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McLeansboro Group
Bond Formation
Carthage Limestone Member
Fairbanks Coal Member
Livingston Limestone Member
Riverview Limestone Member
St. Wendel Sandstone Member
Mattoon Formation
Cohn Coal Member
Merom Sandstone Member
Patoka Formation
Dicksburg Hills Sandstone Member
Ditney Coal Member
Hazelton Bridge Coal Member
Inglefield Sandstone Member
Parker Coal Member
Raben Branch Coal Member
Vigo Limestone Member
Shelburn Formation
Busseron Sandstone Member
Pirtle Coal Member
West Franklin Limestone Member
Ditney Coal Member by Charles E. Weir
Pennsylvanian System
Type locality and reference section: The name Ditney Formation was first used by Fuller and Ashley (1902, p. 2) for the rocks between the Somerville Limestone (now the West Franklin Limestone Member of the Shelburn Formation) and the Inglefield Sandstone Member in an exposure that included 20 feet (6 m) of shale, thin sandstone, and thin coal in the Ditney Hills in Warrick County, Ind. (secs. 4, 5, and 6, T. 5 S., R. 9 W.). These rocks were later (Wier, 1961, 1965) assigned to the Patoka Formation, but the name Ditney was retained for the coal that was called the Ditney Coal by Fuller and Ashley (1902, p. 2). Wier's reference section was designated in the NW¼SW¼ sec. 13, T. 6 S., R. 11 W., north side of Evansville, Vanderburgh County.
Description: The Ditney Coal Member, a banded, partly shaly coal, is generally less than a foot (<0.3 m) thick. It is separated from the underlying West Franklin Limestone Member by 1 to 20 feet (0.3 to 6 m) of unnamed gray shale and underclay. The northernmost exposure of the Ditney Coal Member in Indiana is in northwestern Vigo County. The coal is not continuously exposed in Vanderburgh and Gibson Counties, where it either was not deposited or underwent erosional cutout by the overlying Inglefield Sandstone Member.
Correlation: The Ditney Coal Member is equivalent to the Chapel (No. 8) Coal Member in Illinois.
K`, `continental drainage divide`, `Wisconsin Glacial Boundary`, `Huntertown aquifer system`, `nonpoint source pollution`, `disintegration topography`, `wellhead protection area`, `Maumee Lacustrine Plain`, `hydraulic communication`, `hydrogeologic framework`, `depositional sequences`, `topographic expression`, `secondary permeability`, `potentiometric surface`, `hydraulic conductivity`, `glaciotectonic stress`, `specific conductivity`, `Aboite Aquifer System`, `spontaneous potential`, `hydrogeologic setting`, `pre Wisconsin surface`, `Knobstone Escarpment`, `Huntertown Formation`, `ice marginal channel`, `physiographic region`, `Laurentide Ice sheet`, `intermittent stream`, `perched water table`, `recessional moraine`, `lacustrine sediment`, `glacial terrain map`, `Glacial Lake Maumee`, `Trafalgar Formation`, `continental glacier`, `Hillery Till Member`, `disintegration ring`, `West Lebanon Member`, `till like sediment`, `unconfined aquifer`, `weathering profile`, `Gowganda Formation`, `hydraulic gradient`, `Fort Wayne Moraine`, `zone of saturation`, `ice walled channel`, `cone of depression`, `high capacity well`, `recessional margin`, `recharge potential`, `radiocarbon dating`, `Lake Michigan Lobe`, `effective porosity`, `seismic reflection`, `lithostratigraphy`, `local flow system`, `Tipton Till Plain`, `vertical sequence`, `continental drift`, `calcium carbonate`, `carbonate bedrock`, `tectonic features`, `zone of influence`, `meltwater channel`, `bulk permeability`, `Lorrain Formation`, `Erie Interstadial`, `hydrostratigraphy`, `Jessup Formation`, `contour interval`, `calcareous shale`, `glaciolacustrine`, `oxidation haloes`, `confined aquifer`, `glacial material`, `ablation complex`, `ablation hummock`, `induced recharge`, `unsaturated zone`, `solution feature`, `terminal moraine`, `overconsolidated`, `ice contact fan`, `geologic period`, `glacial terrain`, `drainage divide`, `alluvial valley`, `manganese oxide`, `Huron Erie Lobe`, `Lagro Formation`, `Cincinnati Arch`, `Canadian Shield`, `Fortville Fault`, `radiocarbon age`, `geologic epoch`, `plate tectonic`, `Illinois Basin`, `aquifer system`, `Yarmouth Stage`, `Sangamon Stage`, `Michigan Basin`, `Wabash Moraine`, `Maumee Torrent`, `suspended load`, `outwash valley`, `confining unit`, `drainage basin`, `discharge area`, `hydraulic head`, `late Wisconsin`, `paleontologist`, `sinking stream`, `unconsolidated`, `saturated zone`, `tunnel valley`, `synodic month`, `sediment load`, `outwash train`, `recharge area`, `Pennsylvanian`, `heterogeneity`, `Mississippian`, `cross section`, `fracture flow`, `biodegradable`, `annular space`, `basal outwash `, `bedding plane`, `trace element`, `transpiration`, `pre Illinoian`, `pre Wisconsin`, `type locality`, `Carboniferous`, `fossiliferous`, `granular unit`, `glacial drift`, `glaciofluvial`, `seepage swamp`, `mass movement`, `alluvial fan`, `paleosurface`, `Borden Group`, `deglaciation`, `argillaceous`, `conglomerate`, `semiconfined`, `trace fossil`, `hydrothermal`, `seismic risk`, `anastomosing`, `Saginaw Lobe`, `annular Seal`, `cold blooded`, `fine grained`, `hydrogeology`, `megasequence`, `invertebrate`, `permeability`, `stratigraphy`, `unconformity`, `warm blooded`, `water table`, `well casing`, `well screen`, `sedimentary`, `Pleistocene`, `kettle lake`, `interlobate`, `groundwater`, `flow system`, `debris flow`, `beach ridge`, `attenuation`, `geophysical`, `resistivity`, `outwash fan`, `conformable`, `sensitivity`, `source area`, `end moraine`, `Precambrian`, `piezometric`, `vadose zone`, `Amphibolite`, `fault trace`, `metamorphic`, `overburden`, `till plain`, `permafrost`, `Quaternary`, `till sheet`, `encrinital`, `palustrine`, `basal till`, `blow count`, `brachiopod`, `palimpsest`, `Ordovician`, `rock cycle`, `vertebrate`, `underflow`, `sandstone`, `sluiceway`, `siltation`, `siltstone`, `nearshore`, `macropore `, `limestone`, `bentonite`, `arthropod`, `anticline`, `dolostone `, `diffusion`, `geologist`, `Erie Lobe`, `diamicton`, `kaolinite`, `Paleozoic`, `epicenter`, `evaporite`, `Anhydrite`, `lithology`, `Wisconsin`, `Illinoian`, `hydraulic`, `carbonate`, `claystone`, `permeable`, `lithified`, `carbonate`, `gamma ray`, `meltwater`, `siliceous`, `colluvium`, `Landslide`, `wellfield`, `hydrology`, `ice sheet`, `base flow`, `Jurassic`, `dolomite`, `sediment`, `riparian`, `porosity`, `paleosol`, `confined`, `Triassic`, `sequence`, `mudstone`, `Holocene`, `artesian`, `conodont`, `landform`, `crevasse`, `Devonian`, `ablation`, `alluvium`, `aquitard`, `brackish`, `organism`, `Silurian`, `sinkhole`, `texture`, `outwash`, `mudflow`, `moraine`, `conifer`, `bivalve`, `channel`, `climate`, `bedrock`, `aquifer`, `erosion`, `extinct`, `glacier`, `Ice Age`, `fluvial`, `calcite`, `thorium`, `uranium`, `granule`, `outcrop`, `thalweg`, `Boulder`, `contour`, `ultisol`, `mineral`, `granite`, `erratic`, `facies`, `gravel`, `cobble`, `pebble`, `quartz`, `photon`, `illite`, `cation`, `gypsum`, `fabric`, `fossil`, `craton`, `mammal`, `kettle`, `pitted`, `plume`, `joint`, `karst`, `shale`, `Anion`, `basin`, `fault`, `esker`, `delta`, `grout`, `loamy`, `chert`, `clast`, `apron`, `epoch`, `kame`, `peat`, `clay`, `loam`, `rock`, `Sand`, `silt`, `SMCL`, `mg/L`, `arch`, `core`, `till`, `rift`, `MCL`, `dip`, `ion`, `Mud`, `fen`, `pH`]; var definitions = [`Glacial sediment composed primarily of sand, gravel, and debris flows that were deposited on, against, or within glacier ice.`, `A radioactive isotope of potassium having an atomic mass number of 40 and a half-life of approximately 1.31 × 109 years.`, `A line of elevated terrain that separates two or more watersheds emptying into oceans or other bodies of water on different sides of the continent.`, `The southernmost extent of the Wisconsin glaciation; in Indiana the southernmost extent of Wisconsin glaciation dates from about 22,000 years ago, although older Wisconsin-age deposits are known to exist north of that margin.`, `Complex of sand and gravel aquifers and associated till-confining units in northern Allen County, best developed in the general vicinity of the Town of Huntertown.`, `Pollution from sources that cannot be defined as discrete points, such as areas of crop production, timber, surface mining, disposal of refuse, and construction.`, `An irregular terrain composed of mounds and enclosed depressions. Formed by melting of debris-laden buried ice; composed mainly of supraglacial till. `, `Zone around a public water supply wellfield identified by geologic and hydraulic factors that is managed to prevent contamination of the water supply.`, `The former bottom of ancestral Lake Erie, represented by the flat landscape of eastern Allen County and adjacent parts of Ohio.`, `Ease with which changes in hydraulic head are transmitted between different geologic units or different parts of an aquifer system.`, `See "hydrogeologic setting." `, `See "sequence." `, `Pertaining to the elevation, form, and dimensions of land forms; elevation typically being measured in relation to sea level.`, `Permeability caused by post-depositional modification of a rock or sediment, such as fracturing or the development of solution features.`, `The surface defined by contouring the elevations of water levels tapping a confined aquifer system. This surface represents a map of hydraulic head in the aquifer system and defines the general direction of horizontal groundwater flow.`, `Ability of a rock or sediment to transmit water under a unit hydraulic gradient.`, `System of forces acting on a body of rock or sediment owing to overriding by active glacial ice.`, `With reference to the movement of water in soil, a factor expressing the volume of transported water per unit of time in a given area.`, `Complex of sand and gravel aquifers centered in Aboite Township in western Allen County.`, `Spontaneous potential (SP) logging measures naturally occurring small electrical potentials (in millivolts) existing between an electrode in the borehole and a grounded electrode at the surface. These potentials or electrical fields develop in the borehole because of differences in ionic concentrations (primarily of sodium chloride and referred to as “salinity”) between the fluid in the borehole, the interstitial fluid in porous formations, and the shale or clay layers that are adjacent to the porous formation. SP response is related to the strength of the electrical fields in the borehole as well as the direction or polarity of the fields. The magnitude of the SP response depends on the amount of the contrast in salinity between the interstitial water and the borehole water as well as in the amount of permeability of the porous formation. With greater salinity contrast or greater permeability or both, the SP response will be larger. The polarity of that response (positive or negative) will depend on whether the borehole water contains more or less salt than the formation water. Changes in the amplitudes of the SP response can vary from one formation to another or from one location to another within the same formation. SP data can be used to detect permeable formations, the boundaries of these formations, the values for the formation-water resistivity, and to provide qualitative indications of the shale content of the bed.`, `Geographic region characterized by a distinct set or range of groundwater conditions, such as aquifer type and geometry, degree of confinement, water table depth, and so on. `, `Complex surface developed on pre-Wisconsin sediments that, in part, represents the landscape that existed between the Illinoian and Wisconsin glaciations. The pre-Wisconsin surface owes some of its form to extensive modification of the earlier interglacial landscape by late Wisconsin ice and meltwater. `, `An escarpment in southern Indiana that rises about 600 ft (180 m) above the Ohio River south of the town of New Albany. It is prominent northward for almost 100 miles (160 km) to a point northwest of Columbus, Indiana. North of this point the escarpment is covered by Wisconsin glacial deposits; however, it can be traced approximately 100 miles (160 km) northwestward to a point southwest of Lafayette. Gray, H. H., 2000, Physiographic divisions of Indiana: Indiana Geological Survey Special Report 61, 15 p. `, `Sequence of outwash sand, till, ice-contact stratified deposits, and lacustrine sediments deposited by the Saginaw Lobe and its meltwaters in northern Allen County.`, `Channel cut by a meltwater stream flowing along the margin of a glacier.`, `Geographic locales of similar topographic expression.`, `The principal glacial cover of North America during the Pleistocene Epoch (about 2,600,000 to 11,700 years ago). At its maximum extent it spread as far south as latitude 37° N and covered an area of more than 5,000,000 sq miles (13,000,000 sq km). In some areas its thickness reached 8,000 to 10,000 ft (2,400–3,000 m) or more. The Laurentide Ice Sheet probably originated on the Labrador-Ungava plateau and on the mountains of the Arctic islands of Canada, and centered over Hudson Bay. Encyclopedia Britannica Online Academic Edition, 2011, Laurentide Ice Sheet: Encyclopedia Britannica Inc. Web page, , date accessed, October 26, 2011. `, `A stream or reach of a stream that flows only at certain times of the year, as when it receives water from springs or from some surface source such as melting snow. `, `The water table of a body of perched groundwater. `, `A moraine that formed where the ice margin stabilizes during a general retreat of the glacier`, `Sediment deposited in lakes. Most commonly composed of silt and clay, but locally may consist of fine sand and gravely beach sediments.`, `A map that depicts the geographic distribution and characteristics of different glacial terrains.`, `The name historically applied to the phase of ancestral Lake Erie that existed immediately following the retreat of the latest Erie Lobe ice.`, `Assemblage of sediments representing the first known incursion of late Wisconsin ice into northeastern Indiana.`, `See "ice sheet." `, `A distinct, reddish-brown till of pre-Illinoian age. The Hillery Till Member has been observed at several localities in central and south-central Illinois; a similar till unit has been reported at sites in western and central Indiana. In most sections the unit rests directly on bedrock. `, `Small ridges of very low relief that commonly have a circular outline and one or more depressions in the center. They are thought to have formed by the slumping of sediment off the sides of a buried ice block, which subsequently melted to produce the depression(s) in the center of the mound. Because of their resemblance to donuts, these landforms are commonly referred to as ablation donuts. `, `A distinctive, pinkish to red, clay-rich till with abundant reddish laminated lacustrine mud. This is the oldest glacial unit recognized in Indiana and is present in bedrock valleys and other low areas. The unit is thought to be older than 700,000 yr B.P. Fleming, A. H., 2011, Glacial geology - pre-Wisconsin glacial deposits: Indiana Geological Survey Marion County Web Site, , date accessed, November 2, 2011. `, `Poorly sorted, unstratified or poorly stratified sediment that resembles glacial till but whose origin is problematic. Much of the till-like sediment seen in central Indiana may be glacial till that subsequently slumped and flowed after it was deposited. `, `Refers to an aquifer that lies at or near the land surface and is under water table conditions. `, `Section of rock or sediment affected by one or more near-surface physical, chemical, or biological processes that alter the appearance and characteristics of the material. Given sufficient time and appropriate climatic conditions, these processes may ultimately result in the formation of surface soil. `, `Till originally deposited during Precambrian glaciation approximately 1.8 billion years ago, and subsequently lithified and metamorphosed at low grade to a distinctive rock, typified by white and pink granite pebbles and boulders embedded in a fine-grained, green-gray matrix. Type locality is north of Lake Huron.`, `In an aquifer, the rate of change of total hydraulic head over the length of a flow path; for purposes of measurement and analysis, hydraulic gradient is commonly divided into two components: horizontal and vertical.`, `A large curved ridge composed of clayey till of the Lagro Formation centered on the City of Fort Wayne in northeastern Indiana. This ridge was deposited as an end moraine of the Erie Lobe of the late Wisconsin ice sheet before it retreated from Indiana approximately 12,000 years ago.`, `All subsurface rocks and soil below the water table characterized by having all pores, fractures, and other openings filled with ground water.`, `Channel within a glacier whose walls are largely formed by glacier ice.`, `Area below a well or dewatering site where the water table or potentiometric surface is drawn down below its natural (static) level due to removal of ground water.`, `Typically a large-diameter (8 inches or more) well capable of producing more than 70 gallons per minute.`, `A moraine that formed where the ice margin stabilizes during a general retreat of the glacier. `, `Comparative term that refers to the likelihood or ease with which ground water is likely to be recharged in a particular geologic or geographic region, relative to other regions having different conditions.`, `A technique of determining the age of organic remains based upon the rate of decay of the carbon-14 isotope. `, `Ice lobe active in western Indiana and eastern Illinois during the late Wisconsin glaciation. Axis of flow developed parallel to the orientation of the basin of Great Lake Michigan. `, `The term refers to how well interconnected the pore spaces are in a block of rock or sediment. Effective porosity is expressed as a percentage of the total rock or sediment volume. `, `A technique for prospecting or research that uses the reflection of elastic waves at boundaries of different geologic units. `, `Refers to the physical arrangement, in three dimensions, of different geologic materials and formations.`, `Very shallow ground-water flow between relatively nearby recharge and discharge areas.`, `Physiographic region characterized by flat to gently rolling terrain, the result of continental glaciation during which glacial till and outwash were deposited as the ice advanced and melted from Indiana more than eight times.`, `Refers to either a real or artificially constructed sequence of rocks or unconsolidated sediments.`, `A scientific theory of the slow movement of rock plates of oceanic and continental crust.`, `Chemical compound (CaCO3) in limestone and marble. Common component of sea water and may precipitate on the bottom of a sea, lake, etc.`, `Rocks composed of limestone (calcium carbonate) and dolomite (calcium-magnesium carbonate).`, `The structures or features resulting from the forces that produce movement and deformation of the Earth's crust.`, `Land area directly above a cone of depression that is at increased risk because most of the water (and contaminants) that infiltrate this area will be "captured" by the cone of depression and eventually be drawn into the well. `, `Channels that carry flowing water from melting glacier ice.`, `Ease with which gases, liquids, or plant roots penetrate or pass through a bulk mass of soil.`, `Metamorphosed glacial outwash composed of distinctive red pebbles of jasper in a white quartzitic matrix. Closely associated with Gowganda Tillite in the Lake Huron basin and in glacial deposits derived therefrom. `, `A period of ice lobe retreat from northeastern Indiana beginning around 17,000 B.P., followed by the readvance of ice.`, `The physical arrangement, in three-dimensions, of geologic materials and formations having contrasting hydraulic properties. Typically refers to the stratigraphy of aquifers and confining units. `, `Formal term introduced by Wayne (1963) that encompasses all the glacial sediments deposited in Indiana before the late Wisconsin glaciation. `, `The elevation difference between adjacent contours. `, `A shale containing at least 20 percent calcium carbonate in the form of finely precipitated materials or small organically fixed particles.`, `Associated with a lake environment formed in, on, or proximal to glacial ice. `, `Zone up to several inches wide around a fracture, void, or other permeable feature in which oxygen-bearing ground water has oxidized iron- and manganese-bearing minerals to a yellow, brown, or reddish color. `, `Saturated body of permeable rock or sediment overlain by a less permeable unit and characterized by hydraulic head higher than the top of the aquifer.`, `Sediment ranging in size from clay to large boulders that was transported, mixed, and deposited by glaciers and their meltwaters.`, `Assemblage of sediments deposited during the ablation of a glacier, generally by being let down from at or near the glacier surface by melting of underlying ice.`, `Mound of till-like sediment deposited in a depression in the ice. The sediment becomes a positive topographic feature after the surrounding ice has melted.`, `The increased downward flow of water that occurs above a cone of depression as a result of pumping.`, `All of the subsurface above the water table where pores are filled in part by water and in part by air.`, `Any type of secondary opening in limestone or dolomite caused by the dissolution of the rock in groundwater. Caves, enlarged joints, and sinkholes are among the more common forms.`, `A moraine that marks the maximum extent of the ice margin.`, `Refers to a sediment that is denser or harder than would be expected based on its depth of burial by younger sediments. For example, glacial till is commonly overconsolidated because of the great weight of the ice that once was above it.`, `Fan deposited against the front of a glacier or atop and amidst blocks of ice.`, `A fixed span of geologic time that includes many kinds of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rock that correlate one with another on a variety of criteria, but mainly on the basis of their geologic age.`, `Geographic region characterized by a distinctive landscape whose morphology reflects a particular series of glacial and postglacial events and which is underlain by a particular sequence of sediments that are directly related to those events.`, `The boundary between adjacent drainage basins.`, `River or stream valley flanked by floodplains that are frequently inundated by seasonal floods and underlain by alluvium.`, `A mineral compound formed through the oxidation of manganese (MnO2) by ground water discharging to the surface.`, `Ice lobe active in eastern Indiana and western Ohio during the late Wisconsin glaciation. Axis of flow developed parallel to the orientation of the basins and major bays of Great Lakes Huron and Erie.`, `The youngest sequence of glacial deposits in Allen County, composed mainly of clay-rich glacial till deposited during the most recent ice advances out of the Lake Erie basin.`, `A broad (elongate) structural high of regional scale where the sedimentary bedrock has been gently bent into a convex shape. The arch trends north-south from the southeast corner of the state to the east-central part where it divides into the Kankakee and Findlay Arches. The Kankakee Arch extends to the northwest and the Findlay Arch trends northeast into Ohio. To the west and southwest of these structural highs the rocks dip gently and thicken southwestward into the Illinois Basin. To the north of these structures the rocks dip northward into the Michigan Basin. Some of the oldest rocks exposed at the surface in Indiana are found along the axis of the Cincinnati Arch in the southeast corner of the state. See Tectonic Features of Indiana for a diagram illustrating the arch.`, `The Canadian Shield, also called the Laurentian Plateau, is a large geographical area that forms the nucleus of the North American or Laurentia craton. It is covered by a thin layer of soil and is composed predominantly of igneous rock. `, `The Fortville Fault is a normal fault downthrown to the southeast. The fault is named for the town of Fortville in central Indiana and has been mapped from Marion County northeastward to southernmost Grant County. The displacement of the fault is as much as 60 ft (18.3 m). Hasenmueller, N. R., and Hasenmueller, W. A., 2011, Bedrock geology of Marion County: Indiana Geological Survey Web site. `, `an age determined by comparing the ratio of the carbon-14 and carbon-12 isotopes in the organic remains of a sample.The reliable up to approximately 40,000 years. `, `The formal geochronologic unit that is longer than an age `, `A theory of global tectonics in which the outer relatively rigid layer of the Earth is divided into huge plates. Driven by convection that permits heat to escape from the Earth's interior, the plates move at a rate of about 2 to 25 centimeters per year, carrying with them continental land masses and ocean floor alike. The plates interact with one another at their boundaries causing seismic and tectonic activity along the boundaries. `, `The Illinois Basin is a relatively shallow intercratonic basin that underlies southwestern Indiana, western Kentucky, and central and southern Illinois. The basin is bounded on the east and northeast by the Cincinnati and Kankakee Arches and on the west and southwest by the Mississippi River Arch and the Ozark Dome. Becker, L. E., 1974, Silurian and Devonian rocks in Indiana southwest of the Cincinnati Arch: Indiana Geological Survey Bulletin 50, 83 p. `, `A heterogeneous body of permeable and poorly permeable materials that functions regionally as a water-yielding unit; it consists of two or more aquifers separated at least locally by confining units that impede groundwater movement, but do not affect the overall hydraulic continuity of the system. `, `Major ice-free period recognized in many parts of the midwestern United States that occurred from approximately 440,000 to 300,000 yr B.P., and which is marked in the rock record by a prominent weathering profile. `, `Period of time lasting from about 132,000 years ago to 122,000 years ago that occurred between the Wisconsin and Illinoian Stages of glaciation. `, `Structural basin centered on southern Saginaw Bay and characterized by Mesozoic rocks at the center, ringed by progressively older Paleozoic rocks. `, `A large curved ridge composed of clayey till of the Lagro Formation located west of the St Joseph and St. Mary’s Rivers in northeastern Indiana. This ridge was deposited as an end moraine of the Erie Lobe of the late Wisconsin ice sheet before it retreated from Indiana approximately 12,000 years ago.`, `Massive flood caused by the catastrophic drainage of Glacial Lake Maumee when the Erie Lobe readvanced slightly and meltwater overtopped a sag in the Fort Wayne Moraine. The flood greatly altered the upper Wabash River drainage and cut the vastly oversized Wabash-Erie Channel between Fort Wayne and Huntington, now occupied by the Little River.`, `The part of the total stream load that is carried for a considerable period of time in suspension, free from contact with the stream bed; it consists mainly of clay, silt, and sand.`, `A valley underlain by glacial outwash. May be oriented parallel or perpendicular to a former ice margin, and may or may not be occupied by a modern stream.`, `Rock or unconsolidated material, generally of low permeability, that restricts groundwater flow.`, `An area bounded by a drainage divide that gathers water originating as precipitation and contributes it to a particular stream channel or system of channels, or to a lake, reservoir, or other body of water. A drainage basin can be small, such as one that contributes water to a small pond, or large, such as the one that contributes water to the Wabash River.`, `Region where groundwater is moving toward, and generally appearing at the land surface or in a surface-water body. `, `The elevation that water rises to in a well open to a specific point in the subsurface. Consists of two components: 1) pressure head, and 2) elevation head.`, `The most recent period of major glacial activity during the ongoing Ice Age, from about 22,000 to 10,000 years ago.`, `Scientist skilled in studying fossils and their history.`, `A surface stream that disappears underground in a karst region.`, `Refers to sediment that is not generally cemented or otherwise bound together by some type of chemical cement (such as limestone) within the pore spaces or by intense compaction from deep burial.`, `All of the subsurface below the water table, and characterized by having all of the pore spaces filled with groundwater.`, `Hummocky to flat-bottomed, channel oriented perpendicular to an ice margin and eroded into the substrate below the ice sheet. A tunnel valley typically represents a major route for meltwater draining part of an ice sheet, and exiting the front of the ice.`, `The time it takes for the moon to go from new moon to 1st quarter phase to full moon to 3rd quarter phase and return to new moon. Currently this takes 29.53 days.`, `The amount of fragmental rock material carried in suspension in a stream as clay, silt, sand, or coarser material. Darker colored, muddier water in streams after heavy rains shows the increase in sediment load.`, `Body of outwash sand and gravel in linear form that typically extends along a major river valley that drained one or more former ice margins.`, `Region where significant percent of precipitation and surface water reaches the zone of saturation via infiltration. Commonly occurs by a combination of high potentiometric surface elevation, downward hydraulic gradients, and permeable surface sediments.`, `Pertaining to the Pennsylvanian Period, which began 320 million years ago and ended 290 million years ago.`, `Spatial variation in physical attributes, such as grain-size, of a rock or sediment.`, `Pertaining to the Mississippian Period, which began 359.2 million years ago and ended 318.1 million years ago.`, `A diagram illustrating earth materials as if a large ditch was dug into the ground and the materials are viewed from within the ditch.`, `Ground-water flow controlled predominantly by a network of fractures, bedding planes, or other planar structures in a rock or sediment.`, `Subject to decomposition by biological means, especially by micro-organisms.`, `The space between a well casing pipe and the drilled borehole into which the casing is inserted.`, `Sand and gravel that were deposited as outwash in front of an advancing glacier and subsequently overridden by the ice and buried by other kinds of deposits. Basal outwash commonly forms the base of glacial depositional sequences.`, `Surface marking the break between two distinct pulses (beds) of sediment deposition.`, `An element that is not essential in a mineral but that is found in small quantities in its structure or adsorbed on its surfaces. Although not quantitatively defined, it is conventionally assumed to constitute significantly less than 1.0% of the mineral.`, `The process by which water absorbed by plants, usually through the roots, is evaporated into the atmosphere from the plant surface.`, `Informal term that refers to all of the Ice Age prior to the Illinoian age, generally before about 300,000 yr B.P. `, `The part of the Ice Age that predates the Wisconsin Age, generally older than about 75,000 yr B.P. `, `The specified geographic locality where the stratotype of a formal unit or unit boundary was originally defined and named. The North American Commission on Stratigraphic Nomenclature, 2005, North American Stratigraphic Code: American Association of Petroleum Geologists Bulletin, v. 89, p. 1,547-1,591. `, `Period of geologic time from about 359.2 to 299 million years ago. `, `Containing fossils. Neuendorf, K. K. E., Mehl, J. P., Jr., and Jackson, J. A., 2005, Glossary of geology: Alexandria, Virginia, 5th edition, American Geological Institute, 779 p. `, `Geologic bed or strata composed of course-textured sediment. The clasts within the sediment can range from sand to gravel size. Granular material is the chief component of outwash. `, `A general term for drift transported by glaciers or icebergs, and deposited directly on land or in the sea. `, `Referring to flowing meltwater streams from wasting glacier ice. Landforms and deposits created by such stream-outwash plains and kame terraces-are formed by the combined actions of streams and glaciers. `, `A forested seepage face with any type of soil or water chemistry. `, `A unit movement of a portion of the land surface. `, `See "fan." `, `Ancient landscapes typically represented by weathering horizons and changes in geologic properties. `, `A stratigraphic unit of Mississippian age that is chiefly greenish-gray shale and siltstone and fine-grained sandstone. The Borden Group is recognized in southwestern Indiana; the unit is from 485 to 800 ft (138 to 244 m) in thickness on outcrop. `, `The uncovering of a land area beneath a glacier or ice sheet by withdrawal of ice because of shrinkage by melting or calving of icebergs. `, `Largely composed of clay-sized particles or clay minerals. Neuendorf, K. K. E., Mehl, J. P., Jr., and Jackson, J. A., 2005, Glossary of geology: Alexandria, Virginia, 5th edition, American Geological Institute, 779 p. `, `A coarse-grained clastic sedimentary rock, composed of rounded to subangular fragments larger than 2 mm in diameter. The rock typically contains finer-grained particles and is commonly cemented by calcium carbonate, iron oxide, or silica. `, `Refers to an aquifer or aquifer system where some parts are under confined conditions and other parts are under water table (unconfined) conditions. Can also refer to a situation where the aquifer is overlain by a low-permeability confining unit, but water levels in the aquifer do not rise above the top of the aquifer, hence the upper part of the aquifer is unsaturated and under water table conditions. `, `Geologic record of biologic activity; includes impressions made on the substrate by an organism: for example, burrows, borings, footprints, feeding marks, and root cavities. Trace fossils contrast with body fossils, which are the fossilized remains of parts of organisms' bodies. `, `Produced by extremely hot water. Hydrothermal fluids, typically 100 to 300 degrees celsius, are the last watery remnants of molten rock that solidified deep in the Earth's crust.`, `A statistical or nonstatistical assessment of the potential for an area to experience ground shaking.`, `Branching and reconnecting of stream-channel segments, separated by small islands of sediment.`, `Ice lobe active in far northern Indiana and southern Michigan during the late Wisconsin glaciation. Axis of flow developed parallel to the orientation of Saginaw Bay of Lake Huron.`, `Cement or bentonite clay pumped into the space between the borehole wall and well casing to seal out water and contaminants.`, `Animals with a body temperature that changes with the external environment.`, `A relative or absolute grain size term. Relatively, it means any size smaller than the most common size. Absolutely, it refers to grains from 0.35 to 0.275 mm in diameter (Wentworth scale).`, `The science of ground water and its interaction with the geologic environment.`, `Assemblage of sediments associated with one or more successive advances of a particular glacial lobe.`, `An animal without a backbone.`, `The ability of geologic material to transmit water. In this report, the term is used in the same sense as "hydraulic conductivity."`, `The arrangement of geologic materials, and the depositional environments they represent, in both time and space.`, `Large gap in the rock record, typically represented by a surface that bounds two rock or sediment bodies of vastly different ages.`, `An animal that maintains an integral body temperature that is relatively constant; e.g., birds, mammals.`, `The interface between the saturated and unsaturated zones.`, `Plastic or metal pipe used above the water-producing zone of a well to keep the well shaft open and to prevent entry of sediment or contaminants.`, `Slotted pipe installed in the water-producing zone of a sand and gravel well to allow water to enter the well while keeping sediment out.`, `A rock formed from particles that were eroded from a previous rock, then transported, deposited, and lithified. Also includes rock that accumulated as chemical precipitates.`, `Geologic epoch corresponding to the most recent ice age, and beginning about 2.6 million years ago.`, `A kettle lake is a kettle that is filled with water.`, `Located between or affected by two lobes of glacier ice.`, `All water present below the surface of the Earth.`, `The cycle of groundwater flow in an aquifer system including recharge, lateral and vertical flow, and discharge.`, `Mass of rock and(or) sediment that becomes unstable and moves downslope under its own weight.`, `An arcuate ridge of sand that parallels or sub-parallels a coast. Beach ridges are formed by fluctuation in water level that create the core of the ridge. Later they increase in size by the addition of dune sand.`, `The chemical, physical, and(or) biological processes that restrict the migration of contaminants through geologic media.`, `Geophysical logs are paper or digital records produced by a variety of instruments that are lowered on an electrical cable into a hole that has been drilled in the ground. These holes are drilled through both unconsolidated and bedrock materials for geologic information (corehole or boring), as a source of ground water (water wells), or for petroleum exploration (natural gas or oil well).`, `Resistivity logging is important in the evaluation of sediment and rock materials, as well as fluids contained in the pore spaces of these materials. Resistivity is the measurement of the degree to which materials and their contained fluids impede the flow of electric current and is the inverse of conductivity, which is the property that is actually measured. Materials containing clay minerals or water with dissolved salts (commonly sodium chloride) conduct electricity readily and will have lower resistivity than porous nonclay-bearing clean materials or nonporous materials. Resistivity logging is most commonly used for evaluating formations to detect the presence of hydrocarbons in petroleum wells, but is sometimes also used in mineral exploration. Hydrocarbons and fresh water are poor conductors of electricity in contrast with salty formation water, which is a good conductor. Therefore, a resistivity log will show a difference between the resistivity of rocks filled with hydrocarbons and those filled with salty formation water.`, `A fan-shaped accumulation of mostly sand and gravel deposited by glacial meltwater streams, and typically radiating from one or more distinct apexes along a moraine or other ice marginal position.`, `Said of strata or groups of strata (such as formations) that are generally parallel to each other.`, `The intrinsic or natural susceptibility of groundwater to contamination caused by the combination of geological and hydrogeological conditions particular to a certain location or region. `, `Refers to the general geographic region to the north from which a particular glacier flowed and derived certain distinctive rock types. For example, the Saginaw Lobe flowed over central and eastern Michigan and its deposits contain coal and other rocks diagnostic of that area, whereas the Erie Lobe flowed into Indiana from the east and deposited rock types from Ohio and eastern Ontario. `, `A moraine that has been deposited at the outer end of a glacier. `, `Geologic time between 4.6 billion and 542 million years ago. In Indiana, the Precambrian is present only in the subsurface and is covered by younger sedimentary rocks. `, `See potentiometric. `, `All of the subsurface above the water table where pores are filled in part by water and in part by air. `, `A metamorphic rock composed mainly of amphibole and plagioclase. `, `Fault line. `, `A rock whose chemical composition, exclusive of volatile components, has been substantially changed by the metasomatic alteration of its original constituents. `, `The upper part of a sedimentary deposit, compressing and consolidating the material below. `, `An extensive area, with a flat or undulating surface, underlain by till with subordinate end moraines. `, `Any soil, subsoil, or other surficial deposit, or even bedrock, occurring in arctic, subarctic, and alpine regions at a variable depth beneath the Earth's surface in which a temperature below freezing has existed continuously for two or more years in a row. `, `Period of geologic time from about 2.6 million years ago to the present. `, `A sheet, layer, or bed of till without reference to its topographic expression. `, `made up of, or pertaining to encrinites. Specifically referring to a carbonate rock or sediment containing stem and/ or plate fragments.`, `Material growing or deposited in a marsh or related wetland environment.`, `Glacial till deposited by melting of ice at the base of a glacier and little reworked by meltwater or mass movement.`, `The unit of measure for the standard penetration test and representing the number of blows required to drive a 2-inch diameter core sampler one foot through unconsolidated material by dropping a 140-pound hammer from a distance of 30 inches.`, `A group of sea animals with hinged half shells and a soft body.`, `Refers to a landscape in which most of the topographic features are not related to the materials at the land surface but are inherited from a buried surface at depth.`, `Rocks pertaining to the Ordovician Period, which dates from 488.3 million to 443.7 million years ago. The oldest rocks that crop out in Indiana are Ordovician in age.`, `Processes where older rocks are made into new rocks through erosion and deposition, temperature and pressure, or melting and cooling.`, `An animal with a backbone.`, `Ground-water flow that is generally below and parallel to the direction of surface water flow in a river valley.`, `Sedimentary rock made of sand-size (0.06-2 mm) particles, usually of the mineral quartz, but other minerals or rock fragments may also be present.`, `Valley or channel that conducted large amounts of glacial meltwater that may or may not be occupied by a modern stream; commonly associated with one or more ice margins.`, `The deposition or accumulation of silt, or similar sized rock material, from suspension in a standing or slowly moving body of water.`, `Sedimentary rock composed of silt-size (0.004-0.06 mm) particles (i.e., silt is coarser than clay, but finer than sand and has a slightly gritty feel when rubbed between the fingers or placed between the front teeth and lightly ground).`, `Area of a beach from the upper limit of swash to the lower limit of storm-wave base.`, `Large opening in a rock or sediment, such as a fracture or root channel that can act as a pipe to conduct ground water.`, `A sedimentary rock composed primarily of calcite. The calcite may be in the form of crystals, fossil fragments, or other fragments such as pellets and oolites.`, `Type of clay derived from weathered volcanic ash that expands when wet; commonly used as well drilling mud and annular seal.`, `A large group of invertebrate animals having segmented bodies, jointed legs, and exoskeleton (e.g., insects, trilobite).`, `A fold where the rocks are bent convex upward.`, `Sedimentary rock composed of calcium magnesium carbonate (dolomite) that formed from the chemical alteration of limestone. Fossils are typically absent as a result of the dolomitization process.`, `The outward spreading of a plume of liquid or gas from areas of greater concentration to areas of lesser concentration.`, `A scientist skilled in studying earth materials and history.`, `Last ice lobe active in eastern Indiana and western Ohio during the late Wisconsin glaciation. Axis developed according to the orientation of Lake Erie as continental ice sheet advanced into the Great Lakes Region `, `A descriptive, nongenetic term for poorly sorted sediments.`, `A clay mineral of the kaolin group derived from weathering of feldspars and montmorillonite clay; extremely stable high-alumina crystal lattice that does not greatly expand under varying water content and does not exchange iron or magnesium.`, `Of, belonging to, or designating the era of geologic time that includes the Cambrian, Ordovician, Silurian, Devonian, Mississippian, Pennsylvanian, and Permian Periods. The time span is between approximately 542 and 251 Ma.`, `Point on the Earth's surface that is directly above an earthquake's center within the Earth.`, `A sedimentary rock that is formed through precipitation from evaporating sea water. Gypsum, anhydrite, and halite (rock salt) are examples of evaporites.`, `A mineral, calcium sulfate (CaSO4), that is usually massive or in crystalline masses. Anhydrite is often associated with the mineral gypsum; however, it is not as common as gypsum. The name is of Greek origin meaning without water, in contrast to gypsum, which contains water.`, `The physical character of a rock or sediment. Refers primarily to the composition and texture of the material.`, `Most recent period of major glacial activity during the ongoing Ice Age, from about 75,000 to 10,000 years ago. Nearly the entire modern landscape of the northern two-thirds of Indiana, and a large part of the deposits beneath, are the product of this stage.`, `A period of major glacial activity that took place from about 300,000 to 140,000 years ago. Deposits from this period are exposed at the modern land surface in southeastern and southwestern Indiana, beyond the limit of the Wisconsin ice sheets. They also occur in the subsurface throughout much of the rest of the state, beneath the overlying Wisconsin deposits.`, `Pertaining to a fluid in motion, or movement or action caused by water. `, `A mineral compound characterized by a fundamental anionic structure of CO3. `, `An indurated sedimentary rock having more than 67 percent clay-sized minerals. Neuendorf, K. K. E., Mehl, J. P., Jr., and Jackson, J. A., 2005, Glossary of geology: Alexandria, Virginia, 5th edition, American Geological Institute, 779 p. `, `Capable of being permeated. Having pores or openings that allow fluids (liquids and gases) to pass through. `, `Rock formed from the process of lithification, in which sediments compact under pressure, and gradually become solid rock. Lithification includes all the processes which convert unconsolidated sediments into sedimentary rocks.`, `A sedimentary rock composed of more than 50 percent by weight of carbonate minerals.`, `Gamma-ray logging measures natural gamma radiation received by a detecting crystal over a specified time period. Gamma radiation of interest in logging is emitted during the radioactive decay of potassium, uranium, and thorium. Gamma-ray logs have three fundamental benefits: they provide an indicator of relative clay content because clays are generally higher in potassium than other common minerals, they provide a more precise resolution of boundaries between different geologic units than the SP log, and they can be collected from cased and open boreholes, both above and below the water table because gamma radiation easily passes through all these materials.`, `Water derived from the melting of glacial ice and typically discharged from the margin of an ice sheet or glacier, where it may occupy broad river channels that carry extremely large amounts of sediment. `, `A rock containing abundant silica, especially as free silica rather than as silicates. `, `A term used to describe alluvium deposited by unconcentrated surface runoff or sheet erosion and usually deposited at the base of a slope. `, `A general term used to describe a variety of mass-movement landforms and processes involving the downslope transport, caused by gravitational forces, of geologic material en masse. `, `An area in which productive wells are drilled. "" `, `The science that deals with global water `, `A glacier of considerable thickness and more than 19,300 sq miles `, `The part of stream discharge that is not attributable to direct runoff from precipitation or snow melt. It is sustained by groundwater discharge into the stream. `, `Period of geologic time from about 199.6 to 145.5 million years ago. `, `A pink to reddish mineral with rhombohedral cleavage with the chemical formula CaMg(CO)3. Effervesces in dilute HCl in powered. `, `Solid fragmental material that originates from weathering of rocks and is transported or deposited by air, water, or ice, or that accumulates by other natural agents, such as chemical precipitation from solution or secretion of organisms, and that forms in layers on the Earth's surface at ordinary temperatures in a loose, unconsolidated form. `, `Pertaining to or situated on the bank of a body of water, such as a river. `, `The volume of open spaces, or pores, between the solid mineral components that make up a rock or unconsolidated sediment. Porosity is expressed as a percentage. `, `A soil profile that formed on an ancient landscape that was subsequently buried by younger sediment. `, `Saturated body of permeable rock or sediment overlain by a less permeable unit and characterized by hydraulic head higher than the top of the aquifer. `, `Pertaining to the Triassic Period, which began 251 million years ago and ended 199 million years ago.`, `The discrete package of sediments of various types associated with a particular depositional environment. The term commonly refers to assemblages of outwash, till, mud flows, and ice-contact stratified sediments deposited during a particular ice advance. `, `An indurated sedimentary rock displaying the texture and composition of shale. Nonfissle, fine-grained with approximately equal proportions of clay and silt. Modified from Neuendorf, K. K. E., Mehl, J. P., Jr., and Jackson, J. A., 2005, Glossary of geology: Alexandria, Virginia, 5th edition, American Geological Institute, 779 p. `, `The more recent of the two epochs of the Quaternary Period; 10,000 B.P. is widely accepted as the start of the Holocene, which is characterized by the dramatic change (and explosion) of vertebrate life as the ice sheets retreated. This change occurred at different times at different places (for example, much of North America was still covered with ice 10,000 to 11,000 B.P.), hence 10,000 is the agreed-upon arbitrary starting point globally.`, `Condition in which water levels in wells stand above the top of the aquifer. A "flowing artesian well" discharges to the surface under its own hydraulic head.`, `An extinct marine, wormlike chordate that existed during the Cambrian and into the Triassic. Only the microscopic toothlike phosphatic hard parts found in the head are commonly preserved.`, `A natural feature of the landscape.`, `Large near-vertical fracture open at the surface of a glacier and commonly a route for meltwater flow.`, `Period of geologic time from about 416 to 359.2 million years ago.`, `Loss of ice in a glacier or ice sheet from melting, sublimation, or calving of bergs into a body of water.`, `Sand, gravel, silt, and clay deposited adjacent to modern streams and derived from erosion of surface sediments elsewhere in the watershed or from valley walls.`, `Slowly permeable stratum that retards water movement into and out of adjacent or underlying aquifers .`, `Containing salt, brine.`, `Any living plant or animal.`, `Period of geologic time from about 443.7 to 416 million years ago.`, `A depression in a karst area, commonly having a circular pattern. Its drainage is subterranean, its size is measured in meters or tens of meters, and it is commonly funnel shaped.`, `The relative proportions of particles of different sizes in a sediment, such as pebbles, sand, silt, and clay.`, `Sediment deposited by meltwater out in front of an ice margin. Usually composed of sand and(or) gravel.`, `The mass movement of sediment composed of mostly fine-grained material with a smaller fraction of larger-grained material possibly deposited by the gravity flow of unstable, oversaturated sediment. `, `Broadly arcuate to linear hummocky ridge deposited where an ice margin became stationary for a protracted period of time.`, `A cone-bearing tree that has needles as leaves (pine, fir, and cedar).`, `Any mollusk having a shell in two parts, hinged together so it will open and close like a book.`, `Typically a linear sag, stream course, or meltwater conduit with a V-shaped or U-shaped cross section. Channels in the glacial environment are commonly filled with sand and gravel deposited by meltwater.`, `The kind of weather a location has over a period of years.`, `Consolidated rock composed of cemented or lithified sediments (such as sandstone, shale, limestone) or crystalline rock (such as granite or slate). Underlies all surficial soil, sand, gravel, clay, and other material.`, `A permeable body of rock, such as fractured bedrock or glacial till, that is saturated with ground water and is capable of providing significant quantities of water to wells and springs.`, `Mechanical abrasion of material on the Earth's surface by glaciers, water, and wind. `, `Plants and animals that no longer exist.`, `Mass of ice that flows under its own weight by internal deformation of ice, basal sliding, or other mechanisms.`, `The popular name for the most recent period of glacial activity, also known as the Pleistocene Epoch, which began some 2 million years ago and is still in progress. That period which continental glaciers overspread vast regions of northern North America.`, `Produced by the action of rivers or streams.`, `A common rock-forming mineral; CaCO3.`, `A silvery-white metallic radioactive element. Its longest-lived and only naturally occurring isotope is thorium-232.`, `A heavy silvery-white metallic radioactive element having 14 known isotopes, of which uranium-238 is the most abundant in nature.`, `A rock fragment smaller than a pebble but larger than very coarse sand; diameter ranges from 2 to 4 mm. `, `The part of a geologic formation or structure that appears at the surface of the Earth. `, `A line defining the course of the deepest part of a river channel. In buried bedrock valleys, the thalweg is generally thought to coincide with the lowest bedrock elevations that define the axis of the valley. `, `A loose mass of rock having a diameter greater than 256 mm. `, `Line on a map that connects points of equal elevation. A contour interval is the elevation difference between adjacent contours. `, `Mineral soils that have an argillac horizon with a base saturation of less than 35 percent when measured at pH 8.2. `, `A naturally occurring inorganic element or compound having periodically repeating arrangements of atoms and characteristic chemical composition, resulting in distinctive physical properties. `, `A plutonic rock in which quartz constitutes 10 to 50 percent of the felsic components and in which alkali feldspar/total feldspar ratio is generally restricted to the range of 65 to 90 percent. `, `A rock fragment carried by glacial ice, or by floating ice, deposited some distance from the outcrop from which it was derived, and generally though not necessarily resting on bedrock of different lithology. `, `Association of sediments or sedimentary rocks having similar appearance and environment of deposition. `, `A general term used to describe rock fragments or mineral grains larger than 2 mm in diameter; includes granules, pebbles, cobbles, and boulders. `, `A rock fragment smaller than a boulder but larger than a pebble; diameter ranges from 64 to 256 mm.`, `A rock fragment that is smaller than a cobble but larger than a granule; diameter ranges from 4 to 64 mm. `, `Crystalline silica (SiO2), an important rock-forming mineral. Modified from Neuendorf, K. K. E., Mehl, J. P., Jr., and Jackson, J. A., 2005, Glossary of geology: Alexandria, Virginia, 5th edition, American Geological Institute, 779 p. `, `The quantum electromagnetic energy, regarded as a discrete particle having zero mass and no electrical charge.`, `A hydrous, nonexpanding, potash-bearing clay mineral derived mainly from the weathering or alteration of mica and other aluminosilicate minerals. `, `Positively charged ion in solution. When minerals dissolve in water, they form ions that have a tiny positive or negative electrical charge.`, `Mineral composed of calcium sulfate, typically produced in hyper-saline basins characterized by the evaporation of water that causes concentration of salts.`, `Structure in a rock or unconsolidated sediment produced by the parallel orientation of individual mineral grains, inclusions, or elongate rock fragments.`, `The remains or traces of an animal or plant of a former time; e.g., trilobite.`, `Part of the earth's crust that has been stable and little deformed for a prolonged period of time.`, `Class of vertebrate animals which give milk to their young; mammals are warm-blooded.`, `Depression caused by collapse of sediment due to the melting of buried blocks of ice.`, `Refers to a landscape composed of outwash with numerous depressions caused by rafted blocks of ice that subsequently melted after being deposited with the outwash.`, `Mass of liquid or gas moving through a different medium. Most commonly refers to a mass of contaminants or contaminated ground water migrating through the subsurface geologic environment.`, `Crack or fracture in a rock or sediment.`, `A type of topography that is formed typically on limestone, primarily by dissolution, and that is characterized by sinkholes, caves, and underground drainage. The topography of the Mitchell Plateau region of Indiana, which extends from Owen and Monroe Counties to Harrison County, is mostly karst.`, `Fissile sedimentary rock formed from mud (silt and clay). Where organic compounds are abundant, the shale is black whereas lower organic content results in lighter colors.`, `Negatively charged ion in solution. When minerals dissolve in water, they form ions that have a tiny positive or negative electrical charge.`, `A low area on the earth's crust where sediments have accumulated. These sediments may be consolidated or unconsolidated.`, `A discrete surface across which rocks move relative to each other; a planar break in the rocks.`, `Linear type of ice-contact stratified deposit formed in subglacial channels and commonly having a sharply peaked ridgelike profile in cross section.`, `Wedge-shaped mass of sediment deposited where a river or stream empties into a standing body of water such as a lake.`, `Material, typically cement or bentonite slurry, used to seal the annular space of a well.`, `Texture description for a soil having moderate amounts of sand (7-27 percent), silt (23-52 percent), and clay (28-50 percent). `, `A hard, extremely dense or compact, dull to semivitreous, microcrystalline or cryptocrystalline sedimentary rock, consisting of interlocking crystals of quartz less than about 30 um in diameter. `, `An individual constituent, grain, or fragment of a sediment or rock, produced by the mechanical or chemical disintegration of a larger rock mass. `, `Body of sediment (usually sand and gravel) that typically has a sheetlike or tabular form, and a gently sloping surface. Usually deposited by meltwater in front of an ice sheet or the base of a mountain. `, ` `, `A low mound composed of stratified sand and gravel deposited by a subglacial stream as a fan or delta at the margin of a melting glacier; by a superglacial stream in a low place or hole on the surface of the glacier; or as a ponded deposit on the surface or at the margin of stagnant ice. `, `An unconsolidated deposit of semicarbonized plant material in a water saturated environment , for example, a bog or fen, and of persistently high moisture content `, `A detrital mineral particle of varying compositions having a diameter of less than 1/256 mm.`, `A rich, permeable soil composed of a friable mixture of relatively equal proportions of clay, silt, and sand; it usually contains organic matter. `, `An aggregation of one or more minerals that has lithified. `, `A mineral particle or detrital rock fragment that is larger than coarse silt but smaller than granule grains; grain diameter ranges from 1/16 to 2 mm. `, `A mineral particle or detrital rock fragment larger than clay but smaller than very fine sand grains; grain diameter ranges from 1/256 to 1/16mm.`, `Secondary Maximum Contaminant Level. SMCLs are set so that drinking water will not have unpleasant taste, odor, appearance, or side effects. SMCLs are not enforcible and drinking water that exceeds them is not considered dangerous to human health.`, `Milligrams per Liter. Unit of concentration used to quantify the amount of a constituent dissolved in a given volume of water.`, `A broad open anticlinal fold on a regional scale.`, `A sample or rock produced by drilling into the earth. Commonly, cores are cylindrical in shape.`, `Unsorted sediment deposited directly from glacier ice with little or no reworking by meltwater or mass movement. Usually contains particles ranging in size from clay to boulders, and may be partially consolidated depending on the geologic history.`, `An elongate trough in the earth's crust formed by tension and defined by normal faults.`, `Maximum Contaminant Level. The highest concentration allowed by the federal government in public drinking water supplies. MCLs are set using the best available treatment technology and taking cost into consideration.`, `Refers to the angle at which the bedrock strata are inclined from the horizontal. Dip on bedrock surfaces may be caused by forces that bend the rock mass or by a variety of mechanisms active when sediments that make up the rock were accumulating.`, `An atom or group of atoms that has a net positive or negative charge.`, `A general term describing a mixture of clay and silt-sized grains of undetermined composition. `, `A wetland fed by calcium- or magnesium-enriched groundwater having an alkaline pH, and which is mostly devoid of a tree canopy. `, `Negative logarithm of the hydrogen ion concentration. Water with low pH (<7) is an acid, water with high pH (>7) is a base, and water with pH=7 is neutral. A pH of 7 is equal to a hydrogen ion concentration of 10-7 (or 0.0000001) mg/L.`]; var $cms = $("#cmsContent"); words.forEach(function(word, i) { $cms.replaceText( new RegExp('(^|\\s|")((?:un)?' + word.replace(' ', '(?:\\s|\\-)') + ')((?:\\s(?:Age|Period|Time|Rock))?(?:\\w?ing)?s?)($|\\s|\\.|,|")', "i"), '$1$2$3$4'); }); })();
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Kristin Dykstra
Intermedium
Jumping portrait of Urayoán Noel by ADÁL. 2015.
