Transparency brought about by the adoption of open data affects the trust in the public sector. Current governments experience a crisis of legitimacy [1, p. 58] and lack the trust of citizens. Improved visibility of the workings of public sector bodies established by the open access to their proceedings enables to track their actions in detail and improves the trust citizens put in the bodies. Nevertheless, the release of open data may reveal many fallacies of public sector bodies, which may produce a temporary disillusion, distrust in government, and loss of interest in politics .
The initial assumption of most open data advocates is that the data made in the public sector may be relied on. However, the public sector data cannot be treated as neutral and uncontested resource. "Unaudited, unverfied statistics abound in government data, particularly when outside parties-local government agencies, federal lobbyists, campaign committees-collect the data and turn it over to the government" [1, p. 261]. False data may be fabricated to provide alibi for corruption behaviour. For instance, Nithya Raman draws attention to an Indian dataset on urban planning in which non-existent public toilets are present, so that the spending, that supposedly goes for the toilets' maintenance, may be justified . Another example that demonstrates how false data is contained with the public sector data is the exposure of errors in subsidies awarded by the EU Common Agricultural Policy. The data shows that the oldest recipients of these funds, coming from Sweden, were 100 years old, though both dead [4, p. 85].
In the light of such facts, it is important to acknowledge that "public confidence in the veracity of government-published information is critical to Open Government Data take-off, essential to spurring demand and use of public datasets" . If the data is regarded as manipulated instead of being recognized as trustworthy, the impact of open data will be significantly diminished.
RAMAN, Nithya V. Collecting data in Chennai city and the limits of openness. Journal of Community Informatics [online]. 2012 [cit. 2012-04-12], vol. 8, no. 2. Available from WWW: http://ci-journal.net/index.php/ciej/article/view/877/908. ISSN 1712-4441.


This a great investment opportunity. income generator or move right in. Well kept. Updated. This can be sold together with other homes in the portfolio for a packaged price. The listed price reflects an individual sale.


In January, the California Public Utilities Commission authorized Pacific Gas & Electric to solicit proposals that would address energy reliability needs in three portions of its service area. In February, PG&E began that process and received a number of proposals from a variety of bidders. After sorting and sifting through them all, it selected one offer for a utility-owned project and three offers for third-party-owned projects, all to be located within the South Bay–Moss Landing local sub-area. According to a company press release, if the PUC approves of PG&E's plan, the new battery storage facilities will come online in 2019 and 2020.
According to Engadget, the Tesla installation at the Moss Landing substation will involve more than 3,000 Powerpack 2 battery storage units, making it the largest system Tesla has provided since the 129 MWh storage facility is built in South Australia last year. "The proposed utility-owned project is a 182.5 MW lithium-ion battery energy storage system (BESS) located within PG&E's Moss Landing substation. This transmission-connected BESS will address local capacity requirements and will participate in the California Independent System Operator markets, providing energy and ancillary services," PG&E says.
In case you're wondering about energy storage capacity, not power capacity, 182.5 MW × 4 hours = 730 MWh, a bit more than the 129 MWh in South Australia.
The back story to this is the PUC in January disallowed a request from Calpine Energy to upgrade some of its existing generating facilities in a move that would have cost ratepayers more money. That decision led to the PUC's request for PG&E to seek energy storage solutions instead. There is no official word on whether the other three parts of the new plan from PG&E will use Tesla batteries, but RenewEconomy notes that Elon Musk hinted during the last quarterly earnings call that a huge new battery storage system with a capacity of more than 1,000 MWh would be announced soon. "The utilities have really loved the battery pack. I feel confident that we will be able to announce a deal at the gigawatt hour scale within a matter of months," he said at that time.
"Energy storage plays an increasingly important role in California's clean energy future, and while it has been a part of PG&E's power mix for decades — starting with the Helms Pumped Storage Plant in the 1980's — recent decreases in battery prices are enabling energy storage to become a competitive alternative to traditional solutions. As a result, we believe that battery energy storage will be even more significant in enhancing overall grid reliability, integrating renewables, and helping customers save energy and money," said Roy Kuga, vice president for grid integration and innovation at PG&E.
Just a few short years ago, renewable energy was little more than a gleam in the eye of cleantech advocates. Now, thanks to declining costs for solar, wind, and battery storage, the clean energy revolution is well underway and appears unstoppable even by politicians bought and paid for by coal and oil barons. And not a moment too soon for the future of humanity on the one and only place in the entire universe known to support human life, at least temporarily.


The new Norto5 KIDZ Academy in Cuckfield is a wonderful setting located on beautiful grounds where the children can enjoy the outdoors. Our aim is to encourage and build confidence and self-esteem within a stimulating and challenging environment. The setting is open from *8am to 6pm all year.
The setting provides dedicated areas for each age group and has a very good pre-school section.
We welcome all parents who would like to have a look around the setting and ask any questions. Please contact us and we will be happy to arrange a time to meet you.
*Some days through the cricket season will have limited places after 1pm on Wednesdays and 5pm on Thursdays.


text:
Q: JUnit test. Creating a list affects other list's size. Really really weird So here's my test :
@Test
public void returnsAllItemsInStock() {
    List<Item> demoItems = new ArrayList<Item>();

    Item demoItemOne = new Item();
    demoItemOne.setQuantity(0);

    Item demoItemTwo = new Item();
    demoItemTwo.setQuantity(17);

    demoItems.add(demoItemOne);
    demoItems.add(demoItemTwo); // List size currently 2

    Mockito.when(itemRepository.findAll()).thenReturn(demoItems);

    List<Item> items = inventoryService.allItemsInStock();// Here demoItems size somehow changes to 1

    Assert.assertEquals("List's size expected not to match", items.size(), demoItems.size()); // This one should fail because sizes shouldn't be equal, but they are..
}

Here's my service implementation:
@Override
@Transactional
public List<Item> allItemsInStock() {
    List<Item> items = new ArrayList<Item>();
    items = (List<Item>) itemRepository.findAll();

    for (Iterator<Item> it = items.iterator(); it.hasNext();) {
        Item item = it.next();
        if (item.getQuantity() <= 0) {
            it.remove();
        }
    }

    return items;
}

I explained problem in the comments. check my test.

A: demoItems list changes because you're using it as your list of items: you return demoItems from the service's findAll() method.
You then remove items with quantity zero. They're the same list. Not weird at all.

A: I ran your Test method with your implementation and your only assert was successful:
import java.util.ArrayList;
import java.util.List;

import org.junit.Assert;
import org.junit.Test;
import org.junit.runner.RunWith;
import org.mockito.InjectMocks;
import org.mockito.Mock;
import org.mockito.Mockito;
import org.powermock.modules.junit4.PowerMockRunner;

@RunWith(PowerMockRunner.class)
public class InventoryServiceTest {

    @Mock
    private ItemRepository itemRepository;

    @InjectMocks
    private InventoryService inventoryService;

    @Test
    public void returnsAllItemsInStock() {
        List<Item> demoItems = new ArrayList<Item>();

        Item demoItemOne = new Item();
        demoItemOne.setQuantity(0);

        Item demoItemTwo = new Item();
        demoItemTwo.setQuantity(17);

        demoItems.add(demoItemOne);
        demoItems.add(demoItemTwo); // List size currently 2

        Mockito.when(itemRepository.findAll()).thenReturn(demoItems);

        List<Item> items = inventoryService.allItemsInStock();// Here demoItems size somehow changes to 1

        Assert.assertEquals("List's size expected not to match", items.size(), demoItems.size()); // This one should fail because sizes shouldn't be equal, but they are..
    }

}

Because yes they both have a size of one:

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
From Don Cottone, also known as The SockFather and the most formidable of all footwear, to Prof. Brian Sox the recognizable floppy-haired physicist, each pair of ChattyFeet socks has its own unique and lively personality. Their Artist Collection is sold at Tate Modern Shop and features Feetasso, Andy Sock-Hole, Frida Callus and Vincent Van Toe. We can't get enough of feet puns. Keep 'em coming please.
Created by two friends, Gil and Humberto and produced in Portugal, ChattyFeet socks launched in 2012 with just 4 designs. Following a successful Kickstarter campaign in May 2013 they extended the range to the 8 characters and now in 2017 they have 30 characters for kids and adults.
You'll have to take it up with the author...

