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All life is an experiment. The more experiments you make the better.
| VBA's Positive News |
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Lithuania, Serbia Prime Ministers hail breakthrough in strained relations
Lithuania has reached a breakthrough in its strained relations with Serbia as Belgrade seeks closer EU ties, the countries' Prime Ministers say. Lithuanian Prime Minister Algirdas Butkevicius and Serbian counterpart Ivica Dacic said at a news conference Tuesday in Vilnius they are putting disputes behind them as Lithuania considers whether to ratify Serbia's Stabilization and Association Agreement with the European Union.
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Upswing in US housing is good news for Canada, BOC says
The Bank of Canada said Wednesday 17 April that a recovery in US housing is giving a much-needed boost to the Canadian economy. The Bank of Canada expects US residential investment to expand at an annual average 12.5 per cent over the 2013-15 period. 'All else equal,' the central bank said, such an investment rate suggests an additional boost in Canadian export growth of about 1 percentage point a year, based on historical relationships. 'The higher income and wealth in the United States generated by the housing recovery will also lead to higher US consumption, further raising demand for Canadian exports,' it said.
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Canadian students break fuel-efficiency mark
The number just jumps out at you: 3,587 miles per gallon. Or in Canadian terms, 1,525 kilometres on a single litre of fuel -- that would certainly lessen the pain at the pump, wouldn't it? To put that in perspective, that single litre of fuel would be enough to get you from Montreal to Toronto and back, with enough left over for a roundtrip to Ottawa. That is fuel efficiency most car companies could only dream of achieving -- and yet, a team from the Universite Laval was able to produce that result two weekends ago at the 2013 Shell Eco-marathon Americas held in Houston, Texas.
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New Canada/US council will tackle problems of Great Lakes
The new Council of the Great Lakes Region will bring together leaders from diverse sectors across the eight Great Lakes states, Ontario, and Quebec. The federal, provincial, state, and municipal governments will be at the table, but environmental organizations and the private sector will run the organization. It will promote the prosperity and sustainability of the Great Lakes Region.
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World Round-Up
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Opposition looks to corner UPA as Budget Session resumes
New Delhi: The Budget Session of Parliament resumes on Monday. Despite the fact that Vice President Hamid Ansari on Sunday sent out a strong message against MPs disrupting Parliament, the scene is unlikely to be any different.
The Opposition has several issues against the government even as the Congress faces the threat of a pullout by the Samajwadi Party (SP).
The BJP, too, had on Saturday made it clear that it will not let go of any chance to gherao the government and it certainly has several issues to pin it down.
The government will come under attack on the issue of the rape of the 5-year-old girl. The opposition has already dubbed the ruling UPA as an ineffective government and has demanded the sacking of the Delhi Police Commisioner.
The 2G JPC report, that gave a clean chit to both PM and Finance Minister P Chidambaram, will be another issue up for debate.
The AIADMK has already given a suspension notice, while A Raja has said that the PM was in the know of the change in norms.
The intervention by Law Minister Ashwani Kumar in the CBI's affidavit on coal scam will also be used to attack the PM.
The Congress has every reason to be worried. It's apprehensive that the SP could armtwist the government and even pull out.
The biggest worry for the government will be to get the general budget passed.
Apart from this, the government has several game changing bills on agenda.
These include the pension and insurance regulatory bills, food security bill, land regulation bill, lokpal bill and the companies regulatory bill.
With the Congress fearing a SP pullout, and the opposition ganging up against it, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kamal Nath's challenge will be to ensure that at least one game changing bill is passed during this session.
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Astrology
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Aries March 21 to April 19
You'll have a four-star day for any communications-related endeavor. Are you gearing up to finalize a major contract? This will be your day to sign on the dotted line. Still in the negotiations stage? You'll certainly have an edge. No matter what you have on your agenda related to a vital discussion, writing project, or contract, you'll enjoy a strong sense of optimism along with a clear ability to make a decision that will benefit you in the long run.
Taurus April 20 to May 20
This will be an ideal time to use your communications-related talents to help you earn money. You may have an opportunity, for example, to take on a freelance writing project that you find creative and engaging. This stint will also pay quite well, much to your delight. Alternatively, you may also try your hand at sales. Your gift of gab and ability to convince others that the product you're selling is exceptional will be incredible.
Gemini May 21 to June 20
 Your social life will pick up speed. You may have noticed a strong increase in invitations to parties or other functions, and you've probably tried your best to attend as many as possible. Today, if you have any social or business event where you'll speak in front of a crowd, you'll be especially dynamic. Not only will your demeanor be engaging, but you'll also enjoy having your message so well received by others.