Note: Photograph is from the collaborative project Cuerpo del Poema, by Irizelma Robles and ADÁL.
Translations by Urayoán Noel, like his poetry and criticism, are deeply enjoyable. They announce the presence of a vital mind – insightful, singular and often funny. Poems bound, spitting energy. The best part is that even at their most frenetic, the writings emerge out of a long, patient, and illuminating investigation into cultural forms and traditions.
Our conversation follows.
KD: Punk translator. I imagine it as a partner to the poetry-geek persona you adopt in performances. For example, the punk comes out in the anti-establishment gusto with which you argue for the horror – and attendant fascination – of certain works. Pablo de Rokha is one of these poets with the capacity to be “awesomely bad” who becomes great, erratically so, in your rendition. How does your identity as a critic play into your ability to conceptualize a punk stance for writers, and to translate & talk about the joys of awesome badness?
UN: It's hard to call oneself a “punk” anything when one teaches for a living and is photographed doing jump kicks à la David Lee Roth. Still, I also have a performance background (working with musicians, reading at and later writing about the Nuyorican Poets Cafe), and so I'm fascinated by the incompleteness of poetry, its multiple lives across page and stage, and I'm drawn to poets whose work feels somehow uncontained, irreducible to any one experience of poetry.
Poets as diverse and as geographically dispersed as de Rokha, Stein, Pedro Pietri, and Ana Cristina César all interest me along these lines: their work is willing to be what would be considered ugly or uneven or formless in an effort to embody language in complex ways. A lot of contemporary U.S. poetry is good at what it does (whether old-school-lyric, neo-formalist, experimental or whatever), it manages its own libidinal economy. But what I like about these other poets is their unmanaged energy.
Sure, de Rokha's poems get covered by punk bands in Chile, but I'm also thinking about punk as the freedom (of course relative to and bound by one's privilege) to be all over the place, to work outside the poetry silos, so that a comparatively “quiet” poet such as César, who's typically read in confessional terms, also fits. Neruda was a much more elegant poet than de Rokha, with his love lyrics over here and his surrealism and his social epics over there, but I'm haunted by these other poetics of totalizing messiness.
A number of these poets were also renegades within their respective national literary traditions, so I'm interested in mapping their eccentric poetic geographies, as I did with Pietri and Nuyorican poetry in my critical study. The critical work is partly a way of configuring a poetic counter-archive (across languages, cultures, and forms) that can guide me in my creative explorations.
KD: The uncontainability you describe is invigorating. You always make me want to read and do more. Another unfinished conversation we’ve begun in the past is about performance as a channel, or perhaps a form, for translation. What is your experience with that possibility? Your most ideal vision for it?
UN: For years now I've been thinking of my work across and along a “performalist” continuum where form and embodied politics blur and bleed through. You mention joy; a lot of the contemporary poets that inspire me (say, Edwin Torres or LaTasha N. Nevada Diggs) allow for a cultural politics of play that ends up being dead-serious.
Given my bilingual upbringing in the non-state of Puerto Rico, I'm especially interested in translingual poetries that “irritate the state” (to use a phrase from Doris Sommer's book Bilingual Aesthetics). As those translingual explorations have become even more important to my work (e.g. my forthcoming book Buzzing Hemisphere / Rumor Hemisférico), the border between translation, performance, and poetry has become increasingly porous.
One of the reasons I find Haroldo de Campos's concept/practice of “transcreation” so valuable is precisely because it foregrounds the ideological dimension of translation while still allowing us to understand it as a creative act, as a performance. In exploring app-assisted and/or homophonic translation that relies on my rereading or rewriting of my own or others' texts (as I do in Buzzing Hemisphere and have done elsewhere), I'm partly wondering what kind of embodied politics can survive the age of GoogleTranslate.
In performance studies, it's tempting to think of the body as THE space of political contestation and resistance, but of course our bodies and our critical awareness of them are messily enmeshed with technologies of power and in a sense only fully “translatable” in and through their remediations. In that sense, we are what Daniel Borzutzky calls “data bodies” and translation operates not only across languages but also across media and across cultures and geographies.
My “living in Spanglish” (to quote Ed Morales) also involves an engagement with what Emily Apter calls “Netlish,” a language defined by the tension between its awareness of its status as a cross-media experiment and its dream of universal translatability.
KD: We’ve talked over the years about your long-term interest in a “vanguard” poetics, drawn out of the term “vanguardia.” That term can be understood not only within the boundaries of a “conceptual poetry,” or aesthetic experimentation, but also as a poetics grounded in political concept. What have you wanted, and do you want, from a vanguard? How have those desires motivated you to take up translation?
UN: I don't think I have an existential investment in the avant-garde, with all its militaristic and largely Anglo-Euro male resonances, but as a poet-critic trained in Latin American studies I need a vanguardia, if only as a heuristic tool and a historical marker that lets me read texts as diverse and powerful as César Vallejo's Trilce (1922) and Gabriela Mistral's Tala (1938) in a specific transnational poetic context.
There's no easy way to translate that vanguardia into the modernist U.S. context, even though as Octavio Paz notes in his classic Children of the Mire, there are significant similarities and points of contact.
As I see it, one problem is that self-avowed avant-garde poetics in the present-day U.S. tends to align itself with and/or get read through the art world (e.g. conceptualism), so we end up with a lot of recycled gestures and old-school debates from that world (narrow takes on appropriation and representation, oblique riffs on institutional critique etc.) that sometimes seem like parodies of the social struggles of 2015, disconnected from broader poetic histories and practices, reproducing instead a kind of whitewashed art-world formalism.
I'm not saying that the politics of vanguardia are any less contentious than those of the avant-garde, only that they're a bit more capacious from my vantage point; I'm thinking, for example of Trilce and Tala as vanguardista texts that are also informed by a radically indigenous sensibility (even if they're often not read that way), as are various works of Brazilian modernismo. Can you imagine how different recent U.S. poetryland debates might have been if we had a way of talking about race/ethnicity and the avant-garde the way Trilce and Tala (and various de Rokha works, I should add) let us consider the possibility of an indigenous vanguardia?
I've always loved Lorenzo Thomas's Extraordinary Measures: Afrocentric Modernism and 20th-Century American Poetry partly because it fleshes out an alternative modernism that both complements and subverts the Anglo-American one, and in that way it allows for a poetic counter-history. As a critic, I can't help but care about these poetic genealogies, about their promise and their problems, and as a translator, I'm fascinated by how vanguardia and avant-garde function as false cognates. Mistranslation has its own energies, synergies, and genealogies.
KD: You recently translated poems by Amanda Berenguer that play off concrete poetry traditions as well as concept. Some were originally published in her 1976 collection, Composición de Lugar (1976), while others ran in magazines. Here I’m including the first and third pages from her sequentially unfolding poem, “Sea-sunset from Saturday 26 February 1972.” What questions and observations occurred to you during the translation process?
[The important visual alignment on the lower segment is imperfect coming from my hands; a properly formatted version will be printed by Ugly Duckling Presse.]
Sea-sunset from Saturday 26 February 1972
A lone fleeting fruit
disproportionate.
Nobody reaches her.
She is swallowed skillfully
by the horizon.
Space is a mouth
stained with blood
now empty.
And we are hungry.
[. . . ]
Complete poem forthcoming in Materia Prima, a bilingual anthology
of poetry by Amanda Berenguer, from Ugly Duckling Presse.
UN: I was struck by her tone and her mood. Berenguer's concrete poetry is far removed from the sleek, mid-century international modernism of the Brazilian concretistas (even though concretismo did not shy away from a political critique of modernity's import-export logic). Still, Berenguer's concrete works are often dark and violent in ways that illuminate the rise of the dictatorship in 1970s Uruguay.
Hunger is key in the poem included here, and it's clearly a personal-social-spiritual hunger. Let's not forget that concretismo is also, as Haroldo de Campos famously put it, “poesia em tempo de fome” (poetry in a time of hunger), even as it anticipated many of the moves of contemporary Anglo conceptualists (the move away from reading text, the turn toward visual art and institutional critique/complicity). In Berenguer's case, I was intrigued by the idea that the move toward concrete poetry was a way of saying what couldn't be said given censorship and persecution, of speaking truth to power in the context of dictatorship and Cold-war militarization while remaining strategically illegible.
As befits its title, Composición de Lugar seems to be about composing an alternative spatial politics in and against the spatial politics of an emerging neoliberal order that, as Borzutzky reminds us, operated largely through U.S.-backed dictatorships (see Operation Condor). It would be fascinating to compare what Berenguer is doing here to the meditation on the status of racialized and policed bodies in Claudia Rankine's Citizen, if only to reflect on how and why the conceptual and the avant-garde as institutionally visible in the U.S. mostly define themselves in opposition to such critical engagements.
KD: Reflecting on various interdisciplinary moments in the arts where translation is a sometime presence or mode: Your photograph for this page was taken by Adál Maldonado, and I’m thrilled to have his contribution. You’ve published scholarship referencing his artwork, which ranges in handling from more iconic and subdued imagery into different registers of the avant. What does it mean to you to become a subject of his photography?
UN: Adál's work is important to me on multiple levels. Along with Pietri, he invited me to read and encouraged me early on, and his work remains an essential reference. In my book on Nuyorican poetry I touch upon the experimental and even conceptual turn in Pietri's work in the 1970s, and Adál is in many ways the pioneer of that turn.
His “out-of-focus” take on the problematics of diasporic Puerto Rican representation in the El Puerto Rican Embassy website (a collaboration with Pietri) works as a series of conceptual jokes and as a brilliant meditation on deterritorialized Puerto Rican identity. Inspired by the Royal Chicano Air Force, Adál realized that the problem of Latina/o political representation is the problem of representation in art, or at least that the latter could illuminate the former through works that challenged the terms of visibility and representation. (If this sounds a bit academic, it's because I'm writing an article about it.)
At the same time, Adál's work is (like Pietri's) very funny in a profound way, and its promise of a potentially disruptive political humor, as dada as it is decolonial, is one that animates my own creative work.
It's a thrill to be photographed for his Cuerpo del Poema (a collaboration with poet Irizelma Robles) alongside so many wonderful poets spanning the island and the diaspora. It's also moving, because, as conceptually charged as Adál's work is, it's also building bridges and doing the crucial, old-school work of documenting histories and communities. It's making visible even as it questions what we see. I guess you could call it vanguardia.
Adál
Pablo de Rokha
Urayoán Noel
This series tracks recognitions and convergences that give rise to bodies of work in translation. Emerging out of my time spent with Cuban poetry, as well as other writings from this hemisphere, most entries address some intersection between Latin America and the United States, and/or Spanish and English within the US. Some entries center on writers and works that motivate me to continue translating. Others loop outwards to envisage other translators & their translations, and test the frames mounted around translation.
Photograph by Anna Deeny, 2015
Kristin Dykstra’s translations of poetry collections by Reina María Rodríguez, Juan Carlos Flores, Angel Escobar, and Marcelo Morales are published and forthcoming from the University of Alabama Press. She previously translated other books from Cuba, including works by Rodríguez and Omar Pérez, available in bilingual editions from Factory School, Green Integer and Shearsman Books. Dykstra is completing additional books by Pérez, Morales, and the Uruguayan writer Amanda Berenguer, among others. Parallel Editions and Red Hydra Press have published and forthcoming bilingual fine arts editions with her translations of poetry by Rodríguez and Rito Ramón Aroche. With Kent Johnson, Dykstra is co-editor of Materia Prima, an anthology dedicated to Berenguer forthcoming from Ugly Duckling Presse. She co-edited Mandorla: New Writing from the Americas / Nueva escritura de las Américas from 2004-2014 with Gabriel Bernal Granados and Roberto Tejada. Dykstra lives in Hinesburg, Vermont.
Bird, La Bruja
Geometries of everything / 'Galiano St. Variety'
Irrealities
Line to list
Mahh-racas
Messiness
Mega what? — the audio
Out-of-synchness, taste, the Slavic span, friends
Proto/types
Quick now
Quiet now
Slippages
Transcreation / Transcriação
Vis-à-vis miau
Work in progress: A Robopoem@s photo essay
Xeno / with audio
Yoandy Cabrera on Rito Aroche
'Cosmos and Recycling / Cosmos y reciclaje'
Blaffer Museum
Daniel Borzutzky
Jen Hofer
Johannes Göransson
John Pluecker
language justice
Yoandy Cabrera
Rito Aroche
Pindaric
Deinós
hybridity
Omar Pérez
Dennis Casteleiro
Robopoemas
Tina Escaja
Robopoem@s
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All it takes is a spark: Previous ordnance depots fires (Lead, changing figures in Para 2)
International . Difficult
The following is the list of major fire disasters at India's ordnance depots that have always raised questions about alleged safety violations at these defence facilities in the country.
Pulgaon, Maharashtra, May 31, 2016: 16 persons were killed when a major fire engulfed India's largest ammunition depot in Maharashtra's Pulgaon, in Wardha district.
Vishakapatnam, December 8, 2015: Five persons were injured when a fire broke out during a regular exercise.
Panagarh, West Bengal, March 26, 2010: A major fire broke out at the Panagarh depot.
No casualties were reported but the depot suffered huge losses.
Bhuj, Gujarat, December 4, 2008: Two army men were killed in the blaze at the Bhuj depot after a bomb exploded during routine inspection of old and outdated ammunition.
Khandroo, Jammu and Kashmir, August 12, 2007: Two army men and a civilian were killed and over 40 others injured in a major blaze at the ordnance depot in south Kashmir.
Pathankot, Jammu and Kashmir, April 29, 2001: A huge fire broke out in the ammunition dump of the army's Mamoon Cantonment near Pathankot in Gurdaspur district.
There were no casualties.
Bharatpur, Rajasthan, May 2, 2000: Three civilians were killed due to shrapnel and splinters in nearby villages after fire erupted at the ordnance depot in Sewar town of Bharatpur.
violations inspection facilities casualties ammunition splinters questions following disasters civilians
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HCV genotype 3: a wolf in sheep’s clothing
Journal: Expert Review of Anti-infective Therapy
DOI:10.1586/14787210.2016.1127757
José-R. Blancoa* & Antonio Rivero-Juarez
1a Infectious Diseases Area. Hospital San Pedro - Center for Biomedical Research of La Rioja (CIBIR) . Piqueras 98, 26006 Logroño , La Rioja ( Spain ).
2b Infectious Diseases Unit. Instituto Maimonides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC) . Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía de Córdoba. Universidad de Córdoba . Avda. Menendez Pidal s/n, 14004 Córdoba , Córdoba ( Spain ).
Publishing models and article dates explained
Received: 16 Sep 2015
Accepted: 30 Nov 2015
Accepted author version posted online: 03 Dec 2015
Keywords: Hepatitis C, Genotype 3, Metabolic syndrome, Hepatocellular carcinoma
Download as PDF or Interactive PDF
"All truths are easy to understand once they are discovered; the point is to discover them". Galileo Galilei"
At present, the hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality affecting over 185 million people worldwide,[1] equivalent to a global prevalence of about 2.5% in 2015. Genotype 3 (HCV G3) is one of the seven recognized genotypes.[2] HCV G3 is the second most common genotype overall and is estimated to account for 54.3 million cases throughout the world (30.1%).[1] Although three-quarters of them occur in South Asia where it is endemic, the 3a subtype is an “epidemic subtype“ widely distributed geographically, probably associated with injecting drug use.[3]
In the last two years, the history of HCV infection has changed radically with the appearance of the new direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs).[4] Although HCV G3 was one of those genotypes who achieved a better sustained viral response (SVR) using pegylated interferon and ribavirin (PEG-IFN/Rbv) therapy,[5] the current effectiveness of the new DAAs against HCV G3 leaves a lot to be desired compared with the results obtained with other genotypes.[6] This is a major problem since, compared to other genotypes, HCV G3 is associated with faster progression of fibrosis,[7,8] a greater risk for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC),[8-10] and a higher mortality.[11] Why is it so pathogenic and resistant to treatment? The reasons for this “aggressiveness” are without doubt multiple, complex and not well known.
First, it is important to remember that the host immune response plays an important role in HCV G3 infection because of its potential to contribute to viral clearance. So, acutely HCV-infected patients are much more likely to spontaneously clear HCV if they are infected with HCV G3 than HCV G1.[12] Indeed, chronically infected HCV G3 patients had higher SVR rates after shorter treatment with PEG-IFN/Rbv therapy when compared to those with chronic HCV G1 infection.[13] One of the possible reasons could be that in monocytic cell and plasmacytoid dendritic cell lines and in macrophages differentiated from monocytes with macrophage colony-stimulating factor, HCV G3 induces greater interferon transcription than either genotype 1a or 1b.[14] However, this apparent benefit may backfire because of the increased rate of fibrosis progression of HCV G3, probably due to the higher non-parenchymal cell transcription of IFN genes following intracellular HCV G3 sensing.[14]
It has been reported previously that HCV G3 is associated with a significantly increased risk of developing cirrhosis and HCC compared to HCV G1, and association that is independent of the patients’ age, diabetes, body mass index, or antiviral treatment.[8] The high viremia observed in HCV G3-infected patients may be a marker of rapid disease damage, reflecting either the inability of the immune system to control the infection or the existence of some escape mechanisms in HCV G3 which prevents the immune system response from being effective.[15]
Secondly, another problem that is not well understood is the interaction between HCV and lipid metabolism.[16] So, HCV G3 selectively interferes with the late cholesterol synthesis pathway,[17] although this interference is resolved after the SVR. Other mechanisms that alter lipid metabolism are increased the novo lipogenesis and the inhibition of mitochondrial fatty acid degradation.[18] At what level of lipid metabolism does HCV G3 work? Is the damage the consequence of the virus or of its proteins in infected hepatocytes? Given that, in previous studies, the variables independently associated with SVR were high LDL levels,[19,20] low HDL levels [19] and statin use,[19] one might think that statins would be a useful option for such patients. Nonetheless, this is not actually the case with HCV G3. In one analysis of patients with HCV 1-3 genotypes who received combination therapy with PEG-IFN/Rbv, the significant impact of statin use was only observed among the HCV G1 patients.[20] Similar findings were reported by Selic Kurincic et al.[21]
Steatosis is a common histologic finding in patients infected by HCV G3, independently of the presence of fibrosis, diabetes, hepatic inflammation, ongoing alcohol abuse, higher body mass index, and older age.[22] Indeed, steatosis in HCV G3 infected patients is not the result of overexpression of genes involved in lipogenesis.[23] The higher rates of hepatic steatosis in HCV G3 patients, even in absence of other metabolic complications, suggest that some specific viral sequences may be involved in the etiology of steatosis.[18] In fact, after reaching SVR, hepatic steatosis in these patients had disappeared.[24,25] Another possible explanation for the high presence of steatosis could be that HCV G3 steatosis induces the liberation of proinflammatory chemokines that increase the recruitment of inflammatory cells to the liver.[14] In support of this idea, the depletion of liver Kupffer cells prevents the development of diet-induced hepatic steatosis and insulin resistance.[26]
It is important to bear in mind that there is a significant correlation between the steatosis score and the titer of intrahepatic HCV RNA in patients with HCV G3, providing virological and some clinical evidence that steatosis is the morphological expression of a viral cytopathic effect in patients infected with this genotype.[27] This finding has important implications, such as lower SVR rates or higher relapse rates after HCV treatment.[28,29] Is steatosis a marker of rapid progression or bad prognosis in HCV G3 infected patients?
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (steatosis/steatohepatitis) is similarly recognized as the hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome (MS). HCV virus genotype 3 infection increases the risk of insulin resistance and diabetes, probably due to the direct effect of the virus on intracellular insulin signaling.[30] This situation not only increases the cardiovascular risk but also reduces the likelihood of achieving a SVR.[31] Another common manifestation of MS is obesity, a problem that also increases the expression of some inflammatory cytokines and activates several signaling pathways involved in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance.[32] The inflammation may also contribute to the pathogenesis of liver damage.[33] Obesity has also been correlated with a lower SVR rate.[34] Once again, this opens up an interesting way to research the mechanisms involving MS and SVR in these patients. Are insulin resistance and/or obesity indicators of the the existence of an established liver damage, even though we are unable to diagnose it? Is there some symbiotic relationship between the adipocytes and HCV G3 that reduces the efficacy of the DAAs? In view of the higher rates of SVR using the new DAAs, is the presence of MS still important in chronic HCV infection?.[35] Probably not, but there is as yet no concrete answer for this question and so the controversy about steatosis and HCV remains. Valenti et al also reported that the rs738409 genotype, a polymorphism that influences liver fat without affecting insulin resistance and body composition, was associated with severe hepatic steatosis in patients infected with a non-3 HCV genotype, and also with fibrosis stage and cirrhosis (OR = 1.47; P = 0.002).[36] Similarly, Cai et al [37] reported that rs738409 was associated with an increased risk of steatosis in patients infected with a non-3 HCV genotype. These results suggest distinct pathogenic mechanisms in the 3 and non-3 genotypes.
Moving on to the third point, and so concluding this topic, it is necessary to understand the clinical implications of the different HCV G3 subtypes (in other words, immunity, inflammation, prognosis, response to DAAs). This is something we already known for HCV G1a and 1b.[38] At least 10 HCV G3 subtypes have been described so far.[39] Are some of these HCV G3 subtypes able to evade the immune response? Can we expect the same SVR for different subtypes? The correct identification of HCV G3 subtypes would probably be necessary because they are crucial in clinical trials evaluating the new DAAs. No data have so far stratified the response of HCV G3 to the new DAAs, which could be an essential issue that requires further investigation.
In summary, given the aggressiveness of HCV G3, it is increasingly necessary to initiate antiviral treatment as soon as possible in all patients, including those with steatosis and/or MS. In these patients, even those with SVR, continued surveillance is necessary, paying careful attention to patients with cirrhosis. There is no doubt that better knowledge of HCV G3 should be a priority for us all.
JR Blanco has carried out consulting work for Abbvie, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Gilead Sciences, Janssen, Merck, and ViiV Healthcare; has received compensation for lectures from Abbvie, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Gilead Sciences, Janssen, Merck, and ViiV Healthcare, as well as grants and payments for the development of educational presentations for Gilead Sciences and BristolMyers Squibb. A Rivero-Juarez is the recipient of a Postdoctoral Perfection Grant from Fundación Progreso y Salud, Consejería de Salud y Políticas Sociales, Junta de Andalucia (0024-RH-2013). He has received compensation for lectures from Bristol-Myers Squibb, Janssen, Merck, and ViiV Healthcare.The authors have no other relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript apart from those disclosed.
1. Mohd Hanafiah K, Groeger J, Flaxman AD, Wiersma ST. Global epidemiology of hepatitis C virus infection: new estimates of age-specific antibody to HCV seroprevalence. Hepatology. 2013;57(4):1333-1342.
2. Smith DB, Bukh J, Kuiken C, Muerhoff AS, Rice CM, Stapleton JT, et al. Expanded classification of hepatitis C virus into 7 genotypes and 67 subtypes: updated criteria and genotype assignment web resource. Hepatology. 2014;59(1):318-327.
3. Pybus OG, Cochrane A, Holmes EC, Simmonds P. The hepatitis C virus epidemic among injecting drug users. Infect. Genet. Evol. 2005;5(2):131- 139.
4. Gentile I, Buonomo AR, Zappulo E, Borgia G. Interferon-free therapies for chronic hepatitis C: toward a hepatitis C virus-free world? Expert. Rev. Anti. Infect. Ther. 2014;12(7):763-773.
5. Hoofnagle JH, Seeff LB. Peginterferon and ribavirin for chronic hepatitis C. N. Engl. J. Med. 2006;355(23):2444-2451.
6. AASLD/IDSA HCV Guidance Panel Hepatitis C guidance: AASLD-IDSA recommendations for testing, managing, and treating adults infected with hepatitis C virus. Hepatology. 2015;62(3):932-54.
7. Probst A, Dang T, Bochud M, Egger M, Negro F, Bochud PY. Role of hepatitis C virus genotype 3 in liver fibrosis progression--a systematic review and meta-analysis. J. Viral Hepat. 2011;18(11):745-759.
8. Kanwal F, Kramer JR, Ilyas J, Duan Z, El-Serag HB. HCV genotype 3 is associated with an increased risk of cirrhosis and hepatocellular cancer in a national sample of U.S. Veterans with HCV. Hepatology. 2014;60(1):98- 105.
9. Nkontchou G, Ziol M, Aout M, Lhabadie M, Baazia Y, Mahmoudi A, et al. HCV genotype 3 is associated with a higher hepatocellular carcinoma incidence in patients with ongoing viral C cirrhosis. J. Viral Hepat. 2011;18(10):e516-522.
10. McCombs J, Matsuda T, Tonnu-Mihara I, Saab S, Hines P, L'italien G, et al. The risk of long-term morbidity and mortality in patients with chronic hepatitis C: results from an analysis of data from a Department of Veterans Affairs Clinical Registry. JAMA Intern. Med. 2014;174(2):204-212.
11. van der Meer AJ, Veldt BJ, Feld JJ, Wedemeyer H, Dufour JF, Lammert F, et al. Association between sustained virological response and all-cause mortality among patients with chronic hepatitis C and advanced hepatic fibrosis. JAMA. 2012;308(24):2584-2593.
12. Lehmann M, Meyer MF, Monazahian M, Tillmann HL, Manns MP, Wedemeyer H. High rate of spontaneous clearance of acute hepatitis C virus genotype 3 infection. J. Med. Virol. 2004;73(3):387-391.
13. Hadziyannis SJ, Sette H Jr, Morgan TR, Balan V, Diago M, Marcellin P, et al. Peginterferon-alpha2a and ribavirin combination therapy in chronic hepatitis C: a randomized study of treatment duration and ribavirin dose. Ann. Intern. Med. 2004;140(5):346-355.
14. Mitchell AM, Stone AE, Cheng L, Ballinger K, Edwards MG, Stoddard M, et al. Transmitted/founder hepatitis C viruses induce cell-type- and genotypespecific differences in innate signaling within the liver. MBio. 2015;6(2):e02510.
15. Buti M, Esteban R. Hepatitis C virus genotype 3: a genotype that is not 'easy-to-treat'. Expert Rev. Gastroenterol. Hepatol. 2015;9(3):375-385.
16. Clement S, Peyrou M, Sanchez-Pareja A, Bourgoin L, Ramadori P, Suter D, et al. Down-regulation of phosphatase and tensin homolog by hepatitis C virus core 3a in hepatocytes triggers the formation of large lipid droplets. Hepatology. 2011;54(1):38-49.
17. Clark PJ, Thompson AJ, Vock DM, Kratz LE, Tolun AA, Muir AJ, et al. Hepatitis C virus selectively perturbs the distal cholesterol synthesis pathway in a genotype-specific manner. Hepatology 2012;56(1):49-56.
18. Negro F. Hepatitis C virus-induced steatosis: an overview. Dig Dis. 2010;28(1):294-299.
19. Harrison SA, Rossaro L, Hu KQ, Patel K, Tillmann H, Dhaliwal S, et al. Serum cholesterol and statin use predict virological response to peginterferon and ribavirin therapy. Hepatology 2010;52(3):864-874.
20. Pandya P, Rzouq F, Oni O. Sustained virologic response and other potential genotype-specific roles of statins among patients with hepatitis Crelated chronic liver diseases. Clin. Res. Hepatol. Gastroenterol. 2015;39(5):555-565.
21. Selic Kurincic T, Lesnicar G, Poljak M, Meglic Volkar J, Rajter M, Prah J, et al. Impact of added fluvastatin to standard-of-care treatment on sustained virological response in naive chronic hepatitis C patients infected with genotypes 1 and 3. Intervirology. 2014;57(1):23-30.
22. Leandro G, Mangia A, Hui J, Fabris P, Rubbia-Brandt L, Colloredo G, et al. Relationship between steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis in chronic hepatitis C: a meta-analysis of individual patient data. Gastroenterology, 2006;130(6):1636-1642. Downloaded by [68.43.174.156] at 12:46 07 December 2015
23. Ryan MC, Desmond PV, Slavin JL, Congiu M. Expression of genes involved in lipogenesis is not increased in patients with HCV genotype 3 in human liver. J. Viral Hepat. 2011;18(1):53-60.
24. Poynard T, Ratziu V, McHutchison J, Manns M, Goodman Z, Zeuzem S, et al. Effect of treatment with peginterferon or interferon alfa-2b and ribavirin on steatosis in patients infected with hepatitis C. Hepatology. 2003;38(1):75-85.
25. Kumar D, Farrell GC, Fung C, George J. Hepatitis C virus genotype 3 is cytopathic to hepatocytes: Reversal of hepatic steatosis after sustained therapeutic response. Hepatology 2002;36(5):1266-1272.
26. Huang W, Metlakunta A, Dedousis N, Zhang P, Sipula I, Dube JJ, et al. Depletion of liver Kupffer cells prevents the development of diet-induced hepatic steatosis and insulin resistance. Diabetes 2010;59(2):347-357.
27. Rubbia-Brandt L, Quadri R, Abid K, Giostra E, Malé PJ, Mentha G, et al. Hepatocyte steatosis is a cytopathic effect of hepatitis C virus genotype 3. J. Hepatol. 2000;33(1):106-115.
28. Aziz H, Gill U, Raza A, Gill ML. Metabolic syndrome is associated with poor treatment response to antiviral therapy in chronic hepatitis C genotype 3 patients. Eur. J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol. 2014;26(5):538-543.
29. Restivo L, Zampino R, Guerrera B, Ruggiero L, Adinolfi LE. Steatosis is the predictor of relapse in HCV genotype 3- but not 2-infected patients treated with 12 weeks of pegylated interferon-alpha-2a plus ribavirin and RVR. J. Viral Hepat. 2012;19(5):346-352.
30. Kawaguchi T, Yoshida T, Harada M, Hisamoto T, Nagao Y, Ide T, et al. Hepatitis C virus down-regulates insulin receptor substrates 1 and 2 through up-regulation of suppressor of cytokine signaling 31. Am. J. Pathol. 2004;165(5):1499-1508. 31. Poustchi H, Negro F, Hui J, Cua IH, Brandt LR, Kench JG, et al. Insulin resistance and response to therapy in patients infected with chronic hepatitis C virus genotypes 2 and 3. J. Hepatol. 2008;48(1):28-34.
32. Chen L, Chen R, Wang H, Liang F. Mechanisms linking inflammation to insulin resistance. Int. J. Endocrinol. 2015;2015:508409.
33. Szabo G, Petrasek J. Inflammasome activation and function in liver disease. Nat. Rev. Gastroenterol. Hepatol. 2015;12(7):387-400.
All truths are easy to understand once they are discovered
; the point is to
discover them
Posted by HCV New Drugs at Monday, December 07, 2015
File Under geno3, HCV News, HCV research, HCV-Editorial
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Algonquin Highlands Heritage Map
This Help page is a guide for you to make the most of the Algonquin Highlands Heritage Map. All site features are detailed here to aid your investigations.
The Algonquin Highlands Heritage Map is a mapping of the culturally significant points of interest in the Algonquin Highlands. Each location has been plotted on the map using GPS coordinates and applied one of our cultural filters.
Once you have browsed our interactive map, why not come and see our many sites in person?
Best of all, you can bring the Algonquin Highlands Heritage Map with you! Visit the site on any mobile device for a whole new experience and way to tour the County.
Happy exploring!
The Heritage Map makes it easy to browse and learn about the region's many cultural features.
We have identified all of our locations with a cultural theme, as listed below. You can select or deselect any of the filters at the bottom of your page, which narrows or expands your results accordingly. Your results will show on the right listings as well as on the map.
Using the Heritage Map is a simple process.
Because it’s built with Google Maps, using the Algonquin Highlands Heritage Map is just as easy as using Google Maps and contains many of the same features. For instance, you can still use the following tools to manipulate your map view:
Zoom +/-
Drag to move
Map view or satellite view
The Algonquin Highlands Heritage Map also has some new features to help you navigate our cultural locations:
Anywhere you go, the map can be taken with you in the palm of your hand with any mobile device. Use your phone or tablet to see what's nearby and help you tour the region to explore further.
Multiple listings on the map show in a single icon with the number of locations therein.
To view these separately and geographically, zoom in using the tool or by clicking on the number icon.
Hovering over icons will provide a summary of that location
To view the details of a location indicated by an icon, simply click it to show the associated locations in the right-hand display
Depending on how you have refined your map by selecting categories, your results will not only show on the map but also in the right-hand locations display. From here you can select a specific cultural point and a detailed expanded window will open up. But do not worry if you want to go back or have lost your way, there are always breadcrumbs to take you back home again.
You may also refine your options by searching for words or towns, as indicated above.
Have a look around and view the beautiful photos and videos, and when you see something that you like make sure to share it on Facebook or Twitter!
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George’s Vault
History of Jean Cocteau Cinema
Beastly Books
Product Tag - Thrones
View cart “Feast of Ice and Fire Cookbook” has been added to your cart.
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A Clash of Kings: The Illustrated Edition
By George R. R. Martin
Signed Hardcover
A stunning illustrated edition of the second book in the beloved A Song of Ice and Fire series, for fans of HBO’s Game of Thrones.Continuing the celebration of the twentieth anniversary of George R. R. Martin’s landmark series, this gorgeously illustrated special edition of A Clash of Kings features over twenty all-new illustrations from Lauren K. Cannon, both color and black-and-white, bringing glorious new life to this modern classic.
Signed Hardcover, Trade Paperback, and Mass Market
Sweeping from a harsh land of cold to a summertime kingdom of epicurean plenty, A Game of Thrones tells a tale of lords and ladies, soldiers and sorcerers, assassins and bastards, who come together in a time of grim omens. Here an enigmatic band of warriors bear swords of no human metal; a tribe of fierce wildlings carry men off into madness; a cruel young dragon prince barters his sister to win back his throne; a child is lost in the twilight between life and death; and a determined woman undertakes a treacherous journey to protect all she holds dear. Amid plots and counter-plots, tragedy and betrayal, victory and terror, allies and enemies, the fate of the Starks hangs perilously in the balance, as each side endeavors to win that deadliest of conflicts: the game of thrones
King Robert Baratheon is dead, and the lands of Westeros brace for battle. In the second edition of A Game of Thrones: The Board Game, three to six players take on the roles of the great Houses of the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros, as they vie for control of the Iron Throne. Based on the best-selling A Song of Ice and Fire series by George R.R. Martin, A Game of Thrones is an epic board game in which it will take more than military might to win. Through strategic planning, masterful diplomacy, and clever card play, spread your influence over Westeros!
A Game of Thrones: The Card Game Core Set
Across the Seven Kingdoms, the Great Houses of Westeros struggle to control the Iron Throne. As the influential House Baratheon, honorable House Stark, treacherous House Lannister, and fierce House Targraryen vie in a life-or-death struggle for the future of the realm, dark and supernatural forces amass outside the kingdom’s defensive wall. Winter is coming. Do you have what it takes to emerge victorious in the only game that matters, A Game of Thrones?
A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms
Before Tyrion Lannister and Podrick Payne, there was Dunk and Egg. A young, naïve but ultimately courageous hedge knight, Ser Duncan the Tall towers above his rivals—in stature if not experience. Tagging along is his diminutive squire, a boy called Egg—whose true name is hidden from all he and Dunk encounter. Though more improbable heroes may not be found in all of Westeros, great destinies lay ahead for these two . . . as do powerful foes, royal intrigue, and outrageous exploits.
Feast of Ice and Fire Cookbook
By Chelsea Monroe-Cassel and Sariann Lehrer
A Game of Thrones Cookbook
Signed Hardcover by George R. R. Martin
A passion project from superfans and amateur chefs Chelsea Monroe-Cassel and Sariann Lehrer—and endorsed by George R. R. Martin himself—A Feast of Ice and Fire lovingly replicates a stunning range of cuisines from across the Seven Kingdoms and beyond. From the sumptuous delicacies enjoyed in the halls of power at King’s Landing, to the warm and smoky comfort foods of the frozen North, to the rich, exotic fare of the mysterious lands east of Westeros, there’s a flavor for every palate, and a treat for every chef.
Fire & Blood
The thrilling history of the Targaryens comes to life in this masterly work by the author of A Song of Ice and Fire, the inspiration for HBO’s Game of Thrones. With all the fire and fury fans have come to expect from internationally bestselling author George R. R. Martin, this is the first volume of the definitive two-part history of the Targaryens in Westeros.
Game of Thrones 20th Anniversary Edition
Published in celebration of the twentieth anniversary of George R. R. Martin’s landmark series, this lavishly illustrated special edition of A Game of Thrones—featuring gorgeous full-page artwork as well as black-and-white illustrations in every chapter—revitalizes the fantasy masterpiece that became a cultural phenomenon. And now the mystery, intrigue, romance, and adventure of this magnificent saga come to life as never before.
Game of Thrones Coloring Book
Signed Trade Paperback
Now, for the first time, fans of this blockbuster saga can fill in the blanks and marvel as this meticulously imagined universe comes to life, one sword, sigil, and castle at a time. With dozens of stunning original black-and-white illustrations from world-renowned illustrators Yvonne Gilbert, John Howe, Tomislav Tomić, Adam Stower, and Levi Pinfold, this unique collector’s item expands the reach of an international phenomenon with flying colors.
Game of Thrones Graphic Novel Vol. 1
You’ve read the books. You’ve watched the hit series on HBO. Now acclaimed novelist Daniel Abraham and illustrator Tommy Patterson bring George R. R. Martin’s epic fantasy masterwork A Game of Thrones to majestic new life in the pages of this full-color graphic novel. Comprised of the initial six issues of the graphic series, this is the first volume in what is sure to be one of the most coveted collaborations of the year.
Novelist Daniel Abraham and illustrator Tommy Patterson are not merely turning George R. R. Martin’s epic fantasy A Game of Thrones into a graphic novel: They are meticulously translating one art form into another, and capturing the intricate nuances of Martin’s novels just as HBO is doing with the blockbuster series. The Abraham/Patterson collaboration is more than just a faithful adaptation. It is a labor of love—and a thrilling masterwork in its own right.
When dealing with a masterpiece, only the best will do. That’s why writer Daniel Abraham and illustrator Tommy Patterson were chosen to adapt George R. R. Martin’s beloved fantasy classic A Game of Thrones as a graphic novel. And as anyone who has read the previous two collected volumes of the ongoing series can attest, the result has been a stunning tour de force faithful in every respect to its brilliant original
Movies/showtimes: 505-466-5528
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Thursday – 12 – 8pm
Friday – 12 – 10pm
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© Copyright 2018. Jean Cocteau Cinema. All Rights Reserved
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What I’m Watching and Reading
The Great Gatsby F. Scott Fitzgerald
LoTR J.R.R. Tolkien
Watership Down. Richard Adams
The Once and Future King T.H. White
Lord of Light Roger Zelzany
A Wizard of Earthsea Ursula K. LeGuin
The Prince of Tides Pat Conroy
A Tale of Two Cities Charles Dickens
Catch-22 Joseph Heller
Favorite Music - Grateful Dead, Janis Ian
Favorite TV: (short list- he loves TV) Rome, Deadwood, The Expanse, Boardwalk Empire, Big Bang Theory
Favorite Science Fiction & Fantasy Movies: Aliens, The Princess Bride, Blade Runner, LOTR, Dark City, Pan’s Labyrinth, Hell Boy
View our Author Event Series @ Jean Cocteau Cinema
https://youtu.be/S9AxEjlj1Q8?list=PLP-d_0t989GMKNX2jqcuGWFeAX_CO83ZZ
Not a Blog George R.R. Martin
RIP Mike
by grrm on January 15, 2020 at 2:33 am
I was deeply saddened this week to read of the death of Mike Resnick, one of the true giants of contemporary science fiction. Mike has been battling serious illness for some time, so the news did not come as a complete surprise… but it came too soon, too soon, and our field and our community
Hugo Nominations Open
by grrm on January 6, 2020 at 9:57 pm
CoNZealand, this year’s World Science Fiction Convention, has announced that nominations are now open for the 2020 Hugo Awards. To nominate, you need to be a member of either this year’s worldcon, or last year’s Dublin convention. You can nominate either electronically, or with a paper ballot (though very few chose the latter method these
Toolbox Opens
by grrm on December 16, 2019 at 10:57 pm
Walter Jon Williams informs me that he is now taking applications for the 2020 version of the Taos Toolbox, his “graduate level” workshop for aspiring writers of science fiction and fantasy. This year’s gathering will be June 7-20… not actually in Taos, confusingly, but nearby in Angel Fire, in the Land of Enchantment. Walter Jon
(Novella)
NIGHTFLYERS and OTHER STORIES
(Anthology)
(Graphic Novel)
Low Chicago
(WildCards)
Mississippi Roll
The Book of Swords
7/16/19 Low Chicago Trade Paperback
7/30/19 The 2020 A Song of Ice and Fire Calendar
8/13/19 Wild Cards: Knave Over Queens
10/1/19 A Clash of Kings Graphic Novel Vol. 2
11/5/19 20th Anniversary Edition of A Clash of Kings
To Be Announced and for more info follow on twitter @ https://twitter.com/GRRMspeaking
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Krzycz – Trauma 2CD
Pin Park – Krautpark LP (black)
HomeCompact Discs (CD)Pin Park – Krautpark CD
Pin Park – Krautpark CD
SKU: CLASSIC062CD Category: Compact Discs (CD) Tags: Krautpark, Kristen, Maciej Bączyk, Pin Park
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May 17 2017 marks the release date of “Krautpark” – the debut album from Pin Park. Pin Park are a duo consisting of Maciek Bączyk (Kristen, Robotobibok) and Maciek Polak. Together they explore the nether regions of improvised electronic music mixing influences ranging from Cluster to Boards of Canada.
“We’ve known each other for years now. We met when Bączyk’s synth broke down just before he was supposed to enter the studio with Robotobibok and he was looking for a replacement. I agreed to lend him mine,” recalls Polak. “But it was only two years ago when we started improvising together,” adds Bączyk. “Both of us own EMS synths and these are not that common. We didn’t set ourselves any goals, the band started by assuming two EMS’s are better than one. We plugged them in and the result will soon land in your hands in the form of ‘Krautpark’ album,” recalls Polak.
“EMS synths have an unique system of connections between counterparts – you can do that by inserting a pin that allows for connections. As well, EMS constructors managed to assemble a perfect set of parts that resulted in a wonderful sound. Thanks to all of this, the Synthi resembles a complete musical instrument, much like a cello”, explains Polak. “I personally enjoy Synthi AKS mainly due to the fact that I’m not what you would call a keyboard player,” adds Bączyk. “I’m not that interested in being innovative just for the sake of innovation,” he says.
Pin Park’s album is named after one of the tracks that recalls the golden age of German electronic music. “This one seemed pretty obvious although you need to know that our aim is not to create a genre-oriented music. We just turn the knobs and hope for the right energy to arrive. Once everything is in its place, we start recording. But it needs to be mentioned that I feel some kind of affinity for bands such as Cluster, Harmonia and Kraftwerk. I really like the approach Roedelius and Moebius had – living up to the idea of Joseph Beuys “Every man an artist”. They chose their tools (instruments) and recorded a couple of amazing albums. Their music is really intuitive and void of any false additions. It’s just free improvising and pure, surreal psychedelia,” explains Bączyk.
“Krautpark” is a largely improvised album. Mostly, due to the fact that Bączyk and Polak need around 15-20 minutes of playing before learning if the direction they’re taking is the right one. “If it is, we quickly agree on who will be taking the lead role, we turn the volume down and start recording. We usually take one approach, though a multitrack one to facilitate mixing later in the process,” says Bączyk.
The Dead Goats – Path of the Goat CD
Alchimia – Lucile CD
Stara Rzeka – Cień chmury nad ukrytym polem CD
Kaseciarz – Motorcycle Rock and Roll CD
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The nation's top betting experts from OffshoreInsiders.com bring you news and notes of interest to the bettor.
Iowa-Michigan State
Iowa will have the services of RB Shonn Greene, who suffered a head injury to Northwestern. Greene is averaging a splendid 6.7 yards per rush and 133 yards rushing per game.
Oklahoma-Baylor
Mike Godsey, the top football handicapper ever, and part of the Dream Team of GodsTips on OffshoreInsiders.com, says this is a look ahead game for Oklahoma as they play Texas next. Look for the Sooners to rest injured DL Demarcus Granger and Frank Alexander.
Connecticut-North Carolina
The Huskies are going to be without starting QB Tyler Lorenzen and TE Steve Brouse. Sophomore Zach Frazer gets the start for UConn. In relief of Lorenzen, Frazer went 8-for-15 to Louisville with a TD.
Rutgers-West Virginia
Mountaineers QB Pat White is expected to play despite a bruised thumb. Bob Warner of Lines-Maker.com says "it's about White's legs anyway. He could have finished last week," but was taken out as a precaution in WVU's 27-3 rout of state rival Marshall.
Washington-Arizona
Washington starting QB Jake Locker is out. In four games, he's thrown for 512 yards, rushed for 180 and has a TD with his arm and three with his legs. Redshirt freshman Ronnie Fouch takes over. The Huskies will change the complexion of their offense as Fouch is a more traditional passer.
Texas Tech-Kansas State
Kansas State S Gary Chandler is suspended. He was the Big 12 defensive newcomer of the year last year with 54 tackles.
Arizona State-California
California will be without RB Jahvid Best. This is a devastating injury as he ranks third in the country in all-purpose yards at 215.5 per game. For the best sports service picks in college football, check out OffshoreInsiders.com
Posted by Critical Sports Betting Info at 4:03 PM No comments:
Official Betting Preview of Florida Atlantic-Middle Tennessee State
Here is the official betting preview of Florida Atlantic and Middle Tennessee State. The sportsbooks have MTSU as a 2-2.5 point favorite, with a total of 51.
FAU is 1-3 straight up, including 0-3 on the road. They are 2-2 against the spread and have gone over all three road contests. MTSU is also 1-3 straight up, but 1-1 at home. They are likewise 2-2 against the spread and all four of their games have gone under.
The Owls are 3-2 all-time straight up to the Red Raiders. We thought they were the Moccasins. FAU's quarterback Rusty Smith has thrown five interceptions against just four TDs. The Owls have been smashed by a combined 54-3 in their last two games. Smith, the preseason Sun Belt Player of the Year has completed just 25 of his last 68 passes.
Brian Gould of ScoresOddsPicks.com says that Smith and his supporting cast are capable of much more. "Most of the starting lineup for an offense that averaged 31.2 points per game last year is back."
MTSU has not faired much better, giving up 31 points in each of their Sun Belt Conference contests. Bob Warner of Lines-Maker.com says that MTSU has a very small and inexperienced offensive line. However, the Owls have shown no ability to stop mobile quarterbacks in the spread offense.
Keep in mind that Middle Tennessee does hold a win over Maryland, which was the Terrapins only setback in five games this year.
Neither team is facing a short week, each having not played in 10 days. The top football betting service in America is GodsTips. They have a huge play on tonight's game. Details are on the home page of OffshoreInsiders.com
Posted by Critical Sports Betting Info at 11:23 AM No comments:
Tuesday Betting
The Minnesota Twins will be looking to punch their ticket to the postseason on Tuesday night by beating the Chicago White Sox. Here's a look in your Daily Sports Roundup.
The Gridiron Spotlight
You won't want to shine the spotlight too brightly on Tuesday's college football matchup, as it's an underwhelming affair between 1-3 Florida Atlantic and 1-3 Middle Tennessee. The Owls managed to beat UAB a few weeks ago, but they couldn't get much going against any of Texas, Michigan State, or Minnesota. The Blue Raiders' lone win came against Maryland, and they've been beaten by Troy, Kentucky, and Arkansas State.
When these Sun Belt teams met last season Florida Atlantic came away with a 27-14 home win as 2.5-point favorites. Middle Tennessee had won the previous two meetings between these teams by identical scores of 35-14 (one at home, one on the road), covering the spread twice. The Blue Raiders opened as 1.5-point favorites for Tuesday.
Who to bet on to beat the Vegas odds on FAU and MTSU? The power of 620 sports services behind every selection is on a 43-23 run in football betting.
Kal Elner, a handicapper out of Reading, PA hits a consistent 65 percent when "waiving his normal star rating system". He is also the all-time top NBA totals capper. He waives the rating with his "Added Rotation Game of the Year" on Florida Atlantic/Middle Tennessee State. Click now to purchase for just $16 sports betting picks from the top sports services or you can get more information and a free sports pick
If mark to market accounting and the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act has you looking for a bailout, the top betting experts at OffshoreInsiders.com are always here for you. Forget the nihilism radio touts or Paul Perrault to get your money back. Get the best sports handicappers here.
The White Sox managed to beat the Tigers in their makeup game on Monday, so now they'll battle the Twins in a one-game playoff for first place in the AL Central and MLB's final postseason berth on Tuesday. The winner of this game will move on to face the Tampa Bay Rays in the ALDS, with that series getting underway Thursday afternoon.
The Twins will send Nick Blackburn (11-10, 4.15 ERA) to the mound on Tuesday, and the White Sox will counter with John Danks (11-9, 3.47 ERA). Righthander Blackburn beat the White Sox in his last outing, surrendering just two earned runs on eight hits over five innings. Lefthander Danks wasn't as sharp in his last start, as he was knocked around for seven earned runs on seven hits over four innings of work by the Indians.
Survivor Gabon on CBS
One of the best sportsbooks for exotic odds Sportsbook.com has posted Ace Gordon as the Survivor Gabon favorite at +300. Crystal Cox and Matty Whitmore are next at +500. Dan Kay and Marcus Lehman are just a notch behind at +550.
The same bookmaker has the betting odds posted for the Amazing Race on CBS. Nick/Starr is the prohibitive favorite at +200. Andrew and Dan as well as Ken/Tina and Terenace/Sarah are +440. Personally we like Heidi Strobel.
In the past, the oddsmakers have foreseen the success of Mike Boschetti from "Last Comic Standing" and the winners of American Idol.
The Rest of the Schedule
It's another slow day for sports on Tuesday, so your only other options are preseason hockey or whatever football games you have saved on your TiVo from the weekend.
News from the Wire
Red Sox pitcher Josh Beckett has a strained oblique, and his next start won't come any earlier than Game 3 of the ALDS against the Angels . . . Angels pitcher Joe Saunders seemed to be recovered from his kidney stone on Sunday - he tossed six scoreless innings in a win versus the Rangers . . . the Ducks have finally brought veteran winger Teemu Selanne back into the fold, signing him to a two-year contract over the weekend…Alonzo Mourning has written a book "Resilience" that is sure to make waves….perhaps not as much as LA Times blogger the photogenic Lisa Guerrero, who calls New England Patriots fans fair weather. Philadelphia writer Phil Sheridan angers Phillies fans for a bizarre column today claiming the same thing about his hometown baseball squad.
Political Ticker
Barack Obama maintains his lead according to the political betting odds. Bruce Elliott, an opportunist apparently is big into painting nude portraits, the latest of VPILP Sarah Palin. It can be obscene and not heard at Chicago dive bar the Old Town Ale House. He apparently is also a collector of nude photos of Janet Jackson and Britney Spears. Do we really want to see Britney Spears nude?
A Peek at the Future
The opening game of three baseball divisional playoff series are on the schedule for Wednesday, with Milwaukee at Philadelphia, the Dodgers at the Cubs, and Boston at the Angels. The league championship series are slated to get underway on October 9 and 10, while the first game of the World Series will be October 22 . . . the WNBA Finals get underway on Wednesday night in San Antonio and continue through the weekend.
Football handicappers are going over the updated NFL power rankings for Week 5 and the sharpest are checking out the college football power rankings as well.
Posted by Critical Sports Betting Info at 9:33 AM No comments:
Florida Atlantic-Middle Tennessee Preview
The Florida Atlantic Owls and the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders will both be trying to pick up a win on Tuesday when they battle at Horace Jones Field/Floyd Stadium.
