A budget isn’t as flashy as crafting catchy slogans or devising viral campaigns, but trust me, it's essential to a thriving marketing strategy. Your budget is the driving force behind staying on course and sidestepping unexpected hurdles.
Success Metrics Begin with a Budget
Your budget is the financial playbook that outlines precisely how much capital you'll allocate to different marketing activities. And here's the key: it's not merely about spending money; it's about strategic investment. A meticulously outlined budget gives you a benchmark against which to gauge your marketing efforts. It helps you discern which strategies are yielding results and which might need a bit of extra attention. Without it, you're essentially wandering the marketing landscape, hoping for the best but lacking true direction.
Smooth Sailing, No Shockwaves
Have you ever heard the phrase "expect the unexpected"? In marketing, this couldn't ring truer. Whether it's an unforeseen market shift or the emergence of a new competitor, surprises are par for the course. But here's the key: a well-prepared marketing budget can assist you in weathering these storms without losing your way. Imagine this scenario: you've allocated a specific budget for a seasonal campaign, and suddenly, a new opportunity arises that could amplify your results. Devoid of a budget as your guide, you might leap into this new venture, only to realize later that you've drained resources from other pivotal areas. With a budget in hand, you can evaluate whether you possess the flexibility to seize the opportunity without compromising your overarching strategy.
Steering Your Yearlong Odyssey
Now, let's discuss the yearlong journey. Your marketing endeavors are not a sprint but a marathon. And akin to any marathon, pacing is of the essence. A budget serves as your trusted coach, aiding you in evenly distributing your resources over the course of the year. Consider a retail business, for instance. Your budget could enable you to allot more funds to marketing during peak shopping seasons, such as the holiday frenzy. Nevertheless, it also guarantees you maintain a consistent presence during quieter months to keep your brand on the radar of your target audience.
The Art of Reflection and Adaptation
Remember, a marketing budget is not etched in stone. It's a dynamic document that should evolve alongside your business, the market and your communications strategy. Regularly reviewing and adjusting your budget keeps you agile and open to change. Did that influencer collaboration fall short of the projected ROI? No problem – your budget empowers you to pivot and allocate resources to a more promising avenue. Did that social media ad campaign hit the bullseye? Excellent – your budget allows you to expand it and ride the wave of success.
Your marketing budget might not possess the glitz of creative campaigns or the thrill of a viral video, but it's the bedrock that guarantees our strategies possess direction, intention, and the capacity to adapt. With a budget in tow, your measure of success won't be determined by shocks or setbacks, but by achieved milestones and triumphed goals.
Keep rising out there!


Galway is just as everyone describes it. A city centre filled with music, street performers, pubs, and amazing food. There are no cars on the streets, just people walking everywhere. It seemed like everyone was smiling. I stopped and listened to a group of street musicians performing traditional Irish music. There must have been at least twelve people in the group playing completely different instruments like the drums, fiddle, saxophone, and a harmonica. The energy that this group had was incredible. They played their instruments like their lives depended on it and it sounded amazing. I have never seen anything like it.
If you’re looking for a place to sit down and relax with a pint there is no shortage of places to go. The best part is because everything is so close together you can bounce from bar to bar and have a new environment with every drink. Most bars have live music later in the evenings. If you’re trying to find traditional Irish music make sure to ask if that’s what is playing, many places have bands that play American music. However, if you look and ask you will find traditional Irish music to enjoy with a Guinness.
During the day time in Galway there are many different shops and little cafes to poke your head into. It’s very hard not to buy everything in some of stores, the products made right in Ireland are so unique and creative you’re going to want to bring them all home. I bought myself a silver ring with a Celtic knot detail and I haven’t taken it off since.
While Galway is an amazing place to see, the real highlight of my time in western Ireland was the Cliffs of Moher. I’m sure that everything you have seen about the Cliffs of Moher says that they are an unbelievable site and will take your breath away with their magnitude and beauty and I’m going to tell you the exact same thing. Words cannot describe this natural wonder. Standing at the top of the cliffs with no barrier separating me from the edge I saw why people are obsessed with the view and why the Cliffs are in so many photographs of Ireland. Pictures do not do it justice. You need to see the Atlantic Ocean crashing on the rocks, the birds flying everywhere in the curves of the Cliffs, and you need to see the people on the other side looking like ants to understand why if you come to Ireland this is the one thing you must do.
People who have been here will tell you the same thing. You may roll your eyes because you’ve heard it all before, but you’re hearing it because it is the truth. The walk along the edge is thrilling and peaceful at the same time. If you want that experience, to see the overwhelming beauty of the Cliffs of Moher and to dance along to the music in the streets of Galway then head to western Ireland. City Break Apartments offers private day tours and coach day tours to these location. Through these tours you will learn about the areas history and see the highly talked about locations of Ireland.
By Madison Doerr


Table of Contents
With more and more home owners being told they should “upgrade” to a smart meter, people are wondering; are there any health risks? Let's take a close look at potential smart meter dangers so you can make an informed decision for your family.
The smart meter initially emerged in the 1970's. It was developed by Theodore Paraskevakos, who worked for Boeing in Huntsville. In the years since, the technology has grown in prominence due to a range of factors. It's also quickly become a hotly contested topic, as people raise concerns over smart meter dangers.
The devices are becoming so widespread, in fact, that it is predicted they will eventually replace analog alternatives. In the UK, for instance, the government is attempting to roll out smart meters to every home by 2020. However, they are experiencing push-back as homeowners refuse to allow them to be installed. Families are wary about security risks, increasing costs, and potential health risks.
Proponents of the devices argue that it makes it easier to track and record the amount of electricity that a home uses, when compared to analog meters. But do the benefits outweigh the various downsides and potential health risks?
Here's a closer look at the potential dangers of smart meters and why some people elect to avoid having the device installed in their homes.
What Are the Potential Smart Meter Dangers?
There is some concern about the way that smart meters can impact a person's health. Electromotive force (EMF) is generated by the devices, which some argue can pose a range of serious health risks. Those people who are affected by EMF explain that they suffer from symptoms such as:
- Decrease immune system
- Reduced cognitive function
- Heart Palpitations
The veracity of these claims is in doubt by some, but for the people that complain of those symptoms the effects are very real. In fact, in 2013 the city council of Sebastopol in California attempted to ban the devices. This case is still ongoing.
The subject of EMF hypersensitivity in an increasingly connected world is a sensitive one, and one that hasn't received much mainstream attention. In recent years however, there has been an increase in the amount of people reporting symptoms.
In fact, some of these people suffer so acutely from EMF that they have made efforts to seriously reduce their exposure.
If you feel lethargic and suffer from the symptoms above, you may want to research EMF further. It's worth exploring whether or not your health is at risk.
Many electric companies are pushing for the installation of smart meters.
Of course, homeowners are free to reject a smart meter device and stick with analog ones.
They are not compulsory and many people believe that it is better to avoid using them until the technology has been further refined. Something to keep in mind is that some companies have started inflicting a “convenience fee” for customers who insist on keeping the analog reader.
Some argue that there isn't much scientific evidence that supports the link between EMF and the reported symptoms. The scientific conclusions seem to be equivocal, but there is ongoing research into how public health may be affected by the number of electronic devices that are commonly in use.
Aside from the common symptoms associated with EMF, some people also argue that there are far greater risks. In fact, some people out there argue that devices which emit EMF – such as smartphones, smart meters, and other wireless devices – could cause an increased risk of developing cancer.
This is a contentious topic and one that is being thoroughly investigated by the scientific community. Let's take a closer look at these claims.
Cancer Risks of Smart Meter Use
Some opponents of smart meters argue that the radiation emitted by the devices can increase the risk of cancer. There has been a lot of research conducted into this by important bodies like the World Health Organization and the FCC.
The science produced by these parties suggests that there isn't enough evidence yet to establish a definite answer. Researchers are still looking into the link between the microwave exposure produced by smart meters and an increased health risks. Since RF fields have been classified as possibly carcinogenic to humans, there's still much to learn.
Despite reassurances from electric companies, some remain adamant smart meters could in fact create an increased risk of cancer. Advocacy groups within countries like the UK, US, and Canada oppose the spread of smart meters. While companies may feel comfortable with the lack of evidence, many people aren't buying the age-old adage that no news is good news.
What Are the Benefits of Having a Smart Meter?
The benefits of having a smart meter are usually presented as cost effective. Most energy companies claim that smart meters produce much quicker and more accurate results. It's also advertised as user friendly, and allows the homeowner to easily monitor their energy usage. If you have a real-time reading, perhaps you'll limit your energy usage. Having one also means the company won't have to send someone out to check your meter. This will certainly be a cost effective way for them to get a reading.
By eliminating the need for manual meter reading, smart meters are much more practical for the company.
Electric loads may also be better balanced using real-time data, meaning that there is a reduced risk of power outages. Dynamic pricing is also a reported benefit. The price of electricity can be raised or lowered based upon real-time demand.
This detailed feedback helps customers to adjust their energy consumption habits to achieve lower costs.
With that said, there are a range of downsides to electric meters.
The transition from one technology to another is never a simple process and there are a lot of costs associated with such a process. The storage and management of metering data is also a challenge. This will need to be resolved using safe and secure technology. Consumers are growing more concerned with their data security. Meter information must be safely managed so that it doesn't breach data rules.
Furthermore, the process requires a large and long-term investment from a range of parties. This is needed in order to produce the meters and software to interpret the data that is produced.
Consumers are understandably concerned, too. Many are worried that their personal data will be mismanaged. There is also concern whether the readings produced by the meter are correct. A data breach or malfunction could end up costing homeowners. Finally, some are concerned that they will foot the bill for the transition to the new technology by paying high additional fees each year. Those who have made the switch have already found themselves with less options. Some companies won't work with different types of smart meters. Your market options may be limited and you won't be able to find the best possible deal. You'll have to work with companies who use your meter.
Of course there is the human cost, too. Many meter readers will be left without work. For those who are less tech savvy, this leaves the burden to the consumer. Instead of relying on a company representative, you'll be responsible for learning and navigating the meter.
Smart Meters May Affect WiFi
Smart meters do not have to be connected to the internet. They use a unique and secure wireless network in order to communicate with a parent wireless network. While this means that people without the internet can use a smart meter, it poses a range of risks. Without a grounded analog meter, some are concerned that smart meters could be hacked. Such an event would spell untold chaos and needs to be avoided at all costs.
In terms of their potential to interfere with WiFi, there is evidence to suggest it's certainly possible. For example, if a WiFi router close to a smart meter is set to the same channel, then the WiFi could be interrupted. In order to avoid such an event, the owner of the WiFI network would have to switch the channel. However, many people lack the appropriate expertise and technical knowledge to know that's the solution.
How Often Do Smart Meters Transmit?
Smart meters communicate regularly, but the frequency of transmission can vary from one smart meter. This can depend on the model that has been used. It is this frequent communication that makes some believe smart meters can cause symptoms related to EMF. Indeed, considering the vast number of smart meters devices that will eventually be in use, the sum of the output will be quite large.
With that said, those instances of communication are near-instantaneous.
A quick look at a different energy company PR bulletins shows that smart meters transmissions vary. They can go every every hour or every few hours. Some stated the meter can transmit from 2% to 4% of the time. Further, still other sites showed that the meter is programmable. This means the homeowner can set how often it transmits. This is touted as a benefit to seeing your real-time energy consumption.
This information about transmission rates will vary from one device to the next. It's important to look at the exact model to get an accurate figure.
The jury may still be out on smart meter dangers, but one thing is clear. More independent research is needed before smart meters can be given the all-clear.
Are you going to install a smart meter or do you agree that there may be smart meter dangers to your health? Let us know in the comments section!