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
Landowners Sue Army Corps for Missouri Floods; Indians: "Welcome to Our River"
Snow falls. Snow melts. Rivers flood. It happened in 2011. It may happen again in 2014.
If you're smart, you pay attention to flood plain maps and build on higher ground. If you're rich, powerful, and arrogant, you build in the flood plain and expect the governor to send Joe Lowe and the National Guard to build a levee to spare your big house.
And then you sue.
Dakota Dunes Republican Senator Dan Lederman is among four pages of plaintiffs suing the Army Corps of Engineers for getting their land wet. I count five South Dakota litigants, four from Union County, one from Stanley.
The lawsuit contends that the plaintiffs have seen flooding on their riverside land for five of the last seven years. This flooding, the lawsuit argues, is not natural but results from changes in Army Corps flood management policy. The plaintiffs argue that the government encouraged them to build in the flood plain with its flood control policies, then illegally took their land for the benefit of fish and wildlife.
I suggest the plaintiffs appeal to history for precedent for settlement of their claims. The federal government made a major change to its flood control policy on the Missouri River in 1944, building a string of dams to favor exactly these litigants at the expense of tribal residents and farmers along the river. The Oahe, Big Bend, Fort Randall, and Gavins Point dams flooded great stretches of productive tribal lands. The government's remedy? Forced relocation and Congressionally authorized payments well below what the tribes said their land was worth.
How does it feel to be Indian, Dan?
Related Reading: An eager reader shares this August 2010 Vermillion Plain Talk article in which a Yankton Sioux woman describes how the dams disrupted her family's livelihood. Senator Dan Lederman is not quoted in the article.
Dan Lederman
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mewYpU5OSUM
Nick Nemec 2014.03.06
The day will come when the Missouri River reservoirs will silt in. Lewis and Clark Lake first, Oahe will take longer.
Heard a mess of Midwestern wingnuts complain about federal aid for Hurricane Sandy. They say don't build in the flood plain or on the coast. They then turned around and demanded federal aid for tornado damage. Gee,dummies,don't build in tornado alley or the bible belt. One is likely as dangerous as the other.
Fact is: if the dams were dredged there wouldn't be enough water in the system to generate the power the corps needs to cash flow. CRST is beginning work on the Cheyenne to reverse a hundred years of mine tailings.
Rorschach 2014.03.06
The wise man built his house upon the rock,
And the rain came tumbling down.
The rain came down and the floods came up,
And the house on the rock stood firm.
The foolish man built his house upon the sand,
And the house on the sand went "SPLAT!"
Flooding is beginning in the upper Missouri basin: when will Lederman, et al. start sandbagging instead of showboating?
http://t.co/6NVsK3eUW5
http://www.livingstonenterprise.com/content/update-livingston-grapples-flooding
http://billingsgazette.com/news/state-and-regional/montana/livingston-declares-state-of-emergency/article_b8e56ae5-d3dc-5b47-a08c-d296ed1b89a9.html
Sen. Lederman won't start sandbagging. He'll wait until taxpayers do it for him, just like in 2011. His position is that state and federal taxpayers must subsidize his decision to build a mansion on a sand dune next to a river. He believes his decision to build in a flood plain comes with a cradle to grave promise from the government to protect his wealth from mother nature.
Wayne Pauli 2014.03.06
There have been so many issues over the years in good old SD that I have watched and said, "WTF". But, and this is a huge one, these folks that built in the flood areas first off need their heads examined (coining a phrase from my dearly departed father), and secondly need to get their dirty hands out of my pocket. Do both now...before the spring melt.
Bill Dithmer 2014.03.06
The advance warning has been given by two Montana papers Sen. Lederman. Time to get your shit in a group.
The Blindman
"Statewide, precipitation in January was nearly 115 percent of average and mountain snowpack is at approximately 120 to 135 percent, meaning near normal snowmelt streamflow volumes are expected across most the major basins in Wyoming."
http://thesheridanpress.com/?p=17714
"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Thursday, March 6, 2014
Gov. Dennis Daugaard has directed state emergency officials to work with federal and local entities to assess the potential for Missouri River flooding this year."
http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=15811
http://www.brookingsregister.com/v2_news_articles.php?heading=0&page=76&story_id=20110
Larry, how far downstream have those mining tailings washed? And what is the farthest point downstream on the Cheyenne where substantial mining activity took place?
Homestake has his own dead zone in the Gulf of Mexico, Cory. Your filters can't handle all the links to it.
You can't fix the basin by yourself, CAH.
This is Roy Blunt's lawsuit: let it find its own course.
It's not unlikely that Missouri will sell some her water to Kansas.
Garrison holds the real power in the system.
If you recall, the Mississippi went out of its banks first, and for about a good month the corps managed the Missouri to provide relief downstream. Then the Missouri basin got huge rains on top of the pack and you know the rest. Downstream states want to turn the tap on and off, but so difficult to find the right balance of interests. We also drain water into rivers much more quickly and efficiently than in the past will all the tile and decrease in natural buffering. All the big basins west of the Mississippi have been abused.
DD laughed off this lawsuit. Mike Rounds built a house in a swamp: is he party to Lederman's quixotica?
lesliengland 2014.03.11
prayin for rain, and that pesky democrat big government to come bail out South Dakota river-front luminaries when the main-stem system engineers can't contain the flows. lets see, joe manages the disaster and republicans (party of personal responsibility)...sue the government, because after how many years of master manual machinations, its gotta be us, big government, the deep pocket.
http://news.msn.com/us/flooding-swells-montana-rivers-washes-out-roads
Obama-You didn't build it. Repubs-We built this state by destroying ecosystems. http://www.vice.com/read/i-visited-the-ghost-town-where-la-borrows-all-of-its-water


The group over with Sheperd automotive to have the greatest customer service of any automotive repair to shop around. They understand that there are so many other options for you there in the Oklahoma City. So if you truly want to be able to work with a team that's in a be able to be diligent and provide you with results unmatched, than this is deftly get a be the team for you. Waste not another moment of your time pick up the phone and give these guys a call now to feel they can best assist you. You will not be disappointed by your decision whatsoever.
Sheperd automotive absolute love to have the honor in the privilege to be able to earn your trust in your business. They understand that there's many other options out there for you when it comes automotive repair. So do not waste another moment of your time pick up the phone and give these guys a call now by dialing 405-843-8500. You will not be disappointed by your decision to work with such a high quality group of professionals.
Choosing to work with those over at Sheperd Automotive for your Oklahoma City auto repair, is absolutely get a be the greatest decision that you could possibly make for yourself. If you're tired of having people treat you differently because of your gender, in you want to work with a team that's in a be able to provide you with results than this is absolutely get a be we should contact. Do not waste another moment of your time pick up the phone and give these guys a call today to feel they can best assist you. You will not be disappointed by your decision.
Deciding what place to go to for your Oklahoma City auto repair used to be a top decision. Thanks to the group over with Sheppard Automotive is no longer the case. These guys truly want to be able to give you every opportunity imaginable to become successful and have a higher quality car than when you brought it into their shop. Whether it's for routine oil change, or you've been in a full-blown accident. Waste not another moment of your time pick up the phone and give these guys a call today.
The staff over at Sheperd Automotive is known for their auto repair, but they really leave a imprint by offering world-class customer service. Not only do they offer a free consultation, but they want to be able to give you sound advice on how to be able to well-maintained your automobile. So do not waste another moment of your time pick up the phone and allow these professionals the honor in the opportunity to serve you today. You will not be disappointed by your decision whatsoever.


1. Kind attention is invited to notification No. 1/2017-ST dated 12th January, 2017, whereby service tax exemption was withdrawn for services provided by a person located in non-taxable territory to a person located in non-taxable territory by way of transportation of goods by a vessel from a place outside India up to the customs station of clearance in India. Further, in relation to such services, the person in India who complies with sections 29, 30 or 38 read with section 148 of the Customs Act, 1962 (52 of 1962) with respect to such goods, was notified as the person liable to pay service tax vide notification No. 2/2017 and 3/2017- ST both dated 12th January, 2017.
2. Several representations have been received seeking clarification on levy of service tax on the services provided by a person located in non-taxable territory to a person located in non-taxable territory by way of transportation of goods by a vessel from a place outside India to the customs station in India. Consequently, it has been decided to make certain amendments in the service tax provisions in this regard. In this context, kind attention is invited to notification No. 13/2017-ST, 14/2017-ST, 15/2017-ST and 10/2017-CE (N.T.) all dated 13th April, 2017, which are explained as given below.
2.1 Vide notification Nos. 13/2017-ST and 15/2017-ST both dated 13th April, 2017, the importer of goods as defined in the Customs Act, 1962 has been made liable for paying service tax in cases of services of transportation of goods by sea provided by a foreign shipping line to a foreign charterer with respect to goods destined for India. This change shall come into effect from 23rd April, 2017.
2.2 Vide notification No. 13/2017-ST dated 13th April, 2017, the person liable to pay service tax has been provided an alternate mechanism for calculating and paying service tax. Swachh Bharat Cess and Krishi kalyan Cess will be paid accordingly. This option has been made available with effect from 22nd January, 2017.
2.3 Vide notification No. 14/2017-ST dated 13th April, 2017, the point of taxation of services provided by a foreign shipping line to foreign charterer with respect to goods destined for India, has been specified as the date of bill of lading of goods in the vessel at the port of export. This option will be available with effect from 22nd January, 2017. Thus, no service tax is leviable if the bill of lading is of date prior to 22nd January, 2017.
2.4 Vide notification No. 10/2017-C.E (N.T) dated 13th April, 2017, the importer of the goods has been allowed to avail Cenvat credit on the basis of the challan of payment of service tax by the said importer on the services provided by a foreign shipping line to a foreign charterer with respect to goods destined for India. This change shall come into effect from 23rd April, 2017.
3. Clarification has also been sought with regard to calculation of service tax regarding services of transportation of goods by sea provided by a foreign shipping line. In case of services of transportation of goods by sea provided by a foreign shipping line to a foreign charterer w.r.t. goods destined for India, an option has been provided in the Service Tax Rules to pay service tax @ 1.4% of value of imported goods as determined under Section 14 of the Customs Act, 1962 and the rules made thereunder.
3.1 In addition, Swachh Bharat Cess and Krishi kalyan Cess will be paid accordingly [ST @1.4% of Customs value of goods, Swachh Bharat Cess and Krishi Kalyan Cess each @ 0.05% of Customs value of goods].
3.2 This option has been made available with effect from 22nd January, 2017.
4. It is pertinent to point out here that under notification No. 26/2012-ST dated 20.06.2012 (Sl. No. 10), there is an exemption on 70% of value of services of transportation of goods in a vessel subject to the fulfillment of the condition that Cenvat credit on inputs and capital goods used for providing the taxable service, has not been taken under the provisions of the CENVAT Credit Rules, 2004. This conditional exemption has been extended for the reason that out of the full value of such services, the exempted value of service has already suffered taxes (Central Excise) which would have been available as Cenvat credit to set off service tax on full value of service. In effect, service tax is levied on the value added only. However, in case of foreign shipping lines, their services being exports from their home country, are zero-rated in their home country and thus have suffered no taxes. Further the foreign shipping lines do not get registered in India and do not follow the provisions of Cenvat Credit Rules.
4.1 Thus, the condition for availing exemption under notification No. 26/2012-ST dated 20.06.2012 (Sl. No. 10) is not fulfilled by the foreign shipping lines. Hence, benefit of conditional exemption will not be available to them and service tax will be paid on full value of services. Further, the amount of service tax payable under the option available under Service Tax Rules, 1994 has been prescribed accordingly.
5. All concerned are requested to acknowledge the receipt of this circular.
6. Trade Notice/Public Notice to be issued. Difficulty if any, in the implementation of the circular should be brought to the notice of the Board. Hindi version would follow.


