Posted in: Community Level
In October 2007, the World Bank Institute, the Tanzanian Commission for AIDS, the Prime Minister’s Office for Regional Administration and Local Government, The Global Fund and other partners organized a learning program to help Tanzania improve information flow, transparency and accountability in their response to HIV/AIDS at the community level. The program helped increase the capacity of key players at the district and community levels so they can more effectively administer, distribute and allocate financial resources and supplies for HIV/AIDS, thereby ensuring that the resources reach the intended beneficiaries and are used for the intended purposes. People living with HIV/AIDS, faith based groups, community organizations, districts and local and national government institutions identified their own tools such as participatory planning, community involvement, community score cards, public budget hearings, use of radio, open council sessions, transparency in bids and purchases, protection mechanisms of people of reporting corruption, regular executive meetings, use of minutes and reporting, monitoring and evaluation, among others.
Ibusa Like-minds Association (ILA), a non-partisan and youth-oriented association with the aim of developing Ibusa recently held a Discussion Forum well attended by the elders and youths of the town, and indeed the crème de crème in the Ibusa community. They all exchanged ideas on the various problems confronting the town, especially as it pertains to disharmony, lack of unity and the underdevelopment of the town.
Topics which formed the basis of the Discussion were drawn from the following, and were debated at great length:
1. ISSUES AFFECTING THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE TOWN
(a) Non-existent and patchy government’s presence in the town.
(b) Deplorable state of public infrastructural amenities.
(c) No single Government Ministry and Establishment in the town except Agricultural Development Programme (ADP).
(d) No dual carriage roads in the town.
(e) High level of unemployment.
(f) No street names and light in the town.
2. SECURITY RELATED PROBLEMS
(a) Under-policing of the town.
(b) Inadequate security gadgets for combating crime in the town.
(c) The need for effective community policing.
(d) Increase in robbery incidents and insecurity of the town.
3. education
(a) Inadequate public primary and secondary schools in the town.
(b) Inadequate classrooms, chairs, desks and equipments.
(c) Inadequate teachers.
(d) “Miracle centers” for GCE/WAEC/NECO/JAMB candidates in the town.
4. YOUTH RELATED PROBLEMS
(a) Moral decadence among the youths of the town.
(b) Increase in cultism and gangster activities in the town.
(c) High level of violence among the youths.
(d) Educational decadence.
5. SOCIALLY INCLINED NORMS
(a) Increase in the level of illiteracy in the town.
(b) Lack of spirit of community development among the Ibusa people.
(c) The apolitical nature of Ibusa people.
(d) Problems confronting the Ibusa Sports Club.
6. CULTURAL PROBLEMS
(a) Cultural decadence.
(b) Non-identification with the cultures of the land.
(c) Dying out of Otogwu attire.
7. DISHARMONY IN THE LEADERSHIP OF THE TOWN
(a) The Obuzor/Diokpa dispute.
(b) Factionalism of the Ibusa town.
(c) Bickering among families.
(d) Land disputes.
(e) Traditional/Chieftaincy disputes.
Some of those who took part in the Discussion Forum are
1. Professor Fidelis. N. Amatokwu, an Educator, Ex-Sub Dean, social Sciences, University of Lagos, Ex-Head of dept. Novena University and Professor, Mass Communication Dept. Delta State University.
2. Dr. (Mrs.) Grace Nwabuoku, Educator.
3. Mr. Emmanuel Kwasa Amatokwu, Banker and Sports Administrator.
4. Mr. Kenneth Efozie, Head Teacher, Young Minds Private School, Asaba, Delta state.
5. Chief Edwin Onyemaechi Okolie, Politician.
6. Mr. Halim Michael Eloka, Student.
7. Mr. Emeka Esogbue, Historian, International Relations/Political Affairs Analyst, and Chief Scribe, Ibusa Like-minds Association.
8. Miss Florence kanayo Bob-Okonkwo, Public Servant. Mayor, Ibusa Like-minds Association.
9. Mr. Anthony Ike Nwabuoku Nwaokoloba, Estate Manager and Consultant.
10. Dr. Albert Umeadi Okolie, MD/CEO, Phil-Umeh Ventures, Lagos.
11. Mr. Egbuchua Peter, Regional Manager, Patech solutions Nigeria Ltd and Account Executive (Olivier Africa Plc).
12. Mr. Halim Henry, Senior Estate Officer and Civil Servant.
13. Miss Gloria Tariah, Educator.
14. Mr. Philip Ngozi Ifechukwude, Creative Writer.
15. Mr. Alex Okonma, I.T Consultant.
16. Mr. Awele Achakpo, Trainer and Coach, Baseball Sports.
17. Dr. Okwudili Iwebunor Iwedi, Health Worker and Counselor.
18. Chief (Mrs.) Patricia Okolie, Solicitor and Advocate.
19. Mr. Emeka Achakpo, Senior Lecturer, Bauchi State Polytechnic, Bauchi State.
20. Mrs. Felicia Nwankwo, Chairperson, Centre for the Defence of Women’s Right, Kano, Kano State.
The leadership of Ibusa Like-minds Association also paid official visits to prominent Ibusa people to gather progressive ideas, personal opinions and suggestions on how the Ibusa clan can move forward.
Some of those visited were:
1. Professor Fidelis N. Amatokwu
2. Mr. Austin. Abuah, Erstwhile President-General of Ibusa Community Development Union (ICDU), Ibusa
3. Obi (Prof) Chike Onwuachi, former Head of Nigerian Institute of International Affairs
4. Princess Patricia Ajudua, Minority Leader, Delta State House of Assembly (Met her absence because the House had not resumed for the year)
5. Obi (Prof) Louis Chelunor Nwoboshi, the Obuzor of Ibusa
6. Mr. Albert Enenmo, Former Principal, St. Thomas’ College, Ibusa
7. Mrs. Ndidi Okonta
8. Obi Onyemauche Okafor, Umuodafe, Ibusa
9. Mr. Anthony Ike Nwabuoku Nwaokoloba
The moderator, Emeka Esogbue after recognizing the presence of participants enjoined everyone to courageously speak his/her mind without fear of intimidation on how the Ibusa community could take her place among the comity of developed towns in the nation. Shortly after, Florence Bob-Okonkwo (Miss) the Mayor of Ibusa Like-minds Association read out the citation of the Association in which the problems of Ibusa were noted as forming the aims and objectives of the Association.
