Replies: 1158 (Who?), Viewed: 246675 times.
Just imagine for a second... Close your eyes and imagine a world where you have to struggle to put each creation in-game. Imagine there are no tutorials, hardly any tools, and everything possible is done by sheer hard work poring over hex editors in the small hours, hand coding file formats and making the game explode at the slightest change. Welcome to the beginning of Sims 2 modding as we know it, and the foundation of MTS2.
Take a moment to imagine that world and then fast forward 3 years to where we stand today. The Sims 2 community contains millions of players, thousands of creators, hundreds of sites, and dozens of tools, all of them striving forward to produce works that the average player adores and uses everyday in their games to make stories, movies and enter contests, or to simply have fun.
Since that time, early in 2004, we've seen some great creations and some amazing talent from people and groups alike. We continue to push forward the frontier of modding every day, and it is through the tireless work of people in the freely sharing information in the Create section here that we break boundaries and produce things that were previously thought impossible.
It is through the works of a few that this community grows. Quaxi, of SimPE fame, is perhaps the most important of these, since - outside of Homecrafter and pure BodyShop recolours - I don't think there is a single creator out there that has not used his program to import things into the game. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Karybdis and the Datgen people who worked out a lot of the file formats that where later incorporated into tools and plugins. Next, we have Miche and myself, with the very first program ever made to create content with new meshes, utilizing the MeshTool. Following on from that work is wes_h, who maintains the Unimesh plugins for Milkshape, and Skankyboy for his work on the SimPE import routines. Lastly we have the CEP Project, founded by RGiles, Quaxi again and Numenor, whose work is legendary in the entire community, and other creators - V1ND1CARE and her amazing lots, Echo (who is just all round awesome), Boblishman, HystericalParoxysm, J.M. Pescado, Twojeffs, Squinge, Atavera, JWoods, Racquelcaesar, Enayla's wonderful skins, MikeInside's tutorials, and Eric's InSIMenator, to mention a few - who provide excellent work that many others look up to and are applauded community-wide.
Projects such as MidSimmer, SimStones, the Grand Trianon Project, Retroville - these would not have been possible but for the efforts of a community brought together and working for the benefit of all, and to challenge the limits of what we know. I would like to thank LyricLee for her efforts in running successful teams, and Lethe_s for tackling one of the most popular: the Harry Potter Project.
All of these projects, every creator, every person who wants to create - none of it is possible without tutorials. Simple or detailed, from full blown PDF documents to small snippets - everything is available to the person who is willing to learn, and all of it is maintained by hard working and dedicated people who take time out from their busy lives to help others. Tiggerypum, Numenor, Dr. Pixel, HystericalParoxysm, IgnorantBliss, J.Woods - all of these people deserve your thanks, and your praise for the work they have done in helping us all to understand the intricacies of the game that we all love. There are many other people and tools that I could mention, but this community is huge, and my apologies if I have left anybody out.
In the Game Help section, we have people like Simsample, Angel F, Cokenasmile and Daysies (among others), who dedicate time to writing tutorials and providing help on fixing the game when things go wrong. Clearly-written tutorials and FAQs are a staple here, and MTS2 is often one of the first sites to identify problems with the game; witness the various Pets EP bugs and the documentation that we built up to provide help on these issues and then sent to Maxis themselves. This site is huge, and many people spend their time day by day to provide services to others, enhancing the game as a whole.
Above everything else is the desire to expand the community - to break barriers - to do things that no simmer has done before. And it's all built on a framework of helping each other out, with absolutely nothing to gain except for the occasional thanks and the pleasure of seeing somebody finally "get it". We have had people who started out on MTS2 with absolutely no creation ability whatsoever, but they have toiled through the tutorials in our Create section and have risen to produce some outstanding work and gone on to become Featured Creators here. I applaud you all.
The thing to remember about all this - about all the people that I have mentioned, about all the tools that you as creators use, and all the help that downloaders get - is that it's all available completely free. All of the sites that had provided critical breakthroughs in the game (MATY and Insim come to mind) - they are all available entirely for free.
The free sharing of information is key to our ever expanding community, and because of that spirit, modders can break the next big challenge, whether it is to write a better tutorial, to re-organise entire help sections so they are easier to use, to write a hack that removes an annoyance, make an object with new interactions, or a house that breaks all the previous landscaping rules.
MTS2 has lots going on in any given day, as do other sites in the community, but the pervading spirit is of the community as a whole and we are all here - whether you are a site owner, a creator, or a downloader - because of free sites and the work that people I have mentioned have put into them, day after day.
However, not everybody is cut out to be a modder, and not everybody has the patience to go through the great tutorials on offer - I myself have the meshing ability of a small badger, for example - but we give people the chance to really try to see if it's something they want to do; and they can then take the 3d meshing skills that they learn and make a living through selling them legally on sites like TurboSquid or Renderosity. We teach people how to do things well using all the available tools at their disposal, but as a Sims 2 gaming community, and as one of the founding sites within that community, MTS2 is all about free content, free tutorials and free help.
Lately we have seen more and more sites convert to pay only, and while they in themselves may contain some great content, I firmly believe that this community needs to go on as it started - entirely free. The hairs at PeggySims and RoseSims, the Featured Artists at TSR, all the pay content that has ever been made has been made upon the back of a free community and there are always high-quality free alternatives. There are other ways to finance any site hosting costs through ad revenue, affiliate schemes, donations, and funding drives. It is a testament to Quaxi that there is not a single donation link on his SimPE site - and all other tools are produced and distributed entirely for free.
As a site MTS2 has strived to increase the quality of items through stringent moderation, Creator Guidelines for all to read, and through the excellent tutorials and advice that we have to offer. We are, and will always be, FREE. Using the funding schemes mentioned previously, we have become one of the largest sites, and we can - all of us - help others and keep growing. We as a community enable empowerment of the people, and supporting free content is something that benefits the millions of players around the world.
In 2007, MTS2 aims to "go back to it's roots", and make it the Year of the Creator: revamped tutorials, easier to use sections, enhanced uploading options, better searching options and more. We as a site and everybody as a community should always work to produce the best the community has to offer through individual greatness or collaborative projects.
Remember that no matter how cool something might seem, no matter how much pay content other people use for contests, the backbone of this community is based upon sharing. By using and supporting MTS2 and other free sites in the community you are validating all the hard work from people whose goal it is to keep this community growing with amazing content and - above all - entirely for free.
PS: This entire mission statement was not meant to guilt people into giving money. Instead, it is meant as a part-history lesson, part-wakeup call for those of you who did not know how this community - this site - came to be, and all the effort put into it from the start. I thank all of you who have donated, but this rallying call is for all of you - those who can donate and those who can't - to realise where we are going and the cost it's taken to get there. Spread the word. Spread the message - to all.
Create it. Share it. Play it.
29 users say thanks for this.
I don't think you could have said it any better MTS2 Rocks!
What a wonderful and encouraging speech Delphy, I was just talking to my mom today about supporting the site with a monthly donation, i really think i want to make a donation to the site seeing that this is no doubt THE BEST SIMS 2 SITE EVER!, and i think its very clear which option i would choose from paysites to free sites, thank you so much Delphy and the rest of the MTS2 staff for bringing us such an amazing,fun and incredible sims 2 site, without you guys our sims games would be boring without all the great creators and amazingly talented people out there, Thanks you MTS2, YOU ROCK!!!!!!!!!!
I'm new here but the tutorials have been extremely helpful so far. This is where I go if I have a problem and this is where I go when I need something. I am starting to make things!
Thanks! I will support the site for as long as I use it and I don't see that stopping any time soon.
This isn't just about MTS2 though - this is about the entire Sims 2 community as a whole. It's a call for everybody to realise some of the history of how we got to this point, and how we can proceed for the future. By letting people know some of this, and about the tireless work that others do - not just here, but on places like MATY and InSim too - we can help all of you shape the future of the Sims 2 custom content arena as we know it.
Don't just limit your thoughts to us... think about the community spirit as a whole, and thank you to all who read all that.
thanks for putting how we all feel into black and white!
Mts2s rocks and always will!!!
May I propose a toast to MTS2!!!!
Nicely said. Reading ALL of your little speech there was worth it. Thanks for your help with MTS2 Delphy, aswell as everyone you mentioned, and all members, mods etc. Lets hope this year outdoes all the others.
*clap!* *clap!* *clap!* *clap!* *clap!* *clap!* *clap!* *clap!* *clap!* *clap!* *clap!*!!!
This message has been deleted by MtthwTorrs.
Amen. I owe everything I know about modding to this site.
I'll do what I can. I already miss the requests section, but I anderstand why it's gone, and I agree it's probably for the better.
I prefer this site. I love this site.
You really couldn't have said it better. Since the time I've been here, I've learned so much from great creators, and love spending time reading the countless tutorials. ModtheSims2 really is the best Sims site ever, and its taken the Sims 2 to an entirely new and better game.
If only there was an "applause" smiley, I would love to show my agreement with a standing ovation in this post... Well said, Delphy! I hope that one day I will be able to contribute monetarily to this and other great free sites.
Thanks to all creators, modders, skinners, who have made this site a roaring success! I admit my first full year here was a very "quiet" one, but I appreciate what everyone has done in making all of the quality content free!
Here's to an excellent and prosperous year for MTS2!
Today has been a frustrating day for me. While attempting to track down customized content links for a house I've created, I realized that an object had come from a pay site. TSR. How that has happened, I do not know and can only assume that it's because I downloaded a lot that had the object available. However, the object was available only to subscription and rather then put the people who wish to download my lot through hell, I've chosen to simply remove the object. Alas, my frustration has been peaked and in light of recent events I can now officialy say that I understand your comments about free sites. I do not wish to start the old debate pay vs. free, rather I wish to commend you for your eloquent words. The truth never sounded so clear! Hats off to all the creators, helpers, forum members, admins, & so on and so forth! Without you all, my life would be dull and... well, lifeless. Cheers to a new 2007 & cheers to MTS2!!!
Very Encouraging speech and it gave me a warm fuzzy feeling Heres to 2007!
This site is the best Sims 2 site ever. Duh!


