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Questions To Ask When Interviewing Microsoft Support Companies
Business leaders are tasked with hiring experienced Microsoft support in Calgary. That's why IT support interviewers should ask these seven questions.
7 Questions To Ask Your Calgary Microsoft IT Support Team
Whether you own or operate a small, mid-sized or large company, it's imperative that you have outstanding Microsoft Support in Calgary. Outsourcing IT requires working with a Microsoft support company that can deliver real-time solutions for Windows 10, Office Solutions, Windows servers, and others. When systems falter, so does your organization's productivity and profitability.
That's why it's important to work with a talented IT team that provides high-level Microsoft support in Calgary and the surrounding area. But before signing on with the first outfit that tells you they are a certified Microsoft support company, consider interviewing them. By asking pertinent questions about their expertise in a variety of platforms, you will be able to separate the wheat from the chaff in the Calgary IT support field.
1: What Microsoft Certifications Does An IT Support Team Need?
Certifications are a must that any top-tier Microsoft support company should possess. At a minimum, a prospective IT support team would need expertise in the following four essential areas.
Software: Platforms such as Microsoft Office 365 are standard products that the vast majority of PC networks rely on for business fundamentals.
Hardware: While knowledge about software protocols is necessary, the ability to back up systems and data to hardware is a must.
Devices: Businesses and organizations at every level benefit from technology integration. Mobile devices and other electronics are as vital as desktops. The right IT support team must be able to work across devices and keep programs such as Windows 10 synchronized.
The Cloud: Online applications are now front and center. High-level IT support demands certifications in items such as Microsoft OneDrive and seamless Azure cloud integration. A top Calgary Microsoft support company is expected to help you keep vital data just a click away regardless of your present location.
2: Are You Prepared For Windows Server Challenges?
Although the overwhelming majority of today's businesses rely on technology, few fully appreciate the ongoing challenges of the tech era. Consider that Windows Server 2003 became almost completely outdated in July 2015. Microsoft no longer produces security patches, leaving it at risk.
That is just one example of the whirlwind upgrades of the ever-changing software industry. Since the Windows Server 2003, operating systems have included Windows XP, Windows Server 2008, Windows Server NT, Windows Server 2016, and others. Each will time out. Many outfits are now preparing to transition to Windows Server 2019, and it is likely to have considerable challenges.
3: Does Microsoft Azure Make Sense For My Company?
A savvy Microsoft support company ought to back the use of Azure because of it's a flexible and dynamic platform that enjoys compatibility with the more prominently trending software programs. That being said, Azure can also help to augment IT infrastructure and may work as a hybrid cloud solution bridge. When selecting Microsoft support in Calgary, an Azure certified IT support team would understand the analytic, data-sharing and application benefits.
4: What Common Problems Can I Expect From Windows 10?
Regardless of how dynamic an application may be, it's commonly known that each requires some level of IT support. An astute Microsoft support company should already know the prevalent issues that Windows 10 users have experienced. These include the following.
PC experiences slow boot-up times.
Files may open in wrong application.
Excessive notifications.
Incorrect privacy settings.
Excessive pop-ups.
System Restore goes AWOL.
Printer troubleshooting needed.
An experienced Calgary Microsoft IT Support company ought to be able to rattle off solutions to these well-known problems. Not having the answer to this little test without a cheat sheet may indicate inexperience.
5: How Can My Microsoft Office 365 Be Customized For Business?
This package has become a household name in personal and business software for a good reason. It can be tailored to strategically meet individual and business needs in a variety of ways. Naturally, highly specialized uses are usually the purview of professional IT support techs.
A strong Calgary-area IT support outfit can seamlessly migrate your staff members' mobile devices to connect with in-house systems and cloud access. Present your unique business goals and get an answer about how an IT company can best customize your 365 capabilities.
6: How Can The Internet of Things (IoT) Impact My Business?
The existential connectivity expected from the IoT by 2020 seems like something out of a Sci-Fi movie. The IoT is a vast network of physical objects that are embedded with technology in a way that allows cross-communication. For businesses that benefit from up-to-the-second information about products moving through a supply chain, the IoT can enable you to make critical business decisions based on real-time data.
If you are not necessarily a tech-savvy individual, the IoT offers the knowledge that can give you a competitive edge or result in a data breach. A high-level IT support outfit must stand ready to deliver on cutting-edge IoT strategies and protect you from bad actors who could hack your systems.
7: Explain How Strategic Microsoft IT Support Best Practices Work?
The further immersed an organization becomes in technology, the more moving parts it has to manage. Consider that Microsoft application customization, IoT, and use of the cloud will all also create further opportunities for a nefarious incursion. An experienced Calgary-area IT support outfit can work with your team members to develop specific best practice protocols to minimize data breach threats. Leaders in Microsoft support in Calgary are prepared to implement the best possible security measures to protect your business.
Work With An Experienced Microsoft Support Company In Calgary
Experienced proactive IT support remains a critical aspect of doing business in the technology age. Given that applications and platforms are sometimes undergoing radical shifts, today's business leaders are tasked with outsourcing essential IT support to experienced Microsoft-certified teams. That's why businesses can count on the CTECH Consulting Group, a leader in the greater Calgary area.


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Home Sports Panthers Rebound Against Drexel for First Win of Season
Panthers Rebound Against Drexel for First Win of Season
X. Johnson leads Pitt Past Drexel 83-74
[Pittsburgh,PA] Two days after being stunned by St. Francis, the Pitt Panthers basketball team were hoping to make amends and fix what went wrong in that 80-70 loss as they welcomed the Drexel University Dragons to the Petersen Events Center. And their mission was accomplished as the Panthers led from start-to-finish in an 83-74 win that improved their record to 1-1 (0-0 ACC).
Pitt Guard Xavier Johnson (#1) going to the hole In Panthers first game of the season against St. Francis ( Photo Credit : Vince Butts -UMT-Sports )
"First of all, it feels good to win, and get our first win of the season as well. I thought our guys really bounced back over the past couple of days. Since the game on Wednesday night, we've gotten after it at practice and I thought the team responded." Said Pitt Head Coach Jeff Capel. "We got a good start, and we did some really good things throughout the game. We still have a lot of work to do, but I thought our veterans, Xavier, Justin, and Au'Diese stepped up big time for us. I thought Gerald Drumgoole's minutes at the end, after sitting the whole game, were really key the last six minutes. It was a big thing for him to be able to step up and do that.
Panthers Justin Champagnie with the Dunk (Photo Credit : Vince Butts UMT-Sports )
Point Guard Xavier Johnson led the way for Pitt with 27 points. He also had 8 assists and 6 rebounds. Au'Dese Toney scored 20 (6 assists, 4 rebounds) and Justin Champagnie added 19 (7 rebounds) as the Panthers showed energy and strength to beat a Dragons team that certainly was not a pushover.
"I thought he valued the basketball a little bit more and slowed down the play to a better pace. He was really locked in on both sides of the ball." Said Capel of Johnson. "I thought that was key, he thought he made pretty good decisions, since he has been playing well in practice as well as the last game."
Led by Carmen Wynter's 24 points and James Butler's 8 rebounds, the Dragons kept the Panthers on their toes at the foul-line (78%) and on defense, in which they forced 13 turnovers (10 steals)and grabbed 29 rebounds. After the Panthers had their largest lead of the game (56- 40), the Dragons chipped away and eventually got it to 76-70 with over 6 minutes to play. Then Johnson and Toney took over with key baskets to help secure the victory.
Pitt Head Coach Jeff Capel ( Photo Credit : Vince Butts- UMT Sports)
But the Panthers also showed their mettle on defense as they grabbed 26 rebounds and had a game-leading 5 blocks (Led by Forward Karim-Abdoul Coulibaly's 3) and they also were 73% from the free-throw line.
For Pitt, they learned the valuable lesson to never take their foot off the pedal, because that has the potential of allowing their opponent to get back in the game, which is what happened in the second half, but after Capel called a timeout to gather his team, the Panthers were charged-up to press even harder on that pedal to secure the victory.
The Panthers will now prepare to hit the road for the first time in this young season as they will travel to Evanston, Illinois to face the Northwestern Wildcats (0-0,0-0 Big Ten) in the Big Ten/ACC Challenge. They then return home December 12 to host the Gardner-Webb Runnin'
Bulldogs (0-0, 0-0 Big South Conference) as they have had their first 3 games postponed because of Covid-19.
"I'm proud of the way we showed up today, however we have a lot of work to do, but feels a lot better than it did the other night."-Sad Capel.
Bounce back win.
❌ led all scorers with 27 points with eight assists and six rebounds.#H2P | #ZooEra pic.twitter.com/OtRpqODCOJ
— Pitt Basketball (@Pitt_MBB) November 28, 2020
Notes: The Petersen Events Center attendance was 500-the required capacity required by the state of Pennsylvania due to Covid-19 Protocols.
Please e-mail Ray at [email protected]
Follow him @RP2872_Jr on Twitterwww.PittsburghPanthers.com
Au'Dese Toney
Carmen Wynter
Justin Champagnie
Karim-Abdoul Coulibaly
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The Roulette game, as one of the favorite casino games nowadays, has surely been that type of fun that was always accepted instantly by the people. Throughout the years, the number of fans and Roulette lovers has been significantly increasing. The popularity of this game comes from the exciting nature it has, the fact that is quite easy and fun to play, and lately some glamour has been attached to this "little wheel", thanks to the presence of Roulette tables in the highly expensive Hollywood movies.
Roulette is a game that is easily played, but besides the fact that you don't need any special skills in order to win it, lots of people don't think about increasing their chances of winning during the spin of the ball. The magic formulas don't exist, or any other true superstitions, but there are some good tips on how to win at Roulette that have been previously checked and tried out while having fun in the same time.
This tip will help you out if you memorize it and use it every time before you start playing. Getting closer to the Roulette table can be very emotional and may lead to some false expectations, therefore before the ball starts spinning, it's crucial to learn that Roulette is game made for fun, not for money. If you win something, just be happy, and if you lose, you should leave the Roulette table (virtual or actual).
Choosing a Single-Zero Roulette wheel (European Roulette or French Roulette as well) guarantees higher chances of winning in this game. Considering the fact that the American version includes a double zero (00) wheel, the chances of guessing the winning number are much smaller, therefore the losses are higher.
Many of the players worldwide think that the best Roulette wheel is the European one, because it decreases the casino advantage to 2.63%, and one of their recommendations is to go into some of the numerous online casinos where it's easier and quicker to find a single zero roulette wheel.
Speaking of bets, there are inside and outside bets in the Roulette. The inside bets are the bets where the players bet on a single number or on two, three, four or six numbers. Those sorts of bets pay out quite big jackpots when they are won. The other type of bets – outside bets are the bets where players bet on a bit larger group of twelve and even eighteen numbers, meaning they win more often, but win smaller and modest payouts.
Speaking of bets and the French Roulette game mentioned above, there is another advantage if you choose to play this single-zero wheel. Not only the chances of getting some money are higher in this version, but there is also a chance you don't lose all your money or just lose half of the bet you've made. For instance, if the ball lands on the single zero (0) your bet still remains and is safe and ready for the next spin.
Further, if you win and guess the right number on your next spin, you will not get your money, but you have the permission to get back and replace your original bet. This means that you only lose half of the bet that you've made. Generally, players should avoid bets on a single number and always stay on the bets that have lower odds.
Players should stop wasting their money on so called systems, predictions and forecasts that allegedly can beat the Roulette. These sorts of systems can be found through the Web and even found in specialized books about the Roulette. All of the rules mentioned in these sorts of "sure systems" imply to the online casinos, but they are not correct and trustworthy.
The authors or the people that sell them have absolutely no gain if they sell that information to you. If they really had the correct system that beats the Roulette, they would have made millions so far. Well, they haven't, therefore you will not earn any money if you play by these systems as well. Winning the Roulette is the essence of the chances and good luck.


