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Pirelli HangarBicocca
Exhibitions open today 10am-10pm | Bistrot 10am-10pm
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Moving Around the Houses (II cycle)
"Igloos" by Mario Merz
From 25 October 2018 to 24 February 2019
The “Igloos” exhibition casts light on and outlines the multiple trajectories that have generated one of the most significant corpora of works in Merz’s output: igloos. In this artist’s practice, on the one hand the igloo serves to delimit space, a territory – or to determine the boundary between interior space and exterior space – while on the other it is a symbol of or metaphor for man’s condition and his way of inhabiting today’s world. In the artist’s imaginary the igloo is at the same time a “world and a small house” and its hemispherical form is a protection, a space in which to take refuge in order to withstand the outside reality: a small personal space that continuously converses with a broader context.The starting point for the “Igloos” exhibition is the Mario Merz solo show “Unreal City” curated by Harald Szeemann and held at the Kunsthaus in Zurich in 1985. Presented there were all the typologies of igloos created up until that moment which the artist himself described as “urbanistic”, in that the individual igloos liaised, thus creating a “grandiose context”, and organized the space.
Areas addressed
Art and image
By exploring the exhibition, children will discover why Mario Merz chose igloos as the preferred shape of his works from 1968 onwards. Emphasis will be placed on the idea that the Eskimo igloo is a type of temporary shelter, a “nomadic house” because it allows the Inuit population to move about with respect for the natural cycle of the seasons; analogously, it allows Merz to create a new work each time, choosing the dimensions and the materials based on the changes underway in the surrounding society, in the territorial context, and in his own artistic inspiration. The goal of this activity is to introduce children to new places and relative cultural identities, and to add them to a large urban structure without roads, but filled with places in which to live, a metaphor for our own world, filled with contradictions, and yet unique and alive because of them.
Starting from something that Mario Merz said (concerning the 1985 show) “One of the most interesting phenomena of the cities is the proliferation of houses in so far as they are human products”,[1] after being divided into groups the children will be asked to create an urban project inspired in terms of its structure and composition by the ideas that came up during the exhibition. Each group will be assigned a particular corner of the world and, with the help of the books “Bambini nel mondo” (Children in the World) by Maia Brami and Karine Daisay and “Mappe” (Maps) by Aleksandra Mizielinska and Daniiel Mizielinski, it will build living units that, starting from the same shape of the base (like the hemisphere for Merz) can be both personalized and related to those of the other groups, thus enriching its value and uniqueness.
[1] Mario Merz in B. Pietromarchi, Mario Merz. Igloo (Turin: testo&immagine, 2001).
Infinite Numbers (II cycle)
The “Igloos” exhibition casts light on and outlines the multiple trajectories that have generated one of the most significant corpora of works among Merz’s output: igloos. In 1970 Merz added Fibonacci numbers to his igloos. Fibonacci was a mathematician who, in 1202, discovered a numerical system based on the exponential progression of numbers derived from a biological principle (the observation of the reproduction of rabbits) according to which each number is the sum of the two preceding numbers. A numerical proliferation is thus obtained – 1,1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, 55… – that, if represented graphically, generates a spiral. Merz uses this series as the synthesis of the active energy and vital growth impetus that are manifested in his works as the measure of nature and architecture.
The goal of the activity is to get children to discover the story of Fibonacci numbers and their relationship with the world of flora, fauna, geometry, and natural phenomena. In the artist’s own words: “My goal is to use numbers to create natural art with numbers. Fibonacci numbers do no just come from mathematics, they are also the measure of time and spaces joined together […]”.[1] Children, with the help of the Arts Tutors, will stroll through the exhibition searching for the red and blue numbers disseminated throughout the display space. Again with the help of the Arts Tutors, they will formalize hypotheses on their meaning and use.
After they have explored the exhibition the children will be able to delve deeper into the connections between Fibonacci numbers and algebra, geometry, the plant and animal world, and the shape of certain atmospheric phenomena and the composition of famous artworks and architectural buildings by carrying out a series of exercises. Once the preparatory activities have ended, participants will be invited to represent their own vision of reality through the creation by the entire class of a Fibonacci spiral to which they can add a word or a number that, in their opinion, holds the energy that transforms the world.
[1] Mario Merz, Voglio fare subito un libro (Turin: Hopefulmonster), 2005.
Igloos Travelling in Time and Space (II cycle)
The “Igloos” exhibition casts light on and outlines the multiple trajectories that have generated one of the most significant corpora of works in Merz’s output: igloos. It is a form that the artist has explored for nearly forty years, reconfiguring it each time with various materials and elements in a profound search for the processes of transformation between man and nature. In this artist’s practice the igloo has multiple meanings that change and evolve from one work to another: while on the one hand the igloo determines the boundary between interior space and exterior space, on the other it is a symbol of or metaphor for man’s condition and his way of inhabiting today’s world. For Merz, the hemispherical form is “the proper form in order to resist the thrust of reality itself” and within it space and time thrive in perfect equilibrium in a relationship of inversely proportional forces. Furthermore, in the artist’ imaginary the contemporary and the archaic are both present at the same time in the igloo, the result of which is a circulatory where time is suspended.
The goal of the activity is to develop the children’s potential for storytelling by stimulating them to single out the individual elements added by Merzo to the igloos and bestowing them with a voice and a story. Indeed, the artist, inspired in his artistic output by specific conceptions of space and time, created each one of the igloos by imagining its link with nature, man, the socio-political context, architecture, the language of advertising and mass media, and even with the series of Fibonacci numbers.
Children will be given the image of one of the most significant igloos in the exhibition and they will be asked to write a story with the help of key questions like “What period in history might this igloo belong to?”, “Who might have lived here?”, “Where might it have been built?” In the final phase, each child can share the story of their igloo with the others.
Imaginary Planets (I cycle)
The “Igloos” exhibition casts light on and outlines the multiple trajectories that have generated one of the most significant corpora of works in Merz’s output: igloos. It is a form that the artist has explored for nearly forty years, reconfiguring it each time with various materials and elements in a profound search for the processes of transformation between man and nature. In this artist’s practice the igloo has multiple meanings that change and evolve from one work to another: while on the one hand the igloo determines the boundary between interior space and exterior space, on the other it is a symbol of or metaphor for man’s condition and his way of inhabiting today’s world. In the artist’ imaginary, space and energy, the visible and the invisible, that is, the two halves of the sphere, thrive in perfect equilibrium in a relationship of forces that are inversely proportional.
The goal of this activity is to get children to discover how each of Mario Merz’s igloos is one-of-a-kind, and the representation of a small unrepeatable world that tells the story of a moment, a place, an idea, a choice. Visiting the exhibition will allow children to stroll between a constellation of hemispherical igloos that could be the visible half of imaginary planets, while the other half might enclose a story that hasn’t yet been told.
Inspired by the atmosphere of the exhibition, children will be asked to create the other half of one of Mario Merz’s most significant igloos, taking into account the artist’s working method and his ability to use an artwork that is both complex and essential to tell his own vision of the world.
Diametrically Opposite (I cycle)
In Merz’s activity the igloo has many meanings that change and evolve from one work to another. Within that same activity contrasting elements and concepts – light-heavy, dark-light – coexist, ones that are matched in order to breathe life into new entities. The igloo is a synthetic image, which in its hemispherical shape encompasses both natural and urban elements, including light, water, land, wood, and glass, so as to transform them into a poetic vision. Chiaro oscuro / oscuro chiaro, 1983, is an emblematic work made up of a glass igloo and an igloo completely clad with bundles of sticks that intersect like night and day.
The aim of the activity is to help children discover that each of Mario Merz’s igloos is a planet, a unique world that holds within it numerous pairs of opposites that render it complete. Starting from one of the elements making up the pair – for instance, transparent, light, natural, curved – with the help of the Arts Tutors, children are encouraged to find the opposite seeking among the different components included in the artist’s igloos.
Drawing inspiration from the artist’s working method and synthesis, during the lab activity each child will build their own catalogue of opposites, comprised of cards where the two opposite elements are ideally joined in a perfect sphere.
Dwellings while Journeying (I cycle)
The “Igloos” exhibition casts light on and outlines the multiple trajectories that have generated one of the most significant corpora of works in Merz’s output: igloos. In this artist’s practice, on the one hand the igloo serves to delimit space, a territory – or to determine the boundary between interior space and exterior space – while on the other it is a symbol of or metaphor for man’s condition and his way of inhabiting today’s world. The igloo is a synthetic image, which in its hemispherical form encompasses both natural and urban elements, including light, water, land, wood, and stones, thereby transforming them into a poetic vision. In the artist’s imaginary the igloo is at the same time a “world and a small house” and its hemispherical form is a protection, a space in which to take refuge in order to withstand the outside reality: a small personal space that continuously converses with a broader context.
By exploring the exhibition, children will discover why Mario Merz chose igloos as the preferred shape of his works from 1968 onwards. Emphasis will be placed on the idea that the Eskimo igloo, which inspired the artist, is a type of temporary shelter that is used while moving around for the purposes of hunting: thanks to its essential and compact nature, it preserves as much heat as is required inside, and can be built with the materials that are available, in perfect symbiosis with the surrounding nature. Furthermore, the igloo is considered a “nomadic house” because it allows Eskimos to follow the migrations of the game they are hunting according to the natural cycle of the seasons; analogously, it allows Merz to create a new work each time, choosing the dimensions and the materials based on the changes underway in the surrounding society, in the territorial context, and in his own artistic inspiration.
Drawing inspiration from the most significant igloos on display and from a reading of the book by Leo Lionni “La casa più grande del mondo”, the individual activity will allow each child to build their own “travelling house”: by choosing a shape, colours, and the materials and smells that make it up, each child will be able to create an ideal shelter, one that reflects their personality and can accompany them wherever they want.
Exploring the Depths (I and II cycle)
“CITTÀDIMILANO” by Giorgio Andreotta Calò
Valid from 14 February to 21 July 2019
“CITTÀDIMILANO” brings together for the first time a broad selection of sculptures by Giorgio Andreotta Calò. The Shed is transformed into a fluid environment, which visitors can “navigate”, following their own hypertextual interpretation of the work. They are stimulated by the countless connections and cross-references between the works on show, which together form an archipelago of symbols and meanings, each of which is linked to a particular geographical context.
The children will be guided by the arts tutors as they explore the Giorgio Andreotta Calò exhibition, which combines his sculptures with the architectural modules of the Shed to create a single landscape dominated by one hypothetical horizon. Here they will discover imaginary submarine and subterranean worlds where the hand of man is clearly visible. In particular, they will investigate the complex relationship between man, nature, and work, as well as the concepts of visible-invisible and submerged-emerged, with the help of the scenarios created by the artist in the display.
In the first part of the session, the children will be helped by a reading of “Sottacqua. Sottoterra” by A. Mizielinska and D. Mizielinski, published by Mondadori Electa (2015), to take a scientific look at the characteristics of extreme environments that are invisible to humans, such as the bowels of the earth and the abysses of the oceans. In the second part, they will draw inspiration from the landscape in the exhibition to create a hidden, invisible world where natural elements can exist, but they must also take into consideration that they will need to coexist with the products of human work.
Stellar Myths
“The Seven Heavenly Palaces 2004-2015” by Anselm Kiefer
For the opening of Pirelli HangarBicocca in 2004, the German artist Anselm Kiefer created an installation called The Seven Heavenly Palaces, to which in September 2015 he added five large canvases that give new meaning to his original work.
In the form of constellations, meteorites and stars, the celestial sphere is the protagonist of the stories told by the towers and paintings.
During the guided tour with the arts tutors, the children will find out more about the celestial sphere, through stories about constellations, meteorites and stars.
The aim of this activity is to help the children find out how the heavenly bodies can lead to different interpretations, depending on the terms of reference, which may be artistic, mythological or scientific.
Starting with a reading of myths and legends about the constellations, each participant will be asked to make one of their own, using the materials provided.
At the end of the activity, the works will be placed next to each other to create the idea of a great sky, where different sets of stars – all telling different stories – can coexist harmoniously.
A Great Multi-Material Picture
In September 2015, eleven years after it was unveiled, the permanent Seven Heavenly Palaces installation was complemented by five large paintings, which Anselm Kiefer had made between 2009 and 2013. These works give new meaning to the towers, expanding the issues they address: great architectural constructions of the past appear as man’s attempt to ascend to the divine, but they also examine the history of the West, the constellations in the form of astronomical numbers and, lastly, man’s relationship with nature.Since the 1970s, the German artist has been using materials such as lead, wood, sand, straw and seeds to create his paintings, giving them a dense, material consistency.
During the guided tour with the arts tutors, the children will find out what materials Anselm Kiefer used when making the five large paintings in the exhibition space and what the significance of each one is.
The aim of the activity is to show the pupils how crucial the choice of a material is for creating a work of art, since it brings about new visual forms, new compositions and new stories to interpret.
The class will be divided into groups during the workshop and each one will make their own multi-material painting, taking inspiration from the paintings in the exhibition, and using the materials provided, which will include sand, seeds, straw and bits of wood.
At the end of the session, the works will be placed next to each other to create just a single vast canvas.
Numbers on Towers!
As well as having their own mathematical value, numbers can also have symbolic value and thus be open to a number of interpretations: numbers are such an intrinsic part of daily life that we often fail to notice their importance. And yet, since the most ancient times, they have played a fundamental role in enriching and giving meaning and value to the most magnificent works of art. In Anselm Kiefer’s The Seven Heavenly Palaces 2004-2015 we find many references to the world of numbers: the repetition of individual modules, the use of the double, the choice of the number seven, the presence of long series of numbers on pieces of glass, the numbering of strange rocks, and more besides. The children will discover how a number used apparently randomly can bring with it a whole array of meanings, whether universal or subjective, immediate or hidden, shared or personal.
• Languages, creativity, expression
• Numbers
• Knowledge of the world
This activity helps children find out about and enter into the world of numbers in a simple, direct way. They will need to look very carefully at the work and find elements linked to the world of numbers, such as the modules and multiples, and the presence of doubles. The significance of numbers in the work will be investigated, linking them to what the pupils have already learnt at school and bringing out the multiple range of concepts that numbers represent.
Starting out from identifying important numbers that are significant in their daily lives, the children will examine how important numbers are for recognising and understanding the world around them. During the workshop activities, each child will be able to make a cube into which they can insert all the numbers that are important in their lives, linked to their personal lives or to school, and they will be helped to give these numbers the right level of importance. Starting out from this cubic module, which is the same for everyone, the class will together make a construction, taking inspiration from Kiefer’s towers, or creating new surprising forms. Starting out from their individual works, the children will then be invited to create a collective work in which the individual “voices” come together in a choral composition. This will give value to the contributions of each child, whose individual peculiarities will gradually decide the shape of the collective work.
Chasing a Star
The installation is a perfect scene in which to imagine fantastical stories and help children discover the depths of the sky and take a close look at its inhabitants: stars. The artist has chosen them as the guardians of one of the towers, presenting them in the form of shards of glass. But what are stars really like? Where do they come from? Do they live forever?
• Sciences
• Motor and sports sciences
Through play, children will learn a complex concept such as that of the birth of the stars. They will learn what they actually look like (the points are a convention invented by humans to draw them), the matter composing them, why they shine and their life cycle. They will also learn that heat comes from the agitation of gas and dust particles, simulating their movement and heating action through play.
The explanation of the birth of a star is introduced directly during the visit of The Seven Heavenly Palaces 2004-2015. Back at the workshop, the student will actively participate in the “birth” of a star, in order to understand together – starting from the basics – the complex creation of these heavenly bodies. This workshop can be integrated with a story (the story of Thomas) to get the children involved and spark their imagination.
We Are History
Anselm Kiefer has always been acknowledged as “the artist of history”, particularly German history, because his works originate from profound reflection on memory and on “how to remember”. Each of us has an individual history full of events and encounters that have determined our path: The idea is thus to help young people understand that their personalities are influenced by an array of factors that this activity aims to bring out.
• Geography
• Italian
• History
The workshop aims to underscore the importance of individual history, as well as personal and family memories as the constituent elements of collective memory. The child will become aware that his or her personality is the outcome of personal experience and that existence goes beyond the present and is irrevocably bound to the history of his or her own context.
Starting with the reflection on the importance of memory in the language of Anselm Kiefer, students will be asked to identify people, places or things that are particularly significant to them. They will be asked to imagine that they are picking up Anselm Kiefer’s Falling Pictures and to think about what they would like to see represented inside the frames. Using recycled material that is provided to them, each child will create his own picture and “content”. When everyone has made their pictures they will build a tower with boxes and use it to hang their works. Anselm Kiefer’s pictures will thus be picked up and put back in place!
The Towers Tell a Story (second cycle)
When making his work, Anselm Kiefer was profoundly inspired by the idea of the tower in history, with many references to the architecture of the past, but especially to its symbolic value. His towers, which each consist of between five and seven modules, testify to what remains after every conflict. Their precarious look does indeed make them appear like ruins, as the memory of a by no means distant past, or the foreboding of a possible future. When looking at them, some have wondered: “Are they the remains of an ancient city, an industrial settlement or of a village with asbestos-cement roofs?” There is no single answer to this question, for there can be many interpretations and everyone can apply their own imagination to them.
• Art and image
The activity is designed to show the kids a different approach to history, letting them discover how the same architectural forms may be repeated in every age, but with different functions, depending on the particular historical period. Having them build a tower of their own to reflect their world and their needs, and choosing a particular historical period for this, is designed to include them actively in the flow of time and make them the manual creators of a past that will testify to the present. Individual work and a spirit of cooperation between classmates will also be developed.
At the beginning of the activity, the kids will be shown pictures of various towers that have been built throughout the course of history, from ancient lookout towers to bell towers, minarets and the Leaning Tower of Pisa, through to towers of distant cultures and the modern towers of our cities, such as skyscrapers and chimneys. The class will then be divided into groups and each one will be asked to invent a tower, taking inspiration from the ones they have seen together, imagining what it might look like and be used for, and what functions it might have. The students will decide whether to take inspiration from a historical tower or to make one that might suit their present needs.
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Christopher Cross_artist photo
"I've got some shelves in my bedroom, and I've got my Oscar, my GRAMMYs and pictures of my kids. The things I'm most proud of in my life."
Born Christopher Charles Geppert May 3, 1951, in San Antonio, Texas.
Christopher Cross scored big with his 1979 eponymous debut album, which peaked at No. 6 on the Billboard 200. The album featured four Top 20 hits: "Ride Like The Wind" (No. 2), "Never Be The Same" (No. 15), "Say You'll Be Mine" (No. 20), and "Sailing" (No. 1). In 1981 Cross won an Oscar for original song for the GRAMMY-nominated "Arthur's Theme (Best That You Can Do)," which he co-wrote with Peter Allen, Burt Bacharach and Carole Bayer Sager.
The Texan won five GRAMMYs at the 23rd GRAMMY Awards, including a sweep of the General Four categories (Album, Record and Song Of The Year and Best New Artist). That same year, he performed "Sailing" in his GRAMMY stage debut.
Cross is the only artist in GRAMMY history to win all the General Four categories in one night.
In 2011 Cross participated in an installment of the GRAMMY Museum's An Evening With series. He discussed his 2011 album, Doctor Faith, and performed a selection of songs acoustically.
GRAMMY Award Results for Christopher Cross
Arthur's Theme (Best That You Can Do)
Best Pop Vocal Performance, Male
Arthur's Theme (Best That You Can Do) (Single)
Best Arrangement Accompanying Vocalist(s)
Christopher Cross (Album)
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See all news for Christopher Cross
Photo: Anthony Barboza/Getty Images
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Be the first to find out about winners, nominees, and more from Music's Biggest Night.
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For Immediate Release – September 11, 2017, (Hartford, CT) Hartford Community Loan Fund has named Calvin Richardson as the organization’s Director of Lending. Richardson returns to a role he occupied at HCLF from 2006-2008, before joining Fannie Mae where he served as Real Estate Credit Manager for nine years. More recently, Richardson was a senior lender at Capital for Change. HCLF’s Board President Jack Ellovich stated, “Calvin created HCLF’s Construction-Rehab Loan Program ten years ago, so it seems fitting that he would return to lead the program through our current growth phase.” HCLF recently announced that the loan program, which provides financing for the rehab of residential and mixed use properties, would expand from a Hartford-only focus to now serve the greater Hartford region.
Joining Richardson on HCLF’s lending staff is Yolanda Williams, HCLF’s new Loan Servicing Specialist. Williams comes to HCLF from 17 years in the servicing department of Liberty Bank and takes over the role previously filled by Sarah Simonelli, who will move into the role of Portfolio Manager.
HCLF, a community development financial institution (CDFI), has originated more than 170 construction-rehab loans totaling more than $25 million since the program began in 2006. The program has facilitated the rehabilitation of more than 750 units of housing affordable for low and moderate income households throughout Hartford.
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Interstate Highway 540 at U.S. Highway 1 and Triangle Towne Boulevard
Development of a busy new mall changed transportation needs in Raleigh, North Carolina. The mall’s access roadway interchanged with an interstate highway very near the converging of two major highways.
North Carolina Department of Transportation sought greater capacity while providing motorists safe access to both interchanges. The HDR | ICA team proposed and executed designs with minimal footprint and the fewest possible traffic-control issues. Our designs also took great care not to impact the natural environment.
Interstate Highway 540 and the mall’s access road cross about a mile from the busy junction of I-540 and U.S. Route 1. An urban loop, I-540 links outlying areas to the urban center. Oft-traveled U.S. 1 passes north and south through Raleigh and runs the full length of the East Coast. Consequently, it sees its share of local and non-local traffic.
We designed two adjacent interchanges. The easternmost junction marked the first Single Point Urban Interchange in North Carolina. This type of interchange can be more efficient than a standard diamond interchange and takes up less space. It allowed traffic to interchange between I-540 and the mall access road, using a single traffic signal.
Just a mile west, we designed braided ramps to move traffic in all directions, between I-540 and U.S. 1. We also took U.S. 1 from a four-lane to a six-lane, divided highway. We graded for two additional lanes to allow for growth.
Environmental issues were a concern throughout the project. The U.S. 1 interchange required two Letters of Map Revision to work around nearby Perry Creek. Stream restoration was implemented throughout the construction of the interchange and braided ramps.
We also overcame sensitive traffic-control challenges caused by a nearby street-widening project.
North Carolina Department of Transportation
Yesler Way Bridge Reconstruction
LEOMO Performance Center
University of Arkansas Don Tyson Center
Quadrangle at Fort Sam Houston
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Safe & Sound with Marianne Kolbasuk McGee
Insights on the security and privacy of healthcare information.
Hackers Dominate Big 2015 Breaches
HHS 'Wall of Shame' Shows Health Insurers in Crosshairs Marianne Kolbasuk McGee (HealthInfoSec) • July 6, 2015
We're midway through 2015 and we're seeing a new breach trend emerge in healthcare. Gone are the days of lost and stolen unencrypted computing devices dominating the tally of major health data breaches. Hackers have officially replaced sloppy employees and petty thieves as the biggest threats to health data privacy.
Seven of the 10 largest health data breaches so far this year have been hacker attacks, affecting nearly 92.1 million individuals, according to a July 2 snapshot of the Department of Health and Human Services' infamous "wall of shame" website.
Insurers are the latest hacker targets because of the large, valuable troves of sensitive data they store.
Of those seven biggest hacking incidents, the top five were assaults aimed at health insurers. Some privacy and security experts speculate insurers are the latest hacker targets because of the large, valuable troves of sensitive data they store, ranging from personal identifiers like names, Social Security numbers and date of birth, to details about individuals' medical conditions and treatments.
Two of those incidents reported in 2015 - by health insurers Anthem Inc. and Premera Blue Cross - are also the two largest health data breaches on record since September 2009, which was when the HIPAA breach notification rule came into effect and the feds began keeping a tally of breaches affecting 500 or more individuals.
The Anthem and Premera breaches alone affected 90 million individuals this year. That's 67 percent of the nearly 135 million individuals affected all 1,258 major breaches posted on the wall of shame since 2009.
It doesn't stop there. The third, fourth and fifth largest health data breaches this year also were hacking attacks aimed at health plans. Those included:
A breach reported by CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield in May affected 1.1 million individuals;
A hacking incident at health plan Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services in March, which affected nearly 700,000 individuals;
An attack on the health plan of the Georgia Department of Community Health, which affected nearly 558,000 individuals.
Patterns Emerging
That hacker attacks dominate so many of the top spots on the HHS wall of shame is a pretty new phenomenon. Until fairly recently, most of the largest breaches listed on the federal website were attributed to incidents involving stolen or lost unencrypted computing devices, like laptops.
For instance, a breach involving an unencrypted laptop stolen from the car of a Science Applications International Corporation employee doing work for the military health program TRICARE, dominated the top spot on the wall of shame for nearly four years after it was reported in November 2011.
However, the Anthem and then Premera incidents this year knocked the SAIC breach, which affected 4.9 million individuals, from both the No. 1 and No. 2 spots on the wall of shame ranking. (SAIC is the third largest HIPAA breach of all time, at least for now.)
Spotty Past
That doesn't mean hacking incidents in the healthcare sector emerged out of nowhere in 2015. There have been hacking attacks resulting in HIPAA breaches in the past. However, for the most part, these incidents didn't start showing up on the wall of shame with any regularity until the latter half of 2014.
That was when Community Health System reported last August a hacker attack that compromised protected health information of 4.5 million individuals. And two months earlier in 2014, the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services reported a hacking incident that impacted 107,000 individuals.
Before that, though, there was only a smattering of large hacking incidents dotting the wall of shame. For instance, before the Community Health System hacking attack last August, the biggest hacking incident on the wall of shame was a breach affecting 788,000 reported in 2012 by the Utah Department of Technology Services, which is business associate of the Utah Department of Health..
The healthcare sector has plenty of company when it comes to big hacker breaches making headlines in 2015. The latest, of course being the Office of Personnel Management hacker attack, a government sector incident that some experts estimate affected as many as 18 million individuals.
So, with the healthcare sector (and others) clearly being in the bulls eye for hackers this year, what should organizations do to prevent being the next target? They could consider some measures being taken by other entities that have been ramping up their defenses in recent months.
Steph Warren, interim CIO of the Department of Veterans Affairs, says the recent OPM breach in particular serves as an opportunity to remind the VA's workforce about the importance of strong passwords, securing wireless networks, avoiding phishing scams and potentially malicious websites, as well as individuals "not oversharing" personal information on social media sites.
Heather Roszkowski, CISO of University of Vermont Medical Center, also has been ramping up user awareness at her organization in recent months to fight an uptick in phishing attempts, including those "laced with malware in an attempt to steal credentials," she says.
Shining Light on Authentication
When it comes to protecting unauthorized access to systems, the VA's Warren noted during a media briefing on July 1 that the VA is shining a particular spotlight lately on multi-factor authentication.
Stanley Lowe, VA deputy assistant secretary for information security, issued June 30 a couple of memos to remind top VA IT leaders that the use of two-factor authentication is required by the department. That means the use of personal identity verification, or PIV, cards and PINs to gain access to any VA information systems. The rules apply to VA users with "elevated privileges" such as systems administrators, as well as users who are not responsible for direct patient care.
So, if your organization also wants to avoid being listed among top wall of shame breaches in the second half of 2015, now's the time to ramp up your information security and breach prevention efforts, too.
What are you doing to defend against hackers? Share your best tips in the space below.
https://www.healthcareinfosecurity.com/blogs/hackers-dominate-big-2015-breaches-p-1888
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Gaza Hospitals in Critical Need of Medicine and Supplies
By Anissa Haddadi
April 24, 2012 12:03 BST
Palestinian man receives kidney dialysis treatment at hospital in southern Gaza Strip Reuters
Gaza hospitals are running out of medicine and supplies after months of unanswered calls for help.
Dr Munir al-Barsh, director general of the pharmaceutical department at Gaza's ministry of health, confirmed that a lot of supplies have run out completely, including bandages, syringes and plaster for casts, as well as 186 types of medicine.
Ashraf al-Qafer, director of public relations and information at the health ministry, had warned in March that the scarcity of medical supplies had reached crisis point.
He said hospitals were in dire need of "infant incubators, dialysis machines, cardiac catheterisation units and medicine".
The intensive care units at hospitals have been particularly affected by the shortage, prompting fears that patients will be unable to receive the treatment or surgery that they so desperately need.
Barsh blamed the Palestinian Authority in Ramallah for not sending Gaza's share of medical supplies and equipment, which accounts for about 40 percent of the World Bank's aid to Gaza and the West Bank.
The health ministry in Gaza had announced a state of emergency over the medical crisis over a year ago, but little has changed since then.
Medical care in Gaza has been in decline for years and many types of specialised treatment are unavailable to Palestinians.
According to figures from the World Health Organization, in January 2008 there was a 19 percent shortage of medicine, including antibiotics for children and drugs for cancer patients. The organisation warned that 31 percent of vital medical equipment was also lacking.
Israel's blockade of the coastal enclave since 2007 has also made access to medical care in hospitals outside Gaza more difficult.
People with medical conditions that cannot be treated in Gaza have been required to apply for permits to leave the territory to receive treatment in either foreign hospitals or Palestinian hospitals in the West Bank.
Rights organisations like Amnesty International have warned: "The Israeli authorities frequently delay or refuse these permits; some Gazans have died while waiting to obtain permits to leave the territory for medical treatment elsewhere. World Health Organization trucks of medical equipment bound for Gazan hospitals have repeatedly been turned away, without explanation, by Israeli border officials."
Frequent fuel shortages also further hinder the quality of medical services, reducing the availability of ambulances for medical emergencies.
Many Gazans are additionally in need of access to safe drinking water.
Related topics : Israel Cancer
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Petchems to be main driver of oil demand from 2030 onwards - BP
Source: ICIS News
LONDON (ICIS)--By 2030, the main source of demand for oil will be from the petrochemicals industry, according to BP’s latest Energy Outlook published on Wednesday.
According to the outlook, the transport sector will continue to dominate global oil demand between now and 2040, accounting for more than half of the overall growth.
However, the outlook continues to say that, after 2030, “the main source of growth in the demand for oil is from non-combusted uses, particularly as a feedstock for petrochemicals”.
It goes on to say that non-combusted use of fuels will grow at almost twice the rate of other industrial uses, with oil accounting for two-thirds of the growth, with natural gas providing much of the remainder.
BP warned, however, that this growth will be increasingly affected by “environmental pressures on the use of some products, particularly single-use plastics and packaging”, meaning growth is dampened relative to past trends.
Meanwhile, by 2040, renewables will be the fastest growing fuel source in the world, growing five-fold to account for over 50% of the increase in global power generation and to provide around 14% of primary energy.
“This strong growth is enabled by the increasing competitiveness of wind and solar,” the report said.
“China is the largest source of growth, adding more renewable energy than the entire OECD combined, with India becoming the second-largest source of growth by 2030.”
Late in 2017, BP re-entered the renewable energy industry by investing $200m for a 43% stake in European solar energy firm Lightsource, six years after it sold off all of its solar assets.
Coming just 24 hours after the Singaporean government stepped up its fight against carbon emissions, BP’s Energy Outlook says they are set to rise by 10% by 2040, which, while slower than the rates over the past 25 years, is “higher than the sharp decline thought to be necessary to achieve the Paris commitments”.
Meanwhile, all the growth in energy consumption will be in the fast-growing developing economies, with China and India accounting for half of the growth in global energy demand to 2040.
Both India and China’s growth will slow throughout the stated period, however, India’s slowdown will be less pronounced, leading to it overtaking China as the world’s fastest growing market for energy by the early 2030s.
From 2035 to 2040, Africa will also contribute more to global demand growth than China.
“BP’s strategy has to be resilient and adaptable to significant changes in the energy industry,” said chief executive Bob Dudley.
“This Outlook considers the possible implications of some of these changes and helps inform our long-term planning. We cannot predict where these changes will take us, but we can use this knowledge to get fit and ready to play our role in meeting the energy needs of tomorrow.”
Elsewhere, Spencer Dale, the company’s chief economist, said: “We are seeing growing competition between different energy sources, driven by abundant energy supplies, and continued improvements in energy efficiency. As the world learns to do more with less, demand for energy will be met by the most diverse fuels mix we have ever seen.”
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Sir Tom Jones in mourning as his wife passes away
April 11, 2016 - 12:12 BST hellomagazine.com Lady Melinda Rose Woodward, died after a short but fierce battle with cancer
Sir Tom Jones' wife of 59 years, Lady Melinda Rose Woodward, died on Sunday morning after a short but fierce battle with cancer, it has been confirmed. Her husband and loved ones were by her side as she peacefully passed away at the Cedars Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles.
Sir Tom and Linda, both from Pontypridd, fell in love and married at the age of 16. They had one son together, Mark, 59, who is also Sir Tom's manager. In recent years, Linda suffered a number of health setbacks, including emphysema, cancer and depression, and became increasingly reclusive to the point she was housebound in their LA home. But she remained the love of Tom's life.
CLICK TO VIEW GALLERY
Sir Tom Jones' wife of 59 years has passed away
In October last year, the 75-year-old singer opened up about his relationship with his wife following the release of his autobiography, in which he admitted to having dalliances with other women over the years.
"[The affairs were] never discussed, I was never put on the spot," Sir Tom told Jonathan Ross. "Linda is a wonderful person and she would never put me on the spot. She loves being married to me and I love being married to her."
The couple tied the knot when they were 16
Their unconventional living arrangements and marriage often caused controversy, but it never seems to bother Tom. Speaking about the matter he said: "You can't worry about it because if you do, you'll be worrying all the time because they'll twist it anyway. I'm chilled about most things."
The star also spoke about how his wife inspires him. Discussing his single Take My Love, he sweetly said: "It reminds me of the time when my wife and myself when we were teenagers, we used to go dancing a lit in the dance halls in South Wales so that's the sort of stuff we would jive to and we still have a jive now.
Tom and Linda had one child together, son Mark
"A lot of the songs that I do, the love songs that I do, of course it's Linda there and yes, she is the one," he added.
Sir Tom became emotional as he revealed that his wife has recently been quite ill. "I don't want to go on about it but she wasn't well a while ago and she got close to... we didn’t know whether she was going to make it or not and I said to Mark [my son] I said, 'If your mother doesn't make it, I don't know whether I can sing' because a lot of the songs that I do, I think of her when I do it so it would be hard if she wasn't there to be able to sing."
More about tom jones
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Sir Tom Jones gets emotional as he makes first public appearance since wife's death
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Texas 175th Anniversary Rifle
Call 866-610-9921 to check availability!
Texas 175th Anniversary is Individually Numbered on the Left-side Forearm.
Only 175 numbered rifles will be engraved!
24 Karat Gold-Plated on the receiver cover and buttplate with a satin finish
Can be personalized
Left-side Buttstock
Right-side
Right-side of Texas 175th Anniversary Rifle
Texas – 175th Anniversary – 1845 - 2020
Celebrate Your History! Texas, the place you call Home. Texas means “Friends” in the Caddo language. Known as the Lone Star State, Texas shows the Lone Star on the state flag and state seal as a reminder that this great state was once an independent republic which struggled for independence from Mexico.
Stephen F. Austin, known as the Father of Texas, inherited the first land grant from his father, Moses Austin. The Old Three Hundred, Austin’s first settlers made places along the Brazos River. Many other people, like you and your family, came to settle in Texas and flouting Mexican Law. Freedom came after a series of revolts against the Mexican government.
The President of Mexico, Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, personally led an army to end the revolt, culminating in the Goliad Massacre. Santa Anna laid siege at the Battle of the Alamo, overwhelming the Texans and sparking panic among the settlers. After several weeks, Sam Houston, commanding the Texas Army, attacked and defeated Santa Anna at the Battle of San Jacinto. We sent a woman to the fort to distract Santa Anna, later known as the “Yellow Rose of Texas” and the battle was concluded in 18 minutes. Santa Anna was shot in the ankle and was forced to sign the Treaties of Velasco, ending the War for Texas Independence.
Sam Houston advocated the annexation of Texas into the United States which was completed on Dec. 29, 1845. By 1850 the Texas borders were set to their present-day locations. Texas grew rapidly with migrants pouring onto the cotton lands. Later, the first oil well, Spindletop was found south of Beaumont. Other fields were discovered resulting in the “Oil Boom” which transformed Texas from a rural agricultural state to one that is urban and industrialized. Strong economic growth and diversification helped Texas become what it is today – a great place to live and raise a family!
Heroes and Patriots is proud to celebrate The Texas 175th Anniversary with this Special Limited Edition Henry Golden Boy .22LR Rifle. This Presentation quality rifle will become a treasured family heirloom worthy of passing down in your family, creating a lasting family legacy! These make great gifts for businesses, executives, bonuses and incentives too.
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Herts Advertiser Property
First time buyers hit hardest in Hertfordshire
PUBLISHED: 14:34 01 August 2016 | UPDATED: 14:36 01 August 2016
Jane Howdle
Hertfordshire's first time buyers face a tougher struggle than most
inxti
Getting on the property ladder in St Albans and Harpenden is no easy task - and it's only getting harder.
Property prices for first time buyers in Hertfordshire have risen by 47 per cent over the last four years, tied with Berkshire as the highest increases in England.
The average home bought by a first time buyer in Hertfordshire now costs £305,043 – an increase of £97,251 on the 2012 average of £207,792.
Even Greater London can’t compete with this increase, despite the most expensive houses in the country being located in the capital – the average increase in the Greater London area was 46 per cent, up to £435,897 from £298,890.
Online estate agent eMoov used Land Registry data to look at first-time buyer house prices across every county in England, as well as every London borough. They then calculated the increase in value since 2012.
The research revealed that first time buyers are now paying an average of £196,000 for their first home across England – a figure that has increased by £42,451 (28 per cent) in the past four years.
County Durham offers first time buyers the most affordable first step on the ladder, at just £86,116 – a tiny 3 per cent rise since 2012.
Not surprisingly, it’s Surrey (£323,973), Berkshire (£292,227), Oxfordshire (£286,962) and Buckinghamshire (£286,511) that join Hertfordshire as the most expensive places for a first time buyer to purchase property outside London.
At £254,600, Barking and Dagenham offers the most affordable options for London’s first time buyers, while Kensington and Chelsea (£1.1m) is the priciest place to buy.
Russell Quirk, Founder & CEO of eMoov, said: “First time buyers are paying almost as much as second and third steppers in actual price terms yet the percentage increase in first-time buyer properties is tracking at even greater than regular house prices.
“It really does highlight the issue facing the nation’s next generation of aspirational homeowners.
“How the government expect anyone to get on in life when the first hurdle they face is all but unobtainable to begin with is beyond me, especially in London. Over 90 per cent of the capital’s boroughs have seen the price paid by first-time buyers increase by more than £100,000 in just four or so short years.
“We must address this issue and find a way to bring homeownership back in reach of the average homebuyers, not just in London, or the surrounding commuter counties, but to the whole of England.”
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Wednesday, Jul 17, 2019
After Spider-Man Far From Home, a definitive ranking of every Spidey movie
After several live-action movies, starring Tobey Maguire, Andrew Garfield and Tom Holland, and to mark the release of Spider-Man: Far From Home, here’s a ranking of every Spidey film.
weekend binge Updated: Jul 05, 2019 12:51 IST
Rohan Naahar
Andrew Garfield, Tom Holland and Tobey Maguire as Spider-Man/Peter Parker.
No matter how many superhero movies they throw at us every year, Spider-Man will forever be India’s favourite. Save for the Avengers films - the latest of which made an incredible Rs 400 crore-plus in India - Spidey has been uncommonly successful at the local box office. For many years, Spider-Man 3 was one of the highest grossing Hollywood movies in the country, and as you’ll find out very soon, it didn’t even have to be any good to achieve this feat.
Perhaps it is because of that viral Hindi Spider-Man video - you know the one; it has a man in a Spidey suit chasing a saree-clad woman around a field - or perhaps it is because of the many local language translations of the popular Spider-Man cartoon, but the wall-crawler’s popularity remains as strong as it was all those decades ago.
This weekend is particularly momentous for the character - he shoulders the final film in the MCU’s Infinity Saga, which began in 2008 with the first Iron Man. Spider-Man: Far From Home, a direct sequel to Spider-Man: Homecoming, has opened to positive reviews. Venom, the first in a planned new cinematic universe that will feature supporting Spidey characters, broke box office records upon its September release.
So to mark the occasion, let’s revisit Spider-Man’s cinematic journey by ranking his movies - from worst to best, and excluding his appearances in ensemble adventures.
The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (2014)
Watching The Amazing Spider-Man 2 derail before your eyes makes you wish that Tobey Maguire would fly in to get it back on track, just like he did with that runaway subway train in Spider-Man 2. It is very easy to identify the problems with the film - it was hastily produced, too preoccupied by setting up future sequels to focus on the story at hand. It was overpopulated and cluttered, with several plot-lines juggling for space, and featured a categorically loony performance by Jamie Foxx, which didn’t at all gel with the indie tone that Andrew Garfield and Emma Stone were going for.
Their relationship, as it was with the previous film, was the highlight of Amazing Spider-Man 2, and whatever little emotional impact it had was all thanks to the bond we’d formed with Peter and Gwen. You could sense director Marc Webb struggling to maintain control over his film - only he could play Song for Zula and Philip Phillips in a $200 million tentpole - but it was all for nothing.
The Amazing Spider-Man 2’s lacklustre critical and commercial performance put an end to Sony’s plans for future films, which turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it made the studio sign a deal with Marvel.
What made the failure of The Amazing Spider-Man 2 all the more unforgivable was that it was essentially a case of history repeating itself. Sony had made the exact same mistakes half a decade earlier with Sam Raimi’s final Spidey movie, Spider-Man 3.
With a fourth film already being planned, Raimi was overwhelmed by the challenges of the following up what many considered to be his best work. Like the Amazing Spider-Man 2, Spider-Man 3 had too many characters, an unfocussed narrative, and holds the distinction of featuring the single most embarrassing moment in Spider-Man’s cinematic history - that jazz dance on the streets. Years later, Raimi acknowledged that he had ‘messed up plenty’ with Spider-Man 3. “People hated me for years — they still hate me for it,” he told Nerdist.
Spidey’s second solo adventure in the MCU is a passable postscript to the 23-movie long Infinity Saga, but positioning it as a direct follow-up to Avengers: Endgame (not to mention its proximity to Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse) certainly magnifies its faults.
Far From Home’s connection to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, for lack of a better analogy, is like being related to someone famous. Attention and opportunity will be relatively easy to come by, but so will unfavourable comparisons.
Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)
In many ways, Spider-Man: Homecoming - the first solo film to star Tom Holland in the title role - represents the essence of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Its pleasant and relatively lighthearted tone was a departure from the MCU’s increasingly hefty stakes, but this made the film feel rather forgettable. Save for a couple of scenes - each of them smaller, character moments - there’s barely any recall value to Holland’s first solo outing, which isn’t to say that it’s a bad film. It’s simply a Marvel film.
The Amazing Spider-Man (2012)
While the laziest reaction to the The Dark Knight’s success was to make everything a little edgier, a little more grounded in the real world, others had brighter ideas. Unlike Fantastic Four or the recent Robin Hood, The Amazing Spider-Man, which gets a bad rap by most die hard fans - undeservedly so; it’s quite a good film - is one of the few to have got it right.
Marc Webb’s Spider-Man came darn close to creating a new Peter Parker, and differentiating itself from Raimi’s iconic trilogy. Garfield remains the best actor to have played Peter, but the same can’t be said for his performance as Spider-Man.
For an entire generation of fans - myself included - this was our first introduction to the character. It was a film that did just as much for Spider-Man as it did for the superhero genre in general. For Sony to have picked Sam Raimi - a filmmaker known for schlocky horror movies - to helm a huge action blockbuster was a risk, but it paid off handsomely.
The first Spider-Man film made its trio of leads - Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst and James Franco - stars in the same way that the Harry Potter movies elevated the careers of Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson. It felt like a major turning point in the history of film - it set box office records upon release and garnered critical acclaim. But most importantly, Spider-Man earned for an entire genre the respect that it had sorely missed for many years.
Sony’s animated Spider-Man film, spearheaded by the phenomenal Phil Lord and Chris Miller, is to the popular superhero what The Lego Batman Movie is to the Dark Knight - a loving deconstruction of every tiny element that has made these characters so beloved over the years.
Into the Spider-Verse also doubles as a reminder of how time has flown - a bittersweet homage to the movies of our youth, and the impact that they left behind. All this, of course, is in addition to the maverick visual approach, and the tender writing and performances.
For his follow-up to the first Spider-Man, Raimi delivered what is considered by many - again, myself included - to be one of the best superhero movies ever made. Spider-Man 2 took everything that made the first film so special - the irreverent tone, the flashy special effects, and the central relationship between the characters - and elevated it to another level.
It’s the one movie on this list that is remembered just as fondly for its fantastic set pieces as it is for the directions it took its characters in and for its path-breaking portrayal of the villain.
To this day, very few superhero films have been able to achieve this sweet spot of balancing action with story. And for that reason, Spider-Man 2 remains the best film to feature the character.
The author tweets @RohanNaahar
Marc Webb
more from weekend binge
From Gully Boy to Hotel Mumbai, the top 10 movies of 2019 (so far)
Dark Phoenix done, a definitive ranking of the X-Men series, before it joins the MCU
India pitches to grill Dawood aide in London
Spider-Man Far From Home movie review: A passable postscript to Avengers Endgame, but a marvellous ode to Iron Man
Spider-Man: Homecoming movie review - Marvel’s best Spidey movie in 13 years
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UK law on sham marriages held illegal
The British Home Office is in chaos as the Court of Appeal declared on Wednesday that immigration rules aimed at stopping sham marriages were unlawful, reports Vijay Dutt.
world Updated: May 25, 2007 02:01 IST
Vijay Dutt
The British Home Office is in chaos as the Court of Appeal declared on Wednesday that immigration rules aimed at stopping sham marriages were unlawful.
The judges said the law breached the fundamental rights of immigrants subjected to the vetting. The court of appeal rejected an attempt by home secretary John Reid to revive the campaign against sham marriages and upheld a high court judgment last year that the rules breached the right to marry and the right not to be discriminated against.
The appeal court judges were particularly concerned that the rules, designed to block marriages of convenience by those trying to get around the immigration laws, did not apply to Church of England marriages. Lord Justice Buxton, sitting with Lords Justice Waller and Lloyd, said that the rules discriminated against non-Anglicans and were a “disproportionate interference” with people’s right to marry because they applied across the board, without any investigation into whether a marriage was genuine or not.
However, the decision has left the government in the lurch. The Home Office officials said the scheme has been “instrumental in tackling the issue of sham marriages”, adding it would study the judgment before deciding whether to appeal to the House of Lords. It claimed that at one time over 10,000 sham marriages were suspected.
Immigration Minister Liam Byrne said: “The Certificate of Approval scheme has been instrumental in tackling the issue of sham marriages. Since we introduced these checks, in February 2005, the number of suspicious marriage reports received from registrars has gone down from 3,740 in 2004 to less than 300 by the end of May 2005, and between January and August 2006, there were only 149 such reports.”
The Home Office had introduced rules making people born outside the EU and with permission to be in Britain for six months or less had to get a certificate of approval to marry from the home secretary at a cost of £135.
There was indeed a high-profile case in which it was alleged that one Jaswinder Gill made up to £1 million running a bogus wedding racket from her home in west London. She was, it was alleged, paid £11,000 for setting up sham marriages to help Indian men skip immigration procedures. Gill and her husband were jailed for 10 years for helping illegal entry into the country.
But, now the anti-immigration campaigners say that illegal immigrants have been given the green light to use bogus marriages to enter the UK. Legitimate migrants here temporarily will also be able to use sham marriages to beat immigration controls and stay indefinitely.
vdutt@aol.com
First Published: May 25, 2007 02:01 IST
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Purdue’s CERIAS: A Leading Source of Security Research and Education Committed to Advancing Knowledge, Innovation, and Expertise
By: Christine Preusler Updated: March 14, 2019
TL; DR: The Center for Education and Research in Information Assurance and Security (CERIAS) is one of the world’s leading academic sources in the information security field. The center leverages a multidisciplinary approach to protecting critical infrastructure that includes collaborative research across Purdue’s colleges and departments. Through discovery, education, and engagement, CERIAS is committed to advancing the knowledge and practice of information assurance, security, and privacy for years to come.
Our tech-driven world has had an unexpected effect on how we view an age-old tool: the magnifying glass. Once closely associated with scientific experiments and fictional detectives, the magnifying device is now commonly seen as an icon representing search or zoom functionality on websites.
For the Center for Education and Research in Information Assurance and Security (CERIAS), the magnifying glass — featured prominently in the group’s logo — represents the intersection of both viewpoints: classic investigative work and modern technology. Designed by Michael Tieman of Artists Gallerie, the graphic signifies an ability to make small features visible, providing important clues to an investigator.
As stated on the CERIAS website, the group’s magnifying glass logo represents its work researching the practice of information security — and its ability to make new findings visible to students, researchers, and the industry as a whole. By enlarging “IAS” within the magnifying glass, the logo also points to the center’s focus on information assurance and security.
Gene “Spaf” Spafford, Executive Director Emeritus, gave us a look at the security research and education initiatives at CERIAS.
Indeed, CERIAS’s mission is to advance the knowledge and practice of information assurance, security, and privacy through discovery, education, and engagement. And, according to Gene Spafford, Executive Director Emeritus at CERIAS, the center is well on its way toward accomplishing that mission.
“CERIAS is one of the world’s leading research and education centers,” Gene, who is affectionately known on campus as Spaf, said. “Right now, within the rough confines of the center and our faculty members, there are somewhere between 60 and 80 active research projects of one kind or another underway.”
The research, often performed collaboratively across Purdue’s colleges and departments, employs a multidisciplinary approach to protecting critical infrastructure. For example, the school’s Infosec Graduate Program, produced in collaboration with CERIAS, focuses on several academic and professional disciplines when solving problems. Through these and additional initiatives, such as the annual security symposium and weekly seminar series, CERIAS is committed to advancing the security practice now and well into the future.
A Multidisciplinary Approach to Protecting Critical Infrastructure
CERIAS came to life as an offshoot of the Computer Operations Audit and Security Technologies (COAST) lab, which was established by Purdue’s Computer Sciences Department in 1991.
“While I was running COAST with a couple of faculty members, a lot of the companies and government agencies began approaching us with problems that were not solely technical in nature,” Gene said. “They involved management issues, user behavioral issues, economic issues, legal issues — and even occasionally some questions on ethical behavior.”
In response, Gene and his colleagues launched a university-wide institute in May 1998 — now known as CERIAS — with the intention to support faculty and students working on all aspects of the family of problems within online security, information assurance, privacy, and crime investigation.
Today, CERIAS has more than two decades of industry experience and is associated with over 110 Purdue faculty members. The center operates under a consortium model with industry and government partnerships, which encourages participation and feedback and keeps the center up to date on industry challenges, advancements in commercial technology, and pressing business problems.
“Available resources drive a lot of our research, and that’s one of the reasons why our consortium partners are so valuable,” Gene said. “They provide money that isn’t tied to projects and can be used toward speakers, workshops, and other resources. They see the value of it, so they keep coming back every year.”
Collaborative Research Across Colleges and Departments
Research conducted through CERIAS brings together bright minds from eight colleges and more than 20 departments across the Purdue facility. These faculty members take a multidisciplinary approach to solving problems in six security-related divisions: Assured Identity and Privacy; End System Security; Human-Centric Security; Network Security; Policy, Law, and Management; Resiliency and Trusted Electronics; and Prevention, Detection, and Response.
The Assured Identity and Privacy division, for example, unites personnel from the school’s Communication, Computer Science, Industrial Technology, and Sociology departments, among others. Researchers in this group investigate the tension between the increased authorization provided by better identification of online entities and the need to protect privacy rights.
CERIAS unites faculty from across Purdue’s colleges and departments.
Researchers within the Human-Centric area, who come from departments that include Hospitality & Tourism Management, Psychology, Computer & Information Technology, and Linguistics, focus on how trustworthy technology influences interactions. The division focuses on ecommerce, online trust, digital government services, online news, and spam, among other topics.
The Prevention, Detection, and Response division, on the other hand, focuses on system attacks, with specific areas of expertise including intrusion and misuse detection, hacker profiling, deception and psychological operations, online terrorism, and information warfare.
“As our connected world continues to grow, CERIAS has continued to broaden its focus to areas of concern for cyber and cyber-physical systems; both AI/machine learning, and autonomous systems have become focal research areas,” Gene said.
Gene said companies interested in joining the consortium as a strategic partner are free to do so any time. A small number of the center’s vast collection of research reports are available exclusively to partners through membership. However, the majority of tech reports in the online library are free, including access to student theses.
“The consortium is always open to new members,” Gene said. “Our current projects cover a broad range of topics. We’re looking at securing machine learning, security issues around the IoT and sensor technologies, applying cyber forensics to combat issues of human trafficking and exploitation. And the faculty are constantly on the lookout for new things to begin to investigate.”
The Infosec Graduate Program, in Association with CERIAS
While CERIAS is a research entity and not an educational unit in terms of offering classes, its academic collaborations have helped more than 250 students earn Ph.D.s and 400 earn master’s degrees over the years. During that time, Gene said the security landscape has undergone considerable changes, requiring the educational philosophy of CERIAS to evolve.
“If you go back to 1998, that was the dawn of commercial use of the internet,” he said. “Today, with mobile phones, cloud computing, the IoT, and billions of dollars in ecommerce and social media, we see significant shifts in platforms as well the motivations of users — and all of these things impact security.”
The industry is also increasingly favoring short-term returns over long-term benefits — a shift Gene said is particularly evident when it comes to privacy protection. “People value privacy, yet are willing to give it up for something as trivial as a discount,” he said. “And corporations will claim to support privacy as a public good and then turn around and sell all the data they’ve accumulated on their users because it makes money.”
From an educational perspective, it’s essential to consider how trends like these fall into the online security puzzle, and that’s why CERIAS offers students a multidisciplinary academic approach. The majority of graduates associated with the CERIAS program earn degrees in computer science but awareness of other industries adds value to what they do.
“We don’t force people to color outside the lines, but we give them the opportunity to see what’s there,” Gene said. “Most of them do dissertation work that is mainstream computer science, but they often choose ways of demonstrating their development skills in areas like healthcare or public policy.”
An Upcoming Spring Symposium and Weekly Seminar Series
Looking forward, CERIAS has a number of initiatives in store. CERIAS 2019, the center’s annual security symposium, will take place April 9 through 10 at Purdue’s Stewart Center (followed by a members-only event on April 11). The public event will feature experts from within the center as well as the government and industry at large.
“One of the other highlights of this event will be a poster presentation on about two-thirds of the research projects going on within the center, as demonstrated by the students who are involved,” Gene said.
The center’s annual security symposium, CERIAS 2019, will take place this April at Purdue’s Stewart Center.
In addition to yearly symposiums, CERIAS has held a weekly security seminar every semester since the spring of 1992. Close to 200 recorded presentations, dating back as far as 2003; and abstracts and associated material, dating back to 1994; are accessible for free on YouTube, iTunes, and the CERIAS website. These courses are open to everyone, though Purdue students can receive course credit for attending. Topics include computer crime investigation, information warfare, information ethics, public policy, and the computing underground, among other relevant trends, with a new seminar posted each week.
These opportunities are just another way CERIAS is working to magnify its focus on information assurance and security.
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5G Automotive Association and European Automotive Telecom Alliance sign a partnership MoU
[Barcelona, Spain, Mar 2, 2017] At the Mobile World Congress 2017 (MWC 2017) in Barcelona, The 5G Automotive Association (5GAA) and the European Automotive Telecom Alliance (EATA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding. Aim of this partnership is to foster cooperation in the field of connected and autonomous driving solutions as well as standardisation, spectrum and related use cases.
5GAA includes 33 members, of which 8 are founding members (AUDI AG, BMW Group, Daimler AG, Ericsson, Huawei, Intel, Nokia and Qualcomm Incorporated). 5GAA is a multi-industry association to develop, focus on development, testing and promotion of communications solutions, the initiation of their standardization and the acceleration of their commercial availability and global market penetration to address society’s connected mobility and road safety needs with applications such as autonomous driving, ubiquitous access to services and integration into smart city and intelligent transportation.
EATA is comprised of six leading associations and 38 companies at present, including telecom operators, vendors, automobile manufacturers and suppliers for both cars and trucks. The main objective of the Alliance is to promote the wide deployment of hybrid connectivity for connected and automated driving in Europe. EATA’s first concrete step is the advancement of a ‘pre-deployment project’ aimed at testing the performance of hybrid communication required for automated driving under real traffic situations. Furthermore, EATA seeks to identify and address service and technology roadmaps, safety and security needs, as well as regulatory and business issues. The project will tackle cross-border interoperability, including digital and physical infrastructure, as well as vehicle localisation issues.
5GAA and EATA are dedicated to prioritising the use cases identified by the two organisations in order to identify the technical requirements that need to be addressed, both in the short and in the long term. In order to better support standards for connected and automated driving, standardisation prioritisation for standards bodies such as ETSI, 3GPP and SAE is necessary as well. It’s beyond dispute that promoting spectrum-related issues (V2X), agreement on usage modalities of certain bands, security and privacy, as well as vehicle safety requirements to be supported by both mobile network operators (MNOs) and vehicle manufacturers (OEMs) will need to be addressed jointly. Last but not least, agreement between MNOs and OEMs is also key to developing business models and aligning the timelines of both industries.
“5GAA was created to connect telecom industry and vehicle manufacturers to develop end-to-end solutions for future mobility and transportation services. We look forward to working with EATA to define the requirements of C-V2X and to create a successful V2X ecosystem” ，hristoph Voigt, Chairman of the 5GAA Board says.
The revolution that connected and automated driving is going to bring about at the societal level is already shaping Europe’s automotive and telecoms sectors at a rapid pace. This Memorandum of Understanding with the 5GAA not only brings the different industry partners closer together, but also reinforces the European Commission’s strategy on cooperative, connected and automated mobility that was launched at the end of 2016. Car connectivity and automation will require a mix of communications technologies, but it is clear that 5G technology can become a key enabler of Europe’s digital highways. Together, EATA and 5GAA will contribute to reinvente the driving experience.” Erik Jonnaert, Chairman of the EATA Steering Committee adds.
MWC 2017 runs from February 27 to March 2 in Barcelona, Spain. Huawei is showcasing its products and solutions at booth 1J50 in Fira Gran Via Hall 1, booth 3130 in Hall 3, and the Innovation City zone in Hall 4. For more information, please visit http://www.huawei.com/en/events/mwc/2017/.
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Jai Odell
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Jai Odell is a New York based fashion photographer whose work has been published in international publications including Vogue, Teen Vogue, Interview, Dazed, i-D, The Last magazine, V magazine and many others.
Copyright © Jai Odell 2016. All rights reserved.
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Michael Cohen Only Yesterday Found Out He’s Been Disbarred — from the papers, he says!
Politics Trump
In testimony before Congress on Wednesday, disgraced attorney Michael Cohen claims that he only yesterday had learned of his disbarment — from reading about it in a newspaper.
Michael Cohen says that he learned that he was disbarred yesterday when he read the newspaper pic.twitter.com/0m2g5YYNZG
— Ryan Saavedra (@RealSaavedra) February 27, 2019
According to the New York State Unified Court System, Michael Dean Cohen (registration number 2484806) was disbarred on November 29, 2018, as ordered by Appellate Division 1st Department.
Cohen, who graduated from Thomas M. Cooley Law School in 1991, was admitted to the New York bar on June 24, 1992. He says he had been working as legal counsel for Donald Trump since 2007.
Michael Cohen was one of many lawyers who represented me (unfortunately). He had other clients also. He was just disbarred by the State Supreme Court for lying & fraud. He did bad things unrelated to Trump. He is lying in order to reduce his prison time. Using Crooked’s lawyer!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 27, 2019
South Korea Foreign Ministry Statement on Venezuela Crisis Jonas Brothers To Drop New Music, Blacks Out Social Media
2020 Democratic Presidential Candidate Pete Buttigieg Accused of Sexual Assault
Massachusetts Rep. Seth Moulton Joins Democratic Race For President
Former Massachusetts Gov. Bill Weld Challenges President Trump for GOP Nomination
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Esq Labor Reps INT'L Real Estate
RDF launches Web-focused unit
4:00 AM PST 2/2/2007 by Mimi Turner , AP
LONDON -- RDF Media, the production shingle behind "Wife Swap" and "The Verdict," is launching a new division focused exclusively on creating digital content for Internet distribution, the company said Thursday.
Headed by Zad Rogers, the London-based division will work closely with RDF's multigenre development and production teams to build up the video entertainment business. It hopes to tap into the popularity of such sites such as YouTube, Flickr and Google Video, which have enabled a wide range of video content to find audiences on the Web.
"Video content is finding its way onto the Web at an unprecedented rate due to advances in technology and quicker, more widespread broadband connections in the U.K.," said Rogers, the originator of Channel 4 property show "Location Location Location."
"RDF, with its track record as a producer of innovative popular programming is in fantastic position to serve the needs of a range of potential customers in this fast-moving new market," he added.
Mimi Turner
THRnews@thr.com @thr
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Emmys Forecast Podcasts Columns
September 01, 2015 10:02pm PT by Scott Feinberg
Oscars Producers Could Create a Hipper, Multi-Platform Show (Analysis)
Reginald Hudlin, David Hill
THR's awards analyst recounts the accomplishments of the Oscar nominee and Emmy winner who were tapped by the Academy for this year's ceremony — and speculates about what sort of a show they will present on Feb. 28.
On Tuesday afternoon, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences put an end to weeks of speculation by announcing that the producers of the 88th Oscars — the people who will pick the host and shape the show — will be Reginald Hudlin and David Hill. Who are they, why were they chosen and what sort of a show might we expect from them? Read on...
Both men are vets of showbiz whose names may not be known to the general public, but who are revered by their peers.
Hudlin is best known as an Oscar-nominated producer — he became only the fourth black person ever to receive that distinction when Django Unchained was nominated in 2013 — but he's also a member of the DGA, WGA and SAG, a rare hat-trick. He has directed major films (1992's Boomerang grossed $131 million worldwide) and hit TV shows (The Office and Modern Family). He's also thrived as a top-level exec (he was the first President of Entertainment for BET Networks, overseeing programming and development). As far as award show experience, he has served as executive producer of the NAACP Image Awards since 2012, and last November he produced the Academy's non-televised Governors Awards, an opportunity that arose after he produced The Academy Celebrates The Black Movie Soundtrack, a star-studded, one-night-only musical tribute at the Hollywood Bowl.
Hill, an Aussie described by many as a larger-than-life character, comes to the movies' biggest night from the world of television. He spent nearly three decades working for Rupert Murdoch's News Corporation before resigning in June — right around the time that Murdoch's sons assumed power and many senior employees were being shuffled into new roles. He then formed a production company called "Hilly," his nickname. He made his name by launching Britain's Sky Television and then its offshoot subscription channel Sky Sports, which led the self-professed non-sports fan to the job of chairman and CEO of the Fox Sports Media Group. There, he ushered in technological innovations like the NFL first down graphic line, which markedly enhanced the viewing experience. "Loud graphics, and sizzle and pop were hallmarks of Hill," the Los Angeles Times wrote. He won an Emmy for Outstanding Live Sports Special as exec producer of 2011 World Series. Most recently, he served as senior exec vp of 21st Century Fox (overseeing, among other things, digital initiatives) and also as an exec producer on the last two seasons of American Idol.
Hudlin and Hill are stepping into a job that was held for the last three Oscar seasons by another pair of men who, unlike them, worked together many times prior to the Oscars. Neil Meron and Craig Zadan, professional partners since 1976 who first crossed paths in the New York theater community and were among the producers of Chicago and Hairspray for the big screen, Annie (1999) for TV and, most recently, several live musicals for the small screen. For the 2013 ceremony, Meron and Zadan hired Seth MacFarlane as host and, while some of his antics provoked controversy, they attracted 40.37 million viewers, up from 37.91 million the year before, when Billy Crystal hosted. The next year, they brought in Ellen DeGeneres, whose pizza and selfie installment drove viewership up to 43.74 million. But then they hired Neil Patrick Harris and his turn earlier this year — best remembered for him briefly sporting tighty-whities and constantly returning to a gag that never paid off about a secret box — bombed, with viewers plummeting to 37.26 million, the lowest figure since 2009.
Were the new producers hired as a reaction to the outgoing producers? It's hard to say. Meron and Zadan, perhaps because of their roots in the theater, seemed focused on putting on Broadway-style spectacles packed with musical numbers — some of which came across as superfluous (i.e. a self-celebrating tribute to the music of Chicago), others of which were among the most memorable parts of their nights (i.e. Shirley Bassey's "Goldfinger" and Lady Gaga's "The Sound of Music"). But the bottom line is that they were preaching to the choir — people who get excited about that sort of thing would have tuned in to the Oscars anyway.
The selection of Hudlin and Hill suggests, to me, a desire on the part of the Academy to open up the tent to more people who might care to tune in to the Oscars — specifically by making it hipper and more interactive.
What does Hudlin bring to the table?
For one thing, an understanding of mass entertainment. His fanboy credentials can stack up against anyone's: a comic strip that he drew while in college became such a phenomenon that it wound up as an animated series; he wrote a hit graphic novel; for five years, he penned The Black Panther for Marvel, and also has written Spiderman for the company; he recently brokered a collaboration between Tarantino and Dynamite Comics for Django/Zorro, a crossover comic book; and he's currently a partner at Milestone Media, a comic book company. In other words, in this year of the return of Star Wars, expect movie superheroes — the few people Joe Public still buys tickets to see — to factor in heavily at the show even if they and their films aren't nominated.
Moreover, Hudlin long has been a vocal champion of diversity, a cause that the Academy (which currently is led by Cheryl Boone Isaacs, a black woman) only recently, but enthusiastically, has embraced in the form of its membership invitations, programming, Governors Awards selections and the like. According to The Washington Post, Hudlin has "consistently been a force and a voice for increasing the diversity in comics... overseeing historic moments involving heroes of color." He has been a great asset to the NAACP Awards. And Django sparked a national discussion — which he happily participated in and which included a memorable Q&A that I moderated — about racial tensions just as they were boiling over in the real world.
Earlier this year, in the wake of Selma's director and star being denied Oscar noms, Hudlin wrote for THR: "The NAACP created the Image Awards almost 50 years ago in response to the lack of recognition of black talent in front of and behind the camera in mainstream (white) awards shows. You'd think this show wouldn't be needed by now, but that's clearly not the case... Why is our business so behind the rest of the country? It's easier for a black person to become president of the United States than it is to be president of a movie studio... I know the Academy has already been working very hard to diversify its membership. My agency is bringing more people of color through its internship program. I hope other institutions do the same... Like Martin Luther King Jr., we can all make a difference if we believe the time for action is now."
I think it's not unreasonable to expect Hudlin to try to take action on one of the biggest stages in the world by bringing in a diverse group of presenters — he personally has directed Chris Rock, Halle Berry, Samuel L. Jackson, Jamie Foxx and Eddie Murphy — and quite possibly a black host. So far, Rock is the only non-white male to host the Oscars on his own (in 2005). Hudlin has tapped Emmy nominee Anthony Anderson to host the last two NAACP Image Award ceremonies, and he could be an outside-the-box choice for the Oscars. But I have a strong suspicion that Hudlin and Hill will tap Kevin Hart for the job — the comedian has said it is his dream to host, promising to "turn that event into a youthful night," and I think he would be a brilliant choice who would explode the show's ratings.
What can we expect Hill to contribute?
I think Hill can be counted on to employ visual techniques to make the Oscars, a show that inherently has dull patches (how many viewers at home have seen any of the nominees for the three shorts categories or know — or care to know — the difference between sound editing and sound mixing?), a little more engaging, just as he long has done in the world of live entertainment. Nobody knows anything about most of the players in a professional football or hockey game or the competitors on American Idol when they first tune in, but they quickly are familiarized with and made to care about them through prepackaged videos that synopsize their personal journey and stats and figures that place their professional accomplishments in context. I wouldn't at all be surprised to see below-the-line categories preceded by just that sort of thing, rather than the time-honored tradition of zoned-out celebs unconvincingly reading from a cue-card about the importance of those arts and crafts.
One other bold move that I could see Hill championing would be to try to promote interest in the show earlier than usual by turning the Oscar nomination announcement into a primetime special that wouldn't involve just a reading of names by Isaacs and some celeb, but rather revealing the nominees through dramatic, American Idol-esque prepackaged promos. The Academy tried a primetime, televised nominations announcement in 1954 and 1955 but then pulled the plug, largely because talent didn't want to show up and look presumptuous and/or humiliated in front of millions of viewers. But Oscar hopefuls need not attend such an announcement for it to attract viewers (though other stars associated with upcoming movies might be amenable to participating in some way). And while PricewaterhouseCoopers won't want to reveal the names of nominees any earlier than they already do for fear of a leak, it certainly could be arranged by — and advantageous to — ABC to have short clips at the ready for each plausible nominee, which then could be fired off during a half-hour or hour-long special.