The Discussion Forum flagged-off with an informative and entertaining opening remark given by Prof. Amatokwu. In his remarks, he expressed his delight for the invitation extended to him by the Ibusa Like-minds Association, while acknowledging that the Discussion was a timely one. He further noted that Ibusa has always been in the limelight socio-culturally, and recounted how Ibusa recorded history in Ekumeku and Cassava wars. He described the military courage of Ibusa in the words of a British Anthropology who described how Ibusa utilized trenches to prosecute wars. He recollected the history of healthy competition between Ibusa, Asaba, Okpanam and Ogwashi-Uku in which Ibusa triumphed with the Nigerian number of military officers that prosecuted the Nigerian Biafran War, and the greatest number of professors from the town. According to him, Ibusa has emerged as the fountain head of Delta state.
On the culture of dressing in Otogwu attire which is fast dying out in Ibusa, Florence Bob-Okonkwo spoke on the need to make dressing in the attire to some traditional occasions compulsory. Professor Fidelis Amatokwu would further suggest that getting designers to be versatile in the art of Otogwu fabrics and moving it into the youth market in form of jeans, scarf, skirts, trousers, and generally as a beauty apparel will ensure that people buy them. To him, the Yoruba scholars popularized the Asho-oke attire, and Ibusa scholars can also do the same, if Otogwu is to remain with the Ibusa society.
First to speak on Community Development Consciousness was Mr. Alex Okonma who strongly called for the dissemination of information which he believed would very much enhance the spirit of community development consciousness which, he agreed the average Ibusa man is lacking. Empowering the youths to think along this line was recommended by him. Mr. Peter Egbuchua towed along this line but remarkably lamented the fact that Ibusa is one community with the highest number of professors and scholars, yet this community has no single tertiary institution of its own, located in the town. He blamed the ugly scenario on the Ibusa people who have never given thought to this, and advised that something in this avenue be done to give the community a tertiary institution.
That Ibusa people retire and do not want to come back home to be part of the system, he further argued to be one area which continues to negatively affect the town in terms of development because Ibusa people allow others to rule over them. His recommendation is that Ibusa people should form part of the government, which is the only way development of the town can be guaranteed. Prof. Amatokwu would further add to this by saying that Ibusa people are not socially responsible to their youths, and that Ibusa youths are entitled to engaging in protests. Employment ratio of Oshimili North he advocated should be raised to accommodate Ibusa people who are also entitled to employment in government establishments. This is the only avenue through which marginalization of the people of Ibusa will be brought to an end, he noted
Reciting the recent incident of delinquency which nearly engulfed the 2008 Ibusa Football tournament in violence, resulting to the loss of the goal post nets by unknown youths of the town, the moderator, Emeka Esogbue called on Mr. Emmanuel Kwasa Amatokwu to speak on the issue of violence which is fast taking a shine off Ibusa as a town. Mr. Amatokwu who took to the floor frowned on what he described as over dependence on English language to the detriment of Ibusa dialect. To him, the ongoing Discussion Forum should have at least been identified with the Ibusa language. He commented that, that some of Ibusa youths cannot adequately express themselves in Ibusa dialect, is itself a problem.
He was quick to point out that Ibusa has a problem as a town, and that our fathers have failed us, but that absolute amendments are necessary to correct this, which is quite the reason there is an ongoing meeting in Lagos between the V10 and Body of Ibusa professionals headed by Mr. Ike Nwabuoku, with himself (Amatokwu) being the Community Relations Personnel between Lagos and Ibusa. This arrangement he hoped would correct a lot of mistakes made by our elders. He called for the empowerment of “Egbeni” (Local Vigilante Group) by paying them monthly salaries.
He condemned the attitudes of the youths who have become quite violent roving the town with daggers. He lamented that if these youths are to be the leaders of tomorrow, then Ibusa needs to have a re-think on re-orientating them for the betterment of the future of the whole town. Mention was made of how the payment of the hall where the “Ife Ibusa nasom” event which took place in Lagos was financed by only two individuals as an attempt to project the good image of Ibusa sports to the whole world. He suggested the need for Ibusa to rise up as a town and embrace development, and achieving this, networking is necessary.
It was the turn of Mr. Ike Nwaokoloba to speak, and he started on quite a good note calling for the projection and encouragement of Ibusa language among the people of the town. He also spoke on the need for peace in Ibusa, which he said must start in every Ibusa home because Ibusa must be protected. He spoke in favour of capable Ibusa businessmen and women raising funds to sponsor their own children. The youths he said, must agitate to achieve results, move and meet with the elders for the development of the town. He concluded that Ibusa needs peace because it is achievable, and prosperity will follow. To him identifying with Diokpa or Obuzor camp will yield nothing.
Mr. Henry Chiedu Halim spoke on the need for strengthening our culture, arguing that the problem the town is facing at the moment radiates from our homes. The issue of “miracle centers” will not help our education to grow. Parents are aware of the existence of secret cults which their children are belonging but they do nothing to discourage them. Many of our parents also encourage their children to acquire wealth fraudulently. He compared the situation of Ibusa with building a large mansion on a weak foundation which is bound to collapse. His advice is that parents guide their children to become useful to the Ibusa society in particular and the nation at large.
Several other Discussants also aired their views on the Ibusa situation but one strong point held by everyone is that the Ibusa society is suffering, and this can be corrected if only we approach it with genuine seriousness, concern and sincerity. The commitment of everyone is necessary if this is to be achieved; after all, no one is too small to contribute towards this.
Many of those visited by the officials of Ibusa Like-minds Association also spoke in the same vein. Obi (Professor) Chike Onwuachi, believes that the elders of Ibusa have failed the town, and it would be difficult for the youths of the town to rectify this, therefore it forms the responsibility of the elders of the town in association with the youths to solve this problem and not pass it to the future generation. He expresses further belief that the instrument of radicalism and gradualism will bring about the much cherished peace and unity to the town. He warmly welcomed the members of Ibusa Like-minds Association and commended them for their efforts in seeking peace and unity for Ibusa. He expressed the view that only truth, love and compassion will save Ibusa from the present crisis.
