the overall concept in addressing many of the technical challenges of this building type. In the roof, wood enabled greater freedom allowing the large cantilevered overhangs to be expressed without the associated thermal bridging associated with steel. This created a greater flow of spaces between indoors and outdoors and ultimately a stronger connection between the building and its natural setting.
Institutional- Commercial Wood Design <10 M
Institutional-Commercial <$10M Wood Design Award Winner – Holy Spirit Church, Barrie, ON; Architect: Larkin Architect Ltd.; Engineer: Stantec (CNW Group/Ontario Wood WORKS!)
Sponsor: Ontario Wood Truss Fabricators Association
Project: Holy Spirit Church, Barrie, ON
Architect: Larkin Architect Ltd.
Engineer: Stantec
From entry under the wood canopy through the Vestibule, Narthex, Nave and extending into the Chapel, all of the roof structures are heavy timber. These structures use Douglas Fir glulam beams, solid wood decking and solid wood timbers in different sizes, shapes, profiles and layouts to create a warm and welcoming feel to the spaces. The wood systems helped to meet requirements of the OBC and at the same time provide an atmosphere suited for the intended use. The exposed wood is virtually maintenance free. The use of any other roof system would not have been able to provide the look and feel given to the spaces within the building construction budget.
Northern Ontario Excellence Award
Sponsored by FedNor
Project: Batchewana First Nations Health Facility, Rankin Reserve, ON
Architect: EPOH Inc.
Engineer: STEM Engineering Group Inc.
The Batchewana Health Facility is an important addition to the Batchewana First Nation of Ojibways Community. Its architecture reflects the rich customs and heritage of the Ojibway people. The natural palette incorporates characteristic materials of the area, using earth colours indicative of the culture and location. The use of wood framing and structural timber construction lends the project a hand-built aesthetic that the community can directly relate to.
The traditional longhouse forms the conceptual framework for this project. A large, central atrium is a linear accent for the building, with entries at each end as with a traditional longhouse. The atrium's structure is formed by a repetition of angled, glue-laminated timber columns and beams. The atrium is the primary circulation space, providing access to the rest of the building. Clerestory glazing brings light into the space and adds natural warmth and richness to the cedar ceiling and wood structure.
The principal wood structure of the building extends to the exterior at both ends. At each entrance the structural members and connections provide architectural character that is strongly evocative of First Nations building forms. Concepts for the exterior cladding were informed by the sapling and woven bark construction of a typical longhouse. Multiple wall constructions and natural materials emphasize the separation of structure and membrane, and hint at the concept of a cedar palisade. The horizontal cedar siding provides the base structure, with alternating projecting forms in clay masonry and cultured stone.
Forestry is a major local industry in Sault Ste. Marie and has been for over a hundred years. The First Nations communities that surround the city, however, trace their history with the forest industry much further back. Their architecture has been intrinsically linked to forest products since its first examples thousands of years ago. The Batchewana First Nations has demonstrated with this building, among many others locally, their ongoing commitment to keeping this tradition alive.
Jury's Choice Award
Sponsored by Louisiana Pacific
Project: Local Church of the Saints, Toronto, ON
Architect: C. Y. Lee Architect
Engineer: Blackwell Structural Engineers
Wood was used as it was the preferred choice for the areas of the building that are exposed to view. The architect and users were looking for a material that is warm and visually appealing. The roof structure at the sanctuary and canopy are the only areas of the building that have exposed structure and both areas are exposed to view. The sanctuary roof was constructed with glulam arch trusses complete with a series of three dimensional high strength cables. The top cord was glulam and was pre-stressed which kept the size to a minimum The decking consisted of 38 mm thick Douglas fir deck. The wood deck was used to keep the number of trusses to a minimum. The entrance canopy consisted of glulam beams tapered at the cantilevers to help keep the profile thin. The wood deck was 38 mm thick and profiled in a curve in plan along one edge.
Engineer Wood Advocate Award
Sponsored by Nordic Engineered Wood
Engineer Award: David Moses, Moses Structural Engineers Inc.
The Engineer Wood Advocate Award is presented to an individual engineer or engineering firm for the creation of innovative structures of any building type. Wood Advocates use new technologies or existing technology in new ways in order to create wood solutions that advance the use of wood in projects, leading the way for future projects in wood. This year's winning engineer takes pride in his experience with challenging, innovative designs and looks for opportunities to use his creativity and technical expertise to bring client visions into being. He is at the forefront of mass timber use in Ontario, having engineered the first two commercial CLT projects in the province this past year. He is also revisiting the typical design of a 4-storey walk-up, considering issues including building height, durability and acoustics with fresh eyes in preparation for possible new opportunities in high quality mid-rise multi-unit residential buildings. He has developed a structural system for 4-storeys with an eye for the future growth of the design to 6-storeys so that if the building codes are updated to permit 6-storeys in wood he, and his project partners, are ready.
Architect Wood Advocate Award
Sponsored by Timber Systems
Architect Award: CS&P Architects
The Architect Wood Advocate Award recognizes an individual architect or architectural firm who contributes consistently to the selection of wood in projects, overcomes objections to the use of wood in projects, and leads the way for future projects in wood. This year's winning firm has used wood as a key structural element in many diverse projects over the years including The Ojibway Club in Pointe au Baril, an award winning, joint-use Secondary School, Sportplex and Theatre in Bracebridge, the Christopher Children's Centre in Cambridge (winner of a Wood WORKS! award in 2011), and the Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre in Brantford, a project that merged old and new by repurposing historic heavy timber glulam beams reclaimed from the original rink and marrying them with cross-laminated timber in the first commercial application of CLT in Ontario.
Wood Champion Award
Sponsored by Natural Resources Canada
Wood Champion Award: Steve Boyd, Quaile Engineering
There are some very special champions in practice who consistently support wood in projects, who continue to overcome objections to building with wood, leading the way for others. This year's Wood Champion has not only put much effort into providing engineering solutions in wood for projects like the G8 Summit Centre in Huntsville, the Wilmot Recreation Complex in Baden, and the Ontario Pioneer Camp in Port Sydney, but for also provided a lot of support behind the scenes through participation on numerous advisory committees including his service as Vice Chair of CSA O86 Technical Committee and his participation on the technical committee responsible for the publication of the Engineering Guide for Wood Frame Construction. He was also instrumental in the development of the Wood Design Manual.
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Ontario Construction Report: January issue published