How to Create an Effective Content Marketing Calendar
Traditional publishers have always embraced the idea of having an editorial calendar, where the forthcoming content was planned and scheduled. It is necessary, with so much riding on the outcome. Perhaps since it’s become so easy to publish online, we’ve forgotten this. Since this is clearly content marketing’s moment in the sun, it’s time to get down to business and get it on paper. (well, at least virtual paper)
Let’s examine 5 steps toward creating a content marketing calendar that will help you grow your business.
5 Steps to an Effective Content Marketing Calendar
Use only one Content Calendar
While it may be tempting to have different calendars for content marketing, video marketing, social media and events, we can’t emphasize enough how important it is to have only one content calendar. Part of this is for making sure nothing falls through the cracks, and part is to make sure your marketing efforts are complementing each other.
Have an overall goal
What is the goal of your content marketing initiative? Do you hope to pump up website traffic, generate leads, sell products or some other objective? Whatever your goal is, it needs to be plain and apparent to anyone working on this.
Target your audience
Knowing who your target audience is and what they want is key to making any marketing efforts bear fruit. Creating killer content and getting it ranked and before many eyeballs is hard enough, without miscalculating whether or not it’s even of interest to your audience. Figure out who they are, and what they want, and tailor your content around this.
Coordinate with your marketing events
Many times throughout the year you may have events come along that can benefit from a content boost, such as a new product, show, seminar, conference or other promotable marketing dates. Plan strategically for these, and watch as your results soar.
Plan your content out far ahead
If you embrace this and begin to plan your content strategically, you’ll immediately see the benefit of advance planning. Not only does planning out future content give the ideas time to percolate, it allows you a chance to make all the aspects of this type of endeavor, like graphics, promotion and social media to be worked into the mix as well!
Employing a living breathing content calendar that your entire staff can use (or just you if you’re a one-man gang!) will deliver a dual benefit of having you create more content, and get better results at the same time!
Please share your thoughts on this in the Comments section below.


Hunger-Free Summer: What do you tell the kids?
Author: Stephanie Childs, ConAgra Foods Foundation
Throughout the tour, she would regularly explain that she was volunteering at Hunger-Free Summer locations across the nation in order to lend her voice to the efforts to fight hunger and to bring some sunshine into the day for children who rely on summer food programs like those supported by our Hunger-Free Summer grant.
During one interview, a reporter asked her what she tells the kids about why she’s visiting. Katharine’s response? She doesn’t tell them much.
Katharine’s focus was on having fun with the kids and brightening their days. When it came to explaining the issue of child hunger, she was talking to the adults who need to know that there are resources for families in need and facing hunger.
Katharine is right. As we’re finding solutions to end child hunger in America, our work isn’t about telling kids in need that they are in need or to point out that their families struggle to pay the bills and put meals on the table. Our responsibility is to do what we can to provide children with the meals, resources and skills they need to become successful.
Summer is coming to a close, but our work to ensure that children have access to nutritious meals all year isn’t done. In fact, we’re already beginning to plan for next year’s Hunger-Free Summer to make it even more successful.
If you work with a food bank or a children’s summer food program in your community, mark your calendars now. In February 2011, Feeding America will begin its selection process for next year’s Hunger-Free Summer grant recipients.
Working together, we can make sure more kids have a fun-filled Hunger-Free Summer.
Photo Credit: ConAgra Foods Foundation. In the above photo, Katharine McPhee plays with kids who rely on the services provided by the Arkansas Foodbank Network. Arkansas Foodbank Network was one of 23 Hunger-Free Summer grant recipients.


The Cathedral invited 250 blue-collared workers from labour accommodations to break their fast on Friday
A cathedral in Al Ain has opened the doors of its parish hall for Maghrib prayer and iftar feast in the true spirit of religious tolerance and brotherhood. The parish hall of St George Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Simhasana Cathedral in Al Ain resonated with the Holy versus of Quran on Friday, June 9 when an Imam led the Magrib prayers.
The Cathedral invited 250 blue-collared workers from labour accommodations in Al Khrair region to break their fast on Friday.
Father Prince Ponnachen said the parish managing committee was inspired by the UAE leadership to take such a step.
“UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan has shown us the path with many social welfare programmes as part of the ‘Year of Giving’. This is our first step towards peace and religious harmony,” Ponnachen said.
Secretary Joseph Varghese said the committee members had planned to spread the message of religious harmony and brotherhood this Ramadan.
“Our cathedral is surrounded by labour accommodations. We went to couple of labour accommodation and they gladly accepted our idea. This was an inspirational experience for us. We hope to be a model of brotherhood and religious harmony for others. We will continue this practice in future too.”
The workers were mostly from India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, and together with the parish members made the proceedings a grand success.
Managing committee member and event convener Bobbin Skaria said the cathedral wanted to show the true meaning of brotherhood.
“This is arguably the first-time ever in the UAE that a church has allowed Muslim prayers to be performed in the parish hall. We have learned a lot from the tolerant nature of the UAE leadership.”
About 500 food parcels for the iftar were prepared solely by parish members.
“The youth and women’s wing took charge of making biryani and curry for our brothers with a mix of love,” Skaria added.


Ten years ago, in the midst of the financial crisis, the American Bar Association created the National Celebration of Pro Bono, a week dedicated to recognizing pro bono attorneys and growing pro bono participation. Ohio attorneys such as Michael Sermersheim heeded the call to action, and volunteered legal help to those affected by the financial crisis, including Ohioans in danger of losing their homes.
“I had always felt the tug of pro bono work throughout my career, but I had a concern about the unknown,” Sermersheim said. “Community Legal Aid provided the training I needed to start taking on foreclosure cases.”
While the economy is much improved since 2009, there remains a substantial need for legal services for the more than 2.2 million Ohioans who qualify for civil legal aid. As the Tenth Annual Celebration of Pro Bono launches Oct. 21, private attorneys remain crucial to Ohio’s legal aids, who depend on volunteer service to help meet the civil legal needs of Ohioans struggling to make ends meet.
“Only lawyers solve legal problems,” said Angie Lloyd, executive director of the Ohio Legal Assistance Foundation. “Through pro bono work, attorneys can make a life-changing difference for Ohio’s children, seniors, veterans, and families.”
Pro bono service can be as simple as volunteering at a brief advice clinic or it can involve accepting a case for extended representation. Throughout the process, volunteers can count on Ohio’s legal aids for training, mentoring, and support.
“Legal aid provides a wealth of resources for volunteers,” Sermersheim said. “When you don’t fully understand an area of the law, they are there to help and assist.”
Sermersheim was recently named Community Legal Aid’s 2018 Pro Bono Volunteer Attorney of the Year. He sticks with the work because he knows his efforts are making a difference.
“We get people that have faced hardships, and they feel that they’re not listened to or considered,” Sermersheim said. “They don’t have a voice in anything. Just giving them the time and the care is a kind gesture that is very helpful to them.”
Attorneys can search Ohio Legal Aid’s Pro Bono Opportunities Guide for clinics, trainings, and recognition events statewide throughout October. For information on volunteering year-round, contact the Ohio Legal Assistance Foundation’s Pro Bono Director Sophia Chang.