Mr. Austin Abuah on his part called for the strengthening of Ibusa culture, lamenting the inability of today’s Ibusa youth to effectively communicate in Ibusa dialect, and the situation whereby our youths are seen hanging the Otogwu attire on their shoulders during funerals, with elders not rebuking them. He also thanked the members of Ibusa Like-minds Association that paid him a visit and said he was delighted on the topic of “Socio-cultural Development of Ibusa” which he said was what Ibusa needed. He said that Ibusa has seen some elements of development if we consider the achievements of our illustrious sons and daughters who are achievers in their various endeavours of life. He promised to grace the next program of Ibusa Like-minds Association as long as it will have to do with the development of the town.
As Reported by:
Mr. Emeka Esogbue
Historian and International Relations/Public Affairs Analyst.
(Chief Scribe, Ibusa Like-minds Association)
Emeka Esogbue
Posted in: Community Level
July 9, 2009 Bethesda, MD Objectives: 1.Describe the recent implementation and lessons learned of community mitigation measures (including school closings) that are intended to slow or prevent the transmission of H1N1. 2.Discuss how these measures have and will continue to impact specific groups, including businesses, universities, and child care providers. 3.Discuss specific actions that state and local officials can take to help communities implement these measures and mitigate their impact. 4.Discuss ways to eliminate barriers and align incentives for compliance with community public health measures that may be recommended in the fall. More H1N1 (Swine) flu and seasonal flu info at www.flu.gov Comments are allowed in accordance with our comment policy newmedia.hhs.gov
A nurse is a health care professional who is engaged in the practice of nursing. Nurses are men and women who are responsible (along with other health care professionals) for the treatment, safety and recovery of acutely or chronically ill or injured people, health maintenance of the healthy, and treatment of life-threatening emergencies in a wide range of health care settings. Nurses may also be involved in medical and nursing research and perform a wide range of non-clinical functions necessary to the delivery of health care.
Nurses develop a plan of care, sometimes working collaboratively with physicians, therapists, the patient, the patient’s family and other team members. In the U.S. (and increasingly the United Kingdom), advanced practice nurses, such as clinical nurse specialists and nurse practitioners, diagnose health problems and prescribe medications and other therapies. Nurses may help coordinate the patient care performed by other members of a health care team such as therapists, medical practitioners, dietitians, etc. Nurses provide care both interdependently, for example, with physicians, and independently as nursing professionals.
According to the US Department of Labor’s revised Occupational Outlook Handbook (2000), “Registered nurses (R.N.s) work to promote health, prevent disease, and help patients cope with illness. They are advocates and health educators for patients, families, and communities. When providing direct patient care, they observe, assess, and record symptoms, responses, and progress; assist physicians during treatments and examinations; administer medications; and assist in convalescence and rehabilitation. R.N.s also develop and manage nursing care plans; instruct patients and their families in proper care; and help individuals and groups take steps to improve or maintain their health.”
The nursing career structure varies considerably throughout the world. Typically there are several distinct levels of nursing practitioner, distinguished by increasing education, responsibility and skills. The major distinction is between task-based nursing and professional nursing.
In various parts of the world, the educational background for nurses varies widely. In some parts of Eastern Europe, nurses are high school graduates with twelve to eighteen months of training. In contrast, Chile requires any Registered Nurse to have at least a bachelor’s degree.
At the top of the educational ladder is the doctoral-prepared nurse. Nurses may gain the PhD or another doctoral degree such as Doctor of Nursing Science (DNSc) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), specializing in research, clinical nursing, etc. These nurses practice nursing, teach nursing and carry out nursing research. As the science and art of nursing has advanced, so has the demand for doctoral-prepared nurses.
Registered Nurses generally receive their basic preparation through one of three basic avenues:
Graduation from an Associate of Science in Nursing degree-granting nursing program (two to three years of college level study with a strong emphasis on clinical knowledge and skills) earning the degree of ASN/AAS or ADN in Nursing.
Graduation with a three-year (Diploma in Nursing) certificate from a hospital-based school of nursing (non-degree). Few of these programs remain in the U.S. and the proportion of nurses practicing with a diploma is rapidly decreasing.
Graduation from a university with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (a four – five year program conferring the BSN/BN degree with enhanced emphasis on leadership and research as well as clinically-focused courses).
There are also special programs for “LPN to RN”, for people who hold undergraduate degrees in other disciplines, and for paramedics or military medics. Graduates of all programs, once licensed, are eligible for employment as entry-level staff nurses.
A typical course of study at any level typically includes such topics as:
Anatomy and physiology
Microbiology
Pharmacology and medication administration
Psychology
Nursing ethics
Nursing theory
Nursing practice
Legal issues in nursing practice
All pathways into practice require that the candidate undergo clinical training in nursing. Care is delivered by the student nurses under academic supervision in the hospital and in other practice settings. Clinical courses typically include:
Maternal-child nursing
Pediatric nursing
Adult medical-surgical nursing
Geriatric nursing
Psychiatric nursing
While in clinical training, student nurses are identified by a special uniform to distinguish them from licensed professionals.
In many nursing programs in the United States, a computerized exam is given before, during and upon completion to evaluate the student and nursing program outcomes. This exam upon completion of the nursing program is done to measure a student’s readiness for the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN state board licensure exam. The exam identifies strengths and weaknesses and provides the need for remediation prior to taking the state board exam. This is not a requirement of all nursing programs in the United States, but has increased its usage in the past three to four years.
It is common for RNs to seek additional education to earn a Master of Science in Nursing or Doctor of Nursing Science to prepare for leadership or advanced practice roles within nursing. Management and teaching positions increasingly require candidates to hold an advanced degree in nursing. Many hospitals offer tuition reimbursement or assistance to nurses who want to continue their education beyond their basic preparation.
Many nurses pursue voluntary specialty certification through professional organizations and certifying bodies in order to demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills in their area of expertise.
All U.S. states and territories require RNs to graduate from an accredited nursing program which allows the candidate to sit for the NCLEX-RN, a standardized examination administered through the National Council of State Nursing Boards. Successful completion of the NCLEX-RN is required for state licensure as an RN.
Nurses from other countries are required to be proficient in English and have their educational credentials evaluated by an association known as the Council of Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools prior to being permitted to take the U.S. licensing exam.