Oddsmakers currently have the Blue Raiders listed as 3-point favorites versus the Owls, while the game's total has not yet been posted.
Not much went right for Florida Atlantic in Week 4. QB Rusty Smith was 17-for-34 in air for 154 yards and no touchdowns in a 37-3 loss to Minnesota.
The Owls failed to pull off the upset and could not cover the 6.5-point spread, while the combined score of 40 played well UNDER the posted total of 61.5.
Middle Tennessee was defeated 31-14 by Arkansas State in Week 4, as 6.5-point road underdogs. The 45 points fell UNDER the posted total of 50.5.
Middle Tennessee had just 44 yards rushing in the loss.
Florida Atlantic has lost 2 straight games.
Middle Tennessee has lost 2 straight games.
Florida Atlantic: 1-3 SU, 2-2 ATS
Middle Tennessee: 1-3 SU, 2-2 ATS
Florida Atlantic most recently:
When playing in September are 5-5
After being outgained are 6-4
When playing within the conference are 8-2
Middle Tennessee most recently:
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Florida Atlantic's last 12 games
Florida Atlantic is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games
Florida Atlantic is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
Florida Atlantic is 8-17 SU in its last 25 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Middle Tennessee's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Middle Tennessee's last 5 games at home
Middle Tennessee is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games at home
Middle Tennessee is 2-4-1 ATS in its last 7 games
Florida Atlantic home to Troy, Tuesday, October 7
Middle Tennessee at Florida International, Saturday, October 11
The radio keeps telling me that Adam Wins, Tommy Hatfield has my free plays, Jonathan Stone has the biggest play of his life every day, and the answer to my betting prayers is just a phone call away if I call Bobby Ventura. What to do?
Get the objective rundown of who is hot and who has the big plays at OffshoreInsiders.com
Monday Sports Service and Consensus Bets
The Pittsburgh Steelers host the Jacksonville Jaguars on Monday Night football. Most gamblers are either having a great betting year or terrible one.
Cy McCormick, the head of the online betting syndicate MasterLockLine.com, says that "This is the biggest year yet in the gap between sharp players and the squares." Agrees the top football handicapper of all-time, Mike Godsey of GodsTips, anchor of OffshoreInsiders.com, "It's been a spectacular year for both wiseguy bettors and sportsbooks, because Joey Bagodonuts is losing his shirt, while pro bettors are winning."
Godsey walks the walk because teaming up with Grandmaster sports handicapper Joe Duffy, GodsTips goes 3-1 with NFL Wise Guy plays clinching winning week 7-of-9 in the NFL this year including the preseason.
Stevie Vincent is 26-9 in football betting and the power of 620 sports services behind every selection is 41-23. How are you doing on your own? If you do bet without getting expert picks, check out the official betting preview of the Steelers-Ravens.
Getting the right picks from the right football betting expert is the key. We are told by a Jacksonville, FL bookmaker he is having his best year ever because a bunch of his clients are betting picks from a radio tout named Tommy Hatfield and are taking a bath.
Here is the objective rundown of which of the elite sports handicappers are hot and who has the big plays.
Mon Valley Sports is the top team specialist in all of sports. In 14 previous years, they have hit no worse than 53 percent in sides and totals involving the Steelers. Over the last five years, they hit better than 63 percent and are 61.9 percent lifetime sides, totals in pre, regular and postseason. Ravens/Steelers total is on the MasterLockLine.
No. 1 sports service the last two years combined, is a stunning 65.9 percent with Key Plays of the Day including 11-3 in football this season, college and pro including NFLX. He's 4-0 NFL regular season including the Bengals on Sept. 21, the Chargers over on Sept. 22 and Washington Sept. 28 (yesterday over Dallas). Key POD Steelers/Ravens. .
Jared Lindsey a handicapper out of Sarasota, FL is among the Top 5 handicappers all sports combined since 1995-present. Stats are out of 620 services monitored, rankings based on total net units won based on ONE unit per play. We release his 5* plays. As expected, he is again the No. 1 MLB handicapper since August 1. Tigers/White Sox side. Get the top sports service pick on the MNF side and total as well as the baseball game for just $16. Click now to purchase the entire MasterLockLine card.
GodsTips says start out the day with the Tigers-White Sox winner. We will tell you that we are not picking the favorite on the moneyline. So we either have the total or runline plays. We are 13-4 the last 17 in MLB, winning juice five times and paying in none!
We go 3-1 with NFL Wise Guy plays, the Bears, Buccaneers, and Panthers to go to 11-2 in the regular season with all Wise Guy plays. Get the MNF side as we finish off winning NFL week 7-of-9 including the preseason. Click now to purchase
Some MLB Vegas odds are up for the Divisional Playoffs. Of course the final AL entrant may not be determined until Game No. 163 and the Milwaukee Brewers have not announced who will oppose Cole Hamels and the Phillies in Game 1.
Of the two remaining games, the Cubs and Ryan Dempster are -155 over Derek Lowe and the Los Angeles Dodgers. Los Angeles Anaheim and John Lackey are a small -120 over Boston and Jon Lester. Check out some interesting series proposition bets.
Don't allow the House vote of hr 3997 control your financial future. C-SPAN may be the place to go to watch you lose your money, ESPN has the MNF and even Dancing With the Stars (Hollywood and entertainment betting odds) are places to watch you make money.
Will Roger Clemens visit Mindy McCready in jail? How will the Scott Linehan firing and Jim Haslett promotion affect the betting odds? Which way will Wachovia stocks go? The sportsbooks offer betting opportunities on reality TV shows, news events, Vice Presidential debate props and more.
Posted by Critical Sports Betting Info at 12:13 PM No comments:
Baltimore Ravens-Pittsburgh Steelers
Here is the official betting preview of the Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers on Monday Night Football. The sportsbooks have Pittsburgh as the five-point favorite with a total of 34-34.5. Based on yards allowed per game, these are statistically the league's top two defenses.
Because of Hurricane Ike, the Ravens had an unscheduled bye week and have played just two games, winning and covering both. This is their first road game and their toughest foe.
The Steelers are 2-1 straight up and 1-2 versus the number. This is their only home game in a five game stretch in which four-of-five are on the highway. The won and covered their only home game so far crushing Houston 38-17. Their last two games have produced a total of 16 and 21 points combined.
The Steelers defense has carried them. According to Bob Warner of Lines-Maker.com, they are allowing just 2.8 yards per rush against teams normally allowing 3.8, 4.9 yards per pass to 5.8 and 4.1 yards per play to 5.0.
There are several key injuries for tonight's game. The Steelers will be without their leading rusher Willie Parker, meaning rookie first-rounder Rashard Mendenhall gets his first career start. In the past four series meetings, no Pittsburgh running back has exceeded 42 yards rushing.
Two key players will start but could be less than 100 percent: Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger and Ravens RB Willis McGahee.
Out for Baltimore is key defender Samari Rolle. They will start Corey Ivy or Frank Walker, two players who looked horrible in the preseason according to Brian Gould of ScoresOddsPicks.com.
The Steelers rush defense has also been great in the series, allowing just 81.8 yards rushing per game and 3.4 yards per carry in the last five meetings at Heinz Field. The Steelers are a stunningly spectacular 13-0 straight up on MNF since 1992. Baltimore meanwhile is trying to snap a six-game primetime losing streak.
If you are betting on this game, the biggest side and total are detailed on the home page of OffshoreInsiders.com
Vegas Odds For Dancing With the Stars, Monday Night Football and MLB Playoffs
The Ravens will be looking to run their record to 3-0 on the season on Monday night when they go to Pittsburgh to play the rival Steelers. Here's your Daily Sports Roundup.
Baltimore is 2-0 on the year, thanks to games against struggling division rivals Cincinnati and Cleveland and an unexpected, hurricane-imposed bye in Week 2. The Ravens began the year by beating the Bengals 17-10 at home, and followed up that result by topping the Browns 28-10 at home last week. Baltimore managed to pick up an ATS win in both of those contests, while the OVER/UNDER is at 1-1 for them this year.
Pittsburgh was tagged with their first loss of the year last weekend, falling 15-6 in Philadelphia as 3.5-point underdogs. The Steelers began the campaign by thumping the Texans 38-17, and they then squeaked past the Browns 10-6 in Week 2. That puts Pittsburgh at 2-1 straight-up and 1-2 against-the-spread on the season, and only their easy victory over Houston in Week 1 has provided an OVER result for their supporters.
The Ravens and Steelers split their season series 1-1 last year, with each team winning and covering at home (in a pair of OVER results). For Monday night the oddsmakers have Pittsburgh listed as a 5-point home favorite, with the total pegged at just 34 points. Steelers RB Willie Parker will miss Monday's game with a knee injury, leaving Rashard Mendenhall as their starter. Ravens DB Samari Rolle (shoulder/neck) is OUT as well.
There's a single baseball game on the schedule for Monday, with Gavin Floyd (16-8, 3.91 ERA) and the White Sox hosting Freddy Garcia (1-1, 4.50 ERA) and the Tigers in a makeup contest. If Chicago manages to beat Detroit in the Monday matinee they'll then play a one-game playoff against the Twins on Tuesday to decide the AL Central title.
As well, the New York Liberty and the Detroit Shock will play the third and deciding game of the WNBA's Eastern Conference Finals on Monday night (at Eastern Michigan University). The Shock rallied to avoid elimination on Sunday afternoon, with Deanna Nolan pouring in a team-high 22 points in their 64-55 win over the Liberty in Game 2.
Divisional Championship Odds
The live game odds at press time have not been posted for the respective Game 1 matchups, nor have the series odds, though both will be up very shortly and likely by the time you read this. Of course the Tigers-White Sox contest will help determine the matchups. Check the link shortly for the Vegas odds on the Brewers-Phillies, Dodgers-Cubs and Red Sox-Angels.
Best Betting Event
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There's nothing else on the schedule on a light Monday around the world of sports, unless you're into preseason hockey (the NHL regular season gets started Saturday).
Each of Rolle, DT Kelly Gregg (knee), S Dawan Landry (neck), and QB Troy Smith (illness) are OUT for Baltimore. WR Yamon Figurs (hamstring), LB Nick Greisen (thigh), and T Adam Terry (ankle) are QUESTIONABLE, while LB Tavares Gooden (hip), LB Ray Lewis (foot), RB Le'Ron McClain (migraine/ankle), RB Willis McGahee (eye), CB Fabian Washington (neck), and TE Daniel Wilcox (shoulder/ankle) are PROBABLE . . . Parker, DT Casey Hampton (groin), and DE Brett Keisel (calf) are OUT for Pittsburgh, while LB Donovan Woods (hamstring) is DOUBTFUL, and CB William Gay (ankle), S Troy Polamalu (quadricep), and CB Deshea Townsend (heel) are all PROBABLE.
All reports are that Jim Haslett is in and Scott Linehan out with the Rams.
The MLB playoffs and the WNBA Finals both get rolling this week, while the drivers of the Sprint Cup Series will head to Talladega for Sunday's Amp Energy 500 . . . those first NHL regular season games will take place in Europe over the weekend, with the Rangers and Lightning in Prague, and the Penguins and Senators in Stockholm . . . college football gets started again Tuesday, with Florida Atlantic at Middle Tennessee.
Dancing With the Stars Vegas Betting Line
Perhaps somebody in the household would rather watch Warren Sapp on Dancing With the Stars than Monday Night Football. Eat that Roshashana meal and win betting both events.
The betting odds say there is not clear-cut favorite. Lance Bass, Toni Braxton, Brooke Burke, Maurice Green, Cody Linley, Susan Lucci, Misty May-Treanor and Warren Sapp all have odds of between +400-500
Tigers-White Sox Pointers
The Detroit Tigers and the Chicago White Sox will meet at U.S. Cellular Field on Monday afternoon in a season-ending makeup game.
The Tigers will trot Freddy Garcia out to the mound in this one. Righthander Garcia has a 1-1 record and a 4.50 ERA this season.
Starting this game for the White Sox will be Gavin Floyd. The righthander has a 3.91 ERA to go along with a 16-8 record this season.
Curtis Granderson hit a home run and picked up four RBI in Detroit's 8-7 extra-inning loss to Tampa Bay on Sunday afternoon.
The Rays had been listed at EVEN on the road in that contest, while the combined score went OVER the day's posted total (9).
Jermaine Dye drove in two runs on Sunday afternoon as the White Sox topped the Indians by a score of 5-1.
The White Sox were winners as -210 home favorites in that contest, while the combined score fell UNDER the day's posted total (9.5).
Detroit: 74-87 SU
Chicago: 87-74 SU
Detroit most recently:
Chicago most recently:
After playing Cleveland are 7-3
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Detroit's last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Detroit's last 11 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Detroit's last 6 games when playing on the road against Chi White Sox
Detroit is 4-13 SU in its last 17 games
Chi White Sox are 6-1 SU in their last 7 games when playing at home against Detroit
Chi White Sox are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games when playing Detroit
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Chi White Sox's last 8 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Chi White Sox's last 6 games
Ravens-Steelers Preview
The Baltimore Ravens and the Pittsburgh Steelers will both be gunning for a victory on Monday when they meet at Heinz Field.
Oddsmakers currently have the Steelers listed as 6-point favorites versus the Ravens, while the game's total is sitting at 34½.
The Ravens defeated Cleveland 28-10 as a 2.5-point favorite in Week 3. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (37).
Le'Ron McClain rushed for 66 yards on 17 carries with a pair of touchdowns for Baltimore, while Joe Flacco passed for 129 yards with two interceptions in the win.
The Steelers lost to Philadelphia 15-6 as a 3.5-point underdog in Week 3. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (45).
Ben Roethlisberger threw for 131 yards with an interception before leaving with a wrist injury for Pittsburgh, while Willie Parker was held to 20 yards on 13 carries.
Baltimore has won 2 straight games.
Baltimore: 2-0 SU, 2-0 ATS
Pittsburgh: 2-1 SU, 1-2 ATS
Baltimore most recently:
When playing on grass are 5-5
When playing within the division are 5-5
Pittsburgh most recently:
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Baltimore's last 7 games when playing on the road against Pittsburgh
Baltimore is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Pittsburgh
Baltimore is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Pittsburgh
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Baltimore's last 9 games
Pittsburgh is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing at home against Baltimore
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Pittsburgh's last 7 games when playing at home against Baltimore
Pittsburgh is 8-2 SU in its last 10 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Pittsburgh's last 7 games at home
Baltimore home to Tennessee, Sunday, October 5
Pittsburgh at Jacksonville, Sunday, October 5
Who Covers? Eagles or Bears?
The Chicago Bears host the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday Night Football. The bookmaker has Philadelphia has a three-point favorite with a total of 39 or 39.5.
The injury situation is very key for bettors and while the official NFL report comes out Friday, the fantasy football player and pointspread player knows that OffshoreInsiders.com has the truly "official" injury report if winning is your top concern.
Of course it's also where NCAA football bettors get their injury report. Here is the latest: Eagles QB Donovan McNabb will play, but star running back Brian Westbrook is considered questionable to doubtful.
The Bears DT Tommie Harris will be a game time decision. He is less likely to play than return man Devin Hester and WR Brandon Lloyd, both also considered game time decisions.
The Eagles are 2-1 straight up and 3-0 to the number. Chicago is 1-2 straight up and 1-1-1 versus the Vegas NFL line. Each team has gone under the total two of their three games.
Chicago defense is allowing just 69 yards rushing per game on 21 carries and they are holding foes a full yard below their normal yards per carry average.
Even with Brian Westbrook, the Eagles are getting just 3.2 yards per rush against teams normally allowing 4.2, but 7.6 yards per pass against teams normally allowing 6.7. Defensively, they allow a mere 2.4 yards per carry to teams normally getting 4.1.
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Philadelphia is 5-1 their last six straight up, going back to last season, just when Donovan McNabb seemed to show he was fully recovered from injury. They are 5-2 straight up their last seven on the road, and have won four straight on the road in the series including the NFL playoffs.
Chicago has two losses of three-points, one in overtime, after upsetting the Indianapolis Colts in week 1.
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We will tell you it's not Freeplays Joe Phillips or Razor Sharp Tom Hatfield.
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Eagles-Bears Preview
The Philadelphia Eagles and the Chicago Bears will both be trying to pick up a win on Sunday when they battle at Soldier Field.
Oddsmakers currently have the Eagles listed as 3-point favorites versus the Bears, while the game's total is sitting at 40.
The Eagles defeated Pittsburgh 15-6 as a 3.5-point favorite in Week 3. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (45).
Donovan McNabb passed for 196 yards with a touchdown and an interception for Philadelphia, while Correll Buckhalter rushed for 43 yards on 10 carries and caught six passes for 44 yards with a touchdown.
The Bears lost to Tampa Bay 27-24 in overtime as a 3-point favorite in Week 3. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (35).
Kyle Orton had 268 passing yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions for Chicago, while Brandon Lloyd had six receptions for 124 yards and a touchdown.
Chicago has lost 2 straight games.
Philadelphia: 2-1 SU, 3-0 ATS
Chicago: 1-2 SU, 1-1-1 ATS
Philadelphia most recently:
Philadelphia is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
Philadelphia is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games
Philadelphia is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Philadelphia's last 6 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Chicago's last 5 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Chicago's last 5 games when playing Philadelphia
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Chicago's last 8 games when playing at home against Philadelphia
Chicago is 8-4 ATS in its last 12 games when playing Philadelphia
Philadelphia home to Washington, Sunday, October 5
Chicago at Detroit, Sunday, October 5
Redskins-Cowboys Preview
The fans at Texas Stadium will be treated to a game between the Washington Redskins and the Dallas Cowboys when they take their seats on Sunday.
Oddsmakers currently have the Cowboys listed as 10½-point favorites versus the Redskins, while the game's total is sitting at 46½.
The Redskins defeated Arizona 24-17 as a 3-point favorite in Week 3. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (43.5).
Jason Campbell passed for 193 yards with a pair of touchdowns for Washington, while Clinton Portis rushed for 68 yards with a touchdown on 21 carries in the win.
The Cowboys defeated Green Bay 27-16 as a 3-point favorite in Week 3. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (51).
Tony Romo passed for 260 yards with a touchdown and an interception for Dallas and Marion Barber rushed for 142 yards with a touchdown on 28 carries in the win.
Washington has won 2 straight games.
Dallas has won 3 straight games.
Washington: 2-1 SU, 2-1 ATS
Dallas: 3-0 SU, 2-1 ATS
Dallas most recently:
Washington is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Dallas
Washington is 6-2 ATS in its last 8 games
Washington is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing Dallas
Dallas is 11-1 SU in its last 12 games when playing at home against Washington
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Dallas's last 7 games
Dallas is 16-4 SU in its last 20 games
Dallas is 16-5 SU in its last 21 games when playing Washington
Washington at Philadelphia, Sunday, October 5
Dallas home to Cincinnati, Sunday, October 5
Bills-Rams Preview
The Buffalo Bills and the St. Louis Rams will both be gunning for a victory on Sunday when they meet at Edward Jones Dome.
Oddsmakers currently have the Bills listed as 8½-point favorites versus the Rams, while the game's total is sitting at 43.
The Bills edged Oakland 24-23 as a 10-point favorite in Week 3. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (37.5).
Trent Edwards passed for 279 yards with a touchdown and an interception for Buffalo, while Marshawn Lynch rushed for 83 yards with a pair of touchdowns on 23 carries.
The Rams lost to Seattle 37-13 as an 8-point underdog in Week 3. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (44.5).
Marc Bulger passed for 172 yards with a touchdown for St. Louis and Stephen Jackson rushed for 66 yards on 23 carries.
Buffalo has won 3 straight games.
St. Louis has lost 3 straight games.
Buffalo: 3-0 SU, 2-1 ATS
St. Louis: 0-3 SU, 0-3 ATS
Buffalo most recently:
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Buffalo's last 5 games when playing St. Louis
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Buffalo's last 7 games on the road
Buffalo is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing St. Louis
Buffalo is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing St. Louis
The total has gone OVER in 5 of St. Louis's last 5 games when playing Buffalo
The total has gone OVER in 4 of St. Louis's last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of St. Louis's last 7 games at home
St. Louis is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Buffalo
Buffalo at Arizona, Sunday, October 5
St. Louis at Washington, Sunday, October 12
Chargers-Raiders Preview
Divisional bragging rights will be on the line on Sunday when the San Diego Chargers and the Oakland Raiders meet at McAfee Coliseum.
Oddsmakers currently have the Chargers listed as 8-point favorites versus the Raiders, while the game's total is sitting at 45½.
Philip Rivers went 19-for-25 for 250 yards with three touchdowns and an interception, as the Chargers pounded the Jets 48-29 in Week 3 action on Monday night.
San Diego covered as 9-point home favorites as the teams played over the 42-point total posted by oddsmakers.
The Raiders lost to Buffalo 24-23 as a 10-point underdog in Week 3. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (37.5).
JaMarcus Russell completed 9-of-19 passes for 156 yards with a touchdown pass and a TD run for Oakland, while Johnnie Lee Higgins hauled in only one pass, but it was a 84-yard touchdown.
San Diego: 1-2 SU, 1-1-1 ATS
Oakland: 1-2 SU, 2-1 ATS
San Diego most recently:
Oakland most recently:
San Diego is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Oakland
San Diego is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Oakland
San Diego is 9-1 ATS in its last 10 games when playing Oakland
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of San Diego's last 7 games when playing Oakland
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Oakland's last 7 games when playing San Diego
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Oakland's last 5 games
Oakland is 8-16 ATS in its last 24 games
Oakland is 2-10 ATS in its last 12 games at home
San Diego at Miami, Sunday, October 5
Oakland at New Orleans, Sunday, October 12
NFL Injuries for Fantasy Football and the NFL Odds
Fantasy football injuries are perfect for making NFL expert picks against the spread and we have the ultimate NFL injury report.
Chargers-Raiders
Darren McFadden, the Raiders rookie sensation RB is questionable with a toe injury, but Cy McCormick of the online betting syndicate MasterLockLine.com says he will start. He will not get his full workload though. This is key because fellow RB Justin Fargas is out. Michael Bush is the only other tailback.
Oakland is going to be short-handed on defense as starters Nnamdi Asomugha, Derrick Burgess, and Gerald Warren are all banged up. The Bolts LaDainian Tomlinson is close to 100 percent, but remember he is off a short week because of playing Monday night to the Jets.
Eagles-Bears
There are a ton of injuries for tonight. Eagles QB Donovan McNabb will play, but star running back Brian Westbrook is considered questionable to doubtful.
The Bears DT Tommie Harris will be a game time decision. He is less likely to play than return man Devin Hester and WR Brandon Lloyd, both also considered game time decisions. This game is one of four NFL Wise Guy plays from the top betting service of all-time GodsTips. They are 8-1 for the year with regular season NFL Wise Guy plays. Get 10 winners in the NFL, four are Wise Guys. Click now to purchase to get the entire card from the best in the biz for just $17.
49ers-Saints
This game is one of GodsTips four Wise Guy plays. The Saints will be without TE Jeremy Shockey.
Cardinals-Jets
Jets QB Brett Favre is listed as questionable but will start. CB Justin Miller missed the first three games for the Jets but is a game time decision to return.
Texans-Jaguars
The Jags will likely be without two defensive starters, S Reggie Nelson and LB Justin Durant. Also out C Brad Meester and G Crhis Naeole.
RBs Maurice Jones-Drew and Fred Taylor are probable and WR Jerry Porter will make his much anticipated debut. Washed up RB Ahman Green may be available but rookie Steve Slaton gets the start for the Texans.
Bills-Rams
The Rams will have to avoid sundry distractions and head coach Scott Linehan attempting to save his job, benched QB Marc Bulger and will start aged Trent Green. Star RB Steven Jackson expressed discontent at the move. Jackson, by the way, should be at full-speed for the first time all year.
Packers-Buccaneers
The Packers are without one of their most valuable defensive players CB Al Harris. "Considering he played 83 straight games, it would be foolish to underestimate the impact of this injury," says the world's top NFL betting expert Mike Godsey of GodsTips, anchor of OffshoreInsiders.com.
They will also be without S Atari Bigby. However RB Ryan Grant will be as healthy as he has been any game this season.
Vikings-Titans
Minnesota RB Adrian Peterson is listed on the injury report, but NFL insider Brian Gould of ScoresOddsPicks.com says he will play.
Browns-Bengals
Cincinnati's overrated QB Carson Palmer will play, but he has a sore elbow. Browns WR Braylon Edwards was limited early in the week in practice but will play and practiced fully Friday.
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The NFL stages its Week 4 on Sunday, while baseball concludes its regular-season schedule. This week's NFL trends, free NFL expert pick and NFL betting odds are up.
Here's a glimpse at the action in today's edition of the Daily Sports Roundup.
The Titans, Broncos, Bills, and Cowboys will all be looking to run their records to 4-0 on Sunday when they take to the field. Tennessee and Dallas are both favored at home in their games; the Titans are favored by 3 points against the Vikings, while the Cowboys will be looking to cover an 11-point spread against the Redskins. The Broncos and Bills are both road favorites; it's Denver (-10) at Kansas City, and Buffalo (-8) at St. Louis.
At the other end of the standings, the 0-3 Bengals will play host to the 0-3 Browns on Sunday afternoon. The loser of that AFC North matchup will be in a huge hole in the playoff race, and the oddsmakers have given the Bengals the 3.5-point edge to win.
Other Sunday afternoon matchups include San Francisco at New Orleans (-5), Arizona at the Jets (-1), Green Bay at Tampa Bay (-1), Atlanta at Carolina (-6.5), and Houston at Jacksonville (-7). As well, the 1-2 Chargers will be looking to get their record back to the .500 mark when they take on the 1-2 Raiders in Oakland as big 7.5-point road favorites.
Rounding out the Sunday NFL schedule will be Philadelphia at Chicago at 8:15pm ET. The Eagles are 2-1 in the tight NFC East, while the Bears have struggled to a 1-2 record on the season. And even though this game is being played at Soldier Field the Eagles have been pegged as the 3-point favorites, with the total listed at 40 points.
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California Vulcans Ready to Win PSAC
What's this about? Just a cheap attempt of Grandmaster sports handicapper Joe Duffy to brag that his alma mater, the California Vulcans beat their chief rival, the Indiana PA Indians, expect the sissies they are, they don't even call themselves Indians anymore.
Back to Division 1 or the FBS, whatever it's called. Penn State football is back, but the USC Trojans, Georgia Bulldogs and Florida Gators await to see how far they've dropped in the college football polls. Regardless, the opening college football odds will be up later today and OffshoreInsiders.com will have them.
The drivers of the Sprint Cup Series will hit the track at Kansas Speedway on Sunday afternoon for the Camping World RV 400 presented by Coleman. Greg Biffle has won each of the first two Chase events, and he'll be trying to make it three in a row on Sunday. Biffle and Johnson are tied for second place in the current driver standings, 10 points back of Carl Edwards. Jeff Burton and Kevin Harvick are sitting fourth and fifth.
Biffle won the series' event at Kansas last season, and he's tied with Johnson, Edwards, and Kyle Busch as the 6/1 Vegas favorite to take the checkered flag on Sunday. Tony Stewart, who won the Banquet 400 at Kansas back in 2006, is pegged at 11/1 odds to visit victory lane. Two-time Kansas champion Jeff Gordon is listed at 15/1.
The NL Wild Card berth is still in play, with the Mets and Brewers now tied in that race. Milwaukee will send CC Sabathia (10-2, 1.78 ERA in the NL) to the mound at home against the Cubs on Sunday afternoon, while Oliver Perez (10-7, 4.25 ERA) will try to pitch the Mets past the Marlins at home at the same time. If those teams are still tied at the end of the day on Sunday they'll play a one-game playoff Monday in New York.
Also still to be decided is the AL Central title, with the White Sox and Mark Buehrle (14-12, 3.87 ERA) hosting Cleveland on Sunday, and the Twins and Scott Baker (10-4, 3.59 ERA) getting a visit from Kansas City. Minnesota has a half-game lead on Chicago in the division, and they can clinch top spot with a win Sunday combined with a White Sox loss. However, if Chicago is still a half-game back after Sunday they'll play a makeup game with the Tigers on Monday. Should the Twins and White Sox be tied in the standings after that Monday contest they'll play a one-game playoff on Tuesday.
As well, the Yankees will have Mike Mussina (19-9, 3.47 ERA) trying for his 20th win of the season when they play at Fenway Park in Boston on Sunday afternoon, so they'll be pulling out all the stops to try and get him to that mark for the first time in his career. New York and Boston will actually play twice on Sunday thanks to Saturday's rainout.
The WNBA playoffs will continue on Sunday afternoon, with New York at Detroit in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals, and Los Angeles at San Antonio in Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals. New York holds a 1-0 lead in their three-game set, while San Antonio pulled out a victory on Saturday afternoon to tie up that series at 1-1.
Finally, the CFL concludes its week on Sunday with Saskatchewan at Montreal (-6.5), while the PGA Tour wraps up its playoffs on the final day of THE TOUR Championship.
Notable players listed as OUT for Sunday's NFL games heading into the weekend: Arizona DE Bert Berry (groin), Browns S Sean Jones (knee), Dallas S Roy Williams (forearm), Chiefs QB Brodie Croyle (right shoulder), Saints WR Marques Colston (thumb) and TE Jeremy Shockey (hernia), Jets K Mike Nugent (right thigh), Raiders RB Justin Fargas (groin), Rams WR Drew Bennett (foot), Buccaneers WR Joey Galloway (foot), Titans QB Vince Young (knee/hamstring), and Redskins DE Jason Taylor (calf).
A slow Monday in sports will be highlighted by the matchup of the Ravens and Steelers in Pittsburgh. The Steelers opened as 7-point home favorites in that contest, but that line has since fallen to just 5 points (with the total pegged at 34 points) . . . as well, there will be a Game 3 in the WNBA's Eastern Conference Finals in Detroit on Monday night if the Shock manage to knock off the Liberty in their Sunday afternoon matchup.
Entertainment Betting
What will Tina Fey and Saturday Night Live do next in mocking Sarah Palin? We expect BetUs Sportsbook will have more and more SNL proposition bets.
The lipstick of Rachel McAdams and death of Paul Newman are grabbing the headlines, but Dancing With the Stars dominates the Hollywood and entertainment betting odds.
Brooke Burke at +200 is the favorite to win Dancing With the Stars, but she's followed closely by Toni Braxton, Cody Linley, Susan Lucci, Misty May-Treanor all at +400.
Not far behind at +500 is Warren Sapp and Lance Bass. The aforesaid Hollywood and entertainment betting odds have prop bets as well on Tom DeLay, Dan Rather, George Clooney, Wheel of Fortune, Heath Ledger and other actors in Batman-The Dark Knight.
Presidential Tracking
All political aficionados visit the political betting odds on a daily basis for the most accurate McCain-Obama tracking indicators.
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DALLAS -11 Washington
You can't predict turnovers? Baloney. Washington has been very fortunate holding on to the ball, but playing in Dallas where they lost 11-of-12 straight up, the dam is about to break. The Redskins are the only team in the league without an offensive turnover in 2008. Looking at their talent, we find that hard to believe. We can't see Washington's maintaining their turnover ratio.
The Redskins have lost their only road game by 17-6. Despite playing just one home game, the Cowboys are 3-0, two by double digits.
Dallas is averaging 5.0 yards per rush 9.3 yards per pass and 7.2 yards per play against teams normally allowing 5.9. Washington's only chance is to keep up their turnover ratio, which we don't see happening.
Cardinals-Jets Preview
The Arizona Cardinals and the New York Jets will both be trying to pick up a win on Sunday when they battle at Giants Stadium.
Oddsmakers currently have the Jets listed as 1-point favorites versus the Cardinals, while the game's total is sitting at 45.
The Cardinals lost to Washington 24-17 as a 3-point underdog in Week 3. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (43.5).
Kurt Warner pasted for 192 yards with two touchdowns and an interception for Arizona, while Larry Fitzgerald hauled in seven passes for 109 yards with a touchdown.
Brett Favre was 30-for-42 for 271 yards with three touchdowns and two interceptions for New York in its 48-29 loss to San Diego in Week 3 action on Monday night.
New York has lost 2 straight games.
Arizona: 2-1 SU, 2-1 ATS
New York: 1-2 SU, 1-2 ATS
Arizona most recently:
Arizona is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Arizona's last 11 games
The total has gone OVER in 10 of Arizona's last 14 games on the road
Arizona is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of the NY Jets last 7 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of the NY Jets last 7 games at home
NY Jets are 2-5 SU in their last 7 games at home
NY Jets are 4-12 SU in their last 16 games
Arizona home to Buffalo, Sunday, October 5
NY Jets home to Cincinnati, Sunday, October 12
Falcons-Panthers Preview
The Atlanta Falcons and the Carolina Panthers will both be gunning for a victory on Sunday when they meet at Bank of America Stadium.
Oddsmakers currently have the Panthers listed as 7-point favorites versus the Falcons, while the game's total is sitting at 39½.
The Falcons defeated 38-14 as a 6.5-point favorite in Week 3. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (37).
Michael Turner rushed for 104 yards and three touchdowns on 23 carries for Atlanta, while Matt Ryan threw for 192 yards with a touchdown in the win.
The Panthers lost to Minnesota 20-10 as a 3-point underdog in Week 3. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (37.5).
Jake Delhomme was sacked five time with passing for 191 yards for Carolina and Jonathan Stewart rushed for 15 yards in seven carries with a touchdown.
Atlanta: 2-1 SU, 2-1 ATS
Carolina: 2-1 SU, 1-1-1 ATS
Atlanta most recently:
Carolina most recently:
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Atlanta's last 5 games when playing on the road against Carolina
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Atlanta's last 10 games
Atlanta is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 11 of Atlanta's last 14 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Carolina's last 5 games when playing at home against Atlanta
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Carolina's last 8 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Carolina's last 10 games when playing Atlanta
The total has gone UNDER in 11 of Carolina's last 16 games
Atlanta at Green Bay, Sunday, October 5
Carolina home to Kansas City, Sunday, October 5
Broncos-Chiefs Preview
Divisional bragging rights will be on the line on Sunday when the Denver Broncos and the Kansas City Chiefs meet at Arrowhead Stadium.
Oddsmakers currently have the Broncos listed as 10-point favorites versus the Chiefs, while the game's total is sitting at 47.
The Broncos defeated New Orleans 34-32 as a 5.5-point underdog in Week 3. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (52).
Jay Culter passed for 263 yards with a pair of touchdowns and an interception for Denver, while Brandon Marshall caught six passes for 155 yards with a touchdown in the win.
The Chiefs lost to Atlanta 38-14 as a 6.5-point underdog in Week 3. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (37).
Larry Johnson rushed for 121 yards and a touchdown on 24 carries for Kansas City, while Tyler Thigpen passed for 128 yards with a touchdown and three interceptions.
Denver has won 3 straight games.
Kansas City has lost 3 straight games.
Denver: 3-0 SU, 1-1-1 ATS
Kansas City: 0-3 SU, 1-2 ATS
Denver most recently:
Kansas City most recently:
Denver is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Denver's last 12 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Denver's last 8 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Denver's last 7 games when playing on the road against Kansas City
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Kansas City's last 5 games
Kansas City is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Denver
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Kansas City's last 7 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Kansas City's last 7 games when playing at home against Denver
Denver home to Tampa Bay, Sunday, October 5
Kansas City at Carolina, Sunday, October 5
Texans-Jaguars Preview
The division rival Houston Texans and Jacksonville Jaguars are set to renew hostilities on Sunday when they meet at Jacksonville Municipal Stadium.
Oddsmakers currently have the Jaguars listed as 7-point favorites versus the Texans, while the game's total is sitting at 43.
The Texans lost to Tennessee 31-12 as a 5-point underdog in Week 3 The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (40).
Matt Schaub threw for 188 yards with three interceptions for Houston and Steve Slaton rushed for 116 yards on 16 carries with a touchdown.
The Jaguars defeated Indianapolis 23-21 as a 4-point underdog in Week 3. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (42).
Fred Taylor rushed for 121 yards on 26 carries for Jacksonville, while Maurice Jones-Drew racked up 107 rushing yards and a touchdown on 10 carries.
Houston: 0-2 SU, 0-2 ATS
Jacksonville: 1-2 SU, 1-2 ATS
Jacksonville most recently:
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Houston's last 7 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Houston's last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Houston's last 5 games when playing on the road against Jacksonville
Houston is 6-2 ATS in its last 8 games when playing Jacksonville
Jacksonville is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 12 of Jacksonville's last 15 games
Jacksonville is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Jacksonville's last 5 games at home
Houston home to Indianapolis, Sunday, October 5
Jacksonville home to Pittsburgh, Sunday, October 5
Browns-Bengals Preview
Divisional bragging rights will be on the line on Sunday when the Cleveland Browns and the Cincinnati Bengals meet at Paul Brown Stadium.
Oddsmakers currently have the Bengals listed as 3½-point favorites versus the Browns, while the game's total is sitting at 44½.
The Browns lost to Baltimore 28-10 as a 2.5-point underdog in Week 3. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (37).
Derek Anderson threw for 125 yards with a touchdown and three interceptions for Cleveland and Braylon Edwards caught three passes for 27 yards.
The Bengals lost to the Giants 26-23 in overtime as a 13-point underdog in Week 3. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (42.5).
Carson Palmer passed for 286 yards with a touchdown for Cincinnati, while Chris Perry rushed for 74 yards and a touchdown on 20 carries.
Cleveland has lost 3 straight games.
Cincinnati has lost 3 straight games.
Cleveland: 0-3 SU, 1-2 ATS
Cincinnati: 0-3 SU, 1-2 ATS
Cleveland most recently:
Cincinnati most recently:
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Cleveland's last 9 games
Cleveland is 13-5 ATS in its last 18 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Cleveland's last 9 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Cleveland's last 6 games when playing Cincinnati
Cincinnati is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing Cleveland
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Cincinnati's last 6 games at home
Cincinnati is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Cleveland
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Cincinnati's last 9 games
Cleveland home to NY Giants, Monday, October 13
Cincinnati at Dallas, Sunday, October 5
Packers-Buccaneers Preview
The Green Bay Packers and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will both be trying to pick up a win on Sunday when they battle at Raymond James Stadium.
The Packers lost to Dallas 27-16 as a 3-point underdog in Week 3. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (51).
Aaron Rodgers threw for 290 yards with a TD run for Green Bay, while Greg Jennings hauled in eight passes for 115 yards.
The Buccaneers defeated Chicago 27-24 in overtime as a 3-point underdog in Week 3. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (35).
Brian Griese passed for 407 yards with two touchdowns and three interceptions for Tampa Bay and Antonio Bryant caught 10 passes for 138 yards.
Green Bay: 2-1 SU, 2-1 ATS
Tampa Bay: 2-1 SU, 2-1 ATS
Green Bay most recently:
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Green Bay's last 7 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Green Bay's last 7 games when playing Tampa Bay
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Green Bay's last 6 games on the road
Green Bay is 9-2 SU in its last 11 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Tampa Bay's last 7 games when playing Green Bay
Tampa Bay is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against Green Bay
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Tampa Bay's last 5 games when playing at home against Green Bay
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Tampa Bay's last 9 games
Green Bay home to Atlanta, Sunday, October 5
Tampa Bay at Denver, Sunday, October 5
Vikings-Titans Preview
The Minnesota Vikings and the Tennessee Titans will both be gunning for a victory on Sunday when they meet at LP Field.
Oddsmakers currently have the Titans listed as 3-point favorites versus the Vikings, while the game's total is sitting at 36.
The Vikings defeated Carolina 20-10 as a 3-point favorite in Week 3. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (37.5).
Gus Frerotte passed for 204 yards with a touchdown and an interception for Minnesota, while Antoine Winfield returned a fumble 19 yards for a touchdown.
The Titans defeated Houston 31-12 as a 5-point favorite in Week 3. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (40).
LenDale White recorded a pair of rushing touchdowns for Tennessee, while Kerry Collins passed for 189 yards with a touchdown and an interception in the win.
Minnesota: 1-2 SU, 1-2 ATS
Tennessee: 3-0 SU, 3-0 ATS
Minnesota most recently:
Minnesota is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Tennessee
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Minnesota's last 7 games
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Minnesota's last 10 games on the road
Minnesota is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Tennessee
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Tennessee's last 6 games
Tennessee is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home
Tennessee is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
Minnesota at New Orleans, Monday, October 6
Tennessee at Baltimore, Sunday, October 5
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Sexual Experience Promotes Adult Neurogenesis in the Hippocampus Despite an Initial Elevation in Stress Hormones
Benedetta Leuner,
Affiliation Department of Psychology, Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, United States of America
Erica R. Glasper,
Elizabeth Gould
* E-mail: goulde@princeton.edu
Benedetta Leuner Erica R. Glasper Elizabeth Gould
Aversive stressful experiences are typically associated with increased anxiety and a predisposition to develop mood disorders. Negative stress also suppresses adult neurogenesis and restricts dendritic architecture in the hippocampus, a brain region associated with anxiety regulation. The effects of aversive stress on hippocampal structure and function have been linked to stress-induced elevations in glucocorticoids. Normalizing corticosterone levels prevents some of the deleterious consequences of stress, including increased anxiety and suppressed structural plasticity in the hippocampus. Here we examined whether a rewarding stressor, namely sexual experience, also adversely affects hippocampal structure and function in adult rats. Adult male rats were exposed to a sexually-receptive female once (acute) or once daily for 14 consecutive days (chronic) and levels of circulating glucocorticoids were measured. Separate cohorts of sexually experienced rats were injected with the thymidine analog bromodeoxyuridine in order to measure cell proliferation and neurogenesis in the hippocampus. In addition, brains were processed using Golgi impregnation to assess the effects of sexual experience on dendritic spines and dendritic complexity in the hippocampus. Finally, to evaluate whether sexual experience alters hippocampal function, rats were tested on two tests of anxiety-like behavior: novelty suppressed feeding and the elevated plus maze. We found that acute sexual experience increased circulating corticosterone levels and the number of new neurons in the hippocampus. Chronic sexual experience no longer produced an increase in corticosterone levels but continued to promote adult neurogenesis and stimulate the growth of dendritic spines and dendritic architecture. Chronic sexual experience also reduced anxiety-like behavior. These findings suggest that a rewarding experience not only buffers against the deleterious actions of early elevated glucocorticoids but actually promotes neuronal growth and reduces anxiety.
Citation: Leuner B, Glasper ER, Gould E (2010) Sexual Experience Promotes Adult Neurogenesis in the Hippocampus Despite an Initial Elevation in Stress Hormones. PLoS ONE 5(7): e11597. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0011597
Editor: Melissa Coleman, Claremont Colleges, United States of America
Received: March 30, 2010; Accepted: June 17, 2010; Published: July 14, 2010
Copyright: © 2010 Leuner et al. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.
Funding: The work was supported by a Young Investigator Award from the National Alliance for Research on Schizophrenia and Depression (B.L.), grants from the National Institute of Mental Health (MH084148 to B.L. and MH54970 to E.G.) and a Ruth L. Kirschstein postdoctoral NRSA fellowship from the National Institute on Aging (E.R.G.). The funders had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.
Negative or aversive stressful experiences are associated with deleterious consequences for the brain and behavior. Indeed, aversive stress and trauma are major predisposing factors for the development of psychopathology [1]. The hippocampus is particularly sensitive to aversive stress, responding with diminished adult neurogenesis [2], [3], [4], dendritic complexity [5], [6], [7] and synaptic plasticity [8]. Negative stress enhances anxiety [9], the regulation of which has been linked to the hippocampus [10]. Elevated glucocorticoid levels have been implicated in these effects – blocking stress-induced increases in corticosterone levels prevents detrimental effects on adult neurogenesis [4], dendritic complexity [6], and anxiety [9].
Despite evidence linking elevated stress hormones with impaired structural plasticity and hippocampal function, physical exercise increases glucocorticoid levels but is generally beneficial to health. Running increases glucocorticoid levels in rodents and humans [11], [12], while paradoxically enhancing structural plasticity, including adult neurogenesis [13], [14], dendritic spine density, and dendritic complexity [15], [16] in the hippocampus. Furthermore, exercise reduces anxiety [17] and improves learning and memory functions associated with the hippocampus [13]. Running also increases blood flow to the brain, improves cardiovascular fitness, and stimulates angiogenesis, all factors that could lead to improved neuronal growth and, ultimately, enhanced brain function [18]. However, a recent study showed that rewarding intracranial self-stimulation is sufficient to increase adult neurogenesis [19], suggesting that the hedonic aspect of physical exercise may be responsible for its beneficial effects on structural plasticity.
Exercise appears to be universally rewarding for rodents – rats and mice voluntarily run considerable distances if given access to a running wheel. Rats also develop place preferences for a running wheel [17], [20] and will bar press to gain access to running [21]. Collectively, these results suggest that the emotional valence or hedonic value of the stressor may play a role in determining whether an experience will produce negative or positive effects despite elevated glucocorticoid levels [22]. That is, positive or rewarding stress may buffer the brain from the potentially adverse consequences of physical exertion. To explore this possibility further, we examined whether sexual behavior, a natural rewarding experience, is associated with alterations in hippocampal structure, glucocorticoids, and anxiety.
Procedures were conducted in accordance with Princeton University AALAC (protocol # 1756, approved July 2009) and The National Institutes of Health Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals.
Experimental Animals
Adult (>60 d of age) male and female Sprague-Dawley rats (Taconic, Germantown, NY) were provided unlimited access to food and water and maintained on a 12:12 light-dark cycle (lights on 1900 h). Males, housed 2-3/cage, were acclimated to the colony for ∼5 d. All rats within a cage were included in the same experimental group. Females were individually housed following bilateral ovariectomy under Nembutal anesthesia and allowed to recover for one week. Sexual receptivity was induced by subcutaneously injecting estrogen (200 ìg/0.2 ml sesame oil) and progesterone (500 ìg/0.2 ml sesame oil) 48 h and 4 h before the start of the experiment, respectively. Non-receptive females were ovariectomized but did not receive hormonal injections.
Male rats were placed in a novel cage with a sexually-receptive female, a non-receptive female, or were naive and remained undisturbed in their home cage. The same sexually-receptive females were used every 4th day and as a result, the males on occasion were exposed to a female with which they had previously copulated. This did not change sexual behavior. Males were allowed to engage in sexual behavior for 30 min, starting from the first intromission. The duration of exposure to non-receptive females was matched to that of a sexually-experienced rat. Exposures were monitored and videotaped in the dark under red light illumination (1300–1600 h). For the long-term sexual experience studies, digital videos were analyzed for mounts, intromissions, and ejaculations [23].
BrdU administration and perfusion
Male rats (n = 3–4/group) were exposed to a sexually-receptive female once (acute) and injected intraperitoneally with the DNA synthesis marker bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) 30 min after the first intromission along with naive controls. The dose of BrdU was 200 mg/kg, which labels the maximal number of cells in the dentate gyrus [24]. All animals were perfused 2 h later. This post-BrdU survival time is sufficient to label cells in S-phase but not to allow the labeled cells to divide, thus providing a measure of cell proliferation. Additional cohorts of male rats were exposed to a sexually-receptive female once daily for 14 consecutive days (chronic). On the last day, rats were injected with BrdU 30 min following initiation of sexual behavior along with rats exposed daily to a non-receptive female. Also injected was an additional group of naive controls. All animals (n = 6–8/group) were perfused 2 h later. To determine whether chronic sexual experience affects adult neurogenesis, additional groups (n = 6–8/group) of sexually-experienced and naive rats were treated as described above but perfused 2 weeks later. The majority of new cells in the dentate gyrus express the mature neuronal marker NeuN 2 weeks post-BrdU labeling [24]. For perfusion, rats were anesthetized with Nembutal and transcardially perfused with 4% paraformaldehyde in 0.1 M phosphate buffer. Brains were post-fixed for at least 2 d.
Corticosterone sampling and radioimmunoassay
The effect of acute and chronic mating experience on circulating corticosterone levels was measured in separate cohorts of male rats (n = 4–8/group) exposed to a sexually-receptive female once or once daily for 14 d. Rats were rapidly decapitated (between 1300–1600 hr) along with naive controls 30 min following initiation of sexual behavior. For chronic sexual experience, decapitations occurred on the last day of exposure to the sexually-receptive female. Trunk blood was collected, centrifuged (14,000 rpm), plasma obtained, and circulating levels of corticosterone measured by radioimmunoassay using a Coat-a-Count Rat Corticosterone kit (Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics, Plainfield, IN).
Anxiety-like behavior
An additional cohort (n = 11/group) of naive and sexually-experienced rats were tested on the elevated plus maze and novelty suppressed feeding paradigms. For this experiment, daily exposure to sexual experience for 28 d was utilized in order to stimulate the production of a large pool of new neurons as well as to provide sufficient time for the new neurons to become incorporated into the existing circuitry. On the last day of sexual experience, rats were placed in the elevated plus maze that was located in a dimly lit room and consisted of a cross-shaped platform (height: 49.5 cm) with four arms (width: 10 cm; length: 110.5 cm), two of which were enclosed by walls 30.5 cm in height (San Diego Instruments, San Diego, CA). The rat was placed into the central area facing an open arm and allowed to explore for 10 min. The percentage of time spent on and number of entries into the open arms were used as measures of anxiety-like behavior. Locomotor activity was assessed using the number of closed arm entries. Afterwards, rats were returned to their home cage and food deprived. The following day, rats were again exposed to a sexually-receptive female and were tested on the novelty-suppressed feeding paradigm 24 h later. Rats were placed in one corner of a brightly lit open arena (58×42×35 cm), the floor of which was covered with ∼1.5 cm of clean bedding. The latency to chew a ∼2 g food pellet located in the center of the arena was recorded. If the rat did not begin feeding within 600 sec, the test was terminated and a latency of 600 sec was assigned. Immediately thereafter, rats were transferred to their home cage and the amount of food consumed by all rats within a cage in 300 sec was measured.
Forty-µm thick coronal sections throughout the entire rostrocaudal extent of the dentate gyrus were cut with a Vibratome from half brains into a bath of 0.1 M phosphate buffered saline (PBS).
For BrdU and Ki67 peroxidase staining, a 1∶12 series of sections was mounted onto glass slides, dried, heated in 0.1 M citric acid, and rinsed in PBS. For BrdU, slides were then incubated in trypsin, rinsed, denatured in 2 M HCl:PBS, rinsed, and incubated in mouse monoclonal antibody against BrdU (1∶200; Vector Laboratories, Burlingame, CA) at 4°C. For Ki67, slides were incubated in 3% H202, rinsed, and incubated at room temperature in mouse monoclonal antibody against Ki67 (1∶100; Vector). The next day, slides were rinsed and reacted with a mouse ABC kit (Vector) followed by 0.01% diaminobenzidine with 0.003% H2O2 (Sigma-Aldrich, St. Louis, MO). Slides were counterstained with cresyl violet, dehydrated, cleared, and coverslipped under Permount (Fisher Scientific, Fair Lawn, NJ).
For assessment of cell phenotype, tissue from rats with a 2 week post-BrdU survival time was processed for double-labeling immunofluorescence for BrdU and the neuronal markers, TuJ1 or NeuN, or the astroglial marker, GFAP. Free-floating sections were denatured in 2 M HCl:TBS, rinsed in TBS, and incubated with rat anti-BrdU (1∶200; Accurate, Westbury, NY) plus mouse anti-TuJ1 (1∶500; Covance, Berkeley, CA), mouse anti-NeuN (1∶500; Chemicon, Temecula, CA), or guinea pig anti-GFAP (1∶1000; Advanced Immunochemical, Long Beach, CA) for 2 d at 4°C. Sections were then rinsed, incubated with biotinylated anti-rat (Chemicon), rinsed, and incubated with streptavidin-conjugated Alexa 568 (1∶1000; Molecular Probes, Eugene, OR) for BrdU, and with goat anti-mouse or goat anti-guinea-pig Alexa 488 (1∶500; Molecular Probes) for TuJ1, NeuN, or GFAP. After rinsing, sections were mounted onto slides and coverslipped using glycerol:TBS (3:1).
Golgi impregnation
The other brain half from naive rats and those with 14 d of sexual experience perfused 2 h after BrdU injection were processed using a modified Golgi-Kopsch protocol. Small tissue blocks containing the hippocampus were incubated in 4% potassium dichromate for 3 d in the dark. The solution was changed daily. Next, the blocks were rinsed in graded concentrations of silver nitrate (0.25. 0.50, 0.75, 1%; 5 min each), then shaken in 1% silver nitrate for 7 d in the dark. Unilateral coronal sections were cut with a Vibratome (125 ìm thick) in distilled water, rinsed in graded concentrations of ethanol, cleared, mounted on slides, and coverslipped under Permount.
Microscopic data analysis
Slides were coded prior to data collection. The code was broken after analyses were complete. Labeled cells in the granule cell layer, subgranular zone, and hilus were counted at 100× on an Olympus BX-50 light microscope. Counts were multiplied by 24 to obtain estimates of BrdU- or Ki67-labeled cells in the dentate gyrus per brain.