text:
Why not go to bed with Ian Banks?
Dr Ian Banks, the president of the Men's Health Forum, has done it again. Banks has long been the sexiest man in medicine and now he has committed his expertise to paper.
The Sex Manual, which hits the bookshops tomorrow, is published by Haynes and set out in the style familiar to many men from their popular car workshop manuals. It promises to show you 'how to perform more than a routine service'.
All the basics are there: how the parts work, how they fit together and what to do when they don't. There's also plenty of humour and advice on safer, healthier, happier sex, as you'd expect, but where the book really scores - phnarr, phnarr - is in it willingness to go all the way and discuss sex myths, masturbation, fetishes and pretty much everything else. There's even a Car-ma Sutra with a love-making position to suit every motor - except the Smart, obviously.
'Sex is fun, or so I seem to remember,' says Dr Banks 'which is just as well or the human race would have died out long ago. At the same time it is mainly recreational which is good news for a planet already creaking under the weight of homo sapiens. Unfortunately, it can, like driving, be dangerous. Knowing these dangers and how to deal with them is the equivalent of wearing a seat belt. This book provides an airbag as well.'
The Sex Manual follows in the footsteps of Ian Banks's previous collaborations with Haynes, the Man Manual, one of the best-selling men's health books of all time, and last year's Baby Manual.
Full review and more on sexual health to come. You'll also be able to buy the book through the Men's Health Forum bookshop.
Page created on February 2nd, 2004
Page updated on December 1st, 2009
Airedale's terriers for men's health
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How to sort out men's health - the definitive answer
Condom award boosts Health Week preparations
Let's choose health together
Seafarers, sex and STIs
I'm all ears says new men's health tsar
Helpline for new dads with the (claret and) blues
Johnson 'doesn't much like' gender jargon
Orchid's Colin Osborne is the Pride of Britain
Breaking ground in Bradford
The part of the UK where men die at 63
Lardy Labour and the tubby Tories
We must be gender-sensitive not gender-centric
Our new mag MHF is, like our MPs, getting fatter
Vote Osbourne and put men's health on the map
New low-fat, reduced sugar MHF website
Competition winner gets Cardiff Challenge treat
Desperately seeking unsullied celebrity
MHF operations increased dramatically during 2003
{Empty title}
Warning: Masculinity can damage your health
MHF welcome Wanless - as far as it goes
New improved Malehealth relaunches today
Pharmacies must target men
First UK Gender and Health Summit
Forum News - May 2000


text:
Abolish Prisons
No bullshit thoughts on what's wrong with the U.S. prison system, and things we can do to get rid of it.
What are you talking about?!
Who ARE you?!
By StephanieDM	Intro to prison abolition
Chicken soup for the prison abolitionist's soul
Transformative justice sees crime as an opportunity to build a more caring, more inclusive, more just community. Safety doesn't lie in bigger fences, harsher prisons, more police, or locking ourselves in till we ourselves are prisoners. Safety and security – real security – come from building a community where because we have cared for and included all, that community will be there for us, when trouble comes to us. For trouble comes to us all, but trouble itself is an opportunity.
– Ruth Morris, Stories of Transformative Justice, p 21
Ruth Morris was a Canadian activist, scholar, and Quaker. She was at the forefront of the early prison abolition movement, and a founding member of the International Conference on Prison Abolition (ICOPA) which is one of the most prominent abolitionist groups working today.
All of that would be reason enough for me to read what she wrote, but the reason that I really get all hot and bothered for Ruth Morris is that she worked in non-profits her whole life, regularly spending time with the people she was advocating for. We live in a world where that's easy to avoid, and she didn't. Boss.
So rewind for a second to me a year ago at my teeny tiny coffee shop table, reading Morris' Stories of Transformative Justice. Pretty soon I was embarrassing the heck out of myself, because I was crying in public. Not eyes watering, dabbing at the corners crying, but tears-and-snot-everywhere crying. It was pretty gross, but it was totally justified because the stories were so moving. I'll synopsize an example:
One of the stories that Morris tells is about a family with a six-year-old boy. This boy is charming, loving, adored by his parents and his teacher. Then, one day he leaves a little late from school. He is crossing the cross-walk by himself, and a car comes racing around the corner. Either the driver doesn't see him there, or he can't stop in time. He hits and kills the six-year-old, leaving his parents childless.
Obviously the parents are crushed. And angry. Angry at God, and fate, and the idiot 16-year-old kid who thoughtlessly drove well over the speed limit past an elementary school.
As Morris tells it, that night the father is absolutely beside himself with grief and anger, and doesn't know what to do. And then something clicks. One life is over: his little boy will never come back. But now another life stands to be lost as well.
The man goes to his wife and tells her what he wants to do. There isn't anything they can do for their son now, but maybe there is something they can do for the sixteen-year-old who killed him. And his wife agrees.
The couple petitions the court to drop the charges against the young man. He is grateful, and incredibly remorseful. But they don't stop there. They also give him a part-time job at the man's business, and eventually help pay his way through college. He becomes a regular fixture at holidays, a member of their family.
This is a story Morris read in a Canadian newspaper, though to my ears it sounds almost biblical. It is an incredible thing to imagine offering emotional and economic support to the person who killed your son, but it is also clear that what everyone gained from that situation far outstrips what anyone would've have gotten from a prison sentence.
Transformative justice takes a lot of forms, but whenever I think about it now my first thought is about two parents who are willing to not only forgive but to love the person who killed their only child, and who gain so much from that willingness.
Tagged alternatives to incarceration, parents and children, prison abolition, ruth morris, transformative justice
Ahmed Mohamed and the School-to-Prison Pipeline
Martial State Declared in Baltimore
What Solitary Confinement Can Tell Us About Prison
Go to the Source: The experts are the ones who have lived through it
Many of America's "Missing" Black Men Are in Prison
Dangerous Class
Inside/outside connections
Intro to Mass Incarceration
Intro to prison abolition
Mentally ill in prison


text:
A different role for the iconic Huey
A different role for the iconic Huey The distinctive "thwop thwop" of the 48-foot rotor diameter, Lycoming T53-powered helicopter that is reminiscent of American troops disembarking during Vietnam can only be attributed to one helicopter – the Huey. Bell Helicopter's UH-1, labeled the most successful rotorcraft in aviation history, was first manufactured in 1956 to
The distinctive "thwop thwop" of the 48-foot rotor diameter, Lycoming T53-powered helicopter that is reminiscent of American troops disembarking during Vietnam can only be attributed to one helicopter – the Huey. Bell Helicopter's UH-1, labeled the most successful rotorcraft in aviation history, was first manufactured in 1956 to meet the Army's requirement for a new helicopter to serve as a medical evacuation, instrument trainer and general utility aircraft. Over 16,000 have been put into service, amassing an incredible 27 million flight hours since its inaugural flight in October of 1956.
The crew from J & R Flying Service
As the years progressed and technology evolved into newer designs for rotorcraft and systems, the UH-1 was eventually phased out of production. Today, there are approximately 540 UH-1Hs registered with the FAA. Three of those aircraft belong to Arkansas operator J & R Flying Service and have been integral to the Arkansas rice crop since the operation added their first UH-1H in 2002.
John Smith and Rick Meeks began their career in agricultural aviation in 1993 flying local farmer-owned Bell 47s. As the workload increased, John and Rick persuaded their farmers to add two Bell UH-1Hs to the fleet in 2002 for bucket application of fertilizer. Later in 2008, John and Rick bought the business from the growers and renamed it J & R Flying Service. At the time of the business purchase, it included a 510 Thrush in the line-up. Immediately afterwards, the duo added a 550 Thrush.
Even with two fixed-wing aircraft in the fleet, John and Rick were still helicopter operators at heart. By this time, they were flying two UH-1Hs and had transitioned to flying the operation's liquid applications with helicopters and dry applications with airplanes.
The UH-1H was proving itself to be a successful tool for multiple applications on Arkansas rice crops. So much so that in 2011 J & R Flying Service added a third UH-1H to their fleet. This helicopter is flown by long-time employee Jeff Russell, who began loading aircraft in 2002 and has worked is way up to be one of J & R Flying Service main-line pilots. 2011 also saw the departure of one of the Thrushes and the addition of an Air Tractor AT-802, bought from Lane Aviation in Rosenberg, TX. In 2013, the second Thrush was sold.
J & R Flying Service's UH-1H
The AT-802 is mostly a dry-application aircraft and is flown by Rick's son, Rick Meeks, Jr. Rick, Jr. was a fixture around the operation since its beginning. Rick Jr., began loading aircraft at a very early age and worked his way through flight school, eventually graduating from Flying Tigers Aviation in Bastrop, Louisiana in 2009. Rick, Jr. did a brief stint in Illinois flying a Weatherly applying fungicide before moving up to a turbine Ag-Cat. Rick, Jr. returned to J & R Flying Service to fly its Thrushes, then eventually moving to the AT-802. J & R Flying Service's 2016 model AT-802 is powered by the PT6A-65AG. It has a Transland 7 ½-inch gate and a SATLOC G4.
"Everybody who flies for us, should work in a loader capacity first," comments Rick, Sr. His pilots have taken this route and both Rick and John believe this is a great approach to have a very well-rounded pilot.
Rick's son isn't the only family member helping get the job done at J & R Flying Service. Blake Meeks, Rick's other son, along with Blake's wife, Whitney, keep operations going on the ground and in the office. Ricks brother Hershel and son Dustin as well as long time employee Ty Collins round out the ground crew. John Smith's daughter, Ashleigh, splits her time between college and J & R Flying Service.
J & R Flying Service's main season is May through June, however, work builds throughout the year. May sees some pre-flood applications of herbicide and fungicide. In July, one to three aircraft go to the Midwest to spray corn, while August brings sodium chloride applications that last through October.
The UH-1Hs are all equipped identical with CP-03 nozzles and polypropylene 400-gallon tanks. The normal load for the helicopter is 250-300 gallons with a majority of the work applied at five gallons to the acre. All helicopters use SATLOC G4 units for guidance. The UH-1Hs are powered by the Lycoming T53 turbine, which delivers 1350 shaft horsepower. Normal speeds across the field are 70-95 mph applying a 60-65 foot swath and burning about 80 gallons per hour.
J & R Flying Service is not limited to just aerial application flights with their helicopters. The operation is also a holder of a Part 133 External Load certificate, which enables their helicopters to conduct long-line, external load operations. The UH-1H can hold up to 3000 lbs "on the hook".
The UH1H's Vietnam history isn't lost on John Smith and Rick Meeks, or any of the employees at J & R Flying Service. Two of the three helicopters have verifiable Vietnam history and one of them was actually shot down during the conflict. Recently, while en route to attend a Vietnam Helicopter Pilot's gathering in Maryland, a helicopter pilot stopped at the operation. Having looked up the serial number of the helicopter he had flown over the rice fields of Vietnam, he discovered it was based at J & R Flying Service. After a few introductions, the pilot was reunited with his old bird and was at the controls again; instead this time over the rice fields of Arkansas.
J&R Flying Service
UH-1H
$1,500 a Pound?
502XP 510G AAAA Aerial application Ag Aviation agnav AirFire&Forestry Air Tractor AirTractor ASU AT-802 Australia Brasil Brazil California Drift Drone engine EPA FAA FireBoss GarrCo GE Aviation GPS H80 helicopter H series Lane Aviation NAAA New Zealand P&WC Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6 R44 Reno Safety SEAT Simplex SINDAG Thrush TPE331 Transland Turbine Conversions UAV Wipaire