Government regulates the profession of nursing to protect the public. In the U.S., the individual states have authority over nursing practice. The scope of practice is defined by legislative and regulatory laws which are administered by State Nursing Boards.
Many states have adopted the Model Nursing Practice Act and Model Nursing Administrative Rules created by the National Council of State Nursing Boards (NCSNB). In addition, many State Nursing Boards model their licensure requirements on the Uniform Core Licensure Requirements which set forth competency development and competency assessment principles.
Nurses may be licensed in more than one state, either by examination or endorsement of a license issued by another state. In addition, the states which have adopted the Nurse Licensure Compact allow nurses licensed in one of the states to practice in all of them through mutual recognition of licensure.
Josh Stone
Posted in: Community Level
Copyright (c) 2008 Ianson Internet Marketing
If you are looking for a job in food service, the Bureau of Labor Statistics has some good news for you–the outlook for openings is generally good because many food service workers move on to better and higher paying jobs. However, if you want a good career in the field, you can stay in food service and make a decent living with some education and experience in hospitality industries to back you up.
Depending on the division of hospitality you are interested in, there are programs available at the trade school level, community college level, and university level for you. Here are a few of the jobs and programs available to you.
Food Prep Workers
Most of these jobs require little education or training, and often these employees learn on the job. Supervised by the chefs and cooks, they prepare ingredients, get equipment for line cooks and chefs, and keep work areas sanitary.
Many of these positions are in bars, fast food restaurants, and chain restaurants. The pay is generally low, but that is also true of any entry level position. Many food prep workers are still in high school and are either working for college money or preparing to go on to the food service programs in trade schools or community colleges.
Jobs for Chefs
Chefs must be able to cook well, of course, but are also responsible for some day to day kitchen management. They must be able to direct the prep workers and line cooks, and serve as head cook. In more upscale kitchens, the chef has opportunities to be promoted to sous chef, executive chef, and eventually restaurant management positions if he or she has had the proper education. Generally, a two year program at a community college is expected for chef positions.
In addition to restaurant work, jobs for chefs can include specialty grocery jobs, preparation of cookbooks, and even television appearances. Often busy families will employ a trained chef as household cook. Often they can find employment in non-feed service companies, like large corporations that have kitchens. Many have their sights set on promotions and must make sure they have additional training and education to qualify for them.
Wait Staff
One of the least favorite positions in the food service industry is the wait staff position. Waiters and waitresses (and hostesses) are often the first line of defense in the restaurant, interacting with hungry people who are of ten a little crabby. They must be cordial and friendly, and make sure the service is prompt, the food is prepared as ordered, and that the guests are happy at all stages of the experience.
However, good wait staff in restaurants, bars, and other food service positions are rewarded with high tips and management promotions. High ticket restaurant work requires extensive training for wait staff, and skilled professionals can make good pay waiting tables. Although there are no higher education requirements for wait staff, good communication skills, ability to diffuse negative situations, and snap decision making abilities are highly prized.
Catering Jobs
Catering is a different kind of food service. Wait staff make no tips and cooks do not prepare from a menu, but these are generally higher paying jobs (hourly) than regular restaurant work. Many of the cooks and chefs have had lots of experience in addition to the required education, and wait staff have been trained in high quality service.
Catering jobs are sometimes on an as-needed basis, so often a worker will be scheduled irregularly and works evenings and weekends–this is mostly when corporations have their parties, meetings, and seminars. Jobs in catering are often highly-prized, depending on the catering company. Lots of restaurants offer catering nowdays, and will offer the opportunities to the best of their workers.
Jobs in Hotels
Many of the food service jobs in hotels are similar to restaurants because they often have a restaurant on-site. However, many of these positions will involve room service, where a worker can make better money hourly and in tipping. Most cooking jobs in hotels require some college education and often the cooks and chefs serve as room service wait staff.
A wider range of work hours are sometimes required of hotel food service workers if the kitchen stays open late for room service orders. However, the kitchens themselves are often larger and better equipped than the standard restaurant kitchen. The food service in a hotel will generally match the hotel quality, so it’s easy to judge where one should apply when seeking food industry jobs in hotels.
Management positions in the hotel kitchen often requires a bachelor’s degree in hotel and restaurant management, but the pay is higher, status and respect higher, and the choices of positions more flexible.
Specialization in Jobs for Chefs and Cooks
Chefs and cooks may find that their expertise falls into a category, such as pastries or presentation. These chefs will need creativity, a little extra coursework, and on-the-job training to find positions in their specialty fields. However, they will be rewarded with higher pay and status.
Chefs and cooks may also want to share their expertise with others, and many will go back to the community colleges to teach. These positions are highly-coveted among retired chefs and competition is often stiff.
One of the more unique positions for chefs is kitchen engineer. These workers attend specialized training at the university level and apply their creativity, mathematical abilities, and extensive knowledge of kitchen operations to lay out these areas and equipment in an efficient manner. Some kitchen engineers work with architects, industrial engineers, etc.
The Future for Food Service
The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that in 2006 there were 3.1 jobs in food service, and jobs are expected to increase by eleven percent. Because of the flexibility in jobs in hotels, bars, restaurants, and catering, they are ideal for both the traditional worker and the student, and offer plenty of room for advancement for all.
Louise G
This video introduces the concept of a service level agreement (SLA) asexplained in the ITIL v3 volume Service Design. The video is one out of a series of study aids for students studying the topic ITI597 with Charles Sturt University. The ITI597 module is provided in a dynamic online and real-time interactive environment, and supported with a virtual study environment located in SecondLife space, and videos such as these. As subject coordinator I provide live web based sessions for all ITI597 students at least once a week, and strongly support any multimedia technology that makes blended and passionate learning a reality. ITIL ® is a Registered Trade Mark, and a Registered Community Trade Mark of the Office of Government Commerce, and is registered in the US Patent and Trademark Office.
Posted in: Community Level
The exquisitely detailed architecture and natural setting will give residents the feeling of living alongside a sun-drenched Bahamian harbor rather than just a few miles from the hustle and bustle of the metropolitan areas of Orlando and Jacksonville. Bike to historic downtown St Augustine, or take a short drive to the beach, cultural activities or world-class Golf Courses. The area is a boat owner’s dream, whether you have your own boat moored outside your home or at a slip within a few minute’s walk away, you will soon be out on the open ocean or fishing a backwater of the scenic Intra-coastal Waterway.