Finally, I expect that a Hill-produced show will incorporate an unprecedented degree of social media engagement — maybe giving each of the nominees and presenters a smartphone and encouraging them to take photos that would post directly to the Academy's Twitter feed throughout the ceremony (Ellen's selfie on steroids!) and/or inviting the public to weigh in, via Facebook or Twitter, with their preference for each category's outcome and then projecting their first-place choice on the screen before the Academy's choice is announced. (Who would be hurt by that? If anything, it would be a nice consolation prize for someone who then loses the actual award — or, if write-in voting is allowed, for someone who wasn't even nominated at all!)
The bottom line is that I have high hopes for the "arranged marriage" of Hudlin and Hill, two eminently capable individuals who seem poised to provide the Oscars, on Feb. 28, with just what the Academy wants and Hollywood loves: a facelift.
scott.feinberg@thr.com ScottFeinberg
Awards Chatter
'Awards Chatter' Podcast — Rachel Brosnahan ('The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel')
'Awards Chatter' Podcast — Julia Louis-Dreyfus ('Veep')
'Awards Chatter' Podcast — Emilia Clarke ('Game of Thrones' & 'Solo: A Star Wars Story')
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Home / Article: Bedgear opens warehouses
Bedgear opens warehouses
FARMINGDALE, New York – Bedgear, the producers of the Performance brand of mattresses, pillows and allied sleep products has opened its first two warehouses in Canada as part of its drive to grow its business north of the U.S. border.
“These two warehouses will enable the company to more efficiently serve one of their most engaged markets with the brand’s full assortment of Performance sleep products, including the all-new M3 Launchpad, the world’s first modular mattress,” the company said in a statement.
Located in the suburbs of Toronto and Vancouver, the facilities also mark Bedgear’s first investment in international operations and expands their distribution footprint to five warehouses across North America.
The company also noted Bedgear has seen steady growth over the past eight years as has the interest shown by young Canadians who are looking for fashionable yet functional products which mirror their active lifestyle.
“Canada has proven to be an amazing market and country for Bedgear and we acknowledge the growth potential here and are taking the necessary steps to provide the sleep solution Canadians deserve,” Bedgear founder and chief executive officer Eugene Alletto said. “As one of the world leaders in recycling and renewable energy, it’s no surprise that the M3 Launchpad – the only mattress which can be upgraded throughout its lifetime with recyclable components – has been welcomed and demanded by Canadian consumers.”
Bedgear first entered the Canadian market in 2011 with The Brick, one of the two banners operated by the publicly-held Leon’s Furniture Limited (LFL), this country’s largest retailer of furniture and mattresses. Currently, the company’s assortment is offered in some 300 or so locations throughout the country.
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HomeToys Interview
by Jon Adams and Robert Nguyen | Oct 1, 2005 | Uncategorized
1) What does Panasonic see as the major advantage of ZigBee as a wireless technology?
PANASONIC: ZigBee protocol working on top of the IEEE802.15.4 radio standard offers the Sensor and Remote Control community of users more technology advantage in terms of flexibility in the network from simple, as point to point, to real complex, as mesh network, with very high quantity of nodes. This feature coupled itself with very low power consumption of the radio, fills the real needs of the users community. Further, ZigBee Alliance has been founded and supported by a number of big companies who are already big users of sensing and remote monitoring devices.
Nobu In Wall PCs
2) What is the primary use for ZigBee as opposed to WiFi, Bluetooth etc.?
FREESCALE: ZigBee wireless technology allows you to develop and deploy low-power, long-battery-life (if desired) control and sensor networks, in the home, office, commercial space, or factory, without the expense of pulling wires. It is not a competitor to either Wi-Fi or Bluetooth technologies, as those are designed and commonly used for voice or large quantities of data without regard to power consumption or battery life.
3) How does Panasonic currently use the ZigBee module internally?
PANASONIC: ZigBee modules are being planned to be used inside the very factory (PEDCA-BC, Panasonic Elctronic Devices, Baja California) that is producing the modules. The application is Asset Tracking for numerous applications in the factory.
4) What are Panasonic’s future plans for products using Freescale’s ZigBee technology, moving forward?
PANASONIC: Moving forward, we will introduce more Module Products i.e smaller size; extended ranges; and integrate more features to make the job of our OEM customers even easier.
5) When will consumers begin to see some of these products and which will be first to market?
PANASONIC: : In addition to making our product available at Arrow Electronics, we are engaging with many strategic customers which we can not disclose because of NDA — but we are projecting that within the first half of 2006; the market will start seeing ZigBee based end products.
6) Will these ZigBee products be compatible with ZigBee products from other manufacturers? If so how does that work?
FREESCALE: All products that carry a ZigBee logo are exhaustively tested for interoperability and compliance to the ZigBee specifications before the logo is awarded. Vendors who start with ZigBee compliant platforms, like that developed by Freescale and employed by Panasonic in their new module, have an advantage since the platform has already demonstrated through Alliance testing basic interoperability and compatibility. When a final product is built from a ZigBee compliant platform, either of the two Alliance testing houses can quickly determine its conformance to the specifications, and with successful testing the Alliance can issue the logo for that product.
7) How does Freescale see this impacting the market and Freescale’s work with ZigBee overall?
FREESCALE: ZigBee technology is intended to take much of the pain and difficulty out of adding short-range, robust wireless to products that once relied upon expensive wiring or proprietary radios. For most of the intended markets, expertise with radios, antennas, and communications protocols is not part of the core expertise, whether the manufacturer builds washing machines, garage door openers, or asset management products. The ZigBee platform developed by Freescale eliminates much of the challenge of adding wireless to a product, but even so still requires some level of experience with developing a wireless device. Panasonic’s ZigBee module, based upon Freescale’s ZigBee compliant platform, makes it extremely simple for nearly anyone to immediately add ZigBee wireless to their product without any learning cycle. In addition, Panasonic has already obtained both FCC and Industry Canada regulatory certification for this module which allows the customer to avoid potentially the cost and complexity of doing their own certification.
Robert Nguyen has been working for Panasonic Electronic Devices sinc 2001. Prior to joining Panasonic he had worked for General Dynamics, Electronics Div. which subsequently became BAE Systems for over 22 years. He currently is responsible for developing Wireless Communication Module business in North America for Panasonic. His first love was Digital Design for Embedded Systems — although principal engagements now are business development and successful program management. Robert graduated from San Diego State University with both BSEE and MSEE Degree specilizing in Communication.
Jon Adams is an expert in wireless systems and communications, with his current focus on ZigBee and Ultra Wideband technologies, representing Freescale on the board of directors for the ZigBee Alliance, as president of the UWB Forum, and as a voting member in the IEEE 802.11 (WLAN), 802.15 (WPAN) and 802.16 (WMAN) Working Groups. Additional interests include RFID, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, as well as the impact of these on cellular telephony and the consumer experience. Jon presents and is often interviewed or published on these technologies and their impacts on or potentials for the home, commercial and industrial environments. Prior to Freescale, Jon spent 17 years at the NASA/Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California where he was the cognizant engineer or manager for multiple Earth-orbiting or Mars-bound telecommunications or radar payloads. He has BSE and MSEE degrees from UCLA.
by Stephen Street | Apr 1, 2005 | Uncategorized
Stephen Street founded StreetFire Sound Labs to create sophisticated digital media products at the frontier of home entertainment. The first product release, the RBX1600 personal music server, will debut in 4Q2004. A serial entrepreneur, Stephen spun StreetFire Sound Labs out of Red Rocket Computing, his networking technology incubator and venture investment company, in 2002. A software engineer by trade, Stephen was a pioneer in satellite TCP/IP applications and cut his teeth on the B-2 Stealth bomber and Tomahawk cruise missile programs.
So just how did you get started in…well, whatever hybrid crossover space you call StreetFire Sound Labs?
Well, like most entrepreneurs, I got really frustrated. I was doing a major remodel on my house and I thought, “Great, I can put in a really cool stereo system, with all kinds zones and networking and stuff!”
Pretty typical, right? Of course, it didn’t work out that way at all. I soon realized that there is this tremendous vacuum where stereo gear, embedded computing and networking should all be coming together. So I started StreetFire. Now it’s become an all consuming passion with open source at its core.
Do you look back now and ponder, “What the hell was I thinking?”
Yeah, it’s certainly tested my sanity, but as a software guy it all seemed pretty reasonable at the time. I looked all over the stereo landscape and it was all closed, proprietary hardware and old tech from the traditional stereo guys. Did I think Microsoft would waltz in and altruistically save the day? Yeah, right! I figured the time had come for open source stereo equipment. In fact, now I feel even more strongly that open source stereo equipment is going to be huge.
How come the big boys haven’t done this? Aren’t you worried about them?
Anyone in the technology business is paranoid, or else they’re not around for very long. But the real answer to your question is, no, I’m not so worried about the big guys. Understand that we’ve focused the company on rapid product innovation, with a responsive open source software engine, to power an ecosystem of upcoming StreetFire products. It’s all about bringing cool stuff to market quickly – and then releasing the software under the GPL [open source license] so that the community can innovate on the platform. Big companies simply can’t do that. It’s against their DNA.
Stereo manufacturers don’t know the new technology, the big PC hardware guys won’t touch anything until they can do massive production volumes, and the software folks are bipolar, alternating between running scared that the digital home space is lacking in standards, and then trying to shove proprietary solutions with heavy DRM [Digital Rights Management] restrictions down everyone’s throats. It’s pathetic! Consumers want stuff that works and they don’t want any Big Brother schemes reaching down into their living room. You know the people hacking their Tivos and running Linux on their Xboxes? We love those guys! The thing is, Tivo and Microsoft should have the balls to encourage those communities, not actively try to defeat them with each new release.
Well, you’ve certainly made a huge commitment to open source.
We bet the company on it. Period. The open source movement is a revolution of technology populism that finally wrests control from companies and returns it to consumers. That’s pretty cool! The key to fully enjoying rich digital content is open architecture consumer electronics like ours. It rocks.
But how does this differentiate StreetFire Sound Labs from other companies out there using open source software?
Many companies use open source software. Heck, Sony uses Linux as an embedded operating system for some of their stereo equipment. But that’s more like lurking in a discussion group. You’re not contributing to the community! Too often, I see companies that hardly even satisfy their GPL license requirements.
StreetFire, on the other hand, is absolutely smoking the Kool-Aid. We put the GPL code that we modified, like our StreetRacer embedded Linux OS, out there for anyone to use. We even released our own internally developed HADES application software as source code under the GPL. Nearly half a million lines of code! We give it away. We even put some additional hardware interfaces on the StreetFire RBX1600, which we call HackPoints™, so people could completely re-purpose the box for some other task. Nobody else is doing that.
Isn’t that just a little bit insane?
Maybe, but you have to trust the consumer and the community. This is the future. Most immediately, though, it’s the best way to open new consumer electronics markets when those markets are still too unstable for the risk-averse bean counters and lawyers at the big CE [consumer electronics] outfits. The open source community is the ultimate product development focus group. The open source projects around the RBX1600 music server will tell you exactly what consumers want to do with their music.
Let’s talk about music, then. Where do you line up on the raging battle of file sharing and DRM?
Look, STEALING IS BAD. It’s that simple. But more fundamentally, the record companies are dinosaurs and the meteor is bearing down on Earth. The less visible but actually more frightening thing that’s happening is the almost surreptitious attack on consumer rights and fair use. Consumers should be able to make back-ups and reasonably enjoy their legally bought music. Legitimate technology companies should not be turned into outlaws for coming up with cool stuff, like P2P or…leading edge open source stereo equipment, for that matter.
Still, your first product, the RBX1600 is going to drive the RIAA absolutely crazy, isn’t it? Are you expecting an angry mob of record industry lawyers with torches and pitchforks at your door?
No, the RBX1600 respects copyright and in fact should have the support of the RIAA. The RBX1600 encourages consumers to keep their music unripped and on CDs, because we enable fantastic streaming and network capabilities to CD-based music. Of course, we also integrate MP3-based music collections so that your music is format-transparent and location-transparent to the user. You want your music and you want it NOW, you know?
But going back to the RIAA thing, we’re very pleased that MIT re-launched the LAMP music project [a listener-run music streaming service] based on a network of 10 RBX1600s. We’d like to see more university and corporate campuses use the RBX1600 for legal music distribution systems like MIT’s LAMP. It’s perfect for radio stations.
Isn’t this the same LAMP project at MIT that got yanked last year?
Yeah, but it wasn’t their fault. Their system was great but their hard disk-based music supplier had licensing problems. When they saw that the RBX1600 could handle a CD-based solution that was both networked and open source, it was a no brainer and we were happy to help out.
That’s very exciting! But what’s next for StreetFire Sound Labs?
We have quite a few product ideas for a 2005 release that we’re pursuing and that we’re extremely excited about. We’ll continue to focus on our core area bringing computers and networking and stereo equipment together and we’ll certainly stay true to our open source roots. I can’t talk about the new stuff yet, but if you sign up for our NewsFire list you’ll be the first to know. It’s way cool so stay tuned!
by Nick Mellios | Dec 1, 2004 | Uncategorized
Yummy Interactive has developed a new technology that is revolutionizing the way we get our games. If things go their way, we may never have to pick up a game CD again.
Question 1: How does it work? How are you guys able to do this?
NICK: Yummy is a company that has developed technology to allow people to subscribe to or rent games online from a web portal or broadband provider. Game players no longer have to install a CD or even go to the store to buy one. They can now just click on a button and almost immediately start playing a game. In simple terms, we create a ghost image on the client’s PC and the client computer thinks that it has the entire installation (the CD-ROM and the install) on its system. And as the client computer requests information, we go out and retrieve it from our servers and stream it to the user. This is our CONDUIT™ solution and it’s very easy to use.
Question 2: What does that translate to for the end-user?
NICK: Consider our subscription platform (akin to the cable TV model) where you can sign up to a selection of 200 games you would buy at the store for a monthly fee. Imagine a package that not only permits you to explore a diverse library for unlimited play of the games you enjoy most, but also regularly adds new games from publishers as they become available. Why buy game CDs now when you can access our whole catalog from the comfort of your home and pick & choose what you want to play? And the best part is that you can start playing the game with only a small portion of the game data initially downloaded.
Question: How does the computer know whether you machine is fast enough to play these games?
NICK: Our system actually checks your hardware against specifications for the title. So really, for a novice home user, it’s just click and play. When you’re reviewing our catalog and you see a title that you like, you can start playing instantly. That’s what Yummy effectively represents — instant gratification.
Question: People that aren’t computer people generally move towards Nintendo, Sony Playstation or Microsoft X-Box. What are you guys doing to stay in that field?
NICK: Yummy is not currently developing, publishing, or delivering content for console players. But our streaming technology effectively turns a PC into a complete console-style gaming experience. Add to that our continually expanding library of content from leading publishers and you’ve got a fine combination. As a tangent strategy, I should note that our system is platform independent, which means that we do have the ability to port it to other devices. We’re continuing to follow the industry and do expect to position Yummy for a role in the next generation console market.
Question: How does Yummy differ from its competitors?
NICK: Other infrastructure providers have developed similar technologies to CONDUIT and are generally pursuing the same markets. But Yummy’s technology offers several differentiating points. First, our service was designed with a modular architecture that is easily customized for individual broadband service providers, permitting a completely tailored presentation. Second, Yummy now delivers over 200 full-version PC games as part of its subscription offering. No other infrastructure provider can boast this variety of content. And finally, CONDUIT offers a true private label solution that provides partners support from the front-end right to the back-end. These services include content delivery, security, account management, authentication, product catalog, billing, promotions, subscription, management, and partner extranet.
Question: Can you tell me any more about Yummy Interactive?
NICK: Yummy had a breakthrough year in 2003, launching subscription-based games-on-demand services for partners in both North American and international markets. The company continues to add premium content and has recently introduced an educational children’s service. This is really an exciting time for us.
Live examples of Yummy’s current subscription solution with TELUS in Western Canada are available at http://www.mytelus.com/games and http://services.yummy.net/telus
by Bob Heile, chairman | Dec 1, 2004 | Uncategorized
Q1. What is ZigBee and why is it ideal for home applications?
The ZigBee™ Alliance is an association of companies working together to enable wirelessly networked monitoring and control products based on an open global standard. The Alliance includes a rapidly growing list of over 100 industry leaders from around the world including semiconductor manufacturers, wireless IP providers, OEMs, and end users.
ZigBee’s unique emphasis on low power, reliability, scalability and easy deployment and low cost make it ideally suited for the residential control market. ZigBee is paving the way for intelligent sensors to provide greater control of lighting, heating, cooling, watering, appliance-use and security systems from anywhere in the home. This includes a variety of remote control applications such as keyless entry, garage door openers and remote control applications currently using Investor Relations. With greater automation of home control systems, homeowners can adjust their environment to run more efficiently, thereby reducing energy costs.
Control4 Home Automation
Q2. What makes ZigBee different from other wireless technologies available for the home network?
Unlike other wireless technologies, ZigBee is specifically designed for applications that require low power, such as light switches and sensors and can operate using standard off the shelf batteries for months, years, and possibly even decades. In addition, ZigBee is extremely resistant to interference, coexists effectively with other wireless applications in the home and because of its mesh networking capabilities, is very easy to install by people without the need for any special installation services.
Q3. What types of ZigBee products will we see in the home?
ZigBee technology will be embedded in a broad range of technologies including lights, switches, motion sensors, security alarms, smoke alarms, HVAC controls, watering systems, entertainment systems, remote controls, game controllers, energy consuming appliances and utility meters just to name a few.
Q4. How easily will a ZigBee device be implemented into the home? Would this be done by a consumer or contractor?
The ZigBee Alliance recognizes that consumers (and some installers) do not want to become wireless experts. They want “wireless control that simply works.” ZigBee was designed to overcome barriers to wireless adoption. Consumers and/or installers simply connect a ZigBee-enabled device to the home environment and through a simple method of association, are able to add a new device to the network. Homeowners will be able to buy off the shelf products and be assured that they’ll work together in their networked environment. For installers, ZigBee supports a suite of enhanced functionality and customization.
Q5. When do you expect to see ZigBee products available in the market, specifically for the average consumer to use them in their home? What products will be available first? What types of applications will the market see in the coming years?
We anticipate that there will be ZigBee-compliant products from many companies for many industries coming to market in early 2005
While we cannot anticipate specific vendor plans, the market potential for innovative applications for wireless monitoring and sensing controls is anticipated to exceed see deployment of some 80 million ZigBee devices by the end of 2006, according to a recent report by ABI Research. Beyond residential controls, markets that will benefit include industrial automation, supply chain management, inventory controls, medical devices and transportation.
Q6. How will the cost of ZigBee products compare with other home network products?
The cost of ZigBee network solutions are expected to be considerably less than Bluetooth and substantially less than 802.11. Individual manufacturers should be contacted for their prices. The target cost of ZigBee technology is such that it remains a viable networking technology for inexpensive devices like remote controls, light switches and window/door sensors.
Q7. Will ZigBee devices interoperate with other wireless home devices?
Any wireless home device which uses a ZigBee compliant platform will be able to form useful networks with other devices. Devices which also share common ZigBee applications will interoperate without the need for any special set-up. Professional installers will be able to establish more sophisticated capabilities between devices if desired.
Bob Heile, Chairman, ZigBee Alliance
Bob is a 20 plus year veteran in the field of data communications and wireless data. He is chair of the IEEE 802.15 Working Group on WPANs, chair of 802.15 Task Group 3a looking at UWB and other PHY layer alternatives for 802.15.3, Chair of the ZigBee Alliance and is a founding member of 802.11. Bob is currently CTO for Appairent Technologies and most recently was doing Wireless Communications Consulting for several high profile companies. Before that Bob was with GTE/BBN responsible for Wireless Opportunity Business Development, with the mission of commercializing wireless ad hoc networking and wireless PAN technologies. In 1990 he was a co-founder of Windata, Inc., an early developer of WLANs. From 1980-1990, Bob was with Motorola Codex, as VP/GM of the company’s modem business. Bob holds a BA from Oberlin College, and an MA and Ph.D. from The Johns Hopkins University.
by Kristine Stewart | Dec 1, 2004 | Uncategorized
Internet Home Alliance is a cross-industry network of leading companies advancing the home technology market. A non-profit organization, the Alliance provides companies with the collaboration, research and real-world testing opportunities they need to gain a competitive advantage in the home technology market. Members of the Alliance, which was founded in October 2000, come from a variety of industries and include such leading companies as Cisco Systems, Inc., General Motors, Hewlett-Packard Company, IBM, Invensys, Microsoft, Panasonic (Matsushita Electric Corporation of America), Procter & Gamble, SBC Communications, Sears, Roebuck and Co., and Whirlpool Corporation. For more information, visit www.internethomealliance.com.
Q1. Kristine, give us an update on Internet Home Alliance and its activities since our last interview.
2004 has been a productive year for Internet Home Alliance. Our members have collaborated on a variety of projects, most recently, the Mobile Worker Pilot, which looked at where and how consumers would like to be able to work, outside of their primary office or home based set-up. One of the key research findings is which business models could work best for companies building out the retail environments to serve the burgeoning mobile worker market. We also have completed the Mealtime Pilot and expect to share the results of this project early 2005. I’m also excited about our recently launched Home Integrator Initiative – a milestone achievement in advancing the connected home market.
Q2. The Home Integrator Initiative is of particular interest to the Home Toys audience. Please share your thoughts on this critical and unique industry collaboration.
The Home Integrator Initiative is indeed a unique industry-wide effort and involves more than 20 companies and organizations. Developed to address the growing interest in digital home solutions, as well as the consumer and industry confusion that exists around the integration of home technology products and services, the objective of the Home Integrator Initiative is to bring key industry players together to adopt common goals and messages around the home integrator channel and to promote consumer awareness of integrators as a key resource in their adoption of connected home products and solutions. The bottom line is that, as an industry, we need to make it much more simple and turn-key for the consumer to adopt and install connected home solutions. Research shows that consumers are interested to use these solutions in their daily lives and in order to do so, they will need qualified professionals to help them with installation and on-going support.
The Initiative includes several significant efforts. The first, available now, is an industry white paper, Net Gain: Advancing the Market for Home Technology Integrators, developed by the committee, which articulates the landscape for home integrators and provides recommendations to the industry about how to work together more effectively to promote home integrators in a clear and consistent manner.
And through our collaboration with CNET, the trusted, unbiased source of information for millions of technology buyers around the world, the CNET Home Integrator Directory has been launched. This online, zip-code searchable directory of home integrators and personal technology consultants will help consumers locate the professionals they need in their region.
Q3.You mentioned the Mealtime pilot and we spoke about it last time, too when the project was just getting going. Any updates to that pilot and insights on the future of the networked kitchen?
The results really did reinforce the appreciation consumers have for Internet access in the kitchen. On a very basic human level, our participants found that having the Internet available in the kitchen brought the family closer together. We had two types of devices, a tablet PC and a flip-down device from Icebox, both of which saw lots of use from everyone in the family. They also really like the idea of a fully networked kitchen, because they saw the tangible value of the Whirlpool’s programmable Polara range, which also refrigerates food before turning itself on when it is time to cook the meal.
Q4. What is next up on the Alliance’s schedule of projects?
Well, as you would expect, our members take the results of our research and look to exploring new areas of business opportunity. Projects on the horizon include research into the areas of health and wellness, safety and security, entertainment and appliance event notification.
Q5. What do you see as key trends that will help continue to drive adoption of the networked home over the next 2-4 years?
Right now, home networking is driven primarily by the increasing adoption of broadband and the desire to take full advantage of it by creating multiple access points within the home. We expect that over the next several years, the main drivers of adoption will be new products and services that leverage broadband and the proliferation of digital products. We know, for instance, that consumers consider a home network a ‘natural’ control point for advanced solutions in the areas of home security, energy management and lighting control. About one-in-five consumers with a home network has a strong interest in these types of home automation features—far more than currently have them.
At the same time, the living room is fast becoming the focus of activity for digital entertainment. We believe entertainment solutions that capitalize on the fact that many devices and data share the language of ones and zeros will accelerate the popularity of the connected home concept. We’ve evaluated several iterations of a media server over the last few years and each incarnation has generated considerable consumer interest.
Q6. Is there demographic data available on who the average purchaser of home network equipment is or will be?
The typical or average home network buyer is a knowledge worker with a strong need to be connected to friends and family and/or colleagues and clients. About eight-in-ten U.S. workers can be considered knowledge workers—employees in creative fields or professional services who use technology on a daily basis. Demographically, they tend to be males between the ages of 25 and 44-years-old. The most active purchasers of home networking products have school age children, as children are a prime reason households have multiple PCs and the consequent need to share an Internet connection.
Our research indicates that a majority of home network owners are self-described early adopters, but members of the early majority are getting into the market at an ever-faster pace. Products that have achieved a 22% household penetration or better are usually considered ‘mass market’ products. We’re a little over half-way there at this point.
Q7. How will the installation of these products be paid for? For example will it be built into the purchase price … optional add on services … or will they be truly plug and play thus not requiring additional skills to install?
Because the home networking market is currently dominated by early adopters, many are comfortable installing products themselves. The next wave of sales, though, is coming from members of the early majority, who tend to be less tech-savvy. Many of them want help with installation and, as indicated by our research, many are willing to pay for it, when given a reasonable fee. Most of today’s home networking products outside of the basic set-up aren’t genuinely plug n’ play and going forward, the situation isn’t likely to get any easier as new products are introduced. The sheer accumulation of products, each with their own idiosyncrasies, most likely will require professional installation in many cases.
by Phil Tuttobene, CEO | Oct 1, 2004 | Uncategorized
Q1: Is DVI/HDMI/HDCP a connection for the future or on it’s way out … and if so what do you feel will replace it?
DVI/HDMI/HDCP in my opinion is a temporary format. The format was never designed for long distance, does not support networking and there are too many standards making the format a “non standard”. I believe IEEE1394B 1.6 GB will in the near future take over with its networking abilities and less restrictive 5C licensing. Its small manufacturer friendly. In the long term, 10 GB Ethernet is likely to be the winner for allowing the ultimate in product convergence, wireless connectivity and GUIs with auto-detect plug and play driver loading. Both IEEE1394 (Firewire) and Ethernet allow drivers to be loaded on power up making both formats very “connective”. Turning on a new TV in another room can be auto detected quite easily with little to no programming experience needed by the user. Up to 64 nodes of products makes Firewire a much more attractive format for the “whole house” automation, A/V solution.
OpenHouse Wiring Solutions
Q2: IEEE1394B, 10-Gigabyte Ethernet, and even wireless: How will these upcoming connections change the home theater environment?
I think I addressed this question in the earlier comments on why in my opinion DVI is a temporary format. Wireless has a bit to go to allow HD transmission but it will get there as chip sets continue to be developed.
Q3: What are your thoughts on LCOS, DILA, and DLP? Which would you prefer in your home theater and why?
I like LCOS, always have but the black levels still are not there. Once polarizers are developed especially in blue, blacks will improve but I still think the technology has a bit to go. I like the electronic MTBF (Mean Time Before Failure) curve of LCOS. For a manufacturer, this is easier to stomach than the mechanical one of DLP. As time goes on an LCOS chip is less likely to fail whereas in a DLP it is more likely to since its a mechanical device.
DLP outperforms LCOS or LCD in both dynamics and black levels. The disadvantage of course is the screen door effect and the dithering of pixels especially noticeable in low light levels. This is due to the mirrors modulating at a low rate the eye can perceive. Once the DLPs can achieve a higher modulation rate the frequency , the mirror modulation could be increased to the point the eye would not perceive it. That and the higher resolutions/higher fill factor could and should make the DLP for the near future out-perform LCOS. DILA is LCOS by the way, just the brand name that JVC put on the technology and this sometimes confuses the consumer. Both DLP and LCOS have the potential to produce stunning pictures.
Q4: Which is better and why … a Built in or Outboard scaler?
Virtually all projectors and most DVD players have built in scalers. Although their performance is “OK”, they simply can not match the brute force scaling engines of good external scalers. Now when I say good scalers, Im not talking about inexpensive scalers that basically use the same chip sets as the internal ones but scalers that implement algorithms and innovative techniques that experienced video engineers invent. There are several companies out there, many in the commercial world that continue to pave the way with new and innovative methods to improve PQ. Picture Quality (PQ) improvements are a continuous and persistent journey. You keep chiseling away at problem areas and through many small improvements the PQ continues to improve. It’s the persistence and R&D that many companies take the short cut way out. Unless your developing your own techniques, your simply another “me too” manufacturer and although you may be successful commercially, your not contributing to the science of PQ improvement. The passion versus commerce conflict keeps many companies from developing anything new.
Q5: What makes a good video processor?
A good processor needs to first and foremost be flexible. It must be improved as you come up with new ideas to attack problems. A software-based processor has a huge advantage in this area. A great processor should allow its user to download improved algorithms over the Internet as better methods are invented . Areas like Anti Aliasing, MPEG & scaling artifact reduction, Noise reduction, auto lip sync detection and other problem areas are places a good processor should never dead end its user. Of course this type of flexibility doesn’t come cheap, so don’t expect a product using a $9.00 ASIC to be able to accomplish such flexibility, it can’t happen in this type of device. The processor should be FPGA and software intensive, software residing on DROMs, using super fast serial and/or parallel processors. As processor speeds increase, so do the power of the algorithms and PQ improvement techniques.
Q6: Why is the word “investment” not mentioned during the home theater purchase?
This is due to the fact that most products are developed with obsolescence in mind. The product is usually obsolete before it’s bought because the manufacturer already has a newer generation product in the lab in prototype. Manufactures need sell through to fund future R&D so no one will ever talk about the fact that the product they just released is already obsolete. It takes a good 12 months to develop a major product, sometimes large companies will take 2 – 3 years to discuss the possibility of making a product. To have a good investment in this industry you need to be able to purchase a product that wont be obsolete the day you purchase it. Usually only small companies can afford to do this. Most large companies depend on manufacturing products in the large quantities. Its the only way to get their board cost down to allow the general public to afford it. A board that may cost a small manufacturer $500.00 in 100 lot quantities may cost a large manufacturer less than $15.00 in 100,000+ lot quantities. Once the 100,000+ are sold out, a new product is already designed to take its place. Obsolescence time is short and Investment is non-existent.
Q7: What makes a home theater product upgradeable … and why don’t most manufactures allow upgrades?
A product has to give its user the ability to keep their initial investment. An upgrade cost should allow the consumer to invest only in the new technology that renews the products performance and features to stay state of the art. A product should continue to stay on time of the technological wave much like a surfer stays on their wave.
Most manufacturers can’t make products upgradeable. Imagine the logistics of returning 100,000+ products, upgrading them and returning them to the consumer. It’s a nightmare. Why would any large manufacturer do that when they simply can make a product disposable? The product may not be as high performance as that small manufacturer product but who cares? They have their dealers, their distributors, they are pushing cardboard boxes in 100,000+ quantities, share holders are happy, everyone is making money…. Again, the passion VS. commerce conflict. The industry needs the small guys to keep pushing the envelope. In our industry, the “tail wags the dog”.
Q8: How long do you think it’s going to be before HDTV (or at least digital TV in some format) takes over as the standard for home entertainment systems … or will it?
I predict in another 5 years the majority of households will have switched to HD. Once you go HD you can never watch SD again. Kind of like being without a microwave, once you have one you can’t live without it. I will make the comment that just because the industry goes HD does not mean the passion for better PQ stops. HD has many problems, MPEG artifacts are huge as compression is still implemented and even more so in HD to get the bandwidth out of starved broadcast links. Processors are going to be needed MORE, not less. Many people have asked me what is TAW going to do once HD is so prevalent, scalars and processing won’t be needed. They will be needed more as the passion towards a perfect PQ never ends.
by Colin Tinto | Aug 1, 2004 | Uncategorized
Q1: Is the licence fee an outdated method of financing?
No, I don’t think so. If the BBC was funded in any other way, it would need to fill it’s schedules with TV programmes that would appeal to the majority of people, rather the mix of popular and minority programmes it produces today. The BBC also spend a lot of money on developing new technology, and making that technology available to everyone in the UK. If the BBC was financed in any other way, commercial sense would discourage it from updating transmitters that only serve a few people in outlying areas.
Calrad HDTV Accessories
Q2: What other financing options are available?
One option would be to allow commercials on the BBC TV and radio channels. UK viewers are used to advertising on most other TV channels, so might accept advertising on the BBC too. Another option would be to turn it into a subscription service, but historically the majority of the UK public have been against that model. The first terrestrial digital TV service failed as few people wanted to subscribe for extra channels. Neither of these options would ever raise enough cash to run the BBC in the same way it is today.
Q3: Should there ever be government funded broadcasters?
Personally I don’t think there is a need for a government funded broadcaster. Firstly, they would have to be careful to appear unbiased, so may have to avoid news and political content. Secondly, they may offer ‘public information’ content, but few people would choose to watch something like a programme on healthy eating when their favourite soap is on the other channel.
Q4: How have television viewing habits changed over the years?
TV in the UK has moved quite quickly from 4 analog TV stations to potentially hundreds of digital stations. Years ago it wasn’t unusual for a TV programme to have viewing numbers in 10s of millions – sometimes over 50% of the population would be watching the same TV show. That never happens now, with much more choice available, people tend to watch what they want, rather than the best they can find on one or two channels.
Q5: What effect do you think PVR’s will have on advertising in the future?
Advertising will move away from it’s current model more towards product placement, and even ‘infomercial’ style programmes. Already in the UK, some of the major new drama series are ‘Sponsored’ by big companies, who might have previously just had a commercial in the break. For now the sponsorship appears as lead ins before the commercials, but it won’t be long before it works it’s way into the programmes.
Q6: How will they PVR’s penetrate the consumer market? Cable service providers, specialty system integrators, direct sales to consumers as hardware or software for their PC’s or some other route?
The major driver for PVRs will be cable and satellite providers. Sky has shown this with its new Sky+ PVR system, and DirecTV in the US are also pushing PVRs to consumers. The next level down from that will be direct to consumers. Whether they are CE devices or PC based devices probably won’t matter in the end. System integrators may play a part initially but as the technology matures and becomes easier to install and use they will not be necessary.
Q7: Do you think that skipping through the ads will accelerate the emergence of targeted ads derived from a profile of a consumer and their weekly viewing habits?
It may do, but if PVRs have the ability to force people to watch targeted ads, then they will also have the ability to force people to watch normal ads – a much simpler solution.
Q8: Do you think Video on Demand TV is a possibility for the future?
VOD has been on the horizon for such a long time, but now it looks like it’s closer than ever. Bandwidth to the home, whether it’s Satellite, Cable, digital terrestrial or broadband, is increasing, and the major cable companies in the UK also offer broadband. When speeds reach 2Mbits and above, we might start to see companies offering some sort of TV on demand system. It may depend on how successful some of the new ‘Music on demand’ services are, e.g. Napster, with their subscription model that allows you to listen to music online as often as you want. It may also depend on how quickly licensing issues can be sorted out.
Q9: What other technologies are on the horizon that could change the way we select and view television?
As mentioned above, some sort of TV on demand system would remove the need to be tied to schedules, in a similar way to the PVR. As for watching TV, portable media players, and phones or PDAs with video playback capabilities will allow people to watch recorded TV on the move, and eventually even live TV.
Home Media Networks
Home Media Networks Ltd is a company focused on the fast growing digital entertainment sector, producing software that runs on standard PC platforms to allow the user to watch, record and pause analogue and digital TV, play DVDs, and listen to MP3 music files. Its solution, ShowShifter, allows the user to pause a TV show to be replayed later and can be controlled remotely using a standard infrared remote control. Through unique FarView technology interaction works equally well close up or at a distance from the screen. Showshifter is a replacement for TV, VCR, DVD and CD players in a traditional household, thus introducing numerous cost savings for the consumer. Home Media Networks Ltd is headquartered in Edinburgh, UK.
by John Barr, President | Aug 1, 2004 | Uncategorized
The OSGi™ Alliance was started in 1999 by an international group of manufacturers, software developers, service providers and utilities to develop and promote a common delivery and management platform for application services. Over the years, the Alliance has delivered several releases of its Service Platform and has enjoyed a renewed appeal as mobile service delivery and advanced automotive Telematics have emerged as hot markets. We recently had an opportunity to sit down with John Barr, board member and president of the OSGi Alliance, and Director of Standards Realization for Motorola Corporation to get caught up on what’s new with OSGi technology.
HomeToys: John, when the OSGi Alliance got started in 1999, its original focus was on home gateways, right?
JB: When we got started, the Internet had made its presence felt. At the time, various standards and specifications had been released to leverage this connectivity and access – DSL for phone lines, DOCSIS for cable, DBS satellite, etc. – along with various in-home network standards like HomePNA, HomeRF, Wi-Fi and others.
One missing component was a Services Gateway – a set-top box, cable or DSL Modem, a PC, a web phone, or a dedicated automotive, multimedia, or residential gateway – to act as a reception and distribution point for bundles of managed services like telephony, data networking, cable services, video streams, energy management and home controls. So we set out to develop a service delivery specification, a middleware API to act as the ‘glue’ in this new value chain, and we accomplished that. That was our vision at the outset and all the data we’ve seen since confirms it was the right thinking.
HomeToys: So how has that focus changed?
JB: As the specifications developed, other markets showed great interest in the technology, especially in the Telematics industry. We forged a relationship with the Automotive Multimedia Interface Collaboration (AMI-C), a global organization of vehicle manufacturers to move the Telematics initiative forward and we’ve had great success there too. In addition, our specifications are used in various European telematics projects, such as ERTICO 3 GT and ERTICO GST, which are funded by the European Commission, and the Asian market has started to join forces as well.
Most recently, the OSGi Alliance announced the formation of the Mobile Expert Group (MEG), a new working body designed to further promote the use of OSGi technology in the mobile space. Comprised of industry leaders including BMW, Gatespace Telematics, IBM, Motorola, Nokia, Oracle, Panasonic, ProSyst, Siemens, Sun Microsystems, Telcordia Technologies and others, the MEG will extend the OSGi Service Platform for mobile devices that are data-capable.
To learn about how OSGi technology is driving this convergence, your best bet is to attend our third annual World Congress, which will be held this year in Barcelona, Spain on October 11-15.
HomeToys: What’s in store for the OSGi Alliance 2004 World Congress?
JB: The theme for this years Congress: “Convergence: Going Mobile, Driving and Staying Home with OSGi Solutions”. The congress is an open-to-the-public conference with keynotes, breakout sessions, exhibitions, and pre- and post-event workshops for people interested in gaining a deeper technical understanding. It’s a great chance to hear the world’s top experts on commercially available and developing OSGi implementations and explore the products and solutions across mobile, automotive and home environments.
To truly showcase the OSGi technology, there’s going to be a special tour of the e-Neo Labs Connected Home on the outskirts of Barcelona. This is a unique opportunity to see how the OSGi technology is used in a home environment. This is available on a first-come-first-served basis for a limited number of attendees. Obviously there’s much more going on than I can describe here. The web site is www.osgiworldcongress.com for agenda, online registration and further information.
HomeToys: Great. But now taking a few steps back, what has the OSGi Alliance accomplished and what are some of the recent deliverables?
JB: Quite a bit. In 2003, we issued the third release of the OSGi Service Platform, and this year we focused mainly on the mobile market. A few years ago, we introduced a Compliance program and now have more than 12 compliant solutions on the market. We launched a number of liaison programs with key related organizations like AMI-C, ERTICO 3GT, to reflect the needs of the Telematics industry in the development of OSGi specifications. Plus, we’ve involved small companies and academic institutions in our process, and spent a lot of time and effort to educate our target communities on the benefits of OSGi technology. We’re pleased with our progress.
In automotive and Telematics environment, the 5 series BMW uses the OSGi specifications as the base technology for its high-end infotainment platform. The On-Board Computer from Groeneveld uses the OSGi service platform for innovative fleet management, and Bombardier Transportation has already delivered 24 electric locomotives ALP 46 to the American New Jersey Transit, that include the Remote Diagnosis System (RDS) utilizing an OSGi service platform. This is showing how the automobile and other vehicles of the future will become increasingly an integral element within a network of information and services.
For those in the SmartHome area, there are companies such as ShellHomeGenie and BSH, who have already launched their innovative solutions to the market. While ShellHomeGenie introduced an easy to use home automation system for the end user market with the help of Motorola, ProSyst, Sun,and Xanboo, BSH utilizes the OSGi Service Platform for remote monitoring and management of its White Good series “serve@home”. . France Telecom R&D and Thomson Multimedia have a home service platform, based on OSGi technology, and E2Home is already deploying in Sweden. Infinis has a service center that allows service providers to operate residential gateways and home appliances.. Siemens Medical Solutions, InterComponentWare, and Linköping University are using the OSGi technology for medical devices.
One of the newest products in the Consumer Electronics marketplace is Philips OSGi-based iPronto. The iPronto is a wireless home control panel that provides consumers with a versatile solution to control their home theatre as well as increasing the number of electronic home automation products.
For those who are service providers, there are Motorola’s advanced residential gateway products for the delivery of services and applications. Cisco has a product that manages service levels between enterprises and internal or external service providers. A project led by the French electric utility company Electricité de France (EdF) uses an OSGi-based service software architecture for the implementation of various consumer-oriented services. Plus, IBM WebSphere® Everyplace® Device Manager V5 is tailor-made to help service providers simplify the management of a wide range of wireless and mobile end-user devices. And that’s just to name a few. This shows the broad acceptance of our specification.
HomeToys: So why would I care about the OSGi technology? What’s the value proposition?
JB: Well, as an end-user you wouldn’t care, because OSGi technology is basically invisible to you. But if you’re in the consumer electronics or Telematics ecosystems, or a service provider or operator, you would care a lot. What OSGi technology does is provide you with a secure platform to remotely and dynamically deploy, provision and manage new and add-on applications and services to networked devices. You no longer have to do truck rolls or expensive visits to a customer premise or recall cars and products every time a product needs attention– you install, start, stop, or remove provisioned services remotely without retrofitting or shipping new hardware every time. You can integrate and introduce services and applications from multiple sources into a unique branded package without worrying about overall integrity because OSGi technology has dependency management and customizable security capabilities.
And you can take advantage of the standardized API’s and execution Environment to decrease development cycles, costs and time-to-market.
So, the OSGi Service Framework allows those who deploy it to maximize their profitability, develop new revenue streams, enhance overall ROI through the extension of life cycles of products in the field; and, improve customer satisfaction and service.
HomeToys: Can you comment on alternatives to the OSGi Service Platform, such as UPnP, HAVi, and DVB, for example? How does OSGi technology relate to these solutions?
JB: I suppose they could be alternatives but that thinking goes back to the early days, when we got started. The OSGi Service Platform Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) can support these standards and provide a consistent and standard set of APIs for connecting and accessing devices. It can also be integrated with UPnP since the services gateway standard is an entirely open specification providing its own device API that can be interfaced to UPnP enabled devices. Additionally, the OSGi Service Platform Release 3 of the specification includes recommendations for integrating UPnP™ services in an OSGi environment. The beauty of the OSGi Service Platform is that you can integrate most solutions simply by defining what we call a bundle for it. So pretty much anything you can think about is complementary.
HomeToys: Will the OSGi Service Platform be deployed more in the network or in devices?
JB: It depends what you define as a network, if you consider CPE part of the network. Our feeling is OSGi technology will be in devices and the network, since the value proposition is so compelling in each case. Any successful deployment will have to be an end-to-end solution from the Data Center over the network to the CPE. The OSGi Service Platform enables support of multiple service providers on a common, modular platform with tunable security mechanism and the ability to complement native code environment and augment pure Java bundles with alternate payloads such as markup languages, graphic images, and native libraries. It also permits the integration of existing software-components.
HomeToys: What’s next for the OSGi Alliance?
JB: We’ve been fortunate enough to come out with three releases of the OSGi Service Platform since our creation in 1999, and are in development of Release 4. I think that success can be attributed to the concept of open specifications developed by great companies in collaboration. We’ll continue to gather requirements and issue new Service Platform releases, and you’ll see us take our members collaboration and apply it to other categories. The need for OSGi technology is apparent, and, as you can see, first OSGi-based products have been already launched to the market – now it’s all about further realization.
The OSGi Alliance and its members specify, create, advance, and promote wide industry adoption of an open delivery and management platform for application services in home, commercial buildings, automotive and industrial environments. The OSGi Alliance serves as the focal point for a collaborative ecosystem of service providers, developers, manufacturers, and consumers. The OSGi specifications define a standardized, component oriented, computing environment for networked services. OSGi technology is currently being delivered in products and services shipping from several Fortune Global 100 companies. The OSGi Alliance’s horizontal software integration platform is ideal for both vertical and cross-industry business models within mobile, vehicle, home and industrial environments. As an independent non-profit corporation, the OSGi Alliance also provides for the fair and uniform creation and distribution of relevant intellectual property – including specifications, reference implementations, and test suites – to all its members. www.osgi.org
by Pat Griffis | Feb 1, 2004 | Miscellaneous Topics
1. What is the Digital Home Working Group?
Seventeen leading consumer electronics, computing industry and mobile device companies formed the Digital Home Working Group (DHWG) to develop and promote voluntary design guidelines aimed at an interoperable network of wired and wireless PC, CE and mobile devices in the home. This network will enable a seamless environment for sharing of digital content such as digital photos, music and videos. The group currently has nearly 100 member companies.
2. Is the DHWG an international group or is it focused on the North American marketplace?
The DHWG is an international group that includes members from Asia and Europe, as well as North America.
3. How is it different from other organizations like the Internet Home Alliance and UPnP Forum?
The UPnP Forum is an industry initiative aimed at developing connectivity standards between stand-alone devices and PCs from different vendors. UPnP is a key standard for enabling an interoperable network in the digital home. On the other hand, the Internet Home Alliance (IHA), a cross-industry network of leading companies advancing the home technology market, explores new uses and conducts field trials to validate consumer needs. Both organizations are complementary to the vision of the Digital Home Working Group, which is focused on developing and promoting voluntary guidelines based on key standards like UPnP and addressing use case scenarios as validated by organizations like IHA to help achieve media interoperability in the digitally connected home.
4. What will the DHWG deliver to the industry?
The Digital Home Working Group’s digital home white paper outlines the potential of digital home interoperability and also describes design guideline concepts. The group’s deliverables will include voluntary design guidelines based on an agreed set of use case scenarios, as well as a Certification and Logo Program to test compliance to DHWG guidelines to ensure interoperability between DHWG-compliant devices. The initial Design Guidelines will focus primarily on interoperability among networked CE devices, home PCs and mobile devices for media applications involving imaging, audio and video based on a core set of technologies and media formats.
5. When will these guidelines be available to the public?
Publication of the first generation guidelines, known as HNv1, is expected by Q2 of 2004. For 2004-2005, the design guidelines will focus on more complicated use case scenarios for interoperability between networked entertainment and media devices and begin to address issues related to digital rights management and copy protection. As new technology and standards become available the design guidelines may broaden to cover other uses such as home control, communications and more advanced entertainment services. (For details, see “design guidelines scope” in the Digital Home White Paper.)
6. Will there be more than one “standard” format for digital content and if so … how will consumers be protected from more confusion in the marketplace?
The marketplace reality is that there are many media types – such as video, audio and image – which come in many formats. After much review and discussion, the DHWG selected formats based on marketplace importance and the availability of formats based on open, fair and interoperable industry standards and specifications. MPEG-2, Linear PCM and JPEG formats will be included in the Design Guidelines initially as mandatory formats, and a number of optional formats are also included for video, audio and image based on marketplace importance.
7. When will we see products based on the DHWG standards?
While we cannot speak for each company, the DHWG expects to see products embodying the technology defined in the DHWG guidelines as early as the second half of 2004.
8. Will the DHWG be involved or play a part in the issues of digital copyrights and reproduction issues (i.e. the Napster Issue)?
The DHWG recognizes the importance that consumers place on being able to move both personal and purchased content throughout the home network. At this time, the industry is developing the Digital Rights Management (DRM)/Copy Protection (CP) technologies it will need to deliver protected purchased content anywhere within the digital home. These technologies are evolving at a rapid pace – and there are already a variety of solutions entering the marketplace – with more expected. The first priority for DHWG is to achieve interoperability for personal content such as digital photos, etc. Once we are confident that we have achieved reasonable interoperability for that case, we plan to address the more complex problem of facilitating interoperable interchange of protected purchased content among different DRM/CP solutions in the home network environment. Recognizing the importance of solutions that balance the needs of the content community as well as the consumer, we will encourage the participation of content companies in that effort.
Pat serves as a member of the Board of Directors of the Digital Home Working Group.
In addition to his DHWG activity, Pat is Director, Worldwide Media Standards for Windows Client Division at Microsoft. He is responsible for digital media standards across a variety of markets, geographies, and regulatory environments.
Pat is a member of the Board of Directors for the Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC) and the ATSC Forum. He is U.S. Head of Delegation to the International Telecommunications Union Radio-communications sector (ITU-R) Study Group 6 Working Party-6M on Multimedia and Vice Chair of the joint ITU-R/T rapporteur’s group on Interactive TV harmonization. He is also an invited member of the International Broadcast Conference (IBC) Council. He is past President of the IEEE Consumer Electronic Society and former board member of the Advanced Technology Test Center.
Pat holds a BSEE from Tufts University, an MSEE from Purdue University, and 8 U.S. Patents.
by Chip Brown | Oct 1, 2003 | Miscellaneous Topics
1. What are the major trends in the custom installation market?
From the perspective of Sonance, we see digital audio servers/streaming audio (e.g. Conci?rge) as a trend that will continue to gain a foothold as a ‘must have’ product for the custom install market. Demand for ‘ready installed’ multi-zone products in a greater range of application in new home construction, remodeling customers (not just high end), is also a very strong growth area. Another area with a bright future is in the outdoor audio category.
2. Sonance recently introduced its first component products, the Trio Triple Tuner and the Conci?rge. Why is Sonance getting into the source component market?
Sonance wants to be an “end-to-end” solution provider for multi-zone products, providing products from source components, to control/switching systems, to playback products likes amps and speakers.
3. Sonance has recently come out with a three tuner component. Why would consumer want a product like this?
For years, owners of multi-zone systems have installed multiple, separate component tuners into their systems. Now they can install a single component in place of three, with the added benefit of RS232 control.
4. Sonance is known primarily as a speaker and amp company, but it has recently entered the control market. Is the company planning to expand further? If so, why?
Our goal is to supply products our customers need and want, and at the same time, to innovate in areas where we see room for improvement. We’ll look into any product area we feel we need to play in, in order to satisfy our customers and improve consumer’s entertainment experience.
5. With the introduction of new product lines comes a need for further education and training for dealers and installers. How is Sonance handling this?
We are adding to our factory and regional training programs, and also implementing new, online education programs.
6. What has been Sonance’s most popular group of products for the past few years? Do you expect this to continue or will it change in the next few years?
We are the acknowledged leader in wall speaker for multi-zone audio and home theater, and while most people don’t know it, we’re now #2 in component audio amplifiers. We expect to maintain this position in these product areas, but will increase our prominence in control systems and outdoor audio.
7. What have you found to be the most effective way to market new products in the Consumer Electronics industry?
Nothing sells like first hand experience and the recommendation of a satisfied customer. In other words, when people walk into a Sonance-equipped home, like what they hear and see, and get a recommendation from the home owner?well, that’s the best chance we have of getting a new customer.
8. There has been a lot of consolidation in the consumer electronics industry lately. What is your take on this?
As industries mature, there are cycles of consolidation and entrepreneurial expansion. Many companies, including some of our competitors, have decided not to go it alone anymore, either because the founders are cashing out, or because they’re afraid they can’t stay ahead of the competition by themselves. We think our best days as an independent company are still in our future. We see Sonance sustaining itself and growing as a major, independent brand for the foreseeable future. We believe that’s the best way we have to support our dealers and consumers. We’re very excited at what we see happening at Sonance over the next few years.
Chip Brown was appointed Chief Executive Officer of Sonance in September 2001 by company founders Scott Struthers and Geoff Spencer.
Brown, 41, joined Sonance in 1999 as Chief Operating Officer, with overall responsibility for day-to-day operations. During his first three years, the company doubled sales and tripled profits through focused efforts to increase product innovation, expand product lines, penetrate new markets, and integrate all aspects of operations, sales and marketing. Sonance has also maintained a strong leadership position – in sales, service, and image – despite aggressive and fast increasing industry competition.
Stressing teambuilding as a steppingstone to sustained business success and personal satisfaction, Chip emulates Jack Welch and Vince Lombardi for their ability to organize close-knit teams that consistently outperform competitors. He believes his success at Sonance has been in developing team leaders who create an environment that perpetuates personal and company growth.
Prior to joining Sonance, Brown served in numerous posts that provided the diverse experience to run a fast-growth, technology-based consumer products company.
Brown, who considers problem solving as well as team building among his key strengths, holds an MBA from Harvard Business School. He was born and raised in Ohio, and earned degrees in finance and marketing from the University of Cincinnati.
Chip, his wife and daughter live in San Clemente, Calif.
by Kristine Stewart | Aug 1, 2003 | Miscellaneous Topics
1. Tell me about Internet Home Alliance. When was it founded? What is its mission? Who are its members? What is your role as president?
Internet Home Alliance is the nation’s leading cross-industry network of companies advancing the home technology market. A non-profit organization, the Alliance was founded in October 2000 to help accelerate adoption of connected home products and services requiring a broadband or persistent connection to the Internet.
Members of Internet Home Alliance come from a variety of industries and include such leading companies as Best Buy, Cisco, General Motors, Hewlett-Packard, IBM, Invensys, Microsoft, Panasonic (Matsushita Electric Corporation of America), SBC Communications, Sears, Sun Microsystems and Whirlpool. Internet Home Alliance’s Web site address is www.internethomealliance.com.
Being president of the Alliance is a great job! In general, I provide leadership, guidance and focus to all Alliance programs and activities. I oversee the excellent team of folks we have working for the Alliance and run the Board meetings. We have a group of officers of the Alliance who help provide the strategic direction for the overall board.
2. What is the Alliance doing to advance the home technology market?
We’re advancing the home technology market by accelerating the successful introduction and adoption of home technology products and services. We do this in four key ways.
First, our research initiatives – whether pilots, ecosystem projects or white papers, for example – provide our members with critical market data that helps them develop and introduce their home technology products and solutions more quickly, successfully and cost effectively.
Secondly, we’re creating an industry taxonomy that is getting the market’s key players on the same page, talking the same language and moving forward in the same direction, which are critical success factors in a nascent market.
Thirdly, collaboration is the key word. We’re providing our members with opportunities to work with other companies from along the value chain in an accelerated time frame. In fact, many of our members have told us that, without the resources and support of the Alliance, it would have been impossible to develop and execute initiatives with other companies in a meaningful timeframe.
And, finally, we’re continuing to educate the industry about the viability of the home technology market through our initiatives, which, in turn, help to prime the market and build significant market momentum.
3. What do you see as the three most important factors to accelerating the adoption of home technologies?
First, adoption of broadband to the home – this is still driven primarily by faster speed, but we are beginning to see some compelling services. Second is the adoption of some form of home network, which is happening with wireless network deployment. And, finally, the general recognition by more companies that they can’t work in a vacuum to make this market take off – connected home solutions require a multitude of partnerships and a smooth distribution and support system to increase the likelihood for success.
We’re making good progress on all three critical success factors, which indicates that the market has never been as well primed as it is now for consumers to begin adopting connected home technologies in a meaningful way.
4. Why should companies join the Alliance?
This is best summed up by the thoughts of two of our members: Jonathan Cluts from Microsoft and Danene Jaffe from Sunbeam.
“Over the years, Microsoft’s mission has been to help people and businesses achieve their full potential,” said Jonathan Cluts, director, consumer prototyping and strategy, Microsoft. “The Internet Home Alliance helps advance this realization through cross-industry collaboration, which ultimately helps consumers enjoy better experiences through enhanced Internet products and services. Through the powerful collaboration opportunities that exist within the Alliance, companies from across the connected home value chain are able to share knowledge and information to gain a competitive advantage in the market. This will surely open the door for more connected devices within the home.”
According to Danene Jaffe, strategic development, Sunbeam, “Every company needs to know its strengths, differentiators and areas of challenge. In the case of Sunbeam, our world renowned brands are one of our biggest strengths and certainly a differentiator. However, having said that, we at Sunbeam know that there are areas where we need to collaborate with other companies in order to maximize our opportunities. The Alliance’s collaborative approach allows all kinds of companies to leverage each other’s strengths while still helping members attain their enterprise-based goals.”
That, in nutshell, is why companies should join the Alliance. This market is about solutions, not stand-alone products. Therefore, companies along the value chain must collaborate with one another in order to create successful connected home solutions. Simply put, those companies that work together will have a competitive advantage over those that do not.
5. How do companies leverage their memberships in the Alliance to achieve their business objectives more quickly and successfully?
Internet Home Alliance provides companies with the cross-industry collaboration, research and real-world testing opportunities they need to gain a competitive advantage in the home technology market. There are three main ways members leverage their memberships in the Alliance to achieve their business objectives more quickly and successfully:
First, by participating in our pilot programs and ecosystem projects, our members learn how their products and services will work within the context of a real-world connected home solution and how their products and services can be improved to achieve maximum success in the market.
Secondly, our members gain insight and knowledge about market sweet spots and business models, for example, from our white papers, proprietary research and industry insight presentations.
And, finally, through the Alliance, our members form strategic relationships with one another more quickly than they otherwise might, which leads to a host of beneficial business opportunities.
6. What initiatives are on the horizon for the Alliance?
Our Mealtime pilot, which is testing a connected kitchen solution, is underway in Boston and will conclude in early 2004. Mealtime, which has already attracted a tremendous amount of positive media and analyst attention, involves members Whirlpool, Hewlett-Packard, IBM, Icebox and Sears.
In addition, we are about to launch a host of research projects that will provide us and our members with key learnings in the areas of family communications, healthcare, teleworking and digital entertainment.
7. What do you feel is the timetable for acceptance and adoption by consumers of Internet-enabled home technologies?
According to Parks Associates, by year’s end, 23.5 million U.S. homes will have broadband access and 11 million homes will have some form of PC-centric home network. Given those forecasts, and our own research, which shows that consumers have a strong desire and need for connected home solutions, we’re bullish on market acceptance of connected home technologies.
8. Is the network and installation infrastructure in place now to allow the market to develop at a pace sufficient to keep up with expanding demand?
The technology network is in place to sustain increasing demand for current broadband applications, which are predominantly high-speed browsing, faster email and streaming audio applications.
However, to support the next wave of compelling applications, especially in the areas of entertainment and telecommuting, the network will need to expand in capabilities. In order to support video on demand, video conferencing and live audio, for example, the network will need to improve in terms of bandwidth and service level.
Having said that, it’s important to note that the installation channel must grow and develop as the connected home market grows and develops. That is why the Alliance partnered with CompTIA last year to develop the HTI+ certification, a certification program designed to become the gold standard in the home technology integration area. By leveraging the cross-industry perspective of Alliance members, CompTIA and its cornerstone members were able to create a comprehensive certification program that will ensure that a qualified installation and support infrastructure is in place to support the market as it emerges.
9. Which home systems do you think will lead the way?
Career solutions are leading the way. The explosion of wireless LANs is changing the way people work, and the social trend to balance people’s professional and personal lives and the emergence of mobile technology are shifting where and when people work.
Entertainment solutions are following closely. The dramatic increase in consumer awareness of digital media, such as MP3 audio and digital photography, has created a new demand for entertainment solutions. Bridging the PC and traditional entertainment devices, such as stereos and TVs so that music, video and photos can be shared, is the next system on the horizon.
In the home systems area, the ability to integrate the many home systems such as energy, security, lighting and appliances are several years away. Trials, like the one being conducted by IBM, another member company, at the Village in Tinker Creek, are prescient of the solutions that will be emerging.
Kristine Stewart is president of Internet Home Alliance. As president, Stewart provides leadership, guidance and focus to all Alliance programs and activities. As director of market development for Cisco’s Worldwide Commercial Marketing organization, Kristine Stewart has ownership for all Strategic Alliances and Partner initiatives.
Stewart brings to the Alliance over 15 years of experience in the computer and communications industries. She has held senior-level positions with Adaptec, Western Digital, Standard Microsystems (SMC), Cardinal Technologies and Hitachi Data Systems. Her responsibilities have included business operations, research and development, and marketing, but she has focused most of her career on business and channel development.
Stewart holds a bachelor’s degree in management from Pepperdine University. She also currently serves on the board of directors for the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) and the Continental Automated Building Association (CABA).
by Carl Bowman | Aug 1, 2003 | Miscellaneous Topics
1. Why was the CompTIA HTI+ certification developed? Why now? Who asked for it?
CompTIA was approached by the IHA (Internet Home Alliance), a not-for-profit industry leader in the booming connected home sector. The IHA brought industry expertise and research to the table, while CompTIA shared its certification development experience and expertise. The demand for technology in the home is increasing every year. The need for one professional to be able to install and integrate different devices and technologies over a network is becoming increasingly apparent. Having just one professional deal with installations and integrations in the home, vs. several individuals, cuts costs for the retailers and dealers in this sector reduces the final sticker price for the end user. All in all, reducing costs and streamlining processes will enable quicker adoption of technologies and connected devices in the home, allowing this sector to grow exponentially over the next 3-7 years.
2. Why is the CompTIA HTI+ certification superior to other home integration certifications or assessments currently available, or in the works?
CompTIA?s HTI+ certification program was developed based on CompTIA?s Product Life Cycle process. All of CompTIA?s exams follow a rigorous development process and are proctored, legally defensible, vendor neutral exams that can be adopted by any third-party employer to verify skills and knowledge of employees. The two HTI+ certification exams (both the Residential Systems and Systems Infrastructure and Integration exams are required for full certification) are readily available for delivery in most major cities across the world, on a daily basis, through Prometric or VUE testing sites. No prerequisites are needed, however training and preparation for the exam are highly recommended.
Each exam costs $207 for non-CompTIA members and $155 for CompTIA members.
3. What are the main components of the HTI+ certification? What is an HTI+ certified professional capable of doing?
The HTI+ certified professional is capable of doing what is outlined in the HTI+ objectives, with an equivalent level of knowledge of an individual with six months of experience on the job. Objectives fall within these categories:
Audio/Video Fundamentals
Home Security and Surveillance Systems
Home Lighting Control
HVAC Management
Water System Controls
Home Access Controls
Misc. Automated Home Features
Low Voltage (e.g., twisted pair, coax, shielded, fiber)
High Voltage (nominal 120/240 volt)
4. What is the benefit of the HTI+ certification for the homeowner/consumer?
Reduced cost of product installations, quicker turnaround time, peace of mind in knowing that a qualified professional is doing the work.
5. What is the benefit of the HTI+ certification to the installer/integrator?
Validation of employee skills and knowledge in all key areas, certified staff differentiates a company from the competition, lowers training costs.
6. What is the benefit of the HTI+ certification to the homebuilder?
Reduces home owner risks, creates a standardized subcontractor program for the home technology industry, recognition of industry standards and procedures.
7. Have most companies in the industry adopted HTI+ as a standard certification program for their dealers and installers?
The HTI+ program launched in December 2002. Currently, two large retailers look for HTI+ certified professionals as their third-party dealers and/or installers: Sears and Best Buy. CompTIA expects that with time, it will see more adoptions by other companies across this sector.
8. How many certifications have been awarded and how many students do you anticipate will enroll in the next 12 months?
The HTI+ program launched in December 2002 and training materials are just becoming available through third-party training companies. Currently, there are approximately 100 HTI+ certified professionals worldwide, and we expect this to grow considerably as the demand for qualified professionals grows in the industry.
9. Where does one go to get training for the HTI+ exam? Where does one go to write the exam? Is it or will it be available online?
CompTIA works closely with the training industry and publishers to help third parties develop course and training materials for the HTI+ program. Currently community colleges across the nation are planning training and curricula for HTI+, and several publishers have published training materials for the HTI+ exam. CompTIA has a growing list of publishers that can be accessed by contacting Carl Bowman via email at: cbowman@comptia.org
The HTI+ exam is available at Prometric and VUE testing sites nationwide. To find the test site nearest you please visit: www.prometric.com or www.vue.com/comptia
The HTI+ exam is a proctored computer-based exam, but is not, and will not, be available online.
10. On average, how long does it take to achieve HTI+ certification?
The HTI+ certification can be achieved in one day by passing both exams. However, depending on where and how one gets trained for the certification, it can take anywhere between two weeks to three months to complete the training and finally achieve the credential.
Carl D. Bowman
HTI+, CDIA+, Server+ Certification Manager
Bowman joined CompTIA in November 1997. He is program manager for CompTIA’s HTI+, Server+, and CDIA+ certifications.
As HTI+ certification manager, Bowman is responsible for developing and leading the Home Technology Integrator program, the leading vendor-neutral certification track for technicians servicing the automated home industry. His responsibilities include new membership development and vendor relationship management for the program.
Bowman also heads the CDIA+ program, an internationally recognized credential acknowledging competency and professionalism in the document imaging industry, and the Server+ program, which is a standard of competency for mid- to upper-level technicians responsible for server hardware functionality.
At CompTIA, Bowman previously worked directly with members of the Association for three years, providing support and member services to individuals and companies nationally and internationally.
Prior to joining CompTIA, Bowman served as sales representative for Computize, a $100 million national computer sales and consulting firm. In this capacity, Bowman was responsible for all aspects of customer relationship management and team support. Bowman developed and maintained client relations and supported senior sales representatives.
Bowman is fluent in Spanish and Catalan.
by John O'Donnell | Aug 1, 2003 | Miscellaneous Topics
Question #1: Equator recently announced a new chip that could deliver some exciting changes to the consumer electronics market, tell us about it, and what kind of products will we see in the near future that use it?
Network delivery of media is beginning to change our expectations and expand our choices in entertainment, in much the same way that the Internet changed our expectations and access to information. Home networks are beginning to connect together not just PCs, but portable digital media players, stereos, TVs, and home theaters. Broadband access – cable modem and DSL – which was initially purposed for web access is beginning to carry music and video at the highest quality, and make a world of choices available. As this revolution rolls out, access to network- carried content will become as easy as flipping channels on your TV; the distinction between what’s broadcast and what’s personally delivered over broadband will become blurred.
Equator’s Broadband Signal Processor devices allow every device in the home to support all the popular music and video formats at the highest quality. We just announced the BSP-16, which supports high-definition MPEG-2 and Windows Media 9 Series video, as well as standard-definition video in formats including DivX, RealNetworks, and MPEG-4 (H.264). Our BSP products provide the highest DSP processing power available in the industry, and move the entire media processing system into software, so that TV sets, video recorders, and other devices based on our chips are extensible and upgradable to the latest standards.
Question #2: There has been a lot of speculation as to what codec will become the new high-definition (HD) standard for DVDs, Microsoft’s Windows Media 9 (WM9) or H.264 (MPEG4 – part 10), what is your opinion on this?
We’ve seen speculation, studies, and intense politics as teams with different agendas strive for dominance in what will be the mainstream of digital media. The advanced codecs allow HD media to fit in the bandwidth and storage capacities used today by standard definition (SD), and allow SD media distribution over today’s DSL and cable modem networks, so the stakes are huge. Your question implies that the game is down to two players; there are other advanced codecs as well, but none with the mass of support that H.264 and Windows Media 9 Series have.
We have customers shipping both H.264 and Windows Media products using our chips today. It’s pretty clear that both standards are a big enough leap beyond MPEG-2 that great new products and services can be built on either infrastructure.
In terms of adoption, Windows Media 9 certainly has the early lead; our BSP-15 volume production device today supports WM9 high def, and there are of course many tens of millions of PCs which support the format, and WM9 HD DVD titles on the street today. Production products including HD WM9 are launching this year. It appears that H.264 is one or two years behind.
Question #3: During CES this year there was a lot of talk about a new Polaroid DVD player that was being built based on Equator’s reference design for a multi-format player/recorder, can you tell us more about that product?
There’s a lot of interest in bringing the cost of digital video disc recording down to the lowest possible point. Polaroid announced the first combination DVD player / digital video recorder which harnesses Windows Media 9 to deliver excellent video quality recording. The Polaroid device uses WM9 to put 2 hours of high-quality video on low-cost CD media.
The device includes live video streaming and network media delivery and recording, for movies on demand from various providers, as well as off-air recording and playback.
Question #4: What’s are your thought on downloaded content versus streaming content? Are certain codecs better than others for different functions?
The first wave of media delivery over broadband is happening now; look at Movielink, iTunes, CinemaNow. These services use a download model, rather than a live-streaming model, because they want to deliver consistent high-quality consumer experience over any network link. Your time-to-view or time-to-play may vary based on the performance of your network link, but you won’t suffer interruptions or other annoying problems while you’re watching/listening. This clearly is the model for much of the US. However, broadband providers are beginning to recognize that media delivery is the Next Big Thing in consumer adoption of their services, and are beginning to make special arrangements for reliable streaming services.