A home for your instax photos that makes reminiscing and sharing photos a flipping breeze.
"EPD is a full-year immersive experience in creative entrepreneurship and product development at the University of Illinois at Chicago." We are asked to design and develop a product for the market we have explored and connected then launch it on Kickstarter.
I love taking instax photos. It is my way to record the special moments I spend with my family and friends. I have tried to store the photos in many places; on my desk, on the wall, or even on a string. I found these kinds of display take away the connection between me and my photos. For that reason, I want to design a product that not only allows you to display your photos in a stylish way, but also allows you to interact with the memories you have created.
To do that, I did some market research on some major e-Commerce websites, as well as some interviews and surveys within some Facebook groups and Instagram accounts of instax users. After got the general information and some different insights, I did some hands-on model making with clay and some CAD models, along with the material exploration.
You can place Inrolo anywhere you want. As a decorative addition, Inrolo is designed to fit in different living styles with urban decor. It has a universal form that can be customized to your lifestyle by choosing various colors and finishes.
Since they are handmade, every product will have a special distinctness. This is a limited edition product as well.
Inspired by the iconic rolodex, I invented this clip mechanism allowing you to choose which photo you would like to display at any time. This mechanism easily allows you to change out your photos, storing 10 images at a time.
Saving the extra time from framing or storing your photos in an album, Inrolo allows you to change the photos by attaching and detaching in few seconds.
Instead of letting your photos collect dust, Inrolo gives you the opportunity to share memories with friends and family by continuously flipping through your instax photos.
Take a break from digital photo sharing and make analog trendy with Inrolo.
EPD class held a launch party on Feb 1, 2018 for us to launch and promote our campaigns at Lost Art. We were able to talk and introduce our product to our guests.
After the 3rd day Inrolo got launched, it was successfully funded. It later got featured during ICFF in NYC.


text:
package mcjty.rftools.blocks.screens.modules;

public class ScreenModuleHelper {
    private boolean showdiff = false;
    private long prevMillis = 0;
    private long prevContents = 0;

    public Object[] getContentsValue(long millis, long contents, long maxContents) {
        if (showdiff) {
            if (prevMillis == 0 || millis <= prevMillis) {
                prevMillis = millis;
                prevContents = contents;
                return new Object[] { contents, maxContents, 0L };
            } else {
                long diff = millis - prevMillis;
                int ticks = (int) (diff * 20 / 1000);
                if (ticks == 0) {
                    ticks = 1;
                }
                long diffEnergy = contents - prevContents;
                prevMillis = millis;
                prevContents = contents;
                return new Object[] { contents, maxContents, diffEnergy / ticks };
            }
        } else {
            return new Object[] { contents, maxContents, 0L };
        }
    }

    public void setShowdiff(boolean showdiff) {
        this.showdiff = showdiff;
    }
}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


What's it like to work at Growth?
27 Jul What's it like to work at Growth?
I will be honest. It's great.
We're open here. There aren't too many walls and most doors are open all day long. We know when someone's kid is in the hospital. We get each others' jokes. It's not uncommon to hear laughter echoing throughout the office.
And it's not an ingenuine kind of bliss that we live in. None of us, by any means, are perfect people. It's not that we're never stressed. It's not there that are never bumps in the road. But, it is that we are committed to a goal and to achieving a specific kind of atmosphere that cultivates motivation, encouragement, personal growth and teamwork and we refuse to waiver from that course.
The Growth culture is everything. It is how and why we work the way we do. Let me walk you through a Monday morning.
As soon as I get into the office, everyone is up on their feet grabbing coffee and smiling.
Everyone gets settled in and then we gather for our Monday meeting–which is more like a pump-up session than anything else. But it's a pump-up session that gets you moving. Personally, every time I walk out of this meeting, I've got an action plan. I've got at least one feasible improvement point and a plan to get it done. To work harder. To be better. To make a difference in the lives of those immediately around me and those that I serve on a daily basis.
We're real here at Growth. I felt it from the moment I first walked in these doors.
We surround ourselves with positive, motivating content and people. We laugh and enjoy each day, yet we are focused and always moving forward. That is who we are.
And with that culture, we do make a difference–on a large scale as an organization and on a personal scale as members of the same team. In the end, all we do is about individuals. It's about causing a change in the hearts and minds of individuals that will propel lives forward and actually change the world.
We truly are the Growth family.
What kind of culture do you strive for in your organization and what are you doing to sustain it?


Extends the room-owner move message tool in chat to make it easier to quickly clean up after bots by moving their messages, commands, and replies to them. Adds a couple visualization features to the normal move function as well.
Quickly select all messages by a specific user (by name or by chat ID, optionally use a regex).
Optionally select all messages that start with a certain prefix (or match a regex).
Optionally select all messages that are replies to the specified user.
Ability to dim the background of unselected messages to make it easier to see selected ones (applies to normal move function as well).
Ability to completely hide unselected messages to make it easier to quickly review [automatically] selected messages.
Works with Chrome and Firefox.
Filter settings are persistent per-room.
The clean link and the rest of the UI will not appear in rooms where you are not a room owner.
Click the clean link (next to the room menu). Messages matching the filter will be automatically selected, and the move message dialog will open.
Messages matching the user rule will be highlighted red.
Messages matching the reply rule will be highlighted orange.
Messages matching the command rule will be highlighted lighter orange.
Any other messages you manually select will have the normal selection color.
All unselected messages will be dimmed.
If "enhance" is not turned on then all selected messages will have the usual selection color and no dimming of unselected messages will be done.
Click relocate, choose a room, complete as usual, tada.
enhance: Described above; activates color coded highlighting and message dimming.
select: Press this if you modify the filter / selection to reselect messages matching the filter.
deselect: This will deselect all messages (even ones you've manually selected).
hide/unhide: Clicking this button will cause all unselected messages to be hidden, which can make it easier to quickly review the autoselection without other noise. You may still [de]select messages when hiding mode is active. I tried to make this feature as intuitive as possible, it was a bit tricky, feedback is welcome.
Clicking the version number in the top-right of the dialog will take you to this page.
TODO: Ability to store multiple filters.
TODO: Auto select and move on a timer.
Bugs / requests / comments: Check out the Github issue page, or leave a comment, or ping me in The Tavern.
Option to automatically hide unselected messages when "clean" is pressed. Use the poorly placed checkbox above the "hide" button.
Number of selected messages is now displayed on the UI, on the "deselect" button.
Highlight color now displayed behind related UI elements when "enhance" enabled.
Dialog positioned from right edge of screen so it doesn't go offscreen for narrow windows.
Check out my other scripts.
Browse other questions tagged script chat room-owners .


text:
Real Life Love
Mouthwatering Recipes
FF Landing Page
SOAP Landing Page
JD Landing Page
PP Landing Page
Thea Lambert
A little romance, a few laughs. It's all good.
Book Three in the MOUTHWATERING series
Erin Flickenger is about to graduate from patisserie school. And the icing on the cake? She's been hired to create a wedding cake and desserts for the upcoming nuptials of some Texas bluebloods. An order like this will assure her success in the Austin pastry world. But the bride's brother Heath has his doubts about Erin's ability to pull it all off and makes sure she knows it. Meanwhile, a woman of his class, Danica, is after his affections. He's always found her vain and shallow in person, but their recent text conversations reveal an unknown side to her that he likes a lot. It's confusing. It's like she's two different people. Because she is. Danica has hired Erin to help bake her way into a man's stomach. But the text conversations Erin has with this man are now worming their way into her heart. When Erin discovers that she's been texting with Heath, she's shocked, ashamed…and on her way to falling irrevocably in love.
Note: Each book in the MOUTHWATERING series is a standalone story with its own HEA!
Buy Just Desserts
Sign up for the Thea Lambert Newsletter to receive a sneak preview of Perfect Pairing!