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Pregnancy Discrimination at a Non-Profit in New York City?
July 26, 2018 | By Megan In Gender Discrimination
MoMA PS1, an arts-based not-for-profit in Queens, is being sued for pregnancy discrimination.
This surprised me. I thought (hoped?) our society had moved passed punishing women at work for having children. If any workplace is safe from this bad behavior it's a non-profit based in liberal New York City, right? Art non-profits are supposed to be open-minded and inclusive!
Unfortunately, this is far from the case. The MoMA PS1 story and many others like it demonstrate how pregnancy discrimination still poses a threat to women in the workplace. If you work at a company with 15 or more employees federal law declares it illegal for your organization to treat anyone differently because of pregnancy, childbirth or other related conditions. This law has been in effect since 1978.
City and State laws have applied this law to even smaller companies but there is no arguing with the fact that workplaces have had 40 years to figure out how to accommodate women having children. Still, many organizations have trouble doing this.
So what happened at MoMA PS1? Nikki Columbus was offered a curator position in August 2017. After she told the museum's chief curator she just had a baby her job offer was rescinded.
Ms. Columbus' complaint with the New York City Commission on Human Rights alleges she was recruited for the job when she was five months pregnant. She had numerous in person meetings with the chief curator and other executives while visibly pregnant. When the museum offered her the position on August 12, 2017 Ms. Columbus tried to negotiate a higher salary and staying mindful about finishing her duties at the company she was then employed at.
MoMA PS1 seemed open to this, saying "we can be flexible on the transition into the role here."
In late August Ms. Columbus suggested she start part-time in September and go full-time in October telling her soon to be supervisor she hoped to work from home to start as she recovered from having a baby. The chief curator allegedly replied "Why didn't you tell me this two months ago?"
A few days after that call Ms. Columbus received an email from the museum's COO saying they considered her call a rejection of the offer. She said she very much wanted the job. Unfortunately for Ms. Columbus, the COO said the offer was "no longer active."
Pregnancy discrimination and gender discrimination are entwined. If Ms. Columbus was a man she would likely be employed at MoMA PS1 right now.
Most workplaces reward men for having children while punishing women. Michelle Budig of the University of Massachusetts, Amherst found men's earnings increase by 6% when they become parents whereas women's earnings decrease by 4%. Our unconscious bias is affecting our workplaces. Men are rewarded because having children makes them seem more stable. Women with children are penalized because we assume they will be less present at the office once a child arrives. If this bias affects a liberal non-profit it likely affects your workplace too.
Let's start to actively challenge these assumptions. One way to do this is to change how we talk about family in the workplace.
Call to Action:
What does your organization's parental leave policy say? Is it called a Maternity Policy? If so, it's only directed at half the population affected by new family members. Are women treated differently than men under the policy? Ask yourself or your bosses why. If men and and women are treated equally under your policy notice if men are taking advantage of the benefits. Consider how you might advocate for updating an unequal policy or encouraging colleagues to embrace all the benefits of the policy.
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The "fatal four" of all incidents on construction sites make up 58% of all fatalities. The "fatal four" includes: falls, being caught between objects, electrocution and being struck by an object. This infographic will walk you through some of the most common fatal four in construction safety. It also shows how to best avoid these common incidents with pretty simple measures. Construction sites inevitably pose many safety risks, but the fatal four are responsible for most incidents. Let's take a look at the culprits, what causes them and more importantly, how you can avoid them in this infographic.
You'll notice that most of these fatal four incidents are pretty easy to avoid. Basic site safety will help you keep yourself and your employees safe. Another interesting thing to note is that most fatal four incidents happen in companies with 1-10 employees. This could be because smaller companies focus less on safety guidelines to protect their workers. You don't have to be a huge company to use technology in the field. In fact, SafetyCulture iAuditor is perfect for teams large and small. Give it a quick look here.


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1993 год в боксе.

Любительский бокс

Профессиональный бокс

Начали карьеру
 Дэвид Айзон — нигерийский боксёр, выступающий в супертяжёлой весовой категории.
 Николай Валуев — боксёр-профессионал, выступающий в супертяжёлой весовой категории. Чемпион России по боксу 1999 года. Чемпион мира по версии Паназиатской боксёрской ассоциации (2000 год), экс-чемпион мира по версии Всемирной боксёрской ассоциации (ВБА, WBA).

Завершили карьеру
 27 февраля свой последний бой провёл панамский боксёр Хиларио Запата. Чемпион мира по версии ВБА (WBA).
 17 апреля свой последний бой провёл казахский боксёр Александр Мирошниченко против начинающего боксёра Олега Маскаева. Примечательно, что этот бой стал первым в карьере будущего чемпиона мира.

Чемпионские бои
 20 марта: россиянин Юрий Арбачаков в третий раз успешно защитил титул чемпиона Всемирного боксёрского совета (ВБС, WBC) притив тайца Муангчай Киттикейзем, победив нокаутом в девятом раунде.
 16 июля: россиянин Юрий Арбачаков в четвёртый раз победой по очкам успешно защитил титул чемпиона Всемирного боксёрского совета (ВБС, WBC) в бою против  Исайаса Самудио.
 13 декабря: россиянин Юрий Арбачаков в пятый раз успешно защитил титул чемпиона Всемирного боксёрского совета (ВБС, WBC) в бою против  Чха Нам Хуна, победив по очкам.

См. также

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"THE GAME" STAR COBY BELL SHOWS OFF TWINS
"The Game" star Coby Bell (Jason Pitts) recently sat down with Life and Style magazine to show off his new set of twins. Already the parents of 5 ½-year-old twin girls, Jaena and Serrae, Coby and his wife, Aviss, welcomed a second set of twins on December 2nd. "We were trying for a boy and ended up with a boy and a girl!" Coby, 33, recently told Life & Style at his surprisingly tranquil Long Beach, Calif., house.
The addition of daughter Quinn and son Eli has meant a lot of sleepless — yet happy — nights for the couple. While Coby snoozes on the living room couch with one of the babies, Aviss, 39, tries to catch some shut-eye in their bedroom with the other infant. "We're going to do that until they're 5-months old, and then Coby's going to Ferberize them," Aviss tells Life & Style.
"Coby did the same thing with the big girls," continues Aviss, who owns Look What I Made, an arts-and-crafts play space for kids. Jaena and Serrae also do what they can to keep their little sister and brother from wailing. "They really, really want to be there for Eli and Quinn," Aviss boasts. "It's so cute." Coby is just as proud of how eagerly the girls have taken to their big-sister role. "They're great," he says. "They're very lucky to always have someone there to laugh and play with."
I could just eat those babies up! They are cutie patooties! Congrats Coby and Aviss!
Labels: Coby's new twins...
Coby's new twins...|