Cancer June 21 to July 22
Important conversations about your career that may have been conducted behind closed doors will now come out into the open - and be to your benefit. Mercury is now in the area of your chart that rules success, offering you a fantastic outlet to communicate with a higher-up about your goals. What you'll likely discover is that this authority figure is already in your corner, ready to support you. In fact, there might even be a plan in the works to help you move ahead.
Leo July 23 to Aug. 22
 If you have a book, website, or other communications-related project to promote, now will be a brilliant day to spread the message. Mercury and Jupiter will be at a friendly angle, offering you an opportunity to reach a global audience through television, radio or other media. You might also decide to self-publish a book, launch a website, or begin another endeavor that involves one of your ideas. Go for it.
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Mindtree's Q4 net up 14 pc at Rs 78.9 cr
MUMBAI: Mid-sized IT firm MindtreeBSE -1.43 % today said its standalone net profit has increased 14 per cent to Rs 78.9 crore for the quarter ended March 31, 2013.
This is against Rs 69.2 crore registered in the same period last year, MindTree said in a statement.
MindTree's standalone revenue grew 16.5 per cent to Rs 612.4 crore for the reported quarter from Rs 525.7 crore in the year-ago period, it added.
For the year ended March 31, 2013, the company's standalone net profit grew 55 per cent to Rs 338.9 crore, while revenues were up 23.3 per cent to Rs 2,361.8 crore.
"In a challenging year, we have delivered revenue growth and better margins. We have also delivered consistently, setting up a platform for continued improvements," MindTree MD and CEO Krishnakumar Natarajan said.
The company had 232 active customers as on March 31, 2013, while USD 20 million customers increased to five, the statement said.
MindTree added 974 employees in the quarter to take its total headcount to 11,591 employees as on March 31, 2013.
The Board of Directors recommended an interim dividend of 40 per cent (Rs 4 per equity share of par value Rs 10 each) and a final dividend of 50 per cent (Rs 5 per equity share) for the fiscal ended March 2013, subject to approval by shareholders at the forthcoming AGM.
Along with the interim dividend of 30 per cent declared in October last year, the total dividend for the year comes to 120 per cent (Rs 12 per equity share).
The company said it intends to maintain similar or better levels of dividend payout over the next few years in view of the improved predictability and stability of the company's operations.
"However, the actual dividend payout in each year will be subject to the investment requirements of the annual operating plan for the year and any other strategic priorities identified by the company," the statement said.
Besides, the Board has also approved Kalyan Kumar Banerjee's request for de-classification as a promoter with immediate effect.
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Are you getting enough fruits?
Fruits are delicious, juicy, fun to eat and healthy ingredients for great desserts; but are you getting enough fruits in your daily diet?
We use a lot of skin care products that boast of properties and vitamins from fruits, but why do we still select creams over natural fruits? Let's take a look at how many fruits you need to eat every day before you can say that you are getting enough fruits in your daily diet.
Based on a study in 2010 reported by the Dietary Guidelines of America, you need 1.5 - 2 cups of fruits daily, but 'the amount depends on the number of calories per day recommended for your healthy weight.'
(Via) Also, it is recommended that you eat five servings of fruits and veggies a day, but it depends on your age and gender: Women between the ages of 19-50 should eat 7-8 servings, while men should eat 8-10 servings.
And for those above 50, men and women should consume seven servings of fruits and vegetables a day.
All this preaching is in good spirit. Fruits help fight cancer, obesity and heart disease. Fruits provide nutritional vitamins. Certain fruits contain a good amount of natural sugar and fluids, which also keep us hydrated.
Fruits are rich in fiber, and are great for bowel movement and weight loss. It is also advised that you consume fruits whole, instead of skinned or juiced.
Tips on how to make fruits a part of your daily diet:
Since two cups of fruits are the norm, you can break this down into four servings a day; for instance, breakfast, mid day, mid evening and after dinner.
Avoid fruits from cans that mention preservatives like artificial sugar or high levels of salt, or processed fruits in the form of juices. Opt for fresh fruits as their nutritional value is higher. Try different seasonal fruits from time to time.
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Virgo Aug. 23 to Sept. 22
You might be in the early stages of developing a new business idea and if so, it will have extraordinary potential. If the only thing stopping you is venture capital, today might be the day you can meet with a prospective investor and convince him or her to back your idea. Not only will you likely generate interest, but also your gift of gab may prompt this person to write a check faster than you anticipated.
Libra Sept. 23 to Oct. 22
A conversation with your partner might turn into a more enlightening dialogue than you expected. He or she may introduce you to a spiritual or philosophical perspective you hadn't considered before - one that truly intrigues you. Together, you may decide to explore a more formal setting to learn about this subject. Alternatively, if you're in a situation where you need to hire an attorney to help you through a legal case, today you likely will find the perfect representative.
