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George is there on Monday. So content, he sits behind his two keyboards, laptop, and M-Audio midi-control station reciting tunes like he could do it in his sleep. George is a one-man jazz band built for any occasion, and perfect for a Monday when you need something inviting and downright pleasant to shake off the looming week's obligations.
More times than not, my preference in jazz leans toward progressive and experimental styles. For a while, I found mellow jazz a real turn -off. Then I discovered Weather Report and a few others, and soon I understood the complexities of the smooth stuff. George likes to keep it smooth. Sitting there with his pipe and his well-trimmed gray beard, he seems content just kicking back on the groove.
Even if the jazz he plays is a little too smooth for you, it's hard not to recognize the man's ability to simultaneously hold down the bass-line, accompaniment, and solos. He could very well handle the show on his own, but this particular night he shared the stage with a guitarist who knew exactly the right pockets to play in to fill out George's sound.
I couldn't have picked a better place to be Monday night. I left the house feeling under the weather, but found myself rejuvenated by the comforting vibe of one of Charlottesville's best taverns and a dose of his mellow mood music.
Monetarism is not dead. That is certainly the view of one of the founders of modern monetarism, Anna J. Schwartz. She, with Milton Friedman, wrote ``A Monetary History of the United States, 1867-1960.'' This book, published in the mid-60s, revived the economic idea that growth in the money supply is the key both to the ups and downs of the business cycle and to the level of inflation.
``I don't see any indication that monetarism isn't alive and well,'' Mrs. Schwartz said from the New York office of the National Bureau of Economic Research.
That book concluded that a change in the growth rate of the nation's money supply produced a similar change in the growth rate of the economy after ``a long and variable lag'' averaging nine months.
Now between July and November of 1984, the Federal Reserve System supplied the economy with little new money (M-1), that is, cash and deposits used to finance business transactions. To Mrs. Schwartz, it was thus quite normal that the pace of the economy slowed in the first seven months of this year.
``There's no mystery about why we had the slowdown,'' she says.
Since November, however, the Fed has been creating money at an extremely rapid rate. Therefore, she expects a pickup in economic activity later this year -- or maybe early in 1986.
The nine-month lag, Schwartz emphasizes, is only an average. So the renewed recovery could take as long as five quarters from November of last year -- or it could be sooner.
Schwartz is sharply critical of the Fed for its rapid changes in monetary growth rates. ``There is nothing unusual in the way the Fed has been operating -- fast, slow, fast, slow -- and the economy responds.'' She would prefer the Fed to feed money to the economy at a steady, moderate pace.
Two factors have prompted recent challenges to monetarism.
One is the fact that inflation has not reignited, as some monetarist economists forecast last year. Schwartz says the flood of relatively cheap imports has been helping to hold down prices.
The other is a slump in ``velocity.'' It will undoubtedly be discussed by the members of the Fed's policymaking Federal Open Market Committee when it meets today. The velocity of money (M-1) can be thought of as a measure of the amount of money required to produce a given volume of nominal gross national product (GNP); that is, the nation's output of goods and services in current dollars. It indicates the number of times cash and the funds in checkable deposits move from one pocket to another pocket ea ch year.
Reducing it to a formula, the percentage change in GNP equals the percentage change in M-1 plus the percentage change in V (velocity).
From the mid-1950s through the late '70s, the behavior of velocity was relatively stable and thus more predictable. Between 1956 and 1979 the velocity of M-1 grew at a fairly steady 3 percent annual rate. In other words, people were finding ways for using their money for consumption or investment more rapidly.
So far during the 1980s, velocity has grown on average only 0.5 percent a year. And its growth rate has been more volatile.
That means there is less economic bang for each buck created by the Fed. The volatility makes it tougher for the Fed to decide on how much money to supply the economy.
To monetarists like Anna Schwartz, the Fed is to a considerable degree the creator of its own velocity problem. When it pumps out money so fast, people don't have time to figure out how to use it right away. Their ``money balances'' are higher than they would normally hold. Velocity thus slumps.
Schwartz expects that a couple of quarters ``down the line'' people will have found a way to use their new money and velocity will accelerate. If she is right, economic growth will bounce back, helping reduce both unemployment and the federal deficit and boosting business profits. That's why velocity is a critical measure to economists in and out of government.
