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What is the UNESCO World Heritage List?

We have all heard of the UNESCO World Heritage List and we can even name at least a couple of famous sights from it. But how is the List formed and why do some objects get into it, while others do not? Who even came up with the idea of cataloging world values and what is the use of it? What is a UNESCO World Heritage Site? UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) is a special unit of the United Nations for education, science, and culture. UNESCO leads projects in 5 main categories: education natural sciences social and human sciences culture communication and information The UNESCO World Heritage belongs to the sphere of culture. And world heritage is natural or man-made objects, over which UNESCO takes patronage and does everything to preserve and make them popular. In 2019, there were 1,121 properties on the World Heritage List: 869 cultural, 213 naturals, and 39 mixed. These objects are located in 167 member countries of the UNESCO Convention. When was the World Heritage List created? The origins of the World Heritage Convention lie in the events of 1959. The main impetus for the adoption of the Convention was the construction of the Aswan Dam in the United Arab Republic (now Egypt and Syria). Then the governments of the UAR and Sudan turned to UNESCO for help in saving the ancient monuments of Egyptian Nubia. The problem was that the valuables were in danger of being flooded by the lake, which was formed after the construction of the dam in Aswan. UNESCO, in turn, appealed to the international community for help – and as a result, the largest archaeological rescue operation in history was carried out. In 1960, UNESCO, in collaboration with the governments of the UAR and Sudan, carried out large-scale archaeological research, during which many very important objects were saved – from the city of the Old Kingdom and ancient temples of Nubia to household items and other artifacts. Although this mission became iconic, it was only the beginning – the preservation and relocation of the temples of Nubia turned out to be a much larger task. The Executive Committee of UNESCO, as part of the International Campaign to Save the Monuments of Nubia, held large-scale fundraising, and the world turned out to be so generous that almost all the significant temples and shrines of Nubia were saved. After all this rescue operation, it became clear that it was time to create a centralized mechanism for the preservation and protection of cultural heritage. American officials Joseph Fisher and Russell Train in 1965 voiced their recommendation for the creation of such a body at the Conference on International Cooperation, which was held at the White House. Although the recommendation was not widely adopted in the United States, by 1966 similar initiatives were proposed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and the International Council on Monuments and Sites. But so far it hasn’t come to fruition. In November 1966, a catastrophic flood hit Venice, and the attention of the whole world was again focused on the threat to the common heritage. UNESCO and the Italian government have begun to develop a multi-year plan for the conservation and restoration of cultural monuments. However, it was already clear to everyone that the response of the world community to such events was far from ideal. At an international conference in Amsterdam in April 1967, Train spoke again and spoke about his concept of an international organization that would unite under a single program the protection of the natural and cultural heritage of mankind. Support for the World Heritage Fund only grew stronger, and in June 1972 delegates to the UN Stockholm Conference on the Environment announced that they were ready to fully support this program. On November 16, 1972, UNESCO adopted the Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage. By that time, the organization had already embarked on another ambitious project, this time to preserve the huge monument of Borobudur in Indonesia. The World Heritage Convention entered into force on December 17, 1975, and in 1978 the World Heritage List was finally created. In the first year of the list, twelve sites were included, including Aachen Cathedral (Germany), the Galapagos Islands (Ecuador), L’Anse aux Meadows (Canada), the Lalibela rock churches (Ethiopia), the Royal Salt Mines in Wieliczka, and Bochnia (Poland) and Yellowstone National Park (United States). The list grew rapidly in the following decades, and in the 21st century, it already included more than 1,000 objects from 165 countries. What kind of objects are included in the List? To be included in the list, a property must be recognized “as being of Outstanding Global Value”. This means that it is so exceptional in cultural or natural terms that its significance even transcends national borders, and the object is valuable to all mankind. The Convention divides such heritage into three broad categories: cultural, natural, and mixed. Cultural heritage is: Monuments: works of architecture, monumental sculpture, and painting, archaeological sites, inscriptions, caves, etc. Ensembles: groups of buildings and architectural complexes. Places of interest: works of man or joint creations of man and nature, archaeological sites. Natural heritage is even more difficult to define, but according to the text of the Convention it is: Monuments are created by nature itself. Geological and physiographic formations and strictly limited ranges of endangered species of animals and plants are important for science and need to be preserved. Natural landmarks or severely restricted natural areas that may be useful for science or are simply uniquely beautiful. And the so-called cultural landscapes are considered to be mixed objects – such as “joint creations of man and nature”. The Historic Monuments Zone of Puebla is an almost 7 km polygon that is considered the origin and historic center of Puebla de Zaragoza, the capital of Puebla State. And by what criteria are objects selected? The Committee recognizes a property of outstanding global value only if it >>Read more
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What is covered by standard homeowners insurance?