text:
Vegan Warrington was created 8 years ago to provide information about veganism in general and in particular information of interest to vegans and would-be vegans in the Warrington area. Since then interest in veganism has expanded, as have vegan resources to the point where it is now unusual for eateries NOT to provide vegan options. The major supermarkets have responded to the demand too and we find Sainsbury's in particular have a good range of products. There have also been three vegan eateries in Warrington so far one of which was sadly forced to close because of unforeseen circumstances.
We have always combined information on resources with vegan advocacy taking the message out to the public with our information stalls and also via our Facebook page and about 4 years ago we decided this should be our priority and remains so. It may seem odd to say there's a downside to the developments described above but there is. Veganism is an ethical position which rejects the use of animals as resources for humans on moral grounds but is often characterised as a lifestyle choice: something to try to see if it suits and discard if it doesn't. Would we treat other moral concerns in this way?
Vegan Warrington is sponsored by The Vegan Photographer
All images are copyright © Alan Wrigley and may not be copied or used elsewhere without permission


For anyone looking to escape the cycle of clunky spreadsheets and hard-to-follow email chains, Boards are a useful solution.
Below you'll find 7 awesome ways to use Boards on your own or with your team. You can learn about Boards in our big announcement post.
Newsletters are effective because most teams already use email as a primary or secondary mode of communication. This example illustrates how a security analyst could track new vulnerabilities and threats to help everyone in the company stay vigilant. You can use Feedly's board feature to curate your newsletter.
If you are a Feedly Teams subscriber, you can also activate our integrated team newsletter feature in just a few clicks. Open one of your Team Boards and click on the email icon. Flip the switch to ON, and select your options. If you are new to Feedly Teams, newsletters are included in our 30-day free trial.
It's easy to add notes to articles and share those insights with executives.
Social media managers save and share great content to various channels using integrations with Buffer and Hootsuite.
Marketing teams can create a dedicated board to curate hyper-targeted content to share with the sales team, leading to more meaningful conversations with customers and prospects.
Deeper customer awareness and market knowledge fuels faster sales cycles.
Your PR and communications team can use boards to create more insightful, collaborative, and timely briefs than what an external agency can provide.
Make everyone in the organization smarter. Clip mentions of your brand, competitors, executives, and industry trends to share internally.
Boards help teachers expose students to powerful content to feed their mind and trigger inspiring conversations.
Share the same great article with multiple classes at the same time.
Feeding the team inspiring articles is easy for executives who use Boards as a central place to save and share important content. This is another popular use case for team newsletters.
Feedly will send team newsletters to any email address, even if the person isn't part of your Feedly Teams account.
Boards allow everyone in the company to stay organized and monitor strategic emerging trends and marketplace opportunities.
Agencies can use boards to track and share important updates on clients, their products, industry trends, and even competitors.
Feel free to use the examples above, or customize them to fit your needs. We look forward to reading your ideas in the comments!
Need a refresher on how to save articles from anywhere on the web? Read our tutorial on the 5 easy ways to save to Boards.


VISION: Rantoul City Schools is a collaborative community of empowered learners that inspires all to grow beyond limits.
Providing a nurturing environment where learners feel free to take risks.
Ensuring individual needs are met through engaging opportunities.
Expecting academic and behavioral excellence.


The Poverty Challenge is an intensive one-day summit on poverty for high school students. As a participant, you'll be given a challenge that you'll try to meet by seeking help from local agencies during a simulation involving over 100 volunteers and real procedures and documents from community and government organizations in your home town. You'll have to do your best to succeed by providing the necessary answers, information and documentation. If you are not successful, you'll have to find another way for you and your family to survive.
Poverty is a complex issue that affects hundreds of tens of people in Ontario alone, but some of the problems that cause it to exist can be fixed. The Poverty Challenge will give you experience and support you need to become an agent of social change.
The audio documentary, made by students attending the 2009 Challenge, is extremely professional and provides an excellent glimpse into the power and success of the event.


Digital X-rays are a sophisticated type of X-ray images in which digital sensors substitute for traditional photographic film. All X-rays make use of electromagnetic waves in order to produce images of internal parts of the body. For most purposes, digital X-rays are an improvement over conventional X-rays because they are more efficient and provide more easily transferable computer images of bones and other internal organs. Since with digital X-rays there is no necessity for chemical film processing, the procedure is streamlined and there is less danger of over- or under-exposure.
Digital X-rays can be used in conjunction with orthopedic surgery to ensure that a fracture or other injury has been properly set. Such X-rays are also invaluable in the detecting abnormalities in the heart and lungs. If further testing is required, X-rays may be followed up with other diagnostic imaging techniques, such as MRI, PET, CT scans or ultrasound.
Doctors can magnify the image to see details and carefully examine any abnormalities. This ensures the most accurate diagnosis of a wide range of conditions. Images can also be rotated, printed, and emailed for more effective comparison and consultation. In addition, digital X-rays expose patients to less radiation than conventional X-rays.


Television's first female heroine was Gail Davis and Gail Davis was "Annie Oakley". Oddly, after co-starring with Gene Autry in features, Gail wasn't considered at first for the sharpshooting gal when Gene's Flying A proposed the series. Eventually, Gail persuaded producers to give her the role she was born to play. From age 27 on, Gail never stopped being Annie Oakley.
Black and white. Not rated. 11 DVDs. 2160 minutes. DVD Region 1 encoding (U.S. and Canada only).
List price: $99.99. Captain Bijou's price: $69.99.


"But you are come unto mount Zion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels" (Heb. 12:22).
Throughout the history of this present world angels there have been evident Divine restraints prohibiting the society of angels and men. When sent on a mission to men of old, angels would expeditiously perform what they were sent to accomplish, and then swiftly report back to God's throne. Their native clime is the Presence of God "And he said, Hear thou therefore the word of the LORD: I saw the LORD sitting on his throne, and all the host of heaven standing by him on his right hand and on his left" (I Kgs. 22:19). "Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven" (Mt. 18:10). "And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to show thee these glad tidings" (Lk. 1:19).
"And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands" Rev. 5:11), their King is the enthroned Christ "Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come" (Eph. 1:20-21). "Jesus Christ: Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto Him" (I Pet.3:22) and they themselves are essentially servants, sent forth to minister to those who shall be the heirs of salvation. "A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him: thousand thousands ministered unto Him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before Him: the judgment was set, and the books were opened" (Dan. 7:10).
"Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?" (Heb. 1:14). Their love and devotion to the living God are unwavering, their zeal is unflagging, and their greatness in power and might "Bless the LORD, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of His word" (Ps. 103:20). "Who maketh his angels spirits; his ministers a flaming fire" (Ps. 104:4)."And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels" (II Th. 1:7), "Whereas angels, which are greater in power and might, bring not railing accusation against them before the Lord" (II Pet. 2:11). is focused entirely upon carrying out the will of God.
This has been, more or less, a summary of some of the primary things the Scripture says about "the holy angels" (Mt. 25:31), giving us a profile of their character, their strength, their zeal in doing God's will, and of their now being made subject unto the risen and exalted Christ. We are given some specific examples mentioned in Scripture of the appearance of angels to men, and its relatedness to God's overall purpose in Christ. What is the significance of angels being present here in an abiding sense at Mt. Zion, and of the occasion of great rejoicing that is recorded here for us here in Hebrews 12? What of the significance of this festal gathering at Mt. Zion, and particularly of its relationship to God's eternal purpose (Eph. 3:10-11)? This ought to be a good starting point, at least, as we prepare for our own blessed time of gathering.
The Permanence of Mt. Zion. This assembly here at Mt. Zion has an unshakeable, unchangeable permanance that shall endure into the endless ages to come. Those assembled here have not gathered to resolve a matter and then depart, as noted elsewhere in the Scripture (cf. I Kgs. 22:19-23). They have gathered because the one great matter of significance throughout the ages has now been resolved, and that matter is SIN, which has been effectually and forever put away by the Lord Jesus Christ.
Those assembled here at Mt. Zion in order from greatest to the least: God, the Judge of all(Ps. 50:6; Ps. 75:7; Ps. 82:8; Rom. 2:16; Rom. 3:6; Heb. 13:4). As the Scripture declares, "And God Himself shall be with them" (Rev. 21:3). And again, "He that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them" (Rev. 7:14). This is a marvelous consideration in itself considering all that we know about God from Moses and the Prophets, and from the Apostles' writings. In the words of David of old, those who have believed on the Son of God, are brought by grace to confess, "Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto it" (Ps. 139:6).
Jesus, the Mediator of the new covenant (Heb. 7:22; Heb. 8:6-8; I Tim. 2:5). A Mediator, not merely as an appointee, but as Emmanuel, God with us, He is an embodiment of everything that is needed to bring God and men together in an abiding union. And it was by the awful price that He paid in our behalf, nothing short of the bearing of our sins upon the tree, and His being separated from His Father because of our sins, that the permanence of this assembly was made sure. Those who are living by faith in Christ are regularly confirmed and assured of this permanence, because Jesus ever lives at the right hand of God to make intercession for them.
The blood of sprinkling that speaks good things (Heb. 9:21; Heb. 10:22; Heb. 11:28; I Pet. 1:2). The blood of sprinkling is here because God, more than anyone else is cognizant of our need for a purged conscience to dwell in His Presence. It was absolutely necessary that Christ's blood first be shed in our behalf. "Without the shedding of blood there is no remission" of sins. At the Lord's table we regularly commemorate that blood as it was shed (cf. Mt. 26:28; Mk. 14:24; 22:20) for us. We, who believe, are justified by Christ's blood (cf. Rom. 5:9). We are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all (Heb. 10:9-10).
But God, who "knoweth all things" (I Jn. 3:20), foresaw that, if men were to arrive safely in the world to come, it would become absolutely essential that Christ's blood be sprinkled before the Presence of God as well. And just as the live goat was sent away into the wilderness by the hand of a "fit man" (Lev. 16:21), it would be necessary that the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ be sprinkled by the hand of a "fit man" as well. It would be sprinkled by Him, unto whom it was said from ancient times, "Thou are a Priest forever after the order of Melchizedek" (Ps. 110:4). The blood would be sprinkled upon the mercy seat that is in the tabernacle in the heavens. And it is sprinkled for the purging of the consciences of those who are fighting the good fight of faith, and laying hold on eternal life. The blood is sprinkled so that believing men would be enabled to fellowship with the Holy One even in the matter of sins having been put away.
A numberless company of angelic beings (Deut. 33:2; Ps. 68:17; Dan. 7:10; Jgs. 1:14; Jude 14; Rev. 5:11-12). Their abiding presence at Mt. Zion is significant to consider in view of their momentary, and often abrupt, dealings and associations with men throughout the sacred record. Absolutely never, in Moses and the Prophets, did an angelic messenger confess to a man, "I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus" (Rev. 19:10; cf. 22:9). But this confession, made here to the Apostle John, is, in itself, a witness, and a tribute, to the great and effectual sacrifice that was made for sins, when the Lord Jesus Christ offered Himself up for us all.
The spirits of just men made perfect (II Cor. 5:8; Phil. 1:23; Col. 1:12, the saints in light) a vast continuing city of redeemed personalities (Rev. 7:9). The first martyr Stephen is there among that grand company, and as well, "the twelve Apostles of the Lamb" (Rev. 21:14), "and all the Prophets" (Acts 3:24), and "the martyrs of Jesus" (Rev. 17:6), and all who "died in faith" (Heb.11:13), and were justified by faith in the Son of God down through the centuries. This includes both those who lived before the Cross and those who have lived since that time up unto this day.
A Matter for Consideration: Why isn't the Holy Spirit specifically mentioned here, whereas the Father and the Son are identified as being present here at this very significant occasion? It stands to reason that He is here indwelling the hearts of the redeemed. Jesus said, "I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you for ever; even the Spirit of truth; Whom the world cannot receive . . . (Jn. 14:16-17). "God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father" (Gal. 4:6).
God is called in Scripture the blessed, or the happy God (I Tim. 1:11). And it is good to know that the gospel that we have to preach is the gospel of the blessed God. The Presence of God is a place of abiding pleasures and fullness of joy (Ps. 16:11). It is truly joy unspeakable and full of glory. "And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God, And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvellous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints (Rev. 15:2-3).
As the angels witnessed the creation of the world and the launching of the great human enterprise, they rejoiced together and shouted for joy (Job:38:3-7). As they behold the advancement of God's eternal purpose in Christ in the earth, they rejoice at the repentance and conversion of sinners (Lk. 2:9-14; Lk. 15:7-10; Mt. 18:13; Heb. 1:13-14; Rev. 19:10). It is only in earth that gatherings are of temporal significance (Act 17:18-21). And it is only in earth where gatherings can have a tendency towards that which is not good, and even have an evil intent (Mt. 12:14).
The festal occasion at Mt. Zion. As we have said, it is only in earth where it is possible for personalities gathering together to be business-as-usual, humdrum, or even evil in their intent and consequences. In the Presence of God, and of Jesus, Mediator of the new covenant, and of the blood of sprinkling, there can be nothing but fulness of joy. It is inconceivable to think that amidst all of these personalities gathered together here at Mt. Zion, there there could be anything less than great joy and gladness.
Some of the significance of this occasion: heretofore it was unthinkable that men and angels should be together in one place as congenial spirits and in an abiding sense. Prior to the putting away of sins by the sacrifice of Christ, angels had to remain basically aloof from men, and sometimes even sometimes deal abruptly with men as if men were their foes.
But, here at Mt. Zion, we see men and angels together "with one accord in one place" (Acts 2:1) as fellowservants (Rev. 19:10). Here, in the Revelation 19 text, an one of the holy angels is acknowledging John to be a fellowservant. This is a demonstration of the marvelous and glorious effect of the Savior, who died, and is now risen, and ascended to the right hand of the Majesty on high. The Lamb of God, truly, has borne our inquities, and carried them away into a land where God remembers them no more.
It is a blessed thing, indeed, when the gatherings of the saints are a foretaste of blessed gathering at Mt. Zion. Truly, we have come to Mt. Zion, and to the city of the living God!