During the Great Depression, economists argued over the same issue, talking about a ``liquidity trap.'' They said, ``You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make him drink.'' Consumers and businessmen were the horse in this analogy, supposedly refusing to use new money supplied by the Fed.
Enthusiasts for the teachings of British economist John Maynard Keynes maintained that the government should step in by boosting government spending as a sort of pump-priming of the economy.
Monetarists contend that most people have holes in their pockets: They will spend it given a little time. Extra government spending is therefore unnecessary to remedy a recession.
With the massive deficits of today, not even neo-Keynesians are arguing for more government spending. They are just pleased the Fed has stepped on the monetary gas.
The monetarists aren't quite sure what to think. Some suspect the Fed was right to correct its past slow money growth with faster money growth. Others say the Fed's loose monetary policy is too risky.
Allan H. Meltzer, an economist at Carnegie-Mellon University, figures the Fed's fast-money-growth policy is going to catch up with it; he would rather see the Fed use the velocity slump to trim inflation further. Michael W. Keran, chief economist at Prudential Economic Research and a former Fed economist, figures that because of lower inflation and more modest interest rates, the longer-term trend in velocity growth has slipped back to around 1 percent per year rather than 3 percent. Michael J. Hambur ger, another ex-Fed economist, has an econometric model that uses changes in long-term interest rates to explain the slump in velocity. He supports the Fed's action as appropriate and does not expect the extra money to boost inflation much this year or early next year.
Mrs. Schwartz is skeptical. She notes that economists have devised at least two other models to explain changes in velocity. And although different in their bases, they also work. ``I would be happier if there was only one,'' she says.
Her prediction: a revived American economy and more inflation.
Now that winter is over, it’s time to ditch those rich, musky perfumes and creams for something much lighter and airier and what better excuse than a national holiday, today, March 21. The major fragrance trend this spring is without a doubt florals — especially peony. Even if you’re not into florals, there’s still something for everyone on this list – from creams, to room sprays, and even candles in all different scents. One of our favorite scents for spring is the Maison Margiela Fragrances REPLICA Flower Market which quite literally makes you feel and smell like you’re in a freshly cut flower market. Another floral fragrance that’s a bit more sweet and not as natural smelling, than the Salvatore Ferragamo Amo Flowerful perfume is the right choice.
For those of you who like florals but don’t want an overly powerful flowery scent, then the Tiffany & Co. Sheer Eau de Toilette is a great option because it’s simple, yet vibrant, and would be perfect for a date night because it’s not too extreme. If you’re looking for something light and sweet but not to floral, then the Calvin Klein Eternity Flame perfume is the way to go. It’s full of bold fruit and citrusy notes that are super refreshing. Another non-floral scent to look forward to is the the Victoria’s Secret Tease Dreamer perfume which has coconut notes and was literally inspired by “West Coast vibes” so when you wear it, you will instantly be transported to a tropical vacation.
You don’t have to celebrate National Fragrance Day with just perfumes, because the next best thing from you smelling good, is your house smelling good. Bath & Body Works has a new comfort collection with room sprays and pillow sprays that instantly make your home cozy and fresh. Plus, Yankee Candle launched a new line of spring candles and the Sugared Wildflowers will lighten up any room you light it in. No matter what scent you choose, in honor of this exciting holiday, it’s time to treat yourself or a loved one to something special and delicious.
Local businesses, the army and sporting figures came together for a sleepout in Leamington at weekend in support of the region’s homeless community.
Wasps first-teamer Alex Rieder and Club Academy players Will Porter, Josh Fenner and James Seabrook along with Head of Academy Physio Kat Lenan, were among the group who played a part in the 12-hour sleep out at Leamington Railway Station last Friday.
Will Porter, Alex Rieder, Josh Fenner, James Seabrook holding Lianne Kirkman from Helping Hands. Photo submitted.
The sleepout, which saw more than 80 people take part, was organised by the Helping Hands Community Project – a charity that supports vulnerable people across the Warwick district.
The #bigsleepout19, which is now in its fourth year, was hailed a success by organiser Lianne Kirkman who wanted this year’s event to recreate the reality of being homeless as closely as possible.
She said: “We kept this year’s sleepout destination a tight secret right up until the night itself to open people’s eyes to the fact that homeless people don’t often know where their next destination is going to be.
“All that people taking part had to their name for the night was a sleeping bag and a piece of cardboard.