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Plant Germplasm Introduction and Testing Research: Pullman, WA
ARS Home » Pacific West Area » Pullman, Washington » Plant Germplasm Introduction and Testing Research » Research » Software » Download
AgroAtlas
Welcome to the software download area! Please contact us if you have problems or questions.
A nation•s food security depends on access to information on the economic plants, associated pests, and environmental factors that shape the agricultural landscape of a country.
The AgroAtlas Project promotes food security in Russia and neighboring countries by providing a comprehensive Atlas of crops, crop wild relatives and the pests, weeds and diseases that compromise crop production. The Atlas compiles biological information, geographic distribution maps and environmental data with an easy-to-use GIS software.
The AgroAtlas is freely available, bilingual, and relatively simple to learn. Funded by the USDA Agricultural Research Service Office of International Research Programs, the project engaged over 60 Russian scientists from three Russian Institutes. Further information can be found at www.agroatlas.ru.
The complete English version of the Atlas can be downloaded at this site. The download is a 540MB zipped file. RunAtlas.exe will install the AgroAtlas software on your computer.
We ask that you please cite the AgroAtlas if you use it.
Citation for overall Atlas:
Afonin, A.N.; S.L. Greene; N.I. Dzyubenko, A.N. Frolov (eds.). 2008. Interactive Agricultural Ecological Atlas of Russia and Neighboring Countries. Economic Plants and their Diseases, Pests and Weeds[Online]. Available at: http://www.agroatlas.ru.
Citation for individual Atlas contributions (for example):
Chuhina, I.G. (N.I. Vavilov Institute, St. Petersburg, Russia). 2008. Lonicera edulis. In A.N.Afonin,S.L. Greene, N.I. Dzyubenko, A.N. Frolov (eds.). 2008. Interactive Agricultural Ecological Atlas of Russia and Neighboring Countries. Economic Plants and their Diseases, Pests and Weeds [Online]. Available at : http://www.agroatlas.ru/en/content/related/Lonicera_edulis/
Citation for Agroatlas GIS Software:
AgroViewer
Shumilin V.P., Lee Yu.S. 2009.AgroAtlas GIS Software AgroViewer
[Online]. Available at http://www.agroatlas.ru
Kapralov E.G.,Shumilin V.P., Lee Yu.S. 2011.AgroAtlas GIS Software AgroViewer
Please complete the form below to track the use of the service we are providing and to help improve our product.
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Last Modified: 5/2/2016

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
Porta Ferrara, insieme a Porta Asia, Porta Bologna e Porta Cento, è un edificio storico di difesa utilizzato come torre armata per vegliare l'accesso a Pieve di Cento. Le porte sono state erette in legno nel XIII secolo, per poi essere ricostruite in muratura nel corso degli anni. Il nome odierno della porta rappresenta la direzione stradale: verso la città di Ferrara. Si trova rivolta a Nord.

Storia
A partire dal XIII secolo, Pieve di Cento era circondata da un fossato e da un terrapieno fortificato con palizzata. Quattro porte in legno, che fungevano anche da torri armate, segnavano l'ingresso al paese. Il fossato e il terrapieno vennero smantellati a fine XX secolo, mentre le porte sorvegliano ancora gli accessi al paese. A completare l'assetto difensivo, era presente anche la Rocca, un baluardo difensivo ancora oggi visitabile

La sua ricostruzione da una struttura lignea ad una struttura in muratura avvenne nel 1342. Grazie a una ristrutturazione, sono stati messi in luce i merli bentivoglieschi.

Nei locali della porta, e in quelli del contiguo ex macello, è ospitata la Scuola di Liuteria, che continua la storica tradizione della costruzione di strumenti a pizzico, la quale trova le sue origini tra fine Ottocento e inizio Novecento con le botteghe pievesi di Orsolo Gotti (1867-1922) e di Carlo Carletti (1873-1941). Nel 1907 arriva a Cento Luigi Mozzani, che si avvale della collaborazione dei due liutai pievesi. Dal laboratorio centese escono vari allievi, tra cui Mario Maccaferri. Dal 1982 sono iniziati i corsi di liuteria, in cui viene insegnata la costruzione degli strumenti ad arco, chitarra classica, chitarra acustica e chitarra classica.

Note

Pagine Correlate

 Pieve di Cento
 Porta Asia
 Porta Bologna (Pieve di Cento)
 Porta Cento
 Rocca di Pieve di Cento
 Fossato
 Terrapieno
 Palizzata