The Polaroid box we discussed earlier supports both approaches, so-called “progressive download” and live streaming using Microsoft’s most current media streaming protocols, which adapt nicely to available bandwidth and changing network conditions. I think we’ll see that flexibility in other devices as we go forward.
You asked about whether certain codecs are better for these different functions. The codec choice determines what total bandwidth is necessary to deliver a given picture and sound quality; the better the codec, the lower the bandwidth necessary to achieve a given quality. For example, consider the satellite-TV image and sound quality point. MPEG-2 and AC-3 deliver this at an average of 3 Mbits per second. Windows Media 9 Series delivers this quality at approximately 0.7Mbits (700Kbps). If your network were high enough bandwidth, either codec could be streamed or downloaded; however, in most real-world homes, the WLAN technology can deliver only about 2Mbits consistently and the broadband link around 1Mbps or less.
Question #5: What is the difference in Internet bandwidth use with downloaded versus streaming content? It seems to me that streaming movies would cause huge bandwidth demand during prime time hours in large cities whereas downloading could be managed and spread out over time.
This is certainly true to some degree, but it’s primarily a service provider problem, rather than an Internet problem as a whole. That is, the video servers delivering media need to be scaled to handle peak hour capacity; however, when there is large deployment of streaming network media, the servers are replicated, with copies placed strategically near network end-points. Multiple systems in Asia are now developing experience with live streaming on a massive scale; network video service is being offered to millions of homes in Japan and Korea by major providers now.
Question #6: We have the technology for music and now movie downloading and streaming but the entertainment industry is still not on board. Besides the technology and the devices … what do you think it’s going to take to make home entertainment via Internet a reality for the average consumer?
I disagree that the entertainment industry is not on board. Those who aren’t already on board are getting there rapidly. Properly designed network delivery is inherently more secure than packaged media (CD and DVD). The huge success of Apple’s iTunes initiative has shown the recording industry a path to steer for a future where consumers have the choice and flexibility they want and providers are assured of being paid for their content. I think we passed a key milestone this month with the release of The League Of Extraordinary Gentlemen soundtrack exclusively on iTunes – no CD version will be released.
As you say, the digital rights management technology is there, and the devices are showing up. What we’re going to see now is a drop in device costs, a move to universally compatible devices (so that multiple providers can serve your digital device, just as your CD player let you buy and play CDs from multiple vendors), and most importantly new user interfaces which make the experience easy and simple.
Most consumers don’t yet know how easy or fun it is to use a personal video recorder (PVR); once they see them they’re hooked. I think we’ll see that same level of sophistication develop in home network video devices to make it easy to access a broad range of content. It will be as easy to select an on-demand movie, or an on-demand episode from season 2 of Gilligan’s Island, as it is to pick an episode of Leno that I saved yesterday.
Question #7: How long do you think it will take for devices that use your technology to reach a price point where average consumers will be able to get on board assuming they will be competing with DVDs and stand alone DVD players?
This year and next year you’ll see devices that are at the price point. Polaroid already announced a price point of $299 for their upcoming DVR-700 that is based on Equator’s chip. We’re excited about that.
Question #8: If the Internet-connected consumer electronics trend continues, where do you see home networking going tomorrow, and how is Equator helping make those products affordable?
With the plunging price of displays and home networking and the ease of install of wireless networks, we see tremendous innovation underway in devices which live on the network and deliver the PC information experience to multiple screens around the home; which deliver entertainment from all sources to multiple devices, from devices you wear to wall-size. With ongoing broadband rollout, we’ll see the robust content offerings over IP and ubiquitous two-way video services (videotelephony).
Equator’s processor platform provides enough processing power to enable all these screen/media/camera devices to deliver their core media services from software, making the appliance flexible and upgradable for new services and formats as they arise. Just as the rise of the DSP made modems and cell phones rapidly improve and evolve, we expect to see our BSPs powering a rapid product evolution in consumer video devices. Stay tuned for the fun!
John Setel O’Donnell is the co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of Equator Technologies Inc., leading provider of comprehensive broadband digital communications and media engines for the consumer technology market. With more than 20 years of experience in VLIW and Trace Scheduling technologies, O’Donnell focuses on bringing together leaders in media coding and delivery, digital rights management, and content owners, and in driving next-generation architectures for Equator to continue to serve as the premier provider of multi-service platforms. Before founding Equator Technologies Inc., O’Donnell co-founded Multiflow Computer, Inc, where he led the development of the world’s first VLIW computers. O’Donnell has earned a B.S. in Computer Science from Yale University.
by Ben Jamison, Runco | Jun 1, 2003 | Uncategorized
Question #1: Runco has recently seen some exciting changes ? Please tell us about it.
Runco has always been a very forward thinking company, continuing to provide cutting edge products and innovations to the home theater market. In doing so, the company has grown from its origins as a small garage shop operation into a thriving multi-million dollar company offering a wide variety of products.
Simply Brilliant UPB Dimming
In order to continue to fuel this growth, Sam Runco acquired two additional brand names that have established brand recognition in the consumer electronics industry, Vidikron and Project-a-Vision. Runco has recently launched the rebirth of the Vidikron brand with the introduction of two new DLP projectors, the first in a series of products that will be launched under the Vidikron brand name this year.
Sam also recognized a need to focus on the company’s internal infrastructure and processes in order to increase the company’s efficiencies and to capitalize on the significant growth that Runco continues to enjoy. To achieve this goal, Sam decided to bolster an already seasoned management team by hiring Bob Hana, a long time consumer electronics industry veteran, as the new President at Runco and myself as the Vice President of Sales and Marketing, to assist in executing the necessary strategies needed to support the explosive growth expected for the company in the future.
Question #2: What are the launch plans for Vidikron?
As I mentioned a moment ago, the relaunch of new Vidikron brand has just been announced and the company will begin shipping its first products, the Vision Series Model 20 and Model 40 in June. Several other products will follow closely behind these initial products in order to fill out what will be a very full product line, including additional projector products as well as plasma displays, and others.
The Vidikron brand will have a distinctly different personality from the Runco brand, with models targeted at users wanting high performance products at aggressive price points as compared to other brands. An analogy might be drawn that if the Runco brand is the “Rolls Royce” of home theater products, then the Vidikron brand is more like the Mercedes or BMW.
These products will be distributed in much the same distribution model as the Runco brand, using qualified retail and custom installers, but will use a different dealer network.
Question #3: In this uncertain economy, what does the Home Theatre industry need to do to remain profitable and expand business?
I think the home theater industry is on the verge of significant growth, despite the current economic environment. This can probably be attributed to a number of factors, but perhaps the most significant is that people are choosing to travel less because of several recent world events and instead are investing in their homes and in forms of entertainment like home theater.
The companies that will enjoy the greatest success in this environment are those that continue to provide exciting and useful products, innovations and strive to provide products at competitive prices.
Also focusing on reducing overhead and maximizing efficiency and productivity within a company’s organization is the best way to ensure profitability and cost competitiveness in a very competitive environment like the consumer electronics industry.
Question #4: When selecting a Plasma screen, what should a consumer be focused on … what sets Runco apart from the rest?
When buying a plasma display, it is important to understand how the product compares to other technologies. The most obvious of course is the physical footprint of a plasma display. Very thin in comparison to other technologies, plasma is a very attractive technology not only for main home theater applications, but also in bedrooms and other areas of the home where space is at a premium. The most popular screen sizes for plasma displays are 42″ to 61″.
Another important consideration is at what altitude is the home where a plasma device will be used. In high altitude areas like the Rocky Mountains for instance, some plasmas may not perform well in homes at altitudes above say 7500 feet above sea level and above. Check with your dealer to be sure the plasma display you are considering is able to perform at these altitudes. Most Runco plasma products perform very well in these applications.
Finally, pay close attention to picture quality on plasma displays. This can vary widely among plasma units. Look closely at any pixel imperfections, like pixels that are constantly dark of white. Also judge the color reproduction. Many less expensive brands do not reproduce color very accurately and do not exhibit good black levels. These devices typically do not provide controls that allow the users to have good access to precise control over these parameters. Runco plasma products only use the best glass available few if any exhibit pixel imperfections. Runco plasma products also have very accurate color reproduction and also have very high performance processors that allow the user to adjust many different color and pictures very precisely. The result is a stunning picture quality that easily stands out among all other brands and products.
Question #5: When recommending a Home Theatre Display system, what should a dealer be focused on … again what set’s Runco apart from the rest?
The first decision is to decide which technology is right for each individual application. There are a number of different technologies available, each having specific advantages and disadvantages. These technologies include CRTs, for which there are direct view CRT displays as well as front and rear projection systems. Smaller displays usually employ direct view CRTs; while larger enclosed projection CRT units use rear screen implementations that achieve screen sizes up to say 72″. For even larger screen sizes, two piece CRT projection systems can be used. By two piece it is meant that the projection unit is separated from the screen. Screen size is primarily dictated by the throw distance of the lens in the projector and the distance of the projector from the front of the screen.
Generally, DLP is a two piece front projection technology, although some companies have recently announced rear screen enclosed DLP based systems.
Other technologies, such as LCD projection are also available, but DLP and CRT are the two dominant projection technologies in use today for home theater applications.
Runco offers a very comprehensive line of CRT and DLP projection products for home theater applications, with prices ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000. Our products offer best-in-class performance and are sold only through a Runco authorized dealer network that can provide the best in customer service and support.
Question #6: Five or ten years down the road … when everything is digital … which technology do you think will become the mainstream television display system?
That is a very difficult question to answer. I don’t believe that there will be any one technology that will necessarily dominate all others. It will depend on what your applications are. But certainly DLP and plasma have established strong momentum in the marketplace and they continue to innovate and improve, and CRTs continue to be a very popular technology and will be for quite a while because of the price/performance characteristics, especially in small screen applications.
Question #7: Looking ahead, what new video projection technologies are on the horizon?
There are a number of exciting new technologies on the horizon, including LCOS, next generation LCD, OLED, and many others. Time will tell what and how these products will take shape in the marketplace.
Ben Jamison
An industry veteran for over 22 years, Ben¹s career includes a diverse background and extensive management experience in the consumer electronics and professional video markets.
Before joining Runco, Jamison managed several worldwide sales and marketing organizations, including NEC Technologies where he oversaw businesses generating more than $600M in annual revenues and helped established the company as the leader in projection display and computer display products.
Throughout his career, Ben has worked with several well-known companies in the television broadcasting industry, including AMPEX and Abekas Video Systems. He has also worked in the computer graphics and display technologies industry at Radius Inc.
by David Frangioni - Audio One | Apr 1, 2003 | Uncategorized
1. Please give us a little background about Audio One. Who are you and what do you do?
Audio One is a high tech custom installation firm with offices in three cities that specializes in several different facets of technology integration and installation services and products that includes typically home theater, whole house automation, touch panel control, recording studios and training. We’re very multi-faceted.
2. On most of your higher end installations, what do you rely on, for the ultimate in control technology?
As soon as you go beyond controlling one system, and what I mean by that, is as soon as you go beyond just controlling audio, just controlling lights, you need to look at a Crestron system. So the answer to the question is Crestron. It is a very powerful scalable technology that allows you in one unified platform to control virtually anything.
D-Tools Integrator
3. Are you able to control multiple types of technologies (audio, video, curtains, lights) from one unified platform?
That’s exactly what the Crestron specializes in, and it’s a very unique product in the sense that there are very, very few companies that offer the type of versatility and scalable power that the Crestron control system offers, and in our opinion, Crestron is the best at it.
4. Are the control panels wireless, wall mounted, handheld or any of the above?
With Crestron the nice thing is that you have very versatile technologies from which to choose as far as what the user interface looks like, so the physical device that the client or homeowner uses can be mounted on the wall, it can be wireless or it can be wired tabletop, it can be waterproof, it can be one-way or two-way, it can be a touch panel or a keypad, it can be a handheld remote with buttons or it can be a handheld touch panel. It can be a combination of a wired or wireless panel depending on your application. And on top of that, the touch panel and the remotes and the keypads are all ’empty’ when you order them. So you really need to know how to configure and program these systems because they only do what the programmer and the installer knows what to do with them. So the user interface is entirely custom. What’s exciting about that is that there are no limits and no options that the client can’t have, but on the other hand you have to be a very good programmer and you have to be very proficient in the Crestron language, which, fortunately for our clients, Audio One is.
5. Are they easy to use for the end-user?
Easier to use than anything on Earth. The Crestron Touch Panel system allows one button control of an up to 100,000 sq ft building.
6. How long does it normally take for a client to learn to use and be comfortable with a sophisticated system and how do you go about the training?
With a Crestron touch panel system it usually takes under 60 seconds. It takes about a minute to teach somebody. The Audio One philosophy on control touch panel technology is specifically that of Crestron: if you have a touch panel and if you need an instruction book, then you’ve done something wrong. Now if we’re using keypads or we’re using button-oriented touch screens or touch surfaces, then there usually is a little more of a learning curve and there’s usually some sort of little manual we’ll give the client and it takes a little longer because you don’t have that graphical user interface to kind of lead the client from page to page and allow them to easily and intuitively step through the process of gaining access to controlling the technology. So when you have a touch panel it’s very visual and very easy to make simple.
When you have buttons, even if they’re labeled, it’s not nearly as intuitive, so you typically need an instruction manual to inform the client that when they press this button the following thing’s going to happen or the following control is going to occur, whereas on a touch panel they just see that control and they can just keep using it, they can keep going. It’s almost like a map where the car drives you along, and the driver just follows the map, and is actually being driven as opposed to a map that you have to drive and follow along manually.
7. What is currently the most popular home system in your marketplace (i.e. Home Theater, Security, Multiroom Audio etc.)?
For home theater, it’s unquestionably plasma. There’s nothing comparable to the ease of installation, in terms of fitting into various aesthetic decors, in terms of satisfying the image quality that wasn’t there before but is now … it just has the best of all worlds. Front projection is second to that, specifically by using DLP projectors which are very forgiving in ambient light conditions. Remember, most people that have theaters actually have viewing rooms, they’re not dedicated theater rooms. More often than not you’ve got a room that wears many hats and usually isn’t light-controlled to the point that you can achieve ninety or a hundred percent black out. Therefore you need a display that is not only very high quality, but is also very forgiving to ambient light. And by being forgiving, that means that it’s giving out a lot of light. It needs to be giving out literally dozens of foot lamberts in order to compete with ambient light and not take away from the image quality.
Plasma is able to do that. We’re able to get 50 to 60 foot lamberts out of a plasma, whereas with a CRT you might get ten. With DLP you might get between 20 and thirty. So once you get over 20, you start to compete with ambient light pretty well. When you get up around 30 to 60, you’re just doing a better and better job of competing with the light. So you can see that a plasma is going to work even in a sunroom and be viewable all times during the day and night regardless of what light is bleeding in.
8. What would be the “ultimate” way to control, say, a Plasma TV system?
There’s no comparison to a touch panel system. The only time somebody doesn’t choose a touch panel system is because of budget. Typically when you’re doing a plasma there’s enough budget to do a touch panel system. Clearly we’re proponents and installers of the Crestron system because we’re believers in finding something that works, finding something that’s great value and most importantly that’s scalable. So it’s not only robust, it’s scalable. So for example if a client buys a touch panel control system from us today, that client doesn’t have to sell it or trade it in a year from now, they just simply add to it. So the touch panel system just becomes a series of building blocks from which they can expand if they need to.
9. What, in your opinion, are the differences between one Plasma and another and what do your clients typically choose?
There’s lots of differences between plasmas. The key things to look at in a plasma is the native resolution – the higher the better, the quality of the glass, the quality of the pixel count – you want zero dead pixels, and the quality of the video processing. With the exception of computer images, all of the images coming into the plasma need to be processed in order to scale to the native resolution. So if we’ve got a 1280 x 768 resolution, just to take a very common resolution, and that resolution is the native resolution of the display, but the resolution of the images coming into it are lower, then in order to fill all the pixels on the plasma, we’ve got to up convert the incoming resolution to the native resolution. And that process is not easy to do from a processing standpoint. It needs a lot of video processing and it needs very high quality processing. So it not only needs to be powerful in the sense that the processing is high powered, but it also needs to be high quality and there’s a lot of technology that goes into that.
The clear and away winner for us is the Runco plasma. They make a whole family of TVs from 42 to 50 to 61 and all of their TVs have very high end processing and the highest quality glass and a zero dead pixel count. We’re able to go into these plasmas and tweak the settings so that we get incredible black level, the image regardless of the source is very, very sharp there’s no motion artifacts, the 3 to 2 pull down is done nearly perfectly. The brightness to contrast ratios are very high. It’s just a great looking display. We haven’t had a dissatisfied client yet. They are at the high end of the spectrum, the Runco plasmas; they’re not what you would consider entry-level by any means, so you pay more. I know plasmas are coming down in price a little bit, but the good ones have not come down in price a whole lot, and one of the reasons for that is the accompanying video processing. That’s really the key. If you get a plasma without a processor, then you’re not really getting a high quality plasma, regardless of how good the glass is, because the processing is that important.
About Audio One
AUDIO ONE has offices in North Miami Beach, Florida; Nashville, Tennessee; and Boston, Massachusetts. AUDIO ONE is the Southeast’s leader in studio design, installation, wiring, digital audio solutions, computer services, and Pro Tools sales. Founded by David Frangioni in 1985, Audio One has earned a reputation as the most innovative team of professionals in the audio & video industry.
David Frangioni co-produced/engineered the first 5.1 digital surround sound music mixes ever on CD for DTS in 1995. He also co-produced two of the best selling Sample CD’s of all-time (Dance/Industrial I & II) released in 1991 & 1994, respectively. David released his 3rd Sample CD, “Steve Smith – Rhythmic Journey” in 1999 and his fourth and latest Sample CD, “More than Styx” in December, 2002. Recipient of over 65 Gold and Platinum albums as technical consultant, engineer, and/or programmer since 1987. Featured many times in over 55 different magazines worldwide since 1988. 17+ years of experience & knowledge.
N. Miami Beach, FL 33162
Phone: 305-945-1230 Email:
David Frangioni
Sales and Technical Support – North Miami
dfrangioni@audio-one.com
by David Hyman | Dec 1, 2002 | Uncategorized
1. What is Gracenote and how does its technology impact the consumer electronics sector?
Our goal is to enhance the music listening experience for people wherever they listen to music, by providing reliable, high-quality information services to consumer electronics manufacturers and developers around the world. The way people listen to music is going to radically change for the better. We provide a suite of integrated software and services that enable consumer electronics manufacturers and software developers to make digital music more accessible, more convenient and more compelling.
Gracenote’s information services are used by leading media players including AOL’s WinAmp, Apple’s iTunes, RealNetwork’s RealOne Player; and leading consumer electronics manufacturers including Pioneer, Phillips and Sony. Over 30 million users each month rely on Gracenote to provide a better experience, wherever they listen to music.
2. The system integrators/custom installers are embracing the hard disk server category. Can you detail why this appears to be?
There is one simple reason: These devices are much smarter. Essentially, they’re going to enable people to enjoy their music in ways they never imagined before. With hard drive servers, people can listen to music in more intuitive ways. They can personalize their listening experience by creating playlists of their favorite songs – or tap the full potential of their existing music libraries using smart search tools that put long-forgotten favorites at their fingertips. Most people don’t listen to the majority of the music they already own and love – because it’s not accessible in the format they want or it’s been buried for too long; some households even end up buying the same CD more than once! Music recognition and information services are going to change that. For example, if you want to hear “Little Wing” by Jimi Hendrix and follow it up with an acoustic version by Stevie Ray Vaughn or Sting’s version, you’ll be able to do so with very little effort. You’ll be able to see and search your entire music collection very easily. They’re also going to enable new music recommendations to help people discover and expand their musical tastes, as well as other information services to make listening a real joy.
Additionally, hard disk encoders and media servers are going to alleviate the headache of transporting CD’s and make it easy for people to listen to music wherever they want – whether that’s at home, or on a portable mp3 player, or in their cars.
The “intelligent” nature of these devices makes them a better choice for converging with other consumer electronics devices, which will be necessary for home networking.
3. What market trends are driving the hard disk music server category?
A better listening experience is really what’s driving this category. People want to listen to more of their music collections without having to spend time changing CD’s or figuring out what’s queued up in the changer. These devices have the capacity to take music appreciation so much further – with the ability to sort and play you music by artist or genre – make custom playlists of your favorite songs. People want choices in where they listen to music and these devices make it a lot easier to do so on their own terms – including exporting files to an MP3 player or burning CDs.
4. Will Gracenote add DVD Recognition to its suite of services? If so how and when will this rollout happen?
Yes. We’ll be announcing and demonstrating this technology for the first time at this year’s CES. This is going to dramatically change the way you view and listen to DVDs. Media recognition enables advanced functionality that is limited only by imagination. We expect to see a wide variety of implementations. The most straightforward is changer management. The ability to search your entire movie collection by title, actor, director, or other fields is a huge step forward in convenience. Other functionality we see on the horizon is the ability to automatically optimize your system’s sound and video settings based on your preferences and the system’s capabilities. For example, we can store the audio and video options available for each DVD, and even the differences between each version. Your DVD player with Gracenote technology can be “smart,” and choose the best sound options based on your setup, and it knows that you always prefer widescreen and want French subtitles. We also see manufacturers using this technology to enable parental controls, or to offer rich multimedia content customized to the particular DVD – for example a film could always have the latest trailers, or users could easily link to news, fansites, or other network content.
5. What does the future hold for digital music and its hardware?
We see digital music continuing to make its way into the mainstream. Once people experience the benefits that digital music offers, there is no going back. On the hardware side, hard drives will be everywhere – in your stereo cabinet, in your set-top box, in the car, and of course in portable devices. Manufacturers are going to offer more advanced functionality in sleeker, more elegant user interfaces, presenting powerful features in simple, intuitive ways. Digital media devices will work together in Personal Networks, synching content, playlists, and other data to create a seamless experience.
David Hyman joined Gracenote (formerly CDDB) as its President in May, 2000, and was named CEO in October of 2001. In this role, he is responsible for insuring the execution of corporate revenue, operational and strategic objectives as well as setting the strategic direction for the company in the evolving Internet and music market spaces.
Prior to joining Gracenote, David served as senior vice president of marketing for MTVi Group, the online venture of MTV, Inc. While at MTVi Group, he was responsible for all online and offline marketing for the Web’s largest music destination, MTV.com. Prior to that, as senior VP of sales and marketing for SonicNet.com, David developed some of the Web’s first rich-media sponsorships with the biggest names in brand marketing, such as the Gap and Levi’s.
Hyman’s Internet career began in 1994 at HotWired, Wired magazine’s online partner and the Internet’s first commercial Web site, where he placed some of the Web’s first banner ads. He also developed a method for measuring the effectiveness of online advertising. In 1996, David joined the online music magazine Addicted to Noise, which was ultimately acquired by SonicNet.com.
by Dr. John Barr | Aug 1, 2002 | Miscellaneous Topics
1) We hear that OSGi is doing really well for in-vehicle telematics. Can you tell us how it’s going to be used and who’s adopting it?
The Acunia Open Telematics Framework is a management framework for service provisioning that allows the service aggregator to manage and control the business of delivering value-added services to customers via terminals using the OSGi service platform. ProSyst has several telematics/logistics and infotainment/navigation projects including one with Bombardier for the New Jersey Transit system. Pilotfish and Gatespace are collaborating on a car-sharing project utilizing the OSGi in-vehicle gateway where the mobile phone replaces the car key, facilitating the administration of rental cars so that rental companies can automate car rental pick-ups. DaimlerChrysler, Jentro and Sun have created the first UMTS test vehicle as a pilot showcase to demonstrate services on demand; Acunia is using the OSGi platform for GM OnStar Europe; Motorola and IBM are working with Audi; AMI-C is working with Acunia on engineering proof of concepts for the OSGi APIs that will be adopted in AMI-C release 2; BMW based their Connected Drive X5 concept car on OSGi; and Gatespace is working with Volvo. So there’s a great deal going on right now, and some prototypes out there. Presentations from many of the major automotive OEMs are being prepared for the OSGi World Congress in September (http://www.osgiworldcongress.com).
2) Wasn’t the early market supposed to be Home Gateways? What happened to those?
Home Gateways are still very much part of the OSGi program, and we’re starting to see people do some really cool things with OSGi in the home space, such as the Telia Home Networking trial and the E2-Home apartments in Stockholm, but interest in Telematics has grown much faster than we expected and people actually want to start using OSGi in vehicles very soon now, so we have moved a little to emphasize the Telematics angle. However, companies like Whirlpool, Bosch-Siemens-Hausger?te (BSH), Alleato, Ciaolab, Metavector, Echelon and others are developing home solutions utilizing the OSGi service platform. In Europe we are seeing a growing acceptance of the OSGi service platform in projects like E-Pasta, Telefonicas’ Hogard.es, and EdF’s M@jordom project in addition to the telematics projects like ERTICO 3GT. (See www.osgi.org/fact-sheet.pdf for more on these projects.)
3) You’re having your first World Congress at the end of September – what do you expect to be the highlights there?
We’ve got an impressive list of speakers including Claes Nycander, President of Telia Research; Per Ljunggren, CEO, E2Home; and Dr. Matthias St?mpfle, Head of Telematics Architectures & Vehicle Services, DaimlerChrysler. We’ll show a number of deployments for in-vehicle entertainment and information services from Audi, BMW, Ford, Volvo and WirelessCar; home network services; and smart handheld devices. We’ll have progress reports on commercially compelling OSGi implementations from a wide variety of organizations including Deutsche Telekom, France Telecom, Telia, Telefonica de Espa?a, and Electricit? de France.
We’ll have discussions about the advantages of the OSGi framework in product implementations by companies such as Echelon, MetaVector-Siemens, Philips, Bosch and Siemens Hausger?te, Possio, and Whirlpool. Consortia such as Universal Plug and Play (UpnP), Digital Video Broadcasting (DVB), ERTICO, and AMI-C will talk about how they are working with OSGi on standardization.
Certified OSGi Service Platform Release 2 implementations will be reviewed to help developers select the platform and development environment best suited for their applications. There will also be a comprehensive OSGi service bundle development tutorial by Peter Kriens, OSGi Technology Director, that will show attendees how quickly they can develop compelling solutions for their customers.
Finally, we’re also holding a contest, giving out two inaugural awards to recognize excellence in the area of OSGi bundle development and OSGi application development. So we’ve got a lot going on, and a lot of information to share.
4) What does the future look like for OSGi?
The future for OSGi is really bright – we’ve got lot of other groups who are wanting to work with us and the ‘Open’ in our name is really encouraging folks to do so. With OSGi Service Platform Release 2 (www.osgi.org/specification) and the OSGi compliance program (www.osgi.org/compliance), companies are able to make product plans based on a well-known platform available from multiple vendors. With the product development lead times associated with the introduction of new platforms we are seeing product introductions and deployments as expected even with the current industry downturn (www.osgi.org/fact-sheet.pdf).
We’ve only had our compliance program running for a couple of months and already we’ve got four companies with products that are certified compliant, with more lining up. And AMI-C is announcing that it is incorporating OSGi technology as the underlying framework of its software platform for mobile information and entertainment systems.
Even through these uncertain economic times, our membership is reasonably steady, and the interest continues.
5) How does OSGi compare to .NET? Is .net a copy?
A long answer to this one, I’m afraid. .NET is a big subject and so it deserves some detailed attention. The credibility that .NET gives to the concept of the delivery of networked services is good for OSGi. It shows that the goals we had when we started in 1998 are now being considered vital by the major players in the market. Many of the features of the Java application model are present in .NET products.
When .NET becomes real there will be an interesting competition for design wins between .NET and Java-based solutions. The few existing parts of .NET are concentrating on J2EE, but the labeling of existing embedded products (like good old WinCE) as a .NET component indicates that Microsoft also wants to move into the embedded space. I think that Microsoft will find resistance from these markets in that space, since Java solutions have a very strong position in this market.
But .NET will obviously be an important aspect of modern computing. Fortunately, one of the cornerstones of .NET is Web Services. The nature of these services is that they can be used and implemented both on .NET and OSGi.
So here are the major technical differences between a Java platform such as OSGi and .NET:
1. Maturity – The Java programming language has been around for 7 years; is supported by every OS/Hardware combination in the world; has an incredibly large, non-proprietary code base, and is implemented by different vendors. Parts of .NET are also mature because they are based on the existing Active-X/COM/OLE code. However, those are exactly the parts where there are no benefits in using .NET because it is legacy code. The OSGi Service Platform has been developed by several of the leading Java software solution provides and benefits from the experience of some of the best embedded solution developers.
2. Single language – Microsoft claims that they support multiple languages on their VM. They do, but these languages differ significantly from their origin. E.g. C++ in .NET does not support multiple inheritance! Second, a language is not restricted to its syntax. The runtime is at least as important. It will be prohibitively expensive to support the native runtime of these languages on smaller machines which makes only C# a viable language for .NET. So there will be no source code compatibility, nor will a company be able to leverage its experienced programmers by letting them program in their preferred language.
3. Portability – The CLR environment is basically the same concept as the Java runtime environment and thus has the advantages of easy porting to new environments. However, the advantage of .NET lies currently in their integration with the Active-X/COM/OLE, a technology that has proved to very hard to port. This will improve when more VM code becomes available but it will take a significant amount of time, effort and problems.
4. Market share – Java solutions have been adopted very widely by almost every computing area except the desktop. Telephones, PDAs, set-top boxes, DVB, cars, and residential gateways have adopted the Java standard and are target areas for the OSGi.
5. Size – Java implementations have gone through an amazing evolution and today it is possible to run OSGi in less than a megabyte. I do not expect .NET solutions to ever get close because they have too much coupling to optimize that drastically.
6. Service Management – The management of the networked services is crucial. .NET promises to provide a concrete solution with SMS and Active Directory. In contrast, OSGi provides a very comprehensive management model that is policy free so it can be adapted to a wide range of needs by different vendors. I think this is crucial for the deployment of services to areas other than the desktop.
7. Multi Vendor – There are several certified OSGi service platform providers providing solutions on multiple hardware and operating system platforms.
Microsoft has a long way before they can demonstrate all the benefits they claim today. Obviously, they will play a major role in enterprise computing because of their ownership of the desktop market. For the coming wave of pervasive computing devices, our home turf, I doubt that they will make a big inroad in that market (as can be seen in the car market). The momentum of Java/OSGi is tremendous. Most companies realize that it is better to have an existing, open, broadly supported, standard for networked services today than a proprietary solution tomorrow. Anyway, due to SOAP we will be able to interwork in whatever area they emerge in the future.
6) Can you give us some examples of where OSGi is deployed and is already making a difference?
A number of companies already have products available using the OSGi specification, including 4DhomeNet, Echelon, Espial, Gatespace, IBM, P&S DataCom, ProSyst, and Sun Microsystems. Most of these are in the remote management, provisioning and diagnosis, service delivery, telematics, and value-added applications spaces. Developer kits are now available from many of these companies as well. The New Jersey Transit locomotives from Bombardier, the Telia Home Networking trial, Whirlpool’s I-enabled appliances, BSH’s Smart@Home kitchen product line, E2-Home apartments in Stockholm, and the DaimlerChrysler UMTS test vehicle are but a vew high profile examples of OSGi deployments that are currently or soon to be available. The OSGi fact sheet (www.osgi.org/fact-sheet.pdf) contains specifics on a large number of products and solutions using the OSGi service platform specification.
John Barr is President of the Open Services Gateway Initiative and Director of Standards Realization for Motorola Corporate Offices. He has been with Motorola for 18 years working on real-time distributed systems, low power system and software technologies, DSP development methodologies, home networking systems, and the convergence of computing and communications. In his present role, he is responsible for directing service delivery and wireless consumer multimedia standards efforts within Motorola and strategic relationships with consortia (e.g., OSGi) and standards development groups (e.g., IEEE and IETF) to ensure that Motorola incorporates technologies that fundamentally change the way people communicate and interact while mobile, at home, and when using their vehicles.
John has a Ph.D. from UCLA and previously was a staff engineer at Hughes Aircraft and a Professor of Computer Science at the University of Montana. He has been the President of the Open Services Gateway Initiative (OSGi) since its founding in May 1999, and he chairs the High-Rate WPAN task group of the IEEE 802.15 WPAN working group.
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| ERROR: type should be string, got "https://www.incomeinvestors.com/dividend-investors-earn-5-cash-cow/9475/\tOutfront Media Inc: Earn 5% from this “Cash Cow”\tGaurav Sharma, BA Income Investors 2016-11-30T03:00:48Z 2017-08-23 02:08:50 dividend investors OUT stock NYSE:OUT Apple Inc. NASDAQ:APPL McDonald’s Corporation NYSE:MCD Ford Motor Company F stock Outfront Media Inc. Outfront Media Inc.(NYSE:OUT). shares are flat over the past year. Do they have upside ahead? Dividend Stocks,News,Outfront Media Stock https://www.incomeinvestors.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Dividend-Investors-150x150.jpg\nOutfront Media Inc: Earn 5% from this “Cash Cow”\nBy Gaurav Sharma, BA | November 30, 2016\nCan OUT Stock Benefit Dividend Investors?\nPatient dividend investors are always interested to hear about a business that would be classified as a “cash cow.” However, it can be a difficult task, given how many investment opportunities are available.\nBusinesses classified as cash cows tend to have a long history and a mature business model. Typically, investors tend to flock to the telecom and/or utility sectors for such investments, which tend to be over-owned.\nWhen conducting my own research, I found a company that would be classified as a cash cow that is under many investors’ radars: Outfront Media Inc (NYSE:OUT).\nOutfront Media is an outdoor media company. And while you may not have heard of the company itself, its assets are known worldwide. Assets in the portfolio include more than 400,000 digital and static displays across the U.S., Canada and Latin America, such as billboards in Times Square, Sunset Boulevard, and Hollywood.\nThe company’s client list features some of the largest companies in the world, such as Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL), McDonald’s Corporation (NYSE:MCD), and Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F). Outfront is part of the professional sports scene, being involved in the likes of the U.S. Open, one of the major events for the professional tennis season.\nOutfront also has partnerships with college sports team affiliates like LSU Sports Properties, Maryland Sports Properties, and Aloha Sports Properties. College sports have some of the largest audiences in terms of attendees; to put it in context, the LSU football stadium holds approximately 102,000 fans. And then there’s the television audience, who see Outfront’s advertisements when watching the games at home.\nOUT stock currently pays dividend investors $0.34 on a quarterly basis and is trading at $25.40, which is yielding 5.35%. In addition to the regular dividend, shareholders received a special dividend of $4.56 in 2014.\nThe company is able to reward shareholders because of its strong fundamentals. Earnings growth has improved by 79% compared to the previous year. Revenue has seen growth as well, rising 17% over the past five years. (Source: “Outfront Media Inc. (OUT),” Yahoo! Finance, last accessed November 29, 2016.)\nThe company has been hoarding cash as it comes in. Back in 2011, there was only $37.6 million in Outfront’s bank account; today there is almost double that, at $73.6 million. A large reason for the increased revenue is that there is not a lot of competition when it comes to this segment of the market; in other words, an oligopoly.\nWith OUT stock being considered a cash cow, further rewards could come to shareholders in the form of dividend hikes, special dividends, or both.\nFinal Thoughts on OUT Stock\nEven though earnings have grown over the previous period, the share price has not. Until the market realizes that OUT stock is worth owning, shareholders can get paid to wait. For patient dividend investors, this could be an opportunity to own shares of this unique cash cow.\n5 High-Dividend-Yielding Stocks to Consider in 2017\nCelebrity Lifestyle. Funded by Insurance Return Checks?"
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Track done on Kings Island's Banshee roller coaster
Track work on the Banshee, the longest inverted roller coaster in the world, was completed Thursday at Kings Island.
Track done on Kings Island's Banshee roller coaster Track work on the Banshee, the longest inverted roller coaster in the world, was completed Thursday at Kings Island. Check out this story on IndyStar.com: http://indy.st/1jFVFLn
The Enquirer Published 4:42 p.m. ET Jan. 23, 2014 | Updated 4:47 p.m. ET Jan. 23, 2014
Track work on the Banshee, the longest inverted roller coaster in the world, was completed Jan. 23, 2014, at Kings Island near Cincinnati, Ohio. Rachel Richardson / The Enquirer and Cincinnati.com
Track work nears completion Jan. 21, 2014, on the longest inverted roller coaster in the world, Banshee, at Kings Island in Mason, Ohio. Banshee will send riders through 4,124 feet of track and seven inversions at speeds up to 68 mph. The $24 million steel roller coaster debuts April 18 when Kings Island opens for the 2014 season.(Photo: Kings Island)
MASON, Ohio -- Track work on the Banshee, the longest inverted roller coaster in the world, was completed Thursday at Kings Island near Cincinnati.
Track piece No. 100 was the final piece of track installed on the 4,124-foot long, $24 million steel coaster. It was lowered into place at 10:04 a.m.
It took the Adena Corp. 160 days to erect the ride after the first piece of track was delivered to the 364-acre amusement and waterpark Aug. 16, 2013.
The coaster is manufactured by Bolliger & Mabillard Consulting Engineers Inc. The Swiss firm also created Diamondback, the park's most recent roller coaster, which opened in 2009.
With speeds up to 68 mph, Banshee will become the fastest Bolliger & Mabillard coaster in the nation, surpassing the previous record of 67 mph held by Busch Gardens Williamsburg's Alpengeist in James City County, Va.
The ride starts with a 167-foot ascent before plunging 150 feet and pitching riders through a dive loop, vertical loop, zero-gravity roller, two batwing inversions, a second vertical loop and a 170-foot heartline finale.
The coaster represents the Mason amusement park's largest investment in its 42-year history, say park officials.
Banshee will make its debut April 18 when Kings Island opens for the 2014 season.
Banshee marks the first female-inspired ride at a Cedar Fair Entertainment Co. park. In Irish folklore, a banshee is a spirit in the form of a ghostly woman whose mournful wailing at night was believed to foretell the death of a family member.
Track work on the longest inverted roller coaster in the world, Banshee, was completed Jan. 23, 2014, at Kings Island near Cincinnati, Ohio. The $24 million coaster will be 4,124 feet long. Kings Island
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New Italian restaurant Maialina opens in Fountain Square
Here's when to see the Hamilton County 4-H Fair
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Need your grass cut? New lawn care app launches in Indianapolis
GreenPal, an app that connects homeowners with lawn care professionals, launched recently in the Indianapolis area.
Need your grass cut? New lawn care app launches in Indianapolis GreenPal, an app that connects homeowners with lawn care professionals, launched recently in the Indianapolis area. Check out this story on IndyStar.com: https://indy.st/2LvKTuK
Billy Kobin, Indianapolis Star Published 6:00 a.m. ET July 20, 2018
Best and worst US cities for your wallet
30. San Francisco: San Francisco is one of the most expensive cities in the U.S. if you live there, and it’s certainly not much cheaper to visit. It ranks as the worst vacation city because costs are high across the board. In fact, only one other city — New York — has drink costs as high as San Francisco’s, and San Francisco has the second-highest food costs at $75 for a three-course dinner for two. However, there are a few things you don’t have to shell out big bucks for in San Francisco. For example, you can take a free walking tour of the Golden Gate Bridge, and stroll through Chinatown or visit Fisherman’s Wharf. canadastock, Shutterstock.com
29. New York: Be prepared to open your wallet wide if you want to visit the Big Apple. New York has the highest food and drink costs on our list — expect to pay at least $80 for dinner for two and $7 for a beer. And it has the fourth-highest cost of airfare in our rankings — $380. But you can keep your costs down in New York by visiting free attractions like Central Park, the 9/11 memorial and the Brooklyn Bridge. Avoid expensive attractions, like baseball games at Yankee Stadium, to cut vacation costs. Matej Kastelic, Shutterstock.com
28. Philadelphia: In Philadelphia, airfare and hotel costs are high, which is why it’s one of the worst vacation cities. The average round-trip airfare is $386, and the average price of a hotel room is $148. Plus, the city’s safety rating is among the lowest on our list. Fortunately, you don’t have to pay anything to see some of the most famous attractions in Philadelphia, like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. f11photo, Shutterstock.com
27. Washington, D.C.: Not only is the nation’s capital one of the most popular travel destinations in the U.S., it’s also one of the most expensive. Although the average hotel price is reasonable, the cost of food and drink in Washington, D.C., will put a big dent in your budget — $70 for dinner for two and $6 for a domestic beer. Fortunately, some of the city’s top attractions — such as the museums and galleries that are part of the Smithsonian Institution — are free. SeanPavonePhoto, Getty Images/iStockphoto
26. Los Angeles: The home of Hollywood is one of the most expensive places to visit. Hotels cost $116 per night, and food and drink costs in LA can put a dent in your travel budget. The cost of a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant is $65, and a domestic beer costs $6 on average. But there is no shortage of things to do and see in LA — including plenty of free attractions like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Sunset Boulevard and Santa Monica Pier. turtix, Shutterstock.com
25. St. Louis: At $131 a night, St. Louis has some of the most expensive hotels compared with the other cities on this list. Plus, it also has low safety scores. On the plus side, you can drink for cheap — domestic beers cost an average of $4. And you can visit a variety of free attractions, including the St. Louis Zoo, and the city’s Science Center and Museum. JByard, iStock.com
24. Atlanta: Food and drink costs are fairly reasonable in Atlanta, but the Southern city has pretty expensive hotels — expect to spend $121 per night. It’s also among the least-safe cities on our list. But if you do go to Atlanta, be sure to take advantage of free activities like its year-round music festivals and outdoor yoga classes. SeanPavonePhoto, Getty Images/iStockphoto
23. Baltimore: You can find cheap flights to Baltimore, but food and drink are on the expensive side. The city is also the second-least safe city on this list. On the plus side, many of Baltimore’s attractions don’t cost a dime to visit, including its Inner Harbor, monuments and many of its museums. f11photo, Shutterstock.com
7. Boston, Mass., has a total tech talent labor force of 113,960. Tomasz Szulczewski, Getty Images
21. Kansas City, Missouri.: You can drink for cheap in Kansas City, which has the second-cheapest beers of all the cities on this list. But that won’t make up for its pricey hotels, which cost $139 a night. Fortunately, you can do a lot of sightseeing for free in the City of Fountains, and see it all on the KC Streetcar, which doesn’t cost anything to ride. amadeustx, Shutterstock.com
20. Chicago: Chicago flights and hotels are relatively affordable, but you’ll have to pay a good amount for food and drinks once you’re there: A three-course meal for two averages $60, and domestic beers cost $5. It’s also one of the least-safe cities in our ranking. You can save money on your trip to the Windy City by visiting Navy Pier, Millennial Park — home to the famous “Bean” sculpture — and the Lincoln Park Zoo, none of which cost anything to see. Rudy Balasko, Shutterstock.com
19. Houston: Getting to Houston will set you back a whopping $383 on airfare. But once you’re there, hotel, food and drink costs are relatively low. While in Houston, catch a performance at the Miller Outdoor Theatre, take a boat tour of Port Houston or visit the Lawndale Art Center — all of which don’t cost a thing. Shutterstock.com
18. Miami: You can find affordable hotels in Miami, but be prepared to spend on dining out: A three-course meal for two there costs an average of $73.50. With weather that’s sunny and warm most months, you can hit the beach for free once you’re there. Sean Pavone, Getty Images/iStockphoto
17. Charlotte, North Carolina: Getting to Charlotte isn’t cheap. With round-trip domestic flights costing an average of $412, it’s the most expensive city to fly to on this list. Hotels are on the lower end at $82 a night, and food and drink costs are about average. The Southern destination is a good choice for people seeking free outdoor adventures, from strolling around the UNCC Botanical Gardens to fishing and hiking at Reedy Creek Park and Nature Preserve. Shutterstock.com
16. Dallas: Food and drink are relatively affordable in the Texas city, but hotels are the priciest of any city on this list, with an average of $185 per night. You can try to offset that cost by exploring the city for free — including the Dallas Arts District — on the McKinney Avenue Trolley. WMatBrown, iStock.com
15. Columbus, Ohio: Hotels and flights for Columbus are on the more expensive end, but you can dine well in the city for a reasonable amount: A three-course meal for two costs about $50. The city is home to numerous parks and festivals, which you can enjoy free of cost. traveler1116, Getty Images
14. San Jose, California: Located in Silicon Valley, San Jose isn’t just a destination for techies. Visitors can take advantage of numerous free attractions and activities, such as the New Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum, the San Jose Heritage Rose Garden and Castle Rock, a popular hiking destination. And getting there is affordable, with flights averaging $301. Uladzik Kryhin, Shutterstock.com
13. New Orleans: If you want to visit New Orleans for its nightlife, you won’t blow your budget on drinks. The cost of a drink here is the third-lowest of any city on our list at just $4 for a domestic beer, on average. Plus, airfare is among the lowest in our rankings. And you can enjoy the gardens, architecture and street performers in the city’s best-known attraction — the French Quarter — for free. But keep in mind New Orleans is the No. 3 least safe city on the list, which pulls it down in the rankings of best vacation spots. GTS Productions, Shutterstock.com
12. Seattle: Seattle hotels are among the cheapest, and airfare falls in the middle compared to the other vacation cities. But food and drink can be expensive, with the average three-course dinner for two costing $60, and domestic beers going for $5.50 on average. It’s the most expensive city for foodies overall, a separate GOBankingRates study found. You can keep spending in check, though, by taking advantage of the free things to do there. For example, enjoy samples from vendors at Pike Place Market, one of the oldest continuously operated farmers markets and home to the original Starbucks coffee store. dibrova, Getty Images/iStockphoto
11. Portland, Oregon: Portland hotels are relatively expensive at $125 a night, but food costs in the Pacific Northwest city are among the lowest. To keep a vacation in Portland affordable, enjoy the city’s free offerings, such as brewery tours, Forest Park and public art. David Gn Photography, Getty Images
10. San Diego: San Diego is one of the safest cities on our list — and it also has affordable hotels, with rates averaging $76 a night. With plenty of beautiful beaches and numerous neighborhoods to explore on foot, including La Jolla Cove, Old Town and the Gaslamp Quarter, it’s easy to have fun in the SoCal sun while sticking to a budget. Sean Pavone, Shutterstock
9. Detroit: Foodies should head to Detroit, which has the most affordable food of any of the destinations included on this list. It also has cheap drinks, with a domestic beer going for an average of $4. In addition to cheap food and drinks, there are also lots of free places to go in Detroit, including the MBAD and Detroit Historical Museums, antique stores and art galleries. Hotels are cheap too, with rooms for $65 a night — but be cautious while traveling there because it has the lowest safety rating of all the cities. pawel.gaul, Getty Images
8. Milwaukee: Hotels, flights, food and drinks are all affordable in Milwaukee, but its poor safety rating brings it down a couple of notches in our ranking. While there, you can take a free brewery tour, enjoy some free live music and take advantage of lakefront hiking trails. Ron_Thomas, iStock.com
7. Phoenix: Travelers on a budget who want to explore the Southwest should head to Arizona’s capital. Airfare to Phoenix is relatively low at $327 for a domestic round trip, and drinks are the third-cheapest of all the cities on this list. There are plenty of free and affordable things to do, such as hiking through the Sonoran Desert, strolling in the city’s arts district or learning about Native American culture and history at the Heard Museum. Davel5957, Getty Images/iStockphoto
6. Denver: Denver ranks No. 6 on our list of vacation spots because airfare to the Mile High City is affordable, with the average domestic airfare at $301. However, the city’s nightly hotel rate falls in the middle at $90 a night. In a city known for its breweries, the cost of a beer is about average at $4.50. And if you’re a beer lover, Denver has a Beer Trail that includes 35 of the city’s breweries along its route. welcomia, Shutterstock.com
5. Austin, Texas: Austin is a hot spot for music lovers thanks to its live music scene and big-name festivals like South by Southwest. It makes it onto our list of best vacation spots because of its affordable accommodations and high safety score. But airfare to Austin costs more than flights to most of the other vacation spots — $346 for a round trip. You can offset the cost of a flight, though, by taking advantage of free and low-cost things to do in the city — such taking a dip in the popular Barton Springs Pool. RoschetzkyProductions, Shutterstock.com
4. Salt Lake City: If safety is a concern, consider vacationing in Salt Lake City. It has the best safety ranking on our list. Safe doesn’t mean boring, though. Salt Lake City offers plenty of outdoor recreation, arts and culture, and scenic attractions, such as the Great Salt Lake. The average airfare to Salt Lake City is on the pricier side, however. A round-trip flight costs just under $350, on average. ferrantraite, Getty Images/iStockphoto
3. San Antonio: Get your fill of Tex-Mex and a variety of other cuisines for a bargain in this Texas city. San Antonio has the lowest food costs in our rankings — just $30 for a three-course meal for two. The cost of a drink is also the lowest at $3.50 for a domestic beer, but the average airfare is relatively high at $359 for a round trip. While there, you can see many of San Antonio’s hot spots and historic sites by biking, strolling or taking a river cruise along the River Walk. Sean Pavone, Shutterstock.com
2. Las Vegas: Although Sin City is known for its lofty prices, the cost of traveling to and staying there is actually quite low. It’s the cheapest city to fly to, with an average airfare of $233. And because there are so many discount options, Las Vegas has the lowest average hotel price on our list — just $48 per night. If you can’t make it this summer, consider going in the spring — it’s the most affordable spring break destination in the U.S., a separate GOBankingRates study found. However, you will spend more on food and drink in Vegas than in some of the other best vacation spots on our list. You could also easily blow your budget at the casinos if you’re not careful. f11photo, Shutterstock.com
1. Orlando, Florida: A vacation at Disney World can be expensive, but the city where it’s located — Orlando — is the most affordable vacation destination on our list. There are plenty of inexpensive things to do outside of Disney World. Plus, airfare, food and drink costs in this Florida city are among the lowest in our rankings. The average cost of a flight is just $246. dszc, Getty Images/iStockphoto
No matter where you want to go, there are ways to save money on travel, including taking advantage of credit card rewards, finding free accommodations by house-sitting or doing a home exchange, and price shopping for cheap flights. Plan ahead and find things you can do for free at your destination of choice, so you don’t end up overspending while you’re there. And because you should indulge on vacation, look for cities with affordable food and drinks. View Apart, Shutterstock.com
Grass flies as Larry Webb mows a lawn in Greenwood, Ind., Friday, July 13, 2018. GreenPal is a Nashville-based smartphone application that recently launched in Indianapolis, allowing users to make appointments with local, vetted lawn care professionals. (Photo: Jenna Watson/IndyStar)Buy Photo
After the latest heat wave, local homeowners may be looking to stay indoors and hire others to mow their lawns outside.
An app that recently launched in the Indianapolis area aims to make the search for lawn care help easier.
GreenPal, a Nashville-based company that began in 2012, allows homeowners to use their smartphones to make appointments with local, vetted lawn care professionals.
Through the app, which officially launched in Indianapolis on June 15, homeowners can list their lawns, desired service date and specific lawn care needs. Local professionals can then offer bids based on images of the property, lot size and other details that homeowners provide.
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Homeowners can select a professional based on price, reviews and ratings.
"We have been called the Uber for lawn care," GreenPal co-founder Gene Caballero said. "It's a convenience for a homeowner, especially this time of year when it's hard to find a lawn care guy."
Once the lawn work is complete, lawn care providers send a time-stamped photo of the completed work to homeowners through the app, and homeowners can then use the app to pay the professionals and set up more appointments, Caballero said.
The GreenPal app allows homeowners to request and book lawn care appointments after receiving bids from lawn care professionals. (Photo: Courtesy of GreenPal)
Weekly, 10-day and bi-weekly appointments can be arranged through GreenPal, which is available for iPhone and Android devices, Caballero added.
So far, Caballero said about 30 lawn care providers are available through GreenPal in the Indianapolis area, with average prices per appointment ranging from $34 to $42. Data on the number of homeowners using the app in the Indianapolis area is not yet available, Caballero said.
Nationally, GreenPal operates in 39 cities, Caballero said.
The app, which charges lawn care providers a 5 percent transaction fee, offers the providers an effective marketing platform, Caballero said. Other lawn care apps exist, but those apps set the prices instead of allowing the lawn care providers to bid on work themselves, he said.
"GreenPal does not subcontract and allows vendors to bid on the properties, as they are the ones that know the lay of the land best," Caballero said.
Craig Russell, owner of ACR Lawn Care in Indianapolis, said he works full-time for AT&T and started out on GreenPal just looking for part-time lawn care gigs. However, he has found plenty of business on GreenPal.
"It's gotten to the point where it's almost turned into a full-time job now," Russell said regarding his lawn care work. "I have 27 customers just from GreenPal alone. About 20 are regulars."
Larry Webb mows a lawn in Greenwood, Ind., Friday, July 13, 2018. GreenPal is a Nashville-based smartphone application that recently launched in Indianapolis, allowing users to make appointments with local, vetted lawn care professionals. Webb is owner of Rock Solid Hardscapes and More, a Greenwood-based landscaping contractor, and accepts about 20 jobs each week through GreenPal. (Photo: Jenna Watson/IndyStar)
Larry Webb, owner of Rock Solid Hardscapes and More, a Greenwood-based landscaping contractor, said he uses GreenPal and appreciates how easy it is to find lawn care jobs through the app. Webb said he has accepted about 20 lawn care jobs each week through GreenPal.
"The app sends me notifications to bid," Webb said. "It's been an easy way to add business without really having to go out and try to generate (business) on my own."
Call IndyStar reporter Billy Kobin at 317-444-6123. Follow him on Twitter: @Billy_Kobin.
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Mortgage industry consulting firm adds valuation services to portfolio
Red Bell brings AVM expertise and more to Radian subsidiary
by Amy Tankersley Staff Writer
Clayton Holdings LLC, an operations and risk management consultant to the mortgage and real estate industries, announced today its acquisition of Red Bell Real Estate LLC, a valuation technology provider, for an undisclosed sum.
Clayton’s acquisition of Red Bell comes almost a year since it was acquired itself. In May 2014, the company was purchased by Radian Group, a private mortgage insurance provider, for $305 million. Now operating as a wholly owned subsidiary of Radian, Clayton provides information and services that financial institutions, investors and government entities use to evaluate, acquire, securitize, service, and monitor loans and asset-backed securities. To date, Clayton has performed due diligence on more than 10 million mortgage loans.
Clayton President Joe D’Urso said the Red Bell acquisition will enhance the company’s suite of technology solutions. Licensed to sell real estate in all 50 states, Red Bell typically co-lists properties with local, state-licensed real estate professionals. Red Bell also provides valuation products, including automated valuation models (AVMs) and broker price opinions (BPOs) used by major investors, lenders and loan servicers. The company’s technology helps investors monitor loan portfolio performance and direct loss-mitigation activities, acquire and track nonperforming loans (NPL), and value and sell real estate owned (REO) property through a secure platform.
“Red Bell has done a great job of delivering technology-based solutions that allow its clients to remain competitive within an ever-changing landscape,” D’Urso said. “Red Bell is an important step in our strategic road map and will serve as the platform and the foundation for new initiatives within the broader real estate market.”
The acquisition includes Main Street Valuation LLC, a sister company of Red Bell. The company will remain in its Salt Lake City-based headquarters and continue to operate under its current brand. Jeffrey Jonas, Red Bell’s co-founder, and his senior management team are also staying in place. No other terms of the transaction were announced.
“We are excited to join a world-class organization like Clayton that is committed to the real estate and mortgage markets, and is willing to expand our real estate operations and work to develop game-changing innovations,” Jonas said.
Email Amy Swinderman.
Article image credited to Sopotnicki/Shutterstock
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Tribute to HARLEM SCHOOL OF THE ARTS Founder Dorothy Maynor, by Soprano Willsonia Boyer at Merkin Concert Hall | Oct 16th at 8pm **THIS WEEKEND**
"...Ms. Boyer has a clear, pleasing timbre and superb interpretive instincts...with an alluring silkiness...rhythmic and coloristic flexibility...."
- Allan Kozinn, The New York Times
Willsonia Boyer, Soprano Honors Dorothy Maynor
A celebratory tribute to noted African American Soprano and founder of the Harlem School of the Arts
Saturday, October 16, 2010 at 8 pm
Merkin Concert Hall at Kaufman Center
2010 marks the centennial of Dorothy Maynor, the noted African American soprano and founder of Harlem School of the Arts who was one of a handful of renowned African American concert artists who forged a path for the acceptance of African American classical singers on opera and concert stages throughout the world.
New York, September 20, 2010-Soprano Willsonia Boyer, hailed by the New York Times as bringing a, "clear, pleasing timbre and superb interpretive instincts...," will honor the rich legacy of Dorothy Maynor in a celebratory tribute to the noted African American Soprano and founder of the Harlem School of the Arts at Merkin Concert Hall at Kaufman Center, on Saturday, October16, 2010 at 8pm. This year marks the centennial of Dorothy Maynor, who was one of a handful of renowned African American concert artists who forged a path for the acceptance of African American classical singers on opera and concert stages throughout the world. Pianist Marijo Newman will be accompanying Ms. Boyer.
Boyer's celebratory tribute to Dorothy Maynor will include works performed by Maynor during her illustrious career. The evening's program will include: O Sleep, Why Dost Thou Leave Me? from Semele, G.F. Handel; Mandoline, Gabriel Fauré; Extase, Henri Duparc; Beau Soir, Claude Debussy; Guitares et Mandolines, Gabriel Grovlez; Richard Strauss' Kling!, Nacht and Zueignung; Pace, pace mio Dio, from La Forza del Destino, Giuseppi Verdi; Samuel Coleridge-Taylor's My Love, Minguillo, She Rested by the Broken Brook and Thou Art Risen, My Beloved;. Nathaniel Dett's arrangement of Sometimes I Feel Like A Motherless Child, In That Morning, Go On, Brother; Depuis le jour, Gustave Charpentier.
WILLSONIA BOYER, soprano, performs both as an opera singer and as a concert artist. Presented by the Hans and Rosy Epstein Memorial Committee, Boyer made her New York recital debut at Merkin Concert Hall to critical acclaim. Operatic appearances include engagements with New York City Opera, Bregenz Festspiele, Virginia Opera, The Bronx Opera, and New Jersey Concert Opera and performance venues include Europe and South America, as well as the United States. Operatic roles include the title role of Aida, Serena in Gershwin's Porgy and Bess, Helen in Schubert's The Conspirators, the Countess and Sandrina in Mozart's The Marriage of Figaro and La Finta Giardiniera, respectively. In addition, Ms. Boyer has appeared with the New Jersey Concert Opera in the title role of Tosca, and as Helmwige in Die Walküre in 2006, in New York City Opera's premier of Margaret Garner in 2007, in Sherry Boone's and Sean Jeremy Palmer's Ellen Craft in 2009, and with the Hodie Ensemble at Merkin Concert Hall in June 2010. Future engagements include encore performances of this tribute to Dorothy Maynor, and appearing as guest soloist with the Ars Musica Chorale in June 2011. Ms. Boyer is currently regular soloist for Seventh Church of Christ, Scientist in New York City. Boyer, a native Virginian, holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Hollins University, a Master's degree from Virginia State University, where she studied with Dr. Richard Edwards. She also studied in France at the Conservatoire de Neuilly, specializing in contemporary music under the tutelage of Francois Bernard Mâche, a pupil of Olivier Messiaen. Ms. Boyer currently studies with retired Metropolitan Opera baritone, John Fiorito.
MARIJO NEWMAN, pianist has served as assistant conductor at New York City Opera as well as the accompanist for The St. Cecilia Chorus. Other credits include Opera New Jersey, premieres at the Galicia Museum (Krakow, Poland), American Composers Alliance and the Flexible Orchestra. As a recitalist, she has appeared at Merkin Concert Hall, Alice Tully Hall and the Tilles Center. Ms. Newman holds degrees from the Mannes College of Music and The City University of New York.
This year marks the centennial of noted African American soprano and founder of Harlem School of the Arts, DOROTHY MAYNOR (1910 - 1996), was one of a handful of renowned African American concert artists who forged a path for the acceptance of African American classical singers on opera and concert stages throughout the world. Maynor was the first African American to sing for the inauguration of an American President when she sang for President Harry Truman's first inauguration in 1949. Thereafter, Maynor also sang for President Dwight Eisenhower's inauguration in 1953. She was the first African American artist to perform at Constitution Hall in 1952 and in 1975, never able to sing at New York's Metropolitan Opera, Maynor became the first African American to join its board of directors. Born in Norfolk, Virginia, educated at Hampton Institute in Virginia and Westminster Choir College in New Jersey, Maynor made her formal debut at New York's Town Hall in 1939. Performances followed later that year with the Boston Symphony at Carnegie Hall and the New York Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra. Receiving rave reviews each time, these performances launched Maynor into a career as one of the most highly praised, sought-after and highly paid singers in the concert world - despite the world of opera being closed to her. Following a career spanning 25 years, Maynor turned to music education. In 1963, she founded the Harlem School of the Arts in New York City and served as its executive director until 1979. The Harlem School of the Arts continues to educate young artists of color to this day.
Listings Information:
Single tickets: $35
Group discounts and half-price student tickets are available.
Call the box office for details.
129 West 67th Street (between Broadway and Amsterdam)
Tickets at 212 501 3330 or www.kaufman-center.org
Kim Smith
ksmithpr@earthlink.net
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Second Annual Harlem Jazz Shrines Festival Set for May 7 - 13
The Apollo Theater, Harlem Stage and Jazzmobile Renew Partnership
to Present Second Annual Harlem Jazz Shrines Festival
May 7 - 13, 2012
Partners Celebrate Legacy of Jazz in Harlem Featuring
Concerts by Emerging and Established Artists,
Panel Discussions, Films and More
NEW YORK, NY, February 23, 2012 - The Apollo Theater, Harlem Stage and Jazzmobile, Inc. have joined forces again to present the second annual Harlem Jazz Shrines Festival May 7-13, 2012. Continuing the mission of the inaugural festival, the three venerable cultural organizations will present a series of concerts and events to celebrate the rich legacy of jazz in the uptown community. Bringing both established and emerging artists to famed Harlem venues, the festival will pay tribute to Club Harlem, Clark Monroe's Uptown House, Havana San Juan Club, Small's Paradise, Minton's Playhouse, Showman's Café, Park Palace, Lenox Lounge and the Apollo Theater. In addition to concerts at jazz shrines, other festival events will take place at Harlem Stage Gatehouse, Columbia University and a variety of locations throughout the Harlem area.
Designed to draw a diverse audience of neighborhood residents, New Yorkers and tourists, all events are offered at the affordable price of $10. Concerts are scheduled to allow people the option of attending several events each day, continuing the tradition of non-stop jazz throughout Harlem.
Highlights of the 2012 Harlem Jazz Shrines Festival include:
• Wycliffe Gordon's Jazz à la Carte - The Apollo's variety shows of the 1930's made a stellar comeback last year under the music direction of composer/trombonist Wycliffe Gordon and the director/choreographer Kenneth L. Roberson. The show returns when Gordon celebrates the world-renowned Apollo with host Maurice Hines, tap star Savion Glover, the Juilliard Jazz Orchestra, vocalist Theresa Thomason, pianist Aaron Diehl, trumpeter Philip Dizack, trombonist/vocalist Natalie Cressman and the Apollo Dancers.
• Tribute to Club Harlem: Celebrating Cecil - Three of today's most innovative pianists honor the uncompromising creative force of Cecil Taylor in two evenings of solo and duet performances. Vijay Iyer, Amina Claudine Myers and Craig Taborn will perform at the Harlem Stage Gatehouse.
• Small's Paradise: (Re) Created - Jazzmobile will take the bold leap to re-create the legendary Small's Paradise, once Harlem's premier night spot and longest-operating club. Working in collaboration with the Government and Community Affairs Department at the City College of New York, Jazzmobile will re-create Small's Paradise at Harlem USA, featuring the Revive Music Paradise Band, a 12-piece house band backing the famous Small's floor show complete with dancers (tap and swing) and singers recalling the music of Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, Cab Calloway and James P. Johnson. Small's Paradise (Re)Created sheds new light on an old tradition.
• Showman's Late Night Jazz - A week-long series produced by the Apollo Theater and Showman's at the legendary club frequented by Duke Ellington, Sarah Vaughan, Pearl Bailey, Grady Tate and countless others, continues the tradition with sessions featuring Danny Mixon, Lonnie Youngblood, Lou Volpe, Cynthia Holiday and Sarah McLawler.
• Tribute to Clark Monroe's Uptown House at Harlem Stage Gatehouse - Featuring some of the world's finest instrumentalists and vocalists, this year's Grammy winner for Best Jazz Vocal Album The Mosaic Project gives females a place to support and celebrate each other from a musical and social perspective. Terri Lyne Carrington will be joined by Lizz Wright, Nona Hendryx, Ingrid Jensen, Tia Fuller, Helen Sung, Mimi Jones and Nir Felder to construct creative consciousness as "women with voices."
• Minton's Playhouse: Legends on the Bandstand - Jazzmobile brings the famed club on 118th Street back to life with a celebration of some of the legends of the esteemed bandstand. Acknowledging iconic contributions are keepers of the flame, including TK Blue celebrating Charlie Parker, octogenarian Barry Harris remembering Thelonious Monk, Winard Harper with a tribute to Max Roach and an artist TBD paying homage to Dizzy Gillespie. Each set will be followed by a late night jam.
The three partners are again collaborating with Columbia University to bring humanities programming that will further highlight the cultural significance of Harlem and the Festival. The University's programming includes The Savoy King, a documentary on Swing-era drummer/bandleader Chick Webb, Ella Fitzgerald and the renowned Savoy Ballroom as well as an exploration of the spiritual dimensions of Harlem's aesthetic legacies in jazz.
The Harlem-wide jazz festival focuses on the venues, music, and artists that were central to Harlem's cultural landscape from the 1920's through the 1970's and on contemporary jazz artists. Designed to create a resurgence of jazz opportunities in Harlem, the Apollo Theater, Harlem Stage and Jazzmobile will present jazz in all its various forms and diverse formats including jazz dance, concert, club, cabaret and dance events. Through a dynamic range of programming, the Harlem Jazz Shrines Festival will enable the partners to highlight the role that local Harlem venues have played in the development of jazz.
"Following a successful and exciting inaugural festival year, the Apollo Theater is thrilled to continue to delve deeper not only into our own rich history, but also into the unique legacy of Harlem as an international center of jazz and culture, " said Mikki Sheppard, Executive Producer of the Apollo Theater. "The Festival is an economic driver for Harlem - it's a collaboration designed to support the artists, partner organizations, local clubs, restaurants and other local businesses throughout Harlem. To partner with Harlem Stage and Jazzmobile is an honor, and it has been a great pleasure to share programming and marketing ideas with these two outstanding cultural organizations."
Pat Cruz, Executive Director of Harlem Stage, added, "We are pleased to have seen music fans from around the world, as well as community residents, turn out to celebrate Harlem's jazz shrines and other venues. This partnership with Jazzmobile and the Apollo is an excellent way to share resources while continuing to build upon our mission of extending the legacy of jazz and music into the future through performances of young, dynamic artists."
"Jazzmobile has presented emerging artists and jazz giants throughout the beautiful City parks and streets of Harlem for 47 years, but in our partnership with Harlem Stage and the Apollo, we enjoy the special and unique challenge of recreating, reimagining and remembering some of Harlem's jazz shrines, " said Robin Bell-Stevens, President & CEO of Jazzmobile. "Our founder, the legendary Dr. Billy Taylor, would be proud to see jazz flourishing again at Small's Paradise and Minton's Playhouse and to know that during this week-long festival, jazz fans from around the world will be walking through the streets of Harlem ‘hopping' from club to club and concert halls throughout the community."
Tickets for many of the Harlem Jazz Shrines Festival events are available now. For tickets and more information on the Festival and its partners, visit the Harlem Jazz Shrines' website at www.Harlemjazzshrines.org and/or the organizations' websites at www.apollotheater.org, www.harlemstage.org and www.jazzmobile.org.
Harlem Jazz Shrines is made possible with generous support from the National Endowment for the Arts and The New York Community Trust - Elizabeth Meyer Lorentz Fund. This program is also supported, in part, by public funds from The New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council, Council Member Inez E. Dickens, and Speaker Christine Quinn; New York State Funding from Senator Bill Perkins, Assemblyman Keith L. T. Wright; the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation; and the New York State Council on the Arts. Celebrating Cecil is supported, in part, by public funds from the NEA Jazz Masters Live, a program of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Arts Midwest.