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Boomers: Part 1
Soundings Editors
With her first Social Security check banked, Kathleen Casey-Kirschling is ready for some extended cruising on First Boomer, the Grand Banks 42 Classic that she and her husband, Patrick, bought 10 years ago as their retirement boat.
Casey-Kirschling, born one second after midnight Jan. 1, 1946, has been heralded as the first of America's baby boomers, the largest generation in the nation's history. Born between 1946 and 1964, boomers have been the 900-pound gorilla that keeps shaking things up as their take on life shifts with their stage of life.
From Woodstock and anti-war protests to mutual funds and online shopping, from the Beatles and the Whole Earth Catalog to Victoria's Secret and SUVs, they keep surprising folks who try to predict where this generation will go based on where it's been. Boomers number some 76 million Americans between the ages of 44 and 62, and if history is a reliable guide their retirement years will leave an indelible, though not altogether predictable, mark, reshaping the way Americans do retirement, enjoy their leisure — and, of course, go boating.
Futurist and strategist P.J. Wade, of Toronto, doesn't even like to use the word "retirement" anymore. Retirement suggests a disengagement from life, she says. The National Center for Health Statistics says Americans who reached age 65 in 2004 are expected to live to 83, or 18 years beyond typical retirement age — the length of a second childhood. Wade, who is known as "The Catalyst" and has written several books (www.thecatalyst.com), says the question isn't, "What are you going to do when you retire?" but "What are you going to do with the rest of your life?"
"If you don't sit down, if you keep active, if you keep your weight trim and stay strong, you can do almost anything you want to do — forever," she says. "You just may have to do it a little differently, a little smarter, maybe a little bit lazier."
She prefers to call this state of affairs "unretirement." Because they are healthier than their parents, because their life expectancy is longer and because they have more disposable income than any previous generation (an estimated $2 trillion annually), boomers are pioneers in this business of unretirement, Wade says.
That makes Casey-Kirschling the first pioneer. The Kirschlings are busier than ever shuttling back and forth between their home on the Bohemia River on Maryland's Eastern Shore and a second home in Vero Beach, Fla., on their restored 1979 Grand Banks, which they consider their third home. Patrick Kirschling, 62, a food marketing professor at St. Joseph's University in Philadelphia, retires in June. Casey-Kirschling retired from teaching a year-and-a-half ago, but she still does a lot of pro bono work — common among retiring boomers.
She volunteered for six weeks with the American Red Cross in Baton Rouge, La., after Hurricane Katrina. She also is an unpaid spokeswoman for the Social Security Administration, doing media interviews and appearing in videos to educate prospective retirees about how and when to apply for Social Security benefits. Casey-Kirschling received her first Social Security check Feb. 12 by direct deposit to her bank. She'd rather not say how much Uncle Sam sent her, but the SSA says today's benefits average $1,079 a month. The transfer marked a new era for both the SSA (10,000 boomers a day will become eligible for Social Security over the next decade) and for the Kirschlings.
"We're open to continuing to work flexibly," either as volunteers or for pay, says Casey-Kirschling. But what they really want to do now is put some hours on First Boomer. The Kirschling's boating history should cheer up any industry executive who wonders if the mechanisms for bringing people along in boating really work. The Kirschlings owned a 23-foot Wellcraft so they could water-ski in the summer. But the couple always considered skiing the slopes "their sport" until 1991, when they joined three other couples in chartering a Grand Banks in the British Virgin Islands. "It was the best vacation we ever had," Casey-Kirschling says.
The couple came home, bought a 20-year-old Grand Banks 36, and five years later bought First Boomer, their "unretirement boat" — one big enough to take the grandkids on for extended cruises. They purchased a home on the Bohemia River where they could dock the boat, and though they didn't have a plan yet for retirement, "We had a direction," says Patrick Kirschling.
Cruising seemed like something they could enjoy for years — more so than skiing, which had become difficult for Patrick because of a neck injury. They began cruising Chesapeake Bay, and now that they are snowbirds they cruise down to Vero Beach in the fall and back to Maryland in the spring. Once Patrick is retired, they plan to spend winters exploring Florida by boat.
"Living on a boat is a great experience," Casey-Kirschling says. "It's such an adventure. … Our boat doesn't go fast, but that's great because we don't need to rush anywhere anymore." On First Boomer, the pressure is off.
Boomers and their boats
The boating industry is counting on a wave — a tsunami — of retirees like the Kirschlings to descend on the water over the next decade and fuel more demand for boats, current economic woes notwithstanding. Yet more thoughtful observers caution that retirement won't be a single highway for this trend-setting generation but a lot of byways. Some will retire. Some won't. Some will semiretire. Still others will retire for a time, then work again or devote themselves to public service.
However boomers decide to spend their "golden years," their numbers are vast, and there will be winners and losers in the competition for their dollars. The winners will be ones who keep an ear to the ground and stay tuned to what boomers do — and how they do their boating — as they grow older.
"It's going to be a very competitive environment," says Dr. Richard Curtin, director of consumer surveys at the University of Michigan and author of a 2004 study on the impact of the "boomer bubble" on future demand for pleasure boats. "When you look at the size of the baby-boom generation and the size of their discretionary income, that really is the big prize that everyone has their eyes on." Boatbuilders, motor home manufacturers, travel agents, second-home builders — they all want a piece of the boomer retirement dollar.
One of Curtin's key findings is that older people are into boat ownership more than younger ones — no surprise since they usually have more leisure time and discretionary income. Peak boat ownership years are in the 50s and 60s. That means the average age of boat owners will increase as the wave of boomers enter their 50s and 60s, and that builders will have to get in synch with the needs and expectations of the older buyer. "You either do that and attract an older boater or you give up an important market share [26 percent of the population]," Curtin says. "As people age, they get less able, but that doesn't change their willingness to boat. It just changes their ability to do it."
Manufacturers of personal watercraft, ski boats and sportboats — the "fun boats" that attract a younger enthusiast — face tough times for the next 15 years as the population ages, Curtin says. But there will be growth opportunities for builders of higher-end boats and those who keep a less-nimble customer in mind. Curtin says builders can woo older buyers with boats that are easy to use — easy to get into and out of, to walk through without clumsy steps or ladders to maneuver. Graying buyers want designs that incorporate safety, comfort and convenience, and they want to deal with companies that deliver good service, he says. And with waterfront becoming scarce, owners need a nice place to store a boat, too. These are the fundamentals.
Some in the industry already have taken this to heart and have begun positioning themselves for the tsunami. Bob Johnstone, co-founder of J/Boats, of Newport, R.I., one of the great success stories in performance-sailboat building, started a new company, mJm Yachts, to market his latest boat for boomers. It's not a sailboat but a traditional New England-style powerboat (www.mjmyachts.com).
Johnstone says his 33-year career building and marketing boats has shadowed the changing tastes of the boomer. From his start selling Windsurfers for Hoyle Schweitzer, Johnstone has ridden the boomer wave. A passionate sailor and sailboat marketer, he migrated from Windsurfer to AMF Alcort, where he promoted its Sunfish brand. Then, in 1977, he founded J/Boats with his brother, Rod, and developed a sailboat line ranging from the ubiquitous J/24 racer/daysailer to a 50-foot racer/
cruiser. Johnstone says his designs tracked the boomer progression from small dayboats and raceboats to big family racer/cruisers.
Twelve years ago, Johnstone, who is now 75, and his wife, Mary, 74, an Episcopal vicar, eased out of sail into power and downsized to a Dyer 29. He believes boomers (both powerboaters and sailors) will want to do the same in growing numbers. They're going to want to buy a smaller, comfortable, stylish, high-end, easy-to-run, easy-to-maintain and — as fuel prices skyrocket — efficient powerboat. That's mJm's stock-in-trade. The company — its initials stand for "Mary Johnstone's Motorboat" — markets a 29-, 34- and 40-footer with an older buyer in mind, one who wants to be able to comfortably single- or double-hand the boat.
"You can explain just about every trend in boating [in recent years] by where these people [the boomers] were in their age cycle," says Johnstone.
Johnstone offers the two smaller models with a single engine to save on fuel and bow thrusters for easy maneuvering. The 40-footer — due out in November — comes with joystick-controlled, fuel-saving twin Volvo Penta IPS or Cummins MerCruiser Zeus pod drives for "fingertip" control. Some models have a transom door that opens onto the swim platform. Passengers board and debark through 30-inch-wide, wheelchair-accessible, side-opening doors on both sides of the cockpit.
The pilothouse and cockpit are on one level — no steps — and the hull is constructed of a high-tech Kevlar and E-glass composite that lends strength and saves weight, again for fuel efficiency. The cockpit is roomy for socializing and can be enclosed and temperature-controlled. Styling is traditional, and the two-cabin interior is comfortable, with plenty of handrails throughout.
The boats aren't cheap — $850,000 for the 40-footer and $340,000 for the 29 — but Johnstone says it should be very affordable for someone downsizing from a larger boat.
"If you retire in your mid-50s or 60s, you may want to get a trawler and do some exploring," Johnstone says. The mJm may come later. "People coming down from bigger boats expect a certain amount of comfort," he says, and are willing to pay for it. "And they can afford a piece of art. They want a good-looking boat."
Grady-White Boats, of Greenville, N.C., which builds high-end family/fishing boats, also has been riding the boomer wave and plans to keep riding it into the baby boomers' retirement years, says Joey Weller, the company's vice president of marketing and sales (www.gradywhite.com). Weller says Grady keeps tucked into the wave's curl by listening and finding more ways to listen to its customers.
Winner of J.D. Power and Associates' customer satisfaction awards in coastal fishing boats for six of the last seven years, Grady responds to what its customers tell the company. When middle-age boomers in the 1990s asked for more "creature features" on its fishing machines — a more comfortable cabin and seating — Grady delivered a more comfortable, more "family-friendly" boat. Now it offers an express model that is tricked out for fishing but also has three berths, a 96-square-foot cockpit, and plush surround-seating at the helm, with a folding table and two seats to starboard. It's a more sociable boat and more accessible and manageable with a transom door, bow-thruster and hydraulic power-assist steering.
Weller says Gradys also have other basic features attractive to an aging buyer — a soft-riding C. Raymond Hunt-designed hull, low maintenance and high resale value. It's a boat "you can pass down to the kids," he says.
Some work, some play
When boomers will be ready to buy their unretirement boats is the big question. Patterns of retirement are changing. Baby boomers expect to work longer than their parents, suggesting a reversal of the century-long trend toward earlier retirement, according to the University of Michigan Health and Retirement Study done every two years. Compared to 1992, a substantially larger proportion of people (around 40 percent) in their early to mid-50s who were surveyed in 2004 expected to work full time after age 65. That expectation of a later retirement may be even greater now with business activity slow and stock prices low.
"If we go back 10 years ago, when everyone thought the financial boom times were never going to end, people were going to be retired by 55," says Bentley Collins, vice president of marketing and sales for Sabre Yachts, the South Casco, Maine, builder of high-end sailing and Down East-style power yachts (www.sabreyachts.com). Many did retire, and that was good for Sabre's business. "But people are in a bit of a holding pattern right now," Collins says.
Many who had hoped to be retired by now aren't. And after looking at their stock portfolios and anticipating $5-a-gallon fuel, they may be downsizing their dream boat, as well, Collins says. A buyer who was eyeing a $350,000 Sabre 34 might now be looking at a $265,000 Back Cove 33, a less-expensive power cruiser built by a sister company (www.backcoveyachts.com). Powered by one 380-hp Yanmar diesel, the 33 gets almost 5 miles per gallon at 8.5 knots and might be a little easier to swing on a retirement budget.
Not all who plan to work longer will do it because they have to. Many successful businessmen and high-end professionals buy their Grand Banks yachts at age 50 or 55 so they can begin "throttling back" at work and enjoy their families and grandchildren on board, says David Hensel, the builder's marketing director. But that doesn't mean they are ready to quit working anytime soon.
"Retirement age isn't 65 anymore," Hensel says. "Baby boomers aren't slowing down yet." They don't want to. That means many are running their businesses or offices from their yachts as they cruise, which is feasible now with satellite and cellular communications and WiFi Internet access.
If an owner still is working or is semiretired, that likely will influence his or her choice of power options. Hensel says a Grand Banks with larger engines and a semidisplacement or modified-vee hull makes good time and good sense for an owner who has to get back to the office. He says these "trawler-type" yachts offer flexibility to customers who "still have ties to their work or business and have some time constraints." They also are attractive to retirees who look forward to cruising with their children and grandchildren and must keep to a schedule to get family home on time. So-called fast trawlers can zoom yet still deliver reasonable fuel-efficiency at slower speeds, Hensel says.
Like mJm, Grand Banks is introducing a new model this summer, the 41 Heritage EU, with joystick and Cummins MerCruiser Zeus pod drives (www.grandbanks.com). "The joystick gives you pinpoint control and station-keeping ability," Hensel says. "A wife can take over this boat and drive it, it's such an intuitive system to use."
Boomers are open to new technology, says Sabre's Collins. Starting with radio, growing up with television, learning to use computers, messing with iPods and Blackberries now, boomers are willing to embrace change. "Technology is selling," Collins says. "I'm a marketing professional. I've found that if you give them technology, they're willing to try it. You can make boating more accessible to more people through technology."
Whether it's joysticks, pod drives, electronic charts, VHF digital selective calling, collision avoidance technology (AIS), WiFi, e-mail or the Internet, the technology makes boating easier and more convenient, and enables boaters to keep in touch with family and business. Boomers love it. They use it. Many can afford it.
The journey into high technology is far from over. Like self-parking cars, sooner or later we'll see boats that dock themselves. Manufacturers are working on it. n
Future in Flux
Green marketing, recycling
Energy-efficient lights, environmentally friendly bottom paint, more fuel-efficient propulsion, and lighter, stiffer hulls are just a few indicators that point to boating's new color. Marinas, boatyards, manufacturers, retailers and service providers all are spending top dollar to affix a "green" label to their goods and services. What used to be considered a personal virtue is now a vital part of the boating business, which relies on clean water and air like many other leisure industries.
But going green doesn't necessarily require giant leaps; it can happen in a series of small steps. Products that help reduce the carbon footprint of boaters include solar panels, wind generators, energy-efficient LEDs, biodegradable cleaning products, electric outboards, copper-free antifouling (Interlux Pacifica, Pettit Vivid Free) and long-lasting tools that stay out of the landfill. Festool, for example, makes high-end electric tools that are cherished by craftsmen for their longevity and the green shadow they cast, because fewer replacements mean less waste.
Service evolution
Boats have always needed yards that launch, haul and service them. The difference now? In a service economy, where people tend to have more money than time, do-it-yourself is going out of style, so more boat owners pay professionals to tend to their toys. With boats becoming bigger and more complex, that's often the only choice. But boatyards are changing, too, becoming bigger and vertically integrated so they can offer more specialized services. Prices are on the increase ($50 to $100 per hour, depending on the job) because the cost of doing business is going up. Tighter environmental regulations require clean sanding, air filtration and complex management of a yard's waste streams, from paint chips to engine oil to storm runoff.
Other challenges for boatyards include higher taxes and zoning laws that favor residential and resort-type waterfront developments. As a result, consolidation is taking place. Smaller operations sell out to bigger ones or to developers, because they are short on capital to make necessary improvements or can't grow their businesses to remain competitive. Last but not least, boatyard managers are grappling with personnel shortages, trying to find, educate and retain quality workers and prevent them from getting lured away by better-paying jobs. The evolution of the boatyard from a predominantly small mom-and-pop business to a large, sophisticated, full-service operation is expected to continue.
More power, more options
The demand shock that has pushed prices at the fuel dock to record levels — and tighter environmental regulations — has brought about more efficient engines, such as direct-injection 2-stroke outboards and 4-strokes that are cleaner, more powerful and more reliable than the old carbureted 2-strokes. Common rail diesels with sophisticated electronics that allow engines to operate at lower loads are cost-effective solutions available now. Supposedly "sexier" concepts like diesel-electric hybrids, battery power and fuel-cell
systems are still being developed to make them more
appealing and affordable for mainstream use. Diesel power also could show up in outboards if the technology finds enough backing from commercial builders.
But fuel efficiency is only one aspect of innovation. The others are convenience and performance. New pod drive systems like Cummins MerCruiser's Zeus and Volvo Penta's IPS boost performance and maneuverability and are rapidly gaining acceptance with builders and consumers alike. Another game-changing innovation is MerCruiser's Axius system, which uses sophisticated hydraulic and electronic technology to control independently articulating sterndrives for simple, intuitive joystick docking and maneuvering. In this segment of the market, the future is now.
New-age fuel
The best way to insulate your wallet from high fuel bills is to burn less of it. That doesn't mean all boaters will become kayakers, but those who continue to rely on some sort of internal combustion now must understand new types of fuel. Biodiesel, a cleaner-burning brethren to the crude oil derivative, does the trick for some, but it is difficult to come by, except for rapeseed and soybean farmers or owners of restaurants that produce cooking grease, which can be used as a source.
The fuel additive MTBE, a known carcinogen, was found to contaminate ground water, so it's been replaced by ethanol. While that seems to work fine in cars, ethanol does not agree with older boats and their fiberglass gas tanks, which can deteriorate when exposed to the additive, leading to clogged fuel lines, mucked-up engines and leaky tanks. Perhaps of greater concern is phase separation, which occurs when ethanol absorbs water and drops out of the fuel, causing a layer of sludge and/or water to form at the bottom of the fuel tank. This mixture can get sucked into fuel lines and cause engine problems. The solution for now: monitor your fuel system closely, carry spare filters and use a quality fuel/water separator. The fuel story isn't over yet.
Many manufacturers of luxury goods have followed the trail of cheap labor to China, hoping to preserve both profits and product quality. Boats are no different. Megayachts, trawlers, sailboats, runabouts and rigid bottom inflatables already are manufactured there. While the marine industry is waiting for China to become a consumer market (with a boost from this summer's Olympic sailing events in Qingdao), the fact is it remains a place where boats are being built for export. Prominent companies like Nordhavn, Marlow Yachts and Mercury have opened manufacturing facilities in China, and many others are following, lured by the low cost of labor and materials.
But despite China's sustained double-digit economic growth over the last decade and the acceptance of boats that are built there, it is not all smooth sailing. Pollution, rising energy costs, inflation, toy recalls because of lead content and a government that is quick to crack down on political dissent while tolerating questionable labor practices have all dealt setbacks to the "Made in China" label. In many ways, China remains an enigma, a place where anything's possible but nothing is a sure bet.
Lighter, faster, safer
Boats are better than they were five, 10 or 20 years ago because of modern design technologies that include tank testing, velocity prediction programs and finite element analysis. They have benefited from better materials, ranging from resins to fabrics to cores, as well as modern building techniques, such as resin infusion and vacuum-bagging or closed-mold lamination. That means the customer is a winner in more ways than one: lighter, stronger boats that are faster, safer and more fuel-efficient. That trend should continue.
There are many different ways to build boats, and no technology is the killer application. One-offs or custom-built boats might be perfect candidates for traditional building materials, such as wood, or space-age stuff, such as preimpregnated carbon composites that have to be baked in an autoclave. What's best depends on purpose and budget. Traditional open-mold construction with hand-laid fiberglass is still going strong for many production boats, while small and robust dinghies are increasingly made from rotomolded or thermoformed plastic.
While boat and engine quality will continue to improve with advancements in materials, engineering and building techniques, it is incumbent on the consumer to buy from a reputable builder that understands the advantages and limitations of the materials and the construction methods employed.
After a couple relatively quiet years, it is easy to forget 2004 and 2005, when seven named hurricanes ripped across Florida and Katrina made landfall near New Orleans. But make no mistake: We are only a dozen years or so into a 25- to 40-year cycle of increased hurricane activity. This means the recreational boating industry should brace for more years of hurricane-related damages, which in 2005 alone added up to approximately $1 billion.
One countermeasure is retrofitting older marinas to withstand winds of 140 mph or more with extra-robust dry stack buildings, wave attenuators, breakwaters and dock pilings that can handle large surges. However, boaters already are paying bumped-up boat insurance rates in the hurricane belt because of increased storm activity, and now they face the prospect of higher slip fees and club membership dues to help pay for marina improvements. Alternatively, they could store their boats in safer inland locations, trading the convenience of quick ocean access for a higher safety margin. Bottom line: there's no substitute for preparation, prudence and vigilance on the part of boat owners living in active storm zones.
Going — and staying — green
Pump it, don't dump it. The designation of large areas as no-discharge zones requires boaters to do their share to keep the water clean while they brace for the (proposed) construction of controversial liquefied natural gas terminals on Long Island Sound, Narragansett Bay and near the mouth of the Columbia River in Oregon. If built, these facilities would impose safety corridors on recreational boating traffic on top of the existing security zones already in place around Navy vessels and military or commercial installations on shore. No less controversial is the proposed Cape Wind project that calls for 130 turbine towers — each 417 feet tall — to be installed in a 24-square-mile area on Nantucket Sound, where recreational boat traffic would face restrictions.
In places that are shared by boaters and endangered marine mammals, authorities issued speed limits and rerouted shipping lanes to reduce the risk of boat strikes on manatees and migrating whales. A different calamity is the collapse of the salmon stock on the West Coast, which might force the cancellation of the 2008 salmon season from Mexico to the northern border of Oregon, impacting not only commercial fishing but the boating habits of recreational anglers. Expect more resource conflicts in the coming years in both coastal and offshore waters.
All-purpose marinas
Using more recycled, renewable and energy-conserving building techniques and adding amenities are two big changes sweeping through the marina business. In an effort to generate more revenue, marinas leave behind the image of boat parking lots by embracing the concept of "green" and the cachet of resorts with hotels, yacht clubs, restaurants, pools, bars, shops, spas and condos that include a boat dock (aka dockominiums).
Another way to make marinas more attractive is integration with a working waterfront, which has been successful at Pier 39 in San Francisco, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront in Cape Town, South Africa, and many other places around the world. The caveat: Slips for Joe Q. Boater, who only wants to dock a center console, are becoming scarce. Hence, more owners are keeping their smaller boats on a trailer, which they park at the curb or under the apple tree in their back yards.
Other options are dry-storage lots or putting the vessel in a dry stack, which is becoming popular in crowded areas like South Florida. Some boaters bite the bullet and rent a larger and more expensive slip, while others hold out hope that marinas will offer more swing-mooring pontoons that can accommodate more small boats.
Finding a way to the water
While the number of vessels in top boating states like Florida, Michigan and California is expected to grow, the number of places to launch or dock them is not. Marinas lose slips to more lucrative residential developments. Public launch ramps that fall into disrepair are rendered dangerous, even useless. Parking is tight at popular launch ramps, especially during peak boating times and on long weekends. While state and federal grants for the improvement of boating infrastructure are available, they often come with strings attached, such as being limited to facilities for transient, non-trailer recreational vessels.
Supporters are developing a multitiered approach to ensure water access. They're educating the public and government officials about the importance of no-loss policies, strengthening the Coastal Zone Management Act, supporting the proposed Working Waterfront Preservation Act of 2007, asking the Army Corps of Engineers to consider recreational boating needs for dredging projects, creating tax breaks and other economic incentives for water-dependent businesses and land acquisition programs, and taking clean marina programs national.
A bright spot: the federal Wallop-Breaux fund provides about $500 million a year in federal motorboat fuel taxes to such projects as sportfish restoration and boating access.
Organizations such as the National Marine Manufacturers Association and the American Sportfishing Association and companies such as Brunswick are actively cooperating with municipalities, state governments and marina owners to help preserve or expand boating access. This is one issue that is not going away. n
Boating is down because there are too many ups: gas prices, slip fees, yard bills, insurance rates.
"Enough already" is the motto of the optimists, who believe boating could grow at a healthy clip if only the associated costs could be shared and the hassles outsourced. Go when you want, where you want. Spend a joyful day on the water, get back, tie up and walk away. Let someone else take care of the chores. Welcome to fractional yachting.
Different companies offer different variations of the concept. Some provide members with varying levels of access to a vessel in a location of their choice. Others might operate on a franchise basis. Either they own boats and rent them out to program members, or they sell boats and lease them back from private owners and add shareholders who pay an annual fee for guaranteed usage but without the ownership option.
A third variation caters to people who want to own a boat, just not all of it. An example of this is Beneteau Fractional Yachting, which was launched last fall. Four individuals buy a Beneteau sailing or power yacht outright to share. Scheduling is handled on a dedicated Web site, and a concierge service handles maintenance and repairs through authorized dealers. Service charges are billed to the owners' credit cards and can be audited online. Even the application for financing can be filed on the Internet.
"Fractional boating opens the possibility for boat ownership to a much broader demographic," says Grant Headifen, who co-founded SailTime and now contracts with Beneteau to run its fractional program through his company, Nautic 7. "There are potentially many more people who would embrace boating if they can get in with a 25-percent stake instead of becoming full owners."
Beneteau promotes fractional yachting as a way of easing into boating for newcomers who like the sport but might not be fully aware of the responsibilities. Headifen is banking on the Internet and modern communications technology to make fractional work. Before leaving the dock, the skipper must complete an online checklist and send it back to Nautic 7 via on-board PDA, indicating the condition of the boat. If someone constantly leaves behind a mess or returns the boat dinged up, the next operator will report it.
"By signing the owners' contract, you agree to pay a fine for repeated violations, and that money goes into the boat's kitty," Headifen says. "Skippers who cause damage pay the insurance deductible. But generally, people are careful because they know that we know what's going on with the boat."
Nautic 7 also offers online sailing courses for skippers and crewmembers at www.nauticed .org. They cost $99 and $59, respectively, and are mandatory for participants in the program. The practical test on the water is taken in the presence of a Coast Guard-licensed captain, according to Headifen.
Boston-based Barton & Gray started out by offering fractional ownership of Hinckley Picnic Boats in Nantucket, Mass., but has switched to the club philosophy. Membership in the Mariner's Club includes access to boats in Nantucket, Newport, R.I., Greenwich, Conn., and Naples and Palm Beach Fla. "At the $15,000 Ensign level, our Mariner's Card is good for eight trips in any location," says Tim Barton, the company president. "Fractional ownership takes a multiyear commitment, while club membership is for one year. It's more flexible, which is what our customers like."
At Etap Charter Lease, based in Stamford, Conn., seven shareholders pay a flat annual fee (around $6,500) to use a privately owned Etap 37 for two weeks in one season. "It is a compelling model for owners who don't use their boat full time and for individuals who don't need or want ownership," says Ludwig Hoogstoel of Etap USA, who runs the program. A calculation on the company Web site shows a cost of $429 per day to sail an Etap 37 as a shareholder versus $2,245 for the same boat if it is owned outright by a single individual, assuming 6 percent interest on a 20-year loan.
"Our focus is on membership, not necessarily on ownership," says Paula Nelson, who owns the SailTime franchise in Annapolis, Md. Founded in 2001, SailTime has approximately 1,000 members and operates 140 boats in the United States, United Kingdom, France, The Netherlands, Canada and Puerto Rico. Members receive a guaranteed usage of seven times a month, and prices depend on location and vessel size. A Hunter 45 DS, for example, docked in Annapolis costs around $12,000 per member per year. SailTime also offers powerboats.
Ian Treiback of WindPath in Stamford, Conn., oversees 30 boats (12 under private ownership) in 13 U.S. locations and 200 members who get to use Catalina sailing yachts and Back Cove powerboats. "We feel that our selection balances the popular with the slightly more exclusive tastes," says Treiback, who points out the importance of simple and reliable equipment that performs well. WindPath charges a one-time fee for training and initiation, and a monthly or annual fee for boat usage. Prices depend on vessel size.
"People today have many competing interests and fractional boating accommodates this lifestyle," says Nelson. "You go boating when you want, hassle-free. You won't feel guilty about not using your boat enough or using too often, thus neglecting other commitments."
Barton thinks that the time for fractional yachting has arrived. "Fractional ownership has come a long way, but now it is absolutely accepted for big-ticket items," he says. "It's happened with luxury vacation homes and it's happened with jets. I see no reason why it shouldn't work for yachting."
Life on their terms- Baby Boomers Part 2
Cruise past the gas dock- Baby Boomers Part 2
A learning curve to cruising-Baby Boomers Part 2
Green beneath the skin- Baby Boomers Part 2
Gulf Stream Rescue Part 1
Careers on the water
The Real Bob Bitchin
A first-time boatbuilder dives right in


