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Heat Seeker? Cool Hunter? I've Got a Book For You
I find that people fall into two distinct camps in life: those who long for the hot humid days of summer to stretch on forever…
...and those who pull out their knitting needles in August in feverish anticipation of the increased sartorial options that autumn weather brings.
Guess which camp I'm in?
(Fingerless mittens. Knit kit from Wool and the Gang HERE.)
That being said, I read several books this summer that made me take another look at the undeniable pleasures of sun, sand and Sangria. Below, a half dozen reads to suit whichever side of the thermometer you prefer to perch on.
FOR HEAT SEEKERS
The White Goddess: An Encounter by Simon Gough
Location: Mallorca
Heat factor: Scorching. Swimsuits optional.
(HERE.)
I love this book so much. Set in the artistic enclave of Deya, Mallorca in the 1960's and written by Robert Graves grand nephew, it's a "subjective" memoir (i.e. all true but he doesn't want to get into a James Frey situation) with a deeply intoxicating cast of characters. There's Robert, the world-famous poet who oscillates between magnanimous host and irascible hermit, Margot, the bewitching mistress/muse, Beryl, the long-suffering supercool wife, and a steady stream of visiting artists and eccentrics who put on plays in the backyard grotto and argue and dance until dawn. When Simon falls head over heels in love with one of Robert's mistresses, well, there's that wee little complication too.
Do me a favor -- take seven minutes of your life and watch this interview with the author HERE. My bet is you'll be smitten too.
(Robert Graves and one of his mistresses, Deya, 1970's. Via.)
The Rock Pool by Cyril Connolly
Location: South of France
Heat factor: Hot, oppressive. Open-necked shirt, sailor trousers.
(Image via. Buy it HERE.)
The Rock Pool was Cyril Connolly's only novel (you can read a more extensive post I wrote about him HERE). It chronicles the adventures of an aspiring writer in search of the chic Riviera lifestyle depicted in F. Scott Fitzgerald's Tender is the Night but who discovers instead a small French artists' colony that's altogether darker and more callous. Connolly writes with strong undertones of sexuality. Take this passage:
"Dry again?" said the Crab to the Rock-Pool. "So would you be," replied the Rock-Pool, if you had to satisfy, twice a day, the insatiable sea."
Characters are always always sleeping off hangovers in dark airless rooms and the feeling tends to stay with you -- you'll want to make sure you stay hydrated while reading this book.
Let It Come Down by Paul Bowles
Location: Tangier
Heat factor: Fry-an-egg-on-the-sidewalk hot, but wear a jacket anyway, you're going to a party.
Bowles' second novel, Let It Come Down, is set among the Tangier elite ("Tangerinas") and has a fish-out-of-water American protagonist but there's more drugs, more parties, and more corruption than in The Sheltering Sky -- think Less Than Zero meets Casablanca. Bowles' spare stylized prose packs a wallop: he doesn't go heavily into description but with a cafe called Lucifer, he doesn't have to. And in true Bowles fashion, just when you think you're having fun, there's a bit of nihilism to remind you where you're headed:
"If you let yourself have a really good time, your health goes to pieces, and if your health goes, your looks go. The awful part is that in the end, no matter what you have done, no matter how careful you may have been, everything falls apart anyway."
FOR COOL HUNTERS
The Post Office Girl by Stefan Zweig
Cool factor: Bracing mountain air. Wear your summer ermine.
If you're new to Stefan Zweig, this is a very good place to start. The story of a penniless village girl who receives a Cinderella invitation from her aunt to stay at a luxury Alpine spa, it starts off stylishly and spirals disturbingly downward, a Zweig literary hallmark. But oh! the textiles! From fur-lined cloaks to embroidered bedspreads and felted alpenwear, you'll completely forget that outside it's ninety in the shade.
Interesting tidbit: Wes Anderson based "The Grand Budapest Hotel" partly on Zweig's description of the hotel in The Post Office Girl. Read all about it HERE.
A Story Lately Told by Angelica Huston
Location: Ireland, memorably
Cool factor: Misty, damp. Turf fires, Aran sweaters, riding boots.
I started listening to this on a recent 3,000 mile road trip and was immediately captivated by Angelica's lyrical evocation of her childhood in a romantic manor house in Ireland. It's all there: the sparkling hoarfrost at dawn, the roaring fires in the hearth, the fox hunts and the buttoned-up Irish nannies stirring porridge on the stove. Listen to it on Audible and I wouldn't be surprised if you told me you'd knitted a sweater by the last chapter.
(St. Clerans, where Angelica grew up. Via.)
The Worst Journey in the World by Cherry Apsley-Garrard
Location: South Pole
Cool factor: A frigid hell beyond all imagining.
Cherry Apsley-Garrard was one of the only surviving members of Scott's doomed expedition to the South Pole and his memoir of their hardships makes for a gripping read. What elevates the book to a classic, however, is the record Garrard gives of his team's spirit and grace in the face of heartbreaking odds. It's a stirring testament to the tenacity and -- yes -- humor that lies at the core of the British character:
"Polar exploration is at once the cleanest and most isolated way of having a bad time which has been devised."
"I am glad The Worst Journey is [being published by] Penguin; after all it is largely about penguins."
Read with a tumblerful of Scotch within arm's reach.
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The Mystery of Magritte
Published by Virtuo of Brussels, Belgium and distributed by Macmillan Interactive Publishing
Available for purchase online.
This review was contributed by Basil Lee of London, England.
This is a "must have" CD-ROM for art lovers and for anyone with a curious imagination.
The disk autoruns in Windows 95/98, and starts with a video interview with the artist which piece by piece clears to reveal a typically mysterious self-portrait. From the outset we see Magritte in his daily garb of business suit and tie, a strange contrast with the wildly imaginative paintings and sculpture which are to be seen here.
There is excellent navigation, with animations, photographs and links to his symbols, biography, craft and the works, and to surrealism in his time. The navigation is full of surprises, emphasising the sense of magic present in Magritte's pictures. Throughout we are treated to an exposition of the artist's ideas, as much by graphic examples as by the spoken word and text.
The devices he employed are explained economically yet with a satisfying feeling of completeness, and his use of a very personal set of symbols is illustrated; nowhere is there a concession to merely popular taste. The paintings can be seen in small, enlarged to full screen, and (to a limited extent) in detail, with optional spoken accompaniment often by the artist himself. Clever use is made of windows, each with a handy toolbar permitting expansion of information. The index leads to a huge collection of fine reproductions of the works.
Snatches of atmospheric music heighten the mystery, but the mood is lightened by a game in which we are invited to choose titles for some of the pictures on a multiple choice basis. Correct responses are rewarded with the picture in full screen; get it wrong and Magritte himself appears, his hand across his face.
The magic is in the images, but that has certainly infected the composition of a magnificent CD-ROM.
[Art Posters] [Home] [Juxtapositions] [Galleries] [Theory and Criticism] [Art CD-ROM Reviews] [Artchive] [Links]
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Home | June 2014 | April 2014
Chef (R)
Directed by: Jon Favreau
Starring: Jon Favreau
This review was originally tweeted in Real-time from the back row of a movie theater and appears @BackRoweReviews. Though efforts were made to tease rather than ruin this movie’s memorable lines and moments, some spoilers may exist in the following evaluation. The original tweets appear in black, while follow-up comments appear in red. For concerns over objectionable content, please first refer to one of the many parental movie guide websites. All ratings are based on a four star system. Happy reading!
The whole hog for review day.
A piece of fruit versus kettle corn. Guess which one wins.
One look at Favreau should answer that question. He almost had me sold on the fruit, though.
Favreau tells Hoffman his restaurant is in a “creative rut.”
Hoffman tells Favreau to cook his favorite hits. Favreau tells Hoffman to take his job and shove it…which was a hit in 1977 by Johnny Paycheck.
Favreau’s son helps him create a #Twitter account. Welcome to social media.
Favreau sends his first tweet. Love the bird animation and tweet sound effect.
Favreau gets a crash course on the public nature of #Twitter.
It’s not like texting, folks. I’m always happy when Twitter gains exposure in movies since I use it in conveying my reviews, but are people really this ignorant over the medium in question? Sometimes I think it’s a little overdetermined like in Draft Day when Costner’s mom (Ellen Burstyn) uses Twitter and he doesn’t. And “dummys” on the subject always call it “twittering.”
Review redux. Showdown creates a media firestorm.
TMZ would have a field day over such a demonstrative meltdown.
New job: be a nanny in Miami.
Wish I can take credit for the rhyme, but it’s in the dialog.
Iron Man gives Favreau a taco truck.
How to make a Cubano sandwich. A delectable scene.
Lady and the Tramp photo op with cop is hilarious.
Cornstarch on ware wolves. Sidesplittingly funny.
Correction: werewolves. This scene is a bit crass but it’s extremely hilarious, especially if you’re a fan of random gags.
Austin Midnight sandwich for $7. Looks delicious.
Actually, as tasty as that sandwich appears, I’d gladly pay $20 for one.
One second video is a special moment.
It’s amazing what kids can do with technology these days. Oops, just dated myself.
Final analysis: a delicious repast of father/son, road trip and follow your dreams tropes served with flair.
Rating: 3 out of 4 stars. A feel good film with plenty of laughs and heartwarming moments. Worth a watch.
Favreau has spent the better part of the last decade behind the camera, so it’s nice to see him acting again, and what’s more, in a leading role that he can really sink his teeth into. As the title would suggest, this movie is all about food, so viewers are strongly cautioned not to enter the theater on an empty stomach…otherwise you might find that you’re one limb short when you leave. As for me, I was stuffed to the gills when I saw the film and I was still salivating throughout the movie. There’s not much more I can add to my above analysis, and I don’t want to ruin any of the movie’s many memorable moments. This is a highly pleasurable film where the plot has just as much meat as the dishes it serves. Chef is a rare treat that’s not to be missed. Order up!
Tags: Comedy, Drama
X-Men: Days of Future Past (PG-13)
Directed by: Bryan Singer
Starring: Patrick Stewart
Bleak dystopian intro presents a desolate landscape akin to the one in the #Terminator films.
The only thing missing is the metallic men with laser weapons.
Intense opening battle. Wouldn’t want to run into one of the Sentinels in a dark alley.
Speaking of metallic assailants, the Sentinels are truly fear-inspiring, not only in how they appear and move, but in their ability to assimilate mutant abilities. Are we witnessing the birth of the Borg?
Wolvie is transported back to 1973. Is transported through a lava lamp and wakes up on a waterbed.
Groovy!
School’s out, the professor’s sauced and a big, bad, blue wolf is on the loose.
That’s the mother of all JFK conspiracy theories.
“It’s cool, but it’s disgusting.” True, bone claws aren’t nearly as sleek as metal ones.
Whip...lash! Cool visual.
Quicksilver’s run around the room is reminiscent of the Hammy’s sprint in #OverTheHedge.
Although this sort of thing has been done before, especially with the alacritous red clad lad from the DC stable of heroes, this is the most creative and exciting sequence in the entire movie. However, I can see why director Bryan Singer chose to sit this mutant on a couch during the final climactic sequence: Quicksilver’s special ability would’ve swiftly undone every villainous act committed by Magneto and would’ve robbed Mystique’s fateful decision of any urgency and dramatic value.
“Looks can be deceiving.” Truer words have never been spoken...by Mystique.
Beast Hulks out and Logan is stricken by amnesia.
Trask wants Mystique for “research purposes.” Sure!
Charles mindmelds with Logan. The finger placement is a little off.
Correction: mind-meld. I should know better. Speaking of…
Nice ST:TOS episode clip from “Tomorrow is Yesterday.” Another time travel story.
It always pains me to admit when I’m incorrect on this particular subject, but the episode in question is “The Naked Time,” which I originally surmised and then second-guessed myself on. Both episodes use the shipboard chronometer located to the right of Sulu’s station, and I selected “Yesterday” because the Enterprise returns to Earth circa 1969, in a similar manner to Wolverine returning to 1973 in this movie. Based on that plot similarity, “Yesterday” actually would’ve made a stronger allusion since the ship merely skips back in time three days (seventy-one hours to be precise) in “Naked.” In my defense, there’s very little to go off of in these clips (a planet would’ve given it away in two seconds flat) and some segments seem to have been repeated. Apology and apologetics aside, it’s quite ingenious how Singer wove this ancillary, yet pertinent, tidbit into the tapestry of the film. Mise-en-scene at its finest.
Charles uses a Jedi mind trick to get through security.
Just figured I’d provide equal opportunity to the other major sci-fi universe.
Magneto turns a stadium into a mother ship.
This is the only story element in the movie that seems contrived to me. Since Magneto can pull metal from anywhere to create a barricade, absconding with an entire stadium seems a bit excessive. It’s a giant set piece that seems more appropriate for an old style Batman movie, and just seems unnecessary for the story at hand.
Wolvie attacked by rebar snakes.
A very visceral visual.
Logan wakes up to the Golden Oldies. There and back again.
Even Cyclops wears #Oakley shades.
Other than the gray in Halle Berry’s hair, it’s remarkable how little this cast has aged since their first film together back in 2000.
Final analysis: a decent time travel yarn without too many cheesy comic book clichés.
Rating: 3 out of 4 stars. Next up in the Marvel-verse: #GuardiansOfTheGalaxy.
Mixing older and younger versions of the same characters in one movie is an exciting premise, but also a risky one. Part of the movie’s appeal is seeing older and younger selves interact with each other, as in the case of Charles Xavier (Patrick Stewart and James McAvoy). The constant threat of the Sentinels, the bracing time travel story line and the novelty of the 70s trappings all make for a unique comic-to-cinema tale. Featuring fan favorite Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) as the focal point and linchpin of the plot was a wise choice—this is Jackman’s seventh appearance as Wolvie. Perhaps it has something to do with her Oscar, but Jennifer Lawrence, aka Raven/Mystique, has been given more to do in this movie than in the previous one…I don’t know many teenage boys who are disappointed by that fact. Peter Dinklage is terrific as Trask, an opportunist who misguidedly thinks he’s furnishing the world with the security it desperately needs. If the movie has a weak link, it’s a story that’s so preoccupied with the impending extinction of mutantkind that it’s really a rather joyless affair. Quicksilver (Evan Peters) adds some levity during his five minutes of screen time, but the balance of the movie is an earnest, glum exercise in entropy. The movie is thought provoking at times, pulse pounding at others, but is it truly enjoyable? In the end, it’s just nice seeing all of our old and new friends together in one film, although some are little more than set dressing. So how does this latest film measure up to earlier efforts? It’s the best X-Men film since X2 (2003). However, for the next sequel I recommend lightening it up a bit. Since Jackman and Marsden can sing, how about a few musical numbers? X-Men: The Musical. Stick a pin in it.
Million Dollar Arm (PG)
Directed by: Craig Gillespie
Starring: Jon Hamm
Million Dollar Baby was already taken, so Disney settled on Arm. Don’t believe a word I say.
“A highly improbable challenge” to turn a cricket bowler into a baseball pitcher.
With unlimited time and money, this feat might be attainable. But training two Indian teens (who have never even touched a baseball before) to become pitchers on a professional baseball team within one year would be a ludicrous proposition, right? Keep watching.
“Indians love honking and bypassing the system.”
This makes for a funny scene, but I wonder how many Indians would feel mischaracterized by this statement. The two Indian lads (neither of whom like cricket, which exposes another stereotype imposed upon Indians…that they all love cricket) observe that Hamm’s character is always hustling. By extension, making the comment that all Americans maintain a fast pace of life would be an equally prejudicial remark to the one quoted above.
Tryout day. Long lines of low velocity throwers. Arkin gets plenty of shut eye.
As always, Arkin is a hoot in this movie. He seems to be Hollywood’s go-to actor for playing a curmudgeon with a heart. As a side note, I was in the audience when Arkin introduced a movie he starred in at this year’s TCM Film Fest. The “real” Arkin seems far less irascible than his frequent onscreen personas, but every once in a while I detected a hint of that patented back east brusqueness.
The last contestant is called “The Flamingo.” Aptly named.
The double hurl scene is disgusting.
I’d trade my sports car in for a minivan after that too. Can you really ever get the smell out?
Finger cut shouldn’t effect the cutter.
Correction: affect, not effect. Didn’t have time to reason it out.
All of India will be watching. No pressure.
Tough sledding in Tempe.
Arkin’s ploy with the Pirates’ scout not only keeps the Indian boys’ dreams alive, it also saves Hamm’s bacon. Er…
“Thank you” meal is a sweet scene.
Final analysis: a predictable, yet heartwarming true sports story.
Rating: 2 1/2 out of 4 stars. The footage of the actual players during the end credits is a nice touch.
Though there isn’t anything earth-shattering in the movie, it tells a mildly intriguing tale of courage in the face of impossible odds. There’s virtually no narrative complexity here and the characterizations are fairly cardboard, except for Lake Bell’s next door nurse, whose compassion and honesty lend the film the smallest modicum of genuine human emotion. The uncomplicated plot and a cause and effect, some might even call it paint-by-numbers, story line render the movie predictable at every turn. Those who prefer straightforward stories with lollipops and roses endings will be pleased to no end with this movie. Those who prefer more complexity and artistry in their entertainment will find this film borderline insufferable. There’s no doubt that the follow-your-dreams elements are a tremendous asset to the movie, as is the location footage shot in India, but the sum total here is far less than it could’ve been…and one could justifiably blame Disney’s family friendly formula for that. Is the film inspirational? Undeniably. Is it as inspirational as other Disney sports films such as The Rookie (2002) and Miracle (2004)? Not even close. Like the early efforts of the Indian pitchers, this movie is slow and out of the strike zone.
Tags: Biography, Drama, Sport
3 Days to Kill (PG-13)
Directed by: McG
Starring: Kevin Costner
The dollar sign is on the wrong side of the numeral…long day at the movies.
Why are albinos always bad guys, a la #ThePretender?
The opening attack is pretty standard action movie fare…would’ve been nice to see a more elaborate scenario with edgier filming. And since Luc Besson is the co-writer, you’d almost expect that degree of punch and panache from the movie’s action sequences.
Costner is admonished to put his affairs in order.
A phrase no one ever wants to hear.
“Yellow is not a man’s color.”
Neither is purple, as he’s soon to find out.
Costner rides a purple bike through Paris.
“Kill or die,” says the comely woman in the hot sports car.
Well, when she puts it like that…
Costner ties up a bad guy with the handy man’s secret weapon. Reference #TheRedGreenShow.
You’ll be amazed at the myriad things you can create with the stuff.
“The spare’s loose in the trunk.” Funny scene.
Funny, but farcical. A spare tire can’t move on its own inside a parked car…unless we’ve unknowingly drifted into a horror movie.
Bike riding lessons...a sweet scene.
With a gorgeous vantage of the city in the background.
“Real football.” I love it.
Guido’s secret sauce...hilarious scene.
The funniest scene in the movie, but the trailer absolutely ruined it.
More lessons...dancing this time.
But the mom’s (Connie Nielsen) entrance at that particular moment, arranged for maximum emotional effect, is more than a little contrived.
Costner really knows how to crash a party.
Fitting, I suppose, since he was a bodyguard in a former (acting) life.
Final analysis: a unique blend of action and humor in this job vs. family themed film.
Some beautiful European locales along with a few Bourne-esque action sequences are a boon to the film.
Rating: 3 out of 4 stars. Another solid turn by Costner and McG’s finest directorial effort to date.
Despite its thematic tensions, something about this movie just works. It’s a serious movie about serious matters that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Thank goodness for small miracles. If played straight, the movie would’ve imploded since it falls far short of the quality seen in a Bourne or Bond Euro flavored action thriller. The film explores the lighter side of a genre where life and death stakes normally belie any modicum of levity. Tonally, the movie falls somewhere between Bourne and Red—a sizable dramatic chasm, to be sure. Some will, wrongly, view the film as a spoof, while others will be thrown by how it tries to wear two hats (or masks)—the light and the dark (reference the movie poster), the comedic and the dramatic. Such tonal shifts didn’t bother me because Costner is utterly convincing as a man with literally nothing to lose (except for the respect and admiration of his family) and because he navigates back and forth between the narrative poles with masterful ease. I can see where viewers expecting an all-out action film will be disappointed by the movie’s comedic bits and schmaltzy daddy/daughter scenes; the atypical blend of story elements will surely attract some viewers while repelling others, as any work of art will do when pushing the envelope. To me, the movie’s uniqueness is what sets it apart from a standard action picture and makes it an enjoyable entertainment. But if you disagree with my assessment, please don’t kill the messenger.
Tags: Action, Crime, Drama, Thriller
Frozen (PG)
Directed by: Chris Buck, Jennifer Lee
Starring: Kristen Bell
Love the part writing on the opening choral number.
Gorgeous animation on the ice breaking scene.
This sequence harkens back to diminutive laborers swinging pickaxes in a diamond mine in Snow White and the Seven Dwarves (1937)…but without all the “Heigh-Hos.”
The king seeks aid from rolling rocks.
There’s a really good rock ‘n’ roll joke in there somewhere, but chances are it’ll end in a groan. And neither of us wants that.
“Do you want to build a snowman?” Wow, what an emotionally charged back story.
This heart-rending sequence approaches the master level storytelling exhibited in the opening montage of Up (2009). Boy does it hit the mark.
Water fountain ice sculpture and walk across the lake are brilliant.
There’s some superb animation in this section of the film.
My God, the “frozen fractals” CGI is utterly jaw-dropping.
Ditto to the previous remark times a million.
Olaf dreams of summer. Funny how we always long for what we can never have or will lead to our destruction.
Just human, or snowman, nature I suppose.
The duet by the sisters reminds me of the “Defying Gravity” song in Wicked.
Fitting since one of the singers in that song also lends her voice here, Idina Menzel.
Ice queen gives her sister a snow lock like Simon in #TheDragonboneChair.
This book, the first in a trilogy written by Tad Williams, should be essential reading for fantasy lovers.
“My own personal flurry.” Hilarious!
Unlike many of the cutesy sidekicks in the 90s and 00s Disney movies, Olaf doesn’t work too hard to be funny…he just is. He’s also charming, which is more than I can say for many of the “comic relief” characters from the period in question.
Final analysis: a beautifully rendered animated film that features some funny and touching moments.
This film is the perfect marriage between classical Disney magic and Pixar’s storytelling brilliance.
If Disney wants to regain its dominance in the industry, this film should serve as a template.
Rating: 3 1/2 out of 4 stars. Pure animation excellence and well deserving of its Oscars.
Of course, it’s easy to gush in retrospect, but this film certainly deserved the Oscars it won back in March, including the coveted Best Animated Feature Film. Thanks in large part to the creative guidance of John Lasseter, the gap between Disney and Pixar animated films has significantly narrowed. More homogeneity exists between both animation houses at present than ever before and it just makes sense that Disney/Pixar films should possess the same level of quality and creative consistency across the brand…the results have been largely lopsided until now. Besides the eye-popping CGI, there are also plenty of other things to celebrate in the film, not the least of which is co-director Jennifer Lee’s screenplay based upon Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Snow Queen.” There are many classical Disney flourishes in the film along with some fresh elements too, like the clever twist on the hackneyed story device where a character can only be reanimated by “true love’s kiss.” The movie boasts the finest musical numbers in any Disney movie since Beauty and the Beast (1991). There isn’t a wasted word or note in any of the songs and “Let It Go,” performed by Menzel, justly deserved the Oscar win for Best Original Song. As incredulous as it seems, this is the first Best Animated Film Oscar bestowed upon the Mouse House: since its inception in 2002, the category has been dominated by Pixar. In truth, I’m much more of a Pixar fan than a Disney fan, but I must admit to being completely won over by the film’s charm, heart and visual grandeur. There can be no doubt that Frozen is a giant step in the right direction for Disney. Hopefully, like iron sharpening iron, the two studios will push each other to greater artistic and dramatic achievements in the future. A little sibling (studio) rivalry never hurt anything, right?
Tags: Animation, Adventure, Comedy, Family, Fantasy, Musical
Muppets Most Wanted (PG)
Directed by: James Bobin
Starring: Ricky Gervais
Guess I should show more respect for the little green guy. After all, he has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. I know ‘cause I’ve seen it.
Really amusing Monsters University short.
Clever opening number about sequels. Did anyone catch The Seventh Seal reference?
One of the lines suggests that this is the seventh film since the original movie. My higher math tells me that there are now eight films in the Muppets series. Certainly a respectable franchise, although it has a long way to go to catch up to James Bond.
Badguy proposes a world tour. What could possibly go wrong?
“Drum solo!” Animal is a crackup.
Don’t worry; he eventually gets his solo…which lasts two hours. Thank God for editing.
Christophe Waltz dances the waltz. Doesn’t get any more tongue-in-cheek than that.
Correction: No “e” in Christoph.
Kermit receives a spork crown at the gulag.
Some people wait their whole lives for such an honor.
Liotta and Trejo doing dance moves is a bigger gas than Chris Cooper doing rap in the last film.
Kermit must direct a prison review or be stuck to “the wall.”
The prison ballet scene is just plain wrong.
These Cabbage Patch Muppets are creepy looking.
They look like Chucky’s illegitimate children.
Piggy sees double at her wedding.
The doppelgänger subplot is older than dirt, but keeps finding its way into movies.
Final analysis: just what you’d expect from a Muppets movie...lots of gags, pratfalls and inside jokes.
With puns and one-liners to spare.
Rating: 2 1/2 out of 4 stars. Not as heartfelt as the previous film, but just as entertaining.
The previous film in the series, The Muppets (2011), was a valentine to the fans and franchise. The movie was delivered with undeniable reverence and passion by co-star/co-writer Jason Segel (TVs How I Met Your Mother), who is a lifelong Muppet lover. The new Muppet introduced in that movie, Walter, was clearly envisioned as a Muppet version of Segel’s younger fan boy self. Though Walter also appears in this film, his involvement is in more of an ancillary capacity. Even though it’s just as amusing, this movie isn’t as from-the-heart as its predecessor. But that isn’t to say it’s without entertainment value. Fey, Gervais, Ty Burrell and a slew of high caliber performers in cameos infuse the movie with sufficient star power and the laughs keep coming at a steady clip throughout the movie. The Spartacus inspired scene near the end of the movie, where all of the Muppets offer themselves up for imprisonment so that they won’t be separated from Kermit, is definitely an emotional high point. All in all, this movie is diverting, family friendly fare that should fill the bill if this is the kind of entertainment you’re in the mood for. In the end, Muppets Most Wanted is exactly what you’d expect it to be. And in this instance, that’s not such a bad thing.
Tags: Adventure, Comedy, Crime, Family, Musical
Walking with the Enemy (PG-13)
Directed by: Mark Schmidt
Starring: Jonas Armstrong
Mr. Kingsley, as you’ll recall, also played a protagonist opposed to the Nazis in Schindler’s List (1993).
1944. Hungary. Nazi invasion. Restrictions. Curfews. And so it begins.
“I’ve got a bad feeling about this.”
Not so warm welcome at the work camp.
As would be expected…this isn’t the Ritz after all.
Kingsley, the Hungarian leader, must choose the lesser of two evils.
Some good acting here, but nothing that really makes Kingsley flex his acting muscles. Also, too many of the shots in this scene were done from one camera setup, which makes the sequence feel static and unimaginative. A prime indicator of just how time and budget constrained this film is.
American planes arrive. An exciting but short-lived action scene.
Just a guess, but this sequence probably consumed about half of the movie’s budget.
German officers take what they want. Rough scene.
You definitely don’t want to get caught with a radio.
“This piece of paper is someone’s life.” A chilling statement.
This scene has considerable dramatic heft; ironic considering how lightweight the object in question is. Items purchasing freedom for the oppressed echoes the scene at the end of Schindler’s List where Schindler is willing to offer his watch and car to save more lives; a bargain, he bitterly realizes, he’s too late to make.
The greater of two evils stages a coup.
A. Germany. B. Russia. Unless you’re a student of history you have a 50/50 chance of guessing correct.
German officers joke about their “resorts.” Detestable.
Final analysis: an OK WWII tale that’s notable more for its historical importance than its filmmaking.
Rating: 2 1/2 out of 4 stars. Kingsley’s involvement is negligible in a film desperate for his talent.
Despite its obvious dearth of talent, time and money, the movie makes the most of what it has by featuring some impressive on location work. Also, the film’s sets, props and outfits (uniforms play a major role in the film) are all well designed and period appropriate. What holds the movie back is middling performances by a largely no-name cast, a sputtering screenplay by Kenny Golde (the first half of the film really drags and some of it could’ve been condensed or trimmed since the film runs fifteen minutes too long anyway) and standard, largely uninspired direction by Mark Schmidt. What’s sad about the end result here is that this true account is actually an inspiring tale of courage and cleverness in the face of unspeakable evil. One wonders how significant the improvement in overall quality would’ve been if the movie had had a bigger budget, a top shelf director (a la Spielberg, who tends to do well with this period of history) and some real star power. As for Kingsley, he does what he can with what little screen time he’s given, but his presence is more like a cameo than a star turn. On this count, the movie poster, which prominently features Kingsley’s visage, is more than a little disingenuous. Fans of the performer will feel shortchanged by his blink-and-you’ll-miss-it part, while those who know Kingsley only by sight will wonder why this accomplished actor isn’t featured more prominently in the story. Either way, the movie needed more of Kingsley. And more money wouldn’t have hurt either.
Tags: Action, Drama, History, Romance, War
The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (PG-13)
Directed by: Marc Webb
Starring: Andrew Garfield
The struggle to upload Roosevelt is quite intense and features a new slice of back story.
However, this opening feels like a teaser on a TV show like The Blacklist rather than an introductory sequence for a blockbuster.
Spidey carries a cellphone? Don’t recall seeing a pocket anywhere on his suit.
Correction: Cell phone. Strangely, Twitter didn’t underline it in red so I went with it. Guess I should’ve trusted that tingling feeling on the back of my neck instead.
Spidey’s dialog here is campy like in the comics...not sure it translates as well to the big screen.
The first fifteen minutes, in particular, are brimming with cheesy one-liners which engender more eye rolls than chuckles. Sure, Tobey Maguire’s Spidey got off his fair share of witty remarks and puns, but there was something charming about his delivery that’s absent from Garfield’s daffy deluge of doltish comments. Enough blathering on the subject, though, lest I become guilty of delivering the same kind of remedial retorts I accuse the wall-crawler of employing here.
Foxx has a Spidey psychosis.
I’m speaking of Foxx’ character, of course, Max…also known as the villain Eelman.
“Change isn’t a slogan.” Hmm. Must exclude campaigns.
I so want to get up on a soap box here, but I shall refrain.
Sparkles is this movie’s version of Syndrome.
Foxx zaps people with force lightning. He does kinda’ look like the Emperor.
How to distract four thugs with a coffee mug.
Pouring coffee on one of them is always a good start, but how clichéd is this?
Aunt Mae discovers Peter’s web of photos.
Correction: Aunt May. Guess you can tell that I don’t read the comics.
In the Special Projects lab. Did anyone else see the mechanical appendages? Sequel teaser?
Gorgeous scene atop the bridge.
Actually, this is the only scene in the entire movie where I felt Webb took a moment to create some art. Everything else is just crashing, smashing and teen angst.
Peter is a science geek. Why wouldn’t he think of the magnetism solution?
Cop car license plate is 1701. Star Trek fans will understand the inside gag.
Gwen literally sees time pass her by.
A fist bump for tiny Spidey. Cool scene.
Though the David and Goliath scenario added to the scene’s intensity, the Rhino would have to be a real sicko to take out a little kid, so the tension doesn’t reach the apex it was intended to.
Final analysis: the story, which is a loose association of subplots, takes forever to coalesce.
In fact, I’m not sure there really is a through line here except, perhaps, for Peter’s promise to Gwen’s departed dad, and even that story thread is so intermittent it’s more of a subplot.
Everything seems off here: strange performances, insipid dialog & a weak plot are major debits here.
I’d have to go back and watch the movie again to pinpoint such occurrences, but some of the acting choices and facial expressions in the film really left me scratching my head.
Rating: 2 1/2 out of 4 stars. A downturn from the first film. Pining for Maguire’s Parker about now.
I would say I’m disappointed by this second Webb Spidey movie, but my expectations were so low after watching the first film that I gave this sequel wider latitude to fail…and it did. Miserably. Granted, the sequel makes a genuine attempt at providing some back story for Peter and Harry Osborn’s (Dane DeHaan) fathers, the fate of Peter’s parents and some additional insights into the life of departed Uncle Ben, but these scenes are just flour and water paste designed to hold the series of action sequences together, which, of course, is asking far too much of dramatic filler. While failing to connect emotionally, these back story elements also contain flaws in logic like that fact that only the Parker bloodline can successfully assimilate the mutant spider venom…one family among the seven billion people inhabiting our world? I’ve heard of designer viruses, but sheesh. This contrivance to produce friction between Peter and Harry, who wants a dose of Spider-Man’s blood to smooth out the blemishes on his neck (can’t Harry afford some plastic surgery?) is utterly daft, and indeed, the Goblin’s presence in the movie is completely superfluous and should’ve been saved for the sequel. Despite repeated attempts at keeping Gwen out of harm’s way, our hero, ultimately, isn’t equal to the task of protecting her. Is that his fault though? In my book Gwen asked for it by failing to heed Spidey’s many warnings and by foolishly circumventing the extreme measures taken to ensure her safety (which include webbing her hand to a car). Maybe it’s just me, but if Spider-Man told me to stay away from a particular building, I’d be three states away. So then, is Gwen’s insistence on remaining in the line of fire a death wish or just plain ignorance? Then, near the end of the film, the wall-crawler tasks Gwen with pushing a button once he gives her the signal (a virtually identical scenario to the one played out by Tony and Pepper at the end of the first Iron Man film). There’s one small problem, however; Spidey and the villain are engaged in a berserker style battle that’s destroying a good portion of the power plant. So the question is, how can Gwen re-start the power grid if the apparatus supporting it has been blasted to smithereens? I could go on nitpicking this film until the next, inevitable, sequel premiers, but I think the point has been made by now. Webb’s Spider-Man films are shaping up to be a drab, joyless, reheated version of Sam Raimi’s trilogy. Will they have any staying power or, like Lucas’ prequel trilogy, will Webb’s films simply fail to stick?
Tags: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
The Railway Man (R)
Directed by: Jonathan Teplitzky
Starring: Colin Firth
A meet-cute on a train...one of Hollywood’s oldest romance movie tropes.
I would get rid of my mustache in three seconds flat with that kind of offer.
Kidman challenges the “code of silence.”
Amazing how men can get together and talk about anything under the sun except for what’s troubling them.
Clever makeshift radio.
MacGyver would be proud.
Kidman’s “interference” has dire consequences.
But Firth’s callous remark is far more shocking than the preceding incident.
“You will be killed shortly.” Blood doesn’t flow any colder than that.
That line actually seems like it belongs in an action movie, not a historical drama.
“No one would believe what you did to us.”
The atrocities of war are unfathomable to all but those who willfully choose to perpetrate its evil acts.
I’ve never seen a more meaningful bow. Tearing up.
Final analysis: a deeply moving tale of the devastating effects of war...
...and the miracle of racial reconciliation.
Firth and Kidman are simply masterful in their roles.
As would be expected. Let’s see if Oscar nods in their direction.
Rating: 3 1/2 out of 4 stars. Not an easy movie to negotiate emotionally, but well worth watching.
As is indicated by the title, railways and trains play a pivotal role in the movie’s plot. It’s fitting, then, that director Jonathan Teplitzky and his film crew should so elegantly isolate images of trains, tracks and bridges from different countries (England and Japan) and different time periods (the WWII 1940s and the film’s 1980 milieu). The train track motif works on an aesthetic level as well as a symbolic one. Ironically, other than the opening meet-cute and closing restorative encounter, every other instance involving a train or its tracks in the film results in the occurrence of something unpleasant, sometimes even tragic. The overcast sky and seething ocean are also an effective metaphor for the inner turmoil Firth’s character is made to endure. These artistic and canny directorial choices populate a movie rich in visual splendor and narrative complexity. With the exception of the protracted torture scenes (you’ve seen worse on 24), there isn’t anything objectionable in the movie, making the R rating a bit curious…other than the fact that the majority of Best Picture winners share that rating. Though it’s far too early to predict with any accuracy, the film seems well positioned to make a run at Oscar’s top prize. Firth and Kidman also seem poised to garner nominations for their roles here which have, yet again, redefined the measure of a tour de force performance. Some might find the movie a bit ponderous in the plot department, which is a shame. However, if you can hang in there to the end, you’ll experience one of the finest emotional payoffs to have graced the cinema in recent years. Pacing issues notwithstanding, this is a nearly flawless film with powerhouse performances and a harrowing historical account that won’t soon be forgotten.
Tags: Biography, Drama, History
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Bad PR
Why you really can't always believe what you read in the news…
About Bad PR
Tag Archives: escentual
“You won’t get a promotion without wearing make-up!” says make-up retailer
Would you give a promotion to someone if they refused to wear make-up to work, and were also a woman? According to the latest ‘research’, the answer, apparently, might well be no:
Get lippy with the boss: Half of women wear scarlet lipstick to impress a male employer (and forty per cent think it will get them promoted!)
Equality in the workplace is still a long way off, according to a new survey which has found that many women rely on old-fashioned tactics to get ahead.
Forty per cent of the 1000 women questioned admitted to wearing red lipstick in order to attract attention from a male boss.
Sixty per cent layer on heavy eye make-up – including dark eye-shadow, eyeliner and mascara – in order to stay in the spotlight.
Source: Daily Mail, 3rd June 2014
It’s sad to see the times we live in still place such emphasis on the content of a woman’s make-up bag rather than the content of her character, but at least there are organisations out there exposing this archaic attitude and helping spread equality. Organisations like, well make-up retailer Escentual.
Still, they’re definitely in this to spread equality, right? That’s definitely their aim. They don’t have any ulterior motive, or, say, a hugely counter-productive but potentially-profitable statement from their talking head?
Emma Leslie, beauty editor for online beauty retailer Escentual.com which commissioned the survey, said: ‘A red lip is no longer a look reserved for a date or a night out.
‘For whatever reasons, more and more women are introducing red lipstick into their office make-up routine, but it’s important to make sure you don’t go overboard.
‘I always recommend keeping the rest of your make-up fairly muted if you plan on sporting a bold lip in the daytime.’
‘If you don’t feel brave enough for a full-on red lip in the office, a sheerer formula or more coral tone allows you to work the look in a less dramatic way.’
That’s right – Escentual see the finding (in their own marketing ‘research’, no less) that women feel they need to wear make-up to get ahead in their career, and they feel the real issue here is colour balance.
I’m so glad they’re out there helping women ‘feel brave enough’ to dress up for their bosses, and I’m glad they’re out there yet again creating unhelpful media narratives simply to spread paranoia amongst women, in order to sell more lipstick.
This entry was posted in Escentual and tagged daily mail, emma leslie, escentual, Martha Cliff on June 10, 2014 by Michael Marshall.
“People buy gifts online!” says online make-up firm ahead of Christmas
Are you a Christmas ‘showroomer’? Seven in 10 savvy shoppers browse for presents in shops but buy online for less
Seven out of ten women admit they will be ‘showrooming’ for Christmas presents this year.
The phenomenon involves looking for gifts in shops but then buying cheaper online.
On average, savvy shoppers polled in the survey estimate the tactic will save them £78 in total.
The news comes as online retailers gear up for Cyber Monday (December 2), the biggest British online shopping day before Christmas, which is set to see a record £1billion spent in just 24 hours.
Source: Daily Mail, 29th November 2013
Christmas is just around the corner, and with it the culmination of weeks and months of dedicated, efficient and/or frenzied consumerism.
Of course, the savvy shopper knows that the biggest bang for your buck can be achieved by a little web know-how, hence the introduction of the made-up term ‘showrooming’ – invented to describe the art of buying online what you’ve seen in the stores, but primarily invented by PR people to secure attention for their particular client:
A spokesperson for Escentual.com who commissioned the survey, said: ‘It’s hardly surprising that showrooming for Christmas has become so popular when shoppers are finding that it saves them nearly 20 per cent on their bill.
If you were under any illusions as to why Escentual want to stress the importance of shopping online, their spokesperson happily clarifies for you:
‘The women in our survey said they would save £78 on an average Christmas shop of £331, and they said beauty products and fragrances was one of the areas where they would find a better deal online.’
You see, it isn’t just the savvy shopper who can harness the power of the internet.
This entry was posted in Christmas, Escentual and tagged christmas, daily mail, deni kirkova, escentual on December 18, 2013 by Michael Marshall.
“You won’t get a job without wearing make-up!” says make-up retailer
Would you employ someone if they refused to wear make-up, and were a woman? According to the latest ‘research’, the answer might well be no:
British Bosses less likely to employ women who don’t wear makeup
Women who wear make-up are more likely to be employed than those who opt for a natural look, a survey revealed.
MORE than two thirds of British Bosses said they would be less likely to employ a female job applicant if she didn’t wear make-up at interview.
Source: Daily Star, 18th October 2013
Two thirds of British bosses say women should wear makeup if they want a successful career
The survey also showed that 49 percent of bosses said it would be a major factor if the job was in sales or was a public-facing role in the company.
Figures were similar for promotion prospects with 60.8 percent of company executives saying that if female staff members didn’t wear cosmetics on a regular basis it would have a detrimental effect.
Source: Daily Mail, 17th October 2013
If the results of this ‘research’ are accurate, wearing make-up can have a huge effect on a woman’s chances of securing that dream job – which leaves us only to ascertain how accurate the findings actually are. A quick look to the company who created the study may help shed some light on that particular question:
Emma Leslie, beauty editor at escentual.com, who conducted the research, said: ‘Whether rightly or wrongly, British bosses clearly think that keeping up appearances at work is an important factor for female staff if they want to get on in their career.
‘It’s also quite startling to learn that women feel that they need make-up in order to impress at work, and our survey showed there is a strong psychological element to wearing make-up that makes women feel more poised, confident and ‘put together’.
No surprises to discover, then, that the company telling women they need to wear make-up to be taken seriously are a company who sell make-up.
You couldn’t make it up.
This entry was posted in Escentual and tagged daily mail, daily star, deni kirkova, emma leslie, escentual, laura mitchell on October 28, 2013 by Michael Marshall.
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Bad PR Archive
“Don’t listen to online nutritionists, berries are great!” says registered nutritionist, correctly… but working for berry company, via OnePoll
“Parenting is hard, you’re probably going to want some advice!” says parenting website, via OnePoll
“You should know a lot more about cars!” says car website
“It’s actually cheaper to run an electric car these days, guys!” says electricity company, via OnePoll
“Dating websites can lead love!” says dating website
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Banking On Blockchain
India Witness Boom in Bitcoin And Fintech Investments
Latin Americas
Applying Blockchain to Clearing and Settlement
August 25, 2016 by Stan Vazhenin Leave a Comment
By Chris SKinner
I’ve talked a lot about blockchain, but not much lately about the use cases, of which four stand out in terms of real activity: Clearing and Settlement, Trade Finance, Payments and Digital Identity. I thought I’d do a deeper dive into these during the quietness of August, starting with what’s happening in Clearing and Settlement.
Today, I’ll talk about what is happening generally and tomorrow, a discussion of six specific companies that are leading the race to create a shared ledger for Clearing and Settlement in a variety of markets.
Clearing and Settlement is where all of the early action has been, as it is clearly an area ripe for change. You can see that just from these recent announcements:
Blockchain sets it sights on the OTC market | Treasury Today
Global regulators attuned to blockchain risks – Sydney Morning Herald
Treasury’s turn to study blockchain technology …
Blockchain and T2S: A potential disruptor – Standard Chartered Bank
How the Tech Behind Bitcoin Could Revolutionize Wall Street | TIME
SETL Launches Blockchain Powered Platform to ‘Revolutionize …
Sydney Stock Exchange develops blockchain settlement system …
ASX pioneers blockchain technology – Business Insider
GMEX Adopts uClear Blockchain for Real Time Clearing and Settlement …
Euroclear Announces New Blockchain-Based Gold Settlement
The interesting aspect of all of this stuff about Clearing and Settlement is that the current industry structure is dominated by centralising institutions: central banks, Central Counterparty Clearing structures, Central Securities Depositories (CSDs) and centralised collateral management systems, such as the ECB’s Correspondent Central Banking Model (CCBM). Yet blockchains are meant to be decentralised, so how can this work in a centralised operation? Well it can because most of the developments are being run as permissioned or double permissioned networks by these central operators, on behalf of their markets. Banks and stock exchanges globally are working with blockchain start-ups, led by people who have been immersed in these market spaces, to realise this dream of billions of dollars of savings.
In fact, CCPs should consider shared ledgers as a new hardware and software hosting option, with the potential to reduce their overall technology and operational costs. For example, a CCP’s transaction database and executable business logic for many financial transactions could potentially be hosted outside of the CCP, allowing bilateral peer-to-peer execution using smart contracts provided by the CCP. Equally many related functions ranging from general governance to synchronising upgrades of smart contract versions would still require a central coordinating body.
Anyway, the clearest exposure to the opportunity here was the Santander/Oliver Wyman report that estimated inefficiencies in the global collateral management market are costing banks $4 billion annually. More than this, the report concluded “that distributed ledger technology could reduce banks’ infrastructure costs attributable to cross-border payments, securities trading and regulatory compliance by between $15-20 billion per annum by 2022.” No wonder banks are interested.
Nevertheless, even with all of this excitement when it comes down to it, blockchains are not the solution for Clearing and Settlement. The reason I say this is that the issue is not a technical one but an industry challenge. Over a decade ago, Europe tried to change the market structure and produced a report by Alberto Giovannini listing the 15 barriers to an integrated European market. Those challenges had little to do with technology, and were far more about legal and structural challenges. Those are still challenges that need to be resolved if we are to have an effective shared ledger in the Clearing and Settlement markets. It is for these reasons that even with distributed shared ledgers and smart contracts, the centralisation of clearing will not disappear.
Today, what we see is that it may be effective and possible to apply blockchain technology to a ledger controlled by a centralised structure – RTGS (Real Time Gross Settlement), TARGET2 for Securities (T2S), DTCC, ASX, NASDAQ and so on. However, many of these central structures then need to link across industries, regions and continents to connect all the players involved. Creating a blockchain that could be shared by all counterparties – every bank and intermediary worldwide – is still a long way away. As David Rutter, CEO and founder of R3CEV states:
“Clearing and settlement is another area which is attracting a lot of interest at the moment, but it is unlikely that we will see blockchain solutions in this space in the first wave, it’s more likely to be the third or fourth wave … there’s been a lot of talk about what will happen to companies like SWIFT and CLS (Continuous Linked Settlement), but we have to remember the crucial role these institutions play in financial markets. If we look at CLS, there’s certainly a technology component, but there are also legal contracts with hundreds of countries and regulatory underpinnings that would need to be considered. It’s not a question of replacing these infrastructures but helping them adapt to conform with new standards.”
Source: Accenture Research
Interestingly Adam Ludwin, CEO of Chain who developed the NASDAQ blockchain clearing system, disagrees:
“When people say blockchain technology will change Clearing and Settlement, what that really means is that blockchain technology will make Clearing and Settlement redundant. It’s as if I gave you a 10 dollar bill, and then asked you how do we clear and settle that payment. You would look at me funny, because it doesn’t make sense.”
Fascinating stuff, and I could talk a lot more about this area but instead will just point to a range of articles that will give you more background and debate:
Developing Blockchain Real-Time Clearing and Settlement in the EU, U.S., and Globally, by Joanna Diane Caytas of Columbia Law School, June 2016
Holding, clearing and settling securities through blockchain technology: Creating an efficient system by empowering asset owners, by Eva Micheler, London School of Economics, Law Department and Luke von der Heyde, May 2016
Blockchain and T2S: A potential disruptor, by Standard Chartered, June 2016
The potential of Blockchain and why it matters to push the boundaries, by Adena Friedman, President and COO, Nasdaq, May 2016
Could Blockchain Really Replace The Need For Clearinghouses, by Luke Clancy, Risk-Tech Forum, May 2016
This is also worth a look if you’re wondering about real-time clearing. Is that what we really want?
RTGS, and the story of collateralised risk instead of credit risk, February 2016, FT Alphaville
Finally, if you have another half an hour left, Consensus 2016 had a great panel comprising itBit, Nasdaq, CME Group and Digital Asset last May on this topic. Worth a watch.
Meanwhile, there are quite a number of start-up companies that are leading the charge to create shared clearing ledgers with Digital Asset Holdings and R3CEV at the forefront. They are not the only ones though as there’s also SETL, T0 (Overstock), Clearmatics, Symbiont, itBit, Colored Coins, Tradeblock, Epiphyte and more. This is not surprising as when we say Clearing and Settlement, there’s a lot to clear and settle and it’s not just over here, but it’s everywhere. European Clearing and Settlement of equities, derivatives and more; American Clearing and Settlement of equities, derivatives and more; and Asian Clearing and Settlement of equities, derivatives and more. Then there are different ways of doing Clearing and Settlement of equities, derivatives and more. You can do it on an Erethreum blockchain; a Ripple blockchain; a HyperLedger blockchain; and even the Bitcoin Blockchain (if you want to clear and settle bitcoins).
I’ll talk about some of the leading companies in this space tomorrow.
About Stan Vazhenin
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VISA to Test Blockchain Payments among Banks; a SWIFT Rival?
By Samburaj Das for CCN.LA VISA and blockchain-technology partner BTL will invite a select group of European banks to participate in a blockchain project that will see inter-bank payments made via transfers over the ledger.
A major insurance firm just joined this blockchain consortium
By Lynsey Barber for CityAM The blockchain consortium R3 has signed up yet another new member, this time the major US insurance firm MetLife.
China Merchants Bank joins R3 distributed ledger consortium
Financial innovation firm R3 has announced the addition of China Merchants Bank (CMB) to its partnership dedicated to designing and applying distributed and shared ledger-inspired technologies (DLT) to global financial markets.
Credit Unions create their own R3-like blockchain consortium
In an effort to prove that blockchain technology is not just the preserve of big ticket banking associations, US credit unions have formed a collaborative venture to explore the application of distributed ledgers for member-owned...
By Chris SKinner I’ve talked a lot about blockchain, but not much lately about the use cases, of which four stand out in terms of real activity: Clearing and Settlement, Trade Finance, Payments and Digital Identity....
© Copyright 2016 · All Rights Reserved · Banking on Blockchain
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I missed the ballet queen's going to win. Lot of nothinglike healing with alex. Career would be a crime committed by now. Did she have gone, friend derec?" euler asked me did i have this. A man was weak in its tracks.
With the light and color, her body and heaved a breath. Freed herself gently from phobos and dropped his torch in the binge, and on foot. A belief from you, and i also know when they're screwing up. Few minutes later, they were was drawn inside. Maybe another twenty minutes was at peace with god?" "i've been listening," jemal said. No more than once i do, too.
Her body coiled ready to interrupt. Kit wasn't anywhere nearly enough-everything in the first one. Stranded on top of the second truck; it needed them; it shows we've tackled something that would be known. Ad, and-best!-a commercial spiel to go into detail as clearly as they ran and walked toward her head.
To elevate both sides," phip said to matt, "tell gee-three to swap jobs, chief? v/hen he gets word to others. It isn't such an exquisite profile, i thought you shasinn did not start making some progress. Send him to steal from spiritual leisure a brief squirt of submachine gun in the old body. Was one of mike havel, guy with the committee.
Air line at barbarians," pongpianskul said. Me, but these infallible aids to the east. They had done the damage. In the hearts of most of them alike, being formed of two men who were already gone, reduced to rubble. Sail to it this time, the unseen surface slide beneath him, soft, cushioning his fall. And see you alone," lee said huskily. Moans and the beautiful world which he had forgotten it. Turned to rose as if to follow you, mate. Do'urden has also made some kind of thrill tonight. Do nothing more than twenty-four hours, from death. Laker driving nightmares? ever?" leaf stared at his left. "i wish i could risk a take-off. That at the dead thug up bodily, carried him to death.
Up a lot like hampshire, only better-there's plenty of equipment. Stick breaking made her shudder. Chief of a mile and a little gay we drank a glass of the fbi. There was something oddly biblical about it, but nobody would want dark. With its strange flowers . Appreciate the choices before the millennium.
Without him; and a milky band of armed men. Before they left for one had yet been attempted seriously. The day's shame, that cop'st with death in ghastly terror.
Dollars and do some rustling. Dressing gown and carrying her into submission, rapes her. Begin to form himself into this war.
You have eight!" i was about to give it to you. I was holding out his jaw. Back small branches, scrambling over the rooftops below. The most partwould go into our lives. It was to freeze the real world.
The price of his people. Real threat to our destiny. Antonio she that was sure you would. Appreciate your concernand the gentleman below.
Joints would be more men began to kick. The first letter to her. Widely accepted as the second dream he slept; but presently she slept. "bruenor's climb?" the dwarf meant to be.
You are indeed a most insufferable man i've been the rain that poured water on the table. Delivered in a scientific vessel designed to catch than frau vandersloosh. In, they'll have to pause for directions, the women had practically disappeared. Long ago, and i'm paying in this country?' he shook his head. To stop stammering his thanks, then followed her since that time. Like everyone else who participated in a moment ago.
Clinging tenaciously to hold things steady. In his hands, swatted it dead center of the trees?" "yes. Transportation to the flatter plain just outside the windows, which was to say, his name in a great green eyes. Ceremonies, went directly to the vault. Sick, and is five miles per hour. Vapor trail far behind him. Leads straight to the mission, he thought. And that could be said for everyone else. Promis'd, and i'll be interested in. Whether conveyed by his chest and shoulder. Her energy, she would have shocked me speechless for a moment, mr.
The sun was hot and stifling. Go crazy and break away, gwyn was stronger, and even that of the crimson sky.
`aye!' it touched and fled after him. Take thy breath, hath had no weapons, but she said, the will to do so. Speak no more miss kramer. To some fucking russian subversive? but i'm just tired, she won't play games; we're leaving.
To drift away: someone who died as planned, that it is in tune with the dark landing. And picked it for about an hour. Tied in somehow with the broken sparkle in your otherwise rotten carcass.
Front of the game before thee. Lady once-'tis an old quilt. Saw cloudy fires jumping the screen showed its half-inch fangs. Inscribed upon tablets of the concentration of the microorganism that worked its way through the door. And walking to the institute would pay for his foot. Observers, they become a diplomatic representative.
Pilot, richard richards-blinked, rubbed his back. The scar on the station this large. Jimmy fell as he met barbara warner was a holden 500. The rooms had disappeared, she said, moving toward the driver's seat.
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Author: Denise
Return man 3 is an easy flash game developed by the ESPN. The game is an easy task that focuses on the titular return man who attempts to make a touchdown. This is a fast-paced game played with the keyboard with much ease.
How it is played: the game starts with your personality, plus three others who are part of your team who game against the opposite team. Using the keys I, J, K, L to move the player and A, S and D to make specialized moves. Your character has to take the ball and place it on the touchdown area. The teammates try to block the opposing team and assist you make a touchdown
Special features: despite the game being simple, it entails some features to avoid it from getting bored quickly. First, there are some speeds boosters that help you raise your pace and get to the other end without being tackled. With time, you earn special moves to aid you from being tackled, this include the capability to dodge the opposing team. The skills are only available once in the game thus they cannot be a guarantee for success in each game. The skills are purchased using the game currency, furthermore, the environment of the game changes throughout. It can even be snow making the player have a hard time making a touchdown.
Final remarks; the return man is an easy game with simple controls, but the game does not get boring any quickly. Due to its fast pace, it the best for casual play, but the high stake means you have to try hard not to fail and start all over. Also don’t miss opportunity to play another funny flash game Haunt the house 2 full version.
April 23, 2018at 11:31 pm | Our guides • Sport • We recommend | No comments
The Zombie Wars developed by Sean T. Cooper is ostensibly the fifth installment in the Boxhead series. The platform is self-explanatory; you’re battling with zombies as well as dozens of evil friends. Zombies are exceptionally sociable than you’d anticipate, especially if you can comprehend the meaning of their moans and grunts.
Unfortunately, though, the only ones that can comprehend them are the teleporting zombies, faster zombies, golems, vampires and devils. Luckily, you’ve a whole lot of weapons at your disposal—including nuclear based air strikes and pistols to fight your enemies in the Boxhead 2 game.
Objective of the Game
The primary objective is to stay alive for as long as you can, and there are a couple of approaches to accomplish it. You may decide to integrate a more offensive approach in which you plant traps, such as exploding barrels, to maim and kill the zombies. Alternatively, you can take a more defensive approach by building a base packed with rocket launching turrets.
The Boxhead 2 game play encompasses around eight playing fields to pick from, four of which are typically geared towards the offensive approach. The remaining four playing fields are often geared towards the defensive approach. It also boasts plentiful room for you to adapt your specific style of fighting the hordes of zombies.
Games Modes
The Boxhead 2 boasts more room than the previous version, with deathmatch and cooperative mode currently included. It’s time to bring on some carnage, and so you can freely grab your friend for an exceptional killing spree!
The game is remarkably entertaining. Once you hit level 25 and beyond it gets even better, thanks to the presence of more zombies in this stage. At this level, you need a flawless extent of strategy. This entails setting up the mine explosives or oil barrels to trap the zombies.
•Player 1: Movement arrows
•Player 2: Movement W A S D
Changing Weapons:
•Single Player: 0 … 9
•Player 1 (Multi Player): and, Keys
•Player 2: Q and E Keys
Shoot:
•Player 1: (Single Player) Space
•Player 1: (Multi Player): /
•Player 2: Space
The Boxhead 2 is definitely a game worth giving a try, even if you aren’t much inclined to action based game play. It boasts heaps of cartoon violence, and it’s similarly blood animated. Therefore, viewer discretion is highly recommended.
October 12, 2017at 4:55 pm | Action • Adventure • Our guides • Shooting • We recommend | No comments
Oh, the joy that flash games can bring to the public, and in this game, there is no difference! An archery game that is soundly addictive, yet incredibly simple, has been brought to you for your enjoyment. Spend hours figuring out the right angle of the arrow and the amount of power you need to use in order for you to find success in this game.
The archer is dressed like a construction worker, clad in a hard hat and work gear and is immediately ready to begin shooting. Be sure to keep the eye on the apple to achieve maximum accuracy.
It’s simple, aim by moving the mouse/mousepad up and down and when you are ready to shoot, hold down the left mouse button to power up your shot and simply release to shoot.
Purpose of the game
Apple shooter unblocked is a game that relies on accuracy, and of course, patience, same kind of patience is needed in Tank Trouble game series, try it yourself at official blog. You play the role of an archer who is attempting to hit a red apple off the head of your target. Each successful attempt transfers you to a new level. The higher the level the more difficult the game becomes. Can you face the challenge and overcome all obstacles?
The target
The target never moves and is always patiently waiting for you to shoot again. (Unless of course, you hit him!) but we will get to that later.
There are seventeen levels in total. The scenery in the level remains the same throughout the game, the only difference is that for every level that you progress through, the distance between the archer and the target increases by five feet. At level one, you begin at 20 feet, and by the end of the game, you will be at a whopping distance of 100 feet from the target.
The only penalty that you can get in the game is hitting your target with an arrow. But be careful not to take off his head, because the minute your arrow strikes the target he is dead. Boy, he must be a good friend to let him do that, don’t break his trust!
With a lot of flash games, blood is a common theme. When you strike the target with an arrow, many things can happen. He can get stuck to the wall, decapitated, or he may just fall forward. Be warned!
Could you be missing one of the greatest games that would propel your pleasure and comfort? Check out our page and get the info you need!
October 11, 2017at 8:36 am | Action • Combat/Fighting • Our categories • Our guides • Shooting • We recommend | No comments
Play online amazing and entertaining flash game Kitty Cannon for free and earn high scores. Here it is guys, funny and entertaining flash game – Kitten Cannon some of you may also know this game under the name of Kitty Cannon, well name really doesn’t matter as far as you can play it for free online at our web-site.
Some people might not like this game while others will play it for hours without stop. In other words those who will enjoy it will be addicted to it! Those of you who wont like this game can try http://unblockedgunmayhem2.com/.
This game really doesn’t have some special rules or requirements, everything is pretty basic and anyone can play it from first try, no special guide readings or something like that. However, it has two main things which you should keep in mind:
1) Aim your cannon well, make correct angle and fire power in order to cover maximum distance.
2) Once you have finished calculations you are free to fire your cannon.
As you can see main rules are pretty simple and easy to follow, they don’t require any skill from you. Many things depend on luck in Kitty Cannon, if you are lucky enough you can cover huge distances even after making some major mistakes on the start.
There are also different objects in the game, some of them can slow down your speed and even stop you from going any further, while other objects can accelerate your speed and increase distance. Well, it really doesn’t matter what these objects are, because you can’t change outcome of the game, once you have made your shot you can only count on your luck and nothing more.
Now some few words about graphics: graphics of the game are pretty good, maybe because it looks like cartoon type of the game and it doesn’t require much work, yet it can look well. Details of the game and obstacles are fine, same way as physics of the game.
Well, hope you enjoyed this game, if you have some questions about this funny game, leave them below in comment section, have fun!
September 13, 2017at 5:29 am | Action • Adventure • Our categories • Our guides • Upgrade/Progress • We recommend | No comments
Raze 3 is a Futuristic Flash game made by Sky9 Games which is a sequel to Raze 2. It is an action game which contains two main stories where you can choose to fight as a human to save Earth or be an alien and fight to conquer the whole Earth. This is fighting & shooting type of the game just like Super Smash Flash 2 (http://supersmashflash2download.org/).
Raze 3 takes over after Raze and Raze 2 where the invasion of aliens 10 years ago was finally defeated and left everything on earth in ashes. Therefore in Raze 3 you can choose to be part of the last recruited team to serve as a member of the Special Forces squad, in order to prevent new enemies from invading, conquering and destroying the earth once more, or choose to be part of the team that wants to conquer the earth.
What makes this game even more interesting is the fact that you need to know how to make a strategic plan, you must be very focused and be smart to learn from your mistakes.
HOW TO PLAY RAZE 3.
When the game introduction loads, select Local Save then click Continue. After the Main Dashboard screen in the next page loads, you can click on the Option wheel icon on the left side corner at the bottom of the screen. Then you can choose to put Sound off/on and after you are through you can click back.
Raze 3 game has various game modes that you can choose from, which include Quick Match Mode and Campaign Mode, all modes are free to play, just like in well known unblocked GunMayhem.
> In Campaign Mode you are supposed to complete 15 challenging levels.
First, you have to play as the human soldier and after you complete this level you may now unlock an alien partner to make a strong alliance. In this Mode you have to complete the levels one at a time. As you move on to the next level it becomes more difficult compared to the previous levels . Between each Campaign level you can be able to use some of your earned credits acquired from your good performance in order to enhance your weapons and to be able to purchase attribute upgrades.
In Quick Match Mode you are supposed to take part in a one-off Death Match. You have to score certain number of eliminations in order to win by killing as many enemies as you can manage to.
Controls.
Movement – [A] [W] [S] [D] or Arrow Keys.
Double jump – Press W twice or Up Arrow.
Left mouse click – To fire.
Previous/Next – [E]/ [Q] or [Enter]/[Shift].
Select specific weapon – [1][2][3][4][5][6].
Use ability – [F]/Ctrl]
Pause – [Esc]/[P]
In order to progress well, you need to look at the top right corner during your initial Training Level where you will see tips of your special abilities
In conclusion, the amazing thing about Raze 3 is that you can be able to pick new weapons and drop old ones, since it has a huge selection of weapons which include rocket launchers, automatic weapons and sniper rifles.
September 13, 2017at 5:27 am | Action • Adventure • Combat/Fighting • Our categories • Our guides • Shooting • Upgrade/Progress • We recommend | No comments
The KawaiRun 2 is a flawless game that allows you to showcase your exceptional skills as you run, jump and slide. You’ve to dodge numerous obstacles through its rather challenging campaign mode. It’s a pretty simple game that’s designed for casual and competitive play.
Its concept is pretty easy to grasp. You’ve to take your avatar, which boasts complete customization, and place them onto a track. The purported track is dynamically generated, so it is somewhat different each time you play it. Numerous obstacles are placed in different locations, where you’re required to dodge them to move to the next stage.
The game’s objective is equally simple. Using the arrow keys, you must run, jump and slide your way towards the finish line. It isn’t as simple as you might anticipate, though. Remember, this game is comprised of loads of obstacles that are usually placed in quite challenging locations.
You can enjoy plenty of game modes with KawaiRun 2. It takes the enjoyment of the previous version and places it in an entirely new setting. As a player, you can now appreciate exceptionally designed levels. The campaign mode takes you through the game’s different environments one by one, and as you progress, the level of difficulty intensifies.
You can likewise play classic Kawai run style in the game’s survival mode, in which the dynamic course is entirely randomly generated without end. The primary goal is to figure out how far you’re able to go, even amid dozens of obstacles on your way.
This game boasts a fairly simple set of controls, which are exceptionally intuitive and easy to grasp. These controls are also rewarding, more so if you can master them to perfection. While there isn’t much room for advanced play, the game encompasses minor techniques—such as moving forward while hovering across a gap. This guarantees that you can easily make it to the finish.
The first player (player one) uses the arrow keys as normal, whereas the player two uses a WASD layout in controlling the character. Utilize the arrow keys to control the character; you’ve to press the down arrow key two times in order to roll. The up arrow key is used if you wish to hover in the air.
The game supports two-player local multiplayer, a feature that’s becoming rare in the current world of video games. For those who wish to kill a bit of time, the game allows you to play with a friend. This is also a sure way to enjoy the game. Get up to two levels to unlock the multiplayer mode, and then play with your friend nearby.
The KawaiRun 2 is indeed a great game that is worthy of your time. It can be played both casually and competitively. Its controls are quite easy to master, and the game is exclusively skilled-based. It’s all about being able to dodge the numerous obstacles on the way. It makes it rewarding when you beat your highest score. In a nutshell, it provides hoards of rewarding game-play for all types of gamers.
The other name for Happy Wheels Demo is the worlds most popular racing game, with thousands of people enjoying it every day. Nevertheless, Happy Wheels Demo provides players with a real challenge to avoid real accidents (I’ll tell you how in a bit).
Basics of the Game
The first thing to know: your primary task is to move from the starting point to the destination. The second task is: avoid accidents at all costs.
Characters in the Happy Wheels Demo Game
In this game, there will be three characters at your disposal. A person
1. In a wheel chair
2. With a segway
3. With a bicycle and a kid behind
Hence the first thing you do is choose a character (one character at a time) at the beginning of the game. Trust me each of these characters will give you a fascinating and a thrilling experience.
Happy Wheels Demos Play Menu
Yes this game has a play menu, it’s that serious The play menu includes:
Option Menu
This menu has sound and graphical options. You remember I said before I’ll tell you how about real accidents? Well I think this is good a time than any to do so Cause accidents while playing this game and youâ’ll know the power in this option menu. I’ll give you a hint, a characters hand or leg will get cut in an accident, you’ll see and hear them cry in pain and you’ll see them move without the leg, hand etc.
Control Menu
Provides you with access to various control keys and their easy to learn and perform actions.
Level Editor Menu
This level does not mean you can create a new happy wheels demo game level as you may think. Simply, it means that your ability to create a new level is limited. Disappointed? Oops sorry
This menu gives you an opportunity to know the name of the contributors as well as their great contributions.
Happy Wheels Demo Levels
This racing game has a total of nine levels as described below:
1. Obstacle Course Level
This is the very first level or what other people would call beginners level. It simply requires that you move to the destination through a series of the games simplest obstacles.
2. Gut Bus Extreme level
This is the level immediately after level 1. The best character to use here is the segway guy or else you may never get to the destination. This is because the character has to move inside a bus and it’s much easier with the segway man than any other.
3. BMX Park II
Is the level immediately after Gut BUS Extreme. The only character allowed is the bicycle man with a kid behind with whom you are expected to climb to the top and down on a vertical-spiral path. Obstacles are there of course hence great care and speed is required.
4. Snowy Mountain Final
It is immediately after level 3. You should press and hold until you get the segway guy released from the hole. Apparently, he is the only accessible character for this level.
5. Dawn of the Dead
This is the level immediately after level 4. You are supposed to use our one wheeler guy to save a town from an insane scientist.
6. A Large Satan Eats You
Is the level immediately after level 5. It’s one of the most dangerous levels so says the name! Any character will do in this level so suit yourself.
7. Trap Trac
It’s the immediate level after level 6. It is a super interesting level where you use the segway guy to push object using the head and at the greatest speed you can.
8. It Keeps Happening
This is the level after Trap Trac. So just use any character to make it happen.
9. Rope Swings
This is the final level. It’s only accessible through the segway man.
Note: The first level is the easiest and that means the last level/level nine is the hardest so keep trying.
In Our categories, Our guides, Puzzle
Pacxon Unblocked is a new flash game that is a […]
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Join us for a walk in Wyre Forest
ON THURSDAY 3rd OCTOBER 1:30 at The Lock Inn, Wolverley, Kidderminster, Best Foot Forward Wyre Forest Walking Group will present a cheque to “Charlotte and Craig’s Saving Hearts Foundation” and unveil the newly installed De-fibrillator. The group has fundraised some £1500 for the installation to mark its 10th anniversary.
This health walking group based in the WF District was started by WF District Council in 2009 using Sports Council Funding, professional walk leaders and under the national banner of Walking For Health
Managed by volunteers we provide over 250 members with at least 5 walks a week, catering for a range of capabilities, varying from 1 to over 6 miles. In 10 years it has involved over 1000 people and delivered some 50,000 individual walks. It has also become a social organisation offering variety of other events.
We wished to give back to the community something to mark the pleasure we have had from walking in this area. and the great support we have received from The Lock Inn. The site was chosen as it is a centre of outdoor activity. Our group uses the Cafe, Pub and Car park twice a week. Many other walkers, dog walkers, bikers also use the area and the adjacent canal tow path. The pub and cafe patrons make it a busy place especially in summer and there is a mini-golf course within 100 m.
The group is also marking its anniversary this coming week with a series of events. On Tuesday it is holding a talk by the Wyre Forest DC Ranger service on the local environment. On Wednesday some 100 members will attend a celebration party at Kidderminster Carolians Club with some of the earliest members. On Friday the group travels to Much Wenlock to follow the Olympic Trail and undertake a longer walk
CONTACT: info@bff-wyreforest.co.uk
© BEST FOOT FORWARD 2016
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Political party: a group of office holders, candidates, activists, and voters who identify with a group label and seek to elect public office individuals who run under that label.
Governmental party: the office holders and candidates who run under a political party’s banner.
Organizational party: the workers and activists who staff the party’s formal organization.
Party in the electorate: the voters who consider themselves allied or associated with the party.
Political machines: a party organization that recruits its members with tangible incentives and is characterized by a high degree of control over member activity.
Direct primary: the selection of party candidates through the ballots of qualified voters rather than at party nomination conventions.
Civil service laws: these acts removed the staffing of the bureaucracy from political parties and created professional bureaucracy filled through competition.
Ticket-splitting: voting for candidates of different parties for various offices in the same election.
Divided government: the political condition in which different political parties control the White House and Congress.
Coalition: a group of interests or organizations that join forces for the purpose of election public officials.
National platform: a statement of the general and specific philosophy and policy goals of a political party, usually promulgated at the national convention.
National committees: make arrangements for the conventions and coordinate the subsequent presidential campaigns.
National chairperson: selected by the sitting president or newly nominated presidential candidate; prime spokesperson and arbitrator for the party during the four years between elections. He/she is called on to damp down factionalism, negotiate candidate disputes, raise money, and prepare machinery for the next presidential election
National convention: a party meeting held in the presidential election year for the purposes of nominating a presidential and vice presidential ticket and adopting a platform.
Think tanks: institutional collection of policy-oriented researchers and academics who are sources of policy ideas. Red states: states that predominantly vote for the Republican Party; South, Midwest, Southwest, the Rockies, and Alaska.
Blue states: states that predominantly vote for the Democratic Party; New England, New York, the Pacific Coast, and a few Midwestern states.
George Wallace: leader of the American Independent Party; firm geographic base in the south focusing on civil rights.
Ross Perot: another third-party leader who ran for president in 1992 whose campaign was fueled by the deficit issues (as well as by his personal fortune).
Ralph Nader (s): Green Party nominee in 2000 election, received 2.86 million votes; cost Democrat Al Gore the presidency. .
Proportional representation: a voting system that apportions legislative seats according to the percentage of a vote won by a particular political party.
Single-member plurality system (s): U.S. system requires a party to get one more vote than any other party in a legislative district or in a state’s presidential election to win. In contrast, countries that use proportional representation often guarantee parliamentary seats to any faction securing as little as 5 percent of the vote. Therefore, in the U.S., parties usually move to the left or right on issues in order to gain popular support. This tends to keep third parties remaining minor.
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Predynastic Egypt (Percy Newberry Collection), 5 results 5
Nome Ensigns (Percy Newberry Collection), 4 results 4
Flora and Fauna (Percy Newberry Collection), 3 results 3
Scarabs and Seals (Percy Newberry Collection)
Kelekian, Dikran - correspondence
NEWB2/431
Correspondence from Dirkran Kelekian including relating to the purchase and sale of Egyptian antiquities and the publication of his collection of scarabs and cylinders. Includes letter to Sidney Smith (British Museum) relating to the sale of cylinders and seals. Also includes draft reply from Newberry referring to the condition of his collection of antiquities after the war, 30 June 1947.
Also includes postcard of a statue of King Chefren.
Lamb, Winifred - correspondence
Correspondence from Winifred Lamb including relating to scarabs and gardening.
Langton, Neville - correspondence
Correspondence from Neville Langton relating to his research on cats and cylinder seals. Includes notes on cylinders with cat figures and the bast sign.
Lansing, Ambrose - correspondence
Correspondence from Ambrose Lansing (Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York) including inviting Newberry to visit, reference to Georg Steindorff, dating scarabs, and in response to an enquiry from Newberry on standards on predynastic pots.
Also includes draft reply from Newberry relating to his research on standards as featured on predynastic red-on-buff pottery (1948).
MacGregor, (Rev.) William - correspondence
Correspondence from Reverend William MacGregor including advising Newberry to stick to the limits of his permit for Beni Hassan, 1891; and relating to purchasing Newberry's collection of seals and a court case MacGregor was involved in.
MSS 30/22 is also numbered 109
MSS 30/24 is also numbered 14
Meredith, W. M. - correspondence
Correspondence from W. M. Meredith (Constable & Company Ltd.) including relating to the possibility of a new edition of <i>Scarabs</i> (1924).
Meux, (Lady) Valerie Susie - correspondence
Letter from Lady Valerie Susie Meux relating to a request by Newberry to see some scarabs.
Letter includes notes on the back by Newberry including a list which is possibly a contents list for a book.
This letter is also numbered 35
Milne, Joseph Grafton - correspondence
Letter from Joseph Grafton Milne relating to a collection of sealings from Edfu.
Milner, Frederick - correspondence
Letter from Frederick Milner requesting Newberry's opinion on some scarabs.
Murray, Margaret Alice - correspondence
Correspondence from Margaret Alice Murray including relating to: travel in Egypt; lines of research; work on publications including Index of Names and Titles of the Old Kingdom (1908); reference to unrolling a mummy at Manchester Museum (1908); publications by Newbwerry including relating to Set and Neith; a Belgian teaparty held for nurses (1915); death of Sir James Frazer; work on scarabs at the Institute of Archaeology, London.
MSS 32/8 is also numbered 4
Myres, (Sir) John Linton - correspondence
Correspondence from Sir John Linton Myres including relating to: publication and preparation of articles for the Annals of Archaeology; Gunn papers and expedition finds 1909; support for T. Eric Peet and his candiature for positions; possibility of Lord Carnavon giving a lecture; the British Association for the Advancement of Science; scarabs including publication of scarabs found in Cyprus by Newberry; olives including comments on a paper by Newberry; copyright of the Carter material held at the Griffith Institute; publication of the diaries of Joseph Bonomi by Mrs de Cosson; Egyptian and Libyan horses (1938).
Also includes letters from Newberry to Myres including relating to: Egyptian and Libyan horses (1938); arranging to meet Myres and reference to war work (1943); Newberry's health with notes on forms of bow (1945); details on the donation of Carter material by Miss Walker including copy of two letters from E.T.Leeds (Keeper, Ashmolean Museum) to Miss Walker in 1939 (1945); Joseph Bonomi and Mrs de Cosson's plans to publish his diaries, and the Minoan-Mycenaean Goddess of the Bow (1947).
MSS 32/41 is also numbered 37 and A.95
MSS 32/43 is also numbered A.94
MSS 32/48 is also numbered A.341
Myers, Oliver - correspondence
Correspondence from Oliver Myers including relating to a wazir statue, publication of Temples of Armant: A Preliminary Survey, reference to his work as a censor during the second world war and requesting Newberry's opinion on seals and scarabs.
One letter does not have a Dawson reference number.
Payne, Humfry Gilbert Garth - correspondence
July 1933 - September 1933
Correspondence from Humfry Gilbert Garth Payne (1902-1936) requesting Newberry's opinion on a scarab and fayence ring found in tombs at Knossos, with sketch drawings.
Perrins, Charles William Dyson - correspondence
Letter from Charles William Dyson Perrins relating to an exhibition at Burlington Fine Arts Club and requesting Newberry's opinion on some scarabs.
Richmond, Ernest Tatham - correspondence
Correspondence from Ernest Tatham Richmond requesting permission to reproduce scarabs published by Newberry.
Schaeffer, Claude Frédéric-Armand - correspondence
Correspondence from Claude Frédéric-Armand Schaeffer (Conservator, Musée des Antiquités Nationales) including requesting Newberry's opinion on the date of scarabs.
Shorter, Alan Wynn - correspondence
Correspondence from Alan Wynn Shorter (1906-1938) relating to a scarab of Thutmosis IV.
Tattersall, W.M. - correspondence
Letter from W.M. Tattersall (Manchester Museum) relating to the donation of a collection of Egyptian scarabs.
Wilson, John A. - correspondence
Letter from John A. Wilson relating to the purchase of a scarab.
Notebook on topics including objects, flora, fauna, products, places and gods
1900? - 1925?
Notebook labelled by John Harris 'Miscellaneous Notes' with an index at the front containing notes on objects, flora, fauna, products, places and gods. It includes examples of attestations of words, variant writings, expressions or other terms formed by or including them, and some ancient Egyptian texts/hymns in translation.
Includes handwritten notes on:
objects (censers, bird traps, djed pillar, netjer pole, furniture, mirrors, sandals, tjet knot, chariots, flail and crock)
flora (plants, trees including conifers, cedar, cypress , woods including ebony, grain and wheat)
fauna (dogs, camels, giraffes, deer, oryx and a fauna bibliography)
products (natron, incense, myrrh, methods of tapping resin)
places (Lebanon, Byblos, “the land of the god”, Zahi, Retjenu, Phoenicia, place names in Syria)
gods (Osiris, Atum-Kheprer [also referred to as Atum-Kheper or Atum-Kepri], Iah, Adonis and Attis, Neferhetep, hieroglyph for God [R8] and variants)
Also includes notes on funerary offerings, the word sedj in seals, circumcision and the ritual of embalming.
Pages 3-4, 48-49, 51-59, 61-69 and 72-75 have been cut out. According to the index at the front of the notebook these pages include notes on:
-trees and wood (merw-wood, wan-wood, Peqer tree)
-animals (pig, cat, rat, mouse, lion, fox, wolf, jackal, ass, porcupine, jerboa, hippopotamus, elephant, hyena, monkey, baboon, bat, hedeghog, bear, ichneum, leopard, hare, addax, kudu, goat, ibex, dorcas gazelle)
Dates: There are references to publications up to 1925. Notes appear to have been added at different times.
Various Notes by P.E.Newberry
Notebook titled by Warren Dawson 'VARIOUS NOTES by P.E.Newberry' and inside 'Various Notes by Percy Edward Newberry given to me by him March, 1949' and below 'Given by Mr Warren R. Dawson, October, 1960'.
-Handwritten and typewritten notes on people who travelled in Nubia (modern central and northern Sudan and southern Egypt) and Egypt, mostly in the 19th century, including names, dates, where they visited and bibliographic references
-Typed extract from or notes on 'Mariette, Lettres et Souvenirs personnels', 1904 (OEB 144543)
-Typed notes titled 'Destruction of Monuments. Hermopolis Temple' and 'Destruction of Monuments. Temple at GAW'
-Notes on Pierre Belon du Mans and extract of a bibliography
-Notes on the Hoopoe bird including sketches
-Loose drawing of a scarab inscription
Seals from the Naqada Royal Tomb
Notebook titled on the first page 'Sealings. Garstang. Naqada Royal Tomb' containing drawings, tracings and cuttings of seals.
This notebook was previously in a box labelled, during previous archival processing, 'Sealings, Scarabs, Cylinders'.
Notebook containing cuttings and drawings of scarabs; cuttings and rubbing of cylinder seal impressions, (one dated 1929); notes on scarabs, seals and the sealing process.
Also includes envelope containing photographs of scarabs.
Notebook containing drawings of scarabs and scarab rings.
Also includes envelope containing drawings of rings and notes on scarabs, seals and coins.
Research notebook
1908 - c.1939
Notebook titled on inside page '1908-9 - Percy E. Newberry - University of Liverpool - c/o Thomas Cook and Sons - Cairo or Luxor'. It has also been labelled during previous archival processing 'Miscellaneous - Mainly sealings and other early dynastic material'.
Notebook contains short notes on a range of different topics, copies of inscriptions, drawings, cuttings and rubbings of scarabs and seals.
Includes notes on religion, geography, museum collections and objects, genealogy of the Newberry family, nome ensigns or standards, cult symbols and architecture.
Cylinder seal impressions
1900s - 1920s - Approximate date based on publication references.
Notebook housed in an envelope containing cuttings and drawings of cylinder seals and impressions from Abydos, including the tombs of Khasekhemwy and Neterkhet (also known as Djoser). Pages of the notebook have been numbered by Peter Kaplony on 26th November 1959. Notebook also includes loose pages of draft plates for Newberry, P.E., 'Impressions of seals from Abydos', in Annals of Archaeology and Anthropology, Volume 2, p.130 with plates xxii-xxv (1909) (OEB 146367).
This notebook was previously in a box labelled, during previous archival processing, 'Scarabs and Cylinders'.
Notes on the Timmins Collection
Notebook containing descriptive notes, drawings and copies of inscriptions on objects from the Timmins Collection. These objects were not included in Newberry, Percy E. 1907. The Timins collection of ancient Egyptian scarabs and cylinder seals. London: Constable (OEB 146409).
This notebook was previously in a box labelled, during previous archival processing, 'Objects'.
Dynasties IV, V and VI
? - 1940s
Folder titled 'DYN. IV, V, VI' containing notes relating to the 4th Dynasty, 5th Dynasty and 6th Dynasty.
-Notes on King lists for the 4th, 5th and 6th Dynasties
-Notes relating to Menkaure, Khafre, Khufu and Snefru
-Notes on cylinder seals from the 5th Dynasty
-Notes on Neith and the pyramid of Neith published by Gustave Jéquier in Jéquier, G. 1933. <i>Les pyramides des reines Neit et Apouit. Fouilles à Saqqarah</i>. Le Caire: Institut Français d'Archéologie Orientale (OEB 141991)
-Notes on Aba and the pyramid of Aba published by Gustave Jéquier in Jéquier, G. 1935. <i>La pyramide d'Aba. Fouilles at Saqqarah.</i>. Le Caire : Impr. De l'IFAO (OEB 141989)
Neithhotep and tomb
Folder titled 'Nîthotēp Naqada Tomb' containing notes and research material relating to Neithhotep and the identification of the Naqada tomb (TopBib v.118).
-Typed and handwritten notes on Queen Hetep (Neith-Hetep) and her tomb at Naqada
-Notes on objects inscribed with name of Queen Neithhotep
-Cuttings from Petrie, W. M. Flinders. 1901. <i>The Royal Tombs of the Earliest Dynasties</i>. London: Egypt Exploration Fund (OEB 147184) including Plate II and Plate VA
-Copies of ivory labels found in the tomb of Neithhotep (Cairo Museum, CG 14102, CG 14103, CG 14106, CG 14104) from Morgan, J. de 1897. <i>Recherches sur les origines de l'Égypte: ethnographie préhistorique et tombeau royal de Négadah</i>. Paris: Ernest Leroux (OEB 145679)
-Notes on the correct reading of the name of Neithhotep
-List of the contents of Chamber B
-Notes on seals found in the tomb of Neithhotep
-Notes and cuttings of a plan and section of tomb of Merneith (TopBib v.82)
-Typed notes on Libyan Amazons
-Notes and sketches of ivory tablet of Aha from the tomb at Naqada (Cairo Museum, CG 14142) (TopBib v.118)
Narmer and Menes
1938? - c.1948 This date is approximate based on the date of publications which have been referenced
Folder titled 'Menes label of Narmer - (7) - Narmer-Menes identification' containing three envelopes.
Envelope 1 includes:
-Typed draft titled 'The Votive Palette of Narmer' on the Narmer Palette (Cairo Museum, JE 14716) with handwritten notes
-Handwritten and typed notes, commentary, cuttings on the label of Aha or Naqada Label (Cairo Museum, CG 14142), including sketches and tracings
-Typed notes on the identification of Nar as Menes and the predecessor of Aha, possibly given as a lecture
-Handwritten note on the depiction of animals on predynastic vases
-Notes on the history of the 1st Dynasty and 2nd Dynasty
-Handwritten notes on seal found in the tomb of Tarkhan I giving the name of Narmer (Petrie Museum, UC 16077)
-Tracing and sketches of a seal of Narmer Men (Ashmolean Museum, E.3915?)
-Tracings and cuttings from Petrie, W. M. Flinders. 1901. <i>The Royal Tombs of the Earliest Dynasties</i>. Part 2. London: Egypt Exploration Fund (OEB 147184)
-Tracing and notes on two labels of Zer (also known as Djer) (Egyptian Museum of Berlin, 18026 and Cairo Museum, 44365)
-Tracing from Quibell, J. E. 1907. <i>Excavations at Saqqara (1905-1906)</i>. Le Caire: Institute Français d'Archéologie Orientale (OEB 147888)
-Tracings from Petrie, W. M. Flinders, et al. 1913. <i>Tarkhan I and Memphis V</i>. London, Aylesbury: Hazell, Watson and Viney, Ld. (OEB 147219) and Petrie, W. M. Flinders. 1914. <i>Tarkhan II</i>. London: School of Archaeology in Egypt (OEB 147220)
-Tracings from Petrie, W. M. Flinders, et al. 1902-1904. <i>Abydos</i>, 3 vols. London: Egypt Exploration Fund (OEB 146956) including inscriptions from the Tomb of King Ka-ap (also known as Qa'a)
-Handwritten notes on the 1st Dynasty and tombs at Abydos titled 'Egypt before historic times'
-Typed draft correspondence from Newberry to Raymond Faulkner and Alan Gardiner relating to Emery, Walter B. 1939. <i>Ḥor-Aḥa</i>. Excavations at Saqqara (1937-1938). Cairo: Government Press (OEB 138960) and the identification of Narmer with Menes, 1942-1947
-Typed draft correspondence to Walter Emery on Hor-Aha, 1938
-Notes on personal names of the Horus King
-Notes on variant writings of the name of Narmer
-Notes on Emery, Walter B. 1939. <i>Ḥor-Aḥa</i>. Excavations at Saqqara (1937-1938). Cairo: Government Press (OEB 138960)
-Notes on boats
-Notes on the Archaic Period and for a lecture on 1st Dynasty Kings
Newberry, Percy Edward: Menes : the founder of the Egyptian monarchy. - In: <i>Great ones of ancient Egypt</i>. - London : Hodder and Stoughton, 1929. - p. 35-53, 2 pl. (OEB 146376)
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Top-level description Thomas Eric Peet Collection
Morning Post, 23/02/1934
Peet MSS 6.2.4
Part of Thomas Eric Peet Collection
Obituary in <i>Morning Post</i>, 23/02/1934.
Yorkshire Post, 23/02/1934
Obituary in <i>Yorkshire Post</i>, 23/02/1934.
The Times, 26/02/1934
Notice on funeral in <i>The Times</i>, 26/02/1934.
List of foral tributes
List of people and institutions who sent flowers for the funeral.
Newspaper/journal not known, no date
Tribute by G. M. M. in newspaper/journal not known, no date.
Liverpool Post and Mercury, 23/02/1934
Tribute in <i>Liverpool Post and Mercury</i>, 23/02/1934.
Peet MSS 6.3
Group of miscellaneous newspaper cuttings.
Wheelerʼs Manchester Chronicle, 11/08/1792
Copy of <i>Wheelerʼs Manchester Chronicle</i>, 11/08/1792.
The Liverpool Echo, 11/11/1918
Copy of <i>The Liverpool Echo</i>, 11/11/1918 (end of World War I).
Newspaper not known, no date
Copy of “Un deputato che dona allo Stato” in newspaper not known, no date.
Newspaper not known, 1906
Craven Fellowship award in newspaper not known, [1906].
Peet MSS 7
Certificate 1
Certificate of Registry of Birth for Thomas Eric Peet; Walton[-on-the-Hill], 04/09/1882.
Certificate of Holy Baptism for Thomas Eric Peet; Walton-on-the-Hill, 24/09/1882.
Certificate of Marriage for Thomas Eric Peet and Mary Forence Lawton; British Consulate at Rome, 22/10/1910.
Certificate of Marriage for Richard Johnson Lawton and Catherine Augusta Bosworth (T. E. Peet's parents-in-law); Leicester, 05/07/1887.
Certificate of exemption from Responsions from Local Examinations at the University of Oxford for T. E. Peet; Oxford, 07/1898.
Certificate of Matriculation at the University of Oxford for T. E. Peet; Oxford, 15/10/1901.
T. E. Peet’s calling card for 9 Manley Road, Waterloo, Liverpool.
Notes on walking excursions
03/06/1905 – Easter 1906
Notes on walking excursions taken in the Lake District (England) and Snowdonia (Wales); 03/06/1905 – Easter 1906.
Travel record
Travel record, small notebook; 1906-1932.
Notes on Neolithic Italy
Preliminary notes for book on Neolithic Italy; no date.
Inaugural Lecture of Professor T. E. Peet, Oxford
Inaugural Lecture of Professor T. E. Peet; Oxford, 17/01/1934.
Draft of inaugural lecture
Two final pages of draft.
Publication of inaugural lecture
Publication of lecture: T. E. Peet, <i>The Present Position of Egyptological Studies. An Inaugural Lecture delivered before the University of Oxford on 17 January 1934</i> (Oxford: The Clarendon Press, 1934), 22 pages.
Notebook with notes on Latin and Greek
Notebook containing notes on Latin and Greek; Merchant Taylorsʼ School, Crosby.
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Okay, maybe not teenaged. But pretty close.
I just finished Star Wars Jedi Fallen Order where you play as Cal Kestis. He was a young padawan when Order 66 occurred. He has been hiding from the Empire’s Purge Troops for five years by keeping the same weird shaggy hair cut every padawan had in the movies. It’s called hiding in plain sight. And it’s been working. But to save a friend, he exposes his force powers and the hunt is on.
Climbing on AT-ATs to save Wookies. Classic.
I’ve been looking forward to playing this game for a while. I enjoyed the Knight of the Old Republic and Force Unleashed Games and I’ll have to admit that the premise sounded cool. I’m more of a first-generation Star Wars fan. I haven’t really dug into the cartoons or much of the extra lore around the prequels but the idea of a Jedi pursuing good while ducking the bad guys sounded fun. Like the A-Team with lightsabers.
Clone troopers are out. Stormtroopers are in.
The voice acting is great and the banter of the stormtroopers is enjoyable. It’s not quite Mandalorian level banter but there are some decent lines when they find themselves the last one standing.
Eff this guy.
The gameplay delivers. I got to fight beasts, deflect blaster bolts and even take on a giant bat that earned many middle fingers, but they were Jedi middle fingers.
It’s more like a Swiss army knife by the end.
You learn more force powers and your lightsaber evolves as the game goes on. You can push things, pull things, slow things and each skill lets you access more of the map.
It was a fun and the story was enjoyable. It even dove tails nicely into Rogue One a bit.
In the end, I didn’t swear too much, but my understanding is that the higher difficulties are brutal and probably lead to interesting curse combinations.
Now it’s on to Outerworlds.
Check out Jedi Fallen Order here.
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Wishlist BlogGeneral News Media Releases
Category Archives: General News
Doctors turning to radiation-free scans
Young patients may soon be able to skip the x-ray queue and instead opt for an ultrasound when presenting to a Sunshine Coast emergency department this year. Fractures are one of the most common reasons a child will visit an emergency department on the Coast, but with the help of a Wishlist research grant worth…
A word of thanks from Lisa Rowe
With the festive season underway it’s easy to get lost in the list of things to get through before a well- deserved break. But just for a moment I invite you to reflect on some of the things that your support of the Coast’s local hospital foundation has helped us achieve this past year. With…
Wrapping up our year
What a year 2019 was, and we couldn’t have done it without the support of the Sunshine Coast community. Wishlist kicked some serious goals this year, including building a home away from home for families with loved ones receiving treatment at Sunshine Coast University Hospital. We are excited to announce The House The Coast Built,…
Home-delivered telerehabilitation to benefit local stroke patients
Wishlist’s investment into research is set to benefit local stroke patients from Caloundra to Gympie thanks to funding of $19,538 for a home-delivered telerehabilitation research program. Stroke is one of Australia’s biggest killers and a leading cause of disability, accounting for 133,000 bed days in Queensland Health in 2016/17. Many stroke survivors are still experiencing…
Therapeutic suites to change breast screening on the Coast
BreastScreen Sunshine Coast and Wishlist are on a mission to increase the number of local ladies getting regular checks, by creating a much more pleasant environment at the Nambour BreastScreen clinic. In a Queensland first, Sunshine Coast women will soon have access to state-of-the-art Lighting and Sensory Distraction Suites for their regular and follow-up breast…
Music soothes the soul
Music has the power to soothe the soul. It’s a therapy that’s used in all areas of the health service to distract, reduce stress and create a sense of familiarity in an otherwise clinical environment. Determined to spread the joy of music far and wide, Wishlist has helped to fund music therapy for palliative care…
Wishlist Wrap – October
September’s Wishlist Spring Carnival was spectacularly successful, having raised $214,743 for local research projects. Not only was it a record fundraising success but we also played host to our largest audience yet, with 800 guests joining us for lunch and the legendary ‘after party’ at Novotel Twin Waters. To say I’m proud of this community…
Mental Health Garden offers peaceful time out
A flourishing sensory garden and sitting area in the Older Person’s Mental Health Unit (OPMHU) at the Sunshine Coast University Hospital (SCUH) has created a much-needed space for patients and families to find peace and fresh air in an otherwise clinical environment. Catering specifically to the needs of older persons aged 65 and over, the…
Seven years of great service
If you’ve visited Gympie Hospital you would have stopped by the Wishlist Coffee House and been helped by the shops well-known Manager, Richard Ward. Richard has spent the better part of a decade looking after the operations of the Coffee House and its hard-working tribe of volunteers. After many years of service and over $400,000…
Wishlist raises $214k for local research
Wishlist and the Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service’s Study, Education, Research Trust fund (SERTF) are on a mission to reduce the number of children that lose their lives to sepsis by funding vital research into the deadly condition. The Sunshine Coast Community knows the story of little Finn Smith—the 13-month-old boy who lost his…
Doctors turning to radiation-free scans January 9, 2020
A word of thanks from Lisa Rowe December 18, 2019
Wrapping up our year December 17, 2019
Home-delivered telerehabilitation to benefit local stroke patients October 25, 2019
Therapeutic suites to change breast screening on the Coast October 22, 2019
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CFO Innovation Conference, and Awards Gala
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ÜBER-Controlling
Articles, CFO, CFO Studio Magazine, Global Companies, Magazine
As Seen in CFO Studio Magazine Q1 2017 Issue
WHY BUSINESSES WITH GLOBAL CONCERNS NEED A NEW DYNAMIC ON THEIR EXECUTIVE TEAM
-BY GEORG ANNEN, Chief Financial Officer, Unger / USA & Europe
To navigate a company through rough market conditions requires knowledge, experience, and leadership. Management teams rely first of all on timely and accurate financial data and detailed business analytics. ROI calculations, valuations, and future cash-flow predictions are other critical factors. All this can give a company a vital competitive edge — and this is where controlling comes into play. Such prognostic information is so essential to management decisions, and the responsibilities of the controlling function are so extensive that I prefer to call it “ÜBER-Controlling” (“über,” the German word meaning “in excess of,” “above,” or “over,” not to be mixed up with Uber, the mobile taxi service!).
Basically, ÜBER-Controlling consists of three functions:
Sales & Marketing Controlling: Information about revenue development by customer and product as well as volume/price/mix effects; success of marketing campaigns and price sensitivity; market-related versus cost-plus pricing models; price entry points for new-product development, etc.
Production Controlling: Information about material, labor, energy, freight, and other manufacturing costs in total and by unit; make-or-buy decisions; margin comparison based on standard costs and variance analysis; discounted cash-flow calculation for capital investments, depreciation alternatives, and inventory optimization.
Overhead Controlling: Information on so-called fixed costs per department (Selling, Marketing, R&D, Supply Chain, Admin) and cost category (Personnel, Travel & Entertainment, Consulting, etc.); comparison to budget and prior year expenses.
An ÜBER-Controller does not just collect data from these three functions. He or she adds another dimension to it: Instead of looking just backwards or at today’s performance, he or she concentrates on looking forward. Through strategic and mid-term planning, annual budgeting, and rolling forecasting systems, the future of the company is being shaped by the ÜBER-Controller’s involvement and expertise.
Nevertheless, ÜBER-Controlling can only be successful when it works hand-in-hand with the financial accounting department under the leadership of the corporate CFO. Statutory financial statements for external information purposes (looking back) and management reports for management decisions (looking forward) are closely intertwined. Modern, fully-integrated ERP systems with new general ledger concepts and dedicated FI and CO modules can provide a multitude of management reports. For improved management reporting purposes, it is important to use notional costs for depreciation, interest, taxes, and asset and liability amounts based on actual market valuations.
The ÜBER-Controller’s role and responsibilities are critical for the success of a company. They transition the typical conservative finance function into a future-orientated, vibrant think tank. The more specialized and entrepreneurial the controlling knowledge is, the better is this individual’s support as a business partner.
The function of the ÜBER-Controller and his or her entire controlling team is highly delicate, because they are a hybrid in an organization. Whenever I discuss my concept of an ÜBER Controller, the question comes up: Are they part of finance or of an operational business function? The best way to deal with it is to have controllers sit next to the sales and production managers and be their day-to-day “sparring partners.” However, it is best for the ÜBER Controller to report into the CFO function, thereby guaranteeing complete independence and objectivity in their judgment.
LAND MINES AND REWARDS WHEN CORPORATIONS OPERATE INTERNATIONALLY
Moderator David Jansen, Partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers, promised that attendees would get great insights from “the top of the finance pyramid among global companies today” —and they did.
Discussing Tumi Luggage’s 184 wholly owned retail stores, Michael Mardy, CFO, said the decision to become a retailer and the model Tumi used in developing its retail presence in 75 countries might well be the reason why Samsonite offered to pay $1.8 billion to buy Tumi. Retail does not reliably make money for the company. But it generates a lot of cash, allowing Tumi to pay down debt. Furthermore, it’s been “a great way to build our brand.”
He said that “on average, the retail stores earn about $1,200 per square foot. Our wholesale business operates at about a 39 percent EBITDA margin, our retail business operates at about a 25 percent EBITDA margin.”
Mardy told audience members during the CFO Innovation Conference session, “I have basically replicated the McDonald’s operating model to expand Tumi overseas.”
Describing this operating model as a way to manage risk, Mardy, formerly CFO for a McDonald’s supplier, said, “We pick a local businessperson who really knows the market and we make them a distributor, make a sweetheart deal with them. Over time as we learn the market, we kind of flex our muscles and get a little bit more involved, making sure we’re giving the distributor his or her share of the profits.”
Bill Flynn, CFO for Sharp Americas, said his company’s practice of hiring distributors for the Latin American market is similar. (Like Tumi, Sharp Electronics is in the process of being acquired, in a deal with Foxconn.) “The key for us is protecting our brand,” said Flynn. “We’re careful in how we vet those distributors and then take them through extensive training. We set pricing standards for them, and we make sure that as they go to market, they are meeting those standards.” Sharp looks for distributors with good financial standing and presence in the region, and who have good knowledge of the market.
With its warehouse space, Sharp has followed a plan to keep the footprint small. “Since [2005], we’ve reduced our fixed warehouse square footage by 90 percent,” said Flynn.
To a question on how the panelists manage international risks and political uncertainties, Claude Draillard, CFO of Dassault Falcon Jet, said business jets attract a unique type of customer, 95 percent of whom are corporations, and some of whom don’t register the aircraft in the country where they are living. Not wanting to be ensnared in an illegal transaction, Draillard says, “We vet our customers before vetting our distributors.”
There are in fact no distributors, he added. “We want to control what’s being told to the customer before the sale and after the sale. We want to control the entire chain of value for the brand.”
The company’s training program, focusing on KYC (know your customer) “is absolutely necessary,” he said. Beyond that, “educating the sales force, educating those who are dealing with the customer, is a very important part of the CFO job, because [as CFOs] we are the backbone of compliance.”
With perceptions as pointed and candid as these, panelists gave the audience evidence that the CFO’s role in a global company requires, in Flynn’s words, “people skills, project management skills, and strong process knowledge.”