Tis sad! The Court Jester, the Minstrel, and a gaggle of Ladies-in-waiting all squabbling over my crown. But yet, being the just and loving King that I am, I will indulge their fantasies awhile longer.
You are dethoned again by the Postal Queen. Do not disturb me from my studies.
The King has consumed a pot of royal coffee and is ready rule the day!
soulsearcher wrote: The King has consumed a pot of royal coffee and is ready rule the day!
...until the Queen of the Night takes over!
The Queen is glad you are feeling better.
Rahab wrote: The Queen is glad you are feeling better.
Oh! Thank you! Not to hijack this thread...but I praise God for what he's done! I'm still so full of joy that whenever my daughters look at me, I just start laughing. I've been talking to my hubby each night (he's in Austin for a month) and can't hardly talk for laughing. I had PT today and it went really well. Praise GOD!!!
Have a good night Postal Queen....until tomorrow night!
Postal Queen returns and sends the imitators to the chains.
Not anymore do you try to rule, I have returned and taken my rightful place, begone with you!
"And begone with you, handmaiden," cries The King! "Go fetch me my slippers."
Postal Queen rules on the USA Birthday.
Kingy Thingy rules on the day after.
Thursday's King Reigns and DEFNITELY Rules!


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InkyPen is a subscription based comics and manga reading application on the Nintendo Switch, launched worldwide in most regions on December 17, 2018. Developed by a Norwegian startup company located in Norway also under the name of InkyPen.

History
InkyPen developers attended GDC before launch on March 20, 2018. InkyPen launched on the Nintendo Switch on December 17, 2018, being one of the few non-gaming application launched on the Nintendo Switch

InkyPen launched update 1.2.0 on March 16, 2020, allowing for reading in vertical mode while including performance updates.

InkyPen partnered with Kodansha USA on April 27, 2020 to provide manga through the InkyPen service. They also partnered with Rain Games and Studio Foglio to announce that InkyPen will assist Rain Games in adding a comics reader to the announced Girl Genius: Adventures in Castle Heterodyne video game. This arrangement also allowed for the Girl Genius comics to be freely readable on InkyPen.