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Ranveer Singh gets emotional on the death of Grammy Award winning rapper Coolio
New Delhi. Ranveer Singh, who is known for his unusual style in Bollywood, always remains in the headlines. This time Ranveer Singh shared a photo paying tribute to the death of Grammy winning rapper Coolio. Sharing the story on his Instagram account, he shared a picture of Coolio with Gangsta Paradise background song which also had a red heart and a folded hand emoji.
Apart from Gangsta Paradise, Grammy winning rapper Coolio has sung great hits like Fantastic Voyage, See You When You There. His famous song Gangsta Paradise has been viewed more than 106 crore times on YouTube. Rapper Coolio, born in 1963, has died at the age of 59 in Los Angeles, California. Confirming the news, Variety said that Coolio passed away on Wednesday afternoon. According to the report, Coolio died when he had gone to his friend's house.
Amidst all these reports, there has also been news of a rift between Ranveer and Deepika, however, dismissing all these rumours, Ranveer spoke about his good relationship with Deepika during a recent event. He said that it has been ten years since we both met. We have been together since 2012 and now 2022 has come. Let us tell you that these two met on the sets of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's film 'Ram Leela'. After which both of them got married in the year 2018 after dating each other for 6 years and now both have been married for four years. This beautiful couple was seen together on the big screen in blockbuster films like 'Padmaavat', '83' and 'Bajirao Mastani'.
Be the first to read breaking news in Hindi News18 Hindi| Today's latest news, live news updates, read the most reliable Hindi news website News18 Hindi|
Tags: Bollywood news, Ranveer Singh
देखें: 'देवियों और सज्जनों' में नव्या स्वामी ने रविकृष्ण को किया प्रपोज; नेटिज़न्स इसे 'टीआरपी स्टंट' कहते हैं
बायर्न म्यूनिख बनाम बायर लीवरकुसेन, बुंडेसलीगा: लाइव टेलीकास्ट कब और कहां देखना है, लाइव स्ट्रीमिंग