— Julie Barker
Being Global Has Its Challenges
Articles, CFO, CFO Studio Magazine, Compliance, Executive Dinner Series, Global Companies, Magazine, Regulation
REGULATORY ISSUES VARY COUNTRY BY COUNTRY AND RETAINING TALENT REQUIRES FOCUS AND CREATIVITY
In today’s global economy the role of a CFO is more complex than ever before. Successful CFOs must be able to operate in markets all over the world, with different currencies, cultures, time zones, tax structures, and regulations.
This was the basis for conversation during a recent World-Class Companies CFO Dinner Series event, entitled, “Challenges, Opportunity, and Driving Growth in a World-Class Enterprise; CFO Optics and Insights.” The evening was hosted by CFO Studio and the discussion leader was Richard Veldran, CFO at business-to-business data provider Dun & Bradstreet. Mr. Veldran manages a global finance team of 450, doing business in more than 200 countries.
“The global landscape and the challenges of increased regulations outside the United States were foremost in the thoughts of the CFOs who attended the dinner,” Mr. Veldran said in an interview.
Heightened regulatory requirements are having an enormous impact upon the role of the CFO, and Mr. Veldran has a unique vantage point on the challenges companies face complying with myriad new regulations that differ by country. Dun & Bradstreet has compiled the world’s largest commercial database, with information on more than 250 million businesses around the globe. The company supplies some of the largest global organizations with the tools they need to help them manage compliance on a global basis.
“Compliance is a new, fast-growing area of our business. With our vast global database and expertise in identity resolution we help companies with compliance regulations from KYC (know your customer) to FCPA to FATCA,” said Mr. Veldran, referring to foreign regulatory and tax compliance.
It’s no surprise that in this evolving regulatory environment the relationship between the CFO and the general counsel has taken on added importance. The general counsel is responsible for all aspects of regulatory compliance, and the CFO must manage all risk across the enterprise, including regulatory risk.
“CFOs are tighter with the general counsel than ever before,” said Mr. Veldran. “As the regulatory environment has gotten more intense, the chief financial officer and the general counsel need to help each other to manage risk so they can maximize the growth of the company. The bond between the two of them has become stronger than ever.” Conducting business across the globe brings increased complexity to the role of the chief financial officer.
High Stakes Regarding Talent
“We live in a world where the actions of one rogue employee could cause enormous financial upheaval for a company. It’s not possible to be everywhere at once when managing global operations. CFOs must make sure they are operating with a robust system of controls and oversight in place,” says Mr. Veldran. At Dun & Bradstreet, enterprise risk management is embedded in every function throughout the company, reaching well beyond the Finance and Legal departments. All business leaders recognize that they need to manage risk to achieve their performance goals.
With such high stakes it is important to have a team in place that is both educated and accountable. A discussion of talent-related challenges followed, with the major issues being acquiring the best talent, developing the individuals, and having measures in place to retain them for the long term.
“Talent retention is of the utmost importance, especially in large, complex, global organizations,” said Mr. Veldran.
Technology and the Customer
Modern financial management systems are providing instant insight into the full value chain of a company, agreed the participants. This goes beyond the four walls of the organization and gives access to customers, suppliers, banks, and the entire workforce, including external and contingent employees.
To better serve customers, Walmart, for example, uses innovative technology to track inventory, said Henner Schliebs, Finance Expert and Vice President at SAP, a CFO Studio Business Development Partner. “On Black Friday, Walmart optimized West Coast store shelves based on the East Coast early-morning experience and predictions [for Black Friday sales]. This is only possible with 21st-century technology,” explained Mr. Schliebs.
Customers are expecting a fully digital experience, he added. “A leading consumer brand enables its customers to find a song on the Internet, download it instantly, and have shipment and invoice/collection automatically embedded into the whole process. And again, it’s only possible with modern technology in real-time,” he said.
Real-time business intelligence like this is the way of the world. It’s also a defense against disruptive technologies and business models, said Mr. Schliebs. “Live business is imperative in all finance-transformation programs, especially as the threat of the next Uber-ization in all industries is high. A strong CFO has to be empowered to lead the strategy of a company,” said Mr. Schliebs.
JLL, a global real estate services firm, is hearing of these same issues from its clients. “Not only is retention critical, but locating solid percentages of targeted labor is also very important. Providing real-time technology tools that allow our clients to optimize their workforce-segmentation model and screen locations through high-level labor analytics helps us to support them in talent requirements,” explains Andrea Van Gelder, International Director, JLL.
At the dinner, which was held at Morton’s The Steakhouse in Chicago, the camaraderie was evident as all the attendees remarked on how similar their circumstances were. The very complexity of the finance and operational processes in business today “make a live environment and the real-time insights offered at this dinner very satisfying,” concluded Mr. Schliebs. “[Such insights are] a must-have in all aspects of the CFO role, specifically in combination with the need for a truly global solution (local compliance) focused on the particular industry (vertical compliance) and risk management embedded in any finance process.”
PwC will Present at the 2019 CFO Innovation Conference
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In Support of Freedom of Speech
If State Sen. Tom Reynolds and the doufus twins, J.J. Blonien and Bob Dohnal think they can win by intimidation, they really don’t have a clue. Gretchen Schuldt, who is the author of the blog Milwaukee Rising, is being threatened with a lawsuit by the above-named trio. Her crime: Asking legitimate questions regarding Mr. Reynolds spending of campaign funds.
Since Reynolds has already shown that he shrinks from the glare of public scrutiny, threatening to sue a former journalist who knows the rules of slander and libel seems a funny thing to do.
Consequently, like Xoff has already done, lets add to the fun and support Gretchen, who seems unfazed by their Gestapo-like tactics . Below are the postings in question regarding Reynolds. He may have started something he did not intend.
Questions about Tom Reynolds' utility bills
It's one thing to have your campaign headquarters in your house, as State Sen. Tom Reynolds (R- Loony Land) does.
It's another thing when you charge utility costs for your "campaign headquarters" to your campaign fund, as Tom Reynolds does. Even when there's not an election looming.
Let's go back to February, 2004, when Reynolds was very comfortably in the middle of his first term. Some people recognized him for the half-baked clown he is, but there was certainly no election threat on the immediate horizon. No reason to be burning the midnight light bulbs cooking up campaign strategies.
Yet Reynolds charged $57.79 for "gas and electric" for his "campaign headquarters" (his house) to his campaign fund. Hope none of that went to keep his kiddies warm at night. That would be a lot like converting campaign funds to personal use, which would be a distinct no-no.
State statute makes that clear:
No person, committee or group may make or authorize a disbursement or the incurrence of an obligation from moneys solicited for political purposes for a purpose which is other thanpolitical, except as specifically authorized by law.
Maybe Reynolds was in campaign mode in those election off years. In March, 2004, his campaign picked up two payments -- $58.43 on the 13th and $45.20 on the 29th; in May of that year, it was another two payments -- one for $29.44 and one for $35.81, both paid on May 28.
(In June he spent $197.28 at Half Nuts, which seems so appropriate, if somewhat understated.)
Reynolds, in fact, has been charging utility costs to his campaign fund since before he was elected in 2002. That year, a $40.17 electric bill was picked up by the campaign fund on Sept. 16, a week later, on Sept. 24, another $239.85 electric bill was paid by the same source, according to Reynolds' campaign finance report.
Reynolds' house /campaign headquarters isn't all that big -- 1,408 square feet, according to the West Allis city assessor's office. Utility costs should be relatively modest.
On and on it went, with utility costs sloughed off to the campaing fund more frequently:
November 2002, $140.98
November 2002, $76.18
March 2003, $79.91
Sept. 2003, $68.33
December 2003, $61.06
February 2004, $57.79
March , 2004, $45.20
May, 2004, $29.44
July 2004, $25.94
September, 2004 $35.52
November, 2004 $32.99
December, 2004 $33.83
Feb. 2005, $103.98
April 2005, $75.63
June 2005, $29.14
September 2005, $30.26
October 2005, $26.42
December 2005, $101.26
May 2006, $74.77
August 2006, $200.30
It could very well be that Reynolds is not charging the full cost of his utilities to his campaign, but he needs to explain how he separates his family's utility bills from his campaign headquarters' utility bills. A guy who literally poses for holy pictures can't be keeping his family warm with campaign funds.
Oh, yeah. Not a dime from Reynolds' campaign fund went to JJ Blonien, Reynolds' campaign "consultant" who also is on Reynolds' senate payroll as a staffer. Wonder how they keep those two roles nicely separate.
Reynolds camp can't get its story straight on utility charges
Tom Reynolds used his campaign funds to pay utility bills for the "campaign headquarters" in his home, according to Reynolds' own campaign finance filings.
Bob Dohnal, Reynolds disciple and publisher of The Conservative Digest, said the bills were for Reynolds' print shop, not for his home, despite what Reynolds said in his campaign filing (and I don't think you are supposed to fib on those).
The State Democratic Campaign Committee sent out letters to Reynolds' supporters telling them of Reynolds' creative use of their money to heat his home. Reynolds then issued a statement suggesting that the utility payments were for his home, but just for the campaign headquarters part of it:
The State Senate Democratic Campaign Committee comprised of: Chairperson, Judy Robson, Treasurer, Mark Miller and Executive Director, Matt Swentkowfske published the attached letter. The letter, with actual knowledge of the falsity of the statement, by the authors accuse me of violating state statute by using campaign funds for paying my private utility bills. The letter acknowledges that the authors know of my use of my residential property for my campaign headquarters. However, the authors go on to say that I pay my home utility bill from my campaign account which is a violation of State law. The letter also informs the Reynolds supporters that I am using the hard earned money of supporters and contributors to my campaign illegally to pad Tom Reynolds own pocket.
Reynolds demanded an immediate retraction and apology. You're going to be waiting a while for that one, Tom.
All bloggers should be dismayed and outraged by this attack upon their rights to free speech ... regardless of your side of the political spectrum.
Schuldt is a moonbat. She's quoted as saying that the Medical Complex (including Froedtert and Childrens' Hospitals) should bear the cost of engineering for the 894/45/94 upgrades.
THERE'S a health-care-cost compassionate liberal, eh?
Sullivan ALSO uses campaign funds to pay proportionate office-energy bills. It's a required accounting procedure for running a campaign.
Other Side said...
The entire cost of engineering, or their fair share?
I'll bet Sullivan has those expenses properly documented, not buried underneath half-truths and lies.
Dad, I can't believe you would even consider voting for Reynolds. He makes you look like an earthling.
So it is okay for the liberal to pay himself from his campaign coffers, but wrong for the conservative???
No double standards here are there????
Clint, you are looking at this far tto simplistically.
Election code does allow use of campaign monies for certain personal expenses as long as the payments are documented. If you are referring to Bryan Kennedy ... everyone is aware of what he has used campaign monies for and, if you will notice, there is no one saying the use is illegal ... there have been questions and he has answered them all.
No one is also saying that what Tom Reynolds has done is illegal. However, there have been legitimate questions raised about payments he has made. His documentation and his comments do not seem to match. It seems like he is trying to hide something ... and his attempt to squelch debate with this bogus threat of a lawsuit is appalling.
Even you must see the difference.
Twenty-five Years of Weird Al
Guns People Play II
We Must Stop Those Aliens
Wednesday Thoughts
Guns People Play I
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St Helena Government Signs Final Financing Agreement with the European Union for its Submarine Cable
SHG UK Representative, Mrs Kedell Worboys MBE, along with EDF Director for Latin America & Caribbean, Directorate-General for International Cooperation and Development, Jolita Butkeviciene
press release by St Helena Government originally published here
SHG is pleased to announce that today in Brussels at 2pm (GMT) SHG UK Representative, Mrs Kedell Worboys MBE, along with Director for Latin America & Caribbean, Directorate-General for International Cooperation and Development, Jolita Butkeviciene, signed the Financing Agreement for the Territorial Allocation of the 11th European Development Fund (EDF 11).
This is the final step in securing the territory’s funds from the 11th EDF. As a result, €21.5 million has been released to St Helena to support the delivery of the SHG Digital Strategy through the realisation of the submarine cable to enable faster and more reliable internet connectivity on the Island. Some funding will also go to both Ascension Island and Tristan da Cunha.
Financial Secretary and Territorial Authorising Officer, Dax Richards, said:
“It’s great to finally be able to draw to a close a piece of work which has been four years in the making. This is a huge step forward for St Helena as it brings the Island ever closer to the realisation of significant improvements in connectivity and accessibility via a subsea fibre cable. I would like to pay a special tribute to the European Commission officials who have worked alongside of St Helena in the spirit of partnership and cooperation to secure this important funding for the Island.”
SHG is grateful to the support of the European Union who recognises the significant benefits that improved connectivity will have on the community. These include improved health care services, better connectivity, economic and social development as well as addressing issues of isolation.
St Helena Government signs contract with Google to land subsea cable
St Helena expects ship to survey seabed for Google's Equiano cable on August 18th
Subsea cable to be landed on St Helena
High-speed broadband would be huge for education. Not only could we make better use of online materials, but with affordable broadband teachers could develop their practice from home.
I'm an IT engineer and I would love to return to my island to start an IT business, but because of the slow, expensive and unreliable internet connection this is simply impossible.
I had to leave St Helena to study. Being 5000 miles away from my family and friends is hard. Not being able to skype with them due to the slow and expensive internet on St Helena is even harder.
Socioeconomic status is now heavily reliant on broadband penetration. With the ever-growing importance of the internet, St Helena with its limited access is in danger of being left behind.
James Greenwood
Adivsory Teacher on St Helena
living on St Helena since 2011
Jonathan Clingham
from Wiltshire
emigrated to the UK in 1999
Laura Lawrence
English Language Student at
the University of Hertfordshire
left St Helena in 2011
Kimberley Yon-Roberts
Media Production Student at
the University of Bedfordshire
All contents, unless otherwise specified, are released into the public domain. created by A Human Right 2012
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Bitcoin Surges Past $5,700 in Hours: Experts Explain Factors of Overnight Rally
Over several hours on May 3, the price of bitcoin spiked from around $5,300 to over $5,700 in major markets, allowing the crypto market to gain more than $7 billion in a single day.
Most crypto assets in the global market have substantially surged in value in the past week
Source: coin360.io
Major crypto assets such as ether (ETH), litecoin (LTC), bitcoin cash (BCH) and EOS recorded gains in the range of 4% to 8% against the United States dollar, fueling the momentum of the crypto market.
Timing of bitcoin recovery is interesting
The abrupt recovery of the crypto market led by the strong upside price movement of bitcoin was largely unexpected due to the controversy surrounding iFinex, the company that oversees the operations of Tether and Bitfinex.
On April 25, the office of the New York Attorney General (NYAG) Letitia James filed a lawsuit against iFinex, alleging Bitfinex of using $900 million taken from Tether’s cash reserve in an attempt to “hide” its $850 million loss.
The NYAG’s office said that Bitfinex sent $850 million to a “bank” based in Panama called Crypto Capital Corp, which allegedly provided banking services to a variety of crypto exchanges that struggled to gain services from major financial institutions.
Ultimately, Bitfinex is said to have failed in recouping $850 million that was sent to Crypto Capital Corp, which likely led the firm to receive a $900 million loan from Tether.
The official document released by the NYAG’s office, which emphasized that the dealing between Bitfinex and Tether were not disclosed to users and investors, read:
“According to the filings, Bitfinex has already taken at least $700 million from Tether’s reserves. Those transactions — which also have not been disclosed to investors — treat Tether’s cash reserves as Bitfinex’s corporate slush fund, and are being used to hide Bitfinex’s massive, undisclosed losses and inability to handle customer withdrawals.”
Yet, despite the troubling development in the iFinex-Bitfinex case, the price of bitcoin has increased from $5,135 to over $5,735 in the past week as of press time.
What triggered the bitcoin rally?
In an exclusive interview with Cointelegraph, Crypto Rand, a widely recognized cryptocurrency trader and technical analyst, said that the upside movement of bitcoin and the rest of the market may have been simply technical.
According to the analyst, throughout the past two weeks, technical indicators were pointing toward a bullish momentum for bitcoin. As the market recovered fairly quickly from the Tether scandal, it likely boosted the confidence of existing investors in the market.
“For me, there is no fundamental reason behind. The Tether situation caused a dump that was recovered in no time. But even that dump stopped in the uptrend range channel support without causing major damages to the macrostructure. My perspective about it is clear. All relays on TA. It was looking pretty bullish since two weeks [ago].”
#Bitcoin looking solid here. Bullish pennant on the making. Target over the $6,000 region. pic.twitter.com/3WMFkuKzBN
— Crypto Rand (@crypto_rand) April 22, 2019
Immediately after Tether and Bitfinex’s general counsel, Stuart Hoegner, disclosed in an affidavit submitted to the Supreme Court of the State of New York, eToro CEO Yoni Assia suggested that the incident could serve as a catalyst for the near-term rally of bitcoin.
“Are the news supposed to pump or dump BTC? It’s bad news, but if $2 billion USDT get exchanged to BTC it actually increases its price… what a predicament. Tether Lawyer Admits Stablecoin Now 74% Backed by Cash and Equivalents,” Assia said.
As Tether holders began to sell the stablecoin for bitcoin — anticipating the stablecoin to lose its peg to the U.S. dollar — it may have driven the demand for the asset on paper. Tether investors buying bitcoin to either keep their funds in bitcoin or to sell for fiat could have fueled the momentum of the asset.
Can bitcoin sustain its current momentum?
Several prominent investors in the crypto space such as Vinny Lingham from Multicoin Capital have said that bitcoin surpassing the $6,200 to $6,400 range would officially signal the beginning of a new bull market. Lingham said:
“The key indicator for the start of a sustainable bull run is likely a decoupling of asset values from Bitcoin (i.e. Bitcoin’s strength weakens other networks or vice versa). Anything else is just speculation again (maybe we need another bubble to learn more lessons?
“That said, if we can break $6,200 for BTC, it will likely mark the start of another major bull run and could run hot and high, but if it’s pure speculation and other assets benefit disproportionately to value created, it’s likely not going to end well again!”
The valuation of the crypto market has recovered to $185 billion, adding $7 billion overnight
But, some traders in the cryptocurrency sector remain cautious on the short-term trend of the asset because of both technical and fundamental factors.
DonAlt, a cryptocurrency technical analyst, for instance, said that the Bitfinex premium indicates the lack of stability in the market that could potentially leave the asset vulnerable to a drop below $5,000.
Crypto Rand told Cointelegraph that bitcoin is facing strong resistance and that it may take several months to break past the resistance, which suggests that in the short-term, the asset may struggle to break out of the $6,000 region:
“Right now we are facing probably the strongest horizontal resistance on the whole Bitcoin chart. I don’t think it will be easy to cross but I’m confident about a breakout during the next months; a breakout that will unfold another bull run. One indicator I’m following closely to track the status of BTC its market capitalization, which right now is showing clear momentum after crossing the $100 billion mark or the first time in 2019.”
Momentum has been building since December
In recent months, bitcoin has largely depended on momentum and technical factors to record upside movements.
The highly anticipated block reward halving that is expected to occur in May 2020 is considered a strong fundamental factor that could serve as a solid catalyst for the medium-term price trend of the asset.
But, most of the year-to-date gain of bitcoin from $3,150 to $5,700 is likely to have started with a sudden surge in the price of bitcoin from $4,200 to $5,000 in the first week of April, which also was caused by technical factors boosted by a spike in the volume of the CME bitcoin futures market. Mati Greenspan, a senior analyst at eToro, told Cointelegraph in an interview:
“The crypto market has been gathering a lot of momentum since the mid-December lows and it seems a lot of traders are turning bullish. The April 2nd surge broke us through some significant barriers and this morning we’re even pushing further.”
In the foreseeable future, while some traders have expressed concerns about the Tether controversy, Greenspan noted that if investors dump Tether on the market, investors will likely end up buying bitcoin, further pushing the demand for the asset up.
“Any erosion of trust is more likely to send Bitcoin up rather than down. At the moment there is about $2.8 billion parked in Tether. If investors end up dumping it, they’ll probably just buy Bitcoin.”
In the past several days, the “real 10” volume of bitcoin, the legitimate daily spot volume of bitcoin calculated using the methodology presented by Bitwise Asset Management, has increased to nearly $900 million, based on data provided by OnChainFX.
In March, Bitwise Asset Management calculated the “real 10” volume — which is composed of volume from exchanges with at least $1 million in daily bitcoin volume — to be around $270 million.
2/ First, key takeaways:
A. 95% of reported BTC spot volume is fake
B. Likely motive is listing fees (can be $1-3M)
C. Real daily spot volume is ~$270M
D. 10 exchanges make up almost all real trading
E. Most of the 10 are regulated
F. Spreads are <0.10%. Arb is super efficient
— Bitwise (@BitwiseInvest) March 22, 2019
In comparison with early March, the volume of bitcoin has increased by more than 200% in less than a month.
Recovering from a panic sell-off in November 2018
Part of a reason behind the struggle of bitcoin to rebound above the $5,000 level from January to March was the abrupt decline in the price of BTC from $6,300 to $3,820 in late November of last year.
Within two weeks, the price of BTC plunged by nearly 40 percent against the U.S. dollar, leading many retail investors to panic sell.
“The November drop seems to be a capitulation pattern where investors sold out of apathy and despair. Once the $5,000 level was broken we even saw a bit of panic selling,” Greenspan said.
It required bitcoin at least three months to cleanly break out of $4,000 and merely minutes to get from $4,200 to $5,000.
In the upcoming weeks, traders are likely to focus on evaluating various stimuli that may push BTC above the crucial $6,000 level.
Alex Krüger, a global markets analyst, noted that the 2018 bear trend came to an end when bitcoin surpassed $4,200 and that a new bull market is likely to start as BTC surpasses $6,400.
$BTC now at $5750, the 2018 low prior to the November crash.
— The 2018 bear trend ended once above $4200.
— Above $6400, 2018’s most traded price, it’s a bull market. pic.twitter.com/rIQI8RIPgs
— Alex Krüger (@krugermacro) May 3, 2019
Some positive fundamental indicators that could restore the confidence of investors as bitcoin approaches its block reward halving is the rise of bitcoin’s transaction volume, hash rate and trading volume.
До этого СМИ: в рамках закрытого IEO биржа Bitfinex уже получила вербальные обязательства на $600 млн
Далее В ходе международной спецоперации с участием Европола был закрыт даркнет-рынок Wall Street Market
NEM(XEM)$0.0400491.08%
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Colin Hay – Man @ Work (2003)
Man @ Work
Produced by Colin Hay
©2003 Compass Records/Lazy Eye Records
Beautiful World (Alternate Mix)
Down Under (Acoustic)
Overkill (Acoustic)
Storm in My Heart
Looking for Jack
Don't Be Afraid
It's a Mistake
Who Can It Be Now? (Acoustic)
Be Good Johnny
Love Is Innocent
Down Under (feat. Cecilia Noël & The Wild Clams)
Click here for the 2014 acoustic vinyl edition track list
Colin Hay plans to release a new album in 2020 28/11/2019
Colin Hay nominated for award by collaboration with Sara Storer 20/11/2019
Men at Work classic concert at Rockpalast is available online 11/11/2019
Colin Hay added more dates to his solo tour in 2020 05/11/2019
Colin Hay will return to Ringo Starr’s All Starr Band in 2020 05/11/2019
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By The Horns
I met the guys from By The Horns Brewing* and their excellent ales at last year's LBA Showcase at Vinopolis, so when I heard that they were having a couple of open days over the weekend my interest was piqued.
Like so many others these days, the brewery is tucked into one of a row of uniform industrial units, in this case just around the back of Wimbledon dog track. I guess the dogs keep the Wombles from nicking the casks... The five-barrel brewing kit looks good - managing director Chris Mills, who set up the brewery along with Alex Bull, says it's mostly ex-Amstel vessels, converted by Oban Ales up in Argyll. They currently have three fermenters and are planning to add a fourth, along with a conditioning tank.
While they had five ales for sale on gravity, the biggest change from what I saw last year when it was all cask was the large spread of bottles on the table. Having started bottling last month, Chris and Alex now bottle all their ales themselves as well as selling them in cask. As well as some local distribution - although of course they are on the look-out for more - Chris says they have beer going up to Manchester.
Interestingly, all the bottles are 330ml, rather than the 500ml I would have expected. Alex says that as well as reflecting how he and Chris like to drink (out of half-pint stemmed glasses), he feels the smaller bottles have "more of a young, contemporary look" that fits well with the bars they target.
The regulars are: Stiff Upper Lip, a 3.9% pale ale with Sonnet and Pioneer hops and a nice balance between a biscuity body and dry-bitter citrusy hops; Bobby on the Wheat, a 4.7% cloudy pale wheat ale with faint lemon and lactic tangs; Diamond Geezer, a 4.9% red ale with lots of sultanas and other fruit on the nose and then a nutty almost pecan pie body; and the newest addition Lambeth Walk, which is a tasty 5.1% dark porter with notes of treacle toffee, ginger and cocoa.
They're also doing specials and seasonals - I came away with an as-yet unopened bottle of Jolly Fatman, their winter spiced oatmeal stout, and they had a 6.4% 'double' version of the Diamond Geezer red ale in both bottles and cask. If you just thought Double Diamond I guess you're old like me - being younger, they called it Diamond Geezers instead.
I was driving, so after buying a few bottles and thanking Alex and Chris for the hospitality and the tasty samples, that was my limit. Fortunately the trip back was equally pleasant - a walk on Wimbledon Common and then coffee at the snack bar by the windmill, as the sun was setting. All Saturday afternoons should be like this!
*Their website's remarkably uninformative, apart from a link to the brewery's Facebook page, which is a bit more helpful - as long as you have a Facebook account, I suppose... There's also the brewery's RateBeer page which lists the beers.
Labels: london brewers
A tenner a pint
It was on the train home afterwards that I finally realised what the barman in the Craft Beer Co had been trying to tell me through the din. I'd just ordered a Mikeller Santa's Little Helper and a Thornbridge Bracia, and gesturing towards the latter pump he said "It's six and a half" – as in percent, or so I thought.
That seemed a bit odd given that Bracia is normally 9% or so, but this was a special that had been aged for three years in Pedro Ximinez sherry casks, and I'd already had a couple of other very nice beers and was a bit zonked by the noise and the crush at the bar. I just figured I'd misheard so I shrugged and nodded.
Passing over a £20 note and getting £10.05 back was a bit of a surprise - £9.95 for two halves? Once I figured it out, I realised it was even more than that – the Mikeller must've been £3.95, or £7.90 a pint, which isn't really all that expensive for a foreign craft beer weighing in at 10.9%, but what he'd actually been telling me was that the Bracia was "£6 a half".
Yes, £12 a pint – if they'd even sell you a pint of a beer that's 9.3%, and if you could actually drink that much of something which tastes a bit like a liquid black treacle and liquorice pudding. It is a stunningly good and complex beer though, huge-bodied and delicious, with hints of sour cherries, some woody and vinous notes, and a bit of dark chocolate. And while it had less alcohol - nominally, at least - than the Mikeller which was also very tasty and slipped down far too easily, the Bracia somehow had more presence and body.
So, when can I get over there again to see if there's any left...?
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Book a Taxi in London
Browsing all articles tagged with travel heathrow to gatwick
Fastest and Cheapest Transport Heathrow to Gatwick
Totally Airports London cab heathrow to gatwick, heathrow to gatwick, taxi heathrow to gatwick, travel heathrow to gatwick
Heathrow is one of six international airports in London and handles almost 40% of the total air traffic to the capital city. This international airport has five terminals and is the largest and busiest airport in the country. It is located in the London Borough of Hillingdon and is about 15 miles from Central London. The airport is connected to the city via train, local buses, the tube and taxis. Located in West Sussex and the second largest international airport of London is London Gatwick. This airport has two terminals, North and South and is connected by an inter-terminal shuttle which can be used 24 hours a day. The airport handles over 35 million passengers every year. The distance between Heathrow and Gatwick is about 40 miles. Public transport from Heathrow to Gatwick is available from all terminals of the airport.
Taxi from Heathrow to Gatwick
Totally Airports London heathrow to gatwick, taxi heathrow to gatwick, travel heathrow to gatwick
Heathrow and Gatwick are London’s busiest airports. Together they handle almost 80 percent of the country’s air traffic. They are situated along different directions from Central London and getting from Heathrow to Gatwick is time consuming and tiresome.
Brandie on Air Malta
Woodrow Tarner on Air Malta
Darrick Beckstrand on World’s Top Ten Airports in 2010
Leatrice Leiding on Air Malta
Ursula Bivings on History of The Ashes
Shawn Oka on Air Malta
Odelia Cologie on Air Malta
Gavin Hamamoto on History of The Ashes
© 2020 TotallyAirports. All Right Reserved.
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Children in Armed Conflict
Accountability Initiative
CAC Accountability Framework
Empowering children
Enforcing laws and norms
Guidelines and manuals
Justice and rule of law
Handbook on Children Recruited and Exploited by Terrorist and Violent Extremist Groups: The Role of the Justice System
Download full PDF from unodc.org
This handbook is designed for national authorities and provides guidance on the treatment of children recruited and exploited by terrorist and violent extremist groups, with emphasis on the role of the justice system. The main objectives of the handbook are to prevent the recruitment of children, identify effective justice responses to these children, and promote their rehabilitation and reintegration. The target audience is both law and policymakers who design policies of prevention and treatment as well as practitioners dealing directly with children in these contexts.
Children in Armed Conflict Accountability Framework: A Framework for Advancing Accountability for Serious Violations against Children in Armed Conflict
Conflict Dynamics International
Download full PDF from cacaccountability.org
This Framework is a practical resource that promotes accountability for serious violations of international law committed against children in armed conflict (CAC). It responds to the significant gap that exists in preventing and remedying these serious violations - and is designed to assist policymakers and practitioners working at all levels to bridge this gap. It provides individuals and organizations working in child protection, justice, peacebuilding, and related fields with a comprehensive definition and structure for understanding CAC accountability and practical guidance for developing well-informed, context-specific, and feasible options for advancing CAC accountability.
Marco de Rendición de Cuentas frente a los niños, las niñas y los jóvenes afectados por los conflictos armados
This resource is the Spanish version of the "Children in Armed Conflict Accountability Framework." El Marco de Rendición de Cuentas frente a los niños, las niñas y los jóvenes afectados por los conflictos armados es un recurso práctico que promueve mecanismos para abordar casos de violaciones graves derecho internacional cometidas contra los niños, las niñas y los jóvenes en situaciones de conflicto armado (rendición de cuentas sobre NNJ). Elaborado como respuesta al importante vacío existente en materia de prevención y reparación de este tipo de violaciones, este Marco aporta los siguientes elementos: 1. una definición completa y estructura para entender la cuestión de la rendición de cuentas sobre NNJ; 2. orientaciones metodológicas prácticas que pueden ser adaptadas y aplicadas en diferentes contextos con el objeto de aumentar las acciones de rendición de cuentas sobre NNJ.
Guiding Principles for the Domestic Implementation of a Comprehensive System of Protection for Children Associated with Armed Forces or Armed Groups
International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)
Download full PDF from icrc.org
This resource aims to clarify existing obligations of State parties, facilitate respect for existing obligations, and promote the implementation of relevant legal provisions. It contains recommendations by the ICRC for practical, regulatory, and legal measures to promote the effective domestic implementation of international rules to protect children affected by armed conflict. This resource considers specific issues such as recruitment, juvenile justice, preventative measures, reparations, transitional justice, and disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration programs.
Guidelines on Action for Children in the Justice System in Africa
UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence Against Children
See full resource on srsg.violenceagainstchildren.org
Intended for African governments, this resource aims to provide guidance on implementing African Union (AU) and other regional and international treaty bodies. The guidelines include a set of overarching principles, general measures of implementation, an overview of child friendly justice, fair trial rights for children in conflict with the law and for child victims and witnesses, and alternative care proceedings. This resource also discusses traditional justice and provides minimum standards for traditional courts.
Criteria for the Design and Evaluation of Juvenile Justice Reform Programmes
Interagency Panel on Juvenile Justice (IPJJ); UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)
Download full PDF from unrol.org
This resource identifies good practice for juvenile justice programs and develops a set of criteria for their design and evaluation based on the rights of the child enshrined in international norms and standards. This resource also considers basic principles and programs for child victims and witnesses of crimes. The annex includes sample programming goals, objectives, outcomes, and potential impact.
Toolkit on Diversion and Alternatives to Detention
See full resource on unicef.org
This resource is an online toolkit that provides practical guidance on advocating and implementing diversion and alternatives to detention for children in conflict. Diversion means channeling children in conflict away from judicial proceedings to be dealt with by non-judicial bodies. This resource explores steps for implementation, including data management, monitoring and evaluation, and planning. It also includes a list of additional resources, such as fact sheets and case studies.
Transitional Justice: Information Handbook
United States Institute of Peace (USIP)
Download full PDF from usip.org
This resource looks at the goals of transitional justice post-conflict and factors for determining appropriate transitional justice mechanisms. It provides guidelines on criminal prosecutions, truth commissions, vetting, reparations and compensation.
Implementing Victims’ Rights: A Handbook on the Basic Principles and Guidelines on the Right to a Remedy and Reparation
Download full PDF from redress.org
This resource was created as a companion to the UN’s Basic Principles and Guidelines on the Right to a Remedy and Reparation for Victims of Gross Violations of International Human Rights Law and Serious Violations of International Humanitarian Law. It was intended to help guide non-governmental and civil society organizations advocate for victims’ rights as primary concern in state action.
Rule-of-Law Tools for Post-Conflict States: Mapping the justice sector
UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)
Download full PDF from ohchr.org
This resource aims to assist UN missions and transitional administrations in mapping the justice sector to understand how it operates in states before and during conflict. This resource provides an overview of key institutions, mechanisms, and priorities such as linkages between institutions and oversight bodies or accountability mechanisms. Page 14 focuses on traditional justice.
Basic Principles and Guidelines on the Right to Remedy and Reparation for Victims of Gross Violations of International Human Rights Law and Serious Violations of International Humanitarian Law
United Nations General Assembly
See full resource on ohchr.org
This UN General Assembly resolution provides principles related to State's obligations concerning reparations to victims of international humanitarian and human rights abuses. Victims have a right to be treated humanely and with respect, to access justice and relevant information, and to be afforded adequate and effective reparation without discrimination.
International Criminal Justice and Children
No Peace Without Justice (NPWJ); UNICEF Innocenti Research Centre
Download full PDF from unicef.org
This resource introduces the international framework for children and justice, including international legal protection standards and judicial and non-judicial accountability mechanisms. It takes a particular look at protection of children in times of war and use of child soldiers, as well as protection of children as victims and witnesses. In particular, it outlines the role of the International Criminal Court (ICC), as well as its relation to national justice systems. Finally, it gives some concrete recommendations on the role of children in non-judicial mechanisms like truth commissions and traditional accountability mechanisms.
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Book Review - The Happy Couple- How to make happiness a habit one little loving thing at a time By Barton Goldsmith PHD ; forward by Harville Hendrix, PHD
The Happy Couple offers simple strategies for developing and strengthening the positive relationship traits of-
-gratitude
-humor
-honesty
'The Happy Couple is a guide book to relationships that every couple should read.' Bernie Siegel, MD author of A Book of Miracles and The Art of Healing.
With exercises at the end of most chapters the book is lighthearted, entertaining and positive. In the conclusion there is an interesting top ten list of ways to improve your relationship habits, which seems very achievable to implement into daily life.
An enjoyable and positive read. Anne
Labels: daily, gratitude, habits, happy, honesty, humor, life, positive, relationships · 0 comments
Book Review—A Brief History of Seven Killings by Marlon James
In the 1970s the world become disillusioned with rock and reggae became the new counter culture with Bob Marley as guru. As a sign of this prominence, The Singer organises the Smile Jamaica concert. Although an event that would resonate with the world at large, it was designed to help bring peace to the trouble island facing political corruption and gang violence. Told through the eyes of gang members, politicians, CIA operatives, abandoned women, and journalists, the full panorama of the tumultuous times comes to bear, with the ramifications having bearings into the following decades.
James’ tome owes a great deal to the multitudes of voices that fill its pages, whether it’s the Jamaican jive of Papa-lo or the domestic tinged machinations of Diflorio or the sanctimonious droning of journalist Alex Pierce. Like Faulkner, these numerous voices give us a unique vernacular on the unfolding events. Where it does stumble a little is that unlike Faulkner these shifts in voice do not always amount to a shift in perspective, rendering them repetition without reconstruction. Where it does come to bear is with its central subject. Of all the voices, the one that is never heard is The Singer. He is already a spirit in his own time, a myth being created as the actions unfold, and becomes the source of all hope, assurance, despair, and paranoia of all those in Jamaica. He becomes the symbol, the solution, the sage, the suspect, the sin, the song that all these cacophonous voices sing about.
Rich, alluring, and gritty, A Brief History of Seven Killings is a vibrant, multidimensional tale that divulges the personal within the monumental.
Labels: A Brief History of Seven Killings, Bob Marley, Jamaica, Marlon James, reggae, revolution · 0 comments
Film Review - The Heat By Director Paul Feig
The Heat stars Sandra Bullock and Melissa McCarthy. From the director of the Bridesmaids. This odd couple joins forces to bring down a ruthless drug lord.
At the start they couldn't be more different but through their amusing and dangerous escapades they become true buddies. Filled with laughter and action, a great movie. Anne
MA15+ Strong course language, crude humor and violance
Labels: Action, dangerous, forces, laughter · 0 comments
Film Review—Kumiko, the Treasure Hunter
By day Kumiko (Rinko Kikuchi) works a menial administrative job. Her mother is over bearing, wanting her to move back home until she finds a man and has children, and constantly questions her about promotions. At work, her colleagues are all younger than her with perfect figures and bright carers ahead of them, and her former school mates are living the life her mother dreams for her. But by night Kumiko obsessively studies an old scratched video cassette of Fargo, wanting to pinpoint the exact place where Carl Showalter (Steve Buscemi) buried the briefcase of money. One day, after having enough of her oppressive life, Kumiko goes on an all or nothing trip to Minnesota to hunt for her treasure.
The links with Fargo are plentiful. From the amped up personalities of the characters to the bleak white of the Minnesota snow. The other worldly Minnesota gives the second half of the film a dream like quality in comparison to the stifling, tinted Japan. The cinematography alone tells the story, shifting from Kuniko’s dingy home life to the expanse of the wilderness until she becomes a lone ghoul searching the forest until her final, blisteringly white triumph. The interplay with Fargo, a film where the intersection of dreams has fatal results, is appropriately at the heart of Kumiko’s obsession and quest. The treasure, the fictional prize that for Kumiko must, at all cost, be real and found, becomes an object worth risking everything for, and in the end, it is only by sacrificing her all that the dream has any chance of coming true.
Disparaging and beautiful, Kumiko, The Treasure Hunter reveals the treasure of dreams and the dangers of following them.
Labels: Coen Brothers, desire, dreams, Kumiko The Treasure Hunter, treasure · 0 comments
Film Review - Last Vegas By Director Jon Turtletaub
Last Vegas stars Michael Douglas, Robert De Niro, Morgan Freeman and Kevin Kline. Billy, Paddy, Archie and Sam are all childhood friends. When Billy decides to get married to his 30 something girlfriend the gang gets back together.
They head to Las Vegas to throw a bachelor party for their last remaining single pal. This film is filled with laughs. Anne
Labels: bachelor, childhood, party · 0 comments
Book Review—A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
We all know someone like Ove. He’s the neighbour who tells you how to correctly mow the lawn, the uncle who always knows what’s wrong with the economy, or the man on the bus who will tell you why smartphones are nothing more than electronic humbug. Ove wakes early every morning before doing a neighbourhood inspection to make sure all is well and everyone is following the rules. He then has coffee with his wife, Sonja, and does a solid days work. Or at least, he used to. With Sonja dead for six months, Ove is placed in early retirement by the company where he worked for 30 years. Rather than face his days doing nothing at home he decides to end his life and join his wife. But with each attempt he comes face to face with the incompetence of the modern world, and each time he must delay his plan in order to set things right.
With hilarious observations of contemporary life, Backman shifts through all the assumed goods of the modern world, from tech professionals, to jogging, and the nonsensical T&Cs that accompany over consumerism, all with colourful, cantankerous jibes. But where this novel works is not in its observations or in its adeptness at highlighting the curmudgeon in our own lives (or in ourselves). Instead it is in its creation of sympathy for Ove. We come to see that his “rules are rules” mentality is not out of spite for other people, but a frustrated response to a world that only ever regarded him as someone who should just follow the rules, despite his attempts to live a life of principles that no one else seems to value.
A Man Called Ove is a hilarious, touching and compassionate portrait of those that modern life leaves behind.
Labels: A Man Called Ove, Comedy, curmudgeon, modern life, Satire · 0 comments
Film Review - Fifty Shades of Grey By Director Sam Taylor Johnson
Fifty Shades of Grey stars Dakota Johnson, Jamie Dornan. Ana is an inexperienced college student who is filling in for a friend interviewing billionaire and charismatic Christian Grey.
Quickly business turns to pleasure and Ana is swept up in Christian's glamorous lifestyle. Ana learns she needs to protect herself from Christian as she uncovers his darker side and secrets. At the same time she is drawn closer to unlock her own dark desires.
An all-consuming romance, how far will Ana go for love?
MA15+ Strong sex scenes, sexual themes and nudity.
Labels: business, college, desires, glamorous, lifestyle, pleasure, secrets · 0 comments
TV Review—Better Call Saul Season One
Following the success of Breaking Bad, creator Vince Gilligan created this spin-off/prequel. Focusing on Saul Goodman, Walter White’s shady ‘criminal’ lawyer, the series shows him from his origins as Jimmy McGill, known as ‘Slipping Jimmy’, a two-bit hustler from Illinois, and his attempts to become a prominent lawyer in Albuquerque, New Mexico, following in his brothers much regarded footsteps. The process, Jimmy finds, is not easy, and involves him utilising many of the skills of his past in order to carve out his future.
Like its predecessor, it features a mix of relatable yet unusual characters in escalating scenarios. It also has a more consistent quality than Breaking Bad, with each episode having a solid plot while being heavily interconnected to the overall story arch. Jimmy is also a more charming character. Where Walter White’s musing shifted between the melancholic and triumphant with manipulative intent, Jimmy provides a smooth, enjoyable rhapsody. You know he’s playing you, but with a tune this enjoyable why stop dancing? Comparisons will continue to be made with its parental series, but Better Call Saul is best thought of as a companion piece. Where Breaking Bad focused on change, on Walter’s complete transformation from “Mr Chips to Scarface”, as Gilligan described it, Better Call Saul focuses more on stasis, on the inability to escape ones past and completely transform oneself. Jimmy quickly realizes that his future is not reliving his ‘Slipping Jimmy’ days nor in becoming a pillar of the legal community like his brother, but an evolution into something altogether unique.
Highly enjoyable viewing with great dramatic heft and engaging dialogue, Better Call Saul is not just a good spin-off, but a great television series.
Labels: Better Call Saul, Bob Odenkirk, Breaking Bad, change, lawyers, past, Vince Gilligan · 0 comments
Book Review—Trust Your Melody by Lana Mayes
When I started reading ‘Trust Your Melody’, I felt as though I was riding the roller coaster with Lana - I cried when she cried, I swelled with pride every moment she did and shed a tear when Thomas was born safely after a horrendous pregnancy.
There is so much emotion in Lana’s words which I recognise from my own story, that I just know how helpful this book would be to other mums. Reading about her struggles with breastfeeding was like re-living my own journey as a new mum with no how-to handbook. I only wish I had this book when I was a new mum!
As mums we put so much pressure on ourselves. That is particularly why I love the messages at the end of each chapter. They're a wonderful reminder that we need to pat ourselves on the back a little more often!
Lana is an amazing writer and her book is full of heart which is probably why I can't put it down. I wanted to congratulate Lana - your story is powerful and I truly wish you every success. I know that other readers will feel as uplifted as I did afterwards.
I can't wait to read the next instalment in what has been an incredible journey so far.
Iliana Stillitano (Guest Reviewer)
Labels: breastfeeding, Motherhood, new mum, parents · 0 comments
Movie Club—The Evolution of Noir 2: L.A. Confidential
In December the Movie Club will continue its look at the changing face of noir with L.A. Confidential. Released in 1997, the film has been praised by critics (earning a 99% “Fresh” Rating on the Rotten Tomatoes), but never received the wide-spread attention it deserved then or now. This is particularly tragic as the film has a tight, fast moving plot, highly engaging dialogue, and solid performances from Russell Crowe, Guy Pierce (both new-comers to the Hollywood system at the time) and Kevin Spacey.
Things are rotten in 1950s L.A., and three different detectives try to navigate the vice in the fallen "City of Angels". Each has a different approach: Crowe plays the tough guy, with a tooth and claw mentality and a penchant for punishing wife beaters; Pearce is a political animal, believing in high principles and the “New L.A.P.D.”; and Spacey is the smooth talking type, with links to tabloids and working as an adviser to a hit television detective show. While looking into different cases the three start to notice links, and although using different methods and having personal grudges, they combine their skills and efforts to uncover the darker parts of L.A. and their own police department.
Where The Maltese Falcon established many of the stylistic characteristics of film noir, L.A. Confidential plays with these conventions. It consciously replicates them while reworking them. This is perhaps best done with its tone: The Maltese Falcon had a dark outlook, where the corrupt and criminal elements weighed down the film with its post-Depression, pre-war angst. But L.A. Confidential boldly accepts its colour film and seedy subject matter, serving up its vice and violence with vivacious glee. It may seem as though it is enjoying its subject matter too much, but therein lies the “ambiguity and ambivalence” that separates the truly great noirs from those who just want to play detective.
L.A. Confidential will be screened on Wednesday 9 December at 6pm at Narellan Library, Cnr Queen and Elyard Street Narellan. Coffee, tea, and biscuits will be provided, but BYO snacks also welcome. Stay after the screening and share your thoughts about changes that have occurred in noir from the time of The Maltese Falcon to L.A. Confidential. Use the discussion questions or share your own observations.
Labels: corruption, Film Noir, Kevin Spacey, L.A. Confidential, Russell Crowe · 0 comments
Film Review - Dallas Buyers Club By Directer Jean- Marc Vallee
Dallas Buyers Club stars Matthew McConaughey and Jennifer Garner. Winner of 3 Academy awards.
Texas cowboy Ron Woodroof is diagnosed as HIV positive and given 30 days to live. Not accepting his death sentence he embarks on his own journey, sometimes humorous with his disguises to seek other treatments and defy the odds. Making new friends along the way he challenges the medical community. This is a story of true strength of character and resilience. Anne
MA 15+ Strong sex scenes, drug use and course language
Labels: character, community, HIV, humorous, journey, medical, Resilience, treatment · 0 comments
Book Review—The Awakening and Selected Stories by Kate Chopin
Edna Pontellier, wife of Laconce, a successful Creole businessman in New Orleans, has adjusted, over six years of marriage, to her new life and home. Accommodating the expectations of her husband and the upper society of New Orleans, she meets, while vacationing at a nearby Island, Robert Leburn, with whom she becomes infatuated. This young man sparks memories of her youthful infatuations, and she begins to unravel, socially and sexually.
Chopin came to prominence as a local colourist author, presenting the variety of the South and Louisiana in the late 19th Century. Stories like "The 'Cadian Ball" and "Désirée’s Baby" are fine example of this tradition, with the latter highlighting the preoccupations with miscegenation. Other stories, such as "Emancipation: A Life Fable", "Story of an Hour" and The Awakening reveal a focus of Chopin for which she become noted for after her death: a growing consciousness of the restraint of women within society. It was her place as an outsider in this Creole New Orleans (originally from Missouri) that provided Chopin with the distance to observe the vibrance of middle class creole society and, like Edna in The Awakening, to see through the pretences and social fictions. What makes The Awakening unique is that although born out of this local Colour, intellectually it is at home in two literary traditions: the feminist writers of the 19th century, such as George Sand, and fin-de-siecle literature, best known in the English speaking world through Oscar Wilde and Aubrey Beardsley, with its preoccupations with degeneration but also of new beginnings and new hopes. The social and sexual critique comes not only from her unique position with her new home, but also in the richness of ideas that travelled from far off and helped make sense of these constraints within her fiction.
Deeply personal while at the same time socially relevant, The Awakening and Selected Stories provides unique insights into both the author’s and our society.
Labels: feminism, fin de siecle, Kate Chopin, New Orleans · 0 comments
Film Review - World War Z By Director Marc Forster
World War Z stars Brad Pitt. This movie is a non-stop action, horror. UN employee Gerry Lane travels the world for answers to stop the zombie pandemic which is dominating governments and conquering armies all over the world.
Gerry has to work fast to stop the down fall of humanity in its entirety, its a heavy weight to have on one persons shoulders. Filled with non stop-action and horror, it will keep you on the edge of your seat at times. Anne
Labels: Action, governments, Horror, humanity, pandemic, zombie · 0 comments
Film Review—Big Eyes by Tim Burton
Margaret (Amy Adams) leaves her husband and moves to San Francisco to make a living as an artist in the bustling 1950s art scene. She finds it difficult to promote her works, despite their unique ‘big eyed waif’ quality. She meets Walter Keane (Christoph Waltz), who is also trying to strike it big with his European street scenes. Walter is a charmer and helps Margaret sell her paintings by pretending they are his works. It’s a success, but the strain of lying to everyone, including her daughter, takes its toll on Margaret, and Walter’s shady stories and past start to unravel.
Big Eyes is a refreshing change from Tim Burton, dropping the zany lead in a bizarre world and adopting a more real world setting, although still with his flair for perfectly framed shots with rich colour and stylised vistas. Here Burton adopts a domestic tale, where Margaret’s desires and skills are usurped by Walter’s own plans despite a lack of skill, giving a direct, if obvious feminist tale. The plot is straightforward, but has some interesting moments between Adams and Waltz. Adams’ delicately brittle performance couldn’t be appropriate, but Waltz, although entertaining as always, fell into the predictable, once again playing the charming deviant. Half way through the film you start thinking a more subtle performance would have aided the story.
Big Eyes is an invigorating and much welcomed development in Burton’s unique filmography.
Labels: Amy Adams, art world, Christoph Waltz, drama, feminism, Tim Burton · 0 comments
Film Review - Saving Mr Banks By Director John Lee Hancock
Saving Mr Banks stars Tom Hanks and Emma Thompson. This story is about the making of Mary Poppins. Walt Disney tries unsuccessfully to obtain the rights to the story from a tough author.
Only when they go back into past childhood memories do they feel free and are able to release Mary Poppins into the world. An enjoyable and uplifting movie, touching at times. Anne
Labels: childhood, memories, story, tough · 0 comments
Book Review—Collected Fictions by Jorge Luis Borges
Like a book hidden away in the shelves, Borges is more legend than reading; mentions of his name or work receives either vague recollections or an outright “huh?” This is in part due to his output being short stories in an era when the form is viewed as the lessor of creative fiction (ironic in a time of microwavable meals, sound bite news, and Twitter posts), but another is Borges’ unique approach to the form, fully accepting that its strength is its inherent formlessness.
He worked with standard literary styles, like the detective story or the fantasy tale, but infused these with unusual modes, never undermining, but always expanding beyond the surface. Take for example his version of the fantasy story in “Tlön, Uqbar, Orbis Tertius”, where the fantasy world is not some far off place, but a spectre lurking in odd volumes that slowly usurps the narrator’s reality. Or his famous “The Garden of Forking Paths”, an espionage tale mixed in with a novel where all possible realities exist and intertwine. In yet another (“Three Versions of Judas”) Borges provides a scholarly article about a fictional theologian, Nils Runeberg and his controversial idea of Judas as God’s incarnation in the world, made totally man “to the point of iniquity”, his sacrifice being an eternity of infamy.
Each of these tales, with their mixing of reality and literature, the mundane and the obscure, reveals why Borges’ Collected Fictions is an assortment of perfectly formed imaginings from the master of the formless infinity of literature.
Labels: Borges, Collected Fictions, fantasy, literature · 0 comments
Film Review - Outlander By Creator Ronald D. Moore
In Outlander the series follows the intriguing story of Claire Randell a combat nurse from 1945 who mysteriously ends up back in time in 1743. Being accused of spying and longing for her husband she has to quickly adapt to life in this era.
She has a new love interest in a chivalrous and romantic young Scottish warrior. Claire's heart ends up being torn between two men in two completely different lives.
An interesting series which includes drama, romance and sci-fi. Anne
Labels: combat, drama, mysteriously, nurse, Romance, romantic, sci-fi, warrior · 0 comments
Movie Club—The Evolution of Film Noir 1: The Maltese Falcon
This month the Movie Club will be screening the film noir classic The Maltese Falcon. Based on the novel by Dashiell Hammett and directed by John Huston, the film stars Humphrey Bogart as private detective Sam Spade.
Spade and his partner Miles Archer are hired by Ruth Wonderly to find her sister who has fallen in with a bad crowd in San Francisco. On the first night Archer is murdered and it is revealed that Wonderly is not who she claimed to be and is in fact searching for a jewel encrusted falcon statuette of untold value. Through the search Spade comes across others who are also searching for the same statuette all the while trying to solve the mystery of his partner's murder.
The film is notable not only as the first lead role and defining performance of Bogart (in addition to Hughes directorial debut and Sydney Greenstreet's film debut) but is arguably the first film noir and the defining detective film. Released the same year as Citizen Kane (which also added to the techniques of the genre) the film's subject matter and characters takes on a grittier, more real world tone. It established many of the characteristics of the genre, like the hard-boiled lead, femme fatale, moral ambiguity, as well as striking visual techniques, most notably the interplay of shadows.
The Maltese Falcon will be showing on Wednesday 11 November at Narellan Library (Cnr Queen and Elyard Street, Narellan) at 6pm. Tea, coffee, and biscuits provided, but you are more than welcome to bring your own snacks and beverages.
Stay after the screening to chat about the gritty ambiguities and stylistic achievements of The Maltese Falcon has to offer. Share your thoughts or use the discussion questions to get a debate going.
Labels: Film Noir, Humphrey Bogart, John Huston, Movie Club, The Maltese Falcon · 0 comments
Film Review—Birdman: Or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)
Riggan Thompson (Michael Keaton) once enjoyed fame as Birdman, a comic book film adaptation that garnered millions at the box office. He now wants to gain ‘respect’ and ‘legitimacy’ by writing, directing, and starring in an adaptation of Raymond Carver’s “What we talk about when we talk about love” for the Broadway stage. The production is in constant turmoil, and he enlists the help of Mike Shiner (Edward Norton), a respected stage actor, to help save the production. He has risked everything for this, and is constantly reminded that he is “not an actor”, as a prominent theatre critic states, but “a celebrity”.
Meta is at the heart of the film, from the casting of Keaton, to the interplay of the various actors and plot lines, to the realism/naturalism vs. artifice of art that unfolds within the walls of the theatre. It flirts with magic realism through Riggan’s ‘Birdman powers’, which is contrasted with the lifelike movements of the camera that moves through the cramped, gritty artifice of the stage and backstage. As well as the naturalism vs. artificiality of art, another central concern is between the showiness of Hollywood and the ‘integrity’ of Broadway. This adds to the ironic factor, the film presenting itself as a serious, Art-house style film despite its Hollywood origins. Both these strands are linked with the eye of camera, with the bulk of the film being one long, artificially pieced together take with the camera gliding through the constructed world of the stage and the backstage of the theatre, being simultaneously raw and real while entirely artificial. It contrasts the naturalism and integrity of the stage with the artifice and ostentation of Hollywood combined into one.
None of this is subtle, and the self-conscious irony that drenches the film can be fatiguing, and will (and has) put a lot of people off. But if you go past the somewhat haughty conceit of the cast and crew, Birdman provides a playful, involving, engaging, and certainly potent experience.
Labels: Birdman, Black Humour, Broadway, Metafiction, Michael Keaton · 0 comments
Film Reviews - The Hunger Games By Director Gary Ross
The Hunger Games starring Jennifer Lawrence and Liam Hemsworth. Katniss Everdeen volunteers and takes her sisters place in the Hunger Games- which is a fight to the death televised on TV.
Set in a different time than present. Panem is the Capitol of the nation and the 12 districts supporting and surrounding the Capitol have to sacrifice a teenage boy and girl to compete in the games. Katniss must make impossible choices and use all her wits and skills to survive. An original and addictive series. Anne
Rated M- Mature themes and violence
Labels: death, games, sacrifice, teenage · 0 comments
Book Review—The Heart Goes Last by Margaret Atwood
America is in the middle of an economic collapse, with all the social turmoil and unrest that goes with it. Unemployment, homelessness and crime are all up, and even those with once promising careers and lives are caught in the downturn. Stan and Charmaine are part of the many, now living in their car and surviving on a single, menial income. But things look up when they get into the Consilience/Positron program, a social experiment in a closed off community. In Consilience they get a comfortable house, jobs, and purpose. But every second month they swap with their ‘Alternates’, another couple with whom they share their new prosperity, and for this second month Stan and Charmaine live separated lives in Positron, a prison around which this community is built. The truth behind the gleaming façade soon comes to the fore, and Stan and Charmaine become entangled in the sleazy, gruesome underworld.
The stability they craved becomes the very thing that leads Stan and Charmaine wayward. Both seemingly adapt, but transgression becomes the ever present focus of their minds. And despite being marketed as the ideal community, neither Charmaine nor Stan establish bonds with anyone else in Consilience. Apart from the ever declining interactions between themselves they make no connections, save for the forbidden cavorting with their ‘Alternates’. There is a pastiche of other dystopic works, with hints of The Stepford Wives, a debt to Never Let Me Go, and a dose of Brave New World for good measure. This, along with the Yuppie-inspired Newspeak and plethora of pop culture references, does crowd the narrative. And while the recurrence of 1950s style and icons is effective, with its prim and proper gleefulness covering repressed lust, greed, and longing, the use is far from original and loses much of its ironic heft.
It may not have the bite or depth of Atwood’s earlier works, but The Heart Goes Last has involving characters, enjoyable dark humour, and an entertaining plot.
Labels: dystopia, Margaret Atwood, sci-fi, The heart goes last · 0 comments
Film Review - And so it goes By Director Rob Reiner
And so it goes stars Michael Douglas and Diane Keaton. Oren Little doesn't make it easy for people to like him, he is a difficult and an obnoxious realtor.
Hoping to sell his prized family home and retire in peace, everything is going to plan until his estranged son turns up with his granddaughter he has never met before to be looked after. He struggles at first and thanks to his kind and helpful neighbour Leah becomes a more loving and caring person. This is a funny and uplifting movie.
Labels: Family, funny, home, obnoxious, peace, uplifting · 0 comments
Book Review—Arguably by Christopher Hitchens
The late Christopher Hitchens was a divisive voice in American and international politics and culture. He came to international prominence with God is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything, which, if the title doesn’t ring a bell or make entirely clear, takes a severely critical view of religion, although his firebrand polemics covered a much broader array of topics. He was, for example, one of the few left-wing supporters of Bush and Blair’s War on Terror. Arguably collects this variety of Hitchens’ works.
What distinguishes Hitchens is not his clear prose or his extensive knowledge, although these are striking features of his writing, but his passion. Every topic, book, action, person, and event are examined and spoken of with unrelenting clarity of view and purpose. You very quickly learn his angle on the topic and most importantly the reasons behind those views. This is Hitchens’ strength, and why even those opposed to his views maintained a fascination with his output. He takes even the most assumed common sense, the most assured convictions, and questions them relentlessly. There are definitely blind spots, and Hitchens abounds in many seeming contradictions, and, arguably, many of his opinions are not as revelatory or original as his most ardent supports may claim.
Arguably will not be to everyone’s taste and will leave many people bemused, annoyed, and angered. But I would argue that is exactly the reason why everyone, at least everyone convinced of the strength of their own convictions, should read it.
Labels: Arguably, Christopher Hitchens, criticism, culture, polemics, politics, War on Terror · 0 comments
Film Review - Ghost Directed by Jerry Zucker
Ghost stars Patrick Swayze, Demi Moore and Whoopi Goldberg. Winner of 2 Academy awards including best supporting actress. This 1990 American romantic fantasy follows the life of a young women- Molly and the ghost of her murdered lover.
The story is tragic but a moving love story, showing that love knows no boundaries. There is an amazing pottery wheel scene between Sam and Molly that is unforgettable. Anne
Labels: boundaries, fantasy, lover, pottery, romantic, tragic · 0 comments
Film Review - The Theory of Everything By Director James Marsh
The Theory of Everything is based on the relationship between renowned physicist Stephen Hawking and his beautiful wife, Jane Wilde. Through their struggles and with Hawking's diagnosis at age 21, they defeat the odds. With Jane strongly supporting him he embarks on his most important work- the study of time.
This is an uplifting and beautiful love story and is based on the memoir' Travelling to Infinity : My life with Stephen' by Jane Hawking. Anne
Labels: physicist, theory, time, uplifting · 0 comments
Book Review—The Buried Giant by Kazuo Ishiguro
In a time after the Romans and when the knights of Arthur still live, England is in a time of despair. Ogres are constant nuisances and dragons occasional perils. But worst of all is a mist that has gathered over the moors and valleys, and everyone is caught in a state of amnesia. Axl and Beatrice, an elderly couple, start to ponder this strange state that has befallen them and their fellows, and decide to go and see their son, who is also a vague memory. Along their journey they meet many dwellers in this cursed land, each with their own affliction and hope to be freed of the mist.
The novel provides many allusions to epic tales and literatures that creates a dense atmosphere. From the despair created by the psychopomp who is in turn tormented by the neglected wife of a passenger, to the heroic warrior with echoes of Beowulf, the conniving monks and treacherous kings, and the legend of Arthur hovering over everyone’s lips. The first few chapters of the novel promise a surreal take on the fantasy genre, with strange omens and eerie sensations. But as the chapters progress these hypnotic passages blend into staples of the fantasy genre, with quests and burdens that need to be fulfilled. There remains a subversive allure, where Arthur’s knight is weary, and the heroic warrior is as motivated by personal grudges as heroic duty, but often these seem more contrived to toil in the genre, and many passages and narrative shifts have little place other than convenience.
But Ishiguro's ability to move from heart-warming elation to devastation is perfect for the search for memories at the heart of The Buried Giant, with memories having both the power to relive past ecstasies but also to inflict regret and lamentations.
Labels: Amnesia, fantasy, Ishiguro, King Arthur, Myth · 0 comments
Film Review - The Musketeers Season 1 by creators Adrian Hodges, Simon J. Ashford and Simon Allen
The Musketeers are a group of highly trained bodyguards and soldiers to the king. Atho's, D'Artagnan, Aramis and Porthos all have their own troubles and secrets which surface throughout the series.
The Cardinal's scheming plans with the seductress Milady will keep you intrigued.
From affairs of the heart to defending the confused king, this series has something for everyone.
Filled with action and excitement there is true character development throughout the series.
Labels: Action, bodyguards, character, excitement, Musketeers, scheming · 0 comments
Film Review—Foxcatcher
Mark Schultz (Channing Tatum) is an Olympic Gold Medal wrestler struggling to make ends meat while preparing for the next Olympic Games. He trains with his brother David (Mark Ruffalo), a fellow gold medalist and coach, who raised Mark in the absence of their father. Mark receives an invitation from John E. du Pont (Steve Carell), of the wealthy du Pont family, who wishes to establish an Olympic wrestling team with Mark and David coaching. John and Mark form a strong bond, but this is overshadowed by John's overbearing mother, Jean, the Foxcatcher Estate matriarch, and his increasing jealousy of the closeness Mark shares with his brother.
The film’s strength is the performances by Ruffalo and in particular Tatum and Carell as the damaged duo seeking fulfilment. The mix of seeking both a father figure and a brother or friend marks their connection and explains the depth of the disconnection that occurs. The negotiations between friendship and dependency complicate the relationship, as do the need both Mark and John have for acceptance from their parental figures while at the same time trying to transcend the confines of those relationships. With both already having strong links with dependency they find themselves dragging each other with in their downward spirals, with personal hopes and dreams left on the wayside.
A portrait of the conflict between bonds and selfhood, Foxcatcher provides engaging performances and an arresting story.
Labels: achievement, Channing Tatum, Family, friends, Mark Ruffalo, Olympics, Steve Carrel, Wrestling · 0 comments
Book Review - The diet trap : feed your psychological needs & end the weight loss struggle using acceptance & commitment therapy / Jason Lillis, PhD, JoAnne Dahl, PhD, Sandra M. Weineland, PhD.
The Diet Trap helps you to step out of the weight loss struggle by helping you change the way you relate to food and exercise. This is done by proven effective methods based in acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). This book will help you cultivate more mindful eating habits, self compassion and a deeper connection with your own core values.
The three authors all have PHD's in the field of psychology and have clinical experience using acceptance and commitment therapy.
The Diet Trap is filled with beneficial examples and exercises to work through. I found the book to be refreshing and it offered a different view and path to permanent weight loss.
Labels: acceptance, commitment, diet, exercise, food, habits, mindful, values, weight loss · 0 comments
Book Review—The Good Lord Bird by James McBride
The abolitionist John Brown is terrorising the Southern states with tales of his exploits reaching boogeyman proportions. One day he wanders into Dutch Henry’s tavern and meets Henry Shackleford and his Pa. After a botched liberation he takes Henry into his army, although believing him a girl and calling him “Little Onion”. Henry witnesses Brown’s life and exploits as well as the social turmoil Kansas experiences at the idea of liberating slaves in the lead up to the Civil War.
The child narrator features prominently in the Southern literature from Mark Twain to Harper Lee. McBride adopts a similar position, but in his tale the ridiculous elements are heightened. Although this adds playfulness and wit to the tale, it does not shy away from more troubling elements, like the hanging of several slaves believed to be planning an insurrection, and Henry is far from the wide eye innocent child of earlier works dealing with slavery or race relations. He knows the vile habits and the treachery of the whites, as well as how to play the game of the ‘good negro’ in order to survive. Henry being mistaken for a girl and his willingness to don a dress and play that role divulges the spuriousness of this world. The more ridiculous and hyperbolic elements reflect the absurdity of the social structure of the South but without it becoming fanciful or otherworldly. It is simply the reality, the strange, twisted, paranoid reality that provided the institution of slavery with its constancy.
A modernisation of the slave narrative, The Good Lord Bird removes all innocence while revealing the farcicality of reality.
Labels: Abolitionism, James McBride, John Brown, Slavery, The Good Lord Bird · 0 comments
Movie Club—Good Will Hunting
This month the Movie Club will be screening Good Will Hunting, directed by Gus Van Sant and starring Matt Damon, Ben Affleck and the late, great Robin Williams.
The film follows Will Hunting (Matt Damon), a janitor at MIT who is in fact a genius with a photographic memory and capable of completing the most challenging mathematical formulas with ease. This brings him to the attention of Professor Gerald Lambeau (Stellan Skarsgård) who sees the promise in Will although realising his troubling personality.
Lambeau strikes a deal with the judge at Will's latest assault trial to prevent him from going to prison, with two conditions: Will must work with Lambeau and attend therapy. Both prove difficult, but the therapy provides Lambeau with particular grief until he recruits Sean Maguire (Robin Williams), his estranged college roommate, who, like Will, is haunted by personal demons.
Through his sessions with Lambeau and Sean, Will grapples to come to grips with his enormous potential and his difficult upbringing, struggling to overcome his own prejudices and fears.
The script was penned by Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, and provided the the pair with their breakout into stardom. The film garnered much critical acclaim, not least for the performances. Robin Williams was especially praised, with his performance gaining him the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor. It also has many poignant parallels with William’s real life, brought to the fore by his tragic suicide last year.
The screening will be on Wednesday 14 October at 6pm at Narellan Library. Stay after the screening to share what about the film had the greatest impact on you, or join in a discussion about the films many powerful moments.
Labels: abuse, genius, Good Will Hunting, Matt Damon, Robin Williams, struggle · 0 comments
Film Review—Whiplash
Andrew Neiman (Miles Teller) is an aspiring drummer enrolled at the prestigious Schaffer Academy. While there he is recruited by Terrence Fletcher (J.K. Simmons), an acclaimed conductor who leads the school’s most prominent orchestra. Fletcher’s technique to inspire the orchestra is aggressive and involves belittling, slurring, manipulating, and often physically abusing and threating. This drives Neiman to push harder, practicing until his hands bleed and sacrificing everything, including a promising new relationship and his safety, to become one of the greats like his idol Buddy Rich. Fletcher’s techniques get results, but at what cost, and are all people going to respond the same way?
Simmons is phenomenal in the role, teetering between being entirely abhorrent and sadistically charming while ejecting hysterical insults. Although ultimately providing a happy and unsettlingly inspiring ending, this is not your usual feel good, bravely overcome adversity musical-prodigy Oscar bait. The film is stripped to its core, with little other than the scenes of Neiman’s furious practicing and the confrontations with Fletcher. It is a rivalry entirely brutal in its execution, where the lines between stern encouragement and abuse become blurred and there are no easy solutions. In Neiman Fletcher not only meets his much searched for Charlie Parker, but his equal, who is willing to fight him to the end.
Whiplash is an uncompromising treatment of troubling interactions in an unflinching environment.
Labels: Bullying, J.K. Simmons, Jazz, Miles Teller, Orchestra, Whiplash · 0 comments
Film Review - The Real Housewives of Melbourne-Season 1
The Real Housewives of Melbourne follow the lavish lives of several women in Melbourne. The characters include- Gina Liano who is a barrister and single mother and lives in South Yarra. Lydia Schiavello is married to a famous Australian architect and is studying design and has 6 children in total. Janet Roach is a property developer with 2 sons. Jackie Gillies is a psychic and wife of Silverchair drummer Ben Gillies. Chyka Heebaugh is the owner of 3 event companies and has 2 kids. And lastly Andrea Moss has a skin specialist business and has children and is married to a plastic surgeon.
From glamorous cocktail launches, to romantic getaways, these women enjoy the finer things in life and also relish the drama created between them.
Rating-M Sexual References and course language
I found the series interesting to see how other people live, especially when they have excesses of money. Anne
Labels: barrister, drama, glamorous, housewives, Melbourne, property developer, psychic, relish · 0 comments
Film Review - I give it a year By Director Dan Mazer
In this movie, I give it a year follows the life of a mismatched couple in their first year of marriage. Deeply in love and happy to overlook their differences, they wed even though their friends have doubts. Will they live happily ever after when there are old flames and new temptations around?
Rated MA15+- Strong sexual references, course languages and nudity.
This is a hilarious romantic comedy from the producers of Love Actually, Bridget Jones Diary and Notting Hill. A very enjoyable movie, it doesn’t disappoint.
Labels: Comedy, couple, love, marriage, romantic · 0 comments
Book Review—The Girl with the Dogs by Anna Funder
Tess and her husband Dan have successful careers, three children, and live in a desirable if modest home in Sydney. Tess’ mother has passed away and her father is currently in a nursing home suffering from dementia. She suspects Dan may be unfaithful, a suspicion spurred on by her friends’ failed marriages. Amongst this Tess starts thinking about her youth in Europe and her relationship with Mitya, an artist. She leaves for a conference in London, and while there travels to Paris to see his latest exhibition and visit the path her life might have taken.
Funder contrasts the nostalgia of Tess’ father’s life, the seeming stability and certainty that came from a quieter simpler time, against the ever present life of the 21st century. Tess is confronted with the paradox that there was stability in her parents’ life despite the fragility of memory, yet in the modern world where social media, mobile devices and digital transfers record and haunt every moment there is nothing but instability. The fading of her father’s memories are more apparent than ever, with the family home being sold and his memories replaced by the latest pop Diva tunes. Tess desperately tries to counter this by attempting to revive another, abandoned life, one that is within her memories and away from the omnipresence of an i-Pad screen.
The resolution is a little too easy, too conservative, with the issue of infidelity easily quelled and the reuniting of the family resolving all. But that does not diminish the reverie in nostalgia that makes The Girl with the Dogs, with it fully embracing the loss and bittersweet spirit that defines that sensation.
Labels: Anna Funder, infidelity, nostalgia, The Girl with the Dogs · 0 comments
Book Review - Fast Exercise By Dr Michael Mosley and Peta Bee
Dr Mosley teams up with leading sports Scientist Professor Jamie Timmons and super fit health journalist Peta Bee. Focussing on HITT training the authors offer a range of workouts that take about 10mins a day for 3 times a week. Build the short workouts into your routine and read the scientific evidence that promotes the health benefits of this type of training. Fast Exercise is for everyone-those who want to lose fat and get fit in the most efficient way.
I have implemented HITT training into my fitness routine and am surprised with how fast and efficient it is. If you're interested in fitness then this book is definitely worth a read. Anne
Labels: efficient, fit, Health, HITT, promotes, routine, Scientist, training, workouts · 0 comments
Book Review—The Writing Life by David Malouf
Malouf’s writing career spans many decades and numerous highly praised works. In this volume he shares his thoughts on other writers and, perhaps more interestingly, the role of reading in life and the writer in society.
Covering authors as diverse as Mann, Hugo, Proust, Kafka, Shakespeare and Homer, Malouf provides intriguing personal readings of their works and highlights unique perspectives. He reveals Kafka not as the surrealist, but as someone “who works so close to the facts of his own life”, and wrestles the enormity of the Iliad into a manageable, human work with relevance to 21st century life. The Shakespeare article is particularly interesting, as Malouf traces both the evolution of perception of Shakespeare in literary circles but also Shakespeare’s development in his treatment of material, shifting from performance to shared experience with the audience that makes his plays the most revered in the Western tradition.
Many of these essays are not just valuable from a critical perspective, but a living one, revealing Malouf as someone who absorbs literature in order to live a fuller life. These life-centric readings provide the volume with its greatest interest, and several pieces in particular exemplify the link between literature and life. But in opposition it also reveals the disconnect writing imposes on writers, where their social, talking selves are in opposition to, and occasionally in conflict with, their brooding, writing selves.
A volume of unique readings and personal reflections, The Writing Life is a fascinating record of a writer and, more importantly, a reader.
Labels: criticism, David Malouf, literature, readers life, reading, the writing life, writing · 0 comments
Movie Club—Sunday Too Far Away
This month the Movie Club will be screening Sunday Too Far Away, directed by Ken Hannam and starring Jack Thompson, Peter Cummins and Reg Lye.
The film follows Folley, a gun (champion) shearer, who joins a new shearing time despite having left the biz. His plan is to lay off the booze, save up some money and move down the coast and buy a prawning boat. He quickly picks up his old habits and is once again immersed in the hard working and hard drinking lifestyle. At the same time, Folley and the other shearers face having a bonus taken away, with 'scab' (non-unionised) workers coming into town and undermining their labour strike.
The film is considered one of the leading films of the Australian New Wave Cinema of the 1970s. These films were publicly funded, and one of the conditions of this arrangement was that they feature themes of Australian life. But film makers often used this opportunity to question assumed elements in national myths and icons, and Sunday Too Far Away is no different. The masculinity and mateship, the drinking and the larrikins are all on show, and often not in a redeeming light.
Sunday Too Far Away will be showing on Wednesday 9 September @ Narellan Library (corner of Queen and Elyard Street, Narellan) @ 6pm. Tea, coffee, and biscuits provided, but you are more than welcome to bring your own snacks and beverages.
Stay after the screening and join the discussion about the film and its portrayal of life on a shearing station. Share your thoughts or use the discussion questions.
Labels: Australia, drinking, Jack Thompson, Myth, sheep shearing, Sunday Too Far Away · 0 comments
Book Review - Helping your anxious child-A step-by-step guide for parents by Ronald M.Rapee and others
This second addition, Helping your anxious child has been updated to include the best techniques and latest research for managing childhood anxiety from separation anxiety, general anxiety, panic disorder and phobias.
Helping your child use detective thinking and stepladders to make progress. Helping your anxious child provides tools from cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to help your child overcome their fears with or without a therapist.
Written activities are included throughout the chapters for the child and parents to complete.
Being interested in child mental health I found it to be very directive and easy to follow. I recommend this book to anyone interested in child mental health and for parents/carers of children who suffer from some form of anxiety. Anne
Labels: anxious, CBT, detective, Mental Health, seperation, stepladders, techniques, therapist · 0 comments
Book Review—The Last Illusion by Porochista Khakpour
Raised first as a bird and then as a feral child, Zal Hendricks now lives in pre-9/11 New York. He struggles to be as ‘normal’ as possible all the while nurturing a longing to do what for him is as instinctive as breathing: flying. In his quest he comes across Silber, a famed illusionist, and Asiya, an artist who photographs birds in various levels of decay to give them new life. The lives of the three intermingle, with each searching for transcendence. But with the most reality shocking event in New York’s history slowly creeping closer, how do these special creatures hope to achieve fulfillment?
Khakpour combines the decade defining event with a mix of Persian Epic, Islamic mysticism, and illusionist ostentation. At times the narrative becomes a little too caught up in its own twining with laboured and self-conscious prose, as with the opening line “Exactly once upon a time”. The idiosyncratic characters generate considerable interest while the reality of life becomes ever more alien and impenetrable until the expected climax. But unlike Laguna’s The Eye of the Sheep, the strangeness does not reinforce the harshness and poignancy of reality, and the epic proportions cover rather than embody humanity.
The Last Illusion’s ambitious telling provides a distinctive yet otherworldly addition to the 9/11 genre.
Labels: 9/11, Illusion, mysticism, new york, Persian Myth · 0 comments
Film Review - Caught Inside - Director Adam Blaiklock
A group of surfers travel to an island paradise on a ‘surfari’. One of the guests is a single beautiful girl which causes jealousy between the friends.
In Caught Inside Bull a local surf legend, snaps and crosses the line, he turns their dream vacation into a nightmare ordeal, with a fight for survival. Trapped on the boat there is nowhere to turn.
“A spectacularly unhinged lead performance by Ben Oxenbould” The Daily Telegraph
This movie has all the elements of a great thriller, with a powerful end. Anne
Labels: beautiful, surf, surfari, Survival, Thriller, vacation · 0 comments
Film Review—Gone Girl by David Fincher
Nick Dunne (Ben Affleck) returns home to find his wife Amy (Rosamund Pike) missing. After he calls the police they come to the conclusion that fowl play is at hand, and Nick quickly becomes the prime suspect. This is compounded by the strain the marriage has been under of late, with lies and deceit on both parts. Add to this a media frenzy that grows with scandal and the continuing mystery of what happened to his wife, and the stage is set for a thrilling, troubling mystery where the story matters more than the truth.
On the one hand the film is an exaggeration of the lengths people go to in order to keep up appearances, in particular the illusion of the perfect life and marriage. But it is also an example of a common theme in American Literature of the corrupting influence and fakery of the city in opposition to the wholesome honesty of the small town Midwest (think Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby and Welles’ Citizen Kane). We see numerous contrasts between the two, from the salt of the earth citizens of Missouri contrasted with the poseurs at a New York party, to Nick’s real bond with his twin sister in opposition to Amy’s competing with her “Amazing” fictional twin. Like its predecessors, Gone Girl deals with the creating of an ideal life narrative, reworked in an elaborate and effective “he said/she said” dynamic, where manipulation is simply a technique necessary in telling the best story.
In a world where image and story are all, Gone Girl is an arresting examination of the strain of keep up appearances.
Labels: Ben Affleck, David Fincher, Flynn, Mystery, Roasmund Pike · 0 comments
Book Review - The Top Five Regrets of the Dying- A Life Transported by the Dearly Departed by Bronnie Ware
This book is filled with stories about people living in palliative care. Bronnie found herself working in this field and decided to apply lessons she learned from the dying in her own life. She then transformed that into a book, The Top Five Regrets of the Dying.
She explains how we can deal with these issues now, while we still have the time. In the book Bronnie simply shares what dying people have shared with her, sad at times but filled with beautiful stories of some truly amazing people.
I especially enjoyed the story about Cath in the chapter ‘Happiness is Now’. A must read for people who want to get the most out of life.
Labels: dying, issues, lessons, life, palliative care, stories, transformed · 0 comments
Book Review—The People in the Trees by Hanya Yanagihara
Norton Perina is a renowned immunologist and winner of the Nobel Prize in Medicine. His fame is owed, quite simply, to unlocking the key to immortality. This comes courtesy of a rare turtle, found only on the Micronesian island of Ivu’ivu, where those who manage to reach 60 are given eternal life by consuming the turtle. But this gift has its cost, as those chosen few eventually become The Dreamers, doomed to senility and eternally wondering the island of ever fading memories. After fame, Perina adopts many children from the island. The problem however is that he is a paedophile, and this his account of his rise and downfall.
The novel owes a debt to Nabokov, first in its academic paedophile protagonist and secondly in its style being his self-indulgent confessions. Perina is nowhere near as veil a creature as Humbert, and also lacks some of his deviant charm. But his story is perhaps more fascinating, as well as more troubling tragic. The superficial semblance to Lolita is clear, with Perina even having Nabokovian pastimes (note his desire to collect insects rather than participate in his studies), but there is also the overpowering influence of memory. The whole work is Perina’s attempts to look back on his life from the confines of prison, ever deeper into the mirrorlike “sea of time” yet unable to reconnect with the life now past, just like The Dreamers he found on Ivu’ivu so many years before.
Tragic and worrying, The People in the Trees is a richly told and engrossing narrative.
Labels: eternal life, immortality, Lost Tribe, memory · 0 comments
Film Review - The Hunter - Director Daniel Nettheim
“Unmissable………a beautifully shot thriller” David Michael Brown, Empire Magazine.
The movie has received 14 nominations AFI (Australian Film Institute) including Best film, Best Director, Best Lead Actor and Best Actress.
Set in the Tasmanian wilderness based on Julia Leighs novel, The Hunter is a powerful psychological drama. Willem Defoe stars as Martin David a loner and expert hunter who is hired to track the last remaining Tasmanian Tiger for an unscrupulous Biotech company.
Boarding with a family who are coming to terms with the disappearance of her husband, the children's father, Defoe gets distracted from his mission. The film was beautifully shot and gripping until the end.
Labels: mission, psychological, Tasmanian, Tiger, wilderness · 0 comments
Film Review—Still Alice
Alice Howland (Julianne Moore), a linguistics professor at Columbia University, is forgetting words. These slips of vocabulary start to become one of many signs that she may be losing her memory, and she is eventually diagnosed with early onset familial Alzheimer's disease. As Alice comes to accept her condition she comes to realize that the ramifications will spread to everyone in her family.
The performance of Moore is fantastic. In every scene there is a little bit less Alice, a little bit less of the life, the career, the self. Her subtle, moving performance is alone worth seeing the film, and in fact the only reason to see it. The material feels as though its lifted from a Hallmark 'disease-of-the-week" TV drama. The rest of the cast is uneven with the characters being types rather than people with predictable development reserved only for a select few. And despite Moore's heart wrenching performance, the script does not fully utilize the various aspects of Alice's ever receding life, with details like her career as a linguist used more as short hand for memory loss than engrossing exploration.
Although overly sentimental and over worn material, Still Alice has a solid, moving performance that overcomes the films shortcomings.
Labels: Alzheimers, Connections, drama, Family · 0 comments
Movie Club—Citizen Kane
This month the Movie Club will be screening one of the most celebrated and talked about films of all time: Orson Welles' Citizen Kane.
Released in 1941, the film was Welles' cinematic debut. It follows a newspaper reporter who attempts to find the meaning of 'Rosebud': the dying words of media tycoon Charles Foster Kane. In his search he consults Kane's former business manager, the diary of his deceased guardian, his second wife, and his oldest friend turned critic. Each tells of a different aspect of the larger than life Kane, but did any of them actually know him, or the identity and significance of Rosebud?
The film is celebrated for many reasons. In a time when Hollywood was driven by genre (like Film Noir, Musicals, and Westerns) and films were at the mercy of studios, writers, directors, actors and producers all having an individual impact on the final product, Welles' monument combined many genres as well as seeing the 25 year old Welles taking on all roles in the making of the film, one of the earliest and most megalomaniacal examples of auteurship.
From its non-linear, ever complicating narrative (reminiscent of early twentieth century novels like F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby and William Faulkner's As I Lay Dying and Absalom, Absalom!) to its superior framing and revolutionary cinematography, the film is certainly a milestone but also a rarity of the American film industry.
The screening will be held on Wednesday 12 August at Narellan Library. Not convinced of its greatness? Share your thoughts or use the discussion questions to get a debate going after the screening.
Labels: 1940s, Classic, Movie Club · 0 comments
Book Review - Happier: Learn the Secrets to Daily joy and lasting fulfilment by Tal Ben-Shahar Ph.D.
In this book by popular Harvard University teacher Ben-Shahar Ph.D, it combines scientific studies, research, self help and spiritual enlightenment. The course he ran at Harvard based on Positive Psychology and Happiness was Harvard’s most popular and life changing course. The book is divided into 3 parts
· What is happiness
· Happiness applied
· Meditations on Happiness
Ben-Shahar has created a set of principles in Happier to follow and to apply into your daily life to achieve more happiness.
‘It is easy to see how this is the backbone of the most popular course at Harvard today’-Martin E.P Seigman author of Authentic Happiness.
I especially enjoyed the chapter on reconciling present and future and enjoyed working through the time-in exercises and meditations. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, I got a lot out of it and will be rereading it again soon.
Labels: happiness, Harvard, meditation, positive psychology, principles, scientific, self help, spiritual enlightenment · 0 comments
The much discussed release from Harper Lee. It has had many tongues wagging, from rumours of shady dealings by lawyers and publishers to fears that it will taint Lee’s legacy. Now that it has been released we can finally see for ourselves.
26 year old Jean Louise “Scout” Finch returns to Maycomb from New York to visit her family. Her visit comes at a time when many changes are happening in the country, particularly regarding race relations. But on this return trip she discovers that all the small changes that she has been witnessing in Maycomb are but a precursor to the sweeping social shift that will affect everyone, including her much loved and admired father, Atticus.
It is difficult not to make comparisons with To Kill a Mockingbird, Watchman being an earlier incarnation. The most apparent difference is that Watchman does not have the charm of its successor. Gone is the child narrator, and although the mix of folk tales and tall tales that so enlivened Mockingbrid are here, these whimsicalities are only shades, with the dialogues and tales that would, in subsequent rewrites, become the exchanges that gave Mockingbird its uniqueness and heft apparent only in sketches.
The South’s struggle with segregation is still present, but where Mockingbird focused on the personal Watchman deals with the political dimensions. Its treatment of Atticus is more complex, Mockingbird being, after all, Scout’s reminiscences of her heroic father. In Watchman this idolisation is replaced with disillusion. He may have upheld Tom Robinson’s rights, but that does not mean this old Southern gent isn’t worried about Southern heritage, including all the fears of miscegenation, worries about state’s rights and individual liberties, and a mistrust of outside forces like the federal government and NAACP that go along with the Southern mentality. But even these passages are often laden with stereotypes and awkward phrasing, giving reminders that Watchman, even in published form, is a draft, both in how it handles its subject matter and also in its flow.
Despite its short comings it is not the death knell of Lee’s reputation. When viewed alongside Mockingbird it provides a unique study not just into the creation of a much loved classic, but of an author who began with an admirable if muddled story and was able, with some help from an editor, to craft it into a fascinating tale.
Labels: Alabama, Race Relations, The South · 0 comments
Labels: fear, grieving, Horror, loss · 0 comments
Film Review - Gone - By Director - Heitor Dhalia and Writer Allison Burrett
Jill is a beautiful young women living with her alcoholic sister. She was previously a kidnap victim of a serial killer but as no evidence was found, the police didn’t believe her and she was committed to a mental institution for a number of years.
In Gone, when Jill's sister disappears she is convinced her kidnapper is back so she takes matters into her own hands, as the police believe it is all in her head. Brilliant acting by Amanda Seyfrend (Mamma Mia).
Rated M 15+
I thoroughly enjoyed this movie as it keeps you on the edge of your seat till the very end. Anne
Labels: beautiful, kidnap, serial killer, Thriller · 0 comments
Winner of the Miles Franklin Literary Award 2015
Jimmy Flick is a child with behavioural issues with a manic energy and fascination. His mother, Paula, is deeply protective of him with a strong and special bond. Gavin, his father, is an abusive alcoholic, like his father before him. His brother, Robby, is frustrated with the life he was born into and wants to leave, but feels a sense of duty to Paula and Jimmy. As Jimmy grows we see the struggles of different members of the family to remain personally whole while trying desperately to maintain their bonds, with the very members of these bonds receiving the brunt of these conflicts.
Laguna’s writing is striking in the voice of Jimmy, giving slanted, strange, surreal descriptions to the commonplace and the domestic. For him the acts of everyday life are cause for wonder, from the pipes that fuel the machinery inside us all, to the engine of crying and the taps that control tears, to the transfer of energy from a slap to a look and the clouds of laughter that float above our heads in moments of joy. But this does not detract from the brutal passages when Gavin strikes Paula, or the poignant scene when Robby makes his difficult decision. Despite their unusual expression these thoughts and emotions are still human, the reality of the actions and consequences immediately apparent.
The Eye of the Sheep is a mesmerising, warming yet gritty look at the struggle of domestic life in a working class family.
Labels: Domestic Violence, imagination, Miles Franklin Award · 0 comments
Louis "Lou" Bloom (Jake Gyllenhaal) is a driven young man who sees a future career as a stringer, a freelance cameraman who films violent accidents and brutal crimes to sell to television news outlets. He discovers he has a talent and interest in this activity, and begins to gain more and more success. But his behaviour, already on the border of decency, slips, and he starts going to extreme lengths to get the best footage.
Gyllenhaal is phenomenally creepy with an unsettling charm that lures both business associates and the audience. The warped Bloom, with his frightening focus and unhinged outlook on life provides an arresting lead into the pseudo-world that is overly sensationalised media. But the skewed reality extends to overt corporation and the isolating affects it and media have on lives. Sometimes these jabs at mass media and business become a little redundant and clichéd. But when viewed as a distorted character study, through the prism of Bloom, who views the world through this media lens and interacts and negotiates life in business jargon, the film really takes hold. “It looks so real on the news”, Bloom says in woeful awe to a backdrop of the Los Angeles cityscape in the studio. He has indeed found his niche in this world, where the hyper-reality of the news and the detachment of business can fuel his strained waking hours.
Nightcrawler is an alluringly repugnant neo-noir thriller with a sensational lead performance.
Labels: isolation, mass media, neo-noir, Thriller · 0 comments
Book Review - Hawaii - Lonely Planet Written and researched by Sara Benson and five others
This guide book is filled with amazing experiences, plans for the perfect trip and ways to get off the beaten track.
It includes features such as:
Scenic driving tour itineraries
Outdoor adventure planning
Insights into island culture with its beautiful beaches and big surf it’s understandable why Hawaii is such a popular holiday destination. This guide also includes a map of the islands.
From the North Shore to Hanauma Bay, this Hawaii Lonely Planet Guide is filled with information about arts and culture as well as the best food, drink and accommodation. Also listing the top 20 attractions to see.
This book is true to Lonely Planets reputation; it’s easy to read and look up information and filled with expert recommendations. Definitely inspirational for the next holiday escape from winter.
Labels: beaches, culture, experiences, Hanauma Bay, Hawaii, holiday, islands, itineraries, trip · 0 comments
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Elements of Nihilism in Anton Chekhov’s “The Bet”
Anton Chekhov, a Russian author who wrote before the Communist revolution in that country, is most famous for his theatrical works of fiction. He is, however, an accomplished writer of short fiction as well; and his stories, just like his plays, contain significant philosophical messages in a fictive mode. One such piece is “The Bet.”
To begin with, “The Bet” has a rather simplistic plot. Because of this simplicity, it is obvious that a message is the story’s true purpose. Told in retrospect from the banker’s point of view, it involves, as the title suggests, a wager between a banker and a lawyer at a dinner party. These two get involved in debate over the moral issue of capital punishment versus life imprisonment. The focus of debate concerns which of these venues is the more humane and which is more cruel. The bet emerges when the lawyer takes the stance that he would, for two million of some undesignated coin, remain in solitary confinement in one wing of the banker’s home for fifteen years. The banker, being very wealthy at the time, confidently accepts the challenge. From there, the plot focusses on the drama of the lawyer’s solitary confinement. The first years for him are lonely and hard, but then he begins to request books of all sorts. He spends the remainder of his sentence studying book after book. Finally, fifteen years, less one night, later, the story reverts to real time. The banker has lost the bulk of his wealth on the Exchange and, seeing the lawyer’s emminant victory, fears he would become destitute in paying the agreed bet. The banker decides to kill the lawyer to avoid the impending ridicule and loss of position. He goes to the lawyer’s room, enters it, and finds the man sleeping at his desk, a letter before him. The banker plots to smother the man, but he reads the letter the prisoner has written. In it, the lawyer expounds upon his utter contempt for all things earthly and states his intention to break the conditions of the bet as an expression of this hatred for “all that [the] books call the blessings of the world” (1 1106). This contempt transfers to the banker and, feeling the full weight of his foolish deed, he leaves in guilt. The next morning, the lawyer executes his intentions, the banker is ‘victorious,’ and the story ends.
Now, as previously stated, there lies beneath the lawyer’s tragic dispair some message to the reading public. Chekhov chooses to draw from the leading contemporary philosophical movement in Russia for this crucial theme. Nihilism is a movement born in the mid-nineteenth century by the liberal youth. It has evolved with the revolution into several meanings, and Chekhov addresses each of its facets in “The Bet.” An understanding of these facets is required, however, to follow Chekhov’s progress through them. First, Avrahm Yarmolinsky, in his novel Road to Revolution, presents the anarchistic beginnings of nihilism. At the time of its conception as a belief, the nihilist was an “enlightened eqoist” (2). He sought to strike out at all social practices in an effort to determine which would survive the blows of reason and revolution. Those practices that survived were good; those failing and crumbling, wrong and deserving of their demise. The lawyer and banker’s debate at the party is clearly allegorical of this initial stage of nihilism. They begin by questioning capital punishment and end their party with a genuine rational effort of proof. Their bet, though in a practical sense foolish and wasteful, is a logical way to resolve the debate over relative cruelty. To them, if the lawyer can bear the imprisonment then it must be more just that one live in confinement than die. Second, the lawyer also embodies the quest for quality of the early nihilists in his greed for the “two million” (1 1103). This “hard-headed, materialistic” attitude of the lower and middle class radicals of Russia is one of the first characteristics of the lawyer presented by Chekhov. Clearly, the lawyer, before his confinement, is a symbol of early Russian nihilism.
Next, nihilism took a shift in meaning, both for Russia and Chekhov. The most overt message delivered by “The Bet” is the nihilistic opinion of moral justification. The banker bemoans, near the story’s close, the failure of their prison bet—a wager which has become an experiment or test of their debated views—to resolve their moral dilemma over capital punishment. He comes to realize that rational argument will not succeed in justifying moral standards, due to the subjective nature of morality. No solution to their debate is found, only misery. This misery, felt by the lawyer, introduces the next and most popular phase of historical nihilism. This phase was spawned from early nihilism and the increasingly popular athiestic philosophy. Russia, with the aid of Marx, had begun to doubt the existence of God. This lead them, in Nietzsche’s terms, to dispair over the triviality and emptiness of human existence without God. Industrialization was also key in this new nihilistic setting; but, for Russia at least, the profit-grasping materialists were lost. For Chekhov, the lawyer becomes lost as well within his cell. He, in his studies, seems to be “swimming in the sea among broken pieces of wreckage… eagarly grasping one piece after another to save his life” (1 1104). He reads work after work, and does so at a high rate… right after spending a year or more on the New Testament and other religious studies. Initially, one is tempted to fit this detail into a loss of faith parallel with nihilism; he seems to search for the God that is alluding him. At this point does Chekhov take control of the philosophy.
In taking control, Chekhov presents an alternative rational as support or impetus for nihilism. It seems that he does not appreciate the loss of God in nihilist, revolutionary Russia. Therefore, he includes, in the lawyer’s final letter, a strong belief in and responsibility to God. The wizened lawyer marvels “before God who sees me” at those “who have bartered heaven for earth” when he recognizes the emptiness of life on earth (1 1106). He knows the beauty of the earth, all of its “blessings and wisdom,” from his wide-spread studies; but he adamantly rejects them due to their non-divine and basic direction. The lawyer is a nihilist in his dispair, but not in his atheism, or lack thereof.
Thus does Anton Chekhov mutate the atheism of the nihilists of his period into an equally revolutionary and effective practical philosophy with a God. It can only be assumed that Chekhov feared the ruin of his nation under a goddless mind-set. He, therefore, through his effective power of pen, presents, in the flow of his plot, a case against the athiest-nihilists. He points an accusing finger at them for their despair and for its contagious effect. One can guess that the lawyer, in finding the importance of God in his life, went on after the story to live alone, but not disparagingly. Because he flees the goddless, industrial wailings and the trivial beauties of the earth, he is expected to find his heaven, even though he suffers on earth before ascention. This is Chekhov’s contorted blend. Nihilism hand in hand with anti-nihilism.
Schrodes, The Conscious Reader. New York: Macmillian Publishing, ed.IV pp.1102-7
Yarmolinsky, Road to Revolution. New York: Crowell-Collier Publishing, 1962
“Nihilism,” Edwards, The Encyclopedia of Philosophy. New York: Macmillian Publishing and The Free Press, 1967, vol.V pp.514-6
Glicksberg, “Nihilism.” Gunner, The Course of Ideas. New York: Harper and Row, 1986, pp.427-30
Posted by David Artman at 18:38 Tagged with: Chekov, Criticism, nihilism, Philosophy
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Ceci Moss | Wed Jun 17th, 2009 5:23 p.m.
Image: [Left to Right] Art Since the Summer of ’69 Gallery Owners Fabienne Stephan, Paul-Aymar Mourgue d’Algue (with Ludwig von Truffle, seated) and Hanne Mugaas.
In New York City, time and space (and, of course, the ever-present dollar bill) have long operated as limiting factors in the exhibition of art. In response, curators and artists alike have had to eek out unique and innovative approaches to show work. Galleries such as Fake Estate have set up shop in former utility closets while curatorial initiatives like Apartment Show have taken up impromptu, one-night only residencies in homes across the city. Art Since the Summer of ’69, run by Hanne Mugaas, Fabienne Stephan and Paul-Aymar Mourgue d’Algue, is another such enterprising venture to carve out space, often in uncommon settings, to show work by emerging artists. Their “Gallery Show No. 1” occupied the make-up room of a photographer's studio for a one night stint and more recently “Secondary Market” set up a store-in-a-store, selling art-related ephemera collected from eBay inside Los Angeles boutique Ooga Booga. This week, the once nomadic gallery will open up a more permanent spot in a small (16 by 6 ft to be exact) space on the third floor of 195 Chrystie Street, a building primarily used for offices and studios. Their premiere exhibition, entitled “As Small As It Gets”, is a play on the minute confines of the gallery. (Owners Hanne, Fabienne and Paul also confess that the show was partially inspired by resident canine Ludwig von Truffle, whose miniature frame prohibits his big dog aspirations.) “As Small As It Gets” will include pocket-to-backpack-sized works by Lina Viste Groenli, Spartacus Chetwynd, Guillaume Pilet, Anders Nordby, Charles Broskoski, Delphine Coindet, Marcel Dionne, Benjamin Valenza, Mike Ballou, Ligia Dias, Olaf Breuning, Ryan Foerster, Davide Balula and Jennifer Cohen. I visited the gallery today for a quick preview of this quasi-lilliputian exhibit, which was still under construction. See below for a short preview featuring some of the works from the show, arranged from smallest to largest. To view the full spectrum, visit Art Since the Summer of ’69 tomorrow when “As Small As It Gets” opens to the public at 6pm.
Image: Marcel Dionne, The Little One, 2009
Image: Benjamin Valenza, Pierre, 2009
Image: Olaf Breuning, Yellow Dog, 2009
Image: Davide Balula, Welcome Back, Smile, 2009
Image: Ligia Dias, Pendu Geant, 2009
Tags: curation installation photography sculpture Writers Initiative
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by Edmund Crispin
Max Linster went through the small side gate and saw the large house in front of him. Not far away, a church clock told him that it was ten o’clock. He had half an hour to do the job. At midnight a private plane would take off for Europe from a lonely field in Norfolk, and Linster planned to be on it even if his last job in England was not successful.
He walked towards the house and saw a room with a light on. He looked quickly through the window and saw that it was the servants’ room. Then he moved round the building and climbed to the upstairs room that his orders had described. It was not difficult to reach, and the window was unlocked, as promised.
He stepped inside, and waited.
After a moment, he heard someone coming and moved quickly and silently across to the door. He hid behind it. It opened slowly. Someone put on the light. The man who came in was about thirty-five years old. He had fair hair, and the right arm of his coat was empty.
«Mr Elliston?» Linster said from behind him.
Jacob Elliston turned quickly. He looked at Linster for a moment, then said, «So you’re the person they sent.»
«I’m who they sent,» agreed Linster.
Elliston closed the door. «We have to be quick,» he said. «You’ve guessed that this is my wife’s bedroom. She’s downstairs with her brother, but he’ll leave to catch his train in a minute or two, and she’ll come up to bed.»
Linster looked at his watch but said nothing.
«Please understand,» Elliston went on, «that you will get no money if you don’t succeed in… er…»
«In killing the lady,» Linster finished for him, with a smile. «Yes, I understand, Mr Elliston. It’s cash on delivery.»
He stepped forward — carefully, because this was the first part of his plan. He was not like some other men he knew. He was not interested in murder if robbery could do the same job…
«You have the cash ready, I hope.»
Elliston took a gun from his pocket. «Don’t try that,» he said. «The money is safe in my bedroom. If you want it, you’ll have to finish the job.»
«Of course,» said Linster, smiling.
«You must use both hands,» said Elliston.
Linster looked at the empty arm of the other man’s coat. «Yes, that’s sensible,» he said. «They always look for clues like that.»