For BrdU immunofluorescence, the percentage of BrdU-labeled cells in the granule cell layer and subgranular zone expressing NeuN, TuJ1, or GFAP was determined using a Zeiss Axiovert confocal laser scanning microscope (510 LSM; lasers, Argon 458/488 and HeNe 543; Zeiss, Oberkochen, Germany). For each brain and each marker, 25 randomly selected BrdU-labeled cells were analyzed. Optical stacks of 1-ìm thick sections were obtained through putatively double-labeled cells. To verify double labeling throughout their extent, cells were examined in orthogonal planes.
For each brain, dendritic spine density was analyzed on 5 randomly selected dendritic segments (10–20 ìm long) on 5 dentate gyrus granule neurons and 5 CA1 pyramidal neurons at 100× using an Olympus BX-60 microscope equipped with a motorized stage and camera linked to a computer with Neurolucida software (Microbrightfield, Williston, VT). Golgi-impregnated neurons were selected for analysis if they were thoroughly impregnated and sufficiently isolated from surrounding cells. For every cell, dendritic segments were on secondary or tertiary dendrites, located at least 20 ìm from the soma, and mostly in one focal plane. Only spines extending away from the shaft were counted.
For dendritic length and branching analyses of dentate gyrus granule cells, 5 cells/animal were selected from the set of neurons satisfying the criteria described above. These cells were traced using the 40× objective providing an average dendritic tree length. Branch points were counted when a dendrite exhibited a distinct bifurcation.
Data were analyzed using unpaired Student's t-tests or ANOVA followed by Newman-Keuls post-hoc analysis, where appropriate. Welch's correction for unequal variance was applied when necessary.
Male rats readily engaged in sexual behavior when exposed to a sexually-receptive female. For the acute sexual experience study, all rats copulated during their single exposure to the receptive female. For the chronic sexual experience experiments, all rats copulated on numerous days but some did not do so every day despite exposure to a sexually-receptive female. All rats were included in the analysis and the mean percent copulation for a two week exposure was over 75% (Table 1).
Table 1. Sexual behavior on day 1, 7, and 14 of male rats (n = 6) exposed to a sexually-receptive female daily for 14 consecutive days.
Effects of acute sexual experience on corticosterone levels and cell proliferation
Circulating corticosterone levels were elevated in male rats after sexual experience compared to naive controls (t3 = 7.30, P<0.005; Fig.1a). Despite increased corticosterone levels, a single bout of sexual experience was sufficient to increase cell proliferation in the dentate gyrus. Males with 30 min of sexual experience, injected with BrdU, and perfused 2 h later exhibited a significant increase in BrdU-labeled cells compared to naive controls (t5 = 2.64, P<0.05; Fig.1b).
Figure 1. Acute sexual experience enhances cell proliferation in the dentate gyrus despite elevated glucocorticoid levels.
Compared to naive controls, a single sexual experience elevated (a) corticosterone levels and (b) the number of proliferating cells (labeled with BrdU and examined after a 2 h survival). Bars represent mean ± SEM, *P<0.05.
Effects of chronic sexual experience on corticosterone levels, cell proliferation, and neurogenesis
Circulating corticosterone levels were no longer elevated in male rats after 14 d of sexual experience (t14 = 1.08, P = 0.30; Fig.2a). However, chronic sexual experience continued to enhance cell proliferation in the dentate gyrus. Male rats exposed to a sexually-receptive female daily for 14 d had more proliferating cells (BrdU-labeled cells after a 2 h post-BrdU survival time) than rats exposed to a non-receptive female and naive controls (F2,19 = 3.60, P<0.05; Fig.2b). Since no differences existed between naive rats and those exposed to a non-receptive female (P>0.05), the latter group was excluded from remaining comparisons. Analysis of Ki67, an endogenous marker of cell proliferation, revealed a similar change – 14 d of sexual experience increased the number of Ki67-labeled cells compared to controls (t19 = 1.89, P<0.05; Fig.2c).
Figure 2. Chronic sexual experience enhances cell proliferation and adult neurogenesis without altering glucocorticoid levels.
(a) 14 days of sexual experience did not increase glucocorticoid levels compared to naive controls. (b) The number of proliferating cells (those labeled with BrdU and examined after a 2 h survival) was increased in rats with chronic sexual experience compared to naive controls or those exposed to a non-receptive female. (c) The increased number of proliferating cells in sexually-experienced rats was confirmed using the endogenous marker of cell proliferation, Ki67. (d, e) Sexual experience produced more new neurons (those labeled with BrdU and examined after a 2 week survival) ― the majority of BrdU-labeled cells (arrows) expressed TuJ1 and NeuN, but not GFAP. Scale bars, 10 µm. gcl, granule cell layer. Bars represent mean ± SEM, *P<0.05.
Chronic sexual experience also enhanced adult neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus. Males with 14 d of mating experience, BrdU injections on the last day, and perfusion 2 weeks later had more BrdU-labeled cells compared to naive controls (t12 = 2.18, P<0.05; Fig.2d,e). Most (∼75%) BrdU-labeled cells expressed the neuronal markers, NeuN and TuJ1. A small percentage (∼5%) expressed the astroglial marker, GFAP. There was no difference in the proportion of BrdU-labeled cells expressing these phenotypic markers across groups (P values >0.05) suggesting that the mating-induced increase in BrdU-labeled cells represents an increase in neurogenesis.
Effects of sexual experience on dendritic architecture in the hippocampus
Fourteen days of sexual experience enhanced the number of dendritic spines on dentate gyrus granule neurons (t12 = 2.44, P<0.05; Fig.3a,b). In addition, mating increased total dendritic length (t14 = 2.34, P<0.05; Fig.3c) and the number of branch points (t14 = 2.59, P<0.05; Fig.3d) of granule neurons. The increase in dendritic spine density concomitant with an overall increase in dendritic length and branching suggests that the change in spine density reflects an overall increase in spine number, rather than an increase in spine density due to dendrite shrinkage. By contrast, CA1 pyramidal neurons were unaffected (Fig.3e).
Figure 3. Sexual experience alters dendritic morphology.
(a) Golgi-impregnated dentate gyrus granule neuron with high magnification images of dendritic segments from a naive (top) and a sexually-experienced (bottom) rat. Arrows indicate dendritic spines. Scale bar, 10 µm (cell), 1 µm (dendrite). Sexual experience increased (b) dendritic spine density, (c) dendritic length and, (d) dendritic branching of granule neurons. (e) Dendritic spine density on apical and basal dendrites of CA1 pyramidal neurons was unaffected. Bars represent mean ± SEM, *P<0.05.
Effects of sexual experience on anxiety-like behavior
Sexually-experienced rats were less anxious than naive controls when tested on the novelty suppressed feeding paradigm, as indicated by a shorter latency to consume a familiar food in a novel environment (t13 = 2.52, P<0.05; Fig.4a). There was no difference in home cage food consumption between groups (P>0.05; Fig.4b) suggesting that the effect of sexual experience was not due to group alterations in hunger or motivation. In the elevated plus maze, no changes were observed between naive and sexually-experienced rats in the percent time spent in the open arms, open arm entries, or closed arm entries (Figure 4c,d).
Figure 4. Sexual experience reduces some measures of anxiety-like behavior.
(a) Compared to naive controls, sexual experience reduced anxiety-like behavior on the novelty suppressed feeding paradigm. (b) Home cage food consumption was unaltered. In contrast, anxiety-like behavior in the elevated plus maze was unaffected by sexual experience. (c) Percent time in the opens arms as well as (d) open and closed arm entries were similar in naive and sexually-experienced rats. Bars represent mean ± SEM, *P<0.05.
Our results indicate that acute sexual experience enhances cell proliferation in the dentate gyrus of adult male rats despite substantial elevations in glucocorticoid levels. Furthermore, chronic sexual experience enhances cell proliferation, adult neurogenesis, and the number of dendritic spines in the dentate gyrus of adult male rats. Anxiety-like behavior, as assessed by novelty suppressed feeding, a paradigm that has been linked to neuronal growth in the hippocampus [25], was also reduced by chronic sexual experience.
Elevated glucocorticoid levels have long been associated with detrimental effects on hippocampal structure and function. Experimental increases in corticosterone levels result in dendritic atrophy, suppressed cell proliferation, and reduced adult neurogenesis [26], [27]. Moreover, exposure to aversive stressors, like predator odor, cold water, and restraint, have effects on hippocampal structure that are comparable to those of raising glucocorticoids pharmacologically [2], [3], [4], [5], [14]. Similarly, aversive stress or pharmacological elevation in glucocorticoid levels enhances anxiety and impairs some hippocampal learning and memory functions [8], [9], [28]. The link between elevated glucocorticoid levels and decrements in hippocampal structure and function has been established in multiple studies – preventing stress-induced increases in adrenal steroids inhibits the negative actions of stress on neurogenesis [4], dendritic atrophy [6], anxiety [9], and learning [29]. Consideration of this large body of literature in the context of the present results raises an obvious contradiction – despite elevated glucocorticoid levels [30], [31], the hippocampus responds positively to acute sexual experience with enhanced cell proliferation. The specific characteristics of stressful experiences that determine the structural and physiological outcome for the hippocampus remain an open question. One possibility is that the emotional valence of the stressor plays an important role.
Sexual experience is a strong motivator for rodents [32]. Male rats learn place preferences to mating [33] and will bar press to gain access to a sexually-receptive female [34]. The rewarding aspect of mating shares features in common with running, an experience that also raises glucocorticoid levels [11], [12] and promotes neuronal growth [13], [14], [15], [16]. Together with recent work demonstrating that rewarding brain stimulation enhances adult neurogenesis [19], these findings suggest that the typically deleterious actions of elevated glucocorticoid levels can be overridden if the stressful experience has hedonic value. This possibility raises questions about what factors associated with reward might participate in protecting the brain from the negative influence of stress hormones and further, whether similar or other factors are responsible for the beneficial effects of sexual experience. In this regard, a role for neuromodulators altered with sexual experience and known to influence adult neurogenesis, like opiates [35] or dopamine [36], seem plausible, as does oxytocin, a neuropeptide that buffers the brain and body against some of the adverse consequences of stress hormones [37].
Unlike acute sexual experience, chronic exposure to a sexually-receptive female for 14 d did not increase corticosterone levels. Elevations in corticosterone levels have been reported in male rats up to 3 d following sexual behavior [30], [38] indicating that corticosterone responses become habituated sometime between 3 d and 14 d of sexual experience. Despite differing hormonal responses to sexual experience, both acute and chronic sexual experience was associated with an enhancement in cell proliferation. Other work has shown that 5 d of sexual experience can stimulate cell proliferation but only in rats exposed to aversive stress [39].
Chronic sexual experience also enhanced adult neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus. Mating induced-increases in neurogenesis have been reported in the olfactory bulb of female mice, but not in the dentate gyrus [40]. However, exposing female mice to the pheromones of dominant males is sufficient to enhance neurogenesis in both the olfactory bulb and hippocampus [41]. The specific aspects of the mating encounter that drive changes in hippocampal neurogenesis in male rats have yet to be determined. It is possible that full copulation is necessary or that odor and other sensory cues arising from sexually-receptive females are involved. Each of these is known to be rewarding for male rodents [32], [33], [34] raising the possibility that the reward value inherent to sexual behavior is what ultimately mediates the beneficial effects of sexual experience on hippocampal neurogenesis.
In contrast to the hippocampus and olfactory bulb, reproductive activity does not alter the proliferation or survival of new cells in the medial nucleus of the amygdala or medial preoptic area of male hamsters, brain regions that are part of the mating circuitry [42]. However, since these are areas where the rate of neurogenesis is low [43], it may be difficult to detect changes. Nonetheless, brain regions that mediate sexual behavior do undergo morphological alterations in the form of dendritic and synaptic remodeling [44], [45]. Similarly, we found that chronic sexual experience enhanced dendritic spine density and dendritic complexity of dentate gyrus granule neurons.
Numerous studies have shown that sexual experience exerts anxiolytic effects in a variety of paradigms including the elevated plus maze, open field, elevated zero maze, light-dark box, and conditioned defensive burying [46], [47], [48]. Here, we extend these findings to include a reduction in anxiety on the novelty suppressed feeding paradigm following sexual experience. However, we did not detect alterations in anxiety following sexual experience on the elevated plus maze. These discrepancies may be related to differences in the duration of sexual experience across studies or possible variations in the testing conditions that are known to influence behavior in the elevated plus maze [49]. Nonetheless, a positive relationship between the number of BrdU-labeled cells and a reduction in anxiety on the novelty suppressed feeding paradigm, a behavior that has been linked to this brain region [10], raises the possibility that the two changes are linked. Some evidence suggests that changes in the number of new neurons in the dentate gyrus result in altered anxiety. For example, depletion of new neurons enhances anxiety-like behavior [50] and prevents some anxiolytic actions of antidepressants [25]. Our results suggest that the sexual experience-induced increase in adult neurogenesis contributes to the reduction in anxiety, but additional interpretations must be considered. Other structural changes, such as alterations in dendritic spine density or complexity might be responsible for such functional effects, either solely or together with changes in new neurons. It's also possible that biochemical or physiological changes that occur following acute sexual experience that are completely independent of structural change may be responsible for the effects on anxiety. Additional time course studies, such as those that provide chronic sexual experience followed by a period of no sexual experience, will be needed to rule out this possibility.
Numerous studies have linked experience to changes in adult neurogenesis, dendritic spines, and hippocampal function. In general, stress effects have been associated with negative outcomes in terms of brain structure and function, and elevated glucocorticoid levels seem to be mechanistically involved. The results of the present study, combined with the existing literature, suggest that naturally rewarding experiences are not only beneficial for the brain but also suggest that the hedonic value of an experience plays a more important role than glucocorticoid levels in determining whether the outcome will be beneficial or detrimental. The extent to which fundamentally aversive experiences can be recast as positive through learning, thus minimizing their damaging influence, remains to be determined.
The authors thank Preethi Ramchand, Liron Noiman, and Zahrah Masheeb for technical assistance.
Conceived and designed the experiments: BL. Performed the experiments: BL ERG EG. Analyzed the data: BL ERG EG. Contributed reagents/materials/analysis tools: BL. Wrote the paper: BL.
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44. Flanagan-Cato LM, Calizo LH, Griffin GD, Lee BJ, Whisner SY (2006) Sexual behaviour induces the expression of activity-regulated cytoskeletal protein and modifies neuronal morphology in the female rat ventromedial hypothalamus. J Neuroendocrinol 18: 857–864.
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Thomas Lubanga Convicted of War Crimes
Home » The Blog » The Blog » Thomas Lubanga Convicted of War Crimes
Image source: Guardian.co.uk
In the news this week, Democratic Republic of Congo’s Thomas Lubanga, accused of war crimes including the recruitment of child soldiers, was found guilty in The International Criminal Court. This is a victory not only for the victims of Lubanga’s crimes but for victims of similar crimes the world over.
Part of what makes prosecuting a criminal like Lubanga so difficult is the intercultural red tape. Governments are wary of intervening in civil conflicts and victims are afraid to speak out on an international stage. Often during inter-ethnic conflicts, humanity and human suffering are lost concerns as killing, fear, hunger, and military strategy overwhelm the leaders and the led. In Africa in particular, civil unrest has led to countless genocides of ethnic groups, perhaps most famously in the Western consciousness, the Rwandan Hutu/Tutsi war in the 1990s.
Image source: Denhaag.nl
International aid groups work to bring public attention to acts of violence overseas, but it takes a collaborative effort between NGOs, governments, and legal bodies to bring an individual to trial, and to agree on a verdict. The fact that the Lubanga verdict rested so heavily on his use of child soldiers sets a strong legal precedent for the protection of underage victims of wars worldwide. They paid particular attention to the definition of the phrase “child soldier,” including children who have an indirect role in the conflict such as performing domestic chores.
Image source: Justiceinconflict.org
Of morbid interest is the fact that the prosecution did not involve charges of sexual violence towards the girl soldiers. It is clear from testimony that many female children were tortured and used as sex slaves for older soldiers. This seems to be a common practice during periods of extreme civil unrest, yet it was not pursued as a crime. Lubango was convicted, and those female children abused at his hands are now safe, but it is clear more needs to be done to prosecute for every offense, not just the most extreme or brutal.
Image source: Anneofcarversville.com
Angelina Jolie attended the trial and spoke about the large numbers of witnesses who came to testify before the court. She, alongside Human Rights Watch, called for more extensive prosecutions of officials in positions of command under Lubanga. Setting a precedent here, prosecuting all those associated with these heinous war crimes against children and families, will send a message to other violent groups around the world. The less the international community tolerates these behaviors, the less often they will occur.
Angelina Joliechild soldierscivil warethnic conflictgenocideICCInternational Criminal CourtThe HagueThomas Lubangawar
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HomeSoulful HouseThe Doggett Brothers / L. Jackson – Colours (Remix)
The Doggett Brothers / L. Jackson – Colours (Remix)
Wed. Dec. 07, 2016 indamixworldwide Soulful House 0
First Listen: The Doggett Brothers feat. Laura Jackson – Colours (Mark Di Meo Remix) (Soulstice Music)
How lucky we are being provided with so many quality releases from all over the place these days… As many goodies coming up right on time for the festive period. With, you’ve guessed it, The Doggett Brothers makin’ no exception along with Mark Di Meo, responsible for the remix…
As a matter of fact, kinda hard to find a better title to depict what this new delivery of theirs is about. ‘Colours’ is definitely what stands out from Laura Jackson‘s vocal performance. And it’s also most likely the keyword speaking of Mark Di Meo‘s rework.
Here we go with an instant feel good rhythm guitar driven jazzy funk gem. The kind of classy approach obviously destined to stand the test of time. In the footsteps of what we used to call R&B/Dance by the beginning of the eighties, although with a contemporary approach.
You might like Disco, you might like Funk, you might like Jazz, you might like… House. ‘Colours’ has everything you might like. This therefore making of it a brilliant crossover.
Download from Traxsource.
– The Doggett Brothers are a UK collective with their own style of soul, R&B, Funk and Dance Music. Brothers Greg & Carl Doggett originally launched it in 2010 as a studio project.
As musicians, they take influences from the likes of Prince, Jamiroquai, and Quincy Jones. But also Earth Wind & Fire, Incognito, Michael Jackson, Reel People, D’Angelo, Dwele and Gilles Peterson.
The brothers’ critically acclaimed debut album, ‘Daylight’, found some positive echo as Jazz FM‘s Album of the Week. An award followed for best band at The 2015 East Anglian Music Awards. In addition to a featured spot on BBC Introducing.
The Doggett Brothers have performed extensively throughout the UK. They eventually participated to sell out shows at the world famous Camden Jazz Café in London. But also starred at the Margate Soul Weekender, Hoochie Coochie Club and the Pizza Express (Soho, London).
The band have worked with the best of the current crop of UK Soul singers. From Kenny Thomas to Katie Hector (Incognito) and Natasha Watts among others.
The talented Laura Jackson (Cool Million) joined The Doggett Brothers as lead vocalist back in 2014.
In addition, The DB have opened for Alexander O’Neal and legendary BBC Radio 1 DJ, Trevor Nelson.
No surprisingly, their 11 track new album, ‘Colours’, is another mix of Soul, R&B, Funk and Dance Music vibes. Whilst keeping close to their UK sound, Greg and Carl have always had an obsession with US soul and R&B. A sound that they have most likely weaved into this album.
Coming up on ‘Colours’, alongside heavyweight vocalist Kenny Thomas and Laura Jackson, are 3 new recruits. 3 vocal talents by the likes of Stacy Stuart, Arnob Basit and Dominic Uppiah.
‘Colours’ shot up the UK Soul Chart to #2 and spent 3 week at #1 on the Solar Radio Sweet Rhythm Chart.
The Doggett Brothers signed with P-Vine in August 2016, releasing their album 2 months later in Japan.
“This album is quality from start to finish, great tracks…” (Opolopo)
– A native of Termoli, Mark Di Meo carries on the tradition of know how one may find in the Italian production. This with artists such as Mimmo Falcone, Souldynamic and Michele Chiavarini. But also M. Caporale or Peppe Citarella among others.
The move he decided to do while relocating in Los Angeles, CA was expectedly quite a challenge. But it most likely broadened his horizon in the meantime, as he explained in an interview on houseoffrankie. Meanwhile getting him to spin with luminaries such as Louie Vega, Joe Claussell, Kenny Dope and Terry Hunter. But also droppin’ his releases on labels like Quantize Recordings and King Street/Nite Grooves. Not to mention Reel People Music and Solid Ground in Britain. This in addition to his activities as the CEO of Soulstice Music.
As a result, no wonder as to how his name should be familiar to those of you regular of these shores. If not of our Facebook page where we heavily championed ‘Let It Be Love’. His debut release on Quantize Recordings back in 2012 along with South African singer Nickson and N’Dinga Gaba in charge of the remix duties. Then how to not think of the mesmerizing ‘Be Mine’ featuring Sofia Rubina with remixing work courtesy of Terry Hunter the year after on Solid Ground?
Showcasing his inclination for Jazz vibes, Di Meo would most definitely blow our ears once again in 2014. This with the post-Summerish ‘A Gentleman’s Song’ featuring James Vargas on sax and Appolo Negri on Hammond B3.
Unsurprisingly, he would deliver 5 star remixes whenever commissioned to do so. Beginning with the hypnotic ‘Beautiful Life’ for Diephuis featuring Stephanie Cooke. But also ‘I Thank You’ for the latter this time as a solo artist. Not to mention ‘Colours’ for The Doggett Brothers featuring Laura Jackson to name a few. A cut we eventually included in our 10 essential 2016 tracks in the series. Meanwhile 2016 also saw this release of his ‘Soulful House Journey’ mix on King Street.
We catch him busy workin’ on his Soulstice Music label in 2018. This with a brilliant remix of M. Caporale featuring Tai Malone‘s ‘Red Light’. Then a rework of The L.O.V.E. Project featuring Shean Williams‘ ‘I’m In Love’. Not to mention the classy ’10k High’ featuring Jocelyn Mathieu, as remixed by Richard Earnshaw.
The Doggett Brothers / L. Jackson – Colours (Remix) 2016-12-07T18:31:09+00:00 2018-05-22T14:26:53+00:00 indamixworldwide
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Book Review of Republic F-105 Thunderchief
Yellow Series No. 6138
Author: Jaroslaw Dobrzynski
Mushroom Model Publications (MMP)
THE BOOK:
Mushroom Model Publications is publisher based in the UK. All their books are printed by their associate Stratus Publications in Sandomierz, Poland in English. Stratus does their own line of books in both Polish and English.
This book is soft-cover of 184 pages in 8 1/2" x 12 1/2" page format.
The cover art is a color photo of 3 F-105D's that are each carrying two 1,000 lb M-118 bombs on inboard wing pylons and a 650 gal fuel tank on center line pylons, ready for takeoff.
This book is an illustrated technical history of the Republic F-105 Thunderchief fighter-bomber used by the U.S. Air Force. The F-105 conducted the majority of strike bombing missions during the early years of the Vietnam War.
The book details the history of the development and service, as well as the technical description with special focus on avionics of this famous Cold War-era fighter-bomber, whose primary role was to be nuclear weapon delivery.
But instead saw widespread service as conventional bomber and interdiction during the Vietnam War. Its two seat trainer variant was converted to perform a new mission - suppression of enemy air defense (SEAD) - and proved highly effective in this role.
After the Vietnam War, the type served with Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve units until early 1980's.
This is a rarely documented aspect of Cold War aviation history. It features superb color profiles of camouflage and markings, walk-around color photos and rare black and white archive photos.
There are 125 color photos (including the cover) and 143 black and white ones in the book.
It also includes: 28 technical manual illustrations, 8 data lists, 3 maps, an illustration of the "100 Missions" cloth patch, 39 black and white photos of cockpit instruments, a cutaway illustration of the engine, a illustration and color photo of the ejection seats, a illustration of the dash boards in the front and back seats with all the instruments named, color schemes with color swatches, color photos of the front and rear dash boards, 13 black and white illustrations of the instruments and the joy stick and throttle quadrants, a color illustration of "Yankee Air Polak" cloth badge.
For color side view illustrations there are:
A YF-105A (54-0078) at Edwards AFB, 1955.
A F-105B-10-RE (57-5779) 335th TFS, 4th TFW, Eglin AFB, 1959
A F-105B-10-RE (57-5782) 452nd Air Demonstration Sqdn., "Thunderbirds", Nellis AFB, 1964
A 3-view of a F-105D-15-RE (61-0100) 49th TFW, Spangdahlem 1963
A F-105D-6-RE (59-1761)
A F-105F (63-8280) 35th TFS, Yokota AFB, 1964, w/"Pacific Air Force" badge
A F-105F "Wild Weasel" (63-8301) w/ "Jinkin Josie" and a bare chested girl under the cockpit, pilot Captain Vern Harris, EWO Captain Kim Pepperill, 357th TFS, 355th TFW, Takhli 1968.
A F-105G (63-8291) w/ "Muttley the Flying Dog" under the cockpit and a shark mouth on the nose, 17th WWS, 388th TFW, Korat 1972
A F-105D "Thunderstick II" (61-0110), 457th TFS, 301st TFW, AFRES, Carswell AFB 1973
A F-105F (63-8293) "Commando Nail", 13th TFS, 388th TFW, Korat 1967
A F-105D-6RE (59-1822) "Superhog", 149th TFS, 192nd TFG, Virginia ANG, Byrd Field ANGB, 1980, w/an eagle with a rebel flag in its claws under the cockpit and ANG shield on the rudder
A 4-view of a F-105D-6RE (89-1822) "The Polish Glider", pilot Donald Kutyna, 44th TFS, 355th TFW, Tahkli 1970
A F-105D-10-RE (60-0434) w/Lucy from Peanuts shown pregnant and saying "Damn You Charlie Brown" under the cockpit, 44th TFS, 388th TFW, Korat 1963
A F-105D-10-RE (60-0504) "Memphis Belle II" on nose, 357th TFS, 355th TFW, Takhli 1970
A F-105D-31-RE (62-4360) "Iron Duke" on nose, 354th TFS, 355th TFW, Takhli 1970
A F-105D-31-RE (62-4364) "Pussy Galore II" w/ a naked blond gal on nose, pilot Captain Victor Vizcarra, 354th TFS, 355th TFW, Takhli 1966
A F-105D-15-RE (61-0069) "Cherry Girl" w/naked girl on the nose, 357th TFS, 355th TFW, Takhli 1967
A F-105F "Wild Weasel" (63-8311) w/ "Sam II Fighter" and a crow shooting down a ground to air missile with a lightning bolt on the nose, pilot Major Bill Scott, EWO Captain Cliff Gallino, 354th TFS, 355th TFW, Takhli 1969
A F-105F "Wild Weasel" (63-8351) w/ "Red River Showboat" and a paddle-boat on the nose, pilot Major Robert Huntley, EWO Captain Ralph Stearman, 354th TFS, 355th TFW, Takhli 1970
A F-105G (63-8320) w/ "Cooter" and a white owl on the nose, 333rd TFS, 355th TFW, Takhli 1968
A F-105F "Wild Weasel" (62-4436) w/ "Fat Fanny" and a naked blond gal on the nose, 333rd TFS, 355th TFW, Takhli 1968
There is a loose sheet folded twice to fit inside the book. It is a large 22 3/4" x 15 1/2" format, printed on both sides.
It has lined drawings of various versions of the F-105 as line drawings on each side in 1/72nd scale:
One one side is a side view of a F-105A, F-105B, 2 side views of a F-105D-10-RE. 2 side views of a F-105D-31-RE (showing it with and without drop tank, F-105D-10-RE and 2 side viees of a F-105F.
The reverse side has a top and bottom view in 1/72nd scale of the F-105D-31-RE, 2 side views of the F-105G (one showing its mounted with a AN/ALQ-105 pod and the other mounted with a different pod and a top and bottom view of a F-105F.
This is neat book. It will be of great interest to aircraft historians and modelers alike.
I wish to thank Dr. Roger Wallsgrove, Editor-in-chief of Mushroom Model Publications (MMP) and the folks at Casemate Publishing who sent me this review sample.
Casemate is the North American distributor of MMP books. All MMP titles can be seen on their web site at:
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Page 1 of Hansard 17.10.06
NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OFFICIAL REPORT Tuesday, 17th October, 2006
Order, hon. Members! I thought the Minister for Youth Affairs was to lay some Papers. He is not here! Next Order!
QUESTION BY PRIVATE NOTICE
FRAUDULENT AWARD OF TENDER BY SUNEKA TOWN COUNCIL
John Zebedeo Opore
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I beg to ask the Minister for Local Government the following Question by Private Notice. (a) Is the Minister aware that Suneka Town Council awarded, through single sourcing, a contract for the design of a strategic plan to Strategic Design Consultants on 25th August, 2006? (b) Is he further aware that the form of tender, the letter of offer and acceptance for the award amounting to Kshs400,000 were signed on the same day? (c) What steps is the Minister taking to reverse the fraudulent award to save the council's meagre resources and prosecute those responsible?
Stephen Tarus (The Assistant Minister for Local Government)
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I beg to reply. (a) I am aware that Suneka Town Council awarded tender for the procurement of consultancy services to design a strategic plan. The council sought quotations for the contract from Reps Consultants, Taita Consultants and Strategic Design Consultants. (b) I am aware that the form of tender was signed on 25th August, 2006, and the agreement was also signed on the same day. Records held also indicate that acceptance of the letter of award of the contract was signed on 1st September, 2006. (c) The Ministry of Local Government has noted the discrepancies existing in the procurement of the consultancy services and it has undertaken to investigate and take stern action against the officers, if found to have contravened the regulations laid down.
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, first of all, the tender forms were signed on 25th August, 2006, but the award was made on 24th August, 2006. This is contained in the documents that the Assistant Minister laid on the Table. Could the Assistant Minister confirm whether he supports his statement or not?
Stephen Tarus
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, in part "c" of my answer, I have said that after close evaluation of the processes that were followed to award the tender, indeed, it was noted that the tender was awarded on 24th August, 2006, and the letter of agreement was signed on 25th August, 2932 2006. The manner in which the quotations were sought gives clear indication that the officers involved did not take serious consideration of the matter. I have said that, as a Ministry, we will institute investigations and take action where necessary.
Jimmy Angwenyi
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, inordinate amounts of resources are plundered by local authorities under the Ministry of Local Government. The Chair saw what happened in Mombasa, Eldoret and now in Suneka, which is a small town. What measures is the Ministry taking to streamline procurement procedures in the local authorities so that it can protect public resources?
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I have said that we will evaluate each local authority's compliance with the legal requirements set out by the Government, to see whether it adheres to the laid-down procedures when it comes to procurement. From the Suneka Town Council case, we have noted that the manner in which procurement is done in local authorities calls for serious attention to ensure that they comply with the requirements set out by the laws of Kenya.
Mr. Assistant Minister, you have said that the award of the tender was not properly done and now you are saying that you will investigate. You know investigations take long. Mr. Assistant Minister, you already seem to have investigated the matter and come to a conclusion, and now you want to carry out another investigation. What is the position?
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, we have noted the discrepancies in this case. Apart from the procurement of that service, we want to find out whether the procurement of other services contravened the regulations. However, as of now, we will take stern action against the officers who were involved.
Sammy Arthur Weya
On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir. You have given preference to the Government side only!
Order, Mr. Weya! You cannot direct the Chair whose "eye to catch". Please, note that! Mr. Opore, ask the last question!
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, the Chairman of the Finance Committee is supposed to sit in the Tender Committee. However, I have a letter from the Chairman of the Finance Committee stating that he never attended the Tender Committee meeting and he was not aware of it. Secondly, the Assistant Minister has accepted that there were irregularities but he has not said whether he will stop them or not. Could I lay on the Table the letter of the Chairman of the Finance Committee to assist the Assistant Minister revoke that tender?
Mr. Opore, that is okay! However, what is your question?
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, could the Assistant Minister revoke the tender because he has noted that there were irregularities?
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, as a Ministry, we had taken that option but when we realised that the council had committed itself to procure that service from that particular company-- - The Ministry will surcharge the officers who were negligent in their duties to recover the funds that have been misappropriated.
Mr. Weya stood on a point of order to complain that I was giving chances to the Government side only. I confirm that prior to that, I had looked at the Opposition side and not a single person stood in his place!
But, Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir---
Order, Mr. Weya! You better learn! This is not a classroom where there is an exchange between a teacher and a pupil! This is the Kenya National Assembly. When October 17, 2006 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 2933 the Chair is speaking, you keep quiet. The matter is finished! Next Question by Mr. Khamisi!
ISSUANCE OF TITLE DEED TO MR. MOHAMED SULEIMAN
Joseph Matano Khamisi
asked the Minister for Lands why Mr. Zeid Mohamed Suleiman, owner of plot No.1513/281 at Takaungu in Bahari Constituency, has not been issued with a title deed after having fulfilled all the requirements.
Kibwana Kivutha (The Minister for Environment and Natural Resources)
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I beg to reply. My Ministry has not issued a title deed to Mr. Suleiman for plot No.1513/281 because his claim has not yet been authenticated due to lack of supporting documents.
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I do not think the Minister is serious in his answer because this matter has been pending since 1983. Already, letters have been written by his officers in Coast Province. The last letter was written on 24th March, 1988, to the Director of Survey, asking him or the Commissioner of Lands to surrender and issue the deed plans so that the title deed could be issued. This matter has been pending since that time. So, the Minister cannot say that there have been no documents to support this. Could he tell the House the documents which have not been submitted to his office?
Kibwana Kivutha
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, Mr. Suleiman alleges that a judgement was made in his favour by the Ministry and the adjudication claims as per the provisions of the Land Titles Act, Cap.282. However, we have no records of such a claim or judgement traced to the Ministry Headquarters or the Coast Lands Registry. A sketch map whose source was not known was submitted to our office by Mr. Suleiman. Therefore, we have no records to show the existence of the plot. However, we will be very happy to assist Mr. Suleiman if he comes to our office with any document that indicates that he has a legal title to the land.
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, that man is over 80 years old and he comes to my office every week to follow up the matter. I have been following the matter on his behalf for the last two years. The Minister cannot tell the House that certain documents have not been received at the Ministry when I submitted every single document that I was asked to submit. Could the Minister undertake to follow up this matter so that, that old man could rest in peace? The man is over 80 years old.
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, Mr. Khamisi knows that this Ministry is very much interested in solving land problems at the coast and countrywide. I will be very glad to be approached by Mr. Suleiman with his MP, Mr. Khamisi and I will assist because it is my duty to do so. I think this old man needs to be assisted to get his legal rights.
Mr. Khamisi, I think you owe it to your constituent to discuss the matter further with the Minister.
CONSTRUCTION OF OFFICE BLOCKS IN NAIROBI RESIDENTIAL AREAS 2934 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES October 17, 2006
asked the Minister for Local Government:- (a) why the Nairobi City Council has allowed construction of office blocks in residential areas in Lavington, Riverside and Kileleshwa; and, (b) what action he is taking to ensure town planning and zoning is adhered to by the City Council.
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I beg to reply. (a) The City Council of Nairobi has allowed construction of offices vide the Consideration of the Physical Planning Act, Cap.286, and its subsidiary regulations. (b) Based on the answer to part "a" above, the Ministry, in conjunction with the City Council of Nairobi, has instituted the following measures to ensure that city planning and zoning is adhered to:- 1. Review of policy guidelines governing development planning and zoning in the city. 2. Enforcement of Physical Planning Act and regulations through prosecution of illegal conversion of residential houses to commercial offices which, if one is found guilty, attracts a fine of Kshs100,000. 3. Preparation and formulation of metropolitan development strategic plan---
Order, hon. Members! The Front Bench on my right, please, consult in low tones. Proceed, Mr. Tarus!
Preparation and formulation of metropolitan Development Strategic Plan for Nairobi and satellite towns within Nairobi. 4. Consideration of establishment of a metropolitan authority.
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, there are certain rights that a property owner is entitled to. There is the right to sunshine and privacy. Currently there are constructions going on in residential neighbourhoods where offices are coming up, denying the owners of neighbouring properties their rights. The Assistant Minister says that the Government will come up with new policies. What action will he take to stop the constructions which are going on? What will he do about the constructions which are in existence, to make sure that they are either moved out or demolished?
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I think hon. Members are consulting loudly. Could the hon. Member repeat the question?
Very well! The consultation is more on the side I mentioned. Therefore, could you tell your colleagues to consult in low tones so that you can hear the question?
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, what action will the Assistant Minister take to stop the constructions which are currently going on in those residential neighbourhoods? What action will he take on those office blocks which are currently situated in residential areas?
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, the Ministry has taken the following action with regard to observance of the regulations governing city planning: In areas which authority had been given for individuals to build professional offices, the Nairobi City Council is carrying out an evaluation of all those areas to ensure that there is compliance as per the authority granted. In 2005, an embargo was issued to stop any further development of office space in areas where there are residential houses. The Ministry is doing its best to make sure that this is complied with.
Patrick Kariuki Muiruri
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, this is a very important question. We are not just October 17, 2006 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 2935 talking about office buildings. You will find that there are so many bars, nightclubs and restaurants in a place like Milimani which is a residential area. This is an area where children are expected to do their homework. There is also a lot of prostitution being practised in those areas. How did the Assistant Minister authorise this immorality to take place in these high class residential areas?
It is not that it should be allowed in low class residential areas and banned in high class residential areas. Immorality is not allowed anywhere. That distinction should not be there, Mr. Muiruri.
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, any practise that is not in conformity with the prevailing requirements in the country is not allowed anywhere. In order for any premise to practise any form of business, authority must be granted. There must also be an application for change of use for that particular premise. The Ministry in conjunction with the Nairobi City Council, has allowed the utilisation, only for professional services. In areas where people have built beyond what they are mandated to, the Ministry will take remedial action with regard to that.
Daudi Fredrick Mwanzia
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I think the Assistant Minister is confusing some issues as far as planning is concerned. Re-zoning and plot ratio is a continuous process, especially where land is not available. The question is not whether, authority will be sought from the local authorities. The question is whether the stakeholders, planners and plot owners are involved in the re-zoning or change of raising plot ratio. Could the Assistant Minister tell us whether, according to the Physical Planning Act, he has implemented the provision which provides that in all re-zoning, plot ratios which are to be effected in any planning area are advertised and objections requested from the stakeholders?
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I am glad that a professional valuer is asking this question. I want to confirm to this House that all those were complied with. There was consultation with the stakeholders. There were also advertisements placed for the change of user.
On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir. Is the Assistant Minister in order to tell us that the Ministry involves the stakeholders in re-zoning or planning an area, when they have created a slum where I live without consulting us?
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I am not so sure whether that is a point of order. For the benefit of Kenyans, the Ministry does not supervise the creation of slums. It actually oversees the elimination of slums in the country.
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, could the Assistant Minister consider freezing licensing, allowing residential properties to be used as offices and restaurants in residential areas?
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, if we had enough office space to cater for all the interests in the country, we would say that we will do that. We shall consider the view advanced by the hon. Member, but also in conjunction with the needs of society.
LIST OF OVERSEAS SCHOLARSHIPS AND THEIR BENEFICIARIES
Reuben Ndolo
asked the Minister for Education:- (a) how many overseas scholarships the Government gave to students between 2003-2006; (b) what criteria was used to award the scholarships; and, (c) whether he could table the list of the beneficiaries indicating provincial distribution for each.
Valerian Kilemi Mwiria (The Assistant Minister for Education)
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I beg to 2936 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES October 17, 2006 reply. (a) A total of 338 students were awarded overseas scholarships by the Ministry between 2003 and 2006 as follows: Doctor of Philosophy, 35; Master of Arts or Science, 72; Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science, 308. (b) The criteria used to award scholarships is merit, area of study, regional balance, gender, consideration of affirmative action and some conditions that are given by the countries that are supporting these scholarship programmes. The list of beneficiaries for the scholarship according to province is on the list I have given to the hon. Member. It is a very long list but in brief, out of those scholarships, Rift Valley got 53; Eastern Province 35; Western 44; Central Kenya 54; Nairobi 12; North Eastern 20; Coast Province 25, and Nyanza Province 65.
Mr. Ndolo, since this list is quite long, would you like some time to scrutinise it, so that we can defer this Question and other hon. Members can have a look at it?
Yes, Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir.
The Assistant Minister should lay the list on Table of the House so that hon. Members can have time to look at it. The Question is deferred to Tuesday.
(Question deferred) Question No.347
HARDSHIP ALLOWANCE FOR WUNDANYI/TAVETA TEACHERS
Mwandawiro JD Mghanga
alimuuliza Waziri wa Elimu ni lini walimu wa Wundanyi na Taveta wataanza kulipwa marupurupu ya kufanya kazi katika mazingira magumu kama wenzao wa Voi na Mwatate.
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I would request that I be given a little bit more time to do research on this Question. I have spoken to the hon. Member and he says that next week is fine.
Bw. Naibu Spika, Swali hili litaahirishwa ili tafsiri ya sawa sawa kwa Swali langu lifanyike na ili haki itendeke kwa walimu wa Wundanyi.
Tutaliahirisha Swali hili hadi Jumanne, wiki ijayo.
ELECTRIFICATION OF MARKETS IN TIGANIA EAST CONSTITUENCY
Joseph Konzolo Munyao
asked the Minister for Energy:- (a) how much money it will cost the Ministry to provide electricity to Kunati, Mulika and Mbaranga markets in Tigania East Constituency; and, (b) why the Ministry has failed to provide electricity to these fast growing markets that are key to the revival of the Tigania economy.
Where is the Acting Minister for Energy? Your Excellency the Vice-President, we are looking for the Minister for Energy.
He was here!
Henry Obwocha (The Minister for Planning and National Development)
Mr. Deputy October 17, 2006 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 2937 Speaker, Sir, on behalf of the Ministry of Energy, I beg to reply. (a) It is estimated that it will cost the Ministry a total of Kshs20.5 million to provide electricity to Kunati, Mulika and Mbaranga markets in Tigania East Constituency. This is broken down as follows: Kunati Market, Kshs7.2 million; Mulika Market, Kshs8.4 million, and Mbaranga Market, Kshs4.9 million. (b) The Ministry has not failed to supply electricity to the said trading centres. In fact, the request for supply of power to these centres was only made to the Ministry by the hon. Member through a letter dated 11th June, 2006. Kunati Market will get electricity under the French Government-funded project. Survey and design works for the French Project is expected to commence in November, 2006, while the actual construction is projected to start in February, 2007. Mbaranga Market and Antuanduru Secondary School will be financed from this financial year's budget. The latter one will cost Kshs1 million. I want to assure the hon. Member that we will include Mulika Market in the Financial Year 2006/2007.
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I would like to thank the Minister for this very good answer. I think this is one of the best Ministries that this Government has. In fact, we can see the economy in the rural areas coming back to life because of the provision of electricity. However, I would like him to confirm whether he will also provide electricity to Mbaranga Secondary School, which is near Mbaranga Market. Will he also supply electricity to Rware and Thuri secondary schools which are on the route towards Mulika Market?
Henry Obwocha
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, yes, I confirm that. If the hon. Member makes a request to me, we will supply electricity to those schools. We have projected 940 projects all over the country. We will not deny any constituency electricity. In fact, that is the best way to seduce the constituencies that are against the Government. So, we will implement the rural electrification programme in every constituency.
Anyang' Nyong'o
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, providing electricity to Kenyans is their right. This is because they pay for it through taxes. So, the Minister is not in order to seduce Kenyans to provide what is their right. Notwithstanding that point, I notice that the Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) is providing electricity by getting contractors from the private sector. While I am for privatising some of these activities, standards must be maintained so that people are not endangered. Could he explain to this House what steps the Government is taking to ensure that as these contracts are given to the private sector implementors, standards of providing electricity are ensured, particularly with regard to safety of poles on which the pylons pass?
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, my predecessor knows that when we were on the Opposition side, the Government was denying us development. We will not do the same. For the question he has raised, there are three types of contractors. First of all, we gave the KPLC team itself. Then we have Labour and Transport. The final one which we intend to give is the outside one. I want to assure the hon. Member that we have taken into account what he has requested; that standards must be maintained throughout. Therefore, we will make sure that the standards are maintained.
Last question, Mr. Munya!
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I would like to know from the Minister when he will visit my constituency to commission these projects and announce to the wananchi that these projects will be undertaken soon.
Mr. Munya, I think you are taking this House too low! That is not a question. Why do you not go there yourself and announce to the wananchi what the Minister has told you? By the way, that is a matter between you and the Minister. I do not think it should be brought before the House. Nevertheless, Mr. Minister, would you like to respond to that? 2938 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES October 17, 2006
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I intend to visit every constituency, when time is available, to initiate and launch some of these projects. So, I want to assure the hon. Member that I intend to go to Tigania East Constituency. They are my cousins!
APPOINTMENT OF CHIEF FOR SOUTH MUGIRANGO BORABU LOCATION
Omingo Magara
asked the Minister of State, for Administration and National Security:- (a) whether he is aware that South Mugirango Borabu Location has not had a chief for over four years; (b) what he is doing to correct this, considering that it is a volatile border location of Gucha/Trans Mara districts; and, (c) whether he could consider sub-dividing the location into three owing to its current size and population.
Amason Kingi (The Assistant Minister, Office of the President)
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I beg to reply. (a) I am not aware. (b) An authority letter, Ref.CA2/1/18A/31, was written to the Provincial Commissioner, Nyanza Province, on 14th March, 2006, authorizing him to appoint Mr. Henry N. Chucha as Chief Grade II for South Mugirango Borabu Location, Etago Division. Consequently, the chief was appointed and he is working. (c) The local leaders of South Mugirango have not forwarded any formal recommendation for the creation of a new location. They will get one, once they have done so.
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, for the very first time, I am happy with the response given by the Assistant Minister. This is because I can confirm that the chief is actually now in employment and serving. I want to thank him for that. However, the proposal for sub- division was done in 1986 and 1998, alongside Nyabiosi and Nyakeyo sub-location and Bomonyama Location. Could he consider it, if I present the minutes of the Sub-District Development Committee and District Development Committee (DDC) on sub-division, because of the vastness and population?
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, let the hon. Member bring to us the minutes and we will consider that request.
Julius Odenyo Arungah
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, we are having delays in hiring of junior officers like assistant chiefs, to the extent that in Khwisero Constituency, I do not have up to four assistant chiefs. This is because the appointment has to be sanctioned from Nairobi. Why does the Ministry not delegate that responsibility to the District Commissioners (DCs), so that we can have these officers appointed more promptly?
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, the DCs are still under our office and it is part of the process that we involve them. Whenever a vacancy occurs, we ask them to advertise. Once the advertisement has been done, and people apply and we are informed, we ensure that, that appointment is done within 14 days. If there is any problem anywhere, let us be informed in the office and we will take the appropriate action.
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, to follow up on that question, sometimes, even after the interviews, it takes well over one year to have a chief approved from the short-listed candidates. Could the Assistant Minister assure this House that he is going to pull up his socks and October 17, 2006 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 2939 have the chiefs appointed promptly after the interviews?
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, under our Rapid Results Initiative (RRI), it takes us only 14 days to appoint a chief once the results have been forwarded to our office. That is why I said that, if there is a problem anywhere, let us be informed and we shall take appropriate action.
Last question, Mr. Omingo!
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, having received a satisfactory answer, I will ask the Assistant Minister to confirm whether he will also expedite the appointments of Gitinga and Bumunyara chiefs, whose interviews have been done. When will we get the letters, so that they could start delivering the services to the people?
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I confirm that for only those areas that the hon. Member has mentioned. But for other locations and sub-locations that do not have chiefs and assistant chiefs in the country, we will undertake to fill them as soon as the interviews have been conducted and results forwarded to us.
Next Question by the hon. Member for Tharaka Constituency, Mr. Kagwima!
NON-PAYMENT OF COMPENSATION TO MR. KIBAARA'S FAMILY
Francis Nyamu Kagwima
asked the Minister for Tourism and Wildlife why the family of Justus Kibaara has not been compensated after their daughter was killed by an elephant on 7th April, 2000 in Ntugi Location of Tharaka District.
Morris Dzoro (The Minister for Tourism and Wildlife)
Bw. Naibu Spika, naomba kujibu. Wizara bado haijapokea dai la ridhaa kutokana na kifo cha bintiye Bw. Kibaara aliyeuawa na wanyama wa pori. Ningependa kumshauri Bw. Kibaara awasilishe dai lake kwa kamati ya ridhaa ya wilaya kupitia kwa Mkuu wa Wilaya, ambaye ni mwenyekiti wa kamati hiyo.
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, the claim was sent in the same year; 2000!
Could you speak close to the microphone?
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I am saying that the claim was sent in the year 2000. Has the Minister asked the District Commissioner (DC) whether he is still keeping the claim? The DC was given the claim in the year 2000.
Mr. Minister, that is a long time ago. That is six years ago!
Morris Dzoro
Bw. Naibu Spika, nakubaliana na wewe kwamba jambo hilo ni la zamani sana. Lilitokea mwaka wa 2000. Lakini hata hivyo, kulingana na rekodi zetu, inaonekana kwamba ombi hilo halikufika katika Ofisi ya Shirika la Wanyama wa Pori. Kwa hivyo, naomba tupewe ombi hilo ili tufuatilie. Inaonekana ombi hilo halikutufikia.
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, as a matter of procedure, I do not know when we are supposed to get the answer. If I had this answer yesterday, I would have come with a copy of the claim from Mr. Kibaara. But when you are given an answer here, what do you do? I would like to request the Minister, after he leaves this House, to call the District Commissioner (DC) in Tharaka, so that he could get the claim from there. The claim was forwarded to the DC.
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, ombi hilo likifika kwa DC, tutawasiliana naye ili Bw. Kibaara alipwe ridhaa yake mara moja.
Mr. Kagwima, wewe pia usaidie kwa kwenda kwa DC kuchukua hizo nakili ili umsaidie Waziri kumsaidia mwananchi huyo. 2940 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES October 17, 2006
Harrison Garama Kombe
Bw. Naibu Spika, Wizara hii ina mipango gani ya kuwalipa ridhaa jamii za watu wanaouawa na wanyama wa pori au wanaoharibiwa mimea yao? Kuna watu wengi ambao wamengoja zaidi ya miaka kumi bila kulipwa ridhaa.
Bw. Naibu Spika, ningeomba tushirikiane na Waheshimiwa pamoja na wananchi. Kuna sheria kabambe ambayo inamruhusu mtu kuwasilisha ombi lake. Ikiwa hawapati majibu, basi wawasiliane na Wizara yangu na tutawasaidia vile inavyotakikana.
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, when everything has been done, how much does that person expect as compensation? What is the Government policy?
I thought you knew that! You should not ask a question when you know the answer!
Bw. Naibu Spika, sheria hiyo ilitungwa hapa hapa Bungeni na Bw. Kagwima anatakiwa kujua Bw. Kibaara atalipwa hela ngapi! Lakini nawahakikishia Wabunge wenzangu kwamba tutahakikisha jamii hiyo imelipwa hela zake kulingana na sheria.
Last Question on the Order Paper, Mr. Ndambuki!
TARMACKING OF NUNGUNI-KIKOKO ROAD
Gideon Ndambuki
asked the Minister for Roads and Public Works:- (a) whether he could inform the House when the tarmacking of the two-and-half kilometre Nunguni-Kikoko Road section will begin; and, (b) how much money has been allocated for that purpose.
Joshua Ngugi Toro (The Assistant Minister for Roads and Public Works)
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I beg to reply. (a) The tarmacking of the two-and-half kilometre Nunguni-Kikoko Road section was not budgeted for during the current financial year. However, the road will be considered for tarmacking during the 2007/2008 Financial Year. (b) Due to budgetary constraints, no money has been allocated for the tarmacking of Nunguni-Kikoko Road this financial year.
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I am really surprised because this Assistant Minister has answered this Question more than five times. Last year, newspaper reports had indicated that Kenya Roads Board had budgeted Kshs30 million to construct that road. What happened to that money? You went ahead and put it in the newspapers. The people from that constituency are carrying those papers and asking about the Kshs30 million. Can you tell this House what you did with that money?
Joshua Ngugi Toro
Mr. Deputy Speaker, it is true we put it in the Budget in the last financial year. But after the design was done, it was found out that the money was not enough to do the construction of the two-and-half kilometres. That is why we decided to have a proper allocation to enable that section to be reconstructed to the required standards.
Last question, Mr. Ndambuki!
Could the Assistant Minister tell us what he will do to make that section passable because people cannot move? He should also clear the minds of those people that the Kshs30 million was reallocated to other projects.
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, about two weeks ago, that section of the road was graded because it was very bad. So, at the moment, it is motorable. We will continue grading that road and making it motorable until we advertise for the construction to upgrade that road to October 17, 2006 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 2941 bitumen standards. I would also like the hon. Member to bear with us for that oversight. We should have catered for it in this financial year.
On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir.
Is it a point of order or a supplementary question?
It is a point of order. Is the Assistant Minister in order to say that the section was graded, and yet they could not do it because of the stones.
That is a point of information. You are informing him now.