Abbey CofE Academy (NN11 4GD) 240 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
Ainthorpe Primary School (HU5 5EB) 420 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
Bobby Moore Academy (E20 2AE) 1560 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
Briar Hill Primary School (NN4 8SW) 472 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
Bringhurst Primary School (LE16 8RH) 182 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
Cedar Road Primary School (NN3 2JF) 421 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
Charles Read Academy (NG33 4NT) 275 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
Charnwood College (LE11 4SQ) 1442 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
Eastfield Academy (NN3 2RJ) 239 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
Edward Heneage Primary Academy (DN32 9HL) 315 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
Fairfield Academy (DN33 3AE) 357 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
Falconer's Hill Academy (NN11 0QF) 240 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
Greenfields Primary School and Nursery (NN15 6HY) 409 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
Havelock Academy (DN32 8JH) 1100 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
Hogsthorpe Primary Academy (PE24 5PT) 70 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
Humberston Academy (DN36 4TF) 862 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
Ingoldsby Academy (NG33 4HA) 110 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
King Edward VI Academy (PE23 5EW) 528 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
Kings Heath Primary Academy (NN5 7LN) 446 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
Lodge Park Academy (NN17 2JH) 1230 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
Malcolm Arnold Academy (NN2 6JW) 1450 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
Malcolm Arnold Preparatory School (NN2 6JW) 420 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
Newnham Primary School (NN11 3HG) 110 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
Quay Academy (YO16 4LB) 420 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
Rockingham Primary School (NN17 1AJ) 282 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
Skegness Grammar School (PE25 2QS) 898 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
The Arbours Primary Academy (NN3 3QF) 420 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
The Barnes Wallis Academy (LN4 4PN) 560 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
The Eresby School, Spilsby (PE23 5HU) 78 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
Thomas Hinderwell Primary Academy (YO12 4HF) 310 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
Thomas Middlecott Academy (PE20 1JS) 540 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
Welton Church of England Academy (NN11 2JZ) 140 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .
Wold Academy (HU5 5QG) 630 pupils and paying 12.8 p/kWh estimated .