Altri progetti

Collegamenti esterni

Ferrara

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


text:
عد
إشعار قانوني Disclaimer القائمة تذييل
The Board of Directors oversees the SANAD Fund for MSME's investment activities and defines its strategic positioning as well as overall approach. It also oversees the service providers, in particular the advisor, which is active for the fund at the operational level.
Dr. Daniela Beckmann
Daniela is the Chairperson of the SANAD Fund for MSME, and is a member of the SANAD Fund's Debt Investment Committee. She is currently Head of Division for North Africa – Education, Economy (Sustainable Economic Development) and Environment at KfW Development Bank and has held various positions at the bank with a focus on sustainable economic development, financial sector development, decentralization and renewable energy. Daniela has an extensive track record in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, which includes her secondment to KfW offices in the Palestinian Territories, secondment to the German Federal Ministry for Economic Coordination and Development (BMZ)'s MENA department to support in strategic cooperation with Tunisia, and as a KfW Project Manager for responsible financial sector development in Jordan, the Palestinian Territories, Tunisia, and Yemen. She holds a Doctorate and Master's degree from the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration at Leibniz University Hanover, in addition to studies at the University of Copenhagen in Denmark and Pierre Mendès-France University in Grenoble, France, and has conducted field research in Southeast Asia.
Andrea Hagmann
Andrea was intensively involved in the foundation of the Development Bank of Austria (OeEB) in 2007 and has served as a Member of the Executive Board of OeEB for 10 years. Today, she is on the Board of Directors of two microfinance funds and a member of the Supervisory Board of an Austrian NGO. Previously, she was engaged in the export promotion business in Austria. She worked in various positions at the Oesterreichische Kontrollbank, the Austrian export credit agency. Andrea graduated from the Vienna University of Economics and Business Administration in 1991.
Stefan Zeeb
Stefan has more than twenty years of experience in development cooperation, working in various positions with KfW Development Bank focusing on financial sector development and MSME financing as well as water and solid waste management. For several years, he headed the bank's office in Bolivia and Peru, enabling him in-depth experience in Latin America's microfinance sector. Currently, he heads KfW's Middle East Department. Stefan holds a degree in Economics from the Freie Universität Berlin and participated in a Postgraduate Training Programme at the German Development Institute.
Babette Stein von Kamienski
Babette Stein von Kamienski has been the Head of KfW's Division for Infrastructure in Southern Africa since 2016, with a portfolio of approximately 1.5 billion euros focusing on renewable energy, energy efficiency, water, and transport. Babette joined KfW in 1993 and has managed various workstreams. Prior to her current role, she headed KfW's team on Education and Economic Development for the MENA region and was involved in financial systems development, education projects, and crises programs for Syrian refugees. Babette was also responsible for the Policy Team of KfW's Strategy Department, developing corporate policy for national and international development organizations between 2001 and 2005. Prior to KfW, Babette worked with UNIDO on developing, evaluating, managing, and monitoring technical assistance projects specifically targeting women entrepreneurs. She holds a Master's degree in Anthropology, Psychology and Psycholinguistics from the University of Munich.
Marnix Monsfort
Marnix is head of the Financial Institutions Asia debt team at FMO, the Netherlands Development Bank. Previously, he spent more than twenty years in commercial and investment banking largely in client coverage, structured finance, and credit risk positions with ABN AMRO, RBS, and Rabobank. Marnix holds a Master's degree in Business Economics from VU University in Amsterdam.
The Investment Committee (IC) is the decision-making body entrusted with the investment decision on behalf of the Board of Directors. In addition, the IC's role includes monitoring the investments outstanding and the operating environment. Each Sub-Fund of SANAD has its own independent Investment Committee.
Ines Ebrecht
Ines Ebrecht is the chair of the Technical Assistance Facility of the SANAD Fund and a member of the Investment Committee of its Debt Sub-Fund. Since 2008, she has been a Principal Project Manager at KfW Development Bank, responsible for projects focusing on economic and financial sector development in the MENA region and, previously, in Southeast Europe. Prior to her current role, she held various positions at KfW Group, in particular within risk management at KfW Ipex Bank, the commercial arm of the group. She successfully passed the First and Second State Examinations in Law in Bavaria and started her career as a legal officer at the Treuhand Agency, responsible for privatizing East German public enterprises.
Annika Schulte
Annika is a member of the Investment Committee of the SANAD Debt Sub-Fund. At present she is a Principal Project Manager for the Middle East in the team for Employment and Education at KfW Development Bank. Being equipped with the necessary know-how for collaborating with public and private sector partners, foundations and UN-agencies, Annika is responsible for Jordan, Syria, Lebanon and regional ventures in the field of private sector development, long-term employment and education finance. Annika brings a wealth of experience from working in conflict-affected settings, previously being the responsible project manager also for private sector development in Yemen and the Palestinian territories. She has held various positions at KfW Development Bank with a focus on sustainable economic development, financial sector development and infrastructure. She can look back on over nine years of professional experience in international development, financial cooperation and diplomacy. Annika holds a Master's degree from the University of Tuebingen in International Economics with Chinese Studies, in addition to studies at the Fundan University in Shanghai. After her studies she successfully completed the Postgraduate Training Programme at the German Development Institute in Bonn.
Rauf Khalaf
Khalaf Rauf is a Chairperson of the SANAD Investment Committee and has over 25 years of experience in project cycle management in developing countries and transitional economies with a particular focus on the financial sector. Additionally, Khalaf has extensive experience in structuring, negotiating and executing sustainable joint projects with international finance and donor organizations, particularly EBRD, EIB, FMO, IFC, KfW, SECO, SIFEM, and UNDP as well as with local and foreign commercial and public banks and development banks. Rauf holds a German Diploma in National Economics from the University of Hanover.
Dr. Heinz Hockmann
Heinz Hockmann is a Chairperson of the SANAD Investment Committee and has nearly 40 years of global leadership experience in financial services, specifically asset management, commercial and investment banking. As a senior advisor at Lovell Minnik Partners LLC, Heinz supports the private equity company with his industry knowledge and guides the internationalization of the firm. Additionally, Heinz is co-founder and chairman of Silk Invest Ltd, an asset management company for investments in Africa and the Middle East. Heinz set up a private equity fund for African Food and Agriculture and successfully launched four open-ended mutual funds for African equities, Middle Eastern equities, and fixed income investments in those regions. Heinz holds a PhD in Business Finance from the University of Bochum.
SANAD's Technical Assistance Facility Committee (TAFCOM) is an independent oversight and decision-making body, which oversees all technical assistance activities. It consists of up to four members representing the donors of the Facility who are endorsed by the Board of Directors of the Fund.
Christine Lewis
Christine Lewis has been a member of the SANAD Fund for MSME's Technical Assistance Facility Committee since 2017. She is a Program Manager at the Private Sector Development unit of the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), and manages the unit's portfolio in the MENA region, focusing on access to finance, skills development, investment climate, and entrepreneurship. Prior to her current role, she was the Senior Advisor to the Executive Director representing Germany, Switzerland, Portugal and Luxembourg at the African Development Bank. Between 2009 and 2014, she worked with SECO representing Switzerland at the World Trade Organization negotiations on agriculture and coordinating the Swiss position for an economic partnership agreement with Indonesia. She holds a Master's Degree in International Relations from the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies in Geneva.
Inga Müller
Inga Müller has been a member of both the SANAD Fund for MSME's Equity Sub-Fund Investment Committee and its Technical Assistance Facility Committee since 2016. She is a senior project manager at KfW's division for Education, Economy and Environment in North Africa, managing different projects related to financial sector development as well as to the development and construction of municipal infrastructure, particularly in Tunisia. Prior to her current role, Inga was a project manager at KfW for the Middle East Region and was involved in education projects and crises programs for Syrian and Palestinian refugees in Palestine, Jordan and Lebanon. Between 2012 and 2015 she lived and worked in Ramallah, Palestine, for three years. Inga also worked in KfW's strategy department. Prior to KfW, Inga worked for PricewaterhouseCoopers as well as the German Development Institute. She holds a Diploma in Economics from the University of Freiburg, Germany.
SANAD Debt Sub-Fund has a built-in mechanism to promote lending in local currencies of its Target Countries, the L Shares. The Foreign Exchange Committee (FXC) decides on the mark-up charged on such loans to compensate the L Shares for the currency risk taken. In addition, the Committee monitors these investments and the currency risk in the operating countries.
Dr. Nikolaus Siegfried
Dr. Nikolaus Siegfried is an experienced asset manager, central banker and strategist with over twenty years of experience investing in emerging markets. At the European Central Bank, Nikolaus forged relations with central banks and finance ministries in the Middle Eastern region. He joined Thames River Capital from the ECB to help manage a global portfolio of up to USD 3bn in currencies and fixed income assets. He also worked at Landesbank Berlin, where he was in charge of building and running the global asset allocation for the bank's retail clients. Nikolaus holds a PhD in economics from Hamburg University and is a qualified CIIA charter holder.
Finance in Motion is the advisor to the SANAD Fund for MSME, supporting the fund and its Technical Assistance Facility on an operational level.
Uwe Schober
Uwe has overall responsibility for the SANAD Fund and equity investments at Finance in Motion. Previously, he spent more than twelve years in investment banking in various positions with Warburg, UBS, and Morgan Stanley working in mergers and acquisitions and helping to raise capital (equity, debt, and hybrids) for a variety of companies in various industries. He also assisted high-technology firms in Moscow to access the Russian market. Uwe holds a Bachelor's degree in Economics from the VWA Stuttgart, an MBA from London Business School, and a Master's degree in Documentary Photography from LCC (London).
Burcu Karpuz
Burcu serves as a Regional Director for Turkey and MENA and heads Finance in Motion's office in Istanbul. Burcu has worked more than 15 years for Turkish financial institutions, managing correspondent banking, trade finance, and structured finance teams, focusing on relations with financial institutions and developing trade finance facilities. Before joining Finance in Motion, she worked for DenizBank as Department Head of Financial Institutions. She holds a degree in Political Science and Public Administration and holds a Master's degree in International Finance.
Dragan Spirovski
Dragan leads the Finance in Motion office in Morocco and is responsible for investment activities in Morocco, Tunisia, and Algeria. Before joining Finance in Motion, he served as a local consultant for KfW's micro and small enterprise lending program, which was implemented in several Macedonian banks. Dragan holds a Bachelor's degree in Economics from the University St. Kliment Ohridski, Macedonia.
Mohamed Morsy
Mohamed oversees SANAD's investment activities in Egypt, Iraq, and Yemen, and heads Finance in Motion's Egypt office. Before joining Finance in Motion in 2012, Mohamed was an investment banking manager at Prime Capital and a corporate lending manager at Arab African International Bank. He holds a Master's degree in Investment Banking and Islamic Finance from Henley Business School and an MBA from the University of New Brunswick. Mohamed is also an Islamic Finance professional and a visiting fellow for the MBA program of the Maastricht School of Business (Cairo Campus).
Jacob Ole Nestingen
Ole heads the Technical Assistance Facility of the SANAD Fund for MSME. Before joining Finance in Motion in 2013, Ole gained experience in development finance and commercial banking as a consultant for GFA Consulting Group and at Wells Fargo in the United States. With experience across the Middle East and Africa, Ole has managed over one hundred projects in favor of multiple donors and investors. Ole holds a Master's degree in Political Science from the University of Hamburg and a Bachelor's in History from St. Olaf College in the United States.
Iveta Tancheva-Nikolova
Iveta is currently responsible for the SANAD Equity Sub-Fund II and previously oversaw the investment portfolios for two other global impact investment funds, advised by FiM in the South Caucuses. She joined Finance in Motion in 2012 after spending 10 years in mergers and acquisitions and capital markets at HSBC and ING Barings in London. Iveta helped emerging market companies in raising capital and advised clients in the financial services sector. Iveta holds an MBA from the Weatherhead School of Management in the United States and the Central European University in Budapest.Iveta is currently responsible for the SANAD Equity Sub-Fund II and previously oversaw the investment portfolios for two other global impact investment funds, advised by FiM in the South Caucuses. She joined Finance in Motion in 2012 after spending 10 years in mergers and acquisitions and capital markets at HSBC and ING Barings in London. Iveta helped emerging market companies in raising capital and advised clients in the financial services sector. Iveta holds an MBA from the Weatherhead School of Management in the United States and the Central European University in Budapest.
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text:
2. ŽNL Dubrovačko-neretvanska u sezoni 2013./14. je predstavljala drugi rang županijske lige u Dubrovačko-neretvanskoj županiji, te ligu petog ranga hrvatskog nogometnog prvenstva.
Sudjelovalo je sedam klubova, a prvak je bilo Žrnovo.

Sustav natjecanja
Sedam klubova je igralo dvokružnim liga-sustavom (14 kola, 12 utakmica po momčadi).

Ljestvica

Rezultatska križaljka

Izvori:

Poveznice
 Županijski nogometni savez Dubrovačko-neretvanske županije
 2. ŽNL Dubrovačko-neretvanska

Izvori
 markopolosport.net, Plenum klubova DNŽ-e:Konačno ujedinjeni! 1.ŽNL kreće u nedjelju, 2.ŽNL-a 29.09.!, objavljeno 13. rujna 2013., pristupljeno 13. listopada 2017.
 NK Orebić - blog, 2. ŽNL Dubrovačko-neretvanska 2013./14., konačna ljestvica, objavljeno 11. svibnja 2014., pristupljeno 13. listošada 2017.