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, but he is misleading the House! He has said that the section has been graded. It has not been graded. The officials of the Ministry said that they could not do it because they were going to unearth the stones that were being put there. Are you in order, Mr. Assistant Minister?
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, to the best of my knowledge, that section was graded about one and a half weeks ago. Unless the hon. Member has not been there for the last two weeks, I do not know---
That is the end of Question Time. I now request for your attention. I have a communication from the Chair.
COMMITTEE HEARINGS ON ARTUR BROTHERS SUBJECT TO STANDING ORDER NO.161 Last week, I undertook to make a communication regarding a matter of public hearing of the proceedings of the Administration of Justice and Legal Affairs Committee, raised by hon. Muite, MP and Chairman of the Committee. The Chairman had claimed that a Motion seeking public hearings of the Committee proceedings had been approved by the Speaker and forwarded to the House Business Committee for allocation of time for consideration. He expressed concern that the House Business Committee had not slotted the Motion for debate by the House. Hon. Members, you are aware that I sought clarification from the Leader of Government Business, as the Chairman of the House Business Committee. The Hon. Deputy Leader of Government Business made a statement on the matter on Thursday, 12th October, 2006 and reaffirmed the position of the House Business Committee. As provided for by Standing Order Nos.42 and 43, the responsibility of approving Motions falls on the Chair, a duty he ensures is discharged expeditiously, without fear or favour. The business of allocating time for the consideration of such business is squarely the responsibility of the House Business Committee. Therefore, the Chair has discharged its responsibility in this matter. My advice to the Committee is that it continues to perform its duties in accordance to the Standing Orders, until such time that Standing Orders No.161 on Publication of Evidence is reviewed. Thank you.
COMMITTEE OF SUPPLY
(Order for Committee read being 12th Allotted Day)
2942 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES October 17, 2006 THAT MR. SPEAKER DO NOW LEAVE THE CHAIR Vote 11 - Ministry of Health
(The Minister for Health on 11.10.2006) (Resumption of Debate interrupted on 11.10.2006)
Mr. Angwenyi, you were on the Floor the last time we had this Debate. I will be informing you how many minutes you have later. I think you have one minute. Proceed!
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I have nine minutes. Health care is a basic need for every citizen of this country. That is why when we acquired our Independence, the first indigenous Government decided to provide free health care through the initiative of the late first President of this country. Kenyans enjoyed free health care. It was with the advent of the Goldenberg scandal that the free service to Kenyans was stopped. For the past 16 years, citizens of this country have suffered because they cannot afford to access health care whenever they need it. As you know, 63 per cent of Kenyans live below poverty line. That portion of Kenyans live in squalor where diseases are prevalent. Some of the diseases affecting them include malaria, HIV/AIDS or just mere cough. Our people have suffered without bitterness for the past 16 years. I thought that this Ministry could have sought adequate resources so that it could begin to provide free health care to every Kenyan who needs it. Every time I go to my constituency, people come home to visit me. For instance, if I go home on a Friday, the following day in the morning, by 7.00 a.m, there are over 200 people in my compound, wanting to see me. At least 70 per cent of those people would be requiring my assistance or support to access health care. I know that the media has portrayed hon. Members as people who do not work, and that we work for only 15 to 18 hours. I am, through this discussion, inviting members of the media to accompany me to my constituency and see how many hours I work over the weekend. I start my work on Saturdays at 7.00 a.m and do not wind up until 2.00 a.m in the night. That is what every hon. Member in this House does. So, the assistance that is required pertains to health care. The first President of this country was keen to establish proper hospitals in this country, for instance, the Kenyatta National Referral Hospital, New Nyanza General Hospital in Kisumu and the Coast General Hospital. We have not expanded those facilities for many years now. So, if you visit Kenyatta National Hospital, you will find the facility congested. You will find two to three patients sharing a bed. I thought the Ministry would have sought more resources so as to provide adequate health care in the referral hospital. This Ministry should upgrade some of the district hospitals to provincial level. For instance, the Kisii General Hospital should be upgraded to provincial status so that it can have adequate facilities and personnel to provide services to approximately 5 million Kenyans who live in the southern and western parts of this country. In the same breath, I request that this Ministry upgrades Marani and Raganga health centres into sub-district hospitals. These sub-district hospitals would provide services to more than 300,000 people. Thanks to the efforts of Eng. Muriuki, we now have CDF in this country. Although some people in this country do not recognise that, we have constructed health facilities using the CDF. In October 17, 2006 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 2943 my own constituency, we have established seven new health facilities. However, the new facilities cannot offer services to our people because they lack personnel. I request that the Ministry recruits qualified personnel and sends them to those facilities so that our people can access adequate and proper health care. Recently, it was announced that a number of ambulances were bought through the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF). However, I have 13 health facilities in my constituency, yet not a single one got an ambulance. How is the distribution of the ambulances determined? Do you consider the number of patients received, or does one have to know someone in the Ministry? What criteria is used? I want to request the Ministry of Health to take care of that since as I said, health care is a basic need. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, last week there was a write-up in the media regarding improvement of services offered by the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF). That was a commendable move in the provision of healthcare in this country because it increases the number of people who can access medical cover. But I was surprised that such an important policy could pass without coming through this House, because we are the ones financing that kind of project. It was done kienyeji . We have not even been told how the programme will work, what method will be used and the Government has not come up with a policy paper to tell us that what they want to implement is what was brought here in a Bill a year ago by the Minister for Health, or they want to do it mid-way. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, if you went to areas like Kibera or some parts of Kitutu Chache, which are heavily and densely populated, and saw the way people live there--- I wish the Ministry had special healthcare programmes for such areas. Kawangware, Mukuru kwa Njenga and even Mwingi need specific healthcare programmes. I am sure the people of Kenya would appreciate if the Government were to come up with such kind of programmes tailored for the needs of specific sections of this country. With those remarks, I beg to support.
You know, Mr. Angwenyi, I like you because you always speak for the Chair. You know the Chair is here and cannot speak about the problems of Mwingi, so when you speak for the Chair, I appreciate.
Joseph Kipchumba Lagat
Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir. Let me also give my support to the Ministry of Health. Last week, the Minister for Health mentioned that the Kshs700 million that is supposed to go to development of our dispensaries and health centres was reduced. The issue of Treasury unilaterally reducing very critical Votes of very important Ministries is a matter that this House has to take very seriously. I think it is time that this House now supports the proposed Fiscal Analysis Committee. This is because when Treasury decides that monies that are meant for each constituency should be reduced, then we are missing the point. That calls for a speedy development of this very important committee so that some of these issues can be sorted out. I know that Kshs700 million for a very critical Ministry is quite a lot of money. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, we all know that many of our dispensaries and referral hospitals, like the one in Eldoret, should be given more money. I have looked at the allocations to Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), and for the last few years and the next few years, it remains Kshs2.8 billion. The money for Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, constantly remains Kshs700 million. Recently, I was in Namibia and patients in that country are being airlifted for specialised operations in KNH. While the region and Africa in general appreciates the speciality that exists in 2944 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES October 17, 2006 this country, we continue to undermine some of our biggest institutions that not only can they give us revenue but also save lives in Kenya and in Africa. I would have wished that this very important Ministry gives, on a continuous basis, more money to KNH so that the region, including Namibia, who send their patients to Kenya, can benefit. Patients from Namibia even over-fly neighbouring South Africa which many Kenyans happily send their patients. But countries within that region would not mind bringing their patients to Kenya. What are we saying? That we do not have confidence in our own institutions. I want to plead with the Minister to consider increasing funding to these very important referral hospitals. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, the only referral hospital in Western Kenya, the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, in Eldoret, continues not only to be a referral hospital, but a district hospital for us in Uasin Gishu District. For the four years I have been in this Parliament, I have always requested that the Government considers building a district hospital in Eldoret so as to supplement the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital. But this has fallen on deaf ears. I do not understand why we are the only district in this country with about 800,000 people, without a district hospital. When we are sharing monies for various districts in the country, Uasin Gishu is the only district that has not received any money for a district hospital. This is a shame. We continue to depend on Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, which is over-burdened. I want to request that the Government takes this matter seriously. We donated Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital to Moi University specifically for that purpose, teaching and referral, because we understood the importance of having that facility. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, this House should, in future, consider how it can assist Kenyans in terms of taking care of patients with chronic diseases. Every time, we do fund-raisers for heart patients, kidney and cancer patients. Why can we not, as a country, develop a policy so that people with chronic diseases can have their medical bills waived? Even when they die, the bills are enormous and have to be undertaken by the families who have suffered in the process of their ailment. The families of such patients have suffered enough, and to ask them to meet such huge bills after the death of these patients is to further impoverish them. This is too much. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, in my view, outpatient serviceis not a very serious issue. The most serious matter is patients who have been admitted for chronic diseases. We must have pity on our fellow Kenyans. Therefore, I want to request that this be considered as a major policy by the Government. Instead of us raising money through Harambee everyday and impoverishing the same families, the Government should establish a separate fund which can be allocated money on a yearly basis. I do not think that any hon. Member will oppose the establishment of such a critical fund. We all know that many title deeds, identity cards and logbooks are locked up in many hospitals. Even when patients die in the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) and the Moi Referral and Teaching Hospital in Eldoret or other hospitals, their bodies are detained there because of the huge medical bills. We are talking of a person who has already died. Consideration must be given for people who are unable to pay. I am saying that the Government must establish a fund. We would also not like the same hospitals to be allowed to run down because many people owe them money. The Minister for Finance must reconsider returning the Kshs700 million that we received last year for the development of our dispensaries and health centres so that we can use the same money for the development of our health centres and clinics. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, with those few remarks, I beg to support.
Martha Karua (The Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs)
Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir. I want to take this opportunity to support the Motion on the Floor to vote money for this very important Ministry. I want to start by congratulating the Ministry for turning around health services. We are happy with the increased level of drugs that are going to clinics and hospitals all around the country October 17, 2006 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 2945 and with the improvement of the facilities. However, there are areas that we still need to emphasise. These areas involve changing or making policy regarding private practise by doctors working for Government hospitals. I would like to ask the technocrats in the Ministry to support this able Minister to ensure that we have a policy document that stops private practise by doctors working for the Government. It is better that we consider raising their emoluments but ensuring that they give services to the people on a full time basis. With this, we should also have a policy shift where we stop allowing private patients in Government hospitals. It is okay to have an amenity ward just like in private hospitals where you can have a ward bed or a private room. However, it is not okay to mix private patients with patients who are being attended to in a Government hospital. The result of this mix-up is a denial of the improved facilities that this Ministry has put forward to the poor people. In the district hospitals, the doctors are concentrating on the private patients who are paying them and ignoring the poor. That is why we must separate the issue of private patients. Let them go to private hospitals and let hospital patients for public facilities be attended to in public hospitals. This is the way it was when we grew up and it worked. The current mix-up is not working and the technocrats in this Ministry must burn their midnight oil to turn out an appropriate policy document which can then be adopted to enable the improved facilities to benefit our citizens. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, we would also want to see the Ministry get bold and ask for facilities that will help our citizens not to travel long distances to look for such things as scans. Why can we not have all those facilities in each of our provincial hospitals to start with and then we can go down to the district hospitals. Everybody cannot be coming to Nairobi for a scan or rather specialised X-Rays. It is time there was a bold request by this Ministry to ensure that we have properly equipped provincial hospitals with a view to later on making it go down to the district hospitals. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, once we separate what I have said earlier, the private patients from patients who are coming for access to health facilities in Government hospitals, then we will not have patients leaving district and provincial hospitals looking for money from their hon. Members for treatment as private patients in Government facilities. We know that the cost of an operation in a Government hospital is Kshs8,000. Most people are unable to access simple operations. It is actually Kshs3,000; Kshs8,000 is charged by the KNH. Most people are unable to access operations at Kshs3,000 because our doctors are practising within the Government facility and asking for money to operate as though it is a private hospital. Then when they are doing their rota for the theatre, they give priority to the patients who are paying them. That leaves the poor people without access. We must be helped out of this situation through a policy framework. Let the doctors who chose to work privately run full fledged private clinics. Let those who chose to work for the public work for them on a full-time basis. Allowing a doctor to practise and have a private clinic is knowingly letting him to take away the time of his employer, who is the public. How can you be full-time employed and on salary and running a private clinic? You will be poaching hospital patients! Every time you are examining them, you are also referring them to your clinic in town. This is also a fertile ground for syphoning of drugs from our hospitals. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, we know that most of our doctors are dedicated. However, this is a system that is allowing the way-ward to punish the unsuspecting public. I feel that if this is done, then we will truly begin to see the great changes that have been made by this Ministry on access to drugs and to other health related facilities because people then will be attended to without let or hindrance. I want, therefore, to give my full hearted support to the proposal before the House and to also encourage this Ministry to complete or discuss the memorandum of the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) Act which was referred, and has not been completed by this House; and 2946 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES October 17, 2006 most probably ensure that we have a phased out implementation so that people can start benefiting from enlarged access to medical services. When we go outside to see our constituents, the two greatest issues are education and health. However, we can easily solve the health problem by the two suggestions that I have made and by the many suggestions the hon. Members have given. I am sure that the Ministry is doing something about it. I have had occasion to speak with my colleague, the Minister. I know that she too is very keen on those two issues. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, with those many remarks, I beg to support.
Bw. Naibu Spika, asante kwa kunipa fursa hii ili nichangie Hoja ya bajeti ya Wizara ya Afya. Kwanza, ningependa kumpongeza Waziri na maofisa wake kwa kazi nzuri wanayoifanya. Wamejitolea kuhakikisha ya kwamba wananchi wanapata huduma bora za afya katika sehemu mbalimbali nchini. Bw. Naibu Spika, naunga wenzangu mkono kulalamika juu ya kiasi cha pesa ambacho kimetengewa Wizara hii. Katika hekima ya Serikali, ingekuwa bora kama Wizara hii ingetengewa kiwango sawa cha pesa na Wizara ya Elimu. Hii ni kwa sababu maradhi na ujinga ndiyo matatizo mawili makubwa yanayokabili nchi hii. Hii ndio njia ya pekee ya kuhakikisha wananchi wanapata huduma bora na za karibu zaidi na ambazo zinaweza kutimiza matakwa ya akina mama wajawazito na watoto katika sehemu za mashambani. Bw. Naibu Spika, ningependa kulalamika kwamba nyingi za hospitali zetu, hasa hospitali ya Wilaya ya Kilifi, zina ukosefu mkubwa wa vifaa katika maabara, magari ya kuwabebea wagonjwa kwa jina maarufu ambulansi, na vyumba vya kuwahifadhia maiti. Ningependa kuona hospitali hizi zikiwa na vifaa vya kutosha ili zitoe huduma bora za afya kwa watu wetu. Ningependa kuiomba Serikali hii iwaajiri wauguzi wengi ili huduma hii muhimu iwafikie wananchi wote hapa nchini. Waziri alisema hapa kuwa miaka miwili iliyopita wamejaribu kuongeza idadi ya wauguzi katika hospitali zetu. Hata hivyo, tatizo hilo bado linakabili hospitali zetu. Pia alituhakikishia hapa kwamba watawaajiri wauguzi zaidi ya 1,000. Hili ni jambo nzuri. Lakini watu wa Wilaya ya Kilifi hawajawaona hao wauguzi. Ningependa kuihimiza Serikali itilie mkazo jambo hili la kuwaajiri waguuzi na kuwapeleka katika hospitali ya Wilaya ya Kilifi. Bw. Naibu Spika, ningependa Serikali itilie mkazo swala la zahanati na vifaa vingi vya afya ambavyo kwa wakati huu havitoi huduma yoyote kwa sababu ya ukosefu wa wafanyakazi. Kwa mfano, katika Eneo Bunge la Bahari, kuna zahanati ambayo ilijengwa na wadhamini wa Uingereza. Inajulikana kama zahanati ya Msumarini. Zahanati hii ilimalizika mwanzo wa mwaka huu. Lakini kulingana na mipango ya wafadhili hao, walitaka kuipanua zahanati hii. Lakini kwa kuwa zahanati hii haijapewa kibali na Wizara ya Afya, hata baada ya sisi kupeleka maombi mengi, imewabidi wafadhili hao wakwame katika mipango yao. Hawawezi kutoa pesa zaidi za kupanua zahanati hii kwa sababu haijasajiliwa na Serikali. Mr. Naibu Spika, ningemwomba Waziri ahakikishe ya kwamba zahanati na vifaa vingi vya afya vitasajiliwa kwa upesi iwezekanavyo ili viweze kutoa huduma zinazotakikana na wananchi. Bw. Naibu Spika, naipongeza Serikali kwa kutilia maanani vita dhidi ya ugonjwa wa malaria. Ugonjwa huu ni tatizo kubwa katika Wilaya ya Kilifi. Ni masikitiko makubwa ya kwamba watu fulani katika eneo langu walirejeshea Serikali neti za mbu zaidi ya 3,000 kwa sababu ya hisia za kitamaduni. Walikuwa wanasema kwamba wakilala ndani ya neti hizo, walikuwa wanaona mazingaombwe yakiwajia usiku na kuwatisha.
Ningependa wakati mambo haya yanapofanywa, tushirikiane na Serikali ili tuwaelimishe wananchi ili wajue kwamba masingaombwe ni ndoto tu za kiutamaduni. Hili si jambo ambalo linatokea katika ulimwengu wa sasa. October 17, 2006 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 2947 Bw. Naibu Spika, kumekuwa na mazungumzo mengi kuhusu ukosefu wa madaktari. Hivi majuzi nilizuru Indianapolis, Marekani, kuwatembelea watoto wangu. Mtoto wangu mmoja anafanya kazi huko kama daktari. Niliwaona madaktari saba kutoka Kenya ambao wanafanya kazi katika hospitali za kigeni. Malalamiko yao makubwa ni kwamba Serikali hailipi mishahara mizuri ya kuweza kuwahifadhi katika hospitali zetu. Ningeiomba Serikali mara kwa mara iwe ikiangalia mambo ya mishahara ya wafanyakazi ili tuwahifadhi madaktari wetu. Badala yao kwenda nchi za kigeni wanaweza kufanya kazi hapa. Tunaona kwamba wauguzi wengi wanakimbilia nchi za kigeni kufanya kazi huko kwa sababu kuna mishahara na marupurupu mazuri. Hilo linaweza kuwa ni jambo zuri lakini kwa upande wa Kenya si jambo nzuri kwa sababu pesa ambazo tunazitumia kuwaelimisha watu hawa ni nyingi. Ikiwa tutawaacha watu hawa kufanya kazi katika hospitali za kigeni, basi tunawanyima Wakenya huduma ambazo wangeweza kuzipata kutoka kwao. Bw. Naibu Spika, jambo lingine ni kuhusu madaktari wa kienyeji. Najua Serikali imejaribu kuwaleta karibu na kuwaunganisha madakatari hawa wa kienyeji ili waweze kuungana na madaktari wa kisasa katika kutibu magonjwa. Hata hivyo, Serikali haijawapa nafasi ya kutosha ya kuweza kujumuika pamoja na madaktari wa kisasa. Ingekuwa bora zaidi, kama tungelipata ripoti kutoka kwa Serikali kuhusu jambo hili. Bw. Naibu Spika, ningependa kupata ufafanuzi kutoka kwa Serikali kuhusu wenyeji ambao wanajiita madaktari. Sielewi kama madaktari wa kienyeji wamehitimu kuweza kuitwa madaktari. Jambo hili linawapotosha wananchi. Wakisikia ni daktari wanadhani ni daktari kamili. Lakini mtu huyu hajapata masomo yoyote ya uuguzi. Mara nyingi ukienda Mkoa wa Kati, utapata vibao vya hawa madaktari vimepachikwa kwenye kuta za nyumba. Vinasema hivi: "Daktari kutoka Tanzania au Pwani". Hii ni kuonyesha kwamba madaktari wa kienyeji kutoka Pwani na Tanzania ndio waganga maarufu kushinda madaktari kutoka sehemu nyingine. Bw. Naibu Spika, ningependa kuzungumza kuhusu zile kandarasi zilizotolewa kwa wauguzi waliokuwa wakifanya kazi ya dharura au ya kujitolea wakati wauguzi wa Serikali walipogoma. Wengi wao baada ya mgomo, walitimuliwa kutoka kazi mwao. Walijitolea kimhanga kuweza kuisaidia Serikali wakati wa dharura lakini baada ya mgomo kumalizika, wakasahauliwa. Nafahamishwa kwamba ni asilimia 40 ya wao ambao waliajiriwa na Serikali. Waliosalia wanatukera maofisini mwetu wakiuliza Serikali itawajiri lini na ilhali walifanya kazi kwa muda wa miezi sita. Najua kwamba kuna kazi ambazo hivi majuzi zilitangazwa. Ni matumaini yangu kuwa wao watapewa nafasi za kwanza na kuajiriwa kwa sababu walijitoa mhanga wakati wa mgomo. Baadaye, tunaweza kuwaajiri watu wengine. Bw. Naibu Spika, ningependa kuzungumza kuhusu swala la madawa. Hivi leo tumesoma katika vyombo vya habari kwamba hospitali nyingi, hasa katika mikoa ya Nyanza na Bonde la Ufa, hazina dawa na vifaa vingine muhimu. Tunaambiwa ya kwamba hospitali nyingi katika mikoa hiyo zitasimamisha huduma kwa wananchi kwa sababu ya ukosefu huo.
Wilfred Machage (The Assistant Minister for Health)
Huo ni uongo mtupu!
Bw. Naibu Spika, ikiwa ni ukweli--- Na namsikia Waziri Msaidizi akisema ni uongo, hili ni jambo ambalo lingefaa kuangaliwa kwa makini sana. Ikiwa ni siasa za namna fulani zinazopigwa ili kuharibu majina ya watu fulani, mimi sijui. Bw. Naibu Spika, kwa hayo machache, ninaunga mkono Hoja hii.
Moody Arthur Awori (The Vice-President and Minister for Home Affairs)
Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, for allowing me to join my colleagues in making a few remarks about this Vote. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I believe that health service delivery in this country is one of the success stories of the Kibaki Administration. I think it is necessary that where there is success, we should be able to talk about it. It is not so long ago that whenever someone went to the hospital, the 2948 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES October 17, 2006 service was really very poor. A doctor would have to ask you for an exercise book in which to write the prescription because the only medicine that was available at the time was Panadol and Asprin. At the moment, if you went to any dispensary, you would find all the medicine there. This scheme which has recently been introduced which allows anyone to be treated for any ailment is really the way forward and I want to thank the Minister, Ministry and all support staff for the excellent work they have done. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, there are only a few challenges that I would like to address myself to. I want to begin with the equitable distribution of the resources that are available. As concerns human resources, it is necessary that all the clinics, dispensaries and hospitals are properly and equitably staffed because sickness and illness is the same right across the country. Similarly, where equipment is concerned, it is necessary that the Ministry actually distributes this equipment equitably. Laboratory equipment is required in every hospital and dispensary. Ambulances should be distributed equitably so that there are not so many ambulances in one area and very few in another. We would like to see that being done. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, similarly, I want to request the Ministry of Energy to come to the assistance of the Ministry of Health to ensure that there is electricity in most hospitals. Recently, I visited Wamba Hospital. It is a referral hospital which serves a very big area including Marsabit, Meru and the whole of North Eastern Province. However, Wambaa Hospital at the moment uses a generator. It spends about Kshs900,000 a month just on a generator. Imagine what service they could be giving with that Kshs900,000 if this hospital was electrified. Its bill would probably be between Kshs70,000 and Kshs100,000. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, it is also necessary for electrification to be all around in the rural areas because in a good number of those places snake bites exist. For snake bites, it is necessary for its vaccine to be refrigerated. In my own constituency, the incidences of snake bites are very prevalent and it would help if all the hospitals had access to electricity. There are also incidences of polio coming back. The polio vaccine has got to be under refrigeration. Therefore, I believe that my colleague, the Minister for Energy, must come to the support of this Ministry so that we have vaccines and medicine properly stored. It is not just about having the medicine but we also need mortuaries in almost all hospitals. We can only have them if we had electricity. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, the other challenge that I would like the Ministry to direct themselves to is hospices. There are many terminally sick people and they really need to spend their last days in dignity and I do believe that hospices should not be left merely to Non- Governmental Organisations (NGOs). They should be part of our own Government service to ensure that hospices are available to terminally sick people. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, we need to put more money in research. I know that the Ministry works very closely with the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI). We need research particularly in herbal medicine as my colleague who spoke a few minutes ago said. We know that we people who were born and brought up in rural areas particularly many years back, there were no clinics and yet we were able to survive through herbal medicine. It is about time we put emphasis on research in herbal medicine. Currently, there are some people who are benefiting from herbal medicine. They are taking herbs from certain trees here and taking them to research stations abroad and then bringing them back as finished medicine. It is necessary that we should be able to make our people benefit through herbal medicine. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, similarly, there are these traditional healers and they have proved themselves. I think they need to be encouraged. There are people in the rural areas who are able to treat bone and nerve diseases like arthritis using their own hereditary skills and we need to encourage them. Gone are the days when we looked down upon the African medicine man. Of course, there were mercenary medicine men but there were also genuine ones and we need to October 17, 2006 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 2949 encourage them. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, there are other ailments that are coming up which have not been looked at very seriously and the Ministry needs to put some emphasis on them. People who are deaf, dumb and blind at the same time need specialised treatment. I would like to encourage the Ministry to help such people. There are other new medical complications like autism and we need to recognise that they exist in people. Autistic children exist and their parents do not know how to treat them and at the moment even the Ministry of Health has very little experience about how to treat this condition. It is important that the Ministry deals with this condition. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, there are also disabilities like the visually impaired. The Ministry of Health should provide these people with the white cane. I would like the Ministry of Health to urge the Ministry of Roads and Public Works to include the white cane in the Highway Code so that when drivers see a white cane, they know that they are dealing with a visually impaired person and thus drive carefully. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, similarly, we have got a spinal cord injury hospital up at the hill in Hurlingham and it has only 40 beds. We need to expand this hospital. I would request the Ministry of Health to support the efforts of an NGO called The Kenya Paraplegic Organisation (KPO) which currently is preparing to put up a rehabilitation centre worth Kshs100 million. Concerted efforts between NGOs and the Government can bear good fruit. However, we do not want to concentrate within Nairobi only but we would like various provincial hospitals to also have rehabilitation centres for the spinal injury patients because currently in Nairobi, due to shortage of beds, they are discharged very soon. With those few remarks, I beg to support.
Prof. Ruth Oniang'o
; Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, for giving me this opportunity to support this Vote, and also support my colleague, the Minister for Health. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, health sector is very important. I want to recognise the achievements that have been made in the recent past. But I would like to say that there are many Kenyans who are unable to access health care, especially for specialised conditions. What surprises me is the health centres! They are closed at 6.00 p.m. and are not opened over the weekends. They cannot handle emergencies. Diseases do not chose when to come! That is where the tragedy is. The worst that can happen to you is to have an emergency at night. There are no ambulances in most of those areas. Even where there are, they have no fuel. In places where they have fuel, it is very insecure. I would like to appeal to the Ministry to think of having a paramedical team that can be positioned somewhere so that, when there is a tragedy, they can be called upon to attend to it. If need be, patients can then be taken to hospitals. That is what happens elsewhere. I am sure the Minister and his very capable team can think about that. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, hypertension and diabetes are very common diseases in one person. They are very problematic and common in the African race. Most patients with diabetes and hypertension drop dead because they have no idea they have those conditions. Monitoring those diseases is, sometimes, very difficult. Those patients can only go to referral hospitals which are too far away. You find people from western Kenya travelling all the way using their very little money to Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH). That is because KNH is the only referral hospital. We need every provincial hospital to be a referral hospital. I would like to see the Ministry giving incentives to doctors who can work in those hospitals. At the moment, every doctor wants to be around Nairobi. You cannot blame them. They take many years to train. They are lucky when they qualify. They deserve to be paid well. They deserve to be given proper status like it is done elsewhere. We need to give incentives to our doctors who are willing to work in those areas. That way, we will distribute doctors equally throughout the country. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, some health centres do not even have a small operating room. 2950 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES October 17, 2006 Imagine an expectant woman arriving in a hospital and she is unable to deliver. She requires caesarean section--- I have heard of cases where expectant mothers reach provincial hospitals, only to die on the operating tables because they have been in labour for too long. We have Kenyans who are unable to afford cars to drive themselves to hospitals. I believe that is an area that can be addressed right now. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, another area is that of dental care. I have never understood why taking care of my teeth, removing a tooth or maintaining it is seen to be aesthetic. Right now, we have a lot of sugar in our diets. Many people go around with just half the number of teeth in their mouths. That is because they see dentists who are not qualified. The best they can do is remove your tooth. Some of those quack doctors just remove teeth. I do not know whose responsibility it is to step up the training of dental assistants. I am aware that training of dentists take a lot of time and is very expensive. But we need proper dental care even at the community level. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, another issue has to do with the eyesight. Many people are losing their eyesight. Many people are not even aware that, when they do not eat Vitamin A, their eyesight will be lost. I want to appeal to the Ministry to integrate proper nutrition education in our hospitals. That is the first thing they should be preaching to the patients. As far as I am concerned, food is the first medicine. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, another area that I want to touch on is one that our colleagues have talked about; that is herbal medicine. Research has shown that many Kenyans go for herbal medical doctors before they go to modern medicine. We have traditional medicines that can treat modern day diseases which are un-treatable by conventional medicines. We would like to go the South African way; integrate herbal and alternative medicine in our health care system. That needs to be legislated. I hope the Minister will take it up quickly. I know she is aware that all our communities have specialised herbal medicines. We should not relegate them. They actually work in many of our conditions. Therefore, we should have herbal medicines alongside conventional medicines. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, we are aware that in Pumwani Maternity Hospital, where more than 100 children are born every day, women are not treated well. Many of them are sent home the same day they have delivered. Can you imagine a mother delivering today and she is told to go home immediately? She can hardly walk. We do not take our women seriously, when they deliver. We know that in Africa and Kenya, we still lose many women in child birth. I want to appeal to the Minister to look into that and make sure that every health centre has a maternity ward. It should be able to provide delivery services and a theatre for operations. Even if clinical officers have to go for specialised training, they should be able to manage caesarian sections. We have many young people who are having babies before their bodies mature. There is nothing I can do about that, personally. They are unable to deliver normally. Therefore, we have many cases that require caesarean section. We should equip those health centres to deal with such cases. Other than that, I would like to complement the Minister and remind her that people have forgotten the hotline numbers that she gave out. Recently, I had a case where a Standard VIII pupil was in a district hospital suffering from typhoid. He was given the first dose of medicine and told: "You must pay before the next doses are given!" I had to intervene until the doses became available. Those are corruption cases that should be attended to. People should be given the hotline numbers to call when such cases are detected. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I want to congratulate the Minister and her team. Many of the issues that have been brought up by hon. Members can be done and are practical. We need to give her more money. With those few remarks, I beg to support.
GG Kariuki
Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, for giving me this chance to say a October 17, 2006 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 2951 few words on this Vote. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, first of all, I would like to congratulate the NARC Government for the work it has done, especially in health sector. But I have an issue to raise with the planners of the Ministry of Health. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, it has become a tradition that when one becomes a Minister, he and other planners in that particular Ministry continue to do what used to be done many years ago. The time has come for planners in our Ministries to move with the times. For instance, they need to appreciate the ever changing demography of the country. If you visit hospitals in the so-called traditional districts, you will find that they have facilities. However, there are some districts in this country, especially the newly settled districts, for example, Nakuru that really need to be given special attention. It is very unlikely to get a Permanent Secretary or a Minister being appointed from these areas. You know how things are done in the African Continent. When a Permanent Secretary comes from a particular district, very likely, that district will be favoured a lot in terms of development. I think the planners in this country need to get out of politics and plan according to the needs of the people. What is making our country grow very unpopular? It is because people have become loyal to their tribes. Planners and many other people have become very loyal to their tribes at the expense of the system itself. It is a shame that even very educated people are behaving in a very simple or casual manner. I think the time has come for Permanent Secretaries or Ministers to distinguish between politics and real planning. Unless that is done, some areas of this country will continue to lag behind in development. Look at what is happening in places like Laikipia, Nyahururu, Nakuru, and Nyandarua! Unless we plan properly and take services to the people living in these areas, we should not continue to pretend to be one country. We cannot continue having planners who have fixed minds. Some of them just wait for the Minister to come and tell them: "Please, allocate that vehicle to So-and-so." What is the criteria here? Why can we not go by the set criteria? Why should a Minister or Permanent Secretary make a decision without actually considering the needs of the people? Why would anyone want to make political mileage using Government facilities? Our planners, that is, our Ministers and Permanent Secretaries, need to get out of that old traditional way of planning that used to thrive after Independence because it is still going on. They are still following that trend. It is a pity that people from poor areas will be elected to come to Parliament only for them to vote for money that will never assist their people. Some of us who come from poor areas of the country have been taken for granted. We are always told that whatever we propose is not possible whether we like it or not. We may not have the power to bargain, but time is coming when everybody will have to understand that all Kenyans have matured politically. We insist that the criteria of distributing vehicles to dispensaries and health centres be made transparent. It is not just a matter of one person deciding with impunity which way a whole community should go. I think the issues of population density and the vastness of an area need to be considered. Some areas are quite big and people might not settle there unless medical facilities are availed. It is a shame that in this country you will find cases of women dying on their way to hospital to deliver. You will hear cases of women being transported to hospital on a tractor and so on. There are no medical facilities at all, and yet here in this House, we keep on praising ourselves that we have done so much. Truly speaking, we have done nothing for these people who are dying in the villages. We shall only be considered to have done a lot when we manage to distribute resources equally in all parts of this country. That is a new area that I would request the Ministry of Health to look at, especially the newly settled areas where settlements have been established since Independence. These are the areas that do not receive support of any kind. Currently, most hon. Members of Parliament are using the CDF money to build 2952 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES October 17, 2006 dispensaries and health centres. In my constituency, we have built about 24 dispensaries. This has arisen from the needs of the people. There is no politics in this game. We have built about 24 dispensaries and we have spent over Kshs38 million in this endeavour. You will find that in some of the dispensaries which are complete, the Ministry is asking the community to employ personnel to man the facilities. If a person is poor why should you tell him to take care of himself? What does that mean? It is very unfortunate that these things that I am talking about are taking place in our country. The Government needs to take over all the dispensaries that we have built using the CDF money and employ personnel to man them. You cannot ask poor people to look for money from their pockets. Some of them do not even have those pockets. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, probably the planners who are here are listening to what we are saying. Let us not all the time be taken as politicians who do not know what they are talking about. We definitely know what we are talking about and that is why we are sitting here to give the Ministry of Health money to go and spend at will. Parliament will not follow them to ask where they took that money. Parliament will also not follow them to ask how many vehicles they bought and where they took them. So, we should not just be taken for granted. Mr. Deputy Speaker, the Ministry is always responsive. For example, when I started building the 24 dispensaries in my constituency, I invited the Ministry's officials to come and see what we were doing. I was delighted that officers from the Ministry came to the ground. It does not matter whether they will take over the dispensaries or not, but, at least, they displayed their interest in the projects and I give them credit for that. Matters related to medical facilities in the country are very important. Our country needs very serious men and women who are able to see beyond politics and look at matters affecting human beings whenever they are involved in planning. That way, we shall have a very likeable country. We shall be admired by the people in our neighbouring countries. So far, the way we have been conducting ourselves--- Tanzanians once said of us:
"Wakenya wanakulana ovyo ovyo."
The time has come for us to clear our name and think about our people. We do not need to be communists to think about our people. We can be capitalists and still address issues affecting our people. With those remarks, I beg to support.
Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir for giving me this chance to discuss one or two issues concerning this Vote. I would like to commend the Minister and her officers for the work they are doing in the Ministry. I think we have had a change from what used to be there in the past.
[Mr. Deputy Speaker left the Chair] [The Temporary Deputy Speaker (Mr. G.G. Kariuki) took the Chair]
Some of us have had an opportunity to organise medical camps at the grassroots level. Whenever we organise these medical camps, we realise that the majority of people in the rural areas are sick in one way or another. Indeed, I discovered that in my constituency almost 80 per cent of the people who turned up in these camps were sick. We should be improving our district and Provincial hospitals in this country. We should also go down to health facilities in our rural areas. We should conduct medical camps to reach people at the grassroots, who do not have money to go to our district hospitals, which are often too far away from them. Most health centres in our rural areas do not have facilities and drugs that are required. Doctors and other medical officers are also not available in our rural health facilities. The October 17, 2006 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 2953 Ministry should find ways and means of reaching people at the grassroots. I would like to thank some private companies that have held medical camps and assisted the Ministry in what they call "making our society a healthy society". It is only when we have a healthy society that we will have a working society. Last year, one of my constituents was shot in the evening by robbers. We went to Kisumu Provincial General Hospital, but there was no neurosurgeon to assist us. The patient passed away in the morning, as I was trying to have him transported to Nairobi. There was no neurosurgeon in the whole of Nyanza Province. You can imagine the risk we put many of our citizens to due to shortage of neurosurgeons. It is unfortunate to note that this country is producing doctors and nurses only to have them working in foreign countries. This is because they are paid better in those countries than they are in this country. So, this Ministry should find out why our doctors and nurses are leaving the country. If you go to countries like Botswana and Nigeria you will find Kenyan doctors working in their hospitals. I would like to thank the Minister for vaccination of young children. Vaccination campaigns have enabled women in rural areas to have their children vaccinated. This is an initiative that has worked well in the rural areas. In the past, this service was available but was under utilised. So, I would like to commend the Ministry for managing this programme well. Malaria is killing our people. We have found out that mosquito nets do not work in grass- thatched houses. Where are you going to hang a net in a grass-thatched house, since there are chicken and goats in the same house? The idea of indoor spraying of DDT is the only way to reduce malaria among our rural communities. We have people who came to this country to help us eradicate malaria. The reason why we were not using the DDT in the past was its ban by the World Health Organisation (WHO). The WHO has now lifted the ban on the DDT because it has found that it is useful to use it in eradicating malaria. This was done in Europe, the United States and other First World countries. There is no reason why this Government should deny its people the use of DDT. The use of DDT will enable this country to get rid of malaria. It was banned because some multinational companies have been making a lot of money from producing and selling drugs that are used to treat malaria. This is the only reason why they are discouraging this country from using the DDT. This is very clear. If you go to the First World you will not hear about malaria. I am not talking about outdoor spraying of the DDT, but interior spraying of the walls of buildings. This has been shown to work well. Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, HIV/AIDS has been a very big problem in this country. I found out recently during a District Development Committee meeting that some money was sent back to the Ministry's headquarters from our district because Government officers said we did not have the capacity to use those funds. I was shocked to learn that colossal sums of money were being sent back to the Ministry's headquarters. This is because procurement procedures did not enable Government officers to use this money. I do not understand why we should be sending money to a place where the prevalence of HIV/AIDS is very high, only to have such funds returned to the Ministry's headquarters. We politicians should be in the front line in tackling this issue. We recently saw Senator Obama taking an HIV/AIDS test publicly. I have also taken such a test in front of my constituents. When I did that, many people also came forward to have the HIV/AIDS test. I was doing that during a programme sponsored by the Centre for Disease Control (CDC). We found out that out of those who were tested at that particular time, 45 per cent tested positive for HIV/AIDS but they did not know their status before. We should encourage our people in rural areas to test for HIV/AIDS, so that we can prevent its continued spread. It is a good thing that people in this country take HIV/AIDS seriously. Our behaviour has changed in recent times. It is clear that the prevalence rate of HIV/AIDS has now dropped. My community has invested in a medical training college (MTC). This is because of efforts 2954 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES October 17, 2006 of my colleague, Mr. Midiwo, and myself. We have used our CDF funds to put up an MTC in Siaya District. We have established a facility that will encourage the training of nurses in our rural area. I urge this Ministry to assist this MTC. The Ministry keeps on telling us that it will assist this MTC. The community has spent more money in establishing this MTC than the Government has. The Government should have put in more money because this is a community initiative and will help our people. We would like the Government to allocate more money to this facility. I would also like to discuss the issue of staff morale in our health institutions. Workers in our health institutions are demoralised. They do not have the right equipment with which to tackle emergencies. The Government should equip our health centres to the required standards. In some of our health institutions there is no equipment. It was only recently when Siaya District Hospital acquired a dental chair, but there was no dentist in the whole district! Imagine not having a dentist in the whole district! The Ministry should monitor what is happening in our health institutions. I was shocked to discover the other day that the Minister was launching a malaria campaign in Ukambani. We all know that malaria is more prevalent in the western part of this country than elsewhere. So, I do not know why the malaria control campaign was launched in Eastern Province while the disease is more prevalent in the western region of the country. I would like this Ministry to address some of these issues seriously. With those few remarks, I beg to support.
[The Temporary Deputy Speaker (Mr. G.G.Kariuki) left the Chair] [The Temporary Deputy Speaker (Mr. Khamasi) took the Chair]
David Musila
Thank you, Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir. I have risen to represent my people in particular on matters as important as those in the health sector. Let me start by congratulating the Minister, and her team, for the good work they have been doing in the recent past. I want to particularly mention the fight against tuberculosis, malaria and polio in this country. We have seen this Ministry making concerted efforts to ensure that these diseases are dealt with well. The Minister has been in the forefront, fighting for poor people in our rural areas, particularly in the provision of medical care. I want to congratulate her. Let me also echo the views expressed by my colleagues with regard to opening of more health institutions, particularly dispensaries. Dispensaries are institutions where patients get first aid. Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, it is important that those institutions are located in places where they can be accessed by the ordinary people. Regrettably, at the moment, most people have to travel for over 20 kilometres to reach dispensaries to get first aid. Forty-three years after Independence, that should not be allowed to happen. Therefore, when Members of Parliament, through the Constituencies Development Fund (CDF), with the agreement of the communities, construct these dispensaries, the Ministry owes it to the communities to ensure that the dispensaries are opened. I would like to underscore the importance of the Ministry appreciating the role members of the public are playing in constructing these facilities. Some of them pay the last penny they have in order to ensure that these facilities become available. Therefore, the Government should reciprocate by ensuring that these facilities are opened. Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, I had a chance to talk to the Minister concerning Migwani Sub-District Hospital. This is a good example where people have put their resources to October 17, 2006 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 2955 develop the institution. We have put up a modern out-patient block at a cost of Kshs8 million. My own family has put up wards costing Kshs2.5 million. My friends have put up a most modern operating theatre. The CDF has put up a mortuary. However, until recently, these facilities have been lying idle. I appreciate that lately, I have seen movement indicating that, at least, the wards are operational. However, the operating theatre is not yet operational. I see funds being provided to other hospitals to construct theatres, and yet here we have a theatre that has already been constructed but which lacks equipment and staff. It makes sense for the Ministry to appreciate, where people have put effort, and assist them. Our mortuary is ready but lacks refrigeration equipment, which is too expensive for the local community or the CDF to afford. Therefore, I request that this institution, which was put up through the people's efforts, be given priority, so that it can be fully operational. Even as I speak, there is no doctor at that institution. I do not see how you can operate a sub-district hospital without a doctor. This problem has persisted for a long time. Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, I appreciate that there has been great improvement in provision of drugs to hospitals. However, we still have problems. We have heard of patients dying unnecessarily due to lack of certain drugs. For instance, when the Minister replies to this debate, I would like her to respond to the issue of patients who have been bitten by dogs. I understand that the policy of the Ministry is that patients must pay for these drugs. The cost is enormous. Such a patient has to be given many injections which he must pay for. We are talking of poor communities who cannot afford even a meal a day. So, what it means is that such a patient will get rabies and die. It is not acceptable. Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, snake bites are very common in many areas but snake venom is not available in most dispensaries. May I ask the Minister to address herself to the issues affecting the common man. I know that she advocates issues affecting the common man. The common man in the field needs medicines for treatment of snake bites, dog bites, et cetera . These are some of the issues I would like the Minister to address. Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, the issue of ambulances has been mentioned. I need not repeat that I have had occasion many times, to carry maternity case ladies who have often delivered in my car on the way to hospital. This is unacceptable. May I ask that efforts to provide ambulances to hospitals be stepped up. In particular, the Minister knows a health centre called Nuu in Mwingi District. The Minister knows the health centre very well because she has visited it. It is very far from Mwingi District Hospital. The institution has all the required facilities, including wards and operation theatres. However, there is no ambulance. Therefore, most patients, especially ladies, have to die because they cannot reach Mwingi District Hospital due to bad roads. Therefore, I appeal to the Minister to provide an ambulance to Nuu Sub-District Hospital. Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, the issue of provision of staff to these facilities has been addressed. I need not belabour that point. Most dispensaries have single nurses who work from Monday to Friday. Over the weekend, those nurses are off-duty and yet that is the time when people are taken ill. I appreciate the financial problem as far as recruiting of medical staff is concerned. However, something needs to be done. The Minister for Finance must address himself to the issue of medical staff. The Ministry of Finance should provide resources for recruitment of additional medical staff and improved salaries, so that medical institutions countrywide can provide the services that are required. I would also like to call upon the Minister to instill some discipline in the few staff available. We have had cases of medical staff handling patients in a rude manner. Most of the members of staff in public medical institutions are dedicated. However, we have some elements in the rural areas who do not treat patients properly. 2956 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES October 17, 2006 Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, let me, quickly, comment about Kenyatta National Hospital. This is a very important institution but, looking at the funds provided for it, I note that they are not adequate. We need to provide more money to the Kenyatta National Hospital. Talking about that hospital, I would like to appreciate the assistance that the Director continues to give us by assisting poor patients who are discharged or die, in waiving certain percentages of their medical bills. Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, I would like everyone here to appreciate the fact that most of the people who are referred to Kenyatta National Hospital from district hospitals are poor. Presenting such patients with bills of Kshs100,000 on being discharged, is a big joke. Let us have provision where people at Kenyatta National Hospital can be treated without regard to the money that they have to pay and ensure that, at the end of the day, that money is paid through some provision by the Treasury. Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, we must appreciate that we are operating under an environment where poverty is on the increase. We cannot afford to increase the cost of such important institutions without taking care of the plight of the people concerned. Therefore, I request the Minister to ensure that Kenyatta National Hospital is provided with sufficient funds to ensure that medical bills of patients from poor families are taken care of by the State. Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, finally, HIV/AIDS has continued to be a big killer in this country. Personally, I have never supported the idea of having the National AIDS Control Council under the Office of the President. It is time we appealed from the Floor of this House, to the President, whose prerogative it is to allocate portfolios, to move the National AIDS Control Council from the Office of the President to the Ministry of Health. Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, as I speak, the Constituencies AIDS Control Committees are dead. They are not functioning. I think the only way is to put the National AIDS Control Council under the Ministry of Health and give the Minister the power to control this disease because the Office of the President cannot do what it is supposed to do. With those remarks, I beg to support.
Archbishop Stephen Ondiek
Thank you, Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, for giving me this opportunity to contribute to the debate on this important Vote. First, I would like to congratulate the Minister for keeping the promise that she made in this House. She promised to provide an ambulance to Ukwala and she has done that. I am very grateful for that. I would like to urge the Minister to provide ambulances to other health centres. It is very important for every health centre to have adequate facilities, so that patients can be attended to properly. So far, in Ukwala, we do not have any problem. However, we still require more facilities to be provided to our health facilities, for example, at Abila Sub-District Hospital. A sub-district hospital requires to have a doctor. In Abila Sub-District Hospital, we do not have a doctor to attend to the patients. We should have a policy to ensure that when a health centre is being upgraded to a sub-district hospital, enough members of staff are provided. This is very important. I do not know how the Ministry is dealing with the issue of staffing. You will find that a well-built health centre has only one nurse. I would like to request the Minister to look into this issue and make sure that, at least, every health centre has a minimum of three or four nurses and a clinical officer. This will enable the patients to be attended to properly. This is a very important Ministry. It handles the lives of the people. Life is very important. A life can be lost in a second if it is not handled properly. Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, in the rural areas, there are no adequate medical facilities. The Ministry should strengthen the rural health centres and sub-district hospitals, so that they can take care of the health of our people. The Minister is doing a very good job although the October 17, 2006 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 2957 funds we are allocating to her Ministry are very minimal. I would like to urge this House to support any move the Minister proposes to increase funds for this Ministry. In Kenyatta National Hospital, we have a lot of bodies lying in the mortuary because the relatives of the dead cannot afford to pay the medical bills. Most of these people come from the rural areas to look for employment in Nairobi and while they are here, they fall ill and die. In the past, Kenyatta National Hospital used to easily release such bodies. For example, a person will come from the rural area to look for employment in Nairobi although he does not have any relative in Nairobi. If this persons falls ill, he is taken to Kenyatta National Hospital and then he dies. After that, he is taken to the mortuary and it becomes a problem for his family to take the body back home for burial. We should understand our culture and traditions. Bodies are very important to most of our people and people would always like to transport them back home and burry them respectively. The Minister should sit down with her officers and reconsider this issue. Kenyatta National Hospital used to release such bodies without any problem. Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, I would like to talk about the CDF projects. Many projects have been initiated in the rural areas under the CDF Programme. This is a noble course. Many health facilities and secondary schools have been built under the this programme. After putting up the buildings, nothing is being done. I would like to request the Minister to send her officers in all the districts to assess the number of health centres which have been built, so that the Ministry can staff them and provide them with the necessary medical supplies. This would encourage us a lot. In Ukwala, I have built a mortuary, but up to now, we do not have a mortuary attendant. I would like to urge the Ministry to staff all the health facilities that have been put up using the CDF. I know that there is a limitation of funds in the Ministry, but the Minister should make sure that these facilities are staffed and provided with the necessary medical supplies, so that they can be of use to our people. The CDF is a Government initiative and the funds should be put into proper use. We should have enough staff to run the facilities. We can construct wards and theatres using the CDF money, but we may not be able to equip the facilities. We should partner with the Ministry to equip the facilities. The Ministry should give us the technical advice on how to run the facilities, provide staff and equip the wards with beds. For example, Sifugo Health centre, which is fully-built with a complete maternity wing, does not have a single bed. I am urging the Minister to look into these issues and assist our people in the rural areas. I would like to talk about admissions to medical training colleges. We really do not know how students are admitted to the colleges. For example, we have a newly started medical training college in Siaya District. We, the hon. Members from the area contributed towards the construction of the facility. I gave Kshs500,000 and the other two hon. Members from the district also gave Kshs500,000 each. We entered into an Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry to consider recruiting students from Siaya District. To our surprise, the college is full of students whose origin we do not know. These are the things that can discourage hon. Members from acting in partnership with the Government. It is important that such MoUs are honoured. We do not mind the college admitting students from other districts. We are all Kenyans, but, at least, the Ministry should give priority to the local people. For example, ten slots should be given to Gem Constituency, ten to Ugenya, ten to Alego/Usonga and 50 slots to other areas. We are all Kenyans. We should not have all the students from outside the district and yet we are the ones who contributed funds to put up the facility. With those few remarks, I beg to support.
Daniel Lyula Khamasi (The Temporary Deputy Speaker)
Order! It is now time for the Mover to reply. 2958 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES October 17, 2006
Charity Ngilu (The Minister for Health)
Thank you, Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir. The Minister for Foreign Affairs has requested me to give him a few minutes to speak. Therefore, I would like to donate five minutes to him, five minutes to hon. Kagwe and three minutes to hon. Arungah.
Order, Minister! We do not want to open debate on this issue. You are supposed to respond to issues which have been raised on the Floor.
That is right, Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir. It is a donation.
That is all right. Proceed, Mr. Tuju!
And then two minutes to hon. Raila.
You have two minutes, Mr. Tuju.
Raphael Tuju (The Minister for Foreign Affairs)
Thank you, Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir. I was told that I have five minutes and I had prepared for that.
Proceed, Mr. Tuju!
Thank you, Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir. I would like to thank the Minister for her passion in the way she addresses the health problems facing this country. All the credit is due to her and, of course, to this Government, for the many improvements we have seen in the health sector. For a long time, it was not possible to predict whether you will even get a prescription paper in which the doctor could prescribe medicine for you. Now, the prescription papers are there. When you get a prescription, the chemists at the hospitals give you the required medication and all the credit is due to her. Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, I would also like to commend the Ministry of Health for the great work they have done with respect to the HIV/AIDS programmes, especially the introduction of Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ARTs) in our hospitals and the relevant medication that go along with it. Indeed, it is a great credit to that Ministry and, of course, to this Government, that, today, those who are suffering from HIV/AIDS have a lot more hope than they had a few years down the line. Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir. I would like to draw the attention of the Minister and this House to the fact that there is an auto-catalytic relationship between HIV/AIDS and malaria. Those who are suffering from HIV/AIDS are more likely to go down with clinical malaria, and those who have clinical malaria are more likely to exhibit full-blown AIDS because malaria has compromised their immunity, just the way HIV also compromises immunity. I would like to urge the Minister to ensure that she does everything in her power to increase more effort in strengthening health education, because we are seeing the spectre of drug-resistant malaria and tuberculosis. Drug-resistant tuberculosis has surfaced, especially in Eastern Europe and it is a big problem there. When it becomes a problem in this country, it would probably become worse than HIV/AIDS because tuberculosis is actually airborne. Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir. I would like to stress and stress again the importance of health education, especially as we deal with certain forms of cancer. Cervical cancer is now the leading type of cancer that is found in women in east and central Africa and which is directly related to the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). This is something which is not common knowledge to our people. It is important that this kind of education is imparted to our people so that we do not end up with too much of these cancers. The same can be said of prostrate cancer and several other health problems. Indeed, good health is not just absence of disease or just medication but to be in good health, and that is only possible if we embrace health education. October 17, 2006 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 2959 With these few remarks, I beg to support the Motion. Thank you.