About the Apollo Theater
The Apollo Theater is one of Harlem's, New York City's, and America's most iconic and enduring cultural institutions. Since introducing the first Amateur Night contests in 1934, the Apollo Theater has played a major role in cultivating artists and in the emergence of innovative musical genres including jazz, swing, bebop, R&B, gospel, blues, soul, and hip-hop. Throughout its history, the Apollo has been a champion of jazz and jazz musicians. From the historic night in 1934 when Ella Fitzgerald first won Amateur Night, to performances by Benny Carter, Julian "Cannonball" Adderley, Louis Armstrong, Count Basie, Billie Holiday and Cab Calloway, the list of jazz greats who played the Apollo goes on and on. The Apollo Theater's new vision builds on its legacy and supports both artists and curators, who are African American and culturally diverse and emerging, mid-career and established in their career. The Apollo will continue to present historically relevant work and increase our presentations of more forward looking, contemporary work.
About Harlem Stage
For nearly 30 years Harlem Stage has been one of the nation's leading arts organizations, having achieved particular distinction through commissioning and presenting innovative works by artists of color and facilitating a productive engagement with the communities it serves through the performing arts. Harlem Stage has a long-standing tradition of supporting artists and organizations around the corner and across the globe, including legendary artists such as Harry Belafonte, Max Roach, Sekou Sundiata, Abbey Lincoln, Sonia Sanchez, Eddie Palmieri, and Tito Puente and contemporary artists such as Bill T. Jones, Vijay Iyer, Mike Ladd, Tania Léon, Carl Hancock Rux and Jason Moran. Its education programs each year provide 10, 000 New York City children with access to a world of diverse cultures through the performing arts. In 2006, Harlem Stage opened its new home, ¬ the landmarked, award-winning Gatehouse - once the source of fresh water flowing to New York City, now a vital source of creativity, ideas and culture.
About Jazzmobile
Jazzmobile, Inc., America's oldest not-for-profit arts organization created just for jazz, was founded in 1964 by NEA Jazz Master Dr. Billy Taylor and Daphne Arnstein. Its mission is to present, preserve, promote, and propagate Jazz - "America's classical music." Jazzmobile pioneered the concept of Jazz lecture-demonstrations and mobile Jazz performances presented across New York City, and continues to serve as a model for other Jazz music presentation-focused organizations around the country. Jazzmobile reaches approximately 100, 000 people in New York City each year, consisting of multi-ethnic audiences of all ages and socio-economic levels, including the disabled. In order to reach the largest possible audience, all of Jazzmobile's programming is presented at no or low-cost cost to participants. Other outreach includes instructional workshops and panels and symposia that provide a historical framework for Jazz and its significance to American culture.
About Columbia University in the City of New York
A leading academic and research university, Columbia continually seeks to advance the frontiers of knowledge and to foster a campus community deeply engaged in understanding and addressing the complex global issues of our time. Columbia's extensive public service initiatives, cultural collaborations, and community partnerships help define the University's underlying values and mission to educate students to be both leading scholars and informed, engaged citizens. Founded in 1754 as King's College, Columbia University in the City of New York is the fifth oldest institution of higher learning in the United States. To learn more, visit www.columbia.edu.
2012 Harlem Jazz Shrines Festival Calendar
All Tickets $10, unless otherwise noted
• Columbia University presents Jazz and the Spirit: The Arts of Harlem in the American Religious Imagination. A panel discussion led by Professor Josef Sorett, in collaboration with The Abyssinian Baptist Church and the Institute for Religion, Culture and Public Life, this program will focus on the connection of jazz to great religious institutions in Harlem and include a performance on the Abyssinian Baptist Church organ illustrating these deep connections to jazz and the American church musical tradition. With support from Columbia University School of the Arts Office of Community Outreach, Institute for Research in African-American Studies, Center for Jazz Studies and Columbia University Office of Government & Community Affairs. The Abyssinian Baptist Church. 6:00 - 8:00 pm. FREE.
• Jazzmobile presents Small's (Re)Created. Curated by Revive Music. Small's Paradise at Harlem USA. 9:00 pm-11:00 pm
• Jazzmobile presents Late Night Jam Session at Small's. Midnight - 2:00 am.
• Harlem Stage presents Blazing Tongues: The Singers & Writers of Lenox Lounge with Tulivu-Donna Cumberbatch singing Ella Fitzgerald, plus actress Beareather Reddy reading author Paule Marshall. Part of the Harlem Stride series. Two drink minimum. Lenox Lounge. 7:00 pm.
• Harlem Stage presents Celebrating Cecil: Tribute to Club Harlem, with Vijay Iyer, Craig Taborn, and Amina Claudine Myers. Part of the Harlem Stride series, in partnership with Issue Project Room and the Center for Jazz Studies at Columbia University. Harlem Stage Gatehouse. 8:00 pm.
• Apollo Theater presents Showman's Late Night Jazz with organist Danny Mixon. Limited seating. Standing room available, Two drink minimum per set. Free soul food appetizers are available. Showman's Café. 8:30 pm, 10:00 pm and 11:30 pm.
• Jazzmobile presents Small's Paradise Education and General Public Programs. Artists TBD. Small's Paradise at Harlem USA. 10:00 am - 6:00 pm.
• Harlem Stage presents Celebrating Cecil: Tribute to Club Harlem, with Vijay Iyer, Craig Taborn, and Amina Claudine Myers. Followed by "Decoding Cecil, " a discussion with the artists and George Lewis. Part of the Harlem Stride series, in partnership with Issue Project Room and the Center for Jazz Studies at Columbia University. Harlem Stage Gatehouse. 8:00 pm.
• Apollo presents Showman's Late Night Jazz with Lonnie Youngblood and the Blood Brothers. Limited seating. Standing room available, Two drink minimum per set. Free soul food appetizers are available. Showman's Café. 8:30 pm, 10:00 pm and 11:30 pm.
• Jazzmobile presents Minton's Playhouse: Legends on the Bandstand with TK Blue paying tribute to Charlie Parker. Minton's Playhouse. 10:00 pm - 11:30 pm.
• Jazzmobile presents Late Night Jam Session at Minton's Playhouse. Minton's Playhouse. Midnight - 2:00 am.
• Harlem Stage, celebrating Clark Monroe's Uptown House, presents this year's Grammy winner for Best Jazz Vocal Album The Mosaic Project with Terri Lyne Carrington featuring Lizz Wright, Nona Hendryx, Ingrid Jensen, Mimi Jones, Tia Fuller, Helen Sung, Nir Felder and more. Part of the Harlem Stride series. Harlem Stage Gatehouse. 7:30 pm.
• Apollo Theater presents Showman's Late Night Jazz with guitarist Lou Volpe. Limited seating. Standing room available, Two drink minimum per set. Free soul food appetizers are available. Showman's Café. 8:30 pm, 10:00 pm and 11:30 pm.
• Jazzmobile presents Minton's Playhouse: Legends on the Bandstand with a tribute to Dizzy Gillespie. Minton's Playhouse. 10:00 pm - 11:30 pm.
• Columbia University presents The Savoy King, a feature documentary on Swing-era drummer/bandleader Chick Webb, Ella Fitzgerald and the Savoy Ballroom, written, directed and produced by Jeff Kaufman; Co-executive Producers Jamal Joseph and Voza Rivers and The New Heritage Film Group. In collaboration with Columbia University School of the Arts Office of Community Outreach, Center for Jazz Studies, Institute for Research in African- American Studies, Teachers College Office of School & Community Partnerships and Columbia University Office of Government & Community Affairs. Teachers College, Cowin Auditorium. 6:00 - 8:00 pm.
• Harlem Stage presents Blazing Tongues: The Singers & Writers of Lenox Lounge featuring Gregory Generet singing Johnny Hartman, and author Ralph Ellison's writings on jazz. Directed by Tamara Tunie. Part of the Harlem Stride series. Two drink minimum. Lenox Lounge. 7:00 pm.
• Jazzmobile presents Small's (Re)Created. Co-curated by Monique Martin. Celebrating the innovation that the legendary Small's Paradise was known for, cellist Marika Hughes brings her band Bottom Heavy to a shared bill with genre-defying drummer Will Calhoun and friends for an evening of spirited music, movement and a bit of mayhem to keep it fresh. You never know who might sit in during the jam session that follows the set. Small's Paradise at Harlem USA. 7:00 pm-9:00 pm.
• Apollo Theater presents Apollo Music Café, Jazz Night. Kellylee Evans, Canadian jazz and soul vocalist and a 2004 Thelonious Monk International Jazz Vocal competition winner. Apollo Theater - Soundstage. Doors at 9:00 pm, Performance at 10:00 pm.
• Apollo Theater presents Showman's Late Night with vocalist Cynthia Holiday. Limited seating. Standing room available. Two drink minimum per set. Free soul food appetizers are available. Showman's Café. 9:00 pm and 11:00 pm.
• Jazzmobile presents Minton's Playhouse: Legends on the Bandstand with Barry Harris paying tribute to Thelonious Monk. Minton's Playhouse. 10:00 pm - 11:30 pm.
• Jazzmobile presents Late Night Jam Session at Minton's Playhouse. Midnight - 2:00 am.
• Apollo Theater presents Wycliffe Gordon's Jazz a la Carte, a variety show of big band music, song, and dance. Music Director Wycliffe Gordon, Director/Choreographer Kenneth L. Roberson, hosted by Maurice Hines featuring the Juilliard Jazz Orchestra, Savion Glover, Theresa Thomason, Aaron Diehl, Philip Dizack, Natalie Cressman and the Apollo Dancers.. Apollo Theater. 3:00 pm and 8:00 pm.
• Harlem Stage presents Tribute to Club Havana San Juan featuring The Havana San Juan Orchestra led by Louis Bauzo plus other featured artists. Curator/Producer: Geno Chaviano. Harlem Stage Gatehouse. 8:00pm and 10:00pm.
• Apollo Theater presents Apollo Music Café, Jazz Night. Pianist Marc Cary and his group, Cosmic Indigenous. Apollo Theater - Sound Stage. Doors at 9:00 pm, Performance at 10:00 pm.
• Apollo Theater presents Showman's Late Night Jazz with organist Sarah McLawler and Les Femmes Jazz. Limited seating. Standing room available, Two drink minimum per set. Free soul food appetizers are available. Showman's Café. 9:00pm and 11:00pm.
• Jazzmobile presents Minton's Playhouse: Legends on the Bandstand with Winard Harper in a tribute to Max Roach. Minton's Playhouse. 10:00 pm - 2:00 am.
• Jazzmobile celebrates Park Palace, the true temple for authentic mambo. Jazzmobile, in collaboration with the Museum for African Art, will present Dancing Mambo/Park Palace Live!, a re-creation of the Sunday matinee dances featuring a multi-generational Afro-Cuban Jazz Band led by Bobby Sanabria with special guest artists and the legendary Candido. The Museum for African Art. 4:00 - 7:00 pm.
*Schedule and Artists Subject to Change
The Abyssinian Baptist Church
132 Odell Clark Place (formerly 138th Street)
(212) 862-7474 / www.abyssinian.org
Apollo Theater
253 W 125th Street
(212) 531-5305 / www.apollotheater.org
Harlem Stage Gatehouse
150 Convent Avenue at West 135th Street
(212) 281-9240 Ext. 19 or 20 / www.harlemstage.org
Lenox Lounge
Malcolm X Boulevard between 124th & 125th
(212) 427-0253 / www.lenoxlounge.com
Minton's Playhouse
Park Palace
The Museum for African Art Plaza
5th Avenue & 110th Street
Showman's Café
Small's Paradise
Harlem USA
2309 Frederick Douglass Blvd., 2nd Floor
(Entrance through the Magic Johnson Theater Lobby)
Teachers College, Cowin Auditorium at Columbia University
525 West 125th Street (Entrance near Broadway at 120th street)
(212) 678-3000 / www.tc.columbia.edu
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Researchers Create New Hope For Sickle Cell Sufferers
Angela G. King
It’s no bigger than a dime, thus inspiring the occasional “lab-on-a-chip” reference, but a tiny blood-analyzing device created by a multidisciplinary team of researchers helmed by the president of Carnegie Mellon University could prove mammoth in helping to bring much-needed relief to people with sickle cell disease.
Like 26-year-old Je’Lisa Glass, who has spent her life wracked with unpredictable bouts of acute pain. Such is the plight of genetics gone awry that includes this native Detroiter among some 25 million individuals worldwide, 100,000 of them here in the United States, who share the disorder she was born with.
“I have had crises all my life,” the budding professional make-up artist shared of lasting pain episodes that are sometimes preceded by a temporary ache in her arms warning her of the excruciation to come. At other times, she’s blindsided by pain in her arms and legs comparable to “being hit with a hammer or bat over and over again.”
And the attacks come far more often as an adult, Glass revealed, than the five or six times a year throughout childhood that they forced her to be hospitalized.
“Just this year alone, I’ve probably been admitted to the hospital twice a month,” she specified one evening four days into a second hospitalization in two weeks.
Glass’ suffering is just what Carnegie Mellon president Subra Suresh and the engineers, biologists, applied mathematicians and clinicians allied with him have spent the past decade honing a diagnostic means to help doctors and researchers better treat and, ultimately, eradicate. Using a technology called microfluidics, Subresh and his team have developed a mechanism to vary the oxygen levels of blood samples and, thus, observe the unique mutation patterns of red cells in people with sickle cell disease.
People with sickle cell disease inherit a deviant gene from each of their parents that combined, causes them to have abnormal hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. As a result, their red blood cells that periodically morph from round pliable shapes traveling easily through the body’s small and large blood vessels, into rigid, sickled forms that clump together to block the smallest vessels. This sudden obstruction of oxygen to the body’s tissues can render someone anemic and vulnerable to infections. Plus lead to jaundice, leg ulcers, organ damage and even strokes. And randomly trigger severe pain spells in the arms, legs, chest, stomach, lower back, and joints and bones.
“So far, there is no good way to predict when exactly a pain crisis will occur or how severe it may be,” noted Ming Dao, one of the researchers working with Suresh.
The cross section of researchers who Suresh oversees to help confront this global health challenge join him from the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Florida Atlantic University and Brown University. As well as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where Dao is a principal in the materials science and engineering department.
Their microfluidic device awaits several patent approvals that could start coming through in 2017, disclosed Suresh, adding that it has even garnered attention from several companies, including a startup, already considering its commercial potential.
Shuichi Takayama, a professor of biomedical engineering at the University of Michigan, pointed out that “all living systems like plants and animals are ‘microfluidic’ in having blood vessels, veins, etc.”
Think, then, of a miniature replica of a living system in which human tissue can be infused to approximate the behavior of whole organs. Allowing “clotting, bleeding, cell adhesion, immune response and inflammation to be measured using a fraction of the blood volume required by traditional assays, at a fraction of the cost,” noted Dr. Patrick Hines.
He launched Functional Fluidics LLC in 2014 to market just such a microfluidic-based diagnostic system that he has developed with fellow researchers, Drs. Jennell White and Xiufeng Gao, as an assistant professor of pediatric critical care medicine at Wayne State University in Detroit.
“Researchers have been developing sophisticated diagnostic tests and biomarkers to predict risk and provide better individualized therapy for cancer patients for years,” noted the physician in the intensive care unit at Children’s Hospital of Michigan as well. “Yet blood function abnormalities [like sickle cell disease] kill more people than any other cause worldwide, and more effective blood function tests are urgently needed.”
Funded in part by the National Institutes of Health, the microfluidic device conceived by Suresh and his team includes a double-layered transparent polymer chip bonded onto a glass slide. Tunneled throughout one layer is a network of “micro-gates” for the cell-containing blood to flow through, while the other layer contains a network for manipulated amounts of oxygen, Dao explained.
A thin plastic membrane separating both sets of channels allows a gas exchange without any blood leaking because the membrane is only gas permeable, he continued. The entire device is mounted onto a microscope. Thin, flexible tubes extending from several ports link it to a pressure controller as well that lets researchers input and output oxygen to observe the sickling rates of red blood cells. The data from this surveillance is recorded on an accompanying computer.
“If I never have another crisis, I feel like I could do so much more, and not have to feel like a failure again,” shared Glass. To be able to predict and, therefore, prevent such bouts of physical agony that, most recently, has prevented her from completing a five-month program began back in February to become a certified cosmetologist, she surmised, would be life changing.
King is a Detroit-area writer, independent filmmaker and actress who carries the genetic trait for sickle cell disease. For more information about her, go to www.squarepegroundholecreation.com.
Lakeith Stanfield Creates an Epic Awards Moment
Charleston Shooting Court Case Intensifies
Jackson may be suffering from depression
Talk to the Soul Man column
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Good Deeds Day & Community Service Day with The Federation
By The Jewish Federation
On Sunday, April 7th, The Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles hosted our second Community Service Day of the year in conjunction with Good Deeds Day. Volunteers of all ages joined together to uphold the Jewish commandment of tikkun olam — a Hebrew phrase that means “repairing the world” — by participating in six different projects throughout the Los Angeles area.
Good Deeds Day is a global movement that unites thousands of businesses and organizations in 100+ countries in doing good deeds for the benefit of others and the planet. Through this partnership, now in its third year, The Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles provided an opportunity for our volunteers to make a positive impact on Los Angeles and share the responsibility for healing and transforming the world as part of a global effort.
We aim to inspire, empower, and galvanize our volunteer base to address the issues that face the Jewish community and the greater Los Angeles community as well. More than 130 volunteers signed up to participate in the six projects we offered with our partner organizations.
NuRoots volunteers, ages 22-40, came together to help remodel and refresh a Family Solutions Center at PATH (People Assisting the Homeless) to make it a more pleasant space for the single moms and children who live there and for those nearby who are at risk of homelessness. Volunteers built and painted furniture, hung new decorations, and created a yarn art installation. Charly Ligety and his wife Carley Markovitz had this to say about their volunteer experience:
“There is no better way to learn about the problems impacting those in our community, while also making a small contribution towards addressing those problems, than by getting involved with community service.
My wife and I are very passionate about alleviating the homelessness crisis in L.A. and beyond. We need to be creating a community that welcomes everyone in Los Angeles, especially for our most vulnerable neighbors and families caught in difficult times…towards a much brighter future.”
In Koreatown, we hosted a project partnering with Alexandria House where volunteers cooked a spaghetti lunch for 30 resident women and their children and assisted with cleaning and setting up a room for an incoming family, organizing the onsite food pantry, and deep cleaning a bathroom and the kitchen. Some of the residents also had a great time visiting with volunteers over lunch. Kelsey Ikemoto shared:
“My favorite part of the day was connecting and getting to know the other volunteers. It was incredibly rewarding to work alongside others, all doing so out of the kindness of their hearts. To me, that’s the true meaning of community.”
Danit Grill also shared, “I have heard of this organization and think it is a wonderful place. I wish there were safe places like this for all women and children in need. This place speaks to me since I am a woman myself and work with children as a teacher. I really enjoyed interacting with the residents even if only for a short time.”
Another volunteer, Paula Sonkin, said, “I really enjoy participating in the Federation’s Community Service Days because there is always a choice of options that offer something for everyone. I try to select something different each time. It’s only a quarterly, one-time, half-day commitment. Frankly, I can’t think of an easier way to give back to the community.”
In West Los Angeles, volunteers joined residents at Beit T’Shuvah to learn about their stories of addiction and recovery and helped assemble 200 sack lunches to be donated to the Hollywood Food Coalition for distribution to the homeless. Jasmine Mizrahi shared:
“This day seemed to encapsulate all of the reasons why I started volunteering — to express gratitude for a strong and uplifting community, share a passion for volunteering, participate with a group of people that shares a common interest, and deal with one’s personal struggles in a setting that harbors respect, trust, and compassion. I really appreciate the fact that The Jewish Federation hosts these Community Service Days because it gives people like me the ability to listen to different perspectives and struggles that people in neighboring communities go through. The Beit T’Shuvah project broadened my insight on the homeless population that faces challenges that are exceedingly difficult to understand and complex in nature. Beit T’Shuvah not only gives people a home to recover but also has created a community that instills trust within its members.”
We returned to Safe Place for Youth (SPY), a homeless youth drop-in center in Venice to learn about their expanding services. Volunteers put together 96 hygiene kits, sorted clothing closet donations, and helped clean the outdoor furniture. When asked about her experience, Denise Braun had this to share:
“I chose to participate in the Federation Community Service Day because my dad always taught me about the meaning of tzedakah. I grew up in Brazil seeing my dad and family serve the Jewish community. My uncle (my dad’s brother) worked several years at a famous Jewish-Brazilian non-profit called Unibes. My family taught me about giving back to society and to learn from these experiences. If each person helps another living being, our world would be a much better place! I love the mission of SPY! As a Westside resident, I can affirm that every day we see more homeless people on the streets. If we help them, we have the potential to build trusting relationships and a more prosperous community.”
We also had the opportunity to volunteer with L’dough V’dough at the Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust. 40 challot were braided by volunteers as they listened to firsthand stories from Holocaust survivors. Each volunteer was able to take a challah home with them. A few anonymous participants shared their thoughts about the day:
“The highlight of the day was hearing firsthand survivor stories, that these are real people in our midst. And that the effects of the war are nowhere near done, not just for the dead but for the living and their offspring as well.”
Another participant shared, “I brought my 15-year-old grandson with me, and his interaction with Helen, the Holocaust survivor who spoke to us, was precious and deeply meaningful.”
And a last comment, “I cannot wait for the next event like this so I can bring more people — my son and parents, to start. And the challah was delicious!”
And finally, in Santa Monica, in partnership with The Karsh Family Social Service Center at the People Concern, volunteers assembled 240 turkey sandwiches and packed lunch bags for individuals facing homelessness and food insecurity. After assembly, volunteers distributed lunches to 150 individuals with a cup of hot coffee and a warm welcome. Our group volunteer leader at OPCC shared:
“Volunteers interacted directly with clients when the clients came into a courtyard where each volunteer handed each client a bag, poured clients coffee, or served them a bagel. We ask that each time a volunteer interacts with a client, they make eye contact and speak briefly with the client, saying something like “enjoy this meal,” “have a good day,” or whatever else may be meaningful to them. We encourage this kind of interaction because the sandwich preparation and bag assembly are things we do as a group, but the individual handing off of these items is about a one-on-one connection, recognizing the humanity and dignity in one another. On an organizational level, it was a success to have such great volunteers participate who had not heard of this activity before but seemed interested in coming back to continue being part of this effort.”
Thank you to everyone who made this such a meaningful day. We hope you will mark your calendars and join us for our next Community Service Day where volunteers can help local kids prepare for the time of their lives at the Federation’s annual Gear Up for Camp Day on Sunday, June 2nd. For more information about Community Service Days with The Jewish Federation, please contact Volunteer@JewishLA.org.
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From my last business trip to Milan, Italy
On Feb 12, I had an appointment with Daniela from Jewish community. We met at Shoah Memorial building in the Centrale Train station. Location was not clear since most people including my concierge at hotel did not know but they looked it up online and told me it is on central station. I took 4 stops on the subway from Duomo to Central Station and got of there. I asked few people without any until a police officer told me where it is. I walked the station and in the end, found a concrete building without sign. There were some high school student group waiting. So I thought this is it. I walked in and was told it is not open. So I called Daniela and she came out to let me in. Daniela told me it is new and still under construction. The city donated a portion of the building and architects designed it. It is from this same place Jews get deported from 1942-45. The deportation was going on during the war but Nazis did not want Milanese to know, so it’s been done quietly from first floor under train station . The platform was originally used as a mail train. People who were getting on trains with their daily life trips upstairs did not know what was going on…. It is under track 21. This deportation went on literally underneath the noses of the Milan population day after day, year after year. Imagine the loss or absence in the local infrastructure as these created a void in the community. But still it went on… on platform ramp
Currently there are no funds to keep it open so it is used for educational purposes or for groups on request. They hope to have it running in 2014 . It had display on train cars (one car had a memorial wreath). On the platform there are plaques on locations where trains went and who was on this train (Besides Jews where communists, Roma, homosexuals). This space that was tragically transformed from a post office during the second world war to the point of departure for all deportees to the death camps (Auschwitz and Bergen-Belsen) concentration and transit camps. There is separate stands with people’s personal stories and in the future will be planned separate rooms. There is a meditation or reflection room. Continuous movie was running in Italian. The visitors as I said were high school students and I noticed how their faces changed from innocent youth running and pushing around before they entered the memorial to sober serious. I thought it is a very powerful experience for young people. Inside the building is the hall and wall of indifference. Although the space went trough renovations much was left as original with beams and columns exposed. They developed a time line as it is followed to memorialize the people with photos and cinematic displays. The building entrance has a ramp that shows the difference in elevation corresponding to the original loading platform. The ramp descends to the lower level containing the library and a place of reflection. The place of reflection is in the shape of a truncated cone is an isolated quiet space devoid of symbolic connotations. The area of the Stazione Centrale is one of the parts of the city that have greatest room to breathe: the urban space onto which the Shoah Memorial faces is worthy of a European capital and the size of the buildings and breadth of the streets are unusual for Milan. But it is still a space that surprises and stirs. Being in this place still I still have a great sense of sorrow in me today. It is hard to imagine what those people who were brought here by force in carts and then loaded onto the train, detached, separated from their families, were thinking about their future. I think of the anguish of their “unknown destination”.
There is the list of the names of deportees that run along the wall for the entire length of the platform. To increase the emotional effective these names appear and are highlighted one by one. The “wall of books” – silent witnesses – will be visible from the outside, as a symbolic image of the Memorial, which is not a museum of Itself but a space of awareness, working through and passing on. For more information see www.memorialdelashoah.org
Disclaimer: this report presents just an opinion of individuals who’s been there…. Tastes Differ… Copyrights Jewish Travel Agency, Emco Travel, LLC.
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Innovation and job creation the theme of the Intelligent Community Forum annual Global Summit June 5-7 in New York. NYU/Polytechnic hosts gathering of world’s top seven communities
Posted by Matthew Owen | June 4th, 2013
(New York City, June 4, 2013) — The Intelligent Community Forum (ICF) will hold its annual Summit this week in New York City. The invitation-only three-day event is an international gathering of mayors, chief administrative officers, chief information officers and economic development officers from cities, states and regions around the world that are designated Intelligent Communities by the ICF. The theme this year is “Innovation and Jobs”.
Produced in partnership with the Polytechnic Institute of New York University, the event brings the world's most dynamic communities together to discuss how to use information and communications technology innovation to create jobs and sustainable communities.
On June 7 at the Steiner Film Studios, the ICF will announce the name of the world’s 2013 Intelligent Community of the Year. Video of the announcement will be available on the ICF Web site later on the afternoon of June 7.
Speakers at the Summit include:
Mike Lazaridis, Founder of Blackberry, and Managing Partner of Quantum Valley Investments will speak at the Awards Luncheon on Friday, June 7 and accept the 2013 Intelligent Community Visionary of the Year Award. More on Mike Lazaridis
Uzo Udemba, Founder and CEO of The Udemba Group will speak at the June 5 Alumni Dinner. The Udemba Group is a Nigerian Holding Company working in engineering, technology, media & entertainment as well as developing an Intelligent City in Lagos, Nigeria.
Mayor Michael Coleman of Columbus, Ohio, the only U.S. city in the Top7 Intelligent Communities of 2013, will be participating in a “conversation” with ICF co-founder Robert A. Bell on June 6th regarding his city’s economic success.
Other VIPs include:
Dana McDaniel, Deputy City Manager of Dublin, Ohio, USA, will receive ICF’s third-ever Lifetime Achievement Award at the Awards Luncheon on June 7 at Steiner Film Studios.
Andrew Buss, Director of Innovation Management, Office of Innovation & Technology, City of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA, will speak at the ICF Master Class discussion of ICF strategies on June 5.
Representatives from each of the Top7 Intelligent Communities of 2013 will be available.
Key Events:
The Intelligent Community of the Year Luncheon – June 7, 12:30pm-2:30pm, at Steiner Studios Stage Six, Brooklyn Navy Yard Redevelopment, Brooklyn.
The Master Class - June 5, 9:00am-5:00pm, at the offices of Hunton & Williams, in the MetLife Building, between 44th and 45th Streets on Park Avenue, adjacent to Grand Central Terminal in midtown Manhattan.
The Intelligent Communities Reception and Alumni Dinner - June 5, 6:00pm-9:00pm, at The Harmonie Club, 6 East 60th Street off of Central Park East.
The Top7 Intelligent Communities of 2013 Reception – June 6, 7:00pm-9:00pm, at the Taiwan Economic and Cultural Office, 1 East 42nd Street. Hosted by Taiwan’s Ambassador Andrew Kao.
About Intelligent Community Forum
The Intelligent Community Forum (ICF) studies and promotes the best practices of the world's Intelligent Communities as they adapt to the demands and seize the opportunities presented by information and communications technology (ICT). To help communities build prosperous economies, solve social problems and enrich local cultures, ICF conducts research, hosts events and produces its high-profile international awards program. ICF has published three books, the most current “Seizing Our Destiny” in October 2012. During the past decade, ICF has become an international movement that attracts the attention of global leaders, thinkers, and media observers. The ICF Foundation consists of 119 cities and regions that have been designated as Intelligent Communities by ICF and which participate in an ongoing global dialogue to strengthen local economies. For more information, go to www.intelligentcommunity.org.
Intelligent Community Forum Contacts
Louis Zacharilla
Co-Founder Intelligent Community Forum
Phone: 001-917-715-0711
Email: lzacharilla@intelligentcommunity.org
market2world communications inc.
Email: paul@market2world.com
About Matthew Owen
Director of Operations, Intelligent Community Forum
See other pages related to Press Releases Summit
Matthew Owen published this page in News & Media 2016-05-27 11:21:38 -0400
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Cheating Gambler Jailed for Contempt of Court
A cheating gambler who persisted in harassing employees of a national bookmaking chain within minutes of being warned to desist by a judge has been committed to prison for 12 months for his flagrant contempt of court. The man had mounted a campaign against employees of Ladrokes Betting & Gaming Limited.
At an earlier hearing he had been handed a suspended sentence and given a stern warning that he would be sent to prison if he persisted in harassing the company’s staff or attempted to enter any of the company’s betting shops in breach of a court order. Judge Richard Seymour jailed him after hearing that, just a few minutes after that sentence was imposed, the man abused one of the company’s directors and threatened to break another’s jaw within the precincts of the court.
The man had previously unsuccessfully sued the company, claiming that it had failed to pay him substantial winnings. A county court judge had condemned him as a cheat, having used a ‘slow counting’ method and distraction to confuse betting shop staff. In various court proceedings involving the gambler, Ladbrokes had run up legal bills in excess of £200,000.
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Logan County Department of Human Services…
Logan County Department of Human Services receives performance award
Sara Waite / Sterling Journal-Advocate
Dave Long (left), director of the Logan County Department of Human Services, accepts the Distinguished Performance Award, from Reggie Bicha, Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Human Services.
Reggie Bicha, Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Human Services, talks to employees of the Logan County Department of Human Services at a Distinguished Performance Award celebration Thursday.
The Logan County Department of Human Services held a celebration with a special guest Thursday.
Reggie Bicha, executive director for the Colorado Department of Human Services, visited Sterling to present the county DHS with a Distinguished Performance Award. Logan County was one of only 20 departments in the state to meet the requirements for the award in 2017, ranking 18th in the state on its performance on the relevant metrics.
The state looks at 20 of the C-STAT measures to determine the recipients of the Distinguished Performance Award. The C-STAT is a performance-based analysis system that looks primarily at outcomes and outputs to improve results and address shortcomings. Logan County DHS Director Dave Long explained C-STAT as the “measure of the ability to do things we’re supposed to do.”
Bicha said the purpose of C-STAT is to ensure that state-level policy and budget decisions are “linked… to the things that you all are needing and you’re doing.” It also provides a way for county-level staff to be clear about the department goals.
Bicha said he’s learned that the best way to motivate people is to “celebrate success,” which is why he’s made it a point to travel to the county agencies to present their awards in person.
To receive the Distinguished Performance Award, a county department must meet its goals at least 75 percent of the time over the course of the year.
“Our C-STAT goals are not easy goals; they’re hard goals,” Bicha said. “We set high goals because it’s the people who are depending upon us to get the work done that we need to do to make sure that they’re safe, that they have the resources that they need, that they’re on the path to being better off.”
2017 was the first year Logan County received the Distinguished Service Award, and Bicha said their results from 2018 so far are going “in great directions.”
“All of that measure stuff translates into real people living right here in Logan County,” Bicha said, “who because of the work you’re doing, we have greater assurances they’re getting the right services in the right way in the right time, which puts them on a pathway to hopefully move out of poverty, to be better, stronger parents for their kids, to get kids a better chance of graduating from school, and doing all of those things that are so important in their lives.”
Bicha also thanked Long and the Logan County Commissioners for their leadership to ensure that the department is successful.
To celebrate Logan County’s achievement, Bicha brought out cupcakes to share with the staff.
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Israel and the Garden of Eden
We can offer solutions for homeland security, ecology, energy, desertification and water resources.
By Yoram Dori
jp.services2. (photo credit: )
It is said of Israel that she is a mini-cosmos. A country of immigrants hailing from more than 120 countries: fair-skinned and dark-skinned, Chinese and Indian, haredim and atheists. An 80 percent Jewish majority that lives alongside an Arab minority, mostly Muslims, an island in an Islamic sea in the throes of a power struggle between Shi'ite and Sunni hegemony, and counting a population of 7 million spread over an area (sovereign Israel) that measures a mere 20,770 kilometers. The world, led by the United States, is facing a number of challenges that are undermining its very existence and threatening its social fabric: the destabilization of homeland security at the hands of Islamist terrorism and the failure of efforts to democratize the Arab world, in addition to ecological issues and global warming, dwindling water reserves in parts of the world and the risk of their becoming polluted in others, as well as the steep price being paid for dependency on oil and the spiraling prices of this commodity as a result. DUE TO its composition, size, location and borders, Israel constitutes an incubator or, more precisely, a model, which can serve to find solutions for global issues and implement them. Take democratization and modernization: Some 1.5 million Arabs live in Israel. Given that ever since its establishment Israel has been a democratic country that accords full rights to all of its citizens regardless of gender, religion, race or nationality, this has had an impact also on its Arab minority. Israel's Arab sector is tangible proof that there is no in-built contradiction in terms between democracy and Islam. Israel counts over 100 local authorities in the Arab sector: municipalities and local and regional councils that are voted in by democratic elections, with the participation of over 60 percent of the Arab electorate or more. Most of these authorities are situated in northern Israel (the Galilee), where the population is 50 percent Jewish and 50 percent non-Jewish, and southern Israel (the Negev) with a 25 percent Bedouin population. Aside from democratization, the Arab sector is also on the path towards modernization. Over 19,000 Arab students enroll every year in institutions of higher education; a large percentage of doctors and nurses in northern Israel hospitals are Arab, and the Jewish patients have no misgiving in consigning their lives to their hands. Industrial zones are being founded in the Arab sector and at present the Vice Prime Minister's Office (Shimon Peres) is advancing the establishment of joint Jewish-Arab industrial zones. Arab Nazareth and nearby Jewish populated Nazareth Ilit are promoting an initiative to establish a joint academic research complex, and a considerable number of projects are being implemented with government funding to stimulate outstanding achievements among the Bedouin population of the Negev, as are also vocational programs for Arab women. THEN THERE is homeland security: Israel is possibly the only country in the western world that has never requested the American army to fight on her behalf. Not one American mother or father needs to worry about the fate of a son fighting on Israeli soil for its protection. Despite the serious disadvantage of being small in number, Israel is nevertheless able to produce from its ranks brave and highly trained soldiers equipped with state-of-the-art technologies and, above all, motivated by a spirit of justice and moral values. Today, Israel is developing anti-terrorist weapons based on nano-technology (sensors, miniature batteries and communication networks, to name just some) that will at the end of the day be of service to the whole of the enlightened world in its fight against the madness of those who employ terrorism seeking to kill for the sake of killing and destroy for the evil pleasure of destroying. Ecology and alternative energy represent another area where Israel has something to offer the world. Israel has decided to fight waterway pollution and the Ministry for Environmental Protection together with the Vice Prime-Minister's Office are funding extensive initiatives in this field. The latest and most important project is a plan to clean up the Jordan River. Shared by Israel and Jordan, this is a river which, by the way, is richer in public relations than water, and its rejuvenation calls for dialogue between former enemies and a great deal of good will. It can therefore serve as a model of ecology in the service of peace for many a country around the world. Israel's efforts, in cooperation with the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and the Palestinian Chairman's Office, are testimony of the advantages emanating from the determination to overcome political obstacles through environmental leverage. ISRAEL, A country that lacks natural resources, invests considerable assets in developing alternative sources of energy, such as solar energy - a whole settlement in the Negev, Darijat, enjoys a supply of electricity generated by a grid of solar heaters deployed on the village roof-tops - and pursues R&D on other energy approaches, among them shale and giant chimneys. Because Israel is to all intents and purposes an island operating within confined borders because of its neighbors, the country constitutes an exceptional experimental site to test electric-generated vehicles. The greatest distance one can drive in Israel is a few hundred kilometers, ideal conditions for the usage of vehicles operating on rechargeable batteries. Israel's meager water resources have turned it into a development center for desalination plants, reducing the cost of water production. Israeli desalination installations have been erected in neighboring Cyprus and similar plants can serve as a solution for the shortage of water in some of the dry Islamic countries. The government has recently erected a special center for water technologies in the Negev which is developing the means of safeguarding water, reducing wastage and leakage, maximizing effective water usage and making other water-related advances. This center is a dream project for every potential investor in this field. ISRAEL THUS constitutes the definitive model for addressing, and finding solutions to some of the major challenges on the global agenda. Israel can serve as a Garden of Eden in identifying advanced solutions for homeland security, ecological issues, rising energy prices and the fight against desertification and water shortages. Our little "mini-cosmos" can benefit humanity as a whole. That's the role we'd like to play and that's the role we should be playing with the right kind of backing from those who share our vision. The writer is the senior strategic adviser to Shimon Peres.
By AARON KATSMAN
By LEON HARRIS
By HILLEL FULD
Europe could pay high price for ignoring the Iranian/Hezbollah threat
By ELY KARMON
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Thoughts on the Middle East, History and Religion
Search Informed Comment
© 2019 Informed Comment
No, Iranian President Rouhani didn’t Call Trump “mentally Retarded”
Juan Cole 06/26/2019
Ann Arbor (Informed Comment) – The New York Times and other Western news outlets reported on a speech of Iranian president Hassan Rouhani that expressed frustration with the US government in general and President Trump in particular, alleging that he called Trump “retarded.”
There has been a long history of mistranslation from Persian in US press and government circles, with the apparent attempt to make Iran look bad and ratchet up tensions between the two countries (as if that were really necessary).
It was alleged that former Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad had threatened to “wipe Israel off the map.” I demonstrated that Ahmadinejad was simply quoting an old speech by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini (d. 1989), the founder of the Islamic Republic of Iran. In it, Khomeini had said that “the Occupation regime over Jerusalem will be vanish from the arena of time.” Vanish is intransitive in the Persian, contrary to what critics alleged to the New York Times. Ethan Bronner and Nazila Fathi did a fluff piece trying to justify the “wiped off the map” translation which in my view was dishonest. In any case, wishing the Occupation would go away eventually is not the same as rolling tanks, which “wipe of the face of the map” implies (there is no such idiom in Persian).
Although I made a good run at challenging the stupid wrong translation, the “wipe off the face of the map” rendering decisively won and became the tag line for all articles in English about Iran for many years. Only when Ahmadinejad’s star fell and he went out of office and his successors used less quirky language did the thing begin to go away (suspiciously coinciding the the advent of the Obama team in the White House, who weren’t interested in war with Iran.)
Rouhani did not say that Trump is “mentally retarded.” I’m not even sure if there is an exact Persian phrase that carries with it the connotations of “retarded,” which is in any case no longer a politically correct term in English, since challenged people are not retrograde, they are challenged.
In his speech, Rouhani objected to the financial sanctions placed by the US on Iran’s clerical Leader, Ali Khamenei. Khamenei as an ayatollah receives religious donations from all over the world– Pakistan, Afghanistan, India, Lebanon, Iraq, Canada, etc– which he then sends back out via agents to the poor. This would be like the US trying to stop Vatican charity.
Rouhani also said that the US White House was palpably agitated and frustrated these days, because nothing they did to Iran had any real effect. He said that the US elite imagined that after three months of severe sanctions and Iran’s inability to sell its oil abroad, the government would collapse.
Obviously, although its economy is hurting, Iran has not collapsed.
Rouhani also thought the US is so nervous that it overreacted to the shoot-down of what he characterized as a US spy drone by Iran. He said that in addition, “the White House is confronting mental illness (ma`luliyat-i dhihni).”
The phrase he used comes from medieval Arabic medicine. An `illah is an etiology or cause for a disease. Someone stricken with a symptom is `alil, i.e. sick. Some purists have argued that `alil, which signifies a person to whom something has been done, is more accurate than ma`luliyat, which has the marker of an abstract noun (like the English “-ness”) attached to a passive participle. But be that as it may, both `alil and ma`lul have come to mean “ill” in Persian, with these high-falutin’ Arabic words equivalent to the simpler Persian bimar.
Ma`luliyat-i dhihni is thus means precisely “mental illness.”
It does not suggest impaired intelligence, just impaired sanity.
Psychologists seem to be comfortable with a wide range of behaviors as relatively normal (even if somewhat pathological) as long as an individual “copes,” that is, gets up in the morning and does basic hygiene and goes to work and doesn’t not physically harm anyone. Trump seems to cope just fine, though it does appear that he is a serial rapist who has gotten away with his crimes because of his wealth and fame.
Not being in the mental health field myself, and just a lay person, I am not qualified to pronounce on Trump’s sanity in any technical sense. Nevertheless, just in a layperson’s inexact way and as a matter of opinion, I think the man is loony as the day is long.
And you can imagine how horrible it is for Iranians to watch Trump’s erratic antics and to find they don’t have money, because of Trump’s irrational malevolence, to buy medicine for their children.
Bonus video:
France 24: “US leaders are suffering from mental disability,” says Iran’s Rouhani
Filed Under: Donald Trump, Featured, Iran
Juan Cole is the founder and chief editor of Informed Comment and Richard P. Mitchell Professor of History at the University of Michigan. He is author of, among many other books, Muhammad: Prophet of Peace amid the Clash of Empires. Follow him at @jricole.
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1967 Datsun 411 - An Unmolested Survivor
There is very little info in this ad, but I had to point it out any.
The 411 was a Pininfarina design and had a European look to it. It was Nissan / Datsun's first real success in North America. In 1964, the year it was introduced (as the 410), Datsun sold over 100,000 cars in the US for the first time.
This car is an unmolested 42,000 mile survivor. The body is said to be solid. It has a new carburetor and brakes. It recently passed British Columbia's AirCare emissions test.
These cars came in two versions; PL411 and RL411. The PL411 had a single carb 1299cc engine that produced just 67 horsepower. The RL411 came with a 1595cc engine with dual carbs that produced 97 horsepower. Sadly, this car appears to be a PL411.
Even though it's not the faster RL411, this car is still remarkable for its original condition. Let's hope the new owner appreciates that and keeps it as is.
Located in Vancouver, BC, Canada, click here to see the Craigslist ad.
A big thanks to Milo for sending me the link to this car!
Posted by Just A Car Geek at 5:59 AM
bluetoes591 said...
There is a second 411 for sale in the area, perhaps more intriguing than this one, though it has been for sale for long enough that it must be rough. http://vancouver.en.craigslist.ca/van/cto/2769765726.html
Somebody I know has seen the red car, apparently it's not quite as nice as it appears.
"The 411 has been for sale for a while, and I even went to see it. It's fairly rough (some rust, serious dents) and comes with some replacement panels because of this.
It does have potential as a vintage rally car, but its far from fit for shows and would need paint, body work and mechanical work to get there.
He told me his bottom line is $3k, but I think that's still too much. Apparently the rest of the world agrees as it hasn't sold.
I much prefer these to the 510 - just love the lines with a sporty lil' motor..."
rrshadow2 said...
I think it's odd that BC makes a car that old pass an emissions test!! How crazy is that??? In Washington State and even then just the Seattle area they only make cars newer than 25 years old pass these tests and if you live in a rural area they don't make you pass anything
AirCare is a Vancouver area only emissions test. Most of BC is untested. Emissions testing is done to much looser standards for older cars, but certain models such as Datsun Fairlady Roadsters are notorious for failing.
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Cafeteria worker says she lost job for giving boy free lunch
By MICHAEL CASEY Associated Press |
Updated: Fri 2:50 PM, May 17, 2019
CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — A New Hampshire school cafeteria worker's kindness may have got her fired.
Bonnie Kimball said she was terminated by her employer a day after she gave a student lunch, even though he couldn't pay for it.
Bonnie Kimball tells the Valley News she was terminated March 28 by her employer, a vendor that supplies food to the Mascoma Valley Regional High School in Canaan. It came a day after she gave a student lunch, even though he couldn't pay for it.
Kimball says that when the student's account showed no funds, she quietly told him "'tell (your) mom you need money,'" and provided lunch. She claims a manager just asked what was on the boy's plate and walked away.
"It was my life for five years. I went and I took care of another family," Kimball told the newspaper. "You don't just lose a family member, be OK and move on."
A spokeswoman for Manchester-based Cafe Services said in a statement Thursday it "would never authorize an employee to not feed a student or staff member a meal." The spokeswoman would only say an employee "would not be let go because they provided this lunch to a student."
"Although we are not at liberty to discuss the confidential details regarding an employee's employment or termination from employment, we can share that the company has policies and procedures in place that are shared with and acknowledged by team members," Jaime Matheson, the director of human resources, said in a statement. "When established policies and procedures are not followed corrective action is put in place up to and including termination."
The incident comes as schools across the country are struggling to deal with how to address students who can't pay for their lunch. A 2011 survey found that a majority of the district had unpaid lunch charges and that most dealt with it by offering students alternatives meals.
But even that approach has been controversial. After a flurry of angry Facebook posts, one Rhode Island district was forced to abandon plans to deny a hot meal to students who couldn't pay. Last month, federal lawmakers also introduced "anti-lunch shaming" legislation to protect students with unpaid lunch bills. The USDA also discourages practices that stigmatize students but allows districts to set their own policies.
The Valley News reports that the alleged firing has angered Kimball's co-workers, some of whom quit in protest. Parents at the school also said they were upset by Kimball's sudden departure and demanded she be rehired.
"These guys really took care of our kids. They put our kids first and their focus was really our kids," said Christina Moodie, whose son attends the high school. "I know Bonnie went above and beyond for the kids."
The Mascoma Regional School Board voted Tuesday to continue using the company for another year, despite the controversy involving Kimball.
"The people working in the school lunch program are employees of Café Services, and Café Services is responsible for employment decisions regarding those employees," the district said in a statement. "School district policy is to make healthy nutritious school meals available to every child whether or not the child has sufficient funds to cover the cost of the meal."
A food service company denies firing a NH lunch lady for feeding a student who couldn't pay despite a memo that appears to say precisely that. School officials say Bonnie Kimball should have provided the "meal of the day" instead of a la carte items. https://t.co/hUluVkHsbo pic.twitter.com/83iHtWtmjO
— UnionLeader.com (@UnionLeader) May 16, 2019
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H+ incorporated - Cyberpunk Epic
Hard science anticipation screenplay about the proliferation of robotics and cybernetics
Gary Dejean
40 backers pledged €2,305 to help bring this project to life.
H+ Cyberpunk Epic
Paris, France Fiction
pledged of €1,000 goal
Current goal : Audiobook read by the author
2500€ - 92.2% Complete
H+ is an anticipation science-fiction epic, focused on the rise of robotics and cybernetics. Check out the trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4m1k0NYo8DQ
The story takes place twenty years from now, in a burgeoning coastal town of a developing country. As modern technology spreads at an increasing rate, society comes face to face with the apparent necessity to regulate civilian use, while police and military get all the latest toys.
On both sides of the emerging conflict, characters try their best to act with virtue. Chloe is a journalist who dreams of having her eye replaced with a camera. On the day her boyfriend joins an augmented police task force, she meets Jake, a little boy badly hurt in fire, now in a full-body prosthesis bearing the wrong skin color. Together, they explore the possibilities offered to them by modern science, until law and order come crashing down...
There are no villains here: there are only humans and trans-humans.
Although it has a tragic dimension, H+ is an uplifting story, designed to shed a positive light on the amazing technologies about to revolutionize the human condition. I'm aiming for a tale that whole families can enjoy, and which will give to every generations reasons to look towards the future with impatience.
Following classics of the cyberpunk, this screenplay layers dramatic action with strong social commentary. It is, after all, very ironic that present times feel like 80's sci-fi.
But I never read screenplays, why should I care?
You're missing out on a great medium. The script of most films are freely available online. As an example, here's a link to the screenplay of Children of Men, by Alfonso Cuarón. Besides, if you read on, you'll find out I'm offering to make a novel and audiobooks!
This campaign is dedicated to helping me financially throughout the writing of the screenplay. H+ is not even in pre-production yet: everything remains to be done.
The layout of the story is complete, and I've already started writing scenes. However, time is a factor with anticipation sci-fi: producing a movie takes years, and in order to quicken the process, I need your support.
If this campaign succeeds, I will be able to deliver a complete draft to the backers by the end of 2017, and potential derived products (novelized version, audiobooks) during 2018.
Backers can receive:
Copies of the script, and any unlocked stretch goal (novelized version, audiobooks), upon completion
On the condition that you sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA), you will be granted access to a private forum offering:
- Early access to the script, and frequent updates as scenes get written and rewritten
- Community feedback on the story, characters, setting, etc.
- A way for the community to share cool new tech that would amaze in a sci-fi epic, and make H+ as scientifically accurate as possible
Collector items with official H+ logo: T-shirt, Hoodie, Coffee Mug, Buttons
With your support, I would like to distribute H+ in various forms, in order to let the story reach a wider audience and facilitate production of the movie. Think of them as derivative products.
As such, the first step would be to write a novelized version. This can be done quickly enough to be released shortly after the screenplay, as a DRM-free e-book (and PDF). Beyond that, I'm very interested in doing audiobooks. A reading of the novel by myself (the author) would come first, alongside a version read by multiple professional actors with sound effects, if all the stretch goals are unlocked.
1800€ - novelized version in e-book form
2500€ - audiobook read by the author
4000€ - audiobook with professionnal actors
5000€ - add sound-effects, ambients, music
Once the script is complete, I intend to send it to several prominent film directors, in hope that one of them will make me an offer. That's how it works: the commercial value of a screenplay is impossible to predict.
On the other hand, e-Books and audiobooks have standard prices, and I have a tendency to sell my work rather cheaply, so the novelized version could be sold for approximately 2€, while audiobooks would range from 5€ to 15€ depending on the production level. In any case, I'm all for DRM-free content, as the purpose of this whole enterprise is to let H+ spread and get people hyped at the idea of seeing the movie.
Meanwhile, I'd like to contact producers, because (let me be transparent here) the chances of this script coming to the screen are much higher this way.
In no particular order:
H+ is a working title. It is also the symbol used by the Transhumanist party, and the title of a web-series on this same topic. As a result, I can safely say that the final text will have either a subtitle, or a completely different title, since I am in no way affiliated with either Zoltan Istvan or Bryan Singer.
I'm currently working as a consultant in film, and my schedule doesn't always allow for continuous writing. Your support will obviously help, but the frequency of my updates on the H+ Brainstorm Committee is likely to be erratic.
Following the news in science and technology can be very challenging at times. I'm hoping that the H+ Brainstorm Committee can be a place of friendship and mutual enlightenment, because I would hate having to moderate user activity. Although I will.
I wish I could make promises about the movie, but at this stage it would be highly unprofessional of me. The production business works by steps, and it's important that the screenplay is complete before anything else happens.
Pledge €5 or more About $6
- Find your name in the DONORS section at the end of the script (and any unlocked stretch goal)
Estimated delivery Jan 2018
- Free copy of the script upon completion (and any unlocked stretch goal)
- Gain access to the exclusive H+ BRAINSTORM COMMITTEE
- Find your name in the SPECIAL THANKS section at the beginning of the script (and any unlocked stretch goal)
- Free copy of the script (and any unlocked stretch goal)
- Signed paper copy of the script (upon completion)
- Collector T-shirt with official H+ logo
100% Cotton, 6 sizes, both genders, crew or V-neck
Advanced Collector
- Collector Coffee Mug with official H+ logo
- 6 Collector Buttons with official H+ logo
Hardcore Collector
- Collector Hoodie with official H+ logo
Posthuman
- 2 Collector Hoodies with official H+ logo
- 2 Collector Coffee Mugs with official H+ logo
- 2 Collector T-shirt with official H+ logo
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Before there was the Resistance, There was the Movement; Before the Movement There was The Revolutionist! June 14 – July 1
TOPICS:Su TeatroThe Revolutionist
An aging revolutionary tries to adapt to the urban United States, comparing it to the principles and passions he fought for during the Mexican Revolution in 1910. A life filled with loss, sadness, and possible deportation cannot stop “the Revolutionist” from holding his head high and demanding respect.
Su Teatro Cultural and Performing Arts Center presents The Revolutionist, a powerful prelude to the consciousness that would propel the Chicano Movement. The play was written by Rodolfo “Corky” Gonzales, and directed by Anthony J. Garcia. The Revolutionist runs June 14th through July 1st at Su Teatro Cultural & Performing Arts Center, 721 Santa Fe Drive, Denver CO. Curtain for evening performances is at 7:30 pm with a Sunday matinee at 2:00 pm. Ticket prices vary with special discounts throughout the run and can be purchased online (www.suteatro.org), by phone (303-296-0219), or at the Box Office.
Written by Corky in 1967, this play looks at an old man who once fought in the Mexican Revolution. Set in the late 1950s-early 1960s, we see how Papa, our main character, is caught in his past. From reminiscing about his time with Pancho Villa to his currently family struggles, we are taken on a journey that can be tied back to our own elders and ancestors. Join us starting at 7PM for a reception to commemorate Corky on his 90th Birthday! Throughout the month of June we will also have a Chicano Cultural Renaissance Exhibit. Exhibit opens Friday, June 1st at 6pm – Artwork inspired by Corky and the Chicano Movement. Feel free to walk through at any point to view. Our operating hours are typically 9-6PM Tuesday-Friday with exceptions for performances.
Su Teatro recognizes Rodolfo “Corky” Gonzales’ legacy
Corky Gonzales is an iconic leader known for fighting for justice and equality for Chicanos. He founded the Crusade for Justice, a civil rights organization and cultural movement and through the Crusade organized walkouts, demonstrations against police brutality and the Vietnam War. His efforts ensured that Chicanos and Latinos in Colorado and the Southwest would find power and honor in a land that had been there’s for generations.
“I am Joaquin” ignites the Chicano Movement
Rodolfo “Corky” Gonzales would have turned 90 years old in June of this year. His activism and leadership as a poet/warrior produced the culturally identifying poem “I am Joaquin”; a work that provided an historical case for Chicanos as descendants and inheritors of the Southwestern United States. His writing lays out the ideological framework for the Chicano movement and provided inspiration and direction for millions of activists across the country. He created the Crusade for Justice as a vehicle for grassroots organizing and creating social change.
Because of Corky Gonzales, Chicanos hold a very significant presence in cultural, political, economic and education aspects of the Denver Metropolitan area. “The Revolutionist” foreshadows these times; we see the causes and conditions that caused the activism of the 60s and 70s. Gonzales’s play chronicles the despair that can turn brave and honorable men into shadows, which he had witnessed firsthand within his own family life
Celebrating the Legacy of Rodolfo “Corky” Gonzales
Through his written work Corky motivated the arts as a vehicle for activism. The Chicano Movement inspired a rebirth (renaissance) of Chicano cultural and artistic expression. Su Teatro will host the work of visual artists Emanuel Martinez, Daniel Salazar and others who have been inspired by Corky and the Chicano movement
Special Performance on June 18th, Corky’s 90th Birthday
There will a special performance of the The Revolutionist on June 18th to celebrate what would have been Rodolfo “Corky” Gonzales 90th birthday.
Continue the legacy as Su Teatro presents “The Revolutionist. All performances will be held at Su Teatro Cultural and Performing Arts Center, 721 Santa Fe Drive, in Denver’s Santa Fe Art District. Curtain for evening performances is at 7:30 pm with the Sunday Fundraising matinee at 2:00 pm. Ticket prices vary with special discounts throughout the run and can be purchased online (www.suteatro.org), by phone (303-296-0219), or at the Box Office
The Revolutionist
A play written by Rodolfo “Corky” Gonzales
Directed by Anthony J. Garcia
Su Teatro
Su Teatro’s presenta “Amorcito Corazon” – A Dia de San Valentin tradition February 12 – 21
Debra Gallegos-Su Teatro Travels to Mexico to Forge Relationships with Arts Organizations
Su Teatro Presenta Real Women Have Curves March 12 – 29
That’s A Wrap! Denver Chicano World Cinema Festival Provides Laughs, Tears and Lots of Fun!
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Justia Lawyer Directory Domestic Violence New Jersey Lafayette Attorneys
Lafayette, New Jersey Domestic Violence Lawyers
Beatrice Kandell
New Jersey Domestic Violence Attorney with 30 years experience
Pace Law SchoolNew Jersey
Richard F. Iglar
Boston College Law SchoolNew Jersey and New York
James McGlew II
Experienced Domestic Violence Attorney! Focused on Protecting Victims’ Rights!
For 25 years I have fought passionately to protect the rights and interests of victims of domestic violence. I am dedicated to the best possible outcomes! Visit my website for more information or call for a consultation. Read More »
Frederick D'Arcangelo
Dedicated Domestic Violence Attorney! Cost-Effective Representation for Victims!
I have extensive experience advocating for victims of domestic violence and abuse. I provide effective advocacy with your well-being in the forefront. Visit my website for more information or call for a consultation. Read More »
Joseph John Russell
Woodbridge , NJ Domestic Violence Attorney with 14 years experience
(732) 726-6236 90 Woodbridge Drive
Woodbridge , NJ 07095
Free ConsultationDomestic Violence, Divorce and Family
“I combine my years of experience, knowledge of the law, intense preparation and a personal mantra of never being outworked to achieve optimal results for every client. Divorce is a grueling and at times devastating process. I understand that even an amicable divorce will have a profound impact on a couple’s assets, income, children and the emotional health of the entire family. I care about my clients. I care about their children. As a leading divorce attorney in New Jersey, my priority is to understand each client’s goals and work tirelessly to achieve those results.” Joe Russell, Esq., Partner and...
Barbara Ungar Esq.
New Brunswick, NJ Domestic Violence Attorney with 31 years experience
(732) 828-8700 46 Bayard Street
Free ConsultationDomestic Violence, Criminal, DWI and Traffic Tickets
University of Baltimore School of Law
Barbara Ungar is a solo practitioner with 26 years experience and 15 years experience in private practice. She formerly served as an Assistant Essex County Counsel from 1988 through 1990 with expertise in mental health and hospital law. Ms. Ungar then served as a Deputy Attorney General with the Division of Criminal Justice from 1990 through 1999 with expertise in complex narcotics and environmental civil forfeiture and white collar, labor and fraud prosecutions. Ms. Ungar has extensive criminal defense, DWI, DUI, municipal court defense and family court litigation experience. She has been involved in the aggressive defense of...
Louis De Angelis III
Englewood, NJ Domestic Violence Lawyer with 14 years experience
(201) 227-7660 346 Grand Ave
Rutgers School of Law-Newark
The law office of Louis G. DeAngelis is a highly respected law firm in Bergen County, NJ. As a public defender, Mr. DeAngelis has defended thousands of cases over the past decade including major felony crimes, such as armed robbery, aggravated sexual assault, aggravated assault, white collar crimes, and serious drug crimes.
In 2005, Mr. DeAngelis started his own criminal law practice in Englewood, NJ. Since the practice opened its doors, Mr. DeAngelis has devoted his professional career to representing individuals who been charged with criminal offenses and DWI violations. His trial experience – as a public defender and as...
Steven Sciancalepore
Kearny, NJ Domestic Violence Lawyer
(201) 955-2666 615 Kearny Avenue
Kearny, NJ 07032
Steven Sciancalepore is a former prosecutor and experienced trial attorney. He represents clients charged with criminal offenses as well as litigants in civil lawsuits. Prior to opening his own practice Mr. Sciancalepore worked at an AM 100 law firm where he represented large corporations, insurance companies, and casinos in various venues throughout the State of New Jersey. Mr. Sciancalepore's diverse practice includes criminal and municipal defense, real estate, bankruptcy, estate planning, personal injury, and business law among others.
Mr. Sciancalepore continues to concentrate on civil and criminal litigation in his current practice. He has successfully tried bench and jury trials to...
Edward Roger Weinstein
East Brunswick, NJ Domestic Violence Lawyer with 24 years experience
(732) 783-5588 214 NJ-18 #2A
Born and raised in New Jersey, Attorney Edward Weinstein opened his family law firm, Law Offices of Edward R. Weinstein, to help families throughout the state overcome their challenging family matters. Attorney Weinstein earned his undergraduate degree from Seton Hall University and his J.D. from the New York Law School in New York City. He is a member of the Early Settlement Panel with the Superior Court of New Jersey and the Supreme Court of New Jersey District Ethics Committee. He has also been appointed to the Assignment Judge’s Family Law Committee.
Mark Cheser
Union, NJ Domestic Violence Attorney with 41 years experience
(866) 456-9864 2424 Morris Ave Suite #202
Union, NJ 07083
I was born and raised in NJ. graduating Emory Law School, Atlanta Georgia in 1978. I was a Governor's Intern assigned to the Union County Prosecutor in 1977 while in Law School and became an Assistant Prosecutor there,1980-83. I was assigned to the Appellate Section, Juvenile Section, Assignment Judge's Trial Team, Elizabeth Project Trial Team, and the Narcotic Strike Force, handling over 300 files and trying 28 case to verdict. I learned how the police and prosecutors think and act.
I have only practiced criminal defense since leaving the Prosecutor's Office, first as a partner at Nassberg...
Leslie Posnock
Livingston, NJ Domestic Violence Lawyer with 34 years experience
(732) 544-1460 70 South Orange Avenue
Domestic Violence, Criminal, Juvenile and White Collar Crime
LESLIE B. POSNOCK is a partner in the law firm of Schwartz & Posnock. Ms. Posnock, an attorney since 1984, is licensed in the State and Federal Courts of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and California. Ms. Posnock is a former public defender in Philadelphia and New Jersey and has extensive trial experience. Ms. Posnock has represented individuals in hundreds of cases, involving charges of murder, drugs, sexual assault, mail fraud, wire fraud, theft, forgery, kidnapping, robbery, assault, burglary, Municipal Court matters (including traffic ticket defense), and driving under the influence cases. She has successfully litigated numerous appeals and petitions for post-conviction...
Millburn, NJ Domestic Violence Lawyer with 34 years experience
(973) 379-9292 225 Millburn Avenue
Millburn, NJ 07041
Free ConsultationDomestic Violence, Arbitration & Mediation, Divorce and Family
Richard Diamond has been practicing Family Law Litigation, Mediation and Arbitration work in New Jersey for the past 32 years and is a Certified Family Law Trial Attorney by the N.J. Supreme Court; Accredited New Jersey Family Law Mediator and a Family Law Economic Mediator in Union, Essex, Morris, Somerset, Hunterdon, Middlesex and Monmouth Counties.
Mr Diamond is also a member of the Essex, Union and Somerset Counties Family Law Early Settlement Panel Program (ESP); a member of Who's Who in American Law;
listed in Best Lawyers in America and a recipient of the Albert Nelson...
Howard W Bailey
Newark, NJ Domestic Violence Lawyer with 31 years experience
(973) 982-1200 24 Commerce Street
Free ConsultationDomestic Violence, Appeals, Criminal and Juvenile
ANY COURT. ANY CRIME. ANY TIME. I have been involved with the field of criminal law for over forty years. As a criminal defense lawyer, your freedom and your rights are my first priority. I focus my efforts to provide my clients the best defense possible given the facts and proofs that the State is using to try to convict them. I have handled cases involving Leader of Drug Trafficking Network; Racketeering; Official Misconduct; Domestic Violence; Drug Possession and Distribution; Assault; Homicide; Theft; Robbery; Carjacking; Insurance Fraud; Kidnapping; Rape and Sexual Offenses; Arson; Criminal Mischief; Bribery; Perjury; and Weapons...
Elizabeth Rozin-Golinder
East Brunswick, NJ Domestic Violence Lawyer
(732) 810-0034 197 Route 18 South
New England Law | Boston
Elizabeth Rozin-Golinder is an award-winning family law attorney in East Brunswick. She founded Rozin | Golinder Law, LLC to help families get through the stress of divorce. She started her career at Rutgers University and went on to earn her Juris Doctor from New England Law | Boston. She focuses solely on family law, giving her greater insight and experience in the field. Because of her success, tenacity, and knowledge, Attorney Rozin-Golinder has earned many accolades, including being named to Super Lawyers® Rising Stars? list, and being included in the Top 10 Attorney Under 40, Top 10 Client Satisfaction and...
Karen Tichenor Willitts
New Jersey Domestic Violence Lawyer with 21 years experience
Rutgers Law SchoolNew Jersey
David Howard Dumbroff
Text us at 800-537-4154 for a Free Consult.
Call 800-537-4154 for a free Restraining Order consultation now. We have years of experience handling Domestic Violence Hearings. Morristown Montville Cranford Roseland Sparta locations. Read More »
Claimed Lawyer ProfileLII SilverBlawgsearchSocial Media
Kevin Mazza
Springfield, NJ Domestic Violence Lawyer with 36 years experience
(973) 467-3700 80 Morris Ave
Domestic Violence, Divorce and Family
Rutgers University,
Linda M. Coronato
Saddle Brook, NJ Domestic Violence Lawyer with 30 years experience
(201) 845-7400 Southern Bergen County 50 Market St
Saddle Brook, NJ 07663
Linda M. Coronato has over 27 years of experience in the legal field and is not afraid to fight for the rights of her clients. As a member of the New Jersey and New York Bars, she has handled cases involving child custody, Domestic Violence alimony, adoption, pre-nuptial agreements, as well as many other matters of family law. Her lengthy experience includes the ability to resolve difficult cases and arrive at settlement without the time and expense of continued litigation. Ms. Coronato has worked with several prestigious firms in family law and has appeared before the New Jersey Supreme Court....
Westfield, NJ Domestic Violence Lawyer with 41 years experience
(908) 233-6800 53 Cardinal Dr
Fred has extensive litigation experience in divorce, child custody, domestic violence, and post-judgment enforcement matters, as well as in the preparation of pre-nuptial agreements. Fred is also a divorce and custody mediator. He completed the Rutgers Law School course on divorce mediation and has successfully mediated many matters. Fred is also trained in the new and growing field of collaborative divorce law, which enables a divorcing couple to resolve all marital issues in a non-confrontational and cost effective manner.
Kim Rayner
Hackensack, NJ Domestic Violence Lawyer with 28 years experience
(201) 391-5009 20 Court Street suite 4
Domestic Violence, Arbitration & Mediation, Divorce and Family
Experienced and dedicated matrimonial Attorney. I will fight aggressively for your family. Call me today!
Kim M. Rayner joined the Law Offices of David I. Goldstein as an associate in 1998, and was made partner in 2008. She has over 20 years of experience as a matrimonial lawyer. As such, she has extensive litigation skills, developed through trials regarding custody, maintenance, child support, and equitable distribution. Ms. Rayner’s experience is shown through her ability to form a trusting and enduring relationship with her clients. She zealously advocates for her client in and out of the courtroom, and is an...
Joseph P. Cadicina
Morristown, NJ Domestic Violence Attorney with 22 years experience
(973) 270-9166 36 Cattano Avenue, 6th Fl
The founding and managing member of Cadicina Law, LLC. Mr Cadicina is an experienced family law attorney who dedicates his entire practice to family law and related matters for the past twenty years. A well recognized family law attorney who serves on County and State Bar Associations. Mr Cadicina is an Officer of the Morris County Bar Association and Foundation. He also serves on the family law executive committees for the New Jersey State Bar Association and New Jersey Association for Justice. Mr Cadicina is a Master in the Northern New Jersey Family Law Inns...
Hyun J. Lee
Somerville, NJ Domestic Violence Lawyer with 9 years experience
(908) 526-0707 77 N Bridge St
Elena K. Weitz
(973) 467-4040 33 Bleeker Street
Domestic Violence, Appeals, Divorce and Family
Elena K. Weitz, Esq. is a senior associate at Grayson and Associates, focusing her practice on all aspects of family, divorce and post-divorce matters including child support, alimony, custody, and domestic violence, in addition to providing legal services related to general civil litigation, contract, estate and municipal matters. Ms. Weitz has been with Grayson and Associates since 2007. Prior to that, Ms. Weitz practiced for two years at that law office of Bonny G. Rafel, LLC, engaging in the practice of federal law related to ERISA and individual disability benefits.
Ms. Weitz earned a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Psychology...