text:
Bayswater, United Kingdom
The Royal College of Art is the world's leading art and design university, having been ranked for eight consecutive years as the world's number 1 art & design university in the QS World University subject rankings (2015-2022).
1 Bachelors
450 Academic Staff
Graduate Diploma Art and Design
The Royal College of Art started life in 1837 as the Government School of Design. Granted a Royal Charter and university status in 1967, today the RCA remains the world's most influential postgraduate institution of art and design.
Our postgraduate programmes enable you to tackle complex issues, push the boundaries of your practice, build your networks and find your voice as a professional in a changing world.
Committed to creating the next generation of artists, designers, researchers, creators and innovators, the RCA's world-leading academic staff will guide and challenge you to push the boundaries of your practice. As the world's largest community of postgraduate art and design students, you will be part of a collective of inspirational creative peers opening up new opportunities for cross-disciplinary collaboration. The RCA offers a Graduate Diploma conversion programme and Master's, MPhil, MRes and PhD degrees.
RCA research addresses major societal challenges, including cities and mass migration; future mobility; healthcare and wellbeing; ageing populations; art, culture and conflict; ceramics and digital printing; future materials and sustainability; communication and identity design; and inclusive design.
Students come to the College from across the globe and bring with them a wide range of backgrounds, educational approaches and experiences - due to the cross-disciplinary nature of our work, and our growing range of courses, nearly 25% of students now come to the RCA with a Bachelor's degree in a subject other than art and design.
Whatever your creative career aspirations, the RCA can help you realise them. A qualification from the world's number one ranked university for Art & Design has proven invaluable to the careers and practice of thousands of graduates. You too could be part of our international network of creative individuals who have shaped, and continue to shape, the world surrounding us, and address some of the biggest global challenges of our time.
The Student Support team offers advice, information and support to all RCA students and offer-holders. Student Support offer confidential help and practical support at any point. We aim to be flexible and responsive and provide a welcoming place to come and talk things through. If you have any concerns of your own do come and see us or get in touch.
To find good accommodation in London, we highly recommend you visit different locations in the city. It is important that you view the room, flat or house you are renting from a potential landlord or agent before you pay any money to ensure that the accommodation offer is genuine. It is also very important you read the accommodation contract thoroughly before you sign and move in.
The RCA Library is an inspiring and invaluable resource to inform and enhance study, research, teaching and studio practice at the College.
Our collections include over 70,000 books on art and design and other complementary subjects reflecting the full range of activity at the RCA. We have current subscriptions to a variety of journals and magazines as well as a collection of older titles.
Our facilities and technical equipment are amongst the best of their kind in the world and support students in their explorations of the creative possibilities of both the new and innovative and traditional craft skills.
If you are in the UK studying a full-time course lasting six months or more you will be entitled to access healthcare from the National Health Service (NHS). Most NHS service are free (for example consultations with a Doctor and emergency treatment), however you will be required to pay prescription costs and costs for any non-urgent treatment or operations you may need.
Studying here means you'll be part of a network of inspiring students in a city known for creative culture, and part of the RCA's rich history since its formation in 1837. Both the RCA and London as a whole are hubs of activity; full of places where you can socialise, explore and make new discoveries.
Our London campus is spread throughout the heart of one of the world's most creative cities, with sites in the historic surroundings of Kensington, the future-thinking hub of White City and the cultural quarter in Battersea.
The Student's Union organises Escape, the RCA's society for everything Sport and Adventure. Want to get fit, find a sport, or just get out more? This is your escape route...
Escape will organise anything from running in Hyde Park, squash and football, to climbing, canoeing and adventure weekends away. If you can think of a sport, Escape will try it! Events are publicised via College emails and the poster boards around College buildings.
The RCA Students' Union (SU) is here to represent, enrich and entertain. The SU is a hub of activity. We organise events that offer an opportunity for students to get to know each other and to argue, agree, debate, dance, imagine and relax with those from different courses.
A time that made me more like me
It has been a significant experience in my life, it has brought me a great challenge in life and for me, studying here has given me a much different understanding of the kind of person I want to be. I have learnt to get alone with myself and to explore more deeply in the field of art.
Wonderful Journey
This project is a good fit for me, and I am keen to ask questions and solve problems through a variety of practical and critical thinking. The students here have a rich social background and a wide range of practical experiences, and are all creative. In my postgraduate studies, I want to investigate in depth the different ideologies of consumption among people from...
I am a Korean born London-based artist who grew up in Asia, Polynesia, Africa, and Europe (South Korea, Hawaii, China, Uganda and the UK). These diverse environments have given me ample cultural and environmental experiences to draw upon in my artwork. Es
According to my experiences, my course at the Royal College of Art provided excellent experiences. I am currently studying Ma Contemporary Art Practice of Public Sphere, which is to investigate how artists correspond to social, political, and environmental matters in creative formats, and how artists work in galleries and other public institutions like education. It is...
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Japan Delimitation and Extension
In ancient Japan did not have an official name. In the first literary productions of the country (VIII century AD) there are many expressions with which the writers of the time designate their land. Such are, for example, Aki – tsu – shima("dragonfly island", from the shape they believed their homeland territory to have), Mizuho – no – kuni ("the land rich in ears of rice"), Yamato ("the region of the mountains", name of one of the central provinces where the emperor resided), Ō – ya– shima ("the eight great islands"), etc. The current official name, Nippon or Nihon, came into use, it seems, around 670 AD. C.; the other denominations, however, continued to be used in literature for a long time. Nippon or Nihon is just the Japanese pronunciation of the Chinese Jihpên (short for Jih – pên – kuo, "the country of the origin of the sun") name by which Japan was, and still is, known to the residents of China. It was precisely the name of Jih – pen – kuo which Marco Polo heard in China for the first time and which he made known in Europe in the form Cipangu. from which numerous other variants derived, such as Zipangu, Zipangri, Chimpagu and even Inpancho and others, with which, in the atlases and portolans of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, the islands of the Japanese archipelago are mainly called. From these forms derive the Italian name Japan and the corresponding Japan, Japon, etc., of the learned languages of Europe.
Delimitation and extension. – According to Rrrjewelry, the Japanese Empire consists of a long chain of islands extending like a festoon, for a length of 4700 km. approximately, in front of the eastern coasts of the Asian continent and the peninsula of Korea which detaches from it and extends towards the south. The chain forms three slightly curved arches, with the convexity facing the Pacific, each of which embraces a sea, namely the Sea of Okhotsk, the Sea of Japan and the Sea of China. The central arch includes Japan proper, which is the main part of the Empire and consists of the 4 islands of Kyūshū, Shikoku, Hondo (or Honshū) and Hokkaidō (known abroad with the ancient name of Yezo), the most large from all over the archipelago. The other two arches are each formed by a chain of small islands, Chishima, "the thousand islands"), the one south of the Ryū-kyū islands, often known in Europe with the corresponding Chinese name of Liu-ch'iu (English: Loochoo Islands). The southern part of Sakhalin Island (Japanese Karafuto), and the island of Formosa (Japanese Taiwan) still belong to the territory of the Empire.); moreover, for the Sino-Japanese treaty of May 25, 1915, as a leased territory until 1997, the southern part of the Liaotung peninsula, constituting the territory of Kwan-tung, is under the direct Japanese state administration; and since 1920, following a mandate from the League of Nations, some rocks and islets that were already part of the German colonial empire, scattered in the Pacific Ocean north of the Equator and including most of the Caroline islands, are also administered by Japan, Marshall and Marianne, with the exception of the island of Guam, formerly belonging to the United States of America.
The following mirror summarizes some data on the territory of the various constituent parts of the Japanese empire.
Historical and administrative divisions. – In ancient times the whole country was divided into kuni. When and by whom this division first took place is not clear. The stories, however, speak of frequent changes in the number and boundaries of the kuni, already made in epochs prior to the great reform of the Taikwa era (645-650). The northern frontier of the Empire was then constituted by a fortified line or trench that from Akita, where it was a fort, on the Sea of Japan, crossed Hondo in a south-easterly direction, until reaching the coasts of the Pacific at approximately 38 ° 40 ′ of lat. N. Above it stretched the territory inhabited by the Ainu, warlike at that time, called Yezo (the wild country). It was only after its conquest by the Japanese that, in the century. VIII, the north of Hondo could be annexed to the Empire.
The kuni were divided into guns or districts, and grouped into d ō or divisions, established, according to tradition, by the empress Jingō Kōgō in 203 d. C., on his return from Korea, in imitation of the administration system existing in that peninsula. The d ō were first five, then seven, finally, when in 1869 the island of Yezo was annexed to the Empire and made a d ō (Hokkaidō), their number reached eight. A separate division, called Gokinai, formed a group of five kuni (Yamashiro, Yamato, Kawachi, Izumi and Settsu) constituting the imperial domain, in which the capital was located. In 1870 the divisions of the empire were made up as follows: Gokinai with 5 kuni, Tōkaidō with 15, Tōsandō with 12, Hokurikudō with 7, San-indō with 8, San-yōdō with 8, Nankaidō with 6, Saikaidō with 13, and Hokkaidō with 11: in total 85 kuni.
The kuni almost always corresponded to a physiographically separate province; its civilization therefore often had an independent development, with its own dialect, customs and characteristics.
In 1871, with the abolition of the feudal system, the old unity was abolished and the whole country was divided into 72 ken or provinces, corresponding to one or more kuni ; however, sometimes one kuni is divided into two ken. Three of them, which included the cities of Tōkyō, Kyōto and Ōsaka, were called fu, which distinction has remained to this day. Since 1889 the ken have been reduced to 43. Yezo, being considered a colony, has a special organization (see yezo). The 3 was and the43 ken total of 10,292 comprise walls or villages and 1468 machi or small cities, as well as 103 shi or large cities, with a population exceeding 30,000 souls.
At the head of a ken or a fu is a chiji (governor) appointed by the Ministry of the Interior, who presides over the provincial assembly (kenkwai or fusankwai). In every large city (shi) there is a mayor (shich ō), as well as there is a mayor (ch ō ch ō) at the head of each small city and one (sonch ō) at the head of each village. The following table brings together some main data for each province (ken):
Japan Cinematography from 1970's to the Latest Trends