2013-14
Dubrovačko-neretvanska-2


text:
COVID-19 'heaviest weight' on Winnipeg mayor as pandemic's death toll mounts
A sombre Brian Bowman sees 2020 as a year defined by one thing — and it isn't multi-year budgets or road repair.
It's the COVID-19 pandemic that hangs over Winnipeg's mayor, as the number of city residents who have died from the disease has passed 400, and more than 14,000 have been infected.
"Those numbers are growing each day. So that's been for sure the heaviest weight on me," Bowman told CBC News in a year-end interview several days before Christmas.
As he reflects on what the city has done to cope with the pandemic, Bowman says he regrets not making one decision sooner.
"We brought in mandatory masks at city facilities and Transit buses in August. If I could go back, I would have pushed to have that earlier," he said. "I think it may have had a positive impact to motivate all of us to do more and to do it sooner."
The pandemic, he says, is the greatest crisis he's lived through.
"Most of us will get through this pandemic and it will be something we'll talk with our kids and our grandkids about.
"But there is a lot of people who are going to have some empty chairs around the table next Christmas [and] in the holidays to come."
'Unprecedented power grab' by province
In news conferences over the past nine months, Bowman has cautiously expressed frustration with communication between the city and the provincial government on health orders, and guidance on how to interpret or enact them.
The relationship hasn't been helped by the almost utter lack of contact between Bowman and Premier Brian Pallister. The pair last spoke directly in April — "not for a lack of trying on my end," Bowman says.
"We have [tried] and will continue to try to facilitate those direct interactions between the two of us," he said, adding he understands the current strain on the premier.
"I have no doubt this has been a very difficult year for him and for his ministers. I have always appreciated the opportunity and I think our province has benefited when we are able to connect personally and directly."
Manitoba's two most high-profile political leaders haven't spoken in more than eight months during one of the most significant crises in generations, according to the mayor. (Jeff Stapleton/CBC)
In spite of that diplomatic assessment, Bowman is blunt on the province's impending Bill 48.
The legislation — The Planning Amendment and City of Winnipeg Charter Amendment Act — would make dramatic changes to the way land-use decisions are made in municipalities such as Winnipeg and the surrounding capital region.
"It's an unprecedented power grab, there's no doubt … and there have been concerns that municipalities all over Manitoba have been voicing," Bowman said with a slight edge to his voice.
He plans to speak at a provincial committee hearing on the legislation in the new year.
"I was hoping that we'd see a lot less red tape, a lot less bureaucracy, in this specific bill," the mayor said. "There's a tremendous amount of power that will be placed in unelected, unaccountable decision makers that will kind of increase that extra layer of red tape."
Not a 'lame duck' term
After six years as mayor, Bowman told reporters in October he would not seek a third term.
He doesn't like the idea of being a lame duck, and he barely bristles when asked if the announcement will hamper his ability to lead until a 2022 election.
"When I said that I think Manitoba has too many career politicians and I don't want to be one of them, I really meant it," Bowman said.
He said he'll continue to expand the city's role in coping with addictions, mental health and homelessness issues.
And while he's a little coy on the subject, he also appears ready to take a second stab at introducing a growth fee on new developments.
Growth fee may be planted again in 2021
Efforts to set a development fee on new housing suffered a significant setback in 2020, after a court ruled the city's approach to imposing its fee was offside.
Bowman acknowledges there was a stumble in the first attempt to bring in the impact fee, but believes it's necessary to help build the city's infrastructure as it expands.
"Every neighbouring municipality, and cities across Canada, have a form of growth fee," he says.
He also notes the court decision affirmed the city has the right to implement a fee on growth, "so there is a path forward," he says.
A second attempt will involve substantial input from developers.
"We're going to continue to have dialogue in the new year. And I'll just say stay tuned."
Speculation about Bowman's future predates his announcement he would not run again.
Rumours abounded among political observers and those inside the business community that Bowman either had his sights set on provincial or federal politics, or was in line for a prestigious posting courtesy of the Trudeau Liberal government.
In the summer, CBC News asked Bowman if he had been contacted by the Prime Minister's Office or another arm of the federal government for a job elsewhere. He vehemently denied any such contact.
During his year-end interview, the mayor reiterated his lack of interest in running for any other position.
"I don't have aspirations to run provincially or federally. And I think I'm in the best political office in the country here," Bowman said.
Asked where he might land, he mused about returning to his law career, but left the door open to other directions.
"I'll keep you posted," he said. "But right now my focus is on COVID and seeing this community through this storm."
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The IBCP is an organization dedicated to the world-wide advancement of Hypnotherapy, Neuro-Linguistic Programming, TIME Techniques™, Success and Life Coaching, Emotional Freedom Techniques, and Reiki. We are dedicated to defining and upholding standards of excellence and ethics for our members and for our industry, internationally.
Being a certified member of IBCP tells your clients that you adhere to a policy of education, a code of ethics, and a pursuit of excellence, as defined by our membership standards.
IBCP keeps our members up-to-date with the newest news, information, techniques and research through our quarterly newsletter and annual conventions. IBCP stays on top of the laws around the world and takes action anywhere that Hypnotherapy or NLP are being limited, regulated or outlawed. IBCP provides marketing assistance, as well as local exposure through our sister-site, NLPList.com. Being a member of the International Board of Coaches and Practitioners means that you're committed to achieving and maintaining excellence in your field.
Access to news and announcements.
Does not include the referral directory, physical certificates, or the ticket to the IBCP convention.
Proof of training (valid completion certificates) will be required for certification for graduates of non-IBCP-approved institutes.
In our fields of NLP, Hypnotherapy, Coaching, EFT and Reiki, a board is a private trade organization dedicated to supporting its members in their respective fields. These are self-regulating fields, meaning the members of the field regulate themselves. Since there is no government licensing for these fields in most countries, provinces, and states around the world. Boards provide a way for members to show that they meet an independent standard of education recommended to practice in each respective field.
In addition to just certification, the IBCP also facilitates a strong community, assists members in continuing their development with continuing education, and assists members with business resources and training to further their success. You can learn more about the IBCP here.
The 2019 IBCP Convention is coming up November 2 - 3, 2019 in Los Angeles! The Convention is free for all current Full Certification IBCP members and chocked full of valuable presentations and networking with like-minds. We're looking forward to seeing you there and more details will be released very soon!
The 2019 IBCP convention is already in the planning stages. If you'd like to present at the convention, be a vendor, or if you'd like to sponsor the event, give us a call today.


text:
@implementation MSPairKeychainManager

+(void)saveUsername:(NSString *)user withPassword:(NSString *)pass{
    [self saveUsername:user withPassword:pass forServer:[[NSBundle mainBundle] bundleIdentifier]];
}

+(void)removeAllCredentials{
    [self removeAllCredentialsForServer:[[NSBundle mainBundle] bundleIdentifier]];
}

+(MSKeychainPair*)getCredentials{
    return [self getCredentialsForServer:[[NSBundle mainBundle] bundleIdentifier]];
}

+(void)saveUsername:(NSString*)user withPassword:(NSString*)pass forServer:(NSString*)server {

    // Create dictionary of search parameters
    NSDictionary* dict = [NSDictionary dictionaryWithObjectsAndKeys:(__bridge id)(kSecClassInternetPassword),  kSecClass, server, kSecAttrServer, kCFBooleanTrue, kSecReturnAttributes, nil];

    // Remove any old values from the keychain
    OSStatus err = SecItemDelete((__bridge CFDictionaryRef) dict);

    // Create dictionary of parameters to add
    NSData* passwordData = [pass dataUsingEncoding:NSUTF8StringEncoding];
    dict = [NSDictionary dictionaryWithObjectsAndKeys:(__bridge id)(kSecClassInternetPassword), kSecClass, server, kSecAttrServer, passwordData, kSecValueData, user, kSecAttrAccount, nil];

    // Try to save to keychain
    err = SecItemAdd((__bridge CFDictionaryRef) dict, NULL);
}

+(void)removeAllCredentialsForServer:(NSString*)server {

    // Create dictionary of search parameters
    NSDictionary* dict = [NSDictionary dictionaryWithObjectsAndKeys:(__bridge id)(kSecClassInternetPassword),  kSecClass, server, kSecAttrServer, kCFBooleanTrue, kSecReturnAttributes, kCFBooleanTrue, kSecReturnData, nil];

    // Remove any old values from the keychain
    //    OSStatus err =
    SecItemDelete((__bridge CFDictionaryRef) dict);
}

+(MSKeychainPair*)getCredentialsForServer:(NSString*)server {

    // Create dictionary of search parameters
    NSDictionary* dict = [NSDictionary dictionaryWithObjectsAndKeys:(__bridge id)(kSecClassInternetPassword),  kSecClass, server, kSecAttrServer, kCFBooleanTrue, kSecReturnAttributes, kCFBooleanTrue, kSecReturnData, nil];

    // Look up server in the keychain
    NSDictionary* found = nil;
    CFDictionaryRef foundCF;
    OSStatus err = SecItemCopyMatching((__bridge CFDictionaryRef) dict, (CFTypeRef*)&foundCF);
    if(err == -25300) return nil;

    found = (__bridge NSDictionary*)(foundCF);
    if (!found) return nil;

    // Found
    NSString* user = (NSString*) [found objectForKey:(__bridge id)(kSecAttrAccount)];
    NSString* pass = [[NSString alloc] initWithData:[found objectForKey:(__bridge id)(kSecValueData)] encoding:NSUTF8StringEncoding];
    return [MSKeychainPair pairWithUsername:user andPassword:pass];
}

@end

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


We Buy Houses - Any Location, Condition,or Price!
Call 833-4-RISE-UP or 833-474-7387 today!
We Buy Houses. We're a local real estate brokerage and solutions company that focuses on helping customers and clients just like you overcome unique challenges. We work with many people like you each year. We're up for speaking with you to learn more about your situation. We will take great care of you as we explore ways we can work together. We will help you achieve your real estate goals.
As you already know… We Buy Houses. We will serve you as a direct buyer. When we buy your house, we will not be acting as your real estate agent or broker. This means you will not pay real estate commissions. We want to make selling your house a simple and easy process. We will be flexible and close on your timeline. We will buy your property as is. When you work with us, you will have peace of mind knowing your property is sold. We are excited about the opportunity to work with you. We Buy Houses regardless of the location, condition, price, or situation. We would love to help you out. We focus on making a positive impact on the lives of our customers and clients as well as improving neighborhoods where we do business.
Of course, we can serve as your real estate agent or broker if you prefer that option. In that scenario, we would represent you as your agent, list your property for sale, and help you find the buyer who you think is best for you. We look forward to meeting you and working together to help you achieve your real estate goals. Thank you for your trust. Rise Up!