Scientists at Tokyo University have come to the conclusion that global warming contributes to reduced immunity of animals and humans and make them more vulnerable to various viral infections and other pathogens. Article researchers published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
In the experiment, scientists placed healthy female mice in the chamber with cold air (4 degree Celsius), air at room temperature (22 degrees) and hot air (36 degrees). On the eighth day of stay in the chambers the animals were infected with influenza virus strain A/PR8.
Within seven days of being in high temperatures, the rodents ate little and lost 10 percent of initial body weight. In addition, it was found that they significantly decreased the number produced in the lungs of cytotoxic T lymphocytes CD8+ T specific for the virus, as well as the amount of IgG antibodies.
High temperatures prevented the development of proinflammatory molecules cytokines and activation inflammasomes — protein complexes that trigger the inflammatory response. On the seventh day of infection the content of virus in the lungs remained high. Also in mice exposed to hot air, there was an increase in the lungs of autophagy — the process of destruction of unnecessary or damaged components of cells.
In rodents maintained at room temperature, artificial activation of autophagy reduced ability to fight infection. However, injection of glucose and short-chain fatty acids restored the violated because of the high temperature activity of the immune system.


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Uncategories Is India heading towards a revolution?
Is India heading towards a revolution?
HARISH MONGA February 24, 2017
HARISH MONGA
Solution to the problems of our country does not lie within the existing system but it now lies outside the existing system
Seven decades back when India got freedom but the pursuit of freedom is still not over. While we are preparing for celebration of our freedom by commemorating the sacrifices of our freedom fighters and the prosperity India has achieved over the last these years but many goals are yet to be achieved as the pursuit for freedom and liberty is a never ending one. We all know that it took two centuries to overthrow an imperialist regime and India has travelled a long way since August 15, 1947 in terms of social and economic growth. All this I could realize only after going through the history and observed after I attained maturity as I am 1950 born.
The Freedom House, in a world with wavering democracy and where freedom is under threat, India is categorized as a free country with an overall score of 77 (0=worst, 100=best) and on a scale of 1-7 (1=most free, 7 =least free) political rights scored 2 points, civil liberties got 3 and overall freedom rating of 2.5. In the same report, developed nations like Finland, Norway, Sweden scored a perfect 100.
Not just India, press freedom has declined globally to its lowest point in the last 12 years in 2015, as per Freedom House and this fall is majorly due to the rise in terrorist forces, and political-criminal powers trying to silence the media in a broader struggle for power.
There had been many reforms during this seven decades and latest one in terms of regulatory framework for ease of digital access and declining detention for online speech but the increased website blocking and intimidation of internet users has hampered the improving internet freedom. A major positive transformation came last year, when the Supreme Court of India took down the Section 66A of the IT Act, which had led to several arrests for online speech and most notably the case of cartoonist and activist Aseem Trivedi in 2012.
In a democratic system where politicians have to play a major role for the development of the country have spoiled the whole system. Whosoever is in opposition have disrupted the proceedings of the Parliament. I don't hesitate to say that they have looted the country and the recent glaring example is of AIADMK General Secretary VK Sasikala was convicted by the Supreme Court, which set aside the Karnataka High Court verdict acquitting her in the 19-year-old disproportionate assets case, that also involved late Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa. This will definitely discourage others from seeking illegal gains despite the fact that a good number of judiciary too is not free from corruption cases with the involvement of its own law abiding members occupying the high plinths.
Now the question is – Will India be a developed country ? Logics given are – vast geographical area, developed technology, huge man-power. But due to corrupt system and bad intentions of the people, only the strict implementation of the existing laws is lacking which is a big hurdle in the development of our country to come at par with US, Canada, Australia even a small country like Singapore which got freedom after India.
The politicians in India are playing with the politics who divide people on the lines of caste and religion to create their vote bank and maintain their vested interests at any cost without bothering for the common man.
While the Bhartiya Janata Party is working on religious line while other parties on caste lines and there is no difference between the working of the political parties. It is so sad for such a vast country that a good number of politicians are facing criminal charges and out judiciary system is such it takes decades to decide the case and in the meantime, they continue to enjoy the political status by contesting elections either in power or while sitting in the opposition.
Talking about the problems the country is facing, the prices of daily use items are shooting up to the roof, unemployment is increasing and it is all heading towards crisis.
Take the example of a building, which can be renovated while another building which is so dilapidated and you have to demolish it to ground zero and reconstruct it. Meaning thereby, there is no construction without destruction.
In such a scenario, there is a need to destroy the system which is outdated. Do we have a Parliament which hardly does its business for the growth of the country for full term? Shouting, screaming, disrupting the proceedings shows the Parliament is finished as it is never run smoothly in the budget, winter or monsoon sessions.
Frankly speaking, it looks that everything which also include judiciary, bureaucracy - has collapsed in the system and it is hollow now, which can only be tested with any of the 'ism' – capitalism, socialism, and communism. We have to create a system where the standard of living of people keep raising which only comes through the revolution. Therefore, the solution to the problem of our country does not lie within the existing system but it lies outside the existing system. The existing system has to be destroyed as it does not allow progress as we have seen even after seven decades of our freedom. When the small countries in the world can progress, India too can which a big think-tank and resources and only requirement is to use it in the right perspective is the real skill, which India is lacking so far.
Both communism and corruption both are dangerous for the country as they are complimentary to each other. India is a country of great diversity with so many castes, religions, languages and ethnic groups and only way to keep united and head towards progress is secularism and giving equal respect to everybody. No doubt, communalism, casteism and corruption is enemy of our nation. Every tough measure has to be taken which is not possible within the existing system and French like revolution is need of the hour as in normal course, we cannot bring reforms among the politicians they are in cognizable like leopard cannot change the spot, in normal course. The leaders don't have genuine love for their country because they are concerned with their vote banks for which they spread hatred, polarize people and there is need to bring complete change in their nature.
When I feel that a storm is brewing among India's most downtrodden community fed up from the existing system, the only hope now looks to be a revolution and it could be possible only with tough hands by remaining within the existing system which cannot be possible without the contribution and cooperation right from the top brass to the ground level. Over to the law-makers!
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Otwarte mistrzostwa świata par kobiet w brydżu sportowym – Otwarte mistrzostwa świata par w kategorii kobiet w brydżu sportowym. W zawodach tych startować mogą kobiety z różnych krajów bez ograniczeń na liczbę zawodniczek z poszczególnych federacji. Zawody odbywają się w co 4 lata w latach parzystych nieprzestępnych.