Mutahi Kagwe (The Minister for Information and Communications)
Thank you very much, Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir. I rise to support the Motion as well as to congratulate the Minister for Health for the excellent work that she has undertaken to do. She took over at a very difficult time when hospitals were having very many difficulties, but it is encouraging to see how far she has gone to bring sanity and, indeed, efficiency in our hospitals. Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, I want to touch on only two things related to this Ministry. The first one has to do with the issue of our doctors and nurses going overseas. Whereas this is seen as a problem in our country, this is also an opportunity! We also have an opportunity because we have so many people who are unemployed in this county. What is lacking is the capacity to train these people so that we can be able to export them and they can be of use somewhere in the world. This way, they will be able to send money back home. So, as we talk about brain drain, let us keep in mind that it is also possible to keep our brains in the drains because they have no work to do. Consequently, I think the Minister is doing the right thing in terms of increasing the capacity to train nurses and doctors so that they can be able to work both here and overseas. Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, my second point is about the issue of how the Ministry of Information and Communications is co-operating and can co-operate with the Ministry of Health to ensure the sustenance and improvement as far as e-health is concerned. The work that we are doing in the Ministry of Information and Communications, including the laying of the fibre- optic cable and fibre optical arteries across the country into district hospitals and other places creates a massive opportunity as far as healthcare is concerned. Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, it is now possible to envisage a situation where we can have e-surgeries. In other words, a doctor in the USA or in the UK can carry out surgeries with a doctor in Kenya if we finish the issue of laying of fibre optic cables, particularly the submarine cable that we are talking about. Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, because of the lack of a lot of specialization in the country, it will be possible to make use of a specialized doctor overseas who may not have the time to travel to this country to conduct a surgery but to whom it may be possible to communicate with once we have done everything that we can as far as the fibre-optic cables are concerned. Therefore, as we do this work, we are not just doing it for schools, Government and the private sector. We also want to do it for hospitals. In that respect, the computerization of hospitals across the country, both clinics as well as district hospitals is an issue that we would like to assist the Ministry of health to undertake. For example, if you wanted to know the history of a patient, it used to be that, when you go to a hospital, you go with your little card and introduce the history of your illness to the doctor, and if the doctor is not the same one who treated you initially, then it takes a long time. But with computerization of hospitals, it will be possible to build data-banks with patient histories. Thank you very much, Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir. I beg to support.
Raila Amolo Odinga
(Mr. Arungah stood up in his place)
Order, Mr. Arungah! Please sit down.
Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, I want to thank the Minister more for an opportunity to say just a few words. I would have said more on this particular Motion, but I just asked for the opportunity to say just one word. 2960 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES October 17, 2006 Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, last Saturday, I had the opportunity to visit the Spinal Injury Unit along Lenana Road. I have a friend who is, in fact, right now hospitalized in that hospital. When I went to see him, I encountered something that was very distressing. I felt that I must have an opportunity to raise it here on the Floor of this House. It was on a Saturday. There had been a walk which had been carried out by people who are suffering from spinal injuries. This walk was flagged off, by none other than Mr. Moroto, on behalf of the Vice-President and Minister for Home Affairs. I found all these people in the hospital. They asked for an opportunity for me to talk to them, which I did. What they had to say was very distressing. First all, that hospital has only got a 40-bed capacity. The people who are right now on the waiting list are over 1,000. Very many people die of spinal injuries because of lack of facilities in the country. I was told that they require to increase the bed capacity of that hospital to about 150. This requires about Kshs100 million. The walk, therefore, was to try to raise Kshs100 million to expand the capacity of that hospital. What is disturbing here is that instead of the Government raising that money through the budget which we are debating here, people who are already suffering, are made to participate in a walk in order for them to raise that money!
Shame! Shame!
Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, I want to appeal to the Minister that a way must be found to raise this money. I was told that the Director of Medical Services had promised them that the Government would provide Kshs30 million. Why does the Government promise these people? These are Kenyans who are already injured. The Government, therefore, must bear its responsibility, take up this matter and provide Kshs100 million. This money can be taken from the Department of Defence budget which is just going to fund the Anglo Leasing-type of projects. With those few remarks, I beg to support.
Thank you, Mr. Temporary Deputy Speaker, Sir, for giving me this opportunity to make a comment. I will make three points. I am aware that one of the challenges of this Ministry is the shortage of staff. However, I want to appeal to the Minister that the constituency that I represent here has a very serious shortage of staff to the extent that the medicine that she says she has provided will go to waste, because without the nurses attending to patients, its availability, is of no consequence. Secondly, it may be possible that the Ministry is supplying medicine to these facilities, but in Khwisero Constituency, there are cases of people being given rampant prescriptions, to the extent that they have not noticed that difference. So, I do not believe it when the Minister says that she has provided more medicine to these facilities. I would urge the Ministry to ensure that the medicine is not just supplied, but it follows up to make sure that, indeed, it is given to the people who deserve it. I do appreciate that the Anti-Retro Virals (ARVs) have been made available and they are said to be free. Unfortunately, in Khwisero Constituency, people have to spend a whole day and a minimum of Kshs300 to go to the district hospital, so that the ARVs can be dispensed. I urge the Ministry to make arrangements to ensure that these ARVs are dispensed in divisional health centres, so that more people have access to them.
[The Temporary Deputy Speaker (Mr. Khamasi) left the Chair] [Mr. Deputy Speaker resumed the Chair]
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, on the issue of ambulances, it is very sad to notice that over 40 years after Independence, the people of Khwisero are still being carried on mikokoteni and October 17, 2006 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 2961 wheelbarrows to access health facilities. I know that some money has been made available for the provision of ambulances. The Ministry has promised us an ambulance for the last four years. Therefore, I hope that this time, it will consider us for the same, because I know that the Minister is a friend of the people of Khwisero Constituency. With those few remarks, I beg to support.
Madam Minister, it is now your time!
Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir. First of all, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the hon. Members who contributed to the debate on Vote 11. I thank them, indeed, for the compliments and appreciations they have made. I am happy that they have noticed some improvements in the Ministry of Health. This has been as a result of the hard work of our technical team; the Permanent Secretary and his officers. Therefore, I thank them very much. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I have listened and taken note of all the issues that have been brought out on the Floor of the House. I would like to say that up to now, we still have great challenges in the health sector. However, I also want to assure hon. Members that we are committed and we will continue addressing these challenges, and finding solutions to them. We are all aware of how the health sector had been run before. One of the issues that came out of the Floor, from hon. Members who contributed, was the gazettement of the Constituencies Development Fund (CDF)-constructed health facilities. I want to thank the hon. Members for the support they have given to the health sector. This is because as I go around the country, I see many health facilities that have been funded through the CDF. On our own part, as the Ministry of Health, we will gazette 600 of these facilities. We will also ensure that 300 of them are immediately operational. Those are the resources that we have. Therefore, we shall not be able to open all of them at once. But, at least, 50 per cent of them will be operational immediately. Others will be operated as and when more resources are available. As I said, we have already employed 2,420 health workers. These are nurses, clinical officers, medical laboratory technologists. All these will be sent to our facilities. We expect to employ more. This has been as a result of our development partners who helped us with resources to hire people on contract basis for three years. Thereafter, the Government will absorb them. Some hon. Members talked about the fees guidelines for private practitioners. I agree with them totally. We need to have guidelines because, as it is now, the policy appears to be promoting wealth before health. But our policy is health before wealth. Therefore, I have instructed the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Board to review the fees structure and come up with some proposals that are acceptable. The Ministry will look into this. I will also table a Bill before Parliament to amend the Public Health Act, so that it is more comprehensive to address areas of the remuneration of medical professionals. This will make them more responsive to current health needs. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I also heard from the Floor of the House issues of public medical personal engaged in private practice. This, again, is as a result of maybe, not properly remunerated personnel. This will also be looked into. I have once again, asked the Permanent Secretary to ensure that this is strictly adhered to, so that this practice does not continue in our facilities. I have listened to all the complaints that are coming from the Floor and they will certainly be addressed. In fact, we talked about it this afternoon. We said that we shall pin on our notice board a list showing which doctor or personnel officer should be working where and at what time so that, if a person is not there, people can call and say: "This person is not here!" We also ask members of the public not to accept to be removed from hospitals by doctors and told to go to their clinics. They should go, get treated and walk out. If they are told to pay, they should come to our Ministry and we shall deal with that. When we talk about corruption, I also call that corruption. 2962 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES October 17, 2006 Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, hon. Members have talked well about the National Hospital Insurance Fund's (NHIF) new policy. I thank you for that. We still have the National Social Health Insurance Fund (NHSIF) Bill that was passed by Parliament. I do expect that when it comes back to the Floor of the House, we shall look at it again and make sure that it works. That is the direction to go if we are going to get more resources. I would like to say that the policy that was announced recently by NHIF is being tested. We are doing it on contracting arrangement between the health providers and NHIF, so that we can see whether it is workable. We are piloting that. We are going to make comprehensive proposals to see whether it is sustainable. It is a good thing if it works. That is another way of mobilising more resources for the health sector. Hon. Members talked about the availability of Anti-Retroviral (ARVs) drugs. I assure hon. Members that we have adequate ARVs in the country. Indeed, we have even scaled up. In the year 2003, we had only 2,000 people under treatment. Today, we have close to 80,000 under treatment. Our target between now and end of December is 140,000 people. We have put in place the Rapid Results Initiative (RRI). Every province has been given a target to achieve. If that happens - and we believe it will happen - we shall be able to put 140,000 people under treatment. That will leave about 60,000 out of treatment. We hope to get them on board by the end of next year. The problem that we had was lack of qualified personnel to administer ARVs. I have heard many hon. Members say that they would like it to be done at the village level. I would like to say that, that might not be possible. But we are opening as many comprehensive care centres as possible. But we do not have enough health workers to give people the treatment. In other words, it is not a matter of administering panadol. People need to be trained to do that. I have also heard about malaria control. We have scaled that up and we expect to reduce the number of people who get infected by malaria. We have put in place several interventions. We are also studying the issue of DDT but, in the meantime, we are using other chemicals for indoor residual spraying. We have seen a big difference. It is more effective than using the insecticide- treated nets. One hon. Member said that not everybody can use the nets, but we need to encourage our people to use nets. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, the issue of brain-drain has come up again and again. I do agree that we have lost many of our health workers. That is as a result of poor remuneration. We have addressed that. We have seen health workers, especially nurses, working in our country. I heard Mr. Kagwe say that we could train more, so that we could send them out of the country. But, first and foremost, we need to retain them for our own use. If we have more, they can go out of the country. We have started talking to the countries that have been taking our nurses and health workers. I think it is more useful to have them here than when they are out of the country. You also talked about inadequate specialised equipment. As I said, we were able to put in so much money to equip our health facilities last year. I am sure all of you here were conducting
to buy simple equipment like microscopes in your health facilities. That is not the case today. Last year, we spent close to Kshs720 million to procure equipment. It has been sent to the rural health facilities, especially dispensaries and health centres. This year, we are going to spend about Kshs1 billion to procure more equipment. So, our health facilities will be equipped. We have started to procure specialised equipment. We have started with our teaching and referral hospitals like Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) and Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital. We shall go on to procure specialised equipment for provincial and district hospitals. We are doing that in stages, as more resources become available in the Ministry. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, we have talked about ambulances. We have bought more ambulances than ever before. I do know that there is need for ambulances in our health facilities. I am asking the Permanent Secretary to ensure that some of the ambulances that we have sent out have drivers. Some of them do not have drivers. We are also going to get another 115 ambulances October 17, 2006 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 2963 between now and December. The NHIF has agreed to purchase them. They will be sent to our public health facilities. At least, all the provincial, referral and district hospitals will get ambulances. A total of 15 ambulances will be given to faith-based mission hospitals because they are part and parcel of our work. We partner with them in what we do. That is how we will distribute the ambulances when they come. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I have also noted the complaints by hon. Members about how patients are treated. Yes, it is true. We have put in place measures to re-train our health workers to change their attitudes towards our patients. Mr. Raila talked about our Spinal Injury Unit. At the moment, we have set aside some Kshs30 million for that unit. I agree it is not enough, but I will see what I can do. I understand the feelings of the hon. Member. Those are the people we need to look after first. Thank you for visiting them. One other thing that came out is the issue of herbal drugs. We partner with those herbalists, so that we can know what they are making and selling to our people. They should meet certain standards. Towards that end, we have put up a pharmacy division to work with them. They ensure that people are given drugs that have been tested and approved. That is because anybody can give people anything. We hear of all sorts of "doctors", and nobody questions them. They do not belong to the Ministry of Health. We cannot control them because they are registered by the Ministry of Gender, Sports, Culture and Social Services. I think I have taken into account most of the issues that you have raised. I, once again, thank you for supporting our Vote and for the contribution that you have made on the Floor of this House. I thank you very much.
You "beg to move"!
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, with those few remarks, I beg to move.
(Question put and agreed to) [Mr. Deputy Speaker left the Chair]
[The Temporary Deputy Chairman (Mr. Khamasi) took the Chair]
Vote 11 - Ministry of Health
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, I beg to move:- THAT, a sum not exceeding Kshs14,258,764,365 be issued from the Consolidated Fund to complete the sum necessary to meet expenditure during the year ending 30th June, 2007, in respect of:- Vote 11 - Ministry of Health
2964 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES October 17, 2006 VOTE R11 - RECURRENT EXPENDITURE
Daniel Lyula Khamasi (The Temporary Deputy Chairman)
Hon. Members, we are now in the Committee Stage to consider Vote 11, Ministry of Health. We will start with the Recurrent Expenditure shown on pages 441 up to 526 of the Printed Estimates books. SUB-VOTE 110 - GENERAL ADMINISTRATION AND PLANNING
(Heads 310, 311, 312, 313, 314, 348, 349, 454, 456, 550, 555, 616 and 617 agreed to) (Sub-Vote 110 agreed to)
SUB-VOTE 111 - CURATIVE HEALTH
(Heads 294, 296, 316, 317, 318, 319, 320, 321, 351, 618, 619, 620 and 621 agreed to) (Sub-Vote 11 agreed to)
SUB-VOTE 112 - PREVENTIVE MEDICINE AND PROMOTIVE HEALTH
Head 293 - Preventive Medicine and Promotive Health
Marsden Madoka
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, I just wanted to know what happened to Head 293 this year because it has no allocation.
Thank you, Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir. The allocation has been shifted to Head 311.
On what page is that? Are you satisfied with the answer Maj. Madoka?
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, Head 311 does not quite agree with my question. It talks about Headquarters Administrative and Progressional Services. We are, however, talking about Preventive Medicine, Promotive Health and Sexually-Transmitted Infections.
Madam Minister, you can consult with your officers. As they consult, are there any other issues which could be raised?
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, maybe, they could also check on Head 519, page 469. There is nothing allocated for it this financial year.
Charity Ngilu (The Minister of Health)
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, that Head has been shifted to Head 311. If you look at it, you will see that the previous allocation was not much. The money is allocated only to personnel.
(Heads 293, 322, 323, 325, 326, 327, 328, 329, 330, 331, 332, 334, 346, 347, 509, 510, 518, 519, 520, 622, 720 and 721 agreed to)
October 17, 2006 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 2965
(Sub-Vote 112 agreed to)
SUB-VOTE 113 - RURAL HEALTH SERVICES
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, on page 471, Head 335, Item 2100 on basic salary, there is a tremendous jump from Kshs320 million to Kshs613 million. In the same breath, the second one on personal allowances as part of salary has gone down. I just want to understand why is it the case that the salaries have gone up. Maybe it is because of the many employees, but then, the personal allowances have come down!
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, we have increased personnel and that is why we are paying much more, and the allowances are now being paid down at the district level. Most of them were being paid lump-sum in the past, but now they are being paid according to the place where they are working. We also employ people at the places they are going to work.
Just a small clarification. So, where have you shifted that allowance to? If it is not paid at the headquarters, then it must be paid elsewhere. Where is it?
Yes, where has it been placed in the Vote?
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, we have just reduced that amount because now they are being paid from where they are working. We interview them in the districts and they go and work there and they are paid according to the allowances given to each district.
(Heads 335 and 336 approved) (Sub-Vote 113 agreed to)
SUB-VOTE 114 - HEALTH TRAINING AND RESEARCH
(Heads 113, 340 and 643 agreed to) (Sub-Vote 114 agreed to)
SUB-VOTE 116 - MEDICAL SUPPLIES CO-ORDINATION UNIT
(Heads 355 and 356 agreed to) (Sub-Vote 116 agreed to)
SUB-VOTE 117 - KENYATTA NATIONAL HOSPITAL
(Head 315 agreed to) (Sub-Vote 117 agreed to)
SUB-VOTE 118 - MOI TEACHING AND REFERRAL HOSPITAL 2966 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES October 17, 2006
VOTE D11 - DEVELOPMENT VOTE SUB-VOTE 110 - GENERAL ADMINSTRATION AND PLANNING
Head 310 - Headquarters Administrative and Technical Services
Gor Sungu
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, on page 283, Head 310, Item 2211300 is "other operating expenses". Again, the same issue is reflected on Head 311, Item 2211300 - "other operating expenses". This appears to have been duplicated. Could the Minister explain?
Please, repeat that!
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, I am saying that the two Heads; 310 and 311, have a similar item; "other operating expenses". Under Head 310, there is Item 2211300-- -
Let us deal with one at a time, Mr. Sungu! Let us deal with the first one, dispose of it and then go to the next one.
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, I am raising the question of the fact that there is some sort of duplication and maybe the Minister could explain.
So, you are comparing the two?
Yes, Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir. They all relate to the same item and they are all under Headquarters Administrative Services. So, it is a small explanation that is needed.
Thank you. Madam Minister, could you respond to the issue raised by hon. Sungu?
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, this is the support that we get from our donors. It is foreign support. One of them is for administrative aspects for the programmes and projects that we put in place. This is for technical services. The other one that the hon. Member is asking about is for professional services.
Head 311 - Headquarters Administrative and Professional Services
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, on page 283 Head 311 - Headquarters Administrative and Professional Services, I was just wondering about the purchase of specialised plant, equipment and machinery. Last year, they had Kshs50 million but it has jumped to Kshs572 million this year.
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, this is the World Bank's support for reproductive equipment.
(Mr. Wamunyinyi consulted loudly)
Order, Mr. Wamunyinyi!
October 17, 2006 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 2967 SUB-VOTE 111 -CURATIVE HEALTH
Head 316 - Provincial Health Services
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, on page 283, Head 316, Item 3110300 - Refurbishment of Buildings, I notice that last year we had Kshs96 million but now we have Kshs170 million. Could the Minister confirm that this Kshs170 million includes refurbishment of the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Memorial Hospital or The New Nyanza General Hospital? I notice further ahead in the Vote that there are only three district health facilities which have been allocated money for construction. There is nothing anywhere else in the district.
(Mr. Kipchumba stood up in his place) (Mrs. Ngilu moved to the Dispatch Box)
Order, Madam Minister! Mr. Kipchumba is saying that he has a related issue. So, we will take both questions.
Head 317 - District Health Services
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, the same item has been reflected under Head 317, Item 3110300, Refurbishment of Buildings. The amount has gone down from Kshs911,522,760 to Kshs556,522,760. Could the Minister explain why they reduced the allocation to district hospitals?
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, last year, we allocated to every rural health centre and dispensary a sum of Kshs180,000 and Kshs240,000, respectively. However, we allocated less money in this financial year.
Head 327 - Nutrition
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, I need an explanation from the Minister on several Heads under this Sub-Vote. For example, Head 327 on Nutrition on page 285. I believe this Head affects all other Heads under this Sub-Vote. Therefore, I would like her to refer to Item No.2210700 on Training Expenses on page 285. It is evident that the training expenses shot up from Kshs17,997,750 to Kshs109,929,100. She should explain to this House why the money set aside for this purpose has gone up. If she refers to the other Heads under this Sub-Vote, she would see the training expenses are evidently high. For example, on Head 323 on Environmental Health Services, the sum set aside has shot up from Kshs3,340,000 to Kshs20,461,006. Head 509 on Control of Malaria also reflects training expenses of Kshs43 million. Head 510 on the Kenya Expanded Programme on Immunization, there is a sum of Kshs95,181,040 for training purposes. Why has all this money 2968 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES October 17, 2006 been set aside for training purposes?
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, it is true that there is more money which has been set aside for training purposes. This is because we have expanded our programmes and there is need to train, especially in the areas of HIV/AIDS and malaria management. We now have a new malaria drug that we are administering. We have to train nurses on how to administer it. This money is purely for training our health workers.
Head 325 - Communicable Disease Control
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, on page 285, Head 325 on Communicable Diseases Control, I would like the Minister to explain why all Items under that Head, except Item No.2210700, have not been allocated any funds this financial year. We are concerned because tuberculosis is now a very serious threat to our people. I am sure she is well aware of this fact.
Head 509 - Control of Malaria
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, the same is reflected under Head 509 on Control of Malaria. Again, there appears to be a reduction under all those Items, from Kshs231,389,136 in the last financial year to Kshs166,257,720 this financial year. We know that the threat of malaria is increasing. Could she explain why there is this reduction?
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, that is the case. However, this item is now funded by donors and the Global Fund.
(Heads 323, 325, 327, 334, 549, 510, 622, 778, 779 and 780 agreed to) (Sub-Vote 112 agreed to)
Head 335 - Rural Health Centres and Dispensaries
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, on Head 335 on page 290, Item 3110700, I notice that only Kshs66 million has been allocated for the purchase of vehicles and other transport equipment for rural health centres. We were hoping that, in fact, the Minister would consider equipping some of these facilities that we have now put up under the Constituencies Development Fund (CDF) and I believe that,that money is not enough. Could the Minister explain whether she is going to get more funding from other sources including donors?
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, you can see that there is an increase of Kshs66 million and that is what we are going to spend this year. However, we also have some more money in the budget to the tune of Kshs100 million that we are going to spend.
October 17, 2006 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 2969 SUB-VOTE 114 - HEALTH TRAINING AND RESEARCH
Head 643 - Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI)
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, I notice that, in fact, on Item 3110300 and the next item, there is no provision whatsoever whereas there was something last year. However, I notice that there is some great reliance on foreign donors. I am concerned that KEMRI is a very strategic institution and of security importance to this country and yet it is in the hands of foreigners who fund it completely and the Government does not do anything about it. Could the Minister explain this state of affairs?
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, yes, KEMRI is heavily funded by donors and mainly the Japanese International Co-operation Agency (JICA) and I have noted the hon. Member's concern.
SUB-VOTE 116 - MEDICAL SUPPLIES AND CO-ORDINATION UNIT
Head 315 - Kenyatta National Hospital
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, could the Minister explain why after giving KNH so much money there is no mammograph equipment there and thus breast cancer cannot be detected there?
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, this is a Spanish grant-cum soft loan given to KNH. We are going to equip the hospital between now and January. I do believe new equipment will be coming in soon.
SUB-VOTE 118 - MOI REFERRAL AND TEACHING HOSPITAL
Head 623 - Moi Referral and Teaching Hospital
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, I just want to understand one thing from the Minister. The Kshs70 million that has been given to Moi Referral and Teaching Hospital is very little. Is it going to develop the Intensive Care Unit that we so much require? Could the Minister add more money to that hospital next year? 2970 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES October 17, 2006
Mr. Temporary Deputy Chairman, Sir, we cannot add more money right now. But I encourage Moi Referral and Teaching Hospital to do what Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) did. It should look for funding elsewhere, and ask the Ministry of Finance to guarantee.
(Head 623 agreed to) (Sub-Vote 118 agreed to) (Vote D11 agreed to) (Question put and agreed to) (Resolution to be reported without amendment) (The House resumed) [Mr. Deputy Speaker in the Chair]
Daniel Lyula Khamasi
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I am directed to report that the Committee of Supply has considered the Resolution that a sum not exceeding Kshs14,258,764,365 be issued from the Consolidated Fund to complete the sum necessary to meet expenditure during the year ending 30th June, 2007, in respect of Vote 11 - Ministry of Health, and has approved the same without amendment.
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I beg to move that the House doth agree with the Committee in the said Resolution.
The Minister for Information and Communications
(Mr. Kagwe) seconded.
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I would like to congratulate the Minister on the successful passage of the Vote of her Ministry of Health in this House. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, however, I would like to ask her to ensure that there are adequate medical supplies in our hospitals, particularly in the rural areas. This is because there is an outcry; that there is a shortage of drugs in our hospitals. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, now that we have voted this money, it is important that the Ministry supplies drugs to hospitals faced with the shortage. I would also like to remind the Minister that the question of immunization should be taken seriously. We already have a case of polio in North Eastern Province and we do not want that to spread all over the country. We know that we live in a region where immunization is not taken very seriously, especially in war-torn Somalia or Sudan where, in fact, a case of bird flu has been reported.
Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir. Even as I congratulate the Minister for Health for a job well done, I would like to take this October 17, 2006 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES 2971 opportunity to announce to the whole country, on the Floor of this House, that the reports that appeared in the media today, that some hospitals in Rift Valley Province and Nyanza Province have no drugs are total lies and a fallacy.
Order, Dr. Machage! That is unparliamentary!
I apologise, Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, for using unparliamentary language. As I was saying, the report appearing in the media today that there is a shortage of drugs in Rift Valley Province and Nyanza Province is totally untrue.
On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir. It may be prudent for the Assistant Minister to follow the rules of this House. We never, in this House, go by the reports appearing in the media and it is not fair for the Assistant Minister to refer to such reports in this House.
Dr. Machage, probably, the denial is correct, but I would prefer, if the report in the media is not true, that you issue a Ministerial Statement. However, you may wish to wind up your contribution.
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I personally thought that it was prudent to do that now. However, I will follow the rules of the House.
I do not want to open debate. Let us hear Mr. Kajwang and then we finish with Maj. Madoka!
Otieno Kajwang
Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir. The cost of drugs in this country is higher than it is in other Third World countries like India, China and others. We are not a First World country and we should start thinking of how we can access cheaper drugs in this country which are also effective. Secondly, we want a clear policy on the use of DDT. If the UN has approved the use of DDT and other countries are using it without it necessarily harming the people of those countries, we need to help our children to survive. Not everybody can access nets.
Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, mine is just to congratulate the Minister for running her Ministry very efficiently. I pray that she continues doing the same good job. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, the Minister might also wish to consider the work of the traditional birth attendants. They do a wonderful job and they really need to be given gloves and a few other things.
I had closed this debate, but I will be magnanimous to Mr. Manoti.
Stephen Kengere Monati
Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir. I wish to congratulate the Minister for Health for doing a good job. Most of our dispensaries do not have clean water. The Minister should make arrangements so that these dispensaries get clean water and electricity. Also, some of the facilities we have constructed using the CDF money have no staff.
Alright. I now open the debate, but each Member should only contribute for one minute. The Minister is listening.
Thank you, Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir. After successfully chairing the Committee, I would like to thank the Minister for a job well done in the Ministry. However, I would like to tell her that rural health centres need to be taken care of seriously. Secondly, the bird flu problem is real and the Ministry must live up to it. The last time it was reported in our neighbouring countries, we got away with it. This time round we must really be alert and ensure that, in case it breaks out, we are ready to deal with it, otherwise it can be very disastrous.
Lastly, Mr. Ogur!
Tobias Ogur
Thank you very much, Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir. Madam Minister, let me tell you that you are a giant in Nyatike, who should be emulated by other women. Our children are getting vaccination, and women borrow three or four chirdren from other women in order to get 2972 PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES October 17, 2006 mosquitoe nets. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, so, children get vaccinated three or four times in order for their mothers to get nets. This tells you that nets are required by everybody. Even those who do not have children need nets. Some women borrow other women's children in order to get nets. A child suffers by getting vaccinated three or four times so that women may get nets. So, please, give nets to even those without children.
ADJOURNMENT Mr. Deputy Speaker
Hon. Members it is now time for the interruption of Business. The House is, therefore, adjourned until tomorrow, Wednesday, 18th October, 2006 at 9.00 a.m. The House rose at 6.15 p.m.
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홈페이지 > The Venetian Macao Press Center > Ice World Opens at The Venetian Macao
Kung Fu Panda Adventure Ice World with the DreamWorks All-Stars Opens at The Venetian Macao
Kung Fu Panda Adventure Ice World
Wintery opening ceremony sees popular ice sculpture exhibition back at
Cotai Expo for fifth year
(Macao, March 16, 2017) – It may have been a chilly minus 8 degrees celsius, but that didn’t cool the enthusiasm of scores of visitors at the opening ceremony of Asia’s largest indoor frozen wonderland, Kung Fu Panda Adventure Ice World with the DreamWorks All-Stars, returning to The Venetian® Macao’s Cotai Expo March 16 – July 9, 2017.
The ceremony saw enthusiastic children performing kung fu under the instructions of Kung Fu Panda himself at The Venetian Macao’s Cotai Expo Hall F, where Kung Fu Panda Adventure Ice World with the DreamWorks All-Stars opens to the public 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. daily (last admission at 7:30 p.m.).
Now in its fifth triumphant year, Ice World is organised by Sands Resorts Macao with participation from Heilongjiang Provincial Ice Fun World Culture Communication Co. Ltd, and supported by Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO).
The unique event sees thousands of blocks of multi-coloured ice skillfully carved into amazingly detailed sculptures by a team of expert craftsmen from Harbin in northern China. This year’s show includes a host of colourful DreamWorks Animation characters from “Kung Fu Panda”, “Madagascar”, “Shrek”, “How To Train Your Dragon”, “The Croods” and “Trolls”, vibrantly brought to life with dazzling lights and stunning sound effects. In addition to the seven ice sculpture zones, new additions including themed games and savoury snacks, merchandise, merchandise and character meet-and-greets make this year’s Ice World an experience that can’t be missed.
Following a cocktail event, officiating guests Ms. Cecilia Tse, Deputy Director of Macao Government Tourism Office, Mr. Zuo XiangHua, Director of Economic Affairs Department of Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Macao Special Administrative Region; Mr. Dave Horton, Global Chief Marketing Officer, Las Vegas Sands Corp. & Sands China Ltd., and Mr. Bai Wei, General Manager of Heilongjiang Provincial Ice Fun World Culture Communication Co. Ltd took part in the activation moment by placing a snowball on the ice mountain. This triggered a beautiful downfall of snow in Expo Hall F, launching this year’s Kung Fu Panda Adventure Ice World with the DreamWorks All-Stars to dazzling effect.
“We work hard to bring our visitors of all ages a wide variety of exciting and diverse entertainment options at Sands Resorts Macao, and this year’s Kung Fu Panda Adventure Ice World with the DreamWorks All-Stars represents one of the biggest family events in Macao,” said Mr. Horton.
“These are all important elements in Sands Resorts Macao’s multi-tiered entertainment strategy, which aims to diversify Macao’s tourism offerings and reinforce its position as a world centre of tourism and leisure and one of the premier entertainment destinations in the region.”
Speaking at the event, Mr. Bai Wei thanked the Department of Culture of Heilongjiang Province, the Heilongjiang provincial government and the Macao Government Tourism Office as well as The Venetian Macao for its great support and warm hospitality, and said he hoped everyone would enjoy a “spectacular” Ice World experience.
“In creating [these ice sculptures] we used approximately 6,000 ice blocks, equivalent to 1,250 tons, which required 300 hours of crafting to complete. Thanks to the passion and the enthusiasm of our ice sculpture masters, this exhibition is a world-class ice craft art show.”
Visitors to this thrilling event can also take advantage of a range of accommodation offers as part of the Macao Ice World Package at Sands Resorts Macao properties. Guests can book the Ice World hotel package from now until July 9, 2017, for a stay period between March 16 – July 9, 2017, with rates starting from HKD/ MOP 1,138*.
Around 40 highly skilled craftsmen from Harbin, including eight ice carvers, 28 ice builders, lighting designers and power technicians will work together to create the stunning sculptures on display. An amazing 2.5 million pounds of ice will be used to create the fantastic works of frozen art.
This fun-filled event is only part of the DreamWorks Experience at Sands Resorts Macao. Families can also enjoy a range of ongoing DreamWorks Experience activities including Po’s Kung Fu Feast – Character Breakfast with the DreamWorks All-Stars. DreamWorks fans can also celebrate their special day with DreamWorks Experience Birthday Parties, which, like the character breakfast, begins with a DreamWorks Experience performance on stage, followed by the characters interacting with guests while they dine. Guests can also enjoy the DreamWorks Experience All-Star Parade where everyone will get the chance to see their favourite stars from the films as they entertain children and adults on Level 2 of Shoppes at Cotai Central every day at 4 p.m.
Sands Resorts Cotai Strip Macao is the perfect playground for families and friends to experience a delightful holiday. More information is available at http://en.sandsresortsmacao.com/dreamworks-experience.html.
Kung Fu Panda Adventure Ice World with the DreamWorks All-Stars
Date: March 16 – July 9, 2017
Venue: Cotai Expo Hall F, The Venetian Macao
Opening Hours: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. (last admission at 7:30 p.m.)
Price: MOP/HKD 120 Adults and Children (ages 3-12)
MOP/HKD 312 Family Package (three family members and one child aged 3 or above)
Note: As the exhibition is kept at special low temperatures, visitors are strongly recommended to wear closed-toe shoes, hats, gloves and long pants. Hooded coats will be provided free of charge in a variety of sizes for children and adults. Hats, gloves and socks may be purchased on site. Shoe rentals are available, in limited quantities and sizes.
Website: www.venetianmacao.com
Online ticketing: www.cotaiticketing.com
* Price is subject to 10% service charge and 5% government tax. Terms and conditions apply.
Left to right: Mr. Dave Horton, Global Chief Marketing Officer, Las Vegas Sands Corp. & Sands China Ltd.; Ms. Cecilia Tse, Deputy Director of Macao Government Tourism Office; Mr. Bai Wei, General Manager of Heilongjiang Provincial Ice Fun World Culture Communication Co. Ltd.; and Mr. Zuo XiangHua, Director of Economic Affairs Department of Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Macao Special Administrative Region.
DreamWorks Animation characters from “Kung Fu Panda”, “Madagascar”, “Shrek”, “How To Train Your Dragon”, “The Croods” and “Trolls” movies have been vibrantly brought to life by master ice sculptors for Kung Fu Panda Adventure Ice World with the DreamWorks All-Stars at The Venetian Macao Cotai Expo Hall F, daily from March 16 – July 9, 2017.
Asia’s largest indoor frozen wonderland, Ice World, returns to The Venetian® Macao’s Cotai Expo for the fifth year between March 16 – July 9, 2017, with the coolest adventure in ice, Kung Fu Panda Adventure Ice World with the DreamWorks All-Stars.
The unique event sees thousands of blocks of multi-coloured ice skilfully carved into amazingly detailed sculptures by a team of expert craftsmen from Harbin in northern China, spanning over 1,600-square-metre exhibition area at The Venetian Macao’s Cotai Expo Hall F. This year, the ice sculpture exhibition includes a host of colourful new DreamWorks Animation characters from “Kung Fu Panda”, “Madagascar”, “Shrek”, “How To Train Your Dragon”, “The Croods” and “Trolls”, vibrantly brought to life with dazzling lights and stunning sound effects. Besides the seven ice sculpture zones, new additions including themed games and savoury snacks, a range of merchandise and character meet-and-greets make this year’s Ice World an unmissable experience.
The fun-filled ice sculpture exhibition’s seven themed zones include:
Zone 1: Entrance
Zone 2: How To Train Your Dragon
Zone 3: Madagascar
Zone 4: Trolls
Zone 5: The Croods
Zone 6: Kung Fu Panda
Zone 7: Shrek
Event: Kung Fu Panda Adventure Ice World with the DreamWorks All-Stars
Opening Hours: 11 a.m.-8 p.m. (last admission at 7:30 p.m.)
Price: MOP/HKD 120 Adults and children (age 3-12)
MOP/HKD 312 Family Package for three family members and one child aged 3 or above
Ticketing Hotline: Macao: +853 2882 8818
China Toll Free: 4001 206 618
Note: The temperature in Hall F is set at a chilly minus 8 degrees Celsius. Visitors are strongly recommended to wear closed-toe shoes, hats, gloves and long pants. Hooded coats will be provided free of charge in a variety of sizes for children and adults. Hats, gloves and socks may be purchased on site. Shoe rentals are available, in limited quantities and sizes.
Join Po, the Kung Fu Panda on an epic ice adventure! Po and his friends have come all the way to Sands Resorts Macao to enlist you on a daring mission to defeat the supernatural villain, Kai. Thankfully you will receive some training along the way from the rest of the DreamWorks heroes to prepare you! Get ready for an arctic adventure through the worlds of your favourite DreamWorks films and build your chi by learning about inner strength from Vikings, trolls, cavemen, circus animals and ogres to prepare for the ultimate face-off against Kai!
Greetings from the icy Isle of Berk, where Dragons and Vikings, once enemies, have learned to live together in harmony. Hiccup will tell you that he and his fellow Vikings’ strength comes from that very harmony and the strong bonds they have formed with their incredible dragon friends.
Welcome to the Afro Circus! Whether in a zoo, on the island of Madagascar, or part of a touring circus troupe, Alex, Marty, Melman, Gloria and the Penguins always roll with the punches and adapt to come out stronger than they were before!
The Trolls know all about letting your true colours shine through! With song, dance creativity and individuality, they have the strength to defeat any foe, no matter their size!
The Croods find their inner strength through their incredible family bond, which has taken them from one era to the next. Together they’ve gone from being afraid in a cave to becoming a family of adventurers in a brand new world!
The time has come and your chi is strong! Time to join Po and the Furious Five to defeat Kai!
Shrek and Fiona have always known that friendship, like beauty, is more than skin deep, making them and their friends strong enough to stand up to any challenge. Now it’s time to celebrate with them all in the swamp!
More Themed Activities and Offers:
Heroes Eye-mask Creation
Make your own hero eye-mask or have your face painted like your favourite character before your Ice World adventure begins.
Make sure to capture this memorable moment with your family and friends.
Savoury Snack Station
Treat yourself to an assortment of mouth-watering snacks.
Photo Pick-up Corner
Share this incredible moment with your loved ones back home and preserve your visit with a memorable framed picture.
Merchandise Corner
Stop by the retail corner for all your souvenir needs – from limited edition DreamWorks toys and other exclusive gifts, you can bring part of the DreamWorks Experience home with you!
Meet and Greet with the DreamWorks friends
Your Ice World adventure isn't complete without meeting the fabulous DreamWorks heroes.
Don't be shy – go up and give them a big hug!
Enjoy a wide range of fun-filled activities, including puzzles, target and skill games, connect the dots, a maze adventure, 3D Po creation and character colouring.
About Sands Resorts Macao – Sands China’s Integrated Resort City
Sands China Ltd. is the leading developer, owner and operator of integrated resorts in Macao. The fittingly named Sands Resorts Macao, situated on reclaimed land between the islands of Coloane and Taipa, is the one destination that provides a stunning array of experiences at the heart of Cotai. Sands Resorts Macao has transformed a day-trip market into an integrated resort city and international hub for business and leisure travellers.
Pulsating with life, both night and day, Sands Resorts Macao features an expansive offering of affordable luxury available nowhere else in Macao. With the opening of The Parisian Macao, it now boasts approximately 13,000 hotel rooms and suites, international superstar live entertainment, duty free shopping with more than 850 retailers offering a huge array of name brands, meeting and exhibition space for Asia’s leading conferences and exhibitions, transportation offerings and well over 150 dining options, including Michelin-starred restaurants, bars and lounges. Sands Resorts Macao is a must-go destination providing every guest with an unforgettable experience and unparalleled excitement.
Comprised of The Venetian® Macao; The Plaza™ Macao, featuring the Four Seasons Hotel Macao; and Sands® Cotai Central, including the world’s largest Conrad, Sheraton, and St. Regis hotels as well as the Holiday Inn, Sands Resorts Macao is where Asia’s ultimate destination is within reach. And now the crowning achievement of Sheldon G. Adelson’s vision of the Cotai Strip – The Parisian Macao. For more information, please visit www.parisianmacao.com.
For more information about Sands Resorts Macao, please visit http://en.sandsresortsmacao.com.
Lily Cheng
Email: lily.sw.cheng@sands.com.mo
Felicia Im
Email: felicia.im@sands.com.mo
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Young Explains and Defends His Record at Town Hall in Gig Harbor
Lisa Bryan, KP News
Rep. Jesse Young (R-26th) addresses constituents at his town hall meeting in March.
Rep. Jesse Young (R-Gig Harbor) of the 26th Legislative District held his first 2017 town hall March 11 at the city council chambers in Gig Harbor. The scheduled 90 minute event was “the largest town hall meeting we’ve ever had,” Young said, as he faced the standing-room-only crowd.
“I’m going to honor you with my candor and my availability toward you,” he said.
The line of constituents wanting to ask questions extended well into the back of the room. The meeting was orderly and the atmosphere civil, with nearly every constituent who spoke thanking Young for his willingness to hold town hall meetings.
Among other issues, Young was asked about his co-sponsorship of HB 1011, which would permit transgender persons to restrooms on private or public property if the transgender individual has completed sexual reassignment surgery.
“Based on the fact there are 3,000 transgender children in secondary and primary schools in the state of Washington, with your strong support of family values in mind, what are you doing to actively support those families with transgender children?” asked a woman who identified herself only as Rebecca from Olalla.
“I believe gender should be based on your DNA,” Young said. “I believe that is the only substantive style that we can ever have concrete civil rights liberties based upon. If you start getting into relative terms, civil rights go out the door … If somebody’s had the surgery, then go, but if not, I don’t want my girls in the bathroom with a guy coming in.”
HB 1011 failed to make it out of committee this session.
Young was also asked about sponsoring HB 1602 in reaction to the much publicized suspension and ultimate dismissal of Bremerton High School Assistant Coach Joe Kennedy for kneeling in prayer on the 50 yard line at the end of school football games. Young said the Bremerton School District was forced to punish Kennedy out of fear of lawsuits by activist groups. He authored HB 1602 to protect freedom of speech and religious exercise, he said. If signed into law, the bill would make school districts immune from liability for allowing prayer in public spaces.
One constituent commented on the prayer recited at the beginning of the meeting, telling Young, “It didn’t feel very inclusive to have a prayer in Jesus’ name when we are a culture of many faiths.”
HB 1602 also failed to make it out of committee during this session.
Nelson Stansbury of Olalla asked, “How can I reach you to make an appointment to talk with you if you don’t answer your emails? Do you have a local office where constituents can meet with you?” Stansbury said he emailed Young numerous times but received no reply, unlike his experiences with state Sen. Jan Angel (R-Port Orchard) and Rep. Michelle Caldier (R-Gig Harbor).
Young said he does not have a paid staff but has “volunteers covering my desk.” He asked if everyone understood that no representative or senator in this state has an office in district when the Legislature is in session. “We are all required to have our offices in Olympia while in session,” he said.
In late January, The Associated Press reported the state House of Representatives was taking action against Young to address “a pattern of hostile and intimidating behavior” toward staff. A Dec. 13 letter from House counsel Alison Hellberg stated that Young is prohibited from maintaining an office within his district for a period of one year and will not have a supervisory role over a replacement legislative aide.
“The allegations are both credible and serious,” the letter from Hellberg read.
Another constituent asked if Young would comply with the letter from the House counsel to take anger management and management technique classes.
“No, I have not signed on to that,” Young said.
Young said he intends to file a lawsuit against the House over the issue, citing violation of his basic civil right to due process. “I have nothing to hide,” he said.
Forestry Choices on the Key
State Rules Open Logging ‘Loophole’
Property Rights Stall Logging at YMCA Camp Colman New County Ordinance Cracks Down on Nuisance Properties
Todd Bloom
Derek Kilmer Thumbs Up for KP Fire Levy The $11/Hour Minimum Wage: What It Means
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1 Dead, 2 Injured in 15 Freeway Shooting Reportedly Involving Motorcycle Gangs
Posted 6:21 AM, September 21, 2014, by John A. Moreno, Sara Welch and Steve Kuzj, Updated at 12:14PM, September 21, 2014
All lanes on the 15 Freeway near Corona were reopened Sunday morning as authorities continued their investigation into a shooting that left one person dead and two others injured.
A shooting investigation caused a closure on the 15 Freeway on Sept. 20, 2014. (Credit: Stringer footage)
Deputies from the Riverside County Sheriff's Department's Jurupa Valley station responded at 6:33 p.m. Saturday to numerous 911 calls of shots fired on the southbound 15 Freeway near the El Cerrito Road off-ramp (map), according to a news release.
Several callers reported rival motorcycle gangs, the Mongols and the Hells Angels, were shooting at each other, a California Highway Patrol sergeant told the L.A. Times.
Two men were found suffering from gunshot wounds at the scene, the release said. They were transported by ambulance to a hospital, where one was pronounced dead.
A third man was treated for similar injuries and released from the hospital.
None of the victims' names were immediately released.
Investigators from the Jurupa Valley station and Central Homicide Unit were called to the scene of the shooting and took over the investigation.
The freeway closure ended about 10 a.m. Sunday, more than 15 hours after it began, according to Caltrans.
Anyone with information is asked to call sheriff's Investigator Dean at 951-955-2777.
Topics: 15 freeway, Corona, el cerrito, interstate 15, Riverside County, shooting
West Covina Shooting Leaves 1 Dead, 2 Others Injured
Mother Driving With Children Near Murrieta Arrested After 82K Worth of Meth Found in Car: CBP
Officers Fatally Shoot Murder Suspect Near California-Nevada Line; NB 15 Fwy Closed for 19 Hours
5 Fwy Through Grapevine, 15 Fwy Near Nevada State Line Reopen After Extended Weather Delays
Hemet Mother Dies in Rollover Crash After 19-Year-Old Son Loses Control of Pickup on 15 Freeway: CHP
Driver, Good Samaritan Killed in Fiery Big Rig Crash on 15 Freeway Near Barstow
Suspect in Bail Bondsman’s Fatal Shooting Killed During SWAT Shootout in San Bernardino
Corona Couple Sentenced in Murder of Their Newborn, ‘Baby Jane Doe,’ Who Was Found Inside Box
2 Killed in Shooting During Filming of Music Video in Texas
Man Suspected of Killing, Dumping 15-Year-Old Dog in La Mirada Is Arrested After Pursuit: LASD
Homicide Detectives Investigating After Man Found Shot Dead in Car Near Victorville Campground
Teen Driver Killed, 5 Other Teens Injured in Solo-Vehicle Crash on San Diego Freeway: CHP
2 Dead, 2 Detained in Shooting at Apartment Complex in Ontario
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Lee Daniels new film….PIMP(Interracial Lesbian Propaganda)
October 17, 2018 by Kushite Prince
Looks like Director Lee Daniels is at it again. Hollywood’s favorite black homosexual director is back with a new film. The man who made black servitude look good(The Butler) and made black degeneracy look artsy(Precious,Empire). He also has a show called Star on FOX. A show that promotes homosexuals,interracial sex, transgenders and cross-dressers. I’ve watched the show twice and could barely stomach the filth promoted on that show. But now he’s take it to another level. He has an upcoming film called Pimp. Daniels is the executive producer of the film. The actual director is white lesbian Christine Crokos.
Written and directed by Christine Crokos, the love story stars Keke Palmer (Akeelah and the Bee), Haley Ramm (The Originals), Aunjanue Ellis (The Help), Vanessa Morgan (Finding Carter), Mike E. Winfield (Conversations in L.A.), Edi Cathegi (Twilight) and DMX.
Pimp marks the first movie that Daniels — the writer-director-producer behind such TV and film hits as Empire, Star, Precious and The Butler — has executive produced. The impetus for his involvement stemmed from wanting to support a new generation of filmmakers with authentic voices and a unique approach to storytelling.
Pimp is set on the rough streets of the Bronx and centers on Wednesday (Palmer), who is born into the gritty world of hustling, where she learns the game from her dad. Once he’s gone, she is left to look out for her mother (Ellis) and her girlfriend Nikki (Ramm). In need of more money, Nikki decides to hit the streets for Wednesday for a dream at a better life. In a ferocious battle of survival, Wednesday comes face to face with a pimp (Gathegi) who runs a more dangerous game, leaving Wednesday to fight for love and risk all to save Nikki.
Alexis Varouxakis of 1821 Pictures and Adrenaline Entertainment is producing the pic alongside Victoria Bousis and Christine Crokos. Paris Kasidokostas-Latsis, Terry Dougas, Roys Poyiadjis, Nick Garyfallos, Michael J. Mailis, Corey Large, Gary Ousdahl, Michael Cline, Bader Alghanim, Gina Dwyer, Ali Jazayeri, Viviana Zarragoitia and John Krokidas also are executive producing.
Daniels’ Precious (2009) received six Academy Award nominations, including for best director, and took home two Oscars. In 2012, Daniels directed the historical fiction drama The Butler, which became a box-office hit, holding the No. 1 spot for three weeks. He is also the co-creator and executive producer of the TV series Empire and Star.
I’ve always liked Keke Palmer. I always thought she was a beautiful and talented black actress. I thought she might be someone young black girls could look up. But I was wrong. Just like many young black adults in Hollyweird they fall victim to the agendas. The know they must promote homosexuality,lesbians,queers,interraical sex and transgenders if they want to take their careers to another level. These sick European demons in Hollywood want to corrupt the minds of black youth. And they get these sellout black devils like Lee Daniels to destroy the minds of their own people. Many of the powerful people in Hollywood are satanic and greedy bastards. And we have to be careful not to follow people just because they have melanin like we do. We must accept the fact that there are white devils….but black devils as well. Do black children need to see a black female pimp? And a lesbian one at that! Do black children need to see an interracial lesbian affair? Is this inspiring to the youth?? Hell NO! They are grooming the minds of black children to see this filth as normal. This is more psychological warfare. Not to mention the film as bloody violence,murder and all types of black degeneracy. Just more promotion of black people as pimps,whores,hustlers and gangsters. Haven’t we moved past this? This is why homosexuals like Lee Daniels are rewarded so much in Hollywood. The film is coming out November 9,2018. Be sure to NOT support this film! Do not give these sick bastards one red cent! Let me know your thoughts on propaganda films of this nature.
This entry was posted in Homosexual Agenda and tagged Academy Awards, Aunjanue Ellis, Black devil, Black Stereotypes, Butler, Christine Crokos, Cross Dressers, Deception, Demonic, Demonic people, Destroying young minds, DMX, Drug dealers, Dykes, Edi Gathegi, Empire, European, European culture, European standards, Gay director, Genderqueer, Greek culture, Greek Freaks, Haley Ramm, Hidden agenda, Hollywood Films, Hollywood propaganda, Homophile, Homosexual, interracial, Interracial sex, Keke Palmer, Lee Daniels, Lesbian lovers, Lesbians, Murder, Negative Black stereotypes, Negative Images, Negative stereotypes, New film, Pimp, Pimping, Pimps, Precious, Propaganda, Psychological warfare, Queer, Racist Hollywood, Racist Society, Satanic, Servitude, Star, The Butler, Transgender, Upcoming film, Vanessa Morgan, Violence, White demons, White Devil, Whores. Bookmark the permalink.
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44 thoughts on “Lee Daniels new film….PIMP(Interracial Lesbian Propaganda)”
qnubian528 says: October 18, 2018 at 8:20 am
SHM!!
Kushite Prince says: October 18, 2018 at 2:59 pm
Isn’t it a shame? More filth to corrupt the minds of the masses!
Brother Osei 21CRM says: October 18, 2018 at 5:26 pm
The agenda to further sexually corrupt and confuse Black people in full effect, with the usual suspects using Lee Daniels as the face (who has no problem whatsoever being used in this manner btw).
He is a lowlife devil! I despise this creature. He will sell his soul for a dollar. He doesn’t give a damn about the repercussions. He’s destroyed thousands of minds.
Shanequa says: October 18, 2018 at 8:49 pm
I am tired of all this homosexual bullshit. It’s bad enough we have black children living in homosexual households especially when they have a parent that is a cross dresser. Every black movie that comes out have too deal with homosexuality, interracial dating, the token non black friend, dysfunctional black female & male relationship, and etc.
Exactly! And people have the nerve to tell me there’s no agenda. They must be blind!