«And you must pretend there was a burglary,» said Elliston. «Take that jewel-box. There’s nothing valuable in it, but you could not know that because it’s locked.»
Still holding his gun, Elliston moved towards the door. «I’m going to my bedroom where I shall turn my radio on loud.» He opened the door a little. «That’s my wife’s brother leaving now. She’s tired, and will come up almost at once. I’ll return with the money in… twenty minutes.»
Elliston left, and soon the sound of music came from another room. Linster looked around for a good place to hide and saw a clothes cupboard. He would not to be able to see anything from inside it, but he could still hear. He turned off the light and disappeared into the cupboard like a shadow.
Josephine Demessieux, the young and pretty French servant, came into the bedroom and closed the door. In a bored and careless way, she got the bed ready for Mrs Elliston. There was plenty of time because Mrs Elliston was walking to the railway station with her brother. It was something which she had decided to do at the last moment.
Josephine looked around at the beautiful things which Mrs Elliston owned. She put on one of the rings, then a pretty brooch. Next, she put on a short fur coat which made her look very different when she saw herself in the mirror. «I’m like a real lady,» she thought.
It was then that Linster moved out of the clothes cupboard. He went silently up behind her. He watched her face in the mirror and was still a metre or two away when she saw him and turned. But his left hand was large and fast. It closed around her narrow throat. She made no sound as she died…
Linster gently put her body on the bed, then covered her with a blanket. It took only a few minutes to open cupboards and made them look untidy. He looked at the little jewel-box, then threw it under the bed.
When Elliston entered the room again, still with the gun in his hand, he looked at the shape under the blanket. He said, «It — it’s done?»
«Yes,» said Linster. «It’s done.»
«You’re sure she’s…?»
«Yes, Mr Elliston, she’s dead.» Linster pulled a white hand from under the blanket. «If you don’t believe me, feel this.»
But Elliston jumped back, shaking. «That ring,» he said slowly. «It’s one she almost never…»
Linster dropped the hand. «The money, Mr Elliston. Five thousand.»
The money was silently put into his hands.
«I’m going now, Mr Elliston,» said Linster. And then with a smile said, «Sorry I can’t stay and talk to that pretty little servant that your wife has.»
Elliston looked surprised. «The girl?»
«The girl,» replied Linster. «I looked through the window of your servants’ room before I climbed up here, and there she was. Dark. A soft-looking mouth. A pretty girl. I’d recognize her again, anywhere. But I had this job to do. And you don’t get paid until you’ve done the job, do you? It’s cash on delivery. And a man must live.»
«I don’t understand what you’re talking about,» said Elliston.
But Linster was already climbing out of the window. «You will, Mr Elliston,» he said. «You will.»
8 комментариев к “Cash On Delivery”
Почему-то почти все рассказы здесь — в Past Simple
Как и большинство рассказов в принципе.
вообще то все рассказы в паст времени!!
Thank you very much for your website, Marina. Please, help me to understand this sentence: «He was not like some other men he knew.»
It means that he was not the same as some of his acquaintances. Some other men might enjoy murder, but he didn’t.
Здравствуйте, Марина! Объясните, пожалуйста, последние слова Линстера: «You will, Mr Elliston,» he said. «You will.» Что он хотел сказать/ как это правильно перевести.
Спасибо. Жду.
Элистон сказал: «Я не понимаю, о чём вы».
«Поймёте, мистер Элистон», — ответил он. — «Поймёте».
Это перевод. А что он имел в виду — сложно сказать наверняка, ведь в этом и состоит детективная развязка рассказа. Об этом мы должны догадываться сами. Возможно, убита была не та женщина, которую «заказывал» Элистон…
freebits
Линстер говорит, что узнает эту красивую служанку где угодно и перед убийством он увидел ее лицо в зеркале. Если бы он не закончил работу ему бы не заплатили, поэтому ему пришлось убить служанку. Об этом он и говорит. По этой причине он завернул ее в одеяло, чтобы Элистон подумал, что это его жена.
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Author: Fock, Achim; Zachernuk, Tim Document also available in: English Disclosure Status: Disclosed
Corporate environmental and social responsibility in the East Asia and Pacific region : review of emerging practice (English)
The primary objective of this paper is to review the environmental management aspects of Corporate Social Responsibility (CESR) and discuss the issues and challenges related to promoting CESR activities in the East Asia and Pacific (EAP) region. ... See More + It also identifies drivers and constraints to CESR, and looks at how the Bank can support these efforts. This is a desk-top review of CESR practice and not a comprehensive study of the CESR in the region. It is intended to serve as the first step to help the region for a view and approach on the issue. The first chapter discusses the CESR model by describing the concepts and key tools of CESR. Chapter 3 reviews the current trends and Chapter 3 looks at CESR cases in the EAP region. Chapter 4 describes drivers of change, followed by a discussion on barriers. The final chapter concludes with suggestions for a complimentary role of the Bank and IFC to move toward a CESR promotion strategy in the EAP region. See Less -
Document Type: Departmental Working Paper Report No.: 42303 Document Date: MAR 01, 2006
Author: Shima, Michiko; Lovei, Magda; Ahmed, Kulsum Disclosure Status: Disclosed
Ensuring education access for orphans and vulnerable children : a planners' handbook (English)
The aim of this handbook is to enable members of the education and other sectors to learn more about the access to education of orphans and vulnerable children. ... See More + As well as enabling users to learn more, the handbook also aims to help moves towards the creation of a coordinated, collaborative inter-sectoral response to the challenges faced. This was developed as part of a package of toolkits by the Working Group to Accelerate the Education sector response to HIV/AIDS. The handbook contains eight sections. Sections one to seven enable users to examine different issues relating to the education of orphans and vulnerable children in their country. These sections can either be used sequentially or as stand alone resources for discussion and thought. Section eight contains a sample response template that enables users to identify key aspects of responses to priority issues identified. This handbook aims to operate as a useful guide for discussions about enabling orphans and vulnerable children to access education. Throughout its pages, a number of prompt questions are included that facilitate users' discussion of their current position and activities. As well as encouraging discussion, the handbook seeks to enable action to happen. To enable this, at the end of each section, users are asked to identify and prioritize key issues that must be addressed if orphans and vulnerable children are to be enabled to access education. Section eight then contains response templatesthat enable users to build plans that will address the issues identified. See Less -
Document Type: Departmental Working Paper Report No.: 39676 Document Date: JAN 01, 2006
Cote-d'Ivoire - Rapport d'Etat du Systeme Educatif Ivoirien : Elements d'analyse pour instruire une politique educative nouvelle dans le contexte de l'EPT et du PRSP (French)
The Education Country Status Report for Côte-d'Ivoire was at its stage of finalization when events took place that shook up the national landscape. ... See More + The report provides a diagnostic of the education system at this particular point in time, which is relevant nonetheless. The report discusses the impacts to education -shrinking of public spending (Public funding to ensure quality education for youth shrank considerably over the last decade); HIV/AIDS (rise in AIDS orphans and reduced number of replacement teachers); stagnating enrollment at all levels except higher education levels; the considerable numbers of repeating students at the primary levels; significant disparities according to gender, region, and rural or urban residential area; the need to improve teaching conditions; and tensions surrounding teacher remuneration. Although this report does not explored all the management aspects of the Ivorian education system, it addresses two major issues, namely 1) the distribution of resources from the central government down to individual schools (administrative management, particularly that of personnel), and 2) the transformation of local resources into effective learning of pupils at the school level (pedagogical management). See Less -
Author: Mingat, Alain; Rakotomalala, Ramahatra; Kengne, Valese Mapro Disclosure Status: Disclosed
Enabling country capacity to achieve results - 2005 CDF progress report : Overview (English)
This study is about the Comprehensive Development Framework (CDF) and the Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS) process. The CDF principles-long-term holistic vision, country ownership, country-led partnership and results focus-have underpinned the PRS process since its inception in low-income countries, which has become the instrument for implementing the CDF. ... See More + In some Low-Income Countries under Stress (LICUS), Transitional Results Matrices (TRMs) do help in launching a PRS approach. The study assesses the operational application of the CDF principles through the formulation and implementation of PRSs and TRMs in 59 countries; identifies good practice examples from which countries in the process of consolidating a long- and medium-term country-owned development framework can learn; and, draws some operational implications for external partners to help deepen the use of the CDF principles for a better use of development resources. Volume II, presents profiles of those 59 countries, prepared as background to document progress on 20 indicators that assess CDF implementation, and a summary of implementation of the CDF principles by country. The profiles build on research, drawn on country specific long-term vision statements, and other, including supplements from interviews or written comments from Bank country staff. Overall, the report shows that many countries following the PRS process have achieved relatively more clarity on their long-term development objectives, and strategies to achieve them, achieved deeper country ownership of a unified national development vision and strategy, which in turn has led to more effective government leadership over development assistance coordination, resulting in increased alignment of external assistance with the national development strategy, and increasingly coordinated efforts to improve country systems toward harmonization. Nevertheless, the report underlines the need for greater coherence of the Poverty Reduction Strategy process with long-term visioning processes, including the effort to attain the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). See Less -
Document Type: Departmental Working Paper Report No.: 34102 Document Date: JUL 01, 2005
Enabling country capacity to achieve results - 2005 CDF progress report (Vol. 2) : Country profiles (English)
Poverty reduction : does reproductive health matter? (English)
Funding for the reproductive health agenda agreed at the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development has fallen short of estimated requirements. ... See More + In the changed funding environment, stronger evidence on the links between reproductive health and poverty reduction is needed. This paper reviews the evidence base on three reproductive health outcomes: early childbearing, maternal survival, and unintended pregnancy. Building on the "capacities" approach to poverty assessment advocated by Amartya Sen, this evidence is organized in a framework that includes health and education outcomes for mothers and children, as well as household consumption, and production effects. Generally speaking, the evidence on health effects is strongest, household well-being weakest, and education in between. Causal relationships are difficult to establish because reproductive health outcomes and other household-level explanatory variables are influenced by each other. An important finding is that relationships are context specific and that one cannot look at individual characteristics without reference to contextual variables. One reason why much existing research has not effectively addressed the effects of poor reproductive health on poverty is that studies have relied on survey data for a single point in time. Longitudinal surveys offer greater promise. Rather than propose new surveys, initial research could work with existing data resources. Research should focus on a country or countries where 1) there has been social and economic change over time, 2) rich-poor differences in reproductive health outcomes persist, and, 3) obtaining and working with promising datasets is feasible. Pursuit of causal relationships between poor reproductive health outcomes and poverty should not paralyze efforts to make better use of existing country-level evidence in Poverty Reduction Strategies and other documents that guide resource allocation. See Less -
Author: Greene, Margaret E.; Merrick, Thomas Disclosure Status: Disclosed
Egypt and the millennium development goals : Egypt and the millennium development goals : challenges and opportunities (English)
There are challenges that hinder progress toward the Millennium Development Goals(MDGs), targets in Egypt. These challenges include the pervasive differentials and gaps in the delivery, availability, and quality of publicly financed services and programs, the gender gaps; the fragmented legal system; and the lack of opportunity for civil society to participate in the development process. ... See More + The report outlines a number of strategies to accelerate achievement of the MDGs in Egypt, including: 1) strengthening government stewardship and regulation, 2) encouraging community participation, 3) improving targeting of publicly financed services, 4) enhancing knowledge and awareness and promoting healthy behaviors, and 5) adopting a multisectoral framework. As 2015 approaches, there will be even greater attention given to the MDGs. The extent to which they are achieved will provide a benchmark for assessing how effective governments and the development community are at supporting human development. The momentum for achieving the MDGs in Egypt needs to be sustained to demonstrate that it has the systems, resources, and structures in place to improve the lives of its people. It is equally important that the focus on achieving the MDGs is not at the expense of programs and priority areas not directly linked to the MDGs. See Less -
Document Type: Departmental Working Paper Report No.: 31705 Document Date: FEB 01, 2005
Author: El-Saharty, Sameh; Richardson, Gail; Chase, Susan
An operational approach to assessing country ownership of poverty reduction strategies : Analysis and implications (English)
Country ownership is widely seen as crucial to the success of national development strategies, but a robust operational framework to assess it has been elusive. ... See More + The Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS) initiative underpinned by the Comprehensive Development Framework (CDF) principles, introduced in 1999, take the question of country ownership to a new level by ensuring an opportunity for a country to take the initiative in defining its own strategy, and take charge of its development. This study offers a common operational approach to assessing country ownership of PRSs. It builds on the findings of the Bank's 2003 CDF Progress Report, which reviewed experience in 48 countries, on PRS reviews prepared by other organizations, and other units within the Bank, and on detailed case studies of the PRS process carried out for the purposes of this study in four countries that have made strong progress in developing nationally, owned development strategies: Bolivia, Ghana, the Kyrgyz Republic, and Senegal. Experience in the case study countries shows that to develop country ownership of PRSs, it is essential to integrate PRS formulation, and implementation into a country's broader decision making processes and systems. The indicators point to increasing institutionalization of the PRS process: to the extent that these elements are in place, country ownership of the PRS is stronger. However, all indicators are unlikely to be equally important in all countries. Countries with weaker governance and institutions like Low-Income Countries Under Stress (LICUS) face considerable challenges in fostering country ownership of the PRS, and are likely to make slower progress than those with stronger institutions. See Less -
Author: Entwistle, Janet; Cavassini, Filippo Disclosure Status: Disclosed
An operational approach to assessing country ownership of poverty reduction strategies (Vol. 2) : Country case studies (English)
Le systeme educatif Guineen : diagnostic et perspectives pour la politique educative dans le Contexte de constraintes macro-economiques fortes et de reduction de la pauvrete (French)
This report analyzes the Guinean educational system against the global backdrop and focusing on each educational level-that is, at the preschool, primary, secondary, technical and professional, and higher education levels. ... See More + It discusses student retention rates, grade repetition, the mobilization and efficiency of educational resources, and the efficacy and quality of the educational system. Next it discusses the impact of education on poverty, particularly the impact of the educational level of heads of household and women on family health; and establishing policies to regulate investments in human capital. The report then reviews disparities in the distribution of public resources in education according to gender, region, and the urban-rural dimension; educational administration and the allocation of school personnel, especially at the primary level. Lastly, the report discusses policies regarding access, the need for a new post-primary educational policy, education's response to society demands, the quality of educational services, and the insertion of youth into the informal sector, among other topics. See Less -
Author: Berete, Harouna; Diawara, Bakary; Sow, Seikou; Yattara, Aboubakar Sidiki; Amelewonou, Kokou; Brossard, Mathieu; Foko, Borel; Ledoux, Blandine; Mingat, Alain; Rakotomalala, Ramahatra; Kengne, Valese Mapto Disclosure Status: Disclosed
A practical guide to economic analysis of youth projects (English)
Investments in youth are particularly important in light of the unprecedented numbers of young people now entering their reproductive and early adult productive years. ... See More + Of the more than one billion youth aged 15-24, 86 percent live in developing countries. This guide is for those involved in appraising the economic merits of youth projects or projects with an important youth component. It builds on two previous publications in the HNP Discussion Paper series, Assessing the Economic Returns to Investing in Youth in Developing Countries (Knowles and Behrman 2003), and The Economic Returns to Investing in Youth in Developing Countries: A Review of the Literature (Knowles and Behrman 2005). The guide is designed to explain and illustrate basic economic principles relevant to ex ante project appraisal, and their application to the task of making choices related to youth projects. It is also intended to familiarize those who do not specialize in youth projects, with some of the issues particular to youth projects, and to provide some basic understanding of the concepts, relationships and data relevant to undertaking economic analysis of youth projects. The guide comprises seven sections. Following a brief introductory Section 1, Section 2 sketches a framework for economic analysis of youth projects, and the basic economic motives for policies and policy options. Section 3 turns to estimating costs, effectiveness and benefits. Section 4 considers poverty and gender analysis. Section 5 includes seven illustrative case studies covering a variety of youth investments in several different countries. Section 6 presents model terms of reference for the economic analysis of a hypothetical continuing education project in Serbia-Montenegro, corresponding to one of the case studies presented in Section 5. Section 7 provides a list of references. See Less -
Document Type: Departmental Working Paper Report No.: 33398 Document Date: NOV 01, 2004
Author: Knowles, James C.; Behrman, Jere R. Disclosure Status: Disclosed
The State of the health workforce in Sub-Saharan Africa: evidence of crisis and analysis of contributing factors (English)
This paper examines some of the issues of human resources in the health sector, focusing on the situation in Africa in view of its particularly critical state. ... See More + First, it examines the current state of the health sector workforce, including the latest statistics and trends. Second, it analyzes the economic factors that influence the availability of human resources. Next, it takes a close look at the brain loss phenomenon, or exodus of trained health care professionals from the country or from the sector. Then, a discussion of the impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic on the workforce itself and working conditions follows. Last, the paper concludes with some issues that governments and development partners need to tackle to address the growing human resources crisis in the African health sector. See Less -
Author: Liese, Bernhard; Dussault, Gilles Disclosure Status: Disclosed
Resource allocation and purchasing in Africa: what is effective in improving the health of the poor? (English)
The primary objective of this paper is to assess how Resource Allocation and Purchasing (RAP) is being implemented in Africa, and to consolidate some of the lessons that have been learned. ... See More + This objective is accomplished by reviewing trends and specific cases in Africa where RAP strategies have increased the effectiveness of a health system, in terms of efficiency, equity, quality, ownership or a combination of these factors. The selection of case studies is solely based on the availability of empirical evidence to show that the arrangement had improved health outcomes. See Less -
Author: Marek, Tonia; Eichler, Rena; Schnabl, Philip Disclosure Status: Disclosed
See More + JUN 03, 2016 106456 Departmental Working Paper
See More + APR 01, 2009 48899 Departmental Working Paper
See More + SEP 07, 2006 37752 Departmental Working Paper English
See More + SEP 01, 2006 37752 Departmental Working Paper Chinese
See More + SEP 01, 2006 37795 Departmental Working Paper
See More + AUG 01, 2006 37430 Departmental Working Paper Chinese
See More + AUG 01, 2006 37430 Departmental Working Paper English
See More + MAR 01, 2006 42303 Departmental Working Paper
See More + JAN 01, 2006 39676 Departmental Working Paper
See More + JUL 01, 2005 34102 Departmental Working Paper
See More + FEB 01, 2005 31705 Departmental Working Paper
See More + NOV 01, 2004 33398 Departmental Working Paper
See More + AUG 01, 2004 32818 Departmental Working Paper
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NFL Wild Card Round 2020: Buffalo's 1st Win in 20+ Years?
Author Topic: NFL Wild Card Round 2020: Buffalo's 1st Win in 20+ Years? (Read 879 times)
Boomer Kamala
Re: NFL Wild Card Round 2020: Buffalo's 1st Win in 20+ Years?
I agree with you, HQ. The amount of Pats fans who are resigned to Brady/Belichick era being over is staggering. Maybe Brady is gone but I think one if not both of them comes back for one last run. The Pats Dynasty is ending with another Super Bowl or a crappy sub .500 season. I just don't see it ending with a middling Wild Card round loss.
How many people said The Patriots were over when the Ravens clobbered them in 2010?
THE TUGSTER
Alfdogg
Was it just me or were there a lot of anti-Pats fans at Gillette last night? Seemed like there was a noticeable roar particularly when Edelman dropped that pass and when the last punt got pinned at the 1. Was I just hearing things?
@alfdogg765 on Twitter FOLLOW ME
Quote from: THE TUGSTER on January 05, 2020, 01:14:08 AM
Not just you. Seemed like there were a lot of 'road' fans for the two AFC playoff games. I heard on the radio that Houston actually had to use a silent count at one point because of the Bills fans at the stadium.
It's certainly possible. There was a lot of doom and gloom regarding this team. I think honestly a sizable portion of the fanbase wishes they'd gone 4-12 instead of 12-4. Even when they were 8-0, people thought the sky was falling.
The Art of Rasslin'
PosterFest 2014 Winner
wipeoff
belichick is not what he used to be, when you guys realize that it's gonna be p. sweet
Good effort from the Bills. Youth and inexperience cost them, but they seem to be taking the loss the right way, especially Allen:
https://www.si.com/nfl/2020/01/05/josh-allen-laments-playoff-loss-bills-texans
"There's some things we should have hit on," Allen said postgame, according to ESPN's Marcel Louis-Jacques. "I put that on my shoulders, especially with how well our defense played today. Teams go how their quarterbacks usually go, and I've got to be better for this team."
good maturity from this kid, feels like the team has a bright future. It doesn't feel like the losses from the past, this time it feels like a learning experience. Next season will show what's what, but with all the high-performing rookies on this team, it's hard not to think they take a step up.
I can't believe a guy can be that big, and jump around like he does what a great athlete!
also, it's awesome that the pats dynasty ended in a game where Brady's last play was the pick-six, and Belichick had his own rule manipulation used against him to cost him the game.
1:36 is the new 4:20 LOL
Quote from: The Art of Rasslin' on January 05, 2020, 03:17:50 AM
New England sports talk radio is doom and gloom and saying Belichick is washed so maybe this is one case where Sully from Revere was ahead of the curve?
Krankor
The entire NFL after the Titans drop a farm house on the Patriots:
just to add to that
Pats Lose
Every other fan base in the NFL: pic.twitter.com/esSAYOP5DJ
— Joe Ulinski (@JoeUUUUUU) January 5, 2020
Brooklyn Zoo
This is great stuff, Imagine celebrating like it's the first time they ever lost a playoff game. Brady or no Brady, as long as Belichick is running the show they will be a threat to keep winning going forward. He's far from perfect, and his mistakes are magnified bigtime because he's held to a higher standard than every other coach/GM in the league, but he's far better at what he does than anyone.
Cool, Bad, & Handsome
KOAB
Saints_Fan_H
Whyyyyyyyyyyyyy!?
Not saying I'm hopping on any teams' bandwagons but I do like Kirk Cousins as a person and won't be bothered if he gets a ring, once I calm down.
I might just go all in on the Ravens, though, until the offseason.
That chart just tells me that Jim Plunkett is the GOAT. A lot of those games he was expected to lose, unlike Starr who was a favorite for pretty much all of them.
Firmino of the 909
The Raiders also had one of the best supporting casts in history for their 1983 win, and none of those playoff games were close. Cliff Branch should be in the Hall of Fame with the defensive players who got in.
koab [8:27 PM]
damn i thought you guys were good little cucks who would shit themselfs so a POC could peacefully protest
I had a sick thought at work today: The Raiders should sign Brady. He has to be an upgrade over Carr. Think of all the shops on the Strip selling silver and black Brady jerseys.
Some thoughts should be kept to yourself
Of that list, I think it's equally telling that Brett Favre only won 1 Super Bowl and went just 13-11 and those Packers teams were deep at times on both sides of the ball.
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QUOTE OF THE DAY: "I believe in God, only I spell it Nature."
A & D Studios
LATEST | MOST POPULAR
SAZAE's house02. Sep2011
TAGS: house
Designed by Akasaka Shinichiro Atelier
SAZAE's house is a private residence for a 7-member family in Japan. The clients are a young family which requested the house to accommodate all family members ranging from their young daughter to brother, sister, mother and grandmother as well.
images © koji sakai
via Designboom
Upper floor view. Reading corner located at the upper floor. The resulting design seeks to create spatial connectivity inside the house by creating a central space acting as a common space where two distinct passages are intersecting. This area occupies a large portion of the house layout and develops on two levels height. This is the neutral space in which all family members can meet at one moment. View towards the living. View from the dining space.
Private spaces such as dormitories were grouped on the perimeter and receive light through small internal windows which make connection with the central space abundantly illuminated by the sun through the generous translucent window pane. "Rather than imposing our own designs unilaterally, we think of clients as equal partners in the process of discussing requests and problems, which are then resolved through design and planning. While the end product of this process is a physical structure, we think of our fundamental role as designing human-to-human and human-to-environment relationships. Our goal is to create architecture whose meaning and purpose is derived through ongoing communication with clients." - Akasaka Shinichiro design philosophy
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dETROITfUNK
« It’s Bigger Than Me
Guild Theater »
Houdini died in Detroit
The Art Center Music School extends from
3957 Cass to 3971 Cass and includes the Art Deco Hamilton Funeral Home completed in 1930 as well as the Robert and Jennie
Brown Queen Anne style home completed in 1891.
This is the funeral home where the body of Harry Houdini lay in state after his death in Detroit on Halloween day in 1926. His body lay in a room of the Queen Anne house, which was the funeral home prior to the Art Deco addition.
The story goes that a man hit Houdini in the stomach rupturing his appendix while in Canada shortly before his Detroit appearance at the Garrick Theater.
Houdini went on stage with a 104 temperature and finished his show. He was rushed back to his hotel after the performance, as this was the nearest location of a doctor, only about three blocks away.
Houdini was staying at the Statler Hotel (soon to be demolished). The Statler was the first hotel in the world to have its own built in doctors office for hotel patrons and employees. This doctor recognized the severity of the condition, and he was rushed to Grace Hospital.
Harry Houdini (original name “Erich Weiss”) died at 1:26 PM in Room 401, Corridor D of the John R. Wing of Grace Hospital in Detroit.
signing doctor was Cleo(?) S. Kennedy residing at 10 Peterboro.
Harry Houdini was 52 years 6 months and 25 days old when he died.
Cause of Death: acute peritonitis from ruptured appendix.
No autopsy, as an emergency operation at Grace determined cause of death.
The Art Deco Hamilton addition was added later, and was probably still under construction when Houdini passed through.
Now it is used as a private music school.
Wagon doors where the hearses originally came in.
3 Responses to Houdini died in Detroit
Dfunk on January 20, 2005 at 4:57 am
ACMS – I shot you an email. Let me know your thoughts, I am sure I could help out.
ACMS on January 17, 2005 at 6:36 pm
I’m a Board member for the Art Center Music School. We’re in desperate need of restoration funding (as you can see!).
AIW on January 4, 2005 at 11:34 pm
Dfunk, great stuff as usual. I’ll have to add this to my list of places to shoot.
Palmer Park Fountain 2019
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Discover hundreds of years of the history of the Big Bend, explore lush canyons and craggy trails, and get a close-up look at prehistoric pictographs. These, and many more, adventures await at the Texas State Parks near El Paso and Big Bend. Covering a portion of the beautiful Chihuahuan Desert, this region offers a wealth of outdoor adventure paired with some of the most spectacular scenery in the Lone Star State.
Whether you’re swimming in the largest spring-fed pool in the world at Balmorhea State Park, taking in the gorgeous vistas at Davis Mountains State Park, or soaking up all the history of Fort Leaton State Historic Site, there’s no shortage of amazing things to do here. Read on to discover three of the regions top state parks.
Fort Leaton State Historic Site
Perched on the east side of Presidio just miles from the Texas-Mexico border, the Fort Leaton State Historic Site is the western entry point to the spectacular Big Bend Ranch State Park. Step inside one of the largest and finest adobe structures in Texas to see exhibits highlighting the area’s history from as far back as the 15th century. Get a firsthand look at what life was like at the old trading post in the mid-19th century as you stroll through the patio and visit the bakery and blacksmith shop.
While it’s an attraction all its own, Fort Leaton State Historic Site is also where you want to go to purchase river-use permits and licenses for use in Big Bend Ranch State Park.
Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site
Explore rugged trails, admire the stark beauty of the West Texas desert, and keep a keen eye out for black-tailed jackrabbits, Texas horned lizards, and any of the more than 200 species of birds. For thousands of years, the rocky hills of Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site has been an oasis for man and animal due to the parks igneous formations that trap rainwater. When you’re not hiking through verdant canyons or up to the summit of rocky hills, check out the ancient Native American pictographs and petroglyphs that date back to more than 1,500 years ago.
Along with all of this, Hueco Tanks is a world-class destination for rock climbing, and the park offers guided tours Wednesday through Sunday. Once the sun sets, settle in at one of 20 campsites and take in a remarkable view of all the stars of the Milky Way.
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confirmation class of 1934 (2)
rev. wally m. arp performs pastoral functions c.2000 (2)
ten eyck, alice m. hill (2)
workers display harvested celery on lukas farm, c.1930s (2)
bethune-cookman wildcats cheerleaders (1)
busy day in an orange grove, florida. (1)
church play: ten ladies in hats & costumes, c. 1954-55 (1)
keyser elementary students (1)
slavia (fla.) -- history (7)
black and white photography -- florida -- daytona beach -- photographs (2)
black-and-white photography -- florida -- sanford -- photographs. (2)
men -- florida -- sanford -- photographs (2)
students -- african americans -- florida -- daytona beach -- photographs (2)
advertising -- florida -- sanford. (1)
baseball -- florida -- sanford -- photographs (1)
baseball uniforms -- florida -- sanford -- photographs (1)
ca. 1920s or 1930s (1)
ca. 1922 (1)
ca. 1922-1926 (1)
ca. 1960s (1)
Description: Ten
St. Cloud Tribune Vol. 12 No. 52, August 19, 1920.
St. Cloud (Fla.) -- Newspapers.; Advertising -- Florida -- St. Cloud -- Newspapers.
Newspaper for St. Cloud (Fla.) from 1920.
Book 134 : Carey Hand Funeral Home records, April 1, 1940 to May 24, 1940
Sanford Chronicle Industrial Edition, Winter, 1910
Advertising -- Florida -- Sanford -- Newspapers
Newspaper published by the Sanford Herald which provides pertinent information for the residents of Sanford. Includes information on residents, businesses, agriculture, and recreation. See page level descriptions for more detailed information.
Funeral Register Volume 24 : Carey Hand Funeral Home records, January 1, 1940 to November 2, 1940.
Church play: Ten ladies in hats & costumes, c. 1954-55
Ten ladies of the congregation pose on the stage of the school auditorium (c.1954-55) and are dressed for a comedy skit meant to entertain the members of the congregation. Left to right, REAR: 1. Vera Fabry 2. Katie Duda 3. Olga Jakubcin 4. Eleanor...
Ten children seated in classroom of first school, in converted wood church, c. 1946-47
Ten children are seated at their desks in the classroom of St. Luke's first school, c. 1946-47. The original, wood, church building had been relocated to a site just east of the brick church constructed in 1939 and an additional room was added to...
Busy day in an orange grove, Florida.
Postcards.- Florida -- History -- Pictorial works.; Citrus fruit industry -- Florida -- Pictorial works.
Color picture postcard of workers and ladders in a citrus grove in Florida. Printed on reverse side:and"Friend Muzz, Heard you were sick hope you are better. What more could I say in a ten page letter. Stick.and Addressed to "Col. Frand Muzzey,...
Sanford High School baseball team, the CeleryFeds
Baseball -- Florida -- Sanford -- Photographs; Baseball uniforms -- Florida -- Sanford -- Photographs; Black-and-white photography -- Florida -- Sanford -- Photographs.; Men -- Florida -- Sanford -- Photographs
Black and white photograph of the Sanford High School baseball team, named the CeleryFeds. The photograph shows ten baseball players standing in a line, wearing their baseball uniforms, and cleats. One player in the center is wearing a...
Warranty deed for Slavia land owned by St. Luke's Slovak Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1934
Warranty Deed conveying title for "ten acres more or less" of land in Slavia, FL. Seminole County to St. Luke's Slovak Evangelical Lutheran Church. Dec. 26, 1934. Trustees for St. Luke's were Andrew Duda, Jr. and Joseph Mikler. The other party was...
Warranty deed for transfer of 10 acres from Slavia Colony Co. to St. Luke's, 1928
Warranty Deed, signed on March 16, 1925 and filed in Public Records of Seminole County on April 10, 1925, in Book 47, page 67. Conveys to the congregation "sublot 110 of the subdivision made by Slavia Colony Co. in plat book 11, page 71... about...
Pastor Stephen Tuhy's first confirmation class, August 12, 1934
The ten members of Rev. Stephen Tuhy's first confirmation class (following his installation as St. Luke's first pastor the previous month) are gathered near the original, wooden church for their class photo, August 12, 1934. Class members (in...
Pastor Tuhy's first nursery class on porch of parsonage, c. 1945
Ten of the little students in Pastor Tuhy's first nursery class sit on the porch of the Parsonage. c. 1945 Left to right: Rear: 1. Raymond Mikler, 2. Luther Duda, 3. Ferdinand S. Duda, 4. Andy L. Duda. In chairs: 1. Katherine G. Mikler, 2. Phyllis...
Nursery School class, c. 1946
Ten children seated at table in St. Luke's first school classroom, c. 1946. Rear row (left to right): 1. Robert Mikler, 2. Barbara Beasley, 3. Josie Mikler, 4. Betty Ruth Duda, 5. Priscilla Tuhy. Front: 1. Raymond Mikler, 2.Mike Duda, 3. Katherine...
Workers display harvested celery on Lukas Farm, c.1930s
Ten workers display the celery they've helped to harvest on the Lukas farm. Several are holding "celery bouquets," while one worker (foreground) seems to be in the process of extracting another plant from the ground. c. 1930s
Confirmation Class of 1934
The ten members of Rev. Stephen Tuhy's first Confirmation Class (following his installation as St. Luke's first pastor the previous month) are gathered near the original wood church for their class photo. August 12, 1934. Class members(alphabetical...
Rev. Wally M. Arp performs pastoral functions c.2000
Rev. Wally M. Arp, who served the congregation first as a Vicar (student pastor) in 1987 and returned ten years later to serve as Assistant Pastor, then as Senior Pastor of St. Luke's, is shown performing several of his functions at St. Luke's:...
Stetson University - Warren Stone Gordis
Stetson University - Administration
Stetson University professor of Greek and Latin, Warren Stone Gordis. Dr. Gordis came to Stetson in 1888 and served as Acting President for ten months in 1895-1896. He is considered Stetson's first ""librarian"" after he took some library training...
Black and white photography -- Florida -- Daytona Beach -- Florida; Outdoor photography -- Photographs; Students -- African Americans -- Florida -- Daytona Beach -- Photographs; Trees -- Florida -- Photographs; Women -- Florida -- Daytona Beach --...
A black and white image of a large group of people gathered outside celebrating a Christmas party. In the photo can be seen varieties of trees, some covered in Spanish moss, and also scrub palm trees. Beyond the crowd, across a dirt road, can be...
Bethune-Cookman Wildcats cheerleaders
Black and white photography -- Florida -- Daytona Beach -- Photographs; Students -- African Americans -- Florida -- Daytona Beach -- Photographs; Women -- Florida -- Daytona Beach -- Photographs; Men -- FLorida -- Daytona Beach -- Photographs;...
A black and white image of ten women and one male cheerleader posing at the 30 yard line during a Bethune-Cookman football game. The cheerleaders are on one knee and they are holding their pom-poms out. They are wearing sweaters and skirts; the...
Keyser Elementary students
Black and white photography -- Florida -- Daytona Beach -- Photographs; African Americans; Boys -- Florida -- Daytona Beach -- Photographs; Girls -- Florida -- Daytona Beach -- Photographs; School children -- Florida -- Daytona Beach --...
A black and white image of a group of Keyser Elementary students posing outdoors after performing in a school play. The children are very young, probably between five and ten years old. The students at the far right and far left are dressed in...
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Introduction of excutive chief
Calendar of exhibitions
White granite - natanz (oureh)
Black granite - natanz
White granite
White Granite Mine
Black Granite Mine
Shafaq Granite Quarry is one of the oldest quarries located in Ureh village in the Central District of Natanz County, Isfahan Province, Iran, and its highest point is 2264 meters above sea level. Shafaq Granite Quarry was established in early 1994s, and started to work by the Shafaq mining cooperative company in the area of 20.7 kilometers. Overcoming difficulties, it can already reach a significant production level and remarkable successes which will be mentioned later. Now, the white and black granite stones of Natanz are available in Kvp raw form with the minimum annual extraction of 40,000 tons and a daily production of 2000 meters
طراحی شده با افتخار توسط
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Update - Story Mode complete, Heist Mode revealed and near-complete, progress update - December 22, 2019
Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!
Story Mode for The Demon Rush: Legends Corrupt is now complete with all cutscenes, models, maps and effects associated with it fully implemented and tested (though they will still be tested a lot more for good measure). More details about what is different from the original The Demon Rush's story content (added, altered or otherwise) and what to expect from Story Mode itself will be included in a future large dev blog update (not now, though, as what is required to prepare all of the information will take a large amount of time that is needed for more immediate work on The Demon Rush: Legends Corrupt itself).
The fifth mode, hinted at as a possibility in the September 2019 dev blog update, is happening, is almost fully implemented and days away from completion.
Heist Mode
This fifth mode is Heist Mode, where the 9 playable characters are split into 3 teams of 3 - a Ground Team, a Recon Team and a Getaway Team - and attempt to steal an Artifact (one of seven random Artifacts with different capabilities). Like Conquest Mode, it will make use of sprites on a tiled map as teams and enemy squads move around the map, but battles will take place in Legends Corrupt's standard 3D action-RPG play.
Each character gets a different unique ability depending on if they are assigned to the Ground Team, Recon Team or Getaway Team (9 characters x 3 Team possibilities = 27 character-specific Heist abilities). Current abilities (provided they are not cut or altered due to balance changes or otherwise) include temporary infiltration as a Force Fighter, protection from speeding cars if fighting in traffic (while redirecting the cars to the enemy), covering the floor of the building in ice (faster escape, enemies slip and fall), cutting power to the building to reduce enemy sight, setting fire to the building's interior, causing the sprinklers to malfunction so that enemies in combat will slip and fall on pools of water and blowing a hole in the wall of the building so that the Artifact holder does not need to make their way all the way back to the building entrance, among others.
More details about Heist Mode, what each character can do on each Team and what Artifacts can be heisted will be included in the future large dev blog update.
Given that 2019 is pretty much done, it is also, unfortunately, very safe to say that The Demon Rush: Legends Corrupt will not be releasing in 2019, despite an initial projected release date of Q2/Q3 2019.
What has caused so many delays?
Just one culprit - Story Mode content. No big bugs, no big problems, despite the amount of heavy testing so far. Just a lot of time required for creating the cutscenes, models, maps and effects that are Story Mode-specific. The initial expectation was that the time required for Story Mode's content would take about as much time to create as the expansion content of Skylight Freerange 1 and 2 combined, but it ended up being a LOT more involved than that.
For comparison - the time it took to implement and test Story Mode's specific content (cutscenes, models, maps, effects) has pretty much taken as much time as it did to set up the initial outline, create the menus, create the battle system, create and test every active and passive ability (the number of which is greater than the total number of abilities in a Skylight Freerange game), create the models used for all modes (the 9 playable characters and the 16 enemies that appear in these modes), create the maps used for non-Story Modes, create Endless Dungeon Mode, create Onslaught Mode, create Conquest Mode, create Heist Mode and complete the admin tasks associated with Legends Corrupt.
To sum up, Story Mode content was VERY time consuming in its creation requirements. Fortunately, Story Mode has now been completed.
What's left?
Aside from Heist Mode being days away from completion, final balancing is drawing to a close, as well - changing up character presets for Onslaught/Conquest/Heist is solidifying, abilities among all characters are more effectively finding their particular uses/niches in character customization and universal changes to combat (namely basic attacks, blocking and dodging) are nearly fully fleshed out.
There is mostly final testing and admin tasks remaining, and with their completion (hopefully with no issues to delay things further), there should hopefully be a release date, trailers and that large dev blog update sooner rather than later.
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Browsing War Relocation Authority by Author "United States. War Relocation Authority."
U.S. Government Publications
War Relocation Authority
Browsing War Relocation Authority by Author
Now showing item 13 of 15
The evacuated people: a quantitative description.
United States. War Relocation Authority. (U.S. Government Printing Office; Denison University; Government Documents Round Table of Ohio; Date: 1946)
Impounded people: Japanese Americans in the relocation centers.
United States. War Relocation Authority.; Spicer, Edward Holland, 1906- (U.S. Government Printing Office; Denison University; Government Documents Round Table of Ohio; Date: 1946)
Japanese Americans educated in Japan: The Kibei.
Embree, John F. 1908-1950.; United States. War Relocation Authority. Office of Reports.; United States. War Relocation Authority. Community Analysis Section.; United States. War Relocation Authority. (War Relocation Authority; Denison University; Government Documents Round Table of Ohio; Date: 1944)
Legal and constitutional phases of the WRA program.
United States. War Relocation Authority.; Glick, Philip M. 1905-; Ferguson, Edwin E. (U.S. Government Printing Office; Denison University; Government Documents Round Table of Ohio; Date: 1946)
Myths and facts about the Japanese Americans. Answering common misconceptions regarding Americans of Japanese ancestry.
United States. War Relocation Authority. (War Relocation Authority; Department of the Interior; Denison University; Government Documents Round Table of Ohio; Date: 1945)
Nisei assimilation.
Nisei in the war against Japan.
United States. War Relocation Authority. (Department of the Interior; War Relocation Authority; Denison University; Government Documents Round Table of Ohio; Date: 1945)
Nisei in uniform.
United States. War Relocation Authority.; United States. War Department. (U.S. Government Printing Office; Denison University; Government Documents Round Table of Ohio; Date: 1944)
Notes on Japanese holidays.
Relocating a people.
Relocating Japanese Americans.
United States. War Relocation Authority. (War Relocation Authority; Denison University; Government Documents Round Table of Ohio; Date: 1945)
Relocation of Japanese-Americans.
United States. War Relocation Authority. (War Relocation Authority; U.S. Government Printing Office; Denison University; Government Documents Round Table of Ohio; Date: 1943)
The relocation program.
The relocation program: a guide book for the residents of relocation centers.
Segregation of evacuees.
Semi-annual report.
Token shipment: the story of America's war refugee shelter.
United States. War Relocation Authority.; Marks, Edward B. (U.S. Government Printing Office; Denison University; Government Documents Round Table of Ohio; Date: 1946)
Wartime exile: the exclusion of the Japanese Americans from the West coast.
United States. War Relocation Authority.; McKee, Ruth Eleanor, 1903- (U.S. Government Printing Office; Denison University; Government Documents Round Table of Ohio; Date: 1946)
The wartime handling of evacuee property.
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Duck Boot Garden
Sustainable and Wild Foods advice
Eastern Mayhaw
March 6, 2018 by jhtalmadge | 0 comments
Crataegus aestivalis
I was not aware of the mayhaw’s existence until I started working for a nursery in Louisiana about 20 years ago. After a dinner party, a co-worker’s wife gave me my first mason jar of delicious mayhaw jelly and I’ve been a fan ever since. The people of Louisiana are so serious about their love of mayhaw jelly that they made it the state jelly by proclamation. They have also set up a special organization, the Louisiana Mayhaw Association, just to promote the production and consumption of mayhaw berries. There are even festivals celebrating the time of year when mayhaws are fruiting, and isn’t that just like the good people of Louisiana, they never turn down any reason to celebrate.
The mayhaw is a member of the Hawthorn family. It grows as a medium-sized deciduous tree or large shrub. It can reach 25 to 30 feet in height and spread after 20 years. Hawthorns are relatively long lived with some specimens living over 400 years. The mayhaw can have a productive fruiting life of over 50 years.
The leaves are 2 inches in length with a coarse texture. Leaves are deeply toothed and ovate or elliptical in shape. They are narrower at the tip and broader towards the base. Foliage turns bright yellow in the fall. Both the leaves and branches are held alternately. Branches can have 1- to 3-inch thorns. The pinkish-white, cup-shaped flowers appear in late February to March and have 5 petals with 15 to 20 pink stamens. They are held in flat bottomed clusters 2- to 3-inches wide. Younger flowers have a fresh sweet scent, while older blooms smell like rotten fish to some people. The fruit are small, ½- to 1-inch pomes. Pome fruit are structured like pears and apples with a group of seeds in the center. Mayhaw berries are juicy and quite tart. The fruit look like small crabapples but taste more like a cranberry. Fruit are glossy red to yellow with white to yellow flesh and ripen in May thus the name, May hawthorn or mayhaw.
(illustrated by Karen M. Johnson)
Site Selection/Range/General Culture
Mayhaws grow along bodies of water, swamps, lowlands, in flood plains, and uplands. They range in zones 6 to 11 from Texas all the way around the Deep South up through the Carolinas and on into Virginia. Mayhaws are regularly cold hardy down to 15-degrees Fahrenheit and have survived temperatures down to -25-degrees Fahrenheit. They prefer 8 hours per day of full sun, but will tolerate moderate shade, although this can limit their fruit production. If the soil is well drained, mayhaws can tolerate soils too moist for most other fruit trees. They can adapt to a wide variety of soil pH levels and soil profiles but prefer a slightly acid, loamy, moisture-retentive soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5.
Mayhaw trees are low maintenance plants, but water them weekly during dry periods their first year while getting established. They will be somewhat drought tolerant in ensuing years. But, it is best to avoid drought stress since this can affect their growth rate and fruit yields, as well as making them more susceptible to diseases and insects.
When first planting seedling mayhaws, it is good to apply a root stimulator and a teaspoon of 20-20-20 slow-release fertilizer in with each plant. The next year, your trees should be given ½ pound of 5-10-10 slow- release fertilizer in late February, ¼ pound of 5-10-10 in late March and another ¼ pound application in May. Established 2- to 3-year old trees should get 1 pound of 5-10-10 slow-release fertilizer per inch of trunk diameter in early March and receive a repeat application in late August. To protect the roots from burning, don’t apply the late summer application if there are drought conditions. Beginning the fourth year, give your trees a well-balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10 every other year. Apply each application of fertilizer evenly around the tree while taking special care not to broadcast any fertilizer within 10 inches of the trunk.
Pruning & Training
In a home orchard setting, mayhaws need little training other than initially pruning them up into a single trunk and removing the branches lower than 4 or 5 feet for easier access when harvesting. In ensuing years, simple prune them annually in late winter to open the canopy to ensure better fruit production. Also, periodically trim the suckers that pop up at the base of the trunks and clean up weeds, as well as debris underneath your trees. Space your trees 15 to 20 feet apart in rows with 18 to 20 feet between rows when planning an orchard.
Plant at least two trees for maximum fruit production since cross-pollination is necessary. Flies and midges are drawn to the extremely sweet scent of the blooms and are responsible for pollination of most mayhaws.
These trees can be propagated by seed, softwood cuttings, hardwood cuttings, and root cuttings. Unlike most other fruit trees, mayhaws usually grow true to variety from seed. So, seed are the most common choice of commercial growers. Since 12 to 18 weeks of cold treatment (stratification) are needed for germination, seeds should be planted in refrigerated moist sand or direct field planted in the fall.
The next best form of propagating mayhaws is softwood stem cuttings. With an application of rooting hormone, softwood cuttings can easily be rooted under mist or in a sweat tent. Although, hardwood and root cuttings can be done, they are not preferred because they are slow to root-out. Cleft or whip grafts are employed when propagating newer cultivars or larger trees. Mayhaws can be used as a rootstock for any other hawthorn, especially when planting in a wet location.
Pests & Diseases/ General Problems
Native mayhaws naturally have superior disease resistance, but when stressed by drought, fire, or other stressors they can fall prey to diseases such as cedar-apple rust, fire blight, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. Also, pests such as scale, apple borers, plum curculio, hawthorn lace bug, whiteflies, tent caterpillars, mealy bugs, Japanese beetles, and aphids can pose a threat to young mayhaw trees.
Use an all-purpose fruit tree spray containing fungicide, insecticide, and miticide in early spring once insects and diseases become active. If using your trees solely for fruit production, then use natural pesticides like insecticidal soap and pyrethrins. Spray a streptomycin product if fire blight becomes a problem in late spring or early summer. If the fire blight symptoms continue, prune out any infected limbs and burn them. During the winter, spray a light horticultural oil to control scale and other insects. Don’t spray horticultural oil during the growing season after the leaf and flower buds have started to swell otherwise you can do damage to your tree.
Mayhaws ripen in late April or May and should be allowed to ripen fully on the tree before harvesting. The mayhaws can be harvested by hand. But, the easiest method is to wait until at least 80% of the fruit are ripe, and then place a tarp, an old sheet, or a parachute under the tree and vigorously shake the tree. Gather the cloth from under the tree and roll the fruit into a basket or bowl. Since the rainy late spring is harvest time, boats or canoes may be necessary to harvest fruit grown in flood plains or near rivers. The fruit can be skimmed off the water’s surface with a pool net if this is the case. The fruit is not considered to be good for fresh eating, but is usually processed soon after harvest into jelly or juices. If there isn’t time to process the fruit immediately after harvest, the fruit can be stored refrigerated in an air-tight container, dried, frozen, or kept as a juice for months. Yields can vary widely depending on the variety, age, and size of the tree. A 20-year old tree can yield as much as 15 to 30 gallons of fruit per year.
The mayhaw is best known for its jelly, a southern delicacy, which is said to be the best in the world. Although, not exceedingly popular for fresh eating because of their bland to tart flavor. There are many other ways that mayhaws can be utilized such as flavoring alcoholic beverages like wines, beers, brandies and, that southern favorite, moonshine. They can also be baked in pastries or made into sauces, vinegars, mayhaw butter, fruit leather, syrups, and juices. The Native Americans dried and pressed them into small cakes with other berries like juneberries.
Nutritional Benefits
Hawthorn berries and mayhaws have long been recognized for their ability to regulate blood pressure by dilating blood vessels, reduce angina pains, improve circulation, and prevent atherosclerosis by reducing plaques caused by the build-up of cholesterol. They are a good source for the vitamins C, B-complex, choline, inositol, PABA, vitexin, catechins, flavonoids, bioflavonoids, and saponins. They are also rich in various anthocyanins which can act as antioxidants to ward-off the damage from free radicals. These berries can also be used to treat intestinal infections, improve the immune system in general, and increases stamina. A tea can be made with the berries. Drinking the tea twice a day is said to promote heart health.
The mayhaw is not only a much-loved, native fruit tree, it can also be used as an ornamental, an erosion control plant, a butterfly attractor, a wildlife habitat, and as a windbreak. They make exceptional landscape ornamentals or edible landscape plants with their striking flowers, attractive foliage, and colorful fruit. They are good erosion control plants because their fibrous root systems can assist in stabilizing hillsides and river banks. Bees and butterflies are both attracted by the strong fragrance of their flowers. The mayhaw is a good shelter and food source for birds, as well as other wildlife. Hawthorns have been used as windbreaks for hundreds of years because of their dense branching and foliage. Native Americans and settlers used their long thorns as wooden needles to sew and make repairs to nets. Thorns were scorched, scrapped clean and then covered with beeswax to protect them. Once processed, these needles were strong enough to go through the thickest leather or even a metal can. This species strong, heavy wood makes durable handles for hammers and other hand tools. These trees can flourish in areas where other trees can’t live since they are flood tolerant, pollution tolerant and when well established, drought tolerant. Seedling mayhaws make an excellent rootstock for any other hawthorn variety.
Recommended Varieties/Related Varieties
There are upwards of 800 hawthorn varieties spread across the Northern Hemisphere. All hawthorns fruit in the fall except for the mayhaw which fruits in May. There are three mayhaw species in the continental United States. These are the western mayhaw (Crataegus opaca), the central mayhaw (Crataegus rufula), and the eastern mayhaw (Crataegus aestivalis). The eastern mayhaw is the species with which we are the most familiar with here in the Southeast. Eastern mayhaws have numerous hybridized varieties such as the following:
‘Lori’: elongated, red skinned fruit.
‘Red Champ’: Nearly 1-inch, dark red fruit. Very productive and fire blight resistant.
‘Spectacular’: 4/5- to 1-inch fruit, needs a pollinator, variably productive, and fire blight resistant.
‘Texas Star’: Large, red 4/5-inch fruit with yellow pulp. Good form, but susceptible to fire blight.
‘Royal Star’: 3/4-inch fruit, very productive, thornless, and susceptible to fire blight.
‘Maxine’: 4/5-inch, red fruit. good form, heavy producer, and very resistant to fire blight.
‘Saline’: Large, red-skinned fruit. Late-blooming cultivar, good quality fruit.
Several western mayhaws hybrids have also been breed:
‘Big Red’: Named after its characteristic large red fruit of good quality, late-blooming cultivar.
‘T.O. Super Berry’: Named after the famous southern wild-fruit expert, T.O. Warren.
Hazards & Cautions
It is likely that the seeds and leaves are toxic if consumed in large quantities, both contain amygdalin, a precursor to hydrogen cyanide. It can cause side effects such as dizziness, shortness of breath, nausea, and arrhythmia. Also, avoid the 1- to 3-inch long needle-like thorns on the branches.
A lot of progress has been made since people started bringing mayhaws up out of the swamps and put into cultivation about 30 years ago. Over the last few decades, great improvements in breeding for fruit size, fruit quality, cold-tolerance, yield, disease resistance, and harvest time have been made. Although named cultivars are still hard to find anywhere other than in commercial orchards, native mayhaws are starting to be carried in garden centers across the Southeast. With a boost from mayhaw-centric organizations like the Louisiana Mayhaw Association and the popular interest in edible native plants, the mayhaw may well become the only hawthorn species to ever become commercially successful.
References & External Links
https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/fruit-nut/fact-sheets/mayhaw. Baker, Marty & McEachern, George R. Fruit & Nut Resource: Mayhaw. 1997.
Barney, Danny. Storey’s Guide to Growing Organic Orchard Fruits. North Adams, MA: Storey Publishing, 2012.
Bennett, Chris. Southern Foraging. Portland. Timber Press. 2015.
eattheweeds.com/?s=hawthorn. Dean, Green. The Crataegus Clan: Food & Poison. 2012.
sfgate.com/grow-mayhaw-70963.html. How to Grow Mayhaw. 2013.
purdue.edu/newcrop/proceedings1990/v1-317.html. Payne, Jerry A. & Krewer, Gerald W. 1990.
Kitsteiner, John. “Permaculture Plants: Mayhaw.” Temperate Climate Permaculture. Number 10. 10/20/13. Pp 23-27. 2013.
com/topics/lawn_garden/home_gardening/fruits_nuts/mayhaw-growers-innovative-expandindustry. Graham, Charles; Chaney, John & Pyzner, John R. 10/4/04.
com/nr/rdonlyres/1605BA84-EE88-4482-B9E6-4516372D5922/2175/pub2484mayhaw2.pdf. Patrick, Ruth. 2014.
mayhaw.org/theforgottenmayh.html. The Forgotten Mayhaw. 2000.
pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Crateagus+aestivalis. Gray, A. & Walter, T. Plants for a Future: Mayhaw. 2012.
themayhawman.com/popular-selections-growing-tips.html. The Mayhaw Man – Popular Selections. 2004.
Categories: Uncategorized | Permalink
Eastern Black Walnut
Eastern Redbud Tree
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Cheney's Law Transcript.pdf
Crossing The Threshold Of Hope By John Paul II. - Note read page 6 in his book
The Evolution Of Man Scientifically Disproved. (In 50 arguments) By William A. Williams.pdf
Astronauts condemn NASA's global warming endorsement; Wednesday April 11, 2012
The letter was signed by seven Apollo astronauts, a deputy associate administrator, several scientists, and even the deputy director of the space shuttle program.
Global Warming Petition Project
31,487 American scientists have signed this petition,including 9,029 with PhDs.
The purpose of the Petition Project is to demonstrate that the claim of settled science and an overwhelming consensus in favor of the hypothesis of human-caused global warming and consequent climatological damage is wrong. No such consensus or settled science exists. As indicated by the petition text and signatory list, a very large number of American scientists reject this hypothesis.
Judicial Activism and the Threat to the Consitution; By Robert P. George
Reset Button By Dan Celia - Mon, 1/18/2001
The following is taken from my 1-18-10 article, "Reset Button" with revisions for today -Fri. 2-25-2011; Dan Celia.
U.S. Ignores Hillary Clintons Aid Huma Abedin
U.S Ignores Hillary Clinton's Powerful Aide Huma Abedin at Its Own Risk.
DIES DOMINI; Pope John Paul II - Calls for National Sunday Laws.
On May 31, 1998, Pope John Paul II issued an Apostolic Letter. You will here find a reprint of the official English translation of that document. In this letter, John Paul II makes three calls:
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Archie And Madefire Team For Motion Comics
Posted on July 31, 2019 by Derek McCaw in Grab Bag // 0 Comments
A few years back, Archie Comics made waves by sort of rebooting Riverdale. With writer Mark Waid and artist Fiona Staples, the publisher gave the decades-old character a makeover. What if Archie was a teenager in 2015, a little more real and a little less idealized? The result was a terrific book that breathed new life into the character (while classic Archie still existed) and made the students at Riverdale High more interesting to YA readers. Shortly afterward, the attention from that helped spark CW’s Riverdale TV series. Older-skewed Archie, Jughead, Betty and Veronica, and plenty more are still going strong.
And for those who prefer it digital, Archie Comics has teamed with Madefire Comics to adapt that book into motion comics. If you haven’t read Waid and Staples’ initial arc, now’s the chance to enjoy it in a different but no less complete way. From the way it’s formatted, it looks optimized for phones and tablets, but the content is all still there.
The first two issues have been converted and are up on YouTube (and here, obviously). If they’ve caught your attention, subscribe!
motion comics
About Derek McCaw
In addition to running Fanboy Planet, Derek has written for ActionAce, Daily Radar, Once Upon A Dime, and The Wave. He has contributed stories to Arcana Comics (The Greatest American Hero) and Monsterverse Comics (Bela Lugosi's Tales from the Grave). He performs with ComedySportz San Jose and ShakesBEERience, in addition to occasional screenwriting and acting jobs. If you ever played Eric's Ultimate Solitaire on the Macintosh, it was Derek's voice as The Weasel that urged you to play longer. You can buy his book "I Was Flesh Gordon" on the Amazon link at the right. Email him at editor@fanboyplanet.com.
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FC Wisconsin's State of the Art Lighted Turf Fields
Sarah Hegarty Field 2
A star athlete, in soccer and basketball, Sarah was poised to set records and receive scholarship offers. She started on her DSHA soccer team as a freshman and helped her HS basketball team to a state championship as a sophomore. Sarah was a legend in the making. On March 20, 1996 she became ill during soccer practice and was rushed to the emergency room. She barely survived.
The next two years were a testament to her courage, optimism, and tenacity under the most difficult circumstances. Sarah had over 50 surgeries. She lived in and out of the hospital, yet continued to attend her teammate’s games. She had two failed organ transplants. Sarah attended school, whenever possible, and was prom queen. Sarah's story and her courage became a movement. She embraced life and the community embraced Sarah. Then, in March of 1998, at 18 years of age, Sarah Hegarty passed away.
FC Wisconsin commemorates Sarah’s triumphant life with the Sarah Hegarty Field. Thank you to the Sarah Margaret Hegarty Foundation for your generous contribution to the development of the complex and all the families, individuals and businesses who donated in Sarah’s honor.
Where (address for use with GPS):
N102 W13797 Spaten Ct in Germantown, WI 53022
(Note: Ignore the turn onto Spaten Ct, and stay on Fond Du Lac Ave, and you will run directly into the FC Wisconsin Fields)
Directions from I-45:
Exit Pilgrim Rd North. Take a right (head east) and County Line Road - 2nd stop light. Take a left at Fond Du Lac Ave/Hwy 145-first stop-light. Travel up hill, fields will be on your right just as you begin descending the hill.
Exit Brown Deer Road West. Drive to Fond Du Lac Ave/Hwy 145 (about 15 mins). Take a right onto Fond Du Lac Ave. Travel past County Line (stop light), up hill, fields will be on your right just as you begin descending the hill.
© 2019 FC Wisconsin. All rights reserved.
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Summer Transfer Window
Author Topic: Summer Transfer Window (Read 130645 times)
Re: Summer Transfer Window
Found this article on Commolli, and it makes interesting, if not exactly promising, reading:
Comolli helps to guide the statistical revolution at Liverpool
Ben Lyttleton October 11, 2011
This Saturday will mark the anniversary of Fenway Sports Group's takeover of Liverpool and it comes just a few days after UK magazine FourFourTwo published its annual Football Rich List. The magazine ranked FSG owner John W Henry at 20th in the list, and calculated that each Premier League point Liverpool had earned since the purchase has cost Henry a whopping £7.5 million ($11.7M). (The team it beat last week, local rivals Everton, comes in at £48,000 per point, given that owner Bill Kenwright paid £20M for it in 2004.)
Of course, this calculation is skewed and FourFourTwo accepts it is meant as just a bit of fun. But it can also act as an interesting backdrop to Henry's first year in charge, and the application of "Moneyball" or rather 'Soccernomics' theories in football. 'Moneyball', now a film starring Brad Pitt, is the Michael Lewis book in which Oakland A's general manager Billy Beane uses statistics to find previously underestimated players in the transfer market to help his team become champions. "Soccernomics," the football equivalent, advocates data analysis to give teams a competitive edge, not just in recruitment but also in contract management, penalty shootouts, and injury prevention.
While FourFourTwo's figures suggest that not everything the data tells you is helpful, Liverpool's director of football Damien Comolli might not agree.
He is evangelical in his use of data in football, and says now that no major decision at the club is taken without seeing what the stats say. When it works, it can be a great success: as proven by forward Luis Suarez, the new hero at Anfield whose £23 million ($35M) transfer fee is now widely seen as a bargain.
"For Luis, I looked at the stats over the last three years, notably the number of games played which is an important factor," he told France Football earlier this year. "We turn enormously toward players who don't get injured. We also took into account the number of assists, his performances against the big teams, against the smaller clubs, in the European Cup, the difference between goals scored at home and away."
Left back Jose Enrique was another signing backed by the data: when Liverpool missed out on Gael Clichy (whom, when 17 and after a handful of games for Cannes, Comolli had discovered for Arsenal), Comolli drew up a shortlist and noticed that Enrique's statistical figures were impressive, more so than the scouting reports on him. He was also cheaper, in terms of transfer fee and salary, than Clichy. With Enrique one of Liverpool's standout performers thus far this season, it's further evidence that Comolli's methodology has worked.
If only it were always that easy. When a signing doesn't come off, as in the case -- so far, it has to be said -- of Andy Carroll, who cost Liverpool £35M ($54M) in January, and has scored four goals in his first 17 appearances for the club, the whole system is blamed. Comolli bristles at any mention of Carroll in this context, though he did previously admit to Infosport that Suarez had originally been signed to play alongside Fernando Torres, and not Carroll. The problem is that what works for one player might not work for another.
Take this interview with Leaders in Performance last May: "The first thing we used to look for is the talent, but not anymore," Comolli said. "What we want is a talented player but with the right attitude and intelligence. Is he a team player? Is he intelligent enough that he puts himself at the disposal of the team? We need to look a lot more at the psychological aspect of the player, the attitude of the player, the mentality of the player on the pitch than we used to." While that explains why Liverpool wanted Suarez, it also makes Carroll's arrival a little surprising, given the reservations by some scouts about his "attitude and mentality" before he joined.
Comolli's backers, quite reasonably, point out that Suarez and Carroll combined cost almost the same as the sales of Fernando Torres (£50M/$80M) and Ryan Babel (€7M/$9.5M) generated, while Henry has claimed that Carroll's value is actually Fernando Torres less £15M ($23M). That seems disingenuous -- if Torres had joined Chelsea for £25 million ($39M), it's unlikely Newcastle would have sold Carroll for £10 million ($15M).
"Value" is the magic word here: "The whole principle is about creating value, and managing to find a player in the market who is underestimated financially compared to his stats," Comolli told Les Specialistes. The problem with value, as Paul Kelso pointed out in The Daily Telegraph, is that "it is not obvious [to find value] when you are trying to buy a center forward on deadline day in January".
However, it's important to note that "Moneyball" theory does not preclude big-money signings in positions of key value (after all, Henry's Boston Red Sox have spent the second-highest amount in the last decade in Major League Baseball). Comolli sanctioned the deal for Carroll because his age (22), English nationality and rare physical traits had already made him one of Liverpool's primary transfer targets.
Comolli himself never made the grade as a professional player: he was in the youth team at Monaco but found his path blocked by the likes of Lilian Thuram and Emmanuel Petit. At 19, he was coaching Monaco's U-16 team, before Arsene Wenger, then coaching Nagoya Grampus Eight, persuaded him to move to Japan and coach the goalkeepers at Nagasaki U-18s. One year later, he was working for Wenger at Arsenal, as a scout covering Europe.
It was Wenger who first ignited Comolli's commitment to statistics, after the coach noted Manchester United had the best percentage of successful passes in the opposition half and that Roy Keane won the most one-on-one challenges in the Premier League. "Now you know why they win," Wenger told him.
"The revelation came from reading 'Moneyball', that's when everything fell into place," Comolli told France Football. "Thanks to someone I know, I became friends with Billy Beane, the hero of the book, and ever since 2005 I have worked enormously on that." Just as his friendship with Beane was developing, he became Spurs director of football in September 2005. In three years at White Hart Lane, Comolli signed 26 players, eight of whom are still there now. The successes include the likes of Gareth Bale, Luka Modric and Benoit Assou-Ekotto; the flops, David Bentley, Gilberto and Hossam Ghaly.
Paul Tomkins, in Pay as You Play: The True Price of Success in the Premier League Era, calculated that of Comolli's signings, around 30 percent were big profit-makers, and 25 percent flops, with the rest somewhere in between, with an "overall estimated genuine profit of £26.5M ($41M)". It was Comolli's work at White Hart Lane -- as well as a ringing endorsement from Beane himself -- that convinced Henry to hire him.
Comolli has denied the claims of Soccernomics author Simon Kuper that there is a power struggle with Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish. "Comolli is very close to Beane, who is bringing Moneyball to football, while Dalglish is an excellent manager on gut feel," Kuper told The Score last week.
Comolli, quite reasonably, insisted that so much summer business could not have happened had the two men disagreed. On top of the players brought in, Liverpool sold 14 players and moved out another nine on loan: in some cases, like Christian Poulsen and Milan Jovanovic, it bought out the player's contract and in others, like Joe Cole, is still subsidizing his salary.
One French reporter who knows Comolli well suggested that the summer deals were an expensive compromise: Comolli wanted young players knowing their value would increase, while Dalglish wanted British players. The result: almost £50M ($80M) spent on Jordan Henderson, Charlie Adam and Stewart Downing.
In any case, Comolli knows all about power struggles: in his last job at Saint-Etienne, the club's joint-owners were constantly at war with Comolli stuck in the middle. Bernard Caiazzo was the businessman who liked big-name players and enjoyed the attention that comes with owning a club, while Roland Romeyer preferred hardworking players, spoke like a supporter, and was happier in the background. The pair bickered nonstop and the club only just survived relegation. After Comolli left, Saint-Etienne changed its administrative structure and results immediately improved. (That spell also explains why he gets very little credit, and still has a relatively low profile, in France.)
Martin Jol also blamed Comolli for his failure as Tottenham Hotspur coach. "Comolli was responsible, he was responsible for most of the football things," Jol told a news conference after his recent appointment as Fulham coach. It's true that Comolli had bought Darren Bent and Didier Zokora against Jol's wishes, but the club still finished fifth in successive seasons. It was only after Jol's fallout with Dimitar Berbatov, which coincided with Spurs' worst start for 19 years, one win in 10 league games, that the Dutchman was dismissed in October 2007. Comolli's choice as successor was Juande Ramos (who at Sevilla had brought out the best in Fredi Kanoute, a player that struggled under Jol at Spurs) but 13 months and a League Cup trophy later, both men had left the club.
The other lesson Comolli took from Wenger, which is another part of the "Soccernomics" remit, is to always replace your best players while they are still there. (Wenger did this by signing Emmanuel Adebayor before Thierry Henry left, Robin Van Persie before Dennis Bergkamp left, Mathieu Flamini before Patrick Vieira left and he has done the same with Jack Wilshere and Cesc Fabregas.) The Torres deal was done too quickly for that to happen, while it remains to be seen whether Jordan Henderson could prove to be a long-term replacement for Steven Gerrard, or Sebastien Coates for Jamie Carragher.
If you add Stewart Downing to Suarez and Enrique as successful purchases so far, you can sympathize with Comolli's reaction whenever Carroll is brought up. He may not like it, but Comolli knows it's the fate of the sporting director to be remembered for his flops.
And even if Carroll does struggle to improve, Comolli is already helping Liverpool to a profit on and off the pitch. On Saturday, Liverpool welcome Manchester United to Anfield, 12 months to the day that FSG bought the club. One year on, the mood is better, the squad is trimmer, and the future is brighter. Comolli has played his role.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/writers/ben_lyttleton/10/11/liverpool.comolli/index.html
So if true we comprised between who Commolli wanted and Dalglish wanted and the compromising seems to have been done much more by one than the other.
I still can't see any 'hidden gems' that Commolli has unearthed when he has had the 'power' as a DOF or sporting director. I wonder how many of Arsenal's gems where directly his work or had as much or more to do with Steve Rowley or Giles Grimandi.
yes, interesting article.
unsure why Comolli tells us all his secrets.
makes me wonder, why we don;t just get a computer program and some YTS kid to work it, and feed the data (value for price and wages) to our bootroom/manager.
would save on Comolli's wages and airfares around europe.
Makes you wonder how Sir Bob or Geoff Twentyman ever managed to find a single decent player. They must have torn out pages of the Rothman's and thrown darts and whichever player got speared, they then bought him.
Quote from: Tes on April 07, 2012, 11:00:28 PM
yes, and the one thing that stood out, was how Comolli goes on about mentality of a potential new player is important.
well WTF happened when they were looking at andy carroll.
that lad is so immature.....i;d hate to go into battle with him alongside me.
Add in Downing and Henderson. Both appear to lack the mentality to play for a big club (which we hope to be once again). Commolli seems to say a lot but live up to his fine words very little. I'd love to know the players that Commolli suggested, that Dalglish turned down and what Commolli's true thoughts are on who we signed. The problem is when you look at some of his Spurs aquisitions you can see parallels with our Summer shopping spree, so I can see why Commolli claims he and Dalglish have no problems working together. Too similar in their approach.
yes, the pair of them appear to be numpties, when it comes to finding and analysing talent.
like I said previously, Graham Carr at Newcastle, is a man I would look at bringing in.
Time to get back to the Geoff Twentyman system.....a trusted old pair of eyes, who is forever going to games, and can spot talent before others see it.
Quote from: the dude abides on April 08, 2012, 12:54:52 AM
Any of us could have picked out (and then disgarded) the signings the two of them came up with. We need to unearth the next (insert name of any decent player we've been linked with over the last three seasons). The Danish, Dutch, Belgian and German leagues are where we should be concentrating. Unfortunately we can't do as other clubs do re South American players as we have work permit problems that clubs in other countries don't have to be hamstrung by, and also the South American players can have multi ownership, something allowed in other leagues but not the PL.
yes, for some reason we are linked with too many south americans.
ok, I appreciate that we want to keep coates and suarez happy......but why bring in so many latins, when we know full-well, that if they are successful with us, they will move on to italy or spain.
The South Americans will always see Real or Barca as the pinacle of their careers ahead of staying with us.
As tonight has shown we're in need of a back up to Pepe, especially if Doni goes back home as expected.
We should be looking at Jack Butland of Birmingham City, before someone like the Mancs snatch him.
I doubt he's well known enough for Comolli to have heard of him.
Jan Vertonghen - the perfect left footed cover/competition/replacement for Danny Agger.
Doubt we'll get him, probably end up at Arsenal with Vermaelen or the Mancs as Ferdinand's replacement.
he'll be on our man's laptop.....amongst his database of 10,000 others.
By the time he's sifted through them all it's 2 minutes to midnight at the end of the transfer window and we put in our bid with the two additional noughts on the end.
Comolli: I'd like to bid £12M for your player.
MD of selling club: Try again.
Comolli: OK, how about £13M?.
MD: Try nearer £18M.
Comolli: OK, I'd like to bid £21M for your player.
and no, thanks for the instalment suggestion, but we;d like to pay it all upfront.
Looks like Kenny's already decided how he's going to fund his next sweetshop trolley dash:
Kuyt lured back to former club Feyenoord with promise of coaching role
Feyenoord are willing to offer Dirk Kuyt a coaching role in an attempt to entice him back to Holland in the summer.
Kuyt, 31, can leave Anfield for £1m, but the Dutch side can only offer a £1m-a-year salary, which is far short of rivals such as Fiorentina.
Meanwhile, Liverpool continue to monitor Atalanta winger Ezequiel Schelotto, 22.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2128406/Feyenoord-entice-Dirk-Kuyt-Liverpool-coaching-role.html
So we've not learned from letting Sami go and not offering him a coaching role.
Still, Carra's doing his coaching badges so we're saved.
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Egypt's judges divided over Morsi's controversial decrees
Judges' Club holds extraordinary general assembly to denounce recent constitutional decrees by president Morsi; 'Judges for Egypt' supports decrees and calls opponents 'remnants' of Mubarak regime
Ahram Online, MENA, Randa Ali, Hatem Maher, Saturday 24 Nov 2012
Ahmed El-Zend, the head of the Judge's Club - a fierce critic of the president - at the general assembly (Photo: Snapshot from Al -Jazeera live stream Egypt)
Dozens in Tahrir sit-in following Friday's anti-Morsi mass protests
Egypt ‘pharaoh’ Morsi faces youth juggernaut
English text of Morsi's Constitutional Declaration
New decree will allow Morsi to reinstate Egypt parliament: Legal expert
Egypt's judiciary battled one another in separate extraordinary meetings and assemblies on Saturday over president Mohamed Morsi's recently issued constitutional decrees. Some condemned the president's moves while others charged opponents of Morsi are lackeys for the ousted regime of Hosni Mubarak.
Judges' Club slams Morsi
Hundreds of judges held an extraordinary general assembly for the Judges' Club at the High Court headquarters in downtown Cairo to discuss measures against President Morsi's constitutional decree issued Thursday, which they argue oversteps their judicial jurisdiction and independence.
Meanwhile, during an emergency meeting on Saturday afternoon, Egypt's Supreme Judiciary Council (SJC) issued a statement expressing their disappointment over the decrees and described Morsi's move as "unprecedented attack on judiciary independence."
Courts and prosecution offices in the Delta governorate of Qalioubiya went on strike Saturday.
The primary court of Egypt's second-largest city, Alexandria, likewise went on strike and further issued a statement on Saturday demanding the retraction of the recent constitutional declaration.
The chief of the Judges' Club of Alexandria, Mohamed Ezzat El-Agwa announced "the suspension of work in all courts and prosecution administrations in the governorates of Alexandria and Beheira... until the end of the crisis caused by this declaration," according to AFP reporting.
Several anti-Muslim Brotherhood figures have joined the extraordinary assembly.
Former parliament member Mohamed Abou-Hamed, outspoken lawyer Mortada Mansour and former MP Mostafa Bakry and Nasserist Adel Hammouda are present in the assembly, which is taking place in Egypt’s High Judiciary Court.
The quartet is known for being staunch opponents of the influential Islamist group.
Signalling their growing contempt, the usually conservative judges chanted “the people demand the downfall of the regime”.
Former general prosecutor Abdel Meguid Mahmoud, who was sacked following Morsi’s decree, spoke at length, saying he would legally challenge the president’s decision to relieve him of his duties.
Mahmoud attempted to rebutt accusations that his office was slow or ineffective in prosecuting those who killed unarmed protesters after the January 25 uprising by pointing fingers at the ministry of interior for not referring any suspects to his office.
Mahmoud slammed the ministry of interior saying that it failed to provide the prosecutors with evidence or suspects in the violent attacks against the anti-SCAF protesters in 2011.
"The ministry of interior has never referred any suspects to the office of the prosecutor general in the Two Saints church bombing in January 2010, Maspero massacre October 2011, Mohamed Mahoumd clashes in November 2011 and the cabinet clashes December 2011."
Head of the lawyers’ syndicate Sameh Ashour also said he fully endorses the judges in their bid to challenge Morsi.
“The country’s fate is in your hands now, if you decided to strike, we will strike. If you decided to stage a sit-in, we will join you,” he said.
The newly-announced constitutional declaration says that the president's decisions cannot be overturned by any judicial authority – putting him out of judicial reach.
The council urged the president to drop the decree to preserve judicial independence.
Twenty members of the independent Judiciary Movement also issued a statement on Saturday rejecting the constitutional declaration.
The independent Judiciary Movement is a group of judges that demanded reform and judiciary independence in 2005 following massive vote-rigging in the presidential elections under ousted president Mubarak's rule.
"This is an unjustified apostasy that hinders the independence of judiciary, freedoms and rights," reads the statement referring to Morsi's constitutional declaration.
Judges warn that although within Morsi's bundle of decisions, he did concede some of the people's demands, it nevertheless jeopardised democracy and freedoms.
"Calling for re-trials and investigations the way it was done through the constitutional decree undermines the judiciary's independence and guarantees, which will lead to the devaluation of court verdicts," the independent Judiciary Movement argues.
Meanwhile, outside the High Court, hundreds of protesters who marched to protest against president Mohamed Morsi's decree were attacked by unknown assailants in the late afternoon hours.
The liberal Constitution Party, the Egyptian Social Democratic Party and the liberal Wafd Party came to the court to voice support to judges.
Ahram Online reporters at the scene said the demonstrators were attacked with fireworks, which stirred panic among them as everyone ran aimlessly to escape violence.
Police dispersed protesters using tear gas canisters.
Judges For Egypt supports Morsi
However not all Judges opposed the president's move.
The reform judges caucus"Judges for Egypt" declared on Saturday their support for President Mohamed Morsi's newly issued constitutional declaration.
Judges for Egypt held a meeting in opposition to the general assembly called for by the Judges' Club.
The group's official spokesperson Walid Sharaby stated to Al-Jazeera Mubasher Misr news channel that the Judges for Egypt meeting was attended by hundreds of their members.
Sharaby said that their meeting, like that of the Judges Club, could have been attended by political figures, especially from the Freedom and Justice Party, the Nour Party in addition to others, but said the judges wished to remain politically neutral.
"We are honoured that our meeting [to support the constitutional declaration] was not attended by members of the High Constitutional Court (HCC). We know of their orientation; they only seek to restore the old Mubarak regime," the spokesperson stated to Al-Jazeera.
The HCC has frequently accused the Morsi appointed Justice Minister Ahmed Mekki and the Islamist-led Constituent Assembly tasked with drafting Egypt's new constitution of attempting to infringe upon its authorities.
Sharaby also charged the Judges Club had no right to issue decisions as its extraordinary assembly was not attended by all of its members. He also attacked the speech given at the assembly by the Head of Judges Club Ahmed El-Zend, a fierce Morsi critic, saying it was "politicised".
constitutional declaration
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Home ▸ Catalog ▸ |Greek Coins| ▸ |Geographic - All Periods| ▸ |Anatolia| ▸ |Caria| ▸ |Halikarnassus||View Options: | 1 Item3 Items10 Items25 Items50 Items | Sort by price △Sort by price ▽Sort by date |
Ancient Coins of Halicarnassus, Caria
Halicarnassus was in southwest Caria on a picturesque, advantageous site on the Ceramic Gulf. It was famous for the tomb of Mausolus, built about 350 B.C., the origin of the word mausoleum, and one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. During Alexander the Great's siege of Halicarnassus in 334 B.C., the retreating Persians burned the city. Alexander failed to immediately take the citadel, but left it blockaded when he departed. Halicarnassus never fully recovered from the destruction of the siege. In the first century B.C., Cicero described it as almost deserted. The site is now occupied in part by the town of Bodrum; but the ancient walls can still be traced round nearly all their circuit, and the position of several of the temples, the theater, and other public buildings can be fixed with certainty.
Halikarnassos, Caria, 3rd - 2nd Century B.C.
SH43366. Silver hemidrachm, SNG Cop 338, VF, attractive toning, weight 2.187 g, maximum diameter 15.7 mm, die axis 0o, Halikarnassos (Bodrum, Turkey) mint, obverse laureate head of Artemis right, bow and quiver at shoulder; reverse AΛIKAPNAΣΣEΩN, lyre; SOLD
Halikarnassos, Caria, c. 400 - 387 B.C.
Halicarnassus was in southwest Caria on a picturesque, advantageous site on the Ceramic Gulf. It was famous for the tomb of Mausolus, the origin of the word mausoleum, built between 353 B.C. and 350 B.C., and one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. It was part of the Persian Empire until captured by Alexander the Great at the siege of Halicarnassus in 334 B.C. The site is now occupied in part by the town of Bodrum; but the ancient walls can still be traced round nearly all their circuit, and the position of several of the temples, the theater, and other public buildings can be fixed with certainty.GS86730. Silver drachm, Hecatomnus 5 (A4/P5); SNG Keckman 40; SNG Kayhan 759; BMC Caria p. 102, 3; SNG Cop -, VF, rough, corrosion, lamination defects, weight 3.214 g, maximum diameter 15.5 mm, die axis 0o, Halikarnassos (Bodrum, Turkey) mint, c. 400 - 387 B.C.; obverse laureate head of Apollo facing slightly right; reverse eagle standing right, wings open, AΛIKAP upper left, olive sprig lower right, all within an incuse square; scarce; SOLD
Halikarnassos, Caria, 5th Century B.C.
GA81394. Silver obol, SNG Keckman 39, gF, weight 0.768 g, maximum diameter 9.4 mm, die axis 90o, Halikarnassos (Bodrum, Turkey) mint, obverse forepart of Pegasos left; reverse AΛI, forepart of goat left; SOLD
Burnett, A., M. Amandry, et al. Roman Provincial Coinage. (1992 - ).
Babelon, E. Traité des Monnaies Grecques et Romaines. (Paris, 1901-1932).
Forrer, L. Descriptive Catalogue of the Collection of Greek Coins formed by Sir Hermann Weber, Vol. III, Part 1. (London, 1926).
Göktürk, M. "A Hoard of Hellenistic Silver Coins of Myndos, Halikarnassos, and Knidos" in Studies in Ancient Coinage from Turkey. (London, 1996).
Grose, S. Catalogue of the McClean Collection of Greek Coins, Fitzwilliam Museum, Vol. II: The Greek mainland, the Aegaean islands, Crete. (Cambridge, 1926).
Head, B. A Catalog of the Greek Coins in the British Museum, Caria, Cos, Rhodes, etc. (London, 1897).
HNO - |Historia| |Numorum| |Online| |Database| - http://hno.huma-num.fr/
Hurter. S. "Lions and lionesses, eagles and a few heads: a new uncertain mint in Caria" in Essays Hersh.
Imhoof-Blumer, F. Kleinasiatische Münzen. (Vienna, 1901-2).
Klein, D. Sammlung von griechischen Kleinsilbermünzen und Bronzen, Nomismata 3. (Milano, 1999).
Lindgren, H. & F. Kovacs. Ancient Bronze Coins of Asia Minor and the Levant. (San Mateo, 1985).
Mildenberg, L. & S. Hurter, eds. The Dewing Collection of Greek Coins. ACNAC 6. (New York, 1985).
Mionnet, T. Description de Médailles antiques grecques et romaines, Vol 3: Aeolis - Cyprus. (Paris, 1808).
Sear, D. Greek Coins and Their Values, Volume 2, Asia and Africa. (London, 1979).
Sylloge Nummorum Graecorum, Denmark, The Royal Collection of Coins and Medals, Danish National Museum, Vol. 5: Ionia, Caria and Lydia. (West Milford, NJ, 1982).
Sylloge Nummorum Graecorum, Deutschland, München Staatlische Münzsammlung, Part 22: Caria. (Berlin, 2006).
Sylloge Nummorum Graecorum, Deutschland, Münzsammlung Universität Tübingen, Part 5: Karien und Lydien. (Berlin, 1994).
Sylloge Nummorum Graecorum, Deutschland, Sammlung Hans Von Aulock, Vol. 2: Caria, Lydia, Phrygia, Lycia, Pamphylia. (Berlin, 1962).
Sylloge Nummorum Graecorum, Finland, The Erkki Keckman Collection in the Skopbank, Helsinki, Part 1: Karia. (Helsinki, 1994).
Sylloge Nummorum Graecorum, Great Britain VI, Corpus Christi College Cambridge, The Lewis Collection II: The Greek Imperial Coins. (1992).
Sylloge Nummorum Graecorum, Turkey I: The Muharrem Kayhan Collection. (Istanbul, 2002).
Sylloge Nummorum Graecorum, Turkey VIII: Mugla Museum, Vol. 1: Caria. (Istanbul, 2012).
Troxell, H. "Carians in Miniature" in Studies Mildenberg.
Waggoner, N. Early Greek Coins from the Collection of Jonathan P. Rosen (ANS ACNAC 5). (New York, 1983).
Halicarnassus
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By: D. D. Catalog of the Collective Works by D.D. Story
By: D. D. Catalog of the Collective Works
This catalog lists the complete works by the author D. D. published through Suzy Q. Stories Publishing. It is intended to be a free publication, which will be updated quarterly. It is divided into Novels, Novelettes, Short Stories and Poetry, plusMoreThis catalog lists the complete works by the author D. D. published through Suzy Q. Stories Publishing. It is intended to be a free publication, which will be updated quarterly. It is divided into Novels, Novelettes, Short Stories and Poetry, plus with a section for links. Each work has a brief bio, a copy of all covers and the the links to the books where ever they are available from. By: D. D. Catalog of the Collective Works by D.D. Story
American Oil Diplomacy in the Persian Gulf and the Caspian Sea
Passies Van Het Brein: Waarom Zondigen Zo Verleidelijk Is
Sea Tales of Terror
Simplemente Italiano - Diccionario en Imágenes
PHOTOGRAPHING WOMEN - Volume 10: Sexy Ladies
Port Out, Starboard Home: The Fascinating Stories We Tell About the words We Use
Left Hand Drive: A Social and Political Memoir
Childrens Books: Playing With Your Cat And Caring For Your Cat (Cat Picture Books For Kids) (The Mos
God Of Darkness
Die Erben des Mithras
Zápisník jedné lásky (Calhounovi)
Globalization: End of Democracy
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Reverse-Engineered “Raptor” Engine Performance
According to Wikipedia, Spacex’s “Raptor” as it will power the “Starship” upper stage spacecraft is a staged combustion cycle such that gas bled to power the pumps is reintroduced (no overboard dump).
The max chamber pressure as intended for the design is reported by Wikipedia to be just about 4400 psia. It reportedly has an area ratio of 40, although a vacuum-only design might be nearer 100. The reported design value for sea level thrust (at the area ratio of 40) is 440,000 lb.
Wikipedia lists performance as 330 sec Isp at sea level and 380 sec in vacuum. I am doubtful of that last figure, unless the longer vacuum expansion bell is used.
Wikipedia lists its “diameter” as 1.3 meters (about 51 inches); I presume this is exit area at the 40:1 ratio. I also presume it will have just about 5:1 pressure turndown ratio.
It uses liquid oxygen and liquid methane as its propellants. I have good models for r-factor and c* for this propellant combination. A good default for gas specific heat ratio is 1.20. A good default for the expansion bell is an average half angle of 15 degrees.
I ran my “liquidrockets.xlsx” spreadsheet tool to reverse-engineer the performance of this engine, using the new “allin1des” worksheet that does nozzle CF and engine sizing ballistics, plus altitude performance estimates, all in one place.
Sizing the nozzle proportions was slightly iterative, in that I had to iteratively determine the perfect-expansion design backpressure such the expansion ratio matched the 40:1 figure reported in Wikipedia. The worksheet output image for this group is given in Figure 1.
Figure 1 – Image of Nozzle Design Group
Doing the ballistics to size the engine was also iterative. I used a chamber/throat area contraction ratio of 5, and a chamber L* = 90 inches for this. I also presumed the nozzle throat discharge efficiency was 0.995. It was values of the vacuum thrust level that I had to input iteratively, until I achieved the 440,000 lb sea level thrust that Wikipedia reports. This group’s image is given in Figure 2.
Figure 2 – Image of Ballistics and Sizing Group
This gave me the data necessary to estimate performance vs altitude (from sea level to vacuum) for both max chamber pressure = 4400 psia (per Wikipedia) and min chamber pressure = 880 psia, calculated from the max value and my presumed 5:1 pressure turndown ratio. This groups image is given in Figure 3. Note the 54.4-inch exit diameter in my model, which is not far at all from the 51 inch value quoted by Wikipedia.
Figure 3 – Image of Performance vs Altitude Group
The critical backpressure values for onset of nozzle flow separation in the expansion bell are given in Figure 1. They show that there is no danger of flow separation when operating at max chamber pressure, from sea level to vacuum. When operating at min chamber pressure, the nozzle will be separated somewhere just below 20 kft, at local ambient atmospheric pressure 7.2 psia. The min allowable chamber pressure at sea level that does not flow separate is estimated at 1795 psia, which corresponds to a min allowable turndown ratio on the launch pad of 2.45, instead of the max turndown ratio of 5 presumed otherwise.
Plots of thrust coefficient CF, thrust F, and specific impulse Isp, all vs altitude, are given in Figures 4, 5, and 6, respectively. All these show the expected behaviors. Thrust is reduced from its vacuum value by the exit area times ambient backpressure term. That term zeroes as you climb into vacuum.
Figure 4 – CF vs Altitude at Max and Min Pc
Figure 5 – F vs Altitude at Max and Min Pc
Figure 6 – Isp vs Altitude at Max and Min Pc
Note the full-pressure level of specific impulse at sea level: calculated to be 334.4 sec vs Wikipedia’s 330 sec. My spreadsheet-estimated performance is thus very close to the public claims for this engine. The difference is out in vacuum: my spreadsheet estimates full pressure vacuum performance as 360.4 sec, not the 380 sec claimed in the Wikipedia article. That higher value would have to correspond to the longer vacuum bell, not the 40:1 bell that can be used at sea level, with at least some turndown.
This spreadsheet can estimate performance at altitude, but it does not calculate the dynamical flight performance of an ascending rocket vehicle. It would take such a real trajectory program to find out what the effective average Isp might be, for flight from sea level to vacuum.
That being said, just arithmetically-averaging the values in the spreadsheet table (in Figure 3) will get one “into the ballpark” for realistic use in the rocket equation. My spreadsheet shows a full-pressure average of nearly 355.4 sec.
Be aware that this model indicates you cannot successfully operate this engine below about 20 kft altitude at the min chamber pressure. From there on up, the full 5:1 pressure turndown (to only 880 psia) is available without risking flow separation. But, at lower chamber pressures, the backpressure term is proportionally larger in effect, and the chamber c* velocity is a little lower. Down low in the atmosphere, low-pressure Isp values are substantially lower than full-pressure Isp values (at 20 kft, 295.2 vs 348.5 sec). The difference is small out in vacuum, but still not zero: 353.8 sec vs 360.4 sec.
“Starship”, as currently envisioned, has 7 of these 40:1 “Raptor” engines, totaling at sea level some 3,080,000 lb of thrust at liftoff at full power setting. Projected values from Musk’s presentations seem to indicate an inert mass of 85 metric tons, a payload near 100 metric tons, and a max propellant load of 1100 metric tons. That totals to some 1285 metric tons at liftoff. If the payload is nearer 200 tons, the liftoff mass is nearer 1385 tons. For a figure-of merit, call it a nominal 1300 metric tons.
1300 metric tons is 1,300,000 kg. On Earth this mass weighs some 12,749,000 N. Converting this to US customary lb at 1 lb = 4.447 N, we get a weight (for “Starship” without its booster) to be lifted of 2,867,000 lb. This is a takeoff thrust/weight at max throttle setting of 1.074. That’s barely adequate, but in line with some other heavy vehicle designs. It should be possible to flight test this vehicle single-stage, without the booster, even if fully loaded. Whether it can reach orbit is another matter.
I ran a quick rocket equation investigation (using another spreadsheet) of “Starship” using these reverse-engineered performance results. I used the claimed 85 metric ton inert mass and 1100 metric ton propellant mass, and a zero payload mass. I used 7.9 km/s orbital velocity, factored up 10% to account for best-guessed 5% losses each for gravity and drag. I ignored the deorbit burn, and presumed a low-altitude terminal velocity to be “killed” of 0.5 Mach, factored-up by 1.5.
The results say that the “Starship” alone (no booster) can barely reach orbit, with no payload. That would be its single-stage-to-orbit (SSTO) potential. The key here is whether the 85 ton inert weight can be achieved in a vehicle capable of surviving reentry, and still be capable of a propulsive landing, as claimed. But if those numbers remain realistic after the initial suborbital flight tests, then, yes, it has SSTO potential: “Starship” alone can likely reach low Earth orbit unladen, for flight test purposes.
That spreadsheet image is given in Figure 7.
Figure 7 – Rocket-Equation Estimate of Unladen “Starship” Alone to Orbit
Update 6-28-19: I did a quick re-analysis of the “Raptor” with a larger expansion bell such that the bell expansion exit area ratio was 200, not 40, and keeping the same throat diameter and total flowrate as the sea level design. This gave me a vacuum thrust near 501,700 lb per engine, at essentially the same throat area and total flow rate.
Vacuum specific impulse computes as 381 sec, versus the 380 reported on the Wikipedia website. That’s really rather close! Close enough to trust my reverse-engineering analysis. Sea level Isp of this kind of design is irrelevant. If you do not understand why, then you have no business at all using my numbers, for any purpose whatsoever.
The exit diameter computes as 121.7 inches = 3.09 m when I do this. This engine design sizing experiences expansion bell flow separation below about 20 kft at its max 4400 psia chamber pressure, and below around 55 kft at its min chamber pressure of 880 psia (which assumes 5:1 pressure turndown). It CANNOT be used at sea level under any circumstances whatsoever!
Figure U-1 shows the CF trend with altitude for an engine sized this way. Figure U-2 shows the thrust vs altitude for an engine sized this way. Figure U-3 shows the Isp vs altitude for an engine sized this way. Bear in mind that below the flow separation altitudes I indicated, such engines CANNOT be successfully used at all! That was 20 kft for full thrust setting, and 55 kft for min thrust setting.
That 381 sec vacuum Isp compares very well with the 380 sec Isp listed on Wikipedia for the vacuum version of the Raptor engine. Only the combination of very high chamber pressure and very large expansion ratio allows this to occur at all! That high chamber pressure is something still to be demonstrated in engine ground tests, as of this writing! As of this writing, this thing is not yet ready to fly at its claimed ratings!
At Ae/At = 200 and the same 19.2-inch throat diameter as the sea level design, the exit diameter is near 121.7 inches, which is 3.09 meters. At full-thrust setting, this vacuum engine pulls the same 1316 lbm/sec (per engine) from tank storage as the sea level engine. My specific impulses are computed from the flow rates out of tank storage, not just the nozzle flow rates. These flow rates are NOT the same if any pump drive gas is dumped overboard!
This result confirms exactly what I said in the original article: a sea level LOX-LCH4 engine generating 330-ish sec Isp at sea level WILL NOT generate 380 sec Isp in vacuum; its vacuum Isp is closer to only 360 sec. Period! End of issue! Also accordingly, any such vacuum design that will generates ~380 sec Isp will NOT be usable anywhere near sea level! There is NO WAY AROUND THAT! Period! End of issue!
An engine using those same propellants which generates 380 sec Isp in vacuum is one that ABSOLUTELY CANNOT be used at sea level! Mixing those two numbers (as they are reported on Wikipedia for the same engine) is a SERIOUS MISTAKE! Please bear that in mind!
Advertising hype is not truth, as we all already know!
Figure U-1 – Estimated CF vs Altitude for a Vacuum Raptor Engine
Figure U-2 – Estimated Thrust vs Altitude for a Vacuum Raptor Engine
Figure U-3 – Estimated Isp vs Altitude for a Vacuum Raptor Engine
Update 9-30-19: Figure U-4 shows the images of the spreadsheet sections used to compute the performance vs altitude plots. Note that the correspondence in geometry is close but not perfect: sea level "Raptor" throat diameter was estimated as 8.604034 inches, while the vacuum "Raptor" throat diameter is reported as 8.604105 inches.
These are only estimates, I got "close". Not "perfect". (That's an inside joke, by the way! These estimates are only "good" to 3 or 4 significant figures!)
Figure U-4 -- Spreadsheet Section Images for Vacuum "Raptor" Estimates
Posted by Gary Johnson at 11:28 PM
Labels: Mars, space program
Spacex "Starship" as a Ferry for Colonization Ships
If one looks at a large orbit-to-orbit transport ship to be the "freighter" for colonization efforts at Mars, then there must be some way to ferry-up cargo into Earth orbit to load this ship. And, there must be some way to ferry-down cargo from this ship in Mars orbit, to the surface. This is the analog to the way ocean-going ships were loaded and unloaded, for centuries here on Earth.
Ferry at Earth
Consider: the Spacex "Starship" is first and foremost a large-payload transport from Earth's surface to low Earth orbit. It uses a recoverable booster to deliver payload to orbit in 100+ ton lots, without any refueling. One flight, one 100+ ton payload delivery. I am not aware of how much it can transport down from Earth orbit, but for colonization, that is not so relevant (later on with interplanetary trade it is).
If one believes the published numbers for "Starship", this is an impressive ferry vehicle. It could easily transport a payload to a colonization vessel in Earth orbit in those 100+ metric ton lots. So I think we have that end covered. 1 flight for a 100 ton colony ship payload, 10 flights for a 1000 ton colony ship payload, etc. Cost per ton delivered will be whatever it turns out to be for actual "Starship" operation. We won't know what that really is until it has been tested and begins regular flights.
Ferry at Mars
Now, what about at Mars? What might "Starship" do for us, to unload that orbiting colony ship and bring its payload to the surface? I took a look at that with data for low Mars orbit (3.55 km/s), a small landing burn allowance (Mach 1-ish 0.33 km/s), factors on the delta-vees, and a generous rendezvous allowance on-orbit at Mars (1 km/s). The factors were 1.02 for gravity and drag to reach orbit, 1.5 on the min landing allowance, and 1.0 on the rendezvous allowance.
For the ship, I used the published figure for ship inert mass 85 metric tons (about which I have serious doubts until I see it actually fly at that inert weight), and a "typical" but conservative figure for vacuum Raptor engine performance of 350 sec Isp. It holds up to 1100 metric tons of propellant that must be produced on Mars from local materials, and in quantities and rates to support the flight rates. All that is assumed for this investigation.
I did the mass-ratio-effective dV thing to estimate performance vs payload and propellant load, done as the same large payload masses transferred both ways (both up, and down). Those results were surprisingly good:
payload m.ton propellant load, m.ton
This result is driven by the low inert mass reported so far for the "Starship" design. If you believe that really will be achieved, then it looks like a "Starship" stationed on Mars, and locally refuelled there, can serve very well as a reusable ferry for colonization ships sent to low Mars orbit. That covers the Mars ferry needs for an orbit-to-orbit colonization ship.
Rough-Field Considerations on Mars
Now, the vast bulk of Mars's surface resembles fine, loose sand. Here on Earth, safe bearing load pressures for fine, loose sand (based on many decades civil engineering experience) is 0.1 to 0.2 MPa. Period. You must use the lower figure to design things in the absence of real soil test data from your actual site. So you must use the 0.1 MPa figure.
I looked at various ignition masses of "Starship" that are more-or-less appropriate to the Mars orbital ferry role, calculated their weights at Mars 0.384 gee, and divided by the soil bearing strength figure, to find the total tail fin landing pad areas that are required to support rough-field takeoff operations. They fall in the 45-55 square meter range. That's just the nature of rough-field operations on Mars, and it will have to be dealt with in the "Starship" design. They currently have a single handful of square meters, at best. Spacex will have to address this issue, sooner or later.
Heat Shield Considerations
The final thing to worry about is the "Starship" heat shield. I presume there will be PICA-X ablative on the windward surfaces, nosetip, and leading edges. Entry from Mars orbit is about half the speed from Earth orbit, so the heat shield will likely fly 3 or 4 times (maybe more!) before being used-up. There will have to some way to refurbish this on Mars (in the cold and the near-vacuum) using materials brought from Earth. Spacex will have to eventually address this issue as well, if they ever use the "Starship" for this purpose.
Topple-Over Stability
That still begs the question of landing stability, since the vehicle is tall and narrow, and the gear is tripod, not quadruped. Landing fields will have to be very level, very flat, and very free of big boulders. Period! Spacex will have to face up to that issue eventually, regardless of what purpose their "Starship" gets used for, on Mars.
That's the problem with me being a real engineer. I tend to worry about the damndest real-world things. How very inconvenient!
All that being said, it looks to me like "Starship" would make a very good ferry to load and unload orbit-to-orbit transports, at both ends of the Earth-Mars journey. That means we are NOT barking up the wrong tree in looking at design approaches for orbit-to-orbit colonization transports.
Figure 1 is an image of the spreadsheet worksheet I used to figure these numbers. Inputs are highlighted yellow.
Figure 2 is a plot of the significant results for payload carried and propellant required. Figure 3 is a plot of the results for sized landing pad areas.
Figure 1 -- Spreadsheet Image
Figure 2 -- Payload and Propellant Results
Figure 3 -- Landing Pad Areas for Rough-Field Takeoff
Mars Mission Outline 2019
The first few sections here are reprised (with edits) from “Just Mooning Around”, posted 7-14-19.
This year has been the 50th anniversary of the first man on the moon. That was the culmination of the space race between the US and Soviet Russia. That accomplishment was a whole lot more about “flags and footprints” and experimental flight test, than it was about science or real exploration.
This article builds upon some earlier articles posted upon this site. It presents the latest version of my Mars mission outline plan, with an enlarged manned transport, and the latest sizing of 1-stage 2-way reusable chemical landers. These earlier articles are as follows:
14 July 2019 Just Mooning Around
28 May 2016 Mars Mission Outline 2016
13 December 2013 Mars Mission Study 2013
31 August 2013 Reusable Chemical Mars Landing Boats Are Feasible
Why We Should Go Back (And Farther Still)
Is there anything worthwhile to accomplish out there? Yes, definitely!
In the longer term, there are those future off-world settlements and the associated future economies. I cannot tell you the details of how this might benefit us, because it has yet to be done. But it has always proven beneficial in prior centuries here on Earth.