Understanding the four essential protections provided by your homeowners policy Homeowners + Renters Insurance IN THIS ARTICLE Coverage for the structure of your home Coverage for your personal belongings Liability protection Additional living expenses (ALE) SHARE THIS EN ESPAÑOL DOWNLOAD TO PDF Homeowners coverage provides financial protection against loss due to disasters, theft and accidents. Most standard policies include four essential types of coverage: coverage for the structure of your home; coverage for your personal belongings; liability protection; coverage for additional living expenses Coverage for the structure of your home Your homeowners policy pays to repair or rebuild your home if it is damaged or destroyed by fire, hurricane, hail, lightning or other disasters listed in your policy. Most policies also cover detached structures such as a garage, tool shed or gazebo—generally for about 10 percent of the amount of insurance you have on the structure of the house. A standard policy will not pay for damage caused by a flood, earthquake or routine wear and tear. When purchasing coverage for the structure of your home, remember this simple guideline: Purchase enough coverage to rebuild your home. Coverage for your personal belongings Your furniture, clothes, sports equipment and other personal items are covered if they are stolen or destroyed by fire, hurricane or other insured disasters. The coverage is generally 50 to 70 percent of the insurance you have on the structure of the house. The best way to determine if this is enough coverage is to conduct a home inventory. Personal belongings coverage includes items stored off-premises—this means you are covered anywhere in the world. Some companies limit the amount to 10 percent of the amount of insurance you have for your possessions. You also have up to $500 of coverage for unauthorized use of your credit cards. Expensive items like jewelry, furs, art, collectibles and silverware are covered, but there are usually dollar limits if they are stolen. To insure these items to their full value, purchase a special personal property endorsement or floater and insure the item for its officially appraised value. Trees, plants and shrubs are also covered under standard homeowners insurance—generally for about $500 per item. Trees and plants are not covered for disease, or if they have been poorly maintained. Liability protection Liability covers you against lawsuits for bodily injury or property damage that you or family members cause to other people. It also pays for damage caused by your pets. So, if your son, daughter (or even your dog) accidentally ruins a neighbor’s expensive rug, you are covered. (However, if they destroy your rug, you’re out of luck.) The liability portion of your policy pays for both the cost of defending you in court and any court awards—up to the limit stated in your policy documents. Liability limits generally start at about $100,000, however, it’s a good idea to discuss whether you should purchase a higher level of protection with your insurance professional. If you have significant assets and want more coverage than is available under your homeowners policy, consider purchasing an umbrella or excess liability policy, which provides broader coverage and higher liability limits. Your policy also provides no-fault medical coverage, so if a friend or neighbor is injured in your home, he or she can simply submit medical bills to your insurance company. This way, expenses can be paid without a liability claim being filed against you. It does not, however, pay the medical bills for your own family or your pet. Additional living expenses (ALE) ALE pays the additional costs of living away from home if you cannot live there due to damage from a an insured disaster. It covers hotel bills, restaurant meals and other costs, over and above your usual living expenses, incurred while your home is being rebuilt. Keep in mind that the ALE coverage in your homeowners policy has limits—and some policies include a time limitation. However, these limits are separate from the amount available to rebuild or repair your home. Even if you use up your ALE your insurance company will still pay the full cost of rebuilding your home up to the policy limit. If you rent out part of your house, ALE also covers you for the rent that you would have collected from your tenant if your home had not been destroyed.
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What is Web Hosting?