Lee Daniels make sure in his films he includes homosexuality in it. The film Precious she was being molested by her mother, Empire the music owner son was gay, Star queen latifah son is a cross dresser, the butler the black male was emasculated even though it wasn’t no homosexual scenes, now we have this new movie of his
Daniels is obsessed with depraved sexual behavior. It’s all he thinks about. He’s never original in his films or television shows. He is doing everything he can to normalize the abnormal. He’s a very sick human being.
blackmystory says: October 18, 2018 at 10:45 pm
Keke Palmer been showing her ass for years now. If you go back to how she be skinning out and showing out on social media, you could have seen this was a chicken head running around. What can we say about Lee daniels? At least he is consistent in promoting his death style. He is not the problem though it’s all them other kneegrows that refuse to produce anything of value. Instead glue their big nukka lips to the ass holes of hollywierd’s filthiest degenerates. Anything for fame and fortune under white pathogy
Kushite Prince says: October 19, 2018 at 12:52 am
That’s right. Daniels is consistent. We should all know to expect from this vile monster. That’s why we must not support such blatant agendas like this.
blackmystory says: October 19, 2018 at 4:31 pm
yep yep
kelley says: October 19, 2018 at 12:19 am
Wow! It looks very violent and dark with no bright spots.
You’re right. This is the type of garbage they love to feed us. After looking at the trailer I felt I was watching Hustle & Flow meets Moonlight lol
Shanequa says: October 19, 2018 at 3:10 am
I remember when I first heard about the movie “Moonlight” I decided to see who was cast in the movie was a all black cast. Well I took a liken to the actor Trevante Rhodes who was the main character of the movie. When I finally seen the trailer too the movie, found out he was playing a homosexual I was disgusted. Trevante is a nice looking black man but I didn’t like the fact he was playing a faggot.
Also with this homosexual agenda being promote, were people can’t tell the difference from normal to abnormal.. Seeing black males wear emasculating feminine clothing which is abnormal has become normal. Sooner, later, or now we’re going to be seeing openly relationships of suppose to be heterosexual women dating feminine men who wears women’s clothing & suppose to be heterosexual men dating masculine women who wears men clothing as normal. We’re going to be arguing with people saying that’s not normal.
kelley says: October 20, 2018 at 2:50 pm
LOL right! A horror film coming out in the perfect season. They shoulda called it Hustle & Precious Moonlight.
Great title! You’re too funny Kelley lol
You know they love their horror films!!!!
KJ says: October 19, 2018 at 7:15 am
w….t…..f. I am so sick of white people (and their demonic minions) casting their sick disgusting fantasies onto us. Theyve really created a doozie here ……..to keep the worlds hatred and lack of empathy for melanated people going full throttle.
That’s it in a nutshell KJ. The onslaught is relentless. I’m just glad people are aware of this sick agenda. It’s disgusting on every level. Just more psychological programming of anti-blackness.
qnubian528 says: October 19, 2018 at 8:22 pm
This is the way how to destroy a beautiful BW into a man and handsome BM into a woman!
They want to destroy everything and everyone on this planet,to shape in their sick image because what their deprave culture tell them to do!
In the past you would never have heard so much about this disgusting sorcery, they are really pushing so hard these transgender agenda to make as normal,that even the churches, schools and so on,they are agree to help and teach this madness!
This is the one first reason and I don’t watch anymore TV and I don’t go to the cinema because “we don’t know but they can be deceive man and woman cross gender and you will never know it!,we should stop watch TV crap and go to the cinema because these demonic beast this type of topic they are promoting!
Their motto says:
-is OK be trans,gender fluid or even don’t have at all a gender identity!
-is OK teach at school to kids, how to be trans or bring a trans person to teach them about it!
-is OK mix the black struggle with homosexual struggle because “gay is the new black!”
– is OK call “gay is a race now!”
-is OK to give a trans woman how to give birth a child,because now they want men to give birth a child!
What I can say to all of them “Got to hell and please just don’t come back!
Amen!!! Beautifully stated Nubian!
moonfairy8 says: October 21, 2018 at 5:03 pm
Hello Kushiteprince.
I left a comment on your YouTube channel before about the astral travelers who harass/attack me. This is my blog. What if I told you that they have been thirsting for my soul/heart chakra for a long time now and many of their entertainment is based off what they do to me or fantasize about doing? Would you believe me? What if I can tell you all the secrets about what is going on. Would you listen?
Thanks for the comment. What’s your name on YouTube? And what video did you leave a comment?
moonfairy8 says: October 22, 2018 at 4:35 am
It is HeartofTruth.
Kushite Prince says: October 22, 2018 at 6:34 am
I left the comment on the “Amos Wilson- The Price of Stolen Goods” video
Thanks for the reminder. I’ll be sure to check it out.
I also left a previous comment on this blog on the article called “Is your weekly news scripted?”
Thanks for the heads up. I appreciate that.
moonfairy8 says: October 22, 2018 at 11:22 am
My story is on my blog. I need help sharing my story about what they are doing to me to as many people who want to know as possible. I know the secrets behind these movies and what they do. Many in the entertainment industry are psychic vampires who worship the hidden sun/black sun in your head/crown chakra. The pineal gland. Like in the movie Queen of the damned, Twilight(Bella represents someone with a strong pineal gland which is why their powers didn’t work on her), Blade etc. When you have a Black sun in your head that is very powerful you basically are the Great mother/universe and you are in “paradise”. The color pink represents feminine energy which is the Luciferian energy that they worship because it grants you immortality like the serpent(Great mother) encouraging Eve to take the fruit that makes you like god. That is the seed of light from the mother in your head.
They decided to use me as their sacrifice and spiritually violated me against my will and have stolen my energy because of my health issue with my head. They are bragging about it everywhere in the media/movies/music. The reason why you see them as lesbian in this movie is because they go by Energy. If you don’t have your feminine energy intact then they see you as a man and a dog. If you do then energetically they see you as a female seed from the mother. Dog from the bible meaning someone who is not in heaven (heaven is the size of a mustard seed) which means they don’t have their Black sun(hidden god) energy. They have put people under mk ultra or whatever else to spy on me since I was little and these people decided to spiritually attack me when I had the damage to my crown chakra. They constantly stalked me to get my energy when I would cry or have other intense negative emotions. Please understand that many of their entertainment right now is about the torment and harm that they have done to me. Thank you for encouraging people to not watch it.
Wow! That is some very heavy stuff. Very deep information. I will definitely check out your blog and your story. You’ve really peaked my interest. Thank you for that Moonfairy.
Thank you so much for reading my story.
I have also found out that many white and Asian women and their helpers that are not famous are on Twitter talking in sugar coated talk about what they are doing to me too. Many of them found out about me and my abilities so they joined in too.
These white and Asian females feel Entitled to my very Soul. Heres one of them: @aurorasofiab
Many of those she talks to are involved as well. They want My Feminine energy for themselves because they blame m for their men abusing or brainwashing children when I would Never condone that. That has nothing to do with me. Those people Choose to do evil and blame me for it. They slander me and want MY soul to keep. They already did me spiritual damage.
I just want to share what some white and asian women do in secret to someone like me who is not white or asian like them. They demonize me because they want to have my energy and be a “real Goddess”.
Thanks for the comment Moonfairy.
amosnwilsonuniversity says: October 27, 2018 at 8:36 pm
KEKE is a scumbag disappointed in her!
@ amoswilsonuniversity
I hope this women real flop hard.
Keke is very disappointing. She had so much potential.
Nat Turner’s Revenge says: November 5, 2018 at 11:55 am
Akilah and the Bee, dykin’. Sad.
Kushite Prince says: November 5, 2018 at 4:51 pm
Yeah it’s really sad. She’s deep in the sunken place 😢
Shawn Shawn says: November 17, 2018 at 1:12 am
Completely agree!! I just noticed that the movie is in pay-perview so I think we were successful in our boycott 👍🏾!!
Kushite Prince says: November 21, 2018 at 10:02 pm
That’s good news! Thanks!
25, Black, & Alive says: November 29, 2018 at 6:07 am
You speak so much truth in this post. But our people eat this bullshit up! Bruh this agenda has worked so effectively. Everyday in D.C. I see a confused YOUNG man. Like bruh growing up in my youth it was so prevalent. These days with them normalizing it, it’s like damn near a quarter to a half shit maybe 75 percent of our people have fell for the trap.
Kushite Prince says: November 29, 2018 at 8:44 pm
So true Cliff. This garbage is pushed heavily on the masses. That’s why the youth must be taught this type of behavior is abnormal. This goes against nature. Hollywood loves to promote death,self destruction,homosexuality,crime and sexual deviancy to black people. Nothing but anti-blackness on every level!
25, Black, & Alive says: November 29, 2018 at 9:12 pm
I meant to say that it WASN’T* prevalent. If you were, you kept it to yourself. This guy came to our high school and left the second day because cats wasn’t having it. I miss them days.
I feel you in that! For real!
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BROADER LOOK »B4-B5
Thursday, January 16, 2020 Vol. 15 No. 98
‘Taal eruption likely to affect inflation’ T
By Bianca Cuaresma @BcuaresmaBM & Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla
aal Volcano’s unrest is not expected to pull down the country’s economy this year, but it could stoke inflationary pressures in the coming months, a local economist said.
Early assessments made by Philippine National Bank (PNB) economist Jun Trinidad showed that the adverse impact of Taal’s eruption could be mitigated by the
size and the speed of the government’s relief operations. “Deploying significant private and public resources in disaster affected areas to address the nat-
ural disaster’s damages compensates for macro downside risks,” Trinidad said. Trinidad said the government’s aid, reconstruction and rehabilita-
P25.00 nationwide | 6 sections 60 pages |
Rebalancing development strategy:
Filipino First in an uncertain and volatile world
2.5 percent
Rene E. Ofreneo
The average inflation rate in 2019 tion efforts, coupled by a private sector-led reparation to normalize their operations will likely offset the negative impact of the natural disaster on domestic demand. The economist also said that the P20-billion National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund as approved in the 2020 budget, as well as the $222 million proceeds from the catastrophe-linked bonds could cover for the losses caused by the volcano’s eruption.
he world heaved a collective sigh of relief when Teheran elected to avoid an all-out force-by-force response to Trump’s brazen decision to kill Iran’s General Qassem Soleimani through a powerful air strike. Nonetheless, it is still a VUCA world—vulnerable, uncertain, complex and ambiguous. The global consensus is that the US-Iran war will continue in various forms, e.g., proxy wars in Yemen, drone attacks on oil tankers, violent demonstrations against US bases, etc. The oil market remains volatile and unpredictable. The Middle East will increasingly become an inhospitable place for work to around 3 million OFWs, documented and undocumented. Continued on A7
Continued on A2
Price of live chicken down 9%
Citira won’t widen gap in tax collection–EIU By Bernadette D. Nicolas
@BNicolasBM
espite the expected cut in corporate income tax (CIT) under the proposed Corporate Income Tax and Incentives Rationalization Act (Citira), the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) said this will not widen the shortfall in actual tax collection. While the Citira faces opposition from businesses lobbying for the retention of fiscal incentives, the EIU said in an article that the measure will be passed by Congress this year, putting the country “on track” to cutting CIT to 20 percent by 2030. However, the EIU said the extent by which the measure will lower the effective tax rate companies pay and its impact on arresting falling foreign direct investment will still depend on the final outcome of the bicameral review of Senate and the House of Representatives. “While the government will find it hard to achieve its ambitious revenue target, the shortfall in actual collection will not be wide, considering that the pace of reduction in the corporate income tax rate is much slower than at which incentives are supposed to be rolled back,” EIU said in the January 14 article, titled “Crunch time for Duterte’s corporate tax reform.” Citira aims to lower the CIT rate
PESO exchange rates n
from 30 percent to 20 percent over 10 years to bring it closer to the Asean average while redesigning the current convoluted fiscal incentives system to make it performancebased, time-bound, specifically targeted and more transparent. The EIU noted that corporate tax reforms under President Duterte comes at a time that the government needs to increase tax revenues to fund his commitments to raise social spending and disbursements for infrastructure. In a statement on Wednesday, the Department of Finance said the House version of the Citira bill, which was approved on September 13, 2019, has already been transmitted to the Senate on September 16. The measure is now pending in the counterpart Senate panel chaired by the equally hardworking Sen. Pia Cayetano, the DOF said. Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez III reiterated in the same statement that the tax reform will attract more investments and help propel the country to an “A” credit rating from its current “BBB plus” while creating “a better level playing field” for businesses, as well as entice new players to come in and compete. Aside from Citira, the other pending packages under the Comprehensive Tax Reform Program (CTRP) include Package 3 or the Continued on A2
By Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas @jearcalas
By country source, BSP data showed that the United States is still the highest country source of OFW remittances during the period, accounting for 37.7 percent of total money transfers in January to November 2019. This was followed by Saudi
he average farm-gate price of broiler chicken fell by over 9 percent to P72.25 per kilogram (kg) in the second week of January, as lower demand caused inventory to swell, the United Broiler Raisers Association (Ubra) said. Ubra’s weekly price monitoring indicated that the price of broiler chicken as of January 10 was P7.42 lower than the P79.67 per kg recorded in the previous week. Also, the average price of primesized broiler declined by almost 10 percent to P73.67 per kg, from last week’s P81.62 per kg, according to Ubra’s report. Figures from the group also showed that the average farmgate price of off-sized broiler fell by 4.3 percent to P78.8 per kg from P82.33 per kg during the reference period. Ubra President Elias Jose Inciong told the BusinessMirror that the reduction in farm-gate prices was caused by “a confluence of events,” including seasonal factors. For one, Inciong said there is a high carry over chicken inventory due to higher local production and an increase in imports. Inciong added that the increase of new entrants in the poultry sector contributed
Dr. Renato Solidum, officer in charge of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, is shown here pointing to sets of data on the eruption of Taal Volcano. During a news conference held at the Phivolcs office in Quezon City on January 15, Solidum said Phivolcs data showed that since 5:00 a.m. of January 14 until 5:00 a.m. of January 15, nearly 160 volcanic earthquakes related to the eruption were felt. Twenty-eight of these volcanic earthquakes had intensities ranging from Intensity 1 to 3. NONOY LACZA
OFW remittances rise to $2.37 million in November
he Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) reported on Wednesday that overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) sent home some $2.37 million in remittances in November 2019, 2 percent higher than the total amount they sent a year ago. The BSP said total remittances in
January to November 2019 rose to $27.2 billion, 4.4 percent higher than the previous year’s $26.1 billion. “By type of worker, cash remittances from land-based and seabased workers increased by 3.6 percent to $21.3 billion, and 7.3 percent to $6 billion, respectively,” the BSP said in a statement.
US 50.5120 n japan 0.4593 n UK 65.7666 n HK 6.4952 n CHINA 7.3371 n singapore 37.5080 n australia 34.8533 n EU 56.2199 n SAUDI ARABIA 13.4641
Source: BSP (15 January 2020)
BusinessMirror
A2 Thursday, January 16, 2020
www.businessmirror.com.ph
PHL declares total deployment ban to Kuwait
By Samuel P. Medenilla
@sam_medenilla
verseas Filipino workers (OFWs) will no longer be allowed to go to Kuwait after the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration’s (POEA) governing board had approved a total deployment ban to the Arab nation.
The POEA imposed the ban due to the Kuwaiti government’s lapses in addressing the case
of Filipino household ser vice worker Jeanelyn Villavende who was slain last month allegedly by
her employers. Labor Secretary and POEA governing board Chairman Silvestre H. Bello III said he ordered the total deployment ban after Kuwaiti authorities failed to disclose in their autopsy report that Villavende was also sexually violated. Philippine authorities only found out that Villavende was sexually abused when the National Bureau of Investigation conducted a separate autopsy. The incident irked Bello, who vowed stronger deployment restrictions for Kuwait to further pressure its government to hold accountable the people behind Villavende’s death and to fully implement the 2018 Philippine-
243,843 The number of Filipino workers currently in Kuwait
Kuwait memorandum of agreement (MOA). Under a total deployment ban, all job categories of OFWs, regardless if they are newly hired or returning (balik manggagawa) will no longer be allowed to go to a destination country. The new resolution, however, provides that the labor secretar y could set job categor ies to be exempted from the total
‘Taal eruption likely PHL improves score to affect inflation’ in WB index Continued from A1
Continued from A1
What is worrisome, however, is the pressure that the Taal eruption could put on food prices—particularly on chicken, hogs and fish since Region 4A—the region most affected by the calamity—is a significant contributor to local production of livestock, he said. Trinidad said the region is the second-largest regional producer of live chicken, accounting for 87,000 metric tons out of the total 429,000 MT in the third quarter of 2019. The Department of Agriculture (DA) said Taal Volcano’s eruption has damaged some P600 million worth of crops and other produce. The DA said the figure could go up in the coming days due to the probable fish kill in Taal Lake caused by the volcano’s eruption. In its report on Tuesday, the DA said Taal Volcano’s damage to the farm sector rose to P577.59 million, from the agency’s initial estimate of P74.55 million. The Philippines ended 2019 with a 2.5-percent uptick in inflation in December, from 1.3 percent recorded in November. Even before Taal’s eruption, inflation has already been flagged to trend upwards in 2020 due to local and global developments. The government’s target inflation range for 2020 remains at 2 to 4 percent. In 2019, inflation averaged at 2.5 percent.
‘No shortage’
The DA on Wednesday said it will ensure that there will be no food shortage in Luzon as it will mobilize supplies from areas outside of Taal. In an ambush interview, Agriculture Undersecretary Ariel Cayanan said the DA is confident that other food-producing regions in Luzon could offset the losses incurred by
farmers in areas affected by the eruption of Taal Volcano. “So far BFAR [Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources] and BPI [Bureau of Plant Industry] have made no declaration [on a possible food shortage],” Cayanan said. He said the crop production of Nueva Vizcaya, Quirino, and Baguio will be sufficient for the vegetable needs of Luzon. And for fish, Cayanan said Pampanga, Tarlac and other areas in Region 3 “have greater market share when it comes to volume” compared to that of Batangas, which was severely affected by the eruption. “The challenge for us now is how we are going to ration it. How we will distribute it from North to South [of Luzon],” Cayanan said. Cayanan said Agriculture Secretary William Dar already gave instructions to the DA’s regional offices in Luzon to help with the logistics to ensure that sufficient supplies of vegetables and fish in the market and minimize possible “price distortion.” Also, the Department of Health warned the public against eating fish caught from Taal Lake due to the concerns that these may be contaminated with harmful toxins released during the eruption. “While we are not sure, might as well as be cautious because we know that toxic substances have been thrown out of the volcano and dissolved in the water. Ingesting fishes and animals, which were killed by it might transfer those toxins to our bodies,” Health Undersecretary Eric Domingo said. However, Domingo said vegetables and fruits, which were exposed to ashfall from the eruption will be safe to eat as long as ash is washed away. DOH said eating ash could cause symptoms similar to food poisoning.
Price of live chicken down 9% Continued from A1
to higher production, resulting in oversupply. He said the situation was worsened by the practice of Filipinos to avoid serving chicken during the New Year’s Eve feast due to the superstitious belief that the consumption of poultry will make one’s life difficult the whole year. The Department of Agriculture’s market price monitoring report showed that the average retail price of dressed chicken in Metro Manila market as of January 15 fell to P154.5 per kg from the previous week’s P156.67 per kg. Inciong noted that the price is still quite higher than the industry’s estimated or suggested retail price of P125 per kg, at the prevailing farm-gate prices. Broiler industry stakeholders noted that the retail price of chicken should only be P50 higher than
its farm-gate price. In its report on the performance of the agriculture sector in the third quarter, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said chicken production expanded by an annualized rate of 8.48 percent during the period due to the increase in demand for broiler chicken in Central Luzon and Calabarzon. “Chicken served as substitute for pork due to outbreak of African swine fever [ASF]. Sustained local demand for native/improved chicken and broiler chicken was reported in Mimaropa region, Western Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao and Davao region,” the PSA report read. “There were also reports of increased culling of unproductive layers in Central Luzon, Mimaropa region and Central Visayas,” it added.
Mobi l it y e x amined constraints to women’s freedom of movement while workplace analyzed the laws affecting women’s decisions to enter and remain in the labor force. The indicator on pay measured laws and regulations regarding job restrictions and the gender wage gap; legal constraints in marriage; and parenthood evaluated laws affecting women’s work after having children. Other indicators such as entrepreneurship examined constraints faced by women when starting and running their own business assets, gender differences in property and inheritance law; and the size of women’s pension. The Philippines scored the highest in workplace, pay, and entrepreneurship with a score of 100. The country scored 80 out of 100 in parenthood; 75 in mobility and pension; and 60 in marriage and assets. The country’s primary reform was to extend the duration of paid maternity leave to 105 days from 60 days approved by President Duterte in May 2019. This reform fell under parenthood where majority of countries in the index implemented their reforms. Apart from the Philippines, countries like Canada, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the United States, among others, made reforms in this indicator. “Reforms are urgently needed in the area of Parenthood, which scored just 53.9 on average. In almost half of economies that provide any form of paid maternity leave, the burden falls on the employer, making it more costly to hire women,” the World Bank said in a statement. “But paid maternity leave can
help to retain female employees, reducing turnover cost and improving productivity. These longer-term benefits often outweigh the shortterm costs to employers, according to the study,” it added. The WBL index measures only formal laws and the regulations which govern a woman’s ability to work or own businesses—a country’s actual norms and practices are not captured. The global average score was 75.2 out of 100. Women Business and the Law 2020 included 190 economies, tracked how laws affect women at different stages in their working lives and focused on those laws applicable in the main business city. It covered reforms in eight areas that are associated with women’s economic empowerment, conducted from June 2017 to September 2019. The World Bank said achieving legal gender equality requires strong political will and a concerted effort by governments, civil society, and international organizations, among others. Legal and regulatory reforms can serve as an important catalyst to improve the lives of women, as well as their families and communities, it added. “This study helps us understand where laws facilitate or hinder women’s economic participation. It has incentivized countries to undertake reforms that can eliminate gender imbalances,” said World Bank Group Chief Economist Pinelopi Koujianou Goldberg. “Achieving equality will take time, but it is encouraging that all regions have improved. We hope that this research will continue to serve as an important tool to inform policy-making and level the playing field for women,” Goldberg added.
Citira won’t widen gap in tax collection–EIU
Real Property Valuation Reform and Package 4 or the Passive Income and Financial Intermediary Taxation Act or PIFITA. Nonetheless, Dominguez has since expressed confidence that the pending CTRP packages will be approved by Congress this year. “Completing the reform measures will guarantee the revenue flow and the equitable sharing of the contributions to underwrite our social and infrastructure programs. It will also ensure fiscal stability long into the future,” he said. The bill imposing higher excise taxes on alcohol products and an increase in the tax rate for ecigarettes, such as heated tobacco products and vapor products was approved by Congress and is now
awaiting President Duterte’s signature. In July last year, President Duterte also signed into law Republic Act 11346, which raised the excise tax on tobacco products to P45 per pack beginning in 2020, followed by a series of P5 per pack increases until the rate reaches P60 in 2023. Thereafter, the tax rate will increase by 5 percent every year. It also included a provision taxing e-cigarettes by at least P10 per milliliter for e-juices with high nicotine concentrations, also known as nicotine salt. Under the bill up for the President’s signature, this minimal rate has since increased to be closer to that of cigarettes based on comparative consumption patterns.
deployment ban. It also allows OFWs, who are currently employed in Kuwait, to complete their employment contracts. However, once the contract is completed, they will no longer be allowed to return to Kuwait. POEA has yet to release a copy of the resolution since it still lacked the needed signatures from its governing board members. Bello and POEA administrator Bernard P. Olalia, however, confirmed to the BusinessMirror the resolution’s existence via SMS. In the latest deployment data of POEA, Kuwait is currently one of the top 10 destinations for OFWs. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)
said there are 243,843 Filipino workers in Kuwait. Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian on Tuesday pressed concerned Philippine officials to pursue accountability of the Kuwaiti government for slain OFWs, as three Filipino maids have been reported killed in high-profile cases in the last two years. “It is high time to stop these occurrences from happening again,” the senator stressed as he affirmed support for a snowballing clamor to enforce a total ban on the deployment of Filipino household service workers to Kuwait amid findings that the OFWs “are the most vulnerable among workers deployed in the area.”
Moratorium on SSS loan payments pushed
enator Nancy Binay on Wednesday urged the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), Social Security System and Pag-IBIG, as well as other government financial agencies and offices, to impose a six-month to oneyear loan payment moratorium for those affected by the restive Taal Volcano as a way to help ease their burdens. “It’s a way for government agencies to show continuing concern for its members, and it’s a way of helping out its members during their times of need,” Binay said in a statement. Besides government institutions, the senator also called on private and government banks, lending agencies, and financial institutions to defer loan payments of borrowers in areas declared under a state of calamity. Likewise, she also urged local government units (LGUs) in the affected areas to defer collecting penalties from individuals who are unable to pay real property taxes, as well as businesses that are unable to renew their business permits. “The situation calls for everyone to be more caring and compassionate,” she said. “Yung pagbibigay ng loan moratorium and debt restructuring ay malaking tulong para makabangon ang ating mga kababayan
[The granting of loan moratorium and debt restructuring would greatly help our countrymen to get to their feet]. Compassionate care is an important component of rebuilding, and will surely make a difference,” Binay said. The province of Batangas was placed under a state of calamity a day after Taal Volcano erupted. According to reports from the Batangas Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC), over 200,000 individuals have been affected by Taal’s activity. About 17,000 individuals or more than 3,000 families in the most affected towns of Balete, Laurel, San Nicolas, Talisay and parts of Lipa and Tanauan City have initially been evacuated. Binay had earlier called on the government to enlist the help of the private sector in procuring masks, as well as other supplies that would protect citizens in affected areas. She also scored the “enterprising” attitude of traders and hoarders who have taken advantage of the situation and exacerbated the lack of supply. Binay warned that there are serious repercussions for establishments that would be proven to have marked up the prices of goods during the crisis. PNA
OFW remittances rise to $2.37 million in November Continued from A1
Arabia, Singapore, Japan, United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, Canada, Hong Kong, Germany and Qatar. The combined remittances from these countries accounted for 78.4 percent of total cash remittances during the period. In a recent roundtable discussion with the BusinessMirror, Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) Executive Vice President and Corporate Banking Head Juan Carlos Syquia said the Philippine banking sector will likely feel the effect of the Middle East tensions largely through expectations of declines in remittances. “Definitely their [OFWs] jobs will be compromised. At the best, compromised, at the worst lost. In the banking aspect I think it will be affected especially as this [USIran tiff] escalates. We will watch its effect not only on the banking sector but on the economy,” said Syquia. Ju st l a st wee k , P resident Duterte ordered the mandatory repatriation of Filipinos living and working in Iraq, due to the tensions between Iran and the US. Iraq was dragged into the fray
because it hosts US bases. It was also near Baghdad’s airport where a US air strike on January 3 killed top Iranian general Qassem Soleimani. On Wednesday, the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration approved a total ban on the deployment of OFWs to Kuwait following the death of a Filipina migrant worker last December. Labor Secretary Silvestre H. Bello III wanted a total deployment to Kuwait after the Kuwaiti government failed to disclose in its autopsy report that Jeanelyn Villavende was also sexually violated. Under a total deployment ban, all job categories of OFWs, regardless of whether they are newly hired or returning (balik manggagawa), will no longer be allowed to go to a destination country. Bello noted that his proposed deployment ban will also cover vacationing OFWs. Latest data from Department of Labor and Employment revealed there are 243,843 Filipinos workers in Kuwait. Bianca Cuaresma
News BusinessMirror
Recruitment expert Geslani says 1,500 unregistered OFWs ‘stranded’ in Beirut By Recto Mercene @rectomercene
OME 1,500 overseas Filipino workers (OFW) are currently stranded in Lebanon, waiting to be repatriated but unable to raise the $200 required by Beirut for being unregistered workers. Recruitment consultant Manny Geslani said there are as many as 50,000 undocumented OFWs in Lebanon “brought in by illegalrecruitment syndicates from 2006 to 2019, escaping the deployment ban imposed by the Department of Labor and Employment [DOLE] and Philippine Overseas Employment Administration [POEA] in the wake of the Israel-Lebanon War from 2006 to 2007.” Demand, however, for Filipina maids was so high in Lebanon, that planeloads of OFWs were reportedly brought in monthly leading to an undisclosed number of illegal-maids working in Lebanon, he added. On the other hand, Geslani said, there are some 34,000 properly documented OFW’s in Lebanon. He said the exodus of OFW’s out of Beirut was brought about by the economic crisis in the country, which is now “heading toward bankruptcy.” “The Lebanese pound has lost its value more than 60 percent and the crisis has led to daily demonstrations in major cities of Lebanon,” Geslani said. “The more than 1,500 Filipina domestic workers are still waiting for the go-signal to board planes out of Beirut, while the Philippines government negotiates for their departure,” he said. He added that recently, the Honorary Consul-General of Lebanon to the Philippines, Joseph Assad, had a dialogue with Secretary of Foreign Affairs Teodoro Locsin Jr., to discuss what measures can be done to bring home the OFWs. “Consul Assad has prepared a letter addressed to Lebanon President Michel Aoun to grant amnesty for those 1,500 OFWs on their immigration penalties through his embassy in Tokyo.” The 1,500 domestic workers have all signed up for repatriation with the Philippine Embassy but they are being fined $200 for working illegally in Lebanon, for several years. The maids have to pay the $200 fine so that they can be issued exit visas. Although the Philippine Embassy has the funds to fly them out for their plane tickets, Geslani said the sheer number of maids waiting for repatriation has delayed the process “while the embassy has asked the Department of
Foreign Affairs [DFA] in Manila to negotiate for an amnesty from the Lebanese government,” according to Geslani. Meanwhile the 1,500 maids are cooling their heels in Beirut by working part-time, or staying with friends, while waiting for their exit visas. More OFWs are expected to take advantage of the free repatriation offered by the DFA in the coming months as the political situation deteriorates in Lebanon. Lebanon is facing its worst economic crisis in decades, with the local currency plummeting against the US dollar, losing more than 60 percent of its value over the last weeks while sources of foreign currency have dried up. Meanwhile, banks have imposed informal capital controls, limiting withdrawal of dollars and foreign transfers in the country, which relies heavily on import of basic goods, Geslani said. In this connection, the DFA has started it’s Iraq repatriation with the arrival of 13 Filipinos on Wednesday afternoon. The DFA, through the Philippine Embassy in Iraq, is bringing home two groups coming from Baghdad and Erbil. The first group from Baghdad, which comprises seven adults and two minors, was supposed to arrive on Wednesday, but was held by Iraqi immigration officials at the Baghdad International Airport for baseless allegations of visa fraud, the DFA said in a news statement. The other four adults coming from Erbil, a city located north of Baghdad, form the second group. Both groups will be transiting Doha, Qatar, before arriving in Manila. Locsin praised the embassy staff in Libya, who sent off the OFW home. “DFA [is] the best. Not only do we not leave our kind behind but we seek them out to help them. Fast and no fuss, all in a sleepless week’s time,” he said in his official Twitter account. The repatriates comprise the first batch of Filipinos coming home after the government ordered mandatory repatriation, Affairs Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs Sarah Lou Arriola said. Alert Level 4, or mandatory repatriation of Filipinos in Iraq, was raised on January 8, 2020, due to growing security threats in the Middle East. The DFA-Office of the Undersecretary for Migrant Workers’ Affairs coordinates the repatriation of distressed Filipinos abroad. “More Filipinos from affected areas are expected to come home in the coming weeks,” Arriola added.
DPWH completes ₧279.3-million Taguig River project in six weeks By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan
HE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said on Wednesday that its multimillion-peso slope protection initiative for the Taguig River has been completed. Public Works Secretary Mark A. Villar said the P279.3-million project was completed in six weeks. Aside from protecting the slopes along the Taguig River, the project also entailed bank improvements. “As a tributary of Pasig River, Taguig River bounds places in Taguig and Pateros that are very susceptible to flooding. With the speedy completion of this project, residents can be more relieved knowing that a structure now safeguards their lives and properties,”
“As a tributary of Pasig River, Taguig River bounds places in Taguig and Pateros that are very susceptible to flooding. With the speedy completion of this project, residents can be more relieved knowing that a structure now safeguards their lives and properties.” —Villar
said Villar. He said the project was necessary as the area is “prone to river overflowing during rainy season.” The project will help prevent flooding in the City of Taguig and Pateros. It was funded under general appropriations for 2018 and 2019.
Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug • Thursday, January 16, 2020 A3
DOJ chief to de Lima: Shift your tack to gain freedom By Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573
USTICE Secretary Menardo Guevarra on Wednesday challenged detained Sen. Leila M. de Lima to avail all the legal remedies to gain her freedom rather than relying on foreign groups and individuals to pressure the government into releasing her from detention. Speaking before media men at the Kapihan sa Manila Bay forum, Guevarra admitted that he was baffled by de Lima’s non-filing of a motion to post bail despite her insistence that the evidence submitted by the prosecutors in the conspiracy to commit illegal-drug charges filed against her before the trial courts in Muntinlupa City are fabricated and weak. “If you believe that the charges against you are not true then slug it out, fight it out, file a demurrer to evidence. If you want to file a petition
for bail, so there are so many legal remedies available to her,” Guevarra told de Lima. “If that is her position, why has not she applied for bail? Why is it that other people, even foreigners will be asking for her freedom now, temporary or permanently, but she, herself, has not applied for bail? So what could be the reason for that? We can only guess about the possible reasons. It’s up to you to think why she hasn’t filed a petition for bail,” he added. Guevarra maintained that the call of US Senators Dick Durbin and Patrick Leahy, who authored the ban on Philippine government officials behind the alleged wrongful detention of de Lima for her immediate release from jail is illegal. He said de Lima’s indictment and incarceration for her involvement in the illegal-drug trade was in consonance with
the country’s criminal laws. “What the US senators are saying, they are saying free de lima now. First of all, that is against our law because trial is still ongoing. How can you release a person that is still undergoing trial. She can only be released if she gets acquitted and if she gets convicted, only executive clemency can free her because that is life imprisonment for the offense charge. But if you’ll notice something, people are asking, some sectors are asking to free her, but haven’t you noticed that de Lima has not even thought of filing a petition for bail,” Guevarra asked. However, Guevarra expressed optimism that the travel ban and the freezing of assets of those believed to be behind de Lima’s supposed illegal detention which have been included as provisions in the 2020 US Appropriations Act would not be implemented eventually by the
US State Department. He explained that the US State Department, which will implement the resolution, would have to determine and convince itself whether not there was wrongful detention, or imprisonment, on the part of de Lima. Assuming that they believe that de Lima’s was a victim of wrongful detention, and was not accorded due process, Guevarra said, the US State Department would have to identify the people supposedly responsible for de Lima’s current predicament. “But I am sure that if they exercise some prudence and circumspection, I’m talking about the US state Department, they will realize that where is the wrongful imprisonment, wrongful detention here, everything was followed in accordance with the laws of the Republic of the Philippines,” the DOJ secretary said.
Surrender of 3 C. Luzon rebels boosts localized peace talks initiative–Army By Rene Acosta @reneacostaBM
HE localized talks initiative espoused by the military despite the planned resumption of peace talks between the government and leftist groups continued to gain headway as Army forces in Central Luzon reported that three more members of the New People’s Army (NPA) have yielded this week. Christopher Lorente, alias Nova, and Jayson Villafria surrendered at about 11:30 p.m. on Monday in Barangay Antipolo, Bongabon, Nueva
Ecija, as a result of the intelligencedriven operations by the Army’s 91st Infantry Battalion. The third rebel surrenderer, however, is not identified by the Army. “The former rebels have started the year right by deciding to surrender to government troops, who proved their readiness to welcome rebels back to the folds of law,” said 2nd Lt. Irene Bugarin, acting civilmilitary operations officer of the 703rd Infantry Brigade. Bugarin said Lorente had served as the squad leader of Platoon Dos of the NPA’s Kilusang Larangang
Gerilya Sierra Madre, while Villafria was the former squad leader and radioman of Platoon Tres of the NPA in Bulacan. The two former rebels surrendered to soldiers as a result of the efforts of Capt. Rey Carandang and Lt. Col. Reandrew Rubio, acting commander of the 91st Infantry Battalion. Col. Andrew Costelo, commander of the 703rd Infantry Brigade, said the yielding of the two former squad leaders of the NPA in Central Luzon was made with the help and collaboration of residents in the areas where the two have formerly operated.
“The support of the residents themselves in the area is an important component in the aspiration to give real peace and inclusive progress a chance,” he said. Maj. Gen. Lenard Agustin, 7th Infantry Division commander, said the military is doing everything it can in order to end the 51-year communist movement in the country. Seventh Infantr y Div ision spokesman Maj. Amado Gutierrez said his division “recorded a high turnout of rebel and rebel supporter surrenderers” last year, by taking in 1,003.
WHO scientist admits e-cigs may Bacoor twin land-reclamation projects offers ‘best solutions’ be less harmful than cigarettes to urban devt, mayor says
HE World Health Organization (WHO) has finally admitted that ecigarettes are less harmful compared to cigarettes. The acknowledgment came from WHO representative Dr. Ranti Fayokun, scientist in the National Capacity-Tobacco Control Prevention of Noncommunicable Diseases during the hearing on vaping regulation conducted by the House of Representatives last month. Fayokun’s admission was made amid the organization’s cautious stand on ecigarettes despite the mounting scientific evidence that they are less harmful than traditional cigarettes. Public Health England has always maintained that e-cigarettes are 95 percent less harmful than tobacco and has encouraged smokers who can’t quit smoking to switch to the less harmful alternative. The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine in 2018 released a report stating that “completely switching from cigarettes to e-cigarettes will reduce exposure to numerous toxicants and carcinogens found in cigarettes.” “They [WHO] are saying if you are a country that cannot produce regulation and cannot enforce regulation, you must ban. That, to me, is a contradiction. A country cannot regulate perfectly, but the last thing it should do is ban because the blackmarket will proliferate. This is an issue that is extremely important to children. If we ban things, if we do not regulate things, we create a blackmarket that does not care about children, that does not care about elderly people, that does not care about us at all,” Dr. Andrew da Roza, an addictions psychotherapist and lawyer said in the congressional hearing. A ban on electronic cigarettes and heatno-burn tobacco products will only create a black market that will be disastrous to public health, according to international public-
health experts who attended a hearing. “If you ban them, there will simply be a black market. When the United States banned alcohol in the 1900s, that did not work out,” said da Roza. Rep. Weslie Gatchalian, chairman of the House Committee on Trade, said the hearing was called because “the use of ENDS [electronic nicotine delivery system] and heated tobacco products is now a national concern, so much that the President [Duterte] recently issued a directive banning the importation and use of ENDS and HTPs [heated tobacco products] in public spaces.” “This committee respects the directive of the President, and sees this as an opportunity for the Philippines to finally regulate this innovative device,” Gatchalian said earlier. Da Roza, who holds a master’s degree in counseling from Monash University in Australia, said e-cigarettes, HTP products, and other ENDS proved effective in winning smokers away from cigarette smoking which is extremely addictive and powerful. “E-cigarettes are twice as effective as NRTs [nicotine replacement therapies],” he said. “New technologies give public-health policy a unique opportunity to eliminate cigarettes in a single generation. I truly believe that. We can have a smoke-free world if we use these heat-not-burn products and if we use these e-cigarette products,” said da Roza. He said that instead of a ban, the government should support and incentivize safer technologies that will win people away from the scourge of cigarette smoking. “Any regulation that slows down the developments in science means the people of the Philippines will not benefit from safer products. The government, in my humble opinion, should be investing in research on e-cigarettes and heat-not-burn products,” da Roza said.
By Jonathan L. Mayuga
@jonlmayuga
LAIMING that the two proposed land-reclamation projects in Bacoor City have been receiving overwhelming support from various stakeholders, Cavite local officials said they intend to integrate and adopt “a most effective approach to the long-term cleanup of Manila Bay” as mandated by a decade-old Supreme Court continuing mandamus. The twin land-reclamation projects are being opposed by coastal communities and fishermen of Bacoor, known as the birthplace of oyster and mussel farming in the country. The Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas and Oceana Philippines, an international ocean conservation advocacy nongovernment organization, are vocal about the adverse environmental impacts of land reclamation, particularly in Manila Bay, which is currently the subject of a massive rehabilitation effort by the Duterte administration under the Battle For Manila Bay campaign being waged by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The Office of Sen. Cynthia Villar had also expressed strong opposition to the projects because, according to the lady legislator, the projects will cause massive flooding. President Duterte declared during an interview on national television that he will not allow new land-reclamation projects to proceed under his watch. The proponent of land-reclamation projects, the Bacoor City local government, through its public information officer, said the Bacoor Reclamation and Development Project (BRDP), consisting of a total of 320-hectare island and the Diamond Reclamation and Development Project (DRDP), consisting of one 100-hectare island via public-private partnership under the PPP Code of Bacoor are the only projects along Manila Bay that carry with it a program for relocation and resettlement squatter dwellers. The city targets the relocation of would-be affected residents living in ten coastal barangays. In a news statement, Mayor Lani M. Revilla said the twin development projects would also address flooding in the city. She said the projects are integrated with the various long-term flood mitigation projects of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). The Flood Risk Management Project of the DPWH will improve river channels and create diversion channels from Imus to Bacoor City, which will serve as the flood discharge system of the rainwater catchment basin of Bacoor, in Buhay na Tubig.
A4 Thursday, January 16, 2020 | www.businessmirror.com.ph
BusinessMirr
Make your life a masterpiece at NSJB
By Leony R. Garcia
RT is everywhere, influencing us on a daily basis, whether we realize it or not. And with the art that we are surrounded by, whether it’s a painting, music or even videos, it can definitely have a huge impact on our mood and emotions. That’s why art is important in our daily lives. Art has been a means of expression since the evolution of mankind. It is a huge part of our culture, shaping our ideas, providing us with a deeper understanding of emotions, selfawareness, and a lot more. Art makes the community more beautiful. It also makes the places we go and visit and spend time in more interesting. Through art, we gain a better understanding of cultures, history and tradition; as well as help others weave their own. Thanks to the wonderful minds behind the New San Jose Builders, Inc. (NSJBI) brand, people who are more attuned towards their naturally artistic side would be happy to know that they now have a home specifically dedicated to their own passion and interests. Soon to stand only a stone's throw away from GMA Network compound will be the Victoria Arts and Theater Tower. It’s a spectacular 60-storey abode that will serve as the new mecca for creative minds and inspired spirits.
The groundbreaking ceremony is set to happen on January 25, 2020, at Timog Avenue corner Samar and GMA Network Drive, Diliman, Quezon City. According to NSJBI AVP-Sales Head Hazel De Dios, the project is currently in its pre-selling stage and is set to be finished in five years time. “We are 60 per cent sold out and we expect more buyers and investors to come in as the construction starts after the groundbreaking ceremony,” she told the BusinessMirror. The Victoria Arts and Theater Tower will rise along Timog Avenue in Quezon City and will feature everything the best in life has to offer, that include a hotel, residential condominium, swimming pool, fitness gym, multi-purpose hall, comedy bar, piano bar, folk song bar, and even a poem bar; not to mention, its centerpiece, a grand theater with a seating capacity of 350 people. Victoria Arts and Theater Tower is another first from NSJBI -- the first condominium to give
THE Theater stage
www.businessmirror.com.ph | Thursday, January 16, 2020 A5
ror Special Feature
BI’s Victoria Arts and Theater Tower
THE grand lobby
details and importance for the performing arts. With the tagline, “Make your life a masterpiece”— because of its sophisticated and artistic lifestyle—the project aims to make NSJBI’s clients and buyers appreciate art, experience luxurious
living, savor gastronomic delights and recognize exquisite talent all at the same time. Victoria Arts and Theater Tower has a classic-modern façade, and balconies at the lobby area that gives the structure a blend of
European artistic style. “The design accents are being made at Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Bataan now and they would be transported here and fit in like a puzzle,” she added. It is a mixed-use residential
and commercial building, with six commercial floors with a total of 1,314 residential and 98 hotel units. It also features a residential penthouse, a function room, sky garden and helipad. NSJBI’s grand project will also house a mini amphitheater, an art studio, a recording studio and an auditorium. Like most Victoria brand projects, Victoria Arts and Theater Tower shall have access to the indoor sports facilities of the nearby Victoria Sports Tower. After all, this is what distinguishes NSJBI from other establishments. The owner himself advocates for sporty and healthy lifestyle. Our young generation deserves to be healthy as they fulfil their dreams for a better tomorrow. The indoor sports wouldn't be as big as that of the nearby Victoria Sports Tower. But should they need bigger space, tenants have free access to Victoria Sports Tower according to De Dios. New San Jose Builders, Inc., the authority in sports-inspired condominium projects, knows that today’s young achievers have so much more to give and so much more to share. The Victoria Arts and Theater Tower is the perfect place for these creative minds to thrive in, allowing them to realize their dreams. Likewise, families would surely love to create memorable moments under their new abode and design the kind of life that they have always wanted. De Dios assured buyers and investors that the project is still one of the most affordable in the real estate sector “because NSJBI is the builder, contractor, and finisher.Most important, the company is known to be a trusted name in the industry,” she added.
A6 Thursday, January 16, 2020 • Editor: Angel R. Calso
Opinion BusinessMirror
How will the PHL water drama end?
ercantilism is an economic system designed to increase a nation’s wealth by government regulation of all the country’s commercial interests. It was a system dominant in some parts of Europe from the 16th to the 18th centuries before falling into decline, although some quarters contend that it is still practiced in the economies of industrializing countries in the form of government interventions. Laissez-faire economics, on the other hand, is a doctrine advocating that an economic system should be free from government intervention and be driven only by market forces. Laissez-faire (French for “let go”) economics originated in 18th century France where economists (at that time called “physiocrats”) became hostile to subsidies and discriminatory economic measures prevalent under mercantilism. This doctrine became popular in the Western world in the 19th century. However, its failings showed in the form of great disparity in wealth distribution, bad treatment of workers and consumers, and the spread of monopolies. Not long after, opposition to laissez-faire economics snowballed, and governments in industrialized countries intervened on behalf of workers and the general population. The early 20th century saw the breakup of monopolies in the US, and the nationalization of essential industries and services in Europe after World War ll. From the 1970s, however, the pendulum swung back to laissez-faire economics (renamed “free enterprise”) and brought deregulation of business and progressive removal of trade barriers. In an article—“The Theory of Power”—published by The American Prospect on September 30, 2011, Robert Kuttner offered a robust challenge to laissez-faire economics. He said: “Over the past three decades, laissez-faire economics has had an immense impact on our society, mostly for the worse. The elements have included privatization of public services, an assault on social benefits, and most important, deregulation of finance. Elites find laissez-faire an immensely useful fable, because it serves as an expert brief against government interference. In the academy, dissenting economics has had trouble gaining a foothold. The reigning paradigm is simple and elegant: Free markets maximize individual choices and collective well-being, end of story.” The discourse on free markets and deregulation can’t come at a better time after President Duterte castigated the two water concessionaires, Manila Water and Maynilad, for treating water like a commodity, not as a natural resource to be shared with all Filipinos. The President’s outburst against the two water firms started when he learned about the rulings of the Permanent Court of Arbitration in Singapore, which ordered the Philippine government to pay P3.4 billion and P7.39 billion to Maynilad and Manila Water, respectively. The Singapore court made the ruling following the losses the two water firms allegedly suffered due to non-implementation of water rate increases. The Chief Executive, however, said the existing contracts with Manila Water and Maynilad that contain “onerous” provisions are null and void from the very start. Consequently, the President ordered the filing of appropriate criminal, civil, and administrative charges against the owners and legal counsels of Manila Water and Maynilad, as well as the agents and lawyers of the administrations involved in the crafting of the water concession deals. He said: “It was really at that time a conspiracy to defraud government.” The President has since announced that a new draft of water contracts would be offered to Manila Water Co. Inc. and Maynilad Water Services Inc. to replace the existing onerous agreements. He also threatened the concessionaires to accept the new contracts or the government would terminate their concession deals and nationalize water distribution services. Are there policy alternatives available if the water firms don’t sign the new contracts? Rene E. Ofreneo wrote in his column, “Securing water for all: Shifting development strategy for the commons” (BusinessMirror, December 26, 2019) that the euphoria over privatization has been on the decline in Europe and in North and South America. He said: “A re-municipalization or de-privatization campaign by citizens and local governments is putting privatized water and power companies in Germany, France and United Kingdom back in the hands or control of government.”
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The volcano and the condos John Mangun
am totally biased. I think that Tagaytay and the surrounding areas are an abomination against man and nature. I can remember 25 years ago when a trip to the area was an excursion, an adventure. You went to Tagaytay for the fresh air, cool breeze, and a chance for the majestic view of Taal Lake and the volcano.
You could pull over on the Tagaytay-Nasugbu Highway (just a road) and take pictures. Going the other direction you could go to Picnic Grove and People’s Park. Now both are more like visiting the Pasay Rotonda bus terminal. I actually hiked all the way (well, almost all the way) up the steep road to the Palace in the Sky. And if I knew then what I know now, I would have sold everything and bought all the land I could along the main road and made millions. We went to Tagaytay to escape the city. But that was not good enough.
We had to bring the city to Tagaytay. Now you can view the volcano from McDonald’s. Let’s be realistic. This eruption put all those condo units constructed in the past decade in interesting perspective. If Taal decides to do a “Pinatubo,” there are going to be many billions of pesos of condos— figuratively if not literally—falling down the hill to Silang. Depending on which volcanologist you read, Taal Volcano is the “second” most active volcano in the Philippines. We have heard many
times about the 1911 eruption, but check the recent activity. Taal went off from September 28 to 30, 1965, blanketing 60 square kilometers and killed about 200 people. “The clouds that formed during the explosive eruption rose to heights of 15 kilometers to 20 km and deposited fine ash as far as 80 km west of the vent.” An eruption happened on September 3, 1976, and this explosive activity persisted for 50 days. While correctly filed under “No Big Deal,” Taal rumbled and did other volcano things in 1991, 2008, 2009, 2010, and 2011. And the condo construction continued. I have a problem with anyone who says, “But the government did not tell me.” I check under the seat to make sure the life vest is there when I fly. I have a hard time when somebody gets onboard a leaky bangka obviously overcrowded without life vests and goes to sea in stormy weather. Then when the wave hits, the fan expects taxpayer funded emergency agencies to save them and complains that they were not warned about the risks. You might mention the Marikina
Valley Fault System that runs 146 km from Marikina to Canlubang, Laguna. That is a false equivalency. A large earthquake on that fault will have devastating effects on all of the National Capital Region. Unless Taal acts up like Pinatubo, the damage to Metro Manila will be potentially major, but not a catastrophe. However, read this contemporary account—The Eruption of Taal Volcano, January 30, 1911—by Rev. Miguel Saderra Masó, S.J. of the Manila Observatory and the Weather Bureau. “The area of destruction consists of a central portion and an outer zone. Within the former the devastation was complete.” The central portion measured 20 kilometers north to south and 12 km east to west, which is almost the same as what we are seeing now. “The effects are better described as ‘annulations’ than ‘destruction.’” There is no mention of significant damage in the “outer zone.” E-mail me at mangun@gmail.com. Visit my web site at www.mangunonmarkets.com. Follow me on Twitter @mangunonmarkets. PSE stockmarket information and technical analysis tools provided by the COL Financial Group Inc.
Iran-US confrontation fosters Gulf Arab unity By Hussein Ibish | Bloomberg Opinion
S they breathe a collective sigh of relief that the US and Iran have not stumbled into a war in their backyard, the bickering Gulf Arab countries have been reminded they still have powerful common interests. The six members of the Gulf Cooperation Council—Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait and Oman—have worked to reduce tensions since the targeted killing of Qassem Soleimani and several key henchmen. One of the biggest disagreements within the GCC has been over attitudes toward Tehran. Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and the UAE, along with the US and Israel, make up the core of the international coalition opposing the Islamic Republic. Oman, Kuwait and Qatar maintain much better relations with Iran. Oman has long served as a mediator in disputes with Iran; Muscat hosted some of the initial meetings that eventually produced the 2015 nuclear deal. Kuwait, which has a mixed population of Sunni and Shiite Muslims, is determined not to get dragged into regional disputes, especially of the sectarian kind. Qatar has been aligned with Sunni Islamists like Turkey’s ruling party and the Muslim Brotherhood, and it has actively opposed Iran in
Syria and Iraq. However, since Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain and Egypt imposed an embargo on Qatar in June 2017, Doha has drifted closer to Tehran. In addition to sharing a natural-gas field that provides almost all of Qatar’s income, the emirate is now dependent on Iran for commercial air routes and other critical support. Unsurprisingly, Qatar was quickest off the blocks after the Soleimani killing: its Foreign Minister and Emir made visits to Tehran to express solidarity and condolences. There is widespread speculation that the Reaper drones used in the strike were launched from the US base at Al-Udeid, near Doha. The Qataris were anxious to tell the world, and especially Iran, that they were not a party to the attack. (Incidentally, if Washington and Tehran weren’t sending messages to each other via the Qataris, it would be tantamount to diplomatic malpractice; Doha is unusually both a key US ally and friendly to Iran.) Similarly, Oman announced a mediation effort, only to quickly
More striking were efforts by Saudi Arabia and the UAE to calm nerves and contribute to de-escalation. While many have assumed that these two countries, along with Israel, have been pressing the US into a war with Iran, that was never true. While they welcomed the Trump administration’s “maximum pressure” sanctions campaign on Iran, these countries know that they would be among the first targets Iran would strike in the event of an all-out fight.
conclude there was “no room” for negotiations at present. More striking were efforts by Saudi Arabia and the UAE to calm nerves and contribute to de-escalation. While many have assumed that these two countries, along with Israel, have been pressing the US into a war with Iran, that was never true. While they welcomed the Trump administration’s “maximum pressure” sanctions campaign on Iran, these countries know that they would be among the first targets Iran would strike in the event of an all-out fight. Last year’s attacks on Saudi Aramco facilities and UAE-related international shipping were stark reminders of their vulnerability. The UAE’s chief diplomat, Anwar Gargash, made early and repeated,
public pleas that all parties put “wisdom, balance and political solutions above confrontation and escalation.” Behind the scenes, the message to Washington was that the UAE has no interest in anybody starting a war with Iran. Last summer, for the first time in years, the UAE dispatched several diplomatic delegations to Iran to reopen dialogue on issues such as maritime security and other matters of mutual concern. Saudi Arabia repeatedly called for restraint and dispatched deputy defense minister—and former ambassador to the US—Khalid bin Salman, to encourage Washington to de-escalate. Riyadh recently established a new diplomatic back channel to Tehran. So, after years of bitter bickering and confrontation, the Gulf Arab countries suddenly found themselves operating in concert. This is appropriate, since the GCC was founded in 1981, in large part to deal with the challenges posed to the peninsular states by the then fledgling Islamic Republic. Iran remains an overarching, unifying threat: for some GCC states, the threat of war is more real than the threat of Iranian hegemony. In practical terms, that might amount to the same thing. All of them have had to develop a more robust conversation with Tehran than previously in recent years. See “Iran-US,” A7
Draped in a veil of gray
Learning from a child
Msgr. Sabino A. Vengco Jr.