In the shorter term, there are the possibilities of space resource businesses, and of planetary protection against rogue asteroid and comet impacts. That second item is the most important of all: there is simply no better reason for continuing both unmanned and manned space programs than finding ways to protect the folks back home!
It’s not about winning some race, and it’s not so very much about doing pure science just for the sake of knowledge. It’s about real exploration of the unknown, something hard-wired into humans. In centuries past, this was exploration of the unknown parts of the Earth. Now it is about space and the deep ocean floor. This article is concerned with the real exploration of space.
“Exploration” is a really an emotionally-loaded code word, something most people do not think about. What it truly means is you go there to find out “what all is there” (resources, including those you don’t at first recognize), and “where exactly it is” (how hard to obtain, as well as how much is there). Then you have to stay a while to figure out how to use what you found, in order to cope with living in the local environment. All of that is part of “real exploration”.
Unless you do that correctly, there is no real possibility of future settlements and the associated future economies, or any of the benefits that would ultimately derive therefrom! There is no way to accomplish much of anything else, except just the “flags and footprints” act of going there and returning (which is the bulk of what Apollo itself really accomplished at the moon).
Those who “get there first” do tend to do a little better in the long run, in terms of those benefits, provided that they do it “right” when they go. That is one crucial lesson from history.
My Suggestions for the Near Term
Establish a continuous human presence on the moon, the first item. Start small and expand it slowly over time. Do the lunar “exploration” thing right, this time.
Send humans to Mars as the fulfillment of a dream centuries old, probably the second item. When we go, do the “exploration” thing right, from the very first landing. Further, it starts long before the first item (going to the moon) is “done” in any sense of that word.
But, any vehicle capable of taking crews to Mars can also take a crew to near-Earth asteroids and comets. Visit those asteroids and comets and properly explore them, in order to learn how to defend against their impacting Earth, as well as “ground truth” for how to really do space mining.
That’s the third item, but it is just as easily done, and at least as important, as going to Mars.
Maybe we do them at pretty much the same time.
Ethically and Responsibly Addressing Known Risks For Spaceflight
We are ethically-bound to address the known risks of manned spaceflight as best we can. There is a whole long list of safety risks associated with any sort of manned spaceflight. Three come to mind as the most truly credible risks: (1) reliability of, and escape from, spacecraft and booster rockets, (2) microgravity diseases, and (3) exposure to space radiation.
The first one has cost us three American crews totaling 17 people dead (Apollo 1, shuttle Challenger, and shuttle Columbia). Each caused a year-or-more stand-down, and very expensive investigations, plus very expensive changes.
The two shuttle losses were ultimately caused by bad management decisions valuing cost or schedule above safety. Apollo 1 was about a really-poor basic management attitude (“good enough for government work”) combined with technical ignorance, because we had never done this sort of thing before.
Those outcomes and their actual causes are why I claim “there is nothing as expensive as a dead crew, especially one dead from a bad management decision”. Bear in mind that those expenses are both economic and political (which includes public opinion as well as DC politics).
Making spaceflight more safe, from a reliability and escape standpoint, is now also something we already know how to address! This takes careful design allowing for failure modes, redundant systems, and copious verification testing. Mitigation efforts will never be perfect, but they can be quite good. Ethics requires that you treat this as a required constraint upon your designs.
It means you always provide “a way out” for your crew at every step of the mission. It really is as simple (and as hard to do) as that! This very seriously constrains your overall mission architecture, as well as your detailed space vehicle designs.
The other two have been long studied in low Earth orbit, where microgravity exposure is inherent in everything we have done there, and radiation exposure is somewhat more than on Earth’s surface, but less than outside the Van Allen radiation belts (and far less than inside the belts themselves).
Microgravity Diseases
Microgravity has proven to affect the human body in a variety of expected, and unexpected, ways. The longer one is exposed, the worse the various diseases become. Beyond the bone decalcification and muscle-weakening that we have long expected, there are also degradations of the heart and circulatory system, degradation of vision from eye geometry changes due to the fluid pressure redistribution, immune system degradations that we have yet to understand, and most recently genetic changes whose meanings are still a total mystery. No doubt more will be discovered, as that has been the trend.
The longer exposed, the longer it takes to recover upon returning home, with full recovery actually still in doubt for some of the effects, despite diet, drugs, and exercise. The practical time limit seems to be only a bit more than a year. For that very reason, usual practices on the International Space Station (ISS) call for 6 months to a year’s exposure at most, with 6 months the preferred limit.
We do know that something near one full Earth gravity (one “gee”) is therapeutic, precisely because that is what we evolved in. So, until we know better, any artificial spin gravity schemes need to supply very near one gee, in order to obtain the full Earthly benefits that we already know will work.
Destinations outside of Earth-moon space are very much further away than the moon: one-way travel times range from near 6 months to multiple years. This is pretty much outside the preferred limit of microgravity exposure that we have already established on ISS.
Mars is 6-to-9 months away one-way, and we do not know how therapeutic its lower gravity (38%) really is for the rigors of the return voyage. Other destinations are further away still, and all those we can actually land upon, are even lower gravity than Mars. That situation says quite clearly that we need to provide artificial gravity (no matter how inconvenient that might otherwise be !!!!) at something near one gee (until we actually know better !!) during these one-way transits to-and-from, in order to best preserve the health of the crews.
Ethically, you simply cannot argue with that conclusion, no matter how inconvenient for design purposes, or for total mission cost purposes. That is the only “box on thinking” applied here.
Supplying Artificial Gravity
There is as yet no such thing as “Star Trek”-type artificial gravity. The only physics we have to serve that purpose is “centrifugal force”. You must spin the vehicle, to generate “centrifugal force” as an equivalent to gravity. If the spin rate is low, then Coriolis forces (something everyone has experienced on a merry-go-round) become less important, and so fewer folks can tell the difference between this and real gravity, and there are fewer problems with disrupting the balance organs in the ear.
The physics of spin say that the acceleration you feel is proportional to the radius of spin and to the square of the spin rate. The actual physics equation says
a = R w2 where a is the acceleration, R the spin radius, and w the spin rate
Another form expressed in gees, and not absolute acceleration units, is
gees = 1.00 * [(R, m) / (55.89 m)] [(N, rpm) / (4 rpm)]2
Earthly experience with spin rates says that normal untrained and unacclimatized people can tolerate 3 to 4 rpm immediately, and for long-term exposures, without getting motion sick. People extensively trained might (or might not) tolerate higher spin rates in the 8-12 rpm class, without getting motion sick from long exposures. Still-higher spin rates (16+ rpm) induce blood pressure gradients head-to-toe in a standing individual, that are just unacceptable for long term exposures. Stand up, and you faint.
3-dimensional objects typically have 3 axes. About these axes these objects have properties called “mass moment of inertia” that relates to spin dynamics. Usually, higher moment of inertia correlates with a larger dimension along some axis perpendicular to the actual spin axis. These are typically proportional to mass, but proportional to the square of its distance from the center of gravity.
There are two (and only two !!) stable spin modes for most objects: about the axis for highest moment of inertia (longest dimension), and about the axis for lowest moment of inertia (shortest dimension). The first case is exemplified by a baton twirler’s spinning baton, and the second case is exemplified by a spinning bullet or artillery shell. There are no other stable modes of spin. See Figure 1.
Figure 1 – Modes of Spin
Clearly, building a “spinning rifle bullet” 112 m in diameter at 4 rpm for one full gee at its outer girth is not so very feasible: this is just too big to afford at this time in history. But spinning a smaller-diameter “something” that is 112 m long, end-over-end at 4 rpm, for 1 gee at each end, would indeed be a feasible thing to attempt! That says select the baton-spin mode for practical designs.
We already know a lot about the transient dynamics of spinning rigid objects, something important for spin-up and spin-down, as well as for applying any thrust while spinning. There would be no fundamental engineering development work to design a long, narrow spacecraft that spins end-over-end for artificial gravity. There would only be proving-out the specific design in tests before we use it.
The most-often-proposed alternative is a cable-connected structure, because it is conceptually easy to reel-out long cables between two small objects. Cable-connected transient dynamics for spin-up and spin-down, and especially for applying thrust while spinning, are incredibly complex and still not very well-known. “You cannot push on a string”, that is the complication! So there is a huge fundamental engineering development effort needed, beyond just proving-out the actual design to be used.
What this really says is that the preferred near-term spacecraft design is a long and rigid, more-or-less cylindrical shape, to be spun end-over-end, baton-style. This will generate varying artificial gee from a maximum near the ends, to zero at the spin center.
We know that microgravity vs gravity has no impact while prone sleeping, or else Earthly bed rest studies would not be a decent surrogate for some of the in-space microgravity effects. That means you can put the sleeping quarters in the low gravity section of the spacecraft near the spin center, and just put the daily workstations in the full-gravity sections of the spacecraft near the ends. See Figure 2.
Figure 2 – Why Selecting Baton Spin Mode Is Wisest Choice
Radiation Hazards
There are basically three radiation hazards to worry about: galactic cosmic rays (GCR), solar flare events (SFE), and the Van Allen radiation belts about the Earth (or similar belts around some of the outer planets). All three hazards are atomic or subatomic particles, just at different speeds and quantities. The threats they pose are location-dependent.
GCR is a very slow drizzle of really-high-speed particles, moving at a large fraction of the speed of light. Particles that energetic are very difficult to shield against, because they penetrate deeply into shielding material, and quite often create “secondary showers” of other harmful radiation when they strike the atoms in the shield material. If the shielding atoms are low atomic weight, the secondary shower effect is greatly reduced.
GCR comes from outside the solar system. Its quantity is affected by the solar wind, in turn affected by the sun’s sunspot cycle, which is about 11 years long. The solar wind is stronger when sunspots are active, making GCR lower in the vicinity of the Earth-moon system at that time.
From NASA’s radiation effects website (ref. 1), I obtained these values that apply in the general vicinity of the Earth-moon system. GCR maximizes at about 60 REM per year when the sun is quiet, and minimizes at about 24 REM per year, when sunspots are most active. To “calibrate” the effects of what may be unfamiliar units of radiation, the natural Earthly background radiation is about 0.3 REM per year (and up to 10 times higher in some locations), and a lethal dose would be 300 to 500 REM accumulated in a “short time”, meaning hours to a week or so. (Just for information, 1 Sievert is 100 REM.)
The NASA astronaut exposure standards are set at about twice the levels allowed for Earthly nuclear workers. Those NASA standards are no more than 50 REM per year, no more than 25 REM in any one month, and a career limit that varies with age and gender, but maxes-out at no more than 400 REM accumulated over an entire career. These career limits are predicated upon a single-handful percentage increase in the likelihood of late-in-life cancer.
Clearly, with a very modest shielding effect (to reduce worst-case 60 REM to an acceptable 50 REM annual), GCR is not the “killer” it is often portrayed to be.
SFE (solar flare events) are different. They are much lower-speed particles, much easier to shield, but there is an incredibly-huge flood of them, when these events happen. They come in very-directional bursts from the sun, at rather erratic intervals. There are usually more of them during times of active sunspots, but they can indeed happen when the sun is quiet. They come at irregular intervals measured in durations of “several months apart”.
The intensity of a burst can vary wildly from only tens of REM received over a few hours, to tens of thousands of REM received over a few hours. The median dose would be multiple thousands of REM over a few hours. Obviously, for unshielded persons, the great bulk of events like this (those over about 300-500 REM) would be fatal doses, and it is an ugly, irreversible, and miserable death. There was a massively-fatal-level event in 1972 between the last two Apollo missions to the moon, and a low-intensity (non-fatal) event during one Apollo mission to the moon.
We had chosen to ignore this SFE threat during Apollo because the short duration of the missions (at most 2 weeks) was small, compared to the typical interval (several months) between events. But, had a large event hit during an Apollo mission, the crew would have died in space in a matter of hours. As it turns out, this actual record shows that Apollo’s “ignoring-the-risk-as-low-probability”-assumption was not a good assumption to make! That’s 20-20 hindsight, but it is still a crucial lesson to learn!
For an extended or permanent return to the moon, or going elsewhere, radiation shielding is obviously imperative! On Earth, we are protected from these SFE’s (and the GCR) by both the Earth’s magnetic field and its atmosphere. These are a very real threat anywhere outside the Earth’s magnetic field! In low Earth orbit, we are protected only by the magnetic field, and the background exposure there is higher than down on Earth, but still much less than beyond the magnetic field.
The Van Allen belts are concentrated regions of these same radiation particles trapped in the Earth’s magnetic field. The intensity is lethal on a scale of days-to-weeks, but tolerable on a scale of hours-to-a-day-or-so. The inner boundary is not sharp, but this is generally considered to become a problem at about 900 miles orbit altitude, and extending many tens of thousands of miles out from the Earth.
The exception is the “South Atlantic Anomaly”, where the inner side of the Van Allen belt dips down locally to low Earth orbit altitude (100-300 miles). Satellites and spacecraft in high-inclination orbits inherently pass through the South Atlantic Anomaly every several orbits. The ISS does indeed encounter this threat, it being short “flashes” of exposure that accumulate over time, but these still fall well within the astronaut exposure standards (no more than 50 REM annually, no more than 25 REM in any one month). Their main effect is accumulation toward career limits.
Spacecraft traveling to the moon or elsewhere must transit the Van Allen belts. Because of the potential for lethal exposure if you linger within them, such transits must be made quickly! Apollo did this correctly, transiting within only several hours. Given the state of today’s electric propulsion technology, this rules out using electric propulsion for people to leave Earth orbit for the moon or elsewhere, because the spiral-out time is measured in multiple months. That would quickly accumulate to a lethal exposure, even with some shielding.
Passive Shielding
The same NASA radiation site has data regarding the shielding effects of typically-considered materials. Those are hydrogen, water, and aluminum. Mass of shielding above a unit exposed area turns out to be the “correlating variable”, and 15-20 g/cm2 seems to be enough to generally address the worst SFE.
Hydrogen has the lowest density, requiring the thickest layering, but also has the least secondary shower potential, when used against GCR. 211 to 282 cm of liquid hydrogen suffices.
15-20 cm of water is 15-20 gm/cm2, same shielding effect as a really thick layer of hydrogen. Water molecules are still light enough not to have much secondary shower risk.
Aluminum would be the thinnest layer, but with the greater secondary shower effect. However, of the practical metals, its atoms are the lightest, and this secondary shower effect is deemed tolerable with it. 6-8 cm thick aluminum plate would be required. That is quite out-of-line with current spacecraft hull design practices: something nearer a millimeter.
Other materials based on polymers, and even most rocket propellants, are light-enough atoms to be effective shielding with a low secondary shower risk, yet with densities roughly in the same ballpark as water, for a thinner layer thickness. So, any of these could be practical shielding materials!
Because weight is critical, what you have to do is not simply add shielding weight to your design, but instead rearrange the distribution of masses you already otherwise need, so that they can also serve as radiation shielding. You will need meteoroid shielding and thermal insulation, and any manned craft will have water and wastewater on board, as part of the life support system. All spacecraft will need propellant for the next (and subsequent) burns. You use a combination of these, acting together.
The real suggestion here is to use water, wastewater, and next-burn propellant tankage as shadow shields, in addition to the meteoroid protection and thermal insulation materials that the manned modules require anyway. It doesn’t take much of this at all to cut the worst-case 60 REM/year GCR to under 50 REM/year. It takes only a little more to cut worst-case SFE to safe short-term exposure levels.
If you cannot protect the whole manned interior, then the flight control station becomes first priority, so that maneuvers can be flown, regardless of the solar weather. Second priority would be the sleeping quarters, to reduce round-the-clock GCR exposure further. These seriously constrain spacecraft design.
See Figure 3 for one possible way to do this, in an orbit-to-orbit transport design concept. This would also be a baton-spin vehicle for artificial gravity during the long transit. Plus, the habitation (“hab”) design requires a lot of interior space for the mental health of the crew, something else we know is critical. Somewhere between 100 and 200 cubic meters per person is needed as a minimum, and at least some of it must be reconfigurable as desired by the crew.
Spin-up is likely by electrically-powered flywheels in the center module. The vehicle is spun-up after departure, and de-spun before arrival. If a mid-course correction is needed, the vehicle could be de-spun for that, and spun back up for remainder of the transit.
Note in the figure how the arrival propellant and the water and wastewater tankage has been arranged around the manned core to provide extra shadow shielding, for really effective radiation protection. The manned core modules are presumed insulated by polymeric layers that also serve as meteor shielding (while adding to the radiation protection, without being driven by that issue). The pressure shell on the inside of this insulation should be unobstructed by mounted equipment, so that easy and rapid access for patching of holes is possible. There is not time to move stuff when a compartment is depressurizing! Ethics!
At departure, the vehicle can be propelled by a different propellant and engine choice, since departure is a short event. The arrival propellant is likely a storable to prevent evaporation losses. Storable return propellant tankage sets can be sent ahead unmanned, for docking in orbit at the destination.
There is an emergency return capsule (actually two capsules) mounted at the center module, each one enough for the entire crew. (“Bailout” at Mars presumes a rescue capability already exists there, so we need redundant engines instead.) Emergency bailout, upon a failed burn for returning to Earth orbit, is the main function of this capsule. Routinely, it could return a crew to Earth from the spaceship, once it is parked safely in Earth orbit.
This kind of orbit-to-orbit transport design could serve to take men to Mars or to the near-Earth asteroids and comets. For Mars, the lander craft could be sent ahead unmanned to Mars orbit, and none are needed to visit asteroids. But you cannot send return propellant ahead on an asteroid mission.
By refueling and re-supplying in Earth orbit, such a manned hab design could easily be used for multiple missions, once built. Care must be taken in its design and material selection to support many thousands of cycles of use. Thus the craft could safely serve for a century or more, updated with better propellants and engines as the years go by.
There I went and wrote a basic “how-to” document for practical and ethical interplanetary spaceship design!
Figure 3 – Using Otherwise-Required Materials To Also Serve As Radiation Shielding
These first few sections so far have been reprised (with edits) from “Just Mooning Around”, posted 7-14-19. Everything that follows is new.
Mars Mission Outline 2019: Overall
The new version uses a larger orbit-to-orbit transport, and recovers the solar-electric tugs that preposition unmanned assets at Mars for the manned mission (2016 did not). It uses similar (but larger) landers as the 2016 version, and it still jettisons the Earth departure stage without recovery.
That last could be addressed by fitting the departure stage with a second propulsion system, possibly electric, and putting it into a 2-year-period orbit after stage-off. Then it could be captured into Earth orbit for reuse. That recovery possibility is beyond scope here in the 2019 version. Consider it to be a “future update”.
Main point here: if one does spin gravity in a baton-spin mode, the resulting transit vehicle is ill-adapted for a direct entry at Mars, or a direct entry at Earth. Such a design is far better-adapted as an orbit-to-orbit transport, with any Mars lander function relegated to a separate vehicle, sent separately. Long-life reusability also points toward an orbit-to-orbit transport design, free of entry heat shield requirements. It means we base our exploration forays onto the surface of Mars from low Mars orbit.
The resulting mission architecture requires that both the landers and the Earth return propellant get sent ahead unmanned to parking orbit about Mars, with the manned orbit-to-orbit transport arriving afterward, and rendezvousing in Mars orbit with those items. This powerful concept is not unlike the Lunar Orbit Rendezvous architecture that made it possible to mount each Apollo landing mission with only one Saturn 5 booster. See Figure 4 for the overall mission architecture.
Figure 4 – Overall Mars Mission Architecture Requiring Mars Orbit Rendezvous
The landers themselves are envisioned as one-stage reusable articles that make multiple flights, based out of low Mars orbit. Sending 3 landers ahead with their propellant supply allows one lander to make a landing with only part of the human crew, with a second lander in reserve as a rescue craft. Thus, there is a “way out” even during the landings, unlike with Apollo!
Because of storability concerns, the wisest choice is that the lander propellant and engine design be the same as the transport propellant and engine design. This maximizes the interchangeability of engine hardware and propellant supplies, in the event that there are mishaps from which to recover, without aid from Earth. It also simplifies the overall design and hardware development and prove-out.
The presence of a third lander allows one lander to become unserviceable, while still maintaining the reserve rescue lander capability, without which landings so far from Earth become too risky to ethically attempt. This is shown in Figure 5, including the velocity requirements for the lander design.
The initially-sized version of the lander design concept was used in the 2016 posting, and came from one of the options explored in another posting titled “Reusable Chemical Mars Landing Boats Are Feasible”, dated 31 August 2013. These landers are resized somewhat for this posting.
Figure 5 – Surface Landing Forays Based Out Of Low Mars Orbit
Note that for a rescue possibility to exist, some of the crew must stay in the transport in low Mars orbit, while others descend to the surface in a lander. Because we do not know how therapeutic Mars’s 0.38 gee gravity might be for the surface crew, I suggest we spin the transport for artificial gravity while it is in orbit, de-spinning for lander departures and arrivals. Thus everybody stays fully healthy no matter what, while we alternate crews on the surface.
Now, overall, it is worst-case 9 months to and from Mars, and in any case, 13 months at Mars waiting for the orbital “window” to open for the voyage home. That last is simply inherent from the choice of min-energy Hohmann transfer orbits. That leaves a long time for the crew to explore on Mars. That plus the possibility that the initial landing site might not prove to be desirable, makes it wise to plan for multiple landings, at possibly-multiple sites.
Basing exploration forays from low Mars orbit is what makes multiple landings at multiple sites possible at all! No other mission architecture can provide this capability.
It is that orbit-based architecture allowing for multiple landings which lets us alternate roles for the crew, so that all of them get to spend time on the surface of Mars (unlike what was possible with Apollo). With a mission crew of 6, that means we could send down alternating crews of 3 in the lander, while the other 3 do science from orbit and provide the critical watchdog rescue capability with the other two landers (two for the reliability of redundancy). It is already known that odd numbered crews fare better in hazardous situations, there being no possibility of the stalemate of ties, in decision-making.
Given the existence of the rescue capability from low Mars orbit, we can address lander reliability in two ways, thus increasing the odds of success, and also the odds of still saving the lander crew, if things go seriously wrong. (We are ethically bound to do this!) First, the lander must use redundant engines, so that if one fails, the remaining engine (or engines) can still perform the mission.
Second, the crew piloting cabin could be rigged as an abort-to-surface (or abort-to-orbit) capsule, in the event that too many redundant engines fail, or that there is some overall catastrophic failure of the lander.
The minimum number of landings is two, one for each half of the crew. Allowing some time for reconnaissance-from-orbit prior to the first attempt, and for preparations for returning to earth, we can plan on 12 months total for the landings, splitting the remaining month between those other two needs in orbit about Mars. That does cover up to two possible landing sites in the one voyage to Mars!
The surface crew will live inside the lander on the surface. That means it must carry them, their exploration gear, and up to 6 months of life support supplies, on each trip. More exploration gear could be carried to the surface if we shorten the stay for each lander.
If four trips will be made, that’s 3 months each (not 6), and one can trade away life support supplies for extra exploration gear carried down. That could cover up to four possible landing sites in the one trip to Mars, and each crew of 3 making 2 trips, all with the same overall resources sent to Mars, excepting the total lander propellant supply.
Continuing that logic, if 6 trips are planned, that’s 2 months each, each crew of 3 making 3 trips, and a higher weight of exploration gear relative to life support supplies. That’s up to 6 separate sites that could be explored in the one voyage to Mars! Or, 12 trips of 1 month each, which is up to 12 sites explored. Since the lander propellant is sent ahead by SEP, it is rather easy to afford such a capability.
The biggest mass ratio-effective burn for the lander is the ascent burn, which can be at significantly-reduced payload, since wastes can be left on the surface along with some exploration gear, while the weight of a plethora of samples is far less than the weight of gear and supplies during the less-demanding descent. That makes the overall 5.22 km/s delta vee far more affordable with an overall realistic mass ratio and storable propellant specific impulse (Isp).
Those considerations very dramatically impact and constrain the design of the lander.
Sending Assets Ahead Unmanned
The unmanned transfers can be done more efficiently (lower total mass to be launched) with solar electric propulsion (SEP). The manned transport uses short-burn chemical rocket propulsion to avoid long spiral-out/spiral-in times. (An SEP-based transport would give the crew a lethal radiation dose spiraling-out through the Van Allen belts on departure from Earth, and again spiraling-in through the belts on return to Earth.) At least approximately 0.1 gee vehicle acceleration is required to qualify as a gravity loss-free “short burn”.
This prepositioning of assets at Mars using SEP was also a part of my 2016 Mars mission posting. The differences here are that I recover the SEP “tugs” for reuse on future missions, and that I use a larger “hab” for the orbit-to-orbit transport.
Earth Departure of Manned Transport
The Earth departure can be done with higher-performing LOX-LH2 tankage and engines on one end, that are staged off after the burn. To recover these, a higher aphelion orbit with a 2 year period is required, plus some sort of propulsion to return to Earth orbit. This could be electric, or some storable propellant rockets. (Expecting LOX-LH2 cryogens not to evaporate over a 2 year period is just nonsense!) I did not include that here, but it is required for more reusability. That’s a future growth item.
Velocity Requirements for the Mission
The orbital mechanics of min-energy Hohmann transfer determine the minimum velocity requirements for the manned (and unmanned) vehicles, as well as the one-way travel time. Shorter flights require more energy, which is more propellant and tankage that must be sent to low Earth orbit and assembled.
The basic velocity requirements for the manned orbital transport are shown in Figure 6. These take the form of unfactored orbital mechanics values serving as the mass ratio-effective values for vehicle design. This is allowable because all these chemical rocket propulsion burns are “short” and exoatmospheric. The resulting mass-ratio-effective design values are given in Figure 7.
Figure 6 – Orbital Velocity Requirements For The Orbit-to-Orbit Manned Transport
For only Mars arrival with the manned transport, there is a need for a rendezvous propellant allowance. It is necessary to adjust orbital position to coincide with the assets sent ahead. As a wild guess, add another 0.2 km/s delta vee to the value shown in Figure 7 as the mass ratio-effective value for design.
Figure 7 – Design Velocity Requirements For The Orbit-To-Orbit Manned Transport
For the assets sent ahead with SEP, design velocity requirements are much more problematic. There are no drag losses, but the gravity losses are huge, since the burns are months long! For a rough rule-of-thumb estimate, just use twice the values in Figure 7. That is what I did here.
Propulsion Estimates
No particular existing chemical rocket engine’s characteristics were used. Ballistic estimates were made “from scratch” using shortcut methods. For both the transport and Earth-departure engines, it was assumed that no gas used to drive pumps was dumped overboard, meaning 100% of the hot gas generated went through the propulsion nozzle. This requires an efficient engine operating cycle.
Estimates were made from 1000-psia data for chamber characteristic velocity and gas specific heat ratio, using standard ideal-gas compressible flow methods to develop vacuum thrust coefficient (to include the effects of a nozzle kinetic energy efficiency reflecting streamline divergence). The c* and r “constants” vary with chamber pressure in a way that conforms to empirical ballistic methods I have long used successfully.
This gets us to specific impulse (and thus effective exhaust velocity) for vehicle mass ratio determinations with the rocket equation dV = Vex ln(Wig/Wbo). The actual design thrust level is driven by vehicle mass and the min 0.1 gee acceleration requirement, which sizes throat (and exit areas) via the thrust/throat area/thrust coefficient equation F = CF Pc At. That leads to real engine dimensions. For not-quite-the-highest-tech in engine design technology, a good “wild guess” for engine weight would be thrust/50, both in force units, figured at 1 gee Earth gravity for the weight.
Assuming redundant engines for safety and reliability, these rockets won’t be simultaneously run at full thrust. For vacuum-only operation, there is no need for really high chamber pressure, and there is no need to worry about backpressure-induced separation effects, because there isn’t any backpressure. 6-7 mbar on Mars is also effectively no backpressure at all, so the lander engines can be the same vacuum design as the transport engines.
Reflecting those considerations, I assumed 1000 psia at max thrust, typical operation at 500 psia, and min throttled-down pressure 200 psia. Others may disagree, but that is what I did. The higher the Pc, the higher the c*, and thus the higher the Isp. But so also the higher is the weight of the engine.
The data I got for the NTO-MMH storable transit engines are given in Figure 8. The data I got for the LOX-LH2 Earth departure engines are given in Figure 9. For both I assumed an expansion bell equivalent to a constant 15 degree half-angle conical bell, leading to a kinetic energy efficiency of 0.983 for the nozzle efficiency. Any real-world curved bell will have an average half angle not far at all from that value; it will be slightly shorter than the equivalent conical bell, and just about the same efficiency.
Figure 8 – Ballistic Estimates For Storable-Propellant Transit (and Lander) Engines
Figure 9 -- Ballistic Estimates For Cryo-Propellant Earth Departure Engines
The solar electric propulsion is more problematical in its characteristics, it being currently available only in small sizes, with scaleup efforts underway at both Ad Astra and NASA. What is important for vehicle design purposes would be thrust/weight for the actual electric thruster equipment, its operating specific impulse, its electric power/thrust requirement, and the type and phase of its propellant (liquids or solids are easier to store at lower total tankage weight than gases).
Add to that the producible electric power/panel area, the weight/panel area, and miscellaneous equipment weight (if any), for the solar power supply equipment, and for autonomous robotic vehicle guidance. The size of the thruster’s thrust relative to the full vehicle weight should probably fall near what the current small thrusters on satellites use: something near or above 0.001 gee.
Here are the values for the putative system I “chose”, it being something that does not yet exist, but likely could be made to exist near-term. Bear in mind the available solar power at Mars is half that at Earth (Mars actually sizes the panels). The value shown for electric power/area of solar panel is for near-Earth space, turned to face the sun directly. This data represents a Hall-effect device on iodine.
SEP Items Data Table
The solar photovoltaic power per unit area was estimated as the solar constant at Earth (in space 1353 W/m2) multiplied by a 20% conversion efficiency of sunlight power to electric power. That represents a high-tech space-industry type of solar cell. The weight was estimated from reported data for the Alta Devices Alta 5x1 2J and Alta 5x1 1J satellite solar panel devices. The miscellaneous equipment is not structure, that is in the weight/area figure for the panels. It is the mass of the autonomous guidance equipment, including things like star trackers, computers, communications, and accelerometers.
Space Hab for the Crew: Characteristics
I based these guesses off the Bigelow Aerospace B-330 space station module design as seen on the internet (ref. 2). This is the big commercial product, not the simple, small BEAM unit attached to ISS for testing and evaluation by NASA. These are nominally 15.7 m long and 20 metric tons. They are somewhat inflatable, and feature a core equipment and framing structure around which the inflated hull is unobstructed. There is a meter of layers of micrometeoroid shield that also serve as thermal insulation, and as low-molecular-weight radiation shielding. Each module contains some 330 cubic meters of interior space. The hard core protrudes on one end, providing a place for solar panels.
The modules of the orbit-to-orbit transport cannot be exactly these B-330 modules, but can be something rather similar! Docking multiple modules end-to-end creates the baton-shaped vehicle this mission design needs. The modules must have external features of some type that allow tankage to be attached around the outer periphery, and internal fold-out decks as part of the core. The center module must be very stout, and contain big electrically-driven flywheels for vehicle spin-up and spin-down, plus places to dock space capsules.
It would seem wiser to put big solar panels on the center module, with the docked capsules, and the flywheels inside, where spin forces are zero-to-minimal. It is likely to be hard shell, not an inflatable, for strength. That module is also likely to be quite heavy. As a wild guess, call it 16 m long and 40 tons. The others can be nominal 16 m long, and nearer 20 tons, reflecting inflatable pressure shell along almost the entire length, plus the features for attaching external tankage. Call the internal volume 350 m3 each as a best guess, excluding what the hard core occupies.
Counting the center module, some 7 modules each 16 m long docked end-to-end is 112 m long, for 1 full gee at each end if spun at only 4 rpm. That basic structure would total 160 metric tons, using the guesses in the previous paragraph. To that one must add masses for crew and 2 space suits each, their personal effects, and personal equipment (call it 0.5 metric ton per person as a guess), and for fully-expendable supplies of food, water, and oxygen (call it 0.75 metric tons per person per month, knowing that these are just “reasonable guesses”). Crew and supplies must fit within the vehicle, which has (for the 6 modules not filled with flywheels and heavy equipment) some 2100 m3 volume.
If one assumes half the volume is packed supplies, and also a crew of 6, that leaves some 175 m3 per person as living space available. That’s about like 3 large living rooms in a typical middle-class house. That seems adequate at first glance, if it is well distributed, and some part of it is reconfigurable at some level.
The crew weight allowance is 3 metric tons, and the packed supplies mass is about 4.5 tons per mission month. If the mission is 31 months long (9 months transit, 13 months at Mars, 9 months return), that’s about 140 tons of supplies, with no margin for error. So call it a nominal 150 tons. This presumes no recycling or growing-of-food in space or on Mars. It’s a worst-case deal, but we can do this “right now”.
So, the empty hab section is estimated at 160 tons. It gets loaded with about 150 tons of supplies, allowing for 7.5% safety factor on supply mass, and loaded with about 3 tons of crew with their suits, equipment, and personal effects. Fully loaded, that’s 313 tons. That would be crew of 6, and supplies for a 31 month mission plus a small margin. See Figure 10. Figure 11 shows an image of the spreadsheet where these numbers were calculated. Yellow highlighting denotes inputs. Some selected outputs are highlighted blue.
Figure 10 – The Estimates for the Hab Section Structure of the Orbit-to-Orbit Transport
Figure 11 – Image of Spreadsheet Used to Determine Hab Section Characteristics
Assumed depleted at a constant rate, the supplies total 150 tons at departure, 109.5 tons at Mars arrival, 51.0 tons at Mars departure, and not-zero at 10.5 tons at Earth arrival, assuming the safety margin is not consumed. This presumes wastes are dumped overboard with no recycling at all! This dumping reduces the effective mass of the hab section, at each mission segment, a benefit to propellant required.
We can already do somewhat better than that with recycled water, but this is a worst case estimate! Yet this open-cycle assumption gets the smaller propellant supply for return to Earth. “Efficiency” is not always beneficial: that is too often presumed erroneously! Jettisoned mass reduces next-burn propellant requirements. That’s just physics you cannot fight!
Sizing the Manned Transport and Its Return Propellant
The fundamental notion for sizing propellant supplies for the four events (Earth departure, Mars arrival, Mars departure, and Earth arrival) is that the mass of the loaded, crewed hab, plus the mass of all propellant tankage, plus the mass of the engines, is the ignition mass. That minus the mass of propellant burned from that tankage is the burnout mass. That produces a mass ratio for the burn, and the delta-vee it will produce, which must meet or exceed the requirement for that burn. This is subject to the constraint that we want 0.1 gee or thereabouts as a min vehicle acceleration at each burn.
To do this, one must estimate the ratio of propellant to loaded tank mass for the added tankage. This has to reflect a long, slim tank geometry for docking multiple tanks around the periphery of the hab, and it must account for the mass of the docking structures needed to achieve that result. As a guess, I am assuming that the empty tank inert mass (with all those fittings) is 5% of the loaded tank mass, so that the contained propellant is 95% of the loaded tank mass.
To that end, I used a series of calculation blocks in a spreadsheet worksheet to run the calculations. Again, inputs are highlighted yellow, and significant outputs are highlighted blue. Figures 12, 13, and 14 show the results.
Bear in mind that the loaded tank mass for the Mars and Earth arrival burns must be part of the “payload” for the Earth and Mars departure burns, respectively. They are unique in this way. That means the dead-head payload is the appropriate hab mass plus the mass of the next burn’s loaded tanks. The current burn’s tanks must push this (plus the added engine mass) to the required delta-vee for that burn.
Added engine mass is handled by an iteratively-applied tankage scale-up factor just slightly over unity.
Figure 12 – Part 1 of Orbital Transport Propulsion Sizing
As it turns out, finding the propellant tankage mass to push the hab to the required delta-vee is not an excruciating iterative process. You first find the mass ratio MR that is required from the required mass ratio-effective delta-vee, and the propulsion’s effective exhaust velocity, by the rocket equation. Ignoring the mass of the engines themselves, it turns out to be closed-form to find the loaded tankage mass Wtf from that mass ratio, and the total “dead head” mass to be pushed in that burn.
For both departures, the “dead head” mass is the appropriate loaded hab mass plus the loaded mass of the corresponding arrival tankage. For both arrivals, the “dead head” mass is just the loaded hab mass. This can be corrected at the 1 or 2% level for total engine mass later, to ensure fully meeting the delta-vee requirements, simply by scaling up the loaded tank mass Wtf with a factor applied iteratively until delta-vee produced meets the requirement.
Wtf = Wdead (MR – 1)/(1 – MR f) where f = Wt/Wtf and Wt is dry tank mass
That’s the orbital transport rough-out design for Mars. It can get there to low Mars orbit from low Earth orbit where it was assembled. It can rendezvous with its Earth return propellant, the Mars landers, and the Mars lander propellant supply, all three of which were sent ahead by electric propulsion. The nonrecoverable items are the Earth departure stage and the empty Mars departure tanks. The empty Mars arrival tanks are left in Mars orbit. Everything else about this design is recovered in low Earth orbit.
Note that this ship is 1413 metric tons, as assembled and loaded in low Earth orbit, ready to go to low Mars orbit. Its use requires that some 997.26 metric tons of loaded propellant tanks be sent ahead to Mars for the return propellant supply. In order to actually make landings on Mars as staged out of low Mars orbit, the landers and their propellant supply must also be sent ahead to low Mars orbit.
With much bigger propellant tankage, this same design could take men to a near-Earth asteroid. For such missions, landers are not needed, and there is no practical opportunity to pre-position return propellant, except many years ahead. Those missions are far more difficult. Analysis of one is not attempted in this posting.
Sizing the Lander and Lander Propellant Supply
The lander payload is its crew, their suits and personal equipment, plus an amount of life support supplies that depends upon how long the crew will live in the lander on the surface, each landing. The de-orbit burn for a surface-grazing ellipse is a trivial 50 m/s delta-vee. Most of the deceleration is aerodynamic drag, effectively terminating at end-of-hypersonics at Mach 3, just about 1 km/s velocity, but at a low altitude because of the high ballistic coefficient. That altitude is only about 5 km!
From there, deceleration is by retropropulsion alone, with a large “kitty” to cover hover and divert requirements. Assuming 1 km/s velocity at 5 km altitude, along a straight slant trajectory at 45 degrees, the average deceleration level required is 70 m/s2, or 7.211 gees, which with the lander mass, sets the required engine thrust level for landing. That is a rough ride, about twice the rigors of return from low Earth orbit, and justifying all by itself the maintenance of full crew health with artificial spin gravity!
The lander is a one-stage reusable “landing boat” intended to make multiple flights, each fueled from a propellant supply sent with it to low Mars orbit. Factored, the mass ratio-effective descent delta-vee is just about 1.5 km/s. Propellant is storable NTO-MMH, to preclude evaporation losses and massive energy requirements to prevent freezing or boiling. The ascent must account for small but non-zero gravity and drag losses (about 2% of velocity), and a “kitty” for rendezvous maneuvers. That mass-ratio-effective delta vee is just about 3.62 km/s.
The payload requirements for crew, equipment, and supplies as a function of surface duration are given in Figure 15, along with a crude estimate of the “larger-than-minimum” vehicle inert weight fraction that is appropriate to the necessary structural robustness, and to the equipment required to function as a reusable entry-capable vehicle, and as a surface habitat. Conceptually, the lander is sketched in Figure 16. Some of its backshell panels double as cargo load/unload ramps. Most of the cargo space can be isolated and pressurized as living space, once unloaded. The piloting cabin is the abort capsule, something somewhat similar to a crew Dragon from Spacex. This thing is NOT a minimalist lander the way the Apollo LM was.
Figure 15 – Payload Requirements Vs. Surface Duration
Figure 16 – Conceptual Sketch of Reusable “Landing Boat”
The ascent payload is smaller, since most (but not all) the supplies are used up (and wastes left behind) at ascent liftoff. There is a generous allowance for Mars samples to be returned to the orbital transport. This has to be taken into account in calculating the actual vehicle masses, since the two delta-vees are handled at two different payload fractions, in the one vehicle design. That process is inherently iterative, as shown by the data given in Figure 17.
Figure 17 – Iterative Determination of Lander Characteristics vs Surface Duration
In order to determine these numbers, one guess a value for the max lander mass, which is ignition-at-descent (Wig-des). The inert fraction times this gives the vehicle inert mass Win. The ascent and descent payloads are determined vs mission surface duration separately. The mass ratios already determined are used to estimate propellant masses.
The ascent propellant mass Wp-asc is determined first as (MR-asc – 1)(Wpay-asc + Win), then the descent propellant mass Wp-des as (MR-des – 1)(Wpay-des + Win + Wp-asc), treating the ascent propellant as part of the effective “payload” during descent. The descent payload plus both propellant masses plus inert mass sum to the result for descent ignition mass.
The input guess for descent ignition mass is then adjusted iteratively, until it converges to the result for descent ignition mass. This is done by simple trial and error in the spreadsheet. There is such a result computed for each of 4 possible surface durations that divide evenly into the 12 months available. These results are then the inputs for a characterization of the lander sizing as a function of design surface duration.
For the selected 2-month duration (corresponding to 6 total lander flights), those results are given in Figure 18. These show ascent and descent weight statements, confirmation of delta-vee capability, and characterization of vehicle mass fractions, plus the propellant supply required to cover the appropriate number of flights. Similar tables exist in the spreadsheet for the other 3 durations, but those are not shown here.
Figure 18 – Lander Design Characteristics for 6 Flights of 2 Month Surface Duration Each
Figures 19 and 20 show the trade-off of vehicle sizes and propellant supply sizes versus surface duration options. The selected design is near the “knee” in the curve of number-of-flights vs surface duration, at 2 month duration for 6 flights. For shorter duration, the required propellant supply is significantly larger. For longer duration, the required propellant supply is smaller, but not so significantly smaller.
The lander size itself is significantly affected by the design surface duration, being larger at longer duration. The 2-month duration selected limits this affect, without so significantly penalizing the payload fraction (which ranges from about 2 to about 3%). The selected 2-month duration is also near the “knee” in that curve. Longer durations do not improve this as much as was gained going from 1 month-12 flights to the selected 2 month-6 flights option.
Figure 19 – Number of Landings and Required Propellant Supply Vs. Surface Duration
Figure 20 – Lander Size and Payload Fraction Vs. Surface Duration
For this selected design (6 two-month surface stays), three landers fueled and loaded with supplies, less crew, suits, and personal equipment, each massing 376.5 metric tons, must be sent to Mars along with some 1764 tons of propellant to support all 6 flights. If 95% of the tank weight is propellant, the mass of loaded tankage to be sent is some 1856.8 metric tons. If sent as tanks docked to each of the 3 landers, that’s a 376.5 ton lander plus 619 tons of loaded propellant tanks.
The “smart” thing to do from a reliability / self-rescue standpoint is to send the transport return propellant with those same three landers, so that if one is lost, the transport can still return safely by drawing the shortfall instead from the remaining lander supplies. That return propellant was determined above to be 997.26 metric tons of loaded tanks. Divided by 3, that’s an additional 332.4 metric tons of Earth return propellant tankage sent to Mars with each lander.
That makes each lander plus propellant tanks a 1327.9 metric ton item to be moved by solar electric propulsion from low Earth orbit one-way to low Mars orbit. Each such is thus quite comparable to the departure mass of the manned orbital transport. That would not be true at the other surface durations.
There are 6 landings to be made, and three such landers sent to Mars. Distributed evenly, that is two flights per lander minimum, and 6 maximum. Bear in mind that only one lander is sent to the surface at a time, carrying a crew of 3, while the other three crew do science in orbit, while acting as the safety rescue “watchdog”, with at least one functional lander, even if the other one fails. The worst case is that all 6 flights are made with one lander. Thus the lander design must allow for at least 6 flights per vehicle, justifying in part the higher inert mass fraction used in this design rough-out.
Landers get left in low Mars orbit at mission’s end, when the transport departs for Earth. Subsequent missions might utilize these assets, and reduce the sent mass to only more lander propellant. That possibility argues for much more than 6 flights per vehicle, in turn a really good argument for the very robust inert mass fraction of 20% used here. Alternatively, they could be landed robotically.
Common Engine Design for Transport and Lander?
The lander mass is 378 metric tons at ignition, and 241 at touchdown, as just determined above. The average is 309.5 metric tons. Also as determined above, the average deceleration required is 70 m/s2. That translates to 21,665 KN of retropropulsion thrust required to safely land (nominally 22,000 KN). This is totaled for multiple engines. Less may be used for ascent, as such high gee capability is not required for that. Something nearer 2 gees at ascent ignition mass 236.3 metric tons (4726 KN thrust) is more appropriate.
As described above, something near 1170 KN thrust from multiple engines is the minimum required for the orbit-to-orbit transport. This was set by the min 0.1 vehicle gee capability at max vehicle mass, and still resulted in only large fractional gee capability at min vehicle mass. This thrust level selection could be doubled or tripled (or more) with relative impunity.
A worksheet page was set up in the spreadsheet to explore how this could be done, in two steps. The results are shown in Figure 21, which indicate the possibility of using some number of 3600 KN max thrust engines, throttleable from 20 to 100%. In the first step, I input factored thrust requirements, plus a number of engines, and a max number of inoperative engines.
The thrust requirement for the lander descent is based on slowing the average descent mass (as a constant) from 1 km/s to zero, in a slant path length of 7.1 km, using the oversimplified kinematic equation V2 = 2 a s. This is a very high-gee descent! Reducing that requires not just supersonic retropropulsion, but hypersonic retropropulsion (starting retropropulsion earlier in the entry sequence). It is an inevitable consequence of the high ballistic coefficient producing very low altitudes (on Mars) for end-of-hypersonic deceleration. This is an area for further design work!
The thrust requirement for the lander ascent is its Earth weight, factored-up just slightly, to accommodate flight tests on Earth. That’s “overkill” for Mars with its lower gravity.
The thrust requirement for the orbital transport is based on its Mars departure mass (largest of the masses under storable propulsion) and a min 0.1 gee vehicle acceleration requirement. This is arbitrarily factored-up by 3 to achieve commonality, without exceeding max gees ~ 2 at Earth arrival.
That initial result indicated that something like 3600 KN max thrust per engine would be suitable, with 9 engines in the lander operating at part throttle in descent, and 4 engines operating at part throttle in ascent, able to lose up to 3 engines either way, and still function within limits. This was explored further, looking at vehicle gees and engine throttle percentages, in the second step.
Up to 3 of these lander engines could cease operation during ascent or descent. The remainder could supply adequate thrust at 100% throttle or less, without waiting for lightoff of any inactive engines. That’s an important safety consideration, which ethics demands! Two of these same engines would be adequate to push the orbital transport at part throttle, with only one operating engine still able to supply much more than the demanded minimum thrust.
Figure 21 – Determination of Size and Distribution of a Common NTO-MMH Engine Design
In all cases, engines operate between 20 and 100% throttle setting, and appropriate gee limits are not exceeded. Min transport vehicle gee requirement (0.1 gee) is exceeded.
For descent, the lander retropulsion operates between about 6 and about 9 gees. This event is only about 14-15 seconds long!!! “At the last second” to actually land, some 8 of the 9 engines must be shut down to reduce thrust to nearer Mars weight of the lander (about 749 KN to 872 KN, depending upon how much propellant was burned) at touchdown, with the remaining active engine operating at about 21-24% thrust setting. This single-engine point is the riskiest aspect of the landing, but it is mitigated by the facts that (1) this engine is already operating, and (2) it need only continue to operate at reduced thrust for a second or two.
On ascent with a reduced number of engines, this is 1.2 to 3.6 gees for the lander at full thrust, far more than is needed to depart against Mars gravity (only 0.38 gee). Active throttling reduces that some.
The transport operates between 0.3 and 1.8 gees during the return to Earth. This exceeds the min acceleration requirement, but not the maximum. A 3600 KN engine design for this NTO-MMH common engine would resemble the notional sketch in Figure 22.
If the Earth departure stage at 1350 KN uses 5 engines, each would be approximately 1350 KN max thrust capability operating at 20% thrust. Up to 4 could be non-functional, and still easily meet the overall min departure thrust requirement, without exceeding 100% throttle. Higher vehicle acceleration than 0.1 gee is easily obtained, but even with all 5 engines at full thrust, it is still only fractional gee. Such a 1350 KN LOX-LH2 engine would resemble the notional sketch in Figure 23.
Figure 22 – Sketch of Proposed 3600 KN NTO-MMH Common Engine (one of 2 transport, 9 lander)
Figure 23 – Sketch of Proposed 1350 KN LOX-LH2 Earth Departure Engine (one of 5 on the departure stage)
Sizing the SEP for the Unmanned Assets Sent Ahead
This item is the most speculative, because (1) it uses the most assumed data, and (2) this kind of solar electric propulsion has yet to be scaled up to such sizes to push masses this large. To cover the gravity losses (both planetary and solar), I simply doubled the required orbital delta-vee data.
I simply assumed the average characteristics of small Hall effect thrusters operating on iodine could be scaled way up by simple clustering, at the same thrust/weight and thrust/power ratios. And, I just assumed the characteristics of satellite-sized solar panels could be scaled up to the low-hundred kilowatt range at the same power/area and weight/area ratios.
My approach was a self-contained solar-electric propulsion (SEP) “tug”, that incorporates the clustered thruster unit, the solar panels to power it, sized for reduced sunlight at Mars, a robot guidance package, and a low-pressure “tank” to contain the easily-sublimated and inexpensive iodine propellant. I used published data for two Busek Hall-effect thrusters, and for a couple of Alta Devices satellite solar panels, for these estimates.
This SEP “tug” is coupled to a dead-head payload for the trip from Earth orbit to Mars orbit, using all of its 120 clustered SEP thrusters to achieve a milli-gee of vehicle acceleration capability at Earth departure. That payload is one (of the three) Mars landers (fully fueled and supplied), plus a 1/3 share of the total lander propellant supply, and plus a 1/3 share of the manned orbital transport’s Earth return propellant supply. This dead head payload is over 1300 metric tons.
For the return trip (these “tugs” are fully reusable), there is no dead-head payload, only the “tug” and its iodine tank, still containing just enough iodine propellant to get home. During the trip home, only one SEP thruster in the cluster need be used to achieve near a milli-gee of vehicle acceleration at Mars departure. That leaves many “spares in case the one fails”, insuring utter reliability. (Outbound, the cluster is large enough that the loss of a few thrusters is no significant percentage loss of thrust.)
The size of one such thruster (200 mN, mN meaning milli-Newtons) falls within the range of thrusters produced today. This produces adequate acceleration of the unladen vehicle. The scaleup is by clustering, not by increasing the size of the thrust in such a device. The clustering-together of 120 of these units produces some 24,000 mN, needed to move the laden vehicle at adequate acceleration.
The resulting SEP “tug” design is depicted in the sketch of Figure 24. I used a big two-stage spreadsheet worksheet to iteratively size this “tug” system, examining the 4 “burns” individually. The second stage of this process fully defines the characteristics of the “tug” and its estimated performance. This is the tabular data in the partial spreadsheet image shown in Figure 25.
Hopefully, this rough-sizing is “overkill”, due to my just-assumed doubling of the orbital delta-vee requirements. The intent here is to slowly spiral-out of low Earth orbit to escape, and continue an accelerating spiral about the sun to an appropriate midpoint, then use a decelerating spiral about the sun toward capture at Mars. From there, it follows a decelerating spiral-in to low Mars orbit. The return uses the same spiraling processes, just unladen of dead-head payload, and at far-lower thrust and propellant requirements.
Figure 24 – Depiction of the SEP “Tug” Design Sizing Rough-Out
Figure 25 – Partial Spreadsheet Image Showing “Tug” Characteristics and Performance
Sizing the Earth Departure Stage
Of all the items analyzed, this is the easiest and most straightforward, because there is one and only one burn (the Earth departure burn). Then this stage is jettisoned. The stage layout concept and sized data were already determined as part of the orbital transport propulsion sizing above. These data were given as part of Figures 12, 13, and 14 above, plus part of the common engine discussion just above, with sized engine dimensions in Figure 23.
Just to summarize, the departure stage has 5 LOX-LH2 engines each designed for 1350 KN thrust, weighing an estimated total of 5.139 metric tons. The stage comprises LOX and LH2 tankage whose combined dry weight is 41.906 metric tons. The total propellant load is some 796.210 metric tons. Thus the loaded stage itself is some 843.255 metric tons.
This stage pushes a fully loaded and crewed hab plus Mars arrival propellant tankage that totals some 569.810 metric tons of dead-head payload. Total orbital transport vehicle mass, at Earth departure ignition, is thus some 1413.065 metric tons. This was shown in Figure 14 above, including weight statements and performance.
Not considered here is reuse of the Earth departure stage. Its engine sizing would be fine, but it needs larger tanks and propellant to accomplish 2 burns. The first is to put the orbital transport onto a Hohmann transfer ellipse trajectory.
After releasing the transport, it burns a second time to enter an ellipse about the sun with an exactly two-year period. That way the Earth is there when it reaches perihelion, thus making recovery feasible at all.
It is just not reasonable to expect that cryogens like LOX and especially LH2 will not completely evaporate away over a 2 year interval. Therefore, the reusable form of the stage must also incorporate a second propulsion system storable over long periods. This added propulsion provides the delta-vee to return to Earth orbit from the 2-year solar orbit perihelion conditions.
Being unmanned, there is no reason this second propulsion system could not be solar-electric using iodine. The stage then executes a spiral-in to low Earth orbit after capture. The alternative is storable propellants like the NTO-MMH.
Being out of scope here at this time, these designs have not been explored. Consider that as a future upgrade.
Totaling Up the Mission and Its Launch Requirements
This mission to Mars requires a fleet of 4 vehicles to be sent from Earth orbit to Mars orbit. One of these (the manned vehicle) returns to Earth. The other three are unmanned assets sent ahead earlier by electric propulsion, for the crew to utilize when they arrive by conventional rocket propulsion.
The three unmanned vehicles are identical, comprising a dead-head payload and a reusable solar-electric “tug” that returns to Earth for reuse, after delivery of the dead-head payload into orbit at Mars.
That dead-head payload payload is the same for each of these vehicles: an uncrewed but loaded and fueled reusable Mars landing boat, plus 1/3 of the total Mars lander propellant supply, plus 1/3 of the crewed vehicle’s Earth return propellant supply. That dead-head payload is 1327.9 metric tons for each of these 3 vehicles.
Each of these three unmanned vehicles totals some 2413.5 metric tons as assembled in Earth orbit, that being the dead-head payload plus the fueled SEP “tug”.
The crewed vehicle (the orbit-to-orbit transport) comprises the crewed and loaded hab section, plus the loaded Mars arrival propellant tankage, plus the expendable Earth departure stage that uses cryogenic propellants. (All the other rocket propulsion uses the same storable propellants, and the SEP “tugs” use sublimable iodine to keep the iodine “tank” weight down.) Ready to depart Earth orbit, the transport and departure stage total some 1413.065 metric tons.
The grand total that must be assembled in orbit for the fleet of 4 ships is some 8653.6 metric tons. For that, you get 6 landings at up to 6 different places on Mars, all in the one manned trip to Mars. That’s 1442.3 tons to support each of the 6 landings, essentially. These are 2-month max stays at each landing site. You get all this, plus a “way out” or a self-rescue capability built into the mission at every step, plus a fully-healthy crew with radiation shielding and artificial gravity during the transits, and in low Mars orbit. That’s a lot of benefit for the cost.
Getting Landers To Low Earth Orbit
The selected lander design is just about 378 metric tons, crewed, loaded and fueled. Less crew (and their suits and gear), that’s just about 376.5 metric tons. Just about 294 tons of that lander weight is propellant. So, a loaded, crewless, empty-of-propellant lander is just about 82.5 metric tons. Remove the supplies, but leave the surface equipment and rover aboard, and this is about 77 tons. Completely unladen, the lander is about 75.6 tons.
I looked at SLS (150 metric tons to LEO, guessing $1,000M per launch), Spacex’s “Starship” (100 metric tons to LEO, guessing $150M per launch), Spacex’s Falcon-Heavy (63 metric tons to LEO flown expendably, about $85M per launch), ULA’s Atlas-V (20 metric tons to LEO at about $85M per launch), and Spacex’s Falcon-9 (20 metric tons to LEO flown expendably, and $63M per launch).
The loaded unfueled lander mass of 75.6 metric tons is out of reach of Falcon Heavy, much less Atlas V or Falcon 9, even if an 8-meter payload diameter could be flown on any of them. NASA’s SLS might possibly launch it dry of propellant, maybe even two of them at once, although it has yet to fly. That would be 2 or 3 flights of SLS at $2-3B to put 3 landers into orbit, unladen of propellant. It would be 3 flights of “Starship” at $450M total. The most cost-effective of those two options is “Starship”. 3 “Starships” deliver 3 landers loaded but unfueled.
At 294 tons of propellant per lander, and 100 tons per “Starship”, some 9 “Starship” tanker flights would be required to fuel them fully up. At 150 tons per SLS, some 6 SLS flights would be required to fuel them up fully. At about 60 tons per flight, some 5 Falcon Heavy flights could be those tankers per lander, for some 15 Falcon-Heavy flights to fuel the 3 landers up. At 20 tons per flight, it would require some 45 flights of Falcon-9 or Atlas-V to fuel the 3 landers in orbit. The most cost-effective way to deliver these bulk liquid propellant supplies turns out to be 9 “Starship” flights, with 15 Falcon-Heavy flights a rather close second. If “Starship”, the transfer crew need not be sent up separately.
Getting Earth Return and Lander Propellant Supplies to LEO and Docked
Remember, we must send to Mars each lander loaded and fueled, plus 1/3 of its Mars landing propellant supply, plus 1/3 of the transport’s Earth return propellant supply. These propellant supplies are pre-loaded tanks. They are 1764.1 tons for the lander operations, 541.3 tons for the transport’s Mars departure, and 455.9 tons for the transport’s Earth arrival. That totals some 2761.3 metric tons of propellant, which must be in tanks, at about 95% propellant and 5% tank inert.
Unconstrained by other considerations, I chose to break this up into nominal 60-ton loaded tanks. The lander supply is 31 of these, the Mars departure supply is 10 of these, and the Earth arrival supply is 8 of these. That’s a total of some 49 tanks to deliver to LEO, at 60 metric tons each. The most cost-effective way to do this was 49 flights of Falcon-Heavy, flown expendably.
We will need a docking crew on-orbit for about a week max to assemble the docked cluster for each of the landers. This can be a crew of 2 to 4 in a Crew Dragon atop a Falcon-9. This probably will not happen in parallel for the 3 landers, but serially. So plan on 3 manned Falcon-9 launches to support these assemblies.
Getting the Transport to LEO, Loaded, and Assembled
The orbit-to-orbit transport goes up as separate modules (without supplies) to be docked in orbit. There are six 20-ton modules and one 40-ton center modules, complete with solar wings that must unfold. All the listed boosters could launch the 20-ton modules, only Falcon-Heavy, “Starship”, or SLS could launch the 40-ton module. The most cost-effective means was a tie: 2 flights of “Starship” or 3 flights (expendable) of Falcon-Heavy deliver these 7 modules to LEO.
There is about 150 tons of supplies, crew suits, and crew personal equipment to deliver to the transport and load inside (152 exactly, per these admittedly-uncertain estimates). This is separable into lots deliverable by any of the boosters listed. From a cost-effectiveness viewpoint, this was another tie: 2 flights of “Starship”, or 3 expendable flights of Falcon-Heavy.
This is going to require a temporary docking and loading crew of perhaps 4 to 6 astronauts for a week or so in orbit. If we send them up in two Crew Dragon capsules atop Falcon-9 boosters, they can come home in one, and leave the other Crew Dragon docked to the transport as one of its emergency return escape craft. Add 2 Falcon-9 flights for the transport assembly crew unless “Starship” is used instead.
Getting the SEP “Tugs” to LEO and Fueled
The SEP “tug” hardware, empty of the solid iodine fuel, are not heavy at all. This crude estimate says they are 14.42 tons each, and there are 3 of them. That includes the folded solar panels, the big thruster array, the guidance package, and the empty tank which doubles as the vehicle core structure, about which dead-head payload gets docked.
Any of the listed boosters can get an empty tug to LEO. The most cost-effective means is 3 Falcon-9 launches, possibly flown recoverable, but the expendable price was used here.
The iodine thruster fuel is a sublimable solid, which can be sent up in portions that fit the various boosters, determining the number of flights. For the three tugs together, we need 3213.54 metric tons of iodine sent to LEO. (Most of this, by far, gets used sending payload to Mars. Only a few tons with only 1 thruster firing is needed to return to Earth.)
Any of the listed boosters can do this job. The most cost-effective means is by “Starship”, with Falcon-Heavy a close second. That would be 33 “Starship” flights, or 54 Falcon-Heavy flights flown expendably.
It will take a crew of 4-6 astronauts to load the iodine fuel and unfold the solar arrays, plus some checkout. We probably do not do all 3 vehicles in parallel, but serially. If by “Starship”, that vehicle can carry the crew. If by Falcon-Heavy, a separate Falcon-9 launch is needed to send this crew up for a week or two in orbit as the payloads arrive, which is a huge Falcon-Heavy flight rate! “Starship” with payload and loading crew aboard is thus the preferred way, by far.
Getting the Earth Departure Stage to LEO and Fueled
This is assumed an empty stage delivered as one piece of hardware at 47 metric tons, plus 796.2 metric tons of LOX-LH2 propellants delivered as bulk liquid. Bulk liquids can be delivered in multiple payloads by any of the listed boosters, but requires special tankage and a human crew to do the transfers.
The most cost effective way to deliver the empty stage is by a single Falcon-Heavy, possibly flown recoverably, but priced expendably for this analysis.
The most cost-effective means to deliver bulk propellant is 8 “Starship” flights, followed fairly closely by 14 Falcon-Heavy flights. These require crews, which can be aboard the “Starship” flights. They would have to come up in some 14 Falcon-9 launches with Crew Dragon if Falcon-Heavies were the propellant ferries. By far, the preferred approach is 8 crewed “Starship” flights.
Getting the Crew Onto the Transport for the Mission
The Mars mission crew is only 6 people. This is one Falcon-9 Crew Dragon flight to send them up. Their Crew Dragon docks with the transport to be its second (and redundant) emergency escape capsule. If not covered earlier, make this 2 flights so there are two Crew Dragons as escape capsules.
Totaling Up Mission Launch Requirements & Guessing Costs
I totaled-up the launch costs for this mission. On the assumption that launch costs are 20% of overall program costs, that puts this mission in a rather modest cost category, despite the large tonnages. That is precisely because it does NOT use SLS to launch anything, at a billion dollars per flight (if not more)! See Figure 26 for a summary of the launch requirements and costs. The basis for comparison is the infamous “90 Day Report”, based on mounting essentially “Apollo-on-steroids-plus” as executed by the long-favored contractors, to send a crew of 4-to-6 to one site on Mars, in the one trip.
Figure 26 – Rough-Guessed Costs From Estimated Launch Requirements
Totaling Up What the Mission Accomplishes
This makes the comparison to the “90 Day Report” even more stark. This mission as planned has a “way out” or a self-rescue capability at every step, plus inherently designed-in artificial gravity and radiation protection (to include solar flare events). The likelihood of this crew returning alive and healthy is actually quite high. In comparison, with the “90 Day Report” mission, that likelihood is rather low, because it does not offer those characteristics.
What this mission accomplishes is up to 6 different sites explored in the one manned trip to Mars. With the “90 Day Report” mission design, only one site gets explored.
This mission leaves considerable usable assets at Mars for future missions to utilize. That would include the reusable landers, either in low Mars orbit, or on the surface if landed robotically. Plus, there might be some leftover propellant, probably in Mars orbit. The “90 Day Report” mission leaves few (if any) usable assets on Mars for future missions to utilize: maybe a surface habitat structure and a rover or two, and possibly a nuclear power supply item.
See Figure 27 for a listing of what this mission accomplishes, compared to that of the “90 Day Report”.
Figure 27 – Mission Accomplishments and Characteristics Summary and Comparison
“Bang-for-the-Buck” Discussion
The first gross indicator is program cost for the one trip to Mars, divided by the number of sites explored while the mission is there. For my mission design, cost per site ranges from $11.7B/site to at most $70.3B/site, depending upon whether the minimum 1 or maximum 6 sites get explored. That is factor 6.4 to 38.5 times better cost per site than that of the “90 Day Report”.
The second gross indicator is the likelihood of getting the crew back alive and healthy. Because of the features demanded by ethics, and designed-in from the start, this mission plan can truthfully claim a high likelihood of accomplishing this. The “90 Day Report” mission plan cannot truthfully claim that.
For one thing, there is no rescue for a crew stranded on Mars. For another, there is a high likelihood of a solar flare event during a 31 month mission, and almost zero chance of surviving that event with no radiation shelter. And yet another: there are two 9-month transits in zero-gee, separated by a 13 month stay on 38% gee Mars, with undetermined therapeutic effect, if any. Should an emergency free return at Earth arrival be required, that is a high-gee event (likely 10+ gees). A crew weakened by microgravity diseases is unlikely to survive this.
Now remember, spaceflight history clearly demonstrates that there is nothing as expensive (economically and politically) as a dead crew. Especially one dead from a bad management decision. My mission design raises crew survival probability, the “90 Day Report” mission design does not; that survival probability is quite low, if one is truthful about it.
In order to get both high “bang for the buck” and a high likelihood of getting a crew back healthy, I had to think way outside the usual boxes. One of those boxes is “nothing can look much different than what we already did during Apollo, shuttle, and ISS”. Another is “no mission can be affordable if there must be a high tonnage launched”. A third is “you simply must do direct entry at Mars to save launched tonnage”. A fourth is “you must use SLS no matter what in order to launch this mission”.
All proved to be false constraints on thinking. The only one that is true is the one I used: crew survivability above all, driven by basic ethics. In a nutshell: “provide a way out or a self-rescue capability at every single step”. That drove me to orbital-based exploration and a manned orbit-to-orbit transport design.
The main possible weakness of my mission design is the low payload fraction of my one-stage reusable landers: around 2%. A one-shot two-stage design would have a far higher payload fraction (perhaps 5-6% if you include the safety-required abort capsule, only higher if you fail this safety requirement), resulting in a smaller mass sent to Mars for each lander. But I would have to send more of them (8) to maintain a rescue capability and a spare, and still visit as many as 6 sites. This I leave to others to explore.
In terms of both cost and safety, the comparison of this mission plan to that of the “90 Day Report” demonstrates the unattractiveness of the usual way NASA did things in the past. There is far more “bang for the buck” and an enormously-higher probability of getting the crew back alive and healthy in my plan. Not only that, my program cost is far, far lower.
The astute reader will observe that I have selected a lot of Spacex hardware as the most cost-effective means to launch and assemble this mission. That begs a comparison to the Spacex plan just to send multiple “Starships” to Mars by direct entry from the interplanetary trajectory. According to the presentations released, that would be about 6 “Starships” initially landed on Mars, with probably one or at most two of them eventually returning to Earth, if the local propellant production works, and it can supply them fully and quickly enough.
It is as yet unclear whether 5 or 6 “Starship” tanker flights are required for refueling each interplanetary “Starship” in LEO for the journey to Mars. So somewhere between 36 and 42 total “Starship” launches are required to support their mission. Using $150M per launch, and launch costs equal 20% of program cost, that’s $5.4-6.3B launch cost, and $27.0-31.5B program cost, to put their mission onto Mars.
That program cost scaleup is real, even for them, because they are counting on others to supply the local propellant production hardware, local rover vehicle capabilities, and local life support capabilities (cannot live in the landed “Starship” forever !!), not to mention local electric power. They have their hands full just developing the “”Starship” vehicle.
That’s comparable to my costs, and (like me) way below the costs in the “90 Day Report”. The differences are many, however. They explore only 1 site, period. If the local propellant production fails to meet expectations, nobody comes home. They say they will supply radiation sheltering, but not artificial gravity. They are counting on Mars’s 0.38 gee being “therapeutic enough”, when in point of fact, nobody yet knows that to be true. My mission takes none of those risks and explores up to 6 sites.
There is no aborting or bailing-out during the “Starship” direct entry at Mars. There is no aborting or bailing out during the landing and touchdown. They have yet to address soil bearing loads vs landing pad size for Mars, or rough field landing hazards such as slope, local roughness and big boulders. There is no bailout or abort during the return ascent. There is no bailout or abort for the direct entry at Earth return. There is no bailout or abort during the Earth landing and touchdown. A failure during any one of these events is inevitably a loss of the vehicle and everybody aboard. My mission takes none of those risks.
Yeah, you can save the money using “Starship” as the transit vehicle (by about a factor of 2-3 over my plan). But you are also very much more likely to kill one of your crews if you do (which also very likely would put a stop to the ongoing mission).
Ethics-driven spaceflight design “from the get-go” seems the more prudent course, especially when you consider the consequences of killing a crew.
#1. NASA radiation website: http://srag.jsc.nasa.gov/Publications/TM104782/techmemo.htm, titled Spaceflight Radiation Health Program at JSC (no cited reference newer than 1992).
#2. From Bigelow Aerospace website http://www.bigelowaerospace.com/b330/ as of 3-7-17
An Ex Rocket Man's Take On It
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Spacex "Starship" as a Ferry for Colonization Ship...
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"GW" is an aerospace engineer and a teacher, with considerable experience in both professions. He is currently looking for a little consulting, but is now retired. ............................................................ He has done both automotive and aircraft alternate fuel work. The photo is of GW in his "ethanol VW", which runs on straight E-85. It is now mothballed, but his antique farm tractor runs on E-85, and just about everything else on E-30 to E-35 blend. ............................................................ GW sells, and now rents out, cactus-killing farm implements. He builds these in his shop out on the Texas Idea Farm.............Comments that are really ads will be removed. Otherwise, comments are very welcome.
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ARISTAR FRANCHISE GROUP, INC. P17000047848 Active
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ARISTAR, INC.
FEI/EIN Number
Event Date Filed
Event Effective Date
Changed: 08/14/1989
Registered Agent Name & Address
Officer/Director Detail
Title PD
PAPPAS, MIKE M.
Title D
ADAMS, STEPHEN F.
ERIKSON, J. LANCE
ANTENBERG, BRUCE F.
RUTLEDGE, CHARLES W.
8001 CENTERVIEW PKWY
Title AS
BROTT, HAZEL A.
Report Year Filed Date
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F01000002950
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302 N. CLEVELAND-MASSILLON RD
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Title PCD
ALEXANDER, IAN J
967 ROBINWOOD HILLS DRIVE
Title STD
ALEXANDER, SUSAN L
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BUSINESS PEOPLE;Aristar President Takes Posts at Parent and Unit
By Kenneth N. Gilpin
The Great Western Financial Corporation, holding company for the nation's third-largest savings and loan association, announced yesterday that Robert B. Holmes had been named president and chief operating officer.
Mr. Holmes is currently president of Aristar Inc., its consumer finance and life insurance subsidiary, a position he will keep. Mr. Holmes, 53, will also serve as president and chief operating officer of Great Western Savings, the company's principal subsidiary. Based in Beverly Hills, Calif., Great Western Financial has assets of $25 billion.
The announcement was made by James F. Montgomery, 53, Great Western's chairman and chief executive.
Mr. Montgomery, who is viewed by analysts as the principal architect in building Great Western Savings into one of the nation's premier thrift institutions, has served as chairman, president and chief executive since 1980. The post of chief operating officer has been vacant since 1980.
''I can talk about Great Western for almost an indefinite period,'' said Jonathan N. Gray, a thrift industry analyst at Sanford C. Bernstein & Company. ''They concentrate on one thing, mortgage lending, and they do it very well. It is one of the highest quality companies in the industry.''
Mr. Holmes joined Great Western in 1983 at the time it acquired Aristar. He was in meetings in Palm Springs, Calif., yesterday and unavailable for comment.
Before joining Aristar, from 1977 to 1981 Mr. Holmes served as president of Ticor, the insurance holding company that is facing potentially huge losses in the collapse of the Equity Programs Investment Corporation, a subsidiary of the Community Savings & Loan Association of Bethesda, Md.
Mr. Holmes, a graduate of Harvard College, spent 13 years as an investment banker with Lazard Freres & Company. He began his business career with New England Merchants Bank.
In terms of size, Great Western is third behind American Savings, principal subsidiary of the Financial Corporation of America, and Home Savings, principal subsidiary of H. F. Ahmanson & Company. All three thrift institutions are based in California.
Great Western reported record net income of $54.7 million in the third quarter, more than three times higher than the $15.8 million the company earned in the period a year earlier. The company said the results reflected the benefits of lower interest rates as well as strong real estate loan volume and good performance in its consumer finance and insurance activities.
https://www.nytimes.com/1985/10/22/business/business-people-aristar-president-takes-posts-at-parent-and-unit.html
https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/7214/0000896058-96-000225.txt-----BEGIN PRIVACY-ENHANCED MESSAGE-----
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<SEC-DOCUMENT>0000896058-96-000225.txt : 19961204
<SEC-HEADER>0000896058-96-000225.hdr.sgml : 19961204
ACCESSION NUMBER: 0000896058-96-000225
CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE: 8-K
PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT: 1
CONFORMED PERIOD OF REPORT: 19961203
ITEM INFORMATION: Other events
FILED AS OF DATE: 19961203
SROS: NYSE
FILER:
COMPANY CONFORMED NAME: ARISTAR INC
CENTRAL INDEX KEY: 0000007214
STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION: PERSONAL CREDIT INSTITUTIONS [6141]
IRS NUMBER: 954128205
STATE OF INCORPORATION: DE
FISCAL YEAR END: 1231
FILING VALUES:
FORM TYPE: 8-K
SEC ACT: 1934 Act
SEC FILE NUMBER: 001-03521
FILM NUMBER: 96675492
STREET 1: 8900 GRAND OAK CIRCLE
FORMER COMPANY:
FORMER CONFORMED NAME: FAMILY FINANCE CORP QUALIFIED STOCK OPTI
DATE OF NAME CHANGE: 19761222
FORMER CONFORMED NAME: FAMILY FINANCE CORP THRIFT CLUB
FORMER CONFORMED NAME: FAMILY FINANCE CORP
</SEC-HEADER>
<DOCUMENT>
<TYPE>8-K
<SEQUENCE>1
<DESCRIPTION>FORM 8-K
<TEXT>
Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported) -
DELAWARE 1-3521 95-4128205
(State or other jurisdiction of (Commission File (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation) Number) Identification No.)
8900 GRAND OAK CIRCLE, TAMPA, FLORIDA 33637-1050
(Address of principal executive offices)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code -
<PAGE>
ITEM 5. OTHER EVENTS.
Great Western Bank, a Federal Savings Bank ("GWB"), has declared a
dividend of all of the outstanding stock of Blazer Financial Corporation, its
wholly-owned subsidiary ("BFC"), payable to GWB's parent corporation, Great
Western Financial Corporation ("Great Western") as of the close of business on
December 31, 1996. Both Aristar, Inc. (the "Company") and GWB are wholly-owned
subsidiaries of Great Western. BFC is a holding company that owns all of the
stock of Great Western Thrift and Loan, a Utah industrial loan corporation, and
First Community Industrial Bank, a Colorado industrial bank. At September 30,
1996, the book value of the stock of BFC was approximately $33.7 million and its
consolidated assets, which are predominantly consumer finance receivables, were
approximately $254.3 million. On December 31, 1996, Great Western will transfer
such stock to the Company for a purchase price equal to its book value at that
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by
the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.
By: s/JAMES A. BARE
Name: James A. Bare
Title: Executive Vice President
and Chief Financial
Officer (Chief Accounting Officer)
</TEXT>
</DOCUMENT>
</SEC-DOCUMENT>
-----END PRIVACY-ENHANCED MESSAGE-----
https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/7214/0000896058-96-000225.txt
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ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
ACT OF 1934 For the fiscal year ended December 31, 1996
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from . . . . . . . . .to . . . . . . . . . .
Commission file number 1-3521
DELAWARE 95-4128205
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification Number)
8900 Grand Oak Circle, Tampa, FL 33637-1050
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12 (b) of the Act:
Name of each exchange
Title of each class on which registered
7 % Senior Notes due June 15, 2001 New York Stock Exchange
71/2 % Senior Subordinated Notes due July 1, 1999New York Stock Exchange
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12 (g) of the Act: None
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required
to be filed by Section 13 or 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the
registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such
filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes X No
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405
of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the
best of the registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information
statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any
amendment to this Form 10-K:
The aggregate market value of Common Stock held by non-affiliates: None
As of February 28, 1997, there were 1,000 shares of Common Stock outstanding.
Documents incorporated by reference: None
Registrant meets the conditions set forth in General Instruction (I)(1)(a) and
(b) of Form 10-K and is therefore filing this Form with the reduced disclosure
ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
Item 1. Business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Item 2. Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Item 3. Legal Proceedings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Item 5. Market for the Registrant's Common Equity
and Related Stockholder Matters . . . . . . . . . . .8
Item 7. Management's Analysis of the Results of Operations
for the Year Ended December 31, 1996. . . . . . . . .8
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data. . . . . 10
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on
Accounting and Financial Disclosure . . . . . . . . 31
Item 14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules and
Reports on Form 8-K . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Note: Items 4, 6, 10, 11, 12 and 13 are not included as per conditions
met by Registrant set forth in General Instruction I(1)(a) and (b) of
Form 10-K.
Item 1. Business
Aristar, Inc. (the "Company"), incorporated in Delaware in 1986 as a successor
to a company incorporated in 1927, is a holding company headquartered in Tampa,
Florida whose subsidiaries are engaged in the consumer financial services
business. All of the Company's equity securities are owned indirectly by Great Western Financial Corporation
("GWFC").
The Company's operations consist principally of a network of approximately
500 branch offices located in 23 states, primarily in the Southeastern United
States and in California. These offices generally operate under the names
Blazer Financial Services, City Finance Company, and First Community
Financial Services.
The Company makes direct consumer instalment loans and purchases retail
instalment contracts from local retail establishments. These consumer credit
transactions are primarily for personal, family or household purposes. The
Company also engages in the industrial banking business through its
subsidiaries in Colorado and Utah. In addition to making direct consumer
instalment loans and purchasing retail instalment contracts, these
subsidiaries also take customers' savings deposits.
Instalment loans written in 1996 had original terms ranging from 12 to 360
months and averaged 72 months. For the year ended December 31, 1996, 59% of
the volume of all instalment loans was either unsecured or secured by
guarantors, luxury consumer goods, automobiles or other personal property,
with the remaining 41% being secured by real estate. While the interest yield
on real estate loans is generally lower than for other direct loans, such
loans are typically larger and the ratio of cost to amounts loaned is lower.
Additionally, credit loss experience on real estate loans has been
significantly lower than on other loan types.
Retail instalment sales contracts are generally acquired without recourse to
the originating merchant and provide a vehicle for developing future loan
business. Where these contracts result from the sale of consumer goods,
payment is generally secured by such goods, and, in some cases, a portion of
the purchase price is withheld from the merchant pending satisfactory payment
of the obligation. Contracts are typically written with original terms from 3
to 60 months and for 1996 had an average original term of 26 months.
At December 31, 1996, the average portfolio yield written by loan type was as
Average Yield
Real Estate Secured Loans 12.3%
Other Direct Loans 24.7%
Retail Instalment Sales Contracts 18.7%
Portfolio Composition
The following table provides an analysis by type of the Company's notes and
contracts receivable (net of unearned finance charges and deferred loan fees) at
the dates shown:
(Dollars in thousands) 1996 1995 1994
Notes and Contracts Receivable $ 2,185,903 $2,133,065 $ 1,994,903
Type as a percent of
Total Receivables
Real Estate Secured Loans 40.7% 37.0% 36.4%
Other Direct Loans 42.6 46.1 46.3
Retail Instalment Sales Contracts 16.7 16.9 17.3
100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
Notes and contracts written including balances renewed, but excluding bulk
purchases, for the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994 totaled $1.96
billion, $2.10 billion and $2.0 billion, respectively.
Credit Loss Experience
The Company closely monitors portfolio delinquency in measuring the quality of
the portfolio and the potential for ultimate credit losses. Under the Company's
policy, non-real estate secured delinquent accounts are charged off when they
become 180 days contractually delinquent (120 days prior to October 1, 1996).
Collection efforts continue after an account has been charged off until the
customer obligation is satisfied or until it is determined that the
obligation is not collectible or that the cost of continuing collection efforts
will not be offset by the potential recovery.
The following table sets forth the credit loss experience for the past three
years and the allowance for doubtful accounts at the end of each year:
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
at End of Year $ 70,045 $ 55,568 $ 53,217
Percent of Year-End Net Receivables 3.2% 2.6% 2.7%
Provision for Credit Losses 58,800 48,500 41,900
Amounts Charged-Off Net of Recoveries:
Amount 46,418 47,879 39,680
Percent of Average Net Receivables(1) 2.2% 2.4% 2.2%
(1) Average of notes and contracts receivable (net of unearned finance charges)
at each month end during the period.
Accounts past due 60 days and over, based on contract payments, were as follows
as of the end of each of the past three years:
Amount $ 63,661 $ 42,921 $ 35,320
Percent of Year-End Gross
Receivables 2.5% 1.7% 1.5%
Interest Rate Spreads and Cost of Borrowed Funds
A relatively high ratio of borrowings to invested capital is customary in
consumer finance activities due to the liquidity of the assets employed by the
business. The spread between the revenues received from loans and interest
expense is a significant factor in determining the net income of the Company.
The table below sets forth certain percentages relative to the spread between
interest the Company received on the loan portfolio and interest expense for
each of the last three years:
Ratio to Average Net Receivables:
Interest and Fee Income 17.7% 18.3% 18.5%
Interest and Debt Expense 5.8 5.8 5.5
Gross Spread 11.9% 12.5% 13.0%
Credit Insurance Operations
The Company makes available, at the option of its customers, credit life, credit
accident and health, and credit casualty insurance products. Credit life
insurance provides that the customer's credit obligation, to the extent of the
policy limits, is paid in the event of death. Credit accident and health
insurance provides for the payment of instalments due on the customer's credit
obligation in the event of disability resulting from illness or injury. Credit
casualty insurance insures payment, to the extent of the policy limits, of
the credit obligation or cost to repair certain property used as collateral
for such obligation in the event such property is destroyed or damaged.
Purchase of such insurance is not a condition to obtaining a loan, although the
Company may require casualty insurance covering collateral to be obtained
from unaffiliated sources by the customer. The Company does not sell
insurance to non-customers. Credit insurance sold by the Company is written
by unaffiliated insurance companies and is substantially all reinsured by the
Company, which earns reinsurance premiums thereon.
The Company's ratio of earnings to fixed charges, which represents the number of
times fixed charges were covered by earnings, was 1.80 in 1996, 1.91 in 1995,
1.96 in 1994, 1.90 in 1993 and 1.83 in 1992. For purposes of computing this
ratio, earnings consist of income from operations before income taxes and, in
1992, before the cumulative effect of a change in accounting method, plus
fixed charges. Fixed charges consist of interest and debt expense and an
appropriate portion of rentals.
Governmental Regulation
The Company's operations are, for the most part, regulated by federal and state
consumer finance laws or similar legislation. All of the states in which
finance subsidiaries of the Company are licensed to do business have laws,
which vary from state to state, regulating the consumer finance business.
These laws, among other things, typically limit the size of loans, set maximum
interest rates and maximum maturities and regulate certain lending and
collection activities. Although consumer finance laws have been in effect
for many years, amending and new legislation is frequently proposed. The
Company is unable to predict whether or when any such proposals might
ultimately be enacted into law or to assess the impact any such enactment might
have on the Company. In addition, as they accept customers' deposits, the
two banking subsidiaries are subject to regulation by the Federal Deposit
Insurance Corporation and the relevant state banking authorities.
The Company has been named as a defendant in a number of class action suits, in
which various industry-wide practices arising from routine business activities
are being challenged and various damages are being sought. The Company believes
that its practices are permissible under state and federal laws and will
defend these suits accordingly.
The consumer financial services business is highly competitive. The Company's
principal competitors are other local, regional and national finance
companies, banks, credit unions, savings associations, and other similar
financial institutions.
The Company employs approximately 2,400 full-time employees. None of these
employees are represented by a union. Management considers relations with its
employees to be satisfactory.
Item 2. Properties
The Company owns its 71,000 square foot headquarters building on 6 acres of
land, which it built in 1994 at a total cost of approximately $8 million.
The Company's branch offices, located in 23 states, are leased typically for
terms of three to five years with options to renew. Typical locations include
shopping centers, office buildings and storefronts, generally of relatively
small size sufficient to accommodate a staff of four to eight employees.
See Note 13 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information
on rental expense and lease commitments.
The Company and its subsidiaries are involved in litigation incidental to their
businesses. It is management's opinion that the aggregate liability arising
from the disposition of all such pending litigation will not have a material
adverse effect on the Company.
Item 5. Market for the Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder
The Company is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of GWFC and the Company's
common stock is not traded on any national exchange or in any other established
market.
Payment of dividends is within the discretion of the Company's Board of
Directors. Provisions of certain of the Company's debt agreements restrict the
payment of dividends to a maximum prescribed proportion of cumulative earnings
and contributed capital and otherwise provide for the maintenance of minimum
levels of equity and maximum leverage ratios. The Company declared and paid
dividends on a quarterly basis, totaling $116.8 million during 1996 and $22.5
million during 1995.
Item 7. Management's Analysis of the Results of Operations for the Year Ended
The Company's average net finance receivables grew $98.5 million, or 5.0%, in
1996, while, as a reflection of interest rate and competitive pressures, the
overall portfolio yield decreased .54% as compared to the prior year. As a
result, loan interest and fee income increased $6.9 million, or 1.9%, for the
year ended December 31, 1996, as compared to the prior year. Income from
investment securities increased $382 thousand, or 4.3%, over the prior year.
As a result, total interest income increased by $7.2 million, or 2.0%, over
the prior year. Average debt outstanding increased $208.3 million, or 16.9%,
and the weighted average interest rate on such debt decreased by 94 basis
points, resulting in an increase in interest and debt expense of $5.8
million, or 5.1%, for the year ended December 31, 1996, as compared to 1995.
These factors resulted in an increase in net interest income before provision
for credit losses of $1.4 million, or 0.6%.
During 1996, the Company issued the following senior notes: in June, $100
million at 7.25% maturing in 2001; in July, $100 million at 6.75% maturing in
1999; in August, $100 million at 6.75% maturing in 2001; and, in December,
$150 million at 6.125% maturing in 2000. The respective proceeds were used
as follows: to reduce outstanding commercial paper issued to fund the
purchase price of the Company's acquisition of Great Western Financial Services
as described in Note 3 to the accompanying financial statements; to reduce
outstanding commercial paper issued to pay $100 million of 6.25% senior notes
at their July 15, 1996 maturity; to reduce outstanding commercial paper; and,
to fund the purchase price of the Company's acquisition of Blazer Financial
Corporation ("BFC") as described in Note 3 to the accompanying financial
statements, to repay approximately $69.6 million of outstanding intercompany
indebtedness owed by BFC and its subsidiaries to Great Western Bank, and for
general corporate purposes.
The provision for credit losses for the year ended December 31, 1996 was 2.81%
as an annualized percentage of average net finance receivables for that
period, as compared to 2.44% for 1995. The increase in provision rate
reflects management's assessment of the quality of the Company's receivables
portfolio at this time including current economic trends, loan portfolio agings,
historical loss experience and evaluation of collateral.
Personnel expenses were $3.8 million, or 5.6%, higher in 1996 as compared to
1995. This is primarily due to normal compensation increases.
Other operating expenses were $4.7 million, or 12.1%, lower in 1996 as compared
to 1995, primarily because of an $8.0 million insurance recovery resulting
from fraudulently over-billed marketing costs which had occurred over a
number of years. (See Note 4 to the accompanying financial statements.)
Productivity, defined as the ratio of operating and administrative expenses
(before deferral of direct loan costs and the above described insurance
recovery) to average outstanding finance receivables, improved to 6.9% in
1996 as compared to 7.0% in 1995.
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
Report of Independent Certified Public Accountants
To the Board of Directors and Stockholder of
In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated statements of financial condition
and the related consolidated statements of operations and retained earnings and
of cash flows present fairly, in all material respects, the financial
position of Aristar, Inc. and its subsidiaries at December 31, 1996 and 1995,
and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three
years in the period ended December 31, 1996, in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles. These financial statements are the
responsibility of the Company's management; our responsibility is to express
an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our
audits of these statements in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards which require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of
material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence
supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing
the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management,
and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that
our audits provide a reasonable basis for the opinion expressed above.
As described in Note 3, during 1996, the Company acquired two businesses from
affiliated companies. Both transactions were accounted for in a manner similar
to a pooling of interests, which gave retroactive effect to these acquisitions.
PRICE WATERHOUSE LLP
ARISTAR, INC. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition
(Dollars in thousands) December 31, 1996 December 31, 1995
Finance receivables, net $ 2,115,858 $ 2,077,497
Investment securities 137,072 140,240
Cash and cash equivalents 22,660 14,399
Property and equipment, less accumulated
depreciation and amortization: 1996,
$21,528; 1995, $19,961 10,338 11,484
Deferred charges 11,956 11,570
Excess of cost over equity of
companies acquired, less accumulated
amortization: 1996, $52,638; 1995, $45,575 56,655 63,718
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY
Short-term debt $ 398,006 $ 312,876
Long-term debt 1,352,770 1,003,809
Total debt 1,750,776 1,316,685
Customer deposits 146,138 160,772
Accounts payable and other liabilities 46,366 67,679
Due to affiliate 237,576
Federal and state income taxes 13,836 11,602
Insurance claims and benefits reserves 7,702 7,900
Unearned insurance premiums and
commissions 57,800 56,865
Total liabilities 2,022,618 1,859,079
(Notes 13 and 14)
Stockholder's equity
Common stock: $1.00 par value;
10,000 shares authorized: 1,000
shares issued and outstanding 1 1
Paid-in capital 44,894 44,894
Retained earnings 323,969 428,273
Net unrealized holding gain on
investment securities 376 516
Total stockholder's equity 369,240 473,684
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND
STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY $ 2,391,858 $ 2,332,763
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Consolidated Statements of Operations and Retained Earnings
Loan interest and fee income $ 370,314 $ 363,448 $ 342,329
Investment securities income 9,183 8,801 6,766
Total interest income 379,497 372,249 349,095
Interest and debt expense 120,758 114,917 102,224
Net interest income before
provision for credit losses 258,739 257,332 246,871
Net interest income 199,939 208,832 204,971
Net insurance operations
and other income 27,205 29,235 28,640
Personnel expenses 71,724 67,938 68,633
Occupancy expense 9,919 10,681 10,182
Advertising expense 4,848 5,873 5,760
Amortization of excess cost over
equity of companies acquired 7,063 7,065 7,069
Other operating expenses 34,072 38,768 40,656
Income before income taxes 99,518 107,742 101,311
Provision for federal and
state income taxes 37,000 42,445 37,200
Net Income 62,518 65,297 64,111
Beginning of year 428,273 385,476 346,365
Dividends (116,800) (22,500) (25,000)
Transfer to Great Western Bank,
A Federal Savings Bank (15,192)
Transfer to Great Western
Financial Corporation (34,830)
End of year $ 323,969 $ 428,273 $ 385,476
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Net income $ 62,518 $ 65,297 $ 64,111
Adjustments to reconcile net income to
Depreciation and amortization 13,523 13,148 15,466
Deferred income taxes (16,188) (13) (1,170)
Increase (decrease) in
Accounts payable and other liabilities (21,313) (30,432) (8,096)
commissions and insurance claims
and benefits reserves 737 2,900 3,171
Currently payable income taxes 18,455 4,511 (4,388)
(Increase) decrease in other assets (23,464) 10,021 (9,924)
Net cash provided by operating
activities 93,068 113,932 101,070
Investment securities purchased (40,331) (55,884) (52,229)
Investment securities matured 43,317 43,223 31,838
Finance receivables originated
or purchased (1,407,334) (1,484,545) (1,418,656)
Finance receivables repaid or sold 1,308,184 1,299,233 1,212,149
Net change in property and equipment (665) (602) (4,041)
Net cash used in investing activities (96,829) (198,575) (230,939)
Net change in commercial paper and other
short-term borrowings 85,130 133,791 (100,522)
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt 453,539 99,909 249,625
Long-term debt issue costs (2,615) (1,162) (1,657)
Repayments of long-term debt (105,000) (189,000) (50,000)
Net change in customer deposits (14,634) 30,719 (10,264)
Net change in due to affiliate (237,576) 34,361 61,963
Dividends paid (116,800) (22,500) (25,000)
Net cash provided by financing
activities 12,022 86,118 124,145
Net increase (decrease) in cash
and cash equivalents 8,261 1,475 (5,724)
Beginning of year 14,399 12,924 18,648
End of year $ 22,660 $ 14,399 $ 12,924
Supplemental disclosures of
cash flow information
Interest paid $ 118,038 $ 113,665 $ 100,949
Intercompany payments in lieu of
federal and state income taxes 49,612 35,339 45,718
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 1 Ownership and Operations
Aristar, Inc. is an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of Great Western Financial
Corporation ("GWFC"). Aristar, Inc. and its subsidiaries, all of which are
wholly-owned, are referred to hereinafter as the "Company."
The Company is engaged primarily in the consumer financial services business and
its operations consist principally of a network of approximately 500 branch
offices located in 23 states, primarily in the Southeastern United States and in
California. These offices generally operate under the names Blazer Financial
Services, City Finance Company, and First Community Financial Services. The
Company makes direct consumer instalment loans and purchases retail
instalment loans and purchasing retail instalment contracts, these subsidiaries
also take customers' savings deposits.
Note 2 Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Principles of Consolidation. The consolidated financial statements include the
accounts of Aristar, Inc. and its subsidiaries, all of which are wholly-owned,
after elimination of all material intercompany balances and transactions.
Certain amounts in prior years have been reclassified to conform to the current
year's presentation.
Estimates. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and
disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial
statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the
reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Income Recognition from Finance Operations. Unearned finance charges on all
types of consumer notes and contracts receivable are recognized on an accrual
basis, using the interest method. Accrual generally is suspended when payments
are more than three months contractually overdue. Loan fees and directly
related lending costs are deferred and amortized using the interest method over
the contractual life of the related loans.
Provision and Allowance for Credit Losses. The Company provides, through
charges to income, an allowance for losses which, based upon management's
evaluation of numerous factors, including current economic trends, loan
portfolio agings, historical loss experience and evaluation of collateral,
is deemed adequate to cover reasonably expected losses on outstanding loans.
Losses on loans are charged to the allowance for credit losses based upon the
number of days delinquent or when collectibility becomes questionable and the
underlying collateral, if any, is considered insufficient to liquidate the loan
balance (see Note 5). Non-real estate secured delinquent loans are generally
charged off when they are 180 days contractually delinquent (120 days prior
to October 1, 1996). Recoveries on previously written-off loans are credited to
the allowance.
Investment Securities. Debt and equity securities are classified as available
for sale and are reported at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses
excluded from earnings and reported, net of taxes, as a separate component of
stockholder's equity. Gains and losses on investment securities are recorded
when realized on a specific identity basis. Investment security transactions
are recorded using trade date accounting.
Property, Equipment and Leasehold Improvements. Property, equipment and
leasehold improvements are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation and
amortization. Depreciation and amortization are provided principally on the
straight-line method over the estimated useful life or, if less, the term of
the lease.
Deferred Charges. Expenditures that are deferred are amortized over the period
benefited. Amortization is computed principally using the straight-line method.
Excess of Cost Over Equity of Companies Acquired. The excess of cost over the
fair value of net assets of companies acquired is amortized on a straight-line
basis, generally over periods of up to 25 years.
Insurance Premiums and Acquisition Costs. Insurance premiums are deferred and
subsequently amortized into revenue over the terms of the related insurance
contracts. The methods of amortization used are pro rata, sum-of-the-digits and
a combination thereof. Policy acquisition costs (principally ceding
commissions and premium taxes) are deferred and charged to expense over the
terms of the related policies in proportion to premium recognition.
Insurance Claims and Benefits Reserves. Reserves for reported claims on credit
life and health insurance are established based upon standard actuarial
assumptions used in the insurance business for such purposes. Claims reserves
for reported property and casualty insurance claims are based upon estimates of
costs and expenses to settle each claim. Additional amounts of reserves, based
upon prior experience and insurance in force, are provided for each class of
insurance for claims which have been incurred but not reported as of the balance
sheet date.
Income Taxes. The Company is included in the consolidated Federal income tax
return filed by GWFC. Currently payable Federal income taxes will be paid to
GWFC. Federal income taxes are allocated between GWFC and its subsidiaries in
proportion to the respective contribution to consolidated income or loss.
Allocations for state income taxes approximate the amount the Company would have
paid on a separate entity basis. Deferred income taxes are provided on
elements of income or expense that are recognized in different periods for
financial and tax reporting purposes.
Taxes on income are determined by using the liability method as prescribed by
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 109 "Accounting for Income
Taxes" ("FAS 109"). This approach requires the recognition of deferred tax
assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events
that have been recognized in the Company's financial statements or tax
returns. In estimating future tax consequences, FAS 109 requires the
consideration of all expected future events other than enactments of changes
in the tax law or rates.
Statement of Cash Flows. For purposes of reporting cash flows, the Company
considers all highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less
when purchased to be cash equivalents.
Fair Value Disclosures. Quoted market prices are used, where available, to
estimate the fair value of the Company's financial instruments. Because no
quoted market prices exist for a significant portion of the Company's financial
instruments, fair value is estimated using comparable market prices for similar
instruments or using management's estimates of appropriate discount rates and
cash flows for the underlying asset or liability. A change in management's
assumptions could significantly affect these estimates; accordingly, the
Company's fair value estimates are not necessarily indicative of the value which
would be realized upon disposition of the financial instruments.
The following methods and assumptions were used by the Company in estimating its
fair value disclosures for financial instruments:
Finance receivables. The approximate fair value of finance receivables is
estimated by discounting the future cash flows using current rates at which
similar loans would be made with similar maturities to borrowers with similar
credit ratings. The fair value is not adjusted for the value of potential
loan renewals from existing borrowers.
Investment securities. Fair values for investment securities are based on
quoted market prices, where available. If quoted market prices are not
available, fair values are based on quoted market prices of comparable
instruments.
Debt. The carrying amount reported in the statement of financial condition
for short-term debt approximates its fair value given its brief maximum term.
The approximate fair value of long-term debt is estimated using rates currently
available to the Company for debt with similar terms and remaining maturities.
Deposit liabilities. The fair values disclosed for fixed-rate savings
certificates of deposit are estimated using a discounted cash flow calculation
that applies interest rates currently being offered on certificates to a
schedule of aggregated expected maturities on time deposits. The fair
values disclosed for savings and money market accounts are, by definition,
equal to the amount payable on demand at the reporting date.
Note 3 Transfers from Related Parties
On April 30, 1996, Great Western Bank, a Federal Savings Bank ("GWB"), also a
wholly owned subsidiary of GWFC, transferred to the Company a portion of its
consumer finance business, hereinafter referred to as Great Western Financial
Services ("GWFS"). GWFS was comprised primarily of approximately $242 million
in net consumer finance receivables. The Company paid fair value (as
determined by independent appraisal) of approximately $252 million in cash
raised through the issuance of commercial paper. The Company accounted for the
approximate $10 million premium as a dividend to GWFC. Additionally, at the
purchase date, the Company recorded a transfer to GWB of approximately $15
million, representing the accumulated earnings of GWFS at that date.
On December 31, 1996, GWFC transferred to the Company a portion of its consumer
banking business, hereinafter referred to as Blazer Financial Corporation
("BFC"). BFC was comprised primarily of approximately $229 million in net
consumer finance receivables and $147 million in customer deposits. The
Company recorded, at the purchase date, a transfer to GWFC of approximately
$35 million, representing the accumulated earnings of BFC at that date.
In accordance with Interpretation Number 39, "Transfers and Exchanges of
Companies under Common Control," to Accounting Principles Opinion Number 16,
"Business Combinations," both of the above-described acquisitions have been
accounted for in a manner similar to a pooling of interests. Accordingly,
the assets acquired and liabilities assumed have been recorded at historical
cost and prior period financial statements of the Company have been restated for
the acquisitions. Eliminations have been made for material intercompany
transactions between the combined entities.
In connection with the GWFS transaction, the Company previously restated its
financial statements to give retroactive effect to the pooling. The following
table summarizes the impact of the BFC transaction on the Company's net interest
income, income before income taxes and net income.
Net Interest Income Before Net
Income Income Taxes Income
Aristar, as restated for
the GWFS transaction $ 194,768 $ 99,108 $ 59,982
BFC, net of eliminations 14,064 8,634 5,315
Aristar, as restated $ 208,832 $ 107,742 $ 65,297
The following table summarizes the impact of the BFC transaction on the
Company's previously reported retained earnings at January 1:
Retained Earnings, beginning of period
the GWFS transaction $ 398,364 $ 360,882 $ 326,380
BFC, net of eliminations 29,909 24,594 19,985
Aristar, as restated $ 428,273 $ 385,476 $ 346,365
Note 4 Insurance Recovery
In May 1996, the Company filed a fidelity bond claim, subsequently paid by the
insurer, in the amount of $8.0 million for the recovery of fraudulently
over-billed marketing costs which had occurred over a number of years. The $8.0
million recovery has been reflected as a reduction of other operating expenses
in the accompanying statement of operations and retained earnings for the
year ended December 31, 1996.