Web hosting is a service that allows organizations and individuals to post a website or web page on the Internet. A web host, or web hosting service provider, is a business that provides the technologies and services needed for the website or webpage to be viewed on the Internet. Websites are hosted or stored, on special computers called servers. When Internet users want to view your website, all they need to do is type your website address into their browser. Their computer will then connect to your server and your webpages will be delivered to them through the browser. Most web hosting companies require that you own your domain name in order to host with them. If you do not have a domain name, the web hosting companies will help you purchase one. The basic features of a web hosting plan include: Disk Space All web hosting accounts offer a certain amount of disk space that you can use to store your web files. It is recommended that you have some sort of estimates on what you need for various tasks – the amount of space you need for your emails, web files, databases, etc. By breaking down your usage, you can better estimate how much space you should go for. Bandwidth or Data Transfer Very often web hosts talk about bandwidth and data transfer as the same entity. However, they are in fact, different. Bandwidth is the amount of data that can be transferred at one time. Data transfer is the actual amount of data transferred. Think of it this way. If bandwidth were a tunnel, the bigger the tunnel the more cars can pass through it. Data transfer would then be the number of cars allowed to go through the tunnel in a given time period, say a month. The less bandwidth you have, the slower it takes your website to load, regardless of your visitor’s connection type. Visitors will have to wait their turn. The less data transfer you have, the more often you will find your website unavailable because you have reached the maximum amount of data allowed to be transferred. To determine what is sufficient, you need to take into consideration the size of your website and the number of visitors you have in a month’s time. Email Accounts Email accounts are a common feature of web hosting, especially if you are hosting a domain. There are three main types of email accounts: POP3, forwarding, and aliases. POP3 accounts are the traditional inboxes. You have space on the server to store your emails, and at the same time, you can use an email program to download your mail. Each login and password combination usually equates to one account. Forwarding mail accounts are useful if you are employing the service of another company to filter your emails for you. Rather than storing your emails on your mail server, emails are redirected to another email address. Aliases accounts are similar to forwarding mail accounts. Some hosts allow you to set up a catch-all alias, which is often used to collect emails sent to addresses not recognized by your mail server. FTP Access After you have created your web pages on your computer, you need to transfer those files to your web server. The files are transferred to the server by use of FTP. FTP is also the protocol of downloading your web files from the server to your computer, ie. backing up your website files.
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Avoiding scams after a disaster

Don’t be a victim of dishonest service providers If your home was destroyed by a hurricane, wildfire or other disaster, be cautious. Unfortunately, there are dishonest service providers that prey on disaster victims. They know that people who have lost their homes and valuables may not be thinking clearly. If you have suffered this type of loss, don’t make any rash decisions. Talk to your insurance agent, who may recommend service providers in your area. Here are some basic guidelines for hiring service providers. Roofers and builders Don’t be rushed into signing a contract with any company. Instead, collect business cards and get written estimates for the proposed job. Beware of building contractors that encourage you to spend a lot of money on temporary repairs. Payments for temporary repairs are covered as part of the total settlement. If you pay a contractor a large sum for a temporary repair job, you may not have enough money for permanent repairs. In most cases, you should be able to make the temporary repairs yourself. Ask your insurance agent. And remember to keep receipts. Investigate the track record of any roofer, builder or contractor that you consider hiring. Look for professionals that have a solid reputation in your community. You can call your Better Business Bureau for help. Also, get references and never give anyone a deposit until after you have thoroughly researched their background. A common fraud scheme is for a so-called “contractor” to convince a homeowner that a large deposit must be provided before repair work can begin. Frequently, the job will be started, but not completed. Unfortunately, these con artists are never seen or heard from again. Public adjusters and attorneys Don’t make any rash decisions about hiring someone to handle your claim. Be especially wary of individuals who go door-to-door soliciting business in the aftermath of a catastrophe. Most importantly, don’t let anyone scare you into signing a contract. You don’t want to be victimized by someone who comes into town, hoping to make a fast buck. You could end up forfeiting a significant portion of your insurance dollars. Before hiring a public adjuster or an attorney, try to settle your claim directly with your insurance company. Your insurer provides an adjuster at no charge to you. Ask your insurance agent or company representative to help you with your claim and don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you decide to work directly with your insurer, you still have the right to hire a third-party professional to help you. If your claim is complicated and you want to hire a public adjuster or attorney, make sure that person is qualified to handle your case. Ask your friends, relatives or business associates for the names of well-regarded professionals in your community. Also, call your state insurance department regarding a public adjuster, and your state or county bar association about a prospective attorney. Understand that you will have to pay a public adjuster 15 percent and an attorney as much as 30 percent of your total claim settlement.