St Augustine, the nation’s oldest city is a wealth of history and charm. The city is home to historic fort Matanzas, Castillo de San Marcos, and the St Augustine lighthouse. Horse drawn carriages provide a charming ride through the enchanting and historic downtown that retains the old world feel provided by the Europeans that first settled here in the 1500s. These enchanting homes are Cranewoods Development’s contribution to continuing that tradition.
The unique collection of single family homes, cottages, town homes and penthouses, all feature stunning water views, looking across Salt Run to Anastasia park, the Atlantic ocean and St Augustine inlet. The unique designs feature superbly detailed balconies to maximize the views.
Although the homes are built with traditional exteriors, the interiors are luxuriously equipped for the 21st Century. Purchasers can choose from a selection of custom designed interiors, which enhance the desirability of these beautiful properties. The interiors contain a level of architectural detail unmatched in the area.
Construction manager HCM Construction is a nationally recognized builder based in Jacksonville, Florida. They are well acquainted with the challenges of constructing architecturally detailed homes in coastal environments. The homes have been exquisitely designed by Cronk Duch Partners, an architectural firm known for its heirloom quality home designs, with a flair for historically accurate detail.
Whether you are looking to relocate to Florida from out of state; wishing to purchase an exceptional waterfront home your primary residence; for investment or as a second home, then any of these outstanding residences would be well worth considering.
To learn more about this unique opportunity, visit the project website at http://www.abacosatsaltrun.com
HCM Construction, founded in 1992 and based in Jacksonville Beach, has broad experience managing projects from concept through completion and works on a variety of projects as builder, general contractor and renovator. For more information, contact 904-270-0270 or visit http://www.hcmconstruction.com
Cranewoods Development, LLC is known for assembling project teams with the creative talent necessary to develop, design and build cutting-edge projects. Cranewoods focuses on specialty and high-demand waterfront markets along the Florida coast. For more information, visit http://www.cranewoodsdevelopment.com
Tag Craig
bit.ly Ugly Betty Season 4 Episode 7 Level (7) With Me abc premiere 2009 premier full episode preview new watch online tv show series Wilhelmina Hilda Daniel Alexis Christina Amanda Marc St. James Henry America Ferrera Vanessa Williams Ana Ortiz Becki Newton Christopher Gorham matt s4 s04 se4 e7 e7 7 e07 e07 ep7 ep8 ep07 ep08 04×07 4×7 04×07 407 408 S04 E07 e08 9 four eight seven five part costume costumes hulu episodes daniel eric gold adam rodriguez 5 s04e07 s04e08 natalie s4 e7 Daniel hands over the power to the Community of the Phoenix to run Mode. Betty steps in to help Daniel with Bennet. She comes up with an cunning plan with the help of Claire. Wilhemina goes out in public wearing sweats creating mayhem with the media trying to get a scoop.
Posted in: Community Level
Shoes continue to hit the headlines, whether it is an angry journalist firing his shoe at a president, or the red sexy high-heels worn by a running-mate of a would-be presidential candidate.
In Tikrit, Iraq, Saddam’s home town, a statue of a copper and fiberglass shoe, the size of a lounge suite, with a plant growing out of it, has been erected to the journalist who flung his size 10 shoe at President George W. Bush. Bush received more than he had anticipated on his unexpected visit to Iraq when an agitated journalist bellowed from the crowd, “This is for the widows and orphans and all those killed in Iraq”. He then flung the shoe, having called the president “a dog”. Bush later joked about the episode, particularly as he had successfully managed to stoop out of the line of fire.
A poem, in honour of Muntadhar al-Zeidi, the Iraqi shoe-throwing journalist, has been etched on the statue. In a community where even displaying the bottom of your shoe to somebody is a sign extreme dislike, throwing the entire shoe is the greatest form of insult.
Quick thinking Iranian students saw the incident as a once in lifetime opportunity and developed a shoe-throwing challenge on campus. Arabs around the world are applauding the episode and fast thinking IT programmers promptly produced a series of online games. Game participants are able to connect the shoe with Bush, where the journalist failed.
The shoe company, which is laying claim to being the producer of the now celebrated shoe, also saw this as a once in life-time, life-revising Blue Moon Opportunity. Their sales have skyrocketed.
Grandmother of one and mother of five, Sarah Palin, the running mate for the would-be president in the recent presidential election campaign, was known for being an avid fashion devotee. Sarah wore a pair of bright red, 10 cm sexy high heels, Mussa by Apepazza, when a family photograph was taken. These were recently put up for sale on eBay by her niece, for a cool $2,025.
Creating New Jobs by Investing in High-Speed Rail
“Aunt Sarah gave me the shoes after I mentioned that I thought they were neat. They weren’t a very good fit for me, so I made up my mind to let somebody else get some fun out of them”, said Palin’s niece. “These are the very high heels that hit made the news”.
The eBay ad said the buyer would receive Authentic Red Naughty Monkey Heels, size 7.5 worn/owned by Sarah Palin and an autographed picture of her in the heels. The buyer would also be given the choice to have the shoes autographed by Palin.
A custom Sharpie Pen was made specifically for Palin for autographing, while on the Presidential Campaign. This pen will be the one used to sign the high heels if the buyer requests it.
One can only guess where the next shoe of fame will come from. Will it be the shoe the miracle girl, Sunday Rose, Nicole Kidman’s daughter, wears when she takes her first step, or the shoe Kate Middleton flings at Prince William as she finally leaves the royal courts? Middleton has been courted by the prince for five long heartbreaking years.
Once in a lifetime, life changing Blue Moon Opportunities are all around you, even in a world reeling in financial crises. You just need to keep your eyes and ears open and make the most of every opportunity that comes your way. At Win A Resort we have a Blue Moon Opportunity for you, that could change your life. Take a few minutes to check it out.
Wendy Stenberg-Tendys
Posted in: Community Level
Director of the White House Office on Health Reform Nancy-Ann deparle, Tina Tchen, and HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius host a stakeholder discussion on disparities in health care for minorities and low-income Americans. June 9, 2009. (Public domain)
A nurse is a health care professional who is engaged in the practice of nursing. Nurses are men and women who are responsible (along with other health care professionals) for the treatment, safety and recovery of acutely or chronically ill or injured people, health maintenance of the healthy, and treatment of life-threatening emergencies in a wide range of health care settings. Nurses may also be involved in medical and nursing research and perform a wide range of non-clinical functions necessary to the delivery of health care.