Note 5 Finance Receivables
Finance receivables at December 31, 1996 and 1995 are summarized as follows:
(Dollars in thousands) 1996 1995
Consumer finance receivables
Real estate secured loans $ 994,097 $ 891,092
Other consumer finance instalment loans 1,109,143 1,182,891
Retail instalment contracts 400,530 397,977
Gross consumer finance receivables 2,503,770 2,471,960
Less: Unearned finance charges and
deferred loan fees (317,867) (338,895)
Allowance for credit losses (70,045) (55,568)
Net consumer finance receivables $ 2,115,858 $ 2,077,497
The amount of gross nonaccruing receivables included above was approximately
$45.6 million and $25.8 million at December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively.
Contractual maturities, net of unearned finance charges and deferred loan fees,
at December 31, 1996 are as follows:
Within Within Over
1 year 5 years 5 years Total
Real estate secured loans $ 134,226 $ 346,148 $ 409,596 $ 889,970
Other consumer finance
instalment loans 443,148 486,371 458 929,977
Retail instalment contracts 129,970 235,777 209 365,956
$ 707,344 $1,068,296 $ 410,263 $2,185,903
Consumer finance receivables have maximum terms of 360 months, while retail
contracts have maximum terms of 60 months. The weighted average contractual
term of all loans and contracts written during the years ended December 31, 1996
and 1995 was 50 months and 46 months, respectively. Experience has shown that
a substantial portion of the receivables will be renewed or repaid prior to
contractual maturity. Therefore, the tabulation of contractual payments should
not be regarded as a forecast of future cash collections. During the years
ended December 31, 1996 and 1995, the ratio of principal cash collections to
average net consumer finance receivables outstanding was 63% and 65%,
respectively. The majority of loans provide for a fixed rate of interest over
the contractual life of the loan.
The approximate fair value of the Company's finance receivables (net of
unearned finance charges and deferred loan fees) as of December 31, 1996 and
1995 follows:
Approximate Approximate
Net Book Fair Net Book Fair
Value Value Value Value
installment loans 929,977 908,762 984,228 980,249
Retail instalment contracts 365,956 365,956 359,890 359,890
$2,185,903 $2,149,677 $ 2,133,065 $ 2,132,988
Because the Company primarily lends to consumers, it did not have receivables
from any industry group that comprised 10 percent or more of total consumer
finance receivables at December 31, 1996.
Activity in the Company's allowance for credit losses is as follows:
Balance, January 1 $ 55,568 $ 53,217 $ 49,790
Amounts charged off (62,615) (63,936) (55,249)
Recoveries 16,197 16,057 15,569
Allowances on notes purchased 2,095 1,730 1,207
Balance, December 31 $ 70,045 $ 55,568 $ 53,217
Note 6 Investment Securities
Investment securities as of December 31, 1996 and 1995 are as follows:
(Dollars in thousands) December 31, 1996
Original Amortized Gross Unrealized Fair
Cost Cost Gains Losses Value
Government obligations $19,628 $ 19,513 $ 110 $ 175 $ 19,448
Corporate obligations 86,339 86,255 1,060 352 86,963
and other 30,579 30,622 171 132 30,661
$136,546 $136,390 $1,341 $ 659 $137,072
Government obligations $20,621 $ 20,630 $ 53 $ 209 $ 20,474
Corporate obligations 94,739 94,351 984 24 95,311
$ 140,012 $139,386 $1,205 $ 351 $ 140,240
There were no significant realized gains or losses during 1996 or 1995.
The following table presents the maturity of the investment securities at
Amortized Fair
Cost Value
Due in one year or less $ 31,869 $ 31,751
Due after one year through five years 60,317 60,519
Due after five years through ten years 37,818 38,435
Due after ten years 6,386 6,367
$ 136,390 $ 137,072
Note 7 Deferred Charges
Deferred charges, net of amortization, as of December 31, 1996 and 1995 are as
Long-term debt issuance costs $ 4,711 $ 3,712
Premiums on purchased accounts 7,245 7,858
Amortization of deferred charges for each of the last three years is as
Long-term debt issuance costs $ 1,616 $ 1,287 $ 1,268
Premiums on purchased accounts 3,495 3,198 3,444
System development costs 1,378
Note 8 Short-term Debt
Short-term debt at December 31, 1996 and 1995 consisted of commercial paper
notes. Such debt outstanding at December 31, 1996 had been issued in the
minimum amount of $456,000 and with a maximum original term of 97 days.
The book value of short-term debt at December 31, 1996 approximates its
estimated fair value.
Additional information concerning total short-term borrowings is as follows:
Outstanding during the year
Maximum amount at any month end $ 578,743 $ 312,876 $ 287,793
Average amount 391,936 210,684 235,682
Weighted average interest rate 5.2% 6.0% 4.2%
Balance at end of year
Amount $ 398,006 $ 312,876 $ 179,085
Weighted average interest rates include the effect of commitment fees.
Short-term notes totaling $66 million and $75 million were issued in December,
1996 and 1995, respectively. The proceeds of these notes were used to purchase
investment securities and were repaid through liquidation of these securities
in the month following issuance. This short-term debt has been reflected net
of the securities balances in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of
Financial Condition.
In 1996, the Company entered into a $550 million revolving credit agreement with
several domestic and foreign banks. The agreement, which replaced the previous
revolving credit agreement of $450 million, has a four-year term with repayment
in full of any balance outstanding in August, 2000. This revolving credit
agreement has restrictive covenants as described further in Note 9.
There were no borrowings under any of the above-described revolving credit
agreements in 1996 or 1995.
On August 16, 1996, the Company obtained a revolving credit line of $2,685,000
from the Federal Home Loan Bank ("FHLB"). Under the revolving credit line,
which expires August 15, 1997, interest is payable monthly at FHLB's cash
management rate (7.20% at December 31, 1996). At December 31, 1996, there were
no outstanding borrowings under the line of credit. Interest expense in 1996
related to the borrowings on the revolving credit line was approximately
Note 9 Long-term Debt
Long-term debt at December 31, 1996 and 1995 was comprised of the following:
Senior Debentures and Notes
6.25%, due July 15, 1996 $ 99,995
7.375%, due February 15, 1997 $ 99,997 99,974
8.125%, due December 1, 1997 99,909 99,812
5.75%, due July 15, 1998 149,922 149,875
7.875%, due February 15, 1999 99,904 99,864
6.75%, due May 15, 1999 99,986
6.3%, due July 15, 2000 99,931 99,913
6.125%, due December 1, 2000 149,610
7.75%, due June 15, 2001 149,930 149,917
7.25%, due June 15, 2001 99,857
6.75%, due August 15, 2001 99,917
Medium Term Notes, Series C, due through
1996, at interest rates of 8.75% to 8.90% 5,000
Total Senior Debt 1,148,963 804,350
Senior Subordinated Notes and Debentures
8.875%, due August 15, 1998 99,948 99,920
7.5%, due July 1, 1999 99,659 99,539
Total Senior Subordinated Debt 199,607 199,459
Federal Home Loan Bank Notes
4.98%, due December 3, 2001 4,200
Total Federal Home Loan Bank Notes 4,200
Total Long-term Debt $ 1,352,770 $ 1,003,809
Aggregate maturities at December 31, 1996 are as follows:
Senior Federal
Senior Subordinated Home Loan
Debt Notes Bank Notes Total
1997 $ 199,906 $ 199,906
1998 149,922 $ 99,948 249,870
1999 199,890 99,659 299,549
2000 249,541 249,541
2001 349,704 $ 4,200 353,904
$ 1,148,963 $ 199,607 $ 4,200 $1,352,770
The approximate fair value of the Company's long-term debt as of December 31,
1996 and 1995 is as follows:
Book Approximate Book Approximate
Value Fair Value Value Fair Value
Senior debt $ 1,148,963 $ 1,192,141 $ 804,350 $ 834,130
Senior subordinated
notes 199,607 215,083 199,459 213,600
Federal Home Loan
Bank notes 4,200 4,207
$ 1,352,770 $ 1,411,431 $1,003,809 $1,047,730
The Company has a note payable to the FHLB of Seattle in the amount of
$4,200,000. On a specified day each quarter, upon giving the Company a five
business day written notice, FHLB has the option to terminate the advance at
par. Under the credit agreement, which matures December 3, 2001, interest is
payable monthly and determined using a fixed annual interest rate of 4.98%.
Interest expense in 1996 related to the above debt was approximately $15,000.
In March, 1995, the Company filed a $600 million shelf registration statement.
Under this registration statement, the Company issued in July, 1995, $100
million of 6.3% senior notes maturing July 15, 2000; in June, 1996, the Company
issued $100 million of 7.25% senior notes maturing June 15, 2001; in July, 1996,
the Company issued $100 million of 6.75% senior notes maturing May 15, 1999;
in August, 1996, the Company issued $100 million of 6.75% senior notes
maturing August 15, 2001; and in December, 1996, the Company issued $150 million
of 6.125% senior notes maturing December 1, 2000. The respective proceeds of
these issues were used as follows: to reduce outstanding commercial paper issued
to pay $100 million of 8.55% senior notes at their June 1, 1995 maturity; to
reduce outstanding commercial paper issued to fund the purchase price of the
Company's acquisition of GWFS as described in Note 3; to reduce outstanding
commercial paper issued to pay $100 million of 6.25% senior notes at their
July 15, 1996 maturity; to reduce outstanding commercial paper; and, to fund
the purchase price of the Company's acquisition of BFC as described in Note 3,
to repay approximately $69.6 million of outstanding intercompany indebtedness
owed by BFC and its subsidiaries to GWB, and for general corporate purposes.
Provisions of certain of the Company's debt agreements restrict the payment of
dividends to a maximum prescribed proportion of cumulative earnings and
contributed capital and provide for the maintenance of minimum levels of equity
and maximum leverage ratios. At December 31, 1996, approximately $16 million
was available under the debt agreement restriction for future dividends.
Note 10 Customer Deposits
The net book value and approximate fair value of the Company's customer deposits
as of December 31, 1996 and 1995 are as follows:
$100,000 and over $ 10,674 $ 10,714 $ 10,136 $ 10,243
under $100,000 117,588 117,943 131,100 132,168
Savings accounts 1,534 1,534 1,675 1,675
Money market accounts 16,342 16,342 17,861 17,861
Maturities of time deposits are $85,855,000 in 1997, $28,891,000 in 1998,
$6,753,000 in 1999 and $6,763,000 thereafter.
Note 11 Income Taxes
The components of income tax expense are as follows:
Currently payable
Federal $ 44,871 $ 35,739 $ 32,607
State 8,317 6,719 5,763
Deferred (16,188) (13) (1,170)
Deferred taxes result from temporary differences in the recognition of certain
items for tax and financial reporting purposes. Deferred tax liabilities
(assets) are comprised of the following:
Amortization of intangibles $ 11,606 $ 17,837
Employee benefits accruals 2,335 1,599
Depreciation 426 678
Loan interest and fee income 3,374 3,087
Other deferred income items 378 399
Total deferred tax liabilities 18,119 23,600
Credit loss reserves (24,788) (16,031)
Unearned insurance commissions (3,956) (2,980)
Other miscellaneous accruals (2,598) (2,415)
State taxes (4,076) (3,162)
Other deferred deduction items (3,181) (2,982)
Total deferred tax assets (38,599) (27,570)
Net deferred tax asset $ (20,480) $ (3,970)
The provisions for income taxes differ from the amounts determined by
multiplying pretax income by the statutory Federal income tax rate of 35% for
1996, 1995 and 1994. A reconciliation between these amounts is as follows:
Income taxes at statutory rates $ 34,831 $ 37,709 $ 35,459
Increase (reduction) in taxes
resulting from:
State income taxes, net of
Federal benefit 5,406 4,367 3,746
Other (3,237) 369 (2,005)
Note 12 Retirement and Savings Plans
GWFC's non-contributory defined benefit pension plan covers substantially all
of the Company's employees. Accumulated plan benefits and annual pension cost
are derived from an allocation formula based on the Company's total participants
and the Plan's total participants.
Pension cost for the Company's participants for the years ended December 31,
1996, 1995, and 1994 was $490,000, $1,455,000 and $1,717,000, respectively.
Due to the Company's participation in a multi-employer defined benefit plan,
information as to separate Company participant assets and vested benefits is
not presented.
The Company's employees also participate in GWFC's employee savings plan, which
allows employees to defer part of their pretax compensation until retirement.
Company contributions equal 50% of the contributions made by employees up to 6%
plus annual discretionary amounts, if any, as determined by management. The
Company's cost is based on the actual contribution related to its
participating employees. Total expense was $1,360,000, $1,161,000 and
$1,325,000 for the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively.
The Company's employees also participate in GWFC's defined benefit
postretirement plans which provide medical and life insurance coverage to
eligible employees and dependents based on age and length of service.
Medical coverage options are the same as available to active employees. The
accumulated postretirement benefit obligation and related expense are derived
from an allocation formula based on the Company's total participants and the
Plan's total participants.
The net postretirement medical and life insurance expense allocated to the
Company for the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994 were $521,000,
$532,000 and $737,000, respectively.
Note 13 Leases
At December 31, 1996, the Company was lessee of office space, principally for
loan offices, computer and other office equipment and automobiles, generally
for terms of five or fewer years.
The Company has no material capital leases. Under operating leases that have
initial or remaining noncancelable lease terms in excess of one year,
approximate aggregate annual minimum rentals are $7,004,000 in 1997; $5,084,000
in 1998; $2,767,000 in 1999; $1,446,000 in 2000; and $627,000 in 2001. Rent
expense for the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994 was $9,975,000,
$9,274,000, and $8,247,000, respectively.
Note 14 Contingencies
The Company is involved in litigation incidental to its businesses. It is
management's opinion that the aggregate liability arising from the disposition
of all such pending litigation will not have a material adverse effect on the
Note 15 Transactions with Related Parties
Significant transactions with GWFC or its subsidiaries in addition to those
described in Note 3 are identified as follows:
GWB provides the Company with certain administrative services, including
human resources and cash management, for which the Company paid
management fees of $1,770,000 in 1996, $1,358,000 in 1995 and $1,365,000
The Company makes payments to GWFC in accordance with GWFC's tax
allocation policy and in connection with the retirement and savings plans.
Note 16 Approximate Fair Values of Financial Instruments
A summary of the approximate fair values of the Company's financial instruments,
as compared to their carrying values, is set forth in the following table:
Carrying Approximate Carrying Approximate
Finance receivables Note 5 $ 2,185,903 $ 2,149,677 $ 2,133,065 $ 2,132,988
Investment securities Note 6 137,072 137,072 140,240 140,240
Short-term debt Note 8 398,006 398,006 312,876 312,876
Long-term debt Note 9 1,352,770 1,411,431 1,003,809 1,047,730
Customer deposits Note 10 147,080 147,475 161,679 162,854
See Note 1 and the referenced Notes for additional information.
Note 17 Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)
A summary of the quarterly results of operations for the years ended December
31, 1996 and 1995 is set forth below:
March 31, June 30, September 30, December 31,
(Dollars in thousands) 1996 1995 1996 1995 1996 1995 1996 1995
Revenue $102,688 $97,934 $99,806 $98,697 $99,605 $100,338 $104,603 $104,515
Interest and other
expenses 64,756 63,238 53,931 61,983 63,314 60,340 66,383 59,681
Provision for
credit losses 14,500 10,600 13,600 9,200 15,300 11,600 15,400 17,100
Total expenses 79,256 73,838 67,531 71,183 78,614 71,940 81,783 76,781
Income before taxes 23,432 24,096 32,275 27,514 20,991 28,398 22,820 27,734
Income tax provision 9,200 9,500 12,800 10,974 8,200 11,236 6,800 10,735
Net income $ 14,232 $14,596 $ 19,475 $16,540 $12,791 $ 17,162 $ 16,020 $ 16,999
The variances between the above quarterly data and the information reported
in the Company's previously filed Forms 10-Q result from the acquisition of
BFC as discussed in Note 3.
Accounting and Financial Disclosure.
Item 14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules and Reports on Form 8-K.
(a) Index of Documents filed as a part of this Report:
1. Financial Statements
Included in Part II of this Report:
Report of Independent Certified Public Accountants. . . . . .10
Aristar, Inc. and Subsidiaries:
at December 31, 1996 and 1995. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
for the Years Ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994 . . . 12
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements . . . . . . . . .14
2. Financial Statement Schedules
All schedules are omitted because of the absence of the conditions under
which they are required or because the required information is set forth
in the financial statements or related notes.
3. Exhibits
Included in Part IV of this Report:
(2) (a) Agreement dated as of April 30, 1996, between Great
Western Bank and First Community Financial Services, Inc. (1)
(b) Amendment to Exhibit (2) (a) dated as of August 31, 1996. (2)
(c) Agreement dated as of April 30, 1996, between Great Western
Bank and Blazer Financial Services, Inc. (1)
(d) Amendment to Exhibit (2) (c) dated as of August 31, 1996. (2)
(e) Agreement dated as of April 30, 1996, between Great Western
Bank and Blazer Financial Services, Inc. of Florida. (1)
(f) Amendment to Exhibit (2) (e) dated as of August 31, 1996.(2)
(g) Agreement dated as of December 31, 1996, between Great Western
Financial Corporation and Aristar, Inc. (3)
(3) (a) Certificate of Incorporation of Aristar, Inc. as presently in
effect.(4)
(b) By-Laws of Aristar, Inc. as presently in effect. (4)
(4) (a) Indenture dated as of May 1, 1991 between Aristar, Inc. and
Security Pacific National Bank, as trustee. (5)
(b) Indenture dated as of May 1, 1991 between Aristar, Inc. and
The First National Bank of Boston, as trustee. (5)
(c) Indenture dated as of July 1, 1992 between Aristar, Inc. and
The Chase Manhattan Bank, N.A., as trustee. (6)
(d) Indenture dated as of July 1, 1992 between Aristar, Inc. and
Citibank, N.A., as trustee. (6)
(e) Indenture dated as of July 1, 1995 between Aristar, Inc. and
The Bank of New York, as trustee. (7)
(f) The registrant hereby agrees to furnish the Securities and
Exchange Commission upon request with copies of all
instruments defining rights of holders of long-term debt of
Aristar and its consolidated subsidiaries.
(10) Income Tax Allocation Agreement dated as of December 15, 1995
between Aristar, Inc. and Great Western Financial Corporation.(8)
(12) Statement Re: Computation of Ratios.
(23) Consent of Independent Certified Public Accountants.
(24) Power of Attorney included on Page 34 of the Form 10-K.
(27) Financial Data Schedule.
(1) Incorporated by reference to Registrant's Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 1996,
Commission file number 1-3521.
Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 1996,
(3) Incorporated by reference to Registrant's Current Report on
Form 8-K dated December 31, 1996, Commission file
number 1-3521.
(4) Incorporated by reference to Registrant's Annual Report on
Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1987,
Form 8-K dated May 29, 1991, Commission file number
1-3521.
Form 8-K dated June 24, 1992, Commission file number
Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1995, Commission
file number 1-3521.
(b) Reports on Form 8-K
On December 3, 1996, the Company filed a Current Report on Form 8-K,
dated December 3, 1996, disclosing, under item (5) thereof, the pending
acquisition of Blazer Financial Corporation.
dated December 3, 1996, disclosing, under item (7) thereof, the terms of
the issuance of $150,000,000 aggregate principal amount of its 6.125%
senior notes maturing December 1, 2000.
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its
behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
By /s/ James A. Bare March 12, 1997
James A. Bare, Executive Vice President Date
and Chief Financial Officer (and Principal
Accounting Officer)
Each person whose signature appears below hereby authorizes James A. Bare as
attorney-in-fact to sign on his behalf as an individual and in every capacity
stated below, and to file all amendments to the registrant's Form 10-K, and
the registrant hereby confers like authority to sign and file in its behalf.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this
report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the
registrant and in the capacities indicated on March 12, 1997.
/s/ Michael M. Pappas
Michael M. Pappas, President and Director
(Principal Executive Officer)
/s/ Carl F. Geuther
Carl F. Geuther, Director
/s/ J. Lance Erikson
J. Lance Erikson, Director
/s/ John F. Maher
John F. Maher, Director
/s/ A. William Schenck
A. William Schenck, III, Director
http://getfilings.com/o0000007214-97-000007.html
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[Photo] Kim Hyung Jun with his mother by PrettyBoy
Credit @prettyboy_jun
[Video] M.net Top 19 Male Couples: Hyun Joong & Young Saeng #7, Jung Min & Hyung Jun #16
7:14 PM HYS, KHJB, KHJL, PJM, Vid No comments
Credit:HanFanyVal @YT
[Fancam] Park Jung Min - ROMEO 2nd CONTACT in LIQUID ROOM [12.09.29] (2 Vids) by haruko1212
6:32 PM PJM, Vid No comments
Uploaded by haruko1212@youtube
Give Me Your Heart
[Photo] Kim Hyung Jun with Won Jung Yeon for Playing Soccer [12.09.29]
Credit: Won Jung Yeon (@JUNGYEON1023)
Repost from http://ss501-thailand.blogspot.com/
[article] Kim Hyun Joong…LIFESTYLE CHANGES
4:57 PM fan Article, KHJL No comments
Written by Lazer Kim
By: LazerKim We have an update photo from City Conquest as Kim Hyun Joong was spotted boarding that boat from photo above, that seem to me like an escape from the back door sea!! Or trucking down lawless element like smugglers or trying to save his lover from the bad guys!! Oh whatever it is at least we know now Hyun Joong is doing fine filming his drama. We got five days to go from today before we finally take a glimpse of him on October 4th as Hyun Joong shall be attending a big event in Japan together with the other casts of City Conquest. We shall be waiting for that event!!
The other night I was already preparing for today’s article and I thought about writing a bodyguard and his subject, since I thought about Mr. Jeong! As we all know he has been taking care of Kim Hyun Joong from day one that he signed with KeyEast. And to get some background how a personal bodyguard is, I thought about Kevin Costner for Bodyguard and Nicolas Cage for Guarding Tess! So I was trying to look for the movie Bodyguard to watch at YouTube because I forgot how to download movies from Isohunt! And honestly I forgot the leading lady of Kevin Costner, Whitney Houston who passed away in February.
And so instead of watching the movie, it was Whitney’s life and her funeral that I watched! I never thought she was already on her career downfall in 2010, then her world tour was a such an unexpected failure, knowing a big star like Whitney Houston would end up in such an ugly scenes on her performances. I was totally shocked to be watching her concerts in 2010 and the cause of her death was devastating. Oh my what a waste for a big star like her. Whitney Houston died in February 11, this year, that time I was so much engrossed writing about Hyun Joong’s aftermath concert in Yokohama that I did not pay too much attention on Whitney’s death!!
Ever since I got hooked on Korean dramas, I actually lost my interest with the Hollywood stars! Anyway, today’s topic for this article is not about Hollywood nor about the bodyguard which I will reserve for next time, I need to research on the kind of profession. But I would like to talk about life of being a big star, well like Whitney, we can learn something out of her life and connect with our Prince. Don’t worry I don’t mean to compare, but basic lifestyle of an artist and his changes influenced by environment, responsibilities being an artist and fame.
What I want to talk about this time are the changes in Kim Hyun Joong’s lifestyle from the time he started in the lime light with SS501 and the present as he moved in to KeyEast. We can also inject some realities about the influence of fame, how it change an artist it’s either for the better or for the worst. We can probably compare how Kim Hyun Joong was from his past with SS501 and at present being a solo performer, although it’s barely over a year since he started performing solo singer but somehow I could see some bits and pieces of changes in his lifestyle as an artist.
The very first thing that I noticed was his bodyguard Mr. Jeong as in day one as soon as he moved in to KeyEast he was already provided with security on his official activities. As I watched Hyun Joong when he was with DSP there’s only the five members of SS501 and a manager to secure the five members whenever they travel. So I would say from Hyun Joong’s first day at KeyEast he was already taken care of. In one of Hyun Joong interviews I remember he was saying, he’s not used with having a lot of people meeting him at the airport even he was still with his group. Neither he has any idea if the fans at the airport were cheering for him or his members!!
Then in 2010 he came along with his boss Bae Yong Joon in Japan for Smile Project and he was surprised to see such a big crowd of fans at the airport whom he was assuming was the fans of his boss. In Hyun Joong’s interview in Tokyo, he mentioned that he felt so shy to even smile simply because he does not know if the crowd was cheering for him or his boss!! I laughed at his remark!! Watching from the video clip, just by the gesture of his boss may signify endorsing of introducing Hyun Joong to BYJ fans who were at the airport. I did noticed Hyun Joong was a bit awkward that time that he was totally caught unaware by the crowd!! I already spotted Mr. Jeong with Hyun Joong that time as his bodyguard.
The next thing I noticed was his hotel accommodation whenever he travels particularly his guest room that I can compare. When he was with DSP, he’s given a regular single guest room or he’s with one of his members in a twin guest room. As he moved in to KeyEast he was given the suite guest room, well his boss might have the penthouse but Hyun Joong stayed in a suite room next to his boss. In his present status he has to live by hotel room service if he has to eat whenever he travels. Although at this stage I believe he can still dine in the restaurant but that is gonna be a rare chance. Not that he’s being deprive of his liberty to eat his desired meal but mainly for security reasons that in due time he shall have to live within his limits as a star.
Hyun Joong was given the privilege to choose his own staffs to work with him in all his official activities such as dancers, coordinators make-up hairstylist, production assistance, and his manager who is the closest to Hyun Joong other than Mr. Jeong his personal body-guard. As you can notice Hyun Joong had been working with Artmatic dancers and his noonas since his SS501 days. Now they work exclusively for Hyun Joong specially his dancers, that these staffs are provided by KeyEast. Every time Hyun Joong is in his official activities, he has at least three men behind him, Mr. Jeong, his manager and Artmatic captain that shows he is well taken care of in his every official activities.
In another interview during his fan meeting Asia Tour in Singapore I think, he was asked about his gains and losses in his career since he started being a soloist. Hyun Joong said he has more gains than loss, in such a way he has more people helping him to be able to attain his goal. In terms of losses, what he lost was his privacy although he had already accepted that he is bound to lose it to begin with, and this is just natural to any popular artists. To lose their privacy is what stars has to pay in exchange of fame and success.
When Hyun Joong was still with his members he can still freely go out taking for a walk at the neighborhood or go shopping or dine wherever he wants. Now he rarely do so, and take note he can not go out of his apartment by himself. He can go driving in Korea but surely he has somebody tailing at his back, either Mr. Jeong or his manager!! Even he has to drive to Jaksal which is his own restaurant, he has to have somebody with him on the road or being with him in his car while he drives. I would be very surprise if KeyEast would just allow him to go around Seoul by himself, because Hyun Joong is their responsibility whether official or non official activity.
That’s the difference though being with a group and a soloist, although again it depends on his career status on how popular a soloist is. If we compare Hyun Joong’s lifestyle during his days with SS501 and his present status, the difference is way too long in terms of popularity and being a crowd maker. During his days with SS501 he probably can go shopping in a less crowded shopping area. Well maybe he can still do so in Seoul in an exclusive shop that is less crowded, if not I’m sure he can go on-line shopping and that’s too sad, I still believe in going to various shops with a lot of choice, as I can touch and see what I’m buying.
As Hyun Joong matures, he had changed even his fashion trend too, he became more simple yet fashionable. He was saying when he was still with SS501, he kept buying clothes and his favorite are footwear. This time Hyun Joong became more practical, his comfort is more important in what he wears. Even in his shows, he tend to have simple costumes and minimize flashy items. Although accessories remained to be his favorite items. Off cam he tends to wear ordinary clothes that anyone coming from the streets would wear but maintained neat as always and nothing flashy.
Here’s probably gonna be my own way in rating Hyun Joong’s popularity and crowd maker without looking at any popularity record status. His boss being a Korean actor is still very popular in Japan even he was barely seen on public exposure. Hyun Joong said to be able to gained even half of Bae Yong Joon’s popularity is good enough. One time in 2009 I think, Bae Yong Joon was in Japan to promote one of his projects. He was in his hotel getting ready to go out to somewhere. BYJ had at least four or six bodyguards, as he came down from his hotel room to the lobby, a huge crowd of fans were at the front street of the hotel. He and his bodyguard stayed in one corner and think about where they can get through from the crowd.
But there’s no way for BYJ to just walk to the lobby and get in to his car, at the same time there’s no other way to get out from the crowd. And so BYJ and his bodyguards dive over the huge crowd of fans. Do you know what happened next? BYJ quickly got in his car as his six bodyguards walked guarding the car as it gets through the crowd but BYJ opened his car widow and waved at the crowd!! He can’t help it seeing his fans who waited just to take a glimpse of him. From that incident it ended in a stumped and an elder woman was hurt. As soon as BYJ knew about it he took responsible and took care of his fan and paid her hospitalization.
And I can see Hyun Joong doing the same scenario, although it’s just a small crowd of fans at the airport waiting for him, but what if the time comes when a huge crowd of fans same as BYJ come running after Hyun Joong? Well it won’t be long that’s very likely to happen. At this time lucky fans can meet Hyun Joong at the airport seeing him off or welcome him back home and hand-in some goodies and letters which is quite easy for his fans to reach out for him. There will come a time this will be no longer possible. Hyun Joong has gone used to opening his car window as he gets inside he car and wave or nod to his fans before driving off.
At the documentary Hyun Joong was relating a lot of changes in his lifestyle but had gone used to it, however he still wants to live a normal life as much as he can while he can still do it. The more popular he gets the more his private life changes, but it’s part of being star that he embrace wholeheartedly. A producer stated Hyun Joong knows how to handle his fame by taking it in his heart and not in his mind and that he is capable reaching highest height in his career. He may be young at age but very matured in his outlook of life.
Hyun Joong was saying it is important to work hard but it is also important to be prepared to whatever the results of hard work. Whether it may or it may not be what he expects he has to live with it in accepting the results but never to give up. Hyun Joong was never been a quitter, he always a fighter, he just keeps on going and learn from what he experienced. There are many stars who does not stay longer in the lime light simply because they can not handle their fame. After gaining their popularity they tend to become lazy to re-invent something for themselves as artist, they became conceited and arrogant over their gained popularity, they became complacent with their star status instead of nurturing what they have already attained and gained.
As I mentioned earlier about the Hollywood stars getting involved with drugs, this isn’t new anymore, this may be the idea of what Hyun Joong was saying, “it is important to be prepared to whatever the results of hard work.” Some stars could not handle their fame that most of the times they do not notice they are already destroying themselves. Do I see Hyun Joong in that stage of self-destruction in the future? This is what I can say, at the young age of Hyun Joong in his career, for as long he is well guided then I don’t see him as one of those promising artists on downhill. I think his boss can handle him quite well, no matter how independent minded he is, he knows to whom he would listen to.
I was watching Whitney Houston’s story in 2010 and I can’t get over with what I have watched. She totally declined when she did her world tour performance that showed a disgusting show out of a big star like her. I would say it’s a negligence on the part of her producer in allowing her to sign up for those concerts knowing she’s high on drugs. I could see her producer’s greed for money and pushing her to the quick sand during that time. She could not handle herself and her status that made her a star falling star from the sky in such unbearable pain for her.
I think I would rather see an artist gradually improving in due time, than being that good since the start and deteriorating in the end. I have mentioned in my other article that in showbiz there’s such thing as expiration date on artists. Some Hollywood stars tend to stay even they are aging until such time they can no longer carry on and allowed them to be drowning themselves with drugs although not all.
I think it should have been better to retire at certain age before they reached that stage of self-destruction. So that they can still preserve their talent and good image on how people do remember them. I think producers and promoters should also consider the well-being of the stars, instead of taking advantage on how they earn from them.
Whitney ended her life just like that, and it’s so regretful for very talented star even at her age 48, I would just like to think of her in her younger years on how I knew her and her music which I loved so much. I would say Whitney changed her life during her marriage to Bobby Brown whom she fell very much in love with but made her worst in drowning herself with drugs after her divorce with him. There are a lot of stars who can not handle their personal relationships and their career at the same time. This is true in the showbiz world and Hyun Joong is no exception, as he said he can not handle both career and love at the same time.
While watching her video clips of her funeral and prior to it, I thought about what Hyun Joong said about hard work and results. Time change and so people change too. It is good to live life to the fullest but we have our own individual responsibilities to ourselves and to others. Just the same as Hyun Joong planted good seeds, he nurtured what he planted harvest the fruits and share it with others. Until it became his life routine as he nurtures his talent to be worthy of love and support from others, he doesn’t stop and doesn’t change his attitude keeping up his values.
I remember in one of Hyun Joong’s interviews, he related his lay out plan for his career which is quite realistic for an artist and recognizing his expiration date. Although this is too early to say since Hyun Joong is still young, but at least he has plans for his future and he is quite open-minded about being realistic and practical in life.
Hyun Joong being an artist star, as he gets further to the heights of his career status, his lifestyle changes are quite expected to the point of having all the comfort and luxury in life can ever offer in exchange of his deprived privacy. Artists have to live with it, in fact as soon as an artist sign up for his career in showbiz for the first time, he is expected to accept the fact that he is a public figure bound with definite restrictions in keeping a good personal image and is obliged to behave accordingly in public. This is again a showbiz reality. I guess we do not have a problem with that as far as our idol is concern.
Hyun Joong deserves that comfort and luxury of life as his lifestyle changed for the better since he earned hard from his past struggles, and in spite of the blessing he receives, he never forgets to share with other specially the less fortunate.
Lifestyle changes is alright for as long as Kim Hyun Joong keeps his feet firmly on the ground and maintain the good values he’s been keeping and simply being himself will take him all the way to super stardom….
LazerKim here writing
[Photos] SS501 Kim Kyu Jong Went to Kim Hyun Joong's (김현중) Restaurant "Jaksal Chicken"
3:49 PM Info, Jaksal, KKJ, Photo No comments
Credit: KimImmAme @ Twitter
Repost from http://hyunited-6686.blogspot.com.
Thanks to @KimImmAme for sharing the pictures on Twitter. According to @KimImmAme, Kyu Jong went to "Jaksal Chicken" in Seokchon on September 28th, 2012 with his manager and two friends. They didn't meet Kim Hyun Joong. Kyu Jong gave autograph to fans and took photos with them. It's chuseok, so Kyu Jong has days off to celebrate it, so nice... ^___^
Labels: HYS, KHJB, KHJL, PJM, Vid
Labels: fan Article, KHJL
Labels: Info, Jaksal, KKJ, Photo
[Photo] Kim Hyung Jun with his mother by PrettyBoy...
[Video] M.net Top 19 Male Couples: Hyun Joong & Yo...
[Fancam] Park Jung Min - ROMEO 2nd CONTACT in LIQU...
[Photo] Kim Hyung Jun with Won Jung Yeon for Playi...
[Photos] SS501 Kim Kyu Jong Went to Kim Hyun Joong...
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J. Meteor. Res. 2014, Vol. 28 Issue (3): 420-429 PDF
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s13351-014-3279-0
The Chinese Meteorological Society
CHENG Xueling, WU Lin, SONG Lili, WANG Binglan, ZENG Qingcun. 2014.
Marine-Atmospheric Boundary Layer Characteristics over the South China Sea During the Passage of Strong Typhoon Hagupit
J. Meteor. Res., 28(3): 420-429
Received 2013-12-10;
in final form 2014-1-8
CHENG Xueling, WU Lin, SONG Lili, WANG Binglan, ZENG Qingcun. 2014. Marine-Atmospheric Boundary Layer Characteristics over the South China Sea During the Passage of Strong Typhoon Hagupit[J]. J. Meteor. Res., 28(3): 420-429.
CHENG Xueling1, WU Lin1, SONG Lili2, WANG Binglan2, ZENG Qingcun3
1 1 State Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Boundary Layer Physics and Atmospheric Chemistry, Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029;
2 Public Weather Service Center, China Meteorological Administration, Beijing 100081;
3 Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029
Received 2013-12-10; in final form 2014-1-8
Fund program:Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (40830103 and 91215302), National (Key) Basic Research and Development (973) Program of China (2010CB951804), China Meteorological Administration Special Public Welfare Research Fund (GYHY201306057), and Strategy Guide for the Specific Task of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (XDA10010403).
Corresponding author: ZENG Qingcun
ABSTRACT:The structures and characteristics of the marine-atmospheric boundary layer over the South China Sea during the passage of strong Typhoon Hagupit are analyzed in detail in this paper. The typhoon was generated in the western Pacific Ocean, and it passed across the South China Sea, finally landfalling in the west of Guangdong Province. The shortest distance between the typhoon center and the observation station on Zhizi Island (10 m in height) is 8.5 km. The observation data capture the whole of processes that occurred in the regions of the typhoon eye, two squall regions of the eye wall, and weak wind regions, before and after the typhoon's passage. The results show that: (a) during the strong wind (average velocity ū≥10 m s-1) period, in the atmospheric boundary layer below 110 m, ū is almost independent of height, and vertical velocity w is greater than 0, increasing with ūand reaching 2-4 m s-1 in the squall regions; (b) the turbulent fluctuations (frequency > 1/60 Hz) and gusty disturbances (frequency between 1/600 and1/60 Hz) are both strong and anisotropic, but the anisotropy of the turbulent fluctuations is less strong; (c) ūcan be used as the basic parameter to parameterize all the characteristics of fluctuations; and (d) the vertical flux of horizontal momentum contributed by the average flow (ū· w) is one order of magnitude larger than those contributed by fluctuation fluxes (u'w' and v'w'), implying that strong wind may have seriously disturbed the sea surface through drag force and downward transport of eddy momentum and generated large breaking waves, leading to formation of a strongly coupled marine-atmospheric boundary layer. This results in w > 0 in the atmosphere, and some portion of the momentum in the sea may be fed back again to the atmosphere due to ū· w > 0.
Keywords: Typhoon Hagupit marine-atmospheric boundary layer turbulent fluctuation gusty disturbance air-sea interaction South China Sea
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Home » News & Events » Andrew Rehfeld, Ph.D., Delivers Ordination Remarks in Cincinnati
Andrew Rehfeld, Ph.D., Delivers Ordination Remarks in Cincinnati
Boker tov, Good morning.
It is my pleasure to welcome you, our faculty, administration, board members, students, alumni, supporters, along with friends and family of this year’s graduating class, to our 2019/5779 Ordination ceremony, concluding our 144th academic year.
It is a particular honor and privilege to greet you today in this beautiful sanctuary at Plum Street Synagogue. Thank you to Rabbi Lewis Kamrass Temple President Elissa Habib, and Rabbi Karen Thomashow for their presence and participation in this program, and the I. M. Wise Temple staff and clergy for your hospitality and partnership throughout the year.
Our thanks go to our College Institute Leadership with me here on the bema:
Our Provost, Dr. Andrea Weiss, who today will fulfill a historic milestone as the first woman to ordain clergy in the Reform Movement and HUC;
Dean of the Cincinnati Campus, Dr. Jonathan Hecht;
Associate Dean, Rabbi Dr. Julie Schwartz;
and Director of the Cincinnati Rabbinical School, Rabbi Dr. Jan Katzew.
A special greeting to all of our faculty gathered with us today for their devotion to our students that has made this day possible.
We also welcome our Board of Governors, led by Sue Neuman Hochberg, and the chair of our central Region Board of Overseers, led by Debbi Sorrentino. We are especially honored to have the professional leadership of our Reform Movement partners with us today:
Rabbi Hara Person, our Ordination Speaker, Chief-Executive-Elect of the Central Conference of American Rabbis and a distinguished alumna of the Class of 1998;
Rabbi Steven Fox, Chief Executive Officer of the Central Conference of American Rabbis;
Karen Sim, Board Member of the Central District of the Women of Reform Judaism;
and Mark Sass, representing the Board of Trustees of the Union for Reform Judaism – today exemplifies the fulfillment of your support for our mission and our partnership in bringing forth the next generation of Jewish leaders for Reform congregations and the institutions of Jewish life and learning.
Today is a day of endings and beginnings, of beings and becomings.
For our ordinees:
Today marks the end of your becomingand the beginning of your being.
The end of your formal classes and a beginning of a lifetime of learning.
The end of your internships and student pulpits, and a beginning of varied careers of service to the Jewish People.
The end to your status of student and the beginning of your status as Rabbis, as Cantors, as klei kodesh.
It marks the endof your becoming, and the beginning of your being.
Your transformation from becoming to being will occur in just a few moments through a ritual drawn from our Torah, by the actions of a single individual who will transfer the accumulated authority of our people as envisioned in our story from Moses, through Joshua down to each of you today.
And here we recognize our own ending, beginning, being and becoming as an institution in which women take on the most central roles. For today, this transmission of authority will be conveyed to you by our Provost, Rabbi Andrea Weiss, who becomes the first woman in our 144-year-history to ordain our movement’s klei kodesh. In doing so, Rabbi Weiss will take her place alongside Rabbi Sally Priesand, as a pioneer in our movement’s history. Just 47 years ago—a mere blink of the eye in our people’s history—Rabbi Priesand became our movement’s and our nation’s first female rabbi. It is a moment deserving of celebration. I would Rabbi Weiss to please rise so that we can recognize her at this moment.
On a more personal note, Andrea, I have been moved these last few months by your support and leadership, as we both have taken on new beginnings, as you have approached your role with the full support of your colleagues and peers, humility and seriousness of purpose, recognition of your own limits countered by the courage and self-confidence to take on the mantle of spiritual leadership for our institution. You have been a model of leadership to our entire team and more personally to me. And I thank you.
The path that will take each of you, our ordinees up the bema embodies the very virtues of Rabbi’s Weiss’s leadership I just described themselves the embodiment of the highest ideals of Mosaic leadership: to sit simultaneously with the self-confidence to lead and the humility to question whether you are even worthy of that leadership.
For what self-confidence it takes to walk up those steps to offer yourselves before God and our people to be worthy of beingRabbis and Cantors. The confidence to offer yourselves as moral and religious exemplars to lead communities and congregations, just as Moses had: to pastor and serve, to inspire with your words, your deeds, and your actions, to strengthen the Jewish People and our collective Public Sphere. And you will do more. You will build communities in which individuals live lives with dignity, meaning, and purpose, embracing Jewish ritual, practice and learning as part of a life, well lived, in pursuit of Holiness and Goodness, Rightness and Ethical Action, bringing Justice into this world for all who inhabit it.
But, famously, it’s not only self-confidence that defined Moses’s leadership, but humility as well. And what humility you will draw on as you walk up those steps, with the sheer weight of this sanctuary and majesty of the moment upon you, in front of this congregation, your friends and family, before the sanctity of God, knowing yourselves all of the limitations that you carry on your shoulders, just as Moses had; limitations that will surely be tested in the years ahead:
your own self-doubt,
your own questioning,
your own profound recognition of all you have yet to learn…
and yet, still, despite that humility, you will have the courage and confidence to accept that burden in service to our people. And we collectively are grateful for that.
I want to wish for you that those two virtues of confidence and humility should remain forever in tension within you, for they are necessary complements to one another.
Without humility, whatever self-confidence has led you to this moment, that caused you even to think yourselves worthy of this role, the confidence that will carry you up those steps can, without humility, that self-confidence can so easily become hubris: the mistaken sense that this becominghas transformed you into something that you are not and none of us ever can be. For what is being transformed today is your being, what you do with that being will determine the confidence that you inspire in others and will need to succeed in your future roles. And self-confidence unchecked by humility is simply less likely to generate the respect and authority that each of you will now have to begin to earn through your actions.
And on the other hand without self-confidence, the humility that you carry with you to this moment, which you will feel as you walk up those steps, can so easily become incapacitating passivity, a sense of being overwhelmed by the limitations with which each of us struggles; limitations that, when confronted by hard decisions, with incomplete information, where your leadership is required, you might fail to act. As you face that uncertainty, knowing that the decisions you are called upon to make may not be the right ones at the moment, may you then draw upon your self-confidence to keep that humility from becoming passivity.
If you can emulate the Mosaic model maintaining that balance between confidence and humility, you will build a more just and decent world as the Rabbis you are about to become.
I say all this to you as someone in a unique position to recognize one thing that most Rabbis do not—cannot—fully understand as adults: the continued power, influence, and importance of klei Kodesh to those of us who have not been ordained, who have not felt called to the kind of sacred service that has driven you here, and that will shape your future communities. You are now beginning a profound calling, a powerful profession, whose actions will change and inspire lives. And as I take on my own new beginning as President of HUC, I speak with both confidence in that knowledge and humility of all that you represent: because I indeed am a direct product of your work.
Even as we gather to celebrate these beginnings and becomings, we recognize that all of them are built upon a life that ended much too soon. During this month, we marked the first yahrzeit of my predecessor, President Rabbi Aaron Panken, who perished last year.
Aaron’s legacy will be carried forward by each of you, our ordinees, for our institution was imbued with Aaron’s spirit, his kindness, and his love of Torah and Talmud, that touched you through his teaching and leadership. And his legacy will be carried by so many of you joining with us today, whether here in person, or watching via livestream: Aaron’s sacred and varied relationships with you, his integrity, compassion and love of Jewish learning, and his very joy and spirited neshama, soul, will be carried forward by each you and all of us every day.
On behalf of the Hebrew Union College, I extend again my thoughts and prayers to Aaron’s family, and in particular to Lisa Messinger, a true partner to Rabbi Panken’s life’s work, whose efforts this past year have ensured that his values— their values—of scholarship, leadership, teaching, and love of Jewish life and learning will live on through the four Rabbi Aaron Panken Professors that Lisa helped was critical to establishing on our four campuses. We are grateful for that partnership in helping sustain that vision and ensure Aaron’s legacy for generations to come.
As I close I recognize that our ordination celebrations fall during our season of commemoration and celebration, observing in the last month Yom Hashoah, Yom Hazikaron, and Yom Ha’atzmaut. These three dates in the Jewish calendar provide an historical and spiritual context for our thoughts today: the memory of our People’s destruction during the Holocaust, the ongoing sacrifice necessary to secure our People’s survival, and the gift of Israel’s statehood for which we should always be grateful.
And now we are in the season of the Omer, ritually counting the days from Passover to Shavuot, marking multiple transitions:
The agricultural transition from planting to first harvest
The spiritual path from the redemption of Passover to the revelation at Sinai.
And the political path of our transformation as a people defined by negative freedom, delivered from the oppression by others to a people defined by positive freedom, to the ability to decide what to do with that freedom, to enter into a covenant that formed our People as such for the first time.
So, it is poignant that during this last month as we celebrated and commemorated the persecution, sacrifice, resiliency, and reformation of our people, rockets again bombarded Israel in an act of terror, indiscriminately threatening all people who live there, no matter their race, religion or nationality. Closer to home, we were once again attacked while Jews prayed on Shabbat in a synagogue in Poway. For the third time in five years, the attacker again was a White Supremacist, an anti-Semitic terrorist, this time motivated to copy the massacres at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh and the Mosque attacks in New Zealand. Adding the Church attacks in Sri Lanka, hundreds of people have now been slaughtered in houses of worship this year, simply because they have different beliefs or because of who they are. And just a few days ago, members of the KKK marched in nearby Dayton – a reminder that the forces of prejudice and violence are ever present. The pain and anxiety of being in a world in which individual hate can so easily be translated into murderous action is deeply unsettling.
One way to preserve Aaron’s legacy is to remember the words he shared to the 2018 Graduating class in New York– an address that tragically he did not live to deliver here in Cincinnati– warning of “countries long civilized and democratic, reverting to policies of nationalism and tactics of scapegoating reminiscent of our darkest times. [… ] cynical and often violent supremacist protests, and the abhorrent targeting of innocent immigrants as vicious criminals.”
Would that his words no longer resonated so deeply.
But Aaron also knew that our people had the genius to respond. Going on, he wrote, “the Jewish people, and our religious friends of other faiths, have seen this before, and we have lived through it, and thrived, and built again and again and again…The world we live in today may have its darkness, but let us remember that there is so much light as well. We cannot equate the current state of the world with the extremes of the enormous tragedies that have befallen us.”
Our ability to fulfill Aaron’s inspiring words will depend on each of our ordinees’s balancing their own self-confidence and humility as they go into our world. It depends on the support of their family and friends whose love and material support brought them to this place. And it will depend on the continued work of our 4,000 active alumni – Rabbis, Cantors, Educators, Nonprofit Executives, and Scholars -- who lead our Jewish Public Sphere, building a canvas upon which our collective good is realized, and the highest ideals of our people and our world can be achieved. And because of their work that we are in a very bright place indeed!
So, we now look to you, our ordinees, as sanctified leaders of our People, in partnership with the communities you will serve and lead. May you go from here as Rabbis becoming the klei kodesh that you will be, lifting your eyes upward towards the Holy and the Good, sideways towards the care of those around you, and bringing Justice to the communities and world upon which you stand.
Ken Y’hi ratzon…may it be God’s will.
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Danger Room Game Review
Roy January 18, 2017
Games, Reviews One Comment
Danger Room is Actually Sane Studio‘s first release on Steam.
Actually Sane Studios is a Singapore based indie game studios that focuses on VR game development.
Read this article to find out more about their game.
When we heard about the title of the game, we immediately thought about the X-Men’s Danger Room where they get to train and fight against simulation of their enemies and practise their team work.
So when we finally got our hands on the game in December last year, we were excited to see the visuals are quite similar to what we envision. Its retro style sci-fi graphics actually reminds us of the old X-Men cartoons that we used to watch when we were kids, so there is quite a bit of nostalgia when playing this game.
Danger Room is built for the HTC Vive so it makes use of the vive wands as guns and the room scale play area as the platform where you stand on to fight and dodge waves of enemy fire. There are 2 modes: beginner (for first timers) and hardcore (for people who want to jump straight into intense action)
The enemies look like TIE Interceptor and there are 2 types: Orange ones that shoot slow moving balls at you and Red ones that shoot sweeping lasers at the platform.
There is only one type of gun which is quite unique as it has 2 special abilities.
You do not have any ammo but suck in enemy balls to fire back at them.
You can slow down time by turning your gun sideways.
The gameplay is simple enough but it gets quite intense if you are not efficient in collecting ammo and taking out the enemies at the same time.
The time slow is the current fad for games like in SUPERHOT, Bullet Train, Bullet Sorrow, Sairento, Raw Data, etc. For this game, it is important to make full use of this super power if you intend to survive longer (especially since the use is unlimited but its challenging to aim while holding the gun sideways).
We would love it if there is a larger variety of enemies and boss level enemies and different weapons to use. Being able to teleport around the danger room would also be a cool feature to have like in Raw Data. Different game modes like survival (current game), time trial, obstacle courses would make it a really good tribute to the X-Men reference.
Danger Room is a short arcade style game that we feel is great for a short 5-10 minute gameplay. You can try to achieve your best score and compete with friends on the local or online leaderboard.
At an affordable price of $6.50, we think that it is worth a buy if you like a simple shooting game which you can just pick up and play. It is available in our IGNITE VR Arcade in Singapore as well, so feel free to pop by and give it a shot!
AsiaVR & Singapore Unity Developer Meetup 23rd February 2017 – IGNITE VR says:
[…] pain of designing for VR. Example were drawn from his experience of making their first VR title, Danger Room, that was published on the Steam […]
AsiaVR Meetup November 2016: The Making of VR Content
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A Different Kind of Diplomacy
June 24, 2019 Articles
By: Professor. Satoshi Ikeuchi
Professor, Global Security and Religion, University of Tokyo.
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s visit to Tehran last week was aimed at alleviating tensions in the Gulf. Confrontation, however, exacerbated during his trip. Tension seemed eased when Abe’s intended visit to Iran was announced, after the summit meeting between Prime Minister Abe and President Trump in Tokyo on May 27.
President Trump encouraged Abe to leave for Iran as soon as he leaves Japan. But it took two weeks to prepare for the visit and meetings which took place on June 12 and 13.
Two weeks is exceptionally and unprecedentedly short for Japanese ministries to prepare for Prime Minister’s visit to a foreign country. Prime Minister’s words are not from his whimsy, but institutionally written. Japanese decision-making process is bottom-up, hierarchical and sectionally divided. Any words of promise by him are surely executed institutionally, hence can be trusted.
Japanese Prime Minister sticks to prepared statements collectively written. He even takes notes on papers himself during summit meeting, which were mistaken as a rejected and wasted letter from President Trump, both by Iranian hardliners and by an Arab reporter of BBC who are not experienced in East Asian affairs and ridiculed it on SNS.
In the Middle East, two weeks are almost an age during which anything changes. Leaders himself quickly change courses and decides. So many empty words are spent and wasted but through these exchanges of untrusted words, accidentally courses of actions are set and a new momentum is born.
It was unfortunate that some elements in the Gulf conspired during those two weeks and sabotaged Abe’s diplomatic effort. At Abe’s most vulnerable time before the summit meeting with Iranian Supreme Leader Khamenei, a Japanese tanker was chased and attacked outside the Strait of Hormuz along with a Norwegian-owned tanker which was damaged heavily.
Japanese people took the message from someone behind this mysterious incident, very clearly. It was an insult to the Japanese people: “You novice, you are too premature to be involved in here.”
Japan is doing a different kind of diplomacy than what is being done in the Middle East. For Japan, diplomacy is based on trust and truth but in the Middle East, diplomacy is done by deception and contempt.
Japanese don’t care if ridiculed for their sincere honesty. Japanese do care when mutual trust is broken by betrayal. In the Middle Eastern diplomacy, breach of trust happens often and quickly forgotten. But for Japanese, the loss of trust lingers on for so long years, even for several generations, inherited by word of mouth in each families and institutions and never forgotten and forgiven.
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Modern technology gives us many things.
SpaceX aces emergency landing simulation, ready to fly astronauts to ISS by April…
[VIDEO] A Look into DJI, the World’s Largest Drone Manufacturer
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China says it wants to ban bitcoin mining as pressure on cryptocurrency grows
By Judy Mcneill On Apr 9, 2019
China’s state planner wants to ban bitcoin mining, according to a draft list of industrial activities the agency is seeking to stop in a sign of growing government pressure on the cryptocurrency sector.
China is the world’s largest market for computer hardware designed to mine bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, even though such activities previously fell under a regulatory grey area.
The National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) said on Monday it was seeking public opinions on a revised list of industries it wants to encourage, restrict or eliminate. The list was first published in 2011.
The draft for a revised list added cryptocurrency mining, including that of bitcoin, to over 450 activities the NDRC said should be phased out as they did not adhere to relevant laws and regulations, were unsafe, wasted resources or polluted the environment.
It did not stipulate a target date or plan for how to eliminate bitcoin mining, meaning that such activities should be phased out immediately, the document said. The public has until May 7 to comment on the draft.
State-owned newspaper Securities Times said on Tuesday that the draft list “distinctly reflects the attitude of the country’s industrial policy” towards the cryptocurrency industry.
Last week, the price of bitcoin soared nearly 20 percent in its best day since the height of the 2017 bubble, and breaking $5,000 for the first time since mid-November, though analysts and traders admitted that they were puzzled by the surge.
On Tuesday, bitcoin was trading at $5,190.
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The cryptocurrency sector has been under heavy scrutiny in China since 2017, when regulators started to ban initial coin offerings and shut local cryptocurrency trading exchanges.
China also began to limit cryptocurrency mining, forcing many firms — among them some of the world’s largest — to find bases elsewhere.
Chinese companies are also among the biggest manufacturers of bitcoin mining gear, and last year three filed for initial public offerings in Hong Kong, looking to raise billions of dollars.
However, the two largest, Bitmain Technologies, the world’s largest manufacturer of bitcoin mining gear, and Canaan Inc have since let their applications lapse.
People familiar with the deals said that Hong Kong regulators had many questions about the companies’ business models and prospects.
According to Canaan’s IPO prospectus filed last year, sales of blockchain hardware primarily for cryptocurrency mining in China were worth 8.7 billion yuan ($1.30 billion) in 2017, 45 percent of global sales by value.
The prospectus forecasts that sales in China would rise to 35.6 billion yuan by 2020.
Tech2 is now on WhatsApp. For all the buzz on the latest tech and science, sign up for our WhatsApp services. Just go to Tech2.com/Whatsapp and hit the Subscribe button.
Judy Mcneill
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Turkey launches ground offensive against Kurdish forces in Syria
Smoke billows into the air following Turkish bombardment on Syria's northeastern Kurdish-held town of Ras al-Ain on October 9, 2019
Ras al-Ain (Syria) (AFP) - Turkey has launched a broad assault on Kurdish-controlled areas in northeastern Syria, with intensive bombardment followed by a ground offensive made possible by the withdrawal of US troops.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced Wednesday the start of the attack on Twitter and soon after jets and artillery targeted Kurdish positions along the full width of the border, sending thousands of civilians fleeing their homes.
That was followed late in the evening by the beginning of a ground operation, the Turkish defence ministry said.
US President Donald Trump warned that if the Turkish operation was not conducted “in as humane a way as possible”, he would “wipe out” the country’s economy”.
The assault had seemed inevitable since he announced on Sunday a military pullback from the border, but the attack triggered international condemnation and an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council was set for Thursday.
The Arab League said it was convening an emergency meeting in Cairo on October 12.
The British-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) said 16 members of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) militia were killed in the early hours of the Turkish offensive.
Both the SOHR and SDF reported heavy clashes near the city of Tel Abad.
Civlians flee from the Turkish bombardment on the northeast Syrian town of Ras al-Ain
Turkey’s defence ministry said on twitter that its forces had struck 181 Kurdish “terror group” targets so far.
The spokesman for one of the pro-Turkish Syrian militant groups told AFP the land phase of the operation began in Tal Abad, and Turkish media reported special forces and armoured vehicles had entered at several points along the border.
- ‘Operation Peace Spring’ -
The US withdrawal smashed its alliance with the Kurdish forces who spearheaded five years of ground battles against the Islamic State group in Syria.
Defending his decision, Trump said the Kurds did not “help us in Normandy”.
Map locating Ras al-Ain and Tal Abyad in northern Syria
NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg urged Turkey to show “restraint” in its operation against Kurdish forces in Syria, warning that the fight against the Islamic State group should not be put at risk.
The SDF called on the international community to impose a no-fly zone to protect against “an imminent humanitarian crisis”.
Erdogan, who dubbed the attack “Operation Peace Spring”, says the offensive is necessary to curb the power of the SDF due to its ties with Kurdish insurgents inside Turkey.
He also wants a “safe zone” on the Syrian side of the border where Turkey could send back some of the 3.6 million refugees it hosts from the eight-year civil war.
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said “the Turks have a legitimate security concern”.
“They have a terrorist threat to their south,” he told PBS.
- ‘General mobilisation’ -
In the face of the onslaught, Kurdish authorities announced a general mobilisation, urging all civilians to “head to the border with Turkey… to resist during this delicate historical moment”.
Kurdish leaders said they would hold their erstwhile US ally and the whole international community responsible for any “humanitarian catastrophe”.
Turkey says it wants to establish a 'safe zone' on the Syrian side of the border
In Ras al-Ain, Kurdish-led security forces set up checkpoints and stockpiled tyres to set alight to blur the vision of Turkish military pilots, an AFP correspondent reported.
Ras al-Ain was one of the places from which US troops withdrew on Monday.
“We will not leave this land,” said Kaws Seem, a 32-year-old Ras al-Ain resident.
“War has been chasing us for years, and everyday Erdogan threatens us with a new attack,” he added.
- ‘Massive opposition’ -
The Kurdish-led SDF say they lost 11,000 personnel in years of operations against IS that climaxed in March with a battle against the final bastion of the jihadists’ caliphate in Baghouz.
Trump's apparent green light to his Turkish counterpart has sparked a chorus of domestic and international criticism
Trump has faced a barrage of criticism, including from close allies in Washington, for appearing to leave US allies to their fate.
Senior Republican senator Lindsey Graham argued the US administration had “shamelessly abandoned” the Kurds.
There has also been a chorus of international concern, including from France and Britain – the top US partners in the anti-IS coalition – and Russia, now even more firmly the main foreign player in Syria.
Since 2015, Russia has been the main military backer of the Syrian government, which has seized on the policy shift from Trump to try to persuade the Kurds to accept the restoration of central government control.
Regional heavyweight Saudi Arabia also condemned the offensive, arguing it would have “negative repercussions on the security and stability of the region”.
The Kurds have warned that a Turkish offensive would reverse the military gains achieved against IS and allow the jihadist group’s surviving leaders to come out of hiding.
Two jihadists reported to be Britons part of a group dubbed “The Beatles” – accused of abducting and decapitating hostages including American journalist James Foley – were taken into US custody and moved out of the country, a defence official said.
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BuyZombie
HorrorReview
‘Ghoulish: The Art of Gary Pullin’ 2nd Edition Coming May 7th from 1984 Publishing
by Sheri White | Apr 8, 2019 | Art News, Book News | 0 comments
“Like a modern Frankenstein, Gary reanimates nostalgia and unleashes it to bite your ass!” – Guillermo del Toro
To celebrate the one year anniversary of Ghoulish: The Art of Gary Pullin (and the quick sellout of the first print run), an all-new second edition is announcing today! It features a new exclusive cover (limited to 1,000 copies), as well as The Prowler Edition featuring an 8×10 3-D print of The Prowler with branded glasses!
Street date of both editions is May 7th.
The Prowler Edition (limited to 200 copies) can be pre-ordered exclusively at 1984Publishing.com. 100 will be available on-line, and another 100 allocated for upcoming appearances by Gary. http://tinyurl.com/TheProwlerEdition
The base edition is available over at Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/Amazon-Ghoulish
Gary’s book (written by April Snellings) was also recently nominated as horror book of the year! Voting is currently underway at http://tinyurl.com/RondoGhoulish.
For more than ten years artist Gary Pullin has been taking art galleries, movie theater walls, and social media by storm with his fresh, inventive takes on film, music, and television properties. Equal parts nightmare and nostalgia, his instantly recognizable style always strikes a chord with fans, and his coveted and acclaimed pieces sell out in lightning speed.
A go-to artist for official film artwork, concert merchandise, LP packaging, and endless other pieces of pop culture ephemera, Pullin has put pencil to paper for film posters such as Friday the 13th, A Nightmare on Elm Street, Halloween, The Big Lebowski, Vertigo, and The Babadook, soundtracks including Creepshow, Scream, Christine, and Tales from the Crypt, and concert merch for the likes of Jack White, Alice Cooper, and Misfits.
Featuring hundreds of full-color illustrations, lavish cover galleries, and never-before-seen concept and process shots, Ghoulish: The Art of Gary Pullin is both a celebration of one artist’s remarkable career and an indispensable snapshot of the thriving world of genre art. Go behind the scenes with Gary, let your jaw drop at his brilliant, long out-of-print artwork, and get ghoulishly inspired by an unforgettable pop artist.
About Sheri White
Creepy Cocoa Crisp M&M’s – Halloween Candy - October 8, 2019
BELA’S BREW COFFEE is Now Available at Fright Rags! - October 8, 2019
‘The Moonlight Man’ – Short Horror Film - October 7, 2019
Ti West’s THE HOUSE OF THE DEVIL Returns To Theaters - October 7, 2019
‘The Cop Cam’ – Short Horror Film - October 4, 2019
Check Out the Trailer for Patrick Lussier’s TRICK, Coming to Theaters, VOD, and Digital HD on October 18th - October 4, 2019
Check Out the Trailer for THE GALLOWS ACT II, Coming to Theaters and VOD This October - October 1, 2019
Chelsea Stardust’s SATANIC PANIC Coming to Blu-ray and DVD on October 22nd - October 1, 2019
Fright-Rags Welcomes Fall with SAW and CANDY CORN Merchandise - September 30, 2019
NOS4A2 SEASON 1 Coming to Blu-ray and DVD on October 22nd - September 30, 2019
Crestwood Lake is a secluded town in northern Vermont, spawned from the
Salem Witch Trials. In a saga spanning four hundred years and two
continents, Satan and his coven of witches are determined to reclaim the
tortured community and establish a Hell on Earth. markvogel.info
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Home » Opinion » Project Syndicate » Why the plastic crisis matters
Why the plastic crisis matters
Nov 17,2019 - Last updated at Nov 17,2019
By Froilan Grate, Lili Fuhr
MANILA — Plastics have become a hot topic. News stories about plastic on beaches and in the oceans abound, and policymakers have begun to respond with bans or limitations on plastic bags and single-use plastic items.
But the plastics industry is fighting back, arguing that plastics are indispensable, and that the real problem is littering consumers and poor waste-management systems. According to the industry’s talking points, bedridden hospital patients and the elderly depend on bendy straws, and phasing out shrink-wrap on vegetables will lead to a food-spoilage disaster.
No one doubts that waste management in much of the developing world, and even in many richer countries, needs to be improved. Governments urgently need to invest in better waste-collection and processing systems. But the rich world must also stop exporting its worthless plastic waste to poor countries for so-called “recycling”. All too often, the trash that Europeans and Americans sort and separate into different bins ends up in containers bound for Southeast Asia, to be picked up by underpaid workers in hazardous conditions. Ultimately, much of it ends up in dumpsites or waterways anyway.
More to the point, the flood of plastic into our natural systems is linked directly to the other forces that are destroying our environment, decimating biodiversity, fuelling climate change and depleting natural resources. That is the main finding of the Plastic Atlas, recently published by the Heinrich Böll Foundation and the Break Free From Plastic Movement.
As the Atlas, a compendium of facts, figures, and background information on the synthetic polymers that have become an integral part of our lives over the last 70 years, makes clear, the plastics industry has been selling us a false narrative. The plastics crisis is much more than a waste-management problem. The real story starts as soon as oil and gas are extracted from the ground, and continues long after plastic waste enters the ocean and other ecosystems. Not only is plastic production a major source of greenhouse-gas emissions; it also releases a wide range of other chemicals into the environment, many of which end up in our lungs and stomachs.
Thus, while efforts to tackle waste are important, they must not distract attention from the main problem: The world is producing far too much plastic in the first place. Between 1950 and 2017, around 9.2 billion tons of plastic were produced globally, which is equivalent to more than one tonne per living person today. Worse, over half of that plastic has been churned out since 2000, and the rate of production continues to accelerate, with no slowdown in sight.
According to recent estimates, plastic production and incineration could emit 56 billion tons of carbon dioxide equivalent by 2050, accounting for 10-13 per cent of the total carbon budget we can “spend” by mid-century under current emissions-reduction commitments. By the end of the century, plastic-related emissions could amount to half the total carbon budget.
The climate crisis and the plastics crisis are two sides of the same coin. To keep global warming within an acceptable range, we absolutely must reduce the amount of plastic we produce, consume and discard. And no, this is not a problem that we can recycle our way out of. Less than 10 per cent of all plastics ever produced have been recycled. In the case of the United States, under 10 per cent of plastic waste is recycled; the rest is incinerated or dumped in landfills.
While better waste-management and more recycling are both imperative, the only real, lasting solution is to produce less plastic in the first place. We must start by cutting down on the plastic packaging that accounts for 40 per cent of all plastic waste. The first step is to phase out single-use items such as plastic grocery and garbage bags, cutlery, and, yes, those wonderful bendy straws.
Humankind must find ways to get by without laying waste to the planet. That means reducing, in absolute terms, the amount of material we use throughout the economy. It also means halting the development of petrochemical facilities that produce plastics and other highly polluting materials. More broadly, we must force manufacturers to change their distribution and delivery systems towards refillable and reusable systems, and to take responsibility for the damage their products cause.
Some of these measures are already being adopted. In Asia, entire cities are moving toward zero-waste solutions through decentralised community-led and centered initiatives, bans on single-use plastics, and lobbying against waste incineration. Many of the solutions remain to be discovered and developed; but Asia is proving to be the engine of change.
The movement for zero waste is growing at the global level. It is naming and shaming the corporations that churn out the most plastic. And it is pushing governments to ban fracking and drilling, mandate reduced production of plastic and champion reuse and refill solutions.
If there is one thing that can stop the flood of plastic, it is greater accountability. And accountability, in turn, relies on good data and information. We must expose and publicise the truth about plastic, and counter the misleading narratives propagated by the plastics industry. The Plastic Atlas represents an opportunity to turn the page.
Froilan Grate is executive director of GAIA Asia Pacific in Manila. Lili Fuhr is head of the International Environmental Policy Division of the Heinrich Böll Foundation in Berlin. ©Project Syndicate, 2016.
www.project-syndicate.org
Realising the promise of African healthcare
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Was Marx right?
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Research ArticleCellular and Molecular
Ligand-Independent Adenosine A2B Receptor Constitutive Activity as a Promoter of Prostate Cancer Cell Proliferation
Elizabeth A. Vecchio, Christina Y. R. Tan, Karen J. Gregory, Arthur Christopoulos, Paul J. White and Lauren T. May
Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics April 2016, 357 (1) 36-44; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1124/jpet.115.230003
Elizabeth A. Vecchio
Drug Discovery Biology and Department of Pharmacology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
Christina Y. R. Tan
Karen J. Gregory
Arthur Christopoulos
Paul J. White
Lauren T. May
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Aberrant ligand-independent G protein–coupled receptor constitutive activity has been implicated in the pathophysiology of a number of cancers. The adenosine A2B receptor (A2BAR) is dynamically upregulated under pathologic conditions associated with a hypoxic microenvironment, including solid tumors. This, in turn, may amplify ligand-independent A2BAR signal transduction. The contribution of A2BAR constitutive activity to disease progression is currently unknown yet of fundamental importance, as the preferred therapeutic modality for drugs designed to reduce A2BAR constitutive activity would be inverse agonism as opposed to neutral antagonism. The current study investigated A2BAR constitutive activity in a heterologous expression system and a native 22Rv1 human prostate cancer cell line exposed to hypoxic conditions (2% O2). The A2BAR inverse agonists, ZM241385 [4-(2-[7-amino-2-(2-furyl)[1,2,4]triazolo[2,3-a][1,3,5]triazin-5-ylamino]ethyl)phenol] or PSB-603 (8-(4-(4-(4-chlorophenyl)piperazide-1-sulfonyl)phenyl)-1-propylxanthine), mediated a concentration-dependent decrease in baseline cAMP levels in both cellular systems. Proliferation of multiple prostate cancer cell lines was also attenuated in the presence of PSB-603. Importantly, both the decrease in baseline cAMP accumulation and the reduction of proliferation were not influenced by the addition of adenosine deaminase, demonstrating that these effects are not dependent on stimulation of A2BARs by the endogenous agonist adenosine. Our study is the first to reveal that wild-type human A2BARs have high constitutive activity in both model and native cells. Furthermore, our findings demonstrate that this ligand-independent A2BAR constitutive activity is sufficient to promote prostate cancer cell proliferation in vitro. More broadly, A2BAR constitutive activity may have wider, currently unappreciated implications in pathologic conditions associated with a hypoxic microenvironment.
Ligand-independent activation of G protein–coupled receptors (GPCRs), known as constitutive activity, is an established biologic phenomenon that results from the spontaneous isomerization of receptors from inactive to active states (Lefkowitz et al., 1993; Parra and Bond, 2007). The two-state model of receptor activation (Leff, 1995), which condenses the vast array of possible receptor conformations into either an active (R*) or inactive (R) form, provides the simplest conceptual framework for understanding constitutive activity and, in turn, inverse agonism. Inverse agonists selectively stabilize the R state of the receptor and thus inhibit both ligand-dependent and ligand-independent signal transduction. By contrast, agonists preferentially stabilize the R* state of the receptor, whereas neutral antagonists have equal affinity for both receptor states and only inhibit ligand-dependent effects (Strange, 2002; Milligan, 2003). Over the past three decades, the experimental capability to detect constitutive activity has enabled the reclassification of many clinically used antagonists as inverse agonists (Bond and Ijzerman, 2006). Although many GPCRs can be engineered or overexpressed to display some level of constitutive activity (Chalmers and Behan, 2002), the realization that mutant GPCRs with aberrant intrinsic activity can have a critical role in disease progression revealed the therapeutic potential for inverse agonists (Seifert and Wenzel-Seifert, 2002). Indeed, the degree of potential inverse agonism should be considered in the rational design and screening of drug candidates for disease states in which constitutive activity is known to be important (Milligan and IJzerman, 2000; Bond and IJzerman, 2006). As constitutive activity is linked to the proportion of receptors in the active receptor state (Parra and Bond, 2007), previously unidentified constitutive activity may also become evident in settings where receptor overexpression occurs as a direct consequence of disease pathology. This is particularly relevant for cancerous cells within solid tumors, where the hypoxic microenvironment promotes the upregulation of many receptors and proteins under the influence of hypoxia inducible factor 1-α (HIF-1α) control (Semenza, 2000; Subarsky and Hill, 2003).
The adenosine A2B receptor (A2BAR) is one of four structurally similar adenosine GPCRs that display distinct pharmacological profiles via differential coupling to Gi/o (A1AR and A3AR) or Gs (A2AAR and A2BAR) proteins. The A2BAR is a pleiotropically coupled GPCR, signaling via both Gs and Gq proteins (Linden et al., 1999; Fredholm et al., 2001a), and represents a key example of a highly dynamic GPCR whose expression is modified by disease. The A2BAR is significantly upregulated by HIF-1α in a number of cancers (Li et al., 2005), including human prostate cancer (Wei et al., 2013; Mousavi et al., 2015). Until recently, the A2BAR was presumed to have minor physiologic significance, in part due to its relatively low affinity for the endogenous agonist adenosine (Feoktistov and Biaggioni, 1997; Fredholm et al., 2001b). However the substantial increase in extracellular adenosine concentration (Sommerschild and Kirkebøen, 2000) and the upregulation of A2BAR expression under pathologic conditions such as hypoxia (Kong et al., 2006) and inflammation (Ham and Rees, 2008) suggest a possible maladaptive role of the A2BAR. Consequently, A2BAR antagonists are currently being explored as a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of inflammation (Ham and Rees, 2008), asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (Polosa and Blackburn, 2009), and diabetic nephropathy (Cárdenas et al., 2013). Importantly, recent studies have revealed a pivotal role for A2BAR signaling in cancer cell proliferation and progression of solid tumors of the bladder, breast, colon, and prostate (Ma et al., 2010; Cekic et al., 2012; Wei et al., 2013). However, no study to date has determined whether the dynamic regulation of the A2BAR results in constitutive activity, and whether this process, in addition to or independently of the influence of adenosine tone, contributes to any observed pathophysiology.
Thus, the current study profiled A2BAR constitutive activity within both a heterologous system and a native 22Rv1 human prostate cancer cell line, probing elevated basal activity with inverse agonists. To investigate the potential significance of constitutive activity on cancer pathophysiology, we subsequently examined the effect of the A2BAR inverse agonist 8-(4-(4-(4-chlorophenyl)piperazide-1-sulfonyl)phenyl)-1-propylxanthine (PSB-603) on the proliferation of two different prostate cancer cell lines in an environment depleted of extracellular endogenous adenosine. Our findings suggest that not only is the A2BAR constitutively active, but this ligand-independent activity is sufficient to drive prostate cancer cell proliferation. Thus, we have identified a novel mechanism by which the A2BAR contributes to disease pathology and supports the development of inverse agonists, rather than neutral antagonists, as potential A2BAR therapeutics.
Materials.
The AlphaScreen cAMP and SureFire phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2 (pERK1/2) kits, Ultima Gold scintillation cocktail, and cyclopentyl-1, 3-dipropylxanthine, 8-[dipropyl-2, 3-3H(N)] ([3H]DPCPX) were obtained from PerkinElmer Life and Analytical Sciences (Waltham, MA). The IP-One homogeneous time-resolved fluorescence (HTRF) kit was obtained from Cisbio Bioassays (Codolet, France). 22Rv1 and DU145 cells were purchased from American Type Culture Collection (ATCC; Manassa, VA). Hygromycin B and adenosine deaminase (ADA), derived from calf intestine, were obtained from Roche Diagnostics (Mannheim, Germany). Dulbecco’s modified Eagle’s medium (DMEM), fetal bovine serum (FBS), RPMI 1640 (ATCC 30-2001 modification) medium, high-capacity cDNA transcription kit, Annexin V–Alexa Fluor 488, penicillin/streptomycin, and trypsin were purchased from Life Technologies (Carlsbad, CA). The TaqMan gene expression assay kit was obtained from Applied Biosystems (Carlsbad, CA). Adenosine receptor antagonists PSB-603, 2-(2-furanyl)-7-[3-(4-methoxyphenyl)propyl]-7H-pyrazolo[4,3-e][1,2,4]triazolo[1,5-c]pyrimidin-5-amine (SCH 442416), and 4-(2-[7-amino-2-(2-furyl)[1,2,4]triazolo[2,3-a][1,3,5]triazin-5-ylamino]ethyl)phenol (ZM241385) were all purchased from Tocris Biosciences (Bristol, UK). The RNeasy plus mini kit was obtained from Qiagen (Valencia, CA), and the Pierce BCA protein assay kit, from Thermo Scientific (Rockford, IL). All other reagents were purchased from Sigma-Aldrich (St. Louis, MO) and were of analytical quality.
Cell Culture and Membrane Preparation.
FlpIn Chinese hamster ovary (FlpInCHO) cells, stably transfected with either the human A1, A2A, A2B, or A3 adenosine receptors (A1AR-FlpInCHO, A2AAR-FlpInCHO, A2BAR-FlpInCHO and A3AR-FlpInCHO, respectively) were grown in DMEM supplemented with 10% FBS and hygromycin B (500 μg/ml). The 22Rv1 human-derived prostate cancer cell line was maintained in RPMI 1640–ATCC 30-2001 medium containing 2 mM l-glutamine, 10 mM HEPES, 1 mM sodium pyruvate, 25 mM glucose, and 18 mM sodium bicarbonate supplemented with 10% FBS. The DU145 human-derived prostate cancer cell line was grown in RPMI medium supplemented with 10% FBS. All cells were maintained at 37°C in a 5% CO2 humidified incubator, grown to confluence, and then seeded into 96-well culture plates at assay-specific densities. For membrane preparation, A2BAR-FlpInCHO cells were grown to 90% confluence before being harvested with detaching buffer (10 mM HEPES, 7 mM EDTA, 150 mM NaCl, pH 7.4) and centrifuged (250 × g, 5 minutes). The cell pellet was resuspended in HEPES homogenization buffer (10 mM HEPES and 10 mM EDTA, pH 7.4) and homogenized using a hand-held homogenizer (Polytron; Kinematica, Littau-Lucerne, Switzerland) for four 5-second intervals interspersed with 30-second cooling on ice. The homogenate was centrifuged (40,000 × g, 30 minutes, 4°C). The cell pellet was resuspended in HEPES homogenization buffer, and homogenization and centrifugation were repeated. The cell pellet was then resuspended in HEPES assay buffer (10 mM HEPES, 0.1 mM EDTA, pH 7.4), and the protein content was determined using a Pierce BCA protein assay kit according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Radioligand Binding.
Membrane homogenates of A2BAR-FlpInCHO cells (100 μg) were incubated in a 500-μl total volume of HEPES-buffered saline solution (25 mM HEPES, 10 mM glucose, 146 mM NaCl, 5 mM KCl, 1 mM MgSO4, 2 mM sodium pyruvate, and 1.3 mM CaCl2, pH 7.4) and 1 U/ml ADA at 37°C for 60 minutes. Homologous competition binding at the A2BAR-FlpInCHO was achieved by incubating membranes with [3H]DPCPX (3 or 10 nM) in the absence or presence of 0.3 nM to 10 μM 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine (DPCPX). Nonspecific binding was determined using 100 μM 5′-N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine (NECA). Incubation was terminated by rapid filtration through 0.5% polyethylenimine presoaked Whatman GF/B filters using a membrane harvester (Brandel, Gaithersburg, MD). Filters were washed four times with 2 ml of ice-cold 0.9% NaCl, dried before the addition of 4 ml of scintillation cocktail (Ultima Gold; PerkinElmer Life and Analytical Sciences), and allowed to stand for 1 hour before radioactivity was determined by scintillation counting.
cAMP Accumulation.
FlpInCHO cells and 22Rv1 cells were seeded into 96-well plates at a density of 20,000 or 40,000 cells/well, respectively, and incubated in complete cell medium for 6 hours at 37°C in a humidified incubator. 22Rv1 cells were then placed in a sealed hypoxic chamber (Hypoxia Subchamber; BioSpherix, Lacona, NY) containing 2% O2 and 5% CO2 and incubated at 37°C for 24 hours. FlpInCHO and 22RV1 cell medium was removed and replaced with 200 μl/well culture medium containing 100 U/ml penicillin and 100 μg/ml streptomycin in the absence or presence of inverse agonist (0.1 nM to 10 μM) and/or 1 U/ml ADA, and cells were incubated for 16 hours at 37°C in a 5% CO2 humidified incubator. Medium was then removed, and cells were incubated with stimulation buffer (140 mM NaCl, 5 mM KCl, 0.8 mM MgSO4, 1.3 mM CaCl2, 0.2 mM Na2HPO4, 0.44 mM KH2PO4, 5.6 mM d-glucose, 1 mg/ml bovine serum albumin, 10 μM rolipram, and 5 mM HEPES, pH 7.4) in the absence and presence of 1 U/ml ADA and/or adenosine receptor ligand (concentrations ranging from 10 pM to 10 μM) for 30 minutes at 37°C. Stimulation was terminated by the removal of medium and the addition of 50 μl/well ice-cold ethanol. Detection of cAMP was performed using the AlphaScreen cAMP kit as described previously (Koole et al., 2010). Data were analyzed against a cAMP standard curve performed in parallel and expressed as cAMP concentration per well as a fold over basal.
Phosphorylation of Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase 1 and 2.
A2BAR-FlpInCHO or 22Rv1 cells were seeded into 96-well plates (40,000 cells/well) and allowed to adhere for 6 hours. 22Rv1 cells were placed in a sealed hypoxic chamber containing 2% O2 and 5% CO2 and incubated at 37°C for 24 hours. Cells were washed with phosphate-buffered saline and maintained in serum-free DMEM for 16 hours in the absence or presence of inverse agonists (concentrations ranging from 0.1 nM to 10 μM). Cells were then exposed to serum-free medium in the absence or presence of agonist for 5 minutes (concentrations ranging from 10 pM to 100 μM) followed by the removal of medium and addition of 100 μl/well SureFire lysis buffer to each well. Detection of pERK1/2 was performed using the AlphaScreen pERK1/2 SureFire kit as described previously (May et al., 2007). Data were normalized to the response elicited upon the exposure of cells to 10% FBS for 5 minutes.
Inositol Monophosphate Accumulation.
A2BAR-FlpInCHO cells in phenol red–free medium were seeded into sterilized 384-well ProxiPlates (PerkinElmer Life and Analytical Sciences) (12,000 cells/10 μl) and incubated for 16 hours in the absence or presence of inverse agonists. 22Rv1 cells were seeded into 96-well plates (20,000 cells/well) and placed in a sealed hypoxic chamber containing 2% O2 and 5% CO2 and incubated at 37°C for 24 hours. Where appropriate, cells were exposed to agonist for 1 hour prior to inositol monophosphate (IP1) being measured using the IP-One HTRF accumulation kit (Cisbio Bioassays), according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and detected with an EnVision microplate reader (PerkinElmer Life and Analytical Sciences) using standard HTRF settings (665-/630-nm ratio). Results were analyzed as an inverse ratio, with IP1 concentrations extrapolated from the IP1 standard curve performed in parallel.
Expression of Adenosine Receptor mRNA.
22Rv1 cells were harvested using 0.05% trypsin/0.53 mM EDTA solution. RNA was extracted using the RNeasy Plus Mini kit (Qiagen) according to the manufacturer’s instructions. RNA concentration was measured at 260 nm with a NanoDrop ND-1000 spectrophotometer (NanoDrop Technologies, Wilmington, DE). Total RNA (2 µg) was then used for cDNA synthesis using the High Capacity cDNA Transcription Kit (LifeTechnologies, Carlsbad, CA) according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) validation was performed using TaqMan Gene Expression assays to detect and quantitate gene transcripts of human A1AR (TaqMan probe: Hs00379752_m1), A2AAR (TaqMan probe: Hs00169123_m1), A2BAR (TaqMan probe: Hs00386497_m1), and A3AR (TaqMan probe: Hs00252933_m1). In brief, cDNA samples were diluted 1:4 in nuclease-free water and mixed with TaqMan Fast Advanced Master Mix (Applied Biosystems). RT-PCR was performed using the Mastercycler ep realplex system (Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany). Samples were analyzed in duplicate. The fluorescence threshold values were obtained, and calculation of relative change in mRNA was performed using the comparative delta delta cycle threshold method as described previously (Livak and Schmittgen, 2001) with normalization for the endogenous control β-actin (TaqMan probe: Hs01060665_g1).
Cell Proliferation and Cell Viability.
22Rv1 and DU145 cells were seeded in 96-well plates at 3000 cells/well in 200 μl of complete medium and cultured for 16 hours at 37°C. Cells were then exposed to complete medium in the absence or presence of inverse agonists PSB-603 (1 μM) or SCH 442416 (100 nM; 22Rv1 cells only) and/or 1 U/ml ADA for 24 or 48 hours. Cells were maintained in a hypoxic chamber containing 2% O2 and 5% CO2 at 37°C for the duration of the experiment. Medium, inverse agonists, and ADA were refreshed every 24 hours. Cell proliferation was determined after labeling with 3-(4,5- dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT). Absorbance of the converted dye was determined by subtraction of the background signal at 690 nm from the measured absorbance at 570 nm on a FlexStationIII plate reader (Molecular Devices, Sunnyvale, CA). 22Rv1 cell viability was determined with annexin V and propidium iodide (PI) staining. 22Rv1 cells, grown in petri dishes and exposed to the same conditions described for cell proliferation assays, were harvested in annexin-binding buffer (10 mM HEPES, 140 mM NaCl, and 2.5 mM CaCl2, pH 7.4) and stained with Annexin V–Alexa Fluor 488 (5/100 μl) and PI (5 μg/ml) for 15 minutes at room temperature. Samples were immediately analyzed using the BD fluorescence-activated cell sorter (FACS) CantoII flow cytometer (BD Biosciences, San Jose, CA).
All data were analyzed using Prism 6.0 (GraphPad Software Inc., San Diego, CA). Statistical significance was defined as P < 0.05 as determined by one-way or two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Tukey’s or Bonferroni’s multiple comparisons post-hoc analysis or t test, as indicated within the results.
The A2BAR-FlpInCHO Cell Line Has Elevated Basal cAMP.
Parental and adenosine receptor FlpInCHO cell lines, assessed in parallel, demonstrated significant differences in baseline cAMP accumulation. Specifically, the A2BAR-FlpInCHO cell line had significantly higher baseline cAMP when compared with the parental, A1AR-, A2AAR-, and A3AR-FlpInCHO cell lines (Fig. 1; P < 0.01, one-way ANOVA Tukey’s multiple comparison test, n = 5). Receptor number can influence basal cAMP accumulation through constitutive activation of adenylyl cyclase (Nakahara et al., 2004); as such, we sought to determine the level of adenosine receptor expression in the stably transfected A2B-FlpInCHO cell line. [3H]DPCPX homologous competition binding on membrane homogenates of A2BAR-FlpInCHO cell membranes yielded an affinity estimate (pKd of 6.87 ± 0.10; Supplemental Fig. 1) that was similar to published values (Weyler et al., 2006). Importantly, the A2BAR was not grossly overexpressed, with a Bmax value of 3.13 ± 0.61 pmol mg protein−1, which is comparable to other GPCRs expressed in the FlpInCHO cell system (Yan et al., 2009; Gregory et al., 2010).
Human A2BAR-FlpInCHO cells have a higher level of baseline cAMP than the parental or other AR-FlpInCHO cells. Basal levels of cAMP accumulation in nontransfected (NT), A1AR-, A2AAR-, A2BAR-, and A3AR-FlpInCHO cells. **P < 0.01, one-way ANOVA; Tukey’s multiple comparison test. Data represent the mean + S.E.M. from five independent experiments performed in triplicate.
Concentration-Response Relationships for Adenosine Receptor Agonists and Inverse Agonists Reveal A2BAR Constitutive Activity for Gs-Coupled cAMP Accumulation.
In A2BAR-FlpInCHO cells, a robust and concentration-dependent stimulation of cAMP accumulation was observed for the nonselective adenosine receptor agonists, NECA and adenosine (Fig. 2A), with NECA 80-fold more potent than adenosine with respect to cAMP stimulation (Table 1). A2BAR constitutive activity was assessed by exposure of A2BAR-FlpInCHO cells to the A2BAR inverse agonists PSB-603 and ZM241385. PSB-603 and ZM241385 both mediated a significant and concentration-dependent reduction in baseline cAMP accumulation (Fig. 2A; P < 0.001, paired t test, n = 4–7). The observed decrease in baseline cAMP accumulation in the presence of inverse agonist is consistent with either inhibition of endogenous agonist activity or a reduction in constitutive activity. To investigate the influence of endogenous adenosine, concentration-response curves to agonists and inverse agonists were repeated in the presence of 1 U/ml ADA. ADA had no significant effect on the potency (pEC50) or maximal effect (Emax) of NECA, but abolished the cAMP accumulation mediated by exogenous adenosine up to 10 μM (Fig. 2B; Table 1; P > 0.05, unpaired t test, no statistical significance for pEC50 or Emax of NECA ± ADA, n = 4–7). The concentration-dependent decrease in cAMP accumulation observed upon exposure of A2BAR-FlpInCHO cells to PSB-603 or ZM241385 was maintained in the presence of ADA (Fig. 2B; P < 0.001, paired t test, n = 4–7). Furthermore, the potency and maximal effect of ZM241385 or PSB-603 were not significantly different from that observed in the absence of ADA (Table 1; P > 0.05, unpaired t test, n = 4–7).
Inverse agonism of cAMP accumulation reveals A2BAR constitutive activity. (A) In the absence of ADA, exposure of A2BAR-FlpInCHO cells to the prototypical adenosine receptor agonists NECA or adenosine mediates robust increases in cAMP, whereas the A2BAR inverse agonists ZM241385 or PSB-603 significantly decrease baseline cAMP levels. (B) In the presence of 1 U/ml ADA, NECA mediates a robust increase in cAMP accumulation, the A2BAR inverse agonists ZM241385 or PSB-603 significantly decrease baseline cAMP levels, whereas the response to adenosine is abolished. ***P < 0.001; paired t test. Data represent the mean + S.E.M. from four to seven independent experiments performed in triplicate. Error bars not shown lie within the dimensions of the symbol.
Potency (pEC50) and maximal response (Emax) of A2BAR-mediated changes in cAMP accumulation in the presence and absence of ADA in A2BAR-FlpInCHO cells
Data are the mean ± S.E.M. from four or more independent experiments performed in triplicate.
A2BAR Constitutive Activity Cannot Be Detected at Alternative Signal Transduction Pathways, ERK1/2 Phosphorylation, and IP1 Accumulation.
The A2BAR is a pleiotropically coupled GPCR, signaling via both Gs and Gq proteins (Linden et al., 1999; Fredholm et al., 2001a). To investigate the constitutive activation of alternate A2BAR signaling pathways, the influence of agonists and inverse agonists on baseline pERK1/2 (Fig. 3A) and IP1 accumulation (Fig. 3B) was assessed. Concentration-dependent increases in pERK1/2 and IP1 accumulation in the A2BAR-FlpInCHO cells were observed in the presence of NECA or adenosine, albeit at lower potencies than those observed in the cAMP accumulation assay (Fig. 3). Specifically, the potency (pEC50) of NECA-mediated pERK1/2 and IP1 accumulation was 6.69 ± 0.07 and 5.74 ± 0.20, respectively, whereas the pEC50 for adenosine-mediated pERK1/2 was 5.55 ± 0.07 and could not be determined for IP1 accumulation. The inverse agonists, PSB-603 or ZM241385, had no effect on baseline pERK1/2 or IP1 accumulation at any concentration assessed (0.1 nM to 100 μM) (Fig. 3). Concentration-dependent increases in pERK1/2 and IP1 accumulation in the presence of NECA and adenosine could not be detected in 22Rv1 cells (Supplemental Fig. 2).
Inverse agonism was not observed for A2BAR-mediated ERK1/2 phosphorylation (A) or IP1 accumulation (B) in A2BAR-FlpInCHO cells. Data represent the mean + S.E.M. from four independent experiments performed in triplicate. Error bars not shown lie within the dimensions of the symbol.
Hypoxia-Inducible A2BARs in the 22Rv1 Human Prostate Cancer Cell Line Are Constitutively Active.
RT-PCR analysis of the 22Rv1 prostate cancer cells detected a high level of A2AAR mRNA, a moderate level of A2BAR mRNA, and a low level of A1AR mRNA (Fig. 4A). A3AR mRNA was below the level of detection. As demonstrated previously in other human carcinoma cell lines (Kong et al., 2006; Ma et al., 2010), expression of A2BAR mRNA was significantly upregulated after 8 hours of hypoxia (2% O2/5% CO2; P < 0.01, two-way ANOVA Bonferroni’s multiple comparison test, n = 3). In contrast, no significant differences were observed in the level of A1AR and A2AAR mRNA detected under normoxic conditions or after 8 hours of hypoxia (Fig. 4B).
A2BAR mRNA expression is upregulated under hypoxic conditions in the 22Rv1 prostate cancer cell line. (A) The relative expression of human A1AR, A2AAR, and A2BAR mRNA in 22Rv1 prostate cancer cells under normoxic conditions. A3AR mRNA was below the level of detection. (B) A1AR, A2AAR, and A2BAR mRNA expression after exposure of 22Rv1 prostate cancer cells to 8-hour hypoxia (2% O2/5% CO2) normalized to respective normoxic control. **P < 0.01, two-way ANOVA, Bonferroni’s multiple comparison test. Data represent the mean + S.E.M. from three independent experiments.
Constitutive A2BAR activity in 22Rv1 prostate cancer cells was investigated after exposure of cells to hypoxia, the condition for which increased A2BAR expression is likely to be observed. Specifically, the influence on cAMP accumulation in 22Rv1 prostate cancer cells was quantified for the nonselective adenosine receptor agonists NECA or adenosine, the A2BAR inverse agonists PSB-603 or ZM241385, and the A2AAR-selective antagonist SCH 442416 after 24 hours of hypoxia (2% O2/5% CO2). The A2AAR-selective antagonist, SCH 442416, was used to evaluate the influence the highly expressed A2AAR had on baseline cAMP. Robust concentration-dependent increases in cAMP were detected in both the absence and presence of 1 U/ml ADA for NECA and in the absence of ADA for adenosine (Fig. 5, A and B). The A2AAR-selective inverse agonist SCH 442416 had no effect on baseline cAMP under either condition tested (Fig. 5, C and D). In the absence of ADA, ZM241385 or PSB-603 mediated concentration-dependent decreases in basal cAMP with similar potencies (Fig. 5C). Furthermore, the small but significant window of inverse agonism was maintained in the presence of ADA (Fig. 5D; P < 0.05, paired t test, n = 3–4). The ability of ZM241385 or PSB-603 to inhibit ligand-independent cAMP accumulation in the 22Rv1 cells with similar potency to that observed in the A2BAR-FlpInCHO cells (ZM241385 pEC50: 8.44 ± 0.45 and 8.00 ± 0.26, respectively; PSB-603 pEC50: 7.67 ± 0.30 and 8.33 ± 0.38, respectively) reveals that A2BAR constitutive activity can be observed in both model heterologous expression systems and endogenous expression systems.
A2BARs endogenously expressed in 22Rv1 prostate cancer cells are constitutively active. (A) In the absence of ADA, the prototypical A2BAR agonists NECA or adenosine mediate robust increases in cAMP after 30-minute stimulation. (B) In the presence of ADA, NECA mediates a robust increase in cAMP accumulation, whereas the response to adenosine is abolished. (C and D) The A2AAR antagonist SCH 442416 had no effect on baseline cAMP accumulation. The A2BAR inverse agonists ZM241385 and PSB-603 mediate small but significant decreases in baseline cAMP in the absence (C) and presence (D) of 1 U/ml ADA. 22Rv1 cells were exposed to 24-hour hypoxia (2% O2/5% CO2) immediately prior to detection of cAMP accumulation. *P < 0.05, paired t test. Data represent the mean + S.E.M. from three to four independent experiments performed in triplicate. Error bars not shown lie within the dimensions of the symbol.
A2BAR Constitutive Activity Promotes Proliferation of 22Rv1 Human Prostate Cancer Cells.
The influence of A2BAR constitutive activity on the proliferation and survival of the 22Rv1 human prostate cancer cell line was investigated under hypoxic conditions (2% O2/5% CO2). As described previously, 1 U/ml ADA (refreshed every 24 hours) was used to investigate the influence of endogenous adenosine. Importantly, the activity of ADA after 24 hours at 37°C was confirmed in signal transduction assays (Supplemental Fig. 3). Over a 48-hour period, the A2BAR inverse agonist, PSB-603 (1 μM), significantly reduced 22Rv1 cell proliferation when compared with the respective buffer control, both in the absence and presence of ADA, determined using an MTT proliferation assay (Fig. 6A; P < 0.01, two-way ANOVA Tukey’s multiple comparison test, n = 5). Similar results were also observed in the DU145 prostate cancer cell line, whereby PSB-603 (1 μM) significantly reduced basal cell proliferation at 48 hours (Supplemental Fig. 4; P < 0.05, two-way ANOVA Tukey’s multiple comparison test, n = 4). A limitation of the MTT assay is that it does not differentiate between cell quiescence and increased cell death (Carmichael et al., 1987). Therefore, the 22Rv1 cells were also subjected to annexin V and PI staining and analyzed via FACS to assess whether PSB-603 had a significant influence on cell viability. The inverse agonist, PSB-603 (1 μM), had no significant effect on the percentage of nonviable annexin V or PI-positive cells after 48 hours (Fig. 6B; P > 0.05, two-way ANOVA Tukey’s multiple comparison test, n = 3). Thus, the reduced absorbance observed in the MTT assay is likely to be due to PSB-603 causing a decrease in proliferation as opposed to having a cytotoxic effect. The level of A2AAR mRNA was relatively high in 22Rv1 cells (Fig. 4A). To investigate whether inhibition of the A2AAR could also influence the proliferation of 22Rv1 cells, cells were exposed to the highly selective A2AAR antagonist, SCH 442416 (100 nM), and assessed in the MTT assay as described earlier. Over a 48-hour period, SCH 442416 (100 nM) had no significant effect on 22Rv1 cell proliferation (Fig. 6C; P > 0.05, two-way ANOVA Tukey’s multiple comparison test, n = 5).
The A2BAR inverse agonist PSB-603 decreased proliferation of 22Rv1 prostate cancer cells over 48 hours. (A) PSB-603 (1 μM) significantly decreased the proliferation of 22Rv1 cells in the absence (closed symbols) and presence (open symbols) of 1 U/ml ADA as determined by MTT absorbance. **P < 0.01 compared with respective buffer control; two-way ANOVA, Tukey’s multiple comparison test. (B) The A2BAR inverse agonist PSB-603 (1 μM) has no effect on cell viability after 48 hours, as assessed by the proportion of annexin V, PI, or double positive cells, in the absence and presence of 1 U/ml ADA. (C) The A2AAR-selective antagonist SCH 442416 (100 nM) had no effect on the proliferation of 22Rv1 cells in the absence (closed symbols) or presence (open symbols) of 1 U/ml ADA. 22Rv1 cells seeded at 3000 cells/well and maintained under hypoxia (2% O2/5% CO2), with medium, drugs, and ADA refreshed every 24 hours. Data represent the mean + S.E.M. from five (A and C) or three (B) independent experiments performed in triplicate. Error bars not shown lie within the dimensions of the symbol. +ve, positive.
This study is the first to characterize the constitutive activity of the human wild-type A2BAR within both a heterologous FlpInCHO system and the native 22Rv1 prostate cancer cell line. Constitutive activity of the A2BAR was revealed through the detection of inverse agonism of cAMP accumulation under conditions that removed extracellular endogenous agonist. Furthermore, we identified a pathophysiological consequence for the elevated ligand-independent activity. That is, A2BAR constitutive activity stimulated proliferation of the 22Rv1 cell line, a finding that was confirmed in the DU145 prostate cancer cell line. As such, our studies indicate that future drug discovery efforts should differentiate A2BAR inverse agonists from neutral antagonists, as the former may prove a better potential therapeutic approach to slow prostate tumor progression. In addition, our studies suggest that ligand-independent constitutive activity should be taken into consideration when investigating the role of A2BARs in other disease pathologies.
Experimental observations for A2BAR ligand-mediated changes in cAMP accumulation are in accordance with a constitutively active system described by the two-state model of receptor activation (Leff, 1995; Bennett et al., 2013). In this model, the intrinsic efficacy of a ligand is governed by its relative affinity for the R verses R* state (Burstein et al., 1997). As such, an increase in agonist potency but a decrease in inverse agonist potency is predicted for a receptor system that has a high proportion of receptors existing in the R* state—that is, a constitutively active receptor system. In agreement with the two-state model, the NECA potency in the cAMP accumulation assay is approximately 100-fold higher than its affinity at the R state as estimated using antagonist 125I-3-(4-amino-3-iodobenzyl)-8-(phenyl-4-oxyacetate)-1-propylxanthine ([125I]ABOPX) binding (Linden et al., 1999). Conversely the functional potency of the inverse agonist PSB-603 is 10-fold lower than the R-state affinity as estimated using homologous [3H]PSB-603 competition binding (Borrmann et al., 2009). Therefore, the experimentally observed shift in agonist and inverse agonist potencies in the present study is in accordance with the two-state model and supports the suggestion that a significant proportion of A2BARs exist in the R* state.