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 Brydż sportowy
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 Otwarte mistrzostwa świata w brydżu sportowym
Otwarte mistrzostwa świata par kobiet w brydżu sportowym
Mistrzostwa świata w sporcie


What is the difference between the EPIC Course and the ELITE Course?
The EPIC Course and ELITE Course are two completely separate courses. The EPIC Course is longer, has more obstacles, offers different difficulty level options at each obstacle, and Athletes are released in group waves. The ELITE Course is an optional course intended for competitive athletes to complete after they have finished the EPIC Course competitive waves. The ELITE Course is much shorter, has approximately 10 strength challenges incorporating heavier weights, barbells, kettlebells, Atlas Stones, and a truck pull. Athletes run through the ELITE Course individually with a judge and must complete the course within a certain amount of time.


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Why the 'Rapunzel Syndrome' Can Be Deadly
Written by Constance Gustke — Updated on October 6, 2017
The condition led to the death of a 16-year-old girl in the United Kingdom. Here are some of the symptoms and treatments for trichophagia.
Rapunzel may be a fictional character with long, flowing locks.
But Rapunzel syndrome, a rare psychiatric condition where people eat their own hair, is all too real — and potentially deadly.
Earlier this month, a 16-year-old student in the United Kingdom died after ingesting her hair over several years.
The behavior, caused by a medical condition, eventually created an infected hairball in her stomach.
Ultimately, a burst ulcer shut down the girl's vital organs.
This syndrome is related to hair-pulling disorder, also known as trichotillomania.
The condition mainly affects girls over the age of 12, Dr. Katharine Phillips, a professor of psychiatry and human behavior at the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University who also has a private psychiatry practice in New York City, told Healthline.
And about 10 to 20 percent of those individuals end up eating their hair, a condition known as trichophagia.
But the medical complications can be deadly, Phillips added.
Over time, a hairball can seriously damage the body by causing ulcers or fatally blocking the intestinal tract.
Hair isn't biodegradable, Dr. Runjhun Misra, an internal medicine specialist in Oakland, California, told Healthline.
For example, when Egyptian mummies are discovered, their hair is usually intact. Likewise, hair balls can sit in the intestines, getting bigger and leading to obstruction, Misra noted.
"There's a slow buildup of hair over time," she said. "You wouldn't even be aware of it."
Condition is a repetitive behavior
Hair pulling fits into a broader basket of body-focused repetitive behaviors, such as lip chewing and nail biting, say experts.
With the hair-pulling version, there's a compulsion to pull out body hair of all kinds.
The ailment is listed in the handbook used by psychiatrists, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, as being part of obsessive-compulsive disorders.
To qualify as a disorder, the behavior must cause distress and impair thinking, Phillips said. And there's a broad range of severity.
No one really knows what exactly causes Rapunzel syndrome, though. And people aren't even aware that they're eating their hair, says Phillips.
Also, the syndrome is shrouded in shame and silence. Because of this, it can go undetected for years.
Eating hair at night
Suzanne Mouton-Odum, director of Psychology Houston and a clinical assistant professor at Baylor College of Medicine, has also run into the syndrome.
One patient, a 16-year-old girl, was pulling her hair and eating it at night, she told Healthline.
The girl's parents were noticing that her hair was disappearing but couldn't find it anywhere.
The girl ended up getting a gastrointestinal test. Sure enough, she was pulling out and eating her hair, said Mouton-Odum, as a way to sleep better.
"Pulling hair is self-soothing," she explained. "Most people never tell anyone. They think they're the only person on Earth who does this."
An invisible condition
Since Rapunzel syndrome is largely invisible to others, clues can be hard to come by.
But some of the physical tip-offs as the syndrome worsens include abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, according to studies.
Earlier clues may include wearing scarves or wigs to hide hair loss or having bald patches.
Parents are often the first ones to notice that something's amiss. They shouldn't be frustrated or panicked about it, though, said Mouton-Odum.
"Sometimes, it's harder for the parents than the kids," she added. "But they should accept that it's a way to soothe the nervous system."
It's also not a form of self-mutilation, she emphasized.
Behavioral treatments like habit-reversal training can also be effective, said Phillips.
Awareness training, where patients monitor their hair pulling, notice triggers, and write them down, is one part of the treatment.
"Sometimes this is enough to reduce the behavior," she said.
Oftentimes, just letting children know that they can die from ingesting hair stops it, says Mouton-Odum.
Next, patients can use stimulus control, where they try to stop behaviors by avoiding triggers. So if someone is pulling their hair while watching a boring show, says Phillips, that can be avoided.
"Boredom is a trigger for some people," she said.
Competitive-response training, where people do physically incompatible actions like making a fist or squeezing a ball instead of pulling out hair, can also work, said Phillips.
"Rapunzel syndrome can cause a low quality of life," she says. "But we have treatments that can help."
The TLC Foundation offers resources for body-focused repetitive behaviors on its website.
Lack of Mental Healthcare for Children Reaches 'Crisis' Level
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Should Schools Screen Kids for Mental Health Problems?
Is Twirling Your Hair as a Habit a Symptom of an Underlying Condition?
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Researchers at the Child Mind Institute say 50 percent of U.S. children will have a diagnosable mental illness, but less than 8 percent will get…
The film "Split" depicts a violent kidnapper with dissociative identity disorder. Experts say it's not an accurate portrayal of people living with the…
By screening for depression, bipolar disorder, and other mental health issues, could schools head off future campus violence?
Medically reviewed by Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, FAANP
People twirl their hair for lots of different reasons. Sometimes, the habit develops in childhood and simply doesn't go away.
"You won't believe this, but I was just on the phone with a customer who was crying because he couldn't assemble his bed frame."
7 Ways We Can Do Better by Suicide Attempt Survivors
We forget, too often, that some of us are on the other side of a suicide attempt and need support.
Dreamwork 101: Your Wide-Awake Guide to Interpreting Dreams
Beginning over a century ago with the work of Sigmund Freud, psychologists have studied dreams to understand what they mean to dreamers. In this…
People-Pleaser? Here Are 5 Ways to Unlearn Your 'Fawn' Response
"Am I coming from a place of self-honor or self-betrayal?"
How to Cope with Impulse Control Issues in Kids and Adults
Medically reviewed by Alexander Klein, PsyD
Impulse control issues can occur in children, teens, and adults, and may be connected to other health conditions.
7 Tips for 'Breaking Up' with Your Therapist
No, you don't need to worry about hurting their feelings.


It's while sharing our concern for abandoned and injured animals, the decision was made to form a shelter for them. And thus came into existence Animal Care Trust (ACT) on 30.03.2000. Today, after 17 years of providing care and shelter to abandoned/sick/stray animals at 'Vatsalya', our home for them, ACT stands as a monument of compassion towards animals. We immensely thank generous donors and public for their constant support and encouragement, for without which it wouldn't have been possible.
ACT is a Registered Charitable Trust.
Recognized by the Animal Welfare Board of India.
Conducts the ABC/ ARV for the Mangalore City Corporation and its activities are acknowledged and recognized by the Mangalore City Corporation.
All donations made to ACT are exempted under section 80 G of the Income Tax Act.


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We've raised £245 to Help Amy to support refugees during the winter period.
As you guys might know, I came to Greece in September to support refugees and to teach them English with a small greek, non-profit NGO called Second Tree. Since being here, I am convinced this NGO does really worthwhile work and provides invaluable and much needed support to refugees. By providing physco-social support and facilitating integration and English lessons, our work ensures that refugees are treated with dignity and offers hope and opportunity in a place where prospects and hope for the future is otherwise bleak.
I am a volunteer here and thanks to donations I have been able to teach English to hundreds of adults and children. I've been able to hear their stories and understand their situations. I've been able to lend a hand and support them through an exceptionally difficult time. If I could afford to, I would volunteer to help them for as long as needed. But of course, this is not plausible for me to do long term so I must do everything I can to help now while I can.
Funds are very low and I would really like to stay here during the Christmas period and be there for the refugees. If I raised £200, I would be able to do this. So if you want to help me help them this Christmas, anything at all that you can afford to donate would really help us out.
Massive, massive thank you in advance!! Also, please do send me your mailing address if you donate, I would love to send you a thank you Christmas card!
Hope this helps towards your target Amy.
So proud of you for doing this amazing work Amy!
Keep fighting the good fight Amy!