Michelle Welsh
Warren, NJ Domestic Violence Attorney with 24 years experience
(844) 288-7978 7 Mt Bethel Rd
Free ConsultationDomestic Violence, Criminal and DWI
Arthur Porter Jr
Englewood Cliffs, NJ Domestic Violence Lawyer with 35 years experience
(201) 569-5959 560 Sylvan Avenue
Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632
Domestic Violence, Criminal, Divorce and Family
I am the senior and managing partner of the firm. I represent many businesses in New Jersey and the New York metropolitan area, where I focus my practice on civil litigation and transactional/corporate matters. In these capacities, I am recognized as a fierce advocate for my clients, and I maintain an active trial practice. I am admitted to practice in the state and federal courts in New York and New Jersey and have an active trial and appellate docket. I have also litigated matters in Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nebraska, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico and Utah.
I have represented various commercial enterprises,...
Peter Ventrice
Free ConsultationMetuchen, NJ Domestic Violence Lawyer with 28 years experience
At Brause, Brause & Ventrice, L.L.C., we take a goal oriented approach to each case. From the first client consultation, we work with the client to ascertain the client's desires and expectations and to determine the most effective and expeditious path to achieve that goal. Whether a particular case requires zealous and aggressive advocacy or whether pursuing a settlement is indicated, we are committed to providing each client with the personal attention and professional representation that they deserve.
Thomas J. DeCataldo
Seton Hall University School of LawNew Jersey and New York
Whittier Law School3rd Circuit, U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey and New Jersey
Sara Sencer McArdle
Parsippany, NJ Domestic Violence Lawyer with 40 years experience
(973) 366-5244 8 Wood Hollow Drive, Plaza 3
Law Offices of Sara McArdle
After graduating from law school in 1979, Sara Sencer McArdle worked for the Essex County prosecutor’s office. She worked there for more than 20 years, 10 as head of the child abuse division. In 2002, Sara moved into private practice. On June 1, 2005, she established her own family law and criminal defense practice.
She has been continuously certified as a criminal trial attorney by the New Jersey Supreme Court since 1983 and provides a full line of family and criminal law services in matters such as child support, child custody, modification of existing court orders, felony defense and representation...
John E. Clancy
(973) 539-0075 65 Madison Avenue
I am a partner of the firm and have handled family law matters exclusively since the commencement of my career. I handle all family law/divorce matters, ranging from a simple divorce to those involving complex financial or custody disputes. I am also a family law mediator approved by the New Jersey Court Rules. In addition, I have significant experience appealing family law, divorce and custody decisions entered by the Courts. I have also been involved in litigation in the Appellate Division and NJ Supreme Court relative to Grandparent's Rights.
Kevin Orr
(973) 824-5520 33 Washington St
With over 25 years experience in providing clients with quality legal representation in a wide variety of legal matters in Federal, State and Municipal Courts, Kevin C. Orr, Esq. can handle your toughest civil, criminal or family law case. Call (973) 824-5520 to schedule a consultation. Kevin serves on a number of Boards and Committees, including the Office of Attorney Ethics of the Supreme Court of New Jersey, District VB (Essex County - Suburban Essex) Ethics Committee, serving as its Vice Chair . Also, he holds elected office in Bernards Township and Somerset County.
Marion Solomon
Florham Park, NJ Domestic Violence Lawyer with 32 years experience
(973) 301-2020 137 Columbia Turnpike
Ms. Solomon is a founding member of Arons & Solomon, P.A. Since she began practicing in 1987, she has focused solely in the area of family and divorce law, divorce litigation, mediation, custody and post judgment family matters. Her practice extends to jurisdictions throughout Northern New Jersey, including Bergen, Passaic, Essex, Hudson, Union and Morris Counties. She is a skilled and seasoned litigator and negotiator as well as a mediator. Ms. Solomon has tried numerous matrimonial matters. Ms. Solomon strives to give only the best representation possible. She understands how emotionally stressful, confusing and overwhelming the divorce process...
Jerry D'aniello
Roseland, NJ Domestic Violence Lawyer with 25 years experience
(973) 274-5200 425 Eagle Rock Ave.
Mitchell Scott Arons
Mr. Arons is a founding member of Arons & Solomon, P.A. He has been practicing family law exclusively since 1991 and is well known in the legal community as a matrimonial attorney with strong skills in negotiation, litigation, mediation and collaborative law. He has a solid background in finance and business, graduating with honors in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania. After graduating from Emory University Law School, he returned to North Jersey for a prestigious clerkship with Superior Court Judge Andrew Napolitano. Early in his career he focused on real estate and transactional law at a prominent law...
Paul G. Kostro
(908) 232-6500 116 South Euclid Avenue (Rear Entrance)
Domestic Violence, Divorce, Family and Probate
http://www.kostrolaw.com/KostroDotCom/PGKResume.html
Kenneth A. White
Edison, NJ Domestic Violence Attorney with 25 years experience
(732) 819-9100 1676 Route 27
Ken White is Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Matrimonial Law Attorney. Currently, less than 3% of active New Jersey attorneys hold any type of board certification. If you were seeking the help of a doctor to address a serious medical condition you would likely seek out a Board Certified medical professional. It is respectfully suggested that your potential divorce / family law matter is no less serious or important, and for that reason you should seek the assistance of a Certified Attorney. For more information about...
Christopher G. Porreca
Parsippany, NJ Domestic Violence Lawyer
(973) 889-0900 1719 Route 10 East
Domestic Violence, Criminal, DWI and Juvenile
Morris County criminal defense attorney Christopher G. Porreca will be able to provide the legal expertise you deserve. If you are being charged with a crime such as theft, DWI, a drug crime, weapon charge, traffic offense or any other criminal offense then you owe it to yourself to consult with an experienced legal advocate you know you can trust. Attorney Christopher G. Porreca has had years of experience providing his clients with the defense they need in order to obtain the outcome they deserve. Call and schedule a consultation to discuss your case today.
Todd D. Palumbo
(844) 288-7978 123 N Union Ave
Free ConsultationCranford, NJ Domestic Violence Lawyer with 11 years experience
Todd Palumbo is a graduate of the University Texas School of Law, one of the top law schools in the country, and has extensive New Jersey municipal court and criminal defense experience statewide. Attorney Palumbo is a second generation NJ criminal and traffic defense lawyer, coming from a family with over 35 years of trial experience in this area of the law. He specializes in criminal/municipal defense, including DWI, drug crimes, traffic offenses, domestic violence charges, theft offenses, assault crimes, and appears in municipal and superior courts throughout the state. Todd Palumbo is board certified in the administration of the...
Allison P. Berecz
Benjamin N. Cardozo School of LawNew Jersey and New York
Nicole A. Kobis
Skilled Domestic Violence & Abuse Lawyer! Dedicated to Advocating for Victims!
I am an experienced domestic violence and abuse lawyer. I am committed to protecting the rights and interests of my clients with quality work, integrity and timely service. Visit my website and call for a consultation. Read More »
Woodbridge, NJ Domestic Violence Lawyer with 9 years experience
(732) 750-9797 146 Green St.
University of Maryland - Baltimore
Michael Cirigliano
East Brunswick, NJ Domestic Violence Lawyer with 6 years experience
(732) 514-6631 197 Route 18 S
Free ConsultationDomestic Violence, Criminal, DWI and White Collar Crime
Michael E. Cirigliano, began his legal career in 2011 at the Richmond County District Attorney’s Office. While working as a prosecutor, Mr. Cirigliano developed his trial skills and learned the intricacies of criminal law and criminal procedure. During his tenure at the District Attorney’s Office, Mr. Cirigliano handled thousands of Driving While Intoxicated prosecutions among other offenses. Mr. Cirigliano resigned from the DA’s Office in 2015 and formed the partnership of Rosas & Cirigliano.
As a founding partner of Rosas & Cirigliano, Mr. Cirigliano defends individuals charged with crimes ranging from driving while intoxicated and domestic violence to serious sex offenses...
(973) 232-4031 293 Eisenhower Pkwy
Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law
Michael Pastacaldi
(201) 884-2985 665 Newark Ave
Jersey City, NJ Domestic Violence Attorney
Domestic Violence, Criminal, Juvenile and Landlord Tenant
Michael Pastacaldi is a graduate of Seton Hall University School of Law. While in law school, Mr. Pastacaldi served as a judicial extern to the Honorable Mark Falk, United States Magistrate Judge for the District of New Jersey. In addition, Mr. Pastacaldi worked part-time at a mid-sized law firm specializing in civil litigation in Hudson County. After law school, Mr. Pastacaldi served an appointment as judicial clerk to the Honorable Paul M. DePascale, J.S.C., in the criminal division in Hudson County, New Jersey. Upon entering private practice, Mr. Pastacaldi represented doctors and hospitals throughout New Jersey...
Patricia Louise Burris
Patricia Burris has been practicing matrimonial law as an associate at Arons & Solomon since September 1999. Prior to that, she served as a law clerk in the Family Court, Essex County. Away from the office, she enjoys travel, Broadway, and attempting to improve her cooking skills.
Jennifer Bretz
Hackensack, NJ Domestic Violence Attorney with 22 years experience
(201) 487-1199 One University Plaza
Jennifer Bretz has been practicing law for over twenty years, with a specific concentration in matrimonial and family law. She attended Richard Stockton College of New Jersey studying business and graduated with Program Distinction and Highest Honors. After college, Ms. Bretz attended Rutgers University School of Law, Camden where she also graduated with High Honors. After passing both the New Jersey and Pennsylvania bar exams in the summer of 1997, Ms. Bretz was privileged to serve as judicial law clerk to the Honorable Amy Piro Chambers, the presiding judge of the civil division in Middlesex County. She then became associated...
Husain Gatlin
Newark, NJ Domestic Violence Attorney with 6 years experience
(973) 494-9700 One Gateway Center
Domestic Violence, Criminal, DWI and Traffic Tickets
Mr. Gatlin is committed to the rigorous representation of individuals facing criminal prosecution. He is experienced in a broad range of criminal litigation, having handled hundreds of cases from initial discovery through judgment as lead counsel. His years of service are fueled by an unwavering belief in defending and enforcing the constitutional rights of the men and women in our society who most need protection.
Mr. Gatlin graduated from Georgetown University. He then earned his law degree from Seton Hall University School of Law, where he was a Service Law Fellowship Scholar. Prior to graduation, Mr. Gatlin gained considerable experience, including...
Newark, NJ Domestic Violence Lawyer with 5 years experience
(347) 426-8803 1 Gateway Center
Free ConsultationDomestic Violence, Criminal, Immigration and Landlord Tenant
Western Michigan University Cooley Law School and DeSales University
Attorney Jimmy Johnson is Juris Doctor (JD) graduate of Western Michigan University-Thomas M. Cooley Law School, Auburn Hills Campus, Michigan, USA. In fact, Jimmy Johnson, Esquire is a skilled US Immigration Attorney, Private and Public Criminal Defense Attorneys, and a General Practice, Solo & Small Firm Lawyer with great talents and proven experiences in legal immigration matters including Individual-Family-based and Business-based immigration issues for Jimed Johnson Immigration Services, LLC, Flushing, NY; Law Office of Osa Igunbor, Poughkeepsie, NY; Proskauer Rose, LLP; & Law Office of Adebukola Adetula, Irvington, NJ.
Besides having his Juris Doctor (JD) Law Degree with concentration on...
Andrew Olesnycky
(908) 301-9001 Law Offices of Robert G. Stahl, LLC
220 Saint Paul Street
Westfield, NJ Domestic Violence Lawyer with 9 years experience
Domestic Violence, Criminal, DWI and White Collar Crime
Andrew Olesnycky, a former supervisor-level assistant prosecutor at the Union County Prosecutor's Office, represents individuals and organizations facing criminal charges and investigations in federal, state, and municipal courts. Mr. Olesnycky has served as lead attorney defending charges of multi-million dollar federal and state fraud conspiracies, federal bank fraud, federal benefit fraud, state and federal large-scale multi-defendant drug conspiracies, sexual assaults, child pornography, interference with custody, and Superstorm Sandy-related fraud. Mr. Olesnycky is certified by the New Jersey Supreme Court as a Certified Criminal Trial Attorney, a designation obtained by fewer than 1% of attorneys state-wide. During his nearly five-year...
Lawrence Kalish
Lake Hiawatha, NJ Domestic Violence Attorney with 41 years experience
(973) 299-8660 50 North Beverwyck Road
Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07034
Free ConsultationDomestic Violence, Divorce, Elder and Family
Lawrence H. Kalish, Esq. has been practicing law in the Morris County area for over 30 years. Following his graduation from Rutgers Law School in 1977, Mr. Kalish went on to clerk for the Honorable John M. Newman, J.S.C. for a year, before joining the law firm of Marazitti, Kalish & Gregory. After a few years, Mr. Kalish partnered up with Irwin Kanengiser, Esq. at our current location in Lake Hiawatha. The law firm of Kanengiser & Kalish (now the Kalish Law Group) has been servicing the local community for many years. Mr. Kalish has been...
James P. Yudes
James P. Yudes is a renowned family law and divorce attorney in New Jersey and the founder of The Law Offices of James P. Yudes. Mr. Yudes founded the firm in 1978, and has provided high-end legal services throughout the... Read More »
Elsie Gonzalez Esq.
New Jersey Domestic Violence Attorney
Elsie Gonzalez was born in 1980 in Newark, New Jersey and raised in Jersey City, New Jersey. Ms. Gonzalez obtained her Bachelor of Arts from New Jersey City University in 2008 and obtained her Juris Doctorate from Seton... Read More »
Domestic Violence Lawyers in Nearby Cities
Branchville
Domestic Violence Lawyers in Nearby Counties
Lafayette Domestic Violence Legal Aid & Pro Bono Services
DASI--Domestic Abuse and Sexual Assault Intervention Services
Newton, NJ
Use Justia to research and compare Lafayette attorneys so that you can make an informed decision when you hire your counsel.
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Justia Lawyer Directory Foreclosure Defense Illinois Cullom Attorneys
Cullom, Illinois Foreclosure Defense Lawyers
Ariel Weissberg
Chicago, IL Foreclosure Defense Attorney with 39 years experience
(312) 663-0004 401 South LaSalle Street Suit 403
Free ConsultationForeclosure Defense, Bankruptcy, Business and Real Estate
Saint Louis University School of Law
Ariel Weissberg is the managing partner of Weissberg and Associates, Ltd., 401 South LaSalle Street, Suite 403, Chicago, Illinois, 60605. Weissberg and Associates, Ltd. concentrates in the areas of business and commercial litigation, transactional matters and all aspects of insolvency and financial distress, including bankruptcy, loan work-outs and foreclosures. Mr. Weissberg founded Weissberg and Associates in July, 1984. Since then, he has built a varied and loyal clientele, comprised of small to medium-sized to publicly traded businesses, and individuals. He is sought out for complex business and financial planning, especially relating to credit facilities and crisis-management, and high-risk litigation....
Mazyar M. Hedayat Esq.
Romeoville, IL Foreclosure Defense Attorney with 24 years experience
(630) 378-2200 1211 W Lakeview Ct
Free ConsultationForeclosure Defense, Bankruptcy, Construction and Real Estate
University of Michigan - Ann Arbor, DePaul University and University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
Mazyar M. Hedayat is the principal of M. Hedayat & Associates, PC, a law firm that has represented Clients for nearly 25 years in the areas of business law and litigation, bankruptcy law and litigation, real property transactions and litigation, construction law and mechanics liens, corporate law, and more. After attending the University of Chicago and University of Michigan, Mr. Hedayat received his MBA from the U.M. Ross School of Business, and his J.D. from DePaul University College of Law. Mr. Hedayat is a title insurance agent and operated a full-service title company for 6 years....
Eric Zelazny
Tinley Park, IL Foreclosure Defense Lawyer with 24 years experience
(708) 444-4333 18400 Maple Creek Drive
Foreclosure Defense, Bankruptcy and Tax
University of Missouri - Kansas City School of Law
Eric Zelazny brings over 17 years of legal experience to the practice. Prior to studying law, Eric Zelazny was a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and continues his education in bankruptcy law staying up-to-date on the latest laws. He is one of the most experienced bankruptcy lawyers in the Chicago area with trial experience in Cook County, DuPage County, and Will County. Eric Zelazny occupies offices in both Chicago and Tinley Park.
Misty J. Cygan
(800) 825-9260 15 N Northwest Hwy
Park Ridge, IL Foreclosure Defense Lawyer with 11 years experience
Foreclosure Defense, Business, Employment and Real Estate
Shepard Broad Law Center, Nova Southeastern University
Misty has worked hard to become an attorney, which was her dream. She earned her two undergraduate degrees while being on active duty in the United States Air Force. She graduated summa cum laude from North Carolina Wesleyan College with dual degrees. During her four years in the military, Misty was responsible for producing a weekly flying and aircraft maintenance schedule for a fleet of 24 F-15 fighter jets. Misty also provided support for Operation Noble Eagle in response to the 9/11 attacks.
At the core of Misty’s practice is her love of the law and her desire to help people....
John J. Lynch
Lockport, IL Foreclosure Defense Attorney with 19 years experience
Lockport, IL 60441
Free ConsultationForeclosure Defense, Bankruptcy, Probate and Real Estate
John Lynch became interested in debt relief and bankruptcy before he went to Law School. John was employed at Eastern Airlines in Miami, Florida, which at that time was the second largest airline in the US. Eastern Airlines filed for bankruptcy in 1990 and by 1991 it had closed its doors. John knew so many people that could not find work, had cars repossessed and faced mounting debt. Then, in 1992 Hurricane Andrew hit South Florida and Pan Am airlines also closed its doors. By that time John was a Paralegal and owner of a Title Company. He worked as...
Dennise McCann
Orland Park, IL Foreclosure Defense Lawyer with 31 years experience
15255 S. 94th Ave
Free ConsultationForeclosure Defense, Bankruptcy, Divorce and Family
Dennise L. McCann is a Partner Anderson & Associates, P.C. who focuses on complex family law, bankruptcy and probate matters. She has been the managing attorney of the firm's Wheaton office since 2007. Dennise has been a certified mediator and guardian ad litem since 2010. She was nominated for an Inspirational Woman Award in 2012. She served as a career law clerk to the Honorable Susan Pierson Sonderby from 1988 to 1992 and was responsible for reviewing her daily motion call, researching legal issues, drafting opinions and writing speech materials for continuing legal education programs. She graduated from The John...
Ann Leone
Chicago, IL Foreclosure Defense Attorney with 4 years experience
(773) 437-0489 1655 S Blue Island
Free ConsultationForeclosure Defense, Divorce, Domestic Violence and Real Estate
Ann Leone is originally from Buenos Aires, Argentina. She graduated from Loyola University Chicago with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Psychology. She then attended The John Marshall Law School and received her Juris Doctorate. She has worked in various government agencies, including the Department of Children and Family Services and The Cook County Office of The Public Guardian as a Guardian ad litem. Through these agencies, she gained invaluable experience working on various complex juvenile immigration cases and handling many domestic relations cases, including custody disputes and divorces. Additionally, she has worked with numerous non-profits, specializing in...
Mark B Grzymala
Skokie, IL Foreclosure Defense Lawyer with 17 years experience
(847) 920-7286 10024 Skokie Blvd., Suite 206
Free ConsultationForeclosure Defense, Collections, Construction and Real Estate
Chicago-Kent College of Law, Illinois Institute of Technology
Mark Grzymala is the founder and President of Grzymala Law Offices, P.C. a commercial litigation law firm with a focus on the construction industry based in Skokie, Illinois. He is licensed to practice in the State of Illinois and the U.S. District Court, Northern District of Illinois since 2001.
Mark has over 16 years’ experience representing a wide range of clients from the small business owners to Fortune 500 companies. He aggressively represents his clients with a variety of issues including contract disputes and negotiation, construction defect claims, mechanics lien claims, foreclosures, transportation, collections, judgment enforcement, intellectual property issues,...
Michele J Braun
Northbrook, IL Foreclosure Defense Lawyer with 34 years experience
(847) 559-8406 1906 Maplewood Rd
Northbrook, IL 60062-1234
Free ConsultationForeclosure Defense, Business and Nursing Home
Michele is an accomplished litigation and litigation management attorney with a proven track record of winning results at trial, arbitration and administrative hearings. She is known for her creative litigation strategies and communication skills. Result-oriented.
Dr. Maudia Norman Washingon
Chicago, IL Foreclosure Defense Attorney
(888) 586-4441 155 North Wacker Drive
Foreclosure Defense, Arbitration & Mediation, Bankruptcy and Real Estate
Michigan State University School of Law, East Lansing, Michigan
Juris Doctorate
John Marshall School of Law, Chicago Illinois
LLM (Law of Masters Candidate) Real Estate Law
Argosy University, Chicago Illinois
Doctorate of Business Administration, International Business
Published Dissertation
Robert Morris University, Chicago, Illinois
Master in Business Administration, Concentration Management
Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Illinois
Bachelor of Arts, Administration of Justice, Minor: Sociology
LAW LICENSES:
Northern District of Illinois
Central District Court of Illinois
Southern District Court of Illinois
United States Tax Court
I am an attorney who is passionate about my profession and clients. I believe in providing top-notch, innovative, cutting-edge strategies and advice. My clients feel as if they are my only client. ...
Kiley Whitty
(630) 690-6800 1761 S. Naperville Rd.
Free ConsultationWheaton, IL Foreclosure Defense Attorney with 9 years experience
Foreclosure Defense, Bankruptcy, Divorce and Family
Kiley M. Whitty is a licensed attorney specializing in the areas of family law, child custody, bankruptcy, and creditor negotiations in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Will and surrounding collar counties. While in law school at Loyola University Chicago School of Law, Kiley earned a certificate in Child and Family Law as well as a certificate in Advocacy which aided in her success as a litigator. As an associate with Anderson & Associates, P.C., Kiley has handled complex custody cases involving issues with legal and residential custody, parenting time, allegations of abuse and neglect, and child removal. Kiley has also handled a...
Charles E. Covey
Peoria, IL Foreclosure Defense Lawyer with 41 years experience
For over 30 years Charles Covey has been practicing law. He has handled bankruptcy cases during the duration of his three decades of legal practice and for the past decade, he has practiced exclusively in bankruptcy, debt relief and foreclosure defense matters.
John P. Dickson
Crystal Lake, IL Foreclosure Defense Lawyer with 8 years experience
(815) 317-5193 4 E. Terra Cotta Ave.
Foreclosure Defense, Bankruptcy, Collections and Real Estate
Dickson Law Group is a full service law firm serving individuals and small businesses in McHenry, Kane, Lake, DuPage, and Cook counties.
Todd Andrew Benison
Crystal Lake, IL Foreclosure Defense Lawyer
(847) 899-8788 65 South Virginia Street
Free ConsultationForeclosure Defense, Criminal, Family and Real Estate
Mr. Benison earned his Juris Doctorate degree from the John Marshall Law School in Chicago. While attending Law School, Mr. Benison achieved the JMLS best oralist award for his participation in the 2L Herzog Moot Court Competition. He was selected for a student externship with the Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office during his final year of law school. Prior to entering Law School, Mr. Benison was in private practice as an accountant, working with local business in Northern Illinois. In his free time, Mr. Benison enjoys spending time with his wife, Erika, and their three children.
Muniza Bawaney
(312) 860-3755 30 S. Wacker Drive
Foreclosure Defense, Business, Consumer and Real Estate
Muniza Bawaney, Esq. is an Attorney at Law First LLC and primarily practices in the areas of personal injury, corporate and small business legal services, civil litigation, estate planning and real estate matters. Her goal is to achieve the best results for her clients and she succeeds in doing so. Some of Ms. Bawaney's most recent successes include reaching favorable cash settlements for her clients against adversaries such as General Mills, State Farm, Pekin Insurance, The Village of Skokie and the Steeple Hill Condominium Association. Ms. Bawaney holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing and Business Administration...
Alexander B Blum
Evanston, IL Foreclosure Defense Attorney with 9 years experience
(773) 999-2586 900 Chicago Ave
Foreclosure Defense, Business, Criminal and DUI
I, Alexander Blum, want to be your Attorney. I cherish my Clients, and hope to impart some of my skills and knowledge so that my Clients are able to live a better and more productive life. I have appeared in many of the Courhouses in Illinois and I have a great working relationship with many Prosecutors and State Attorneys. I am very persuasive without being agressive, and I will give it my all to get the best possible result for my Client. Give me a call 773-999-2586 (BLUM)
Michael J. Gunderson
Chicago, IL Foreclosure Defense Lawyer
(312) 600-5000 2155 W. Roscoe St.
Foreclosure Defense, Bankruptcy, Personal Injury and Real Estate
Ken Gano Jr
Charleston, IL Foreclosure Defense Lawyer with 38 years experience
(217) 345-6111 303 6th St
Charleston, IL 61920
b 1952, Graduate Northern Illinois University, 1980
Chicago, IL Foreclosure Defense Lawyer with 25 years experience
(773) 960-1162 53 West Jackson Boulevard
Free ConsultationForeclosure Defense, Bankruptcy, Estate Planning and Real Estate
Drake University Law School
Vicki Hathaway Gonzalez
Park Ridge, IL Foreclosure Defense Attorney
Foreclosure Defense, Business, Municipal and Real Estate
Rick Rogers
Deerfield, IL Foreclosure Defense Lawyer with 33 years experience
(847) 607-8570 707 Lake Cook Rd #312
Deerfield, IL 60015
Free ConsultationForeclosure Defense, Bankruptcy and Real Estate
Make a terrific profit on a foreclosure auction property, while helping a nice family keep their home. Helping families save their home has been my Law Firm's crusade since 2009. Real Estate has been my primary practice area for my entire professional career. The JD, MBA, Managing Real Estate Broker License, and a full career in real estate have best prepared me to advise and assist on residential foreclosure defenses and investments, as well as short sale and conventional real estate closings. Contact us if you or someone important to you needs assistance saving their home,...
Mr. Gary A. Newland
Itasca, IL Foreclosure Defense Lawyer with 26 years experience
(847) 797-8000 401 West Irving Park Road
Free ConsultationForeclosure Defense, Bankruptcy, Personal Injury and Products Liability
Loyola University Chicago
Gary Newland is an experienced trial attorney evidenced by the hundreds of cases he has successfully won at trial. Many of Gary's cases have been covered by USA Today, Forbes, Chicago Tribune, Chicago Sun-Times, NBC, The Daily Herald, Oprah Winfrey, and the list goes on. Many of the clients Gary represents are referrals from other attorneys who are aware of his skills and reputation in the community. He has been an invited guest lecturer to the Bar Association and other legal organizations as well as an author of published articles on legal issues. He has been a member of the...
Raul A Villalobos
(312) 666-9982 1620 W. 18th st
Foreclosure Defense, Business, Criminal and Real Estate
University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign
Raul A. Villalobos is one of the most well known and respected trial attorneys in the Chicago land area. In his almost forty years of experience he has handled hundreds of criminal and civil trials and has represented individuals as well as Fortune 500 companies. Currently, Raul A. Villalobos is the managing partner at Villalobos & Associates, which handles a wide range of cases from DUI to Consumer Fraud.
Joseph Michelotti
Oak Brook, IL Foreclosure Defense Attorney with 36 years experience
(630) 928-0100 2625 Butterfield Suite 138S
Free ConsultationForeclosure Defense, Bankruptcy, Divorce and Estate Planning
Working to help clients protect their property and deal with difficult financial situations
Cicero, IL Foreclosure Defense Attorney with 24 years experience
(708) 411-4510 5947 W 35th Street
Cicero, IL 60804
Free ConsultationForeclosure Defense, Bankruptcy, DUI and Real Estate
After having worked for years to represent banks in the processes of Foreclosure and being the fourth generation of lawyers in my family attending this type of case, I want to inform you that my office is focused on providing assistance to those which are suffering the ravages of this system and the bad economy. You like me, are being affected by the banking system, which is why my office has found a way to protect and fight for you, using the same legal system that banks use against you. Remember that you have rights and you shall...
(877) 292-3566 53 W. Jackson
Foreclosure Defense, Bankruptcy and Real Estate
David Chang was born and raised in Chicago and its surrounding suburbs. David began his legal career in 2001, where his major focus was in residential real estate transactions. He helped clients clear title, review loan documents and insure smooth closings in buying and selling of real estate. In 2003, David moved on to representing clients in both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcies. David advanced to a senior attorney position at one of the largest consumer bankruptcy law firms in the nation and has counseled thousands of clients about their financial needs.
Nathan Jon Reusch
(312) 561-5063 141 W. Jackson Blvd.
Free ConsultationForeclosure Defense, Bankruptcy, Immigration and Real Estate
Wayne State University Law School
Daniel J Winter
Oak Lawn, IL Foreclosure Defense Lawyer
10735 S. Cicero Ave
Oak Lawn, IL 60453
Law Offices of Daniel J Winter provides personal, high quality representation. Bankruptcy advice and representation for individuals and businesses. We will help you protect your home, car or paycheck. Every case is treated personally. We have offices in Chicago Loop, Oak Lawn, Skokie, and Waukegan. We also represent people in southern Wisconsin in conjunction with Michael S. Winter in Milwaukee. With over 18 years of experience, we will give you "peace of mind".
Jason Timothy Vail
(312) 988-5755 321 N. Clark St.
Foreclosure Defense, Family, Landlord Tenant and Real Estate
Jerry Borden
(312) 234-9434 118 N. Clinton Street
Suite LL380
Attorney Jerry Borden is a skilled foreclosure lawyer in Chicago. If you and your family are facing the risk of foreclosure and do not know what to do next, contact Borden Law Firm, P.C. Attorney Borden understands the stress involved with foreclosure threats and is dedicated to helping clients fight to keep their home. Jerry Borden founded this firm with the purpose of helping clients with real estate, commercial and civil litigation. He provides oneâonâone attention to his clients and tries to always keep them in the loop throughout the process. Attorney Borden has ample experience in court when it...
Robert Steven Thomas
Arlington Heights, IL Foreclosure Defense Attorney with 34 years experience
(847) 392-5893 1655 N Arlington Heights Rd
Free ConsultationForeclosure Defense, Divorce, Estate Planning and Tax
Mr. Christopher M. Cosley
Rolling Meadows, IL Foreclosure Defense Lawyer
(847) 394-3200 1855 Rohlwing Road
Suite #D
Free ConsultationForeclosure Defense, Bankruptcy, Criminal and Domestic Violence
An Experienced Attorney You Can Trust Attorney Christopher M. Cosley is a distinguished graduate of Chicago-Kent College of Law. He went on to pass the Illinois State Bar Exam and is an active member of the Illinois State Bar Association. A former Assistant State’s Attorney, he has been practicing law for over a decade. In 2003, Mr. Cosley started his own practice. Over the years, Mr. Cosley has established a solid reputation within the legal community and is well-respected by his peers.
Andrew John Hawes
Niles, IL Foreclosure Defense Attorney with 9 years experience
(847) 583-0101 8041 N. Milwaukee Ave
Free ConsultationForeclosure Defense, Bankruptcy, Collections and Divorce
University of Wisconsin Law School
Sean Chaudhuri
Warrenville, IL Foreclosure Defense Attorney with 18 years experience
(312) 374-4559 4320 Winfield Rd
Free ConsultationForeclosure Defense, Divorce, Domestic Violence and Family
Sean Chaudhuri was admitted to practice law in 2001. He grew up in Baltimore, Maryland, and went to law school in Michigan. He primarily practices in the areas of Family Law, Contested Divorces and Custody Cases, Parentage Cases, Foreclosure Defense, Building Court Cases, Eviction Cases, and Real Estate Litigation. He aggressively litigates cases with passion for his clients, and has built a strong reputation in doing so. Mr. Chaudhuri is a past or present member of the following organizations: The Chicago Bar Association, The Chicago Bar Association-Judicial Evaluation Committee, The Cook County Mortgage Foreclosure Mediation Program, Apna Ghar Pro Bono...
Dwight Adams
(847) 818-8060 1855 Rohlwing Rd.
Foreclosure Defense, Bankruptcy, Criminal and Medical Malpractice
Managing partner Dwight C. Adams was first licensed to practice law in 1968. After earning a B.A. in History from Hanover College, Mr. Adams went on to receive his J.D. after graduating summa cum laude from the prestigious Chicago Kent Law School. Since that time, he’s been defending the rights of countless Illinois clients in a variety of criminal and civil cases. Dwight C. Adams is one of a selected group of lawyers who has earned admission to the Federal Bar Association, which entitles him to practice in front of the U.S. Supreme Court. When other firms say that they’ll “fight...
Charles Alfred Johnson
Bolingbrook, IL Foreclosure Defense Attorney with 37 years experience
(630) 759-4550 136 Maplewood
Free ConsultationForeclosure Defense, Bankruptcy, DUI and Divorce
Steven A. Leahy
150 N Michigan Ave #1120
Free ConsultationForeclosure Defense, Bankruptcy and Tax
I focus my law practice on helping people and businesses fight their IRS problems and resolve their tax issues. My systematic approach can help resolve IRS problems and consistently delivers high-quality service. I am also the host of the IRS Radio Hour found on AM560 each Sunday night at 5PM.
Andre Wrighte
(773) 273-9815 4707 N. Broadway Street
Kenneth E. Kaiser
Palatine, IL Foreclosure Defense Attorney with 41 years experience
(847) 991-6675 502 N Plum Grove Rd
Foreclosure Defense, Bankruptcy, Business and Real Estate
Lawrence W. Lobb
Geneva, IL Foreclosure Defense Attorney with 21 years experience
(630) 631-7602 101 W. Hamilton St.
Geneva, IL 60134
Foreclosure Defense, Bankruptcy, Business and Collections
Iroquois County
Use Justia to research and compare Cullom attorneys so that you can make an informed decision when you hire your counsel.
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20151116 Red Wings vs Senators
NHL 2015: Red Wings vs Senators NOV 16
November 16, 2015: Ottawa Senators goalie Craig Anderson (41) prior to the NHL game between the Detroit Red Wings and the Ottawa Senators at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Daniel Lea/CSM
November 16, 2015: Action during the NHL game between the Detroit Red Wings and the Ottawa Senators at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Daniel Lea/CSM
November 16, 2015: Detroit celebrates the first goal during the NHL game between the Detroit Red Wings and the Ottawa Senators at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Daniel Lea/CSM
November 16, 2015: Detroit Red Wings left wing Drew Miller (20) during the NHL game between the Detroit Red Wings and the Ottawa Senators at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Daniel Lea/CSM
November 16, 2015: Detroit celebrates their second goal during the NHL game between the Detroit Red Wings and the Ottawa Senators at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Daniel Lea/CSM
November 16, 2015: Detroit Red Wings Drew Miller (20) during the NHL game between the Detroit Red Wings and the Ottawa Senators at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Daniel Lea/CSM
November 16, 2015: Detroit Red Wings captain Henrik Zetterberg (40) during the NHL game between the Detroit Red Wings and the Ottawa Senators at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Daniel Lea/CSM
November 16, 2015: Detroit Red Wings goalie Jimmy Howard (35) makes a save while Ottawa Senators Kyle Turris (7) looks for a rebound during the NHL game between the Detroit Red Wings and the Ottawa Senators at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Daniel Lea/CSM
November 16, 2015: Detroit Red Wings Pavel Datsyuk (13) during the NHL game between the Detroit Red Wings and the Ottawa Senators at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Daniel Lea/CSM
November 16, 2015: Ottawa Senators left wing Mike Hoffman (68) during the NHL game between the Detroit Red Wings and the Ottawa Senators at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Daniel Lea/CSM
November 16, 2015: Ottawa Senators goalie Craig Anderson (41) makes a save during the NHL game between the Detroit Red Wings and the Ottawa Senators at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Daniel Lea/CSM
November 16, 2015: Detroit Red Wings center Pavel Datsyuk (13) during the NHL game between the Detroit Red Wings and the Ottawa Senators at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Daniel Lea/CSM
November 16, 2015: Looking up as the puck pops up during the NHL game between the Detroit Red Wings and the Ottawa Senators at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Daniel Lea/CSM
November 16, 2015: Detroit wins 4-3 in overtime of the NHL game between the Detroit Red Wings and the Ottawa Senators at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Daniel Lea/CSM
November 16, 2015: Detroit celebrates a 4-3 victory in overtime of the NHL game between the Detroit Red Wings and the Ottawa Senators at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Daniel Lea/CSM
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Amino Acids — Structural Features, Classification and Ionization
(Votes: 12, average: 4.83)
Amino acids are the simplest unit of a protein. It has distinct structural characteristics that are responsible for the different types of interaction it can make inside the body. It is important to study the structure of amino acids as the functioning of proteins is highly affected by the type of comprised amino acids. In this article, the structural features and properties of an amino acid will be discussed. Also included in this article is the classification of the amino acids based on the side chain it has. The focus is also given to the ionization of amino acids.
Hydrophobic Amino Acids
Hydrophilic Amino Acids
Ionic Amino Acids
Ionization
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Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. Different amino acids may combine to form linear chains called polypeptides. Different polypeptides have different functions and so the type and arrangement of amino acids that comprise them are unique. Changes in the arrangement of the amino acids can lead to having the polypeptide not functioning well for its supposed purpose.
General Structure of Amino Acids, prepared by Mark Xavier Bailon
Amino acids are compounds, any compound, that contains an amino and a carboxylic acid group in its structure. In the context of biomolecules, α-amino acids are more important. In α-amino acids, the amino group is attached to the α-carbon or the carbon adjacent to the carboxyl carbon. In this article, the general term amino acids will be used to refer to the α-amino acids.
Since all amino acids contain amino and a carboxy group, the structural differences of amino acids arise from the variety of R groups that can be present. Different R groups will have varying degrees and types of interaction with the environment and other components. Understanding the chemistry of the side chains of amino acids is important in understanding the properties of individual amino acids and the proteins they form.
There are 21 common α-amino acids found in all proteins or polypeptides. Humans can synthesize some of these amino acids, while the others are obtained by the diet we have. The ones we obtain from our diet are called essential amino acids. The 9 essential amino acids are the following.
Tryptophane
The rest of the amino acids will be named later in the article.
Amino acids can be classified in a variety of ways. One common way of classification is based on their interaction with water. There are amino acids that are considered hydrophobic (water-fearing), hydrophilic (water-loving), and or ionic. It depends on the type of R group one can classify whether the amino acid will belong to any of the three groups.
Hydrophobic amino acids are those whose side chains are considered non-polar. Since the solvent water is a polar molecule, the non-polar side chains do not like to interact with the solvent and so in a protein structure, these R groups are usually buried in the core of the protein. Below are the structures of the different amino acids in this group.
Hydrophobic Amino Acids, prepared by Mark Xavier Bailon
The smallest amino acid is Glycine. This is considered a hydrophobic amino acid because its side chain is just a single hydrogen atom. Unlike most amino acids where the α carbon is chiral (it has four different substituents around it), glycine is the only one with no chiral center.
Other amino acids of this group are those with hydrocarbon side chains. These are the following.
Hydrocarbon side chains are also considered non-polar due to the presence of only C and H atoms which have close electronegativity values. Amino acids containing aromatic side chains are also part of this group. These are Phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan. Methionine and Proline are also members of this group because of their unique structural characteristics. Methionine has a thioether group while proline contains a cyclic structure where the amino and the α-carbons are part of the cycle.
Hydrophilic Amino Acids, Prepared by Mark Xavier Bailon
Hydrophilic amino acids are those whose side chains are polar and not readily ionizable. Common functional groups present in these side chains are carboxamide, sulfhydryl and hydroxyl groups. Six amino acids are members of this group.
The amino acids with carboxamide functional groups are asparagine and glutamine. They are amide derivatives of aspartate and glutamate, respectively.
Amino acids with sulfhydryl groups are cysteine. Cysteine molecules when oxidized tend to form disulfide linkages.
The amino acids with hydroxyl groups in their side chains are serine, threonine, and tyrosine.
The last group of amino acids is the ionic amino acids. These are the amino acids that are ionized depending on the reaction condition. This classification is further divided into the two following groups:
Basic amino acids are those that contain side chains that tend to accept protons. They have additional amino groups in their side chains that make them more basic. Amino acids of this group include lysine, histidine, and arginine. Depending on the pH of the system, the amino groups in the side chains can be protonated.
Acidic amino acids are those whose side chains contain additional carboxyl groups. Depending on the pH of the solution, these side chains can be deprotonated. Amino acids of this group include aspartic acid and glutamic acid. Below are the structures of the different ionic amino acids.
Ionic Amino Acids. Prepared by Mark Xavier Bailon
Carboxyl and amino groups have almost the same strength of acidity and basicity, respectively. In fact, at a neutral pH of 7, the carboxy group of the amino acid is in its deprotonated form, while the amino group is in its protonated form. When this occurs, the amino acid forms a zwitterion or a dipolar ion. Because of the dipolar nature of amino acids, they tend to exhibit some uncommon properties.
Generally, amino acids have high melting points. They are also more soluble in water than in ether and dichloromethane. They have large dipole moments than normal amines and carboxylic acids. They are less acidic than normal carboxylic acid and less basic than normal amines. Because of having both a basic and acidic part in its structure, amino acids are considered also as amphoteric compounds, that is it both exhibits basic and acidic properties.
At neutral pH, both the amino and carboxylic acid groups exist in its ionic form. When you lower the pH of the solution, the –COO– tend to accept a proton to form the –COOH group. On the other hand, when you increase the pH of the solution, the –NH3+ tend to release a proton to produce –NH2 group. In this way, amino acids tend to be cationic in acidic solution, and anionic in basic solution. Presence of another carboxylic acid, amino, and a hydroxyl group in the side chains also contribute to the degree of ionization in varying pH values.
The correct answers can be found below the references.
1. Which amino acid can form disulfide linkage when oxidized?
2. What do you call the ionic form of an amino acid where the carboxylic acid group is deprotonated while the amino group is protonated?
Carboxylate
Zwitterion
Bipolarity
Voet, D., & Voet, J. G. (2011). Biochemistry(4th ed.). New York: J. Wiley & Sons.
Reece, J. B., Taylor, M. R., & Simon, E. J. (2012). Campbell biology: concepts & connections. Boston: Benjamin Cummings.
Correct answers: 1B, 2C
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Lancaster, TX Cremation Services
What to Expect from Cremation Services in Lancaster, TX
Cremation services in Lancaster, TX completely understand how you will be devastated by the loss of a loved one and will need help and assistance in arranging a cremation.
One of the main reasons that people regularly choose a cremation over a burial is linked to the cremation costs in Lancaster, TX. The final bill for cremating a person is usually far lower than the cost of arranging a burial because you do not have to pay for the land, its preparation and then the long-term upkeep.
Across all of America cremations are rapidly increasing as the most popular choice of interment and it is predicted that over 50% of people will choose cremation within the next 20 years or so. An exact and full price list will be passed to the person organizing the cremation so that you fully understand all of the cremation costs in Lancaster, TX.
Why Do People Choose Cremation in Lancaster, TX?
When you have experienced standing around a graveside as the body is lowered into the earth, it is an experience that many prefer to forget. The very different, and less dramatic experience of attending a cremation, focuses more on the person who has died rather than the events organized by Lancaster, TX cremation services.
Some religions will only accept a cremation as the only option for interment and this will be explained by cremation services in Lancaster, TX. In the past, other religions would not accept a cremation as an alternative, but in modern times, the majority of religions are completely accepting of the cremation method being used.
Were you to cast a survey, you would find that modern cemeteries are regarded as extremely sterile and lacking of great character and if you live in a colder area, a grave is a difficult place to visit because of the weather, especially the snow and even more so in a northern state. This explains why many people look at the Lancaster, TX cremation costs and choose it as their best option
In the majority of states, you can care for the deceased at your own home, but the majority of people will prefer that cremation services in Lancaster, TX will undertake the facility.
Lancaster, TX cremation services will explain that the body of the deceased is placed into a container which can be a coffin or casket, but a simple and suitable container is all that the law requires. At the crematorium, the employees will remove jewelry and medical devices, like pacemakers, to reduce the safety hazards for the cremation process. An efficient tagging system is used so that the individual can always be properly identified.
The individual will be cremated in the furnace at temperatures between 1400?F and 2000?F during the course of 2 to 3 hours, when the body will be reduced completely to fine powder, mostly a grey color. These are the ashes that are then returned to the nominated person as part of the cremation costs in Lancaster, TX.
All of the options related to the memorial service will be carefully discussed with Lancaster, TX cremation services.
The Lancaster, TX cremation costs will detail whether the crematorium will be supplying a standard urn to return the ashes to you or whether you have opted to purchase a model for display which you may decide to use for a number of years.
The individual is always cremated alone, so you can rest assured that the ashes being returned to you are always correct and all of the procedures will be explained in detail by Lancaster, TX cremation services.
Religious Questions in Lancaster, TX
Some religious groups will require for a cremation to be completed inside 24 hours after the death of the person. This will be arranged by the funeral director and included within the Lancaster, TX cremation costs, once all of the legal documentation is complete.
There are so many things that you need to think about after someone has died so you should not be worried about leaning heavily on the skills and experience offered by Lancaster, TX cremation services.
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Kendal Town
Big Interview: AFC Fylde making Hay under chairman
AFC Fylde chairman David Haythornthwaite with the model of the club's proposed new stadium
The conversation would generally always lead on to the same subject.
When David Haythornthwaite used to arrive at the Taps, in Lytham, for his regular pint with old pal Dai Davis, their chats would have a familiar ring.
It is not that the pair had nothing else to talk about, but their heart-to-hearts would eventually turn to arguably their favourite subject – football.
The chairman of local amateur football club, Kirkham and Wesham, Davis was keen to bring his friend’s influence on board behind the scenes.
A multi-millionaire after making his fortune in the animal feed business, Haythornthwaite had made attempts to take over Blackpool in the past.
Rebutted twice by the Oyston family – once in 1990s and another time around 10 years ago – the chairman and founder of Vetplus eventually relented to his friend’s persuasive charms.
With his business already the main sponsor of Kirkham and Wesham, Haythornthwaite became the club’s president in 2007 – he would later swap positions with Davis and become the club’s chairman.
Deeply ambitious, Haythornthwaite insisted that if he was going to get involved in the running of the club then he wanted to aim high.
Hanging around in the West Lancashire League was of no interest to him and he sought assurances from Davis that he felt the same way.
Over a beer and a packet of crisps, the pair devised a plan to take the club into the Football League by 2022.
Pie in the sky you might think? It is probable that many educated people at the time scoffed at the duo’s grand plans for the club.
But less than 10 years on, AFC Fylde – as the club is now known after a name change to widen its appeal – is well ahead of schedule in its dream of achieving League status.
Currently one point clear at the top of the Conference North with a game in hand, the Coasters are just two promotions away from League Two football.
Non-league round-up: Bamber Bridge victorious and boosted by Lancaster City’s draw
Haythornthwaite’s influence in the boardroom was felt from day one.
The club almost immediately won promotion to the semi-professional level of the NPL First Division North.
And that coincided roughly at the same time with arguably the club’s greatest ever day – certainly under the guise of Kirkham and Wesham – when it won the FA Vase at Wembley in 2008 under the stewardship of Mick Fuller.
Two goals from Matt Walwyn sealed a memorable 2-1 win over Lowestoft Town.
Ex-PNE goalkeeper Kelham O’Hanlon then took control of first-team affairs and led the club to the First Division North play-off final in 2011, although they were beaten by neighbours Chorley at Victory Park
O’Hanlon left and since then under current manager former Tranmere Rovers and Stockport County defender Dave Challinor, Fylde have secured two promotions.
In Challinor’s first season in charge, he guided the club to the title.
And further success followed a couple of years later, as the Coasters achieved promotion to the Conference North with a penalty shoot-out victory over Ashton United in the Premier Division play-off final last season.
Off the field, the foundation stones are about to be laid for the club’s new multi-million pound 6,000-capacity stadium and retail park on the outskirts of Wesham.
They are hoping to move from their existing home Kellamergh Park to their new ground by at least the start of the 2016/17 season.
It all amounts to exciting times for the Coasters.
“My best friend Dai was always nagging at me,” Haythornthwaite recalls.
“‘Come on, get involved’, he would say to me.
“I suppose he got me in a weak moment one night in the Taps.
“I said, ‘Right I am only doing it on one condition...I am not coming to play around in the West Lancs. If I come on board then we are going to have a go at the Football League’.
“Obviously Dai agreed to that.
“It’s funny, we were laughing about it the other week, but when Dai introduced me to everyone, it was a committee meeting at the Conservative Club on a Tuesday night.
“There were 29 people on the committee and at 11 o’clock, they were still arguing about who hadn’t taken out the bin in one corner of the ground.
“Afterwards I said to Dai, that’s the last time we go to that committee meeting.
“The next month there were just three of us and we got started.
“We were fortunate enough that year...I put some money in, Dai put some money in and we managed to put a good team together.
“We hit the jackpot of going to Wembley, which was amazing.”
Although he did not want to go into detail about his plan to buy Blackpool nor his dealings with the Oystons, Haythornthwaite admits the painful memories of the failed takeover bids provide a certain amount of motivation for him to achieve success with Fylde.
“I think that does give me motivation, there’s no doubt about it,” he said. “When I was trying to take over Blackpool, I was certainly ridiculed by them at the time.
“People used to say he doesn’t know what he’s doing and he’s got no money.
“I think it does give you that inspiration sometimes.
“A lot of things give you inspiration to do certain things.
“I am one of these people that if somebody says that’s impossible or you can’t do that...that’s where it all starts for me.
“It’s the same for me whether it’s business or football.
“I believe you can do anything if you put your mind to it.”
The plan to build a state-of-the art new stadium has been years in the making.
After the initial proposal to create a community complex and ground in Wrea Green was thrown out by Fylde Council, Haythornthwaite turned his attentions to an alternative site.
The new development at Mill Farm on the outskirts of Wesham, close to junction three of the M55, is expected to contain such things as a supermarket, a hotel, a restaurant, as well as a Football League-standard stadium.
After objections, planning meetings, Fylde Council eventually gave the green light to the proposals last year.
“We have got everything done,” he added.
“The i’s are dotted and t’s are crossed.
“To be honest, we have not been waiting for the planning permission.
“We have been working behind the scenes for two years on designing and getting everything ready.
“To do that is a bit of a risk, because we spent a lot of money and it might not have happened, but we wanted to take that risk.
“We will start building...well I am expecting the bulldozers to move in either the first or second week of next month.
“We are hoping to be in our new ground by March 1 next year.
“Those are the famous last words, but we’re confident it’s going to happen and it’s going to be a very proud and exciting moment for me and everybody connected with the club.”
Currently, Fylde average crowds of around 500 at Kellamergh Park for home games in the Conference North – encouragingly it is an increase of 75% from previous seasons.
But surely for the club to sustain itself in higher divisions, it will have to triple, maybe quadruple, those attendance figures at the very least.
Sandwiched in between two big and long established Football League clubs in Blackpool and Preston, Fylde are also competing with other local sides for support, such as Fleetwood Town.
The Cod Army themselves have enjoyed a remarkable rise from humble beginnings in non-league to League One.
Haythornthwaite is not unduly worried about his club’s ability to attract fans, believing he can find a niche in the market which will appeal to spectators.
“It’s one of those things that your enemies or those people who don’t like your success will always point towards,” Haythornthwaite said.
“They will say, ‘It’s not sustainable...they will never be able to do it’.
“But I am quietly confident we can carve out our own niche.
“It’s like in business. Every day I am competing against massive pharmaceutical companies.
“If I try to take them on head to head, I will get killed. I will get beaten every time.
“They have got deeper pockets and are better at everything.
“But we have carved out our own niche and have a very successful formula.
“I plan to do the same with the football club.
“There’s no doubt about it. Football fans in many ways have become a little bit fed-up with the way they have been treated.
“Especially in the Premier League with the money which is involved there now.
“We are going to try and make our football club very much family based.
“We’ve started that off now already and that is very much where our focus is going to be.
“It’s an often-used word and in many respects I hate it, but the word community is what we are going to be.
“I think if you provide a value of facility along with getting it right on the pitch – which is the most difficult thing – but if you can do all those other things then the supporter is going to have a good experience.
“I think where we are lucky is that our new ground is right on that junction off the M55.
“Fleetwood’s problem in terms of their ground is it’s one way in and one way out. We are in a perfect position to pull people in who might be looking for a game to go to and think, ‘Yeah let’s go to Fylde’.
“We will have lots of parking, there will be ease of access and you have to remember all the other things that we will have there too.
“We are going to have a nursery so that if you come with a family and you have a young child, you will be able to put your child in the nursery.
“It’s a little bit unique and that’s the way we are trying to be – a little bit different.”
While all that is for the mid to long term, Fylde’s current issue off the pitch is ensuring they will be able to take their place in the Conference Premier next season should the team continues its present form and win promotion.
Currently, Kellamergh Park does not meet the ground grading criteria for the top-flight of non-league football.
Haythornthwaite has enquired about the possibility of ground sharing with Blackpool, Preston or Fleetwood for a season while their new ground is being built.
It looks like the club will be forced into spending £75,000 to bring their home ground up to standard in time for the start of next season.
“If we go up, we are committed to spending £75,000 on improving our ground,” he said.
“Our ground at the moment is not up to standard and the league is very strict on that.
“I am all for that. I’m a standards man and I have no problem with that.
“You have to have certain number of toilets, directors’ seats, etc, etc.
“But the main thing we have had to do is improve our floodlights – we have done that which cost us £10,000.
“We also need 500 covered seats – currently, we have got 280, so we will be building a new stand behind the goals which will have 250 seats.
“We also have to improve our perimeter fencing around the pitch.
“I have to do it because I need to support my manager.
“If he managed to get us to the top of the league I have got to spend that money.
“Another thing is it’s so hard to get out of each division – more so the higher up you go – so when you’ve got that chance you have got to take it.”
Haythornthwaite also revealed that he is 90 per cent certain that the club will remain part-time next season should they earn promotion.
However, he is quick to point out that nothing is certain this season despite the team’s current lofty position at the top of the table.
After winning eight games on the spin, the Coasters were knocked off top spot when they suffered three successive defeats. The comfortable 3-0 victory over Boston United in midweek ensured Challinor’s men returned to the summit.
They will be hoping to remain there after today’s away trip to bottom side Hyde, who have won just two games all season.
Haythornthwaite admits the decision to appoint Challinor as manager – along with his assistant ex-Norwich City defender Colin Woodthorpe – in 2011 has proven to be an inspired choice.
After taking his previous club Colwyn Bay to two promotions, Challinor dropped back two levels once more to take up the challenge at Kellamergh Park. “Dave Challinor wrote me a long letter by hand,” Haythornthwaite revealed.
“The first thing I thought was, ‘Geez, this is really unusual for a football manager...it was coherent and legible.
“I was really impressed with that. There was obviously no spell check involved or anything like that.
“Then I met him and he was an outstanding candidate.
“It was between him and Graham Heathcote, who had been at Altrincham for years and was very experienced.
“We had to decide between youth because Dave had only been at Colwyn two years although I know he had success there, or do we go for an older guy.
“We were amazed Dave applied for the job because it would mean coming down two levels again.
“We didn’t realise he knew about us.
“We didn’t know him, we had never met him.
“But he came in and interviewed fantastically well and you just knew he wanted the job.
“Since that day, he has been brilliant. He’s like me...he’s as honest as the day is long.
“We have a fantastic relationship, he’s great guy and he will manage in the Football League one day.”
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High Lonesome
High Lonesome quantity
SKU: 322 Categories: Hedgerow Books, Levellers Press Author: Patricia Lee Lewis
High Lonesome is a pasture on a West Texas ranch, a state of being, an affecting personal mythology. Poet Patricia Lee Lewis writes, “Think how brambles catch her petticoats, hold them ’til they tear, feed on blood….Say the old woman can find her way, can feel the thorns of walls,” and “From her kneeling place between two great stones, she sends her voice.” These are poems of landscape and family, heart and perspective.
“High Lonesome pulls you into the momentum of its sounds with urgency, shock, serenity and arrival. The language of Patricia Lee Lewis is devoted to noticing. Her poems digest the howling, look at what comforts, what invades to do harm, what remains.”
—Anne Love Woodhull
Patricia Lee Lewis was born and raised in Texas, where her three children were also born. For over 30 years she has lived and worked at Patchwork Farm Retreat in Western Massachusetts. She holds an MFA degree in Creative Writing from Vermont College, and a BA from Smith College, Phi Beta Kappa. Beloved mentor of many writers, leader of frequent writing retreats both nationally and internationally, she has also been the publisher of The Patchwork Journal. A grant in 2011, from the Massachusetts Cultural Council enabled her to help establish a writing program at her local library. Trained to teach English to speakers of other languages, Patricia and friends volunteer in Guatemala. Her first book of poems, A Kind of Yellow, was awarded first place by Writers Digest International.
Wobblies/Freedom Combo
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2019 Fire Conference
Building on the success of the inaugural FIRE (Fostering Intercultural Respect and Engagement) Conference in 2017, LFA held its second conference titled Engaged Citizenship: Meeting in the Middle on February 16, 2019.
It’s a secret to no one that we live in polarized times. While our nation’s citizens may be more politically engaged than ever before in their lifetimes, they are almost evenly split (and dug in) on the two sides of our political spectrum. When one side is in control, the consequential win-lose scenario leaves half our citizenry angry, distrusting, and fearful. When power is shared, we bemoan gridlock’s resultant inaction. So let’s figure out a better way.
Dr. John Strudwick, a native of the United Kingdom and Head of School at Lake Forest Academy has extensive experience as an educator and administrator. Under his leadership, LFA has come up with long-term strategic plans that define and unify the mission of the school and focused on the importance of global awareness and understanding in American high school education.
His educational background is in economics and education, with a BSc (Econ) from the London School of Economics, a PGCE from Oxford University, an MA from Queen’s University, and a PhD from the University of Toronto, where his thesis examined inequalities in educational finance in the United States, 1870-1970.
Aviral Pathak is a member of the History department at LFA where he teaches World History and AP Government and Comparative Politics. He is completing his Ph.D. His research interest and experience in the history of political thought, comparative politics, and South Asian studies. His dissertation examines the relationship between theories of individual freedom and practices of government in modern India. He has been invited to present his work at distinguished national and international conferences and workshops. Aviral has received several awards that have supported his doctoral research and writing. He pursued undergraduate study at Purdue University, West Lafayette, where he earned a B.S. in Economics (Honors). He was then accepted to the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) for graduate study where he has earned a Master of Arts in Political Science and is completing his Ph.D. in Political Science. Prior to joining LFA, Aviral taught courses in the history of political thought and international studies at the undergraduate level
He considers himself a lifelong scholar, and enjoys reading, writing, listening to old vinyls, traveling, and spending time with family and friends in his spare time. He has supported Manchester United Football Club since his early years growing up in India. He has since adopted Chicago Fire Soccer Club when he moved with his family to the United States as a teenager.
Aisha Fukushima is a singer, speaker, educator, and global ‘RAPtivist’ (rap artist) whose presentation repertoire combines the art of performance and lecture. RAPtivism is a global hip-hop project spanning over 10 countries and four continents, highlighting the ways in which culture can actively contribute to universal efforts for freedom and justice by challenging apathy with awareness, ignorance with intelligence and oppression with expression. Her presentations engage participants in making music that facilitates positive change in the ways we advocate for social justice.
Shifting Culture (Shift) speakers is comprised of a team of three colleagues, Natalie Bui, Kausar Mohammed, and Veline Mojarro, who provide active, embodied, and dialogue-based presentations.
Natalie Bui is a first generation Vietnamese American with a background in community organizing. She has worked for Planned Parenthood – LA on their voter campaign and with ACLU of San Diego, California on their immigrant advocacy initiative. She is now heading diversity and inclusion and coalition building work at Asian Americans Advancing Justice in LA.
Kausar Mohammed has a strong interest in media of all forms, starting from her first TV hosting job at the age of twelve, which expanded from in front of the camera to what makes people watch it. Along with her expertise in producing, marketing, and public relations, she is an actress and a comedian known for award-winning work accredited by NBC, Huffington Post, and Al-Jazeera.
Veline Mojarro has been shaking things up in Los Angeles since birth. A proud Chicana, artist, facilitator, and educator, she currently works at UCLA as a lecturer in the World Arts and Culture Department, and is the Director of Community Programs with the Art and Global Health Center. Some of her past collaborations and clients include Planned Parenthood and CNN’s This Sex with Lisa Ling.
Registration and breakfast (Reid Hall)
8:30 - 9:00 Welcome and Icebreakers (Little Theater)
9:00 - 10:00 Opening dialogue: The value of Global Pluralism - Dr. John Strudwick and Aviral Pathak (Little Theater)
Break-out sessions - Shifting Cultures 1 (Reid Hall classrooms)
10:45 - 11:00 Snack break
Break-out sessions - Shifing Cultures 2 (Reid Hall classrooms)
Lunch (Student Union)
Break-out Shifting Cultures 3 (Reid Classrooms)
Break-out session (Reid classrooms)
2:00 - 2:15 Snack break
Aisha Fukushima (Little Theater)
Breakout session (Reid classrooms)
Closing session (Little Theater)
Midwestern Heart.
Global Mind.
SmugMug
1500 West Kennedy Road Lake Forest, IL 60045
FacStaff Directory
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Image above courtesy of IABC | Flickr.
We are thrilled to announce that the LifeLabs team has been recognized by the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) with a Gold Quill award for internal communications.
For more than 40 years, the IABC Gold Quill Awards have recognized excellence in business communication and is globally acknowledged as one of the most prestigious awards programs in the industry.
The field was very competitive this year, with almost 700 entries from across 13 countries. We are especially proud to be recognized amongst the list of inspiring global communicators.
“Only exceptional work earns an IABC Gold Quill Award,” said Cindy Schmieg ABC, IABC Fellow, chair of the awards committee.” Each entry is rigorously reviewed by multiple experienced communicators from around the world who are trained in applying IABC’s Global Standard of the Communication Profession. The award winners represent our profession of ethical practitioners contributing to organizational outcomes.”
LifeLabs’ winning entry was focused on the launch of an internal communications tool for operations leaders. This channel, now known as the Leaders Digest, acts as a solution to eliminate oversaturation and ineffective communications in order to create consistency for operational information delivery.
“The fairly complex/technical and operational nature of the content, plus the considerable volumes involved, could not have been easy to consume before this channel was produced. Very well (and consistently!) done,” said one reviewer.
The 2019 IABC Gold Quill Awards was presented at IABC’s World Conference, held in Vancouver, BC.
More information is available in the official press release located here. [PDF]
Home News LifeLabs team wins 2019 Gold Quill Communications Award
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Dave Bledsoe / Flickr
Michael New
OpinionAbortion, Politics - U.S.Tue Jul 10, 2018 - 6:11 pm EST
Does the American public really support Roe v. Wade?
abortion, anthony kennedy, polls, roe v. wade
July 10, 2018 (National Review) – Justice Kennedy's announcement that he is retiring from the U.S. Supreme Court has dramatically raised salience of sanctity-of-life issues. Supporters of legal abortion and their allies in the mainstream media are working tirelessly to generate opposition to a constitutionalist nominee who might vote to weaken or overturn the Roe v. Wade decision. One key talking point among many abortion-rights groups is that Roe is a decision that enjoys broad public support and should be considered settled. Indeed, a flurry of polls released in recent days by NBC News/Survey Monkey, Kaiser Family Foundation, and Quinnipiac University all purportedly find that over 60 percent of respondents support Roe v. Wade.
These polls are all misleading for several reasons. First, a significant number of Americans are unfamiliar with the Roe v. Wade decision. A Pew Research Center poll taken in 2013 found that only 62 percent of respondents were aware that Roe v. Wade dealt with abortion. Seventeen percent thought Roe v. Wade dealt with some other public-policy issue and 20 percent were unfamiliar with the decision. Furthermore, even many who realize Roe v. Wade dealt with abortion fail to understand the full implications of the decision. Many wrongly think that overturning Roe v. Wade would result in national ban on abortion, instead a reversal of Roe would return the issue to the states.
Additionally, many polling questions, including the recent questions by NBC News/Survey Monkey, the Kaiser Family Foundation, and Quinnipiac University all fail to inform respondents that Roe v. Wade effectively legalized abortion on demand for all nine months of pregnancy and makes it difficult to place limits on late-term abortions. Historically, there has been very little public support for second-trimester or third-trimester abortions. For instance, a Gallup poll that was released this June found that only 28 percent of people thought second-trimester abortions should be legal and only 13 percent thought third-trimester abortions should be legal.
In 2006, Crisis Magazine published a useful article by Mark Stricherz, which analyzed polling on Roe v. Wade. He looks at the polls conducted during the Supreme Court confirmation hearings of John Roberts and Samuel Alito in the mid 2000s. A Gallup poll at this time described Roe v. Wade as the decision that "legalized abortion" giving respondents the incorrect impression that abortion was always illegal beforehand. The Pew Research Center survey described Roe v. Wade as having "established a woman's constitutional right to an abortion, at least in the first three months of pregnancy." Both the Gallup and the Pew Research Center found that support for Roe v. Wade was over 60 percent. However, when the Los Angeles Times described Roe v. Wade as the decision "which permits a woman to get an abortion from a doctor at any time" – support fell to 43 percent.
Seasoned observers of the U.S. Supreme Court realize that rulings on high-visibility issues are often influenced by public opinion. As such, it should come as no surprise that since 1973 supporters of legal abortion have tried to make a concerted effort to convince the Supreme Court that Roe v. Wade enjoys very broad public support. However, a closer look at the survey data indicates that is not the case. Incremental pro-life laws, such as limits on late-term abortions, have always been broadly supported. Furthermore, public support for Roe v. Wade significantly drops in well-designed polls which fully explain its implications. Pro-lifers would do well to not be discouraged and stay the course.
Published with permission from National Review.
Does the American public really support Roe v. Wade? Does the American public really support Roe v. Wade? Opinion By Michael New
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Lora Phillips Foundation Trust
Motorcycle Rally
IRS Determination Letters
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About the Lora Lee Phillips
Lora Lee Phillips tragically lost her life in an automobile accident on March 21, 1987. She was an active member Gray Stone Church, in Leechburg, PA, including the youth group, choir, and the Presbyterian Youth Triennium. She also volunteered time as a candy striper at Citizens General Hospital in New Kensington. She was an active member in her high school and college choruses and drama clubs, including being the soloist for the Penn State New Kensington Stage Band. Lora also appeared in several theatre productions at Penn State and at the Sherwood Forest Theater in Murrysville. At the time of her death Lora was a Sophomore at Penn State New Kensington and was in the process of transferring to Indiana University of Pennsylvania for her Junior year.
The Lora Phillips Foundation Trust, a 501(c)(3), non-profit, tax-exempt Pennsylvania corporation, was organized in April 1999. In July of 2003 a Board of Trustees was installed to manage the growth of the Foundation. The Lora Phillips Foundation Trust pursues activities which will further Lora’s commitment to bettering the World in which she lived and to foster her legacy of love and compassion. Fundraising is accomplished through a series of annual events, such as the Kensington Financial Golf Classic, The Classic Car & Motorcycle Rally, The Mystic Gala Benefit Dinner, and The Battle of the Bands.
Foundation Mission
The Mission of the Lora Phillips Foundation Trust is to pursue activities which will further the commitment of Lora Lee Phillips to bettering the World in which she lived and to foster her legacy of love and compassion.
The Lora Phillips Foundation Trust is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, tax-exempt Pennsylvania corporation. All profits gathered from activities of the Lora Phillips Foundation are donated to worthy causes in Western Pennsylvania including the Lora Phillips Memorial Scholarships at Penn State New Kensington and Indiana University of Pennsylvania. For more information on the status of the Lora Phillips Foundation or for a copy of the IRS Non-Profit Letter or Commonwealth of Pennsylvania tax-exempt certificate, please forward a stamped, self-addressed envelope along with your request to: The Lora Phillips Foundation Trust, 539 Ridge Avenue, New Kensington, Pennsylvania 15068. ;
The Lora Phillips Foundation Trust
539 Ridge Avenue New Kensington, PA 15068
E-mail: info@loralee.org
Website: http://www.loralee.org
The Lora Lee Phillips Memorial Memorial Poker Run AND Motorcycle Motorcycle Rally is another way to support our Endowed Scholarship.
Each year our golf outing proves to be a memorable weekend and raises funds for our Endowed Scholarship.
2015-2016 Scholarship Application Now available
The 2015-2016 Lora Lee Phillips Memorial Scholarship is now available. You can find the...
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Bill Domiano
© Copyright Lora Phillips Foundation Trust
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1St Research Centre To Study Chinese Hair & Skin
Pudong (September 23, 2005) –L’Oréal announced today the opening of a new research facility in China, the Pudong L’Oréal Research Centre, whose main mission will be to conduct and support basic science research to vastly improve present understanding of the structure and behavior of Chinese hair and skin.