Partnerships
InkyPen has comics from publishers, Valiant Comics, Dynamite, IDW, Titan Comics, Humanoids Inc, Archie Comics, Studio Foglio, Dark Horse Comics, Andrews Mcmeel Universal, Papercutz, Daniel Lieske, Zilo Media, TPub Comics, Ubisoft Entertainment, Soaring Penguin Press, Snowcastle Games.

References

External links

 Official Website
 Application on Nintendo Switch Website

Media readers

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


Enjoy – but don't forget, ale conners never did sit in puddles of ale.
I'm sorry, but you have to check the links!
I would say that you haven't "thoroughly debunked the myth." You've raised some doubts about its authenticity as applied to England. That's all.
"Raised some doubts"? I'd not characterise "shown there's no evidence whatsoever" as "raised some doubts".


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Adam Baldwin Photos
Adam Baldwin at the 2006 Summer Television Critics Association Press Tour for The ABC Network.
Adam Baldwin and Yvonne Strahovski at the 2007 Summer Television Critics Association Press Tour for NBC.
Adam Baldwin, Victoria Pratt and Moon Bloodgood at the 2006 Summer Television Critics Association Press Tour for The ABC Network.
Adam Baldwin at the ABC Television Network Upfront at Lincoln Center.
Adam Baldwin at the NBC Upfronts at Radio City Music Hall.
Adam Baldwin at the 2007 Summer Television Critics Association Press Tour.
Adam Baldwin at the Premiere of "Serenity".
Adam Baldwin and Nathan Fillion at the Premiere of "Serenity" after party.
Adam Baldwin and Jewel Staite at the Premiere of "Serenity".
Adam Baldwin, Morena Baccarin and Summer Glau at the Grand Slam XIV: The Sci-Fi Summit.
Adam Baldwin at the Grand Slam XIV: The Sci-Fi Summit.
Adam Baldwin signs autographs at the Premiere of "Serenity".


Welcome to Moving Towards Peace, or MTP for short.
MTP is a blog published by me, C.E. Lowman, that is intended to be a source of inspiration and support for individuals pursuing spirituality, self-help, yoga, meditation, healing, and the like. In other words, it's for people who are "working on themselves" or "walking the path," trying to lessen the struggle in their lives and discover greater purpose, flow, and abiding fulfillment.
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Charles Hope (11 September 1808 – 31 October 1893), styled The Honourable from 1823, was a Scottish Conservative Party politician.

Early life and education
Hope was born on the 11 September 1808, the third son of Louisa Wedderburn and John Hope, 4th Earl of Hopetoun. His brother was John Hope, 5th Earl of Hopetoun. In 1841 he married Lady Isabella-Helen Douglas, eldest daughter of Thomas Douglas, 5th Earl of Selkirk. Educated at the University of Edinburgh, he was called to the Scottish Bar in 1831, and later to the English Bar.

Career
Hope was appointed one of the Commissioners of the Greenwich Hospital in 1841. He was Member of Parliament (MP) for Linlithgowshire from 1838 until 1845.

Lieutenant Governorship of the Isle of Man
Following the death of Governor Ready, Hope was appointed Lieutenant Governor of the Isle of Man on 12 August 1845. On 26 August, together with his wife, Governor Hope arrived at Douglas on board the steamer Mona's Isle having traveled on a special sailing from Kirkcudbright. The new Lieutenant Governor was said to of received a warm reception, with various members of the public bodies and High Bailiff James Quirk in attendance. Governor Hope was sworn in at a ceremony held at Castle Rushen on 27 August, taking up residence at Lorne House, Castletown.

Governor Hope's tenure in office was not distinguished by any great public works, save that of the Laxey Wheel which was named in honour of his wife, Lady Isabella. However of particular note is Governor Hope's devotion to duty during the serious cholera outbreak which occurred during his governorship; his visit to the village of Port Erin, at that time severely ravaged by the disease, being such an instance.

The general opinion of Governor Hope's time in office was that of a firm, yet mild administrator who had brought about many minor reforms. During Governor Hope's tenure, the Isle of Man was visited by Queen Victoria and Albert, Prince Consort.