Steve Atherton, Derek Richardson and Peter Leopold. Photo submitted.
“We divided participants up into four different groups, each of which included somebody who had experienced homelessness who told their stories to the group, which really hit home with people.
“We’ve seen first-hand that homelessness can come out of the blue, whether it is losing a job, the breakdown of a marriage, and can also be caused by mental health issues or drug addiction.
“Homelessness is unfortunately very much on the rise, especially with the changes to universal credit piling the pressure on many families.
“There’s a story behind every person living on the streets, many of whom are just searching for a bit of help and support to get back on their feet which is what Helping Hands is all about.
Other supporters on the night alongside Wasps included Thwaites Dumpers, BID Leamington, Greggs, Tesco, Pancho Catering, Warwickshire Ambulance Association, Leading Edge, KindSnacks, local musicians who were busking at the venue throughout the evening; and Chiltern Rail and Leamington Train Station.
Deirdre Fitzhugh, Director at Wasps Community Foundation, said: “A lot of the players know about the great work that goes on to help vulnerable people in Leamington, from first-team player Rob Miller, who regularly helps out at Helping Hands’ soup kitchen in his spare time.
“That’s why some of the boys were keen to come out and find out more about the work that is done and the people who are benefiting from Helping Hands’ work.
Paddy Kirkham, Alex Rieder and Steve Boyer. Photo submitted.
Britanie Jeffrey, Emma Pickering and Danielle Taylor. Photo supplied.
Sabrina Moore and Lucy Kelly. Photo submitted.
Alex Rieder, Kevin Lynch, Angela Ganno and Tom St Aubyn. Photo submitted.
Alex Rieder and Helen Seal. Photo supplied.
Some of the volunteers helping out on the night. Photo supplied.
Alex Rieder and Helena Grant. Photo supplied.
(Reuters Health) - - Sodas sweetened with fructose may have a greater impact on risk factors for diabetes than whole fruits that are natural sources of fructose, a research review suggests.
The link between fructose and diabetes has been unclear. Some research has suggested this relationship may be explained at least in part by what people eat and drink and whether they are overweight or obese.
For the current analysis, researchers examined data from 155 studies that assessed the effect of different food sources of fructose on blood glucose levels. Combined, these studies included about 5,000 people with and without diabetes.
Fruit and fruit juices as part of a diet with a healthy amount of calories appeared to have a slightly beneficial effect on blood sugar, especially in people with diabetes, the analysis found.
But foods, sodas and juices with lots of calories and few nutrients seemed to have harmful effects on blood sugar.
Most of this evidence was low quality, however, researchers report in the BMJ.
“While this analysis did not find consistent effects of fructose per se on risk for diabetes, results appear to support the adverse effects of added sugars in the form of sugar-sweetened beverages,” said Dr. Mark Herman of Duke University in Durham, North Carolina.
Doctors generally advise patients with diabetes and people at high risk for developing the condition to limit sodas, juices and other sugary treats with fructose, sucrose or other sweeteners that add lots of empty calories to the diet. This can help reduce the risk of weight gain, and help keep blood sugar within a healthy range.
Fructose occurs naturally in a range of foods, including whole fruits and vegetables, natural fruit juices and honey. It is also added to foods, such as soft drinks, breakfast cereals, baked goods, sweets, and desserts.
It’s possible fruit and certain other foods with naturally occurring fructose might help improve blood sugar levels because they are high in fiber, which can slow down the release of sugars in the blood stream, the study authors note.
“These findings might help guide recommendations on important food sources of fructose in the prevention and management of diabetes,” senior study author Dr. John Sievenpiper of St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto said in a statement.
Sievenpiper has received money from a variety of food and beverage companies and advocacy groups including the International Dried Fruit and Nut Council, Calorie Control Council, Dr. Pepper Snapple Group, The Coca- Cola Company, and PepsiCo.
Patients should consume sweets in moderation, limit added sugars, and beware hidden sweeteners in processed foods, said Dr. Valerio Nobili of University La Sapienza in Rome.
“For example, 1 tablespoon of ketchup contains about 4 grams (about 1 teaspoon) of sugars, while a single can of sweetened soda contains up to 40 grams (about 10 teaspoons) of sugars,” Nobili, who wasn’t involved in the study, said by email.
“Both . . . patients with type 2 diabetes and healthy individuals should avoid added sugars while increasing the natural sugars, such as those contained in whole fruit,” Nobili advised.