Nurses develop a plan of care, sometimes working collaboratively with physicians, therapists, the patient, the patient’s family and other team members. In the U.S. (and increasingly the United Kingdom), advanced practice nurses, such as clinical nurse specialists and nurse practitioners, diagnose health problems and prescribe medications and other therapies. Nurses may help coordinate the patient care performed by other members of a health care team such as therapists, medical practitioners, dietitians, etc. Nurses provide care both interdependently, for example, with physicians, and independently as nursing professionals.
According to the US Department of Labor’s revised Occupational Outlook Handbook (2000), “Registered nurses (R.N.s) work to promote health, prevent disease, and help patients cope with illness. They are advocates and health educators for patients, families, and communities. When providing direct patient care, they observe, assess, and record symptoms, responses, and progress; assist physicians during treatments and examinations; administer medications; and assist in convalescence and rehabilitation. R.N.s also develop and manage nursing care plans; instruct patients and their families in proper care; and help individuals and groups take steps to improve or maintain their health.”
The nursing career structure varies considerably throughout the world. Typically there are several distinct levels of nursing practitioner, distinguished by increasing education, responsibility and skills. The major distinction is between task-based nursing and professional nursing.
In various parts of the world, the educational background for nurses varies widely. In some parts of Eastern Europe, nurses are high school graduates with twelve to eighteen months of training. In contrast, Chile requires any Registered Nurse to have at least a bachelor’s degree.
At the top of the educational ladder is the doctoral-prepared nurse. Nurses may gain the PhD or another doctoral degree such as Doctor of Nursing Science (DNSc) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), specializing in research, clinical nursing, etc. These nurses practice nursing, teach nursing and carry out nursing research. As the science and art of nursing has advanced, so has the demand for doctoral-prepared nurses.
Registered Nurses generally receive their basic preparation through one of three basic avenues:
Graduation from an Associate of Science in Nursing degree-granting nursing program (two to three years of college level study with a strong emphasis on clinical knowledge and skills) earning the degree of ASN/AAS or ADN in Nursing.
Graduation with a three-year (Diploma in Nursing) certificate from a hospital-based school of nursing (non-degree). Few of these programs remain in the U.S. and the proportion of nurses practicing with a diploma is rapidly decreasing.
Graduation from a university with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (a four – five year program conferring the BSN/BN degree with enhanced emphasis on leadership and research as well as clinically-focused courses).
There are also special programs for “LPN to RN”, for people who hold undergraduate degrees in other disciplines, and for paramedics or military medics. Graduates of all programs, once licensed, are eligible for employment as entry-level staff nurses.
A typical course of study at any level typically includes such topics as:
Anatomy and physiology
Microbiology
Pharmacology and medication administration
Psychology
Nursing ethics
Nursing theory
Nursing practice
Legal issues in nursing practice
All pathways into practice require that the candidate undergo clinical training in nursing. Care is delivered by the student nurses under academic supervision in the hospital and in other practice settings. Clinical courses typically include:
Maternal-child nursing
Pediatric nursing
Adult medical-surgical nursing
Geriatric nursing
Psychiatric nursing
While in clinical training, student nurses are identified by a special uniform to distinguish them from licensed professionals.
In many nursing programs in the United States, a computerized exam is given before, during and upon completion to evaluate the student and nursing program outcomes. This exam upon completion of the nursing program is done to measure a student’s readiness for the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN state board licensure exam. The exam identifies strengths and weaknesses and provides the need for remediation prior to taking the state board exam. This is not a requirement of all nursing programs in the United States, but has increased its usage in the past three to four years.
It is common for RNs to seek additional education to earn a Master of Science in Nursing or Doctor of Nursing Science to prepare for leadership or advanced practice roles within nursing. Management and teaching positions increasingly require candidates to hold an advanced degree in nursing. Many hospitals offer tuition reimbursement or assistance to nurses who want to continue their education beyond their basic preparation.
Many nurses pursue voluntary specialty certification through professional organizations and certifying bodies in order to demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills in their area of expertise.
All U.S. states and territories require RNs to graduate from an accredited nursing program which allows the candidate to sit for the NCLEX-RN, a standardized examination administered through the National Council of State Nursing Boards. Successful completion of the NCLEX-RN is required for state licensure as an RN.
Nurses from other countries are required to be proficient in English and have their educational credentials evaluated by an association known as the Council of Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools prior to being permitted to take the U.S. licensing exam.
Government regulates the profession of nursing to protect the public. In the U.S., the individual states have authority over nursing practice. The scope of practice is defined by legislative and regulatory laws which are administered by State Nursing Boards.
Many states have adopted the Model Nursing Practice Act and Model Nursing Administrative Rules created by the National Council of State Nursing Boards (NCSNB). In addition, many State Nursing Boards model their licensure requirements on the Uniform Core Licensure Requirements which set forth competency development and competency assessment principles.
Nurses may be licensed in more than one state, either by examination or endorsement of a license issued by another state. In addition, the states which have adopted the Nurse Licensure Compact allow nurses licensed in one of the states to practice in all of them through mutual recognition of licensure.
Josh Stone
Posted in: Community Level
Smog is chemical mixture of gases that commonly forms a brownish-yellow haze in the air, primarily over urban areas. Components of smog include ground-level ozone, nitrogen oxides (NOx), volatile organic compounds (VOC), sulfur dioxide, acidic aerosols and gases, and particulate matter. These gases result from a reaction between certain airborne pollutants and strong sunlight. Smog poses a significant threat to animal, plant, and human life. In fact thousands die every year as a result of this pollution.
The ground level ozone that is said to be the “main culprit” in smog is really a collection of hydrocarbons, CO2, CO, and SO2 that react with UV rays from the sun to form nitric oxides (NOX), halogenated by-products, and sulfur compounds. These composites do indeed cause offensive odors, aggravate respiratory problems and burn eyes. But it is not the ozone that is the true villain. Ozone naturally forms not as a true component of smog but, more accurately, as a means of eliminating it. As the level of VOCs and particulate rises in the air, the ozone level rises as nature herself tries to clean up man’s mess.