text:
2023 S.O.S.
Welcome to SOLE Stepping
Welcome to SOLE Stepping Welcome to SOLE Stepping Welcome to SOLE Stepping
Encouraging souls one step at a time.
SOLE Stepping is a certified 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that provides new shoes and socks to elementary school students in Lexington County, South Carolina. Shoes are often the most visible sign of poverty. With 1 in 5 children living in poverty, that's a reality that impacts every school district in America. The simple gift of a new pair of shoes can positively change a child's world. That's why we never distribute previously-owned shoes to our children in our sponsored schools.
Since 2016, we have provided more than 10,000 pairs of shoes to elementary school children in the Midlands of South Carolina.
Learn more about how you can be part of the giving.
2023 GOAL SETTING TIME
Email: solestepping@gmail.com
Sole Stepping
508 Hartley Street, Batesburg, South Carolina 29006, United States
MCopyright © 2021 Sole Stepping - All Rights Reserved.


text:
Verlander to debut Tuesday against Mariners
Astros excited about playoff implications of newest addition
By Brian McTaggart
HOUSTON -- Astros outfielder Josh Reddick was keeping up with news while sitting on his couch in the middle of the night. Outfielder George Springer, who doesn't have "the Internet stuff," was relying on text messages from others for his information. Relief pitcher Will Harris was fast asleep and didn't
HOUSTON -- Astros outfielder Josh Reddick was keeping up with news while sitting on his couch in the middle of the night. Outfielder George Springer, who doesn't have "the Internet stuff," was relying on text messages from others for his information. Relief pitcher Will Harris was fast asleep and didn't hear about it until Friday morning.
No matter how and when the news of the Astros' acquisition of ace pitcher Justin Verlander was delivered, it was met with overwhelming approval from Astros players. Verlander will make his Astros debut when he starts Tuesday against the Mariners in Seattle.
"It shows they want to win and they're going to do whatever it takes for us to win," Reddick said of the team's front office. "With him coming in here, it makes the bigger picture even more seeable right now."
The big picture, of course, is winning the World Series, and the Astros' key addition could help to achieve that. The blockbuster was struck late Thursday, with the Astros getting Verlander from the Tigers, along with a player to be named later or cash, in exchange for three prospects. After not landing a big name at the non-waiver Trade Deadline, the Astros landed a front-line starter with playoff experience.
"It's a great trade," designated hitter Carlos Beltran said. "You've got a guy that no doubt is one of the best pitchers in the game and having him in here with us is going to be positive. … It seems like the team right now is going to be in good shape."
Bonding time! 😄 pic.twitter.com/b3ujnReaL2
— Houston Astros (@astros) September 3, 2017
Verlander arrived in Houston on Saturday afternoon and threw a bullpen session between Games 1 and 2 of Saturday's doubleheader against the Mets, with pitching coach Brent Strom and a few dozen fans watching close by. Verlander is scheduled to meet with the Houston media on Sunday prior to the series finale against the Mets.
Verlander is scheduled to meet with the Houston media on Sunday prior to the series finale against the Mets.
Verlander, who made his final start for the Tigers on Wednesday, waived his no-trade clause to join the Astros. The 2011 Cy Young Award winner and American League Most Valuable Player is 10-8 with a 3.82 ERA in 28 starts this year, including 5-3 with a 2.31 ERA in his last 11 starts.
"The starting pitcher sets the tone for the day, and he's been one of the best at it for over a decade," Astros manager A.J. Hinch said. "He's got the back of a baseball card to show you. He's got hardware, he's got MVPs … . When you have him and you put him on a lineup card and you post it and the players know coming to the field we have Justin Verlander on our side, we're going to feel like we're going to win."
The addition of Verlander and return of Lance McCullers from the disabled list provides the Astros with a rotation capable of going deep into the playoffs. Fans will get a glimpse of that in the series against the Mariners, with 2015 Cy Young Award winner Dallas Keuchel pitching on Monday, Verlander on Tuesday and McCullers on Wednesday.
"It's awesome," Springer said. "It's going to be great to have a rotation like that. Our guys have been great all year and to add in a bona fide guy like that, I know as a hitter it's not going to be fun to game plan against that. As a team, it will be a big boost for us."
The Astros, specifically Keuchel and Reddick, expressed some frustration when the team didn't acquire an impact arm at the end of July. Verlander figures to provide somewhat of an emotional boost, as well as a pitcher capable of dominating.
"Obviously, he's a proven horse in this league and his resume speaks for itself," Harris said. "Obviously, the front office thinks he's going to help us win games or else they wouldn't have made the trade. All of us agree in here, and it's a matter of getting everybody healthy and getting everybody right and trying to win the division."
Brian McTaggart has covered the Astros since 2004, and for MLB.com since 2009. Follow @brianmctaggart on Twitter.