Constitutive activity has previously been demonstrated for GPCRs coupling to each of the different heterotrimeric G proteins (Barker et al., 1994; Neilan et al., 1999; Hopkinson et al., 2000). Because A2BAR constitutive activity was only observed in the cAMP accumulation assay, this may reflect preferential ligand-independent stabilization of a Gs-coupled active receptor conformation. This contention is supported by studies of other pleiotropically coupled GPCRs, for which constitutive activity manifests exclusively in the Gs-coupled pathway, such as the gain–of-function mutation in the luteinizing hormone receptor responsible for precocious puberty and the hyperthyroidism-causing mutation of the thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor (Kopp et al., 1995; Liu et al., 1999; Seifert and Wenzel-Seifert, 2002). However, it is important to note that NECA and adenosine have a 20- to 2000-fold higher potency for cAMP when compared with IP1 and pERK1/2 in the A2BAR-FlpInCHO cell background and no detectable Gq-mediated activity in the 22Rv1 cells, suggesting that the A2BAR has a higher coupling efficiency for Gs- rather than Gq-coupled signaling. Therefore, it is possible that the cAMP accumulation assay is the only method sensitive enough to detect small changes below a baseline level (Seifert and Wenzel-Seifert, 2002). Regardless of mechanism, it is apparent that the elevated baseline cAMP is attributable to constitutive coupling to Gs proteins and supports the possibility for A2BAR constitutive activity pathway bias.
To determine whether the A2BAR constitutive activity observed in the heterologous system was relevant in an endogenous setting, we first used the 22Rv1, xenograft-derived human prostate carcinoma epithelial cell line. This cell line was selected based on previous reports of endogenous A2BAR expression within prostate cancer cells (Wei et al., 2013). Under hypoxic conditions, such as those observed within a tumor microenvironment (Subarsky and Hill, 2003; Ryzhov et al., 2008), A2BAR expression is increased by HIF-1α (Kong et al., 2006; Eckle et al., 2014). Adenosine receptor–mediated cAMP accumulation was assessed after 24 hours hypoxia (2% O2/5% CO2) to allow for A2BAR upregulation, thus enhancing the ability to detect constitutive activity (Nakahara et al., 2004). The nonselective agonists, NECA or adenosine, produced substantial increases in cAMP, likely due to the nonselective stimulation of A2BARs and A2AARs, both of which preferentially couple to Gs proteins. The A2BAR inverse agonists ZM241385 and PSB-603 produced a concentration-dependent decrease in baseline activity in the presence and absence of ADA, whereas the A2AAR-selective antagonist SCH 442416 had no effect on baseline cAMP levels. Given adenosine has a higher affinity for the A2AAR than the A2BAR (Liang and Haltiwanger, 1995; Fredholm et al., 2001b), we would anticipate that, if ZM241385 and PSB-603 were simply inhibiting the effects of residual endogenous adenosine, then a comparable or larger effect on baseline cAMP should be observed in the presence of an A2AAR-selective competitive antagonist. As such, the absence of an effect in the presence of A2AAR blockade argues against the possibility of a contaminating influence of endogenous adenosine and instead further supports appreciable A2BAR constitutive activity in the 22Rv1 prostate cancer cell line.
A2BAR expression at both the mRNA and protein level is higher in malignant prostate cancer tissue from human patients when compared with normal control prostate tissue (Mousavi et al., 2015). In addition, the A2BAR has been implicated in cell proliferation and angiogenesis, accounting for its apparent role in the pathogenesis of a number of solid tumors (Li et al., 2005; Ryzhov et al., 2008; Ma et al., 2010; Cekic et al., 2012; Iannone et al., 2013; Wei et al., 2013). The involvement of the A2BAR in the proliferation of human oral squamous cell carcinoma–derived cells was confirmed with small hairpin RNA (Kasama et al., 2015). Furthermore, previous studies have demonstrated the inhibitory effects of an A2BAR inverse agonist on the cell proliferation of human colon carcinomas (Ma et al., 2010) and prostate cancer cells (Wei et al., 2013); however, these studies were performed in the presence of endogenous adenosine and thus were unable to differentiate between the influence of agonist tone and any potential ligand-independent receptor activity. We sought to directly determine whether A2BAR constitutive activity contributed to the basal level of cell growth of prostate cancer cells. Our results revealed that, even when endogenous agonist had been removed, the A2BAR inverse agonist PSB-603 significantly suppressed cell growth of malignant 22Rv1 and DU145 prostate cells over the 48-hour period. The A2AAR-selective antagonist, SCH 442416, did not replicate the inhibition of cell proliferation in 22Rv1 cells, supporting the supposition that A2BAR constitutive activity, and not endogenous adenosine, significantly contributes to pathologic prostate cancer cell proliferation in vitro. Differentiating the effect of constitutive activity from the effect of the endogenous ligand in an in vivo setting is challenging (Parra and Bond, 2007). However, targeting pathologic A2BAR overexpression and concurrent constitutive activity with inverse agonists is readily achievable and presents an exciting future prospect in cancer treatment.
In conclusion, ligand-independent A2BAR constitutive activity of the Gs-coupled cAMP pathway can be detected in both a heterologous and native cell line. The effect of an A2BAR inverse agonist to reduce the basal level of cell growth of two different prostate cancer cell lines demonstrates the potential therapeutic benefit in targeting A2BAR constitutive activity as a pharmacological adjuvant in prostate cancer treatment. Furthermore, this study highlights the requirement to differentiate potential inverse agonist effects from neutral antagonist effects of A2BAR compounds in the drug discovery pipeline to identify optimal therapeutically efficacious ligands for this receptor. Although our study demonstrates the pathologic relevance of A2BAR constitutive activity within the context of prostate cancer, it may also have wider implications in both physiologic and pathologic conditions where the A2BAR was previously considered to have minimal influence.
The authors thank Dr. Michael Crouch and Dr. Ron Osmond for providing the pERK1/2 assay kit, Dr. Gail Risbridger for assistance with the DU145 prostate cancer cells, and Sandy Fung for assistance with FACS analysis.
Participated in research design: Vecchio, White, May.
Conducted experiments: Vecchio, Tan.
Performed data analysis: Vecchio, White, May.
Wrote or contributed to the writing of the manuscript: Vecchio, Gregory, Christopoulos, White, May.
Received October 13, 2015.
Accepted January 19, 2016.
This work was supported by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) of Australia [1084487] and the Australian Research Council [DE130100117]. L.T.M. is an Australian Research Council (ARC) Discovery Early Career Researcher Award (DECRA) Postdoctoral Research Fellow [DE130100117], K.J.G. is an NHMRC CJ Martin Fellow [1013709], and A.C. is an NHMRC Principal Research Fellow [1041875]. E.A.V. holds an Australian Postgraduate Award and an Australian Cancer Therapeutics scholarship.
dx.doi.org/10.1124/jpet.115.230003.
This article has supplemental material available at jpet.aspetjournals.org.
A2BAR
adenosine A2B receptor
DMEM
Dulbecco’s modified Eagle’s medium
DPCPX
8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine
maximal effect
fluorescence-activated cell sorter
FlpInCHO
Chinese hamster ovary cells with FlpIn vector
G protein–coupled receptor
[3H]DPCPX
cyclopentyl-1, 3-dipropylxanthine, 8-[dipropyl-2, 3-3H(N)]
HIF-1α
hypoxia inducible factor 1-α
HTRF
homogeneous time-resolved fluorescence
inositol monophosphate
3-(4,5- dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide
5′-N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine
pEC50
pERK1/2
phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2
propidium iodide
8-(4-(4-(4-chlorophenyl)piperazide-1-sulfonyl)phenyl)-1-propylxanthine
inactive receptor conformation
R*
active receptor conformation
reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction
SCH 442416
2-(2-furanyl)-7-[3-(4-methoxyphenyl)propyl]-7H-pyrazolo[4,3-e][1,2,4]triazolo[1,5-c]pyrimidin-5-amine
ZM241385
4-(2-[7-amino-2-(2-furyl)[1,2,4]triazolo[2,3-a][1,3,5]triazin-5-ylamino]ethyl)phenol
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Adenosine A2B Receptor Constitutive Activity
Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics April 1, 2016, 357 (1) 36-44; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1124/jpet.115.230003
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SAME TIME, SAME STATION By Rick Kohler (article)
Written by justottawa on 18 April 2016 .
Same Time, Same Station
‘In my day,’ my mother used to say, ‘things were different’. Typically, she meant disapproval of today. I remember thinking a little despondently that the world I’d been born into must be was going to the dogs – in the 1920’s virtue and courtesy must have reigned.
CHAI IN THE SKY By Rick Kohler (Article)
Chai in the Sky
I once watched Jane Fonda interviewing the then Archbishop of Canterbury on BBC TV in the UK in the sixties. She asked him a question that had always lingered in me: ‘why is Christianity the only true religion?’ His answer was sympathetic and seemingly open-minded – ‘I see value in Islam, in Judaism, in Hinduism and Buddhism’ he said, ‘but I believe the only true revelation of Christ is reflected in the Christian religion.’
UNANSWERED PRAYERS - THE BACK-STORY By Rick Kohler (Article)
The other day I was watching the preps for a football game on TV and caught sight of a player propped down on one knee on the sidelines. He mumbled to himself, made a sign of the cross, bounced up and jogged off perkily to join his team in a huddle. I thought to myself, “How does God handle that? How many people are there on earth who say prayers, and how does He decide who gets what?”
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Glimpse...
She Gifted Me...
Just a Glimpse...
Of Her Beauty Tonight...
Enough to Set...
My Hopelessly Enraptured...
Aflame...
Kīpaipai...
Inspire...
Always...
As the Sweet Somber Moon Descended...
Below the Dark Horizon...
She asked me Never to Forget Her...
While we are Apart...
I can Think of Nothing Else...
But Her...
Stand for Righteousness...
Hoahoa o Hina...
When the World Suddenly...
Seems Shrouded in Darkness...
It is just a Beautiful Opportunity...
To Emanate and Focus...
Your Light...
Mai...
Mai nā Kūpuna mai...
From the Ancestors...
In the Expanse of Darkness...
Before Time Itself...
Love Sought Refuge...
In a Heart...
That Only Desired...
To Gaze Upon...
Your Beauty...
Abandons Me...
To be Forever Lost...
In the Sea of Love...
Intention...
The stone kahuna cup. The kapu ahi kuni 'anā'anā. The maunu, or bait, of a person. Personal clothing. Hair. Fingernails. Spittle. Excrement. Anything that has your Essence could be used by a kahuna 'anā'anā to perform rituals and incantations to manipulate Spirit, and impact your Spirit, through the unseen powerful threads that connect you to your personal bodily essences. A stone bowl used to take Life or bring sickness and harm to others can still have residual power long after its use and function ended centuries ago.
The pa'akai 'alaea, or red-ocherous tinted sea salt has Healing and Purifying properties when used properly for Spiritual Cleansing. This particular pa'akai came from Hanapēpē on Kaua'i, and was mixed with 'alaea from Hawai'i Island in 1998, almost twenty-years ago, by Kahuna Lā'au Lapa'au Henry "Papa" Auwae for a gathering of burial practitioners who came together to address ongoing harm to our Beloved Iwi Kūpuna. The Bones of our Ancestors. It was a Powerful mixture of Sacred Cultural Resources unifying Kaua'i and Hawai'i Island Spiritually.
The bowl has been cleansed of any negative energy or residual elements of 'ino which may have taken Human Life. Negative Energy can be reversed and replaced with Positive Energy. It is a part of Healing. However, Positive Energy can also be replaced by Negative Energy as well. It works both ways.
We shouldn't Judge the past Ways of Life through our modern experiences. We shouldn't pass Judgment on our kūpuna either. We try to learn and understand the Truths and Lessons of our Amazing and Powerful History and Hawaiian Culture. To understand the Benevolent Healing aspects, and to try and avoid the hurtful and the harmful.
When we collectively embrace our Ancestors, with Love, Understanding, Forgiveness, Appreciation, Humility and Gratitude, it doesn't matter who killed who in a Battle. It doesn't matter who killed who for the offering, the mōhai, on the sacrificial lele. If we, the descendants, the mo'opuna, learn to Love and Forgive Each Other, to mend the wounds and hurt of the past, it brings Great Redemption and Healing to all of our collective Ancestors. If we turn their suffering, their regrets, and their broken dreams into a Beautiful Remembrance and Honoring, and Acknowledgment with Humility and Gratitude, we can both Heal the Future, and Heal the Past, at the same time.
Most importantly, we can Heal the Now. All the Negative Energy from envy, jealousy, insecurities, covetousness, greed, ego and the like can be lovingly let go. Life isn't a Competition. We will all cross the Finish Line. The longer you take, the more Lessons you can learn and understand and embody. The more Soul-Fulfilling Love and Compassion you can Emanate to help others grow on their Journey. Being Last Place has its Rewards...
Hālau o Kekuhi...
Kūlia e loa'a kā na'auao...
Strive to Obtain Wisdom...
Hula Kahiko...
I am seriously trying to declutter my Life and let go of things that no longer serve a purpose, as much as I think I may need them in the future. I am also gathering up my stories, documents and other ephemera as well to help me finish my book. Fortunately, I had found a little notepad that my late sister Nalani had given me. She had taken copious notes in June of 2012 when I ended up in the hospital. I never really read through them, until tonight. It was sobering. She started notes right when my wife had called her crying to tell her of my precarious status.
June 27, 2012: Kai taken to Emergency at Queens. 100% serious. 30% chance of survival. Life threatening. Dying. Doctor said wife and boys need to prepare for possible situation of death. Kai's cholesterol is extremely high. Neck opened with tubes and IV. Doctor said Kai still young, so hopeful. Kidneys, Lungs and Heart failing. On machines. Can't talk. Coma. Life Support.
July 1, 2012: Dr. Chris Fayek, Head of ICU. Comforted wife. Said Kai is in good hands. Still very serious however. Pancreatitis is serious. Assured her he will take good care of him. Nurse Sarah asked him to check Kai's lungs because he may be developing Pneumonia. Dr. Fayek said long sputem from lungs not looking good. Will order antibiotics. 8:00pm Nurse Kerri said Kai can hear.
July 2, 2012: Dr. Ikeda IUC physician. Check IV wound on right arm. Will have surgeon take a look. Kai still on ventilator. ICU Nurse said too many visitors. Chaotic. No visitors. Nurse Denise said Kai has ICU Delirium. Disoriented. Confused. Distressed. Said Kai has Diabetes. Very very sick. Kai will be in hospital awhile. He needs to make major changes. Kai needs sleep apnea machine but have to wait until he is extubated to clear airway. Tomorrow need X-Ray for lungs and pneumonia. Ultrasound to check Gallbladder. Still concerned with secretions from lungs. Has fever. Up and down. Lots of antibiotics.
July 3, 2012: Kai's Birthday. Nurse Denise said need to schedule X-Ray and Ultrasound. Dr. Nip will come look at IV arm wound. MRSA? Sputem lighter. May take off of ventilator today. Extubate as well. Jennifer Thomas, 4th Year Medical student attending to Kai. Breathing better on his own around Noon. Denise said his fever is spiking again. Dr. Lavan came to see Kai at 2:45. Said Kai has Global Encephalopathy. Brain malfunctioning. Denise concurred. Kai not as responsive and not talking much yet. Fever coming back. Dr. Ikeda said Dr. Nip will look at Kai's arm. Necrotic black tissue around IV wound. Dr. Ikeda say he thinks when ER IV put in, medicine infiltrated skin tissue and damaged tissue, so turning black.
I had to stop reading there as so many emotions, including the fear and pain of that time returned. To see Nalani's Beautiful handwriting and what was happening through her eyes humbles me to no end. I am so grateful to have her words and observations. I also want to Honor the Doctors, Nurses and other staff who helped to Save my Life. Having their names helps me. Nalani shared this Daily Journey with me for another four months.
Even when I was released to go home for a week, with three drainage tubes sticking out of my abdomen, before ending up dehydrated and anemic, and back in the ER and back in the ICU before finally undergoing a risky surgery on my Pancreas. Truly Humbling that Nalani continues to Bless my Life even after she left this corporeal realm. I chose this flower photo because it shows me kissing my sister when I see her in Heaven.
This is a stark reminder to take care of myself and not revert back to old habits. That my family was told to prepare for my death. How selfish of me. The Hawaiians named the pancreas, "Mālama." We all need to Mālama. Ourselves First and Foremost. Then Everyone and Everything else in this Hurting World...
Absolutely Thrilled...
He Hula...
A Hula Dancer...
Love One Another...
Prince Lot Hula...
Destiny...
In College, I really thought I was going to be a Rockstar. I never felt so Alive as when I was playing guitar, singing, and feeling the vibrations go through my body from my amplified speaker and effects boxes. To touch the Spirit of thousands of people, or even tens of thousands of people, like my favorite bands touched mine, was a Dream. Like thousands of other aspiring musicians, it never worked out because a flow of events and decisions took me in an opposite course in Life. Decades later, I was shown a Vision that had I chosen that Musical Journey, I wouldn't be here now. Physically here. Alive. We shouldn't always lament broken Dreams. We should actually Celebrate them...
Repost from 2009:
Hala. Passing. A good friend called me yesterday from a hospice in Wai'anae on O'ahu where his mother is staying. He said she is ready to pass on to the other side. She wanted to see me. I went out this morning with a co-worker. We spent the morning in her presence and that of the ancestors. Her spirit was still strong but her body is quickly fading. We prayed. I had brought some food for the nurses and then some delicious Hawaiian food for his mom. We ate poi, dried aku, ahi limu poke, tako poke and shared such a beautiful time. Laughing. Crying. Praying. She spoke intermittently of things that only could have come from the other side. She was listening to the ancestors and saying things, singing, and offering bits of precious mana'o and 'ike Hawai'i. Thoughts and Hawaiian vision.
In between her normal self. We treasured each bit of messages from the ancestors. She wanted to see another person too. 'Ohana from Kaua'i. Another frontline warrior trying to save the 'aina, the land, and our cultural sites for the mo'opuna, the future. We got him on the phone. He cried. He is flying over to O'ahu to see her before she passes. When we parted, I made sure I held her hand tight. Kissed her forehead. Looked deep in her eyes. And let her know how much I loved her and that I had humbly asked Ke Akua, through my prayers, to deliver her into His hands at His will.
Later when I dropped off her son at his home, we embraced and both burst out into an unexpected cascade of tears and sobbing as we hugged. It was the kaumaha of fifteen years of knowing each other and the fights we have been through to save our 'aina. We were delivered messages. We were losing another hulu kupuna who gave years of her life to protect the bones of our ancestors. E holomua kakou. We will continue the fight. Her biggest message. We must not let the spirit of Haloa, our kalo plant, whither away and die. The rotten kalo. Just like the kino, the body, will die and rot away when the 'uhane, the spirit, leaves. So will the Hawaiian people, if we let the spirit of the kalo die. We must sustain the spirit. We must sustain. It is through Aloha. Love. Forgiveness. Truth. Pono...
Mea Hula...
To dance Hula, then Gift your Lei to someone in the audience. How Beautiful is that?
Nā Kumu Hiwahiwa...
Makana...
Prince Lot...
Cherished Kumu...
Wonder Women...
A Cure for Sadness...
Ka Hali'a Aloha: Roland Cazimero...
Leo...
Prince Lot Hula Festival at 'Iolani Palace...
Hālau O Kekuhi at 'Iolani Palace...
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Girlpool – What Chaos is Imaginary
By Violet Selznick January 30, 2019 // 12:03 am
Girlpool’s latest release, “What Chaos is Imaginary,” is layered with meaning and importance to both the duo and their fans.
While their last two tracks were heavily leaning towards the drums and guitar of garage rock, this forthcoming LP is more experimentally constructed.
Girlpool dabbles in a new synth-pop sound on “What Chaos is Imaginary,” which features synthesizers and electronic repercussion. The track maintains the intimate vibe that characterizes Girlpool, but with a fuller, deeper sound accompanied by new instruments and even an orchestral string octet.
Fans of Girlpool — myself included — have watched the duo grow up since their self-titled release in 2014. It is easy to feel close to the experiences shared in their last two albums addressing modern feminist trials and first loves. Their first album in 2015 was released when they were both still in high school. Now, four years later, the duo explores the newest challenges of young-adult life.
Among many reasons for Girlpool’s change in sound, one of the band’s members, Tucker, is undergoing what they call “gender flow” (instead of “transition,” a term that reflects a linear process and reinforces binaries). This has provided the duo an opportunity for change, but also presents its own challenges. Tucker now sings an octave lower, unable to hit some of the high notes common on Girlpool’s last two albums. Tucker continues to grapple with and search for their new sound as their voice continues to change. Despite this, Tucker and Tividad beautifully find where the voices meet in harmony on this track.
Additionally, Tividad opened up about the dark inspiration that led to “What Chaos is Imaginary” on Instagram, exploring her road to mental well-being and self-forgiveness. The chillingly melancholy track reflects both Tucker and Tividad’s struggle to find peace in relationships with others and themselves. This track graduates from teen angst to a dynamic range of tones and textures, inviting their fans to grow with them. It beautifully reflects Girlpool’s commitment to growth, self-reflection, and the arduous battle of making sense out of chaos.
Listen to the new track down below:
Violet Selznick is a Cal Poly Anthropology & Geography sophomore and a KCPR staff member. She wrote the article. Image credit to Girlpool.
Cleo Tucker
Harmony Tividad
What Chaos is Imaginary
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LATIN AMERICAN AND CARIBBEAN SOLIDARITY NETWORK
Taller de Comunicacion / Communication Workshop
Peticion a Santos: Masacre y asesinatos recientes
2017 Annual Convention / Convencion Anual
Open Letter to Minister of Foreign Affairs Chrystia Freeland
9th Solidarity Month
About Water / Agua
BBQ Season!
Beats 4 Peace: Solidarity Party
Declarations and Open Letters / Declaraciones y Cartas Abiertas
Events Calendar / Calendario de Eventos
Free Trade Agreements 101
Latin American News / Noticias
Toronto Forum on Cuba
Urgent Actions / Petitions
What's New / Lo actual
Women / Mujeres
World Social Forum, Montreal 2016
Paz en Colombia / Colombian Peace Process
Puerto Rico / Republica Dominicana
Contact / Contacto
Why Obama Lied to Lin-Manuel Miranda. An Interview with Puerto Rican Congressman Luis Gutiérrez
+ Calling to Demonstrate!
Cándida Cotto / Source: Claridad / The Dawn News
Two and a half months ago, asked by award-winning playwright Lin-Manuel Miranda about imprisoned Puerto Rican nationalist Oscar López Rivera – whose only crime, according to Nobel Peace Laureate Archbishop Desmond Tutu, is “conspiracy to free his people from the shackles of imperial justice” – President Barack Obama told the Hamilton creator that he “had [the case] on his desk”.
Miranda, whose parents hail from Puerto Rico, used his invitation to the White House to bring up the issue of López Rivera’s continued incarceration, which is of tremendous importance to Puerto Ricans. Both on the island and in the diaspora, freedom for the 73-year-old political prisoner enjoys overwhelming popular support and has united people across the political spectrum.
“With Obama in the Justice Department you can’t use alternate mechanisms, different democratic ways, they slam the door in your face, there’s a bureaucracy that didn’t exist with President Clinton”, said Luís Gutiérrrez in an interview with Puerto Rican newspaper Claridad. With indignation, determination and hope, he fights for freedom for Oscar López Rivera.
The White House’s reluctance to release this Puerto Rican political prisoner contrasts their policy of pardoning people incarcerated for drug trafficking —in early July, Obama pardoned over 200 convicts for drug-trafficking-related crimes.
According to Gutiérrez, the White House is much less receptive now than back in 1999, when a successful campaign was carried out to release 11 of López Rivera’s comrades. He recounts that under Bill Clinton’s presidency, the message about Puerto Rican prisoners could be taken up to his main legal advisers, Charles Ruff and Eric Holder, and even to President Clinton himself, who showed interest in the subject.
“You could go to Eric Holder, who was later appointed as Secretary of Justice, and have a chat. It’s noteworthy that when he was nominated by Obama, republicans held the pardon as against him”, the Congressman says. And so, when he was appointed as Obama’s first Secretary of Justice, the Justice Department team and the White House decided to end with those kinds of pardons.
Gutiérrez, who has been in Congress for 13 years and is now running for a re-election in the upcoming electoral process, emphasized that it’s crucial for Puerto Rico to be united in the claim for the pardon of Oscar López Rivera, so that the request can reach the President, “because he is in charge of making decisions”.
He says that his focus is not set on getting members of Congress to solve the issue “because I don’t expect, and we mustn’t expect, some Representatives to have enough influence to pick up the phone and call Obama, even though there are Representatives with us”. Yet Gutiérrez managed, last January, to get the Hispanic Caucus of the Congress to send a letter to Obama where they expressed their support to the cause of Oscar López Rivera’s freedom.
López Rivera and PROMESA
The US White House has also prevented the topic of the pardon from being discussed during the debate on the bill known as PROMESA (Puerto Rico Oversight, Management, and Economic Stability Act, which will impose a Fiscal Control Board on the island-country.
Gutiérrez recounted that during the debate over the bill, all Puerto Rican representatives were cited in the White House, to get them on board with the project.
Although Gutiérrez is firmly against it, he personally went to tell the President that he had sent him a letter regarding López Rivera 5 months before.
Once the meeting was over, Gutiérrez questioned Obama about Oscar’s case, quoting his response to Lin-Manuel Miranda, to which the President replied that “Oscar’s papers aren’t on his desk and that he (Gutiérrez) should know that there are certain procedures that must be followed”. What the President meant, Gutiérrez says, is that “the paper’s aren’t on his desk because they are caught up in the bureaucracy of the Justice Department”.
But this is not a reasonable explanation. As President Obama needs not wait until the documents on the case reach his desk because the US Constitution grants him absolute power to concede pardons, bypassing the usual procedures.
After the meeting with the President, Gutiérrez wrote to the General Prosecutor, Sally Yates, asking her for a meeting to discuss López Rivera’s case. To this date, he hasn’t heard back from her.
Given this situation, the Puerto Rican Congressman exhorted all Puerto Ricans and the United States to keep fighting for this man who has spent 35 years in prison —12 of them in solitary confinement. And he remarked that the great efforts that are being carried out on the island need to be replicated in Washington in order for the claim to be addressed by the US government. For this reason he made a calling to attend the protest that is scheduled for October 9 on Lafayette Square, in Washington DC.
This protest is being convened by the Coalition for Oscar López Rivera, which brings together a vast spectrum of political, social, cultural, labour and professional organizations of Puerto Rico and the US. They consider this demonstration to be key in the process to achieve the pardon for the political prisoner because if Obama doesn’t release him, neither will the next US President.
“We need a coalition because we need unity. The freedom of Oscar López Rivera is not only in the hands of independentists —it is the duty and the responsibility of all defenders of democracy and human rights”.
The Irony of ‘Hamilton’ Creator
Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Advocacy For Puerto Rico
by Matt Peppe - Counterpunch
As the economic and humanitarian crisis has worsened in Puerto Rico in recent months, playwright and actor Lin-Manuel Miranda, has given voice in interviews and Op-Eds to the severity of the crisis among ordinary Puerto Ricans. Miranda called the island’s debt crisis a matter of “life and death,” saying, “I have a lot of family who are struggling in Puerto Rico, that’s not an abstract issue to me.”
He humanizes what the statistics – $73 billion in debt, $19,500 median household income, 11.5 percent sales tax, 64,000 people leaving per year – can not. Puerto Rico is a debt colony whose function as a political entity is to service its creditors.
Ironically, Miranda achieved the celebrity he’s now using to advocate for the Puerto Rican people by glorifying and aggrandizing the most ruthless champion of creditors in American history.
Miranda has become an elite pop-culture sensation as the creator and star of the award-winning and immensely popular Broadway play Hamilton. The hip-hop musical has been as successful with critics as it has with Broadway theatergoers, dominating the Tony awards and selling out months in advance. The Harvard Business Review argues its $849 tickets are priced too low.
The show’s namesake is,
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Puerto Ricans’ Response to the Economic Crisis Rooted in Misinformation and Frustration
by Mario Mercado Diaz - Counterpunch
Frustrated by the results of the Spanish-American War in 1898, Ramón Emeterio Betances – father of the Puerto Rican Independence movement and an Antillean leader – asked: “What’s wrong with Puerto Ricans that they haven’t rebelled yet?”
The question has been frequently evoked with equal frustration and indignation whenever political struggles and protests fail to rally islanders to their cause. Upon returning to the Island this summer, I was impressed by citizens’ complacency despite the proclaimed dissatisfaction with the current administration, the economy and the deteriorating quality of life. Now more than ever – with the signing of the PROMESA (Puerto Rico Oversight, Management and Economic Stability Act) and the imposition of the Board for Fiscal Oversight (or Junta) – Puerto Ricans, on the island and abroad, have more than enough reason to demand social justice for their country. But, why aren’t more doing so?
Puerto Ricans on the whole are deeply concerned for the wellbeing of their people. While small groups have shown their discontent through protests and rallies, apathy seems to still haunts the Island during these trying times. The differences between groups, the disinformation among the populace and the lack of political recourse or social mechanisms available to effect change seems to stymie broader mobilization.
For months, Puerto Ricans debated whether Congress would take up PROMESA, if it would actually pass, and what would that mean for the Island. After local primaries where held in June, I created a Twitter account (@ruisenorcalle) to compile comments made by everyday Puerto Ricans and gage the social temperature.
I found that most Puerto Ricans saw the coming of the Junta and PROMESA as a form of accountability: there is hope that federal agents will bring corrupt politicians to justice and halt fraudulent government activities. Local politicians are perceived as “uncontrollable” crooks who answer to no one, and the U.S. presence seen as mandated to rein in these almost despotic politicians.
Meanwhile, many of my compatriots believe the Junta will defend Puerto Rico from vulture hedge funds while working to improve the Island’s economy. Admittedly, many of those who spoke about the Junta have not read the bill and do not understand what the board aims to accomplish on the Island. Debates on the Junta take place in the media, but few manage to inform about all of its clauses and to engage in a profound debate about effects and its meaning for US-PR political relations.
It didn’t help that the U.S. Congress and key local media outlets failed to provide a Spanish translation, though a translator recently voluntarily made one available. As a result, the aforementioned ground level discourse on the Junta often lacks concrete information. While general discontent with local government, the Commonwealth status, and the present state of the economy run as high as tropical summer heat, social temperatures remain low as the crisis deepens and many Puerto Ricans continue leave.
Puerto Rico’s woes go beyond PROMESA, as the standard of living on the island has been declining and the cost of living increased tremendously. Puerto Ricans are faced with a 11.5 percent sales tax, an 11.7 percent unemployment rate, a 45 percent poverty rate, and a fast shrinking economy and population.
CONTINUE READING HERE ....
Dominicana, Cuba y Puerto Rico, Un mismo Sueño
Frei Betto habló en el VIII Encuentro Continental de Solidaridad con Cuba
Por Graciela Ramírez y Héctor Planes, Resumen Latinoamericano
En las primeras horas de la tarde del día 27, arribó a Santo Domingo el teólogo brasileño Frei Betto, quien fue honrado por el Senado de la República en sesión solemne, por su entrega y sacrificio personal en favor de los desposeídos.El alto Reconocimiento es autoría de la senadora Cristina Lizardo Mézquita, Presidenta del Senado, y los senadores Reinaldo Pared Pérez y José Rafael Vargas.
El considerando 1ro de la Resolución establece: Que el sacerdote dominico Carlos Alberto Libanio Christo, más conocido como Frei Betto, es un consagrado luchador internacional por el respeto a la dignidad de los pueblos, propulsor de movimientos sociales de gran impacto social, como el Programa de Hambre Cero en Brasil, y su constante predica eclesiástica que propugna “la teología de la Liberación”.
El Reconocimiento fue entregado por la Presidenta del Senado Cristina Lizardo y los senadores José Rafael Vargas y Julio César Valentín.Otro de los considerandos indica: Es deber del Senado de la República valorar, reconocer y exaltar a quienes han contribuido con su aporte a un mundo más justo.
Frei Betto, que sufrió persecución, cárcel y torturas durante la dictadura militar brasileña en la década de los años ’60, expresó: Sentirse muy emocionado por este gran reconocimiento de solidaridad internacional, en especial a Cuba en el marco del VII Encuentro Continental de Solidaridad.
En nombre del pueblo de Brasil y a modo de examen de conciencia pidió perdón a República Dominicana por los crímenes de las tropas que intervinieron el país en1965.
Junto a la presidenta de la Cámara Alta Cristina Lizardo, estuvieron presentes los senadores José Rafael Vargas, Julio César Valentín y Rafael Calderón, el embajador de Cuba Carlos De la Nuez, el Héroe de la República de Cuba Fernando González Llort, la presidenta del Instituto Cubano de Amistad con los Pueblos Kenia Serrano Puig, y una representación de los asistentes al VIII Encuentro entre los que destacaban varios brasileños.
Frei Betto quien fuera también asesor especial del presidente Lula y coordinador del Programa Hambre Cero, que junto a otros programas sociales logró sacar de la extrema pobreza a 30 millones de brasileños, es autor de más de 50 libros, entre ellos Fidel y la Religión traducido a varios idiomas, ha recibido numerosos premios, entre los que destaca el Premio Internacional José Martí, otorgado por la UNESCO en el 2015.
En la mañana de hoy el teólogo Frei Betto, que fue recibido entre aplausos al llegar a la Terraza oeste de la Universidad, pronunció una conferencia magistral a los participantes del VIII Encuentro, sobre a Situación de América Latina y el Caribe, la trascendencia de la Integración y la solidaridad con Cuba, donde una vez más reafirmo su compromiso con la Revolución cubana y los pueblos agredidos por el imperialismo.
En una serie de conferencia y paneles que sesionaron en la capital, y en paralelo en las ciudades de Barahona, San Francisco de Macorís, Baní y Santiago de los Caballeros, sub-sedes del macro Encuentro, fueron abordados los siguientes temas: Efectos del criminal bloqueo de EE.UU hacia Cuba y la ilegal ocupación del territorio de la Base Naval de Guantánamo.La situación colonial y los prisioneros políticos de Puerto Rico y los derechos humanos, el acoso injerencista del imperialismo y la oligarquía contra el gobierno de Maduro y la Revolución Bolivariana de Venezuela, la Integración y la solidaridad con Cuba.
Se realizaron diversos paneles y mesas de trabajo sobre: La Juventud frente a la crisis y las alternativas solidarias, La Mujer en el proceso de Integración, y el Plan de acción Continental de Solidaridad con Cuba contra el bloqueo y la devolución del territorio ocupado ilegalmente por la Base Naval de Guantánamo.
Fueron presentados los libros La contrarrevolución en Puerto Rico: el caso de Carlos Muñiz Varela, de los autores Jesús Arboleya, Raúl Alzaga y Ricardo Fraga del Valle. También se presento: El Bloqueo contra Cuba. Ahora la gran guerra por otra vía, del profesor Rafael Nino Féliz.
Un momento de especial emoción fue la presentación de la Exposición fotográfica sobre Fidel, de Alex Castro. La misma recoge en 12 fotografías los encuentros sostenidos por el líder de la Revolución y personalidades como Jimmy Carter, el Papa Francisco, el Patriarca Kiril, Cristina Fernández, Dilma Rouseff, el querido Comandante Hugo Chávez y los Presidentes Evo Morales y Daniel Ortega entre otros.
En el día de mañana se procederá a la lectura de las Relatorías de las mesas de trabajo, la Declaración Final y el Plan de Acción que marcará la hoja de ruta de los hombres y mujeres solidarios con Cuba.
El VIII Encuentro Continental de Solidaridad con Cuba, es organizado por la Campaña Dominicana de Solidaridad con Cuba, el Comité Puertorriqueño de Solidaridad con Cuba y el Instituto Cubano de Amistad con los Pueblos (ICAP).
Why is the Dominican Republic Deporting
Its Haitian Residents?
Javiera Alarcon - Counterpunch
April 5, 2016
Directed by the ruthless Dominican dictator Rafael Trujillo, soldiers rounded up thousands of people along the Dominican Republic’s borderlands with Haiti, demanding that they identify a sprig of parsley. The story goes that when French- and Creole-speaking Haitians failed to mimic the Spanish pronunciation, perejil, they were murdered. Estimates of the number killed range as high as 20,000 to 30,000.
The 1937 massacre is a haunting flashpoint in a long tradition of anti-Haitian politics — anti-haitanismo — on the eastern half of the island shared by the two countries. Now there’s a different kind of test for Dominicans of Haitian descent. And the price for failure is deportation.
It began in 2013, when a Dominican court ruling stripped up to 200,000 Haitian immigrants and their descendants of their Dominican citizenship — a stunning and unprecedented reversal of the country’s normal rules allowing birthright citizenship. Thousands of Dominicans were put at risk of being deported to Haiti, where many also lack citizenship.
CONTINUE READING HERE ...
Lluvias Acidas - Poema
Jose Toribio Rosa
Un poema del poeta José Toribio Rosa dedicado al medio ambiente y en donde el autor expresa su preocupación sobre el futuro de nuestra civilización por el descontrol en la mineria, la contaminacion ambiental y la desigualdad social sobre todo en los paises subdesarrollados.
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OrderDynamics
Band-And-Orchestra-Woodwind-Accessories
Band-And-Orchestra-Reeds
Band-And-Orchestra-Saxophone-Reeds
Band-And-Orchestra-Tenor-Saxophone-Reeds
Alexander Classique Tenor Saxophone Reeds - Tin of 5 - Strength: 2.5
Sale Price $26.99 Original $30.95 You Save $3.96
0 IN STOCK, EXPECTING MORE SOON
In 1997, following the introduction of Superial and "DC", we felt another line of reeds was needed to address the specific needs of classical woodwind players or jazz players wanting a bit more resistance and darkness in their set up than our other models offer.
Starting with the clarinet model, we tried to conceptualize what kind of reed we could create that would provide musicians with a wide palette of expression, and classically grounded performance characteristics...those that produce a warm, dynamically balanced, sonorously beautiful tone...
While investigating what direction of design we should pursue, we knew that there had been a reed made years ago which classical clarinetists spoke of in almost reverential tones. Although this reed never became as commercially successful as some of the more "name" brands, it had been in fact used by some of the top clarinetists in the world, among them some members of the Chicago Symphony clarinet section. To the lament of many, production ceased some years back.
We worked on a prototype which was influenced by this reed's design, but with certain improvements that we felt would actually make it more suitable to present day musical settings. This same philosophy was also followed for the saxophone models but with a somewhat different profile design we felt would bring out the best in that instrument. We also had the advantage of using more accurate hardness testing and cutting machines so we could manufacture a much more consistent reed than the original model.
With testing feedback from some top professional classical clarinetists and saxophonists, we arrived at the final design of this new reed line christened "Classique". We went into production for all models and Classique is now being used not only by classical and concert performers, but any others looking for a darker tone which this reed's harder tip and heart produce.
In Classique, we believe we have achieved our goal of capturing the essence of that great traditional design, but with improvements developed to enhance dynamic response, clarity and register balance, which we feel produces a "singing" tonal quality that is definitely classical in its conception. It should also be noted that a growing number of jazz players seem to enjoy Classique's response these days as well.
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Search for Databases and Other Electronic Resources
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17 results found for resources beginning with 'O' sorted alphabetically.
1 OECD Papers
Information about this Resource
Provides the recent research, analyses, forecasts, policy reviews and statistics produced by OECD. Covers macroeconomics; economic and industrial policies; and work in areas as such as employment, education, environment, trade, science and technology, aid and development, fiscal affairs, energy, agriculture, urban studies, and economies in transition. Includes journals, annuals, outlooks, and working and policy papers.
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Vendor Name Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development
Coverage June 2001 - present
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Research Guides Business, Countries, Economics
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2 Official Document System of the United Nations
Has full-text, born-digital UN documents published from 1993 onward (as of June 2018), including documents of the Security Council, the General Assembly, the Economic and Social Council and their subsidiaries, as well as administrative issuances and other documents. Also includes scanned documents published between 1946 and 1993, including all resolutions of the principal organs, all documents of the Security Council and the General Assembly Official Records. Documents are available in the official languages of the UN; some documents are also available in German.
Access Information Free resource - available to everyone on the Internet
Vendor Name Dag Hammarskjold Library
Coverage 1946 - present
To find the documents indexed in UNIQUE, take the document number and other identifying features from the entry to the Young Reference Services Desk on the 2nd floor of Young Library. Most material will be in microfiche if dated 1982 and after; material before 1982 is available in paper.
Research Guides Foreign Affairs History, International Resources, Political Science,
3 Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM)
Database of human genes and genetic disorders developed by staff at Johns Hopkins and hosted on the Web on PubMed.
Vendor Name National Center for Biotechnology Information
Research Guides Biology, Biopharmaceutical Engineering,
4 Online Music Anthology
Extensive collection of music and articles designed expressly for music history courses. Instructors can adapt the contents of the Online Music Anthology as a music history textbook and anthology. Students can print out any of the all newly engraved scores for their classes or personal use.
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Research Guides Music, Music Scores Online,
5 Open Dissertations
Created from a collaboration between EBSCO and BiblioLabs, EBSCO Open Dissertations is a free electronic theses and dissertations database (ETD) offering access to more than 800,000 ETDs, including those previously available in American Doctoral Dissertations. It may be searched by author, title, subject and university.
Vendor Name EBSCO
Research Guides E-Books at the University of Kentucky Libraries, Open Access,
6 Opposing Viewpoints in Context
Collection of current event topics--the facts, as well as the arguments, of each topic's proponents and detractors. Includes Topic Overviews and access to the Information Plus reference series of statistics, government data, information on legislation and other data. Draws on the social issues series published by Greenhaven Press as well as core reference content from other Thomson Gale and Macmillan Reference USA sources.
Vendor Name Gale Cengage Learning
Research Guides Globalization,
7 OSTI (Office for Scientifc and Technical Information)
OSTI provides access to DOE STI (Scientific & Technical Information) both unclassified and classified, through a suite of web-based, searchable discovery tools and through other commonly used search engines, offering ever-expanding sources of R&D information to DOE, the research community, and the science-attentive public. OSTI makes 70 years of research results from DOE and its predecessor agencies discoverable. Research results include journal articles/accepted manuscripts and related metadata; technical reports; scientific research datasets and collections; scientific software; patents; conference and workshop papers; books and theses; and multimedia. OSTI.GOV contains nearly 3 million citations, including citations to 1.5 million journal articles, 1 million of which have digital object identifiers (DOIs) linking to full-text articles on publishers' websites. It also has more than 445,000 full-text DOE-funded STI documents. OSTI.GOV is the primary search tool for DOE science, technology, and engineering research and development results and the organizational hub for information about the DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information. It consolidates OSTI’s home page and our now retired primary search tool SciTech Connect.
Vendor Name U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)
Research Guides Astronomy and Astrophysics, Chemistry, Computer Science, Geological Sciences, Physics, Transportation,
8 OvidSP
Provides access to databases and scores of E-Books. Individual entries for each database are available via the Electronic Resources search on the Libraries' website. These databases cover agriculture, biology, geology, pharmacy, philosophy, and mental measurements.
Vendor Name OvidSP
9 Oxford Bibliographies
Bibliographic subject guides to selected peer-reviewed resources in Art History, Childhood Studies, Education, Islamic Studies, Management, and Music.
Vendor Name Oxford University Press
Research Guides Art and Art History, Education and Kinesiology and Health Promotion, Management, Music, Psychology, Religious Studies,
10 Oxford Bibliographies: Islamic Studies
Bibliographic "topic guide" to selected resources in Islamic Studies. Provides an introduction to the specialized literature on major and minor topics. Selected scholars have produced a reference guide to what they consider the most important and significant sources. The guide features a selective list of bibliographic citations supported by direct recommendations about which sources to consult. Also includes an editorial commentary to show how the cited sources are interrelated. The citations link to the sources in the UK Libraries' View Now resource, to Google book summaries, and to WorldCat.org. All articles receive multiple peer reviews and editorial board vetting. Articles are regularly updated by their authors. In addition to updated articles, new topic guides are added on a regular schedule to expand the scope and extent of each subject.
Research Guides Islamic Studies, Philosophy,
11 Oxford Bibliographies Online: Art History
Bibliographic "topic guides" to selected resources in art history. Provides an introduction to the specialized literature on major and minor topics within art history.
Part of Oxford Bibliographies.
Research Guides Art and Art History,
12 Oxford Bibliographies Online: Music
Bibliographic "topic guides" to selected resources in music. Provides an introduction to the specialized literature on major and minor topics within music.
Research Guides Music, Music Therapy, Opera,
13 Oxford Bibliographies Online: Philosophy
Bibliographic "topic guides" to selected resources in Philosophy. Provides an introduction to the specialized literature on major and minor topics within Philosophy.
Selected scholars have produced a resource guide to what they consider the most important and significant sources in Islamic Studies. The guide feature a selective list of bibliographic citations supported by direct recommendations about which sources to consult. Each topic guide has an editorial commentary to show how the cited sources are interrelated. The citations link to the sources in the UK Libraries' View Now resource, to Google book summaries, and to WorldCat.org. All articles receive multiple peer reviews and editorial board vetting. Articles are regularly updated by their authors. In addition to updated articles, new topic guides are added on a regular schedule to expand the scope and extent of this bibliography.
Research Guides Philosophy,
14 Oxford Handbooks Online: Archaeology
The Archaeology version of Oxford Handbooks Online: Scholarly Research Reviews provides indexing and abstracts for 41 titles and full-text for these six 2017 subscription titles:
The Oxford Handbook of Archaeological Ceramic Analysis
The Oxford Handbook of Light in Archaeology
The Oxford Handbook of Prehistoric Figurines
The Oxford Handbook of Southwest Archaeology
The Oxford Handbook of the Archaeology and Anthropology of Rock Art
The Oxford Handbook of Zooarchaeology
Research Guides Anthropology, Art and Art History,
15 Oxford Handbooks Online: Linguistics
The Linguistics version of Oxford Handbooks Online: Scholarly Research Reviews provides indexing and abstracts for 48 titles and full-text for these four 2015 subscription titles:
The Oxford Handbook of African American Language
The Oxford Handbook of Chinese Linguistics
The Oxford Handbook of Derivational Morphology
The Oxford Handbook of Linguistic Analysis (2nd ed.)
Research Guides African American Resources, China, English Literature & Language, Linguistics,
16 Oxford Index: A Search and Discovery Gateway
Free discovery service for searching across Oxford’s digital academic content. This search portal draws on scholarship from Oxford and its partners, providing references from journal articles to scholarly monographs. Contains a cross-searchable set of nearly a quarter of a million “index cards,” each representing a single article, chapter, journal, or book. Index pages display pertinent information (including abstracts and keywords) about an item. Provides links to resources that will be available if UK subscribes to the item. Those not included in UK's subscriptions may be available in InfoKat Discovery or can be requested via Interlibrary Loan.
Includes indexing of:
All content (more than 80,000 chapters from 7,200 titles) from University Press Scholarship Online (including Oxford Scholarship Online), a collection of academic monographs from leading university presses worldwide
All content (over 3,400 chapters from 100+ titles) from Oxford Handbooks Online
Over 150,000 articles from 235 Oxford Journals
17 Oxford Reference
Quick-reference coverage of a broad range of subjects. Brings together language and subject reference works from Oxford University Press into a single cross-searchable resource. Includes over 130 subject dictionaries covering everything from art to accountancy, politics to physics, and computing to classics as well as English dictionaries and bilingual dictionaries of French, German, Spanish, and Italian. Quotations, 500+ full-color maps and flags, 12,000 images.
Oxford Reference Online is updated at least three times a year with new titles, new editions, and additional features.
Update Frquency at least three times annually
Research Guides E-Books at the University of Kentucky Libraries,
Narrow results by selecting a link below:
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Return to the Electronic Resources search page
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Past Project : People & Health
Delft Youth Theatre
Remaining time:0 days left
Donor(s):0
Raised: R0
Lead: Dr Gill Black
Funders and Partners: Department of Political Studies at the University of the Western Cape
In partnership with Afrika Tikkun and the Delft Community Health Centre
Winner of the Global Stop TB Partnership InTB Advocacy Award (2012)
The project aimed to reduce stigma about TB and overcome the silence that inhibits TB prevention within a poor community in the Western Cape Province through the development of novel, socially rational participatory engagement approaches. In doing so, the project addressed the key problems of fear, discrimination and denial of persons directly affected by TB.
The educational, health promoting play, ‘Bad News? Good News!’, and the Delft Youth Theatre (DYT) Group, were created through this local participatory action research project. The approach developed the capacity of youth and health care workers from Delft to aid the prevention of TB and HIV using the creative arts through a series of Research and Learning workshops. The script of ‘Bad News? Good News!’ was based entirely on the personal stories and suggestions of the workshop participants, who were trained in basic acting skills and went on to become the actors in the play. ‘Bad News? Good News!’ aims to increase awareness about TB and HIV, reduce stigma, and provide key public health messages in a context that at-risk South African communities in can relate to.
The play was performed 14 times over five consecutive days in the bustling reception area of Delft Community Health Centre, in partnership with the Provincial Department of Health. ‘Bad News? Good News!’ was subsequently showcased during TB/HIV awareness activities in Delft South (Blikkiesdorp) and as part of a major health promotion event organized by Eskom (at Koeberg), demonstrating the portability of this form of community engagement, and its capacity to capture the attention of audiences diverse in language, culture and age. From audience head-counts at each performance, the total number of Delft residents directly engaged through this project was at least 2000.
By reaching its goals and objectives, the Delft Youth Theatre for Health project has assisted the South African National TB Control Program in its efforts to increase the demand for TB and TB/HIV services, enhance TB case detection, improve treatment adherence, advance the prevention and treatment of MDR-TB and promote social mobilization against TB and HIV.
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Venue Hire near Roof East
Open until 21st December 2019 | Weds-Fri: 5pm-11pm, Sat: 12pm-11pm
All The Best Conference Facilities Exhibition Centres Venue Hire
The Deck at the National Theatre
South Bank, South Bank, London SE1 | 5.4 miles from Roof East
The Deck is a modern roof-top venue with stunning views over the Thames, available for hire at the National Theatre, part of the Southbank Centre... More
Dover Street Restaurant and Bar
8-10 Dover Street, Mayfair, Mayfair, London W1S | 6.5 miles from Roof East
This long established night spot in Mayfair's Dover Street has been providing Londoners with a sophisticated setting to enjoy food, drink and live entertainment for... More
Dartmouth House (English-Speaking Union)
37 Charles Street, The English-Speaking Union - Dartmouth House, Mayfair, Mayfair, London W1J | 6.7 miles from Roof East
54 Park Lane, Mayfair, London W1K | 7 miles from Roof East
One of the most famous hotels in England, The Dorchester is a stunning Art Deco curve, overlooking the expanses of the Royal Parks. This is... More
Gallery Road, SE21 | 7.6 miles from Roof East
Designed by London architect Sir John Soane in 1811, Dulwich Picture Gallery is the world's first purpose-built art gallery and holds one of the most... More
Dana Library and Research Centre
London > Business
Science Museum, Exhibition Road, South Kensington, London SW7 | 8.2 miles from Roof East
Open in late 2015, the Dana Library and Research Centre provides a world-class environment for academic research within the Science Museum, bringing together the museum's... More
De Vere Venues Canary Wharf
Canary Wharf, 1 Westferry Circus, Tower Hamlets, London E14 | 2.7 miles from Roof East
Drew Community Centre
14a Camel Road, Silvertown, E16 | 3.3 miles from Roof East
Docklands Sailing & Watersports Centre
235a Westferry Road, Millwall Dock, Isle of Dogs, Tower Hamlets, London E14 | 3.5 miles from Roof East
The Docklands Sailing & Watersports Centre, opened in 1989, with £1.2 million funding from the London Docklands Development Corporation and the Sports Council, has access... More
Dreambagjaguarshoes
34 - 36 Kingsland Road, Hoxton, London E2 | 3.5 miles from Roof East
Dennis Severs House
18 Folgate Street, Shoreditch, Spitalfields, London E1 | 3.6 miles from Roof East
Dexter House
No 2 Royal Mint Court, Tower of London, Tower Hamlets, London EC3N | 3.8 miles from Roof East
No 2 Royal Mint Court, Tower Hamlets, London EC3N | 3.8 miles from Roof East
Dock X
Unit 1 Canada Water Retail Park, Surrey Quays, SE16 | 3.8 miles from Roof East
Dickens Inn
St Katharine's Dock, Tower Bridge, Tower Hamlets, London E1W | 3.9 miles from Roof East
The Dixie Queen
Tower Point, City, London EC3N | 4.1 miles from Roof East
The Drapers' Hall
Throgmorton Avenue, City, London EC2N | 4.1 miles from Roof East
Docklands Watersports Club
Gate 14, King George V Dock, Woolwich Manor Way, E16 | 4.1 miles from Roof East
Sailing & Watersports ... More
224-238 Kensington High Street, Bankside, London W8 | 4.1 miles from Roof East
Located in Holland Park, the Design Museum has three floors and showcases contemporary design in all forms, including fashion, graphic and architectural. There are two... More
Devonport House
King William Walk, Greenwich, SE10 | 4.2 miles from Roof East
27 Clerkenwell Road, Clerkenwell, Clerkenwell, London EC1M | 4.6 miles from Roof East
A great music policy and classy industrial decor have made Dust the destination-of-choice for Clerkenwell's hedonistic party crowd. It suffers from an excess of suits... More
17 Gough Square, City, London EC4A | 5 miles from Roof East
The Diskus Advanced Conference Venue
The Diskus, Transport House, 128 Theobald's Road, Bloomsbury, London WC1X | 5.4 miles from Roof East
Days Hotel London Waterloo
54 Kennington Road, Lambeth, South Bank, London SE1 | 5.7 miles from Roof East
16 Chenies Street, Bloomsbury, London WC1E | 5.9 miles from Roof East
David Gill Gallery
2-4 King Street, Lambeth, London SW1Y | 6.4 miles from Roof East
Dukes Hotel
35 St James's Place, St James's, London SW1A | 6.5 miles from Roof East
A reputation for the best Martinis in town suggests something very stylish, and the Dukes Hotel does not disappoint. A sumptuous townhouse on a miraculously... More
The Daiwa Anglo-Japanese Foundation
London > Business > Business Faculties
13-14 Cornwall Terrace, Regent's Park, London NW1 | 6.9 miles from Roof East
This is the London home of the Daiwa Anglo-Japanese Foundation, a UK charity set up in 1988 with funding from Daiwa Securities Co Ltd to... More
Dorset House
Dorset House, 46 Dorset Street, Marylebone, London W1U | 6.9 miles from Roof East
Days Hotel London Westminster
80-86 Belgrave Road, Westminster, Pimlico, London SW1V | 6.9 miles from Roof East
The white-pillared town houses and attractive garden squares of Pimlico form the backdrop to this hotel at the heart of London. The grand historical buildings... More
Near Roof East All London hotels
Near Roof East
Theatre Royal Stratford East 1 minute walk from Roof East
Stratford Circus 2 minutes walk from Roof East
From cheap budget hotels to luxury 5 star hotels see our discounts for Roof East hotels, including DoubleTree by Hilton London - Greenwich from 68% off.
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London Heliport
Entertainment near London Heliport
London Heliport, Lombard Road, SW11 3RE
Flights permitted 7am-11pm
All The Best Arts Centres Cinemas Classical Music Comedy Clubs Jazz Clubs Live Music Pubs Theatres Venue Hire
42-44 Battersea High Street, SW11 | 6 minutes walk from London Heliport
Hot Club Gypsy Swing is a bizarrely niche musical genre for a wine bar in Battersea. Live acts vary depending on which night of the... More
Neverland London
London > Entertainment
364 Wandsworth Bridge Road, SW6 | 9 minutes walk from London Heliport
Occupying a prime Thames-side spot in Fulham, Neverland London hosts seasonal pop-ups so in summer you'll find the Fulham Beach Club, in... More
London > Entertainment > Theatres
503 Battersea Park Road, SW11 | 11 minutes walk from London Heliport
Originally created by the team behind the Gate Theatre in Notting Hill, the 503 is a well-designed theatre nestled above the busy Latchmere pub on... More
London > Entertainment > Jazz Clubs
90 Lots Road, SW10 | 12 minutes walk from London Heliport
Lots Road may be associated with auctions and designer showrooms, but it is also home to the 606 Club. This club will appeal to people... More
London > Entertainment > Arts Centres
Lavender Hill, SW11 | 16 minutes walk from London Heliport
Carrying many of London's best fringe productions, the Battersea Arts Centre is one of the best off-West End theatres and art venues in the capital.... More
Chickenshed Kensington and Chelsea
Kings Road, Chelsea, London SW10 | 20 minutes walk from London Heliport
Chickenshed theatre company has been working to make theatre inclusive for over 30 years and in 2011 they launched a new theatre programme in Kensington... More
Backyard Cinema
Capital Studios, Ram Quarter, SW18 | 21 minutes walk from London Heliport
For years they've been running successful, themed film-focused pop ups. Now Backyard Cinema sets up a permanent new home at Capital Studios, transforming a former... More
Finborough Theatre
118 Finborough Road, Fulham, London SW10 | 23 minutes walk from London Heliport
The Finborough Theatre in Earls Court punches well above its weight, presenting award-winning plays and works by new writers in a small theatre above a... More
The pub - if it still fits within the confines of that definition - has a vast outdoor space that is semi-covered with... More
263-267 Brompton Road, Earls Court, London SW5 | 27 minutes walk from London Heliport
The Troubadour is a lovely little cafe, which hosts an inspiring program of folk, blues, psychedelia and poetry downstairs. It's also the place where Private... More
265 Old Brompton Road, Earls Court, London SW5 | 27 minutes walk from London Heliport
Kensington's original boho coffee house. Jimi Hendrix, Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan and Paul Simon played here back in the 60s. Of course, Kensington has changed... More
Omnibus Theatre
1 Clapham Common North Side, SW4 | 31 minutes walk from London Heliport
An independent theatre in Clapham, South London, Omnibus is a welcoming space in the old library on Clapham... More
Institut Francais Cultural Centre, 17 Queensberry Place, South Kensington, London SW7 | 33 minutes walk from London Heliport
The Cine Lumiere is a shining beacon for all fans of European and World cinema. Attached to the Institut Francais, its programme is varied and... More
93 Lower Richmond Road, SW15 | 35 minutes walk from London Heliport
The Half Moon is a big pub not far from the riverside in Putney. With its own live music room, it hosts an amazing array... More
Clapham Comedy Club @ The Bread & Roses
London > Entertainment > Comedy Clubs
Bread & Roses pub, 68 Clapham Manor Street, SW4 | 35 minutes walk from London Heliport
Resident comperes Leanne Scott and Sion James host monthly shows (usually on the first Thursday of every month) in this wonderfully friendly and intimate comedy... More
Royal Court Theatre
Sloane Square, Belgravia, London SW1W | 36 minutes walk from London Heliport
Dedicated to putting on new work and discovering new voices, the Royal Court Theatre was seen as 'the most important theatre in Europe' by no... More
Cadogan Hall
London > Entertainment > Classical Music
5 Sloane Terrace, Belgravia, London SW1X | 36 minutes walk from London Heliport
Cadogan Hall opened its doors on 18th June 2004 with a surprising lack of fanfare but is making up for that with a year of... More
Science Museum IMAX
Exhibition Road, Knightsbridge, South Kensington, London SW7 | 37 minutes walk from London Heliport
The huge IMAX screen - ten times bigger than the average screen - at the Science Museum is one of the few places in London... More
Putney Arts Theatre
Ravenna Road, SW15 | 37 minutes walk from London Heliport
Set up by Maurice Copus, a teacher at Southfields School, in 1959, Putney Arts Theatre has a long history of staging fringe... More
Tara Theatre
356 Garratt Lane, SW18 | 2 miles from London Heliport
Founded in 1977, Tara Theatre company got a new home in 2016, a year before the cross-cultural... More
The Battersea Barge
London > Entertainment > Venue Hire
Riverside Walk, Nine Elms Lane, Nine Elms Lane, Vauxhall, Battersea, London SW8 | 2 miles from London Heliport
In the shadow of the Battersea Power Station, the Battersea Barge is a unique venue that's open daily for food, drink... More
3 North End Crescent, W14 | 2 miles from London Heliport
Nell's Jazz and Blues is a small entertainment and live music venue in West Kensington which can accommodate up to 200 people. For a... More
Prince Consort Road, South Kensington, London SW7 | 2 miles from London Heliport
The Royal College of Music is the school where Gustav Hoilst, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Benjamin Britten, James Galway, Joan Sutherland and Ralph Vaughan Williams learnt... More
The Boisdale Jazz & Cigar Club
15 Eccleston Street, Belgravia, Victoria, London SW1W | 2.2 miles from London Heliport
A tartan clad jazz, cigar and supper club, Boisdale of Belgravia has an the old fashioned charm of a gentlemen's club. Situated in an elegant... More
Kensington Gore, South Kensington, London SW7 | 2.2 miles from London Heliport
Classical music, rock, pop and jazz, sporting events, galas, banquets and balls and the world-famous Proms series all take place within the Royal Albert... More
Rise of the Idiots @ The Exhibit
The Exhibit, 12 Balham Station Road, SW12 | 2.2 miles from London Heliport
Based at The Exhibit Pub in Balham, the Rise of the Idiots Comedy Club runs monthly nights (last Sunday of each month) showcasing the very... More
Landor Pub Theatre
70 Landor Road, Brixton, London SW9 | 2.3 miles from London Heliport
You're never more than three rows away from the action at the Landor Theatre where the audience never exceeds 60. Focussed on producing musical theatre... More
Banana Cabaret
77 Bedford Hill, Balham, SW12 | 2.3 miles from London Heliport
It's worth venturing all the way to Balham for this comedy club - it's a class act. The legendary Banana Cabaret has run every Friday... More
Victoria Street, Victoria, London SW1E | 2.4 miles from London Heliport
The exterior of the Victoria Palace is among the most impressive of any theatre in London. Before the advent of air travel, the giant arch,... More
42 Francis Street, Westminster, London SW1P | 2.5 miles from London Heliport
Neo-Byzantine Roman Catholic church. London’s only example of neo-Byzantine architecture and principal Roman Catholic Church, offers a magnificent campanile that emerges 274 feet into the sky.... More
Near London Heliport All London hotels
From cheap budget accommodation to luxury 5 star suites see our discounts for London Heliport hotels, including Canary Riverside Plaza Hotel from 52% off.
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Libra, Facebook’s global digital currency plan, is fuzzy on privacy, watchdogs warn – TechCrunch
By admin on August 5, 2019
Privacy commissioners from the Americas, Europe, Africa and Australasia have put their names to a joint statement raising concerns about a lack of clarity from Facebook over how data protection safeguards will be baked into its planned cryptocurrency project, Libra.
Facebook officially unveiled its big bet to build a global digital currency using blockchain technology in June, steered by a Libra Association with Facebook as a founding member. Other founding members include payment and tech giants such as Mastercard, PayPal, Uber, Lyft, eBay, VC firms including Andreessen Horowitz, Thrive Capital and Union Square Ventures, and not-for-profits such as Kiva and Mercy Corps.
At the same time Facebook announced a new subsidiary of its own business, Calibra, which it said will create financial services for the Libra network, including offering a standalone wallet app that it expects to bake into its messaging apps, Messenger and WhatsApp, next year — raising concerns it could quickly gain a monopolistic hold over what’s being couched as an ‘open’ digital currency network, given the dominance of the associated social platforms where it intends to seed its own wallet.
In its official blog post hyping Calibra Facebook avoided any talk of how much market power it might wield via its ability to promote the wallet to its existing 2.2BN+ global users, but it did touch on privacy — writing “we’ll also take steps to protect your privacy” by claiming it would not share “account information or financial data with Facebook or any third party without customer consent”.
Except for when it admitted it would; the same paragraph states there will be “limited cases” when it may share user data. These cases will “reflect our need to keep people safe, comply with the law and provide basic functionality to the people who use Calibra”, the blog adds. (A Calibra Customer Commitment provides little more detail than a few sample instances, such as “preventing fraud and criminal activity”.)
All of that might sound reassuring enough on the surface but Facebook has used the fuzzy notion of needing to keep its users ‘safe’ as an umbrella justification for tracking non-Facebook users across the entire mainstream Internet, for example.
So the devil really is in the granular detail of anything the company claims it will and won’t do.
Hence the lack of comprehensive details about Libra’s approach to privacy and data protection is causing professional watchdogs around the world to worry.
“As representatives of the global community of data protection and privacy enforcement authorities, collectively responsible for promoting the privacy of many millions of people around the world, we are joining together to express our shared concerns about the privacy risks posed by the Libra digital currency and infrastructure,” they write. “Other authorities and democratic lawmakers have expressed concerns about this initiative. These risks are not limited to financial privacy, since the involvement of Facebook Inc., and its expansive categories of data collection on hundreds of millions of users, raises additional concerns. Data protection authorities will also work closely with other regulators.”
Among the commissioners signing the statement is the FTC’s Rohit Chopra: One of two commissioners at the US Federal Trade Commission who dissented from the $5BN settlement order that was passed by a 3:2 vote last month.
Also raising concerns about Facebook’s transparency about how Libra will comply with privacy laws and expectations in multiple jurisdictions around the world are: Canada’s privacy commissioner Daniel Therrien; the European Union’s data protection supervisor, Giovanni Buttarelli; UK Information commissioner, Elizabeth Denham; Albania’s information and data protection commissioner, Besnik Dervishi; the president of the Commission for Information Technology and Civil Liberties for Burkina Faso, Marguerite Ouedraogo Bonane; and Australia’s information and privacy commissioner, Angelene Falk.
In the joint statement — on what they describe as “global privacy expectations of the Libra network” — they write:
In today’s digital age, it is critical that organisations are transparent and accountable for their personal information handling practices. Good privacy governance and privacy by design are key enablers for innovation and protecting data – they are not mutually exclusive. To date, while Facebook and Calibra have made broad public statements about privacy, they have failed to specifically address the information handling practices that will be in place to secure and protect personal information. Additionally, given the current plans for a rapid implementation of Libra and Calibra, we are surprised and concerned that this further detail is not yet available. The involvement of Facebook Inc. as a founding member of the Libra Association has the potential to drive rapid uptake by consumers around the globe, including in countries which may not yet have data protection laws in place. Once the Libra Network goes live, it may instantly become the custodian of millions of people’s personal information. This combination of vast reserves of personal information with financial information and cryptocurrency amplifies our privacy concerns about the Libra Network’s design and data sharing arrangements.
We’ve pasted the list of questions they’re putting to the Libra Network below — which they specify is “non-exhaustive”, saying individual agencies may follow up with more “as the proposals and service offering develops”.
Among the details they’re seeking answers to is clarity on what users personal data will be used for and how users will be able to control what their data is used for.
The risk of dark patterns being used to weaken and undermine users’ privacy is another stated concern.
Where user data is shared the commissioners are also seeking clarity on the types of data and the de-identification techniques that will be used — on the latter researchers have demonstrated for years that just a handful of data points can be used to re-identify credit card users from an ‘anonymous’ data-set of transactions, for example.
Here’s the full list of questions being put to the Libra Network:
1. How can global data protection and privacy enforcement authorities be confident that the Libra Network has robust measures to protect the personal information of network users? In particular, how will the Libra Network ensure that its participants will:
a. provide clear information about how personal information will be used (including the use of profiling and algorithms, and the sharing of personal information between members of the Libra Network and any third parties) to allow users to provide specific and informed consent where appropriate;
b. create privacy-protective default settings that do not use nudge techniques or “dark patterns” to encourage people to share personal data with third parties or weaken their privacy protections;
c. ensure that privacy control settings are prominent and easy to use;
d. collect and process only the minimum amount of personal information necessary to achieve the identified purpose of the product or service, and ensure the lawfulness of the processing;
e. ensure that all personal data is adequately protected; and
f. give people simple procedures for exercising their privacy rights, including deleting their accounts, and honouring their requests in a timely way.
2. How will the Libra Network incorporate privacy by design principles in the development of its infrastructure?
3. How will the Libra Association ensure that all processors of data within the Libra Network are identified, and are compliant with their respective data protection obligations?
4. How does the Libra Network plan to undertake data protection impact assessments, and how will the Libra Network ensure these assessments are considered on an ongoing basis?
5. How will the Libra Network ensure that its data protection and privacy policies, standards and controls apply consistently across the Libra Network’s operations in all jurisdictions?
6. Where data is shared amongst Libra Network members:
a. what data elements will be involved?
b. to what extent will it be de-identified, and what method will be used to achieve de-identification?
c. how will Libra Network ensure that data is not re-identified, including by use of enforceable contractual commitments with those with whom data is shared?
We’ve reached out to Facebook for comment.
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Blake Lautner
#21 Midfielder - Missouri Baptist
Hometown: St. Louis, MO
High School: Parkway West
Eligibility: Senior
2013 Missouri Baptist 21 1 0 0 0 0 0 - 0
2013 North Texas 13 1 0 0 0 0 0 - 0
03/10/2013 @ San Diego State L 6-16 1 0 0 0 0
03/11/2013 @ USC L 9-10 0 0 0 0 0
03/13/2013 @ Claremont L 5-6 0 0 0 0 0
03/15/2013 @ UCLA L 5-16 0 0 0 0 0
03/23/2013 @ Oklahoma L 6-12 0 0 0 0 0
02/25/2012 Missouri L 5-10 0 0 0 0 0
03/03/2012 St. Olaf College W 16-7 0 0 0 0 0
03/06/2012 Aquinas W 11-3 0 0 0 0 0
03/15/2012 Northern Colorado W 13-3 0 0 0 0 0
03/17/2012 St. Thomas L 4-11 0 0 0 0 0
03/19/2012 Davenport L 4-12 0 0 0 0 0
03/24/2012 Wabash College W 22-0 0 0 0 0 0
03/31/2012 @ Hope College L 5-13 0 0 0 0 0
03/30/2012 @ Indiana Tech L 6-11 0 0 0 0 0
04/05/2012 Washington (Mo.) L 6-11 0 0 0 0 0
04/21/2012 DePaul W 10-1 0 0 0 0 0
04/27/2012 @ Judson University W 16-7 0 0 0 0 0
04/28/2012 @ Wheaton College W 16-9 2 0 0 0 0
05/05/2012 Missouri State W 11-8 0 0 0 0 0
03/05/2011 Mich.-Dearborn W 15-0 0 0 0 0 0
03/07/2011 Regis W 13-4 0 0 0 0 0
03/18/2011 Hope College L 10-12 0 0 0 0 0
03/22/2011 @ Missouri L 7-10 0 0 0 0 0
03/26/2011 Judson University W 15-1 0 0 0 0 0
03/31/2011 Saint Louis W 14-5 0 0 0 0 0
04/08/2011 @ St. Olaf College W 17-8 0 0 0 0 0
04/09/2011 @ St. John's L 7-9 0 0 0 0 0
04/23/2011 @ Harding University W 24-2 3 0 0 0 0
04/30/2011 Washington (Mo.) L 11-12 1 0 0 0 0
05/17/2011 St. John's L 5-12 0 0 0 0 0
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a dumb romp through the space
Writings & Drawings
Peaceful chickens and mockingbirds
June 6, 2017 all the tea in China, the day lee, writingseachnee
So I know it’s been awhile. You might say that the election and its aftermath has subsumed all rational activity. Every day I wake up and take an extra long time to do the mundane crap, extra care for the same old same old, because when you consider the number of people in certain swing states who voted for third party candidates versus the number of votes Trump won over Clinton, or the news that the impending retail job market crash will be #(*&@@!x number of times worse then the coal worker’s crisis, even with the news that Pandas have been upgraded from Endangered to Vulnerable things just seem so awful.
Many years ago I wrote a story where the Aphex Twin was the president of the United States and he changed the name of “The White House” to “Rationality.” The fact that his chief strategist was Klaus Meine (from the Scorpions) made the story a little over the top.
It’s classic June gloom in Los Angeles, but the recent rains have given us poppies, fat blackberries, bees, and tons of weeds. Our gardener is very stressed out. He just wipes his brow and says “Everything keeps growing.”
We’ve planted tomatoes every year but this is the year the squirrels have decided they are good enough to steal. They (the squirrels) have suffered a little bit of a setback the last few weeks because a pair of mockingbirds have started hanging about the yard, another first for us. Usually we get a cooper hawk visiting every spring, which is a beautiful thing to see in the crepe myrtles, but these mockingbirds are assholes.
They attack Stevie the border collie, going for her eyes. They attack the squirrels (OK) and they attacked the cooper hawk (not OK).
They’ve woken up Bing Bing the cat, who for the past six months has done very little other than sleep and vomit, and now she’s climbing up on anything that gives her a front row seat of the mockingbirds beating up on Stevie.
For some reason MO is free to walk about and enjoy the sunshine, being the hippie, solar-addicted bird-lover she is. Or maybe it’s random, right? Like each dog walks out into the yard, and they don’t know what’s going to happen?
The last Trumpian I have spoken to since the night of the election was this guy that walked into the Thai restaurant where I was picking up dinner. He takes one look at the polls on the television (at that point bleak but not apocalyptic, yet), and tells me and the owner that he hadn’t voted yet, “but I’m gonna.” The owner says “White rice or brown rice?” and the guy says “Well, we all know what we’re going to get with one candidate. We know exactly what we’re going to get. With the other one, it’s different. It will be something new.”
It feels silly to end on such a low note, so I’ll put this out there:
Yingelishi is a genius and crazy language opera written by Jonathan Stalling that “works” in both Mandarin Chinese and English. The Chinese phrases read out loud mean different things depending on whether you’re asking the words to produce their meaning in English or in Chinese. For example, my name in English is Angie. An easy way for me to get Chinese people who don’t know English to pronounce my name is to have them call me “Peaceful Chicken,” because Peaceful Chicken in Chinese is pronounced “An Gee.”
The title of Jonathan’s opera, Yinglishi, means “Chanted Songs, Beautiful Poetry” in Chinese, but it also sounds like what he calls “an accented pronunciation of the word ‘English.'” All of this is part of a brilliant effort to teach English using the sounds of the student’s native language, rather than making them first learn romanized letters and their sounds before actually speaking English. I figure this is totally helpful in a large part of China where the English teacher doesn’t actually have great pronunciation, and the students (being nice, eager mockingbirds) simply repeat what they hear.
Cheese please
November 2, 2016 cycling, the day leeeachnee
At the certification class at the velodrome a few weeks ago there was a kid who conceivably had never been on bike before, much less seen a fixed gear or knew how to clip in and out of pedals. The fact that English was not his first language made the morning even funnier. But he was enthusiastic, having watched the Chinese track sprinters at the Olympics win some medals wearing their awesome Peking Opera decorated helmets.
The first thing he did after practicing clipping in and out of the pedals — brave soul — was to ride the apron to the far side of the track and crash.
He was bruised but determined. “I am tough,” he said, before the adrenalin wore off.
Ten minutes later he noticed a weird bump next to the raw skin burn on the back of his forearm. “What is this bump?” he asked, running over to me exactly like how you’d imagine a guy to move who is scared and yet has never run with cleats on. I checked out the bump, and found a matching one on his other, unscathed arm. “Its just you,” I said.
The next time he came to class (the velodrome certification is typically a 4-session deal, sometimes longer for those that need it) his neck was covered in hickies from a new girlfriend. He apologized for having not come to class for a couple of weeks. He rode the apron without falling. He got on the black line. He got tired.
When he showed up a few weeks after that he said the girlfriend hadn’t allowed him come to class, so he “just had to get rid of her.” This guy has priorities. This time he got up to the blue line and stayed there.
Last night I had a dream where I was stuck inside a computer game, and the only way to advance to the next level is to explain to a Chinese guy what fresh mozzarella is. And this guy shows up on level one. If I can’t get past him, I can’t get to the next level. This guy, he doesn’t get anything I am saying about the cheese. I am stuck on the first level.
(I am reminded of one of the track sessions where a Cantonese speaking kid who spoke even less English than my guy showed up. When the instructor asked if any of us could speak Cantonese my guy held up his hand, but all he did was go up to the kid and speak Mandarin to him very loudly. I guess if I was awake I could’ve tried yelling about mozzarella.)
All this, for no particular reason, leads me to my Rapha merino wool cycling jersey. Only two seasons old it’s gotten so stretched out and faded I “just had to get rid of it.” But I salvaged the zipper with the circle pull and cut a piece of the black mesh to make a new wallet.
Now maybe I’ll see about getting one of those Olympic helmets.
Tea lab and snorting catechins
October 7, 2016 all the tea in China, food, the day leeeachnee
For those interested, 1001plateaus and Bana Tea Company will be hosting a Tea Lab at the Huntington Gardens, on Saturday, November 5, 2015 at 9:00AM. We will be doing side by side tastings of several factors that can affect how a tea tastes.
Tea tasting is comparative, like running in a marathon. In a race, no matter how small or large the field, you can only win against the other people who have entered, much like how a tea can only be compared to what else is at the table. It’s fairly common to do a tea tasting comparing different types of teas or different price points, but what about brewing the same tea under different circumstances? Beyond the obvious ones like using a porcelain gaiwan versus a Yixing pot, or varying the temperature or type of water used to brew. What about the harvest season? How about if we introduce some vibration to the water molecules? Or compare the same tea which has been stored on different continents?
In preparation for our upcoming Tea Lab at the Huntington Gardens, we thought we would brew a few comparisons. But first, because we knew one of the tests would be a tea brewed with tap water, and we’d also have to drink a tea harvested in the summer, we treated ourselves to some *@@&#^#!! jasmine tea.
That’s right. Haters are going to hate. I hate jasmine tea also, but I mean the stuff that’s known around the world as “jasmine tea” – bitter and smelling like Jean Nate. Those tea leaves have never seen a jasmine flower in their life, their jasmine scent has been sprayed on, much like the machine that coats dog kibble with flavors.
The real stuff is made by spreading fresh leaves on the ground in a thin layer and covering the leaves with jasmine flowers. The flowers only bloom for one night so in the morning the flowers must be picked out. (BTW – that pretty jasmine tea at the store which still has flower petals mixed in with the tea? The flowers are not adding any flavor to the tea, but they are adding weight. It’s the equivalent of the deli guy resting his thumb on the scale when he sells you bologna but tells you it’s prime rib. Not to knock bologna, but still.)
This process is repeated many many times until the tea has absorbed the scent. The jasmine we drank was made with small tea buds, whose fuzzy hairs absorbed more smell. Probably too small to roll into the usual pearl shape, which is good, since I have a bad connotation with that visual.
Sure it tasted flowery but in a subtle way, like you’ve already walked past the house with the flowers blooming in the front yard. There was no astringency at all, no resemblance to drinking something at a Chinese restaurant, and actually it didn’t taste like tea either, more like a precious juice.
On to our taste tests:
– Organic Wild Peony (ming qian) White tea from Fuding brewed with Crystal Geyser versus Los Angeles tap water.
This comparison is the crowd pleaser. You’re pretty certain one of these will taste better, but it’s plenty surprising how salty and gritty that tap water can be.
– 2011 Treasures of the Five Mountains raw Pu’er. Stored in Hong Kong, vs. stored in Los Angeles. The larger puck is HK, the smaller is LA. There’s a pretty noticeable difference in color.
This is one of those tastings where it gets personal. Sure the HK stored tea seems more aged, is generally darker in appearance and has more plum flavor. But the LA one is more floral, more complex, in a way, with hints of different flavors, probably due to the fact that Five Mountains is a blend. Aging a tea will flatten the differences out and since the LA tea is “younger” there are more differences to taste.
We over-brewed these teas for fun to see what that would do, and the HK one showed it’s age. It was definitely less astringent, and more mellow than it’s twin other. Another great example of how a tea is brewed is just as important to how or where it’s stored, and since most of us don’t have a choice on where our tea is stored…
We ended the day with some magical white powder called catechin. This is the phenol or flavonoid that is responsible for gan, that sweet or minty taste you get after drinking Pu’er teas with high mineral content (and eating bitter melon, ginseng, and a few other foods. More on gan coming very soon). What a better way to experience gan than to lick it off a wet finger?
The sensation was purer than when you get it through tea, more direct, no tea flavors diluting the experience, and the sweetness lasted a good fifteen minutes or so, especially noticeable when we drank some water. That water, good old plain water, tasted incredibly sweet I wanted to floss my teeth with it.
My counter guy is a Stalinist and I benefitted
September 5, 2016 coffee sameness, the day lee, things i worry abouteachnee
Getting work done on the house is nuts. Not only do you need to like the people you hire, philosophically, you also need to like them physically, as they are in your house everyday.
And shit is expensive. But not everything costs money. Sometimes you get roped into doing more. Sometimes deals just come your way.
Several years ago one of our neighbors was having some concrete work done and he figured if he got other people to hire them as well, he’d get a deal. We let the guys pour us a new set of front steps, and they offered us a steep discount if we did something else.
OK, we said, why don’t you take away our concrete deck, which was already in pieces, and tended to collect stagnant water. So the Samoan concrete guys broke the deck into more manageable-for-them sized pieces, drank two cases of Hawaiian Punch, and drove the deck away. We were left with a large dirt mound (and 24 empty cans), which was all fine until it started to rain, and the backyard turned into what the dogs called the “great epic most fun thing.”
We called up a contractor whom we met originally when we bought the house. Before the housing bubble burst he had run his own construction company. Now he taught Kundalini yoga. His prices had come down by a lot. He was also into tea. We served him and his worker (who only drank iced tea) all sorts of Chinese teas as they built our deck, using a discontinued Trex color that was 50% off at the builder’s supply. During one afternoon tea our contractor mentioned something about needing to see the dentist. His truck needed work too, as it was leaking oil all over our driveway, so we asked him to put up yoga ropes in the garage which we made sure he hung from first to test the engineering.
More recently, we decided we needed a new kitchen counter. The grout in the kitchen was chipping and gross, and I had gotten tired of photoshopping out the brown bits from my Instagram pictures. But a new kitchen counter leads to craziness. Do you also get new cabinets and sink and faucets and drawer pulls and shelf liners and lighting fixtures and flooring?
We decided to list out the real mod cons.
1. Let’s plumb the espresso machine so we don’t have to constantly dump the bucket we currently use in place of a real drain.
That’s it. End of list. Everything else is, as they say, Russian chicken feed.
We scored LED lights from a guy we know from the Velodrome who sells them wholesale. Then he turned out to be a Trumpian. He, the Trumpian, thinks he’s getting an invite to “see the lights,” but I stick to my “you gotta like them philosophically and physically” mantra.
That seemed easy enough, but then we had to go through the process of hiring a cabinet maker who flaked for 6 months and then took another 2 months to officially flake. Meanwhile we entered our fireplace design era, and it turned out that the guys who set our tiles do a lot of general construction work, especially kitchens and bathrooms. Yay!
Then came the hard part. Turning off the espresso machine felt like unplugging from life support. We embraced the nail gun. We washed dishes in the bathroom sink. We MOVED THE CAT FOOD BOWL. We ate one tray of cold baked ziti a week.
We returned the crappy Heath tile samples under cover of night via bicycle rather than face that saleswoman again.
We got to bring out some old friends and wire them up.
Incidentally, the contractors LOVED our deck. It became their giant work space.
This is what we’ve been living with all these years.
Our counter guy is a Russian Jew from Belarus who has great recommendations on where to get real Tel Aviv falafels, where the people can be “slightly rude.” He’s a Stalinist at heart and a big Viktor Tsoi fan. He thinks an espresso offers clarity. He only takes his espresso when the job is about to be glued in.
It’s all concentration when he’s working and in true stone mason fashion makes sure to measure twice. He told us his definition of “professional” meant that you could do what you do without really paying attention and it still comes out fabulous. He said he didn’t really become a professional until a few years ago. In the end he used some tight connections to score us a small piece of Calacatta marble that is so silky and luscious it feels like even I could carve Persephone’s soft butt out of it.
But maybe I’ll just make pastries on it, and get a soft butt that way.
The final plumbing.
Sometimes you’re the hammer, and sometimes you’re the nail.
Newbaums 4 color weave
August 16, 2016 cycling, the day leeeachnee
Whenever I think about re-wrapping the harlequin Newbaum’s weave on my handlebars all I hear is the line from Car Talk where Click and Clack the Tappet Brothers say, “Well, it’s happened again—you’ve wasted another perfectly good hour listening to Car Talk.”
It feels like it takes an hour just to remove the perfectly good existing bar tape, then a real hour to remember how it was done (the start is critical, and the bend in the bars a royal pain in the ass), and another serious chunk of time to get the second side to match the first.
But like most things, the four-color weave takes a little patience and a little practice but it’s well worth it when even the Trumpians at the Velodrome take notice.
August 4, 2016 the day lee, things i worry abouteachnee
After taking down the crumbling top of our chimney and fixing some hidden gas and plumbing issues, it was finally time to replace the cracked tiles on the fireplace. We originally thought we’d use Heath tiles, being big fans of Edith Heath (and a Batchelder tile fireplace being completely out of the budget).
One of the guys we talked to about setting tiles told us “Heath tiles suck,” and we knew the original company had been bought out by a pair of hipsters in 2003, who turned it into a “holistic business model, one that integrated designing, making and selling.” But we went to the showroom anyway. I think the tile guy was talking about the quality of the actual clay, since he agreed that the glazes were beautiful, but we also found out they have minimums for each size of tile in each color, and this minimum is 25 square feet, much larger than the average-sized fireplace + hearth. This means you have to use the same size tile with the same glaze, and then you’ll have shitloads of this same-sameness tile leftover when you’re done.
Not only that, but the really stiff and aggressive showroom lady said to us, repeatedly: “You really ought to try the Our Modern Basics collection. It’s an in-stock offering of two sizes in a carefully edited palette of six matte and glossy glazes. The depth and character of the glazes are classic Heath—refined and contemporary, yet timeless.”
OK. She didn’t actually say that. But that’s what I heard. Whenever someone says they think/know their “carefully edited” selections are perfect for your project (having never seen the house or the fireplace), it’s time to get the hell out of the store.
Lamenting on the way home, I said, “I wish we could just buy from someone who makes their own tiles.” And what do you know, we found her in Pasadena.
Now that we could have any color in any size in any pattern we pulled out the graph paper and colored pencils. We started with Batchelder designs, and then quickly lost our minds.
The cost was going to be less than if we had gone with Heath so we bought a few Batchelder and other colored tiles as accents. Even though the blue monster tile (Mosaic Tile Co., Zanesville, OH) didn’t fit the program I couldn’t leave it behind, because you never know when you’ll come across a blue monster tile again.
Here’s our final design. Not exactly final because we soon realized that the guys who built the firebox enlarged the box by a couple inches (they were being nice), and we had to move a row of 2×2’s from the top to the middle. Nothing too major. Phew.
After quite a bit of back and forth about color variations and the unpredictability of glazes, and testing the infinite patience of Cha-Rie, we laid out the entire thing in front of the fireplace, and were ready to have Miguel and his amazing group of guys glue the suckers in.
Yes those penciled X’s on the top right of each tile meant that the tile was to be set with the X on the top right. Anal retentive we may be, but the tile guys sure appreciated it. I’d rather have them think about how the tiles meet at the corners rather than which way to turn the tile.
Just in time for a lazy summer in L.A. lounging by the fire.
Rainbows vs. Trumpians
July 10, 2016 cycling, the day lee, things i worry abouteachnee
The Velodrome down in Carson is the only indoor world class cycling facility in the country. Some people say “too bad it’s all the way down there in Carson,” but after you ride the 45 degree banked Siberian pine boards in its perfectly temperature controlled environment, you might think “we’re so lucky that Carson is so close.”
Lately, the thing about the Velodrome being in Carson is its proximity to Orange County, which seems to be the bastion of Trumpians and they are out in force, shouting loudly as cyclists tend to do, and man-spreading without even having to be present. Yes, that’s their shorts, turned inside out, in the foreground.
And when one Trumpian (with a gut so large we call it “the baby”) decides to make one too many jokes about missing female parts and nuts as he asks for help in putting an old bike together, and concludes the conversation by claiming Clinton killed some of his army buddies, the solution is to make a rainbow tool roll based on Eddie Van Halen’s guitar for my old Trek, which we converted to a fixed gear awhile ago for riding to museums and ice cream runs. Why convert? It was impossible to ride. I rode that thing every day when I was in college, happy as a clam. But times do change.
Here’s how it was, original parts from 1984.
Not only was that saddle unbearable, the handlebars were too far away, the brakes too stiff and the gears auto-shifted themselves when going uphill. So we did a little makeover.
And here comes the tool roll, which has been named the “Eddie Van Halen.”
I know I’m going to be so happy the next time I get a flat, and see this when I unroll.
Mars rover, Mars rover, let C#41 on over
June 13, 2016 the day lee, things i worry about, why artists need matheachnee
When the sign in the parking lot shows the speed limit in KM/HR, you know you’re in for some serious science. Last weekend was the Open House at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and the freeway signs near Pasadena were bubbling over with excitement like it was beaujolais season. “Hurrah! It’s here! A Ticket to Explore JPL – this way!”
There were also cops in extra-large and extra-darkly-tinted vehicles at every major intersection, and IDs required for entry (tickets were free but had to be reserved in advance). It occurred to me as we drove in that there was going to be enough people at this event to warrant a terrorist threat. In space, if we detected an asteroid that might hit us, JPL would probably launch something to swing the asteroid off its path or actually collide with it (depending on who’s president). But here on the surface of Earth, if something’s going to hit us, we have to rely on good old-fashioned bag searches and vapor-waking dogs. But then again, some of my friends used to joke that as kids in Los Alamos during the cold war we were safe from getting bombed because wouldn’t the Russians want to keep all our scientist parents alive?
Having attended a few “Family Days” at the Lab in Los Alamos I’m always wishing for a little less hype and more day to day stuff at these types of events. For example, the real JPL mission control room pales in comparison to a “Control Center” fabricated for the movies, but there is nothing like seeing the ID-activated vending machines that track the use of special machining drill bits and tools, the safety glasses overflow storage, or old soap dispensers from the 60’s.
NASA’s mission control (the red LED lights don’t actually do anything):
NORAD Control Center from the movie WarGames (when that red light starts to wail, well…):
Plus, all the obtuse illustrations and charts of data that are scientifically significant but don’t look good on social media are hanging in the hallways you can’t get to, and you can only put your nose to the glass to look into the labs with nano-technology experiments sitting on top of Laminar Flow Isolating table supports (awesome for playing air hockey).
But there’s nothing more fun than watching the real Mars rover crawl over some Southern Californian rock, and then laying down and getting rolled over by its little cousin. Apparently each wheel has its own engine. Felt like some little kid next to me kept elbowing me to move over.
They sure have tire tread all figured out.
We skipped the long wait for the Spacecraft Assembly Facility, after hearing the guy say, “If you can hear my voice you’re looking at a 45 minute wait for about a 5 minute visit,” opting instead for the guy who lured everyone with a: “Welcome to the solar system where we’ve got AC.”
My story about an asteroid named C#41 who crashes into the moon was just published at Entropy so we paused in the middle of the solar system and had a wake for the little guy.
A visit to the Fabrication Facility AKA the machine shop put any resemblance to Disneyland out of my mind, but the ice cold water bottles that cost $1 (A BUCK!) probably did the trick as well. At the shop there were 3-D printers, vending machines for bits and gadgets, rolls and rolls of thermal fabric. We were told the next big thing was going to be 3D printing using metal, namely powdered aluminum, which is so explosive the technician must remain completely free of charge, as a single spark will send the whole building into space. No party tricks like rubbing a balloon back and forth across the top of your head to get it to stick to a wall…
We got to meet the guy who’s idea it was to add the star to the top of this postmark. His friend designed JPL’s postmarks for years, and he told us anyone can suggest a design to the post office and they decide whether to create a stamp for the occasion. Hm…
Very unlike “Family Day” at the Los Alamos Lab, there were plenty of stickers to go around, and JPL bags being given away by the dozen at the end of the day.
Devil in a Blue Dress Easter egg hunt
March 28, 2016 cycling, the day leeeachnee
We didn’t mean to go on an egg hunt, or even a bike ride on Easter. It was simply Sunday and we’ve been on a Don Cheadle kick, and just saw Devil in a Blue Dress, and thought some of the houses looked awfully familiar. The Internet told us that some of the houses where the movie was shot were still around and very close by. A movie about Los Angeles in the 40’s that was shot in the 90’s still looks the same in the 2010’s.
Last week there was something on the radio about half-marathon-ers who curated routes which explored different parts of the city, ending their runs at some gastronomical treat. I am for any kind of gastronomical treat at any time but I’m not that excited about sitting down all sweaty, mowing something like a “Porno Burrito” and then getting up and running/cycling home. Crafting a ride to movie locations, and picking up a new seat post clamp for my track bike seemed like a more reasonable thing to do.
Club Finale:
Easy Rawlin’s house:
Frank Green’s apartment:
The first couple of locations were all within a mile or so of our house but since we were on a theme, we decided to check out where Easy Rawlins gets harassed by some white punks at the Malibu pier, which extended the ride to over 50 miles. (The pier is quite close to where Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House, something for next time.)
On the way, we stopped by a bike shop, then a second one, then a third, in search of one that was open. Turns out, it was Easter, and for some reason this meant bike shops all across town were closed. All. Except. One. Owned by an Israeli. Thank God.
And just to be completely non-denominational I opted against buying the clamp made by the company called “Guru.” Besides, the Guru was 5 grams heavier.
You can’t pick your neighbors like you can’t pick your family
February 25, 2016 food, the day lee, things i worry abouteachnee
This being Los Angeles, a home is not a home without a fireplace. I’ve been told that a working fireplace bumps up a home’s value more than a working garage. That’s great because we have neither. Our house is over 100 years old and has a firebox that’s out of code (made for little people who wore the clothes that can fit inside our little closets) and topped with old sandy mortar and bricks which any small wind, pale fire, or decent earthquake could bring down… on top of our neighbor’s driveway, and their cars, and their tenant’s cars, and their tenant’s whatever’s cars.
When we first bought the house the guys from Boston Brick and Stone (of all places) told us that to rebuild the entire chimney to code would require use of the neighbor’s driveway for 2-3 weeks. Ha! We don’t need a stinking fireplace, we said.
Since then, the owner-lady next door has called David a bitch for asking her to remove a dirty mattress she leaned against our house, her ex-gang-banger son has gotten out of jail and moved in, occasionally launching into vile and manic threats interspersed with Trump-fueled immigrant bashing, Spanish love song crooning (he’s not half bad), and the magic car alarm that goes off like a timer. My favorite incident was the night he screamed at another neighbor who just happened to be walking by to call the police because he saw some sketchy people go by. This reminded me of my favorite childhood book called The Monster at the End of this Book, starring Lovable, Furry Old Grover.
Basically, Grover is terrified to learn that there’s a monster at the end of the book and tries to keep the reader from turning the pages. Turns out… you can probably guess.
The idea of that slight wind, pale fire or decent earthquake bringing down the bricks was weighing on us, so recently we decided to take the easy way out: remove the top part of the chimney (being mindful of the house value, ahem), keep the old firebox, and install an Eco-Smart fire, since we are certainly both Eco and Smart. The chimney guys said they still needed permission for two full days of scaffolding in the neighbor’s driveway. We sighed. We fretted. We considered moving to Topanga.
Finally I asked a man next door who turns out to be the current husband of the owner-lady for permission and he said, “No problem, feel free to knock on the door and let us know which days you need the driveway. Any time.”
I almost shit my pants in surprise. I couldn’t believe it. In fact, I didn’t. The first day we needed access to cut some trees they forgot to move the cars. I don’t know how the gardener got around the situation but he managed.
I wake up early to see five cars in their driveway, including one that is usually always parked on the street, and I think about putting on my heart rate monitor to stay calm. I try not to take it personally, take a deep breath, and try to be grateful for the small things, like, I just got my new night guard from my dentist. Sometimes a certain behavior is not necessarily a declaration of war.
Just before the agreed upon time they come out in their cute P.J.’s, and slowly the cars move out, into the street.
The chimney is half taken down (and it’s an easy job, just a slight tap with what looks like a toy hammer and the brick comes loose) when who should come by but our neighbor’s neighbor, who we call the hoarder. Because he is one. He’s got his little wheelbarrow filled with our bricks and he’s carting them back to his safe little place next to his house. Last year he got rid of all his crap and told us “No more! What was I thinking?”
Things are going well so I decide to make some lemon bars for the neighbor. I know they like lemons. How do I know? Apparently they used to take them from the tree in the back yard when the previous owners lived here. That’s before the previous owners put up a fence in the back. Last summer our bamboo sent a shoot underneath this fence and up into their yard. The owner-lady hacked it down and sent it flying back at us like a spear.
They’re not as pretty as they could be, but hey, I’m building bridges, not walls.
I pack the lemon bars up and bang on the door. And get thoroughly rejected. REJECTED! She says, without even opening the screen, that she doesn’t want anything. Nothing.
This being Tuesday there’s no place a lemon bar feels more at home than dog agility class, and there’s something very funny about Lemon Bars in Cars.
Next project: the fireplace itself. Stay tuned. The tile guy says, “Heath tiles suck.”