If we remove the manmade components of smog, the VOCs and industrial particulates then we simply have a natural process where the ozone and nitrogen dioxide are normalized to safe and healthy levels. When we add a large amount of man-made hydrocarbons to the atmosphere, then the amounts of nitrogen dioxide and ozone are artificially increased. The main reason that ozone gets the label of “Public Enemy Number One” is that while man-made hydrocarbons are very complex and as such quite diff
When CFCs meet Ozone
icult to measure, ozone is very easy to accurately measure. Consequently, ozone has long been used as an indicator for the severity or presence of smog because as the levels of the true components of smog rise, so does the level of ozone. By conveniently placing the onus on ozone, government and industry are effectively relieved of the responsibility for the millions of pounds of toxins released into the air every year. Rather than taking steps to control the real culprit, we are actually allowing our government to shoot the messenger – good guy ozone.
Ozone’s beneficial role in smog reduction is its ability to break down and oxidize hydrocarbons and particulates in the air. One of the most powerful oxidants known, ozone actually burns and destroys particulate with which it comes in contact. Ozone is unstable and highly reactive, and as such it readily seeks out molecules of particulate and gas with which to chemically react in an effort to break up the oxygen triplet – O3 – and return to its natural state: O2, or dioxygen. However, in the process of breaking down man-made hydrocarbons in particular, the result is the production of elements that combine to produce additional ozone and nitrogen dioxide, above and beyond what is produced naturally. Even though hydrocarbons are quickly being broken down by the ozone, the sheer volume of these pollutants that is produced by our highly-industrialized society is almost insurmountable. In our cities and industrial areas, where there is an extremely high level of hydrocarbons in the air, nature simply cannot keep up without overcompensating.
By itself, ozone is a natural purification agent used in a variety of ways for this purpose both by nature and by humans. At reasonable levels it is not at all unhealthy, and due to ozone’s reactive and unstable nature it is very, very rare for ozone levels to become excessive under natural or normal circumstances. Conversely, man-made hydrocarbons are completely unhealthy at any level and under any circumstance. Common sense dictates that black, sooty smoke coming from an automobile exhaust or smokestack can only be harmful to our health. Hydrocarbons do occur naturally in the air, as does the ozone that helps to break them down without reaching dangerous or unnatural concentrations. When excessive amounts of hydrocarbons are produced, largely man-made, we will get high ozone concentrations as a natural reaction to an unnatural situation. Rarely do less-populated areas experience smog and ozone problems, even though ozone is naturally produced the same way and in similar quantities in big and small cities alike.
Modern, “air-tight” construction methods that began in the energy-conscious 1970s, combined with misinformation about ozone safety perpetuated by well-meaning public health agencies, has resulted in an unfortunate lack of ozone in most indoor environments. The reason this is so unfortunate is because in truth ozone is an effective, natural air purification agent which, when properly produced by a high-quality air cleaning system, can alleviate a wide range of health problems such as allergies, asthma, sinus problems, and chemical exposure. It has been stated by many environmental agencies in no uncertain terms that indoor air pollution is the number one environmental health problem – and it is a far more significant risk to human health than even the worst outdoor air pollution. Because it is the high hydrocarbon concentration that is a component of smog conditions that makes the ground ozone level artificially high, this is not a factor indoors. Even if we have many other kinds of pollutants in our home (and we do), hydrocarbons are the only contaminant that cause ozone levels to rise above safe levels. The scientific community is still not sure exactly why this happens; what they only know is that it does happen.
It should be clear that ozone is not the culprit of our pollution problems at ground level. Ozone has been used for half a century as a purifying agent for a variety of applications – water treatment and purification, food preservation, cancer and HIV treatment, and odor removal. Most ozone air purifiers are designed to produce an ozone concentration of about .04 ppm (parts per million) when operated according to instructions, which is within all standards. Fortunately, ozone is a self-policing element, since its odor becomes obnoxious to most well before it becomes a health hazard, as opposed to the refreshing and purified smell it gives off when occurring at safe and healthy levels.
Dr.Badruddin Khan
Posted in: Community Level
[First published on the Doing Things Differently blog - #61 - Tighten Our Belts]
http://www.doingthingsdifferently.blogspot.com/
I was the columnist in The London Paper last week, suggesting that the recession is a good thing. Readers vote on whether they want more of you… and 96% did. I also had many comments calling this point of view “refreshing” and “inspiring”. In this, I hear a whispered hope for a move away from ‘business as usual’ to a more enjoyable and equitable way of running our economy.
At its best, this shake-up wake-up call will prompt us to re-prioritise and re-allocate resources. It will make us more aware of where we use money as an excuse to see ourselves as separate from others. Instead of this isolation, we will find ways of leaning in to human energy as our most precious resource and recognise our interdependence.
A great example of this is Liftshare - an organisation that works to bring about sustainable change by encouraging individuals to do things together. There are now 290,000+ people registered and several inspirational stories have emerged.
Sandra from Clacton-on-Sea started car-sharing as a way of saving petrol and impact on the environment and found that “two people who led separate lives have now become great friends, with all the benefits and opportunities that new friendships offer”. They socialise regularly, found they had tons in common, and get to chat, laugh and sing along to 60s and 70s music on the way to and from work.
Similarly with Emma from Swindon, her initial motivations were financial and environmental and says “I have benefited in ways I never imagined, including socially. The company is great, we share ideas, and we exchange knowledge about the local area – where the best markets are, what’s on at the theatre. As I know we have to rely on each other at a particular time of day, I’m much more efficient at work. I can no longer stay late to get things finished so I don’t faff about any more, I just get it done.
And there are wider community benefits, as Clare from Herefordshire describes: “We also pick up and drop off a regular prescription for a friend who has retired and finds it difficult to get to the doctors”.
With lifshare, we see the Triple Bottom Line of a solid, sustainable venture – intending to bring about economic, environmental and societal/inter-personal benefits through its activities. As we tighten our belts and make changes economically, perhaps we’ll also tighten our belts as a community, finding afresh how fulfilling it is to need each other.