text:
Sustainable network for Independent Technical EXpertise of radioactive waste disposal - Interactions and Implementation
The coordination action SITEX-II aims at implementing in practice the activities along with the interaction modes issued by the FP7 program SITEX project (2012-2013), in view of developing an Expertise function network. This network is expected to ensure a sustainable capability of developing and coordinating joint and harmonized activities related to the independent technical expertise in the field of safety of deep geological disposal of radioactive waste. SITEX-II tasks include:
– The definition of the Strategic Research Agenda (SRA) based on the common R&D orientations defined by SITEX (2012-2013), the definition of the ToR for the implementation of specific topics from the SRA, and the interaction with IGD-TP and other external entities mandated to implement research on radioactive waste disposal regarding the potential setting up of an European Joint Programming on radioactive waste disposal;
– The production of a guidance on the technical review of the safety case at its different phases of development, fostering a common understanding on the interpretation and proper implementation of safety requirements for developing, operating and closing a geological repository and on the verification of compliance with these requirements;
– The development of a training module for generalist experts involved in the safety case review process, including the implementation a pilot training session;
– The commitment of CS in the definition of the SRA mentioned above, considering the expectations and technical questions to be considered when developing R&D for the purpose of Expertise function. Close interactions between experts conducting the review work will allow enhancing the safety culture of CS and more globally, proposing governance patterns with CS in the framework of geological disposal;
– The preparation of the "administrative" framework for a sustainable network, by addressing the legal, organisational and management aspects.
H2020-Euratom-1.2. - Contribute to the development of solutions for the management of ultimate nuclear waste
H2020-Euratom-1.3. - Support the development and sustainability of nuclear competences at Union level
NFRP-05-2015 - Supporting the licensing of geological repositories
NFRP-2014-2015
CSA - Coordination and support action
INSTITUT DE RADIOPROTECTION ET DE SURETE NUCLEAIRE
Av De La Division Leclerc 31
92260 Fontenay Aux Roses
LIETUVOS ENERGETIKOS INSTITUTAS
BEL V
Federal Agency for Nuclear Control
MUTADIS CONSULTANTS SARL
DECOM AS
CANADIAN NUCLEAR SAFETY COMMISSION
ENERGIAKLUB SZAKPOLITIKAI INTEZET MODSZERTANI KOZPONT EGYESULET
NUCLEAR RESEARCH AND CONSULTANCY GROUP
CENTRUM VYZKUMU REZ SRO
GESELLSCHAFT FUR ANLAGEN UND REAKTORSICHERHEIT (GRS) gGmbH
EUROPEAN NUCLEAR SAFETY TRAINING AND TUTORING INSTITUTE
MILJOORGANISATIONERNAS KARNAVFALLSGRANSKNING
GEOLOGICHESKI INSTITUT PRI BAN ST.DIMITROV
AUTORITE DE SURETE NUCLEAIRE
REGIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER FOR CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE -REC
INSTITUT SYMLOG
PAUL SCHERRER INSTITUT
SITEX-II
H2020-Euratom-1.2.
Expert advice on nuclear waste
Many types of nuclear waste will remain dangerously radioactive for thousands of years. . An EU team developed European expertise on underground disposal, via a network of experts, and suggested new safety initiatives.
CLIMATE CHANGE AND ENVIRONMENT
© Aleksandr Petrunovskyi, Shutterstock
Nuclear waste disposal is complex, requiring high-level expertise. The safe management of spent fuel and radioactive waste comes under the framework outlined by the European Council Directive 2011/70/EURATOM. This Directive states that it is broadly accepted at the technical level that, at this time, deep geological disposal represents the safest and most sustainable option. Independent expertise The EU-funded SITEX-II project was launched to further develop Europe's existing independent Expertise Function network, which is a group of organisational and non-organisational experts. The project focused on extending the network's expertise regarding safe geological disposal of nuclear waste. The Coordination and Support Action project implemented the activities and interaction modes previously developed by the former SITEX project (2012-2013). The new project ensured sustainable European capacity for coordinating joint activities related to the Expertise Function network. Sub-goals for the team included defining an R&D programme (incorporating a Strategic Research Agenda) able to review a safety case for geological disposal. Secondly, the team developed position papers and a technical guide about implementation of safety requirements. SITEX-II also worked to demonstrate training services to be provided by the network, develop interactions with civil society and synthesise results in the form of an Action Plan. "We made significant progress to align European Expertise players for geological disposal of radioactive waste," says project leader Delphine Pellegrini. The project's results covered several broad themes. The consortium produced its planned Strategic Research Agenda. The JOPRAD project used the SITEX-II agenda, focused on the Expertise Function, to consider the feasibility of specific joint research projects about radioactive waste management. Training and safety culture The team additionally developed a pilot training programme. Stakeholders – including regulatory authorities, technical support organisations and research agencies – provided valuable feedback on the programme. Partners further highlighted the need for and value of training focused on developing expertise. SITEX-II researchers also detailed a proposed common European safety culture, and the procedures by which institutional and civil society stakeholders can help define such a culture. The suggested culture includes developing mutual understanding of safety issues and the effective governance of radioactive waste. Furthermore, the team devised innovative ways of sharing the issues. Their work fleshed out a concept for knowledge interaction with civil society, to be used by future EU research projects and for upcoming joint programming. The consortium created a network of stakeholders, which deals with the regulatory review process of geological disposal. "We further developed our project's collaboration in January 2018, with the establishment of an association called SITEX Network," added Pellegrini. The association will give its 14 founding partners the necessary continuity to further develop high-level expertise in the field of radioactive waste management independent of industrial operators. The network provides support to safety authorities and involves civil society organisations. As a result of SITEX and SITEX-II, Europe has developed its expertise in the field of radioactive waste management. The team has also ensured continuation of the Expertise Function collaboration, meaning ongoing development of expertise. Thus, the disposal of nuclear waste will be governed by transparent standards based on expert understanding.
SITEX-II, SITEX, nuclear waste, Expertise Function, radioactive waste management, geological disposal, safety culture
Horizon 2020-Funded EPIC Project Releases Policy Recommendations for Digital Technologies and the Arts
Improving Tomato Yield and Quality in the Face of Climate Change
Periodic Reporting for period 2 - SITEX-II (Sustainable network for Independent Technical EXpertise of radioactive waste disposal - Interactions and Implementation)
The European Council Directive 2011/70/EURATOM of 19 July 2011 establishes a Community framework for the responsible and safe management of spent fuel and radioactive waste. This Directive states that it is broadly accepted at the technical level that, at this time, deep geological disposal represents the safest and most sustainable option as the end point of the management of high-level waste and spent fuel considered as waste.
In line with this Directive and in consistency with international high level safety standards, waste management organisations are developing safety cases for presenting the technical and organisational arguments that support the development of the national geological repository. As safety case develops, the safety case expertise by regulatory bodies in the framework of the decision making process develops as well. Organisations in charge of reviewing the safety case must in particular evaluate whether the safety elements, in particular those supported by scientific and technological results, are sufficiently convincing to be accepted by the regulatory authority as a basis for proceeding with the decision making process.
In this context, there is a need for developing and coordinating, at the international level, joint and harmonized activities related to the Expertise Function, which proceeds in the regulatory review of deep geological disposal programs. The Coordination and Support Action SITEX-II (2015-2017) aim to address this need by developing a Sustainable Independent Expertise Function Network in the field of deep geological disposal safety. SITEX-II brings together representatives from eighteen organisations including mainly regulatory authorities, technical support organisations, research organisations and Civil Society (CS) organisations. It is devoted to the practical implementation of the activities defined by the former SITEX project (EURATOM FP7, 2012–2013):
–	Programming R&D: the general objective within SITEX-II is to further defining the Expertise Function's R&D programme necessary to ensure independent scientific and technical capabilities for reviewing a safety case for geological disposal,
–	Developing a joint review framework: the key objective is to further develop a common understanding of the interpretation and proper implementation of safety requirements in the safety case,
–	Training and tutoring for reviewing the safety case: SITEX-II aims to provide a practical demonstration of training services that may be provided by the foreseen SITEX network,
–	Interacting with CS: the general objective within SITEX-II is the development by institutional experts and CS organisations representatives of the conditions and means for interactions within the framework of the foreseen SITEX network, in view of mutual understanding and transparency of the decision-making process.
In addition, SITEX-II tasks include the dissemination of results achieved within the project so as to allow possible considerations from outside the project in the process of developing the future SITEX network, and the issuing of an Action Plan to set out the content and practical modalities of this future network.
SITEX-II Pilot Training-June 2017-Participants at lectures
SITEX-II Pilot Training-June 2017-Working in groups (practical exercises)
Development of a training module for generalist experts in geological disposal
This deliverable will present the developed training program for the training module for experts in geological disposal, including the objectives, the description of the content (lectures, exercises…), the lecturers' profile, the timetable.
Conditions and means for developing SITEX interactions with CS
"Deliverable D4.1 will present the results of the WP4, i.e.: • The results of the review of the SITEX SRA as well as the description of appropriate processes for CS to interact with experts along R&D development. It will also formulate R&D expectations of CS regarding radioactive waste management, • The conditions and means to share a common safety culture and rules of procedures to allow interactions of experts with CS along the safety case review process, • Recommendations on ""Intergenerational patterns of inclusive governance along the operational phase of Geological Disposal""."
Setting a Strategic Research Agenda
This deliverable will present a Strategic Research Agenda (SRA) prioritizing the R&D topics that the Expertise function should investigate at the European level in order to strengthen their expertise in reviewing safety cases for geological disposal facilities.
Presentation of the project
The framework, objective and structure of the SITEX-II project will be described, together with the content and timing of the different work packages. This will be documented on the basis of the Grant Agreement.
Lessons learnt from the pilot training module
This deliverable will summarise the feedback gathered from the implementation of the pilot training module and highlight the main issues to be further considered e.g. in the framework of a future SITEX network.
Setting the Terms of References for the Strategic Research Agenda implementation
This deliverable will present how SITEX-II plans to implement the topics of the SRA presented in D1.1. The document will refer to JOPRAD deliverables for the identification of topics that may be included into an EJP and will detail the ToR of the topics that will be covered inside the future SITEX network.
Synthesis of existing practices for training and tutoring of experts in geological disposal safety
This deliverable will present the analysis of the existing practices on expert training and tutoring in the countries of SITEX-II organisations, including recommendations developed based on the existing good practices.
Technical guide on the review of a safety case
This report aims at guiding experts in the review of the safety cases related to geological disposal; it will notably include analysis grids for each of the six key phases of the development of the safety case. The opportunities to involve the CS in the different steps of the review process will also be presented.
Interpretation and implementation of safety requirements
This document issued by Task 2.1 will summarize the followed methodology and the results of the discussions including the position papers for each of the 4 selected topics in appendix.
Action plan for establishing SITEX network
The document will contain a proposal of the step-by-step procedure to implement in practice the foreseen SITEX network. It will tentatively include the following key sections: • Mission and objectives; • Legislative and administrative conditions for creating and operating the network; • Formal position of interested organisations; • Provision and mobilization of resources for SITEX network functioning; • Specification of working procedures; • Coordination of activities with other international platforms/initiatives active in the area; • Concrete tasks, their timing and allocation of implementation responsibilities.
SITEX-II final project report
This deliverable will be a final SITEX-II document summarizing project outcomes, achievements, findings, and lessons learnt. This document will also contain recommendations for developing the Action plan for establishing a future SITEX network (D5.5).


Keeping flowers looking fresh after cutting them is difficult whether you have a green thumb or not, but it you want to start the process the right way, home-centric blog Apartment Therapy recommends cutting them during the coolest part of the day.
The reasoning is that the flowers have more moisture during cold periods and cutting them during these points makes it so they retain the water before they're brought inside. Combining this with a DIY solution, a little aspirin, or vodka should keep them lasting a long time. For more tips, hit up the Apartment Therapy link below. Photo by: Krikit.


Here are some pictures of our first show in 2013 and this year's show promises an even better event on the recreation ground near the village hall.
Displaying 30 pictures. Click a picture to zoom in.
SORRY! - THIS EVENT HAS ALREADY TAKEN PLACE!


I made these for my girls, thought I'd share!
So cute Sarah! I was so happy to see a post on here!
I know, it's been so long, I miss it!
Being a mommy is hard work. We know! But it is also the greatest and most rewarding adventure in life.
Sundae Secrets is to help you mommies make this adventure, here on earth, an easier one. One where the Spirit dwells in your home and your children learn the gospel! Sundae Secrets is all about helping you with you "lifestyle" of living the gospel!
Thank you for your comments and support!!


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Call us on 912 757 332
Quinto di Treviso Hotels
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Where to stay in Quinto di Treviso
What's Quinto di Treviso like?
If you're looking for a place to get away, look no further than Quinto di Treviso. Whether you're planning to stay for a night or for the week, the area around Quinto di Treviso has accommodations to fit every need. Search for hotels in Quinto di Treviso with Hotels.com by checking our online map. Our map displays the areas and neighborhoods around all Quinto di Treviso hotels so you can see how close you are from landmarks and attractions, and then refine your search within the larger area. The best Quinto di Treviso hotel deals are here with our lowest price guarantee.
Where are the best places to stay in Quinto di Treviso?
Here's our travelers' top place to stay in Quinto di Treviso:
Best Western Premier BHR Treviso Hotel
4-star hotel with bar, conference center
• Free WiFi • Restaurant • Steam room • Health club • Attentive staff
What types of hotels are available in Quinto di Treviso?
We have 6 Quinto di Treviso accommodations with prices starting at SGD 21. Choose one of our 7816 deals and get discounts of up to 35%.
Below are the number of accommodations by star rating in Quinto di Treviso and the surrounding area:
How to Get to Quinto di Treviso
What is the closest airport to Quinto di Treviso?
• Venice (VCE-Marco Polo), 13.1 mi (21 km) from central Quinto di Treviso
Things to See and Do in Quinto di Treviso
What is there to see near Quinto di Treviso:
• Sile River Regional Nature Park (2.4 mi/3.9 km from the city center)
• Cathedral of Treviso (4.5 mi/7.3 km from the city center)
• Palazzo dei Trecento (4.6 mi/7.4 km from the city center)
• Piazza dei Signori (4.6 mi/7.4 km from the city center)
• Porta San Tomaso (4.9 mi/7.9 km from the city center)
What is there to do near Quinto di Treviso:
• Golf Club Villa Condulmer (6.9 mi/11.1 km from the city center)
• Salici Golf Club (3.8 mi/6 km from the city center)
• Villa Franchetti (4.2 mi/6.8 km from the city center)
• Luigi Bailo Museum (4.3 mi/7 km from the city center)
• Ca' della Nave Golf Club (6.6 mi/10.7 km from the city center)
When is the best time to visit Quinto di Treviso?
• Rainiest months: May, June, October, and November (average 3.87 inches of rainfall)


Passionate, caring and enthusiastic about life. Now that my children are getting older I have a huge desire to travel and to experience different cultures.
I've always been in involved in sport and have recently taken up cycling.....have done the triathlons but run as if I've sunk a bottle of Vodka....never have by the way....used to swim competitively.
Now looking for an equally lover of life who is also active.
My ideal match.....kind and respectful to children, loves sport....taking part and watching.
Slim, athletic....loves food....doesn't spend an hour pushing a grain of rice around.
Adventures111 hasn't asked any friends to write a recommendation yet.