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Thornhedge
Author: T. Kingfisher
Available in Digital Audio!
HardcoverDigital Audioe-Book Format
Buy This Book From:
Amazon Barnes & Noble Books-a-Million Bookshop IndieBound Powells Target
From USA Today bestselling author T. Kingfisher, Thornhedge is an original, subversive fairytale about a kind-hearted, toad-shaped heroine, a gentle knight, and a mission...
From USA Today bestselling author T. Kingfisher, Thornhedge is an original, subversive fairytale about a kind-hearted, toad-shaped heroine, a gentle knight, and a mission gone completely sideways.
There's a princess trapped in a tower. This isn't her story.
Meet Toadling. On the day of her birth, she was stolen from her family by the fairies, but she grew up safe and loved in the warm waters of faerieland. Once an adult though, the fae ask a favor of Toadling: return to the human world and offer a blessing of protection to a newborn child. Simple, right?
If only.
Centuries later, a knight approaches a towering wall of brambles, where the thorns are as thick as your arm and as sharp as swords. He's heard there's a curse here that needs breaking, but it's a curse Toadling will do anything to uphold...
Imprint Publisher
"I opened, I devoured. Absolutely delightful and full of charm and truth." —Naomi Novik, New York Times bestselling author of A Deadly Education
"Immensely charming, unexpected, full of heart, I was utterly delighted by this incredibly original retelling of Sleeping Beauty." —Katherine Arden, bestselling author of The Bear and the Nightingale
"Kingfisher never fails to dazzle."—Peter S. Beagle, Hugo-, Nebula-, and Locus-Award winning author of The Last Unicorn
"The way Thornhedge turns all the fairy tales inside out is a sharp-edged delight." —Katherine Addison, author of The Goblin Emperor
"At every turn, Kingfisher subverts familiar fairytale tropes into a fresh, complex, and extremely human story about loneliness, and the protective barriers we put around ourselves." —Sunyi Dean, author of The Book Eaters
"Kingfisher weaves elements of fairy tale, folklore, and history in this beautifully crafted story of loss, endurance, terror, and kindness. Thornhedge is sheer magic from beginning to end!" —Juliet Marillier, author of the Blackthorn & Grim and Warrior Bards series
"Haunting and unusual—a unique retelling of a classic tale!" —Tamora Pierce, New York Times bestselling author of the Tortall series
About the Creators


text:
package org.apache.twill.internal.yarn;

import com.google.common.base.Throwables;
import com.google.common.util.concurrent.AbstractIdleService;
import org.apache.hadoop.conf.Configuration;
import org.apache.hadoop.yarn.api.records.Container;
import org.apache.hadoop.yarn.api.records.ContainerLaunchContext;
import org.apache.hadoop.yarn.api.records.ContainerState;
import org.apache.hadoop.yarn.api.records.ContainerStatus;
import org.apache.hadoop.yarn.client.api.NMClient;
import org.apache.twill.common.Cancellable;
import org.slf4j.Logger;
import org.slf4j.LoggerFactory;

/**
 *
 */
public final class Hadoop21YarnNMClient extends AbstractIdleService implements YarnNMClient {

  private static final Logger LOG = LoggerFactory.getLogger(Hadoop21YarnNMClient.class);

  private final NMClient nmClient;

  public Hadoop21YarnNMClient(Configuration configuration) {
    this.nmClient = NMClient.createNMClient();
    nmClient.init(configuration);
  }

  @Override
  public Cancellable start(YarnContainerInfo containerInfo, YarnLaunchContext launchContext) {
    try {
      Container container = containerInfo.getContainer();
      nmClient.startContainer(container, launchContext.<ContainerLaunchContext>getLaunchContext());
      return new ContainerTerminator(container, nmClient);
    } catch (Exception e) {
      LOG.error("Error in launching process", e);
      throw Throwables.propagate(e);
    }

  }

  @Override
  protected void startUp() throws Exception {
    nmClient.start();
  }

  @Override
  protected void shutDown() throws Exception {
    nmClient.stop();
  }

  private static final class ContainerTerminator implements Cancellable {

    private final Container container;
    private final NMClient nmClient;

    private ContainerTerminator(Container container, NMClient nmClient) {
      this.container = container;
      this.nmClient = nmClient;
    }

    @Override
    public void cancel() {
      LOG.info("Request to stop container {}.", container.getId());

      try {
        nmClient.stopContainer(container.getId(), container.getNodeId());
        boolean completed = false;
        while (!completed) {
          ContainerStatus status = nmClient.getContainerStatus(container.getId(), container.getNodeId());
          LOG.info("Container status: {} {}", status, status.getDiagnostics());

          completed = (status.getState() == ContainerState.COMPLETE);
        }
        LOG.info("Container {} stopped.", container.getId());
      } catch (Exception e) {
        LOG.error("Fail to stop container {}", container.getId(), e);
        throw Throwables.propagate(e);
      }
    }
  }
}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
Sep 16 "The Heather on the Hill" - Brigadoon - Bucolic Bliss
Brigadoon. It is a musical that is considered one of the "greats" from the golden age of musical theatre. When I was growing up, it seemed like every high school and community theatre produced this show (with varying degree of success). Nowadays, it seems as though Brigadoon isn't done quite as often as it used to be. It would be interesting to speculate as to why. Perhaps audiences aren't as enchanted with this show as they used be? Maybe it was a musical for a simpler time? Maybe the stodgy, static film version turns people off to the piece? The story is essentially a romantic fairy tale and its straightforward, falling in love at first sight premise may be too simplistic for those of us living in more romantically complicated world. It's certainly not dated by its content or language. I'm not sure that I agree with those who feel the script needs to be "reworked" for Brigadoon to be revived on Broadway, but maybe I am wrong? So where is our revival of the show about two hunters that happen upon a Scottish town that appears every one-hundred years and who have their lives forever changed by interacting with the town's denizens?
What cannot be denied is that the Lerner and Loewe score for Brigadoon has not dated. The music is some of Loewe's most evocative and certainly his most sweeping and lovely. Lerner's lyrics are not his most distinct or character driven (My Fair Lady would reveal a sharper, more complex Lerner), but his wit and sentiment is at its brightest in Brigadoon. Just as the springy "Almost Like Being in Love" and the lilting "There But For You Go I" capture the urgent, emotional pulse of the piece, "I'll Go Home with Bonnie Jean" and "My Mother's Wedding Day" are infused with folksy humor and a delicious sense of old-world charm.
The song that seems to gets lost in the mix is the pastorally poetic "The Heather on the Hill." When the hunter Tommy strolls and chats with the Scottish lass Fiona, their attraction to each other is hinted at as the song unfolds. The aspects of the countryside surrounding Brigadoon are subtly painted up with gentle brushstrokes of visual imagery, setting the stage for a magical love story. This is what I shall call "bucolic bliss." We feel like we know this place and it inspires warm memories of our childhoods growing up in the country (even if we didn't). We saw this field of heather on some calendar or in some picture book.
What "The Heather on the Hill" accomplishes is two-fold. Yes, it sets up a love story. More importantly, it allows us to see Brigadoon in ways that scenery and costumes cannot achieve. It engages our imagination and lets us fill in the blanks. The best theatre does this. It makes us a collaborator with the piece and, somewhere in front of the upstage shadows and in the sparkling glow of the footlights, WE construct that ideal world out of the ether. Brigadoon still has magic in her. Let's hope we do not have to wait a hundred years for it to appear again.
Please share with me your opinions on Brigadoon and comment below.
Brigadoon, Heather on the Hill, Alan Jay Lerner, Frederick Loewe, Lerner & Loewe, Agnes de Mille, Scotland
Sep 18 Guilty Pleasure Thursday - "The Time Warp" - The Rocky Horror Show
Sep 15 The Top-Ten Films I'd Like to See Made Into Musicals
May 27 Broadway Blip: Brigadoon
Aug 26 "Repent" from On the Twentieth Century - When a character song captures more than just a character
Oct 2 Guilty Pleasure Thursday - Gigi - It's coming to Broadway...again


Sick of the snow storms? So are we! Here's a little reminder that brighter days are ahead!
There's a soundtrack to every season, and spring is a time for uplifting and upbeat songs. Breakups and broken hearts need not apply. The following 10 songs are all worthy of your warm-weather listening.


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The Norwin S. and Elizabeth N. Bean Foundation
In endowing a foundation, Norwin and Elizabeth Bean demonstrated a special concern and affection for the two communities in which they were born and lived. They left a permanent trust, the income from which was to be used to benefit the communities of Manchester and Amherst, New Hampshire. The Norwin S. and Elizabeth N. Bean Foundation was established in 1967 as a private, independent foundation and, consistent with the wishes of the founders, grants are made in the fields of art and humanities, education , environment, health, human services, and public benefit.
The Norwin S. and Elizabeth N. Bean Foundation only awards grants to nonprofit organizations and
public agencies whose work benefits the communities of Manchester and Amherst, New Hampshire.
Annual Report Grants
Bean Foundation Grant
Final Report Form
Educational Mini Grant
Recent Recipients
FAQs News
Norwin S. & Elizabeth N. Bean Foundation
40 Stark Street
KCook@BeanFoundation.org
Photo credit: James E.D. Cook


DESCRIPTION: Wing length 5.25 - 8.5mm. One of those little hoverflies that can be easily overlooked or passed off as a Xylota species. The key is the overall build, the blackish wings, the orange band on the abdomen that covers tergites 2 - 4 and the modified metatarsus of the male's front and middle legs that have an inward protuberance. BEHAVIOUR: Adults fly between herbage and the larvae are probable feeders on ground layer aphids. DISTRIBUTION: Widespread throughout Britain but never found in large numbers. HABITAT: Wetlands, lushly-vegetated water margins, damp meadows and damp woodland rides and clearings. PERIOD: May to October.