Scorpio Oct. 23 to Nov. 21
 If you're collaborating with a team of colleagues at work on a major project, today will be an ideal time to schedule a meeting and consider how you can best tackle this endeavor. You may notice that it's easier to communicate with co-workers now, and you may even enjoy dialogue that has nothing to do with work matters. In fact, you and a colleague may decide to socialize outside of work to continue whatever interesting conversation develops.
Sagittarius Nov. 22 to Dec. 21
Communication with you and your mate will be incredibly positive now. You may discuss an important matter that involves a child, or you might decide to work on a creative project together. Now will be a great time to flesh out any plan, since you will both easily bounce ideas off one another. Also, if you've been dating someone new, the two of you possibly will discuss more of a commitment to each other.
Capricorn Dec. 22 to Jan. 19
 If you're considering any work around the house and need to hire help, today will be a great time to conduct research or interviews for a prospective contractor, housekeeper or other helper. Don't be surprised if one of your relatives drops by for an unexpected visit as well. This will be the kind of visit you welcome, as it will lift your spirits. He or she likely will have fantastic news to share.
Aquarius Jan. 20 to Feb. 18
 Your mind will be extra sharp, and you'll have a gorgeous edge in any type of dialogue or plan that has to do with a creative project you're working on. You might also find yourself thinking more about romance. If you have strong feelings for someone special, today might be the perfect time to express them. You might write a letter, or be more forward and have a conversation but whatever method of communication you choose, you clearly will speak from the heart.
Pisces Feb. 19 to March 20
If you are involved in any type of financial discussion with a relative, today may be the perfect time to proceed with your plan and make a decision about this matter. You'll also have a remarkable edge if you're involved in any type of real estate transaction. Your ability to negotiate and ensure the best financial deal for yourself and your family will be strong. Move forward with confidence in any contract.
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Moral Story
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SMS
“All life is an experiment. The more experiments you make the better.”
LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS
"True love doesn't mean being inseparable; it means being separated and nothing changes."
LEADERSHIP & SUCCESS
“Do not follow where the path may lead.
Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail..”
School Teacher: What is common between Buddha, Jesus, Mahavir and Guru Nanak Dev Ji?
Student: All of them were born on Indian centre govt holidays!
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World university tour in India at end of April
The QS world university tour, organised by the team behind the annual QS World University Rankings, will be in New Delhi, Mumbai and Hyderabad at the end of April, to offer overseas undergraduate study-opportunities for students in India.
Mihir Patel, QS's marketing director for India and the Middle East says, "We've been bringing universities from some of the world's top destinations to India for over 10 years now.
Despite recent reports of governmentimposed visa-restrictions for international students in certain countries, we found that universities continue to recognise the talent in Indian students and are keen to offer admissions, visa and funding advice to encourage their applications."
Over 600 students and parents are expected to attend the free events and meet admissions directors from universities in the US, UK, Australia, Canada, Switzerland, Spain and other top destinations.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to attend study-abroad seminars and dedicated workshops on how to improve their IELTS, TOEFL & SAT scores as well as meet with graduate alumni from the attending universities.
QS will also be giving away an iPad to one student in each city along with a copy of the 'QS top universities guide' - a guide to the world's best universities - to the first 100 visitors to each event.
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Luis Suarez apologises for biting Branislav Ivanovic
LONDON: Liverpool striker Luis Suarez on Sunday apologised for biting Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic during the sides' 2-2 Premier League draw at Anfield.
The incident occurred mid-way through the second half, with Liverpool trailing 2-1 following a tussle in the penalty area.
"I'm sad for what happened this afternoon, I apologize (to) Ivanovic and all (the) football world for my inexcusable behaviour. I'm so sorry about it!!," the controversial Uruguayan said on his Twitter account.
"I apologise also to my manager, playing colleagues and everyone at Liverpool Football Club for letting them down," he added.
Referee Kevin Friend did not appear to see the incident and took no action, despite Ivanovic attempting to show him the bite-marks on his arm.
Suarez had earlier been booked for a handball that gifted Chelsea the penalty from which Eden Hazard put the visitors 2-1 up, but he finished the game by heading in a dramatic equaliser in the seventh minute of injury time.
Liverpool managing director Ian Ayre commented: "Luis has made an unreserved apology for his actions today.
"His behaviour is not befitting of any player wearing a Liverpool shirt and Luis is aware that he has let himself and everyone associated with the club down. We will deal with the matter internally and await any action from the FA."
Reds' coach Brendan Rodgers said on the club website: "Having reviewed the video footage and spoken to Luis, his behaviour is unacceptable and I have made him aware of this."
Chelsea interim head coach Rafael Benitez, the former Liverpool manager, said he did not see the incident.
Suarez, 26, has regularly hit the headlines since joining Liverpool from Dutch club Ajax two years ago.