Located in Pudong, on the outskirts of Shanghai, the Research Centre is the first facility of its type operated by a cosmetics company equipped with a world-class team of chemists and physicists to advance the understanding of the unique properties of the hair and skin of Chinese consumers. The research complex of 3,000m² will also house product laboratories with expertise in Asian products and consumer products evaluation centres. L’Oréal will leverage the valuable knowledge that is obtained from the research that is conducted at the Pudong L’Oréal Research Centre to develop innovative and better performing new hair care, skincare and cosmetic products for a growing number of Chinese and Asian consumers worldwide.
“The opening of this Research Centre represents an important turning point for our company and for Asian consumers around the world. The knowledge and insights that we gain through research conducted at the Pudong Research Center will ultimately allow us to develop innovative new products that better service the beauty care needs of the global Asian market,” declared Sir Lindsay Owen-Jones, CEO of L’Oréal.
The decision to invest in China is part of a long-term global strategy and commitment to formulate cosmetic products that meet consumer needs the world over, whilst continuing to respect cultural diversity. The Pudong Research Centre will be responsible for developing efficient, high-tolerance products that support L’Oréal’s brand internationalization strategy – adapting brands originating from other parts of the world to the Chinese and Asian consumer needs ; whilst also supporting the internationalization of Chinese origin brands, such as Yue-Sai.
The Pudong facility will initially contain development laboratories focusing on make-up, skincare and haircare. In 2006 the facility will be expanded to house biology laboratories focusing on tissue engineering and chemical laboratories which will concentrate on effectively leveraging botanical raw materials that are inspired by or used in Chinese medicine. By year-end 2006, more than 60 employees will work at the centre, the vast majority of them hired locally.
L’Oréal, which was founded almost 100 years ago by a scientist, has always placed an emphasis on the importance of research. The company invests 3, 4% of its total sales (507 million euros in 2004) in research and development every year - more than one third of this investment is in fundamental research. The company has had strong ties with the scientific community in China since 1996 when the company first started operating in the country and works with prominent universities, hospitals, research institutions and raw material providers.
At L’Oréal, almost 3,000 researchers, 14 research centres (including the new research centre in China) and 13 evaluation centres around the world play their part in developing some 4,000 new formulas for the main cosmetics businesses.
Press Contact :
Mike Rumsby
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Kraut Law Group Criminal & DUI Lawyers Home
Contact Kraut Law Group Criminal & DUI Lawyers
Los Angeles Criminal Law Information Center
Competence to Stand Trial
Under the law, a person who has been accused of a crime must be able to understand the nature of the proceedings and be able to assist his or her attorney in defending the case. In many circumstances, the defendant may be unable to satisfy either of these requirements due to a mental illness or condition. In these situations, the court will take measures to ensure that the defendant is competent to be tried.
Under California Penal Code Section 1368 PC, a judge or attorney can question the defendant’s competency to stand trial. If the judge questions the competency of the defendant, the defendant’s attorney can request time to form his or her own opinion. Alternatively, a defense attorney can declare a doubt as to the competency of his or her client.
Once a doubt has been declared, the underlying criminal case will be put on hold and the court will conduct a competency hearing. In Los Angeles, the case will be transferred to the Mental Health Courthouse which is responsible for conducting competency hearings. A psychiatrist or qualified psychologist will be appointed to evaluate the defendant to determine whether or not he or she is competent to stand trial. There would have to be a showing by preponderance of the evidence that the defendant is not competent to stand trial. If the defendant is found competent, the case will return to the original judge and will proceed normally.
If the defendant is ruled incompetent to stand trial, the criminal case proceedings will be suspended and the Court can take one of several courses of action. The Court can commit the defendant to a state mental hospital or treatment center, the Court can commit the defendant to an approved treatment facility or the Court can order the defendant to undergo outpatient treatment. In many cases, the Court’s action will depend on the conduct alleged in the underlying offense. Judges may be more likely to order that a defendant be committed when the underlying crime is a violent crime or a sex offense.
A defendant who receives treatment will be expected to provide reports regarding his or her progress. In many cases, a defendant can be returned to competency after receiving proper medication or therapy. If a defendant is returned to competency, he or she would be expected to stand trial on the original charges.
In some cases, the treatment center may determine that the defendant will never be able to be returned to competency. In these cases, the court would appoint a conservator for the defendant who would be responsible for making decisions on the defendant’s behalf. The underlying criminal charges will typically be dismissed where there is no possibility that the defendant will regain competency.
A defendant’s competency is often confused with the issue of insanity. Insanity is a defense that can be raised at trial if there is a question as to whether or not the defendant was aware or in control of his actions at the time the crime was committed. Competency relates to the defendant’s ability to stand trial for his or her actions. A defendant who is found to be competent can still raise a valid insanity defense at trial. If found not guilty by reason of insanity, a defendant can be committed to a state hospital or other treatment facility. In many cases, a defendant can suffer from the same mental illness or condition both when the crime was committed and when he or she is brought to court. In these situations, the defendant would have to be made competent before he or she could be brought to trial. If made competent, the defendant may have a valid insanity defense. In many cases, the prosecutor may understand that the offense occurred as the result of a mental illness and may agree to consider treatment in lieu of more severe punishment.
If you or a loved one have been arrested for a criminal offense and you believe there may be a competency issue, it is crucial that you speak with a Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney right away. Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer Michael Kraut is a former Deputy District Attorney with over 14 years of prosecutorial experience who can help clients and their families navigate competency concerns that may arise.
For more information about Los Angeles competence to stand trial, and to schedule your free consultation, contact Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer Michael Kraut at the Kraut Law Group located at 6255 Sunset Boulevard, Suite 1480, Los Angeles, CA 90028. Mr. Kraut can be reached 24/7 at 888-334-6344 or 323-464-6453.
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Competence to Stand Trial | Los Angeles Criminal Proceeding Lawyer Michael Kraut
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← LSBDC at ULM launches ‘Shop Small, Shop NELA Selfie Challenge’
LSBDC brings you to the customers →
LSBDC drops old suit and goes red, white and blue
Posted on August 28, 2015 by lsbdc
You’re not part of the team until you put the uniform on, and you’re not part of the family unless you share name. The Louisiana Small Business Development Center (LSBDC) took note and dropped its old colors to join the America’s Small Business Development Center (ASBDC) network theme of red, white and blue, as part of a rebranding effort that was completed in May 2015.
The rebranding was designed to connect closely with the national network, but the LSBDC mission remains the same – to provide comprehensive, high-quality assistance to small businesses, and to business entrepreneurs.
“Our new brand serves as a visual representation of the strong connection that we have with our national network of SBDCs across the country,” said Rande Kessler, LSBDC State Director.
The LSBDC worked with several Louisiana-based small businesses including Branded Company of Louisiana, LLC, to develop its print and digital collateral; NMD, Inc. & eMerge enhanced its web and social media presence; and Elephant Quilt Productions developed a series of training tutorials.
LSBDC Director of Marketing and Communications Na’Tisha Natt mainly worked with Louisiana small businesses on the rebrand effort.
“I truly loved working with our local companies,” Natt said. “There is no better way to showcase the talents of Louisiana’s small businesses, some of whom are our clients.”
Not only did Natt build stronger relationships with local companies, the rebrand also helped create other bonds.
“This gave us an opportunity to build new alliances and people were excited about it. We received a lot of positive feedback along the way from our clients, supporters, legislators, and other sectors within the state,” Natt said.
The LSBDC didn’t just go through a logo change, Natt used the rebrand as an opportunity “to reconfigure everything visually about us.”
“We reproduced and created all of our marketing materials to really be this one, new identity,” Natt said.
The effort took almost a full year to complete, with the new brand configuration starting in August of 2014. Looking back, Natt learned she did some things really well and some things she could have done differently.
Natt talked about communicating with the local centers to make sure they understood the purpose of what “we’re doing and understanding what’s to come of it.”
“We wanted to make sure that our stakeholders and staff were comfortable with what we wanted to do and that helped with the buy-in and the implementation of the new brand,” Natt said.
“Reaching out to other networks to see what they had already done was imperative,” Natt said. “Fortunately, we found that Florida’s network had just gone through the rebrand process. Cheryl [Kirby] was a huge help. She shared best practices and lessons learned. During our conversation, I learned that they had a series of videos that were a good fit for our network. We later adapted them for our network, which saved us a lot of time and money.”
“Being a one-person marketing team made time management a challenge. But we had to stay on task,” Natt said. “I learned how important it is to have a strong support team. Soliciting help from a few people within our office and the centers who could be champions of the project, really helped the project stay on schedule.”
Natt said she also was able to use the rebrand as an opportunity to build the LSBDC image and get the word out there about the SBDC in general.
“Although we promoted the rebrand, it gave us an opportunity to reintroduce ourselves and let people know about who we are in general, and we saw results. Our consultants have seen more next-level businesses wanting growth and they were able to find us through our rebranding efforts,” Natt said.
Natt added: “If I had to give one piece of advice to a center that is planning to overhaul their brand, I would recommend that you give yourself ample time to complete the project. Rebranding is a huge undertaking, reaching out to other SBDCs that have been through the process can save you a lot of time and potentially save you money as well.”
This entry was posted in News and Announcements and tagged LSBDC, rebrand, SBDC. Bookmark the permalink.
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The Louisiana Small Business Development Center Network, hosted by Louisiana Delta Community College, is a member of the National Association of Small Business Development Centers and funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration, Louisiana Economic Development and participating universities. All SBA programs are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. All opinions, conclusions or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities and/or limited English proficiency will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.
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The Gathering by K. Armstrong
18 April 2011 Casey Detective/Investigations, Kelley Armstrong, Reviews, Shapeshifters, Urban Fantasy 1
I loved, loved, loved Kelley Armstrong’s Darkest Powers trilogy. So much so that when my friend told me she had an ARC of The Gathering, the first novel in the new Darkness Rising trilogy which is set in the same world as Darkest Powers, I offered her my soul for the book. No, really. I mean, who wouldn’t when offered an ARC back in September of 2010? She told me to keep my soul, though, and gave me the book anyway. While I’m glad I didn’t give my soul away for this book, it was still pretty damn awesome.
Strange things are happening in Maya’s tiny Vancouver Island town. First, her friend Serena, the captain of the swim team, drowns mysteriously in the middle of a calm lake. Then, one year later, mountain lions are spotted rather frequently around Maya’s home—and her reactions to them are somewhat . . . unexpected. Her best friend, Daniel, has also been experiencing unexplainable premonitions about certain people and situations.
It doesn’t help that the new bad boy in town, Rafe, has a dangerous secret, and he’s interested in one special part of Maya’s anatomy—her paw-print birthmark.
The Gathering starts off with a bang. Maya’s best friend, and captain of the swim team drowns in a calm lake. People wrote it off as a freak accident, but it never stops haunting Maya. After that heart-wrenching introduction, the plot of The Gathering took a decidedly long time to unfold (especially if compared to The Summoning). But once it did, the intensity only continually increased, creating an emotional, pulse-pounding novel. The seductive, bad boy Rafe only added to the mystery and fervor of The Gathering. Teenage angsty romance intertwined with murder and ambiguous biological parents – Maya suffers through it all.
Maya had all the qualities for a strong heroine: smart, courageous, out-spoken and loyal, but she’s not without her flaws either. That is, she’s stubborn and will hold a grudge against a person for years over something small, which is something that I’m known to do too.
Readers don’t have to read The Darkest Powers trilogy in order to understand The Gathering. However, I would recommend that you do simply because there are a couple things that will make more sense and because I think that Chloe and her gang of friend are slighty more kickass. While I loved The Gathering, it wasn’t as stunningly marvelous as The Darkest Powers. But all the same, it left me craving for the answers left unsaid.
About Casey 203 Articles
Casey is the founder of Heart Full of Ink, Director at Reading Until Dawn Con, and a full time cheese addict. She's been ranting and reviewing for Literary Escapism since 2010, and is part of the trio #3Bloggers1Series podcast. When she's not reading, looking for new books, or stalking authors online (waiting for more books), she can be found binge watching Netflix. But really, her life is all about DEM BOOKS!
BE: Katherine Kitty Katt Discussion
Rage by J. M. Kessler
I’m really looking forward to reading this one. I enjoyed the Darkest Powers trilogy, and while I don’t hear that this book is the best thing since sliced bread, I do hear that it’s good enough to be just as enjoyable, and I want in! I wasn’t lucky enough to get an ARC, but this is likely to be one that I’d end up buying anyway, so I’m not hugely disappointed. I really hope I enjoy it!
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Your bladder, kidneys, ureters and urethra make up your urinary system. When you have interstitial cystitis, the walls of your bladder become irritated and inflamed (shown right), compared with those of a normal bladder (shown top).
Interstitial cystitis (in-tur-STISH-ul sis-TIE-tis) is a chronic condition causing bladder pressure, bladder pain and sometimes pelvic pain. The pain ranges from mild discomfort to severe pain. The condition is a part of a spectrum of diseases known as painful bladder syndrome.
Your bladder is a hollow, muscular organ that stores urine. The bladder expands until it's full and then signals your brain that it's time to urinate, communicating through the pelvic nerves. This creates the urge to urinate for most people.
With interstitial cystitis, these signals get mixed up — you feel the need to urinate more often and with smaller volumes of urine than most people.
Interstitial cystitis most often affects women and can have a long-lasting impact on quality of life. Although there's no cure, medications and other therapies may offer relief.
The signs and symptoms of interstitial cystitis vary from person to person. If you have interstitial cystitis, your symptoms may also vary over time, periodically flaring in response to common triggers, such as menstruation, sitting for a long time, stress, exercise and sexual activity.
Interstitial cystitis signs and symptoms include:
Pain in your pelvis or between the vagina and anus in women
Pain between the scrotum and anus in men (perineum)
Chronic pelvic pain
A persistent, urgent need to urinate
Frequent urination, often of small amounts, throughout the day and night (up to 60 times a day)
Pain or discomfort while the bladder fills and relief after urinating.
Pain during sexual intercourse.
Symptoms severity is different for everyone, and some people may experience symptom-free periods.
Although signs and symptoms of interstitial cystitis may resemble those of a chronic urinary tract infection, there's usually no infection. However, symptoms may worsen if a person with interstitial cystitis gets a urinary tract infection.
If you're experiencing chronic bladder pain or urinary urgency and frequency, contact your doctor.
The exact cause of interstitial cystitis isn't known, but it's likely that many factors contribute. For instance, people with interstitial cystitis may also have a defect in the protective lining (epithelium) of the bladder. A leak in the epithelium may allow toxic substances in urine to irritate your bladder wall.
Other possible but unproven contributing factors include an autoimmune reaction, heredity, infection or allergy.
These factors are associated with a higher risk of interstitial cystitis:
Your sex. Women are diagnosed with interstitial cystitis more often than men. Symptoms in men may mimic interstitial cystitis, but they're more often associated with an inflammation of the prostate gland (prostatitis).
Your skin and hair color. Having fair skin and red hair has been associated with a greater risk of interstitial cystitis.
Your age. Most people with interstitial cystitis are diagnosed during their 30s or older.
Having a chronic pain disorder. Interstitial cystitis may be associated with other chronic pain disorder, such as irritable bowel syndrome or fibromyalgia.
Interstitial cystitis can result in a number of complications, including:
Reduced bladder capacity. Interstitial cystitis can cause stiffening of the bladder wall, which allows your bladder to hold less urine.
Lower quality of life. Frequent urination and pain may interfere with social activities, work and other activities of daily life.
Sexual intimacy problems. Frequent urination and pain may strain your personal relationships, and sexual intimacy may suffer.
Emotional troubles. The chronic pain and interrupted sleep associated with interstitial cystitis may cause emotional stress and can lead to depression.
Interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. http://kidney.niddk.nih.gov/kudiseases/pubs/interstitialcystitis/. Accessed July 1, 2016.
Clemens JQ. Pathogenesis, clinical features, and diagnosis of interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome. http://www.uptodate.com/home. Accessed July 1, 2016.
Interstitial cystitis. Merck Manual Professional Version. http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/genitourinary_disorders/voiding_disorders/interstitial_cystitis.html. Accessed July 1, 2016.
Wein AJ, et al., eds. Bladder pain syndrome (interstitial cystitis) and related isorders. In: Campbell-Walsh Urology. 11th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Elsevier; 2016. http://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed July 1, 2016.
Clemens JQ. Management of interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome. http://www.uptodate.com/home. Accessed July 1, 2016.
Diagnosis and treatment of interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome. Linthicum, Md.: American Urological Association. http://www.auanet.org/education/guidelines/ic-bladder-pain-syndrome.cfm. Accessed July 1, 2016.
Longo DL, et al., eds. Dysuria, bladder pain, and the interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome. In: Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 19th ed. New York, N.Y.: McGraw-Hill Education; 2015. http://www.accessmedicine.com. Accessed July 1, 2016.
The urinary tract and how it works. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/health-topics/Anatomy/urinary-tract-how-it-works/Pages/anatomy.aspx. Accessed July 1, 2016.
Castle EP (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, Ariz. July 7, 2016.
Pang R, et al. The Chinese approach to complementary and alternative medicine for interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome. Translational Andrology and Urology. 2015;4:653.
Carrico D, et al. Guided imagery for women with interstitial cystitis: results of a prospective, randomized controlled pilot study. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. 2018;14:53.
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A High Precision Artificial Neural Networks Model for Short-Term Energy Load Forecasting
Explicit Multipole Formulas for Calculating Thermal Resistance of Single U-Tube Ground Heat Exchangers
On the Mathematical Modeling of Line-Start Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors under Static Eccentricity
Experimental Study on the Heat Release Operational Characteristics of a Soil Coupled Ground Heat Exchanger with Assisted Cooling Tower
MDPI — Energies
Full-Text PDF With Cover
Im, P.
Henderson, H.
system control
Piljae Im
Xiaobing Liu
Hugh Henderson
Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Operational Performance Characterization of a Heat Pump System Utilizing Recycled Water as Heat Sink and Heat Source in a Cool and Dry Climate
Piljae Im 1, Xiaobing Liu 1,* and Hugh Henderson 2
Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN 37831, USA
Frontier Energy, Inc., Cazenovia, NY 13035, USA
Energies 2018, 11(1), 211; https://doi.org/10.3390/en11010211
Received: 1 December 2017 / Revised: 5 January 2018 / Accepted: 9 January 2018 / Published: 16 January 2018
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geothermal Heating and Cooling)
PDF [2340 KB, uploaded 16 January 2018]
The wastewater leaving from homes and businesses contains abundant low-grade energy, which can be utilized through heat pump technology to heat and cool buildings. Although the energy in the wastewater has been successfully utilized to condition buildings in other countries, it is barely utilized in the United States, until recently. In 2013, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science at Denver, the United States implemented a unique heat pump system that utilizes recycled wastewater from a municipal water system to cool and heat its 13,000 m2 new addition. This recycled water heat pump (RWHP) system uses seven 105 kW (cooling capacity) modular water-to-water heat pumps (WWHPs). Each WWHP uses R-410A refrigerant, has two compressors, and can independently provide either 52 °C hot water (HW) or 7 °C chilled water (CHW) to the building. This paper presents performance characterization results of this RWHP system based on the measured data from December 2014 through August 2015. The annual energy consumption of the RWHP system was also calculated and compared with that of a baseline Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system which meets the minimum energy efficiencies that are allowed by American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) 90.1-2013. The performance analysis results indicate that recycled water temperatures were favorable for effective operation of heat pumps. As a result, on an annual basis, the RWHP system avoided 50% of source energy consumption (resulting from reduction in natural gas consumption although electricity consumption was increased slightly), reduced CO2 emissions by 41%, and saved 34% in energy costs as compared with the baseline system. View Full-Text
Keywords: waste water; renewable energy; recycled water; operational performance; hybrid systems; system control waste water; renewable energy; recycled water; operational performance; hybrid systems; system control
Im, P.; Liu, X.; Henderson, H. Operational Performance Characterization of a Heat Pump System Utilizing Recycled Water as Heat Sink and Heat Source in a Cool and Dry Climate. Energies 2018, 11, 211.
Im P, Liu X, Henderson H. Operational Performance Characterization of a Heat Pump System Utilizing Recycled Water as Heat Sink and Heat Source in a Cool and Dry Climate. Energies. 2018; 11(1):211.
Im, Piljae; Liu, Xiaobing; Henderson, Hugh. 2018. "Operational Performance Characterization of a Heat Pump System Utilizing Recycled Water as Heat Sink and Heat Source in a Cool and Dry Climate." Energies 11, no. 1: 211.
Note that from the first issue of 2016, MDPI journals use article numbers instead of page numbers. See further details here.
Submit to Energies Review for Energies Edit a Special Issue
Energies EISSN 1996-1073 Published by MDPI AG, Basel, Switzerland RSS E-Mail Table of Contents Alert
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Idaho couple’s dream home was infested with snakes
REXBURG, Idaho — They slithered behind the walls at night and released foul-smelling musk into the drinking water. And they were so numerous that Ben Sessions once killed 42 in a single day.
Shortly after buying their dream home, Sessions and his wife discovered it was infested with thousands of garter snakes. For the next three months, their growing family lived as if in a horror movie. More than a year after they abandoned the property, the home briefly went back on the market, and they fear it could someday attract another unsuspecting buyer.
The five-bedroom house stands on nearly two pastoral acres in rural Idaho, about 125 miles southwest of Yellowstone National Park. Priced at less than $180,000, it seemed like a steal.
But the young couple soon learned they would be sharing the home with reptiles at least two feet long that had crawled into seemingly every crevice.
While setting up a chicken coop, Sessions lifted a piece of sheet metal and was startled to see a pair of snakes slither away. A few days later, he found more and soon started to collect dozens in buckets. At times, there were so many in the yard that the grass seemed to move.
If he rapped a stick against the roof overhang, he could hear dozens scatter, their scales sliding against the aluminum. After he removed some panels of siding, dozens of snakes popped out. When he made his way through the crawl space to investigate further, he found snakes everywhere.
That’s when he realized his family was probably living atop a garter snake den where the nonpoisonous reptiles congregate in the fall and winter.
Sessions quickly developed a daily snake-fighting routine. Before his pregnant wife and two small boys got out of bed, he would do a “morning sweep” through the house to make sure none of the snakes had gotten inside. One day, his wife screamed from the laundry room, where she had almost stepped on one. He rushed in to find that she had jumped onto a counter.
“I was terrified she was going to miscarry,” he said.
When they bought the house, the Sessions signed a document that noted the snake infestation. They said they had been assured by their real estate agent that the snakes were just a story invented by the previous owners to leave their mortgage behind.
They soon learned that nearly everyone else in this tiny college town knew the snakes were real.
“I felt bad,” said Dustin Chambers, a neighbor. “By the time we knew someone had bought it, they were already moving in. It was too late.”
Among locals, the property is known simply as the “snake house,” he added.
The pests were impossible to escape no matter the hour of the day.
At night, the Sessions would lie awake and listen to slithering inside the walls. During the day, the family often had to eat out because their well water smelled like the musk released by the snakes as a warning to predators.
But because of the paperwork they had signed, the couple had little recourse when they decided to flee the home. They filed for bankruptcy, and the bank foreclosed on the house.
The Sessions left in December 2009, the day after their daughter was born and just three months after moving in.
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Call Today for a Free Consultation 210.361.2997
Lawsuit Claims Doctor Errors Caused Man's Death
By Maloney Law Group
When a loved one is ill, many people in Texas are willing to go to great lengths in order to help improve that person's health. For some, this could include undergoing a live organ donor procedure. One man decided to make this sacrifice to help his ill father. Unfortunately, a recently filed lawsuit claims that doctor errors ultimately cost the donor his life.
Court records indicate that the procedure occurred in April 2015. Following the procedure, the 40-year-old man suffered from significant internal bleeding. Unfortunately, the bleeding could not be controlled, and he died the day following the surgery.
An autopsy revealed that the bindings used on an artery during the removal of the kidney failed, causing the bleeding. The man's father -- whose surgery was performed by a different team of doctors -- went on to fully recover. Representatives for the man's family claim that the his death was caused by the doctor's negligence.
Unfortunately, what was a selfless act on the part of the man turned into his final one, leaving his family members attempting to cope with their grief. In many cases, those who believe that their loss could have been prevented makes coping with the loss even more difficult. While most medical workers are well-trained professionals, doctor errors have caused serious harm to patients in Texas, sometimes even resulting in death as allegedly occurred in this case. By filing a civil lawsuit, family members can receive an award of damages to help with the financial consequences of their loss if negligence is proved, and such action could also help prevent future incidents.
Source: news-press.com, "Lawsuit filed over kidney transplant death at Gulf Coast", Frank Gluck, March 31, 2016
Doctor Errors
Contact Our Team Today
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Sophie Turner Wore Jeans And A Crop Top On The Red Carpet
Sophie Turner And Richard Madden Reunited At The Met Gala
Your Definitive Guide To Sophie Turner's Best Beauty Looks Throughout The Years
Sophie Turner On Her Private Battle Behind The Scenes Of ‘Game Of Thrones’
Did Sophie Turner Give Us ‘Game Of Thrones’ Spoilers With Her Recent Halloween Costume?
Sophie Turner Has Told Her Friends How 'Game Of Thrones' Will End
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Sophie Turner Just Got A Game of Thrones Tattoo And It May Or May Not Be A Spoiler
Sophie Turner's Description Of The Last Ever 'Game of Thrones' Episode Has Us Shaking
Sophie Turner's Beauty Evolution In Photos
'Game Of Thrones' Fans Noticed Something Strange About Sophie Turner's Name In The Opening Credits
Icon Gwendoline Christie Submitted Herself For An Emmy Nomination
Sophie Turner Revealed Her Biggest Regret About 'Game of Thrones'
We didn't think it was possible to love her more - by Grace Back
Sophie Turner literally grew up on the set of Game of Thrones. Appearing on the series from the age of thirteen has its advantages for sure, but it also has its drawbacks. As Turner admits herself, its incredibly cool to appear on one of the world's biggest, and most successful, television series of all time. The downside is that you don't get to do normal teenage things, ie. go to college and get drunk with friends.
Appearing on the UK's Graham Norton Show, Turner opened up about what she feels she missed out on most while playing Sansa Stark.
"I wish I’d had the university experience," she says. "I wish I could have gone out and drunk a lot and thrown up in the middle of a club without it being photographed! But, I am happy with my Game of Thrones experience. I don’t think I missed out on too much."
RELATED: Sophie Turner On Her Private Battle Behind The Scenes Of ‘Game Of Thrones’
Turner also gave an insight into life on the GoT set as a young teenager.
"They [the cast] were very protective," she said. "There was one moment before a scene where Peter [Dinklage] and Conleth [Hill] were talking amongst themselves and they were swearing, and Peter was like, 'Don’t swear in front of Sophie. She’s 14, you can’t swear'.
"Then they called, 'action' and the first words of the scene were a string of obscenities and expletives! It was all very strange."
While appearing on the same program, Turner showed off her incredibly wild flexibility thanks to years of circus training. The GoT star explained that she's able to fall asleep anywhere, regardless of her location. She told Norton, "I'm incredible at sleeping. I can do it anywhere, any time." Showing that she used to fall asleep by bending over, with her head between her legs, Turner explained, "I suppose I'm a little bendy."
Sophie Turner's Secret Circus Skills | The Graham Norton Show | BBC America
WATCH: Sophie Turner Talks To Dr. Phil About Her Insecurities, And How Joe Jonas Helps Her Cope.
This article originally appeared on InStyle Australia.
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THE COMPANIES ACT 2006
PRIVATE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE
MOTOR ACCIDENT SOLICITORS SOCIETY
(“Society”)
1. Interpretation
1.1 In these Articles, unless the context otherwise requires:
Act: means the Companies Act 2006;
Articles: means the Society’s articles of association for the time being in force;
Business Day: means any day (other than a Saturday, Sunday or public holiday in the United Kingdom) on which clearing banks in the City of London are generally open for business;
Conflict: means a situation in which a director has or can have, a direct or indirect interest that conflicts or possibly may conflict, with the interests of the Society;
Eligible Director: means a director who would be entitled to vote on the matter at a meeting of directors (but excluding in relation to the authorisation of a Conflict pursuant to Article 11, any director whose vote is not to be counted in respect of the particular matter);
Management Committee: means the management committee of directors as established in accordance with Article 7;
Member: means a member of the Society; and
Model Articles: means the model articles for private companies limited by guarantee contained in Schedule 2 of the Companies (Model Articles) Regulations 2008 (SI 2008/3229) as amended prior to the date of adoption of these Articles and reference to a numbered “Model Article” is a reference to that article of the Model Articles.
1.2 Save as otherwise specifically provided in these Articles, words and expressions which have particular meanings in the Model Articles shall have the same meanings in these Articles, subject to which and unless the context otherwise requires, words and expressions which have particular meanings in the Act shall have the same meanings in these Articles.
1.3 Headings in these Articles are used for convenience only and shall not affect the construction or interpretation of these Articles.
1.4 A reference in these Articles to an “article” is a reference to the relevant article of these Articles unless expressly provided otherwise.
1.5 Unless expressly provided otherwise, a reference to a statute, statutory provision or subordinate legislation is a reference to it as it is in force from time to time, taking account of:
1.5.1 any subordinate legislation from time to time made under it; and
1.5.2 any amendment or re-enactment and includes any statute, statutory provision or subordinate legislation which it amends or re-enacts.
1.6 Any phrase introduced by the terms “including“, “include“, “in particular” or any similar expression shall be construed as illustrative and shall not limit the sense of the words preceding those terms.
1.7 The Model Articles shall apply to the Society, except in so far as they are modified or excluded by these Articles.
1.8 Model Articles 2, 8, 9(1), 11(2) and (3), 13, 14(1), (2), (3) and (4), 17(2), 30(2), 35, 38 and 39 shall not apply to the Society.
1.9 Model Article 7 shall be amended by:
1.9.1 the insertion of the words “for the time being” at the end of article 7(2)(a); and
1.9.2 the insertion in article 7(2) of the words “(for so long as he remains the sole director)” after the words “and the director may”.
1.10 Model Article 20 shall be amended by the insertion of the words “and the secretary” before the words “properly incur”.
2. Objects
The primary object for which the Society is established is to promote the best interests of the motor accident victim. In addition we also aim:
2.1 to promote the highest standards of legal services through education and representation in the pursuit of justice for the victims of road traffic accidents;
2.2 to promote and enhance the expertise, knowledge and efficiency of solicitors practices in the United Kingdom in the conduct of claims for compensation arising out of motor accidents; to promote honourable practice among them; to promote the business of the Members of the Society both within and outside the profession; to promote training and education of the law practice and procedure to its Members in the conduct of such claims;
2.3 to consider general questions affecting the interests of persons seeking compensation for damage to property or person sustained in motor accidents; to initiate and promote legislation with a view to attaining any of the objectives of the Society; to petition Parliament in favour of, or against, any measure affecting the compensation claims process and the opportunity for the public to obtain or secure the services of specialist solicitors practices and to make representations to all authorities or bodies in order to further the objectives of the Society;
2.4 to promote and encourage the provision of such legal services for lawyers and claimants in the European Union and elsewhere;
2.5 to organise and promote an annual conference for the Members of the Society; and
2.6 to do all such lawful things as are incidental to, or conducive to, the attainment of all or any of the objectives mentioned above, including the institution of legal proceedings.
3.1 In pursuance of the objects set out in Article 2, the Society has the power to:
3.1.1 buy, lease or otherwise acquire and deal with any property real or personal and any rights or privileges of any kind over or in respect of any property real or personal and to improve, manage, develop, construct, repair, sell, lease, mortgage, charge, surrender or dispose of or otherwise deal with all or any part of such property and any and all rights of the Society;
3.1.2 borrow and raise money in such manner as the Management Committee shall think fit and secure the repayment of any money borrowed, raised or owing by mortgage, charge, lien or other security on the Society’s property and assets;
3.1.3 invest and deal with the funds of the Society not immediately required for its operations in or upon such investments, securities or property as may be thought fit;
3.1.4 subscribe for, take, buy or otherwise acquire, hold, sell, deal with and dispose of, place and underwrite shares, stocks, debentures, debenture stocks, bonds, obligations or securities issued or guaranteed by any government or authority in any part of the world;
3.1.5 lobby, advertise, publish, educate, examine, research and survey in respect of all matters of law, regulation, economics, accounting, governance, politics and/or other issues and to hold meetings, events and other procedures and co-operate with or assist any other body or organisation in each case in such way or by such means as may, in the opinion of the Management Committee, affect or advance the principal object in any way;
3.1.6 pay all or any expenses incurred in connection with the promotion, formation and incorporation of the Society and to contract with any person, firm or company to pay the same;
3.1.7 enter into contracts to provide services to or on behalf of other bodies;
3.1.8 provide and assist in the provision of money, materials or other help;.
3.1.9 open and operate bank accounts and other facilities for banking and draw, accept, endorse, issue or execute promissory notes, bills of exchange, cheques and other instruments;
3.1.10 incorporate subsidiary companies to carry on any trade; and
3.1.11 do all such other lawful things as are incidental or conducive to the pursuit or to the attainment of any of the object set out in Article 2.
4. Income
4.1 The income and property of the Society shall be applied solely in promoting the objects of the Society as set out in Article 2.
4.2 No dividends or bonus may be paid or capital otherwise returned to the Members, provided that nothing in these Articles shall prevent any payment in good faith by the Society of:
4.2.1 reasonable and proper remuneration to any Member, officer or servant of the Society for any services rendered to the Society;
4.2.2 any interest on money lent by any Member or any director at a reasonable and proper rate;
4.2.3 reasonable and proper rent for premises demised or let by any Member or director; or
4.2.4 reasonable out-of-pocket expenses properly incurred by any director.
5. Winding Up
On the winding-up or dissolution of the Society, any assets or property that remains available to be distributed or paid (“Surplus“), shall be transferred to the Members of the Society to be divided between them pro-rata their financial contribution to the Society. The Surplus shall be calculated by the accountants of the Society from time to time (“Accountants“) who shall be provided with access to, or copies of, the books and records of the Society and any working papers, analyses, and computations that they may reasonably require for the purposes of calculating the Surplus. The calculation of the Surplus shall become final and binding on the parties for the purpose of these Articles. The Accountants shall act as an expert and not as an arbitrator and the Accountant’s written decision on the calculations and figures produced shall be final and binding in the absence of manifest error or fraud.
6. Guarantee
6.1 The liability of each Member is limited to £1, being the amount that each Member undertakes to contribute to the assets of the Society in the event of its being wound up while he is a Member or within one year after he ceases to be a Member, for
6.1.1 payment of the Society’s debts and liabilities contracted before he ceases to be a Member,
6.1.2 payment of the costs, charges and expenses of the winding up, and
6.1.3 adjustment of the rights of the contributories among themselves.
7. Management Committee
7.1 The Society shall be administered by a Management Committee which shall consist of the following:-
7.1.1 the Honorary Chairman, Honorary Vice-Chairman and the Honorary Treasurer for the time being and the immediate past Honorary Chairman as ex-officio member (elected pursuant to Article 16);
7.1.2 the Regional Co-ordinator for each region as elected in the manner provided below; and
7.1.3 not more than three other persons co-opted by the Management Committee; such co-opted persons shall hold office until the next annual general meeting but may be co-opted again.
7.2 No more than two Members of any firm may be on the Management Committee at the same time.
7.3 The Management Committee shall meet at least quarterly and nine members of the Management Committee shall constitute a quorum.
7.4 The Management Committee may continue to act even though the number of its elected members (being all those members other than any co-opted members) is reduced by death, retirement or otherwise below the number of nine but if at any time the number is reduced below nine, the continuing members of the Management Committee shall act only for the purpose of filling vacancies until there are at least nine members of the Management Committee.
7.5 The Management Committee may appoint sub-committees with such membership powers and functions as the Management Committee shall prescribe.
8. Regional Co-ordinator
8.1 There shall be a Regional Co-ordinator for each region who shall be a partner or employee of a Member in that region having a minimum of five years experience in the handling of claims arising from motor accidents and who shall be elected annually by the Members of such region and approved at the annual general meeting.
8.2 Regional Co-ordinators hold office until the next annual general meeting. Any Regional Co-ordinator may at the end of this term of service offer himself for re-election for the ensuing year and for a total of no more than three years.
8.3 Towards the end of such three year term the Chairman and Vice Chairman will consider whether such Regional Co-ordinator should be permitted to offer himself/herself for re-election for a further period of three years, subject to election each year by that Regional Co-ordinator’s region. If not satisfied that that Regional Co-ordinator should stand (and provided that the Management Committee shall, by majority vote of those attending the relevant Management Committee Meeting agree), then the Chairman will notify that Region that a new Regional Co-ordinator should be elected.
8.4 Save as set out in Article 8.6 below, and subject to full discretion of the Management Committee, no Regional Co-ordinator shall serve as Regional Co-ordinator for longer than six years (unless elected as Chairman, Vice Chairman, or Treasurer).
8.5 Each Regional Co-ordinator shall convene at least four meetings per year of Members within that region and shall provide a report to the Management Committee of the business conducted at each regional meeting.
8.6 In the event that no-one in a region is willing to take on the position of Regional Co-ordinator then:
8.6.1 If the outgoing Regional Co-ordinator is willing to stand again then providing the Management Committee concurs then the outgoing Regional Co-ordinator may stand again
8.6.2 If the outgoing Regional Co-ordinator is not willing to stand again or if the Management Committee does not concur then either:
(a) An existing Member of the Management Committee may act as Regional Co-ordinator both for his/her own region and for the region which has no-one else willing to stand; or
(b) that Region may be temporarily merged with another region until such time as a Regional Co-ordinator can be found and co-opted or elected to stand.
8.7 An Officer may not be elected as Regional Co-ordinator for his region.
8.8 The number of regions shall be determined from time to time by the Management Committee but shall not be less than six. The boundaries of each region shall be drawn so as to provide so far as is reasonably practicable equal numbers of Members in each region.
9. Unanimous Decisions
9.1 A decision of the Management Committee is taken in accordance with this article when all Eligible Directors indicate to each other by any means that they share a common view on a matter.
9.2 Such a decision may take the form of a resolution in writing, where each Eligible Director has signed one or more copies of it, or to which each Eligible Director has otherwise indicated agreement in writing.
9.3 A decision may not be taken in accordance with this article if the Eligible Directors would not have formed a quorum at such a meeting.
10. Calling a Meeting of the Management Committee
10.1 Any director may call a meeting of the Management Committee by giving not less than 10 Business Days’ notice of the meeting (or such lesser notice as all the directors may agree) to the directors or by authorising the company secretary (if any) to give such notice.
10.2 Notice of a meeting of the Management Committee shall be given to each director in writing, which can include by email.
10.3 A director who is absent from the UK and who has no registered address in the UK shall not be entitled to notice of the directors’ meeting.
11. Quorum for Meetings of the Management Committee
11.1 Subject to Article 11.2, the quorum for the transaction of business at a meeting of the Management Committee is any nine Eligible Directors.
11.2 For the purposes of any meeting (or part of a meeting) held pursuant to Article 11 to authorise a Conflict, if there is only one Eligible Director in office other than the Interested Director(s) (defined in Article 11.1), the quorum for such meeting (or part of a meeting) shall be one Eligible Director.
11.3 If the total number of directors in office for the time being is less than the quorum required, the directors must not take any decision other than a decision:
11.3.1 to appoint further directors; or
11.3.2 to call a general meeting so as to enable the Members to appoint further directors.
12. Casting Vote
12.1 If the numbers of votes for and against a proposal at a meeting of the Management Committee are equal, the chairman or other director chairing the meeting has a casting vote.
12.2 Article 12.1 shall not apply in respect of a particular meeting (or part of a meeting) if, in accordance with the Articles, the chairman or other director is not an Eligible Director for the purposes of that meeting (or part of a meeting).
13. Directors’ Conflicts of Interest
13.1 The Management Committee may, in accordance with the requirements set out in this article, authorise any Conflict proposed to them by any director which would, if not authorised, involve a director (an Interested Director) breaching his duty under section 175 of the Act to avoid conflicts of interest.
13.2 Any authorisation under this Article 13 shall be effective only if:
13.2.1 to the extent permitted by the Act, the matter in question shall have been proposed by any director for consideration in the same way that any other matter may be proposed to the Management Committee under the provisions of these Articles or in such other manner as the Management Committee may determine;
13.2.2 any requirement as to the quorum for consideration of the relevant matter is met without counting the Interested Director; and
13.2.3 the matter was agreed to without the Interested Director voting or would have been agreed to if the Interested Director’s vote had not been counted.
13.3 Any authorisation of a Conflict under this Article 13 may (whether at the time of giving the authorisation or subsequently):
13.3.1 extend to any actual or potential conflict of interest which may reasonably be expected to arise out of the matter or situation so authorised;
13.3.2 provide that the Interested Director be excluded from the receipt of documents and information and the participation in discussions (whether at meetings of the Management Committee or otherwise) related to the Conflict;
13.3.3 provide that the Interested Director shall or shall not be an Eligible Director in respect of any future decision of the Management Committee in relation to any resolution related to the Conflict;
13.3.4 impose upon the Interested Director such other terms for the purposes of dealing with the Conflict as the Management Committee thinks fit;
13.3.5 provide that, where the Interested Director obtains, or has obtained (through his involvement in the Conflict and otherwise than through his position as a director of the Society) information that is confidential to a third party, he shall not be obliged to disclose that information to the Society, or to use it in relation to the Society’s affairs where to do so would amount to a breach of that confidence; and
13.3.6 permit the Interested Director to absent himself from the discussion of matters relating to the Conflict at any meeting of the Management Committee and be excused from reviewing papers prepared by, or for, the Management Committee to the extent they relate to such matters.
13.4 Where the Management Committee authorises a Conflict, the Interested Director shall be obliged to conduct himself in accordance with any terms and conditions imposed by the Management Committee in relation to the Conflict.
13.5 The Management Committee may revoke or vary such authorisation at any time, but this shall not affect anything done by the Interested Director prior to such revocation or variation in accordance with the terms of such authorisation.
13.6 A director is not required, by reason of being a director (or because of the fiduciary relationship established by reason of being a director), to account to the Society for any remuneration, profit or other benefit which he derives from or in connection with a relationship involving a Conflict which has been authorised by the Management Committee in accordance with these Articles or by the Society in general meeting (subject in each case to any terms, limits or conditions attaching to that authorisation) and no contract shall be liable to be avoided on such grounds.
13.7 Subject to sections 177(5) and 177(6) and sections 182(5) and 182(6) of the Act, and provided he has declared the nature and extent of his interest in accordance with the requirements of the Act, a director who is in any way, whether directly or indirectly, interested in an existing or proposed transaction or arrangement with the Society:
13.7.1 may be a party to, or otherwise interested in, any transaction or arrangement with the Society or in which the Society is otherwise (directly or indirectly) interested;
13.7.2 shall be an Eligible Director for the purposes of any proposed decision of the Management Committee (or committee of directors) in respect of such existing or proposed transaction or arrangement in which he is interested;
13.7.3 shall be entitled to vote at a meeting of the Management Committee (or of a committee of the directors) or participate in any unanimous decision, in respect of such existing or proposed transaction or arrangement in which he is interested;
13.7.4 may act by himself or his firm in a professional capacity for the Society (otherwise than as auditor) and he or his firm shall be entitled to remuneration for professional services as if he were not a director;
13.7.5 may be a director or other officer of, or employed by, or a party to a transaction or arrangement with, or otherwise interested in, any body corporate in which the Society is otherwise (directly or indirectly) interested; and
13.7.6 shall not, save as he may otherwise agree, be accountable to the Society for any benefit which he (or a person connected with him (as defined in section 252 of the Act)) derives from any such transaction or arrangement or from any such office or employment or from any interest in any such body corporate and no such transaction or arrangement shall be liable to be avoided on the grounds of any such interest or benefit nor shall the receipt of any such remuneration or other benefit constitute a breach of his duty under section 176 of the Act.
14. Records of Decisions to be Kept
14.1 Where decisions of the directors are taken by electronic means, such decisions shall be recorded by the directors in permanent form, so that they may be read with the naked eye.
14.2 Minutes of the proceedings of every general meeting of the Society and of every meeting of the Management Committee or any sub-committee shall be recorded either in a minute book or books to be kept for that purpose or stored electronically and be signed by the Chairman of that or the next following meeting and such minutes when so recorded and signed shall be receivable in evidence of the proceedings therein recorded without further proof.
15. Number of Directors
Unless otherwise determined by ordinary resolution, the number of directors (other than alternate directors) shall not be subject to any maximum but shall not be less than two.
16. Officers
16.1 There shall be an Honorary Chairman, Honorary Vice-Chairman and Honorary Treasurer (“Officers”) who shall be elected annually by the Society at the annual general meeting and who shall hold office until the next following annual general meeting when they shall retire from office.
16.2 The office of Honorary Chairman shall not be held for more than two years consecutively.
16.3 The other elected Officers shall be eligible for re-election save that
the Immediate Past Chairman shall be eligible to remain on the Management Committee for a maximum of 2 years.
16.4 Candidates for office must be partners or employees in a Member firm and each candidate should have a minimum of five years experience in the handling of claims arising from motor accidents.
16.5 In the event of a vacancy occurring in any of the Offices between one annual general meeting and another, the Management Committee may appoint a member of the Management Committee to fill the vacancy, but the member so appointed shall hold office only until the next following annual general meeting unless at such meeting he/she is re-elected for a further period.
17. Secretary
The Management Committee may appoint such person (if he or she is willing to act) as the secretary for such term, at such remuneration and upon such conditions as they may think fit and from time to time remove such person and, if the Management Committee so decides, appoint a replacement, in each case by a decision of the Management Committee.
18. Membership
18.1 The subscribers to the Memorandum of Association of the Society, the members of the unincorporated society known as “Motor Accident Solicitors Society” as at the date of incorporation of the Society and such other persons as are admitted to membership by the Management Committee in accordance with these Articles shall be the members of the Society.
18.2 The number of the Members of the Society shall not exceed 1,000 offices subject to the Management Committee in its absolute discretion allowing an increase thereof.
18.3 If a firm has more than one office, then membership shall be granted to the office applying for membership only and does not extend to additional offices unless these offices submit a separate membership application. Only firms as defined in the Rules shall be eligible to become Members.
18.4 The Management Committee may in their absolute discretion admit as a Member any firm which whilst not strictly eligible to become a Member under these Articles or the Rules is nonetheless regarded by them as having appropriate experience.
18.5 Any firm which wishes to be considered for membership of the Society shall submit a proposal which will be considered by the Management Committee.
18.6 In deciding whether or not to admit a firm to membership the Management Committee shall not be obliged to give any reason for rejection. The Management Committee shall be entitled to refuse to admit to membership any firm even if that firm satisfies the normal criteria for membership at its absolute discretion.
19. Application for Membership
19.1 No person shall become a Member unless he has completed an application for membership in a form approved by the Management Committee from time to time. The application should be sent to the relevant Regional Co-ordinator for consideration. If the Regional Co-ordinator approves the application, he or she shall recommend such approval to the Management Committee. A letter shall be sent to each successful applicant confirming their membership of the Society and the details of each successful applicant shall be entered into the Register of Members.
19.2 The Management Committee may decline to accept any application for membership and need not give reasons for doing so.
19.3 The Management Committee may prescribe criteria for membership of the Society but shall not be obliged to accept persons fulfilling those criteria as Members.
19.4 All Members must agree to adhere to the Society’s Code of Conduct and these Articles and any Rules made or established pursuant to them and, in particular, the Society’s stated objectives.
19.5 All Members must pay to the Society (whether following a request from the Honorary Treasurer or not) within 14 days of becoming a Member the appropriate joining fee and an annual subscription fee, to be decided by the directors from time to time.
19.6 The Management Committee may establish different classes of Members and set out their respective rights and obligations.
20. Forfeiture, Suspension and Expulsion of Member
20.1 Any Member who shall not have paid its annual subscription (or any special levies) for three calendar months after the same shall have become due may be struck off the roll of Members by resolution of the Management Committee.
20.2 Any Member so struck off the role of Members shall be eligible for re-admission on payment of all arrears due from the Member.
20.3 Should the circumstances of a Member firm, at any time so change or the conduct of a Member firm or any staff, be such that in the opinion of a majority of the Management Committee properly called (with notice of the resolution to expel that Member) and at which there shall be a quorum (for this purpose alone) of at least 13 members, it would not satisfy the requirements for membership or would be refused membership on general grounds if it were to apply at that time, the Management Committee shall have discretion to suspend or terminate its membership.
20.4 In the event of a formal complaint being raised against any Member firm or their staff the Management Committee shall have the power to fine, suspend or expel any Member who:
20.4.1 has failed to abide by the terms of these Articles and the Rules; or
20.4.2 has failed to comply adequately with the Society’s Code of Conduct (but only in circumstances where the Complaints Tribunal declines to exercise its powers pursuant to clause 9 of the Code of Conduct); or
20.4.3 has failed to provide a representative to attend a minimum of one regional meeting per annum; or
20.4.4 has acted in any dishonourable or improper manner or has displayed unprofessional conduct contrary to the interests of the Society;
20.4.5 it is guilty of conduct which has or is likely to have a serious adverse effect on the Society or bring the Society or any or all of the Members and Management Committee into disrepute; or
20.4.6 it has acted or has threatened to act in a manner which is contrary to the interests of the Society as a whole; or
20.4.7 has been disciplined by its governing body in relation to any matter relevant to its membership of the Society.
20.5 In the event of a formal complaint being raised against any Member firm in relation to any breach of Professional Codes, the Member firm will be referred by the Management Committee to the relevant authority for investigation.
20.6 The Management Committee shall have the power, after consideration of the decision of the relevant authority, to fine, suspend or expel any such Member. Provided always that such powers may only be exercised after an investigation of the circumstances leading to any complaint and the Member firm concerned having been given the opportunity to make representations, whether in writing or (at the discretion of the Management Committee) orally.
20.7 Following such termination, the Member shall be removed from the Register of Members
20.8 The notice to the Member must give the Member the opportunity to be heard in writing or in person as to why his membership should not be terminated. The Management Committee must consider any representations made by the Member and inform the Member of their decision following such consideration. There shall be no right to appeal from a decision of the Management Committee to terminate the membership of a Member.
20.9 A Member whose membership is terminated under this Article shall not be entitled to a refund of any subscription or membership fee and shall remain liable to pay to the Society any subscription or other sum owed by it.
21. Requirement to hold annual general meeting
21.1 The Society shall in each year hold a general meeting as its annual general meeting in addition to any other meetings in that year and shall specify the meeting as such in the notices calling it. At least twenty-one clear days notice of every annual general meeting shall be given. Notice may be given by first class post / DX or by email. If by first class post / DX then notice shall be deemed given 2 days after posting and if by email then notice shall be deemed given on the day after the email was sent.
21.2 At the annual general meeting there shall be considered:
21.2.1 the report of the Management Committee;
21.2.2 the accounts of the previous year;
21.2.3 the officers and other elected members of the Management Committee for the following year shall be elected; and
21.2.4 such other business shall be transacted as the Management Committee thinks fit.
DECISION MAKING BY MEMBERS
22. Quorum
At every general meeting fifteen Members or a majority of all Members entitled to attend and vote at general meetings shall form a quorum.
23. Votes of Members
Subject to the Act, at any general meeting every Member who is present in person (or by proxy) shall on a show of hands have one vote and every Member present in person (or by proxy) shall on a poll have one vote.
24. Poll Votes
24.1 A poll may be demanded at any general meeting by any qualifying person (as defined in section 318 of the Act) present and entitled to vote at the meeting.
24.2 Article 30(3) of the Model Articles shall be amended by the insertion of the words “A demand so withdrawn shall not invalidate the result of a show of hands declared before the demand was made” as a new paragraph at the end of that article.
25. Proxies
25.1 Article 31(1)(d) of the Model Articles shall be deleted and replaced with the words “is delivered to the company in accordance with the Articles not less than 48 hours before the time appointed for holding the meeting or adjourned meeting at which the right to vote is to be exercised and in accordance with any instructions contained in the notice of the general meeting (or adjourned meeting) to which they relate”.
25.2 Article 31(1) of the Model Articles shall be amended by the insertion of the words “and a proxy notice which is not delivered in such manner shall be invalid, unless the Management Committee, in its discretion, accepts the notice at any time before the meeting” as a new paragraph at the end of that article.
ADMINISTRATIVE ARRANGEMENTS
26. Means of Communication to be Used
26.1 Any notice, document or other information shall be deemed served on or delivered to the intended recipient:
26.1.1 if properly addressed and sent by prepaid United Kingdom first class post to an address in the United Kingdom, 48 hours after it was posted;
26.1.2 if properly addressed and delivered by hand, when it was given or left at the appropriate address;
26.1.3 if properly addressed and sent or supplied by electronic means, one hour after the document or information was sent or supplied; and
26.1.4 if sent or supplied by means of a website, when the material is first made available on the website or (if later) when the recipient receives (or is deemed to have received) notice of the fact that the material is available on the website.
For the purposes of this article, no account shall be taken of any part of a day that is not a Business Day.
26.2 In proving that any notice, document or other information was properly addressed, it shall suffice to show that the notice, document or other information was addressed to an address permitted for the purpose by the Act.
27. Rules
The Management Committee may establish rules governing matters relating to Society administration that are required from time to time for the effective operation of the Society (for example, the provisions relating to classes of members, membership fees and subscriptions and the admission criteria for members). If there is a conflict between the terms of these Articles and any rules established under this Article, the terms of these Articles shall prevail.
28. Indemnity and Insurance
28.1 Subject to article 28.2, but without prejudice to any indemnity to which a relevant officer is otherwise entitled:
28.1.1 each relevant officer shall be indemnified out of the Society’s assets against all costs, charges, losses, expenses and liabilities incurred by him as a relevant officer in the actual or purported execution and/or discharge of his duties, or in relation to them and including any liability incurred by him in defending any civil or criminal proceedings, in which judgment is given in his favour or in which he is acquitted or the proceedings are otherwise disposed of without any finding or admission of any material breach of duty on his part or in connection with any application in which the court grants him, in his capacity as a relevant officer, relief from liability for negligence, default, breach of duty or breach of trust in relation to the Society’s (or any associated company’s) affairs; and
28.1.2 the Society may provide any relevant officer with funds to meet expenditure incurred or to be incurred by him in connection with any proceedings or application referred to in Article 28.1.1 and otherwise may take any action to enable any such relevant officer to avoid incurring such expenditure.
28.2 This article does not authorise any indemnity to the extent that such indemnity would be prohibited or rendered void by any provision of the Companies Acts or by any other provision of law and any such indemnity is limited accordingly.
28.3 The Management Committee may decide to purchase and maintain insurance, at the expense of the Society, for the benefit of any relevant officer in respect of any relevant loss.
28.4 In this article:
28.4.1 companies are associated if one is a subsidiary of the other or both are subsidiaries of the same body corporate; and
28.4.2 a “relevant loss” means any loss or liability which has been or may be incurred by a relevant officer in connection with that relevant officer’s duties or powers in relation to the Society, any associated company or any pension fund or employees’ share scheme of the Company or associated company; and
28.4.3 a “relevant officer” means any director or other officer or former director or other officer of the Society.
29. Collective Mark
29.1 Members of the Society shall be entitled to use the collective mark of the Society as set out in Article 29.2 of these Articles (“Collective Mark”) or such other logo adopted by the Society from time to time. Use of the Collective Mark or such other logo other than on stationery must have the prior written consent of the Management Committee who has absolute discretion.
29.2 It is a condition of the use of the Collective Mark that the Collective Mark shall not be used in any printed or electronic advertisements or publicity matter (including emails and websites) directed primarily to the market in the United Kingdom and in the Isle of Man or in retail point of sale display cards distributed by the registered proprietor for use within the United Kingdom and in the Isle of Man, without indicating that it is a collective mark.
30. Income and Expenditure
30.1 The Management Committee may if it deems necessary appoint an auditor and any such appointment shall be confirmed at the next following annual general meeting.
30.2 The Honorary Treasurer shall keep an account of the income and expenditure of the Society and of its assets and liabilities and shall submit such accounts at the annual general meeting.
30.3 The banking account shall be in the name of the Society and withdrawals shall be made on the signature of any one of the Officers or by such persons as authorised by the Management Committee.
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Angelo Osofsky (MS '18) graduated from Regis High School and was awarded the National Spanish Exam Silver. In high school, he was involved in speech and debate for four years, and was ranked in the top 12 in the state. He interned at the American Museum of National History and also interned at Mount Sinai. As a mentor in the REACH program, he worked with middle school students to prepare them for admission to a private high school. Angelo will attend Harvard University to study Developmental and Regenerative Biology.
From left: Dr. Jane Foley, senior vice president of the Milken Educator Awards; Angelo Osofsky (MS '18); and Andrew Michaels, associate director of the Milken Scholars program.
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Get Ready for at Least Three More 'Harry Potter' Spin-Off Movies
By Matt Connolly
Ready for a new movie in the Harry Potter universe every two years?
In addition to announcing scheduled movie releases for every DC Comics superhero short of Matter-Eater Lad, Warner Bros. laid out a plan for the Harry Potter spin-off Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. If you're a Potter fan, mark down 2016, 2018 and 2020 on your (very forward-looking) calendar.
The background: Fantastic Beasts is based off a book of the same name that J.K. Rowling wrote back in 2001 as sort of a field guide to her universe's magical creatures. The movie version, though, will follow the book's fictional author Newt Scamander as he embarks on what we can only assume to be wizarding adventures.
The movie is set decades before the events of the Harry Potter series, and Rowling — who's writing the film — says it won't tie in too heavily with the story we're used to.
"Although it will be set in the worldwide community of witches and wizards, where I was so happy for 17 years, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them is neither a prequel nor a sequel to the Harry Potter series, but an extension of the wizarding world," she told the Independent. "Having lived for so long in my fictional universe, I feel very protective of it and I already knew a lot about Newt."
The takeaway: The key phrase coming from the Warner Bros. announcement is "at least." That could mean they will stretch Fantastic Beasts out over more than three movies if it seems lucrative enough, or it could point to another opportunity altogether.
As the Marvel movies have shown, there's a lot of money to be made when you can regularly crank out films set in the same universe. That's clearly the model for DC Comics material, and, as the Verge points out, it could be a plan for the Harry Potter franchise itself.
Whatever could be on the horizon — prequels? Sequels? Side character movies, a la Star Wars? — is left for fans to gossip and pine and complain about.
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There's a Conversation About Bachelorette Parties That We're Just Not Having
By Jenny Kutner
Isabelle*, 26, spent a recent Saturday evening hiding from a stripper. She, along with a dozen other 20-something women, had ventured out of the city for a friend's bachelorette party, a weekend-long affair complete with preplanned meals, plenty of vodka Red Bulls and, of course, a male exotic dancer.
"I think we pictured it being a guy who stands at a distance and dances while we throw money at him," Isabelle told Mic. "Instead, he was physical with us — and girls were practically running away. Like, darting away in corners of the hotel room."
The dancer was hired at the bride's (hinted) request, Isabelle said, presumably because she felt she was "supposed" to hire one for the event. Because that's what people do at bachelorette parties, right?
It's a question that raises more questions. While there's a trend among the soon-to-be-wed of taking fancy vacations with their female friends before tying the knot, bachelorette parties are also a designated time when women can behave like the Hangover groomsmen (but with more penis-shaped paraphernalia).
The (surprisingly short) history of bachelorette parties as we know them now is wrapped up in gender equality and sexual expression: They were intended to be equal counterparts to bachelor parties and stag nights. That's probably why many women include strippers in their bachelorette party itineraries, planning on an evening of debauchery, drunkenness and penis-shaped straws.
The bachelorette party traditions, complete with a stripper, might seem unsavory. But for some women, they're also one of the only places they can feel comfortable flipping gender roles on their heads. Even in the face of less-than-savory experiences with strippers, bachelorette parties can also be critical spaces for sexual empowerment.
Gaining control by letting lose: Bachelor parties, historically, were seen as a "final temptation" for the groom to ensure his commitment to the bride. So bachelorette parties often have to account for society's disparate attitudes toward male and female sexuality. Societally, women simply don't have the same sexual freedom men have, meaning the "final temptation" angle isn't quite as assumed — which makes the reasoning behind hiring a sex worker at a bachelorette party all the more intriguing, and novel.
It also means male strippers are often performing for a roomful of novices, some of whom might never have been given the opportunity to be sexually aggressive or even discover what it is they want. For those women, a bachelorette party might be a first chance to engage with certain fantasies — and they tend to be the ones who enjoy the experience most.
"Women from more sexually repressed communities tend to get more excited," Silk, a 29-year-old male dancer at the Las Vegas-based strip company Wild Boyz, told Mic. "Small-town women tend to be more excitable. They get very impressed with a lot of small things they don't see often."
Silk said these women tend to view bachelorette parties as "an opportunity to let loose, to be in an environment where it's OK to do whatever they're doing," which can include taking a more assertive role sexually than they ever have before. But that's not the case for everyone.
"Most girls, wherever they come from, don't have the same sexual experiences as their boyfriends and husbands," Steve Kim, the owner of Wild Boyz who says he's performed at more than 1,000 bachelorette parties, told Mic. "Think about how suppressed women are. It's not acceptable for a woman to come onto a guy. Guys can catcall and be aggressive, and girls can never be the same way. At a bachelorette party, everything goes."
Source: Brand New Images/Getty Images
It's no fun when you're not breaking any rules: "Everything goes" can sometimes be an issue for women who are more open about their sexuality to begin with. In Isabelle's case, the stripper didn't help her and her friends familiarize themselves with sexual boundaries. He was there as an ironic reference point — and he ended up crossing boundaries most of them preferred to cross in the privacy of their sexually liberated bedrooms.
As Lauren*, who recently celebrated her bachelorette party, said, she requested a "boring," stripper-free trip to Mexico, because she already experienced other women's "traditional" pre-wedding festivities. She never enjoyed their sexually aggressive dynamics, which she says mostly came from men.
Bachelorette parties are "very aggressive," Lauren told Mic. "I know what makes me feel empowered sexually, and it's not having a strange man stick his face near my crotch."
But it doesn't need to be literal. Actively pursuing a more overtly sexualized experience can be the only thing separating a bachelorette party from your average Saturday evening. "What's the point of having a bachelorette party if you're not going to go all-out with with a 6-foot blow-up dick and penis straws?" one 28-year-old woman told Vogue earlier this year. "Without those, it's just a regular night out with your friends."
Our bachelorette parties, ourselves: "Traditional" bachelorette parties, where women are free to get rowdy like the boys. won't always result in a bright, clear moment of sexual enlightenment for the women in attendance. It might even be uncomfortable. But they do push women to confront their sexuality and get to know themselves better.
"Younger women now are more sexually open and knowledgeable to begin with," Kim, of Wild Boyz, said. "Even for them, bachelorette parties are all about having a fantasy come true for that hour or so."
For some women, the sexual control they're afforded in a sanctioned setting can make it a safe space to feel ... well, whatever it is they're going to feel.
"I went to another bachelorette party where we took a lap dance class, which was great," Tracy said. "People were embarrassed at first, some more into it than others, but by the end, it was sort of freeing — a space where people could have a little more sexual freedom and explore that a bit."
There don't have to be dancers in G-strings present for women to explore their sexuality at a bachelorette party. Becoming more familiar with our sexual tastes — which can include being totally averse to the idea of a male revue — is at the heart of the tradition. Bachelorette parties can be whatever we want them to be, including sexually empowering. Sometimes, that might just take a male stripper.
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Mixed results for UK automotive manufacturing
Posted on 19 Sep 2018 and read 704 times
According to the latest data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders (SMMT), UK engine production remained steady in July, increasing by a modest 1.0% compared with July 2017, with 194,974 units built.
Of these, 112,085 were exported (up 13.0% on July 2017), while 82,889 were destined for the home market (a fall of 11.6%).
Almost 1.7 million engines were built in the UK in first seven months of the year — an increase of 5.2% on the first seven months of last year.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive (www.smmt.co.uk), said: “It is good to see previous significant investment in British engine technology and facilities continuing to pay dividends, with strong and growing global demand for our high-quality cutting-edge products.”
UK commercial-vehicle (CV) manufacturing increased by 12.8% in July 2018, with 7,331 vans, trucks, buses and coaches built; and while the number of CVs produced for the home market fell by 5.8% to 2,729 units, production for export more than compensated, rising by 27.8% to 4,602 vehicles and accounting for 62.8% of British CV manufacturers’ output.
In the first seven months of 2018, the number of commercial vehicles built for export grew 3.4% (compared with the first seven months of 2017) to reach 32,475 vehicles, but this was not enough to offset a 13.5% decline in output for the UK, where fluctuating buying cycles and business uncertainty continue to influence the market.
The total number of CVs built in the first seven months of 2018 was 48,793 — a fall of 3.0%.
Meanwhile, UK car production fell by 11.0% in July, with 121,051 units leaving production lines, as a raft of factors — including model changes, seasonal and operational adjustments and preparation for the introduction of the tough new emissions standards — affected output.
Production for export in July fell by 4.2%, while 35.0% fewer cars were built for the UK market. However, the SMMT says that these declines followed a particularly strong July in 2017, when the launch of several new models boosted output by almost 10,000 units and resulted in a substantial 17.7% rise in British demand for that month.
The sector appears to be broadly on track to meet 2018 expectations, with 955,453 cars built in the first seven months; and while production for the UK is currently down 16.0% compared with the first seven months of last year, exports remain strong, dipping by a modest 1.2% and accounting for 81.3% of all output.
Mr Hawes said: “While the industry is undoubtedly feeling the effects of recent uncertainty in the domestic market, drawing long- term conclusions from monthly snapshots requires a health warning.
“The bigger picture is complex, and month-by-month fluctuations are inevitable, as manufacturers manage product cycles, operational changes and the delicate balance of supply and demand from market to market.”
Lathes by Colchester, Optimum, Herbert
Fairfield Industries Ltd
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Health: What’s causing this year’s bad allergy season?
June 24, 2015 In the News
CBS3 reports that Dr. George L. Martin, chief of the division of allergy and immunology at Lankenau Medical Center, says it’s one of the worst spring allergy seasons he’s ever seen.
About Lankenau Medical Center
Lankenau Medical Center, a member of Main Line Health, is recognized as a national leader in advancing new options to diagnose and treat illness, protect against disease and save lives. Located on a 93-acre campus just outside of Philadelphia, Lankenau Medical Center is a 389-bed, not-for-profit teaching hospital that includes one of the nation’s leading cardiovascular centers; the Lankenau Institute for Medical Research, one of the few freestanding hospital-associated research centers in the nation; and the Annenberg Conference Center for Medical Education, that trains over 100 new physicians each year through nationally ranked residency and fellowship programs. Lankenau has received both regional and national recognition for its excellence in providing state-of-the-art, quality care. Lankenau Medical Center has been named among the top 10 hospitals in Pennsylvania and top five in the Philadelphia metro area in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals 2018–19, and was ranked as high-performing in in aortic valve surgery, colon cancer surgery, gastroenterology & GI surgery, geriatrics, orthopedics, heart bypass surgery, heart failure, hip replacement, and knee replacement. Lankenau has achieved The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval for stroke care and breast cancer care and is one of the nation’s Top Performing Hospitals for heart attack, heart failure, pneumonia and surgical care. Lankenau has also been ranked for multiple years as one of the top 50 cardiovascular hospitals in the nation by Truven Health Analytics. Lankenau has also earned the highest distinction for excellence in nursing care, the American Nurses Credentialing Center Magnet® designation.
George L. Martin, MD
Lankenau MOB West, Suite 237
100 East Lancaster Avenue
Upper Darby, PA
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Home Spazio Mondo news NCAA Division I Outdoor Track and Field Championship
NCAA Division I Outdoor Track and Field Championship
Mondo is the surface for U.S. collegiate championship
The United States’ top collegiate track and field athletes will compete for the title of best in the country at the NCAA Division I Outdoor Track and Field Championship at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, June 6-9. For four out of the past five years, these prestigious championships have taken place on Mondo surfaces. The 2012 championships will be held on a Super X Performance track, named the Jim Duncan Track, at Drake Stadium. Since the Mondo track was installed at Drake Stadium in 2006 as part of a $15 million renovation, the renowned venue has been selected to host a number of prominent track and field championships, including the 2008 and 2011 NCAA Division I Outdoor Track and Field Championships, and the 2010 and 2013 USA Outdoor Track & Field Championships. In addition, numerous meet and venue records have been set on the track, including 15 Drake Relays records in 2012 and 16 records at the 2011 Relays.
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Home Spazio Mondo projects Stadio Curotti Città dello Sport of Domodossola
Stadio Curotti Città dello Sport of Domodossola
Start of work: July 2017
Synthetic surface laid: November 2017
Official opening: June 2018
Project cost: 2.4 million euros (1.4 million Fondazione Cariplo call for tender; 300,000 euros contributed by the Municipality of Domodossola; 700,000 euros contributed by Sport Group)
Project management: Piero Piana (architect)
Construction: AEDES S.r.l.