I expect, if you read this blog, that you'll be aware that the 2013 Bilderberg Group meeting took place over the weekend at the Grove hotel in Watford. Only a few years ago, the press were largely denying the existence of the group; this year it has been covered by the Guardian (Martin Rowson's cartoon from 8.6.2013 shown on left), the Independent, Sky News, the BBC and undoubtedly other outlets. The BBC even had Alex as a guest, although frankly I don't think he handled it too well (see below). His similar tactics against Piers Morgan in the US were probably better received because many Americans see Morgan as an outsider, but here, Jones was the outsider.
Alex Jones has covered the Bilderberg Group for a long time, and this year travelled to the UK to personally report on the event, and to "bullhorn" the meeting from a barge. He also got to meet David Icke in person for the first time, despite Icke being a frequent guest (via skype) on his daily show. You can watch the interview below.
Don't forget that in 2001, Alex Jones called Icke a "con man" and the Reptilian thesis as the "turd in the punchbowl" of his otherwise lucid conspiracist research in Jon Ronson's Secret Rulers of the World documentary series on Channel 4. Interestingly, Icke now seems to be attempting to set up a media operation similar to Jones'.
Another guest to feature on the show was UKIP MEP Gerard Batten (below). Nigel Farage and Lord Monkton have both previously appeared on Jones' show. Presumably, they are hoping that this exposure will increase their profile internationally through Jones' considerable US audience, and may even be part of a strategy aimed at creating a broader libertarian network. However, given their recent bullish trajectory in the UK, how wise is it for them to be aligning themselves with someone who has just been called an "idiot" and a "lunatic" on the BBC?
Thanks David. Whatever your personal views are it is useful to hear and discuss this information outside the limits of soundbites, name calling, and one liner news reports.
The true irony is that Icke and Jones are doing what major world press organizations should have been doing for decades. The 1% elite did not come about organically or through Capitalism and the Free Market . In the US especially the legislation over the past 2 or 3 decades were building blocks to allow for the type of plunder we see today. Our watchdogs were sleeping or looking the other way ( though bought up is just as accurate in many cases ). The term conspiracy is now mostly used as an emotionally charged term to belittle and deride. Let's just say many of these things were planned , well thought out, and quite frankly brilliant.
If anyone believes that the massive transfer of wealth to an extremely small minority is a coincidence then they are among a shrinking minority of " Coincidence Theorists" who might also believe that houses get built without blueprints, planning meetings, and work contracts which lead to workers following orders down to the last nail and paved walkway allowing the new owner to walk in the front door and flip on the switch. Icke and Jones are not correct 100% of the time.
What are the implications if say 50% or even 25% of the information these two , and others, expose of these brilliant plans is found to be factual. Much of it is out in the open and takes no leap of faith. The UK press and other world press report these corruptions better than the mainstream US press. The UK press however has been much more hesitant to expose the same corruption within its own ranks.They fear the term conspiracy theorist more than the the implications and fallout of actual conspiracies.
The truth ( like everyday's bloody and depressing news headlines ) may not make you free. It may make you sad, disillusioned, angry, a little fearful or paranoid, or with a sense of helplessness. That may lead to other things which may eventually set one/us free. It is what is our plate now,, however it got there.


Place all ingredients into a high speed blender for 30 seconds to combine.
Spoon the mixture into small serving bowls and place in the fridge for 2-3 hours to set.
Add fresh strawberries or make a raspberry coulis by blending raspberries with a tablespoon or brown rice syrup, xylitol or organic maple syrup.


The NPD Group announced the launch of its Nationality Tracker, providing insight into the duty free shopping behaviours of key global travelling nationalities and how they evolve over time.
YORK, United Kingdom, Feb. 12, 2019 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Leading global information company The NPD Group today announced the launch of its Nationality Tracker, providing insight into the duty free shopping behaviours of key global travelling nationalities and how they evolve over time.
Developed by NPD Travel Retail, Nationality Tracker is a suite of interactive dashboards showing data collected from 22,500 interviews across 25 nationalities and a host of charts/slicers for analytical purposes. The service, a data-driven decision-making tool combining real-time data with historical trends, is updated quarterly giving users the ability to track the evolution of a nationalities' buying behaviour in travel retail.
The information provided by the Nationality Tracker includes airport activities, duty free metrics, duty free shopper profiles, traveller tendencies, duty free visiting and buyer behaviour, and digital behaviours like device ownership, mobile app and social media usage, and airport wi-fi usage.
The new service delivers instant, accurate and relevant intelligence to inform the most pressing of business challenges. It supports clients' marketing functions as they develop their global and nationality-specific activations, sales teams as they seek to understand which nationality presents the greatest value opportunity, and category teams as they analyse their performance, including promotional strategies.
"Understanding what motivates travellers to purchase is the key to driving growth. These purchase drivers do not stand still in time, nor are they unique to a single nationality," said Garry Stasiulevicuis, president, NPD Travel Retail, The NPD Group. "With the largest available coverage of key travelling nationalities and a data platform that combines real-time data with historic business intelligence, NPD's Nationality Tracker is an essential tool for the industry to better understand these consumers."