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Wärtsilä to supply 225 MW power plant to Texas utility
Finnish gas engine manufacturer Wärtsilä is to engineer and supply a 225 MW power plant to South Texas Electric Cooperative (STEC) in the USA.
critical power online, best magazine, batteries and energy storage technology, energy storage publishing, prime power, standby power
Global UPS market to reach $9.84bn by 2015 - report
The global UPS market will reach $9.84bn by 2015, according to a report by analysts TechNavio.
critical power, critical power online, best magazine, batteries and energy storage technology
Mitsubishi''s DiamondPlus UPS system bags US magazine award
Mitsubishi Electric is celebrating after its DiamondPlus 1100 Series UPS won a 'product of the year' award from a US magazine.
Eaton UPS products receive US Energy Star rating
Eaton's 5P, 5PX and 9PX UPS systems are Energy Star qualified following stringent third-party testing and verification of meeting the United States' energy efficiency requirements.
critical power online, energy efficiency, best magazine, energy storage publishing
Aggreko provides power for gas exploration in Maranhao
Temporary power supplier Aggreko is working with Duro Felguera, a specialist geological exploration group from Spain dedicated to developing and executing projects for a number of industrial sectors, including oil and gas.
critical power online, best magazine, battery and energy storage technology, energy storage publishing
A123 battling through bankruptcy court
The fate and future of A123 is in the hands of the Chinese as Wanxiang Corporation's bid for the company has been accepted.
UK gas genset supplier Centrax installs 12 MW Siemens unit in Versailles
UK gas turbine packaging specialist Centrax has installed a 12 MW CHP unit in the French town of Versailles, which represents its first commissioning of a Siemens CX400 package.
Aggreko launches 800 kW air-cooled fluid chiller
Aggreko has unveiled a new model in its range of air-cooled fluid chillers specially designed for the demanding rental market to meet the different temperature control needs of many industry sectors, including food and beverage, refining, c
Demand response in commercial buildings set to soar - report
The number of commercial facilities participating in demand response (DR) programmes worldwide will rise from fewer than 600,000 in 2012 to more than 1.4 million sites by 2018, according to a report by Navigant's Energy Practice.
Riello UPS range attains UK government energy efficiency standard
Riello UPS's Multi Sentry range between 30 and 100 kVA has been listed on the UK Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC) Energy Technology List (ETL) which encourages businesses to invest in approved energy saving technologies.


Been thinking about this recently in regards to leadership, church, vision and all that God has for me, for us.
We need to be early.
We don't need to innovate. God can do that but we do need to lean in to what He is doing and what He wants to do. Vision and inspiration is never in short supply. It's people willing to get in on it than prove more difficult.
Getting in early takes faith.
Taking the first step takes faith. Doing what may seem uncomfortable takes faith. It's easy to wait and see before you become a part of what God is doing. Getting in early, when we don't know the outcome, that's a faith issue.
Early adopters position themselves for greater rewards.
Most people can wait, can be, as it shows in the diagram, a laggard. I don't want to be a laggard. Seems like they all miss out and I don't want to miss out.
Early is how God operates. He is never late, always on time, looking to the new thing, ready to move with those who are ready to move with Him. He is a rewarder of those who seek Him and put their trust in Him.
For many, when they first find Jesus and become a Christian, amazing things happen. Life changes in dramatic ways. Maybe that is your story. Remember ~ you discovered a new sense of purpose for life, found freedom in God and began to live life according to the truth of God's word. It was like a whole new world. Some have described that feeling of liberty like seeing in full, high definition colour. The lights have well and truly been switched on.
So how's the journey now? Why is it for some of us as we read this, that life-changing moment just doesn't seem to have the same effect anymore. The fizz has definitely gone and our walk with God is just a little flat.
What caused us to stop believing in the bigness of God?
Where did our child-like wonder of all that God can do vanish to?
When did we start to fence ourselves in, bring the lines in on what was possible in our lives, and make the boundaries smaller?
A narrow view of life may be easier to handle but it's not the life that Jesus wants us to have. The wider view that God has called us to, a bigger view of life, one that only God can bring about is the one He won for us at the cross.
God's imagination for what our life can be is way bigger than ours. Think about, God told Abraham he would have descendants that were numbered like the stars. Too many to count. That is impossible in the natural. A little scary and overwhelming to most people. what if God shows you something like that, something too big to handle. A God-given view of your life is always bigger than the one you can imagine for yourself.
God wouldn't show us the view if he wasn't going to help us to handle it. God is in this with Abraham. It's God's vision for Abraham which makes it God's responsibility to make it happen.
A wider view is only possible by stepping outside of what we know now, a narrow view. Abraham was made to separate himself from certain constraints. Being inside the tent narrowed is view. he could have looked upward but would have only caught a glimpse of what God was wanting to show him. Sometimes we have to move away from the things that limit what we see.
The wider view is built by faith. Abraham had to see it, catch it in his heart and then take a hold of it by faith. If Abraham hadn't exercised his faith to trust that God could accomplish it, then maybe it wouldn't have happened. To take God at His word always involves faith.
Let this be our attitude as we walk with God, embracing the bigness of all that He has for us now and in the future. It will take faith and a confident trust in God's ability to accomplish it.
Every relationship needs special moments.
That first moment when you meet your special someone. That moment when you try and pluck up the courage to talk to her, especially awkward when there is plenty of 'setting up' going on by others. The exchange of numbers. The phone call to check they are alright. The next time you are together. A walk around the lake. Holding hands. Talking and talking (and I mean talking).
Special moments. Daft stuff really but when you look back you can recognise them as pivotal moments. Those times that make the journey worthwhile and that now, after nearly 21 years of marriage, bring a happy smile to my face.
The same is true for my relationship with God. From the moment of realisation that I needed to accept Him for myself and not just because my dad and mum had. Getting baptised. Being filled with the Holy Spirit. Finding myself leaning up against the church organ after coming round from having been overwhelmed by the power of the Holy Spirit. Just learning to appreciate and have an awareness of God's presence. Incredible moments when the Word of God hits you between the eyes, like they are speaking just to you.
Moments. Many moments. Special God encounter moments. You can't necessarily build a relationship on them alone but they definitely make the journey what it is. Highlights and marker experiences along the way. Proof of someones love for me. Proof to me of God and His interest in me, plain little me.
Last Sunday was one of those moments. Unexpected in some sense. A Sunday night service hijacked by the power of God. An awareness of His presence. His peace that goes beyond all understanding. His power moving by the Holy Spirit and working in people's lives. That never gets old.
Here's the thing I have discovered about such moments. You have to put yourself in the place where they might happen. You have to step out and ask the girl, you have to pursue her, learn to appreciate her and understand how she ticks. There is often a little bit of inconvenience, a little bit of risk, some faith maybe.
It's true with God too. When His people gather together as family, in His House, then anything can happen. You just have to be there to experience it though. I know that God can move in your living room but there is something powerful when Church is filled with believers. That atmosphere of faith, a determined focus on God, without distraction, time set aside to lift up His name and then allowing Him to have His way. Amazing.
I can't make you be there, all I can do is encourage you to position yourself in the place where God encounter moments can take place. It may be difficult, inconvenient or a little bit risk but the step of faith on your part will be so worth it.
Let's actually believe that nothing is impossible for God.
Jesus doesn't turn up when it's difficult. He turns up when it's impossible.
A wonder is when God goes beyond what we can imagine.
We need to recapture the wonder of the Gospel.
You don't leave the presence of God the same way you came in.
Self righteous call out for Jesus of Nazareth while the sick call out for Son of David. Self righteous cry out for credit not mercy.
To you Jesus is just from Nazareth but for Bartimaeus Jesus was the Son of David. The one who could heal him and the world.
Christian is not a sacrifice we make but a sacrifice we trust.
We are not called to plant fruit. Repentance is a fruit. Holiness is a fruit. The goodness of God leads to repentance. Grace of God leads us to ungodliness.
We are living under a new covenant that says 'done'. Not under the old one that says 'do'. Old covenant was conditional 'if my people' while Jesus said 'it is finished'.
We don't live under half a rainbow. Jesus has completed the rainbow. We live under a full rainbow. It's not 'if my people' now it's 'only believe'.
It's not how good you are at Spiritual disciplines but how could you are at trusting Jesus.
Christians are so afraid of sin. Our focus should be on the finished work of Christ. Where sin abounds grace abounds much more.
Old covenant is when clean touched unclean then clean becomes unclean. New covenant is when clean touches unclean then unclean becomes clean.
Grace of God operates in the darkest of places.
Enjoyed an evening with some of the men from Xcel Church tonight.
Pastor John reminded me tonight about the need to show a bit of audacity from time to time. Audacity is important to overcome apathy because it involved faith and faith is the antidote to apathy. Audacious faith is about speaking to situations and not just talking about it.
Joshua showed audacious faith when he asked God to stop the sun. That's definitely out there. Who would even dare ask for such a thing? Yet the encouragement is for me to have my own audacious prayers – relational, spiritual, physical and financial.
There is victory in audacity.
Actually it doesn't just work in faith, sometimes it works in other areas of life as it's about doing something that sometimes doesn't make sense. Start a new business. Change your financial habits. Turn the TV off. Go for the dream job. Marry that special someone. Join a gym. Love your spouse the right way. Or whatever it might be for you.
Where will you put your audacious faith to work? What could you do different that might just change your life?
Ever wondered what stopped the individual in Matthew 25 who got given 1 talent from doing anything with it? Don't know about you but I do not want to be called 'wicked, lazy, worthless'. Should it concern us that many of us head that way, sometimes without even realising it.
If 3 people are given talents and one of them just buries it then does that mean that 1 out of 3 people are doing NOTHING with what God has deposited within them. Am I just busy doing the wrong things? What reasons do I give that limit by ability to take a hold of every opportunity that comes my way?
Culture influences image. TV is full of programmes telling us to look right.The cosmetics industry is worth over £37bn in UK – thats BIG business. It's little wonder that we get concerned about how doing certain things will make us look.
Maybe for the person with one talent they became concerned with how doing things would make them look, after all, reputations are precious. They are hard to earn but can be easily lost.
There is a danger though for me as a Christian. If I base decisions on image then I put limits on what I can do. If my concern is directed more towards what others might think about me, then perhaps my focus is wrong. Surely my focus should be more on how God sees me. Isn't acting in faith the better way to go?
If you look at God's view on image He was more concerned with what was going on inside a person's heart rather than how the outside looked. When King Saul acted because of how things were making him look, it cost him his kingship. While David, who was considered unlikely because he didn't fit the part was described from God's perspective as 'a man after God's own heart'.
Image should not be a reason to stop me but it sometimes it is.
Image can override my ability to trust God.
Image may stop me stepping out of the things I know and am comfy in, into areas where I don't know everything.
I can't play not to lose. I need to be more determined to do whatever I can, concerning myself less with how it makes me look and focus more on how it makes God look. That means I MUST exercise my faith in God – after all, he wouldn't put things in me if he didn't believe I could handle it.