Governor Hope's retirement from office was due to private reasons, and was announced suddenly to Tynwald during its open air sitting at St John's on 5 July 1860. The statement was said to of been received with astonishment and regret, and various efforts were made to Governor Hope to reconsider his position. Governor Hope and Lady Isabella left the Isle of Man on 16 August 1860, returning to Kirkcudbright. He had held the governorship of the Isle of Man for within 10 days of 15 years.

Upon his retirement Governor Hope was initially succeeded by Mark Hildesley Quayle and subsequently by Francis Pigott Stainsby Conant.

Later life
Hope retired initially to Bridge Castle and then to St Mary's Isle near Kirkcudbright.

Prior to 1893 Hope had for some time been in declining health, and the loss of his wife in July of that year came as a further shock. He died on the morning of Tuesday 31 October 1893. He was survived by three sons and two daughters.

Hope's grandson, Charles Dunbar Hope-Dunbar, proved his claim to the Dunbar Baronetcy of Baldoon (created in 1664) in 1916 and became the 6th Baronet (see Hope-Dunbar Baronets).

References

Sources
Oliver & Boyd's New Edinburgh Almanack and National Repository, 1845

External links

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1808 births
1893 deaths
Scottish Tory MPs (pre-1912)
UK MPs 1837–1841
UK MPs 1841–1847
Younger sons of earls
Charles
Lieutenant Governors of the Isle of Man
Members of the Parliament of the United Kingdom for Scottish constituencies


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Private police or special police are law enforcement bodies that are owned and/or controlled by non-governmental entities. Additionally, the term can refer to an off-duty police officer while working for a private entity, providing security, or otherwise law enforcement-related services. These officers do have power to uphold the laws under the discretion of the private company.

In jurisdictions that allow private police, private police may be employed and paid for by a non-governmental agency, such as a railroad, or port, or university, or nuclear facility, or hospital, but they are peace officers or law enforcement officers that are commissioned, licensed, and regulated by the state. They are required to swear an oath to uphold the laws of the state where they are commissioned and follow the same regulations peace officers / law enforcement officers must abide by. The main difference between a private police officer and a regular police officer is who is signing their paycheck and their jurisdiction.

Many people confuse private police with security guards, but they are not the same thing. Not all security guards have police power, whereas private police are sworn police officers employed by private entities, or even small governmental departments (such as library police, etc.).

Private police departments receive their commissions from the state (or counties, municipalities, etc.), but are generally not considered government actors.  Security officers are regulated by the state, but generally do not have police powers, such as the ability to arrest on a warrant, or issue citations and summons for misdemeanor offenses.

Types of officers and terminology

Private police

Private police (also called company police) are commissioned police officers that are hired by a non-governmental agency, such as a university, hospital, port, nuclear facility, railroad, etc. These police officers swear an oath to the state or country (or both) they are commissioned in but are paid for by the private organization that hired them. Depending on the jurisdiction, they may have full police power within their jurisdictions or limited police powers. Private police officers are held to the same regulations and standards as regular police officers.  Sometimes (but not all times) these officers are commissioned as "special police," the special-term delineating their narrow jurisdiction.

Special police

In some countries, like the United States, the term "special police" indicates a police force that has limited law enforcement powers. Special police may be employed by either a governmental agency or a non-governmental agency, and as such are not always private police.

Some states give local officials the ability to appoint special police officers with specific duties, either to assist local law enforcement or to provide assistance during an emergency. These officers may or may not be commissioned police officers, but generally have the same privileges and immunities as police officers. For example, some municipalities appoint special police as security for the municipal buildings and airports, freeing up commissioned police officers for general police duties. Special Police officers can be public officers (such as the WMATA Special Police in DC), or private officers, such as the Metro Special Police Department's Special Police Officers).

Railroad police are sometimes classified as special police, but other times are recognized as fully-commissioned police officers under the Ombudsmen's Act, granting them multi-state jurisdiction.

Off-duty police officers

In jurisdictions that allow it, off-duty officers may be employed to provide security to individuals, or companies, or organizations. If their jurisdiction grants them police powers on and off-duty, they essentially become private police while employed by anyone other than the government.

The use of public police officers under private pay has become more and more contentious, as it is felt to be unfair competition against private security firms.

Security guards

Security guards are, by definition, not private police since they are not commissioned police officers. They are usually regulated by the government but lack the many of the same police powers commissioned police officers are granted.  Security officers are limited to their assigned properties (even if they travel between multiple properties), and can only take the action on public streets that a citizen might take.  Security agencies range from "slick-belt" companies that merely observe and report incidents to police, to more well trained security agencies that detain subjects committing crimes, and have good relationships with their local police departments.