Sports center management: Marco Longo Dorni
Sport Architecture
(Italy)
With the redevelopment of the Curotti stadium, swimming pools, surrounding sports fields and athletics track, the sports center in Domodossola has once again become a landmark for sports lovers and the entire community. And the Juventus Domo players can finally train and play on a MONDO-built LND standard field.
“The Curotti Stadium is much more than just a football field: It is a real focal point for the city of Domodossola.” Marco Longo Dorni, sports center manager.
There are areas in cities that are made for socializing and sharing experiences. Sports centers are built with this in mind — to give the community some areas where it can come together, and can nurture passions, positive values and team spirit.
Unfortunately, in Domodossola, that feeling had been lost at Curotti Stadium and the sports complex where it’s located, until a redevelopment project began in 2017. Construction was completed at the beginning of 2018, and the renovated stadium officially opened on schedule on June 3, to coincide with Sports Day in Italy.
THE CHALLENGE: GET THE JUVE DOMO TEAM ON HOME GROUND AGAIN, AND GIVE THE COMMUNITY BACK ITS SPORTS CENTER
Ten months of work, often in atrocious weather conditions, brought Curotti Stadium back to life. Today, if you fly over the sports complex, the blue ring of the athletics track and the large green rectangle inside of it — with its grassy surface and swimming pools — immediately catch your eye.
Since the 1950s, the stadium had always been used by professionals (it was here that Juve Domo reached the C2 division before being forced to go to Villadossola) and cherished by sports fans. This was exactly what the municipality’s project presented to the Fondazione Cariplo, «Dal borgo della cultura al borgo dello sport» (“From the city of culture to the city of sport”) had in mind.
It was thanks to the foundation’s invitation to bid and contributions by the municipality and Sport Group (the company that will manage the sports center) that the desire to give the city and the province back its sports center became a reality.
“I believe that redeveloping the sports centers present today in Italy may be a huge challenge, but one that we must tackle to give an increasing number of people the chance to practice sport at the amateur and professional levels.” Piero Piana, architect
Redeveloping a well-established sports center, adapting it to the new building, sports and safety standards — while meeting budget, management and maintenance needs, as well as the center’s recreational aims — is a very demanding task.
When working on the Curotti Stadium, Piero Piana, the architect responsible for the project, collaborated with the national sports federations that manage the homologation system to ensure that the football field and track could host professional competitions.
For the 11-a-side football field, in particular, the initial plans were to install a standard LND certifiable system that would allow Juventus Domo to play once again on its home ground.
For Marco Longo Dorni, the manager of the sports center, on the other hand, it was important that the selected system would maintain its characteristics and performance attributes, be easy to maintain and permit intensive use.
With a joint commitment from the AEDES and MONDO team, an artificial turf system was presented that was able to meet, and even exceed, the contractor’s demands because it was both STANDARD LND and PROFESSIONAL certified and perfect for five- and seven-a-side fields that complete the sports center.
That system is now the field where the Juventus Domo team can train again and where local children can spend their summer holidays without ruining their favorite players’ field.
MANAGING A MULTISPORTS COMPLEX IS … COMPLEX!
“The Curotti Stadium has always been a meeting point for schools, runners and sports enthusiasts. And even after being restyled and going over to private management like ours, it must continue to be what it has always been for generations of people from the town and elsewhere.” Marco Longo Dorni, sports center manager
Building a relationship between the public and the staff, resolving problems between different users, and maintaining a facility are just some of the challenges of managing a sports center.
In Domodossola, the rebuilding of Curotti Stadium finally has separate changing rooms for football players and track and field athletes, which makes it much easier to schedule training times for those using the field and those using the track.
Entrusting management of the center to one company, Sport Group, has improved its usability and put the various support activities into the hands of a tightly knit team of professionals who are responsible for a number of different tasks, ranging from administrative work to lifeguard service and maintenance.
As far as the football fields are concerned, the artificial turf system has proved to be a positive move. The turf system does not completely eliminate the need for maintenance, but it does reduce it significantly.
“The common belief that an artificial (field) does not need any maintenance is unfounded, since it has to be watered in the summer to avoid overheating and premature wear, and the rubber that inevitably spreads unevenly over the (field) surface with use must be pulled tight once a week. However, there is obviously much less maintenance than there is on a normal natural grass (field),” Longo Dorni said.
#Projects 01 Apr 2019
Grinzane Cavour football pitch
#Projects 26 Jun 2019
KICK OFF CENTER in CAVALLINO (LECCE)
#Projects 12 Mar 2019
Chéron Stadium in Saint-Maur-des-Fossés (Val-de-Marne)
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A Journey Through Latin America on Norton 500s
Two Brits follow Che Guevara's route on a journey through Latin American each aboard a Norton 500
By Charles Anthony Robert
| March/April 2012
A Norton 500 in South America
Photo by Stephen Holmes and Peter Sandford
Map of South America showing the route
Bedding down for the night next to a cardboard restaurant in the Atacama Desert, Chile.
Peter Sandford and Stephen Holmes (left and center) prepare to leave Buenoes Aires. At right is Gustavo Agra, with the replica Norton Model 18 he built for the movie, “The Motorcycle Diaries.”
Norton tour in South America.
Heading into Patagonia, still looking fresh.
Local police help the pair recover their bikes following a massive sandstorm.
Holmes looks bewildered after battling a sandstorm outside Ica, Peru.
Sandford fixes the primary chain on his Norton somehwere in Chile.
A small rock slide just missed Holmes as he passed by.
Locals mob a riverboat to buy chickens and produce at Iquitos in northwestern Peru.
The mine at Cerro de Pasco in central Peru. Sitting at 14,200 feet, Cerro de Pasco is one of the highest cities in the world, yet the two Nortons made it through the high elevation with little trouble.
A local woman in Peru collecting wood for cooking.
Journey's end: Sandford (left) and Holmes toast their good fortune at having completed the trip.
The Carlos Antonio, which took Sandford and Holmes down the Amazon to Santa Rosa, Peru.
Two Brits have followed in the tire tracks of Cuban revolutionary Che Guevara and written a motorcycle diary of their own along the way. Chronicled in a book written by co-conspirator Stephen Holmes, To Infinity and Beyondtells the story of the pair’s epic 5,000-mile trip on two 1940s Nortons through some of the world’s most dangerous terrain.
Che Guevara’s epic journey through Latin America on a 500cc Norton single in 1952 is one of the most famous, and arguably most important, motorcycle trips of all time. What he saw on his travels changed him forever, and led to Guevara becoming one of the key figures of the Cuban Revolution and one of the greatest icons of the 20th Century.
His epic trip with Alberto Granado has been the subject of a best-selling book and a major movie, both called The Motorcycle Diaries. Beyond repair after countless crashes, Guevara’s Norton 500 never finished the trip, and he completed his 5,000-mile journey by other means. Fifty-seven years later, Holmes and fellow traveler Peter Sandford followed — and completed — Guevara’s original route on period Norton singles.
The trip came about after 55-year-old Sandford, who runs a windsurfing business in the U.K, watched The Motorcycle Diaries in January 2008 and thought it would be fun to replicate Guevara’s trip — and actually complete it on two wheels. A quick call to friend Holmes, a 53-year-old truck driver, assured him of a traveling partner and the challenge was on.
To recreate the journey, Sandford and Holmes would have to travel through Argentina, Chile, Peru, Columbia and Venezuela. Along the way, the pair would have to contend with some of the toughest environments on Earth, including the Atacama Desert, the driest region on Earth.
And as if that wasn’t going to be tough enough, they’d be making the journey on period Nortons, just like Che. “I thought it would be a blast and a heck of a challenge to do the trip on a Norton exactly the same as Che’s,” Sandford says. The problem was, a 1939 Norton 500 Model 18 like Guevara used was hard to find. After three months of searching, Sandford found one on eBay and another through the British Norton Owners’ Club, both costing around $4,000. They weren’t the exact 1939 Norton 500 Model 18 that Guevara used — they’re both a few years newer — but they were as close as possible to the original.
The plan was to allow eight weeks for the trip and to stay true to the spirit of Guevara’s journey, which was to travel alone, without back-up, staying with locals whenever possible or camping the rest of the time.
After a year of planning, sourcing bikes, settling on a route and sorting out a thousand other issues, the two Nortons were crated up and sailing over the Atlantic in late December 2008. Sandford and Holmes would fly out to meet them at Buenos Aires on January 10. Or at least that was the plan; it took nine days for the bikes to clear customs, and to add insult to injury, the authorities charged them for nine days’ storage expenses.
January 18: More than a week behind schedule, the pair finally set off from the site of Che Guevara’s old apartment at Calle Araoz 2180 — the exact spot where the original journey began. A last minute surprise was the appearance of Gustavo Agra, who turned up to wish the pair luck. Agra built the replica 1939 Norton for the The Motorcycle Diaries movie.
Cheered on by Gustavo, the Argentinean press and a crowd of locals, the boys finally started out on what would prove to be the adventure of a lifetime. Holmes noted in his diary: “As we headed away from Buenos Aires I had the grin factor. This is why James Lansdowne Norton had created this machine all those years ago. It was an amazing feeling.”
That “amazing feeling” was soon replaced by a serious concern over the bike’s handling capabilities, laden as it was with at least 155 pounds of luggage, but they pressed on. Riding into Bahia Blanca, Argentina, the pair was again accosted by news crews and journalists.
As in Guevara’s time, the roads through Argentina were demanding. “Riding here you need to concentrate 100 percent, all of the time,” Sandford wrote in his diary. “You’re constantly scanning the road surface for the best route to take around the bumps, lumps and holes. Even so, sometimes there’s nowhere to go and nothing to do but just hang on, grit your teeth and take the jump, both wheels in the air.”
Leaving the Atlantic
January 23: The duo turn their backs on the Atlantic and head inland towards Patagonia. After a 200-mile ride on a road that only had two corners, Sandford and Holmes started looking for a place to camp in Choele Choel. “We rode up to the campsite, which was in a beautiful setting on a small island on the Rio Negro. We were mobbed by families who were enjoying barbecues, and before we could dismount, we had each been given a cold beer and invited to join the family get-togethers.”
Four days and 250 miles later, they were in the foothills of the Andes. Despite the rigors, the bikes were holding up well. “The Nortons responded to the challenge and any questions asked of them,” Sandford says, adding, “and for the first time I felt at one with the bike.”
Leaving San Martín de los Andes in Argentina, the roads got worse. “About 20 miles out of town we rounded a bend and the road turned into a dirt track with deep ruts, rocks, gravel and great chunks of fallen trees. If it wasn’t for the other traffic, I would have thought we’d taken a wrong turn. It was almost fun for the first mile — the only way to stay on the bike was to stand on the footpegs all the time,” Sandford says. “At one point I looked back and Steve was gone. I waited awhile and he eventually thumped into view, minus his headlight lens. His light had flown apart twice in 50 yards. Both of us were thinking to ourselves, ‘This could be the end of the trip, there’s no way these old bikes can take this punishment.’ But 37 miles and three hours later we emerged from our worst nightmare and were back on terra firma. When we stopped for gas and took our goggles off, we looked like those old shots of Stirling Moss with the panda eyes.”
Into Chile
After the horrendous Patagonian roads, the ride out of Argentina and into Chile was a dream. “The ride around lake Nahuel Huapi was fantastic,” Holmes says. “After a while you just seem to become at one with the bike, picking out cornering lines and clipping apexes without having to think.”
The next destination was Los Ángeles, Chile, where Guevara’s two-wheeled adventure came to an end. Guevara’s Norton 500 had been getting more troublesome by the day — unsurprisingly, since crashes sometimes numbered nine a day — so he and Granado brought the bike to Los Ángeles for repairs. They got permission to put it in a fire station and to sleep in a tiny room there. When the bike turned out to be unrepairable, they put it on a truck and rode with it to Santiago, where they continued their trip on foot. Sandford and Holmes wanted to find that fire station, as it played such a vital role in Guevara’s journey. “We wandered around and found it at 11 p.m. and got to chatting with a fireman who knew all about Guevara’s visit. He opened the big doors to the station and gave us a guided tour. We saw the actual room where Guevara and Granado slept. To know they had walked around those same rooms was quite spine-tingling.”
Sandford and Holmes’ faithful steeds were still going strong. “We were leaving town on bikes and felt like we had been passed the baton to complete Guevara’s journey,” Holmes says. “Any mile past that place was a bonus.” They tried to make Santiago in one 300-mile day, but bike problems, including a frayed throttle cable on Holmes’ bike, slowed their progress. Forty-five miles short of Santiago the bike died, and they spent the night in a field making repairs.
Atacama Desert: The driest place on Earth
After Santiago, it was into the Atacama Desert, the driest place on Earth. “I have never known anywhere so remote, so bleak, so strange, or so cut off from the rest of the world. Its sheer beauty cannot help but capture your mind, your soul and your heart. It is a beautiful remote wilderness,” Holmes wrote in his diary. It’s also shockingly cold at night, as they discovered when they camped. “All night I was woken by the cold, but I was so exhausted I didn’t have the sense to turn round so my feet were facing the wind,” Holmes says. The contrast with daytime temperatures could not have been greater. “The heat steals the air from your nostrils,” Holmes wrote the following day.
Back in relative civilization in Calama, they tried to find a replacement drive chain because of a suspect master link, only to be told the closest available would be in Santiago — 1,000 miles behind them! Another improvisation job had to suffice.
February 9: “Heading towards Arica and Peru, the road is an endless succession of ascents and descents of enormous, bare-rock mountains. The wind is really strong up here, and is either against us or trying to blow us off the side of the mountain,” Sandford wrote in his diary. “Of all the places we’ve been, this is the one where you’d least want to break down.” And then it happened — the split link in Holmes’ chain shattered. “We took a link out and somehow managed to make it fit. In all the time we were stopped, not one vehicle stopped to ask if we were okay. In Argentina we found that even if we only stopped to take a photo, cars would stop to check if all was well,” Sanford says.
Once into Peru (after passing signs warning of land mines), Sandford started suffering from altitude sickness. At one stage it took two-and-a-half hours to cover just 38 miles. For Holmes, this was the lowest point of the entire journey. “We were at 15,000 feet, wet through in freezing temperatures with sheer drops on either side of us and no headlights,” he says. “At one point, Pete disappeared into a 6-foot ravine after looking back to check if I was still there. If it had been at the other side of the winding mountain road, he would have died.”
Eventually, Sandford and Holmes dropped down into Cusco where they found the Norton Rat’s Tavern in the central square. Despite it being a hub for all overland bikers passing through, the American owner, Jeff Powers, assured them that theirs were the first Nortons to ever visit the pub; taking pride of place behind the bar is a huge British Norton Owners Club sticker.
Leaving Cusco behind, the pair headed for Nasca, passing the mysterious Nasca Lines as they pushed on towards Lima, Peru’s capital. Then it all went wrong. “We saw a few little dust storms off to the side like we’d often seen in Chile,” Sandford recalls. “But as we got nearer, we realized it was a sandstorm. In hindsight we should have turned around, but we tried to ride through it. My bike soon stopped and we both tried to shelter behind a little bush. After trying to sit it out curled up in a ball for over two hours, wearing helmets and goggles while attempting to keep our mouths and noses from clogging up with sand, we made a decision to abandon the bikes and try to get a lift to safety. Luckily, we managed to flag a truck down and the driver took us to the nearest town, some 40 miles away. At that moment I felt like I never wanted to see the Norton 500 again. Twice in three days I’d feared for my life, and when the storm eased and we set out to recover the bikes, a part of me hoped they might have been stolen and I’d feel free to go home and back to my family. We got the bikes and had to spend a day getting sand out of every nook and cranny.”
Into the Amazon
It was now March, and after dealing with sandstorms, floods, landslides and being chased by packs of mad dogs, Sandford and Holmes loaded their bikes onto a riverboat and headed down the Amazon towards Colombia. Once in Colombia, evidence of the country’s claim to being the most dangerous in the world wasn’t hard to find. Stopping in a local baker’s for breakfast, Sandford and Holmes were greeted by a guard armed with a pump-action shotgun keeping watch over the bread!
A cargo flight got the Nortons to Bogotá. “It gets dark early here and we’ve been warned not to ride Colombian country roads at night as the FARC guerrillas are very active round here,” Sandford noted in his diary.
Thankfully avoiding any trouble, they headed for Venezuela and the end of the trip. Amazingly, the bikes were still holding together, although, Sandford noted, “I don’t know what we’d do without webbing roof-rack straps. I’ve got four holding my luggage on, one holding my headlight on and another going around the frame and the gearbox to try to hold it in place.”
Journey’s end
March 17: Approaching the bridge that would take them into the last country of their epic trip, Sandford was amazed at the traffic conditions. “The traffic is crazy,” he wrote in his diary. “Lots of huge 1970s American cars and motorcycles all jostling for position, trying to cross the bridge into Venezuela. There’s no sign of any officials on the Colombian side, so we go with the flow and end up on the Venezuelan side of the bridge.”
But that was the easy bit. “When we pull up outside the Venezuelan Customs building, the lady looks at our passport stamps and explains that we need to go back to Colombia and check ourselves and our bikes out properly. Not wanting to fight our way through the traffic again, we walk back over the bridge. At the Colombian customs hut the staff are really helpful, but explain that they need our bikes to do a brass rubbing of the engine and frame numbers. One of the customs guys fires up his scooter, gets Steve on the back, and speeds across the bridge with the brass-rubbing kit. They’re back 10 minutes later and everything gets sorted,” Sanford wrote.
“We lost six hours all told, but finally cruised into Caracas at around 3 p.m. and high-fived each other,” Holmes says, while expressing mixed feelings about reaching the end. “It was quite an emotional day’s ride. I was sad that the journey had come to an end, but joyous I would soon be home with my wife and family.”
With the bikes loaded onto a cargo plane and heading back to the U.K., Sandford was also glad to get home but very proud of the pair’s achievement. “I have to say this has been the hardest thing I’ve ever done, and far tougher than I ever thought it would be. I can see why other motorbike adventurers use modern equipment, but that takes the ‘adventure’ out of the journey, and for this trip that wasn’t an option. It had to be original Nortons like Che and Alberto’s. That’s what made this trip so special for us and the hundreds of people who stopped to ask us about the bikes and what we were doing.”
Little has changed in these countries since Che and Alberto made their trip, but despite being impoverished, the people still manage to keep smiling. And while Sandford says it’s impossible to select one defining moment from the trip, one incident particularly symbolized the warmth and generosity of the South American people. “There was a little old guy in Ica, Peru, who ambled up to me moments after we’d been dropped off after hitching a ride out of the sandstorm. Steve had gone off to try to find somewhere to stay and I was at the roadside watching over our bags. I was absolutely covered in sand and very emotional, as I’d genuinely thought we might not make it out of the storm. This guy, who must have been 80, shuffled up to me asking what had happened. Moments later he was inviting us into his house to eat with him and his wife. This was typical of the kindness shown to us all over South America, often by very poor people.”
The Unapproachable Norton 500 did them proud. James Lansdowne Norton, we salute you! MC
Editor’s note: Read the full story of this incredible adventure in Stephen Holmes’ book, To Infinity and Beyond.
lindafinardi
excuse me, is it possible to use photo by Stephen Holmes and Peter Sandford for italian materials (blog and leaflets)? Gianlugi Salvi has written "la mia meta" http://www.editorialetipografica.com/sc.asp?ID=2432 and he would like use this photo with Norton motorcycle for its blog and leaflets. Naturally, we will put the photo's authors in caption.
Peter Hoffman
A wonderful adventure no doubt! I just wish the inspiration hadn't been a mass murdering totalitarian sex offender. Charles Manson rode a motorcycle, maybe there's a trip in that too? http://www.slate.com/articles/arts/culturebox/2004/09/the_cult_of_che.single.html.
William Plyler
Che??? Really??? What next? How about a jolly trip through Hitler's concentration camps? How about a quick tour of Pol Pot's killing fields? The Soviet Gulag? What in the world are you thinking? If the authors are really going "stay true to the spirit of Guevara’s journey", how many people will they kill after the trip?
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All Motor Sport
Single Seaters
US Scene
Jenson Button takes on The Mint 400
by Graham Keilloh on 16th April 2019
Watch the 2009 Formula 1 champion in unlikely surroundings of the Mint 400, the gruelling off-road event in the Nevada desert
Fernando Alonso isn't the only Formula 1 world champion who used to race in F1 for McLaren to be appearing in unlikely places and competing in unlikely machinery. Jenson Button has just followed suit, and done so in an event that might even make Alonso think twice.
Button last month took part in the Mint 400. Based in downtown Las Vegas and named after the famous Mint hotel where the event was conceived, it's known as 'The Great American Off-Road Race', and with reason.
It's not only one of the biggest off-road races in America but also one of the toughest. The annual two-day Mint 400, which was been in existence since 1968, heads out into 400 miles of exacting terrain in the gruelling and hot Nevada desert.
It's always attracted plenty of celebrities as well as plenty of racers from across other disciplines. This year some 541 motorcycles, buggies and trucks took part. It's competitive too – with first place often being decided by just a few seconds and anything up to 50 drivers in victory contention.
And this time it had an extra and perhaps unlikely feature that Button was taking part for the first time. And you can watch how he got on, as well as find out more about the Mint 400, in the video below.
"People think we're crazy to come here," says Button, who was competing for Rocket Racing. "The terrain is really tough. This is basically like driving a powerboat to me, it's so different to what I'm used to.
"It's such a cool atmosphere here, it's very relaxed. It's cool to be a part of the atmosphere.
"We need to look after it [the buggies] a little bit but also we need to find the limit."
The video also features some of the world's best off-road racers such as the likes of Bryce Menzies and Rob MacCachren, explaining what makes the Mint so special and their hopes for the latest event.
As Button notes it's also a race of attrition, with half or more of the field not running by the end, yet the 2009 F1 champion made it and got a creditable top 20 finish in the 6100 class. Justin Lofton took overall victory, becoming the first three-time overall winner, after defending champion Menzies after suffered a last-lap puncture.
The 2009 F1 champion will also take on the Baja 1000 in November.
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Neurol Neuroimmunol Neuroinflamm. 2015 May 7;2(3):e104. doi: 10.1212/NXI.0000000000000104. eCollection 2015 Jun.
B lymphocytes in neuromyelitis optica.
Bennett JL1, O'Connor KC1, Bar-Or A1, Zamvil SS1, Hemmer B1, Tedder TF1, von Büdingen HC1, Stuve O1, Yeaman MR1, Smith TJ1, Stadelmann C1.
Departments of Neurology and Ophthalmology and Neuroscience Program (J.L.B.), University of Colorado, Denver; Department of Neurology (K.C.O.), Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT; Neuroimmunology Unit (A.B.-O.), Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Neurology (S.S.Z., H.-C.v.B.), UCSF School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA; Department of Neurology (B.H.), Technische Universität München, Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany; Department of Immunology (T.F.T.), Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC; Departments of Neurology and Neurotherapeutics (O.S.), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX; Department of Medicine (M.R.Y.), Divisions of Molecular Medicine and Infectious Diseases, University of California, Los Angeles; Harbor-UCLA Medical Center (M.R.Y.), Torrance, CA; Departments of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences and Internal Medicine (T.J.S.), University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor; and Institute of Neuropathology (C.S.), University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany.
Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an inflammatory autoimmune disorder of the CNS that predominantly affects the spinal cord and optic nerves. A majority (approximately 75%) of patients with NMO are seropositive for autoantibodies against the astrocyte water channel aquaporin-4 (AQP4). These autoantibodies are predominantly IgG1, and considerable evidence supports their pathogenicity, presumably by binding to AQP4 on CNS astrocytes, resulting in astrocyte injury and inflammation. Convergent clinical and laboratory-based investigations have indicated that B cells play a fundamental role in NMO immunopathology. Multiple mechanisms have been hypothesized: AQP4 autoantibody production, enhanced proinflammatory B cell and plasmablast activity, aberrant B cell tolerance checkpoints, diminished B cell regulatory function, and loss of B cell anergy. Accordingly, many current off-label therapies for NMO deplete B cells or modulate their activity. Understanding the role and mechanisms whereby B cells contribute to initiation, maintenance, and propagation of disease activity is important to advancing our understanding of NMO pathogenesis and developing effective disease-specific therapies.
10.1212/NXI.0000000000000104
Publication type, Grant support
R01 EY022936/EY/NEI NIH HHS/United States
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Carbohydr Res. 1988 Apr 15;175(2):273-82.
Detergent-accelerated hydrolysis of bacterial endotoxins and determination of the anomeric configuration of the glycosyl phosphate present in the "isolated lipid A" fragment of the Bordetella pertussis endotoxin.
Caroff M1, Tacken A, Szabó L.
Equipe Endotoxines (U.A. 1116) du Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Paris-Sud, Orsay, France.
Due to the formation of micelles, severance of the hydrophilic (poly- or oligosaccharide) and hydrophobic ("Lipid A") domains of bacterial lipopolysaccharides at pH 3.4 or 4.5 and 100 degrees is slow and sometimes does not proceed at all; partially degraded fragments are usually formed. At pH 3.4 (100 degrees) in aqueous 1% sodium dodecylsulphate (SDS), both lipopolysaccharides of the Bordetella pertussis endotoxin are cleaved within 20-30 min, but 80% of the glycosidically bound phosphate present in the hydrophobic domain is lost. Other endotoxins behave similarly. At pH 4.5 (100 degrees) and in the absence of detergent, hydrolysis of the glycosidic bonds of 3-deoxy-D-manno-2-octulosonic acid residues of the B. pertussis endotoxin is negligible but, in aqueous 1% SDS, severance of the two regions of LPS 1 is complete within 1 h (that of LPS-2 requires 3-4 h), and the glycosidically bound phosphate of the isolated hydrophobic region is preserved. Comparison of the rate of acid-catalysed hydrolysis of the glycosidically bound phosphate present in this "isolated Lipid A" preparation with that of 2-deoxy-2-[(3R)-3-hydroxytetradecanamido]-alpha- and -beta-D-glucopyranose 1-phosphates established that the former 1-phosphate was the alpha anomer.
Bordetella pertussis*/immunology
Endotoxins*
Fatty Acids/analysis
Hexosamines/analysis
Isomerism
Lipid A*
Lipopolysaccharides*
Phosphates/analysis
Sugar Acids
Endotoxins
Hexosamines
Lipid A
Lipopolysaccharides
2-keto-3-deoxyoctonate
SODIUM LAURYL SULFATE - Hazardous Substances Data Bank
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AC/DC's Brian Johnson announces retirement U-turn
By Will Groves 2016-06-06T15:16:00.157Z Guitars
Singer about to rock. Almost
Brian Johnson, shouting at himself
(Image credit: Manuel Nauta/REX/Shutterstock)
In news unlikely to be well received in the Axl Rose household, it seems that Brian Johnson, lead singer of AC/DC, has found a technological solution to the hearing issue that forced him to pull out of the band's current tour, and may well be on the way to rejoining the group - if they want him.
Rose has been standing, or rather sitting, in for Johnson since the singer's shock withdrawal from the live arena earlier this year, receiving generally positive notices from fans and press alike.
The turnaround was revealed by Johnson on the Facebook page of Ambrose, the makers of ADEL, an in-ear monitoring rig that apparently negates the previously dire threat to Johnson's hearing.
Taxi for Axl?
"It WORKS." enthuses Johnson's statement. "It just totally works and you can't argue with that. I was really moved and amazed to be able to hear music again like I haven't heard for several years now.
"I can't wait for it to be miniaturized so I can use it in every situation from normal communication, going out to noisy restaurants, to performing live music on stage."
Even after said miniaturisation has been achieved, it's entirely unclear whether Johnson would be welcomed back by AC/DC or if Axl Rose is available to extend his duties after the current mega-tour.
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School's jubilee celebrations are jolly good show
West Lodge Primary School in Pinner celebrates 60 years with circus skills and ex-Children's Laureate Michael Rosen
Hannah Bewley
Children at West Lodge School take part in a circus skills day at the school in West End Lane, Pinner. L-R Sri Puppala and Parnita Prasad.
A PRIMARY school juggled celebrations and education to celebrate its diamond jubilee.
West Lodge Primary School in West End Lane, Pinner, marked being open for 60 years with a week of celebrations at the beginning of April.
The First School was opened on April 29 1954 while the Middle School opened in September the same year.
A week of events, including circus master classes and performances for current pupils and events for former pupils took place at the school.
Sam Harvey, an artist in residence who is also a governor at West Lodge worked with children to produce a large tapestry and a display of historical information unearthed by pupils in each class was displayed around the school.
A time capsule which was buried in 1998, when new mobile classrooms were erected in the First School, was dug up and a new capsule was buried with letters from the 635 pupils to children in the future about school life today.
A tea party finished the week with 100 children from the school performing in dance, drama, singing and music routines from the school orchestra to 250 past and present staff and pupils.
Michael Rosen, author and former Children’s Laureate, is an ex-pupil of West Loge and joined the tea party after reminiscing about his school days in assemblies.
Kim James, head teacher, said: “The children so enjoyed the week, they loved looking at all the old photographs and were amazed that the school tie is exactly the same now in 2014 that is was in 1954 when the school opened.”
West Lodge jubilee
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Davie Shipyards gets $7.1M contract from feds to refit 53-year-old coast guard icebreaker
Seaspan Shipyards in Vancouver has been tapped to build its replacement
A ship sits in drydock at the Davie shipyard, Friday, December 14, 2018 in Levis, Que. The federal government is awarding Davie Shipyards a contract worth more than $7.1 million to refit the Canadian Coast Guard’s largest icebreaker. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jacques Boissinot)
The federal government is awarding Davie Shipyards a contract worth more than $7.1 million to refit the Canadian Coast Guard’s largest icebreaker.
The refit of the CCGS Louis S. St-Laurent is the latest contract awarded to Davie amid complaints from the Quebec shipyard about a lack of work.
Davie is leasing a converted civilian ship to the navy as a temporary supply vessel and has been pressing the government to accept a second such vessel for around $500 million.
It also wants to be included in the government’s multibillion-dollar shipbuilding strategy, through which Ottawa is contracting rival shipyards in Halifax and Vancouver to build dozens of new ships.
READ MORE: Last day to bid for a BC Ferries boat
The government has said the navy does not need another interim supply ship and has instead been handing Davie maintenance and refit contracts for existing coast-guard and naval vessels.
It is also buying three second-hand icebreakers from Davie, which the shipyard has started to convert for the coast guard and which will likely remain in service for the next 15 to 20 years.
The contract announced Tuesday is being awarded without a competition and will see Davie put the Louis St-Laurent in drydock.
“Canadians from coast to coast to coast rely on the Canadian Coast Guard to protect their coastlines and their livelihoods,” Public Procurement Minister Carla Qualtrough said in a statement. “This contract will ensure the men and women of the Canadian Coast Guard are properly equipped to do their important work, while also helping sustain good middle-class jobs at the Davie Shipyard.”
Recent briefing notes obtained by The Canadian Press through access-to-information law indicate Davie is the only shipyard big enough to drydock the icebreaker.
First launched in 1966, the 53-year-old vessel was once supposed to be decommissioned in 2000 but has since undergone several rounds of upgrades and refits to keep it in the water.
Seaspan Shipyards in Vancouver has been tapped to build its replacement, the CCGS John G. Diefenbaker, but the project has experienced numerous delays and its delivery date is up in the air.
It wasn’t immediately clear how many jobs the latest contract will create at Davie, which says it has been forced to lay off hundreds of workers over the past few years.
UPDATE: Reward being offered in hopes of finding Yellow Point baby goat
Tensions with China ‘do not play out in our project at all’: LNG Canada CEO
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Down syndrome baby wins modelling contract after viral campaign
“Our son Asher has Down syndrome. Although it is a part of him, it does not define him. He is so much more…”
Nov 02, 2016 2:48pm
Asher Nash’s smiling face is becoming almost recognisable now thanks to his mum’s mission to make advertising more inclusive.
Only a week or two ago, cute little Asher’s goofy grin started popping into everyone’s news feeds as his mum Meagan campaigned to get talent agencies to submit his photo to casting calls and for companies to use models with special needs as well. Here’s the post:
When Meagan found out that agencies only seemed to submit photos of kids with special needs to casting calls which specified they were looking for that kind of talent, she decided she needed to do something about it. She has a Facebook page called Asher's Down Right Perfect.
“It kind of seemed like discrimination” she told ABC News in the US.
“"I was hurt," she said. "I was really hurt... I'm seeing this baby [Asher] that I think would be a huge contribution to the modelling world. He didn't even get the chance to be rejected by (the children’s clothing company) because he never even got submitted. I felt angry."
So through a US organisation that identifies companies that don’t use people with disabilities in advertising campaigns, she did a call out to OshKosh, asking them to feature little Asher.
Cue the viral reaction. A Facebook page called Kids with Down syndrome picked it up (see above), Meagan’s campaign went global – and OshKosh got in touch. Here's footage shot by ABC News in the US about when Asher met OshKosh.
In a statement to ABC News, OshKosh B'gosh thanked Nash for raising the company's awareness on the issue.
"OshKosh B'gosh enjoyed spending time with Asher and his family earlier this week and hearing their perspective. We appreciate Ms Nash's passion for greater inclusiveness of children with special needs in advertising. ... We are committed to evolving our process to ensure that in the future children with special needs are better represented in our advertising campaigns," a representative said.
It’s now been confirmed that Asher will be modelling in OshKosh’s Christmas campaign.
"My real goal for him [Asher] in life is just for him to be included," Nash said. "I want him to be included with his peers when he goes to school. I want him to be included when he is an adult and he is going to work.
“I just want him to be able to live in a world where he has full inclusion and he is accepted for who he is, not for his diagnosis."
Real LifeMeet Australia’s first model with Down Syndrome
Viral NewsBeautiful two-year-old with Down syndrome passionately recites the alphabet
Down syndrome,
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British Inquiry Traces Terrorists to Africa Michele Norris talks with Duncan Campbell, special correspondent for the London Guardian. Campbell says the police are not talking about linkage between the July 21 bombers and the July 7 bombers. What is emerging is a network of suspects from the Horn of Africa, Somalia and Eritrea.
London Police Make Progress on Bombings
Police apprehend the main suspects in the July 21 attacks, but officials urge vigilance.
British Inquiry Traces Terrorists to Africa
Michele Norris
Michele Norris talks with Duncan Campbell, special correspondent for the London Guardian. Campbell says the police are not talking about linkage between the July 21 bombers and the July 7 bombers. What is emerging is a network of suspects from the Horn of Africa, Somalia and Eritrea.
MICHELE NORRIS, host:
Joining us from London now is Duncan Campbell. He's a special correspondent for the Guardian newspaper.
Duncan, thanks for being with us again.
Mr. DUNCAN CAMPBELL (Guardian): It's a pleasure.
NORRIS: Sounds like it was a very dramatic day there. Police sources are suggesting now that all four bombers are in custody. Officially, police are confirming only that two of the suspected bombers have been arrested. Is it clear that police may have cracked this case?
Mr. CAMPBELL: That's what they think, and they're in a, I have to say, quite celebratory mood today because they've been under the cosh a little bit over the last week because of the shooting of an innocent man. And now they do feel that they've not only caught the four people they were looking for, but they may have scooped in another one who is suspected to have been a fifth potential bomber on that day, the day that none of the bombs went off. So they've reckoned this is the best breakthrough that they've had since the 7th of July.
NORRIS: Well, what do we know about those suspects, as you say, the suspects they've scooped up?
Mr. CAMPBELL: Well, the three that they've got, one in Rome and two here, are the three that have been missing and whose pictures have been all over television and all over British newspapers for the last week. So they're very pleased to have caught them. One of them, Muktar Said Ibrahim, is somebody who's got criminal convictions for street robbery over the years, and he's thought to have been possibly converted to this very radical form of Islam in prison. With him was somebody called Ramsi Muhammad, who is thought to have been the person who was attempting to carry out a bombing on the Oval Tube, which is in South London. And the third man in Rome is Hussain Osman. And he was traced up through this rather bizarre route of him contacting his brother by mobile phone. What's interesting is how he got out of the country. And I think the police are a little perplexed that he was able to do it so easily even though they've caught him now.
NORRIS: Is it clear how these suspects might have known each other or how they might have become involved in this plot?
Mr. CAMPBELL: Well, the five people that have now been lifted, four of them are Somali and one Eritrean; they're all Horn of Africa people. They're all roughly the same age, and it's believed that they all attended the same North London mosque. And that would seem to be the closest links between them. Only one of them, as far as we know, has been to prison, where it's thought he became involved. The links with the suicide bombers, the ones who actually killed themselves on July the 7th, seem to be through the bombs because the police found five unexploded bombs on the 21st of July. They're now tracing them to some of the explosives that were left in the car in Luton--I know it's a complicated saga--left in this car by the suicide bombers who actually carried out their mission. And the bombs which didn't explode are very similar to the bombs left by those suicide bombers. And that's the link between the two at the moment.
NORRIS: Well, Duncan, speaking of bombs, there was a concern that the investigation was very much a race against time, that these suspects may have been planning another round of attacks. Any evidence of that, just quickly?
Mr. CAMPBELL: Not really. And the police said that they didn't find any explosives at any of the flats raided.
NORRIS: Thank you so much, Duncan.
Mr. CAMPBELL: It's a pleasure.
NORRIS: Duncan Campbell is a special correspondent for the Guardian newspaper in London.
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By Vivianne Poe
Meet your neighbors
Hal and Jann Patterson
--Photo courtesy of Vivianne Poe.
Jann and Hal Patterson
Christmas is in the air, a time for family, friends and festivities – also a time for giving and meeting new people. Let me introduce you to Hal and Jann Patterson.
Hal was born in California and grew up in Texas and Oklahoma. When he was in the sixth grade, he moved with his family back to California.
Jann was born in New Jersey, moved to Chicago and, when she was four, moved with her family to Hammond, Ind. After high school she moved to Illinois, married and raised a family of seven children, two daughters and five sons. One daughter lives in Spokane Valley and one in California. One son lives in Boise, Idaho, one in Texas and three in California. Her oldest son in San Francisco is a U.S. Navy veteran, and her youngest son in Bakersfield is active duty U.S. Air Force.
While raising her family, she worked in the printing industry and was general manager over four print shops, two in Chicago and two in the south suburbs. She also did typesetting, graphic design and accounting.
Jann also worked for Aidex, a technology company setting up systems in junior-high schools and some high schools, training teachers to teach the curriculum, supplying equipment, desks, computers, etc.
Her marriage ended, and in 1993 she moved to California where she went to work for Thomas Paton & Associates. Jann says it was pretty much the same as the work she was doing for Aidex, so the transition was easy. In 1998, she met her Hal and they were married the same year.
Hal has a background in construction. He has built three houses from the ground up and has also done a lot of remodeling. Hal owned several Tower of London fish and chips restaurants in California, worked for an automotive dealer and delivered motor homes across the country. He also worked as a home inspector and was manager of a Sav-On pharmacy located inside a Lucky grocery store.
Jann got her real estate license in 2000 and Hal got his in 2004. Hal's health problems took them to Harrison, Idaho in 2007, where Jann worked as the city clerk and treasurer, and Hal worked at the Napa store.
In 2014, they bought two houses in Odessa and in 2016 moved here after the remodeling was complete. Jann currently works at Odessa Office Equipment, and both Hal and Jann run a real estate office here in town.
Jann tells me they have made many friends through real estate over the years, and they enjoy meeting people. They love Odessa and are very happy here. Jann dabbles in painting and loves to knit. Hal hangs out with the coffee groups at Chiefs seven days a week. They both enjoy the Friday evening get-together at Chiefs where they enjoy food and fellowship. So if you have not had the opportunity to make their acquaintance, stop in at the real estate office (in the former Avista building) or Odessa Office Equipment, where Jann is employed, or at Chiefs on Friday evenings and say hello.
Until next time. Enjoy life!
Marriage Night May 17, one-night simulcast event
Mini pizzas, pizza dough & chicken chimichangas
Odessa Lion's Club
Free 'At the Heart of Care' events
Recipes for wild weather and rainy windy days
Mini pizzas, pizza dou...Laura Estes
Alums celebrate with f...
Tamara Jo Kowsky
Valor quilts awarded a...Terrie Schmidt-Crosby
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The World Economy in 2017: Reasons to be Cheerful
24 February 2017 by Gerard Lyons
From a speech given by our chief economic strategist, Dr Gerard Lyons, at a recent Netwealth event.
There are considerable near-term challenges. And there are excellent longer-term opportunities. The outlook for the economy depends upon the interaction between the fundamentals, policy and confidence. First, I will focus on the fundamentals for the global and UK economy.
The world economy may surprise on the upside this year. The UK, too, will see resilient growth, but I will highlight how a UK slowdown is inevitable in coming years - possibly next. My focus then moves to policy and the challenges that lie ahead, particularly for monetary policy. Lastly, I will highlight why we should be confident about the longer-term outlook.
At netwealth, in reaching our investment views, we focus on longer-term structural factors while identifying cyclical issues. Likewise, we focus both on the prospects for the financial market from the ‘bottom up’, taking into account market valuations and whether they offer opportunities or not, and on the ‘top down’, looking at key economic and financial drivers. I wish to look at some of these top-down issues.
In the wake of the 2008 financial crisis, two key cycles have been seen in Western economies: a liquidity cycle and an earnings cycle. Central to both has been accommodative stances from central banks, underpinned by low interest rates. Monetary policy has been the shock absorber. Liquidity has been ample and firms, particularly large ones, have enjoyed an almost benign environment. The earnings cycle has been good. Stock markets have performed well. Bond markets, too, have been particularly attractive, none of which should have been a surprise, given the lessons from Japan in previous decades.
Brexit, Trump and Le Pen
Now we are moving, perhaps, to a more traditional political and economic cycle. The political economy is moving to centre-stage. Brexit, Trump and Le Pen are all reflections of this, although each is very different. Brexit had broad cross-party support. In my view, Brexit was inevitable, meanwhile the electoral college system always suggested a Trump victory was very likely, and although France's two-round Presidential voting is geared to preventing a fringe candidate winning, the reality is that even many of Le Pen’s policies are now popular in France.
The higher probability of ‘tail-risks’
In this environment, what would once have been considered small probability, high impact events are now more likely than before. The possibility of ‘tail-risks’ are high and needs to be factored into decision-making. For instance, the collapse or more likely a change in the euro’s make-up could be one of them. There are others, although I will not focus on specific cases here.
Three economic paradoxes
Policy makers need to address three paradoxes that have impacted economies in recent years. One is the ‘economic paradox’, where a financial crisis triggered by a combination of factors including low rates, liquidity and debt has been solved by even lower rates, more liquidity and debt. This points to major policy challenges, to which I refer later.
Then there is the ‘balanced economy paradox’ - particularly relevant in the euro-zone. While each country may wish to avoid deficits and too much debt, if all collectively try to restrain spending then demand suffers. Austerity, if practised collectively, is a problem. The burden of adjustment is on those with deficits, while those with surpluses should do more. Within the EU, Germany and the Netherlands should do more. With each country trying to balance its economy, the net result is a lack of demand, lending and confidence. The euro-zone, thankfully, is seeing some cyclical improvement now, helped by the ECB's policy, but underlying fault lines remain.
The ‘regulatory paradox’
There is also the ‘regulatory paradox’. Individual pieces of regulation may look sound, but collectively the burden is excessive. The pendulum has swung from one extreme, of too light before the crisis, to the other, of too heavy now. This is particularly so for the financial sector. Pendulums settle eventually in the middle and so it may be with regulation, led by Trump's deregulation policies. If implemented, these too could provide a competitive boost to New York, versus London. They might also lead to a wider reassessment of the regulatory environment.
Where now for the world economy?
World GDP growth 2004-2016
For six years growth has disappointed. Expectations have been revised down during the year. If the world economy grows above 4% it is strong, 3% and below is weak. In the decade before the crisis global growth averaged above 4%. Last year, based on the IMF measure, it was 3.1%. This year the IMF expects world growth of 3.4%, and next year 3.6%. Despite sluggish trade volumes, it looks set to be higher this year than last, and this may be the first year in seven where growth forecasts are revised up, not down. Since last summer’s UK referendum there has been a shift to reflationary policies across much of the globe; fiscal policies have been relaxed, and notwithstanding the fact the US raised interest rates last December and looks set to do so again soon, monetary policies have been supportive of global growth.
The state of the UK economy
How will the UK perform? If we had not had last year’s referendum the economic debate would likely now have been on when would the economy slow. For, after seven successive years of growth, the UK would be expected to slow. Gordon Brown, when Chancellor, said the UK had abolished boom and bust. It was clearly wrong, but many believed him. Brexit - or triggering Brexit - has not abolished the economic cycle. The economy will, as it always has done, slow and grow during the cycle. But, in my view, Brexit will allow the UK to enjoy stronger longer-term growth plus allow it more flexibility to cope with the cycle in future, as policy competencies return to the UK.
In this environment, we expect the UK economy to grow just over 2% this year, but it is likely to lose momentum as we enter 2018. The stronger pace of growth seen in the second half of last year was in line with our expectations ahead of the referendum if there was a Leave vote. In coming years there will be challenges; it is not easy to leave something you have been in for 43 years. But it is also vital to appreciate the UK’s wider challenges.
Four imbalances in the UK economy
The UK faces four imbalances that need to be considered. One is the current account deficit, sizeable for some time. Such has been the scale that it justified the pound’s depreciation seen last year. Even without the referendum, it seemed likely to weaken. Secondly, there is the sizeable budget deficit, which continues to restrain government spending and discouraged it from cutting taxes.
Thirdly, is the scale of London's importance. The challenge is to boost productivity in other regions without undermining London's global competitive position. The fourth is often the one that causes problems: household indebtedness. Having fallen slightly following the crisis, this is rising again and contributing to the current pace of stronger UK growth. But rising household indebtedness has contributed to some of the UK's post-war booms and busts.
So the fundamentals suggest stronger global growth and solid UK growth this year, but perhaps a slower pace in 2018.
In the wake of the financial crisis and subsequently there was a convergence in policy thinking. Not all countries carried out the same policies, but there was general agreement. Now, we must prepare for greater divergence.
Regulatory policy and policy towards the financial sector could provide an example of this. They have tended to move in tandem across many Western economies. Now this may change as domestic factors drive more of policy thinking.
The Trump effect
President Trump's election has already seen markets discount much good news, seeing his policies as a combination of 1930s Roosevelt - boosting infrastructure spending - and 1980s Reagan - being pro-business and cutting taxes. Trump is seen as anti-globalisation, but it appears more nuanced than that. He appears wary of existing global institutions, preferring bilateral deals and relationships. One indirect consequence, largely overlooked, is the potential impact on monetary policy. Since the crisis, it has acted as the shock absorber but now a major rethink appears long overdue.
The consequences of quantitative easing
One of the main reasons to be wary of financial markets in the near-term is a consequence of Western monetary policy. Quantitative easing has contributed to asset price inflation and fed rising inequality. Low interest rates also have meant financial markets not pricing properly for risk and being overvalued. What now constitutes a risk-free asset? Government bonds and housing are seen as safe havens but challenges overhang both. So what lies ahead? The role of money, finance and credit must be central. As, too, must the relationship between micro-prudential, macro-prudential and monetary policy.
The UK budget deficit
The latest government borrowing figures for January point to an undershoot of the deficit target in this financial year. Despite that, the deficit’s scale limits the government's room for fiscal manoeuvre. Although the deficit of close to 90 per cent of GDP is the highest it has been in peacetime, the UK witnessed a larger deficit after the Second World War, when it was above 240 per cent of GDP. While it makes sense for the government to control spending, austerity is not the best way to reduce the deficit. A focus on stronger nominal growth - alongside financial repression - is the key. Increased infrastructure spending is justified.
The outlook for inflation
UK CPI vs European CPI
UK inflation has increased, as a weaker pound since last June has added to higher input costs. It is, however, often overlooked that inflation has risen across many other countries and regions too. US inflation has risen from 1% last June to 2.5% now. Likewise, inflation in the euro-zone has increased from 0.1% last June to 1.8% now and in Germany from 0.3% to 1.9%. Thus the rise in UK inflation from 0.5% last June to 1.8% now can be put in a global context.
Could high inflation return?
The combination of global reflation since last summer, alongside firmer oil and commodity prices, has added to inflationary pressures. However, it is premature to suggest that high inflation could return. In our view UK inflation will peak early next year. Input costs are continuing to rise, but domestic cost pressures are still relatively subdued. The rate of inflation will depend upon the extent to which profit margins may be squeezed as firms restrain price rises to maintain market share.
Also, higher inflation will restrain consumer spending, the full extent of this also depending upon how much this is offset by rising wages and increased household borrowing. Although UK inflation is currently rising, and will continue to do so - in our view, peaking early next year - factors suggest it will remain low beyond that. Wages are increasing now but continue to be restrained by a combination of factors.
In the past, the relationship between owners and workers was key. That remains important but, in recent years, globalisation has been another factor. Now, technology and financialisation are also holding back wages and inflation. So, despite rising inflation over the next year, in coming years we are still likely to remain in a relatively low inflation environment. In the absence of an active fiscal policy, low interest rates will not lead to a sustained inflation rise. Until then, bond yields, while off their lows, remain relatively low.
Confidence: perspiration and inspiration
Although there are considerable near-term challenges, it is important to not lose sight of longer-term opportunities and drivers. The key global relationship is the US-China, and other relationships need to be seen in this context. Indo-Pacific is the key region - stretching from the US, Japan, South-East Asia, China and India – and likely to be the world economy’s innovative region in coming decades. It is also where potential hot-spots are, such as North Korea and the south and east China seas.
In addition are what I call ‘perspiration and inspiration’. Perspiration is the size of global populations and of potential markets. Based on those already born, Africa's working age population is set to increase to 435 million in the coming fifteen years - an increase twice that of India and China combined. Inspiration is reflected in the new industrial revolution sweeping across parts of the world, from stem cell research and new life sciences developments, to the new green economy, robotics, artificial intelligence and a host of other areas, including fin-tech. The net result is multiple, including increased growth opportunities and new ways of doing things. Disruptive technology will help cut costs and reinforce the low inflation environment.
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Researchers develop new modified toy car designs for children with disabilities
Researchers at Oregon State University have developed two new modified toy car designs for children with disabilities in an effort to encourage them to further explore, play, and engage in physical and social activities.
The new cars were developed under the umbrella of the "Go Baby Go" program at OSU, which provides modified, ride-on toy cars to young children with disabilities so they can move around independently. Independent movement has been linked to a wide range of developmental benefits in young children.
The sit-to-stand car is a modified version of the original Go Baby Go car, but encourages the child to stand up in order to activate the switch that makes the car move. The goal is to encourage the physical skills of pulling up to stand, bear weight and balance, while also fostering more interaction with peers.
The "Throw Baby Throw" car is a modified toy car that uses a toy pitching machine to throw foam balls. The goal is to provide a way for children who have upper extremity limits to participate in throwing, a fundamental motor skill, while also facilitating socialization.
"Both of these devices are designed to encourage movement and social interaction, which are critical developmental skills for all young children," said Sam Logan, an assistant professor of kinesiology in the College of Public Health and Human Sciences at OSU and leader of the university's Go Baby Go program.
"Movement and socialization are very often combined early and continually as children develop."
The two new car designs were featured in a technical report published recently in the journal Frontiers in Robotics and AI. A study of a child using the sit-to-stand car also was recently published in the journal Pediatric Physical Therapy; researchers found the child was more engaged with peers when using the sit-to-stand car.
Modified toy cars are an inexpensive way to help toddlers with mobility issues get around, experts say. Power wheelchairs can be costly and typically aren't available for children until they are older, and may not always be an option for children who are expected to eventually be able to walk. Toy cars and their modifications start at about $200, while motorized wheelchairs can run thousands of dollars.
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The sit-to-stand car was designed for children who may or are expected to walk eventually but their walking is delayed. In the study of the sit-to-stand car in use, researchers found that a child with disabilities spent about 10 percent more time engaging with his peers on the playground or in the gym at school when he used the sit-to-stand car, compared to using his forearm crutches.
"That's exactly what you want to see," Logan said. "This car gets you up and gets you moving. It's also a way to introduce some fun around the practice of these skills that will help a child stand and walk on their own."
In developing the new car, researchers found the process takes just a few different steps than the original car. The "go" switch is located under the car's seat, rather than on the steering wheel or elsewhere. Training others to modify cars for sit-to-stand would be fairly simple and could be done in a few hours in a workshop, Logan said.
The Throw Baby Throw car uses the same "go" technology as the original car, with the added element of the pitching machine, which is also activated by a switch that a child could press.
"With the switch, kids with upper-extremity limits can throw the same as other kids," Logan said. "The design is really about facilitating this interaction with other kids. You also need someone to catch, retrieve or dodge the balls being thrown."
The engineering behind the throwing car is more complex and needs more refinement before the design could be shared more widely across the Go Baby Go network, Logan said. The throwing car also has not been studied in action. There is one car in use by clinicians in Portland now but the design is still considered a prototype, he said.
The overarching goal of the new car designs is to find more ways to encourage children with disabilities to move, play and engage with their peers from a young age, Logan said.
"We encourage families, clinicians and teachers to embrace a 'right device, right time, right place' approach that takes into account each child's specific needs and abilities," he said. "Whatever typically-developing kids do should be the gold standard for all children, including those with disabilities."
http://oregonstate.edu/ua/ncs/archives/2017/may/new-modified-toy-car-designs-offer-children-disabilities-more-options
Posted in: Child Health News | Device / Technology News | Medical Research News
Tags: Artificial Intelligence, Baby, Children, Chimeric Antigen Receptor, Crutches, Kinesiology, Physical Therapy, Public Health, Walking, Wheelchairs, X-linked
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ON THE BUBBLE: Ten Marvel & DC Titles That May Need Your Help
By Chris Arrant, Editor October 6, 2014 06:00pm ET
Buy and Read These Books! Right Now!
It seems every week between DC and Marvel a new comic series is announced. Here in October, DC is launching six ongoing series and five miniseries; across town at Marvel, they’ve got three new ongoings and eight miniseries. But just as new series are launched with hopeful speculation for big sales on the part of publishers, some current series are crushed with the harsh reality of low, unsustainable sales and
Earlier this month we learned that Marvel’s All-New X-Factor was being cancelled with its twentieth issue, so we turned our attention to ten other ongoing series of the superhero variety at DC and Marvel to highlight – and possibly sound the first alarm – that higher sales might be needed to keep these titles afloat.
Some might be due for a re-numbering to keep it afloat, while others might need a creative shift – either in story or the creators themselves – and others, sadly, might need to take a break from the idea of being a comic series for months or perhaps years.
To find which titles were on the bubble, we relied on the sales rankings released by Diamond Comics Distributors, the leading comic book distributor in the United States. While these rankings do not factor in re-orders, second printings or digital sales, in the past decade it’s proven to be a somewhat accurate barometer of the general performance of comic book titles at comic stores.
We picked the five lowest selling books in both Marvel and DC’s primary comics line, providing an educated guess on which titles might need saving to avoid being on the chopping block.
Aquaman & the Others
Due to the state of superhero comics, even “new” series are in most cases revamps, revivals or continuations of series from years ago – but not in the case of Aquaman & The Others. Spun out of Geoff Johns’ successful revitalization Aquaman reboot, this undersea Justice League by Dan Jurgens and Lan Medina might find itself 20,000 leagues under the sea if the tide – and the sales – don’t turn.
According to reports from the comics retailer news website ICv2, August’s Aquaman & The Others #5 dropped down to under 20,000 copies sold in American comic book stores – meaning it lost nearly 50% of its sales from its debut issue just four months prior.
Some might see any title with the word “Aquaman” in it as weak based on some low points for the character in public memory, but the main Aquaman title continues to be a successful book for DC – even with Johns leaving the title in favor of Jeff Parker. While Aquaman’s appearance in Superman v Batman: Dawn of Justice will surely have an increase of sales for anything with the word “Aquaman” on it, with Aquaman & The Others downward sales trajectory it can’t wait that long and there needs to be an “all hands on deck” attempt to revitalize this title or abandon ship. If this was Marvel, it’s be an fair estimation that the series would be cancelled, flipped and relaunched with a new number 1 but DC has yet to borrow that trick from the House of Ideas’ playbook.
All-New Ghost Rider
There’s been numerous men and women to hold the moniker of Ghost Rider, even predating the motorcycle-riding flamehead, but it the one in All-New Ghost Rider, Robbie Reyes, lit a firestorm in some corners of comics fandom – in a good way and a bad way. Now with it in the second half of its first year, this gearhead Ghost Rider is settling into a rhythm, sales-wise, but isn’t catching comics on fire – and it’s already skipping a month in December.
Felipe Smith is settling in quite nice as the writer of this series, but he’s a different kind of writer than what the Marvel faithful are used to. With Tradd Moore leaving the book to return to creator-owned, there was some trepidation among fans as Moore’s work was a signature part of the book. But Damion Scott, returning to comics full-time for the first time in almost decade, picked it up quite nicely.
But that being said, All-New Ghost Rider is an unique one among Marvel books – or an oddity, depending on your perspective – and it’s supernatural status has precluded it from doing what Marvel and DC have done for decades to stoke sales – a crossover. It’s hard to see Ghost Rider riding shotgun in a Original Sin or Axis tie-in, and that inability to cross-pollinate in the Marvel U does limit the choices going forward.
For some people, this is the sleeper hit of the current “New 52” – but unfortunately it looks like it may not be enough. And the fact that writer Charles Soule just signed a Marvel exclusive only makes the prospective future for Alec Holland even more dour. But Soule’s not the bad guy here; when Scott Snyder left the book in 2013, people weren’t optimistic anyone could fill his shoes – but Soule did that and then some. With artists Kano, Javier Pina, David Lapham and the especially excellent work of Jesus Saiz, Swamp Thing has grown into something truly unique in the DCU.
At current estimates according to ICv2, Swamp Thing has settled in around the 20,000 sales mark each month, but stunt issues such as the “Villains Month” have shown to be quite impressive, showing comics readers have this on their radar – although not necessarily in their pullboxes every month. There’s unrealized potential here, and there’s over a dozen writers out in the comics landscape who have the potential to do something amazing on Swamp Thing but it’s still a risk.
Soule has stated that his run goes through #40, the culmination of the current “Machine Queen” arc, but nothing has been said of what happens next. While DC certainly has the time to find a writer to take over the book come March 2015 when Soule’s arc is projected to end (or come June, after the fill-in event expected to run in April and May), I wouldn’t be surprised if DC mimics how it dealt with this book’s sister title, Animal Man, dealt with a departing writer and let it end for the time being and revisit it down the road. That being said, I’m an admitted fan of Swamp Thing and I’d like to see DC prove me wrong.
Secret Avengers
The Secret Avengers operate under the radar to most of the citizens of the Marvel U, but the series’ sales numbers show that the series is a secret most comics readers’ don’t know about either. This covert ops squad of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes is high on style and subterfuge, but sales numbers have remained elusive – despite superstar writers, artists and also fresh up-and-comers.
After the current volume’s launch in March of this year, Secret Avengers is currently settling in just over the 20,000 sales mark, making it by far the lowest-selling ongoing Avengers title Marvel puts out. The series, which originally launched in 2010, has gone through two relaunches and four revamps in a short amount of time. It’s currently settled into being a S.H.I.E.L.D. book in Avengers clothing, but the announcement of the new S.H.I.E.L.D. series by Mark Waid could make this series extraneous.
That being said, Ales Kot and Michael Walsh are turning in some excellent work in this cloak-and-dagger squad, and the inclusion of M.O.D.O.K. as the resident loose cannon has given this a biting twist that permeates even beyond that big-headed character’s scenes. Marvel could let Kot and Walsh continue on with Secret Avengers, but it would need some special leeway given by Marvel higher-ups – or a jump in sales – to see that happening.
In the past eight years, Kate Kane has built up a dedicated fanbase both for its story and the artistic merit that’s surrounded it. But in the past twelve months it’s seen much of that evaporate – but for some heroes, its their darkest hour that produces the brightest light.
The departure of the series’ original creators J.H. Williams III and Haden Blackman this time last year and the subsequent shift in story direction did Batwoman no favors in terms of sales. By ICv2’s numbers, that resulted in over a 35% drop in sales in just one calendar year – the second largest drop of any of the original launch titles of the “New 52.” That being said, the June 2014 “Bombshell” variant gave this title an amazing jolt in series – nearly doubling the sales from the previous issues – but two issues later it’s lost all of that ground and then some. “Future’s End” could give it another bump, but those spikes help in the extreme short-term, a more long-term solution seems to be in order if DC wants to continue this series.
It’s interesting to speculate how things would have fared if DC would have went along with original series creators Williams and Blackman’s plans for nuptials for Batwoman. While the quality of that story is only speculative, a similar event – Marvel’s Astonishing X-Men #50 back in May 2012 – doubled that title’s sales but trickled out when the newlyweds weren’t the continuing star of the series. DC ultimately went another course and broke up Batwoman and her girlfriend in August’s issue, but it’s interesting to imagine “What if?”
All-New Invaders
Children are taught to respect their elders, but these heroes of the “Greatest Generation” haven’t been able to get respect in terms of comic sales to make them squad of winners. Back in August, All-New Invaders dropped below the 20,000 mark for American comic store sales and has lost over half the audience from its debut back in January. Series writer James Robinson returned to Marvel back in January with a lot of heat and goodwill, but it’s failed to translate into sales.
Robinson, Steve Pugh and Marc Laming have turned in some excellent stories with the Invaders going off-world against the Kree and resuming the attack against Killraven’s War of the Worlds-style villains, but Robinson has admitted – in the voice of Captain America – in the most recent issue that the series is on shifting sands as Cap and Namor fight alongside one another here but are at odds with the Illuminati, the Cabal and the events in the major thrust of the Marvel U inside Avengers and New Avengers. Also, the newly revealed position of “the Man on the Wall” held by Nick Fury and now Bucky Barnes seems to cover some of the same territory All-New Invaders set out to do. Sure Winter Soldier is a member of the Invaders in this series, but but it’s an odd mix to see him as a team-member here but acting on his own accord in Bucky Barnes: The Winter Soldier. Oh, and Captain America – or at least Steve Rogers – is now depowered and no longer carrying the shield.
Marvel has solicited an issue #13 for All-New Invaders in December that goes past the current arc, but the future of these heroes of the past – at least in this configuration – remains very uncertain.
Constantine fights life-or-death odds every day, and the Constantine title has been at death’s door for months now, being one of DC’s lowest selling “New 52” books for the past 9 months. But the British blue-collar warlock has managed to stick around, and with the added value of his upcoming television series (October 24, TV viewers!) it looks like his comic series may have some extra lives – but there’s no doubt DC will be doing some kind of changes.
Constantine started off shaky in March 2013, losing its original writer before the book was launched but pushed towards it’s original launch date. The series premiered at #62 in comic sales that month, with sales roughly considered to be in the high 30,000s range. The sales were much higher than its previous Vertigo series Hellblazer and was DC’s highest #1 that month, but far below what DC’s other major series launched at – even during the New 52 launch month. The major shift from Hellblazer to Constantine lost many of its hardcore fanbase, and the title has been struggling to find replacements – but the television series could be just the thing to find a new audience for the old hero. It’s easy to imagine DC giving some leeway to the Constantine comic series given the television series is to debut shortly, but it would be surprising if DC didn’t do some sort of jolt to the storyline, the creative team, the numbering, or the title itself to earn more sales. The next couple of issues will tie-in to Earth 2 and their third weekly series, World’s End, so perhaps that will be the boost it needs.
Elektra was one of the stand-out launches in the recent crop of “All-New Marvel NOW!” books for its writing and the shighly-praised stunning art, and while Haden Blackman, Mike Del Mundo and guest artist Alex Sanchez have kept their game up it seems readers, by-and-large, have been interested in Marvel books more firmly tied into the main storylines of their universe. The series has found itself tied into the events of “Inhumanity” and tangentially into Inhuman, but that kind of tie-in doesn’t seem enough to affect sales to any degree. For lapsed readers or those who never tried this series at all it’s their loss, but also one for readers of this series who may not see this get past the one-year mark if sales don’t improve.
Arguably the biggest draw to this series past the character, artist Mike Del Mundo, is slated to return to the series with this month’s issue, and the collection of the first arc is due out on November 18. But by that time, Marvel may have already decided to call this project to a close, as the series dropped below the 20,000 sales mark with it’s fourth issue back in July (based on American comic book store sales). Given the high caliber of work being turned in here with this series I could see Marvel giving the creative team enough room to wrap up the series and even perhaps get a more high-profile gig on another book in replacement, but as far as Elektra is concerned she might have met an assassin – in comic sales – that even she can’t overcome.
Infinity Man & The Forever People
With a title carrying both the words “Infinity” and “Forever,” you’d think it had some longevity. But unfortunately for fans of these Kirby creations and the machinations of Dan Didio and Keith Giffen, Infinity Man & The Forever People might not make it past their first – although the just-launched “Godhead” crossover with the Green Lantern titles might change things.
Launched back in June by the same creative team as the recently cancelled O.MA.C. (one of which is also DC’s Co-Publisher), Infinity Man & The Forever People had an interesting throwback style and a story premise which set it apart from the rest of the “New 52.” Four issues in now, however, and it’s failed to grab an audience size comparable to other successful DC superhero books, with the series now the lowest-selling title set in DC’s main line.
The Forever people have had a series of revamps in recent years, most notably --- and drastically – when Grant Morrison changed them into the Super Young Team from Final Crisis. but even Mr. Multiversity couldn’t make a concept that could stick.
Fans of this series, what say you? What could DC, Didio, Giffen or some other creators due to get Infinity Man and company out of the dumps and higher up in the sales charts?
All-New Ultimates
From its launch in 2002 and on through to 2007, anytime the Ultimates had an issue out it was a top seller and rarely sold less than a 100,000 copies. Now, in the wake of Cataclysm, several revamps of the entire line and a change of focus for the series itself, the current Ultimates series – All-New Ultimates has dropped to be Marvel’s lowest selling ongoing superhero series that isn’t a licensed title, kid-friendly off-shoot, or cancelled.
Series writer Michel Fiffe, who was hand-picked by Ultimate maestro Brian Michael Bendis to take on this book, has turned in some excellent stories… but stories far different from what people have come to expect when they buy a title with the word “Ultimates” in it. While it is true that titles must evolve and Marvel’s 616 books have largely evolved to be like the original Ultimates series, it seems as if All-New Ultimates isn’t the book fans want – at least not under this title. Fiffe and artist Amiclar Pinna were given some massive shoes to fill, and little to help besides an initial marketing push alongside the other Ultimate titles relaunch earlier this year.
According to solicitations, All-New Ultimates will begin a new three-part arc in November’s issue #10 – so t hat could mean by the time of #12 in January, this title could be at its finale – either a final one, or a break before another relaunch.
And while it’s sister title Miles Morales Ultimate Spider-Man fares much better, the third Ultimate title -- Ultimate FF was already cut short due to low sales back August. Could this be a “canary in the coal mine” warning of larger problems with the once-flush, now-faltering Ultimate line? I think everyone’s noticed the once-promising line now falling on hard times. And of course, with Miles Morales more frequently crossing over with the regular Marvel universe, it seems he has an “out” of his home timeline was to go away. Will Marvel let these titles wither on the vine, or could they do something to inject new life – or at least give the line one last hurrah before it’s brought to a close?
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Secretive new frog species from ancient lineage discovered in India
Life 12 March 2019
The starry dwarf frog is one of 400 new species discovered in India in the past 20 years
Seenapuram Palaniswamy Vijayakumar
By Adam Vaughan
A “secretive” new species of frog has been discovered on the forest floor in India’s Western Ghat mountain range. Dubbed the starry dwarf frog after the markings on its dark brown back, Astrobatrachus kurichiyana has an orange underbelly and is just 2 centimetres long.
The frog, whose closest relatives are a group of species native to India and Sri Linka, is the only member of an ancient lineage dating back millions of years, according to researchers from India and the US. It is unclear whether the species descended from African or Asian frogs.
An expedition of Indian and US researchers first encountered the endemic species hidden in leaf-litter in 2010 as part of a wider project to look for new frogs, lizards and snakes in the richly biodiverse region and stored it in a specimen jar for later study. Genetic testing and a closer look at its shape, colouring and other features has revealed that it doesn’t match any existing species.
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Kartik Shanker of the Indian Institute of Science, who helped design the study, says while it is common to find new frogs in India, this one was notable.
“This particular species is not just a new species, but a new genus and sub-family, and that makes it a little more special,” says Shanker.
The number of known species of frog identified in India has climbed from around 200 to above 400 over the past two decades.
While many species new to science are frequently immediately classified as endangered, it is too early to say whether the starry dwarf frog is threatened. “They are very secretive,” says Shanker, adding that the team didn’t know the size of its population. The frog is nocturnal and lives near water.