Do Things Differently
1) If you had one tenth of your current income, what would you do differently? Make a list. Then assess: in what ways would any of this be preferable? What could you gain as side-effects of these changes? Plato said “Necessity is the mother of invention”. In which ways would your decreased income increase your creativity and innovation?
2) Now return to your current level of income – but keep those new ways in place. What would you do with all that extra money?? Which deeply fulfilling lifestyle benefits would all that abundance bring you?
(c) Corrina Gordon-Barnes, 2008
Corrina Gordon-Barnes
www.lucy-pinder.tv Quote: Lucy Pinder, Glamour Model “I’m really pleased to be involved with the Don’t Run The Risk campaign this year. The fact that people misuse level crossings and ignore warning signs is really surprising to me, especially when the consequences are so clear. This kind of campaign is really important to highlight the dangers of taking life-threatening risks to young men.” Quote: Mark Shaoul, Head of marketing, Network Rail “Last year’s campaign had a noticeable effect on recorded incidents at our level crossings, which are one of the key safety points on the rail infrastructure. This year we have taken the campaign a step further, using data to identify specific level crossings for heavy weight local community activity. We’ve also stepped into new territory with a viral designed to reach those elusive 18-24 year old male drivers. All in all, our message is clear, if you run the risk at a level crossing, your chances of surviving if hit by a train is virtually zero” thenewsbureau.co.uk
Posted in: Community Level
Online MMOs and RPGs like World of Warcraft and Warhammer have taken the world by storm, and now the Xbox 360 is offering gamers a new way to connect to the online community with Xbox Live. With Xbox Live gamers of the world unite on their couches to battle demons, race cars and fight bad guys, sharing the fun of online gaming without having to give up the fun of their favorite Xbox.
To thoroughly enjoy the full Xbox Live experience, the only thing Xbox fans need are an Xbox 360 and a high speed internet connection. Gamers simply connect their Xbox to their modem and they have instant access to hundreds of games and free demos, as well as a global community of players just like them with whom to share the excitement and thrill of ultimate destruction from the comfort of their living room.
Xbox fans who choose to take advantage of Xbox Live have two membership levels to choose from. The silver level membership is available at no cost and allows players to download content from the Xbox Live Marketplace, share their gamer profile and achievements with other users and chat with their friends while they’re online. For casual gamers who want to be able to share the excitement of their favorite video games but don’t really care about multi-player events the silver option is perfect, offering the chance for gamers to build an online community without having to pay an extra fee out of pocket.
For video game lovers who are serious about taking their online community to new heights, Xbox Live also offers a gold level membership at a reasonable price that offers all of the advantages of the silver membership along with the ability to play multi-player games online, create parties and join games with their friends. For gamers who loved the raiding option of World of Warcraft and want to carry the fun over to their 360, the gold membership is the online gaming solution they’ve been waiting for.
Of course, Xbox Live isn’t just for hard core gamers. It’s not even just for video games! If you’re the type of person who just never found their way into the video game mania that’s sweeping the nation, you can still benefit from becoming a member of Xbox Live. Through the Xbox Live community members can watch movies, TV shows and additional, exclusive media content created especially for Xbox Live members, and Netflix fans can watch streaming movies on their Xbox 360. The diverse options available for Xbox Live means that no matter who you are or how serious you are about your video games, the Xbox Live community has something to offer you.
Online gaming has risen dramatically in popularity and exposure in recent years, and Xbox Live is taking that concept to new heights by bringing the fun and freedom of being part of an online community of gamers off of the computer and onto the Xbox 360. Who knows where it’s going to go next?
How to get rich in runescape 3m at most in 1 day
Ray Subs
Posted in: Community Level
[First published on the Doing Things Differently blog - #61 - Tighten Our Belts]
http://www.doingthingsdifferently.blogspot.com/
I was the columnist in The London Paper last week, suggesting that the recession is a good thing. Readers vote on whether they want more of you… and 96% did. I also had many comments calling this point of view “refreshing” and “inspiring”. In this, I hear a whispered hope for a move away from ‘business as usual’ to a more enjoyable and equitable way of running our economy.
At its best, this shake-up wake-up call will prompt us to re-prioritise and re-allocate resources. It will make us more aware of where we use money as an excuse to see ourselves as separate from others. Instead of this isolation, we will find ways of leaning in to human energy as our most precious resource and recognise our interdependence.
A great example of this is Liftshare - an organisation that works to bring about sustainable change by encouraging individuals to do things together. There are now 290,000+ people registered and several inspirational stories have emerged.
Sandra from Clacton-on-Sea started car-sharing as a way of saving petrol and impact on the environment and found that “two people who led separate lives have now become great friends, with all the benefits and opportunities that new friendships offer”. They socialise regularly, found they had tons in common, and get to chat, laugh and sing along to 60s and 70s music on the way to and from work.
Similarly with Emma from Swindon, her initial motivations were financial and environmental and says “I have benefited in ways I never imagined, including socially. The company is great, we share ideas, and we exchange knowledge about the local area – where the best markets are, what’s on at the theatre. As I know we have to rely on each other at a particular time of day, I’m much more efficient at work. I can no longer stay late to get things finished so I don’t faff about any more, I just get it done.
And there are wider community benefits, as Clare from Herefordshire describes: “We also pick up and drop off a regular prescription for a friend who has retired and finds it difficult to get to the doctors”.
With lifshare, we see the Triple Bottom Line of a solid, sustainable venture – intending to bring about economic, environmental and societal/inter-personal benefits through its activities. As we tighten our belts and make changes economically, perhaps we’ll also tighten our belts as a community, finding afresh how fulfilling it is to need each other.
Do Things Differently
1) If you had one tenth of your current income, what would you do differently? Make a list. Then assess: in what ways would any of this be preferable? What could you gain as side-effects of these changes? Plato said “Necessity is the mother of invention”. In which ways would your decreased income increase your creativity and innovation?
2) Now return to your current level of income – but keep those new ways in place. What would you do with all that extra money?? Which deeply fulfilling lifestyle benefits would all that abundance bring you?
(c) Corrina Gordon-Barnes, 2008
Corrina Gordon-Barnes
LITTLE BIG PLANET Choose the adventure. Everything is built from scratch not a community level. I will create the story around the most popular comments or the most recurring. Check out my channel and sub if you like www.youtube.com FOR MORE MACHINIMA GOTO: www.youtube.com