He has frequently attracted criticism for diving and was banned for eight matches after being found guilty of racially abusing Manchester United's Patrice Evra during a game in October 2011.
In an apparent precursor to Sunday's incident, he was once banned for seven games for biting PSV Eindhoven midfielder Otman Bakkal while playing for Ajax during a Dutch league game in November 2010.
He left Ajax for Liverpool before he could complete his suspension.
Suarez's strike on Sunday took his tally for the season to a league-leading 23 goals, but Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech said his antics were sullying his reputation.
"I didn't see it at the time but people have told me, which is surprising," he said.
"Suarez always does little fouls and pushes. I saw Branislav's reaction and he was not happy at all."
Former Liverpool manager Graeme Souness, now a television pundit, labelled Suarez's behaviour "embarrassing" and said it had put his future at the club in jeopardy.
"He's making it very difficult for himself to stay at Liverpool. That puts him in the last-chance saloon," Souness said.
"He is risking everything this great club stands for."
However, Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard said Suarez's exploits in the second half did not deserve to overshadow his achievements this season.
"I think it would be an injustice to Luis Suarez to talk about 45 minutes -- he has been the best player in the league by far this season," said the England skipper.
"When you play big Premier League games against Chelsea, things are going to get spicy."
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I Love New Year
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I Love New Year
Movie Name : I Love New Year
Release Date : April 26, 2013
Genre : Romance Drama
Producer : Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar
Director : Radhika Rao, Vinay Sapru
Music Director : Pritam
Cast : Sunny Deol, Kangana Ranaut
Synopsis:
I Love New Year is an upcoming romantic comedy film directed by Radhika Rao and Vinay Sapru starring Sunny Deol and Kangana Ranaut. The film is produced by Bhushan Kumar and Krishan Kumar under the banner of Super Cassettes Industries Ltd. The film is extensively shot in Mumbai, New York City and Bangkok.
I Love New Year is a romantic comedy film starring Sunny Deol and Kangana Ranaut in the lead. It's a story on what happens between two people in a span of two days over the New Year's Eve. The movie follows two strangers, a beautiful musician (Kangana Ranaut) and a serious Wall Street banker (Sunny Deol), that have a chance encounter on New Year's Eve that the banker can't seem to remember and the events that come about as a result of the two meeting.
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'Topolino' is the name for Mickey Mouse Italy.
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" INSPIRING STORY "
Cleanliness is next to Godliness
Shuchi and Shubhrata were given utmost importance in our Indian culture, since ever. Right from small things like brushing teeth etc. fixed rules and regulations have been placed, such that utmost cleanliness prevails in the society.
The following story portrays the obsession of Indian culture for cleanliness.
Long ago there used to live an obedient shishya of the great Paila maharshi. His name was Udanka. Udanka, due to his obedience, learnt quickly his lessons.
After completing his Vidyaabhyaasam, before leaving the Guru-aashramam, Udanka requested his Guru to take Guru-dakshina.
Paila maharshi replied “you being a shishya of me is itself enough. It is difficult to get good shishyas like you.
Please go on”. Upon many times being requested by Udanka, finally Paila maharshi said “do the work that your Guru-patni tells you and then leave”.
He approached Guru-patni, did Yathaa-vidhi namaskaaram, with Vinayam, asked her to give him some work.
She asked him to get the kundalas of the country’s Mahaaraani for a Vratam.
Udanka immediately set out for it. On the way he sees a radiant brightly glowing God coming on a huge Vrushabham.
He does the required namaskars to him and the God gives him goomayam. He eats the goomayam, takes leave from the God and continues his journey to meet Poushya, the king of the country.
Poushya was a very great king, ruled his subjects as his own kids and made dharma walk on its four legs.
Poushya welcomed Udanka and offered him a warm welcome when he arrived at his courtyard. Udanka tells the reason for his arrival and immediately the kings granted him permission to collect the kundalas.
He asked udanka to go to the queen’s palace and collect them from her personally. Udanka went into the palace and searched for the queen everywhere.
Failing to find her returns to poushya informing that he could not find the queen. Poushya hesitantly says “O great Brahmana! How can I say that you are not clean? My queen is a Pativrata and hence only people who are clean can see her”.
Udanka recalls why he was not in a clean state and realizes that in the hurry to finish gurupatni’s task, he forgot to wash his hands, feet and mouth and do aachamanam, after eating the gomayam.
He immediately washes and does aachamanam and goes back to see the queen and sees her in her palace.
Story will be continued later in some other contexts. So will Udanka be able to complete his gurupatni’s task? who was the God? Keep reading for answers …. :)
Morals in the Story:
It is very basic and important to always be clean.
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A life spent making mistakes is not only more honorable, but more useful than a life spent doing nothing.
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