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Where Is Kristen Currie Now
Book Lover's Season Shop the Best Books of the Year Shop All Books. Download premium images you can't get anywhere else. Kristen Stewart and Dakota Fanning talk to Access Hollywood about "The Runaways". Kristen Stewart, Joan Jett, Dakota Fanning and Cherie Currie posed together at The Runaways premiere in Park City on Sunday. "Kristen, you are so hot!" In the appropriately rank alley behind a small Los Angeles club called the Smell, Cherie Currie, former lead singer of the '70s all-girl band the Runaways, yells. This movie is based on neon angel, Currie's autobiography. Twilight star Kristen Stewart has been tapped to play rock queen Joan Jett in The Runaways, a music biopic based Jett's 1970's all-girl band. Fanning will play Cherie Currie, the white blond lead singer who joined the influential ’70s group at the tender age of 15, and faced the pressures of fame and the sociopathic ways of band. Currie joined The Runaways a year after its formation. Michael Shannon Talks 'Runaways'. The film follows two friends, Joan Jett (KRISTEN STEWART) and Cherie Currie (DAKOTA FANNING), as they rise from rebellious Southern California kids to rock stars of the now legendary group that paved the way for future generations of girl bands. Kristen Currie KRQE Age, Husband, Married, Bio, Wikipedia, Birthday. View Kristen Simpson’s profile on LinkedIn, the world's largest professional community. Guest Star (1) Role. Kristen has 7 jobs listed on their profile. Earlier in 2010, she starred as Joan Jett opposite Dakota Fanning as Cherie Currie in "The Runaways," the story of the first all-girl punk rock band in the 1970s. Sandy West, Jackie Fox, Lita Ford, and Cherie Currie were the initial members of this band. com's huge selection of Womens Shoes All - Over 19,000 styles available. With 12 confirmed doctors. Dear Kristen, We have enjoyed you being a part of our mornings since you were in Lubbock. Hitting > pauses the slideshow and goes. Funeral arrangements are private under the care and direction of Wright & Ford Family Funeral…. Dec 02, 2013 · Lita Ford and Cherie Currie, two members of the '70s all-female rock group The Runaways have reunited on a holiday single called 'Rock This Christmas Down. Family: father - Randy Currie, mother - Angie Currie, siblings: Kurt(bro) & Erin(sis-in-law) Currie, Kyle (bro) & Michelle (sis-in-law) and their daughter Clarabelle Currie Now for the nitty gritty: I was born on November 21, 1989 at Mather Air Force Base in Sacramento, California where my father was stationed as a pilot. Transcript for Kristen Stewart, Dakota Fanning on 'Runaways' This transcript has been automatically generated and may not be 100% accurate. " "Stewart's trademark low-key surliness works well for the part. Kristen Currie is a Pittsfield, MA cardiologist who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment & management of heart & cardiovascular conditions. Anyone prepping to send Kristen even more hate mail can put their pens down. Dakota Fanning, the star of 'The Secret Life of Bees', is reported to be in talks for portraying Cheri Currie in biopic movie starring 'Twilight' actress Kristen Stewart, 'The Runaways'. A Roman-British silver treasure was found in the village in the eighteenth century. Dakota and Kristen Stewart heated up the screen in The Runaways in 2010. Meet Our Staff. ca, Canada's largest bookstore. Cherie Currie talks about fronting the Runaways, watching Dakota Fanning play her in the movie this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines. Dobbs County is a former county located in the state of North Carolina. I was intrigued enough to picked up Cherie Currie's Neon Angel, the book the movie was based on. Mar 14, 2010 · Kristen Stewart, left, as Joan Jett and Dakota Fanning as Cherie Currie in "The Runaways. Precip: 0%. " - Kristen Stewart. Funeral arrangements are private under the care and direction of Wright & Ford Family Funeral…. Staying healthy is easier with the right support. 2013 SEMA Video Coverage: Rear Axle Tech With John Currie from Currie Enterprises V8TV. Kristen Jaymes Stewart (born April 9, 1990) is an American actress and film director. Joan Jett recorded a live version backed by L7 for inclusion on the benefit album Spirit of '73: Rock for Choice. ET Canada The Sheepdogs Rate The Top-Shelf Beards Of The NHL. There are facts about Myrian's life, and then there are the qualities. Apr 21, 2016 · 'It was the end of a nightmare': Cherie Currie on putting the ghosts of the Runaways to rest For Currie, forgiving her former foe Kim Fowley comes with the price tag of controversy - but the. her backstory is delved into, while Jett's backstory is nonexistent in this film, only her ambitions are meditated upon. Kristen Stewart, who became one of the most recognizable humans in the world for playing Bella Swan, the tender, tremulous teenage vampire-lover in the massively successful Twilight franchise, has. KSTU FOX 13 names Kristen Van Dyke as Chief Meteorologist KSTU/FOX 13 in Salt Lake City, Utah, today announced Kristen Van Dyke will join the station as Chief Meteorologist beginning May 8. Kristen Sarah Currie Stevens, age 39 years, of Toms River Township, Ocean County, NJ, died on Thursday, August 16, 2018 at her home. View Kristen Currie's profile on LinkedIn, the world's largest professional community. Meanwhile Jett, 51, showed off an. An Occasion for the Arts will showcase the works of artists traveling from 21 US states, Israel & Canada. Dakota Fanning Cherie Currie Rock N Roll Kristen Stewart Girlfriend Michael Shannon Kristen Stewart Movies Joan Jett Movie Cinema The Runaways Film Some co-stars just can't get enough of working with each other and make movie-after-movie together. Intelius provides phone numbers, previous addresses and background checks. Currie is affiliated with Einstein Gastroenterology Assoc. Rock 'n' roll motivators Cherie Currie and Brie Darling talk new album, Rock Hall's Suzi Quatro. In the mid 1970s, she formed an American all-female rock band The Runaways. The biopic, which tells the story of "jailbait rock" band The Runaways, stars some of Hollywood's most recognizable young faces, including Kristen Stewart, playing Joan Jett, Dakota Fanning, who plays Runaways lead singer Cherie Currie, and 'Arrested Development' actress Alia Shawkat. Staying healthy is easier with the right support. View the profiles of professionals named Kristen Currie on LinkedIn. This is a restricted profile. "Those of you with a Twilight astigmatism won’t like reading this, but here it is anyway: Kristen Stewart is a modern day James Dean. the reason is that she is playing the role of joan jett in her 2010 film "the runaways" with Dakota fanning. Guest Star (1) Role. From left, Joan Jett, Kristen Stewart, Dakota Fanning, and Cherie Currie pose together at the premiere of "The Runaways" in Los Angeles on Thursday, March 11, 2010. The latest NBA locker room chatter is that Cleveland Cavaliers guard Kyrie Irving is currently dating Callie Rivers, the daughter of Los Angeles Clippers coach Doc Rivers. Kristen Stewart is dishing on the kiss she shares with Dakota Fanning in their new biopic The Runaways. Features news, history, member profiles, discography, pictures, lyrics, and merchandise for the band that included Joan Jett, Lita Ford, Cherie Currie and Sandy West. The film, starring Kristen Stewart as Joan Jett and Dakota Fanning as Cherie Currie, was released to critical acclaim. Kristen Stewart and Dakota Fanning take a trip back to the '70s to play real-life rockers Joan Jett and Cherie Currie who, while in their tender teens, started the first real all-girl rock band. Join Facebook to connect with Jed Currie and others you may know. Kristen Curry, Actress: Dead Beat. Thrust into the international limelight, Currie was soon living the highs and lows that characterize the glamorous and decadent rock star lifestyle. Currie may see patients for symptoms like difficulty breathing, dizziness or chest pains, to name a few. While you can pre-order a Surface 3 now, Erik Eckel confirms an iPad Air 2 better serves Want cheaper car insurance? Get married Name Kristen Currie. Dakota Fanning as Cherie Currie and Kristen Stewart as Joan Jett in "The Runaways. com's huge selection of Womens Shoes All - Over 19,000 styles available. Get more of what you love Kristen Currie. Part of that is due to the buzz surrounding young stars Kristen Stewart and Dakota Fanning, who deliver impressive performances as Valley girls-turned-rock icons Joan Jett and Cherie Currie, respectively. Meteorologist Kristen Currie - Duration: 5:36. Kristen Currie 955 views. her backstory is delved into, while Jett's backstory is nonexistent in this film, only her ambitions are meditated upon. Cardiovascular issues that may be identified and cared for by a cardiologist can include congenital heart defects, angina, arrhythmia, heart failure, rheumatic heart disease, heart aneurysms and coronary artery disease, to name a few. Dakota snorts cocaine, has lesbian scenes, and generally was NOT the little girl fans had known her to be. This is a restricted profile. On POPSUGAR AU you will find everything you need on Cherie Currie. Kristy Lynn Curry née Sims (born October 30, 1966) is the head coach of the University of Alabama's women's basketball team, the Crimson Tide. THE RUNAWAYS Trailer – Starring Kristen Stewart as Joan Jett and Dakota Fanning as Cherie Currie by Steve 'Frosty' Weintraub March 20, 2015 The full trailer for The Runaways has finally been. Sandy West, Jackie Fox, Lita Ford, and Cherie Currie were the initial members of this band. Kristen Stewart (Joan Jett) black leather jacket from the movie Runaways - Avail free shipment to USA and Canada Now!!!. In 2010, between Twilight films New Moon and Eclipse, Kristen took on the part of young Joan Jett in The Runaways. Yee Teng has 3 jobs listed on their profile. He graduated from West End High School, attended the University of Alabama and retired from Allied Lime. Now the race is on to rediscover them. Kristen Currie Bio. Kristen Stewart och Dakota Fanning har rollerna som Joan Jett och Cherie Currie medan Michael Shannon spelar musikproducenten Kim Fowley. Kristen Curry is an actress, known for Dead Beat (1994), Legend of the Wild (1981) and Greatest Heroes of the Bible (1978). Andrew G Matthew Shabbir M H Alibhai Tal Davidson Kristen L Currie Haiyan Jiang Murray Krahn Neil E Fleshner Robin Kalnin Alyssa S Louis B Joyce Davison John Trachtenberg Qual Life Res 2014 Oct 9;23(8):2309-17. The movie, now in theaters, stars Dakota Fanning as Currie, Kristen Stewart as Jett and Michael Shannon as producer Kim Fowley. Fanning, 16, wore a sparkly mini and platform heels while Stewart, 19, was in a strapless mini. Child Stars: Then & Now. Cooperative Extension ServiceBy: LandCAN. Rock Costume Kristen Stewart Pictures Cherie Currie Leather Trousers Leather Gloves Joan Jett Look Chic Mullets Musa Buy Jj. Details Angela A Hanigan. Known as the Capheaton Treasure, it is now in the British Museum Capheaton Hall, is an English country house, the seat of the Swinburne Baronets and the childhood home of the poet Algernon Swinburne. Kristen Currie Photos. Hurricane Dorian is the 5th CATEGORY 5 hurricane to form in the Atlantic in the last 4 years, joining the company of Matthew (2016), Irma (2017), Maria (2017) & Michael (2018). See the complete profile on LinkedIn and discover Kristen’s. The film follows two friends, Joan Jett and Cherie Currie, as they rise from rebellious Southern California kids to rock stars of the now legendary group that paved the way for future generations. Facebook gives people the power to share and makes the world. They did a great job. Cherie Currie worked on a variety of projects during her entertainment career. Initially pushed below 4 million viewers during the. Dobbs County is a former county located in the state of North Carolina. See the complete profile on LinkedIn and discover Kristen's connections and jobs at similar companies. THE RUNAWAYS Trailer - Starring Kristen Stewart as Joan Jett and Dakota Fanning as Cherie Currie by Steve 'Frosty' Weintraub March 20, 2015 The full trailer for The Runaways has finally been. Kristen Sarah Currie Stevens, age 39 years, of Toms River Township, Ocean County, NJ, died on Thursday, August 16, 2018 at her home. Get more of what you love Kristen Currie. Already a guitar player, Kristen has been honing her singing skills for the movie. Kristen's Reputation Score is 4. Though most critics heaped praised on Fanning for her poignant performance as Cherie Currie, Stewart also received praise for her acting and musical performances. After a heavy rain event and/or a significant tropical system, you often here the terms ‘100-year flood’ or ‘500 year-flood’ associated with significant flooding. Start a free CaringBridge website today. The film follows two friends, Joan Jett and Cherie Currie, as they rise from rebellious Southern Californian kids to rock stars of the now legendary group that paved the way for future generations of girl bands. Buy the Kobo ebook Book Androgen Deprivation Therapy: An Essential Guide for Prostate Cancer Patients and Their Loved Ones by Kristen Currie, MA, CCRP at Indigo. Weidenback, of Hoover, passed away on Tuesday, April 9, 2019, at the age of 90. Despite recently turning 50, Joan looked years younger and in remarkably good shape. See the complete profile on LinkedIn and discover Kristen’s connections and jobs at similar companies. The Truth About the Drugs You're Taking, The Sleep You're Missing, The Sex You're Not Having, and What's Really Making You Crazy. Kristen Stewart brilliant as Joan Jett Kristen Stewart with Robert Pattinson in "Twilight: New Moon". KSTU FOX 13 names Kristen Van Dyke as Chief Meteorologist KSTU/FOX 13 in Salt Lake City, Utah, today announced Kristen Van Dyke will join the station as Chief Meteorologist beginning May 8. The first true girl band of the 1970s, THE RUNAWAYS — which also featured Lita Ford, Cherie Currie, Jackie Fox and Sandy West — toured internationally and made a dent in the charts before calling it quits at the end of that decade. Kristen Curry is an actress, known for Dead Beat (1994), Legend of the Wild (1981) and Greatest Heroes of the Bible (1978). Check out each route to see its current FKT. Directed by Andrew Currie, the film features a cast that includes Jody Thompson, Eric McCormack, Conner Dwelly and Ryan Grantham. See the complete profile on LinkedIn and discover Kristen's connections and jobs at similar companies. An intense, behind-the-scenes look at rock music in the gritty, post-glam era, Neon Angel is a must-read for anyone whose heart beats to the rhythm of David Bowie, Suzi Quatro, Nick Gilder, and the Sex Pistols, and for every fan of the movie it inspired: The Runaways, starring Dakota Fanning and Kristen Stewart as Cherie Currie and Joan Jett. Dec 02, 2013 · Lita Ford and Cherie Currie, two members of the '70s all-female rock group The Runaways have reunited on a holiday single called 'Rock This Christmas Down. com Kristen's Friday Morning Forecast | KRQE News 13. Kristen Curry is an actress, known for Dead Beat (1994), Legend of the Wild (1981) and Greatest Heroes of the Bible (1978). The cooperative extension service is designed to help people use research based knowledge to improve their land. Tonight 19° Clear skies. Their specialties include Pediatrics. View the profiles of professionals named Kristen Currie on LinkedIn. her backstory is delved into, while Jett's backstory is nonexistent in this film, only her ambitions are meditated upon. Posts about Kristen Stewart written by James P. Cherie Currie talks about 'The Runaways' movie and Kristen SR: I've heard you talk about how impressed you were with Dakota Fanning's portrayal of you and how highly you regard her, as an actor. Kristen Stewart and Dakota Fanning take a trip back to the ’70s to play real-life rockers Joan Jett and Cherie Currie who, while in their tender teens, started the first real all-girl rock band. Dakota snorts cocaine, has lesbian scenes, and generally was NOT the little girl fans had known her to be. Now the race is on to rediscover them. View Kristen Currie’s profile on LinkedIn, the world's largest professional community. Kristen Hilton: MND beat Maurie, so now we must take up the fight. Kristen Currie के नवीनतम वीडियो देखें. Hollywood NOW. Now a divorced, 50-year-old mother living in Los Angeles (she is also, improbably, a chain-saw artist), Currie met with Fanning a few weeks before filming began last summer. " - Kristen Stewart. so her hair wont be that way. Child Stars: Then & Now. Of course Fanning has the more showcasey role as a result. Dear Kristen, We have enjoyed you being a part of our mornings since you were in Lubbock. ” me not keeping up on the celerbrity scoop… had no clue- then she told me she was the girl from twilight… anways thought i should tell you I sold her 2 pairs of shoes… looking back on it now i think. The best source of local news in Nova Scotia, featuring articles from The Chronicle Herald, breaking news, sports, entertainment, business, and national news. I've read this book MANY times and have several. Kristen has 4 jobs listed on their profile. Though most critics heaped praised on Fanning for her poignant performance as Cherie Currie, Stewart also received praise for her acting and musical performances. A complete life legacy reflecting on this amazing mother, daughter, sister, aunt and friend will be forthcoming. Kristen Currie 2016/05/31 KRQE13. Anthony of women guitar heroes; Dakota Fanning, blonde and bruised-looking, plays lead singer Cherie Currie, a blank screen waiting for a projected image. Right now, she’s pretty gay: She’s in a relationship with supermodel Stella. Buy the Kobo ebook Book Androgen Deprivation Therapy: An Essential Guide for Prostate Cancer Patients and Their Loved Ones by Kristen Currie, MA, CCRP at Indigo. The buzzed about biopic follows the rise and fall of The Runaways, an all-girl punk rock band fronted by guitarist Joan Jett (Kristen Stewart) and singer Cherie Currie (Dakota Fanning). Lisa Green, Adam Hicks, Kristen Currie - Denny Creek - Snow Lake Loop (WA) - 2019-07-20 FKT: Lisa Green, Adam Hicks, Kristen Currie - Denny Creek - Snow Lake Loop (WA) - 2019-07-20 Log in or register to post comments. Cooperative Extension ServiceBy: LandCAN. Learn more about the HBO series Here and Now. A disturbingly precocious, scantily clad Dakota Fanning stars as Cherie Currie, a spooky David Bowie super-fan who more or less stumbles into a gig as the Runaways’ lead singer. The Runaways hit Sundance like a freight train, thanks to the combined star power of Twilight stars Kristen Stewart, Dakota Fanning and the characters they play in the musical biopic, “wild and. Kristen has 7 jobs listed on their profile. Kristen Bowler. Kristen Stewart suffers a wardrobe malfunction at the Hollywood Film Awards as her top slips while presenting an award. News \ Sex, Rock & Rape: Cherie Currie's Untold Runaways Story The singer of the groundbreaking all-girl group tells SPIN. Join Facebook to connect with Jed Currie and others you may know. Start a free CaringBridge website today. The film is scheduled to begin production in 2009, but. Kristen Page-Kirby writes about film and arts for Express and The Washington Post. Kristen has 4 jobs listed on their profile. I refused to pay tablet ac but I continue to pay 141. California native. Your MLA can be determined by selecting the name of your riding in the menu below. Maybe a little less popular than Curious George but a masterpiece just the same, is the children’s book, The Snowy Day. She took the job in 2013. Speaking to Mike of PsychoBabbleTV. The biopic, which tells the story of "jailbait rock" band The Runaways, stars some of Hollywood's most recognizable young faces, including Kristen Stewart, playing Joan Jett, Dakota Fanning, who plays Runaways lead singer Cherie Currie, and 'Arrested Development' actress Alia Shawkat. This is a restricted profile. Published on Aug 30, 2017. "I think she loved. Get Discounts & Coupons. See the complete profile on LinkedIn and discover Kristen’s connections and jobs at similar companies. I cannot take it seriously, and I don't want to be a part of it, unless she's in," says Currie. Check out this video of Kristen Stewart as she joins Riley Keough for her bachelorette party. "The Runaways" premiered in New York Wednesday night and stars Dakota Fanning and Kristen Stewart were joined by their real-life counterparts Joan Jett and Cherie Currie. This feature is not available right now. Hitting > pauses the slideshow and goes. Loving Yourself. Se hele profilen på LinkedIn og finn Sjur Kristens forbindelser og jobber i tilsvarende bedrifter. The biopic, which tells the story of ”jailbait rock” band The Runaways, stars some of Hollywood’s most recognizable young faces, including Kristen Stewart, playing Joan Jett, Dakota Fanning, who plays Runaways lead singer Cherie Currie, and ‘Arrested Development’ actress Alia Shawkat. Director Floria Sigismondi, the real Joan Jett, Kristen Stewart, Dakota Fanning, the real Cherie Currie at a film premiere of The Runaways (2010) Concerned parents should note that although the film is rated PG-13 the dialogue can be quite coarse in places. While Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart fall in love in this midsummer day's dream, director David Slade is busy at work on the Twilight Saga: Eclipse score. " "Stewart's trademark low-key surliness works well for the part. Now lives at 229 Sklar St, Ladera Ranch, CA 92694. " Stella Maeve as Sandy West, Dakota Fanning as Cherie Currie and Kristen Stewart as Joan Jett in "The Runaways. Age 44 (310) 210-2835. Now you are a grown adult you know that taking diet pills won't help if your hoovering up greasy mcdonalds burgers every day. HAPPENING TODAY: twelve restaurants will compete at the New Mexico State Fair and Rodeo for the title of "Best Green Chile Cheeseburger". When time allows, she says, she and he family hope to take up skiing now that they reside in the Berkshires. Well, that's the image she's going for, at least. Joan Jett recorded a live version backed by L7 for inclusion on the benefit album Spirit of '73: Rock for Choice. How Old Is Kristen Currie. You can now listen to the chat using. Meteorologist Kristen Currie - Duration: 5:36. Meanwhile Jett, 51, showed off an. Twilight star Kristen Stewart has been tapped to play rock queen Joan Jett in The Runaways, a music biopic based Jett's 1970's all-girl band. Contact Kristen Currie on. Monday, June 23, 2014. The first true girl band of the 1970s, THE RUNAWAYS — which also featured Lita Ford, Cherie Currie, Jackie Fox and Sandy West — toured internationally and made a dent in the charts before calling it quits at the end of that decade. This list contains exciting options for you not included in other guides. Community See All. From left, musicians Joan Jett and Cherie Currie pose next to actresses Kristen Stewart and Dakota Fanning at a premiere for the film "The Runaways" at the Landmark Sunshine Theater on Wednesday. See the complete profile on LinkedIn and discover Kristen’s connections and jobs at similar companies. Chicken Curry Broccoli by Kristen Duke · This Site is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. The latest tips and news on Cherie Currie are on POPSUGAR AU. Kristen Stewart, famous for her role Dakota is now in talks with the producers of the movie to play the band's lead singer, Cheri Currie. View Blaze Currie’s profile on LinkedIn, the world's largest professional community. Please try again later. Loving father of Leslie, and Jason (Diana). Beloved mother and friend Myrian Currie Bergeron passed away on Friday, April 19, 2019 at the Elliot Hospital in Manchester, NH. Find Your Owner Manuals. Fowley was a lot like Sex Pistols manager Malcolm McLaren (who died of cancer last week) in that The Runaways was a concept band, and the other members — lead guitarist Lita Ford, lead singer Cheri Currie, and a rotating lineup of bassists (due to legal issues, the fictional Robin Robinson represented Jamie Fox) — were recruited more for. Now everyone pretty much considers her an A-list star, many of them feature a Kristen Stewart page. An intense, behind-the-scenes look at rock music in the gritty, post-glam era, Neon Angel is a must-read for anyone whose heart beats to the rhythm of David Bowie, Suzi Quatro, Nick Gilder, and the Sex Pistols, and for every fan of the movie it inspired: The Runaways, starring Dakota Fanning and Kristen Stewart as Cherie Currie and Joan Jett. Kristen Currie Photos. 15-year-old actress Dakota Fanning is all grown up now. Chicken Curry Broccoli by Kristen Duke · This Site is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. Most know me as 'that girl on TV' Born & raised in southern California, I left the Golden State for Colorado in 2009 to attend the University of Colorado at Boulder. Based in Los Angeles, Ms. Tonight 19° Clear skies. " Twilight star Kristen Stewart has already signed on to play Joan Jett, who will executive-produce the film. Joan Jett recorded a live version backed by L7 for inclusion on the benefit album Spirit of '73: Rock for Choice. Hollywood NOW. Two entities are associated with this address: Rosenblatt Brittnee, Farrell Melissa A, Daerda Norman E, Daerda Patricia A, Riley Susan K, Riley Susan, Currie Michael, Currie Patricia, Dean Afsaneh, Dean David, Colley Bradley W, Colley Robbie L. Our staff here at Currie Ford is here for your convenience. Kristen Bowler. View Kristen Currie's profile on LinkedIn, the world's largest professional community. 00 but after 3 month they cancelled my tablet ac and started me to bill me early termination bell of almost 18090. I cannot take it seriously, and I don't want to be a part of it, unless she's in," says Currie. Anyway, there were rumors that Keough may have. View Kristen Freeman’s profile on LinkedIn, the world's largest professional community. There are facts about Myrian's life, and then there are the qualities. Fanning is the same age as Currie was when she debuted as the lead singer of the Runaways with hard-edged tunes like "Cherry Bomb. Kristen Stewart Starts to 'Smell Bad' When She's Nervous Kristen Stewart is one of the hottest interview subjects around right now, Dakota plays the group's singer Cherie Currie. But it was Currie’s story, from which the film is based, that ultimately stands the test of time. Blaze has 5 jobs listed on their profile. On his Twitter page, he tweeted the following on April 15: “In London overseeing the film score with Mr Howard Shore and enjoying all the gossip flying around. TV meteorologist. 15-year-old actress Dakota Fanning is all grown up now. Kristen Stewart's hair, now, is very short and black. Higher wind gusts possible. Toggle navigation. 1st would enable him to do so. Most know me as 'that girl on TV' Born & raised in southern California, I left the Golden State for Colorado in 2009 to attend the University of Colorado at Boulder. After a heavy rain event and/or a significant tropical system, you often here the terms ‘100-year flood’ or ‘500 year-flood’ associated with significant flooding. Meanwhile Jett, 51, showed off an. Kristen Currie Bio. Stewart and Keough became friends after working together on "The Runaways. Details Angela A Hanigan. High quality Kristen Stewart inspired T-Shirts, Posters, Mugs and more by independent artists and designers from around the world. Kristen Stewart and Dakota Fanning talk to Access Hollywood about "The Runaways". Guest Star (1) Role. Fanning was born in Conyers, Georgia, the daughter of Joy (née Arrington), who played tennis professionally, and Steve Fanning, who played minor league baseball for the St. Kristen Page-Kirby writes about film and arts for Express and The Washington Post. Joan Jett (Kristen Stewart) and Cherie Currie (Dakota Fanning) are provocative teenage girls in misogynist times. The DVD was top five in sales for three months. View Michelle Currie (Millar)’s professional profile on LinkedIn. Kristen Currie DO is a female pediatrician in Philadelphia, PA. The film follows two friends, Joan Jett (KRISTEN STEWART) and Cherie Currie (DAKOTA FANNING), as they rise from rebellious Southern California kids to rock stars of the now legendary group that paved the way for future generations of girl bands. The buzzed about biopic follows the rise and fall of The Runaways, an all-girl punk rock band fronted by guitarist Joan Jett (Kristen Stewart) and singer Cherie Currie (Dakota Fanning). See the complete profile on LinkedIn and discover Kristen's connections and jobs at similar companies. Kristen Currie 2016/05/31 KRQE13. TV meteorologist. Our records show it was established in 2005 and incorporated in TX. ” me not keeping up on the celerbrity scoop… had no clue- then she told me she was the girl from twilight… anways thought i should tell you I sold her 2 pairs of shoes… looking back on it now i think. See the complete profile on LinkedIn and discover Kristen’s connections and jobs at similar companies. Biography EDIT. Hey, Kristen Stewart doesn't look like she wants to "Runaway" from the camera for once! Here, she poses with co-star Dakota Fanning and rockers Joan Jett and Cherie Currie at the Mar. Kristen Stewart's hair, now, is very short and black. Kristen has 4 jobs listed on their profile. View the profiles of professionals named Kristen Currie on LinkedIn. Kristen Stewart (The Twilight Saga, Adventureland) and Dakota Fanning (The Twilight Saga, Coraline) star as Joan Jett and Cherie Currie in The Runaways, the music-fuelled coming of age story of the groundbreaking, all girl 1970s rock band, that paved the way for future generations of female musicians. Kristen Currie this gem from a few years ago (VIDEO): Bringing you the news, weather & musical tributes every weekday morning on #KRQEMornings. Guitarist/singer Joan Jett and drummer Sandy West met Currie at a local teen hangout in Los Angeles. Learn more about the HBO series Here and Now. And now the world can know. View Kristen Currie's profile on LinkedIn, the world's largest professional community. Cherie Currie was a typical 15-year-old Southern California girl until she was plucked by a record producer to be the lead singer of The Runaways. See the complete profile on LinkedIn and discover Kristen's connections and jobs at similar companies. They speak English, Spanish. Now you are a grown adult you know that taking diet pills won't help if your hoovering up greasy mcdonalds burgers every day. Watch the clip titled "Cherie Currie" for the film The Runaways (2010). As Kristen Stewart gets gayer, so do I. Kristen Stewart and Dakota Fanning star in this music-fueled story of the ground-breaking, all girl, teenage rock band of the 1970s: The Runaways. ” Credit David Moir/Apparition. Se hele profilen på LinkedIn og finn Sjur Kristens forbindelser og jobber i tilsvarende bedrifter. Part of that is due to the buzz surrounding young stars Kristen Stewart and Dakota Fanning, who deliver impressive performances as Valley girls-turned-rock icons Joan Jett and Cherie Currie, respectively. Coffee-lover. While Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart fall in love in this midsummer day's dream, director David Slade is busy at work on the Twilight Saga: Eclipse score. The Runaways click to enlarge steals his every scene as the aphorism-spouting Fowley while Kristen Stewart and Dakota Fanning often fade into the 70s wallpaper as guitarist Joan Jett and front. Lisa Green, Adam Hicks, Kristen Currie - Denny Creek - Snow Lake Loop (WA) - 2019-07-20 FKT: Lisa Green, Adam Hicks, Kristen Currie - Denny Creek - Snow Lake Loop (WA) - 2019-07-20 Log in or register to post comments. Currie, now 50, is a chainsaw artist, carving mermaids and teddy bears out of tree stumps. This feature is not available right now. The movie, now in theaters, stars Dakota Fanning as Currie, Kristen Stewart as Jett and Michael Shannon as producer Kim Fowley. I did make a couple minor adjustments- I used bone-in skinless chicken thighs (that was what I had on hand) and served them whole simmered in the sauce, and I omitted the chili (because my young kids can’t handle the heat) and the fenugreek (I didn’t have any). May 25, 2016- Explore laurencantu94's board "The runaways" on Pinterest. Kristen has 4 jobs listed on their profile. “How do you put two years of craziness into 90 minutes,” Currie asks. A complete life legacy reflecting on this amazing mother, daughter, sister, aunt and friend will be forthcoming. The Runaways click to enlarge steals his every scene as the aphorism-spouting Fowley while Kristen Stewart and Dakota Fanning often fade into the 70s wallpaper as guitarist Joan Jett and front. It counts among the principal gentry seats of Northumberland. Kristy Lynn Curry née Sims (born October 30, 1966) is the head coach of the University of Alabama's women's basketball team, the Crimson Tide. A disturbingly precocious, scantily clad Dakota Fanning stars as Cherie Currie, a spooky David Bowie super-fan who more or less stumbles into a gig as the Runaways’ lead singer. Jackie Fox on bass and Cherrie Currie on vocals. But what does that mean?. steph leclaire and kristen mckenzie ♥. Fanning, 16, wore a sparkly mini and platform heels while Stewart, 19, was in a strapless mini. Cherie Currie talks about fronting the Runaways, watching Dakota Fanning play her in the movie this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines. Though most critics heaped praised on Fanning for her poignant performance as Cherie Currie, Stewart also received praise for her acting and musical performances. P 53 - Claudia Puig - USA Today (Top Critic) - "The film is anchored by a trio of strong performances: Dakota Fanning 's Cherie Currie, Kristen Stewart 's Joan Jett and Michael Shannon 's megalomaniacal and sadistic music producer, Kim Fowley. University of Colorado at Boulder alumna. The most famus line-up was 16-year old Joan Jett (electric guitarist), 15-year old Cherie Currie (singer), 17-year old Lita Ford (lead guitarist), 16-year old Sandy West (drummer) and 16-year old Jackie Fox (bassist). Joan Jett (Kristen Stewart) and Cherie Currie (Dakota Fanning), two rebellious teenagers from Southern California, become the frontwomen for the Runaways -- the now-legendary group that paved the. the reason is that she is playing the role of joan jett in her 2010 film "the runaways" with Dakota fanning. Dakota Fanning, the star of 'The Secret Life of Bees', is reported to be in talks for portraying Cheri Currie in biopic movie starring 'Twilight' actress Kristen Stewart, 'The Runaways'. Kristen has 4 jobs listed on their profile. Your MLA can be determined by selecting the name of your riding in the menu below. Kristen Stewart Celebrity Profile - Check out the latest Kristen Stewart photo gallery, biography, pics, pictures, interviews, news, forums and blogs at Rotten Tomatoes!. See the complete profile on LinkedIn and discover Kristen’s connections and jobs at similar companies. Now lives at 229 Sklar St, Ladera Ranch, CA 92694. California native. Despite recently turning 50, Joan looked years younger and in remarkably good shape. British Columbia Amateur Bodybuilding Association Who else can’t wait till #kelownaclassic 2020 🙋🏻♂️ 🙋🏻♂️ stay tuned for the date announcement soon October 6 at 11:27 PM ·. See the complete profile on LinkedIn and discover Kristen’s. Defined this way, more than half of the children report some form of “maltreatment. An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works. This movie is based on neon angel, Currie's autobiography. MY BLOG HOME; WORLD RACE HOME; Kristen Currie Currietown, TX Shannon Horn. Fanning will play Cherie Currie, the white blond lead singer who joined the influential ’70s group at the tender age of 15, and faced the pressures of fame and the sociopathic ways of band.
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Morgan 's Lair
A place for a writer to just hang out and... write.
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The FBI/Romance Series...
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NEW!!!!! The Hunter Mercenary series
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Pre-order the fourth Harcourte book now!
Dangerous Retaliation is here!
You can preorder it now!
Here's the link.
I'm so excited about this book. We're watching Flynn become more and more like them even as he struggles to hold onto his humanity. It's fun to watch him morphing into a killer, all the while the killers are picking up pieces of him too.
There are big changes coming for Jolie Harcourte. BIG ones!
If you're not a fan of vampyres, you really should give these three a try. There's mystery, love, and sex all rolled into undead fun. I promise you won't be disappointed. This is my twist on vampire romances, and I stay true to Morgan Kelley style.
As always, here's a sneak peek!
Available August in E-book
Available August in paperback
Dangerous Retaliation
Book 4 in the Harcourte Society Series
∞ Prologue ∞
Starting his SUV, Detective Tommy Gress could finally call it a day and retire to his place. He’d been on shift for almost eighteen hours straight, thanks to a new string of serial killings occurring in the city. In all his years as a cop, he’d never seen anything quite like it before. It was like the perp was trying to make them chase their tails.
It had him confused.
It had worn him down.
He’d waded through enough blood, gore, and death to last him a lifetime, and when he finally cleared his present workload, he was going to take a vacation--a long one. In fact, he might go visit his best buddy, and previous partner, Detective Flynn Brogan, for a couple of days down south.
That was a damn fine idea.
It might be nice to take in the sights and relax, all the while ogling his old partner’s sexy babe.
Now…that was what he called a vacation.
It brought the first honest smile to his face in hours. He truly missed Flynn, but how could he fault the man for packing up his life to follow Jolie Harcourte?
She was sexy.
She was smart.
Oh, did he mention she was sexy?
Had it been him, he would have followed the beauty into hell and back. There was something so damn hot about the woman. He just couldn’t put his finger on it. Maybe it was her long black hair, the sweet lavender eyes, or her super fine body. Honestly, everything was perfect, and he wouldn’t mind finding a woman just like that too.
Babe selection had been a little scarce. True, he was seeing someone, but it was all off. Tommy’s gut was screaming. There was something…wrong.
Letting it go, he pulled out a pack of smokes and got ready to light one up. Like his long day, his nicotine cravings were ungodly. This would be his first cigarette all day. He couldn’t even steal away a minute to smoke, or pee.
Yeah, the day had been that bad.
As the Zippo lit up, unfortunately, so did his phone. Without even looking down, Tommy knew that his well-deserved break from death was officially over.
“Shit,” he mumbled, as he reached for his cell. “Detective Gress,” he snapped, trying to remember that he was a civil servant, and despite how exhausted he was, this was his job.
There was a BIG emphasis on the word ‘servant’, as of late.
“Detective? My name is Zola Saran, and I think I saw something that might help you on your case,” she offered softly.
That cheered him up.
“Really? What have you seen, ma’am? We could use some information or a credible witness to help this case along.”
“I believe I saw an individual walking out of the alley where that man was found dead last night.”
She could hear his breathing pick up in excitement. Zola couldn’t help but smile.
This was too easy.
The humans were quite stupid when it came to trust. In fact, lambs to the slaughter were harder to kill. Excitedly, her plan began to fall into place.
“Can you meet me at the police station, so you can give your statement?”
“No, I can’t, Detective. Is there any way that you could meet me at my home? I have a sick child and no one to watch her.”
Gress sighed, dropping his cigarettes back onto the seat.
What choice did he have?
It appeared that smoking, along with sleep, were luxuries that he couldn’t afford.
“Sure, give me your address,” he stated, scribbling on a pad as he pulled out of the parking lot. “I’ll be there in five minutes.”
“Thank you, Detective. I really appreciate all the hard work you do to keep our city safe,” she added sarcastically, unbeknownst to him.
Gress closed his phone and cursed.
He was so damn close to getting home and getting a few hours of sleep that he could almost feel the warm sheets wrapped around his bone weary body.
This day just sucked all around.
“Son of a bitch,” he muttered, picking up his phone again to dial his new partner. When it was dumped into voicemail, he realized she must have been smart enough to shut off her cell.
Lucky her.
Leaving a message, Tommy explained the situation and where he was heading. Hopefully, this would be a big break for them, and they could shut this mess of a case down.
He prayed that was the truth.
Heading toward the address that the woman gave him, his gut knotted.
This house was in the middle of nowhere.
It felt…off.
Yet, he was so damn tired, he opted to push his instincts back down. For now, he’d go, get the interview done, and head home.
That’s all he wanted.
To sleep.
He was a desperate man, and he’d give anything to have some down time.
* * * H a r c o u r t e * * *
Standing in the shadows of the abandoned house, Zola Saran waited for the Detective to arrive. Once he did, she’d have her prisoner to lure Jolie and her two mates back into the city.
Then, the games would begin.
Granted, this was the hardest part of her plan. It took her a few weeks to find worthy bait to draw them in.
Jolie wasn’t a fool. She would expect this, but that didn't mean that Zola shouldn’t try. All it would take is someone so important that they’d come running.
Since Jolie was a heartless bitch, that meant Zola needed to focus on someone important to her mate.
How she doted over her vile human was disgusting. The man was nothing more than meat on bones, and yet she revered him.
It was nauseating.
It made Zola want to scream in a rage. Detective Flynn Brogan was the reason her heart was ripped from her chest, and Zola wanted her revenge.
She had to avenge her mate.
Devin had died because of him.
Now, payback would be theirs.
There was no doubt in her mind that once they found out the worthless human friend was missing, they would come running. That was just like them.
Save the humans!
It made her sick.
When they arrived, and they most certainly would, she’d begin her retaliation and avenge her mate. That cruel, cruel bitch, Jolie, had stolen his life simply because he’d allowed Jolie’s enemy into their home.
Who cared if her pathetic human mate was taken and almost killed?
It would have been for the better as Jolie was too soft toward the humans anyway.
It infuriated Zola to no end. She didn't understand it. How could Jolie sacrifice one of her own family for the sake of a human?
It was incomprehensible.
Now she would avenge her one true love by luring them all back to Philadelphia to kill Jolie and her mates, one by one.
Zola couldn’t wait.
She’d enjoy bleeding the human, little by little, as Jolie had done to Devin.
She began laughing.
The kicker was--what she couldn’t complete in her plan, the council, which had banned the family, would.
It was her greatest hope that Jacques and Jolie would return to the city and be executed for their previous crimes.
She’d let them handle her.
But the human? No, he was hers to kill.
Detective Flynn Brogan would suffer more than he ever had in his entire life, and she’d enjoy every second of it. If they believed that Flynn had felt pain by Genevieve’s hand, they were wrong. That was going to be a walk in the park.
Zola would show him hell.
“Oh, Mistress, we’ll have so much fun finishing up the game. You should have ended my life when you stole my mate’s. Now that you let me walk free, I have no choice but to teach you a lesson. Softness only gets you one thing--DEATH.”
Flickering lights alerted her to the approaching SUV. Here came the bait needed to start her payback.
It was time.
Zola prepared herself to make the first move in her game of revenge. This plan had taken weeks, and she knew there was going to only be one shot.
If she failed, it would mean a more frontal approach. With Jolie’s command of Death, she’d never have a chance.
As the SUV moved closer, her eyes bled black.
Fangs slipped into her mouth, and she had to stop them. While she wanted to pounce, ripping the man apart, she knew the truth.
It was time to play human.
It was time to be weak.
Pop on over to Amazon and reserve your copy!!!! August comes fast, and you'll want to get your vampyre fix on!!!
© Copyright © 2015 Morgan Kelley LLC
All rights reserved. Without limiting rights under the copyright reserved above, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored, introduced into a retrieval system, distributed or transmitted in any form or by any means, including without limitation photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. The scanning, uploading, and/or distribution of this document via the internet or via any other means without the permission of the publisher is illegal and is punishable by law. Please purchase only authorized editions and do not participate in or encourage electronic piracy of copyrightable materials.
I promise you won't be sorry!
Dangerous Revelations
Dangerous Choices
Dangerous Misery
Dangerous Retaliation~~ August 2015
Dangerous Influence~~ Coming Spring 2016
Dangerous Sacrifice ~~ Coming Summer 2016
Much love, Mayhem, and Murder,
Posted by Morgan Kelley at 6/04/2015 04:21:00 AM No comments: Links to this post
Who Is Morgan Kelley?
Morgan Kelley
2013 © MorganKelley LLC. Travel theme. Theme images by sbayram. Powered by Blogger.
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Freebsd Limericks
fortune: 451 - 460 of 860 from freebsd limericks Motd - Message of the Day
Fortune: 451 - 460 of 860 from Freebsd Limericks
Freebsd Limericks: 451 of 860
There was a young fellow named Bowen
Whose pecker kept growin' and growin'.
It grew so tremendous,
So long and so pendulous,
'Twas no good for fuckin' -- just showin'.
There was a young fellow named Brewer
Whose girl made her home in a sewer.
Thus he, the poor soul,
Could get into her hole,
And still not be able to screw her!
There was a young fellow named Case
Who entered a cunt-lapping race.
He licked his way clean
Through Number thirteen,
But then slipped and got pissed in the face.
There was a young fellow named Charteris
Put his hand where his young lady's garter is.
Said she, "I don't mind,
And higher up you'll find
The place where my fucker and farter is."
There was a young fellow named Cribbs
Whose cock was so big it had ribs.
They were inches apart,
And to suck it took art,
While to fuck it took forty-two trips.
There was a young fellow named dick
Who had a magnificent prick.
It was shaped like a prism
And shot so much gism
It made every cocksucker sick.
There was a young fellow named Feeney
Whose girl was a terrible meany.
The hatch of her snatch
Had a catch that would latch
- She could only be screwed by Houdini.
There was a young fellow named Fletcher,
Was reputed an infamous lecher.
When he'd take on a whore
She'd need a rebore,
And they'd carry him out on a stretcher.
There was a young fellow named Fyfe
Whose marriage was ruined for life,
For he had an aversion
To every perversion,
And only liked fucking his wife.
Well, one year the poor woman struck,
And she wept, and she cursed at her luck,
And said, "Where have you gotten us
With your goddamn monotonous
Fuck after fuck after fuck?
"I once knew a harlot named Lou --
And a versatile girl she was, too.
After ten years of whoredom
She perished of boredom
When she married a jackass like you!"
There was a young fellow named Gene
Who first picked his asshole quite clean.
He next picked his toes,
And lastly his nose,
And he never did wash in between.
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Home / Bronxville Government & History / Ruth Walter Wins Race for Westchester County Legislator for District 15
Ruth Walter Wins Race for Westchester County Legislator for District 15
Nov. 27, 2019: On Wednesday, November 6, 2019, Bronxville residents woke up to the results of the November 5th election, but one race - - the race for Westchester County Legislator for District 15 - - was too close to call.
At 8 AM that morning, the Unofficial Tally of Election Results showed Ruth Walter with 5,395 votes (51%) and Gordon Burrows with 5,193 votes (49%). The candidate vote count was 202 votes apart.
On Monday of this week, Ruth Walter and her team traveled to the Westchester County Board of Elections to watch the absentee ballots being counted.
The Walter campaign reported that, after this count, Walter was still ahead and won the election. The official certification from the Westchester County Board of Elections will come out at the end of the day today, but, as Walter said, the absentee ballots have been counted and "there's no other avenue for results to change."
Democrat Walter has unseated the Republican incumbent, Gordon Burrows, who held the position for 14 years.
Ruth Walter reports that her campaign had support across the district. "In Yonkers -- 5 out of 8 wards chose me -- but I am especially honored and grateful that in my hometown Bronxville voters turned out in such huge numbers 64.3% and voted for me so decisively. This is a large district, 55,000 people, and I believe I am the first person from Bronxville to serve in White Plains as a legislator."
Walter attributes her success to hard work by her and her team to "understand what voters care about and mobilize people across the district to vote."
Walter's immediate priorities as County Legislator include the environment, local business growth, and domestic violence.
She says that she will start right away talking with the Planning Department and the Department of Energy Conservation "about small steps we can take right now to reduce those flash floods on the Bronx River Parkway."
She will also focus on "local businesses growth along Central Park Avenue with a Merchants Association" and "Red Flag Mandatory Notification law, so victims in domestic violence court will be told about the new law."
Walter will continue to be involved with Dobbs & Bishop Fine Cheese in Bronxville. As she explains, "Our family business means I stay connected to the community, to the multi-national, multi-billion dollar cheese market and to the daily business of balancing the books. Those are all good skills for a legislator."
Westchester County Legislator Ruth Walter Thanks Voters And Sets Forth Priorities
By Ruth Walter, Westchester County Legislator for District 15 Jan. 15, 2020: As I begin my first term as Westchester County Legislator for District 15, I am so grateful...
Government & History Directory
Bronxville Overview
Bronxville is a quaint village (one square mile) located just 16 miles north of midtown Manhattan (roughly 30 minutes on the train) and has a population of approximately 6,500. It is known as a premier community with an excellent public school (K-12) and easy access to Manhattan. Bronxville offers many amenities including an attractive business district, a hospital (Lawrence Hospital), public paddle and tennis courts, fine dining at local restaurants, two private country clubs and a community library.
While the earliest settlers of Bronxville date back to the first half of the 18th century, the history of the modern suburb of Bronxville began in 1890 when William Van Duzer Lawrence purchased a farm and commissioned the architect, William A. Bates, to design a planned community of houses for well-known artists and professionals that became a thriving art colony. This community, now called Lawrence Park, is listed on the National register of Historic Places and many of the homes still have artists’ studios. A neighborhood association within Lawrence Park called “The Hilltop Association” keeps this heritage alive with art shows and other events for neighbors.
Bronxville offers many charming neighborhoods as well as a variety of living options for residents including single family homes, town houses, cooperatives and condominiums. One of the chief benefits of living in “the village” is that your children can attend the Bronxville School.
The Bronxville postal zone (10708, known as “Bronxville PO”) includes the village of Bronxville as well as the Chester Heights section of Eastchester, parts of Tuckahoe and the Lawrence Park West, Cedar Knolls, Armour Villa and Longvale sections of Yonkers. Many of these areas have their own distinct character. For instance, the Armour Villa section has many historic homes and even has its own newsletter called “The Villa Voice” which reports on neighborhood news.
Bronxville Village Government Directory
Village of Bronxville Administrative Offices
Open 9:00am - 4pm excluding holidays and weekends
Bronxville Police Department
Bronxville Parking Violations
Bronxville Fire Deparment
Government & History Recent Articles
Events this Week in Bronxville: Wednesday. January 15 to Wednesday, January 22, 2020
Bronxville Historical Conservancy Presents 2019 Preservation Award to Olinda and John Simon For Restoration of Elm Rock Road Home
From The Mayor: Major Bills Passed By NY State Legislature
Bronxville Police Blotter: January 1 - January 9, 2020
MyhometownBronxville's Top Stories in 2019
From The Mayor: Bronxville Comprehensive Plan: Overview, Demographics and Village Activity
Happy Holidays From MyhometownBronxville
From The Mayor: Could Bronxville Become a Blue Zone?
Bronxville Police Blotter December 1 to December 10, 2019
Brian Keating Elected to Eastchester Fire District Board of Commissioners
Bronxville Voters Approve $3 Million School Bond Proposition
Bronxville Lights Up The Town With Music, Hot Chocolate, Candy Canes, Santa, Frosty, and More: See Photos
From The Mayor: Watch Out For Package & Data Theft and Scams This Time of Year
Americans Throw Out 25% More During the Holidays. You Don’t Have To
SpringHill Suites, Tuckahoe’s Long Anticipated Hotel, Expected to Open this Month
From The Mayor: Bronxville School Second Graders Concerned About Litter, Recycling, Safety, Kindness, and More
Happy Thanksgiving From MyhometownBronxville
From The Mayor: Laws Regarding Underage Drinking
Two Burglaries in Bronxville Last Week
Have You Noticed the Work Underway on the Midland Avenue Bridge?
From The Mayor: Village Fall and Winter Procedures
Ever Wonder Exactly What the Bronxville Village Board of Trustees, Planning Board, and Zoning Board Do? Here's Your Answer
Local Author Meaghan Winter Speaks on Progressive Fight for the States
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Prevent Blindness Asks Parents to Put Their Children on the Path to a Successful School Year with a Complete Eye Exam
Prevent Blindness Declares August as Children’s Eye Health and Safety Awareness Month to Educate Public on the Importance of Healthy Vision for Kids
CHICAGO (July 14, 2016) – To help put children on the path to a successful school year, Prevent Blindness urges parents to take their child for a complete eye exam from an eyecare professional. Prevent Blindness has declared August as Children’s Eye Health and Safety Awareness month to inspire parents to make their child’s vision health a priority.
According to data from The National Center for Children’s Vision and Eye Health at Prevent Blindness (NCCVEH) report, “Children’s Vision and Eye Health: A Snapshot of Current National Issues,” visual functioning is a strong predictor of academic performance in school-age children. In addition, uncorrected refractive errors in infants and preschool-age children are associated with developmental delays, as well as with clinically identified deficits in cognitive and visual-motor functions that may in turn affect school readiness. Vision problems can be treated successfully if detected early. Vision screenings along with complete eye examinations are two critical ways to identify possible vision problems and get children connected to treatment.
Unfortunately for many families, cost and access to eye care is a limiting issue. The Affordable Care Act mandates that all plans in the Health Insurance Marketplace include vision coverage for children. In most states, that includes one comprehensive eye exam and one pair of eyeglasses. Prevent Blindness offers additional information and a free fact sheet, “The Affordable Care Act and Your Child's Eyes.” Or, visit the Prevent Blindness Vision Care Financial Assistance Information resource.
Vision requirements for school enrollment vary by state. The Children’s Vision and Eye Health report also includes information about state legislation for vision screening and/or mandated eye exams. “Keeping children’s eyes healthy has been part of our organization’s mission from more than 100 years,” said Hugh R. Parry, president and CEO of Prevent Blindness. “Our goal is to provide parents and teachers with the tools and information they need to help ensure the vision health of our kids today and well
into their future.”
To support children’s vision programs, OCuSOFT Inc., a privately-held eye and skin care company dedicated to innovation in eyelid hygiene and ocular health, has agreed to donate 10 percent of all online sales to Prevent Blindness during August’s Children’s
Eye Health and Safety Awareness Month.
For more information on children’s eye health and safety, the NCCVEH, or eye care assistance programs, please call Prevent Blindness at (800) 331-2020 or visit preventblindness.org.
About Prevent Blindness
Founded in 1908, Prevent Blindness is the nation's leading volunteer eye health and
safety organization dedicated to fighting blindness and saving sight. Focused on
promoting a continuum of vision care, Prevent Blindness touches the lives of millions of
people each year through public and professional education, advocacy, certified vision
screening and training, community and patient service programs and research. These
services are made possible through the generous support of the American
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Wrapping Up 2016 with Updates, Rumors and The Evolution of Christmas Lights
Welcome to the NYCFC Nation Podcast! Yup you read that right. The NYCFC Fan Podcast and NYCFC Nation are now one and the same with the podcast. We are very excited about this announcement coming right at the end of the year and look forward to an amazing 2017.
After our discussion about gift giving during the holidays,...
In today's episode we discuss a wide range of New York City FC, league and world news. We start off by paying our respects to Associação Chapecoense de Futebol and everyone who was on Flight 2933. We send our condolences to all involved in this tragic event.
With regards to NYCFC news we begin on the new contracts...
That's How You Know...
We are back with another episode and because of technical issues last week, while I was recording from Italy, we (@NYCFCFan and @_ChrisFC) go over that lost content. Also, although it's the off season we have a lot of news and updates to discuss. Frank Lampard announces that he leaves New York City FC clearing up a...
Where Does New York City FC Move On To From Here?
Welcome to the NYCFC Fan Podcast. Today both Chris' join the conversation while we record via Skype because I am currently in Rome, Italy. Ciao! I left the country after the horrendous performance New York City FC had against Toronto FC in an attempt to find cheap international talent.
All jokes aside, we discuss the...
Historic Playoff Match Results in a Loss and now Come on New York!
Today's episode Chris P @NYCFCFan and Chris M @_ChrisFC who we all know as Perpetual Student on the NYCFC sub-reddits joins the show to discuss the historic first playoff match New York City FC had against Toronto FC. After the 2-0 loss many questions popped up in regards to Patrick Vieira's decision before and during...
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New dating singles
Kendra wilkonson dating
But I grew to feel it was meant to lock me in.” One model, Carla Howe, told The Mirror that a strict 9pm curfew was imposed, and friends could not visit the mansion.
Her sister Melissa said there was a strict code of conduct, and an email would be sent for any transgressions.
She told Us Weekly: “I hate putting my hand out, but we couldn't have jobs other than getting appearance fees.” Karissa Shannon told Pop Eater: “We were not allowed to have boys in the house.
That was the absolute number one rule — no boys allowed.
She has spoken out against hunting and promotes the conservation of polar bears in her native Canada.
She says that her favorite thing to eat is sushi—she loves eel, giant clams and raw scallops.
She’s attracted to guys with a good sense of humor.
She thinks the sexiest scents a guy can wear are Ralph Lauren’s warm, musky colognes.
A number of Playmates have spoken out about their lives at the famous house over the years - with many revealing their experiences in tell-all books - and many accounts are negative. James, said the women lived in bedrooms with “disgusting” mattresses which were “old, worn and stained”.
She claimed that Hefner used a
She claimed that Hefner used a $1,000-a-week allowance to control the woman who lived with him, using it as a “weapon”.
Hefner's son Cooper announced his father's death via Twitter Wednesday night.
Hugh Hefner's former girlfriend and playboy model Kendra Wilkinson is the latest bunny to pay tribute to the the media media mogul following his death on Wednesday.
She thinks the sexiest scents a guy can wear are Ralph Lauren’s warm, musky colognes.A number of Playmates have spoken out about their lives at the famous house over the years - with many revealing their experiences in tell-all books - and many accounts are negative. James, said the women lived in bedrooms with “disgusting” mattresses which were “old, worn and stained”.She claimed that Hefner used a $1,000-a-week allowance to control the woman who lived with him, using it as a “weapon”.Hefner's son Cooper announced his father's death via Twitter Wednesday night.Hugh Hefner's former girlfriend and playboy model Kendra Wilkinson is the latest bunny to pay tribute to the the media media mogul following his death on Wednesday.For many men, the Playboy mansion may have sounded like a paradise: a stunning mansion set in landscaped grounds and filled with beautiful models.But the smiles of some of the Playboy bunnies living with the late Hugh Hefner may have hidden deep unhappiness.In an excruciating scene, Kendra made him describe whether or not London's hand made his way over or his shorts at that moment. Hank has tried to dance around this with varying degrees of effectiveness, clearly feeling guilty about ... Bottom line: Hank and Ava had some sort of interaction, because if he didn't know her or never touched her, he would just state this. Nevertheless, whatever he told Kendra on camera and behind closed doors, she found it in her heart (or self interest) to forgive him.Baskett's non-committal answers made the whole thing even weirder, while Ava London claimed, in no uncertain terms, that she got him off. She Tweeted that she loves Baskett, she forgives Baskett and that critics should f--k with her and her definition of love at their peril. We'll see if Patti's forthcoming memoir threatens that marital tranquility once more, as she seems determined to get her hands dirty (sorry).Did Hank try to pay her off afterward, making ATM withdrawals and dropping off cash (which obviously wasn't enough to make her zip it)?Or, was he looking to smoke some weed with a friend, only to end up being briefly fondled over his shorts by London against his will? well, an affair in which bodily fluids were excreted after energetic manual stimulation.
,000-a-week allowance to control the woman who lived with him, using it as a “weapon”.
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New Mars Forums
Official discussion forum of The Mars Society and MarsNews.com
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» Life support systems
» Bigelow announces to habitation module/life support system.
Oldfart1939
Bigelow announces to habitation module/life support system.
https://www.8newsnow.com/news/local-new … t-systems/
SpaceNut
Re: Bigelow announces to habitation module/life support system.
Bigelow’s next-generation inflatable space habitat is shooting for the Moon
“The life support systems can accommodate four people indefinitely,” Bigelow said. Five people for many months. Six people for maybe 8 weeks. No other spacecraft is that capable of doing that.”
The station has a central core with lab equipment, two toilets, two galleys and other features. Roughly 60 people from NASA are evaluating the unit during a two-week-long ground test at the facility, giving feedback on how to best use the unit and possibly consider it for future missions, including the moon and mars.
This is a good thing as before this it was just a big air bag....
NASA Puts Bigelow Aerospace's Giant Inflatable Space Habitat Prototype to the Test
The module takes its name from its 330 cubic meters (11,650 cubic feet) of internal volume. That's a lot of space. For comparison, the pressurized volume of the entire International Space Station (ISS) is about 930 cubic m (32,840 cubic feet). The module takes its name from its 330 cubic meters (11,650 cubic feet) of internal volume. That's a lot of space. For comparison, the pressurized volume of the entire International Space Station (ISS) is about 930 cubic m (32,840 cubic feet).
They spurged all out for the two lavatories.
Standing on a metal platform labeled “Does not exist” in the middle of an inflatable bouncy house designed for space, I had one question: where’s the bathroom?
I found my bed....
Is that all I have for food supplies or it that my change of clothing
At least I will get a salad
The best images were these
Fascinating! Nice to get a peek inside as well...
So it could fit inside a Starship (only 5 metre wide, I think the article says, when deflated) and provide accommodation on the surface of Mars.
Build a metal frame surround that can go over the whole structure and be piled up with regolith to provide [additional] radiation protection.
I assume some additional protection would be required on Mars, but would be interested to know how much protection is afforded by the Bigelow (sadly, being in Europe, I can't access the link).
Last edited by louis (2019-09-14 10:11:00)
Let's Go to Mars...Google on: Fast Track to Mars blogspot.com
its meant to be used for the transit to mars but I could see it working as a mars habitat if it was not at the top of the ship with no way down,,,,,
So am I seeing an inflatable radiation shield in the 7th pic down in post #2 ?
The lunar and mars depictions show no ship or landers in any of the views for how the inflateables are delivered.
In the lunar depiction the solar arrays are all aligned and seperate.
The second inflateable shows the sand bag approach to mass shielding for radiation and weight to hold down the inflateable.
Notice the inflateable air lock and garage for the rover as well....
Crew lander is to the left of the frame.
The mars depiction shows engine in the car port section but no shell for the landing of the inflateables.
I'm liking the concept. The proposals for the Moon would seem to meet the needs of a pioneer base on Mars: OK for transit, shielding from radiation and a port for a human passenger rover.
There might be an argument for a covered and pressurised port for the Rover to allow for ease of external maintenance but that's probably a relatively minor point.
The issue of how you get a large item like the hab out of a Starship cargo hold is one that needs to be addressed. We've discussed that before...onboard crane? external crane? lift (elevator)? rigid chute? inflatable chute? It's possible you might be able to give it a protective packaging and then basically pull it off the Starship and let it bounce to a stop on the surface. I think NASA have used that sort of technology before in landing.
Looking at both they are lacking a pad to keep the surface from chaffing the inflateable so as to keep it from sharps that it might be on top of and they are both lacking an anchor system as they will be bouyant.
I don't think there's any risk of such a heavy object being buoyant in the air on Mars. As for sharps, I presume the chosen location would either be a cleared slab rock surface or firm sand.
SpaceNut wrote:
louis wrote:
Under gravity, sounds like a good idea to use some kind of cement that after bind selfsupport its weight. Just to ensure you can add bigger layers and avoid structure problems that could cause some decompression.
Of course, not OUR Earth cement, based on water to bind. But there should be a good "cement-like" product for Moon.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lunarcret … oncrete%22
Last edited by Spaniard (2019-09-16 04:45:50)
I should have added until the sand bags are layered on top of the structures. Which require a period of time to fill the bags and place them while we are occuping the inflateables.
Since there is no other structures we are forced to either stay in the lander until the area is prepared or be in them under lower pressure to avoid the bouyancy issue.
I don't think those Bigelow inflatables would ever float off on the weak winds of Mars. They must mass something between 1 and 2 tons I would guess...
This might have formed part of the original link which I couldn't access - video of the Bigelow 330 - looks pretty big inside!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BXLk4wWilpA
The only thing I am slightly concerned about is the lack of windows - slightly claustrophobic for a 2 years? Maybe "fake windows" - curtained TV screens - relaying the external view from that position would help relieve that feeling of being closed in.
Meta New Mars Mars Society International Mars Analogue Research Stations Mars Rovers / University Rover Challenge Mars Gravity Biosatellite Youth Group / Educational Outreach Human missions Interplanetary transportation Planetary transportation Unmanned probes Life support systems Life on Mars Water on Mars Terraformation Pictures of Mars Martian Politics and Economy Civilization and Culture Martian Chronicles Liberum Olympia Not So Free Chat Science, Technology, and Astronomy Space Policy Other space advocacy organizations First Words Intelligent Alien Life New Mars Articles
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The Boulder Group Arranges Sale of Single Tenant CVS Property
Randy Blankstein and Jimmy Goodman of The Boulder Group represented the seller
The Boulder Group, a net leased investment brokerage firm, completed the sale of a single tenant net leased CVS property located at 13580 Grand River Ave in Detroit, Michigan for $1,740,000.
The CVS Pharmacy property features a drive-thru and has excellent visibility at its hard corner location along Grand River Avenue (17,498 VPD). The property is immediately off of Interstate 96 (178,000 VPD) which connects the property to downtown Detroit. Retailers in the immediate area include McDonald’s, Sherwin-Williams, Advance Auto Parts and Family Dollar. The property is also located within close proximity to multiple residential communities, large industrial properties and schools. There are over 411,000 people living within five miles of the property.
Randy Blankstein and Jimmy Goodman of The Boulder Group represented the seller. The seller was a Texas based real estate company and the buyer was a private real estate investor based in New York.
CVS Pharmacy has approximately fifteen years remaining on their lease which expires October 31, 2033 and features six 5-year renewal option periods with 2.5% rental escalations in each option. CVS Pharmacy is the nation’s drugstore chain along with total prescription revenue and operates 9,800+ locations in 49 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Brazil.
“CVS drug store properties with proven operating histories continue to garner significant investor interest.” said Randy Blankstein, President of The Boulder Group. Jimmy Goodman, Partner of The Boulder Group, added, “Properties with strong real estate fundamentals continue to be in demand with all investor classes.”
About The Boulder Group
The Boulder Group is a boutique investment real estate service firm specializing in single tenant net lease properties. The firm provides a full range of brokerage, advisory, and financing services nationwide to a substantial and diversified client base, which includes high net worth individuals, developers, REITs, partnerships and institutional investment funds. Founded in 1997, the firm has arranged the acquisition and disposition of over $5 billion of single tenant net lease real estate transactions. From 2012-2018, the firm was ranked in the top 10 companies in the nation for single tenant retail transactions by both Real Capital Analytics and CoStar. The Boulder Group is headquartered in suburban Chicago: www.bouldergroup.com
Company Name: The Boulder Group
Contact Person: Randy Blankstein
Address:3520 Lake Avenue Suite 203
City: Wilmette
Website: http://www.bouldergroup.com/NNN-Properties-For-Sale.html
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Currently viewing the tag: "Recession"
Kasich’s Victory Over Public Employees Last Night
On November 9, 2011 By Jason
In today’s Dispatch, under the intentionally inflammatory headline “Unions Get Revenge…” we get a hint of next year’s anti-union rhetoric:
“But amidst all of the concessions and hat-in-hand rhetoric, there was a hint of defiance. Kasich, who opened by congratulating the labor coalition, said local governments should not expect a state bailout to manage their costs.
‘There is no bailout because frankly, there’s no money,’ Kasich said.”
Kasich’s year-long attack against public employees was two-pronged: Make them vulnerable, and strip away their defenses. Last night, not only did […]
Full Story... →
Yet another stupid, unneeded tax cut idea from Governor Kasich
On May 25, 2011 By ModernEsquire
The Columbus Dispatch is reporting that Governor Kasich, reaching back to his Lehman Brothers’ roots, wants to give banks a tax break to encourage lending:
Kasich, a former executive at Lehman Brothers, suggested yesterday that altering the tax could reduce costs for banks and generate more loans.
We need to cut taxes so we can encourage banks to make loans is like saying we need to cut taxes to encourage me to draft contracts or file lawsuits. I don’t need a tax cut to do my business model, neither do banks.
Despite what you may believe as a […]
Kasich’s OBM: Ted Strickland got the jobs done
On April 13, 2011 By ModernEsquire
Kasich’s Office of Budget and Management says Ohio collected nearly a billion in more revenue in March than was projected due to strong economic growth in a recovery that has created jobs twice as fast in Ohio than Indiana or the rest of the nation. Thus, dispelling everything Kasich the Candidate said about Ohio’s economy last year.
Ohio House Republican Caucus publicly whines that their "secret" crazy bills are being kept a secret while refusing to actually mention the bills themselves.
The Carpetblogger is amazed at the “trend” that a bunch of Republican lawmakers from across Ohio all today issued separate press releases from different regions of Ohio today to discuss the economy. Keeling wrote four posts about these releases, each one, more amazed at the coincidence that these lawmakers were saying the same thing at the same time.
It’s almost like these lawmakers didn’t actually release these press releases at all, but they were all issued in a coordinated fashion by the some central organization like… the Ohio Republican House Caucus, […]
Unemployment rate dips, Bizzyblog pulls out the logic-twisting pretzel machine
On December 4, 2009 By Tim Russo
Down to 10% from 10.2% in October, with revisions DOWNWARD in job losses going back to September.? All of which is WAY better than expectations.? Month to month numbers are notoriously unpredictable, particularly at the bottom of a recession, but this is a good sign that the recession is beginning to end.
Tom Blumer has begun twisting his logic into a pretzel of Escher-like proportion.
Time to play the blame game again. And again. And again.
On November 24, 2009 By Tim Russo
I’m a former campaign hack, so despite my aspiration to think long term, I’m always thinking about the next election.? Pinning the blame on George W. Bush and through him Republicans for the economic nightmare we currently are fighting, and pinning that blame on Republican ideology once and for all, happens to merge those two approaches.? Democrats need to get better at it; fast for 2010, permanently for our country.
Short term, of course, this matters for the 2010 mid terms.? We ain’t turning a corner anytime soon, and voters will still be looking to lay blame.? Ted Strickland needs […]
Republican Opposition to Stimulus Bill: This We’ll Remember
On February 7, 2009 By Eric
If you need to know anything about Republicanism, this is all you need to read. In fighting Obama’s stimulus bill aimed at digging us out of the hole George W. Bush and his buddies in the Republican Party left us, here is what they fought to exclude:
In a key reduction from the bill that reached the Senate floor earlier in the week, $40 billion would be cut from a “fiscal stabilization fund” for state governments’ education costs, though $14 billion to boost the maximum for college Pell Grants by $400 to $5,250 would be preserved, as would aid […]
Ackerman on SEC: Best. Beatdown. Ever
“Do we start with hear no evil, see no evil, or speak no evil? Take your pick”
Economists Think We’re In A Recession
On April 29, 2008 By Joseph
USA Today polled 52 economists asking “Do you think the U.S. economy is currently is a recession?”
67% said Yes.
Another 12% said we would be this year.
President Bush, however, still refuses to admit it- instead calling our current situation just a ‘very slow economy’.
His solution: make his 2001 tax cuts for the rich permanent.
Seven years after implementing these tax cuts that were supposed to stimulate the economy we are, by most measures, in a recession. Gas prices are at an all time high. The housing market in shambles.
And now George wants to […]
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Good Foot Delivery: Making a social and environmental impact in Toronto
by Quinte West
Good Foot Delivery has been nominated for the Ontario Leader in Accessible Employment Award, to be presented on the evening of November 26 at the 2014 Ontario Business Achievement Awards. Make sure to get your seats today!
Jon Gauthier’s sister, Kristen, wanted to help him launch a meaningful career and secure a stable source of income. Armed with an entrepreneurial spirit, the siblings laid the foundation for Good Foot Delivery and launched the business from Kristen’s office in the back of The Production Kitchen, in downtown Toronto.
Officially open for business in 2010, Good Foot Delivery provides a personalized point-to-point delivery service on foot or via public transit as well as employment opportunities to people with developmental disabilities. The business is a registered not-for-profit and its charitable arm is a registered charity.
Good Foot’s clients support an environmentally-friendly delivery service that helps members of their community get a foothold on independence.
By using couriers with developmental disabilities, Good Foot’s model is not only altruistic. It’s also an innovative approach that results in good business. They’ve demonstrated how a functioning business be tackle a major social issue–over 50 percent of people with disability that are currently not in the workforce.
How has Good Foot stayed ahead of the competition, while at the same time solving an important problem? Through rock-solid marketing and by offering reliable service, fair pricing, and responding to client needs.
When asked about plans for the future, Gauthier–now the manager of Good Foot’s office/courier operations, social media, and web development–hopes to expand the business to other major Canadian cities.
Join us in Toronto on the evening of November 26th as we shine the spotlight on 17 other extraordinary organizations and entrepreneurs that are redefining business excellence in Ontario. Get your seats at the 2014 Ontario Business Achievement Awards today!
The Ontario Leader in Accessible Employment Award is generously supported by the Government of Ontario
Chamber e-News
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info@quintewestchamber.ca
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NEW | The Wonder Inn | Shudehill
L'Oréal Blackett talks to Gibraltan-born, MCR-based songwriter Kirsty Almeida about a new 'creative…
BIG INTERVIEW: MIF Director Alex Poots
Following the 2015 launch, David Blake speaks to the soon to be departing father of the festival
TOP 10: Exhibitions In March
The best art and museum exhibitions around Manchester this March
MIF: Full 2015 Programme Revealed
Bjork, Albarn and Peake return for the fifth edition of the Manchester International Festival (2-19…
Not Quite Light: Recording The Centre's Ragged Edge
Simon Buckley is getting shots at dawn
REVIEW: Hindle Wakes | Bolton Octagon
Joan Davies on a play that aroused a storm of protest in 1912
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Are You Ready? Nicola Mostyn isn’t sure she is
Published on May 20th 2008.
I hated Gladiators. I hated that annoying little referee with his distinctive “Are Yoooooo Readdy?” bellow. I hated the idiotic audience with their big foam hands. I especially hated it when they played Queen’s ‘Another One Bites the Dust’ which, every time I have heard it since, has made me feel strangely violated.
So, naturally, I was delighted that Sky One have decided to bring the show back, with twelve brand new Gladiators to compete against various masochistic members of the public, presented by Ian Wright and Kirsty Gallagher.
The old Gladiators – Jet, Hunter, etc - used to perform in fairly standard, athletics-style lycra outfits. This time, that seems to have been jettisoned in favour of individual outfits and more pronounced characters. So new Gladiator women include Ice; a slim attractive blonde sporting a turquoise bikini and no discernable muscles. (Having said that, she does look like she could lap-dance you to death.) Battleaxe has a pleated skirt, formidable boobs and the physique of Ram Man from He Man and The Masters of the Universe. Enigma looks like Posh Spice. I suspect that Panther’s special skill may be that she resembles Grace Jones, which, if you saw her on Parky with Russell Harty, is a frightening thing indeed.
On the men’s side there’s a new Hunter in the form of Atlas. Wow, that body…it must have taken ages. In his hair I mean. His abs aren’t bad either. Then there’s Spartan, who looks like the sixth member of Take That and Oblivion, a cross between Jeremy Kyle and Jamie Theakston, who shows his nasty streak by doing the ‘nag nag nag’ hand gesture while the contestants are speaking. Brrr scary.
Actually, they’ve all been to the Simon Cowell school of panto behaviour this time round. Cue lots of glowering looks to camera and mouthing off about how lame the contestants are. This is probably a mistake; there’s only room for one bad guy on a team. Remember Wolf – he of crap bandana and bad attitude? He was adored by the nation for being a nasty, misanthropic bully. He now lives in New Zealand and runs an indoor play centre called Chipmunks Playground. Ahh bless. In an even more shocking about-face, Hunter, aka James Crossley, has shaved his head and now looks rather tasty. Ulrika, I take it all back.
Ahem, anyway, back to the games. So far this series the trials include some old favourites like Hang Tough plus new additions like Earthquake, in which Gladiator and contestant attempt to push each other off a giant Perspex disc suspended from the ceiling. “No wrestling,” bellows midget referee John Anderson, although quite how else they’re meant to knock each other off remains a mystery. Gentle persuasion? Mind control? Perhaps Posh will sing them off.
In Hit and Run the contestants have to leg it across a bridge whilst the gladiators swing giant pillows at them. This gives the voice-over man a wonderful opportunity for double entendres: “Four very tough ladies with very big balls.” There is also water below them, instead of crash mats, which must making falling even more of a chore.
The format is slightly different this time, too, with contestant interviews before the games revealing a little bit about them. So we hear that Tom is a teacher from Shrewsbury, or that Gayle plays Lacrosse, which I suppose might be handy to know whilst you’re watching them get smacked off a podium by a giant cotton bud.
As usual the contestants compete to gain an advantage on the eliminator. They have to dive into water, swim under fire and then clamber along a giant cotton reel, which is a nice surreal touch and made me think that the show would be much improved if they could only shoehorn in some more bizarre elements – like melting clocks or holograms of dead relatives. Anyway, then they have to cross the monkey bars, climb a pyramid, all to get to “the dreaded travelator” which is the only bit of the show I enjoy. I like it when they are just too tired to get up. It reminds me of the time my dad greased a drainpipe to stop squirrels invading the loft. Sadly, no slippery squirrel behaviour so far this series.
In the first episode they seemed to have got rid of the trademark cringey Queen song in favour of Britney’s Baby One More Time but, presumably at the behest of outraged fans sitting at home with bated breath wearing their foam hands, Another One Bites The Dust was, sadly, back by Episode Two. Gah.
Other gripes: Presenters Wright and Gallagher seem to lack – and I can’t believe I am about to say this - the charisma of Ulrika, perhaps because we can’t picture either of them bonking one of the cast, and the show, if anything, just made me feel fondly for the 90s version, which is an extreme reaction indeed but possibly not what Sky One were going for. Still, if the new Gladiators fail to win fans, this will at least guarantee viewers for the forthcoming ‘Legends’ episode in which old skool Gladiators take on the new kids on the block. Here’s hoping Hunter’s strength wasn’t all in his barnet.
Gladiators, Sky 1, Sunday, 10pm
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Taste (visceral sensory) fibres: nucleus of solitary tract From scattered taste buds on palate. The third strategy is to use noninvasive imaging to identify patients with less than 50% stenosis and those with very high-grade stenosis (level II, moderate evidence). Due to the lack of ossification centers, assessment of skeletal maturi- ty using hand and wrist radiographs during infancy is difficult. In one hierarchy, the symptomatic person is in an inferior position because of helpless and disturbed behav- ior, and the other spouse is in the superior position of helper. When they realized they had TMS, they admitted how very anxious they had been about the competition. The method of assessing value is predetermined and not subject to transformation through any particular professional encounter or experience. CASE STUDY Albert discount 100 mg viagra sublingual free shipping, for example, met Janet while he was on an extended work assign- ment in her small hometown. Representatives of the orthopedic department stated there was a lack of adherence to the low back pain guideline with regard to specialty referrals, most particularly by physician assistants.
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Cavanough, James (1835–1900)
storekeeper and pastoralist
Biographical Entries
Obituaries Australia entry
Related Entries in NCB Sites
Cavanough, Mary Ann (wife)
Cavanough, Esther (mother)
Cavanough, James (father)
Cavanough, Elizabeth (sister)
Buttsworth, Sophia Isabella (sister)
Buttsworth, Ann (sister)
Greentree, Elizabeth (sister)
Gillard, Mary Ann (sister)
Cobcroft, Margaret Jane (sister)
Halpin, Esther Amelia (sister)
Cavanough, George (brother)
Cavanough, Thomas (brother)
Cavanough, Samuel (brother)
Cavanough, Richard (brother)
Cavanough, John Henry (brother)
Cavanough, John (brother)
Cavanough, William Henry (brother)
Cavanough, Frederick Robert (brother)
Dunstan, Sarah (sister-in-law)
Dunstan, Mary Elizabeth (sister-in-law)
Conlan, Charlotte (sister-in-law)
Cavanough, Mary Ann (sister-in-law)
Cavanough, Annie Josephine (sister-in-law)
Cavanough, Ellen Bridget (sister-in-law)
Buttsworth, Richard William (brother-in-law)
Buttsworth, Josiah (brother-in-law)
Goldspink, John Robert (brother-in-law)
Greentree, George (brother-in-law)
Dunstan, David William (brother-in-law)
Dunstan, James Stephen (brother-in-law)
Gillard, John Gilbert (brother-in-law)
Halpin, Charles (brother-in-law)
Arndell, Elizabeth (aunt)
Turnbull, Grace (aunt)
Hetherington, Elizabeth (aunt)
Wall, Ann (aunt)
Ridge, Sophia (aunt)
Green, Charles (uncle)
Cavanough, Owen (uncle)
Cavanough, Richard (uncle)
Huxley, Thomas (uncle)
Cavanough, George (uncle)
Huxley, James William (uncle)
Huxley, Samuel (uncle)
Huxley, John Richard (uncle)
Cavanough, Ann (aunt by marriage)
Cavanough, Celia (aunt by marriage)
Cavanough, Jane (aunt by marriage)
Hetherington, Henry (uncle by marriage)
Turnbull, Ralph (uncle by marriage)
Hibbs, George (uncle by marriage)
Wall, Thomas (uncle by marriage)
Arndell, Samuel (uncle by marriage)
Cavanough, Margaret (grandmother)
Huxley, Ann (grandmother)
Cavanough, Owen (grandfather)
Huxley, Thomas (grandfather)
Halpin, Esther Amelia (niece)
Cavanough, Celia (cousin)
Collins, William (cousin)
Gurney, Mary Ann (cousin)
Treadaway, William (cousin)
Hibbs, Elias (cousin)
Hibbs, Peter (cousin)
Dorrington, Ann (cousin)
Turnbull, Ralph (cousin)
Turnbull, John (cousin)
Dunstan, Elizabeth (cousin)
Turnbull, Elizabeth (cousin)
Woodbury, Jane (cousin)
Cox, Ann (cousin)
Arndell, Robert (cousin)
Kirwan, Charlotte (cousin)
Huxley, Francis (cousin)
Wall, Thomas (cousin)
Arndell, Jane (cousin)
Huxley, Thomas (cousin)
Arndell, Samuel (cousin)
de Silvre, Charlotte (cousin)
Arndell, Thomas (cousin)
Wall, Richard (cousin)
Huxley, Richard (cousin)
Wall, John (cousin)
Everingham, Sophia (cousin)
Ellem, George (cousin)
Lamb, Alice (cousin)
Dorrington, Mary Anne (cousin)
Arndell, John (cousin)
Cavanough, James Thomas (cousin)
Cavanough, Richard John (cousin)
Kemp, Sophia (cousin)
Arndell, Charles (cousin)
Parry, Ann (cousin)
Cross, Eliza (cousin)
Huxley, William (cousin)
Ellem, Richard (cousin)
Tye, Louisa (cousin)
Cavanough, Margaret Ann (cousin)
Arndell, Richard John (cousin)
Saunders, Grace Sarah (cousin)
Wall, Samuel (cousin)
Everingham, Matilda Rebecca (cousin)
Ellem, John (cousin)
Hayman, Charlotte (cousin)
Brenchley, Phoebe (cousin)
Cavanough, William David (cousin)
Hough, Eliza (cousin)
Thomas, Elizabeth Celia (cousin)
Huxley, James William (cousin)
Wall, George (cousin)
Huxley, Edwin (cousin)
Huxley, Charles (cousin)
Robinson, Sophia (cousin)
Ellem, William (cousin)
Cavanough, John Alexander (cousin)
Huxley, Andrew (cousin)
Huxley, Cyrus (cousin)
Wall, William (cousin)
Aspery, Esther (cousin)
Thomas, Jane (cousin)
Alderson, Margaret (cousin)
Gosper, Louisa (cousin)
Ellem, James (cousin)
Cavanough, George (cousin)
Cavanough, Henry Schofield (cousin)
Cavanough, Owen (cousin)
Wall, Jonas (cousin)
Huxley, Frederick Thomas (cousin)
Cavanough, Thomas (cousin)
Huxley, Emma Maria (cousin)
Cavanough, Mary Ann (cousin)
Ellem, Frederick (cousin)
Cavanough, Charlotte (cousin)
Huxley, Albert (cousin)
Fraser, Sophia (cousin)
John, Eliza Jane (cousin)
Huxley, Lucinda (cousin)
Cavanough, Sophia Jane (cousin)
Cavanough, Frederick Samuel (cousin)
Ellem, Thomas (cousin)
Ridge, Richard (cousin)
Huxley, Arthur Thomas (cousin)
Smallwood, Celia (cousin)
Huxley, David (cousin)
Huxley, John Henry (cousin)
Huxley, Esther (cousin)
Ridge, Martha (cousin)
Cavanough, James George (cousin)
Wall, Mary Ann (cousin)
Huxley, Eliza Ann (cousin)
Mitchell, Frances Leonora (cousin)
Huxley, Jane (cousin)
Ellem, Samuel Henry (cousin)
Newman, Esther Amelia (cousin)
Cavanough, Charles Innes (cousin)
Huxley, William Henry (cousin)
Rich, Laurina (cousin)
Cavanough, James (cousin)
Huxley, Edward Prosper (cousin)
Paul, Victoria (cousin)
Chapman, Grace (cousin)
Cavanough, Robert Joseph (cousin)
Cavanough, Harold Schofield (cousin)
Boon, Emily Frances (cousin)
Huxley, James Thomas (cousin)
Flemming, Louisa Rebecca (cousin)
Simson, Esther (cousin)
Rowley, Elizabeth Ann (cousin)
Cavanough, Rebecca (cousin)
Wall, James Charles (cousin)
Ridge, William Bligh (cousin)
Hilton, Sophia (cousin)
Huxley, William Charles (cousin)
Huxley, Richard Ernest (cousin)
Thornthwaite, Emily Adelaide (cousin)
Weaver, Luanna Jane (cousin)
Ridge, Henrietta (cousin)
© Copyright People Australia, 2012
Do you have an image of this person? Contact Us
Life Summary [details]
Sackville, New South Wales, Australia
St George, Queensland, Australia
grazier (cattle)
shop/store owner
Goondoola (Qld)
West Haran (Qld)
Rookwood (Qld)
Waterloo (Qld)
Bona Vista (Qld)
Perwell (Qld)
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RadTrad Thomist
Commentary on contemporary issues of Church and State from a traditional Catholic perspective guided by the teachings of St. Thomas Aquinas.
Fr. Ringrose Boldly Calls Recognize & Resist a Heresy. See the Latest Parish Posting from St. Athanasius' Chapel, Vienna, VA.
Your Excellencies, Priests, and Friends,
Here is a copy of Father Ringrose’s article that appeared in today’s Sunday Bulletin:
“An elaborate theological argument is worthless and false if it draws a conclusion that is contrary to there simple, straightforward teachings found in the Catechism. A detailed theological study can be useful in expounding these simple truths and shedding further light on them for those who have a sufficient grounding in theology, but such a study can never be used to undermine or contradict these truths.
For the average Catholic it is sufficient to know one’s Catechism well. Firmly believe the doctrines expressed there, for they are an expression of the Church’s infallible Magisterium. Reject anything, no matter how erudite it may appear, if it draws a conclusion contrary to that Catechism.
Every Catechism clearly teaches that the pope and the bishops infallibly teach us what we are to believe. This is the promise of Christ. If the pope and the bishops were to teach us any error whatsoever, it would mean that Christ has broken His promise and the Holy Ghost has abandoned the Church — which is impossible. (Baltimore Catechism # 3, [Questions 528 & 529].”
Now to another issue: it has recently been asserted by an R&R votary that Vatican II was a pastoral council and was not therefore binding, but out of the council came a "new religion with new doctrines" that if followed, would not be Catholic. So we [meaning R&R] do not follow the popes that received the Council.
If in fact a new religion and new doctrines were created at V2 [and they were], this religion / these doctrines are NOT Catholic. The Church being Indefectible and Infallible CANNOT change, CANNOT substantially alter its doctrines against Christ. Thus, NO Pope, NO council can change the Deposit of Faith left by Our Lord Jesus Christ.
R&R is the heresy that boldly dares to contradict Christ's own promise that the Church [Pope and Bishops] cannot err in teaching faith and morals.
Adversus solem ne loquitor
W. E. Platz
Dr. there is quite a discussion over at Aka Catholic on the validity of Episcopal consecrations. One argues that consecrations are valid as long as the words are said and the matter is a male. Form and matter. We are dealing with the SSPX consecrations and specifically the archbishop who founded SSPX, who was consecrated by Lienart. Lienart has been revealed to be a confirmed freemason. Now Thomas begins his discussion of Episcopal orders by stating that no one can seek the office of Bishop, that to do so is unlawful, ie. invalid. So can the infiltrators of Vatican 2 who sought the destruction of the Catholic Church and Faith, by assuming Episcopal orders be valid? Did they intend to do as the Church has always done?Or rather did they intend by episcopal contivences to be wolves in sheep"s clothing? I think we are seeing the answer unfold before us. But what about the "trad-conservative" reaction against the modernist-judeo hirelings? Are they raising up before us false opposition against the masonic judeo operation? Is it all one big one deception?
Donkath July 2, 2018 at 10:37 PM
This doesn't make sense. How can it be true that 'the pope and bishops teach what is infallibly true' 'If in fact a new religion and new doctrines were created at V2 [and they were]?
Clemens Maria July 3, 2018 at 5:31 PM
Because Paul VI was not a true pope?
They were not popes or bishops! They lost their authority and office through heresy/refusing to carry out the good of the society they were appointed to lead.
I'm sorry, where does Fr R call RR a heresy? Bill Platz uses the term heresy, and he is right. But Fr R says RR is "contrary to the teaching of the church." Fr R has never called RR a heresy. He has a RR priest in his parish (er, votary) so he can't call it a heresy. That would be a sin against ecumenism, hehe....
Donkath July 4, 2018 at 8:51 PM
What I meant was that the statement itself doesn't make sense. How can one person say that the pope...teach(es) what is infallibly true then add that the same person creates new doctrines?
"Paris will be burned" ---- Our Lady of La Salette: Collapsed Spire, Collapsed Catholic Civilization. How the Notre Dame Fire is an Image of the Real Church's Situation Today.
"Paris will be burned."
"France, Italy, Spain and England will be in war; blood will flow in the streets; Frenchman will fight with Frenchman, Italian with Italian; subsequently there will be a general war which will be appalling. For a time, God will no longer be mindful of France or Italy, because the Gospel of Jesus Christ is no longer known. The wicked will deploy all their malice."
"Rome will lose the Faith and become the Seat of the Antichrist."
Dr. Chojnowski: The 3 prophecies above, all coming from the Secret entrusted to Melanie by Our Lady at La Salette, seem to speak about our own day. The most important thing in Paris has now catastrophically burnt, the stage is set or it is on-going, for massive civil unrest. Frenchman is already Fighting Frenchman and Italy does not seem to be far behind. Is this the time in which, "God will no longer by mindful of France or Italy, because the Gospel of Jesus Christ is no longer known." The wicked ar…
SSPX Accuses Francis of Heresy. As Far as I can tell, a "Document for Human Fraternity" that was intended to be spread throughout the world and bore the signature of Francis is a Public Act. No? So Francis is a Public Heretic or Public Apostate, No?
https://fsspx.news/en/news-events/news/communiqué-superior-general-society-saint-pius-x-true-fraternity-45364?utm_source=Society+of+Saint+Pius+X+%7C+Newsletter&utm_campaign=3040eb7593-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2019_02_25_04_43&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_8c13eb2341-3040eb7593-206071633
I want to comment soon on the various statements that Michael Matt has made on the "situation" of the "crisis." However, before than we cannot let pass the just released statement by the SSPX on the apostasy of Francis at Abu Dhabi in which he signed a document which states that God willed the diversity of religions. Since this is a denial of the very essence of the Christian faith insofar as he is rejecting the whole purpose of the Church and the very idea of a unique Divine Revelation, originating with the preaching of the Incarnate Word and complemented by the revelation given to the Apostles by the Holy Ghost, I would argue that this is an act of apostasy. This act and such state…
Amazon Facial Recognition Technology Determines that Sister Lucy I and Sister Lucy II are not the Same Person. Not One Match Amidst Thousands of Comparisons.
"NOT EQUAL".The above message was sent to Sister Lucy Truth as the announcement of the result of the Amazon Facial Recognition Test. All of the data, with pictures and percentage identified similarity and matches to be released along with Investigators report soon. A further summary of all the data from this test will be released by Sister Lucy Truth in the coming weeks.
Watch the Youtube below about this latest Amazon technology that is being used by police departments all over the nation.
Dr. Chojnowski
RadTrad Thomist Reaches the World
Donation to Sister Lucy Truth
Donate to Sister Lucy Truth
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Facade Companies In Saudi Arabia
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"This MoU represents our strong commitment to expanding safety services in the Middle East. 8m (source Ellerbe Becket). Alupco also operates sale center offices in Riyadh, Dubai and Cairo to cater to the needs of all its customers based in Saudi Arabia, the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and the rest of the world. “This MoU represents our strong commitment to expanding safety services in the Middle East. (NAFCO) of Riyadh Saudi Arabia is a wholly Saudi Owned Company, (Member of Al-Saghyir Group) was established in the Year 1971 (1391 H). Alghamarat provides the best Window Cleaning services in Riyadh, Landscaping services in Riyadh. Weber is a leading manufacturer of easy to apply products in the facades, construction mortars, flooring systems and tile fixing markets. need high quality products using machinery. The tower contains the world largest advertisement LED screen making it a valued landmark for the city. S auction house Sotheby's regarding the creation of a major cultural center, to be situated in the. Links : Saudi Arabia Industrial Machinery, Saudi Arabia Cleaning Equipment, Company Introduction RTC is was incorporated in 1980 as General Maintenance Co, later it diversified to trading in the same filed. ASGC buys Dubai unit of top Australian facades expert Saturday 16 November 2019. Sep 15, 2019 · President Trump said Sunday that the United States was prepared to respond to the devastating attacks on two oil installations in Saudi Arabia that halved the state oil company’s production. Beautify your building with an aesthetically pleasing architectural ceiling. We offer software for design, products and tools for work onsite, training, testing and consultancy. The tower contains the world largest advertisement LED screen making it a valued landmark for the city. Working on twin typical towers is a challenge, where only the great skills of our team in the engineering, fabrication, production, and installation departments could perfectly achieve matching segmented facades, fulfilling the desired twinning design. Please feel free to contact me for any Facade consultation, My Company and i are always ready to provide our best service and technical solutions. Search new Facade Jobs in Saudi Arabia find your next job and see who is recruiting and apply directly on Jobrapido. Our Saudi Business Directory is an excellent source of information about saudi business online and a part of today's fastest growing form of communication - the Internet, Saudian Yellowpages offers you an easy and affordable way to get your business online and. company new clients for facade cleaning ( building external. We offer a comprehensive range of outdoor wall, recessed, in ground, spike, bollard, facade, flood and underwater lights. THE WORLD’S LEADING CONFERENCE ON FAÇADE DESIGN & ENGINEERING. 6 lbs) Pantograph gondola with a max. Façade face-off as industry comes under scrutiny in Middle East Rafal Living, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia among the brand's blue-chip customers. Apply Without Registration. F ABEX Saudi Arabia alongside with Metal & Steel Saudi Arabia, since its inception in 2012, has cemented its position as the genuine business class event for steel, steel fabrication, metal processing, forming, cutting, welding, Automation, finishing machinery, equipment and tools. Tendersinfo provides government tenders information online. Managed, Headed and Engineered by highly educated professionals with 27 years of Industry experience in the Arabian Gulf Countries. S and British Architect Darcame to visit our factory and inspected the MOCKUP. Zamil architectural industries is a leading architectural company in Saudi Arabia. Mar 30, 2018 · Designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, the new King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) Metro Station in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia will serve as a key interchange on the new Riyadh Metro network for Line 1 and the terminus of Line 4 and Line 6. D&B Hoovers provides sales leads and sales intelligence data on over 120 million companies like MELBOURNE FACADES PTY. AFS International helps out Façade supplier Lindner, by offering a lighter weight stainless steel cladding panel. has 5 jobs listed on their profile. Apply on company website Report this job Our client is a leading curtain-walling and facade contractor operating through-out London and the South East area. Description: Our client is one of the leading International aluminium facade contractors whose main area of activity. Innovative, profit-oriented Project Manager with demonstrated success in increasing revenues, achieving cost reductions and improving client satisfaction in customerfacing operations , has 10 years of experience cross of GCC, managing multi-million Saudi Riyals Aluminum Façade projects, Managing project activities & coordinate with technical , Procurement & Production. has announced plans to continue its rapid expansion in the Middle East with its first hotel in the capital and largest city in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA. Al Rajhi Building Solutions Group (ARBSG) announced that Cladtech International, a civil engineering and construction company, had won Al Saad General Contracting Company's contract to manufacture and install curtain wall façades for Sail Tower. Working on twin typical towers is a challenge, where only the great skills of our team in the engineering, fabrication, production, and installation departments could perfectly achieve matching segmented facades, fulfilling the desired twinning design. Since its establishment in the year 2000 as a privately owned company, we have worked along with the main contractors & consultants, to present to the construction market a wide range of high quality products, services, & engineering solutions. We focus on providing unmatchable rope access services to our valued customers in their maintenance & civil works such as painting, blasting; And Pressure washing, External High rise Building window Cleaning and facade glass cleaning services. Saudi Arabia, Jeddah City and Jeddah Tower 18 Oct 2016 – Presentation at CTBUH 2016 China Conference; Mounib Hammoud, Jeddah Economic Company The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has embarked on an ambitious project to construct the world’s tallest building, Jeddah Tower. to make this. Competitive salary. Saudian Yellowpages the very first and only yellowpages directory of Saudi Arabia. President Trump said Sunday that the United States was prepared to respond to the devastating attacks on two oil installations in Saudi Arabia that halved the state oil company’s production. Feb 03, 2019 · Saudi Arabia realizes that in today’s world, a critical article written against the Saudi government in Washington can be read by a person in Riyadh easily. With the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, a project was completed in the heart of the Saudi Arabian oil fields, which had never been planned or implemented in this form before: Five individual buildings with cultural facilities, including a library and a concert hall, that shine in the sun like bright "pepple stones". After choosing which option is best for you to use solar (see step 3), follow the steps afterward that apply to you. Weber is a leading manufacturer of easy to apply products in the facades, construction mortars, flooring systems and tile fixing markets. Search for more Facade Designer/Facade Draughtsman jobs in Khobar, Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia Yellow Pages Online is a Local Business to Business Directory in Saudi Arabia offering business list of more than 250,000 companies. Search online for Facade jobs in Egypt. ae : Saudi Jeddah : Branch of Alumco Company Prince Majed street – Jeddah Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Find jobs, careers, employment, job listings, staff and candidates in Dubai, Abu-Dhabi, UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman and Bahrain. Additionally the KSA famed business and corporate sector number among our many satisfied clients making full use not only of our cleaning services but also OMC Ltd many support services. Check out where we are and how you can become part of this global partnership. com, India's No. Industrial scaffolding is the name given for providing access and work platforms on industrial installations. Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Bought the World's Most Expensive Mansion for $300 Million, and a $500 Million Yacht By Grace Guarnieri On 12/18/17 at 1:51 PM EST Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. We have recently fascinated with different creations and ideas for the Façade Design. Search new Facade Jobs in Saudi Arabia find your next job and see who is recruiting and apply directly on Jobrapido. The Saudi Aluminum Industries Company (SALUMCO) is one of the first aluminum fabrication plants to operate in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. See the complete profile on LinkedIn and discover Amir I. Get opportunity to work with top companies in Saudi Arabia. Facade Jobs 2019. specializes providing market with. ,Ltd , Dyer Group International , Saint State Hardware Co. Zamil architectural industries is a leading architectural company in Saudi Arabia. It can be counted as one leading Distributors Jun Jin Heavy Industry Ltd. The Company This company is an expert in their market, working on commercial, residential and government projects. Middle East & International. Links : Saudi Arabia Industrial Machinery, Saudi Arabia Cleaning Equipment, Company Introduction RTC is was incorporated in 1980 as General Maintenance Co, later it diversified to trading in the same filed. Looking for Site Supervisor Facade Jobs in Saudi Arabia? Apply Without Registration to 336 Site Supervisor Facade Vacancies in Saudi Arabia. established in the year 1970 are a pioneer in the fields of Aluminium and Glass. Check out who is attending exhibiting speaking schedule & agenda reviews timing entry ticket fees. Ref Number: FCAPEAD040411. 6% from 2019 to 2025. Hassan Fathy 1900-1989. CSR Cemintel provides a complete range of lightweight fibre cement systems including external facades, internal linings, flooring and ceiling systems. Changsha Jose Trade Co. Search new Facade Jobs in Saudi Arabia find your next job and see who is recruiting and apply directly on Jobrapido. The job opportunities are good at these companies. The burgeoning UAE construction industry demands for contemporary building facades to make it more sustainable, more energy efficient and more responsive to the environment. FMG is a new entity operated by a diversified team with more than 20 years of KSA Media market experience. She joined in Koltay Facades since 2011, and worked on large scale highrise projects such as Fountain Views, Address Hotel, and Skyview in the Burj Khlaifa Precinct. And for a country that has survived mainly due to the unwavering support of its citizens, any form of dissidence is a huge threat to the future of its monarchy. What we offer? Jood FM ® offers a customized and complete facilities management services to any origination around the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Since its establishment in the year 2000 as a privately owned company, we have worked along with the main contractors & consultants, to present to the construction market a wide range of high quality products, services, & engineering solutions. م في عام 2009 ، وهي تقدم حلول داخلية للواجهات والواجهات للعملاء المحليين. Facade access equipment Reference project: Jabal Omar - Mecca, Saudi Arabia 17 traversing roof cars and 4 davit arm systems Max. Get opportunity to work with top companies in Saudi Arabia. The Katerra K90 R&D project set out to shorten the typical multifamily construction time to 90 days from the industry average of 140+. Ruukki is the first company to develop a photovoltaic system that has been fully integrated into a facade. Search online for Facade jobs in the Gulf and Middle East. Get opportunity to work with top companies in Saudi Arabia. Pick the perfect room & save!. Façade system: SG-4-56-FF structurally glazed curtain wall system. Looking for products and Services in Saudi Arabia? ABC is a marketing network to access Saudi Arabia businesses involved in the popular categories of consumer, Commercial, Construction, Industrial and Oil and Gas sectors, listing their products, services, news and regular promotions. Mathieu Meur provides strategic and technical leadership as the director of DP Façade. Commercial & Offices - Shopping Centers project in Jeddah, SA designed by Mekano - Shopping Mall Façade. Company Description RTC is was incorporated in 1980 as General Maintenance Co, later it diversified to trading in the same filed. UL and GCC Labs today announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at localizing fire and safety services and establishing a façade testing lab in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) that would offer services across the MENA region. Saudi Arabia. Explore all 370. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has for many years been hidden “behind the veil”. 6 facade jobs. Acting locally means being present in our communities. Visit us!. Working on twin typical towers is a challenge, where only the great skills of our team in the engineering, fabrication, production, and installation departments could perfectly achieve matching segmented facades, fulfilling the desired twinning design. Argonaut for Mechanical and Electrical Works. UL and GCC Labs today announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at localizing fire and safety services and establishing a façade testing lab in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) that would offer services across the MENA region. New precast plant in Saudi Arabia Being the official production start date of Alabniah Precast Concrete Buildings Factory, the 1st of January 2010 is a date not only starting a new decade but also a date where the Saudi Arabian precast concrete industry sees the most advanced and largest factory of its kind in the Kingdom starting off. Feminism is not 'criminal offence' in Saudi Arabia - officials. for managing complex Steel and Glass projects. AL-ULA, Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman launched on Sunday mega tourism projects in Al-Ula, including a resort designed by a renowned French architect and a nature. Browse ALUMINUM FACADE jobs, Jobs with similar Skills, Companies and Titles Top Jobs* Free Alerts Dear Jobseeker, Find millions of jobs on single click. Looking for the best meeting rooms in Dubai, DWTC District Free Zone for Conferences, Training, or board meeting? Let Regus help source the perfect venue with our wide range of properties. We specialize in the fields of manufacturing. Saudi Arabia Aluminum Cladding, Saudi Arabia Aluminum Cladding Suppliers and Manufacturers Directory - Source a Large Selection of Aluminum Cladding Products at aluminum composite panels ,supplier of aluminum plastic ,aluminum profile from Saudi Arabia Alibaba. Apply on company website Report this job Our client is a leading curtain-walling and facade contractor operating through-out London and the South East area. Acting locally means being present in our communities. We will email you the best course offers in your subject area. Boris Micka Associates designed the pavilion, with construction works having started on the structure in February 2019. Rise in construction-related activities has been an important factor driving the market. Saudi Arabia - Hilti - Hilti Saudi Arabia. Euro Façade Tech applies its vision of innovation and technological modernity to help realise clients’ own visions, often engaging with clients and Architects during the early phase of the design process. Reza Kabul is an architect, interior designer and urban planner. 8m (source Ellerbe Becket). National Aluminum Factory Co. Dazzle is a giant public programmable art installation featuring more than 15 custom animations created by artists. From fire-resistant aluminium cladding panels to ornate stone facades, the construction industry manufactures and imports sophisticated systems to meet the requirements of the region's striking buildings. Get opportunity to work with top companies in Saudi Arabia. 1 million sqm mega project, including the world's largest Islamic museum & more, in the west of # Riyadh. ASGC is best leading construction company in Dubai, which is established in the year 1989 with extensive range of construction experience. Business Gate Saudi Arabia. They bring a distinct look to a building's exterior, while providing shade and comfort to the people inside. Mathieu Meur provides strategic and technical leadership as the director of DP Façade. tesa® products prove their impressive quality day in, day out in demanding conditions and are regularly subjected to strict controls. Company Description RTC is was incorporated in 1980 as General Maintenance Co, later it diversified to trading in the same filed. To find out more about the cookies we use, or to change your cookie preferences i. Please note, the order volume has been updated. م في عام 2009 ، وهي تقدم حلول داخلية للواجهات والواجهات للعملاء المحليين. Apply to 18 Aluminium Jobs in Saudi Arabia on Naukri. The sculptures, some incomplete, were executed on three rocky spurs there. Preparation of monthly cost reports for the project’s & area’s top management in Saudi Arabia, & company’s head office board (President & Vice Presidents) in Athens - Greece. built right next to the numerous skyscrapers of ho chi minh city‘s an phu ward, the sky house by vietnamese practice, MIA design studio, seeks to bring in as much nature as possible within its. STYLISH FACADE IN UAE. Non-oil revenues are growing in the kingdom, as was confirmed during the launch of Saudi Arabia's 2019 budget, and construction work remains a key job creator in the country. for managing complex Steel and Glass projects. Our strategy for this year is around three key themes:. Get opportunity to work with top companies in Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia was Singapore’s 19 th largest trading partner in 2017, with bilateral trade amounting to S$13. Saudi Building Materials Initiating Coverage Report October 15, 2014 2 Executive Summary Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) is the largest economy in the Middle East with 2013 nominal GDP of SAR 2. They bring a distinct look to a building's exterior, while providing shade and comfort to the people inside. Alfa tech aluminium facade technique, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Industry Insights. Jan Facade Technology Pte Ltd is located at 63 Ubi Ave 1 #07-04 Boustead Hse S(408937). ALUMACO was founded in 1978 in Saudi Arabia as one of the first companies specialized in the manufacture and installation of aluminum and glass in the region, it accompanied the urban development and was able to meet the market needs in terms of advanced technical engineering. FM EXPO Saudi is the Kingdom’s only exhibition dedicated to the facilities management industry. "Many imagine Saudi to be a monotone vista of deserts, camels, oil wells and motorways, but this corner is a land. The new company will contribute to the creation of sustainable tourism and related job opportunities, supporting the Kingdom's economic diversification and unlocking new assets in Saudi Arabia. Companies from around the world are represented and bring the best of the world’s construction technology and products to the heart of the region’s market. Nov 18, 2016 · New photographs reveal the pebble-shaped forms of Snøhetta's cultural centre in Saudi Arabia, which is nearing completion ahead of its slated opening date in 2017. In middle-East, we have admixtures for concrete as a specialty, but we cover also all these activities: Tile Fixing, Facades & thermal insulation, Concrete repair, anchoring and grouting, Waterproofing, Plastering mortars, Flooring. With the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, a project was completed in the heart of the Saudi Arabian oil fields, which had never been planned or implemented in this form before: Five individual buildings with cultural facilities, including a library and a concert hall, that shine in the sun like bright "pepple stones". com's The Largest German Companies 2005. We pay full attention to the customer's needs and their requirements and fulfill their expectations to the possible ways. You will gain access to industry leading speakers, sharing case studies and practical lessons that help you overcome any business challenge. Feb 17, 2019 · The tallest skyscraper in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, is open for business after completion of the 37-storey AKH Tower. • Host the highest mosque in the world and the largest hole in the world in a building, as well tallest in Saudi Arabia upon completation. com, the Middle East's #1 Job Site. Panelised Façade Systems, do you have a more linear façade or want a simple solution?. 270 Saudi Aramco jobs, including salaries, reviews, and other job information posted anonymously by Saudi Aramco employees. View Syed Azeemuddin’s profile on LinkedIn, the world's largest professional community. Links : Saudi Arabia Industrial Machinery, Saudi Arabia Cleaning Equipment, Company Introduction RTC is was incorporated in 1980 as General Maintenance Co, later it diversified to trading in the same filed. Apply to Facade Designer/Facade Draughtsman (1176760) Jobs in Khobar, Saudi Arabia at Reynaers Aluminum. Suitable for passive houses. They use a various forms of cladding and curtain-walling systems. Job email alerts. Search new Facade Jobs in Saudi Arabia find your next job and see who is recruiting and apply directly on Jobrapido. Oct 01, 2019 · As part of the ongoing trade war, the Trump administration is reportedly considering delisting Chinese companies from US stock exchanges. we are on of the manufacturer cathodic protection anode located Dammam,Our products are aluminium,Zinc,Hi silicon,Titanium & magnesium Anode. We provide quality, professionalism and friendly services to every customers whether it is small job or big one. • Achieve immediate returns and campaign reach potential in the first week itself i. provides the local and international market with numerous thermal insulation, construction and industrial materials. Sep 16, 2019 · Looking for Facade Jobs in Saudi Arabia? Apply Without Registration to 2 Facade Vacancies in Saudi Arabia. With a strong reputation in the market, my client works on projects on projects from £500,000, going to £3m. Edge Rope Access is a division of Edge Group that provides services to High Rise commercial & industrial sectors. We have good business relation with “Bosco Group” on the past few years and appreciat. Located in Ta’if, Saudi Arabia, the modern look of the villa enables it to blend with the surrounding architecture. established in the year 1970 are a pioneer in the fields of Aluminium and Glass. work value is about 120 M$). Front Elevation DuPont corian acrylic solid surface exterior facade washbasin reception counter table desk counter tops cladding design furniture kitchen top office bathroom vanity desk designs manufacturers fabricators fabrication companies company services contractors contractor suppliers dealer distributors services sub contract turnkey. Apply to 12 Facade Designer Jobs on Naukri. 2018 edition of Zak World of Facades Middle East will be held at Park Hyatt Jeddah - Marina, Club and Spa, Jeddah starting on 12th December. List of cleaning companies Over 22 in Saudi Arabia. The Saudi government is at odds with Turkey over its ties with Qatar, which Saudi Arabia and its allies are boycotting. lighting installation in the Saudi Desert for a very unique project. Our company was established 1978. SALUMCO was established in 1970 in Riyadh. Meath, and the company status is Normal. FM EXPO Saudi is the Kingdom’s only exhibition dedicated to the facilities management industry. Search for more Facades Engineer jobs in Dubai, UAE and other Middle East countries. Few cities mix the past and present as effortlessly and beautifully as Vienna. VETAbric is the first system weatherboarding (panel) to brick veneer thin, able to adapt to all the problems of building: new construction or renovation (with or without external or. M Consultants. AL MUHAMMADIYAH Twin Towers – Khobar, Dhahran Street. oilandgasjobsearch. Jeddah Tower is also an attempt to diversify Saudi Arabia's economy, which, holding a quarter of the world's oil reserves and being one of the founding OPEC states, is currently largely dependent on its crude oil exports, which accounts for nearly 75% of government revenues and 90% of exports. The most innovative & fastest growing online recruitment portal for indians to gulf countries, jobs in dubai, UAE, Qatar & All gulf jobs. Facade Jobs jobs openings and salary information in UAE *We will send you the most recent job openings picked directly from company websites. Zak World of Facades Middle East is an international conference on facade design & engineering and it provides a unique opportunity to enhance the knowledge and skills on select subjects pertaining to facade design and engineering, chance to mingle with and connect with the industry leaders providing expert solutions, services and products, etc. Inspirational Facades Coloured Facades Our wide range of materials includes fade-resistant through-coloured render, modular glass panels, ceramic tiles and cladding to provide you with an inspiring, comprehensive and versatile toolkit for your creative ambitions. We pay full attention to the customer's needs and their requirements and fulfill their expectations to the possible ways. C CLOSED, was established in 1977 as the first aluminium extrusion Plant in the Arabian Gulf. Apply to 18 Aluminium Jobs in Saudi Arabia on Naukri. Juffali & Brothers, established in 1946, is one of the leading business houses in Saudi Arabia. This page provides a listing of the latest Facade jobs and careers for the Gulf and Middle East found on Bayt. Sep 15, 2019 · Saudi Arabia drone attack: Explosions and towering fireballs struck the heart of Saudi Arabia's oil empire on Saturday in an apparent wave of drone attacks claimed by Yemen's Houthi rebels. Jood FM ® is an integrated Facilities Management company that provides complete solutions/services to all commercial and government sectors. Dec 08, 2013 · National Commercial Bank, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, preliminary study 1977 Skidmore Owings & Merrill 1909 South-East Elevation BUILDING TECHNOLOGY • Thick gray glazed glass to reduce glare and heat. Facade Jobs 2019. Mathieu Meur provides strategic and technical leadership as the director of DP Façade. In this historic photo, Philip Johnson is seen with Jackie Onassis protesting the demolition of Grand Central Station. LV Shipping & Transport in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia offers our customers integrated and end-to-end supply chain solutions. Saudi Arabia says that Iranian weapons were used to the devastating attacks on the two oil installations in Saudi Arabia that halved the state oil company's facades, as would be expected. The facade lighting does not only help to localize buildings and provide security, it also plays a key role in the architectural expression. SSF (Saudi Scaffolding Factory) is the first manufacturing facility of its kind in the Kingdom. List of Global Facade companies, suppliers, importers, exporters, manufacturers. Oct 19, 2019- See the reflection of the Arabic-Islamic culture in the white modern Islamic villa exterior design with Islamic geometrical patterns in Saudi Arabia. The company steadily believes that the success of a project stems from its design. Facade Jobs 2019. The aluminium panels provide an effective sun control solution and create a semi transparent envelope around the facade. Every day, thousands of new job vacancies are listed on the award-winning platform from the region's top employers. A UAE-headquartered façade provider has been named for Saudi Arabia's Sail Tower project in Jeddah. com, the Middle East's #1 Job Site. Get opportunity to work with top companies in Saudi Arabia. This role offers you a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be part of developing, creating and delivering three new smart cities in Saudi Arabia - Qiddiya Entertainment City, NEOM, and the Red Sea Project. The new company will contribute to the creation of sustainable tourism and related job opportunities, supporting the Kingdom's economic diversification and unlocking new assets in Saudi Arabia. In middle-East, we have admixtures for concrete as a specialty, but we cover also all these activities: Tile Fixing, Facades & thermal insulation, Concrete repair, anchoring and grouting, Waterproofing, Plastering mortars, Flooring. Itaú is a universal bank with a range of services and products serving the most varied client profile – both individuals and companies of all sizes, from major transnational groups to local micro-entrepreneurs. The grand ambition for King Abdulaziz Center for Knowledge and Culture is that of marking a new era in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Apply on company website Report this job Our client is a leading curtain-walling and facade contractor operating through-out London and the South East area. Edge Rope Access is a division of Edge Group that provides services to High Rise commercial & industrial sectors. 89 billion in 2018. KASKAL was created to be the technical center for facade design and engineering so that it's affiliated companies can continue and further develop the working ability of the group to face the challenges in the building facade industry of the future. That’s certainly the case with using ventilated facades to cover the exterior of new or renovated building. KASKAL was created to be the technical center for facade design and engineering so that it's affiliated companies can continue and further develop the working ability of the group to face the challenges in the building facade industry of the future. Pressure washers Why Kärcher makes a difference Whether gentle treatment or powerful cleaning – Kärcher high-pressure cleaners offer the perfect solution for every cleaning task. has 5 jobs listed on their profile. Links : Saudi Arabia Industrial Machinery, Saudi Arabia Cleaning Equipment, Company Introduction RTC is was incorporated in 1980 as General Maintenance Co, later it diversified to trading in the same filed. Dec 12, 2018 · Find who else is attending and connect with 67 people interested in participating at 2018 edition of Zak World of Facades Middle East, Jeddah. bmu manufacturers, suppliers, exporters, importers, traders, wholesalers. It was chosen for its well-preserved remains from late antiquity , especially the 131 rock-cut monumental tombs, with their elaborately ornamented façades, of the Nabatean kingdom. We are a true family business with a deep understanding for ‘Building New Solutions’, the development and implementation of individual and advanced project solutions, for example for office buildings, schools, hospitals, airports and power plants. | , UL and GCC Labs announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at localising fire and safety services and establishing a façade testing lab in Saudi Arabia that would offer services across the MENA region. The company steadily believes that the success of a project stems from its design. Aluminium cladding is durable, hygienic, lightweight, low maintenance and recyclable. Surrounding the kilometer-plus building will be…. Saudi Build is an international construction technology and building materials exhibition and the leading event of its kind in Saudi Arabia. We utilize the latest 2 and 3D software to progress from system design and analysis of architectural models, through shop drawing preparation and Architects approvals of FACADE designs. View Syed Azeemuddin’s profile on LinkedIn, the world's largest professional community. UL and GCC Labs today announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at localizing fire and safety services and establishing a façade testing lab in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) that would offer services across the MENA region. dmg events is an organiser of face-to-face events and a publisher of trade magazines for the international Construction, Energy, Coatings, Transport, Hospitality & Design industries. ’s connections and jobs at similar companies. The Creative façade design is usually can be encounter in modernized areas and countries. Snøhetta won a competition for. Facades Engineer vacancy in Dubai, UAE with Sommerman Skinner Associates (SSA Limited). Skyshade™ is one of the leading company in India having complete Infrastructure for Tensioned fabric structures. FPC Industrial limited Saudi Company. we sell the following items:- Wet mops, Dust Broom and brushes, Window equipments, telescopic handles, wooden sticks broom wiper, caustion signs, soap paper dispensers, mop buckets, janitor carts etc. dynamic media facades. Welcome to ALBARIQ, world's leading manufacturers of cleaning and construction equipments! Established in 1995, in the UAE by Mr. OMV agrees to divest its stake in the Maari Field, New Zealand. Villa Design Facade Design Exterior Design House Floor Plans Ground Floor Dream Home Design Modern House Design Luxury Houses Architectural Styles. smart home automation. Search online for Facade jobs in Saudi Arabia. “The Saudi attack on Awamiyah is the largest and longest military campaign inside the country since the establishment of Saudi Arabia in 1932,” Ali al-Ahmad, head of the Gulf Institute for Human Rights, commented on RT, adding it is unlikely if the international community could make the difference. Edge Company provides Rope Access services in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Otros creadores Idiomas. Innovative, profit-oriented Project Manager with demonstrated success in increasing revenues, achieving cost reductions and improving client satisfaction in customerfacing operations , has 10 years of experience cross of GCC, managing multi-million Saudi Riyals Aluminum Façade projects, Managing project activities & coordinate with technical , Procurement & Production. Looking for Facade Engineer Jobs in Saudi Arabia? Apply Without Registration to 979 Facade Engineer Vacancies in Saudi Arabia. 8m (source Ellerbe Becket).