Ensure that you never look anything less than immaculate with this edit of NYX PMU accessories. Equip yourself with this range of best-sellers and essentials you need in your makeup kit today. Just as important as the makeup you wear are the accessories you use to carry, enhance and blend them. Create the perfect finish with NYX PMU brushes. From multi-purpose brushes to this seasons must-have, the blending sponge. Once you've created your flawless base, finish off your full-face makeup look with a pair of false lashes. We've got all the accessories and best tools of the trade to transform your makeup look.


Discuss with your counselor what citizenship in the community means and what it takes to be a good citizen in your community. Discuss the rights, duties, and obligations of citizenship, and explain how you can demonstrate good citizenship in your community, Scouting unit, place of worship or school.
b. Chart the organization of your local or state government. Show the top offices and tell whether they are elected or appointed.
a. Attend a city or town council or school board meeting, or a municipal; county, or state court session.
a. Find out which branch of local government is responsible for this issue.
b. With your counselor's and a parent's approval, interview one person from the branch of government you identified in requirement 4a. Ask what is being done about this issue and how young people can help.
c. Share what you have learned with your counselor.
a. Choose a charitable organization outside of Scouting that interests you and brings people in your community together to work for the good of your community.
b. Using a variety of resources (including newspapers, fliers and other literature, the Internet, volunteers, and employees of the organization), find out more about this organization.
c. With your counselor's and your parent's approval, contact the organization and find out what young people can do to help. While working on this merit badge, volunteer at least eight hours of your time for the organization. After your volunteer experience is over, discuss what you have learned with your counselor.


Here are three examples of this art lesson. The first is just potatoes, with lots of different colors available to the children. I cut the potatoes into stars, circles, triangles, rectangles, and stripes. I encouraged them to layer their stamping with a lighter colored circle (i.e. yellow) under a darker/brighter shape.
The second incorporates a children's book, When Green Becomes Tomatoes by Julie Fogliano. (cutest book about the seasons ever!) For this one, I added store-bought stamps for the flowers (you could carve them with potato though!).
And the third variation uses a combination of potatoes and Speedball's Speedy-Cut blocks. The children drew their stamp shapes with sharpie, and I carved around them. This would be an awesome project for older kids who could carve safely. For the moon and stars print, the shooting star is made with the help of two stripes carved from a potato plus one round potato!
I folded the ears out of felt, and also attached them (with a teensy help from the kids), the nose (a little bit of wool folded into a triangle), and eyes (cut felt shapes) for the children. For attaching the ears, I found it was the sturdiest when I cut a little crack in the ball where an ear would go, then placed the ear in the crack and poked where they join.
*** If you work with older kids you could possible let more than two do it at a time, but the needles truly are very sharp so be mindful.
In one of the above pictures, you can see a basket. I just used a breaking basket to make the ears, but you could use some type of foam (there is a specific kind for felting, actually) or anything else that lets you poke through the felt.
peel the styrofoam and paper apart and voila! a relief print!
the ink is super easy to wash, so you can rinse brayers, plates (the styrofoam), and plexi for fresh colors!
One thing I tried for the first time last school year was using sketchbooks for down time in my classroom. I've used them in the museum setting during camps, but I had never incorporated them into my year-round classroom, and I really enjoyed how they turned out! They function as a record of the child's use of art materials throughout an entire school year, and they also feel special and maybe create a sense of excitement about exploring with a variety of drawing media. Last year I ordered spiral bound notebooks (about 6×8 inches and a little over 100 pages). My favorite thing about them was the blank cover, so the children could decorate the front. If I can find the exact book (hopefully I will because I need to order more next week!) I will link it here.
I had hoped they would be able to use the pages chronologically so that in May their families could see how their mark-making changed throughout the year. Some of them did not quite understand that front of book/back of book concept of print yet, so this year I might number the first 20 pages and invite them to make bookmarks to help with that. Other than that, the sketchbooks were a hit and they kept the 2D choice-based work from ending up lost with no names or crumpled in the bottom of backpacks! Here is a list of items I let the kids choose freely from (they are set up on low shelves the children can reach). They use their sketchbooks when they finish the art history-inspired projects that we create throughout the year- each child finishes working at different paces with different projects, so their sketchbook is always an option. Placing them somewhere the children can get and put away on their own is also key!
Markers – NOT dried out!!! you can soak the felt in water for a minute and they usually have another month or more of life. I like to get a variety of thicknesses, and metallic markers are a hit as well.
For seven years I've been helping the schools where I've taught with their annual auction fundraisers. At my school in Nashville, we have an auction each spring and the highlight is the eight classes' collaborative art pieces that are sold via live auction (very exciting). Here are some of my favorite pieces from over the years, with a few steps for how to recreate them. I think the best projects have an elegant color palette or composition, but show the mark of the child (i.e. they did more than just finger prints- however that's pretty much unavoidable with infant – two year olds). Another characteristic I love is when they incorporate elements from the Montessori curriculum. ** Many of these were not my idea! Some come from Pinterest or my colleagues' brilliant imaginations- I just help the kids create them.
PRO TIP: Have the auction pieces professionally framed! Download my framing guide here!
This one was made by 2 year olds! Our school had just made a beautiful vegetable garden, so we had some veggie themed pieces at the auction.
Made by 3-6 year olds. This one doesn't necessarily have the "mark" of the child, but they sure made all of it and loved every minute. It was one of my all time favorite processes because I brought the loom and yarn into the classroom each time we worked on it and kids would gather around and try to pet the soft yarn. When I cut extra pieces off for trash they would 'steal' them and sneak them into their backpacks. It was really fun to see this one come together and the colors were inspired by March Chagall's stained glass windows. I recommend choosing a color palette carefully!
Inspired by the sun celebration mat in Montessori schools.
Using mod podge, arrange and glue all the pieces down!
Inspired by the Montessori puzzle maps and pin punching works.
Also inspired by our new (then) school garden.
using the cardboard as a base (I cut the pieces into about 5 inch rectangles (you could also do ovals, or U shapes kind of like little shields) crumble newspaper to create the head form and any snout/ears/etc.
So, I'm obsessed with the International Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque. My husband and I went in October (book yourself a ticket for next year ASAP), and absolutely loved it- the festival, and New Mexico in general. We also went to Ghost Ranch, where Georgia O'Keeffe visited and painted (and eventually bought a home near), so stay tuned for a few O'Keeffe-inspired lessons too. Here is a paper mache hot air balloon lesson, complete with pics from our trip to show your students! I can't figure out how to upload a video I created, so contact me through my site if you'd like me to send it to you (it shows the balloons in action, being inflated, and landing).
*Neon tempera paints make this really cute. You can talk with the children about different designs and patterns ahead of time, using my pictures (scroll down) as inspiration. Also, when I used newspaper I actually painted them with a coat of white chalk paint so the temperas would have a fresh bright base. With the white recycled copy paper, there was no need so that saved some time and paint.
The fiesta lasts a whole week and starts each day with "Dawn Patrol," where the first balloons take off before sunrise and they GLOW. It's … so beautiful.
My kids loved seeing the different kinds of balloons, as well as learning about the gondolas (the baskets hanging from each balloon). There is so much you could do with this lesson- the gondolas are hand-woven with wicker so you could also incorporate weaving.
It was wild watching so many trucks just drive through the open field (which was full of festival-goers), unload, ask people to scoot back, and inflate their balloons! Balloon Fiesta forever!


Rito offers a traditional mint product made from the original family recipe which has helped to contribute to the success of this Canadian company. This product combines excellent flavor and superior quality standards. Formed to perfection, these mints have a distinctive spearmint flavor.
Sugar, Corn Syrup, Dextrose, Glycerin, Gelatin, Natural and Artificial Flavor, Vegetable Gums (Gum Tragacanth, Arabic and Xanthan), FDC Colors: Yellow 5 Lake, Blue 1 Lake.