Government entities may employ private security personnel via contract, while others have their own security departments.  Sometimes these officers have special police commissions, and some do not.

Security personnel can also take on auxiliary functions of police duties, such as administrative work, which constitutes a signification proportion of the workload of officers. It has been argued that police, who cost more than private security guards, are overqualified for such auxiliary duties because of their extensive training. One study found that outsourcing such functions to private contractors could reduce police forces' operational expenditures by between 17% and 20% in the Canadian province of Quebec. The same study cited similar measures in the UK, which led to reductions in both crime rates and public expenditures on police.

Examples

Canada
As in the United States, the largest private police forces in Canada are the railway police forces of the two largest rail carriers: Canadian Pacific Police Service (Canadian Pacific Railway) and Canadian National Police (Canadian National Railway). Both police forces' jurisdictions extend into those U.S. states where the respective companies operate. VIA Rail Canada Inc. also operate an armed police service, the VIA Rail Canada Police Service; however, they are a Crown Corporation under the purview of the Department of Transport Canada.

South Africa

An increasing number of South Africans are using private security companies to protect themselves and their assets. The broad private security industry is employing over 200,000 security guards throughout the country, of which the guarding industry is the largest, with 125,000 guards working for approximately 3,200 security companies. Many of the larger South African private security companies have expanded their operations into other countries in Southern Africa. Private security companies have even involved themselves in political conflicts that are occurring on the subcontinent. In South Africa, private companies that make use of guards are regulated by a statutory body, the Security Officers' Board. The Board polices the regulations that govern the private security industry and sets minimum training standards for security guards.

United Kingdom
A number of Port Police forces exist within the UK that are run by the respective port authorities, which are private companies. Legislation relating to Port Police dates back to the Harbours, Docks and Piers Clauses Act 1847, although subsequent legislation has been passed in relation to specific ports. Most Port Police have jurisdiction within 1 mile of port property. However, the Marine Navigation Act 2013 allows the Chief Constable of the local force to grant a port police force jurisdiction throughout England and Wales in relation to port business. The legislation was enacted after it emerged that the Port of Dover Police were acting unlawfully when transporting prisoners to custody when it was over a mile away from port property.

Until 2003, Oxford University both had a private police force, who had standard constabulary powers within 4 miles of any university building. In 2002, a group of local traders in Oxford wrote to Evan Harris, a local Member of Parliament, requesting the removal of the police powers of the Constables over citizens who were not members of the university. They argued that the Constables were "not accountable to any public authority" and described their role as an "anachronism".

After a policy review by the University Council in 2003, the Oxford University Police was disbanded when it was decided that it would be too expensive to bring the force up to the required standard of training and implement a multi-tiered complaints procedure.

United States

In the United States, these can be firms to which the government contracts out police work (e.g. the 1975–1977 Oro Valley, Arizona-Rural/Metro contract, the 1980 Reminderville, Ohio-Corporate Security contract, the 1976 Indian Springs, Florida-Guardsmark contract, and the 1976 Buffalo Creek, West Virginia-Guardsmark contract), or they can be officers who contract with various firms to patrol the area, as in the case of the San Francisco Patrol Specials.

Private police officers are different from security officers, who generally do not have arrest powers beyond a citizen's arrest if they have probable cause to do so.  Private police officers have very differing powers and regulations, generally do have law enforcement powers (even if limited to the properties they are assigned to protect), such as in North Carolina, Virginia, Washington, D.C., Maryland, Pennsylvania, New York, Illinois, and more.

A specific type of private police is company police, such as the specialized railroad police or mall security. In some cases, private police are sworn in as government employees in order to ensure compliance with the law, as in the Kalamazoo, Michigan-Charles Services contract, which lasted 3 years. Private police services are sometimes called "Subscription-Based Patrol." The largest private police forces in the United States are the railroad police employed by the major Class I railroads.

Private security firms in the U.S. employ more security guards, patrol personnel and detectives than the U.S. federal, state and local governments combined, fulfilling many of the beat-patrol functions once thought central to the mission of public police. It has been argued that the private police market furnishes tangible evidence about what people want but are not receiving from public police. The growth of private policing is a phenomenon that is occurring all over the world. In Australia, private and public police have conventionally been considered parallel systems, with private security as very much the lesser or junior entity.