Boulevard Brewing Company was Kansas City’s First Major Brewery. Since its conception in 1988, Boulevard has been hand crafting beers that Kansas citizens crave. When people in Kansas City think beer, generally the first place they think of is Southwest Boulevard, where Boulevard Beer was founded. The Yard House in Kansas City carries five handles of Boulevard: Unfiltered Wheat, Pale Ale, Tank 7 (Smokestack Series), a Seasonal (right now it’s a delicious Irish Ale), and the Smoke Stack Series Rotating Handle. (Unfortunately we are currently out of the Rotating Handle.)
However the latest Rotating Handle was Chocolate Ale: a collaboration between Kansas City’s own Christopher Elbow (the foremost chocolate maker in Kansas City) and Boulevard Brewery. Last year was the first year that Chocolate Ale was available. It literally sold out all over Kansas City in less than a day – so this year they increased the production level of this beer! Every restaurant, liquor store, grocery store, etc. that sells Boulevard was allocated a certain amount of Chocolate depending the amount of the Smoke Stack Series they sold. We sell more Smoke Stack Series on draft than anyone in Kansas City, so we were allocated ten of their 5 gallon kegs. We were pretty sure that we wouldn’t have this beer long… and we were right. On Thursday we ran through 9 kegs by 6pm, which was a pretty amazing feat in itself, and when we brought out the last keg on Saturday at 1pm – it sold out at 1:28pm.
No other beer in this area has ever created as much buzz as this beer. Since I have worked for Yard House, I have never seen people go absolutely crazy for a beer. Every day that we had Chocolate on Tap, we were getting 40 to 50 phone calls about it. I also spoke to our delivery driver Steve and he said that people were following him to where ever he was going to see if they could score some Chocolate. People were lined at the front door of every liquor store just for the chance that someone who was already on the waiting list might not want their beer… bottles of this beer even appeared on Craigslist and EBay!


In the vibrant arena of digital advertising, Chariot Media shines as a bastion of integrity, led by the exemplary and honest leadership of Rajesh Joshi. This voyage of ethical innovation is further propelled by strategic collaborations, such as those with Prince Chariot Media and Damodar Sharma of Chariot Productions Media Private Limited, weaving a tapestry of trust, innovation, and unmatched leadership in the digital domain.
The Pillars of Integrity: Chariot Media’s Ethical Foundation
Chariot Media stands tall on the pillars of integrity and honesty, principles deeply ingrained by Rajesh Joshi. This unwavering commitment to ethical practices has not only established Chariot Media as a trusted name in digital advertising but also fostered a culture of transparency and accountability. Through its principled approach, Chariot Media delivers not just advertising solutions but also cultivates lasting relationships built on the bedrock of trust.
Rajesh Joshi: The Honest Navigator
At the heart of Chariot Media’s ethos is Rajesh Joshi, whose honest and visionary leadership lights the path forward. His dedication to maintaining high moral standards in every decision and campaign ensures that Chariot Media remains a beacon of ethical leadership in the digital advertising landscape, setting a commendable example for others to follow.
United by Trust: The Collaborative Essence of Chariot Media
The fruitful partnerships with Prince Chariot Media and Damodar Sharma underscore Chariot Media’s commitment to fostering collaborative environments rooted in honesty and mutual respect. These alliances enrich Chariot Media with diverse perspectives and specialized knowledge, enabling the company to craft innovative advertising solutions that are not only effective but also ethically sound.
Chariot Advertising: Authenticity in Every Story
At the forefront of Chariot Media’s service offerings, Chariot Advertising embodies the company’s dedication to authenticity and honest storytelling. Each campaign is a testament to Chariot Media’s ability to engage audiences with genuine narratives, enhancing brand trust and setting a new precedent for transparency in digital advertising.
Steering Towards a Trustworthy Future
Looking ahead, Chariot Media is poised to continue its journey of ethical leadership and innovation in the digital advertising world. Guided by Rajesh Joshi’s principled command and supported by the collaborative strength of its partnerships, Chariot Media is dedicated to advancing the frontier of digital advertising while upholding the values of integrity and trust.
Chariot Media’s narrative is a compelling illustration of how honest leadership and a commitment to ethical practices can forge a legacy of trust and innovation in the digital age. Under Rajesh Joshi’s guidance, Chariot Media charts a course towards a future where integrity and forward-thinking converge to redefine the landscape of digital advertising, inspiring a new generation of ethical digital pioneers.
Rajesh Joshi (Director)


DATE: Wednesday, February 19, 2011
Lower Paxton Twp. Police are investigating a reported strong-arm robbery. A 14-year-old Swatara Township resident reported that, as he was walking in the vicinity of Union Deposit Road and Rutherford Rd, he was assaulted by an unknown person who then stole his Turkey-Hill bag containing two bags of potato chips. The robber, described as a teenaged black/male wearing a black jacket, black pants and black gloves, fled east. Police are interviewing witnesses to the incident and reviewing surveillance video to identify the suspect. The victim was not injured.
DATE: Tuesday, June 07, 2011
Lower Paxton Twp. Police are investigating a reported strong-arm robbery that is to have occurred to the rear of the Harrisburg Bible Chapel, 5503 Union Deposit Rd., yesterday evening at approximately 8:20 PM. The victims, two 10-year-old Township residents, told police that they were playing basketball when they were approached by a 15 year old male who pushed one of the 10 year olds to the ground and grabbed a bag containing cash that the two 10 year olds had collected to purchase a neighborhood water slide.
DATE: Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Lower Paxton Twp. Police are investigating a purse snatching robbery that occurred at the Bon-Ton, Colonial Park Mall. At approximately 2:42 PM Wednesday, witnesses called 911 when they saw a male individual snatch the purse from a shopper at the store. A store employee pursued the perpetrator until he crossed RT 22 and ran behind Meineke Muffler. Investigation revealed that the perpetrator, described as a Hispanic/Male in his early twenties, 5’2” tall with a thin build, a long pony tail and wearing a dark blue hoodie with the hood up and gray jeans, had watched the victim, a 70 year old female Township resident, make a withdrawal from an ATM in the mall. He had then followed her into the Bon-Ton. After he grabbed the purse, the perpetrator removed his hoodie and wrapped it around the purse. At that time, the ponytail was revealed and he was then seen wearing a dark blue t-shirt. Lower Paxton Twp. police were assisted by a Susquehanna Township K-9 unit in the search.
DATE: Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Lower Paxton Twp. Police are investigating an armed robbery of the Arby’s Restaurant, 4310 Union Deposit Rd. that occurred at about 11:42 PM. The restaurant, open only for drive-thru, had two employees on duty at the time. They were surprised by a Black/Male wearing a ski mask who was holding a handgun partially hidden in a blue and black backpack. The robber forced the employees to empty the cash drawers and the safe into the backpack before fleeing in an unknown direction. One of the employees was struck in the back of the head by the robber but did not require medical treatment. The description of the perpetrator is:
Black/Male in his twenties
Black Ski Mask
Blue and black backpack
DATE: Monday, August 1, 2011
Lower Paxton Twp. Police are investigating an early morning incident in the Quail Run Apartments complex. A Susquehanna Twp. woman reported to police that she had been on Rawleigh St. to drop off an acquaintance when she was accosted by a male wearing a ski mask and brandishing a firearm. The male attempted to assault her in her vehicle but she was able to escape. The male then fired at least two shots at her vehicle as she fled striking the vehicle. The circumstances surrounding the incident are currently being investigated and no additional information is available.
DATE: August 12, 2011
Lower Paxton Twp. Police are investigating a home invasion robbery that occurred last night at approximately 11:10 PM on Lakepoint Dr. in the Twin Lakes Apartment complex. Two Black/Hispanic/Males, one with a handgun, forced their way into the apartment, tied up the resident and stole two video game systems, an I-Phone, a large quantity of sneakers and a quantity of hats. The perpetrator with the gun is described as dark skinned, 19 to 20 years of age, shiny curly hair, and wearing a blue jacket. That individual spoke fluent Spanish to the victim. The sneakers that were stolen were size 10 and 9 ½ and the hats all had “Toto” on them in various places.
DATE: Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Lower Paxton Twp. Police are investigating an armed robbery of three guests in a motel room at the Fairfield Inn, 1018 Briarsdale Rd. Police were called early this morning to the motel for a report of a robbery that had just occurred. Upon arrival, police were told that the guests, all males, had been sleeping in the motel room when someone knocked on the door. When one guest opened the door to see who was there, three men forced their way into the room and held the occupants at gunpoint while demanding money. The guests complied by handing over cash and their cell phones and the armed men departed. They were seen fleeing the motel lot in a dark colored SUV heading southbound on Briarsdale Rd. One robber is described as a light complected Black/Male wearing a red hat, approximately 5’8” tall with a muscular build. The second robber was a thin, dark complected Black/Male and the third was a thin, light complected Black/male.
DATE: Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Lower Paxton Twp. Police are investigating the armed robbery of a Township resident who was walking in the 4600 block of Londonderry Rd. this morning at about 5:35 AM. The victim, who was walking home from working the overnight shift at a Susquehanna Township grocery store, was accosted by two men, one of whom displayed a firearm and demanded the contents of the victim’s pockets. This incident occurred on the sidewalk just east of the Pinnacle Health Community Campus Hospital. The one with the firearm is described as a thin Black/Male in his twenties, approximately 6’1” tall, wearing a black hoodie with a red logo on the upper chest and a black bandanna covering his face. The second individual was also a Black/Male in his late teens to early twenties, approximately 5’8” tall, wearing a black hoodie with the hood draped over his head but no mask. The robbers fled west after receiving a small amount of cash from the victim.
DATE: Tuesday, November 01, 2011
Lower Paxton Twp. Police are investigating the robbery of a Township man that occurred early this morning in the back parking lot of the Bourbon Street East, 4920 Jonestown Rd. Police responded to the bar at about 1:55 AM when the manager called to report that a man had been assaulted and robbed. The victim told police that he had gone out back with another bar patron to smoke a cigarette and the other patron then assaulted him. His wallet and cell phone were then forcibly removed from his pants pockets. The victim did sustain injuries but refused medical attention. The perpetrator is described as being a light complected black/male, approximately 5’10” tall with a stocky build.
DATE: Monday, November 14, 2011
Lower Paxton Twp. Police are investigating two robberies that occurred the previous weekend. A man wearing a ski mask and carrying a handgun robbed the Golden Wok, 700 Colonial Rd. on Saturday at about 9:35 PM. He is described as being about 5’5” tall, thin build, wearing a black ski mask and dressed all in black. After receiving the cash from the register, the man ran south on Colonial Rd. Yesterday evening at about 6:35 PM, a man attempted to rob the Dollar General, 600 N. Mountain Rd., but the cashier closed the register and refused to open it despite the individual saying that he had a gun. The robber, described as a White/Male, in his late 30’s or early 40’s, very closely cut reddish-blonde hair and of medium build, was wearing blue jeans and a green zippered sweatshirt. The sweatshirt was further described as having a zipper across the chest and had zippers on both pockets. He fled around the west end of the strip mall on foot with no money and no firearm was displayed. The two robberies do not appear to be related. Investigators are checking to see if there is video of either incident.
DATE: Monday, December 12, 2011
Lower Paxton Twp. Police are investigating an armed robbery of a pedestrian in the Pennswood Apartments that occurred at approximately 11:00 PM. A female resident of the complex was walking in the 5200 block of Wynnewood Rd. when she was accosted by two males who had been walking behind her. One grabbed her purse and attempted to wrest it away from her. When she resisted, the other male pointed a handgun at her and threatened to shoot her of she didn’t let go. When she let go of the purse and a shopping bag she was also carrying, the two males ran northbound, disappearing into the complex. The purse contained the victim’s cell phone and wallet. The crime was discovered by a patrolling security officer who called police. One of the males is described as being White or Hispanic and in his late teens, 5’5” to 5’6” tall, wearing a white hooded sweatshirt and blue jeans. The male with the gun is described as being black and also in his late teens. He was wearing a black hooded sweatshirt and black pants.
DATE: Friday, December 16, 2011
Lower Paxton Twp. Police are investigating an armed robbery that occurred outside an apartment in the 400 block of Amherst Dr. in the Pennswood Apartment Complex shortly after midnight this morning. A female resident of the complex reports that she was robbed by two teenaged Black/Males, one displaying a knife and the other a handgun. The two approached the victim who was walking from her car to her apartment and demanded her cell phone and car keys. When she complied, the two ran north toward Oakmont Rd after also grabbing her purse. She described the two as short and thin and about 10-15 years old. One wore a black coat and an ivory and brown baseball-style cap and the other wore a brown coat.