SOURCE: bit.ly/2KIqlzt BMJ, online November 21, 2018.
BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) - North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum has signed legislation that makes it a crime for a doctor performing an abortion to use instruments such as clamps, scissors and forceps to remove a fetus from the womb.
Burgum's spokesman, Mike Nowatzki, says the first-term Republican governor signed the bill Wednesday outlawing the abortion procedure known as dilation and evacuation. The bill uses the non-medical term "human dismemberment abortion" to describe the second-trimester procedure.
Doctors performing the procedure could be charged with a felony, punishable by up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Opponents argue that banning the procedure is unconstitutional because it interferes with private medical decisions. Similar laws elsewhere are on hold because of legal challenges.
The bill becomes effective if a federal appeals court or the U.S. Supreme Court allows its enforcement.
Does Marsy's Law protect companies?
Menomonee Falls High School was one of 887 schools in the United States to be given a Gold Standard award by Next Gen. Personal Finance.
Menomonee Falls High School is among 887 schools nationwide named Gold Standard Schools by Next Gen. Personal Finance, a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding financial education to high school students in the United States.
The award means Menomonee Falls High School and the other Gold Standard Schools were given the organization's highest rank in its Got Finance? School Search Tool. The tool contains data from more than 11,000 course catalogs to rank high schools for their access to personal finance courses, according to a news release from the organization.
According to the press release, just one in six U.S. students is required to take personal finance to graduate. This includes students in Alabama, Missouri, Tennessee, Utah and Virginia, states that already have graduation requirements for personal finance.
To learn more about where your school ranks, visit NGPF's Got Finance? School Search Tool at www.ngpf.org/school-search/.
Not all students raced out of Riverhead High School when the bell rang last Tuesday, officially marking the Thanksgiving break.
In fact, technology teacher Luke Ferland’s Design & Drawing students were engaged in an intense competition involving textbooks, two index cards and 20 inches of masking tape at the end of the day.
Freshman H’Nadahri Joyner was the last to go in the competition. His fellow classmates surrounded the workshop table as he stacked textbooks above the taped index cards. The idea was to see just how many books their cards could support. Before another textbook could be placed, at least 10 seconds had to pass.
At one point, Mr. Ferland had to take over stacking the books by standing on the table.
“A little to the left,” H’Nadahri directed as he looked on.
“Like this?” Mr. Ferland asked as he gingerly placed the 29th book off-center onto the stack.
H’Nadahri’s project held 34 books — 9 shy of the day’s highest score. Students in Mr. Ferland’s class remained around the table as the bell rang while he recapped why he believed certain projects did well and how others could be improved.
Elvio Estrada, a junior in Mr. Ferland’s Design & Drawing class, decorated his index card project with the school’s logo.
This is Mr. Ferland’s third year working in the district and he’s already helped launch new programs during his tenure like Design & Drawing and the Robotics Club in order to meet student demand for more opportunities to learn about technology and engineering.
Students also learn how to use AutoCAD, a digital drafting program, and build with a 3-D printer in the course. In addition, there’s a new class called Residential Structures, which teaches students about the need for housing and construction techniques, as well as environmental sustainability requirements for LEED and Energy Star standards.
Mr. Ferland is looking to expand the Robotic Club and create an official course that would offer college credit through Farmingdale State College.
This is the Robotic Club’s second year and will be the first time students compete in a regional competition. The club has doubled in size, now totalling 25 students.
The theme for this year’s contest is creating a machine that picks up and tosses balls into a net, which Mr. Ferland described as a sort of baseball pitching machine.
The club’s popularity has grown because students not only learn how to build a robot, but they’re also taught how to code and create the commands that make the robot move.
Freshman Alae Mohammad said he joined the Robotics Club because he likes coding and wants to create website design programs.
For his team’s project, Alae is creating commands for the robot’s movement. For example, his coding work now makes the robot move forward by pushing a joystick.
With the robot’s remote in his hand, Alae compared the process to playing video games.
As the students continue to prepare for the robotics competition, Mr. Ferland said they are documenting all of their progress in an engineering notebook in order to organize their research and outline how they were able to troubleshoot through problems they’ve encountered.
“This is the engineering design process in action — students are identifying a problem to solve,” he said. “The judges want to see what they’ve done with the robot and how far they’ve come with the design.