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Revitalizing Your Home: Exploring Windows and Doors

Every home tells a story, and its windows and doors play a pivotal role in that narrative. In Uxbridge, with its rich architectural tapestry, this becomes especially evident. The city’s unique architectural heritage gives it a distinctive character, and its influence on modern design cannot be understated. Windows and doors Uxbridge: FALCON Windows and Doors, your trusted partner in Uxbridge, offers a comprehensive range of services for windows, patio doors, and entry doors. When it comes to enhancing your home, look no further. The Role of Windows and Doors in Home Revitalization Windows and doors are far from being mere structural elements in a house; they are integral to a home’s character and aesthetic. Their design, size, and placement can significantly transform a home’s facade, making it more welcoming and appealing. Furthermore, the efficiency of windows and doors impacts energy consumption. High-quality installations can ensure better insulation, maintain internal temperatures, and reduce energy bills. Additionally, well-designed and sturdy windows and doors can enhance security, deterring potential intruders and ensuring peace of mind for residents. For homeowners considering selling, upgrading these elements can notably increase property value, making it a wise investment for the future. Historical Perspective: Windows and Doors in Uxbridge Homes Uxbridge’s architectural landscape is peppered with remnants of its storied past. These historical designs, with their charm and elegance, have inevitably influenced contemporary window and door styles. The intricate woodwork of Edwardian homes or the expansive windows of Georgian architecture are still sought after today. Choosing the Right Windows for Uxbridge Homes Selecting the appropriate windows is crucial for both aesthetic and functional reasons. The diversity in architectural styles in Uxbridge demands a wide range of window options. Traditional homes might benefit from classic sash or picture windows, while more modern homes might lean towards sliding or awning styles. When choosing, it’s essential to consider the home’s existing architectural style, ensuring a seamless blend. Functionality is another key factor. Do you require easy egress, or are energy-efficient panes more important? Additionally, the materials used can greatly impact durability, maintenance, and appearance. From wooden frames that exude rustic charm to sleek aluminum or durable vinyl, the choices are numerous, catering to varying tastes and requirements. Selecting Doors that Make a Statement A door, in many ways, is a home’s handshake. It offers the first impression and sets the tone for what lies within. Traditional Uxbridge homes might gravitate towards solid wood doors with ornate designs and antique finishes, reflecting the town’s historical charm. In contrast, contemporary homes might opt for minimalist doors, possibly with large glass panels to allow in more light. Beyond design, homeowners must consider security features. Reinforced frames, multipoint locks, and peepholes are just a few features that can enhance safety. The material of the door plays a crucial role too. While wood is timeless and elegant, materials like fiberglass or steel offer increased durability and resistance to external elements. Installation & Maintenance The decision to replace or upgrade windows and doors is just the beginning of the process. How these components are installed is just as crucial. Proper installation is vital to ensure that windows and doors offer the best insulation, are watertight, and function flawlessly. It’s not just about aesthetics; incorrect installations can lead to air leaks, water ingress, and, over time, significant damage to the structure of the home. In Uxbridge, many craftsmen specialize in ensuring windows and doors are installed with precision, catering to both the home’s age-old architectural essence and the modern necessities of energy efficiency. These professionals not only ensure that the installations are flush but also ensure that any unique architectural challenges are addressed, preserving the building’s character. Post-installation, maintenance becomes pivotal. This doesn’t just extend to cleaning but also involves periodic inspections to spot early signs of wear and tear. Weatherstripping might need replacements over time, hinges may need occasional lubrication, and wooden frames might require treatment to guard against rot and pests. Regular maintenance checks are more than just about ensuring they look good; it’s about guaranteeing that they function effectively and continue to provide security, insulation, and aesthetics for years to come. Case Study: A Uxbridge Home Transformation Jane and Mark, long-time Uxbridge residents, recently undertook a complete windows and doors overhaul. Their 1900s Edwardian home, while charming, needed an update. “We wanted to retain the historical charm but with modern functionality,” says Jane. After their renovation, their home blended timeless elegance with contemporary efficiency—a true testament to Uxbridge’s architectural harmony. Investing in the right windows and doors can truly transform your home, weaving together threads of style, efficiency, and heritage. For residents of Uxbridge, every choice is an opportunity to both celebrate its rich history and embrace modernity.
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