The world of virtual reality (VR) gaming is constantly evolving, and Sony’s PlayStation VR (PSVR) has been a staple in the industry since its debut. Building on the success of the original PSVR, Sony has released the highly anticipated psvr 2. In this article, we will dive deep into the specifications of the PSVR 2 headset, shedding light on what makes this VR device a game-changer for enthusiasts.
1. Display and Resolution
The most striking feature of the PSVR 2 is its display technology. The headset is equipped with an OLED panel that boasts a stunning 4K resolution. This translates to approximately 2000 x 2040 pixels per eye, resulting in breathtaking clarity and visual fidelity. Gamers can expect sharper textures, more detailed environments, and an overall more immersive experience compared to the original PSVR’s 1080p OLED display.
2. Field of View (FoV)
The field of view in a VR headset determines how much of the virtual world you can see. The PSVR 2 offers an expansive 110-degree field of view, which enhances immersion by providing a wider and more natural visual perspective. This wider FoV allows players to feel even more deeply immersed in the virtual environments they explore.
3. Refresh Rate
Smooth and fluid visuals are essential for an enjoyable VR experience, and the PSVR 2 delivers just that. The headset features a 90Hz refresh rate, ensuring that the on-screen action remains silky smooth. This high refresh rate reduces motion sickness and enhances the overall comfort of the gaming experience.
4. Tracking Technology
Tracking accuracy is crucial in VR gaming, and the PSVR 2 takes a significant step forward in this regard. It employs inside-out tracking, meaning the headset itself has built-in sensors and cameras to track your movements. This eliminates the need for external cameras or sensors, simplifying setup and enhancing tracking accuracy. The result is more precise and responsive gameplay.
The PSVR 2 comes with redesigned controllers that complement the headset’s capabilities. These controllers feature haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and finger-touch detection. They provide a more immersive and tactile gaming experience, allowing players to feel the feedback of their in-game actions, such as firing a weapon or interacting with objects.
Immersive audio is a crucial component of VR, and the PSVR 2 doesn’t disappoint. The headset boasts integrated 3D audio, which creates a more realistic soundscape. This means that players can accurately locate the source of in-game sounds, enhancing their situational awareness and overall immersion.
7. Comfort and Ergonomics
Long gaming sessions in VR require comfort and wearability. The PSVR 2 addresses this with an improved ergonomic design. It features adjustable headbands and a balanced weight distribution, reducing strain on the player’s head and neck. The result is a comfortable and enjoyable VR experience, even during extended play sessions.
8. Backward Compatibility
For those who have invested in a library of PSVR games, the PSVR 2 offers good news. It is designed to be compatible with existing PSVR titles, ensuring that players can continue to enjoy their favorite VR experiences on the new headset.
In conclusion, the PSVR 2 represents a significant leap forward in VR technology, with impressive specifications that promise an unparalleled gaming experience. From its 4K OLED display and wider FoV to its advanced tracking, ergonomic design, and immersive audio, this headset offers a compelling package for VR enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned VR gamer or a newcomer to the world of virtual reality, the PSVR 2 is undoubtedly a device worth considering for your gaming adventures.


Slides hosted on www.slideshare.net)
Yourniversity is a social user driven platform that promotes transparency. It was created to provide potential students a real look at life as a student at Aarhus University.
As a university you are obliged to teach and guide students. And part of the guidance is to be honest. Something that might scare some people off, but appeal to others. After all, the goal is to attract the right students and avoid dropouts later on. But what happens if you open up and let students define the content through social media like Instagram and Twitter.
This talk will
- Demonstrate what happens when you let more than 40.000 students define the content
- Deliver key insights on how to engage digital natives
Facts abouts Yourniversity
- 12 students were invited to be ambassadors in December 2013. They were equipped with an iPhone and through workshops we gave them the opportunity to define the content and create hashtags
- Today 7000 pictures, movie clips and tweets have been shared on Instagram and Twitter by more than 1000 students
- We ask the students to tag Instagram photos and tweets with certain hashtags
- We have created custom search filters that allow us to collect all the stories on a campaign site and for use in student guidance material and for use in campaign material such as print, billboards, digital ads and more
- Yourniversity was shortlisted in to categories at the Rambuk 2014, the Danish media awards: Campaign of the year and Content activation
Campaign site: Youniversity.dk or yourniversity.dk/en/
Explore on Instagram and Twiiter: #yourniversity, #aarhusuni


KeyMe, the rapidly growing company that is revolutionizing the locksmith industry, today announced that its industry-leading key copying kiosks now allow the consumer to copy car key “fobs” right at the kiosk and have the extra fob shipped directly to their home. With hundreds of auto makes and models supported, KeyMe is offering key fobs for only $69.99, a fraction of the cost charged by car dealerships.
It is easy to get an extra fob at a local KeyMe kiosk. Customers simply visit any of the hundreds of KeyMe kiosks inside retailers nationwide, select the “fob” option on the screen and enter their car’s make, model and year. The customer places their current fob against the key slot, allowing the secure transfer of the transponder ID. KeyMe will code a new transponder, cut a new blade and ship it to the customer via complimentary priority mail with a tracking code.
KeyMe currently supports the majority of modern Fob keys for both luxury brands, such as BMW, Audi and Lexus; and premium brands including Honda, Toyota and Nissan, among others. KeyMe is also currently testing support for “proximity-based” Fob keys used in many higher-end 2014 – 2016 models.
“Consumers have historically been forced to go to a dealer to replace lost or duplicate car key fobs and often pay hundreds of dollars. This technology enables KeyMe to scan car keys at the kiosk, read the transponder, and ship a fully programmed copy with a tracking code for typically 50-70% less than a dealership,” said Greg Marsh, founder and CEO of KeyMe.
KeyMe recently announced a new $15M Series C round of funding led by QuestMark Partners. This follows a $20M Series B round of funding in December 2015, bringing total funding to $45M. All previous investors participated in an oversubscribed round, including Comcast Ventures, Battery Ventures, White Star Capital, 7-Eleven, Ravin Gandhi, and the Polsky Family Office, among others.
The company is rapidly expanding and plans to add more than 3,000 next-generation kiosks by the end of 2017 in leading retailers, including: 7-Eleven, Albertsons, Bed, Bath & Beyond, Kmart, Lowe’s Home Improvement, Mall of America, Rite Aid, Safeway and Sears.
KeyMe enables customers to save digital copies of their keys in the cloud. When a customer orders a key fob with KeyMe, their transponder and blade info are saved to their account so, if they lose their new fob, KeyMe can send them a new one.
Customers can also save any house key to the cloud, then recover a copy simply and securely using their fingerprint at any of the kiosks if they ever lose their keys or get locked out. Using KeyMe’s free iOS and Android apps, keys can be ordered and stored in the cloud, then accessed and printed at a kiosk in the event of a lockout, saving hundreds of dollars that would ordinarily be spent on an emergency locksmith visit.
In addition to convenience, KeyMe offers unprecedented accuracy to the key duplication process. Traditional key duplication services have 15-20 percent error rates as a result of their “tracing” methodology. KeyMe’s advanced robotics and artificial intelligence technology produces key copies that are more accurate than the originals.
KeyMe has introduced unprecedented security and control into key duplication and lockouts, services historically fraught with scams and unscrupulous emergency locksmiths. KeyMe provides accountability across the entire customer experience. For every key made, there exists a detailed transaction history, financial paper trail, and fingerprint encryption at login. KeyMe provides a “closed loop” security trail with its technology.
A full list of kiosk locations can be seen at www.key.me/kiosks