In Boston, Massachusetts, more than 100 housing projects and low-income apartment buildings are some times patrolled by private security. A few of these companies employ Special Police Officers that are licensed and trained through the City of Boston. These Special Police officers do meet the state's standard of a special police officer. These Special Police Officers in Boston get their power from BPD rule 400. In 2021, Boston special police officers lost their commissions due to laws passed due to police reform.

In North Carolina, private police are certified company police agencies governed by the North Carolina Department of Justice chapter 74E of the Company Police Act. Under 74E Company Police in North Carolina can, and do make arrests, and write citations for violations of the law the same as any municipal police officer. Company Police jurisdiction is on any real property that they own, possess and control, or have been contracted to protect by the owner or person in control, unless they are in continuous pursuit for a crime that was committed in their jurisdiction or investigating a crime that occurred in their jurisdiction. Private police in North Carolina must meet or exceed all training and certification requirements as any municipal, county or state law enforcement officer.

In South Carolina, all Security Officers have the authority and power to make an arrest just as Sheriff's Deputies do (although this is unique for the USA).  In (Spring Valley HOA) Columbia, South Carolina, Private Officers respond to calls for service, run traffic radar, make arrests and use blue lights.  Security Officers in South Carolina are Law Enforcement under state law, case law and the Attorney General's opinions, and are authorized by the state to issue Uniform Traffic Tickets to violators and make arrests for violations of state laws. Security Officers are considered Private Law Enforcement Officers.

In Washington, D.C., special police officers have full law enforcement authority on the properties they are assigned to protect. There are both private police officers Metro Special Police, Shasthra Special Police, and PChange Special Police, and public/governmental officers, such as the University of the District of Columbia Police, DC Library Police, and special police officers working for WMATA. They all have the authority to make arrests for felonies and misdemeanors, and to utilize blue and white lights on their vehicles. New York City The MTA police is a privatize police force that gets State funding. It is part of the New York City transit Authority Police also extends to the LIRR Long Island Train service.

Relationship to anarcho-capitalism
Private police figures prominently in anarcho-capitalist theory and, along with advocacy of private defense agencies, dispute resolution organizations, and private production of law, distinguishes it from minarchism. It is argued that complete privatization of the police function (with funding, control, ownership, etc. of all police forces passing to private entities) would eliminate the ability of the state to forcibly collect taxes, and that arguably the only way it could work would be within the context of a society in which all other services were privatized as well. However, Edward Stringham has pointed out numerous examples to the contrary.

History
In Great Britain, the police function was historically performed by private watchmen (existing from 1500 on), thief-takers, and so on. The former were funded by private individuals and organizations and the latter by privately funded rewards for catching criminals, who would then be compelled to return stolen property or pay restitution.

In 1737, George II began paying some London and Middlesex watchmen with tax money, beginning the shift to government control. In 1750, Henry Fielding began organizing a force of quasi-professional constables. The Macdaniel affair added further impetus for a publicly salaried police force that did not depend on rewards. Nonetheless, in 1828 there were privately financed police units in no fewer than 45 parishes within a 10-mile radius of London as the governmental London Metropolitan Police was just beginning.

Perceived advantages

Advantages of private police for institutions and organizations

Benefits for having private police (instead of security guards) for railroads, ports, universities, schools, hospitals, and other organizations include:

 Since they are commissioned police officers, and not just security guards:
 they can do things security guards can't do since they have additional powers granted by the state, including the power to arrest.
 they have the same privileges and immunities as police officers since they are commissioned police officers.
 The state regulates the private police and private police officers are held to higher standards than security guards are.
 The cost of the private police is shifted to the organization utilizing the police officers, and not to taxpayers.
 The police officers often specialize. For example, university police are trained to deal specifically with students, faculty, and dangers common to university campuses.
 The private police and regular police can engage in mutual assistance agreements, allowing them to work together.
 Municipal, county, parish, state, federal, or national police can use their resources elsewhere. Home security officers in gated communities like gated Residential neighborhoods may be considered private police if given arrest powers and the Right to give out warrants and tickets according to the Home owners association (HOA).