Do I have to give you the definition of hyperbole too? Seems like I do, since you don't seem to understand that I used "ancient" to emphasize that the game is old. i even put (basically) ahead of it. So you should have know I wasn't using the literal definition of it. And as far as Hyperbole goes, that's actually an extremely mild use of it. Since the two are synonymous with each other unlike other uses of it (E.G: when someone use literally in a non literal sense).
Ancient is a hyperbolic form of old, not a synonym. Extremely mild sound silly.
Oh, you thought I was hasty in saying you were wrong. Jumping the gun makes sense in that context.
What's the source on that?
So he likes to use Godwin's law. Cute.
It's not real Nazis. It's a hyperbole. He gets all his definitions from an ancient, hyperbolic dictionary. It features sharks jumping in hyperbolas.
Ancient is a hyperbolic form of old, not a synonym.
... Are you really arguing against what the f***ing dictionary says right now? You realize how stupid that is right?
1.2 A person who seeks to impose their views on others in a very autocratic or inflexible way.
Actually you'd be the Shark jumper. I just said it.
That's a dictionary for stupid people. Probably why literally and figuratively now mean the same thing.
How am I like an actual Nazi though? I don't even support Trump.
You're entitled to your opinion on Oxford's dictionary. But the fact is, it is considered an official source. One that also explains that the informal use of literal is by it's very description; considered unofficial.
Didn't say you were like an actual Nazi. Just that you'd make a good one/you may as well march with them. Specifically because of your insistence to dictate my mood, dictate the definition of words (even against the f***ing dictionary), and dictate how to use them; simply because it's how you would. Do you really not notice how closed minded you come off as? You may not bump Adolf in your stereo. But you do seem to enjoy asserting your own personal beliefs over another's.
Now, I've already proven that our opposing opinions are both valid, just like I've proven that my use and understanding of words is just as, if not more valid than your use of them (considering the fact that you actually tried to challenge well respected dictionaries :V). So as far as I'm concerned, this is done. But if you want to keep being petty, then by all means; continue playing spot the semantic.
Didn't say you were like an actual Nazi. Just that you'd make a good one/you may as well march with them.
I'm brown. Why would I march with Nazis?
Read the sentence after the one you quoted. Slowly if you need to; because I answered that question before you even asked it.
Shouldn't you march with Nazis because you don't know what words mean?
Not only does that not make sense (not really surprising since it's coming from you).. But it's ironic because it's coming from the dunce that posted this stupid s***.
How do you manage to f*** up not once, but twice in a single sentence (don't worry, I don't actually care about your answer)? You're either playing incredibly dumb at this point, or you're not playing at all. Either way, I'm not getting paid to teach you how to properly use the English language. So you're free to continue being as clueless as you want.


Online odds comparison site, Oddschecker has revealed that the market for Manchester United's next manager was its third most popular of 2018.
The only markets that Jose Mourinho's successor trailed on was the Grand National and Eurovision, with Oddschecker analytics detailing 43% more traffic on the Manchester United manager page than the highest viewed market during the Cheltenham Festival in March, the Gold Cup.
In spite of the role only being vacant for less the 48 hours, the volume of bets on who would take the role trumped that of England's World Cup semi-final game with Croatia, seeing a 26% increase on Oddschecker.
In fact, basing statistics solely on the UK and Ireland, the managerial market was 48% more popular than Eurovision, a typically major market for betting.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was the most popular bet on site by quite some distance, attracting 42% of all bets since news broke that Mourinho had been sacked.
The next most popular punt in the market was Frenchman Laurent Blanc with 16% of all bets, followed by Mauricio Pochettino with 9% share of all bets.
Oddschecker spokesperson George Elek commented: "Manchester United may not be living up to past glories on the pitch, but their popularity cannot be questioned as can be seen by the scramble to find out who would be replacing Mourinho.


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GECKO'S GRILL & PUB's 30th ANNIVERSARY PARTY RAISES RECORD SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS FOR SARASOTA COUNTY 4-H FOUNDATION
The Gecko's Hospitality Group family of restaurants has renewed its ongoing commitment as a Business Partner with the Sarasota County 4-H Clubs & Foundation, designating the 4-H Foundation scholarship fund as the direct beneficiary of donations raised during our 30th Anniversary BBQ and Party. Gecko's co-owners, Michael Quillen & Mike Gowan awarded the check at a presentation ceremony at the Fruitville Gecko's.
"It is with the generosity and commitment of local business leaders like the Gecko's Hospitality Group that allows the Sarasota County 4-H Foundation to fund the programming which helps children achieve their goals," said Sarah Davis, University of Florida/IFAS Extension Agent with the local 4-H Foundation. "Since the values of the Gecko's family of restaurants and the 4-H Clubs are closely aligned, building on our commitment was a natural fit," said Quillen. "We are proud to support the pivotal experiences provided by the 4-H programs which build a foundation of leadership and skills for success in the future careers of children in our community. We believe that investing in 4-H serves to honor the agricultural legacy of the great State of Florida, which has provided the livestock and produce that feeds our citizens and visitors alike, and which offers our children the programs that help them develop the life skills so essential to helping them become good citizens."
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GHG co-owner, Quillen featured in Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association newsletter, Path to Power
Gecko's Hospitality Group Reaffirms Commitment to Unidos Now Scholarships
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Innovating Fleet Since 1965
On April 27, 1965, Donald "Don" Rappeport and Leonard "Len" Vine got together and recognized the potential the fleet leasing and management industry had, and decided they wanted to be a part of this growing industry-On that day, Donlen was formed.
During the '70s we began positioning ourselves as innovative leaders in fleet management by deviating from the typical business sedan and putting clients in specialty-type cars. In the '80s we became technology innovators by being the first to pioneer computer-based fleet leasing seminars. This new technology took weeks off the vehicle ordering process.
Technology was our way of providing outstanding customer service and in the '90s that continued to be true when Donlen was one of the first fleet management companies to go paperless. Donlen developed a computerized system specifically designed to improve customer service speed and efficiency.
In the 21st century, we continued to expand our technology services and improve the processes for our customers. While we were not the first company in the fleet business, we are definitely the most "tech savvy" company.
Our statement "Innovating Fleet Since 1965" is not just a slogan; it is a state of mind that allows us to keep pushing past any boundaries for the benefit of our customers.
In these past 50 years, Donlen has made many contributions to the industry including:
FleetWeb® was named Microsoft's "Best e-Commerce Solution."
Our Vehicle Optimization Model® (VOM) revolutionized lifecycle analysis through the industry's most advanced tools, consultation and benchmarking.
Donlen's Prevent Unnecessary Spending and Hazards (PUSH) was the industry's first customizable, automated email technology.
Donlen launched the Customer Activity and Request Engine (CARE), our proprietary relationship management tool which gave transparency to all customer service requests.
Donlen created the first ever fleet carbon reporting tool used to track and benchmark a fleet's carbon output.
Fleets for Change® launched to reduce global fleet emissions.
We developed DriverPoint® Telematics, the industry's most comprehensive telematics platform.
Donlen launched the first fleet management app for the iPhone.
We are poised for continued success, and we thank all of our customers, employees, executive leaders, and shareholders. Donlen is truly successful because of you.
Fleet Innovation is in our DNA
Donlen has contributed countless technical advancements to the fleet industry.
To see some of the historic highlights, click on the infographic below.
Snapshot in Time
Do you want to go back in time? Parts of our first website are archived on the following external link. While some content is missing, you can still take a drive down memory lane. > See our website from 1997.
For more information about Donlen, please contact us.
Fleets for Change


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Brett Lauderdale: I Don't Want GCW On TV At All, The Game Plan Is To Stay Authentic
Jeremy Lambert Dec 30, 2021 11:57AM
GCW made big strides in 2021, gaining buzz thanks to appearances by Jon Moxley, Matt Cardona, and more along with the rise of Nick Gage.
The company is set to hold its biggest event to date on January 23 when they head to the Hammerstein Ballroom for The Wrld on GCW.
On Busted Open Radio, Bully Ray likened GCW selling out the Hammerstein Ballroom to ROH, with the help of NJPW, selling out Madison Square Garden. Bully Ray noted that ROH didn't have much of a follow up for the event, which ultimately hurt them.
GCW President Brett Lauderdale was asked by Bully Ray if he has a plan to follow up the Hammerstein show. He replied, "I think so. There is nothing dramatic. Our goal going forward...we've already made an announcement, March, we're going to Atlanta and Center Stage. I want to try and hit cool venues, historic venues, new markets, just do more stuff that is cool and continue to grow markets and fanbases and make new fans along the way. I don't have a dramatic game plan of 'I want to be on TV by the end of 2022,' because quite frankly I don't want to be on TV at all, but that's another story. Do cool things, keep reinventing and finding new fans and new markets and doing what we do. Staying authentic. That's the game plan."
GCW will be bringing in the likes of Eddie Kingston and The Briscoes (Mark & Jay Briscoe) for the Hammerstein event. The only match announced thus far is Jonathan Gresham defending the ROH World Title against Blake Christian.
Asked about GCW staying authentic, Lauderdale said, "We've reached a level of success, popularity, and notoriety where a lot of people will say, 'You need to get bigger venues. When are you going to be on TV?' The things that get suggested, that's not necessarily what we want to do. The way we became popular was to remain true to what we started as. I don't want to run these giant rec centers if there's not a purpose. I'm happy running smaller arenas and selling them out. I'm happy sticking to what got us here. There are ways to grow out company without having TV or running bigger venues. I don't want to sell out our values. I like the method that got us here and don't want to compromise that."
GCW is set to hold its Die 4 This event on Saturday, January 1. The event will be headlined by a Do Or Die Rumble where the winner will be the number one contender for the GCW World Title, which is currently held by Jon Moxley.
Fightful will have results from GCW Die 4 This following the conclusion of the event.
If you use any of the quotes above, please credit the original source with a h/t and link back to Fightful for the transcription.