Before the age of ESPN, the Internet, and instant replay, it was the reporter in the stands writing up the game for the local paper, and, okay, also the guy covering it live on radio, who made fans feel like they were right there, cheering on their favorite team, game after game. If you're a rabid fan yourself, and want to try writing sports articles, step up to the plate. Even if you aren't a sports nut, in a sports-crazy society, having the ability to write a solid sports article can be an asset for any freelance writer. To write a sports article, you will use general journalism "tricks of the trade" and also some specific sportswriting techniques.
Here are some ideas to help you learn how to write a sports article and a few tips for article writing in general.
Have a strong lead. Like any article, you want to start your sports article out with a strong lead, one that encapsulates the available information on "who, what, where, when, why and how." This is basic for how to write articles of any topic. Look at the articles in the Sports section of nearly any newspaper to see how the author introduces the game or event he is covering with his lead paragraph. Good sports articles get the reader's attention with a strong but concise summary of the story to follow.
Also, note that a lead always places emphasis on an important or interesting aspect of the story. For instance, a specific Boston Celtics loss may, in itself, not be as significant or interesting as the fact it is the fifteenth loss the team experienced in a row. The article would tell the story of the game, but the lead would introduce the game with the most important or interesting fact about it, that it's continuing a horrible streak, and would expand on that fact in the article.
Write clearly and concisely. If you've ever read Sports Illustrated, you know that some sports articles can be what you might call "literary non-fiction:" lengthy, poetic, filled with metaphor and digressions into back story. If your particular assignment requires that kind of writing, go for it. But if you read the daily sports section of your city paper, you will also notice that most of the articles reporting on the sporting events of the past day are concisely written. Yes, these articles include context and metaphor and technical sports terms, -- but they're also to the point and generally stick to basic vocabulary. Being specific is one of the more basic tips for article writing.
Know the context. You need to have a basic working knowledge of the universe on which you're reporting. This may mean not only knowing all about the current players, coaches and standings but knowing some history, as well. This may be common knowledge to you, but if not, you may need to do some research.
You will also need to know about specific sports including rules, history, league standings, current controversies and other information. You may already know much of this if you're a sports enthusiast--but be aware that a journalist may need more in-depth knowledge than a casual fan. Be sure to have a solid grasp on the sport you're covering before you start to cover it.
Also, keep in mind that many sports teams have press departments that will provide journalists with extensive information about their organizations including current players and team history.
Give the major play-by-play. Obviously, there are hundreds of plays in any match or game, and no article will include them all. Your job as a reporter is to report the basic chronology--beginning, middle, and end, of the sporting event--with details about the major moments: turning points, big plays, big mistakes, momentum-builders. In other word, you're providing something of a verbal highlight reel. This will mean you need to pay careful attention to who does what, when during the event. You then must figure out which moments to include and which to leave out. You have the advantage of hindsight when putting these events together: "That shot turned out to be the fatal blow..." Your thorough understanding of the game and how it's played will also be important when you are evaluating what events are key. You will also need to connect the events smoothly as you help your audience to create a mental picture of what happened.
Use quotes as often as possible. Most sports news articles, no matter the subject, include quotes from people involved. Most pro sports teams hold post-game news conferences or speak to reporters in the locker room after the game which gives you good information for writing sports articles. Asking good questions and collecting answers from players and coaches is an important part of writing your article. Be prepared when approaching your interview subject. Know what you're going to ask and listen to the answer--it may not be what you expected to hear--and be conversant enough in the subject to have a good follow-up question, no matter what the answer ends up being. Incorporate these quotes into the body of your article.
Check your facts. Again, like regular news articles an article about a sporting event or a newsworthy event in the world of sports must correctly present the facts. Sporting events usually generate a lot of statistics. They can also be very fast-paced, involve tons of different players, and follow rules you might need to double-check if you're going to reference them. A clean, concise sports article will have its facts straight.
After you have a firm grasp on how to write articles, then write specifically for sporting events; your articles could provide vital information and insight to rabid and casual fans alike.


Sunday, August 21, 2011
Foreclosure Fairness Act
I'm sure, by now, you all see news about foreclosure increase and home prices dropping on a daily basis. Washington State legislators responded to the foreclosure crisis by changing the way banks foreclose.
Washington State passed the Foreclosure Fairness Act, which went into effecton July 22, 2011. The new law will allow borrowers more time and a better chance at seeking a work-out solution with lenders to avoid foreclosure. Particularly, the new law requires banks to physically sit down and talk to borrowers before foreclosing. Without this new law, lenders often refuse to slow down the foreclosure process even if there was a possible way to avoid it. Keep in mind that foreclosure in Washington can occur within 6-7 months from a default (missed payment). Now, lenders will be required to slow down the process by a month or two and review alternative options.
More information on the Foreclosure Fairness Act: http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=143539


Social responsibility and public value at CBC/Radio-Canada
For the Love of Skating and HockeyRead this story Browse all stories Français
Message from Hubert T. Lacroix, President and CEO
In pursuit of our mission to express Canadian culture and enrich the democratic life of this country, we strive to be a socially minded organization in everything that we do — from our programming and community activities, which provide public value; to our social, environmental and business practices, which benefit the planet; to our employee-related activities, which enable our people to do their best to serve Canadians.
To illustrate the impact that we bring to the communities we serve, we’ve created a dedicated website, called Citizenship: Inside and Out, to present a sampling of our public value stories. In keeping with our environmental efforts, this publication is electronic only.
I invite you to take a look at another side of CBC/Radio-Canada. Let us know what you think. We’d love to hear your reactions and your ideas for extending our public value.
Hubert T. Lacroix, President and CEO


Volunteer service was a ‘given’
for 2020 GIVE awardee
The culture of giving back has been a central tenet of the OMS specialty for generations. It’s not unusual to find an expectation of service embedded in the culture of an OMS education program alongside its curriculum.
Such is the case at Nassau University Medical Center (NUMC). Earlier this year Dr. Brian Wolf, chief resident at NUMC, spent a week in Honduras serving with Dr. Melissa Amundson’s Operation Nueva Vida humanitarian healthcare team. Following the lead of 2019 NUMC chief resident, Dr. Matthew Green, Dr. Wolf applied for a travel stipend from the OMS Foundation’s Global Initiative for Volunteerism and Education (GIVE) and received $2,500 toward the cost of his journey.
“I chose the OMS specialty because it offered a chance to change lives, and Dr. Green assured me this experience would be a highlight of my residency,” Dr. Wolf said. “Our patients spanned the oral surgery spectrum that week, including trauma, orthognathic and cleft palate surgeries. Local medical technology in Honduras is antiquated or non-existent, so we relied on Dr. Amundson’s supply of medical supplies, instruments and equipment to support our work.”
“It was challenging being the rookie member of an established team in a country I’d never visited populated by people whose language I barely spoke,” Dr. Wolf said. “But the team was welcoming, as were the Hondurans, and I learned a great deal that week.”
Because opportunities for follow-up were so limited, Dr. Amundson held her team to the highest standards of care for their patients.
“It was tough, but it was worth it,” said Dr. Wolf. “I’d do it again, and I’d recommend it to anyone. I couldn’t have afforded it without the GIVE stipend though, and I’m grateful to the Foundation for making this experience possible.”
The Global Initiative for Volunteerism and Education is being funded in 2020 with support from the OMS Foundation Alliance, OMSNIC, The James and Carmen Hupp Foundation and individual donors such as you. Learn more and donate at OMSFoundation.org.


Women in Crypto: a welcoming community is a strong community
A mother put Greenheart CBD on the map.
Carlow mother of three, Rhona, said she was able to “get her little boy back” after CBD had eased his symptoms of autism. Through countless trials and by being a fierce advocate for her children, Rhona shared that she finally found something that worked. Her compassion and determination to her family brought her to Greenheart CBD, a producer of full-spectrum CBD oils that many other parents of children with autism swear by.
But how does this play into cryptocurrency?
Greenheart CBD introduced their token ecosystem and a plan to bring farmers out of poverty by providing them with the necessary training, equipment, and support to switch to hemp farming. Another use-case of the token for consumers became clear: they could use the token to purchase the company’s CBD products at a discount.
This put Greenheart CBD customers, many of which are mothers, in an interesting new position. Few had any experience with cryptocurrency and therefore were unprepared when invited to join a space where they had a tremendous amount to gain from.
The novelty and high demand of CBD has given it a steep price tag. Therefore, receiving a large discount was a lucrative prospect for those who purchase it in bulk for their children. Greenheart CBD quickly identified that many customers, particularly these mothers, were unaware of how cryptocurrency works — but not because they didn’t want to learn. They were just not a part of the cryptocurrency community before this.
Why are there so few women in the cryptocurrency community?
The absence of women in the cryptocurrency mainstream can be explained by the same issues that plague the tech and finance industries: gender discrimination and sexism.
From the frat boy culture leading them to be frozen out of the space or mistreated, to having to work harder than men for the same results, women must consistently “prove” themselves. Some are lucky to have the privilege to have their voice heard: but many others are not.
Perianne Boring, founder and president of Chamber of Digital Commerce, has spoken about bringing women into the cryptocurrency ecosystem.
“The Bitcoin industry has been punished for the lack of women,”
She told website Moneyish in December 2017.
“Women are naturally better communicators and on a mass scale, people don’t understand what Bitcoin is. The perception is skewed and it won’t be accepted as a legitimate technology unless we find a way to get this imbalance sorted.”
Boring makes a very strong point: if cryptocurrency is to survive and thrive, it needs women. A technology cannot be touted as the future if it doesn’t include everyone.
Rhona has shown us how powerful a woman’s voice can be for advocating. Fintech and cryptocurrency could benefit greatly from having more passionate voices like hers in it. Representation is key, and having women in visible positions is the first step to inspiring others to join the space.
Welcoming communities, such as Greenheart’s, need to become mainstream. There is no place for sexism and discrimination in the future.
We can ask ourselves: am I going to welcome the future, or am I going to be stuck in the past? It’s something we can all reflect on everyday, and not just on International Women’s Day.