Advantages of private police as contractees of states

There is evidence that private police can provide services more cheaply than public police. The cost of San Francisco's private patrol specials is $25–30/hour, compared to $58/hour for an off-duty police officer. In Reminderville, Ohio, Corporate Security outbid the Summit County Sheriff Department's offer to charge the community $180,000 per year for 45-minute response time emergency service by offering a $90,000 contract for twice as many patrol cars and a 6-minute response time.

Advantages of private police as contractees of private citizens

Another advantage cited by Benson is that private police would have a contractual responsibility to protect their customers. In Warren v. District of Columbia, the court found that public police have no such responsibility. Thus, private police can be sued if they fail to respond to calls for help, for instance.

James F. Pastor addresses the disadvantages by analyzing a number of substantive legal and public policy issues which directly or indirectly relate to the provision of security services. These can be demonstrated by the logic of alternative or supplemental service providers. This is illustrated by the concept of "para-police." Para-police is another name for private police officers. Many public safety agencies use auxiliary police officers, who are part-time sworn police officers. Some also use reserve police officers, who are hired on an "as needed" basis, with limited police powers. These officers are typically called to duty for special details or events.  In contrast to auxiliary and reserve officers, private policing is a relatively new and growing phenomenon. However, there are historical precedents such as the watchmen of medieval and early modern England and the Santa Hermandad of medieval and early modern Spain. These eventually became government-funded police, but some were originally privately organized.

There are several key distinctions between these options. Briefly, the distinctions relate to the level of police powers associated with the officer, the training levels required for each officer, the funding sources for the service provision, and the contractual and liability exposures related to each supplemental arrangement. Each alternative or supplemental service has its own strengths and weaknesses. The use of private police, however, has particular appeal because property or business owners can directly contract for public safety services, thereby providing welcome relief for municipal budgets. Finally, private police functions can be flexible, depending upon the financial, organizational, political, and situational circumstances of the client.

Under anarcho-capitalism, citizens would not have to fund police services through taxation. One argument against such a policy is that it would disadvantage the poor, who could not afford to spend much money on police. Thus, some more moderate libertarians favor issuing police vouchers to each citizen, granting them a certain amount of money to hire a private police company of their choice at taxpayer expense.

Murray Rothbard notes, "police service is not 'free'; it is paid for by the taxpayer, and the taxpayer is very often the poor person himself. He may very well be paying more in taxes for police now than he would in fees to private, and far more efficient, police companies. Furthermore, the police companies would be tapping a mass market; with the economies of such a larger-scale market, police protection would undoubtedly be much cheaper."

Public police are limited in size by the political jurisdiction, although some local public police forces already contract with national private firms for specialty services, such as maintenance of communications equipment, for which it would not be economical for them to hire a full-time government employee.

Perceived disadvantages
Problems within the industry include the possibility of criminals setting up their own firms, misuse of surveillance devices, and strained relationships between the public and private police.

Ultimately, some people see the potential for a "dual system" of policing—one for the wealthy and one for the poor—and others see the provision of private security as the primary protective resource in the contemporary United States.

In Florida, Critical Intervention Services patrols neighborhoods and has deployed lethal force before. They have limited power, like other private security agencies in the state, regulated by Florida Statute 493.

There are regulatory mechanisms for private police, specifically the commissioning bodies of those agencies (such as the state's POST board, etc.).  Additionally, people have the ability to file lawsuits more freely, as these officers are not protected by the sovereign immunity doctrine that defends municipal/governmental police personnel.  In Florida, complaints can be made through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.

Vagueness of the definition of "private police"

"Policing" and "private policing" are somewhat elusive concepts. "Private sector" police have been described as "any individual or group involved with law enforcement or security, but lacking official police authority." However, in many jurisdictions - particularly in the United States - private police agencies and or officers generally do have some form of statutory authority. At the core of the policing concept, though, is the combating of crime. Patrick Tinsley writes:

Private police, as conceptualised by Elizabeth E. Joh, would typically focus on loss instead of crime; preventive methods rather than punishment; private justice (such as firing embezzlers or issuing no trespassing warnings to shoplifters) rather than public court proceedings; and private property rather than public property.

See also

Police foundation
Private investigator
Privatization in criminal justice
Security guard
Watchman (law enforcement)
Law enforcement agency
Law enforcement and society

References

Law enforcement units