Habitat loss is a serious risk to frogs in tropical forests around the world, alongside threats such as a deadly fungus that has been killing off amphibians for the past four decades. But the new species was found in a reserved forest, meaning it will enjoy a degree of protection by Indian government agencies.
Journal reference: PeerJ, DOI: 10.7717/peerj.6457
Magazine issue 3222 , published 23 March 2019
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“Everybody returned but two and I had one freshman, so everybody else on the field was here last year. So yeah, it was achievable,” Day said. “They believed it and they wanted it.”
Sophomore catchera Megan White, who scored the game-winning run in Game 1, was named the series MVP after going 6-11 at the plate over the weekend with two home runs and three extra-base hits.
Earlier in the day, the Vikings had a chance to secure the state title, but were held scoreless by West Lincoln in Game 2 as the Rebels earned a four-run win to force a decisive third game.
Not demoralized by its poor performance in the day’s first contest, South Granville bounced back and put together its best performance of the series when it needed it the most.
“We all kind of got down on ourselves in the second game and we realized that our errors were more mental errors,” White said. “Because we knew how to play. We just weren’t ready. So, we all went to Chick-fil-A and we had a good team meal. We all loosened up and realized that we could do this.”
Junior pitcher Miranda Barker, who pitched every inning for South Granville in 2016, was far from perfect, but the Vikings’ ace picked up her 23rd victory of the season as she struck out three batters and stranded nine baserunners.
“That’s a strong kid,” White said of Barker. “There’s no quit in her. It’s all about willpower and making the pitches.”
While the Vikings only put together three hits in Game 2, they responded with 12 in the series finale and exploded for eight runs in the second inning. South Granville recorded six-consecutive two-out hits in the second as it batted around.
Junior second baseman Abbi Colclough hit two doubles in the inning, scoring twice, while junior pitcher Miranda Baker, senior center fielder Savannah Tilley, sophomore left fielder Brianne Coleman and senior shortstop Hunter Mundy each drove in runs with hits, as well.
Trailing by seven runs after two innings, West Lincoln (26-4) methodically chipped away at South Granville’s lead, eventually cutting the deficit down to to three runs after scoring twice in both the third and sixth innings. However, that was as close as the Rebels would come.
White, who provided South Granville with a pair of insurance runs with her second two-run home run of the weekend in bottom of the sixth, said winning it all again was just as satisfying as last year’s run to glory.
“They’re both equally exciting,” she said. “It’s a blessing to be able come back, but I’m very excited this year, as well.”
Game 2, West Lincoln 4, South Granville 0: South Granville entered Game 2 of the N.C. High School Athletic Association 2A softball championship best-of-three series against West Lincoln on Saturday with a chance to earn its second state title for the second straight season.
Unfortunately for the Vikings, theyll now have to win a decisive Game 3 in order to achieve that feat after dropping Game 2 4-0 against the Rebels.
The series rubber match is scheduled to begin at 5:00 p.m. at the UNC-Greensboro Spartans Softball Complex following the conclusion of Game 2 of the NCHSAA 3A championship best-of-three series between C.B. Aycock and Enka.
Runs were hard to find for South Granville as the Vikings struggled against West Lincoln senior pitcher Cassidy Wise, who earned the win.
Going the distance, Wise surrendered only three hits, struck out four batters and stranded four baserunners.
While South Granville had a rough go of it on offense, the Vikings trailed by only one run for much of the day, but West Lincoln tacked on three more runs off of South Granville junior pitcher Miranda Barker in the bottom of the fifth on a double by freshman center fielder Kinsley Gilmore and back-to-back singles by sophomore shortstop Carson Warlick and sophomore second baseman Jessica Adams.
While chances to score were scarce for South Granville, the Vikings nearly pulled even in the top of the third when as sophomore left fielder Brianne Coleman tagged up from second base and made her way home following a bad throw to third base by Gilmore. However, it was ruled that Coleman left second base too early when tagging and was called out.
The loss was South Granvilles first since falling to Bunn 1-0 on April 26.
Photo Gallery: South Granville vs. West Lincoln, NCHSAA 2A softball championship final - 06.04.16
South Granville softball takes NCHSAA 2A Game 1 in walk-off style against West Lincoln
South Granville High School celebrate a state championship after a 10-5 victory over West Lincoln High School during Game 3 of the N.C. High School Athletic Association 2A softball championship series final at UNC Greensboro softball stadium in Greensboro, N.C. on Saturday, June 4, 2016. Reagan Lunn newsobserver.com
South Granville’s Miranda Barker (15) drives the ball during West Lincoln’s 4-0 victory over South Granville during Game 2 of the N.C. High School Athletic Association 3A state championship series. Reagan Lunn newsobserver.com
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The Return of “Arrested Development”
By Emily Nussbaum
It seems like years since Season Four of “Arrested Development” was released on Netflix (in reality, two weeks). It’s the latest development in the Great Netflix Experiment, that monstrous new distribution model by which television watchers are chained to their sofas, then force-fed episodes like addled geese. Miraculously, I’ve hacked the system. As it turns out, it is also possible to watch the episodes one by one, separated by spans of time, just like a regular TV show stored on your DVR. Tell your friends.
Instead of marathon-watching all the episodes, neglecting my family entirely, in the middle of a snowstorm, the way I did with “House of Cards,” I doled them out carefully, like cherished Halloween candy, neglecting my family in unpredictable patterns, during a late-May heat wave. Some episodes I watched on my flat-screen; others on my computer, “popped out” into the corner of the screen. A few I watched at night, in bed, on my iPhone, using headphones, watching until I got sleepy and then finishing the episode when I woke up. This prismatic approach seemed particularly appropriate for “Arrested Development,” a show so chronologically dizzy and dense with self-reflexive jokes that it would give Lacan a migraine. (No pomo.)
Mitchell Hurwitz had a few pragmatic problems filming the new episodes, the most galling being that few of his actors were available for filming at the same time. But he found a smart workaround, devising an ambitious “Rashomon”-like structure, with each episode homing in on a different character (though a few characters are the subject of more than one). Over time, details accrete, through flashbacks and flashforwards, until we’re faced with a dazzling puzzle box of a narrative, as much like a video game as a story. Matt Zoller Seitz made the brilliant point that “the effect is a bit like starting on a Google map, zoomed in tight, then pulling out to get a view of a whole city or country, or clicking on a link in one article that takes you to another article.” The season also reminded me of the party game Celebrity—the later rounds are funnier, because the jokes build up. The show becomes less confusing over time, as we get fresh angles on various events, among them a political rally, a magic show at a gay club, a party at a housing community overflowing with sex offenders, the offices of Ron Howard’s Imagine Entertainment, a rehab clinic, and a chaotic holiday called Cinco de Quatro.
Anyway, to cut to the chase: I loved it. Sure, the first two episodes are slower than the rest; during the second episode, I got distracted enough that I wondered if reanimating the series was worth the effort. But in episode three, there was a sad, funny sequence in which Lindsay and Tobias get upsold into buying a cavernous McMansion using a NINJA loan (No Income, No Job, no Assets). As their fantasy purchase grew bigger and bigger—egged on by a salesman played by Ed Helms—the two kept reassuring themselves with the nonsense explanation “Then we’ll have it.” The scene had a loopy, almost musical style of dialogue that recalled an old Nichols and May routine, and the joke got even better once they went into the house, with the cameras following the couple as they stalked, bickering, through empty Pilates studios and soulless ballrooms. It felt right in the show’s wheelhouse, mixing big-picture satire and small-bore pathos, and I made the leap of faith. From then on, I laughed a lot, and I honestly didn’t care if an occasional setup failed, or if the Michael plots were weaker than the others, or if some of the Mexico stuff was a little bit confusing. My favorite episodes focussed on Gob, Lucille, Tobias, and Maeby, but I almost fell off the sofa laughing during the Buster episode, which also made my heart clutch up.
Is it odd that “Arrested Development” makes me emotional? There have been numerous criticisms that the show is darker and colder than its earlier iterations, but I think that’s a misunderstanding. “Arrested Development” was always as funny-peculiar as it was funny ha-ha, refracting horrible material—like Abu Ghraib, say—into daring slapstick. The mockumentary format originated as a allergic response to reality television, and Mitchell Hurwitz’s black comedy was always, at heart, a furious and intrusive documentary investigation into a rich, spoiled family, its satire undergirded by a quiet fury—not detached, à la Christopher Guest, but enraged at the lack of love. Hurwitz documents the Bluths’ cruelty, mutual exploitation, self-righteous jerkiness, inability to stop dating one another’s love interests, and so on, directly linking these bad qualities to the worst elements of the culture. There are brilliant parodies of Herman Cain, “To Catch a Predator,” “Entourage,” the tech boom, the movement to build a wall at the U.S.-Mexican border, the “Eat Pray Love” tourism circuit, rehabs and prisons, off-the-grid activists, and especially the delusional housing bubble (“Gimme some stimmy,” the family members keep demanding, asking for some stimulus money to float them). It’s a vision of America’s problems as scabrous as any op-ed, but it’s essentially personal, not abstract, returning over and over to the shamelessness of a family that has been literally spoiled, like sour milk left too long in the Californian sun.
As stylized as they are, the Bluths and Funkes are not cartoon characters: they’re broken and empty, but they sense it—and throughout Season Four, each of them seeks enlightenment or meaning or purpose, which inevitably makes things worse. Even Lucille Bluth—a lousier mother than Livia Soprano—arrives at a touching flash of self-knowledge while under the care of her ridiculous son-in-law, Tobias (who now has the sense to call himself a “theralyst” instead of an “analrapist”). In one of the season’s best plots, the narcissistic Gob is destabilized when a prank love affair begins to feel real (as with many of the show’s plots, I don’t want to spoil the details). Poor Buster has a nervous breakdown when he’s deprived of his mother, pouring cocktails for a Lucille doll he’s built out of her clothes. And the great Maria Bamford is simply heartbreaking as a victim of the Bluths, a fragile junkie whom Tobias meets at a methadone clinic, which he mistakes for a “Method One” acting class.
I could go on in this chatterbox, anxious, overanalytical, trying-to-excite-you-but-not-spoil-or-overpraise-things, slightly defensive sort of way, but what’s the point? It’s a comedy. It’s messed up. There are ostriches running around. Sex offenders keep buying their barely legal neighbor games of Twister. Bees attack celebrities in the back of a limo. That’s the kind of show this is—it gets stranger and stranger the deeper you go. “Arrested Development” is never going to be everyone’s cup of tea: that much was clear when the show crashed in the ratings at Fox and got cancelled in the first place. But me, I’m glad it’s back. And now it’s time for a rewatch.
Emily Nussbaum, The New Yorker’s television critic, won the 2016 Pulitzer Prize for criticism. Her anthology, “I Like to Watch: Arguing My Way Through the TV Revolution,” was released in June.
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Home » Mary Cassatt — Selected Paintings
Mary Cassatt — Selected Paintings
Mary Cassatt was born into an affluent family in Pennsylvania on May 22, 1844. She studied at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, one of the country's leading art schools. In addition to having regular exhibitions of European and American art, the faculty at the Academy encouraged students to study abroad. In 1865 Cassatt approached her parents with the idea of studying in Paris. Despite their initial objections, Cassatt's parents relented and allowed her to go.
In Paris, Cassatt attended classes in the studios of the academic artists Jean Léon Gérôme and Thomas Couture. She also traveled extensively in Europe studying and copying old master paintings. In 1874 she settled permanently in Paris, where her work was regularly shown at the Salon, the annual government-sponsored exhibition. The following year she saw the pastel work of Edgar Degas, one of the leaders of the Impressionist movement, in a gallery window. Years later, Cassatt described the importance of this experience, "I used to go and flatten my nose against the window and absorb all I could of his art. It changed my life. I saw art then as I wanted to see it."
Cassatt was one of a relatively small number of American women to become professional artists in the nineteenth century when most women, particularly wealthy ones, did not pursue a career. Her decision to study abroad reflects the strong character she displayed throughout her career. When Cassatt settled in Paris, an artistic revolution was already underway in France. Changes were occurring in the way that artists showed their work to the public, and in the freedom artists had to choose their own subjects and styles. Cassatt's career developed against the backdrop of these changes.
Child in a Straw Hat, c. 1886, oil on canvas, Collection of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Mellon, 1983.1.17
In Little Girl in a Blue Armchair, Mary Cassatt demonstrates her powers of observation in showing her young subject sprawled in a large, blue armchair. The smartly dressed little girl fidgets; in the next chair is her sleeping dog. The girl's pose has the naturalism of childhood that would later characterize many of Cassatt's paintings of children.
Pictorial structure and clarity are the foundation of Cassatt's art. Under Edgar Degas' tutelage, she began to collect and study Japanese prints; their patterns and asymmetric designs greatly influenced her work. Here she placed the girl, the focus of the composition, off-center. The armchairs form a pattern encircling an oddly shaped patch of gray floor in the middle of the picture. As in Japanese art, the forms are tilted up, and the edge of the canvas crops the image.
Cassatt's strong colors and energetic brushwork mark her connection with the French impressionists. In style and subject matter, her art is close to that of Degas and Edouard Manet. Degas, in fact, made suggestions about the composition of this painting and reworked parts of its background.
In Cassatt's pictures, light does not dissolve form. Instead, objects retain their mass and coherence with light enhancing their physical presence.
Little Girl in a Blue Armchair, 1878, oil on canvas, Collection of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Mellon, 1983.1.18
This painting is the second of two portraits by Mary Cassatt thought to be of Mary Ellison. Cassatt painted the first in 1877, shortly after she met Miss Ellison through their mutual friend, Louise Waldron Elder (later Mrs. H. O. Havemeyer, a well-known American art collector and a patron of Cassatt). Cassatt does not flatter but, rather, concentrates on Miss Ellison's contemplative mood.
In this painting, Cassatt demonstrates her affinities with the impressionists. Her brushwork is open and sketchy, and she favors a strong compositional structure over pictorial detail. The mirror behind Ellison was a device the artist used often; its presence allowed the expansion of the composition's implied space to include areas that the viewer could not otherwise see.
Miss Mary Ellison, c. 1880, oil on canvas, Chester Dale Collection, 1963.10.95
A cultivated woman, Mary Cassatt was at home at the theater and opera. In The Loge she depicts two elegantly dressed young women who sit primly in their theater box absorbed in the performance below. The figures are shown close-up, suggesting that we share both their vantage point and their experience of the performance. Reflected in a large mirror behind them, a glittering chandelier illuminates the tiers of gilded balconies that curve majestically around the auditorium. Aware that they are on view from the other boxes, the young women appear slightly self-conscious. One young woman retreats behind her fan. The other clutches her bouquet; her carefully neutral expression establishes a discreet emotional distance.
Cassatt was as attentive to the formal qualities of composition as to the individualization of the figures. Here the sweeping lines of the balconies in the background and the spread of the open fan establish the pattern for this carefully organized composition. The curves are echoed in the black neck ribbon, the rounded shoulders, the arc of the bouquet, and the crystal chandelier. Eliminating details with loose brushwork and softly merging colors, Cassatt suggested rather than defined such elements as the flowers on the fan and the distant audience. Elsewhere, in the arms for example, she emphasized form by allowing the brushstrokes to follow contours and, at times, by using pure line to emphasize a particular shape. The resulting image is, at once, solid and evanescent.
The Loge, 1882, oil on canvas, Chester Dale Collection, 1963.10.96
Children Playing on a Beach demonstrates Mary Cassatt's skill at capturing the natural attitudes of children. The intent expression on one child's face, the lowered angles of their heads, and the set of their shoulders suggest complete concentration on their activities. Especially appealing is the awkward way in which the toddler on the left grips the long handle of her shovel while holding the rim of the bucket with her other pudgy hand.
Cassatt's interest in structure and strong sense of patterning comes through clearly in this painting. Her careful brushstrokes follow the contours of the girls' arms, legs, and heads, creating the solid areas of color typical of her work after 1883. To keep the center of attention on the little girls, Cassatt treated the seascape background more loosely; the boats on the ocean melt into a haze of natural light. She emphasized surface pattern by repeating the accents of dark dresses under crisp white pinafores.
Children Playing on the Beach, 1884, oil on canvas, Ailsa Mellon Bruce Collection, 1970.17.19
Girl Arranging Her Hair was greatly admired at the last impressionist exhibition, held in 1886. However, no one praised the painting more highly than Edgar Degas, who acquired the work for his own collection.
Cassatt's theme is one that Degas himself often portrayed: a woman's toilette. Cassatt deliberately chose a plain adolescent as her subject so that appreciation of the painting would not depend on the beauty of the model. Clad in a loose chemise and seated before a washstand and mirror, she performs the routine task of coiling her hair. The girl's pose is awkward but natural, imparting grace and rhythm to the composition. The S-curve formed by her arms and the twist of her hair creates a fluid surface pattern.
Recalling the lessons of the past when composing this picture, the painter looked back to the Renaissance for inspiration. To show the natural beauty of the young girl's gesture, Cassatt adopted the uplifted bent arm and turned head of Michelangelo's sculpture, The Dying Slave. Yet, the ambiguity of space, the overlapping patterns of furnishings and wallpaper, as well as the elevated angle of vision in this painting, all seem to come from another source--Japanese woodcuts. Cassatt was long an admirer of the bold style in Oriental prints. By 1886, when this picture was done, she had fully analyzed them and mastered their compositional strategies.
Girl Arranging Her Hair, 1886, oil on canvas, Chester Dale Collection, 1963.10.97
Later in her career Mary Cassatt often painted the theme of a little girl wearing an oversized hat in poses similar to this one. However this child's serious expression sets the painting apart from other portraits. Most of the girls in Cassatt's paintings of children in hats appear to be willing and happy models; they smile and wear elaborate bonnets and frilly dresses. In Child in a Straw Hat, the little girl wears a plain, gray pinafore and a large, simple straw hat. Her furrowed brow and protruding upper lip suggest that she is impatient; she may have been taken away from her play in order to pose.
Mary Cassatt had great respect for the art of Manet and Degas. Portrait of an Elderly Lady demonstrates her admiration for Edouard Manet through her use of large dark areas, near black, and warm flesh tones applied with the rich, broad brushstrokes typical of Manet's work.
Although the identity of the sitter in Portrait of an Elderly Lady is unknown, she appears in other works by the artist. Cassatt paints the woman with characteristic candor, including gray hair and wrinkles. Sitting on a chintz upholstered slipper chair with her elbow slung across the top, her casual pose exudes self-confidence. The large, pink rose in her bonnet is a youthful symbol that brightens her dark attire.
Portrait of an Elderly Lady, c. 1887, oil on canvas, Chester Dale Collection, 1963.10.7
The model in Woman with a Red Zinnia is an example of the type of figure who often appears in Cassatt's works; she is plain and sturdy, rather than glamorous or idealized. Cassatt often painted the local women who lived near her in the country, dressing them in clothes she bought in Paris.
Woman with a Red Zinnia, which was exhibited at least once with the title Reverie, follows a Victorian tradition of depicting women in a dreamlike state. The artist's frank representation focuses attention on the sitter's contemplative mood.
Woman with a Red Zinnia, 1891, oil on canvas, Chester Dale Collection, 1963.10.99
Mary Cassatt created The Boating Party in the winter of 1893/1894 at Antibes, on the Mediterranean coast in France. It is representative of Cassatt's finest period. Just two years earlier, as a mature and accomplished artist, she had had her first one-person exhibition in which her extraordinary series of ten color prints were shown. Among other exciting innovations, these works demonstrated the influence of her recent encounter with the Japanese prints exhibited at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts in 1890. In The Boating Party, the high horizon, off-center placement of figures, elimination of unnecessary detail, and preoccupation with surface patterns and contours also reveal this awareness of Japanese art.
For the picture's subject matter Cassatt may have drawn upon Edouard Manet's Boating (1874, Metropolitan Museum of Art), a painting that she greatly admired. Like Manet, who himself admired Japanese woodcuts, she used a close-up view, with the nearest portion of the boat cut off at the edge of the image. But her dazzling color scheme and broad, flat brushwork are post-impressionist in flavor--the color preferences of Gauguin and Van Gogh.
The composition of The Boating Party is, as in the most interesting of Cassatt's paintings, unconventional and arresting. The darkly clad figure of the boatman looms large in the foreground, almost appearing to project out of the canvas. The sail at left, the oar, and the bow of the boat all point to the head of the child who, in a pose typical of the artist, is shown sprawling gracelessly, yet naturally, in its mother's lap. Despite the simple subject and the centrality of the contented baby, the painting exudes a peculiar psychological intensity because of the enigmatic relationship between the figures so closely tied together in the composition. In conception, execution, and sheer size, this is surely Cassatt's boldest work.
The Boating Party, 1893/1894, oil on canvas, Chester Dale Collection, 1963.10.94
Mother and Child represents a theme that Mary Cassatt often painted throughout her career as an artist. Creating complex, impressionistic lighting effects, a floor mirror reflects the scene in a hazy, indistinct manner.
The models for Mother and Child may have been neighbors of Cassatt's near her country home outside of Paris. She often asked local women to sit for her, feeling that professional models posed self-consciously. For the sittings, Cassatt tended to dress the women in gowns she had bought from well-known Paris clothiers. As in most of her paintings, Cassatt does not glamorize or sentimentalize her subjects; instead she presents them as wholesome, attractive individuals.
When Cassatt painted Mother and Child she was at the height of her artistic success. She drew on her many years of experience, working with ease and assurance. She captured the varying effects of light: pure strokes of green and gold suggest the sun flooding the artist's studio on a summer day, and glistening touches of pale yellow highlight hair, dress, and furniture.
Mother and Child, c. 1905, oil on canvas, Chester Dale Collection, 1963.10.98
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Back to Diabetes
Diabetes and mental ability
“Adults with diabetes may find their mental abilities slowing down soon after the disease appears,” The Times reported. The newspaper said that a study found that people with type 2 diabetes were noticeably worse than healthy adults in their semantic speed (working out meaning) and higher thought processes, such as planning, organising and paying attention to detail. The newspaper added that age did not seem to have an effect on mental deterioration, which suggests that the damage is done early on in the disease and then stabilises.
The story is based on a study of a small group of relatively healthy Canadian adults with mild type 2 diabetes. It found that, compared to healthy people, the patients performed worse in parts of some neuropsychological tests. However, its design means that it cannot prove that diabetes is the cause of the difference in performances. The claim that diabetics are at risk of a progressive mental slow-down are not supported by the results of this study. This question can only be answered by larger, prospective studies, which take into account the range of other factors that might be involved.
Drs Sophie Yeung, Ashley Fischer and Roger Dixon carried out the research. Their work was funded with a grant from the National Institutes of Health. The study was published in the peer-reviewed medical journal Neuropsychology .
What kind of scientific study was this?
The researchers in this cross-sectional study compared how people with and without diabetes of different ages performed on a range of neuropsychological tests. The study compared people between 53 and 70 years of age with 71 to 90-year-olds.
The participants in this study were selected from the first wave of an ongoing larger study – the Victoria Longitudinal Study (VLS). From this group, the researchers selected all 44 people with type 2 diabetes, and a control group of 522 healthy people. The researchers then further excluded anyone who had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or vascular dementia, mild to moderate cognitive impairment (scoring less than 26 on the mini mental state examination), neurological conditions including Parkinson’s, cardiovascular disease or psychiatric conditions. This left them with a final sample for analysis of 41 relatively healthy adults with diabetes and 424 controls.
The researchers compared the results from various cognitive and neuropsychological tests between the people with and without diabetes, and then investigated whether age had any effect on the differences. These tests had been performed as part of the first wave of the VLS study, and included memory tests, verbal fluency, and tests of executive function (such as speed of responses, ability to suppress a first response, and inhibiting automatic responses).
What were the results of the study?
The researchers found no difference between the diabetes groups and healthy control groups in terms of episodic memory (assessed by immediate word recall tests). As expected, the younger adults performed better than the older adults.
There were also no differences between the groups in terms of their semantic memory (assessed by tests of vocabulary and fact recall), verbal fluency, reaction time or perceptual speed.
In terms of executive functioning, the controls performed better in two of four tests. The controls also performed better on semantic speed tests, though not on other neurocognitive speed tests. Although the younger groups tended to outperform the older groups, diabetes did not affect different ages in different ways.
What interpretations did the researchers draw from these results?
The researchers conclude that their study has contributed to the literature on deficits associated with mild type 2 diabetes in older adults. They say that their results show that healthy controls “significantly outperformed the diabetes group only on markers of executive functioning and speed”.
What does the NHS Knowledge Service make of this study?
According to the authors, several studies have shown that mental performance is affected by diabetes. However, there is some conflict in the published research about which neuropsychological domains are affected. The purpose of this study was to investigate which domains are involved, and which of them appear to contribute to the difference. There are several points to note when interpreting this study:
The researchers used a cross-sectional design to compare performance scores between people with diabetes and those without. However, cross-sectional studies cannot prove causation, and so this study cannot confirm that the difference in mental performance between people with and without diabetes was a result of their condition. It may have been caused by a number of other factors, such as individual cognitive ability at the start of the study, treatment, health related behaviours, or just general health. Other than the participants’ blood pressure, the researchers made no apparent attempt to adjust for (take into account) any other possible factors that could be responsible for the link between diabetes and cognition.
The number of people with diabetes in this study was actually quite small. As such, it is possible that the differences seen between these 40 adults and the control group may have arisen by chance alone. The power of the study to detect differences between groups is further diminished in the sub-groups of the different age groups.
Although this study found that people with diabetes did not perform any differently to healthy controls in tests of verbal episodic memory and verbal fluency, this conflicts with what other studies have found. The researchers also acknowledge that it may not be possible to generalise their findings to other populations, given that it is volunteer-based and from a small urban Canadian population of relatively healthy, well-educated adults.
The study has not examined young people with type 1 diabetes (as may be suggested by the photograph in The Times of a young adult injecting insulin). Therefore young people diagnosed with diabetes should not be concerned that their mental performance will deteriorate.
Overall, there is a need for larger, prospective studies to confirm whether people with diabetes experience a decline in cognitive function and, in particular, which aspects of their function are affected. These studies will also need to take into account other potential confounding factors.
Analysis by Bazian
Edited by NHS Website
Links to the headlines
Diabetics ‘at risk of progressive mental slowdown’.
The Times, 5 January 2009
NHS sites
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Travelogue: Culture and Nature
In the Victorian era, Hampstead Heath was thought of as a place where shop-girls could go to have fun. Now, in more straitened times, it is thought of as a place of general recreation, the city being unpromising if one wants to recreate oneself. The Heath is not really a heath. Rather, it's a hilly, tree-ish expanse, criss-crossed by paths, with many ponds and occasional views across London from some of its big grassy areas. It's about two and a half miles from east to west, and maybe a mile and a half from where we are living at South End Green (in the south) to Kenwood House on the Heath's northern edge. Many people find the exterior of Kenwood House, set amid luxuriant trees, to be magnificent. Pevsner (1952) describes it as "a plain house of seven bays." He concedes, however, that the additions by Robert Adam around 1770, of an orangery and a library on either side of the main house, did much to improve it. He particularly likes the interior of the library: "a large apartment with a segmental tunnel vault and apses at both ends, screened off in the typical Adam manner by giant columns supporting a beam-like entablature" (p. 365).
The counterpoint between culture and nature here has taken many forms. Around 1844, it is said, Sir Thomas Marion Wilson, Lord of the Manor of Hampstead, planned to build 28 villas, slap bang in the middle of the Heath (click here for more details). To give access to them he did build over a swampy valley a viaduct in red brick with five rounded stone arches. The roadway it carries is easily wide enough to accommodate pedestrian pavements flanked by iron railings, while leaving plenty of room for carriages to pass each other. The housing development was prevented by Parliament, but the viaduct remains, and the valley was drained to make a pond, which flows into a little stream. With its reflection on the surface of the pond, the view of the viaduct is probably the most painted, most photographed, scene in the whole of the Heath: a perfect synthesis of culture and nature.
And as you stroll on the Heath you see others strolling, many in the company of a dog, another perfect synthesis of culture and nature. Last week this was heard between a woman in a navy-blue overcoat and her Labrador:
"Come here, William. Immediately ... William, you're embarrassing me. Are you trying to show me up? Do you want people to think I'm not a good mummy?"
Nikolaus Pevsner (1952) The buildings of England: London except the Cities of London and Westminster. Harmondsworth: Penguin.
Labels: +Original Writing, Original Writing
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Oil and gas skills strategy reveals rapidly changing sector
Energy skills body OPITO has set out a strategy to prepare the UK oil and gas industry for a shift in skills requirements over the next six years.
OPITO’s Skills Landscape 2019 – 2025 report, part of the UKCS Workforce Dynamics research series, reveals technology advances, internationalisation and the transition to a lower carbon future are accelerating changing skills demands in the sector.
It is expected that around 80% of the current workforce will still be working within the industry in 2025, taking into account natural attrition and retirement. The opportunity to retain these skills, as well as upskill and reskill the workforce as the industry adapts to take advantage of new technologies and different ways of working, is substantial.
In just six years it is estimated the industry needs to attract 25,000 new people and 4,500 of those will be into completely new roles that do not currently exist in areas such as data science, automation and new materials. Future roles may include ‘Artificial Intelligence Business Developer’, ‘Virtual Reality Journey Builder’ and ‘3D Material Scientist’.
Built on four strategic components – Retain, Retrain, Recruit, and Renew – the report, led by OPITO in partnership with Robert Gordon University’s Oil & Gas Institute, is designed to help the sector develop an increasingly flexible, multi-skilled and technology-enabled workforce.
A route map has been developed to bring organisations together to deliver on targeted actions. Coordinated and facilitated by OPITO, on behalf of industry, the route map includes activities such as developing new education and training courses, technology focused apprenticeships and initiatives that support future recruitment and skills diversity.
Mark Cullens, Director of Strategic Engagement at OPITO said: “Oil and gas skills requirements are changing rapidly. Equipping the current workforce with the skills to adapt to this dynamic business environment is essential and work needs to begin right away.
“We have the potential to leverage UK skills and capabilities around the world, but close collaboration and partnership is needed to make an effective and lasting impact. We require a sharp focus on supporting the industry to take advantage of the benefits of digitisation and energy transition, creating a more technology-enabled, fluid and multi-skilled workforce of tomorrow. OPITO is working with industry and various stakeholders to coordinate and facilitate a route map of actions to help support the industry’s Vision 2035 and the role of the sector in the low carbon economy.”
The Skills Landscape report was published at an Oil & Gas UK Business Breakfast, sponsored by Deloitte today (Thursday, May 2nd) which featured a panel of industry speakers including Ariel Flores, BP’s North Sea Regional President, Lesley Birse, President of People and Organisation for Europe, Africa, ME, Asia and Australia at Wood and Sophie Ewen, currently an OGTAP (Oil & Gas Technical Apprentice Programme) apprentice working with Chevron.
To help determine the changing oil and gas skills requirements, 1,000 people from around 140 organisations responded to a detailed skills survey and supplemented the data already received covering 35,000 UKCS roles.
Other key findings from the report include:
28% of people’s time is currently spent on repetitive, transactional activities which are more likely to become automated over time. Upskilling and reskilling the current workforce will enable people to carry out their role more efficiently and prepare them for different tasks and responsibilities.
There is a need to upskill the sector’s leadership and management functions to ensure informed decision making with respect to technology adoption and change management. Developing future leaders should also be a priority.
The way in which the workforce wants to learn and develop new skills is also changing. New training methods such as virtual and augmented reality, simulation and situational analysis are becoming the preferred learning method. The report shows that people want short but formally structured ‘nuggets’ of learning, increasingly delivered through simulation.
Professor Paul de Leeuw, Director of Robert Gordon University’s Oil and Gas Institute, commented: “The digital transformation of the energy sector is already underway and we are beginning to see a real change in requirements to support this. With a substantial proportion of the existing workforce to be upskilled and with over 25,000 new people entering the industry by 2025, we have a tremendous opportunity to ensure the UK retains its position as a world class basin for energy skills.
“This will require a new level of collaboration between industry, governments, agencies and the education sector to ensure the present and future workforce are equipped with the requisite skills. There is real prize here for the UK and there is a collective responsibility to future-proof the skills and capabilities in the sector.”
Deirdre Michie, Chief Executive Oil & Gas UK, said: “We were delighted to host the launch of this vital report at our Business Breakfast this morning. Having a clear understanding of our skill requirements sets the platform for retaining and recruiting the people needed to deliver Vision 2035. Having a workforce of highly skilled, adaptable and creative talent will help ensure the long-term future of our industry as we continue to play a key role in the evolving energy mix.”
The Skills Landscape report follows the 2018 UKCS Workforce Dynamics: Shaping the Skills of Tomorrow review, that assessed the changing skills requirements over the next 20 years to support industry’s Vision 2035, which aims to secure another generation of production and double exports.
For more information plese visit The Skills Landscape 2019 - 2025 webpage.
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About energy
There are now more than 100 cities mostly powered by renewable energy
There are now 100 trailblazing cities mostly powered by clean energy.
Written by Anja Barisic
Not-for-profit environmental impact researcher CDP has reported that of the 570 plus global cities on their books, over 100 get at least 70% of their electricity from renewable sources such as hydro, geothermal, solar and wind.
The list includes large cities such as Auckland (New Zealand); Nairobi (Kenya); Oslo (Norway); Seattle (USA) and Vancouver (Canada), and is more than double the 40 cities who reported that they were powered by at least 70% clean energy in 2015.*
London-based CDP (formerly the Carbon Disclosure Project) also published that 40 cities claim to be 100 percent powered by renewable sources.**
Cities powered by 100% renewable electricity include:
Burlington, USA: Vermont’s largest city now obtains 100% of its electricity from wind, solar, hydro, and biomass. The city has its own utility and citywide grid. In September 2014 the local community approved the city's purchase of its ‘Winooski One’ Hydroelectric Facility.
Reykjavik, Iceland: sources all electricity from hydropower and geothermal, and is now working to make all cars and public transit fossil-free by 2040. Iceland has almost entirely transitioned to clean energy for power and household heating.
Basel, Switzerland: is 100% renewable powered by its own energy supply company. Most electricity comes from hydropower and 10% from wind. In May 2017 Switzerland voted to phase out nuclear power in favour of renewable energy.
The data shows that cities not only want to transition to renewable energy, but they are capable.
Kyra Appleby, Director of Cities, CDP said: “Cities are responsible for 70% of energy-related CO2 emissions and there is immense potential for them to lead on building a sustainable economy. Reassuringly, our data shows much commitment and ambition. Cities not only want to shift to renewable energy but, most importantly - they can."
More than ever, cities around the globe are taking environmental action and leading the way to a sustainable future. See the full list here.
Find out more about how Origin is leading the way to a clean energy future.
Anja is Origin’s blog content lead. She’s passionate about taking information and bringing it to life in interesting, relevant and useful ways for our audiences. Outside of work, the Pilates-loving, fashion-obsessed Melbourne girl can be found at the beach, soaking up the sun.
Toggle item visibility Resources
*https://www.cdp.net/en//articles/cities/over-100-global-cities-get-majority-of-electricity-from-renewables
**https://www.mnn.com/earth-matters/energy/blogs/cities-that-rely-mostly-only-renewable-energy
Demystifying peak and off peak power
Find out your peak and off peak hours and save money on your electricity bill.
9 life hacks for a stress-free move
Moving house is a part of life for most people. And whether you move regularly or are packing up for the first time in a long time, we’ve got you covered with these hacks.
The ins and outs of estimated bills
We break down how you can avoid an estimated bill and what to do if you receive one.
7 am - 9 pm, Monday to Friday
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(for residential electricity and gas queries)
Call our 13 MOVE hotline
9 am - 5 pm, Saturday
9 am - 3 pm, Saturday & Sunday
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The Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries (The Hon. P. Holloway), by leave, moved - That the Legislative Council expresses its deep regret at the death of the Hon. Trevor Crothers, former Member of the Legislative Council, and places on record its appreciation of his distinguished public service and that, as a mark of respect to his memory, the sitting of the Council be suspended until the ringing of the bells.
And being supported by the Hon. R. I. Lucas, the Hon. I. Gilfillan, the Hon. R. D. Lawson, the Hon. A. J. Evans, the Hon. C. V. Schaefer, the Hon. T. G. Cameron, the Hon. R. K. Sneath, the Hon. D. V. Laidlaw, the Hon. A. J. Redford, the Hon. J.S.L. Dawkins, the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation (The Hon. T. G. Roberts) and the President:
Motion carried in silence, Members standing in their places.
Death of
Hon. T. Crothers.
At eight minutes to four o’clock the sitting was suspended until the ringing of the bells.
At nine minutes past four o’clock the sitting was resumed.
University of South Australia - Report, 2000-2001.
Regulation under the following Act -
Freedom of Information Act 1991 - Universities.
Corporation By-laws -
Norwood, Payneham and St. Peters -
No. 3 - Roads.
No. 4 - Local Government Land.
The Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries tabled a Ministerial Statement made by the Premier (The Hon. M. D. Rann, M.P.) concerning Aggravated Offences.
Paper Tabled.
The Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation tabled a Ministerial Statement made by the Minister for Health (The Hon. L. Stevens, M.P.) concerning Nursing and “Exelcare”.
The Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation, without notice, moved - That the Standing Orders be so far suspended as to enable Question Time to be extended to enable the Hon. D. V. Laidlaw to complete her question to him and for the Minister to complete his reply.
Suspension of Standing Orders.
The Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries, pursuant to notice, moved - That he have leave to introduce a Bill for an Act to validate certain administrative acts and payments.
The Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries then moved - That this Bill be now read a second time.
On motion of the Hon. C. V. Schaefer, the debate was adjourned until next day of sitting.
(Validation of
Acts) Bill.
The Council, according to order, resolved itself into a Committee of the Whole for the consideration of the Education (Compulsory Education Age) Amendment Bill.
(Compulsory
Education Age)
At five minutes past six o’clock the sitting was suspended until the ringing of the bells.
The Council, according to order, resolved itself into a Committee of the Whole for the further consideration of the Education (Compulsory Education Age) Amendment Bill.
The Hon. J. Gazzola
The Hon. D. V. Laidlaw
The Hon. M. J. Elliott (Teller)
New clause No. 7 inserted.
The Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries, pursuant to contingent notice, moved - That the Standing Orders be so far suspended as to enable the Bill to pass through its remaining stages without delay.
The Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries moved - That this Bill be now read a third time.
On the Order of the Day being read for the adjourned debate on the question - That the Liquor Licensing (Miscellaneous) Amendment Bill be now read a second time:
The Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation, pursuant to contingent notice, moved - That the Standing Orders be so far suspended as to enable the Bill to pass through its remaining stages without delay.
Ordered - That the remaining Orders of the Day (Government Business) and Orders of the Day (Private Business) be Orders of the Day for next day of sitting.
Council adjourned at six minutes to eleven o’clock until tomorrow at fifteen minutes past two o’clock.
The Hon. M. J. Elliott
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Treasures of The National Trust
Edward Fitzmaurice
Publication date: 7 October 2007
Series: National Trust History & Heritage
Category: Heritage
The National Trust owns and cares for the most important, varied and valuable collection of antiques in Britain. From Rubens paintings to Paul McCartney’s bedroom paraphenalia, its enormous range is unequalled and many of these antiques are still housed in the properties for which they were designed or bought. ‘Treasures of the National Trust’ is the only book to detail this collection in an accessible and enlightening way. Divided into themed chapters such as Paintings, Sculpture, Tapestry and Needlework, French and English Furniture, European Pottery and Porcelain – ‘Treasures’ is suitable for those with little knowledge of art history and antiques as well as those more versed in the subjects. Special features illuminate the work of key painters, designers and craftsmen; historical timelines give a quick visual context for the artworks, and cross-referencing ensures that readers can see what else is held at that Trust property.
The ‘treasures’ range from single pieces, such as Rubens’ The Garden of Love at Waddesdon and St Michael Overcoming Satan by Flaxman at Ickworth, to collections of multiple pieces, such as the miniatures at Ham House and Petworth’s 16th-century maiolica plates and teapots. Some have been chosen for their rare beauty and artistry, others for their value or history, but each will be illuminated for the reader. With sumptuous photography and authoritative text (written in conjunction with the Trust’s renowned curators), ‘Treasures of the National Trust’ will prove an essential reference title on the best of British heritage.
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PBA Dreams! Come True
Palm Beach Atlantic University will host its annual President’s Distinguished Scholar Lecture this month with Dr. Henry F. Schaefer III, Graham Perdue Professor of Chemistry and director of the Center for Computational Quantum Chemistry at the University of Georgia since 1987.
Dr. Henry F. Schaefer III
Dr. Schaefer’s lecture titled “C.S. Lewis: Science and Scientism” is free and open="open" to the public Monday, Oct. 21, at 7:30 p.m. in the University’s DeSantis Family Chapel, 300 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach.
Dr. Schaefer was born in Grand Rapids, Mich., and attended public schools in Syracuse, N.Y., Menlo Park, Calif., and Grand Rapids, Mich., graduating from East Grand Rapids High School in 1962. He received his B.S. degree in chemical physics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1966 and Ph.D. degree in chemical physics from Stanford University in 1969. For 18 years he served as a professor of chemistry at the University of California, Berkeley.
At the University of Georgia Dr. Schaefer teaches an oversubscribed freshman seminar “Science and Christianity: Conflict or Coherence?” Dr. Schaefer's book with the same title had its second edition published in June 2013. The book reached position No. 84 on the best-selling list of Amazon.com.
He is the author of more than 1,400 scientific publications, and Dr. Schaefer has been invited to present plenary lectures at more than 250 national or international scientific conferences. He has delivered endowed or named lectures or lecture series at more than 50 major universities.
Dr. Schaefer’s major awards include the American Chemical Society Award in Pure Chemistry in 1979; the American Chemical Society Leo Hendrik Baekeland Award in 1983; the Schrödinger Medal in 1990; the Centenary Medal of the Royal Society of Chemistry in 1992; and the American Chemical Society Award in Theoretical Chemistry in 2003. Also in 2003 he received the annual American Chemical Society Ira Remsen Award, named after the first chemistry research professor in North America.
Dr. Schaefer also been honored with several prestigious awards for his discoveries in and influence on advances in chemistry including the Chemical Pioneer Award from the American Institute of Chemists and the Humboldt Research Award from Germany’s Alexander von Humboldt Foundation. Most recently, he has been selected to receive the 2014 Peter Debye Award in Physical Chemistry sponsored by the E. I. du Pont de Nemours & Co.
He is well known as a student of the relationship between science and religion. One or more of the lectures in his popular lecture series on this important topic have been presented at most major universities in North America, including Harvard, Stanford, Berkeley, M.I.T., Yale, Princeton, and the Universities of Alberta and Toronto.
His continuously evolving lecture “The Big Bang, Stephen Hawking and God” appears in many locations and in several languages on the worldwide web. This lecture has been one of the most popular articles about science on the web in recent years, as discussed in Michael White and John Gribbin’s best-selling biography of Professor Hawking (pages 314-315 of the 2002 edition).
In addition to his public lecture, Dr. Schaefer will speak at chapel and in classes at Palm Beach Atlantic.
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Thursday, Oct 23, 2014 06:50 AM
Packers pioneer in appealing to female fans
Cliff Christl
Packers team historian
The NFL’s push to broaden its appeal and attract more female fans has been a topical subject for the past four, five years.
But in Green Bay the effort started decades ago.
Over the course of the NFL’s 95-year history, there have been few movements, developments or advances where the Packers weren’t pioneers. That’s to be expected to a degree, considering they are one of the league’s three oldest franchises. But some of their novel ideas were simply born out of necessity.
In their perpetual struggle to survive, the Packers couldn’t overlook any undertaking that might grow their fan base. As a result, the franchise was a trailblazer in trying to generate interest among women fans more than a half-century ago.
In October of 1950, a small group of female Packers fans initiated discussions to form a “Women’s Quarterback Club”. Less than a month later, the first meeting was held and the Green Bay Press-Gazette reported the club was the “first of its kind in the history of football anywhere.”
The group was organized independently of the Packers, but had the team’s full support.
“Packer management will cooperate with you in every respect,” Packers President Emil Fischer told the organizers. Dues were set at $1 and wives of the Packers players were invited to join.
The first meeting was held at the Green Bay East High School Auditorium and an estimated 700 women attended. The featured speaker was Packers Head Coach Gene Ronzani, and he narrated the game film of the Packers-Bears game as part of his presentation.
Fischer also spoke.
“We need this organization to rebuild the Packers,” he told the audience. “The Packers need every assistance they can possibly get.”
Earlier in the 1950 season, the Packers designated their Oct. 8 home game against the New York Yanks as Ladies Day. In baseball, Ladies Day had its origin in the 19th century, but the Press-Gazette reported it would be the first ever in pro football.
“The Packers have known for years that a large number of women were among their most avid supporters,” the paper noted in its announcement about the event. “But this is the first time they have been publicly honored at a Packer game.”
Each woman attending the game was to receive a rose boutonniere.
The “Women’s Quarterback Club” was organized a year after the “Men’s Quarterback Club.” The men’s club was sponsored by the Green Bay Packers Alumni Association for the purpose of building interest in the team at a time when the Packers were in desperate financial straits.
Along with holding regular meetings during the season, the clubs also organized a dance held in 1952 and ’53 at Green Bay’s Riverside Ballroom.
By 1955, the “Women’s Quarterback Club” had folded, and membership in the men’s club had plummeted from roughly 1,500 to 300. It, too, was on the verge of shutting down. But the advent of television probably had more to do with the demise of both fan clubs than indifference.
Mystery of the Ed Thorp Memorial Trophy solved
Restored trophy priceless addition to Hall of Fame
The story behind the Bruce Clark bombshell
He chose Toronto over the Packers 38 years ago this week
Some NFL teams still paying a toll for passing on Rodgers
The costly consequences of missing on a great QB
The fate of the Tonawanda Kardex
NFL records show Green Bay's co-equal lasted one game
Lombardi: Getting rid of players key to sustained success
Legendary coach was disciple of hockey GM "Trader Jack" Adams
Jerry Kramer was lineman at forefront of Lombardi's power sweep
And Lombardi had a one-word description for his ability to execute the play: Great
Packers' kicking woes: 1968 to 1971
A nightmare like no other in team history
The Ice Bowl remains a game for the ages
Thanks to the weather, the drama and its historical significance
Lombardi on Hornung: 'The greatest player I’ve ever coached'
The iconic coach's own words about Hornung and Gregg
Vince Lombardi's personal fight against cancer was futile
Without today's awareness, he had no chance
Lambeau Field turns 60
When it opened, there was a farm in the parking lot
Vince Lombardi: One play can make or break an NFL season
1960s Packers were living proof of his theory
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Cops Corner: Crack smoking, loitering and trying to run people over in Flagler County
What are the bad guys up to in Flagler County?
Brian McMillan
Read more about Brian McMillan
Sitting on a log, smoking crack
5 p.m. — 500 block of Palm Coast Parkway Northeast.
Narcotics: A man from the R-section and a transient woman were discovered sitting on a log in a wooded lot near the woodline. They appeared to be smoking from a glass pipe. The man admitted that he had crack cocaine, which he had in a small cellophone wrapper. The man was arrested.
I'd walk through broken glass
11 p.m. — First block of Seneca Path.
Reckless driver: After dinner, drinks and an argument, a woman took her ex-husband's truck and almost ran into him with it. Then, she almost ran over a deputy who was standing in the driveway taking witness statements. The deputy wrote, "I had to run ... to avoid being struck by the vehicle." Later, while talking with the deputy, the woman was standing barefoot in broken glass, so the deputy retrieved the woman's shoes for her. The woman was arrested for reckless driving.
Up to no good
Suspicious incidents were reported Aug. 2 in the R-section. At 6:07 a.m., in the 100 block of Ryan Lane, there was an attempted car break-in, but when the house's lights were turned on, the suspects fled on foot. At 6:15 a.m. on the 100 block of Ryan Lane, two juveniles were found loitering, and they were stopped by a deputy. They agreed to a pat-down, and two watches and an iPod were found. A juvenile gave inconsistent stories about what he was doing in the area, and the deputy wrote that the juvenile was "unable to dispel my alarm as to what he was doing in the area." Later, the watch was discovered to have been stolen. The suspects were taken to the Detention Services Division before being released to their mothers at home.
Shoes and shouts
12:28 a.m. — First block of Pinelynn Drive.
Domestic disturbance: A man was upset with his wife, who said she was leaving him, so he threw her shoes out into the yard. Children were were on the scene, so the Department of Children and Families was called.
Too drunk to talk
9:32 p.m. — First block of Renshaw Place.
Assault battery: Several individuals were involved in an argument and a fight, with injuries. The report states: "It should be noted that due to the level of intoxication of all parties on scene, written statements were not taken."
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Romney’s stance puts him in a tough spot between key donors and his party’s base.
Donors split with Mitt on gay marriage
By EMILY SCHULTHEIS and MAGGIE HABERMAN
Mitt Romney’s opposition to gay marriage, which helped endear him to conservative activists during the dog days of the presidential primary, puts him at odds with three of his most prominent donors, all of whom helped fund a successful effort to legalize same-sex nuptials in New York last year.
Paul Singer, Dan Loeb and Cliff Asness — three hedge fund managers and major players in donor circles — each cut six-figure checks toward the landmark effort to legalize gay marriage in New York.
Singer, the intensely-private head of Elliott Associates, has been especially active in donating to groups aimed at legalizing gay marriage in different states over the last five years, concurrent with his rise as one of the Republican party’s mot prominent bundlers and donors to party committees. According to a recent New York Times story, Singer has donated $8 million to pro-gay marriage efforts since 2007.
He’s also helped raise more than $1 million for Romney’s campaign, as well as donated another $1 million to the super PAC supporting the all-but-assured Republican nominee.
The New York moneymen and some other Republican movers-and-shakers — such as former George W. Bush campaign manager Ken Mehlman, who came out two years ago and is now raising money from a broad swath of donors to push for gay marriage but who hasn’t made a presidential campaign endorsement — are at odds with Romney, who signed a pledge proffered by the conservative National Organization for Marriage promising to, among other things, support “sending a federal marriage amendment defining marriage as the union of one man and one woman to the states for ratification.”
( Also on POLITICO:What Romney needs to do now)
Officials at NOM endorsed Romney Wednesday morning, within hours of Rick Santorum’s departure from the race. And while both political sides agree that the general election will most likely hinge almost exclusively on the economy, Romney’s position on gay marriage puts him in a difficult spot between some key donors and his party’s base.
It also puts Romney at odds with where the general electorate has been heading on the issue — in 2004, a majority of the country did not want to see gay marriage legalized. But in a Washington Post/ABC News poll last month, 52 percent of voters said it should be legal, while 43 percent said it should be illegal. Once seen as strictly a side issue, gay marriage has become much more central to the political conversation over the last few years.
Donors, as one Republican insider put it, are “often a reflection of where the public attitudes are,” if not indicative of the opinions of the base of either party.
Romney’s divide from some of his donors could become a point of tension if President Barack Obama vocalizes support for same-sex marriage, as a number of gay activists are urging him to do before the November election. Right now, Romney and Obama both oppose gay marriage; the president has said his views are “evolving,”
“Mitt Romney is where President Obama is on this issue,” a Republican backer of the likely nominee said.
National Organization For Marriage
Dan Loeb
Cliff Asness
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Govt should respond properly to military veterans’ letter
By Ravi Shanker Kapoor , 17-Apr-2019
By Ravi Shanker Kapoor
While the Narendra Modi government is being slammed, and rightly so, for the politicization of armed forces, we should not lose sight of the fact that other interest groups are also involved. The fact that two of the eight former defence chiefs have denied having signed the petition to President Ram Nath Kovind in this regard clearly shows that the anti-Modi elements are not exactly the paragons of propriety.
Over 150 military veterans, over one-third of whom of the rank of brigadier or above, had complained in a letter of the gauche manner in which the forces were mentioned and depicted in the ongoing election campaign. However, former Army chief General S.F. Rodrigues and former Air Force chief N.C. Suri have denied that they signed any such letter. Suri went to the extent of writing another letter to the President’s office to make his stand clear.
Rodrigues too was unambiguous in his denial: “Don’t know what it [letter] is all about. All my life, we have been apolitical. After 42 years as an officer, it’s a little late to change. Always put India first. Don’t know who these people are, but this is a classic manifestation of fake news.”
Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman reacted, saying, “It is very worrying that if people are writing fake letters and allegations are being leveled by vested groups. It is highly condemnable. It is happening at the time of elections.”
It was disingenuous on her part to have termed the entire exercise as “condemnable,” for most signatories, including six chiefs, never denied having petitioned the President. While she is correct regarding “vested groups,” as evident from the denial of Rodrigues and Suri, the fact of such a letter is indisputable.
Its content too should have eliblockquoted a response from the Defence Minister. “The soldiers, sailors and airmen of the Armed Forces owe allegiance to the Constitution of India, of which you, as President of the Indian Union, are the legal custodian,” the letter said. “It is for this reason that the President is also the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces and we serve and execute orders at the will of the President and as decided from time to time by the Executive—that is, the Government of the day.”
Writing on behalf of the “men and women of all ranks in the Army, Navy and Air Force,” the veterans objected to “the unusual and completely unacceptable practice of political leaders taking credit for military operations like cross-border strikes, and even going so far as to claim the Armed Forces to be ‘Modiji ki Sena.’ This is in addition to media pictures of election platforms and campaigns in which party workers are seen wearing military uniforms; and posters and images with pictures of soldiers and especially of Indian Air Force Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, displayed.”
The “misuse” of Armed Forces, the letter said, “would impinge adversely on the morale and fighting efficiency of the serving man or woman in uniform. It could therefore directly affect national security and national integrity.”
Neither the Defence Minister nor anybody else from the government has responded to such serious charges. The Bharatiya Janata Party government, which claims to put national security above everything else, should have explained its position on the subject. Just because some vested interests are trying to disparage it on national security doesn’t absolve it of its duty to come clean over the issue.
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Cloth $26.00 ISBN: 9780226453880 Published May 2017
E-book $18.00 About E-books ISBN: 9780226453910 Published May 2017 Also Available From
E-book Retailers: Amazon Kindle Apple iBooks B&N Nook Google Play Kobo Library Vendors: EBSCO
Hearing Beethoven
Robin Wallace
Beethoven for a Later Age
Edward Dusinberre
A Place for Us
Julia L. Foulkes
Francesca Caccini at the Medici Court
Suzanne G. Cusick
Beethoven’s Symphonies
Nine Approaches to Art and Ideas
Martin Geck
Translated by Stewart Spencer
192 pages | 18 halftones | 5 1/2 x 8 1/2 | © 2017
E-book $18.00 About E-books ISBN: 9780226453910 Published May 2017
In the years spanning from 1800 to 1824, Ludwig van Beethoven completed nine symphonies, now considered among the greatest masterpieces of Western music. Yet despite the fact that this time period, located in the wake of the Enlightenment and at the peak of romanticism, was one of rich intellectual exploration and social change, the influence of such threads of thought on Beethoven’s work has until now remained hidden beneath the surface of the notes. Beethoven’s Symphonies presents a fresh look at the great composer’s approach and the ideas that moved him, offering a lively account of the major themes unifying his radically diverse output.
Martin Geck opens the book with an enthralling series of cultural, political, and musical motifs that run throughout the symphonies. A leading theme is Beethoven’s intense intellectual and emotional engagement with the figure of Napoleon, an engagement that survived even Beethoven’s disappointment with Napoleon’s decision to be crowned emperor in 1804. Geck also delves into the unique ways in which Beethoven approached beginnings and finales in his symphonies, as well as his innovative use of particular instruments. He then turns to the individual symphonies, tracing elements—a pitch, a chord, a musical theme—that offer a new way of thinking about each work and will make even the most devoted fans of Beethoven admire the symphonies anew.
Offering refreshingly inventive readings of the work of one of history’s greatest composers, this book shapes a fascinating picture of the symphonies as a cohesive oeuvre and of Beethoven as a master symphonist.
Review Quotes
Beethoven: Symphonist par Excellence
Orchestral Weight
Delusions of Virility
Jean Paul’s “Cloven Hoof”
Nine Symphonies
Prolegomenon
On Idle Speculations
On Portentous Prologues to Ebullient Finales
On Elemental Beginnings
On Archetypal Images
On Memorable Fugato Passages
On Striking Dissonances
On “False” Entries
On the Escapades of the Timpani
On Highly Expressive Foreshortenings
On Beethoven’s Fondness for the Eroica
On Crossing a Threshold
The Symphonies
Symphony No. 1 in C Major, Op. 21
Symphony No. 2 in D Major, Op. 36
Symphony No. 3 in E-flat Major, Op. 55 (Eroica)
Symphony No. 4 in B-flat Major, Op. 60
Symphony No. 5 in C Minor, Op. 67
Symphony No. 6 in F Major, Op. 68 (Pastoral)
Symphony No. 7 in A Major, Op. 92
Symphony No. 8 in F Major, Op. 93
Symphony No. 9 in D Minor, Op. 125
Neue Musikzeitung, on the German edition
“Extremely readable and thought-provoking.”
SWR2 Cluster, on the German edition
“This aphoristic, scholarly essay . . . offers—precisely because every answer leads to new questions—rich inspiration for hearing Beethoven anew.”
Music: General Music
Chicago Blog: Music
Events in Music
Sign up to be notified of new books in the category Music. Sign Up
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Our View: LePage’s record doesn’t match rhetoric on school funding
The administration has let state support for education slide as tax cuts have taken effect.
As we enter an election year, we should expect to hear a lot about education, and a lot of assertions that deserve a very close look. A key piece of Gov. LePage’s re-election effort is his claim that he has managed to increase spending on education while pushing through the biggest tax cut in state history. It would be a neat trick if it were true, but it’s not, and the governor’s real education strategy has been somewhat less miraculous.
While the governor is right that the state’s share of the total education budget increased slightly from the last year of the Baldacci administration to the first year of his, he ignores two important factors:
n The Baldacci budget looked smaller than it really was because of the influx of $237 million over two years of temporary federal stimulus funds that expired in June 2011. They were intended to stabilize school budgets when state revenues collapsed during the recession, so LePage’s additional $80 million sounds like a lot, but was nowhere near enough to cushion the blow.
n The second fact left out of LePage campaign literature is that the cost of education has not stood still during his years in office. As state aid to schools stagnated at artificially low levels, it was up to communities to raise taxes and cut services, in effect subsidizing an income tax cut with cuts that hurt middle-class and poor families.
Another way to express this trend is by looking at how close the state has come to funding education at the 55 percent required by law.
According to a study commissioned by the Legislature, the state share hovered between 50 percent and 53 percent from 2006 to the 2008-2009 school year. It has declined steadily ever since, dropping to 42 percent last year.
LePage supporters argue that local school districts should do their part to control spending, but according to a study by Thomas College professor Emily Shaw in the Maine Policy Review, school districts have had to spend more as state support has declined.
Capital costs, contractually required salaries and benefits and the need to maintain quality schools did not give the districts as much flexibility as the state had when it came to deciding how much to pay for education. The districts had nowhere to go but the local property taxpayers – and that’s who has made up the difference, with higher tax rates and cuts to other municipal services.
The governor has made education reform a rhetorical focus of his administration, but he has not always been willing to put resources behind his words. Money isn’t the only way to improve schools, but it is wrong to imply that it doesn’t matter at all.
Gov. LePage sometimes argues that the state spends too much on education, and that, as currently constituted, public schools are not a good use of public resources. But he can’t have it both ways.
Wishing that education was less expensive is not the same thing as funding it adequately. The governor can tout his tax cuts, declaring them to be good policy, but he should not say that he has increased the state’s commitment to providing a quality education for all students regardless of their economic capacity. Because his record shows that he has not.
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Party Flamingos Invitation
QUANTITY 10 Personalized for $25.00 15 Personalized for $36.00 20 Personalized for $45.00 25 Personalized for $50.00 30 Personalized for $57.40 35 Personalized for $64.80 40 Personalized for $72.20 45 Personalized for $79.60 50 Personalized for $87.00 55 Personalized for $94.40 60 Personalized for $101.80 65 Personalized for $109.20 70 Personalized for $116.60 75 Personalized for $124.00 80 Personalized for $131.40 85 Personalized for $138.80 90 Personalized for $146.20 95 Personalized for $153.60 100 Personalized for $161.00 105 Personalized for $168.40 110 Personalized for $175.80 115 Personalized for $183.20 120 Personalized for $190.60 125 Personalized for $198.00 130 Personalized for $205.40 135 Personalized for $212.80 140 Personalized for $220.20 145 Personalized for $227.60 150 Personalized for $235.00 155 Personalized for $242.40 160 Personalized for $249.80 165 Personalized for $257.20 170 Personalized for $264.60 175 Personalized for $272.00 180 Personalized for $279.40 185 Personalized for $286.80 190 Personalized for $294.20 195 Personalized for $301.60 200 Personalized for $309.00 205 Personalized for $316.40 210 Personalized for $323.80 215 Personalized for $331.20 220 Personalized for $338.60 225 Personalized for $346.00 230 Personalized for $353.40 235 Personalized for $360.80 240 Personalized for $368.20 245 Personalized for $375.60 250 Personalized for $383.00 255 Personalized for $390.40 260 Personalized for $397.80 265 Personalized for $405.20 270 Personalized for $412.60 275 Personalized for $420.00 280 Personalized for $427.40 285 Personalized for $434.80 290 Personalized for $442.20 295 Personalized for $449.60 300 Personalized for $457.00 305 Personalized for $464.40 310 Personalized for $471.80 315 Personalized for $479.20 320 Personalized for $486.60 325 Personalized for $494.00 330 Personalized for $501.40 335 Personalized for $508.80 340 Personalized for $516.20 345 Personalized for $523.60 350 Personalized for $531.00 355 Personalized for $538.40 360 Personalized for $545.80 365 Personalized for $553.20 370 Personalized for $560.60 375 Personalized for $568.00 380 Personalized for $575.40 385 Personalized for $582.80 390 Personalized for $590.20 395 Personalized for $597.60 400 Personalized for $605.00 405 Personalized for $612.40 410 Personalized for $619.80 415 Personalized for $627.20 420 Personalized for $634.60 425 Personalized for $642.00 430 Personalized for $649.40 435 Personalized for $656.80 440 Personalized for $664.20 445 Personalized for $671.60 450 Personalized for $679.00 455 Personalized for $686.40 460 Personalized for $693.80 465 Personalized for $701.20 470 Personalized for $708.60 475 Personalized for $716.00 480 Personalized for $723.40 485 Personalized for $730.80 490 Personalized for $738.20 495 Personalized for $745.60 500 Personalized for $753.00 505 Personalized for $760.40 510 Personalized for $767.80 515 Personalized for $775.20 520 Personalized for $782.60 525 Personalized for $790.00 530 Personalized for $797.40 535 Personalized for $804.80 540 Personalized for $812.20 545 Personalized for $819.60 550 Personalized for $827.00 555 Personalized for $834.40 560 Personalized for $841.80 565 Personalized for $849.20 570 Personalized for $856.60 575 Personalized for $864.00 580 Personalized for $871.40 585 Personalized for $878.80 590 Personalized for $886.20 595 Personalized for $893.60 600 Personalized for $901.00 605 Personalized for $908.40 610 Personalized for $915.80 615 Personalized for $923.20 620 Personalized for $930.60 625 Personalized for $938.00 630 Personalized for $945.40 635 Personalized for $952.80 640 Personalized for $960.20 645 Personalized for $967.60 650 Personalized for $975.00 655 Personalized for $982.40 660 Personalized for $989.80 665 Personalized for $997.20 670 Personalized for $1004.60 675 Personalized for $1012.00 680 Personalized for $1019.40 685 Personalized for $1026.80 690 Personalized for $1034.20 695 Personalized for $1041.60 700 Personalized for $1049.00 Please contact us for higher quantities.
Holographic (Silver Rainbow)
Holographic Glitter (Rainbow Micro Glitter)
Silver Red Gold Rose Gold Copper Holographic (Silver Rainbow) Holographic Glitter (Rainbow Micro Glitter)
Rosanne Beck
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Featured Label(s)
Stony Plain is a record company based in Edmonton, Alberta, a culturally diverse city on the edge of Canada’s prairies, but one that rarely shows up on the music industry radar. The label specializes in what its founder, Holgar Peterson calls roots music: Contemporary music with roots in the past that stands on its own, but which influences almost all the pop music you hear around you. Established in 1976, the label has released over 300 albums of blues, classic R&B, folk, country, bluegrass, rock and roll, and music that is impossible to put into neat pigeonholes. The common element in all of these forms of music is that the musicians, regardless of current fad or fashion, put their hearts and souls into the music they make. Stony Plain released the results – and almost invariably found that people responded. Stony Plain has received two Grammy Award nominations: for Maria Muldaur’s Richland Woman Blues in 2001 and Jay McShann’s Goin’ to Kansas City in 2003. The label and its artists have also garnered numerous W.C. Handy Blues Award nominations and won several Handy Awards. In Canada, Stony Plain has won several Juno Awards (Canada’s equivalent to the Grammy), Canadian Country Music Association Awards, Maple Blues Awards and Western Canada Music Awards. On a personal level, Holger Petersen was honored for his contributions to Canadian arts and culture with an honorary Doctorate from Athabasca University in 2002 and was awarded the highest honor a Canadian can receive, the Order of Canada, in 2003. Today, almost 30 years on, Stony Plain has built a remarkable reputation. Jerry Wexler, the great producer and one of the founders of Atlantic Records, tells people that “Stony Plain, as an independent company, is an endangered species in a dangerous world – and a source of wonderful music.” It’s praise like that that gives Petersen’s life a special sparkle. That he could even get to meet the man who produced the classic records by Aretha Franklin, Solomon Burke, Wilson Pickett, Sam & Dave, T-Bone Walker, Bob Dylan, Ray Charles, and Dire Straits (among hundreds of others) is something that he regards as a special honour – to receive such support is almost beyond belief. All these years later, Holger Petersen still hears music that surprises him and delights him; the tired cynicism that’s part of so many people in the music industry just isn’t part of the man’s make-up. And Stony Plain is still run out of a pleasant house in Edmonton, with three rooms filled with one of the most comprehensive record collections in Canada.
The Lost Tapes Artist: Ian And Sylvia
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Showing results 1–12 of 96
The Lost Tapes Ian And Sylvia
Collectively as individuals & as a duo Ian & Sylvia Tyson have sold over 400K albums in the US alone during the Soundscan era. Regarded as pioneers…
Beyond The Blue Door Ronnie Earl And The…
Ronnie Earl is a three-time Blues Music Award winner as "Guitar Player of the Year," and was the hit of the most-recent Blues Music Awards show in Mem…
Ear Worms (LP) Duke Robillard
Since starting his musical career in 1967 by founding and fronting Roomful of Blues, Duke Robillard has been at the forefront of Blues, Swing and clas…
Stella Bella Strada Kevin Breit
One of the most in demand guitarists in North America, Kevin Breit, takes a break from backing up the greats (Norah Jones, K.D Lang, Serena Ryder, and…
Ear Worms Duke Robillard
Hell Bound For Heaven (LP) Harry Manx & Ste…
Harry Manx and Steve Marriner share a musical chemistry that only comes from a span of many years, playing hundreds of shows and travelling countless…
Hell Bound For Heaven Harry Manx & Ste…
Amour Colin Linden & L…
Amour is the first collaboration between famed Colin Linden (Blackie and the Rodeo Kings, ABC's hit TV show "Nashville)" and Luther Dickinson (North…
Inspired By The Blues Kenny "Blues Bo…
Boogie Woogie Hall of Famer Kenny ?Blues Boss? Wayne?s new release includes guests Billy Branch on harmonica, guitarist Duke Robillard and BB King?s l…
A Woman's Soul (Tribute T… Rory Block
Rory Block is the most celebrated living female country blues artist. A Woman's Blues kicks off Power Women of the Blues, Rory's latest series of rec…
The Luckiest Man Ronnie Earl & Th…
Stony Plain Records release The Luckiest Man, the new CD from three time Blues Music Award winner as "Guitarist of the Year," Ronnie Earl and his ban…
Johnny Goldtooth And The Chevy… Kevin Breit
Kevin Breit has recorded with Norah Jones, Rosanne Cash, k.d. Lang, Hugh Laurie, Cassandra Wilson, Holly Cole, Jane Siberry, Serena Ryder, Taj Mahal,…
The Lost Words: Spell Son… The Lost Words: Juli…
An Evening With Nancy Kerr & Jam…
Vision & Revision: Th… Various Artists
The Reckoning (Deluxe Rei… John Tams
Est'd 1969 Steeleye Span
June Is Short, July Is Lo… Jeb Loy Nichols And…
An Introduction To Nic Jones
Stranded In Reality (Ltd… Ian Hunter
Awaken The Schmoozenbergs
Inversions Belinda O'Hoole…
High Romance Emily Mae Winters
Handsel Malinky
Echo Ben Walker
Rooted (Deluxe Edition) (… Martin Simpson
Rooted (LP) Martin Simpson
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