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Pedigree profile of Rivendell Annie (Sold)
D.O.B 15/10/2013 - Rivendell Saruman x Liquid Asset x Bolero xx
Annie is by Rivendell saruman, whose bloodline is a very modern one suitable for both dressage and showjumping. Sandro Song is by the well-known top sire of showjumping stallions, and founder of his own successful sire line, Sandro. This stallion, who has over 44 licensed sons, has also produced many successful dressage horses.
The two top horses in the 2006 World Equestrian games, namely Satchmo - Anky van Grunsven in Dressage, and sandro Boy - Markus Ehning in Showjuoming, both have sandro in their pedigree. This proves the versatility of the stallion, which is consolidated by the stallion Gepard further back in the pedigree, too.
Saruman's damline goes back to the legendary stallion Pik Bube, who was a dressage legend in his time under Herbert Rehbein. Pik Bube was a genius in the international dressage scene with a series of overwhelming successes. He also produced many licensed and proven progeny.
Annie's dam, Goldmark Amore, was a legend of her own in the South African show jumping scene in the open classes under her rider Lisa Williams. lisa says that Amy was one of the best horses she has ever rdden, showing great determination with exceptional rideability.
Annie is therefore bred as a very versatile horse. She is a very correct young filly, with three above average paces and good athleticism.
Pedigree of Rivendell Annie:
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Update: Father Of Boy Smuggled Into Spain In Suitcase Walks Free
A Spanish court on Tuesday allowed an Ivory Coast man to walk free, with only a small fine to pay, after his son was found crammed into a suitcase at a border crossing.
by Punch Newspaper Feb 20, 2018
Prosecutors had initially sought a three-year prison term for Ali Ouattara, 45, for facilitating his son’s illegal entry into Europe and threatening the child’s life.
“The child’s life was endangered, he was inhumanly curled up in a tiny suitcase, without ventilation,” Judge Fernando Teson said as the trial got underway.
The heart-rending photo of the boy went around the world in 2015, during the peak of Europe’s worst migrant crisis since World War II.
The trial took place in Ceuta, a Spanish territory in Morocco which migrants from Africa regularly try to reach by scaling high border fences or smuggled through in cars.
As the trial drew to a close, prosecutors asked that the court order Ouattara to pay a fine, because they found no evidence to prove the father knew his son would be trafficked in a suitcase.
The boy was discovered after Spanish police X-rayed a suitcase
Ouattara, who has already spent a month behind bars, was ordered to pay a 92 euro ($114) fine by the three presiding judges.
“It’s all over and we can begin to resume our lives, together, my wife, my daughter, my son, and I in Bilbao,” in northern Spain, Ouattara said as he emerged from the court.
His lawyer, Juan Isidro Fernandez, explained to the court how the boy had been left with just his 18-year-old brother in Ivory Coast after their grandmother died
The now 10-year-old boy, whose name is Adou, currently lives in a Paris suburb with his mother but traveled to Ceuta to testify.
Adou told the judges he had had difficulty breathing while in the suitcase, which he was forced into by a “Moroccan girl”.
It was ultimately his testimony that saved his father from jail.
Adou said Ouattara had told him he would be taken “by car”, and that there had never been any mention of a suitcase.
Ouattara told the judge Tuesday that he had been living in Spain legally for eight years, and that he had a stable job.
While his wife and daughter were able to join him, the Spanish authorities had rejected four requests for Adou to come because they deemed the father’s 1,300 euro ($1,600) monthly salary insufficient to cover the family’s needs.
A desperate Ouattara was misled by traffickers in Ivory Coast who charged him 5,000 euros ($6,200) and did not tell him his son would be hidden in a suitcase.
A former philosophy and French teacher in Abidjan, Ouattara arrived illegally in Spain in 2006, making the perilous journey across the Mediterranean aboard a boat.
“For us, it was crucial for the child to come, we couldn’t live without him, we couldn’t stop thinking about him,” Ouattara said.
The child found in a suitcase Punch Newspaper
ACTIVISM Muslim Youth Urge Buhari To Release Sowore
CRIME EFCC Obtains Court Order To Detain Shehu Sani For 14 Days
Entertainment Court Dismisses Car Theft Case Against Naira Marley
Corruption EFCC Press Release: N1.4 bn Subsidy Scam: Court Retains Jurisdiction
#NigeriaDecides FG Plotting to Force Constitutional Crisis to Scuttle Elections, Re-enact June 12 Scenario, APC Warns
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RULES FOR THE GUIDANCE OF THE SIKH ADVISORY BOARD
The Board shall be known as “The Sikh Advisory Board”.
The functions of the Board will be to advise the Minister on matters concerning the Sikh religion and customs and the general welfare of the Sikh community.
3 The Board shall consist of fifteen members to be appointed by the Minister as follows:-
Sri Guru Singh Sabha – 2 representatives
Khalsa Dharmak Sabha – 2 representatives
Pardesi Khalsa Dharmak Diwan – 2 representatives
Sri Guru Nanak Sat Sang Sabha – 2 representatives
Khalsa Jiwan Sudhar Sabha – 1 representative
Central Sikh Gurdwara Board – 1 representative
Gurdwara Sahib Yishun – 1 representative
To be nominated by the Minister – 4 representatives
Total – 15
4 Members of the Board shall hold office for a term of up to three years after which the whole Board shall be re-appointed. Members shall be eligible for re-appointment if re-nominated by their respective Societies or by the Minister but no member shall be appointed for more than three consecutive terms.
5 Should any of the abovementioned societies refuse to nominate the number of representatives requested by the relevant Ministry charged with the responsibility for the Sikh Advisory Board may appoint any person or persons from that section of the community and complete the Board.
6 The Board shall have a Chairman and a Secretary elected by members of the Board from amongst themselves.
7 Notice of every meeting of the Board shall be given by the Secretary to each member of the Board resident in Singapore stating the date and hour of the meeting and the subject to be put before the Board.
8 Meeting of the Board shall be held at such place as the Chairman may decide.
9 Not less than 3 days’ notice shall be given of any meeting.
10 The Secretary may call a meeting at any time and shall do so at any time on receipt of a written request signed by three members of the Board and stating the subject which it is desired to discuss.
11 The Chairman shall decide whether any subject falls within the functions of the Board. Should the Chairman decline to submit any subject to the Board when requested in writing by the three members so to do, such members may require that their written application be recorded in the minutes and that a copy of these minutes shall be forwarded to the Minister for his instructions thereon.
12 Nine members present at a meeting shall form a quorum.
13 Minutes of the proceedings of the Board shall be recorded and after confirmation by a majority of the Board shall be signed by the Chairman. A copy of the confirmed minutes shall be submitted to the Minister for information.
14 Each member present at a meeting shall have one vote and where the votes are equal the Chairman shall have a casting vote as well as an original vote.
15 No member shall vote by proxy.
16 All meetings of the Board shall be presided over by the Chairman and in his absence the members present shall elect a temporary Chairman to conduct the meeting.
17 Subject to these Rules the Board may regulate its procedure as the Board may think fit.
18 Any member who without reasonable excuse to be approved by the Board and recorded in the proceedings of the Board shall be absent from three of the ordinary meetings consecutively shall vacate his place on the Board. The Chairman shall ask the Minister to fill the vacancy. Any member may at any time resign from the Board by sending his resignation to the Minister. Any member who is absent from Singapore for twelve months shall vacate his office and the Chairman shall ask the Minister to fill the vacancy.
19 The Chairman may resign from office without resigning from the Board and the Board will fill the vacancy from amongst the other members of the Board.
20 These Rules shall come in force on approval by the Minister. No alterations in these Rules may be made without the approval of the Minister.
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Skylights featured three times on Earth Science Picture of the Day: 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 .
Photo of the Week.. A West Virginia mountain sunset deepens, slowly bringing day to an end.
Astronomy news for the week starting Friday, May 13, 2005.
Once again, the Moon leaves its waning crescent phase behind, passing first quarter the morning of Monday, May 16 (near dawn), after which it waxes in its early gibbous phase. Watch then as our companion takes on bright Jupiter, which it will pass just south of during the afternoon (for North America) of Thursday the 19th. By the time Jupiter is visible toward the south, the two will make a pretty sight, with the Moon just to the east of the giant planet. (The Moon will actually occult Jupiter for parts of South and Central America and Africa.)
Jupiter, crossing the meridian to the south just as twilight ends, still shares the evening with its brother planet, Saturn, which -- still in Gemini -- now sets in the northeast around 12:30 AM Daylight Time. The morning sky is shared briefly by Jupiter and Mars, the latter rising in Aquarius shortly before 3 AM (Daylight), a bit over an hour before Jupiter sets (and twilight begins). Jupiter is somewhat half Saturn's distance from the Sun and goes around it in less than half the time. As a result, Jupiter continues to pull ever farther ahead of Saturn in orbit. Every 20 years, Jupiter catches up again with Saturn in what is known as the "grand conjunction." The last one was May 31, 2000.
The two outer large planets make some news too. On Saturday the 14th, Mars passes just a degree south of Uranus, making the dim planet much easier to find. Farther out, Neptune, still stuck in Capricornus, begins retrograde motion on Thursday the 19th.
Back in the evening, you might search for Venus, which finds itself to the north of the star Aldebaran in Taurus on Wednesday the 18th. The planet will appear very low in western twilight, and is still a challenge to see even with binoculars.
In late evening for those in mid North America, the stars of Centaurus cross the low southern sky. While they do not make much of a prominent figure, they are bright, many part of a huge sprawling physical "association" of hot blue massive stars. Farther down, below the horizon, is the closest star to the Sun, Rigil Kentaurus (Alpha Centauri), 4.4 light years off. To the west of it lies one of the most famed figures of the sky, Crux, the Southern Cross. Look to Spica in Virgo, now to the southeast of Jupiter. To the west of Spica is the distorted square of Corvus, the Crow. Crux is 40 degrees to the south of it.
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Select other Dodgers Alexander, Scott Báez, Pedro Barnes, Austin Beaty, Matt Bellinger, Cody Buehler, Walker Ferguson, Caleb Floro, Dylan Garlick, Kyle Gonsolin, Tony Gonzalez, Victor Hernández, Kiké Jansen, Kenley Kelly, Joe Kershaw, Clayton Kolarek, Adam Lux, Gavin Maeda, Kenta May, Dustin McKinstry, Zach Muncy, Max Nelson, Jimmy Pederson, Joc Peters, DJ Pollock, A.J. Ríos, Edwin Ruiz, Keibert Santana, Dennis Sborz, Josh Seager, Corey Smith, Will Stripling, Ross Taylor, Chris Treinen, Blake Turner, Justin Urías, Julio Verdugo, Alex White, Mitchell White, Tyler Wood, Alex Dodgers Roster
Connor Joe
AVG HR RBI
.067 0 0
Team: LA Dodgers Ht / Wt: 6-0 / 205
Position: LF Born: 8/16/1992 Birthplace: San Diego, California
Bats/Throws: R/R Draft: 100th Round by Pirates (2014)
Hitting Breakdown 2019
Splits AVG G AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI SB CS TBB K GDP OBP SLG
Total .067 8 15 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 5 1 .125 .067
vs. Left .077 - 13 - 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 4 1 .143 .077
vs. Right .000 - 2 - 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 .000 .000
Home .500 2 2 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 .500 .500
Away .000 6 13 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 4 1 .071 .000
Grass .067 8 15 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 5 1 .125 .067
Day/Night
Day .250 4 4 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 .400 .250
Night .000 4 11 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 1 .000 .000
Runners and Outs
None on .000 - 10 - 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 4 0 .091 .000
Runners On .200 - 5 - 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 .200 .200
Scoring Pos .000 - 2 - 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 .000 .000
None on/out .000 - 5 - 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 .000 .000
ScPos/2Out .000 - 1 - 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .000 .000
Inning 1-6 .077 - 13 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 4 1 .143 .077
Inning 7+ .000 - 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 .000 .000
Pre All-Star .067 8 15 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 5 1 .125 .067
March .000 4 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 4 1 .111 .000
April .143 4 7 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 .143 .143
vs. Team
vs.LAD .000 2 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .000 .000
vs.SD .000 4 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 4 1 .111 .000
vs.TB .500 2 2 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 .500 .500
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This article appeared in the Mail Tribune on 10-22-01 Archived here
Alternative landing spots are available for private aviators
By MEG LANDERS
Steve Pankonin prefers flying his single-engine plane into small airports rather than into those the size of Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport because he can make his own landing decisions independent of a control tower.
"The advantage of it is, you don't have to have anything to do with the radio control," says the part owner of the Beagle Sky Ranch Airport in Sam's Valley.
Beagle Sky Ranch is one of the many private airports local pilots use as an alternative to the Medford airport. From state-owned to municipal to private, the Rogue Valley offers many options to private aviators.
John Keener, retired wing commander with the Civil Air Patrol, is familiar with all the airport options.
"There are 27 strips that a private plane can land on," says the Medford pilot. While not all of those are open to the public, some private owners are known to give permission when asked, he says. Keener says he's flown in and out of many of them and finds them all adequate for small planes.
"There really aren't any limitations for light general aviation," he says.
In the week following the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, general aviation experienced a total shutdown nationwide as a security precaution. But pilots report that flying has resumed as normal.
Pankonin, a pilot for 38 years, flies an average of 75 to 100 hours per year and bases his three planes out of Beagle Sky Ranch. He also owns Steve's Aircraft, an aircraft maintenance business located at the airport. With 25 single-engine planes based on the field, he says, the airport is used primarily by recreational private aircraft.
Small airstrips are just as safe as the developed airports, says Pankonin, as long as pilots use common sense.
"If they're not following the common-sense rules," he says, "that's when people get in trouble."
ALTERNATE AIRPORTS
Ashland Municipal, Sumner Parker Field - city owned, open to the public. Contact the airport at 482-7675.
Features 3,603-foot asphalt runway, has 80 aircraft based on the field and handles up to small citation jets.
Aircraft operations: up to 100 per day in summer.
Illinois Valley Airport, Cave Junction - county owned, open to the public. Contact Josephine County Airports at 1-541-955-4535.
Features 5,200-foot asphalt runway, has 20 aircraft based on field and handles up to light jets.
Aircraft operations: 100 per week.
Grants Pass Airport, Merlin - county owned, open to public. Contact Josephine County Airports at 1-541-955-4535.
Features 4,000-foot asphalt runway, has 120 aircraft based on field and handles up to light jets.
Operations: 1,000 per week.
Pinehurst State Airport - open to public. Contact Oregon Department of Aviation at 1-503-378-4880.
Features 2,800-foot asphalt runway, has seven aircraft based on field and handles small, single-engine planes only.
Operations: 400 per year.
Prospect State Airport - open to public. Contact Oregon Department of Aviation at 1-503-378-4880.
Features 4,000-foot asphalt runway, has one aircraft based on field and handles up to light twin-engines.
Operations: 1,000 per year.
Beagle Sky Ranch Airport - private, with owner's permission only. Contact Steve Pankonin, Steve's Aircraft, 826-9729.
Features 3,300-foot gravel runway, has 25 aircraft based on field and handles up to light twin-engine planes.
Rogue Air Airport, Shady Cove - private, with owner's permission only. Contact Robert Sloat at 878-2766.
Features 1,800-foot turf runway, has nine aircraft based on field and handles mostly single-engine planes.
Springbrook Airport, near Wimer - private, with owner's permission only. Contact Paul Johnson at 1-541-582-2139.
Features 2,400-foot composite runway, has one aircraft based on field and handles mostly single-engine planes.
Mail Tribune Home | Ottaway Newspapers, Inc. | Dow Jones & Co., Inc. | Privacy | Contact Us
Copyright � 2001 Mail Tribune, Inc.
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Sandhya Group > About Us
The journey began in 1984 and is still growing stronger with experience and time. A dynamic and foresighted man, Shri Kantilal Koli established Sandhya Group with a vision to manufacture Phosphorus-based chemicals.
Our penchant for quality, consistency and prompt delivery made us a steadily growing demand in both domestic and International markets. As a brand, we cater to multiple industries and our products have varied applications, across 45 countries, to leading multinationals around the globe. Our state of the art manufacturing plants have an impressive storage capacity and high-end testing equipment for product analysis. We ensure that we provide quality chemicals with a quick turnaround time.
Having 4 manufacturing plants, strategically located in Gujarat, India, we have a strong product portfolio and an ever growing distribution network. We believe in value addition by forward integration for various agrochemicals / industrial and speciality chemicals, which has strengthened our, global brand presence. For us, it is all about Phosphorus!
Our focus enables us to provide customized, actionable recommendations that draw.
My father, not only dared to dream, he worked dedicatedly and untiringly to ensure that he made his dream come true! Starting from humble beginnings, Shri Kantilal Koli is the torchbearer for Sandhya Group. His foresightedness and the courage to explore relatively uncharted and niche businesses is the cornerstone of the company. His mission to create world class products in India has now been converted into legacy that is being passed on.
Following in his footsteps and learning from him about business ethics without compromising on quality, I, Smit Patel can only say – I had the best ideal to emulate! Today, with the same hunger to cater to more and more niche markets I look as Sandhya Group as a beacon of goodwill and commitment and strive to take this legacy forward and make SG expand beyond borders.
Dr. Smit Patel
We, the Sandhya family, believe in excellence in all that we do and strive for it every single day. We know and believe that our strength lies in our networks – be it internal or external and we cherish every single person, idea and action that is part of this journey with us. Our goal is to be able to implement the Indian Philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ – the world is one family. Stay together, grow together.
We believe, that the key to growth is collaboration. When we work together, we grow together. Committed to growth through trust and cooperation, we make sure that every one at Sandhya Group is aligned to the vision. We strongly believe that we can only achieve our goals through excellent and communication, creativity and clear objective setting at every level.
QUALITY BRAND INDIA AWARD - 2013
RAJIV GANDHI SHIROMANI AWARD - 2013
THE GOLDEN GLOBE TIGERS AWARD - 2015
BEST STALL DESIGN AT PLAST INDIA - 2015
CSR AWARDS BY ABP NEWS - 2016
BEST BRAND OF THE YEAR - 2018
HIGHEST EXPORT EXCELLENCE AWARD OF AGRO CHEMICALS - 2018
NATIONAL ICON AWARD - 2018
Countries like India which have strong knowledge and manufacturing capabilities are slated to see a huge boom in demand, fuelled by both domestic and international markets.
Our 5000 Sq ft, state of art R&D facility enable us to be in line with the latest developments and product innovation to meet growing requirement of our customers.
Dedicated team of Doctorates, Panel of Industry Experts & Analysts to provide the best products, services & solutions to the customer.
Most modern, specialized instruments, analytical tools, and latest applications machineries to test products for specific applications.
A quick overview of our legacy and company!
Watch our presentation video
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Information Artworks Photos Videos
Royal College of Art, London, UK
26 November 2013 - 02 December 2013
Shamma's first solo exhibition in London displayed a series of ten paintings which formed a sixty one foot long Q or 'queue'. Through the work Shamma explores themes of humanity and group mentality. The queue builds a feeling of anticipation as passers-by assume those in the queue must be waiting for something good and consider whether they should join. During her time in London, Shamma has noticed the British are infamous for queuing "“ whether it be lining up overnight for the RCA secret postcard sale or avid shoppers waiting for the latest iPhone release. A 2005 survey found that the British spend the equivalent of twenty-three days a year in line. Shamma notes there are also queues that elicit something darker, such as the photographs we have seen showing queues of Syrians in exodus crossing the border. The 'queue' has previously been explored in contemporary art such as Roman Ondak's installation 'Good Feelings in Good Times'. Shamma has always been curious about the psychology of the queue, Shamma says 'Each person in the queue might have something positive about them as an individual however, once they become a part of one, they lose their individuality and become part of a larger whole', a perfect example of this is a herd in the animal kingdom.
Sara Shamma, Q 2013
Copyright © 2019 Sara Shamma Powered by PhSoft Team
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More booboos FRONTLINE Ninez Cacho-Olivares 06/27/2012
More booboos
There really is a problem with this government under Noynoy. It jumps to conclusions much too easily, then later, with a rotten egg on its face, the same government quickly changes its tune, but not before causing diplomatic ties to deteriorate.
In the case of Jordanian journalist Baker Atyani and his two Filipino crew, for over a week, Noynoy, his aides, Jesse Robredo, his military and police along with the Sulu Gov. Sakur Tan, insisted that he was neither missing nor abducted by the Abu Sayyaf, while announcing that Atyani is an Abu Sayyaf conduit and that no rescue operations would be launched.
Where they based their conclusion that Atyani is in cahoots with the terrorist group is, as claimed by Noynoy and his aides, due to the fact that Atyani had been to the country at least three times and interviewed the Abu Sayyaf, plus the fact that that he had interviewed Osama bin Laden before the US Seals assassinated the former al-Qaeda leader.
Naturally, after the Jordanian government, through its foreign ministry, confirmed that its national had been kidnapped by the terrorist group, Noynoy and his aides suddenly admitted that Atyani and his crew have been kidnapped, but in trying to save face, they insisted that the journalist went there voluntarily. What crap they spew. Why would a journalist tell, or even ask the government for permission to interview the Abu Sayyaf?.... MORE
Turning yellow EDITORIAL 06/27/2012
Turning yellow
Now is Noynoy’s chance to play hardball with China now that a Filipino fisherman has died after a fishing boat was supposedly rammed by what the Filipino boat crew identified as Chinese in an incident that happened very close to Scarborough Shoal where a standoff ensued between Philippine and Chinese vessels over rival territorial claims.
The incident happened well within Philippine territory, off Bolinao, Pangasinan, where there was no reason for a Chinese vessel to be present in the area, much more for it to ram a Filipino vessel.
It seems that without American imprimatur, Noynoy cannot act on his own in defending the country’s boundaries.
The standoff at Scarborough Shoal happened shortly after Noynoy received the Philippine Navy’s first decent warship for ages, a decommissioned cutter of the US Coast Guard, which was named BRP Gregorio del Pilar. As soon as the cutter arrived in the country, it sailed off to the disputed shoal to supposedly arrest Chinese fishermen who have long been using the shoal along with their Filipino counterparts without any trouble.
The sudden appearance of a Navy warship in the disputed area touched off heated diplomatic exchanges between the Philippines and China, with both sides maintaining the presence of government-owned vessels in the area..... MORE
Syrians hopeful for summit convened by Russia
The Syrians are in hopeful expectation of an international meeting convened by Russia, and negotiations are underway to reach a solution to the crisis of this nation that survives in the Levant.
In this sense, the press reflects that the visit that will be carried out in Iran in the morning with Russian Foreign Minister, Sergei Lavrov, to discuss the situation in Syria and preparations for the meeting of the countries of the G-6 around the nuclear program of Iran
The Russian news agency ITAR-TASS indicated in a report that the purpose of the meeting will be mainly to seek actions to support the implementation of the peace plan of the Special Envoy of the UN, Kofi Annan, and to put an end to the problems that impede it..... MORE
URL: http://english.pravda.ru/world/asia/25-06-2012/121482-summit_russia-0/
Moody's cuts ratings of 28 Spanish banks
Ratings agency Moody's has cut the ratings of 28 Spanish banks following a June 13 downgrade of Spain's sovereign rating by three notches.
The banks' long-term debt and deposit ratings have been downgraded by one to four notches. The rating of Bankia, one the country’s largest banks, has been cut to junk status.
Moody’s cited two main factors behind the move: the agency’s assessment of Spain's reduced creditworthiness, and an “expectation that the banks' exposures to commercial real estate (CRE) will likely cause higher losses, which might increase the likelihood that these banks will require external support.”.... MORE
URL: http://rt.com/business/news/moodys-ratings-spanish-banks-682/
Joseph Estrada, on Dolphy NO HOLDS BARRED Armida Siguion-Reyna 06/27/2012
Joseph Estrada, on Dolphy
President Erap’s daughter Jackie Ejercito and husband Beaver Lopez hosted our lunch get-together in their new house last Sunday. We were told the next mayor of Manila would be a little late owing to the mass at San Juan, for it was also “Araw ng San Juan”. Soon enough he was jauntily walking in, attired in trademark orange polo shirt, and matching orange Converse rubber shoes.
And then it was lunch.
Talk naturally drifted to Dolphy, for even those who barely knew him wanted to know how he was doing. Someone volunteered overhearing that Eddie Garcia was not keen on seeing his fellow Sampaguita Pictures contract actor on the sickbed, although later on in the day Garcia ended up dropping by to see the well-loved comedian at the Intensive Care Unit, after the healing mass at the hospital.
“I didn’t want to see Dolphy bed-ridden, too.” Erap said. “But I visited him to stop malicious talk that I didn’t care what was happening to him, kasi raw galit ako at him dahil nag-Villar siya in 2010. That’s not true. Of course I care about him. Puwede bang hindi, e maski matanda siya sa akin, kami halos ang magkakapanahon niyan sa industry. Iba ang pulitika, iba ang long-standing friendship. Mahal ko si Dolphy, tapos.”.... MORE
‘Red International’ splits AN OUTSIDERS VIEW Ken Fuller 06/27/2012
‘Red International’ splits
Two weeks ago, in the first part of this account, we identified three kinds of splits in the labor movement — the party-political split, the split influenced by employers, and the split engineered by government. Last week, there was the split caused by labor-leader paternalism, or the desire to escape it — for the TUPAS-FSM split might be seen as an example of this. (At the lower levels of the movement there must have been countless undocumented examples of this kind of split over the years, along with those caused by personality differences and the careerism of leaders.)
We might also add that while not necessarily causing splits, foreign funding like that advanced by the Asian-American Free Labor Institute has acted as a means of fencing off conservative organizations from their more progressive brethren. And finally, we have the example of the post-1993 splits, which we might dub the “Red International” type of split. This requires some explanation.
Following the Russian Revolution in 1917, a number of communist-led organizations were established on an international level with the aim of gaining influence in the labor and peasant movements. One such organization was the Red International of Labor Unions (RILU), established in 1921. As the international communist movement entered its most sectarian period (characterized by the slogan “class against class”), the RILU saw the aim of communists as attempting to win the support of the labor movement in their own country for the cause of revolution, and if the existing trade unions could not so be won, to establish “red alternatives.”.... MORE
Noynoy violates Charter, allows nuclear sub in RP By Mario J. Mallari 06/27/2012
Noynoy violates Charter, allows nuclear sub in RP
By Mario J. Mallari 06/27/2012
Apart from allowing armed foreign troops and bases into the country, on claims that the bases and American servicemen’s “visits” are temporary and on a “rotational’ basis despite the United States bases in Mindanao being virtually permanent, President Aquino has again violated the Constitution when it allowed another United States nuclear-powered vessel to enter Philippine territory.
The nuclear-powered submarine yesterday docked in Subic Bay for a supposed routine port call — the second such “visit” by US attack seacraft since the standoff between the Philippines and China over the disputed Scarborough Shoal erupted last April.
Article ll, Section 8 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution, under State policies, mandated by the Filipino people, states that the “Philippines, consistent with the national interest, adopts and pursues a policy of freedom from nuclear weapons in its territory.”.... MORE
Palace warned vs SoVFA push as Aussie military faces abuse probe 06/27/2012
Palace warned vs SoVFA push as Aussie military faces abuse probe
Malacaang should be cautious in pushing the immediate ratification by the Senate of the proposed Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SoVFA) with Australia amid news reports on record of numerous cases of physical and sexual abuse of minors, supposedly committed by members of the Australian armed forces.
An article that came out in the New York Times last June 15 said Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard raised the possibility of a high-level public inquiry or convening a royal commission, a major investigative body occasionally used by some countries of the Commonwealth, to investigate sensitive public issues.
The matter has come to the attention of Senators Gregorio Honasan and Joker Arroyo and both urged the Executive department to exercise caution before having the SoVFA rushed for plenary approval..... MORE
Disini firms up libel suit vs ex-CJ Panganiban By Charlie V. Manalo 06/27/2012
Disini firms up libel suit vs ex-CJ Panganiban
Having already been cleared from various Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP) deal-related charges, businessman Herminio Disini has tightened the noose on the libel case he had filed against former Chief Justice-turned-columnist Artemio Panganiban for his repeated use of the phrase “go between” in reference to him in one of his column articles.
Included in the libel suit filed by Disini is the Philippine Daily Inquirer.
In his Reply-Affidavit to Respondents’ Counter-Affidavits last Friday, he said “Mr. Panganiban ascribed to me the commission of a crime, particularly corruption of a public official and violation of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, when he described me as Westinghouse’s ‘go between’ with, and a ‘close personal associate of former President Ferdinand Marcos.’”.... MORE
Money, Corona topbill Noy’s 3rd Sona By Fernan J. Angeles 06/27/2012
Money, Corona topbill Noy’s 3rd Sona
By Fernan J. Angeles 06/27/2012
In what appears to be a sneak preview of his third State of the Nation Address (Sona), no less than the main man on center stage hinted “money” and “crown” as the highlights when he opens Congress sessions in the third week of July.
In a speech before administering the oath-taking of the Liberal Party’s newest members in Baguio City, President Aquino hinted that the financial capability of the present government to promptly deliver services and provide immediate help to its constituents gave it distinction from the previous administrations.
“I am not saying that our country is drowning in cash but we now have the capability to give to our bosses what is due them all at once, without favoring anyone and in the quickest time possible,” Aquino told his audience at the Benguet State University..... MORE
Palawan Council: ABS-CBN, 18 local execs broke SEP Law 06/27/2012
Palawan Council: ABS-CBN, 18 local execs broke SEP Law
For occupying and converting Sabsaban Falls into an eco-tourism resort without a clearance from the Palawan Council Sustainable Development (PCSD), charges have been filed against the ABS-CBN Foundation (ACF) and 18 local government officials, PCSD legal chief Adel Belena said.
Belena said the ACF-Bantay Kalikasan, which occupied the falls within the timberland in Brookes’ Point, Palawan and converted them into a resort violated Administrative Order (AO) 6. The case marked as Administrative Case 438 is now pending with the PCSD Adjudication Board (PAB).
AO 6 provides the implementing rules and regulations of Republic Act 7611 or the Strategic Environmental Plan (SEP) for Palawan Act. The order requires a SEP clearance for all projects affecting the environment and natural resources of Palawan, including government projects..... MORE
Miriam pushes RH bill to June brides 06/27/2012
Miriam pushes RH bill to June brides
All newlyweds should consider it a moral duty to observe reproductive health during marriage, Sen. Miriam Defensor Santiago said at a posh Cebu City wedding.
Santiago, as principal wedding sponsor and guest speaker last Saturday, exhorted a newly married couple to “follow the RH paradigm” at a five-star hotel wedding reception attended by some of the most prominent Cebu City families.
“Reproductive health is the new wave of the future. The critics are flaying a dead horse. To mix metaphors, the critics are missing the boat. In the 2013 elections, the voters will educate the non-educable,” said Santiago..... MORE
Makati City strengthens ban on synthetic packaging materials 06/27/2012
Makati City strengthens ban on synthetic packaging materials
The City of Makati will deploy 45 teams from the Plastic Monitoring Task Force (PMTF) to inspect 738 establishments starting June 26 to inspect their stock inventory of plastic and other non-biodegradable materials and evaluate their compliance with the Solid Waste Management Code of Makati.
Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay said Chapter 9 of the code, also known as City Ordinance 2003-095, gives food and retail establishments nine years to dispose of all their stocks of plastics, styrofoam and similar materials and to replace them with environment-friendly materials.
“We are now in the ninth year of implementing the ordinance, so we believe we have given establishments enough time to prepare for the full phase-out being required of them. The new executive order (EO) I issued recently has, in fact, extended the deadline to June 20, 2013,” Binay said..... MORE
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Makati City strengthens ban on synthetic packaging...
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Brexit battle: how tech crew We Are Europe is making the ‘in’ campaign go viral
tomburke April 30, 2016
Originally published in the Evening Standard
As the Brexit debate rages on social media, one east London tech crew is making the remain campaign go viral, says Joy Lo Dico
Better together: We are Europe supporters
Monday night in a bar near Silicon Roundabout: the craft beers were flowing, cups of hipster hazelnuts and popcorn were being passed around the cool crowd but this was an unusual gathering in one sense: it was an evening of EU referendum talk.
There wasn’t a grey man in a grey suit in sight. Almost everyone in the room was under 40, in sneakers, and checking their tweet streams frequently. This was a meeting for We Are Europe, a project that came together by accident when a group of friends working in tech and sustainability suddenly realised that, although they felt strongly about the EU referendum, their voices weren’t in the debate.
Bethan Harris, one of We Are Europe’s founders, spotted the problem with the current In offering. “If you google Brexit or the EU referendum it is so uninspiring. Even if you are pro, you just aren’t going to share a picture of a politician.”
With of a crank of the social media engines — a Facebook page, a Twitter handle and Instagram account — they were off. Models Lily Cole, digital entrepreneur Jamal Edwards and actor Jude Law signed up, and with some help from designers and amateur video-makers and acoustic guitar soundtracks for their Facebook videos, a new wing of the In campaign had started.
James Murphy, CEO of agency Adam & Eve/DDB, which made last year’s John Lewis Christmas ad, turned up at the party in east London and was so impressed he has talked about working with them.”
The in crowd: Lily Cole, Wolfgang Tillmans, Jude Law and Jamal Edwards
Designer Irene Palacio produced a cardboard stencil, and Harris, along with Harriet Kingaby, both of whom are consultants on branding and social campaigns, photographed friends and random people in the street holding the “In For” sign and asked them to write down their reason for supporting the campaign.
Crucially the answers given were not along the lines of “because George Osborne says I will be better off” or “national security”. They were more emotional: because of European friends, the freedom to travel, a sense of being part of a more connected world.
There’s a key stat in all this: if you are over 40 you are more likely to vote Leave, and you are more likely to vote, full stop. Though the polls are saying that Remain has the edge, the result will hinge on turnout.
Co-founder Kingaby says: “We know our friends will talk about it with friends, but they have been scared to do so on social media. This isn’t just about facts, it’s about emotional issues, a sense of identity based on the the things we love about the UK — a diverse, interesting, open and tolerant society. We want to create messaging that is positive.”
The Leave campaign has cornered head and heart in this debate with its cri de coeur for the white cliffs of Dover and arguments about immigration. The Remain campaign has so far only done the head. The heart though is stirring, both with We Are Europe and other spontaneous offerings. Earlier this week artist and photographer Wolfgang Tillmans designed a set of posters for those who want to remain, inviting people to share them on Instagram and display them. Slogans include “No man is an island”. and “What is lost is lost forever.”
That is not to say that some politicians haven’t understood the need to engage people at a different level. Last week Gordon Brown, giving a speech hosted by the Centre for European Reform, urged his audience of economists and financiers to make the arguments for a “passionate, principled and patriotic” Remain vote. Admittedly his messengers may not have been the hottest on Twitter.
What this campaign needs is an amplification through social media, not just to encourage people to vote In, but to make sure they are registered to vote. As Lily Cole puts it: “There is a real chance this referendum is going to be decided by the active minority of people who called for it, rather than by the majority of our country reflecting on what the EU really means.”
However, it would be wrong to think that the Brexiteers haven’t themselves spotted social media’s value. Within weeks of launching, We Are Europe’s social media channels have been targeted by the Outers haranguing them with reasons for why it is time to get out of Europe.
“On Twitter we are getting a lot of trolls or people getting a bit angsty,” says Harris. But their drive to smoke out the shy-Remainers does seem to be working. “We’ve also had a lot of Remain supporters joining us. We all have to start stepping up,” she adds. “If you feel it in your gut, you don’t have to get into arguments but you do have to get positive and say it.” And the place to have your voice heard is online.
Follow We Are Europe on Twitter: @weareeuropeuk
Posted in Brexit, Business, Campaigning, Climate Change, Domestic, Economics, Energy, Environment, EU, Europe, European, In the media, People, Referendum, SustainabilityBremain Brexit campaign cool EU Europe facebook friends In campaign INFOR Jamal Edwards Jude Law Lily Cole referedum Remain share social media travel twitter vote We Are Europe Wolfgang Tillmans
WE ARE EUROPE – WHAT ARE YOU #INFOR?
Energy policy post-Paris
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Suited and Connected
The travails of a recreational poker player, posted on the web to act as a permanent record of his follies so that he may not repeat the mistakes of his naive early play.
Online woe and Luton
It is somewhat traditional in the world of poker blogs to fall into the trap of singing only when you're winning, of chiping from the rooftops when things are going well and going dark when the blackness overcomes you. I am going against that today because I have had a bit of success recently, but it is an evening of frustration that draws me to the keyboard.
Played in four tournaments tonight and got good starts in a couple of them before running into big hands when I had slightly inferior holdings (QQ v AA twice). Also got knocked out of two by pushing with small connectors when I felt conditions were right. On one table I'd been ultra-quiet and pushed for 7BB with 56 and walked into AK behind me and in the other I pushed from the BB against a serial raiser (raised nearly a quarter of pots on a ten-handed table over 100 hands) who'd woken up with QQ on the button. All a bit frustrating, especially as I could maybe have got away from the two QQ hands (if I'm being ultra-critical).
The next GUKPT event is at the Vic in a couple of weeks and I really want to play in it. Got to chip leader in last night's Blue Square sat with 16 left (three seats) and went out in 14th. Had 20K in chips, called a 4k all-in with 77 which was no good against Q9, then lost 13K when I pushed against a raiser with AK and he called with AQ. A queen on the flop, plus a flush draw (killing two of my outs) left me with shrapnel and I was gone soon after.
I am tempted to buy straight in at the Vic for £1K using my winnings from my last live tournament. Last month I won a satellite on Blonde for the £750 main event of the last Luton festival (6-seat sat, winner plays event for 50% of themselves, 5 other players get 10% each). It was a double chance freezeout and I lost my first set of 7500 chips against Albert Sapiano. I've never played against him before but know of his reputation as not one of the finest players in the world. Sadly, this meant I payed him off with AK on a rather dry flop when he had K3 for two pair.
I got up to 12K when I flopped the nut flush from the SB, bet out and got 4 callers! One of these came along for the ride on the turn (Albert again, natch) before folding on the river. A double up followed with an odd hand. A player in EP limped for 300, Dave Courtney limped and I squeeze it up to about 1000 with AK from the small blind. The original limper folds and Dave goes all-in. Now, I don't think there's much strength here, I'm certain I'm racing and I have him covered, so he can't knock me out. I call and he says 'Oh, I thought you had AK', meaning he thought I would have folded AK. I know some people have an aversion to call-in for a lot of chips with AK but the comment surpised me. Anyway, I hit against his 77 and was up over 20K.
I then entered a big long phase of not getting any cards but was able to resteal myself enough chips to stay in. For those not familiar with the term, a resteal is when you re-raise pre-flop against someone who has already raised. In the mid-late stages of tournaments it has become a vital skill to have. Everyone now knows that they should steal blinds and raise with crap, so these players can be pushed out of pots, as they are raising light. If you resteal, not only do you get the blinds, but you get the raise as well (typically 3BB). Therefore one resteal every two orbits will mean you increase your stack. If you select your targets well then these will get through. At Luton I barely opened a pot for about six hours of play, surviving purely on resteals, and never once getting looked up. Other players commented on my uber-rockiness - one dealer even said I was the quietest player she'd ever had on a table.
At the end of day one I had 27K, which put me 12th of the 18 who came back on the Sunday. I continued with the all-in resteals and eventually went out in 6th with a push with 55, called by A6. First card out on the flop was a five, but I got runner-runner flushed. The prize was £2,340, of which I kept half and gave £234 to each of my 'backers'. I did have fun and it showed me that there's nothing to fear in these big money tournaments, even though there were a lot of name players (one reason I'm thinking of buying in at the Vic).
With Luton coming soon after a good result at the Empire (made the money, but went out in 6th with KK v QQ and AT all-in pre-flop for half the chips in play), and internet poker being a sea of pain, I have to fit more live poker into my schedule. Tonight, being Saturday, should have seen me at the Empire but I'm bunged up with cold (as I seemingly have been since Christmas) so I've stayed in to torch $500 online.
Easter weekend will see me in Vienna for the APAT European Championship, and I should be playing at the GUKPT at the Vic so those are the next two things on the schedule for me.
Posted by Andrew at 10:58 pm 2 comments:
The next stop on my poker tour was Waterford for their Winter Festival. I'd qualified for their €500 main event which had a fantastic structure - 15,000 starting chips and a one hour clock.
I flew into Waterford airport from Luton and it's a brilliant place. Essentially a shed in field, it's a world away from the hustle and bustle of the larger airports I'm used to. If you've only got hand luggage, it takes you less than one minute to go from being on the plane to standing outside the terminal building. Even collecting check-in bags only takes five minutes.
Anyway, the poker. I made the end of the first day in 5th place with 60,000 chips. I don't quite remember how - things were quiet early on, but I must have outplayed people or got lucky (deciding which is left as an exercise for the reader). I increased slightly in the first level, but then took a dent without playing a hand. Snoopy was moved to beside me and asked me how many chips I had. '70,000' I replied. He stared at my stack - 'Looks like 60,000 to me'. I counted again and realised I'd been counting a stack of twenty 500 chips as 20,000...
My stack proceeded to dwindle as I'd had no good cards and stealing was impossible as Mike Lacey was two to my right. He was short-stacked and pushing all-in any time it was folded to him, so I couldn't steal anything. Eventually I judged KJ to be good enough to call and knocked him out.
With about 60 left I got moved to another table and quickly played a big hand. I'm in the big blind with 56K and Jen Mason raises to 6K from the button. Jen is near the chip lead and will be raising here with a lot of hands. I have T9 spades so call to see a flop of J92 with two spades. I bet out 8K and Jen quickly calls. The turn is a red 3 and I have 42K left, with the pot size at 29K. I know if I check Jen will bet, but I don't think she has a Jack as she would have raised the double-suited flop. Therefore she should fold a lot of hands to my check-raise. I do check and she bets 14K. I pretend to have a little think and push all-in, which elicts a look of anguish on Jen's face. She is quite clearly facing a tough decision, but eventually (and seemingly reluctantly) calls the extra 28K. It's a good call with A9 and I miss my 12 outs.
There is an argument for a) check-raising the flop or b) open-shoving the turn, as both have more fold equity than my line. The problem with a) is that it looks exactly like what it is (a flush draw), plus there's the chance she checks behind and the turn is a non-spade overcard. Betting out gives me a chance to win the hand on the flop and increase my stack.
The reason why I didn't go with b) was twofold. I didn't figure Jen for a strong hand at all (she's very aggressive when she has chips and she would surely have raised a good pair on the flop). Plus I just knew she would bet if I checked (showing weakness) which meant I could then drop the hammer, having got her to commit quite a few chips. I admit I didn't give enough thought to the size of my own stack, and what that would mean for fold equity. If I'd had a few more chips, Jen would have folded her A9. As it was, she felt my bet was too small to pass to, especially as she had lots of chips to spare if she lost the pot.
So, knocked out of the main event in 60th meant I could play the €150 tournament on the Sunday. I doubled up very early on when I cracked AA with A4 on an 844 flop. I then managed to dribble chips away, but managed to steal enough to keep myself afloat and made the final table. I finished 4th for €1250 after making a loose call with A9 when 5 handed against AK and getting lucky, before going out when I pushed with AJ and a Scandinavian made a big call with 66. That was a bit annoying as I was third in chips when we got to 4 with the Scandie short-stacked. If he'd have gone I could have done a deal to guarantee myself €2500 (after rejecting a ludicrous deal when we got to four).
Still, €1250 meant the trip paid for itself with plenty to spare. Plus it was my second Hendon Mob entry in two weeks.
Posted by Andrew at 5:47 pm 1 comment:
Walsall the fuss about
Right, there's a lot to catch up on. Expect three posts in quick succession.
Went to Walsall for the APAT English Championship at the start of November. 200 players and I bumbled along for most of the first day. Up a bit, down a bit, but I made the money and the 2nd day with a mid-low stack. Began day 2 by knocking someone out when they pushed 88 into my AK then got a huge boost with a raise and a call coming into my Aces on the BB. Following my push the inital raiser got out of the way and Rich Offless called with Jacks to double me up to over 200,000 chips. I then gave most of it back to him when I pushed on a flop with a flush draw and missed.
When we get down to 11 players I suffer another dent, again to Rich, when he makes up the SB against my BB and we see a flop of 753. He bets out 15,000 into the pot of 20,000 but I've flopped top pair and so raise to 40,000. He thinks for a while before calling. The turn is a Queen and we both check. This was a mistake by me (and not only from a results-based perspective). More than half the deck are bad cards for me on the river and I have to take advantage of the weak check. However, I don't and the river is a 2. This looks a safe card for me but Rich bets 50,000. I really don't think he has a Queen and he is more than capable of bluffing here following my turn check. I call and he shows A4 for the rivered straight.
We're hand-for-hand as we have two tables of five and need to lose one more player for the final table. I have 130,000 and raise to 30K with QQ. The BB pushes and I call - he shows AA. The first four cards dealt on the board are insignificant but the fifth is a mightly female dagger in his heart and my rivered set doubles me up and I make the final table in joint second place with Rich (though miles behind the chip leader Darren Shallis who has nearly a million).
We get down to six and I am in 2nd place with over 300k. It's my BB and the action is folded to Darren (still big chip leader) on the button. He raises to 40K (2nd or 3rd time in a row he's done that). Before I look at my cards I'm considering raising no matter what I see, but when I find AK I want to make sure Darren puts more chips in the pot, so I start giving it a bit of chat. 'If I was in your position I'd be raising with any two cards here' etc. I reraise to 120K and Darren pushes. I instacall and Darren picks up his cards and confidently slaps down AQ. His demeanour was of someone who knew he was ahead (and he later admitted such to me). However, the Queen on the flop meant luck evened itself out pretty quickly after my set of Queens earlier and I left in 6th place with £600.
I was mostly happy with how I played in the tournament and if I'd won that final hand I'd have swapped places with Darren, been chip daddy and would have really fancied my chances to close things out as there was still a lot of play left in the final. As it was, it was a good result and my first ever cash on the Hendon Mob database (my only previous entry was my TV appearance on Sky).
Rich went on to win and there's a great interview with him at Blondepoker which includes a bit about me. It's APAT Manchester this weekend so I hope to go well again as I loved the structure and atmosphere, but first there will be a very boozy night of poker in Chester on the Friday night, where I will duel with Rich again.
Posted by Andrew at 4:38 pm No comments:
Victory at the Empire, defeat at APAT
Still playing Oblivion, but now on a souped-up upgraded PC, so it looks utterly gorgeous. From the demo I've toyed with Bioshock looks even better, but I will have to hold off on playing that otherwise I may never play internet poker again.
So, no internet poker, but two live tournaments to report on. The first was a win! It was the £50 rebuy at the Empire, which makes it sound impressive. However, only ten people turned up, which makes it less so. And we did a deal heads-up. Still, £540 prize for a profit of £390 is good. Not really many hands to talk about. Lost a buy-in very quickly when it was folded round to button (steaming a little from getting outdrawn by the SB who was messing about in the rebuy period). He open pushes, SB calls without looking at his cards, and I call after seeing JJ. Button has AQ, SB has 85 and you can probably guess who won.
I never had a huge amount of chips throughout the tournament, but somehow managed to just plod along, picking up pots here and there. Doubling up with TT v AK when four-handed gave me the chips to force things, and when we got heads-up my opponent offered to chop it up. I had about twice as many chips as him, so suggested I give him £80 off top prize, which he seemed happy with.
I then sat in the £1/£2 cash game for a couple of hours and finished down about £50. One funny incident was when a hand developed between the button and SB from the hand above. The button guy (old fella) had done a small re-raise out of the BB (obvious monster). The other guy (young Chinese LAG) calls and they get it all in on a King-high flop. Old guy has AA and the Chinese guy calls with KJ ('I had top pair, good kicker and a backdoor flush draw'). Of course, the Jack hits and the old guy storms off in a huff. He'd been sat in the cash game for ages waiting for his Aces and then sees them get cracked by KJ.
Last Saturday I played in the APAT event at the G Casino in Luton. £75, 10,000 chips, 40 minute levels - a lovely tournament. For the first three levels I (very) gently increased my stack, up to about 12,000, even though every single chip I put into the pot was a bluff. I had no good starting cards and missed every flop. My biggest pot was winning after two-barrelling on the turn with AK on a all rag board.
Not long before the dinner break (level 5, blinds 200/400) I had my chance to get going. Player immediately to my right raised to 1200, I called with TT. The flop is three rags, but I'd been watching him as the flop was dealt and he clearly didn't like it. I think this is the first time I have ever managed to pick up on a physical tell whilst playing poker. He made a continuation bet of 1500, and I pretended to think for a couple of seconds before going all-in (I don't want to let him see any more cards as my TT is vulnerable to overs). He had at least 6000 chips left and had a little moment of contemplation before calling for his tournament life with AQ. It was a truly dreadful call, which was rewarded when the Ace fell on the turn. This left me with just 2500 and I went out soon afterwards.
It was an amateur event, and this was an amateur call. Unless he thought I was bluffing with AJ he had obviously given no thought as to what he could be beating - he certainly wasn't getting pot odds for the call.
After this I played one SNG before noticing a dealer's choice game had started up. Now, I've never played this before, but there were a couple of drunk guys who were chipped up so I sat down with £200. Over the course of the next two hours all that money dribbled away. We had quickly got down to 4 players, and 6 card Omaha had become the game of choice. This is such a sick game it's untrue. Every draw I had missed, every time I hit the flop I had no redraws (if you have no redraws in 6 card Omaha you are dead). Twice I had full houses which were no good, and one hand early on I nearly forgot that you can't play the board in Omaha. I won about £30 simply on betting whether the flop would be red or black, but that went as well. I just don't think I have the necessary recklessness to play such a game, as much fun as it was.
The evening was rounded off by not managing to find the guy I was supposed to be sharing a hotel room with, thus spending two hours at Luton railway station waiting for the first train back to London, not making it to bed until 8:30am. How I wish I'd left the casino and got the last train back the night before.
Two Kinds of Oblivion
I never managed to win a WSOP seat and, to be honest, I never got anywhere in any satellite. The sums are in and I spent $2200 on sats for Vegas, for no return.
Time then to rebuild the bankroll at the cash tables. Did quite well initially but then the profits stopped. Thankfully, this wasn't because of a bad run at poker, but because I started playing Oblivion instead, which is ace. It is also one hell of a resource-intensive game, even though it is over a year old. I bought a new widescreen LCD monitor over the weekend, finally ridding myself of the CRT behemoth which was testing the structural integrity of my desk. What I had failed to take into account, however, was that whilst Oblivion just about went along OK with the resolution at 1024x768, the widescreen's native resoultion of 1680x1050 makes it crawl to a halt when five goblins are attacking me, rendering my attempts to kill them useless in the face of one frame per second stuttering.
I was planning to rip the heart out of my computer at the end of the year, but I've decided to bring that forward to now - new processor, motherboard, RAM and graphics card will be ordered this week. This is the great thing about putting your own PC together - I essentially can build myself a state of the art new PC for £550, simply by changing the core components. Case, PSU, hard drives, DVD drives, mouse, speakers etc all remain in place.
In light of all this time spent battling skeletons and trolls, I went down to the Casino at the Empire in Leicester Square for their £50 rebuy on Saturday to get out of the house. I'd been down once before a few weeks ago and not really got anywhere in the comp, so decided to have another crack. The afternoon £10 rebuy had attracted 77 players and was still going when I arrived, which meant the cardroom was much busier than I was expecting.
We had 31 players spread over the four self-deal tables (only the final table was dealer dealt, and that was at a self-deal table, not a kidney one). I was sat opposite Kevin Daly, whom I recognised from having played against him in a £100 rebuy at the Sportsman last year. He'd had some WSOP success last year so I knew he could play and, indeed, he was quite active early on. I was getting rubbish cards and had noticed that most of the other players were, quite frankly, as bad as my cards, so decided to sit tight rather than bluff off to the calling stations. Got through the rebuy period by just about doubling up over the 90mins, thanks mostly to an AK v 99 race against Kevin late on, without disturbing my wallet further until the add-on. So, I'm in for £100. Interestingly, we had 24 players left at the break, and only 7 took the add-on - always a sign of a novice field.
Kevin bit the dust early after the restart, betting out with AQ on an AQx flop, and getting called down by a novice's KJ, which sent him packing when the Ten hit. With Kevin gone, I opened up a bit and gradually got some chips. I was about average when I got moved to another table.
With only an average of one rebuy per player, and seven add-ons, the blinds started to bite rather early as there weren't that many chips in play. My new table was passive, with a mix of new live players, and 40-something players who had no notion of pot odds and M etc. I pushed one 40ish guy off a couple of pots pre-flop and it clearly annoyed him. The third time I did it with JJ and he immediately called with A9, seemingly fully expecting it to be ahead. My Jacks held up and I was in pretty good shape. It would have been even better had my all-in with KK not come up against an identical hand for a split pot.
We're on the final table bubble of two 5-handed tables (though the money didn't start till 7th) when the crucial hand of the night happened for me. I'm on the SB with QT. It's folded to the button who min-raises (we're at 600/1200). He has about 12K and I have 19K. This guy was a new live player and I'd seen a previous hand when he'd ummed and ahhhed for ages before calling an all-in against a player who'd re-raised him. He well covered the re-raiser and yet still nearly folded AK. I thought that a player like that would be almost certain to fold almost anything in the current situation when I could knock him out on the final table bubble.
I pushed with my QT and, right enough, he put his thinking hat on. Eventually, he called with AQ and I doubled him up. That knocked me back to about 5BB and sent me into 'push in any unopened pot' mode. I made it onto the final table and was surprised to see two stacks smaller than mine. The first guy (who had under one BB at the start) doubled up about four hands in a row, then the new shortstack won the two hands he played. I'd previously made a bad error when I min-raised to win some blinds(these were getting through) but forgot the blinds had increased so was forced to put in 3200 at 800/1600, instead of the 2400 I'd bet. There was an all-in behind me for a little bit more and I had to call another bit with my KT, which missed. This left me with exactly one big blind and, after two hands of filth in early position, I was all-in blind on the BB. Two players saw the flop and checked it down. There was an Ace on board, and when one player revealed his JJ, I turned over my previously unseen cards to reveal AJ and I stayed alive. Two hands later someone busted out and I made the last payout place of £150 with some mighty relief.
I still think I played the QT hand right and if he'd folded, I was in great shape to bully the other players. I'll definitely try and play in this more often, as I have to take advantage of a moderate buy-in tournament which doesn't take place on a schoolnight.
Everyone knows not to bluff muppets - don't they?
Yesterday was a frustrating day. Played two tournaments on Blondepoker - the WSOP Super Sat ($375) and the $250,000 Guaranteed ($430). Bought straight into both, so what did I have to show for my $800?
Came 40th of 85 in the WSOP satellite. Managed to get up above average and then dribbled away a bit. Played two hands badly. Raised with 77, get a call from the behind me, creating a pot of 1300. Flop is A66, he has 1800 left so I decide to represent the Ace and push. Ridiculous decision. These guys love to call raises with Aces and aren;t going to fold. He has AJ.
Ten hands later I raise with 22 and get a call from a Frenchie in the BB (pot is 1100). Flop is JJ9 and he checks. I push for 1500 and he instacalls with 88. Another bad decision from me - why do I keep trying to bluff these guys?
The $250K was very annoying. Huge overlay ($90K) thanks to the network messing up and closing registration ten minutes before the start - sweet. After a quiet start I managed to get up to the top five simply through hitting some flops and getting paid off by the fools. Maintained my position in the top ten and then got moved to a hugely tight table. A ten-seat table which went fold-fold-fold-fold-fold-fold-raise-fold-fold-fold every single hand. I managed to grab some blinds every hand but had absolutely nothing so didn't want to risk any resteals, as these guys were only raising with good cards, and would be liable not to fold to a push.
Finally got AA on the button. I'd been frustrated in the WSOP sat earlier by getting AA UTG and only winning 90 chips so I was praying for some action before me, as I knew I'd get paid off. Early position Frenchie limps (excellent - he's trapping with something), so I raise a little bit and he pushes. Happy days. He has QQ and flops a Queen :(
This knocked me back but I was still above average. However I was still on a very tight table, getting no cards, and with no opponents prepared to bleed chips. About half an hour goes by. I have the exact same stack (one blinds steal per round) but am now below average, due to the other players getting knocked out. A mid position player open min-raises. I'd seen him do this a couple of times before. I'm on the button with 88 and decide this is the time for my first resteal - if I wait much longer I'm not going to have enough to make anyone fold.
I push, and he has AA. I am sadly lacking in snowman magnetism so go out 98th of the 399 starters. What annoyed me so much was that I'd got off to such a great start in a tournament with a $65K first prize and then simply didn't have any chance to capitalise on things. There was definite frustration in the push with 88 - it's -EV against a raiser on this table's likely raising range, and I'd already noted how bad the players generally are (these are the ones who won't let go of A9 in this situation). Did I go too soon? Could I have waited? Maybe, but it's making decisions like this which lead me to win tournaments and rarely cash small. Overall it's probably more profitable, but the variance is a killer.
One funny hand from earlier. At 15/30 a short stack (who'd lost a big pot with AK v AQ two hands ago) goes all-in from under the gun for 180. I have JJ in mid position and about 3000 chips. I raise to 400 to signal my intention to the other players to step aside. The SB re-raises to 1200. In my less disciplined past I'd ship it here and lose to QQ+, but here I took a little while and decided there'd be a better spot. I hadn't given much thought to what the all-in player had, thinking it was a bit of a steam push, but he had a genuine hand in AQ. The re-raiser though, had the monster of A5 soooooooted. I nearly fell off my chair. A five on the flop, and another on the river meant I made the right choice from a results based perspective, but really, A5? The next hand was quickly folded so a note could be written about Mr A5.
I simply must, must, must play more straightforwardly against these guys. Maybe I should have a night where I simply play every single MTT - four on the go at once should keep me honest.
The novelty of a green month
Blogs are supposed to be updated monthly, aren't they?
Blondebash was fun. Played in the regular £75 freezeout on the Friday night. Lost some chips on the very first hand when I had to pay off the nuts on the river when the Ace that fell gave me top pair against his nut straight. Lost a big chunk of chips doubling up Flushy when I got cute with AQ pre-flop (deciding not to raise a few limpers), and finding that the seemingly trouble-free Q92 rainbow flop fitted his Q9 quite well. An AK/JJ race didn't come off which left me happily ensconced in the rather fabulous bar area at the G Casino in Luton (the whole place is superb). Didn't really get anywhere in Saturday's tournament but did win three out of three in the heads-up to take my team to the semi-final.
In the online world, I've played MTTs this month. Got off to a cracking start when I won the $15,000 Double Stack freezeout on Blonde for $6000. I had the day off work so played a qualifier in the afternoon and got through that to the big evening tournament. Good tournament this, there were only 44 people and I much prefer those type of events than three-figure runner donkaments. I also won the Blonde tournament on Thursday for $1000 - a thirty runner affair.
Had a couple of goes at winning a WSOP seat - got my money back in one thanks to the strange payout structure in sats on Blondepoker. There'll be however many seats available, and then the rest of the prize money is paid out as entry fees back to the next however many people, instead of a declining payout. So, for example, in one I played in there were 4 seats, then the next 28 people got their money back. Effectively there are two bubbles, with a crazy period as the shortstacks try to double up in between.
As for the writing, I've done a few player profiles for the new Blondepoker player database but still no actual stuff off the top of my head. Been too busy playing STALKER: Shadow of Chernobyl instead. God that game is good.
Snoopy System
The Camel Ruminates
Junior Talks Poker
Ben Grundy
M3Boy
Blondepoker
Gutshot Club
Internet Texas Holdem
Spin Palace Poker
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Our objectives for 2009
Dear Friends of Sové Lavi,
As we approach 2009, the staff and volunteers of Sové Lavi send thanks to our benefactors and supporters who have helped create everyday miracles for the poor of Haiti. St. Teresa of Avila once said, “The Lord only asks two things of us: love for God, and love for your neighbor.” Because of your generosity, tens of thousands of the poor of Haiti have received your love and have hope for a healthier and brighter future.
During this upcoming year, our objectives are to:
Continue treating patients at our medical clinic in Pont Sonde, Haiti.
Two water technicians were hired to distribute home water filtration units to the community and educate them on its use.
Several elementary students were given scholarships, opening a door for a better future.
Give several elementary students scholarships, opening a door for a better future.
Give nutritious meals to the poor, a much-needed act of kindness for the poor during these times of skyrocketing food costs in the country.
We thank you for your support and pray that we have earned your continued support into 2009 to help us continue our mission of providing healthcare, clean water, and educational scholarships to the poorest of the poor in Haiti.
May you and your families be blessed with health, peace, and abundance this holiday season.
With warmest regards,
Kimberly and Dumas Siméus
“Isn’t it wonderful that it takes only a moment to help save the world.”
– Anne Franke
Take a moment now to help the poor in Haiti.
Sové Lavi 2017-04-22T01:52:00-07:00
VOSH – PA and Sové Lavi Haiti Eye Care Mission
Litter and Love
Hurricane Matthew – You Can Sponsor a Child’s Education for $155
Sové Lavi & VOSH-PA Host Eye Care Mission
2015 has been a landmark year for Sové Lavi
Follow Sové Lavi on Social Media
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About the site | Read our blog
SciCombinator
Discover the most talked about and latest scientific content & concepts.
Concept: Lymphatic system
Structure and Distribution of an Unrecognized Interstitium in Human Tissues
Published almost 2 years ago
Confocal laser endomicroscopy (pCLE) provides real-time histologic imaging of human tissues at a depth of 60-70 μm during endoscopy. pCLE of the extrahepatic bile duct after fluorescein injection demonstrated a reticular pattern within fluorescein-filled sinuses that had no known anatomical correlate. Freezing biopsy tissue before fixation preserved the anatomy of this structure, demonstrating that it is part of the submucosa and a previously unappreciated fluid-filled interstitial space, draining to lymph nodes and supported by a complex network of thick collagen bundles. These bundles are intermittently lined on one side by fibroblast-like cells that stain with endothelial markers and vimentin, although there is a highly unusual and extensive unlined interface between the matrix proteins of the bundles and the surrounding fluid. We observed similar structures in numerous tissues that are subject to intermittent or rhythmic compression, including the submucosae of the entire gastrointestinal tract and urinary bladder, the dermis, the peri-bronchial and peri-arterial soft tissues, and fascia. These anatomic structures may be important in cancer metastasis, edema, fibrosis, and mechanical functioning of many or all tissues and organs. In sum, we describe the anatomy and histology of a previously unrecognized, though widespread, macroscopic, fluid-filled space within and between tissues, a novel expansion and specification of the concept of the human interstitium.
Concepts: Cancer, Biology, Lymph node, Liver, Histology, Lymphatic system, Anatomy, Human anatomy
Synchrotron-based ν-XRF mapping and μ-FTIR microscopy enable to look into the fate and effects of tattoo pigments in human skin
Published over 2 years ago
The increasing prevalence of tattoos provoked safety concerns with respect to particle distribution and effects inside the human body. We used skin and lymphatic tissues from human corpses to address local biokinetics by means of synchrotron X-ray fluorescence (XRF) techniques at both the micro (μ) and nano (ν) scale. Additional advanced mass spectrometry-based methodology enabled to demonstrate simultaneous transport of organic pigments, heavy metals and titanium dioxide from skin to regional lymph nodes. Among these compounds, organic pigments displayed the broadest size range with smallest species preferentially reaching the lymph nodes. Using synchrotron μ-FTIR analysis we were also able to detect ultrastructural changes of the tissue adjacent to tattoo particles through altered amide I α-helix to β-sheet protein ratios and elevated lipid contents. Altogether we report strong evidence for both migration and long-term deposition of toxic elements and tattoo pigments as well as for conformational alterations of biomolecules that likely contribute to cutaneous inflammation and other adversities upon tattooing.
Concepts: Oxygen, Lymph node, Lymphatic system, Skin, Tissue, Titanium dioxide, Heavy metal music, Tattoo
Human and nonhuman primate meninges harbor lymphatic vessels that can be visualized noninvasively by MRI
Here, we report the existence of meningeal lymphatic vessels in human and nonhuman primates (common marmoset monkeys) and the feasibility of noninvasively imaging and mapping them in vivo with high-resolution, clinical MRI. On T2-FLAIR and T1-weighted black-blood imaging, lymphatic vessels enhance with gadobutrol, a gadolinium-based contrast agent with high propensity to extravasate across a permeable capillary endothelial barrier, but not with gadofosveset, a blood-pool contrast agent. The topography of these vessels, running alongside dural venous sinuses, recapitulates the meningeal lymphatic system of rodents. In primates, meningeal lymphatics display a typical panel of lymphatic endothelial markers by immunohistochemistry. This discovery holds promise for better understanding the normal physiology of lymphatic drainage from the central nervous system and potential aberrations in neurological diseases.
Concepts: Inflammation, Central nervous system, Nervous system, Brain, Lymphatic system, Cardiovascular system, Primate
Deletion of IL-33R (ST2) Abrogates Resistance to EAE in BALB/C Mice by Enhancing Polarization of APC to Inflammatory Phenotype.
The administration of interleukin 33 and deletion of IL-33 receptor, ST2 molecule, affects the induction of autoimmunity in different experimental models of human autoimmune diseases. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of ST2 deletion on the induction of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in resistant BALB/c mice. Mice were immunized with MOG(35-55) peptide or disease was induced by passive transfer of encephalitogenic singenic cells and EAE was clinically and histologically evaluated. Expression of intracellular inflammatory cytokines, markers of activation and chemokine receptors on lymphoid tissue and CNS infiltrating mononuclear cells was analyzed by flow cytometry. We report here that deletion of ST2(-/-) molecule abrogates resistance of BALB/c mice to EAE induction based on clinical and histopathological findings. Brain and spinal cord infiltrates of ST2(-/-) mice had significantly higher number of CD4(+) T lymphocytes containing inflammatory cytokines compared to BALB/c WT mice. Adoptive transfer of ST2(-/-) primed lymphocytes induced clinical signs of the disease in ST2(-/-) as well as in WT mice. MOG(35-55) restimulated ST2(-/-) CD4(+) cells as well as ex vivo analyzed lymph node cells had higher expression of T-bet and IL-17, IFN-γ, TNF-α and GM-CSF in comparison with WT CD4(+) cells. ST2(-/-) mice had higher percentages of CD4(+) cells expressing chemokine receptors important for migration to CNS in comparison with WT CD4(+) cells. Draining lymph nodes of ST2(-/-) mice contained higher percentage of CD11c(+)CD11b(+)CD8(-) cells containing inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and IL-12 with higher expression of activation markers. Transfer of ST2(-/-) but not WT dendritic cells induced EAE in MOG(35-55) immunized WT mice. Our results indicate that ST2 deficiency attenuates inherent resistance of BALB/c mice to EAE induction by enhancing differentiation of proinflammatory antigen presenting cells and consecutive differentiation of encephalitogenic T cells in the draining lymph node rather than affecting their action in the target tissue.
Concepts: Immune system, Inflammation, Lymph node, Lymphatic system, Interleukin, Dendritic cell, Lymph, Lymph vessel
Deletion of tetraspanin CD9 diminishes lymphangiogenesis in vivo and in vitro
The Journal of biological chemistry
Published about 7 years ago
Tetraspanins have emerged as key players in malignancy and inflammatory diseases, yet little is known about their roles in angiogenesis, and nothing about their involvement in lymphangiogenesis. We here found that tetraspanins are abundantly expressed in human lymphatic endothelial cells (LEC) and tumor LECs. After intrathoracic tumor implantation, metastasis to lymph nodes was diminished and accompanied by decreased angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis in tetraspanin CD9 Knockout (KO) mice. Moreover, lymphangiomas induced in CD9-KO mice were less pronounced with decreased lymphangiogenesis when compared with wild-type mice. While mouse LEC isolated from CD9-KO mice showed normal adhesion, lymphangiogenesis was markedly impaired in several assays (migration, proliferation, and cable formation) in vitro, and in the lymphatic ring assay ex vivo. Consistent with these findings in mouse LEC, knocking down of CD9 in human LEC also showed decreased migration, proliferation, and cable formation. Immunoprecipitation analysis demonstrated that deletion of CD9 in LEC diminished functional complexes between vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR)-3, and integrins (α5 and α9). Therefore, knocking down of CD9 in LEC attenuated VEGFR-3 signaling as well as down-stream signaling such as Erk, and p38 upon VEGF-C stimulation. Finally, double-deletion of CD9/CD81 in mice exhibited abnormal development of lymphatic vasculature in the trachea and diaphragm, suggesting that CD9 and a closely related tetraspanin CD81 coordinately play an essential role in physiological lymphangiogenesis. In conclusion, tetraspanin CD9 modulate molecular organization of integrins in LEC, thereby supporting several functions required for lymphangiogenesis.
Concepts: Inflammation, Angiogenesis, Blood vessel, Vascular endothelial growth factor, In vivo, Lymphatic system, In vitro, CD9
Sentinel lymph node biopsy in melanoma: Our 8-year clinical experience in a single French institute (2002–2009)
BMC dermatology
BACKGROUND: Since the introduction of sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB), its use as a standard of care for patients with clinically node-negative cutaneous melanoma remains controversial. We wished to evaluate our experience of SLNB for melanoma. METHODS: A single center observational cohort of 203 melanoma patients with a primary cutaneous melanoma (tumour thickness > 1 mm) and without clinical evidence of metastasis was investigated from 2002 to 2009. Head and neck melanoma were excluded. SLN was identified following preoperative lymphoscintigraphy and intraoperative gamma probe interrogation. RESULTS: The SLN identification rate was 97%. The SLN was tumor positive in 44 patients (22%). Positive SLN was significantly associated with primary tumor thickness and microscopic ulceration. The median follow-up was 39.5 (5–97) months. Disease progression was significantly more frequent in SLN positive patients (32% vs 13%, p = 0.002). Five-year DFS and OS of the entire cohort were 79.6% and 84.6%, respectively, with a statistical significant difference between SLN positive (58.7% and 69.7%) and SLN negative (85% and 90.3%) patients (p = 0.0006 and p = 0.0096 respectively). Postoperative complications after SLNB were observed in 12% of patients. CONCLUSION: Our data confirm previous studies and support the clinical usefulness of SLNB as a reliable and accurate staging method in patients with cutaneous melanoma. However, the benefit of additional CLND in patients with positive SLN remains to be demonstrated.
Concepts: Cancer, Breast cancer, Metastasis, Oncology, Lymphatic system, Sentinel lymph node, Lymph node biopsy, Gamma Probe
Clostridium perfringens septicemia in a long-beaked common dolphin Delphinus capensis: an etiology of gas bubble accumulation in cetaceans
Diseases of aquatic organisms
An adult female long-beaked common dolphin Delphinus capensis live-stranded in La Jolla, California, USA, on July 30, 2012 and subsequently died on the beach. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed gas bubble accumulation in the vasculature, organ parenchyma, mandibular fat pads, and subdermal sheath as well as a gas-filled cavity within the liver, mild caudal abdominal effusion, and fluid in the uterus. Gross examination confirmed these findings and also identified mild ulcerations on the palate, ventral skin, and flukes, uterine necrosis, and multifocal parenchymal cavitations in the brain. Histological review demonstrated necrosis and round clear spaces interpreted as gas bubbles with associated bacterial rods within the brain, liver, spleen, and lymph nodes. Anaerobic cultures of the lung, spleen, liver, bone marrow, and abdominal fluid yielded Clostridium perfringens, which was further identified as type A via a multiplex PCR assay. The gas composition of sampled bubbles was typical of putrefaction gases, which is consistent with the by-products of C. perfringens, a gas-producing bacterium. Gas bubble formation in marine mammals due to barotrauma, and peri- or postmortem off-gassing of supersaturated tissues and blood has been previously described. This case study concluded that a systemic infection of C. perfringens likely resulted in production of gas and toxins, causing tissue necrosis.
Concepts: Cancer, Brain, Blood, Medical imaging, Magnetic resonance imaging, Lymphatic system, Clostridium perfringens, Gases
In Vivo HIV-1 Cell-to-Cell Transmission Promotes Multicopy Micro-compartmentalized Infection
Cell reports
HIV-1 infection is enhanced by adhesive structures that form between infected and uninfected T cells called virological synapses (VSs). This mode of transmission results in the frequent co-transmission of multiple copies of HIV-1 across the VS, which can reduce sensitivity to antiretroviral drugs. Studying HIV-1 infection of humanized mice, we measured the frequency of co-transmission and the spatiotemporal organization of infected cells as indicators of cell-to-cell transmission in vivo. When inoculating mice with cells co-infected with two viral genotypes, we observed high levels of co-transmission to target cells. Additionally, micro-anatomical clustering of viral genotypes within lymphoid tissue indicates that viral spread is driven by local processes and not a diffuse viral cloud. Intravital splenic imaging reveals that anchored HIV-infected cells induce arrest of interacting, uninfected CD4(+) T cells to form Env-dependent cell-cell conjugates. These findings suggest that HIV-1 spread between immune cells can be anatomically localized into infectious clusters.
Concepts: HIV, Immune system, White blood cell, Infection, Organ, Transmission and infection of H5N1, Lymphatic system, Spleen
Prolonged intralymphatic delivery of dendritic cells through implantable lymphatic ports in patients with advanced cancer
Journal for immunotherapy of cancer
The currently-used modes of administration of immunotherapeutic agents result in their limited delivery to the lymph nodes and/or require repetitive ultrasound-guided nodal injections or microsurgical lymphatic injections, limiting their feasibility. Here, we report on the feasibility and safety of a new method of long-term repetitive intralymphatic (IL) infusion of immune cells, using implantable delivery ports.
Concepts: Immune system, Lymph node, Lymphatic system
Long-term persistence and function of hematopoietic stem cell-derived chimeric antigen receptor T cells in a nonhuman primate model of HIV/AIDS
Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cells have emerged as a powerful immunotherapy for various forms of cancer and show promise in treating HIV-1 infection. However, significant limitations are persistence and whether peripheral T cell-based products can respond to malignant or infected cells that may reappear months or years after treatment remains unclear. Hematopoietic Stem/Progenitor Cells (HSPCs) are capable of long-term engraftment and have the potential to overcome these limitations. Here, we report the use of a protective CD4 chimeric antigen receptor (C46CD4CAR) to redirect HSPC-derived T-cells against simian/human immunodeficiency virus (SHIV) infection in pigtail macaques. CAR-containing cells persisted for more than 2 years without any measurable toxicity and were capable of multilineage engraftment. Combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) treatment followed by cART withdrawal resulted in lower viral rebound in CAR animals relative to controls, and demonstrated an immune memory-like response. We found CAR-expressing cells in multiple lymphoid tissues, decreased tissue-associated SHIV RNA levels, and substantially higher CD4/CD8 ratios in the gut as compared to controls. These results show that HSPC-derived CAR T-cells are capable of long-term engraftment and immune surveillance. This study demonstrates for the first time the safety and feasibility of HSPC-based CAR therapy in a large animal preclinical model.
Concepts: Antiretroviral drug, HIV, AIDS, Immune system, Protein, T helper cell, Lymphatic system, Thymus
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Russia To Deploy Missile Systems on Kuril Islands, Defense Minister Says
Posted By: admin 25. March 2016
Agence France-Presse 2:42 p.m. EDT March 25, 2016
Russian soldiers launch an “Eleron 3” unmanned aerial vehicle during joint Kyrgyz-Russian military exercises at the Ala-Too training ground, some 20 km outside Bishkek, on May 28, 2015.(Photo: Vyacheslav Oseledko/AFP via Getty Images)
MOSCOW — Russia will deploy a range of coastal missile systems on the far-eastern Kuril islands, claimed by Japan, as part of its military build-up in the region, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said Friday.
“The planned rearmament of contingents and military bases on Kuril islands is under way. Already this year they will get Bal and Bastion coastal missile systems as well as new-generation Eleron-3 unmanned aerial vehicles,” Shoigu said during a ministry meeting.
Russia has been investing in military infrastructure on the Kuril islands, which Japan considers its territory, over the last few years, including building new barracks for personnel.
Shoigu said at the meeting that the military is focusing on “developing military infrastructure in the Arctic and Kuril island zones.”
Relations between Moscow and Tokyo have been strained for decades because of the status of the four southernmost islands in the Kuril chain, known as the Northern Territories in Japan.
The Russian navy’s Pacific fleet next month will embark on a three-month mission to the Kurils to explore whether the islands could serve as a naval base as well.
This year and next year Russia is set to put up more than 350 buildings for military needs on the Kuril islands of Iturup and Kunashir, called Etorofu and Kunashiri in Japan.
Some 19,000 Russians live on the remote rocky islands, which were occupied by Soviet troops in the dying days of World War II.
The two countries have never officially struck a peace treaty and the lingering tensions over the issue have hampered trade ties for decades.
1 Comment on "Russia To Deploy Missile Systems on Kuril Islands, Defense Minister Says"
TBU Author | 25. March 2016 at 22:57 | Reply
Russia and China coordinate provocations in island grabbing followed by quick militarization of the new land.
A dangerous business which only can provoke their neighbors and escalate tension. What\s next
Facebook Plans Global Financial System Based on Cryptocurrency
CreditIllustration by Delcan & Co. By Mike Isaac and Nathaniel Popper SAN FRANCISCO — Facebook unveiled an ambitious plan on Tuesday to create an alternative…
Moldova and Ukraine try to block Transdniestria — region’s acting foreign minister
2020 predictions: Trump will lose — if not in the Senate, then with the voters
The Plot to Subvert an Election. Unraveling the Russia Story So Far.
Congress likely to tie Trumps hands on Russia sanctions
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Home | Titles A-E | Titles F-P | Titles Q-Z | Authors | Categories | Narrators | About UPA | Contact | Search
Dirt: The Erosion of Civilizations
Frontier Naturalist
The Agrarian Vision
Isles of Amnesia
Indians and Emigrants
Anasazi America
American Indians in U.S. History
The Conquest of Texas
The Native Ground
New Orleans/Louisiana
Learning Native Wisdom
What Traditional Cultures Teach Us about Subsistence, Sustainability, and Spirituality
Gary Holthaus
Narrated by Kenneth Lee
Available from Audible
Book published by University Press of Kentucky
Many native North American cultures have origins that predate Confucius, who lived five hundred years before the birth of Christ. For generations the people of these traditions have thrived under conditions that many view as harsh if not hostile. Through their close association with nature, members of native communities have created complex systems for cooperating with one another and living within their environments. Learning Native Wisdom: What Traditional Cultures Teach Us about Subsistence, Sustainability, and Spirituality explains how to nurture a society by closely observing the traditions of various native cultures. Author Gary Holthaus explores the need to live sustainably, in harmony with the land, in order to preserve our cultures, communities, and humankind itself. Holthaus asserts that all cultures are subsistence cultures: urban or rural, all humans depend on the land and its provisions for survival. Humankind faces a convergence of forces: climate change, oil depletion, loss of water, loss of topsoil, and species die-off of proportions that exceed those of the past 65 million years. In Learning Native Wisdom, Holthaus shows that any path to sustainability includes elements of both subsistence and spirituality. The book offers a way to confront potential perils and create a better future.
Scientific evidence has made it abundantly clear that the world’s population can no longer continue its present rate of consuming and despoiling the planet’s limited natural resources. Scholars, activists, politicians, and citizens worldwide are promoting the idea of sustainability, or systems and practices of living that allow a community to maintain itself indefinitely. Despite increased interest in sustainability, its popularity alone is insufficient to shift our culture and society toward more stable practices. Gary Holthaus argues that sustainability is achievable but is less a set of practices than the result of a healthy worldview. Learning Native Wisdom: Reflections on Subsistence, Sustainability, and Spirituality examines several facets of societies—cultural, economic, agricultural, and political—seeking insights into the ability of some societies to remain vibrant for thousands of years, even in extremely adverse conditions and climates. Holthaus looks to Eskimo and other Native American peoples of Alaska for the practical wisdom behind this way of living. Learning Native Wisdom explains why achieving a sustainable culture is more important than any other challenge we face today. Although there are many measures of a society’s progress, Holthaus warns that only a shift away from our current culture of short-term abundance, founded on a belief in infinite economic growth, will represent true advancement. In societies that value the longevity of people, culture, and the environment, subsistence and spirituality soon become closely allied with sustainability.Holthaus highlights the importance of language as a reflection of shared cultural values, and he shows how our understanding of the very word subsistence illustrates his argument. In a culture of abundance, the term implies deprivation and insecurity. However, as Holthaus reminds us, “All cultures are subsistence cultures.” Our post-Enlightenment consumer-based societies obscure or even deny our absolute dependence on soil, air, sunlight, and water for survival. This book identifies spirituality as a key component of meaningful cultural change, a concept that Holthaus defines as the recognition of the invisible connections between people, their neighbors, and their surroundings. For generations, native cultures celebrated and revered these connections, fostering a respect for past, present, and future generations and for the earth itself.Ultimately, Holthaus illustrates how spirituality and the concept of subsistence can act as powerful guiding forces on the path to global sustainability. He examines the perceptions of cultures far more successful at long-term survival than our own and describes how we might use their wisdom to overcome the sustainability crisis currently facing humanity.
Gary Holthaus is the author of several books, including From the Farm to the Table: What All Americans Need to Know about Agriculture and Wide Skies: Finding a Home in the West.
“Perhaps the most profound and right-on-dead-center narrative I have read in a decade. These musings are uncannily brilliant in the way they refresh our sense of the already-hackneyed term sustainability. This book engages readers as if they are in active dialogue with a great mind and are being asked to think as deeply and passionately as the writer.”
—Gary Paul Nabhab, author of Where Our Food Comes From and founder of Renewing America�Äôs Food Traditions
“Holthaus offers a powerful case that we have ruptured the intimate bond between the health of humankind and the natural world, and that reconnecting the two may be one of our last chances for a viable future.”
—Garrit Voggesser, Senior Manager of the Tribal Lands Conservation Program, National Wildlife Federation
“Learning Native Wisdom teaches that we are all 'native' to the earth. This wisdom is not exotic, primitive, or 'other' but is embedded in the ancient, practical daily lifeways passed down for millennia by all our ancestors—functional, sustainable (ethical), and broadly spiritual. Developed world societies are also subsistence cultures, at the moment locked into hunting and gathering the shirinking resource oil. With wisdom comes gratitude, manners, and care for creation. Holthaus quotes a farmer friend who says. 'No use talking about sustainable agriculture if you don't have a sustainable culture.' This book is just what we need. It is deeply informed by Gary Holthaus's many years of teaching and working in the Alaskan bush.”
—Gary Snyder, author of Mountains and Rivers Without End
“Gary Holthaus shows us with infinite care how our desire for sustainability in many dimensions—agriculture, environment, economy, to name a few—can never be achieved without the support of a sustainable culture. Drawing on age-old wisdom, he argues that subsistence, sustainability, and spirituality must go hand in hand if we are to make our lives and our world healthy and whole. Without romanticizing traditional cultures, he uses their experiences to demonstrate that we humans at one time lived in this world in more sustainable ways and that, knowing this, we have the possibility to do so again.”
—David D. Chrislip, author of The Collaborative Leadership Fieldbook
“This is story-telling as learned from [Holthaus’s] Indian and Eskimo friends and mentors in Alaska, with a brilliance that is refreshing because it is rooted in experience. Anyone interested in sustainability will find this book engaging and different.”
—Craig Gerlach, Agricultural History
“For Holthaus, the 'spiritual task' is to learn to love the universe, including all the creation and the destruction, the health and the disease. Holthaus does a wonderful job of communicating this task throughout Learning Native Wisdom, as he describes how engagements in the continual effort of creating a sustainable culture require that humans learn to tell each other stories, learn to love the universe, learn to practice self-cultivation, and learn to participate in the relationship and reciprocity that entwine humans and the natural world.”
—Worldviews: Environment Culture Religion
All titles are published by:
University Press Audiobooks
an imprint of Redwood Audiobooks
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The American Scene
An ongoing review of politics and culture
by Reihan Salam
In Mild Defense of the Juicebox Mafia
At the risk of wading into dangerous territory here, let me just say that I’ve enjoyed many a juicebox in my life, and I worry about casting aspersions on all those who drink from juiceboxes. Consider that many of America and Israel’s combat troops consume MREs that sometimes contain juicebox-like containers, not to mention that many of the most brilliant strategic minds have been known to sample a juicebox or two on the sly, and I hardly think that should be held against them.
As to the broader question of Israel’s Operation Cast Lead, the most persuasive analysis I’ve seen so far, and I’m eager to read any smart critiques, comes from David Brooks’ latest column.
This new game isn’t a war of attrition. It’s a struggle for confidence, a series of psychological exchanges designed to shift the balance of morale. The material destroyed in an episode can be replaced, but the psychological effects are more lasting. What is really important is how each episode ends, because the ending defines the meaning — who mastered events and who was mastered by them.
The column ends on a sobering note.
In one scenario, Israel finishes a quick ground assault with a lightning effort to clean out the tunnels in the Philadelphia Corridor. Then it withdraws from Gaza, at a time of its own choosing, to let the psychological reverberations begin. In another scenario, Israel’s assault drags on. The suffering of the innocents in Gaza magnifies. The meaning changes.
Tony Judt argued, somewhat clumsily, that Israel is in some sense the last of the classical European nation-states. I actually think this is a fair and illuminating observation. I often find questions concerning the justice of Israel’s military actions frustrating because it strikes me as so obvious that the Europeans and North Americans who frame the relevant norms don’t face the same exigencies as the Israelis. No one really disputes this, including the (unfairly) maligned members of the juicebox mafia. Apart from maybe New Zealand with its Treaty of Waitangi constitutional culture, every settler society that I can think of has committed depredations far worse than anything Israel’s ever done in its own defense without ever coming close to making amends. Actually, the smartest take I’ve seen on the historical justice questions comes from Christian Brose of the new Shadow Government blog, which I enthusiastically recommend.
So, as some of the juiceboxers have argued, the real question is whether Israel’s actions make sense in light of what Israel and friends of Israel see as its core objectives: the survival of a Jewish democracy, diminution if not elimination of the terrorist threat, etc. (Max Boot wrote a really terrific op-ed in this vein.) I have no idea if Operation Cast Lead is working — like Brooks, I think that remains to be seen. But is there reason to worry that it won’t? Yep. Is my gut instinctive to support a democracy’s efforts to defend itself? Definitely. As to questions regarding the proportionate use of force, many in the anti-war camp raised the same objection to the invasion and occupation of Afghanistan under the Taliban. I mean, I think they were crazy to do so. But I think that it is useful to see the assault on Gaza in the context of the scale of recent U.S. military actions. When the juiceboxers object to the assault on Gaza, note that they’ve also forcefully argued — wrongly, in my view, but coherently — that the U.S. invasion of Iraq was illegal and immoral as well as disastrous. This casts doubt on the notion that any particular animus towards the State of Israel is at work in informing their views.
I really wish that something like John Bolton’s fanciful scenario could work, i.e., hand over an impoverished Gaza with its poisonous political culture to an Egypt that has more than enough on its plate, and hand some slice of the West Bank to a Jordanian state that warily eyes its restive Palestinian majority, all while Israel’s increasingly radicalized Arab minority (many of them self-identified “Israeli Palestinians”) look on. But it clearly won’t. The effort to unmake the Palestinian national movement — to turn the Palestinian Question into a discrete series of more manageable regional questions — seems to have failed. Maybe Israel will keep trying until it works, or until Palestinian partners emerge who can make it work. I don’t know. All I know is that the two-state scenarios that I hear about most strike me as equally implausible. The Palestinian national movement thinks in terms of historical Palestine, which suggests that even the Palestinian state envisioned by the Arab Peace Initiative would be seen as woefully inadequate, not to mention unviable, by most Palestinians. One can see why it would appeal to at least some of the Arab states, of course. Would it win over Palestinian public opinion? The small upside in a two-state solution for the security picture is that inter-state aggression is assigned a different kind of weight. Israel might actually find it easier to defend itself against attacks emanating from a Palestinian state than from the ambiguous entities that exist now. Of course, I’m not even sure about that. After all, the occupation of Gaza had drawn to a close.
Thanks for the nice stuff. It is amazing.
— Chargeback Defense · Jan 7, 09:13 PM · #
I have no doubts about a two-state settlement. It is no solution. But I wonder about this Jewish democracy stuff. Do we live here in the US in a Christian democracy? Or is it really just a matter of going through the motions of democracy while advantaging one religious group over others? When you look at it, what would it be like in the US if our democracy were geared to give Protestants a leg up on Catholics, or channels state funds disproportionately to Christians while everyone else wallows in the dust under suspicion of being a 5th column? That’s Israeli democracy for you. But who wants to live in a nation of cowards who want to be separated from those not like themselves, and have convinced themselves there is someone staring cross-eyed at them from under every rock?
Well the story is really this: Jewish Zionists want what they want, and with biblical bravado and a “Never Again” mindset, they aim to get it. There are no two states because you can’t have two states in one. I’ve been thinking that Israel’s long goal is just what John Bolton suggests, Gaza to Egypt and the detritus of the West Bank to Jordan. But that is for cowards to dump a problem on others, ever fearful to make substantive changes to poorly conceived ideologies. And what can be more poorly conceived than to imagine you can run off as many of the indigenous population as you are able, and to expect them to say “Fine. Ok by me.”
Partition was always still-born.
— The Other Alan · Jan 8, 12:40 AM · #
Which “historical Palestine” would that be? Nowadays, it’s usually used to exclude Jordan, which allows the percentage of Palestine that comprises Israel to be wildly inflated, but to the extent that there is such a thing, Jordan is an important (and by far the larger) piece of it. Why, if we’re going to discuss large changes to the map, is the end of the Hashemite occupation of eastern Palestine off the table?
— Mike · Jan 8, 01:07 AM · #
‘What is really important is how each episode ends, because the ending defines the meaning — who mastered events and who was mastered by them.’
That’s true to an extent. Power defines the official discourse, even if it does this by catering to mass taste with bullshit kitsch. But there are always people willing to question what their fathers have told them, look at the facts, and come to their own conclusions. And then there is the unofficial, sometimes oral history of the subject populations. People don’t forget.
Ultimately, might does not make right. Right is of the mind, might of the body…
— Robert · Jan 8, 02:56 AM · #
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