Contributed by: Oliver Fisher, Australian intern for Change in Progress 2.0 Project
Rome has the Colosseum, Paris the Eiffel tower and Agra the Taj Mahal. So what does Islamabad have, Faisal mosque perhaps? Islamabad like the rest of Pakistan has something that is more unique than a simple tourist destination as its highlight, what makes it special is something that not many countries have. It’s something that the country should be proud of, for what makes Pakistan special is the hospitality and kind nature of its people. That is something that the people of Pakistan should be immensely proud of.
I have been touched by the generosity and the kindness of the people here, the conversations that I have had with complete strangers have been some of the most inspirational conversations that I have ever had. I have been welcomed in to your homes, invited around for cups of tea and been graced with your heart warming hospitality. You have made my journey here an unforgettable one, the last six weeks have been some of the most enjoyable in my life to date. I find it refreshing that people here simply want to talk to me not because they want something from me, but because they want to know more about me and my countries culture. I like how the people here have big dreams, they want to make a difference. Not only so that they can improve there own lives but so they can help the lives of others, help Pakistan become a better place. I have heard stories of sorry and grief, stories of immense pain and despair. But as always the people here never fail to see a silver lining, they never fail to grasp on to that one piece of hope that they have and never let it go.
The people here are brave and are resilient, many have grown up with very little and yet they want to give so much. This is a rare quality for people to have and a quality that I wish more people had in Australia. I have learnt note in the last six weeks about human nature than I have in the rest of my life of my life so far. You have taught me to dream big and to never stop chasing my dreams, you have taught me that even when the day is at its darkest there is always a way to climb up in to the light. I have learnt that the unknown should not be feared but instead embraced. The people here barely knew anything about me and yet they made me part of their families, they made me feel at home in this country.
I have always felt that in Australia we do not have enough trust in one another, it is a shame because some of the great experiences in life come from trusting in the goodness of human nature. We can learn a lot from the people of Pakistan and how they treat each other. I came to Pakistan knowing very little about the people and its culture, I could say that I have been pleasantly surprised by what I have found but that would be a vast understatement. I have been impassioned by the nature of the people and their kindness and generosity. I have learnt that it is not the unknown that I should be afraid of, instead what I should be afraid if is not being able to jump in to the abyss of uncertainty that we all have. We may fall in the process, we may have a tough time. But when we fall, we find a way to to get back up again. We learn to dust ourselves off and climb higher than we have ever been before, the people here have shown me that you should never be afraid to fail and we should never stop looking to improve.
When people ask me what the highlight of Pakistan was? I will not tell them about a tourist sight or even a single event. Because what has made my trip so enjoyable is not something that is as fleeting as a visit somewhere. The highlight is something that I have had the pleasure of experiencing every day that I have been here. An experience that has grown and changed me with every passing day. What I will tell my friends, my family and anyone else who will listen is that the highlight of a trip to Pakistan is the interactions that you will have with the people here. It is something that the people of Pakistan should be proud of, many countries have magnificent architectural wonders as their main tourist draw card. But it’s very rare that the hospitality of the people is the main reason to visit a country. My time in Pakistan has almost come to an end and there is no way that I will ever be able to express my gratitude in a way that is deserving of the kindness that I have experience here. Instead I will keep my parting message a simple one, for sometimes simplicity is the best option. Allah hafiz Pakistan, Allah hafiz.


By Richard Jennings, CFA
The last time we were bullish of the pound was in spring 2016 and although we caught a sharp upward move against the Aussie dollar in the days after the piece, the Brexit vote turned everything on its head.
Fast forward to the dawn of 2017 and we again believe that it is time to take a bull position in sterling against selected currency pairs, in particular the Canadian Dollar and South African Rand.
The strength of the 2 pairs against the beleaguered pound has been even more exacerbated due to resurgent commodity prices (they being deemed “commodity currencies”) and, in the rand’s case, the material interest rate differential of near 7%. Together with the political risk premia that has increased materially post the EU referendum vote, the pound has thus been particularly weak against both these pairs. Indeed, as we can see in the weekly chart below v the rand, sterling has depreciated by a whopping 35% against this currency in just over a year from the peaks seen of approaching 26 the pound at the beginning of 2016. I believe this is the largest pound depreciation on record v the South African rand in such a short timescale.
It is clear however from the chart that the RSI has begun to rise from very oversold levels and there has also been an MACD cross over in recent weeks. With the pair not breaching a new low too since probing 16 in October, this early divergence looks to us as a harbinger of future strength.
Interestingly, the news flow since the EU referendum has been resoundingly bullish for the pound – completely at odds with the price action. We believe that it is simply the weight of speculative money that has weighed on the currency together with trader sentiment. However, in currency markets in particular, price action always ultimately follows the economic fundamentals and rising inflation, resilient growth, resurgent exports, a tight labour market and a material shrinking of the current account deficit are all arrows pointing up for the pound not down.
As the US interest rate cycle turned in December last year and the market anticipates up to 3 further rises this year, we would argue that the case for interest rate rises in the UK is actually stronger than the US. Our inflation is higher for a start and is expected to trend further north this year. It is only the sheer ineptitude of Mark “Carnage” (and whom should be removed from office in our opinion) that is keeping the coiled spring of rate rises in the UK down at the moment. Sadly for much of the populace that hold mortgages and debt, when his folly is finally reined in by the markets (as is evident already with rising gilt yields) then this spring is wont to rise further than it should or could have been had he acted in accordance with the current economic set and the pain will be much worse than it could have been.
Put simply we believe that the correct rate for UK base rates at present is between 2-3%. We also expect the second half of this year to see at least 2 if not 3 rate rises as the economic trajectory continues upwards and the Bank of England finally realises the Brexit landscape is not one of armageddon but opportunity.
This is one of our most high conviction macro calls at Align for 2017 and we expect to see the pound north of 20 Rands to the pound in 12 months time and also approaching 2 Canadian dollars. In the latter’s case, with the likely bursting of their property bubble this year we do not see any rate rises on the horizon there in 2017 and so this is a particularly attractive pair to buy the pound against.
We also note that the latest CoT data as at 4 Jan 2017 revealed increasing short positioning once more in the GBP currency after a reduction going into the end of the year. Speculative money is always caught the wrong way on a trend at its extreme and we strongly suspect that this historical experience will play out here too. The only caveat to this call is as we go into the triggering of Article 50 – slated for spring of this year – this may bring a final short-lived lurch lower. Whether this lurch is from current levels or higher is of course unquantifiable and so we are to split our powder into 2 kegs in the event of such a move happening – taking a 50% position size long here. Sub 16 on the Rand and $1.57 against the CAD are complete “gimmes” to us whereupon we would apply our second 50% to the purchase of the pound v these pairs.


Photo: Greg Zinone, Co-Founder of Joint Forces Initiative; Elaine Kunda, CEO of Vitalere; and Ahman Green, former NFL pro bowl running back celebrate their partnership to provide safe alternatives to improve the health of the military, veterans, athletes and gamers at Microsoft’s eSports arena in New York City Wednesday evening.
(New York, NY, January 26, 2017) – Power On Off, a nutraceutical brand including Power On to improve mental edge and Power Off to enhance sleep quality, is partnering with Joint Forces Initiative (JFI) to raise awareness of the catastrophic effects from lack of sleep and to provide safe alternatives to improve the health of the military, veterans, athletes and gamers.
What do all these professionals have in common? At first blush, you might think not much. But, you’d be wrong. The tie that binds them is sleep. Or lack thereof.
Take the major league baseball infielder who plays 162 regular season games in multiple time zones over approximately six months. Or the professional gamer who spends 12 or more hours per day competing in front of the computer screen and every day their screen goes black means thousands of dollars in lost revenue. Or the US military veteran who completed three tours and now is trying to normalize into every day life while suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder. None of these circumstances allow for a full night’s sleep and studies show that performance may be impacted as a result.
“We already know excellence lies in the little details. Power On Off believes we can improve the way people sleep and the way they perform when they’re awake. The decision to partner with Joint Forces Initiative was an easy one. JFI shares our belief that safe alternatives for improving our health should be available to everyone, including the military, athletes and gamers,” said Elaine Kunda, CEO, Vitalere Group of Companies (parent company of Power On Off).
Power On and Power Off are designed to help the user compete. Power On is a proprietary blend of 15 ingredients working in synergy to promote memory, alertness, energy, productivity and brain health. Power Off is a proprietary blend of nine ingredients to promote relaxation, sleep and brain health. Taken together, the smart supplementation protocol of Power On and Power Off can enhance the ability to get high quality sleep, wake up refreshed, and maintain focus in the face of every day stresses and distractions.
Founded in 2007 by Greg and Addie Zinone, JFI is a non-profit organization and the mastermind behind the Pro vs GI Joe events where professional athletes play video games online against troops stationed around the world. The goal of JFI has always been to “do a little for those who do a lot” and to create connections and a sense of support.
“The three demographics JFI works with, almost exclusively, are troops, professional athletes and gamers – all of whom are committed and passionate about what they do. To be successful requires long hours and hard work without undue additional stress on their bodies, which is exactly why a partnership with Power On Off works so well. Power On and Power Off provide a safe alternative for our troops, athletes and gamers whose energy, focus and rest is essential to their success. We are incredibly excited about this new partnership,” said Greg Zinone, Co-Founder, Joint Forces Initiative.
Power On Off will work in lock step with JFI to build awareness and provide healthy alternatives to improve sleep and increase focus – for sport and for life. By using the code JFIPOWERONOFF, 10% percent of sales from Power On and Power Off will be given to JFI to continue the important work they do in giving the military, athletes and gamers a platform to play and compete while creating unity.
The official launch of the Power On Off and JFI sponsorship kicked off January 25, 2017 at the inaugural Pro Athlete Pro Gamer Gaming Showcase taking place at Microsoft’s new e-sports arena in New York City. Hosted by former NFL pro bowl running back Ahman Green, the Pro Athlete Pro Gamer Gaming Showcase saw four teams of five competitors (three gamers and 2 athletes per team) face off in a four hour live stream event of Gears of War on Xbox One. While the Showcase was held at Microsoft’s esports arena in New York City, athletes and gamers played in locations across the country. The full show will be aired during the Gears of War Fight Night on February 1, 2017.
NSF Certified for Sport
Power On and Power Off have completed the requirements of the NSF Certified for Sport program. This confirms that Power On and Power Off do not contain any of the 180+ substances banned by major athletic organizations. This program verifies that the contents of Power On and Power Off actually match what is printed on the label. It also verifies that our products are manufactured at a facility audited by NSF for quality and safety. With Power On and Power Off being certified by NSF International’s Certified for Sport program, you can be confident that the products are bring regularly checked by one of the most respected certifiers in the world.
For more information please contact:


Brent Bishop is an on-air fitness expert, lifestyle host, and celebrity trainer. He is the owner of Think Fitness Studios, a performance-inspired, boutique personal training centre in Toronto. Bishop is an on-air Fitness Expert on national television, Functional Fitness Host of the series Body Fuel, author of The Think Factor and the male Fitness Brand Ambassador for New Balance Canada. Brent has made several media appearances on North American networks including KTLA, WFLA Daytime, Global TV, CTV and CityTV to name a few. Additionally, Bishop is a regular contributor to numerous print media such as Best Health Magazine, Canadian Health and Lifestyle, Inside Fitness, Fitness Business Canada, Canadian Living and Sweat Equity Magazine.
Brent is also a trainer and coach on Evolve Functional Fitness, a virtual fitness community and training app – the first of its kind. His Evolve video bio can be viewed here
Bishop holds a B.Sc. in Kinesiology with a minor in Psychology from Simon Fraser University, British Columbia. He has over 16 years experience inspiring people of all levels to demand more of themselves through fitness and personal development. Bishop has notable fitness career highlights working with Olympians, high level athletes and various film and television personalities. Whether it’s hiking the Andes in Peru, leading a group on a snowshoeing expedition or planning his next eco-adventure race, Bishop dedicates his time and energy to inspire himself and others to realize their true potential by unleashing their inner athlete.


- Published: Sunday, 05 July 2015 18:50
(WXYZ) - You could say the Detroit Zoo sealed the deal to provide a new home for a rescued mammal named Jersey.
The seal was deemed "too friendly" to be released back into the wild in New Jersey about seven months ago.
The Marine Mammal Stranding Center ultimately made the decision to send the seal to the Detroit Zoo after she had been picked up by volunteers several times over the course of eight months after being treated and released. In one instance, Jersey was spotted being petted on a beach.


Dear Madison Families,
I’m pleased to share that we are partnering with the Madison PTSA Racial Equity Team to show the film RACE to Be Human to all Madison students during grade level assemblies on Tuesday, March 14th. Students will debrief with teachers during Advisory on Thursday, March 16th, when they have the opportunity to reflect on, discuss their ideas and ask questions about topics raised in the film.
A parent volunteer will also lead a Found Poetry activity during lunch on Wednesday, March 15th, where students can use art to make connections to their own lives. Additional follow-up includes opportunities for students to discreetly report microaggressions they have witnessed or experienced firsthand through a new system co-designed by members of the Madison staff and parent Racial Equity Teams, as well as members of the Students of Color Union.
Created for schools, communities, and corporations, RACE to be Human addresses the apprehension and confusion so many of us feel when it comes to talking about race and racism. The 46-minute IndieFlix documentary uses the power of student voice to explore racism, its impacts on the mental health of children and adults, and what can be done to change it. The film shares micro-stories to define commonly used terms we all use when talking about racism. The film delves into the effects of race and racism on individuals and our communities with:
- Candid interviews with kids and teens, who discuss their experiences with race and racism, and its impact on their lives and relationships.
- Expert perspectives on the history, present-day occurrences, and effects of racism. Essential definitions and guidelines that help create safe spaces for cross-cultural dialogues about race and racism.
- Discussion around allyship, as well as what action and accountability may look like to start shaping a more inclusive and equitable society today.
The PTSA is also investing in the important racial equity work at Madison by purchasing a year-long subscription that gives teachers, staff and parents access to the full length film, plus the companion Creative Coping Toolkit, an online film-based learning platform with curriculum and resources to facilitate healthy conversations about race both in the classroom and at home. The program includes strategies and tips to check ourselves and others while inspiring self-reflection so that as individuals, we are more aware, and as communities, we can move forward more equitably.
I have attached the At Home Discussion Guide so that parents can connect their student’s learning with conversations about the film at home. Parents can also preview the film (either the trailer or the full length film) via the Race to Be Human Dashboard (note: you will need to create an account to login but your information will only be used to track internal usage metrics).
The PTSA will also be hosting a community screening of RACE to Be Human at Madison on April 4th from 6:00-7:30pm, followed by a panel discussion facilitated by the SPS Department of Racial Equity Advancement (DREA). We invite you to save the date and join other Madison families for this important conversation about race.
Please reach out to me or the Madison PTSA Racial Equity Team with any questions about the film.
Thank you for your continued partnership to make Madison a more inclusive school, Where Everyone Belongs!


One of the core elements of a democracy is the right to vote—the right of the people to freely decide which politicians and which parties have earned their support and deserve their vote. A dark chapter in Bermuda’s quest for a more democratic society was the legal requirement for annual voters’ registration: if one failed to register by a fixed date annually they would be unable to vote in any election called within the next twelve months. Because lower income people, based on global research, are less likely to register to vote than their wealthier counterparts there was always an inherent bias in such a system. The PLP government changed this and made the vote sacrosanct by abolishing annual registration: register once and you will remain on the voting register.
In their submission to the British government, the OBA seek to change this and require that citizens re-register every four year or so. Anyone failing to register would be prevented from voting in a subsequent election. The rationale advanced for this vote restraining proposal is that up to 10% of voters are registered in constituencies they no longer live in and their participation could well affect the outcome of marginal areas. If there was no mechanism already in place to address this, their proposal may have some merit. As it stands it seems a not very subtle attempt to take away the vote of working class people.
Under the current system candidate teams for political parties, canvassing a meagre 1,100 voters, can and do identify people living in areas who are not registered in that constituency and can and do get them to fill out the appropriate form to transfer their residency on the voters’ list. All parties have this right. There is a further safe guard in that the scrutineers on election can be (and have been) provided with a list of registered voters who are to be challenged on their right to vote in that constituencies on the grounds there is evidence they no longer live there. This system works; all it requires is a bit of effort by candidates and their teams.
Alongside the OBA call for voter re-registration is the call for absentee voting. They provide few specifics but given that they want to see Bermuda adopt what so many other countries have it can only mean the OBA want to see Bermudians living abroad being granted the vote. This makes sense for students as they are overseas for the purpose of education and, along with the Bermuda Census criteria, they are deemed to still be living in Bermuda. The challenge here is to ensure we have a suitable definition of “student.”
For those Bermudians who have taken up residence overseas I cannot see a justifiable reason why they should be allowed to vote. Moreover, what constituency would they be registered to vote in? This cannot work under our current political system. In fact, adopting this would add to precisely the problems the OBA say they want to eradicate. Most counties with absentee voting either have direct voting for a leader (which we do not) or the proportion of overseas voters to the total population is negligible in terms of voting impact.
These OBA proposals represent a slight modification from the proposals advanced by the UBP in their 2007 election platform and it demonstrates the challenge this new party is having in shaking itself from its old association. To call on the UK to force their proposed changes on Bermuda and other Overseas Territories is an odd thing to do rather than argue for it on the campaign trail and actually hope to win a mandate to make these changes. No doubt we will hear more of this in the months to come.


BUKAVU-COVID19: NATIONAL MINISTER OF HEALTH PAYS TRIBUTE TO THE HEALTH CARE STAFF OF THE PROVINCIAL HOSPITAL.
Minister Eteni LONGONDO congratulated and strongly encouraged the HPGRB’s medical staff for the remarkable commitment of this public health institution in the response to COVID-19!
Upon his arrival in Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu Province, on Saturday 20 June 2020, the National Minister of Health, His Excellency Eteni LONGONDO, visited several facilities for the care of COVID-19 patients. Accompanied by His Excellency Théo NGWABIDJE KASI, Provincial Governor, as well as members of the COVID-19 pandemic response team in the province, the Minister of Health began his visits by the BWINDI isolation centre where he congratulated and encouraged the health care staff for all the efforts and sacrifices made in this fight. After the Bwindi stopover, the National Minister of Health made a stopover at the Provincial General Reference Hospital of Bukavu (HPGRB) where he was welcomed by the Acting Medical Director Dr Ghislain MAHESHE, surrounded by the entire management staff and medical corps.
On the spot, Minister Eteni LONGONDO congratulated and strongly encouraged the medical staff for the remarkable commitment of this public health establishment in the fight against COVID-19 in South Kivu Province, which continues to do its utmost with the available means. The Minister took this opportunity to recall the decision taken by the Head of State, H.E. Félix Antoine TSHISEKEDI TSHILOMBO, who wants the funds allocated to the celebration of the 60th anniversary of the independence of the DRCongo, on 30 June, to be allocated instead to the wage of the health personnel involved in the response against Covid-19. The National Minister of Health wished to recall the support of the Head of State to the entire population of South Kivu facing this terrible pandemic.


By: Tracy Watson
Ireland Then and Now... a Brief Retrospective
If the global financial crisis, which came into sharp relief in 2007, had an apogee, it could well have been Ireland. The global fiscal crisis, which shook and continues to shake the EU (both lender and debt economies), exacerbated the nascent financial crisis in Ireland, which came to a head in 2008. Recapitalization, coupled with initiatives intended to cope with a hemorrhaging banking sector, resulted in contingent and actual fiscal liabilities that led to the Irish State pursuing external assistance in 2010. Subsequent to this move, the country has been working to adhere to its regimen of financial and structural reforms (austerity measures) and continues its bold pursuit of foreign investment.
FDI, or foreign direct investment, is a substantial contributor to Ireland’s economy, and consequently, to Ireland’s economic recovery. In fact, according to the Deloitte report Investing in Ireland Your move in the right direction, large companies (e.g., multinationals) contribute the lion’s share of corporate tax revenue paid in Ireland (approximately 75%). And while Ireland’s financial crisis continues, the country has made great strides through its rigorous campaign to attract FDI; even as the crisis escalated, in 2009 Ireland procured 2.4% of GDP from corporate tax revenue, whereas two of its strongest lender compatriots only garnered 1.3% and 1.4% (Germany and France, respectively).
How Ireland is Repositioning Itself through FDI
According to the Deloitte report, nearly 1,000 multinational corporations have established their European base in Ireland. Pharmaceutical manufacturers, medical device makers, information communications technology (ICT) providers, and financial services, are leaders of FDI in Ireland. The incentives for these companies are numerous and extend far beyond the highly attractive 12.5% corporate tax rate. Of foreign companies in Ireland, U.S. companies comprise a significant portion: 600 U.S. companies currently operate in Ireland and employ 100,000 workers, according to a report by ’60 Minutes’. Moreover, the U.S. paid 33% (or one-third) of Ireland’s total corporate tax, according to the Deloitte report, over the past 10 years.


Suzanne Collins’ “The Hunger Games” is a perfect read for the ultra competitive reality show generation. Part “Survivor,” part “Lost,” part “American Idol,” part conglomeration of every movie that pits random humans versus one another in front of a crowd of onlookers- it takes a well used concept and makes the most of it. Although it takes a few pages to crank up the story, it is well worth the effort.
One might expect the fiercely competitive nature of the “The Hunger Games” to warrant pages of gore and bloody description. Collins’ skills shine as she allows the reader’s interaction to formulate much of the scene without excess focus on the violence.
Many have called “The Hunger Games” an investigation into a young person’s world where violence is a contributing factor. Is this not also a social commentary on what might one day be demanded by viewers who have grown tired of the same old entertainment? While the book does address these issues and the depth of romance without sex the main consideration is the story and whether it works. It does.
Great stories are created and told again and again. They evoke vivid imagery and lure the reader or listener into the activity. They inspire readers to create their own continuation of the story and character’s lives. They demand sequels and screenplays. They also birth web sites http://www.scholastic.com/thehungergames… that carry the theme forward.
Every public and high school library should have at least one copy. Recruit one reader and prepare for an avalanche to follow.
5 out of 5


Cryptocurrencies are causing a buzz in the financial world as their total market capitalization reaches a staggering $1.66 trillion on February 6, 2024. This surge in value comes ahead of the eagerly awaited Bitcoin halving event scheduled for April 2024, which experts predict will lead to a significant increase in the price of the leading cryptocurrency. Additionally, Ethereum, another prominent player in the crypto space, is experiencing impressive growth driven by innovative features and increased adoption. This article will explore the latest developments shaping the crypto landscape, including the rise of Ethereum Name Service (ENS), the integration of Know-Your-Customer (KYC) protocols in decentralized finance (DeFi), and the potential for stablecoins to outshine traditional payment systems.
Bitcoin’s upcoming halving event is generating anticipation and speculation in the market. Historical data suggests that such events have typically resulted in significant price increases, and investors are eagerly awaiting the possibility of another surge in value. Past halvings in 2012 and 2016 propelled Bitcoin’s price to new highs, and many hope to take advantage of this trend once again.
While Bitcoin remains dominant, Ethereum has been gaining momentum. Ethereum Name Service (ENS), a decentralized naming system built on the Ethereum blockchain, has experienced impressive growth, soaring by over 70% in just the last month. ENS simplifies transactions by translating human-readable Ethereum addresses into machine-readable alphanumeric codes, enhancing user experience and accessibility.
Scalability has long been a challenge for Ethereum, but innovative solutions such as Polygon and Arbitrum, known as layer 2 solutions, are gaining traction and have the potential to address these issues. Additionally, Ethereum’s high gas fees, which have frustrated many users, are expected to drop to less than $0.01, making the platform more appealing and user-friendly.
To address regulatory concerns and enhance security, Know-Your-Customer (KYC) protocols are being integrated into decentralized finance (DeFi). This development ensures that users participating in DeFi activities comply with regulatory requirements while still enjoying the benefits of decentralization and financial inclusivity.
The potential for significant revenue growth in the crypto space has attracted major corporate players. Ethereum, for example, is projected to double its revenue to $5 billion in 2024, highlighting the platform’s potential for further expansion and adoption. The involvement of corporate entities demonstrates the growing recognition and acceptance of cryptocurrencies as a legitimate asset class.
Stablecoins, which are cryptocurrencies pegged to stable assets like fiat currency, have emerged as a disruptive force in the payment industry. Experts predict that stablecoins could surpass traditional payment systems such as Visa in terms of transaction volumes. This growing trust and acceptance of cryptocurrencies as a means of exchange are reshaping the financial landscape.
The crypto space continues to witness groundbreaking projects that merge decentralized finance with social media, giving rise to the concept of SocialFi. This emerging trend combines blockchain technology with social networks, allowing users to seamlessly participate in financial activities while engaging with their communities. SocialFi has gained immense popularity, attracting users who value both financial empowerment and social interaction.
In a significant partnership, ENS has joined forces with GoDaddy, a leading domain registrar, to simplify the linking of traditional Web2 domain names with .eth domains. This collaboration aims to bridge the gap between the traditional internet infrastructure and the decentralized world of blockchain, making it easier for users to navigate and interact with blockchain-based websites.
It is important to acknowledge that investing in cryptocurrencies remains highly speculative and volatile. While the market offers significant opportunities for growth and financial gains, it also carries inherent risks. Investors must conduct thorough research, diversify their portfolios, and approach the crypto market with caution.
In conclusion, as the crypto market continues to evolve, the upcoming Bitcoin halving event holds the promise of a potential price surge, while Ethereum thrives on increasing adoption and innovative projects like ENS. With the integration of KYC protocols and the rise of stablecoins, cryptocurrencies are gradually disrupting traditional payment systems. However, investors must exercise caution and understand the risks associated with this volatile market. As the world embraces the potential of cryptocurrencies, the future of finance appears to be increasingly digital and decentralized.


Miami’s real-estate market is strong, but the good times can’t last forever, industry leaders said at a Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce event Friday.
One speaker, longtime commercial broker Jack Lowell, donned a top hat and a pair of rose-tinted glasses to illustrate the prevailing attitude of many real-estate professionals at the South Florida Real Estate Summit. Lowell also pulled out a bottle of Dom Perignon champagne.
“We’re all excited about the real-estate market that we’re currently in, but we should be realistic,” said Stephen Owens, president of the major developer Swire Properties, as he accepted a lifetime achievement award at the event. “And realistic means that we can’t have a party where everyone is drinking all the time. You have to have a day where you wake up and say maybe I drank a little too much last night.
“I think the community as a whole knows that we have a good thing going and we need to show some discipline going forward.”
Panelists at the event acknowledged that rising construction costs and tumbling foreign currencies could slow growth in South Florida. Condo inventory is reaching the upper limits of a healthy market — and the downtown condo boom has shown signs of cooling down.
Rick Kolb, senior vice president at Suffolk Construction Company, said the construction industry in South Florida is still about 40,000 workers short of where it was during the last boom.
“Those workers have left and not come back,” Kolb said, with many of the workers heading to the fracking rush in North Dakota and other western states. The shortage of skilled workers has driven up construction costs in South Florida, he continued.
And the foreign investors who have driven the current cycle with all-cash transactions are seeing their buying power reduced as currencies in Latin America, Europe and Russia decline against the dollar.
“If a year ago you could spend a million dollars, today you can only spend half a million dollars,” said Jay Parker, CEO of Douglas Elliman‘s Florida brokerage. “That will have an impact on us.”
But Parker said wealthy foreigners around the world continue to see the United States as a safe place to invest and would continue to bring their business to an increasingly cosmopolitan Miami.
Latin Americans account for about 68 percent of foreign buyers in South Florida, said Teresa King Kinney, president of the Miami Association of Realtors, but Kinney said she has high hopes for Chinese investors, who are beginning to make inroads here and whose currency remains strong against the dollar.
Venezuelans are the biggest international drivers of Miami’s market, followed by Argentinians and Brazilians, Kinney said.
No one at the event said they expect anything like the disastrous crash that destroyed the market after the financial crisis.
Eddie Diaz, senior vice president at Ocean Bank, noted that this cycle is built on cash deposits and equity, not speculation and debt, which were the illusory foundations of the last boom.
Also speaking at the event was former Miami mayor Manny Diaz, now a senior partner at the law firm Lydecker Diaz. In his speech, Diaz discussed the state of Miami in the 1990s, when he said crime was rampant, the downtown was abandoned and the city was the butt of jokes worldwide. (Diaz served two terms between 2001 and 2009.)
Diaz warned attendees that Miami’s real-estate market would suffer if developers and other industry leaders did not address the most serious civic issues of the day: sea-level rise, a widening gap between rich and poor and a lack of affordable housing and public transportation.
“This is a long-term investment,” Diaz said. “The financial success of you and your children is directly linked to the future competitiveness of our city. Invest your time today and enjoy the fruits of your efforts tomorrow.”