Val A. Villanueva
ithout traffic, our house is only a 15-minute drive to Tagaytay. The road to that cool and popular holiday town south of Manila, dotted with hotels, restaurants, and pasalubong stores, offer locals and tourists a vantage view of the idyllic, bluish Taal Lake and, the world’s smallest, Taal Volcano. It was a usual lazy Sunday for me, meant to be spent lounging in bed. Except for the continuous thunder-like rumbling sound in the late afternoon that I was hearing from afar, nothing seemed unusual. That is, until I got a call from my friend, multi-awarded photographer George Tapan, who was asking me for updates about the erupting Taal. It was only then that I realized that the pitter-patter I was hearing on our roof wasn’t rain, but the sound of tiny rocks and ash pelting down on our house and the entire village. Monday was, as I feared, glum, with the ash cloud from Taal blanketing and sandblasting our village. The entire mood was draped in a veil of gray. The air had the stench of sulfur, similar or even worse than that after the New Year revelry. Our village had turned desolate and barren with ash-covered vegetation. Rooftops that were blue or red had turned dark gray and even black. Our garden was covered with a 2-inch-thick layer of ash. The streets, I surmised, were worse. As I write this, the back-breaking clean up we had to do remains unfinished. Perhaps, it will take the whole week to completely flush out the minerals kept for years in Taal Volcano’s belly only to be violently regurgitated. Despite this painful climatic intrusion into our otherwise peaceful life, our family is thankful that we only have to endure temporary inconveniences. Our main concern really is our dutiful dog, who, thankfully, was unharmed. My heart bleeds for those who live in and around ground zero. While no human deaths have been reported so far, I pity the dead and dying animals who had been the residents’ beasts of burden. Their homes, their crops— their main sources of income—have been laid to waste. Coffee farmers in Batangas and Cavite were hit hard. Government has recorded around 752.45 hectares of lands devoted to the crop were ravaged, resulting in the loss of some 3,563 metric tons of coffee. Initial estimate from the Department of Agriculture (DA) placed the value of the damage at P74.5 million: 99 percent of which is by the coffee industry, and the rest noted in livestock and corn. The impact on the economy is as devastating: P7.63 billion in Batangas alone, excluding public and private damage costs, according Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia. The value of the agricultural damage wrought by Taal Volcano has already increased to P577.39 million, affecting 2,772 hectares and 1,967 animal heads. Other affected commodities include rice, cacao, banana and high-value crops. Catastrophes could unmask the worst, and highlight the best in how we deal with them. Already, grandstanding politicians are asking for a public hearing to interrogate the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) for not raising alarm about the looming explosion. Did Phivolcs commit lapses in its duty? I thought so, too. Perhaps, we were so occupied with the hustle and bustle of daily living that we sometimes gloss over dire warnings of dangers until they hit us. Phivolcs said that it had raised Alert Level 1 as early as March 2019, and advised people of heightened unrest just last month. In fact, Phivolcs— its personnel and equipment—had
Coffee farmers in Batangas and Cavite were hit hard. Government has recorded around 752.45 hectares of lands devoted to the crop were ravaged, resulting in the loss of some 3,563 metric tons of coffee. Initial estimate from the Department of Agriculture placed the value of the damage at P74.5 million: 99 percent of which is by the coffee industry, and the rest noted in livestock and corn. left the volcano island specifically to demonstrate how chancy the place is. Also, three elementary schools were moved to the mainland, again to emphasize the risk posed by the volcano. What riles me the most is how “enterprising” opportunists had been buying wholesale N95 face masks only to sell them at exorbitant prices. There has got to be a way where this practice is prevented or immediately stopped, and perpetrators are put behind bars. Still, the good Samaritan spirit outshines all these. Reports of residents offering their homes to the evacuees, food stalls offering free food, transport groups offering free rides, donations pouring in, and all acts of bayanihan rightfully recorded, posted and shared in various social-media platforms. Days of calm after the eruption do not mean that we should let our guard down. As I write this, it’s being reported by Phivolcs that Taal Volcano’s magma or molten rock is rising, and an explosive eruption is imminent. The agency is maintaining its alert level on Taal at 4 out of 5, which means that “a hazardous explosive eruption is possible within hours to days.” Level 5 means a hazardous eruption is under way. Phivolcs Director Renato Solidum said “residents who fled their villages around the volcano on Sunday should not take the easing of activity on Taal as a sign that danger was now over.” An Alert Level 4 warns of a possible hazardous explosive eruption. “If that really happens,” Solidum added, “they can’t return to the area because it will be really devastated.” According to him, Taal’s previous eruptions had lasted months, so it was impossible to predict an end to the current activity. The alert warning of a potentially catastrophic explosive eruption, he said, might remain in place for weeks, depending on developments: “In the past 24 hours, “ he pointed out, “geologists had recorded lava fountaining and hydrovolcanic activity—interaction of water and magma.” Four decades after its last eruption, Taal Volcano is again showing us its fiery, violent side. Let us hope that Taal goes back to sleep soon and for a much longer time. In the meantime, let us meet whatever grim future Taal offers us with prayer, vigilance and common sense. We also need urgent and compassionate action from the government, not a boastful, braggadocio— mindless, irresponsible and insensitive comment—from the highest officer of the land to pee and eat Taal’s ashfall just to prove that he’s up to the task. For comments and suggestions, e-mail me at mvala.v@gmail.com
Alálaong Bagá
he Feast of the Santo Niño on the third Sunday of January is proper to the Philippines by indult from Rome. In a way it is a Filipino extension of the Christmas season, even as it reflects our deeply ingrained love for children, which in the light of the Gospel becomes a medium for our spiritual growth and maturity (Matthew 18:1-5, 10).
The greatest in the kingdom Life in communion with God is not to be judged according to the world’s category of power and greatness. Greatness in the kingdom of heaven for Jesus is modeled by a child, who in the world of utilitarianism and activism is a picture of uselessness and helplessness. The very helplessness of a child, however, is the precise situation for the divine love and mercy, the human “emptiness” ready to be filled up by God’s munificence. For the true greatness of any human being lies in the unmerited love and care the Creator pours out on humankind. Being ready to receive and grow, as a child images, in what God gives is
the road to greatness that lasts forever. In the reign of God, a child is already like a receptacle full as can be of the divine goodness; tragic is when diverted into worldliness this innocence of the child is lost. The Child is Jesus himself who in the incarnation became one of us. He assumed our neediness as a newborn baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying on a manger (Luke 2:7), with shepherds as His first visitors (2:15), the entire family threatened into flight by the mighty Herod (Matthew 2:13), one who grew “in wisdom and age, and favor before God and before man” (Luke 2:52), and a child destined “to be a sign that will be contradicted” (2:34). He took upon
Thursday, January 16, 2020 A7
Himself our humanity in obedience to the Father and for love of us. In becoming a child, Jesus in humility and total trust in the Father’s love is now normative to anyone of us wanting to be admitted into communion with God. Our humanity embraced humbly and lived fully in God’s love is our experience of existence in holiness and the promise of eternal fulfillment.
Jesus the child received
“Whoever receives one child such as this in my name receives me” (Matthew 18:5). As Jesus himself was the child received and also rejected, any child now received or rejected is an extension of Jesus mediating His transforming commitment to our humanity. As the incarnate Son of God, one with and for us, His own humanity even as a child is the primordial sacrament of our salvation. Anything done to this humanity is done to Him; anything intended for Him must be in relation to and for the humankind He has identified Himself with. Any response to His initiative of saving love is measured by what we do with our own humanity and the humanity of others, that is, with God’s child in each of us. “Do not despise one of these little ones” (Matthew 18:10). The stare of
wide-eyed children wearily walking in search of freedom from war-torn homes, or scavenging in garbage piles, or shivering through the night on a sidewalk, or trembling in the presence of predators who kidnap and victimize them as sex-slaves, apprentice criminals, plain childrenfor-sale, or cheap, expendable childlabor, painfully tells us that to be a child in our world is particularly to be helpless unless lovingly received. What we willingly and lovingly extend to a child is a measure of our faith, hope and charity, and that is the way for us to the love of God in Christ Jesus. Alálaong bagá, our celebration of the feast of the Child Jesus today is also our continuing acceptance of the gift of faith shared by Magellan to Rajah Humabon on the latter’s Christian baptism 500 years ago. The image of Santo Niño that changed hands then and ever since treasured by us should symbolize our acceptance of the call of Jesus to become like Him in our humble and total openness to God’s love, as well as our willingness to be responsible for our children as we are for him. Join me in meditating on the Word of God every Sunday, from 5 to 6 a.m. on DWIZ 882, or by audio streaming on www.dwiz882.com.
Rebalancing development strategy: Filipino First in an uncertain and volatile world
Hopefully, the Filipino First policy proposal of Tolentino can lead to an honest-to-goodness re-thinking of the appropriate industrial and agricultural development program for the country. Given the technological changes that have occurred in the last five decades, the idea of an all-around selfsufficient industrial development, as articulated by the Filipino First senators in the 1950s-1960s, may not be practical today.
Meanwhile, trade wars are evolving into cyber wars, with big corporations and big governments mobilizing an army of hackers and cyber troopers to gain control over mountains of data from competitors, politicians and ordinary citizens. Part of the US-China trade war is the US accusation that China is not only acquiring US technology sans license but is also actively spying on US trade and military operations. The US has banned Huawei because the latter is accused of being at the center of China’s cyber espionage network; Huawei also represents a major threat to US technology superiority, with Huawei managing to forge ahead in the development of the 5G technology. The cyber warfare is likely to become a full-blown technology warfare as the Fourth Industrial Revolution is now being renumbered by some pundits as the Fifth Industrial Revolution because of the continuous flow of new innovations and scientific gadgets for use in various fields of human existence. Finally, there is war against climate change. But sadly and as a reflection of a divided world, there is lack of progress in the climatechange talks. Australia’s bushfires, burning over 6 million hectares of forests, are a dramatic reminder that the Earth’s temperature is nearing apocalyptic level. And yet, developed countries, increasingly mindful
of their national budgets, have remained hesitant to make substantial contributions and commitments in the global effort to contain the risks of rising global temperature. Against the foregoing background, what should the Philippine policy-makers do? Is this not a good time for Neda to review and reassess PDP 2017-2022, which is based on a highly optimistic forecast of sustained growth via more exports, more foreign exchange earnings, more infrastructures to be built, and so on? Is this not a good time to do some rebalancing, especially if overseas Filipino workers return migration from the Middle East turns into a massive return diaspora? Along this line, there are sound ideas coming from the Executive and Legislative branches that are worth citing here. One major proposal comes from Sen. Francis Tolentino, who seeks the institutionalization of “Filipino First” in government procurement of goods and services. Said he: “Our procurement law does not contain provisions helping Filipino products… it is only proper to give chance to Filipino manufacturers…so that our products will be promoted.” Under Tolentino’s Senate Bill 1102, a government institution or agency can procure products and services from foreign suppliers only after securing a certification or clearance that there
is no existing domestic and Filipino supplier who can supply and satisfy the needed products or services. Tolentino’s Filipino First proposal is a timely reminder that only Filipinos can take care of the Filipinos. It is consistent with the provision of the Philippine Constitution, which mandates the State to give preference to Philippine industry and labor. Buying from domestic producers is also a normal practice by governments around the world, precisely because this is one way of promoting a country’s industrial and agricultural development. Thus, Japanese government agencies (and corporations) will buy first from Japanese producers before seeking products from foreign suppliers. Same with Chinese, Korean, Malaysian and Indian public agencies. In the United States, government procurement is also used to weed out “scalawag” suppliers, such as those who violate labor and environmental standards. Incidentally, Filipino First was the battlecry of Filipino nationalists in the late 1950s. Sen. Claro M. Recto, Sen. Gil Puyat and President Carlos P. Garcia issued the call for deeper and faster Philippine industrialization, dubbed then as Filipino First. This was opposed by the American business community, which was resentful of their inability to remit profits under the “foreign exchange” controls institutionalized by Central Bank Governor Miguel Cuaderno. This was also opposed by the IMF and the World Bank, which became loan partners and policy advisers of the Philippines beginning in 1962 during the Diosdado Macapagal Administration. The Filipino First
policy was also criticized by a group of Western-trained Filipino economists who got entrenched in the IMF-WBsupported Program Implementation Agency in Malacañang. However, the campaign for Filipino First policy never ceased. In 1968, Congress, under the leadership of Speaker Jose Laurel, passed House Joint Resolution 2, known as the “Magna Carta of Social Justice and Economic Freedom.” The lead authors of the Magna Carta were Emmanuel Yap and Alejandro Lichauco of the Congressional Economic Planning Office. The gist of the Magna Carta is that the Philippine economy then could not be truly self-reliant and move forward if remained stuck at the low-level assembly of imported industrial raw materials and machinery. Like Japan, the Philippines should be able to develop not only light processing industries but also basic and midstream industries for the rounded or all-around development of the economy. President Ferdinand Marcos did not pay attention to the Magna Carta and listen to the proponents of Filipino First. When martial law was declared in 1972, the PIA economists became ascendant and formed the National Economic and Development Authority. The Neda economists totally ignored the Magna Carta. Instead, they pushed for a new IMFWB-supported development strategy called “labor-intensive export-oriented industrial strategy,” which was later shortened to “export-oriented industrial” strategy. But five decades after the adoption of the LIEO/EOI program, the Philippines has remained an industrial laggard in Asia. Hopefully, the Filipino First policy proposal of Tolentino can lead to an honest-to-goodness re-thinking of the appropriate industrial and agricultural development program for the country. Given the technological changes that have occurred in the last five decades, the idea of an all-around self-sufficient industrial development, as articulated by the Filipino First senators in the 1950s-1960s, may not be practical today. However, the idea of building a strong nation with a strong industrial and agricultural base remains relevant, especially in an unpredictable VUCA world that we are living in.
talking among themselves. Tentative steps have already been taken toward reconciling the split with Qatar, especially since the participation of the national soccer teams of
Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain in the Gulf Cup in Doha late last year. The differences, especially over Doha’s support for Islamists, are some way from being reconciled, but the
combined response to the flare-up between Washington and Tehran shows that, on existential questions, the Gulf Arab states can—and must—act in harmony.
Dr. Rene E. Ofreneo
LABOREM EXERCENS Continued from A1
he US-China trade war also remains unresolved despite an initial “phase one” agreement this January, with Trump’s supporters declaring “victory.” America First is now reverberating around the world in various ways—as Boris Johnson’s Brexit, as Putin’s Russian Transformation, as China’s land and maritime Silk Roads, and so on. The WTO’s design for global multilateral trade arrangements is being ignored. Contrary to the naïve belief of the neoliberal economists, governments, especially those of the developed countries, are not prepared to liberalize fully their respective economies, particularly home industries deemed “too big to fail” or critical in their own development.
Iran-US. . .
Another challenge is to keep
Govt to file raps vs sellers of costly face masks
he Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on Wednesday said it is set to file administrative cases against shops which allegedly engaged in profiteering activities by selling overpriced face masks following the eruption of Taal Volcano.
During their market inspection in Manila on Monday, Trade Undersecretary Ruth Castelo said
authorities found 12 medical suppliers to be selling overpriced and low-quality N95 masks.
Castelo said the establishments were given 48 hours to explain why they should not be held accountable for the said infraction. “Under the Price Act, the penalty is P5,000…ranging between P5,000 to P2 million. When found to really have committed profiteering, we can impose the highest penalty of P2 million,” she said. Castelo said companies could also face criminal liability and may have their business permits suspended. The eruption of Taal Volcano on Sunday sparked the panic buying of N95 masks in Metro Manila and in provinces in Region 4A due to the ashfall, which poses
“When found to really have committed profiteering, we can impose the highest penalty of P2 million.”—Castelo
health hazards. Some medical suppliers took advantage of the surge in the demand for N95 masks by jacking up their prices to as high as P200 for each item. Health Undersecretary Eric Domingo said the prescribed price for the said N95 masks range from P45
to P105, depending on its quality and brand. “Any centavo higher than the price ceiling imposed by the DOH [Department of Health] would be an offense already, so, we could file cases against them [violators], whether administrative or criminal,” Castelo said. To address the shortage of N95 masks, Castelo said authorities will coordinate with major suppliers and retailers of medical supplies, such as Mercury Drug, Watsons and South Star Drug. “They have committed to the Department of Trade and Industry that they will not increase their prices. Stocks in their branches
and warehouses in non-affected areas have been transferred to the affected areas, such as the Calabarzon, especially Batangas, NCR [National Capital Region] and Region 3 while they wait for the arrival of new stocks,” she said. “The DTI had also communicated with foreign suppliers to immediately send stocks to the country,” she added. Castelo again reminded establishments of the existing price freeze on basic commodities in Batangas, which has been placed under a state of calamity. The DTI official warned that the government will go after companies that will violate the price freeze.
PHL improves score in WBL index Taal eruption ‘LOCK DOWN DANGER By Cai U. Ordinario
@caiordinario
he extended duration of paid maternity leave approved by the government allowed the Philippines to register a slight improvement in its score in the 2020 edition of the World Bank’s Women, Business and the Law (WBL) index. The country scored 81.3 this year, slightly higher than the 81.25 last year. The Philippines placed
third out of the 10 Asean countries and 23rd in the global index. In the Asean, Lao PDR scored the highest at 88.1, followed by Singapore with 82.5. In the global index, the Philippines had the same score as The Bahamas, Puerto Rico and Zambia. “Legal rights for women are both the right thing to do and good from an economic perspective. When women can move more freely, work outside the home and manage assets, they are more likely to join
NORTHEAST MONSOON AFFECTING LUZON LOW PRESSURE AREA 150 KM EAST NORTHEAST OF HINATUAN, SURIGAO DEL SUR as of 4:00 pm - January 15, 2020
the work force and help strengthen their country’s economies,” said World Bank Group President David Malpass. “We stand ready to help until every woman can move through her life without facing legal barriers to her success,” Malpass added. The country’s performance was scored based on eight indicators— mobility, workplace, pay, marriage, parenthood, entrepreneurship, assets and pension. Continued on A2
displaces 18k families By Rene Acosta
@reneacostaBM
he number of families in Batangas affected by Taal Volcano’s activity has already climbed to more than 18,000, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) of Batangas reported on Wednesday. Joselito M. Castro, PDRRMO head, said the 18,646 families or 82,068 individuals are currently sheltered in different evacuation centers in the provinces. Castro also reported that two persons were killed while another one was injured from a vehicular accident on Tuesday along the national road in Barangay Banaybanay, Lipa City. He did not say whether the accident was related or had been caused by the eruption. The PDRRMO’s data of evacuated residents was much higher than the figures officially reported by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) on Wednesday. In its 6 a.m. report, the NDRRMC listed 12,486 families or 53,019 individuals that were affected in 24 cities and towns of Batangas, and in five towns and one city in Cavite and Laguna. Of the number, 10,000 or 43,681 persons are taking temporary shelters in 217 evacuation centers. At least P4,971,175.28 in assistance has been provided by the Department of Social Welfare and Development, and Department of Health. Philippine National Police Officer in Charge Lt. Gen. Archie Gamboa said peace and order appeared to be holding in Batangas despite the panic created by the eruption. “We were happy when the deputy regional director for administration reported to me that we have zero incidents of looting, and other related criminal activities, and of course, no less than the President was also happy when we had a conference where he found that there is no casualty,” said Gamboa. The PNP chief said the eruption also affected at least 278 policemen and their families in the province.
ZONES NEAR VOLCANO’ By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz
@joveemarie
he government must lock dow n danger zones near Taal Volcano, particularly in Lemery, Agoncillo, Talisay and San Nicolas, Batangas where fissures or cracks in the ground are appearing, a lawmaker said on Wednesday. “Str ictly implement the lockdown of Lemery, and other towns where fissures are showing. Evacuate some, if not all, of the residents of high-risk areas to Metro Manila,” said ACT-CIS Party-list Rep. Niña Taduran. Taduran, an assistant majority leader, also asked Metro Manila mayors to open their gyms, and other evacuation centers, and to lend their tents and survival kits to the Batangas evacuees. She issued the statement after she and ACT-CIS Rep. Eric Go Yap personally witnessed the situation of the evacuees in San Luis, Batangas, where they distributed relief goods and face masks. “Marikina and Makati have modular tents. Other local governments have empty gyms that can accommodate more evacuees. It is safer for the evacuees to be in Metro Manila where there’s water and electricity, and where help is readily available,” said Taduran. “Phivolcs [Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology] said that the fissures which are currently emerging in the said towns are the same cracks that appeared before the 1911 eruption of Taal Volcano. Shouldn’t we learn from this experience? Evacuate everyone. Get them out now before it’s too late. Arrest anyone who will defy the lockdown,” she added. She said the fissures should be marked for future comprehensive
land use plan.
Deputy Speaker Luis Raymund Villafuerte has sought anew the construction of permanent evacuation centers in places most vulnerable to natural disasters, following the continued eruption of Taal Volcano that has forced over 50,000 Batangas and Cavite residents to flee to temporary shelters, elsewhere. “Taal Volcano’s continuing activity, which has sent thousands of families abandoning their homes in search of safer grounds, gives all the more reason for the concerned government agencies to fast-track President Duterte’s proposal on the ‘simultaneous’ construction of permanent evacuation centers,” said Villafuerte. Duterte bared this plan during a situation briefing for the President in Batangas City, following Taal Volcano’s latest eruption. “I hope that you can finish it before my term ends. I want projects that are doable and can be finished during my term,” he said. The lawmaker first raised his proposal to construct permanent facilities for evacuees in September 2018, following the onslaught in Luzon of Typhoon Ompong, which killed at least 65 people and sent over 100,000 people fleeing to evacuation centers. Villafuerte said such a plan should top the concerns of the proposed Department of Disaster Resilience, so the government could best achieve its zero-casualty goal as this office, and other concerned government agencies could fully implement preemptive evacuation, especially of people in coastal and mountainous communities.
Manila court junks unjust vexation rap vs Kapunan By Joel R. San Juan
@jrsanjuan1573
HE Metropolitan Trial Court (MeTC) of Manila has junked the unjust vexation complaint filed against Lawyer Lorna Kapunan over her alleged defamatory remarks against University of Santo Tomas law dean Nilo Divina. The alleged defamatory remarks were supposedly uttered during the Department of Justice’s investigation into the fatal hazing of University of Santo Tomas law student Horatio “Atio” Castillo in 2017. In a 21-page decision issued early
this month, MeTC Branch 17 Presiding Judge Karla Funtila-Abugan held that the prosecution failed to prove Kapunan’s guilt beyond reasonable doubt. The court also absolved Kapunan of civil liability “for failure of the prosecution to prove the same by preponderance of evidence.” The court, however, reminded lawyers to always observe the canons of professionalism in protecting the interest of their clients. “Hence, let the disposition of this case serve as an exercise of the Court’s equal duty to gently remind the members of the bar
to refrain from and be cautious in using language that is abusive, offensive, or otherwise, improper in all their professional dealings so that unnecessary impediments in the performance of their legal duties and appropriate sanctions from the court’s may be avoided,” Abugan said in her decision. It can be recalled that in 2018, the DOJ indicted Kapunan for unjust vexation for calling Divina “an obstructionist to justice” and “appear[ing] to be above the law.” The DOJ has cleared Divina of any criminal liability over the death of Castillo.
Senators pitch for funds to cope with calamities, ME repatriation
By Butch Fernandez
@butchfBM
HE Executive department was urged on Wednesday to revert to the calamity funds some P11 billion that was allocated to the Palace’s intelligence funds in the 2020 budget, as authorities scrambled to put together funding for a string of natural disasters, as well as for the repatriation of Filipinos in conflict zones in the Middle East.
The suggestion to return the P11 billion came from Minority Sen. Francis Pangilinan, noting the ongoing Taal activity, the recent Typhoon Ursula and the string of earthquakes in the south, as well as the campaign to take out of harm’s way thousands of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the Middle East. Asked how his proposal to revert P11 billion back to calamity fund after it had already been transferred to the intelligence fund, Pangilinan suggested an alternative option. “What can be done now is to look into the OP [Office of the President] intelligence funds of 2019 that have been extended to end of 2020,” Pangilinan said. He suggested that “Congress can declare some MOOE [maintenance and other operating expenses] and CO [capital outlay] items there as savings and use the funds to support a supplementary budget to augment disaster relief funds.”
In a text message to the BusinessMirror, Pangilinan pointed to other potential sources. “Another possible source of additional disaster funds would be the contingency funds for 2019 and 2020. There may still be balances there, especially for 2020,” the senator said, suggesting that “these can be used for disaster relief.” For her part, Sen. Risa Hontiveros said “it will require an amendment since the [budget] bill has been signed into law.” She added, “it can no longer be recalled/reverted.”
Poe: Permanent disaster office needed
MEANWHILE, Sen. Grace Poe on Tuesday pushed early passage of remedial legislation creating a permanent disaster management department, citing several southern Luzon areas grappling with the backlash of Taal’s eruption and continuing activity. Scientists had warned that all
indications point to a distinct possibility of a major magmatic eruption, as destructive as the 1911 Taal eruption that killed thousands. Poe said it is time the country create a Department of Disaster Resilience, and Emergency Assistance and Management, which she is pushing in Senate Bill 124 that she filed last year. “I think the eruption of Taal Volcano gives yet another reason for the establishment of this department,” Poe said when asked in a radio interview Tuesday. “We really need a department that has a mandate of focusing on preventing tragedy during a calamity, correct and timely response, and adequate and proper rehabilitation, including acceptable relocation of victims,” Poe said. Under the bill, the department will have a Bureau of Disaster Resiliency, which will focus on mitigation, prevention, and post-disaster rehabilitation; Bureau of Disaster Preparation and Response, which will handle the operations immediately before, during, and immediately after a disaster; and the Bureau of Knowledge Management and Dissemination, which will build up and disseminate technical knowledge on disaster risk reduction management. Structurally, the department shall consists of two separate and distinct entities, which are the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management and the department proper. “Noon pa ito ay na-file ko na kasi iyong ating NDRRMC, ngayon, bagama’t sila ay abala sa mga nangyayari, hindi pa ito ganap na departa-
mento. So, ano ang ibig sabihin n’yan? Wala talagang secretary o cabinet rank level kaya coordinating council lang talaga sila,” Poe said. The NDRRMC shall retain its policy-making and coordinating functions under Republic Act 10121, or the “Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010,” while the department proper shall be the secretariat and executive arm envisioned to provide leadership with accountability. The department shall also have local offices in every region. Poe said that while the NDRRMC has a head, the council is actually composed of several departments like the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Health, and Department of Public Works and Highways. Poe stressed that in times of calamities and disasters, it is critical that someone is in charge. “One secretary should be responsible for the total picture,” she said in a mix of English and Filipino
‘Bayanihan’ spirit
ALSO on Tuesday, Pangilinan hailed the “Filipino bayanihan spirit at its finest with how groups and individuals from all walks of life are coming together and pitching in whatever they can to help families and animals affected by the Taal eruption cope with the calamity.” He noted that “local government units are responding with their resources to provide for the daily needs of the thousands of evacuees in various towns in Batangas and nearby areas. “It is incumbent upon the na-
tional government to do more and prepare for the long haul.” In 1754, Pangilinan noted, Taal’s volcanic activity lasted for six months. “Phivolcs could not predict when the current eruption would end. As we pray for safety, we should also be vigilant in being ready.” His suggested measures: 1. The Department of Agriculture should make an inventory of the damages, and see how it can salvage and protect crops and lands nearby that are in imminent danger. 2. There should also be a comprehensive data on the number of people whose livelihoods have been affected, so that government could map out a plan on how to help them. 3. Farmers and farm workers who could not immediately return to their lands should be given alternative livelihood and funding assistance if this calamity will last for months. 4. Fisherfolk in Taal Lake need critical help because they source their daily food and income from the waters. This early, they should be assured of income assistance to prevent them from returning to the lake. 5. Evacuation centers should be improved with more portalets or even permanent comfort rooms, kitchen facilities and other needs of the evacuees. 6. Near the evacuation centers, we also urge the setting up of refuge areas for animals and pets of the evacuees. These animals are part of their family and source of their income. 7. Health centers should also be beefed up to attend to the needs of the evacuees, especially those who
are elderly, sick and pregnant. 8. Makeshift classrooms should also be installed to allow the students to continue studying and so as not to waste their time in evacuation centers. Finally, Pangilinan made a suggestion for those who want to help: 1. In-kind donations of bottled water, blankets, medicines, masks, hygiene kits, raincoats and food items may be dropped off at: 446 Edsa, AGS Building, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Contact person: Precy-(0917) 533 8452. 21 Kaliraya Street, Barangay Doña Josefa, Quezon City. UP CHK MBT Coach’s Lounge from January 15 (Wednesday) to 17 (Friday), from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Goods gathered will be delivered to a specific evacuation site in Batangas on Saturday. Volunteers will be needed to repack the goods. Please come with your UP Maroon attire. Contact persons: Yvette Garcia-(0917) 311 7858, Tricia Miranda-Fernandez(0917) 887 4242. 2. For cash donations, donate through OVP’s #AngatBuhay partner, Kaya Natin! Movement for Good Governance and Ethical Leadership: Bank Name: Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) Bank Account Name: KN Movement for Good Governance and Ethical Leadership Inc. Bank Account No.: 3081-1173-72 Please send a copy of your deposit slip to these e-mails to keep track of your donations: knmovement@gmail.com and angatbuhay@gmail.com. You may also send a message at (0998) 596 8820 for queries and clarifications.
More cracks, fissures on Day 4 of Taal Volcano eruption By Jonathan L. Mayuga @jonlmayuga
ONTINUOUS but weaker er upt ions of t he m a i n crater of Taal Volcano due to magmatic and hydrovolcanic processes were recorded over the past 24 hours, the Philippine Institute of Volcanolog y and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported on Wednesday. Since Sunday, eruptions of one of the world’s smallest volcanoes sent thousands of residents fleeing their homes for safety. Volcano experts have been anticipating a hazardous magmatic eruption reminiscent of the volcano’s 1754 eruption that altered the natural landscape in that part of the Calabarzon region. The 1754 eruption, according to history, devastated many towns around the volcano and created the unique caldera that is now known as the Taal Lake, which became home to the tawilis, the only freshwater sardine and the freshwater maliputo, also called talakitok, which can be found only in Taal Lake, now a popular tourist spot in Luzon. It was said that volcanic debris and pyroclastic material from the volcano completely blocked the Pansipit River, and cut off the lake from the Balayan Bay, which explains why the lake’s waters became freshwater after some time. Part of its violent past, the 1754 eruption of Taal Volcano lasted for seven months, according to Phivolcs, submerging lakeside towns near it. On Tuesday, the Provincial Government of Batangas declared the province under a state of calamity as volcanic ashes covered many towns in the province, forcing thousands of residents to flee their homes and take shelter in government evacuation centers in various parts of the province. In its Volcano Bulletin released 8 a.m. on Wednesday, January 15, 2020, Phivolcs reported that the eruption generated dark gray steam-laden fumes that reached
approximately 1,000 meters high, dispersing ash to the southwest of the main crater. Moreover, Phivolcs’ volcanology experts detected new fissures or cracks in more areas. These are in Sinisian, Mahabang Dahilig, Dayapan, Palanas, Sangalang, Poblacion, Mataas na Bayan, in Lemery; Pansipit, Bilibinwang in Agoncillo; Poblacion 1, Poblacion 2, Poblacion 3, Poblacion 5, in Talisay; and Poblacion in San Nicolas. Phivolcs reported that a fissure cut across the road connecting Agoncillo to Laurel towns. Meanwhile, volcanologists recorded a total of 466 volcanic earthquakes on Sunday, January 12, 2020, 156 of which were felt with intensities ranging from Intensity 1 to 5. The past 24 hours, from 5 a.m. on January 14, 2020, until 5 am. on Wednesday, there were 159 volcanic earthquakes, 28 of which were felt with intensities ranging from Intensity 1 to 3. “Such intense seismic activity probably signifies continuous magmatic intrusion beneath the Taal edifice, which may lead to further eruptive activity,” the Phivolcs Volcano Bulletin read. Meanwhile, Phivolcs reported that an average of 1,686 tonnes of sulfur-dioxide emission was spewed by the volcano on January 14, 2020. As such, Phivolcs maintains that Alert Level 4 remains in effect over Taal Volcano. Alert Level 4 means that hazardous explosive eruption is possible within hours to days, reiterating the need for total evacuation from the Taal Volcano island and highrisk areas as identified in the hazard maps within the 14-kilometer radius from the Taal main crater. Phivolcs also recommended that people stay away from the Pansipit River Valley where fissuring has been observed. According to Phivolcs, residents should prepare for the effects of heavy and prolonged ashfall. At the same time, civil aviation authorities were advised to
RESIDENTS of Barangay Sinisian East in Lemery, Batangas, express their concern after a series of volcanic quakes left wide cracks and fissures on the ground. Their concrete houses were also not spared. BERNARD TESTA
strictly inform pilots to avoid the airspace around Taal Volcano as airborne ash and ballistic fragments from the eruption column pose hazards to aircrafts. Lincoln Olayva, science research specialist at Phivolcs’ Volcanology Division earlier said the fissures, or cracks being discovered, indicate magmatic and hydrovolcanic activity is happening. He said Phivolcs field personnel will look into the cracks as soon as it becomes safe for a site inspection. Because Alert Level 4 remains in effect, he said, the entire 14-ki-
lometer Permanent Danger Zone from the main crater of the volcano is “a no man’s land.” He said lava fountains and spewing of ashes are expected in the next few hours or maybe days. “We are still monitoring and as soon as it is safe, we will start conducting an assessment to determine the volume of deposits that were spewed by the volcano,” he said. Forestry experts said the eruption of Taal Volcano will adversely impact on the surrounding environment. Ricardo Calderon, an
assistant secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and concurrent director of the Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB) said they expect total destruction of ecosystems in Taal and surrounding areas. A forester and a former director of the DENR’s Forest Management Bureau (FMB), Calderon said it will take years for forest destroyed by a volcanic eruption to recover. As soon as possible, they will immediately conduct an assessment of the damage.
For now, he said, field personnel of the DENR are out to rescue affected wildlife that were observed to flee from the Taal Volcano island since Sunday. The DENR appealed to the public not to harm distressed wildlife and urged them to turnover rescued wildlife, including birds and reptiles to the DENR. Rescued wildlife will be brought to the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center in Quezon City where they will be observed, treated of their injuries and kept safe until they fit to be released back in the wild, Calderon said.
A10 Thursday, January 16, 2020
Thursday, January 16, 2020 A11
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ATTY. SARAH BUENA S. MIRASOL REGIONAL DIRECTOR
Any person in the Philippines who is competent, able and willing to perform the services for which the foreign national is desired may file an objection at DOLE NCR Regional Office located at 967 Maligaya St., Malate, Manila, within 30 days after its publication. Please inform DOLE NCR if you have any information on criminal offense committed by the foreign nationals.
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PHL tapping ADB consultants in drafting new deal for water firms, says DOJ chief
By Joel R. San Juan
USTICE Secretary Menardo Guevarra on Wednesday said the government will be tapping consultants from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to help in the revision of the economic and financial terms of the new concession agreement to be offered to water concessionaires Maynilad and Manila Water. Guesting at the Kapihan sa Manila Bay Forum, Guevarra said he was informed by Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III about the engagement of consultants from the ADB. He noted that the Department of Finance (DOF) was heavily involved even in the crafting of previous contracts with the water concessionaires. “In fact, they’re going to have a meeting this afternoon in Malacañang with the Department of Finance in the Office of the President and I assume that one of the matters that we are going to take up later is the engagement of the ADB consultants for the purpose
of guiding the government side in the matter of revision of the economic and financial terms of the water concession agreement,” Guevarra said. The DOJ chief also stressed that it may take six months to finish the draft concession agreements, which will then be presented to the water concessionaires for comments. “The whole process may last six months. That is a conservative estimate on my part.... We’ll be sitting down with the water concessionaires, I know that they are waiting,” Guevarra noted. The DOJ secretary said the legal and constitutional issues pertain-
Department of Justice building
ing to the concession contracts have already been resolved by the DOJ. Thus, Guevarra said the legal team is only waiting for the input of the DOF on economic terms such as water rate-setting mechanism, factors to be considered such as inflation rate and exchange rate, expenditures that can be validly included in the concession agreement and a determination of what can be and cannot be taxed. Earlier, Guevarra said the government is still open to discuss with Maynilad and Manila Water
the proposed amendments on the concession contracts. He stressed that government’s takeover or nationalization of water distribution as authorized under Sections 17 and 18, Article XII of the Philippine Constitution, is the government’s last option. Earlier, President Duterte lambasted Manila Water and Maynilad and threatened to file a case of economic sabotage against the two water firms due to the “onerous” 1997 contracts with the government. Duterte made the remark after
Court upholds TWG stand in Angkas suit vs rider cap By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan
HE technical working group (TWG) for the motorcycle taxi pilot program scored a win from a local court, which denied the temporary restraining order that Angkas riders sought against the arbitrary cap on supply. In a four-page decision, Judge Rizalina T. Capco-Umali of the Mandaluyong City Trial Court Branch 212 dismissed for lack of merit the petition lodged by Angkas riders against the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB). “Since the Petitioner’s application for issuance of injunctive writ involves prayer to enjoin the enforcement of Section 10 of Revised General Guidelines for the Pilot Implementation of Motorcycle Taxis, which is also the same action being sought in the main case of injunction, the court is mindful that as much as possible, avoid issuing writ which would effectively dispose of the
Angkas riders hold a unity ride along Edsa on December 22, to dramatize their protest against the decision of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board to cap the number of their bikers next year. NONOY LACZA main case without trial and/or due process,” the order read. Based on the revised guidelines for the extension of the motorcycle taxi pilot program, each participating motorcycle taxi app—Angkas, JoyRide and Move It—can only have
10,000 riders for Metro Manila and 3,000 riders for Cebu. This particular provision, being questioned by Angkas and its riders, effectively cuts the 27,000 riders Angkas has in its platform before the revised guidelines were issued.
Angkas was the lone participant in the pilot program, but competition was introduced in late December as part of the extended study. To recall, Angkas riders sought an injection order against the TWG, and initially won a three-day stay order. When the 72-hour period after a hearing had lapsed, the petitioners sought for a permanent writ of preliminary induction. The BusinessMirror sought out Angkas for comment, but has yet to receive a reply as of press time. Aside from denying the injunction plea, the court also ruled that the government agencies have the “presumption of regularity” in the performance of their official duties, a point that the respondent Angkas riders had failed to rebut. “The presumption of regularity of official acts may be rebutted by affirmative evidence or irregularity or failure to perform a duty. The presumption, however, prevails until it is overcome by no less than clear and convincing evidence to the contrary. Thus, unless the presumption is rebutted, it becomes conclusive,” the court order read.
SBS completes disbursement of ₧1.16-B IPO proceeds in ’15 By VG Cabuag @villygc
HEMICAL trader SBS Philippines Corp. said it has disbursed all of the P1.16 billion proceeds of its initial public offering that it raised in 2015. The company said about 8 percent of the IPO proceeds was used to finance the purchase and importation of additions to the company’s product portfolio. These include new products and product improvements, as well as funding the organization of a business development unit providing sales and marketing support to develop market share for such new products.
Some 30 percent of the proceeds, meanwhile, was reallocated for investment and capital infusion in the company’s new subsidiary, Lence Holdings Corp., to partly finance the acquisition of a warehouse facility complex in Laguna. The Sytengco-controlled firm said about 65 percent of the warehouse facility is being considered to be utilized for the warehouse and distribution operations of the company. Another 8 percent was allocated for facility improvements, reduction of liabilities, working capital, while 2 percent went for equipment and machineries, according to its report. The company at the same time
spent 24.5 percent of the amount to prepay a P282.92-million loan from BDO Unibank Inc., including accrued interests, bearing an interest of 5 percent per annum. “The company decided to prepay the BDO Loan as it carried a higher interest rate compared to its other loan obligations,” SBS said. Over the past years, the company has been expanding and diversifying its business. Late last year, it acquired additional shares of its affiliate Aychester Holdings Corp. and subscribed in a related company, Goldchester Holdings Corp., in line with the diversification plan. Aychester Holdings approved to
increase its authorized capital stock. To maintain the SBS’s shareholding interest of 25 percent, it will have to subscribe to such increase. On the other hand, the company will increase its holdings Goldchester Holdings, another affiliate through SBS Holdings and Enterprises Corp. SBS interest in its SBS Holdings has been diluted, which also resulted in an indirect dilution of its shareholdings in Goldchester. “Thus, the company [SBS] will subscribe to up to 7.75-percent holdings in Goldchester through share subscription, which together with its indirect 9.15-percent shareholdings via SBS Holdings, will help maintain its holding interest,” it said.
Guevarra disclosed that the Justice department found the extension of these contracts to 2037 irregular, considering that the extension was granted 12-13 years before the original expiration of the 25-year concession agreements in 2022. Among the provisions in the old contracts that should be struck down for being onerous, DOJ said, are the prohibition on the government’s interference in the rate-setting mechanism of the two water firms and the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System.
Co-ops, rural banks improve credit reporting compliance to CIC
IGNALING a growing appreciation for the value of a shared credit database to promote financial inclusion and risk-based lending, more and more financial institutions, now led by cooperatives and rural banks, submit credit data of their borrowers to the Credit Information Corporation’s (CIC) database. In its Circular Letter 2019-02 dated 23 December 2019, the country’s sole public credit registry and repository of credit information published the list of 30 additional financial institutions that are submitting basic credit data of their borrowers pursuant to Republic Act 9510, or the Credit Information System Act (Cisa). Rural banks dominated the list with an additional 14 submitting entities covering the places of Pampanga, Cavite, La Union, Cebu, Quezon, Ilocos Sur, Pangasinan, Camarines Norte, Southern Leyte, Batangas and Tarlac. Mea nwh i le, cooperat ives showed a marked improvement in compliance with the entry of Caniogan Credit and Development Cooperative; Cooperative Bank of Bohol; St. Martin of Tours Credit and Development Cooperative; and the multipurpose cooperatives of Adamson University Faculty, Bohol Community, Mangagoy Fishermen, Morong Kabalikat, and PGH Bayanihan. Continued on B2
PSE STOCK QUOTATIONS
Net Foreign Stocks Bid Ask Open High Low Close Volume Value Trade (Peso) Buy (Sell) FINANCIALs
ASIA UNITED BDO UNIBANK BANK PH ISLANDS CHINABANK EAST WEST BANK METROBANK PB BANK PBCOM PHIL NATL BANK PSBANK RCBC SECURITY BANK UNION BANK BRIGHT KINDLE BDO LEASING COL FINANCIAL FERRONOUX HLDG FILIPINO FUND PHIL STOCK EXCH
53.75 153.2 83.7 25 12.26 65 12.02 20.4 32.05 57.7 22.55 185 58.3 0.89 2.28 18.02 3.81 6.9 173.7
54.65 153.5 83.85 25.05 12.28 65.05 12.2 20.8 32.1 58 22.75 188 58.4 0.92 2.42 18.46 3.92 7.18 177.8
53.6 155 86.45 25.05 12 65.8 12.02 20.8 33.2 58 23 192 58.5 0.88 2.34 18.02 3.75 6.81 178
53.9 155.1 86.45 25.05 12.32 65.8 12.02 20.8 33.95 58 23 192 58.5 0.89 2.43 18.1 3.95 6.81 178
53.6 153.2 83.65 25 11.94 64.95 12.02 20.8 32.1 58 22.6 185 58.4 0.88 2.24 18.02 3.71 6.81 174
53.9 153.2 83.7 25.05 12.28 65 12.02 20.8 32.1 58 22.6 185 58.4 0.89 2.43 18.1 3.93 6.81 177.8
51594 513125491 271983643.5 1706905 4221866 192946793.5 548112 29120 21049485 9860 305420 107676671 16359 13310 524410 30642 291650 10896 73538
AC ENERGY ALSONS CONS ABOITIZ POWER BASIC ENERGY FIRST GEN FIRST PHIL HLDG MERALCO MANILA WATER PETRON PETROENERGY PHX PETROLEUM PILIPINAS SHELL SPC POWER AGRINURTURE AXELUM CNTRL AZUCARERA CENTURY FOOD DEL MONTE DNL INDUS EMPERADOR SMC FOODANDBEV ALLIANCE SELECT FRUITAS HLDG GINEBRA JOLLIBEE MACAY HLDG MAXS GROUP PEPSI COLA SHAKEYS PIZZA ROXAS AND CO RFM CORP ROXAS HLDG SWIFT FOODS UNIV ROBINA VITARICH VICTORIAS CONCRETE B CEMEX HLDG EAGLE CEMENT EEI CORP HOLCIM MEGAWIDE PHINMA TKC METALS VULCAN INDL CROWN ASIA PRYCE CORP CONCEPCION GREENERGY INTEGRATED MICR IONICS SFA SEMICON CIRTEK HLDG
HOLDING & FRIMS
ABACORE CAPITAL ASIABEST GROUP AYALA CORP ABOITIZ EQUITY ALLIANCE GLOBAL AYALA LAND LOG ANSCOR ANGLO PHIL HLDG ATN HLDG A ATN HLDG B COSCO CAPITAL DMCI HLDG FILINVEST DEV FJ PRINCE B GT CAPITAL HOUSE OF INV JG SUMMIT JOLLIVILLE HLDG LODESTAR LOPEZ HLDG LT GROUP MABUHAY HLDG METRO PAC INV PACIFICA HLDG PRIME MEDIA SYNERGY GRID SM INVESTMENTS SAN MIGUEL CORP SOC RESOURCES TOP FRONTIER WELLEX INDUS ZEUS HLDG
-40205248 -113385332 10020 -195324 -96530816.5 8320 -12081255 -271320 -50728181 -9928 7540 -
2.31 1.23 32.5 0.233 21.55 66.45 292.4 10.02 3.98 4 11.74 32.95 8.81 12.42 2.98 17 15.02 5.1 9.25 7.22 74.7 0.54 1.45 37.9 206 6.8 11.28 1.84 9.85 1.89 5.28 1.76 0.12 149.9 1.2 2.42 67.05 1.56 13.68 9 13.58 14.9 9.6 0.99 0.93 2.12 4.72 32.25 2.1 7.7 1.26 0.96 6.6
2.32 1.24 32.55 0.236 21.6 67.4 295 10.04 3.99 4.25 12 33.05 8.82 12.6 3 18.74 15.18 5.15 9.35 7.25 75 0.55 1.46 38 208 7.05 11.3 1.85 9.89 1.91 5.29 1.8 0.124 150 1.21 2.57 71 1.57 13.7 9.01 13.6 15 10 1 0.95 2.16 4.79 32.4 2.11 7.8 1.27 1 6.68
2.3 1.24 33.8 0.234 22.4 66.4 304.8 10.42 4.03 4.25 11.8 33.05 8.78 12.78 2.98 16.7 15.14 4.8 9.48 7.24 79.5 0.54 1.47 38.4 211 6.96 11.36 1.91 9.4 1.92 5.3 1.76 0.12 148.5 1.23 2.42 68 1.58 13.66 9.11 13.78 15.16 10 0.99 0.93 2.12 4.8 32.2 2.07 7.84 1.25 0.97 7.15
2.38 1.24 33.8 0.236 22.4 66.8 306 10.48 4.03 4.25 12 33.4 8.84 12.8 3.05 18.78 15.14 5.15 9.48 7.3 79.6 0.55 1.53 38.4 212 7.21 11.38 1.91 9.85 1.92 5.3 1.76 0.12 150 1.23 2.58 71 1.62 14.18 9.18 13.78 15.16 10 0.99 0.97 2.16 4.8 32.4 2.12 7.95 1.28 1.01 7.25
2.3 1.24 32.4 0.233 21.5 66.2 287 9.99 3.95 4.25 11.8 32.9 8.78 12.6 2.96 16.6 15 4.8 9.29 7.2 73.5 0.54 1.45 37.15 206 6.96 11.18 1.8 9.4 1.88 5.2 1.76 0.12 147.1 1.2 2.42 67 1.57 13.66 9 13.6 14.62 10 0.99 0.92 2.12 4.75 32.2 2.03 7.7 1.23 0.94 6.53
2.32 1.24 32.5 0.236 21.6 66.45 292.4 10.04 3.99 4.25 12 32.95 8.81 12.6 3 18.78 15.02 5.15 9.34 7.22 75 0.55 1.45 38.2 206 7.05 11.28 1.84 9.85 1.89 5.29 1.76 0.12 150 1.21 2.58 71 1.57 13.7 9 13.6 15 10 0.99 0.95 2.16 4.8 32.25 2.11 7.8 1.27 1 6.6
6477820 13640 77429375 114960 29689565 15818882.5 75078194 56268410 4780110 8500 366500 4084845 1816020 11485384 3180250 123458 349030 2025 15148688 42769447 20473882 313560 39611900 665605 63980130 253335 1205238 1327820 2449649 1101620 67880 1760 28800 130853071 1841170 169560 32000 52618780 2550078 498671 1768412 20392924 112000 990 1043180 68080 1698880 164510 14002890 5759203 151910 313810 31778482
751830 -46338045 -14136680 -8181211.5 -45534250 4722893 -206890 8500 -34538 732385 -208582 -4209120 8930 34968 13040544 -3904347 -4906815 48820 57795 -1383062 -1894 351342 -175740 72135 -17803 29608328 -410860 -2580 -34899420 67392 -135318 -18045288 8520 -14440 138590 3152240 2678070 -10240 209580
0.89 11.2 788 51.75 11 2.84 6.23 0.67 0.93 0.94 6.69 6.61 13 3.6 785 5.2 73.5 6.06 0.485 3.72 11.26 0.57 3.69 4.8 1.16 190 1058 151.5 0.79 203.2 0.207 0.218
0.9 11.58 790 52.4 11.08 2.85 6.4 0.69 0.94 0.95 6.72 6.69 13.18 5.2 801.5 5.4 74.65 6.5 0.5 3.78 11.3 0.6 3.7 5 1.18 195 1060 151.6 0.81 207.2 0.217 0.225
0.9 12.04 790 51.7 11.2 2.93 6.4 0.67 0.93 0.94 6.54 6.75 13 3.61 810 5.4 78.1 6.51 0.5 3.76 11.4 0.59 3.79 5.04 1.26 190 1076 157 0.8 213.8 0.21 0.212
0.92 12.06 792 52.4 11.22 2.93 6.4 0.69 0.94 0.95 6.75 6.83 13.18 3.61 810 5.4 78.3 6.62 0.5 3.76 11.6 0.6 3.79 5.17 1.26 195 1076 157.5 0.82 213.8 0.216 0.24
0.89 11.2 777.5 51.7 11 2.83 6.3 0.67 0.93 0.94 6.54 6.6 13 3.61 785 5.4 73.5 6.51 0.49 3.72 11.26 0.59 3.7 4.9 1.18 190 1056 151.6 0.8 203.2 0.202 0.212
0.89 11.2 790 52.4 11 2.85 6.35 0.69 0.94 0.94 6.71 6.69 13.16 3.61 785 5.4 73.5 6.62 0.5 3.72 11.3 0.6 3.7 5 1.18 195 1060 151.6 0.81 207.2 0.206 0.218
2471280 322386 274897550 42035770.5 44098418 2241380 206095 93980 1291530 582850 2854408 52178427 463336 18050 85676080 21648600 273169355.5 677800 16200 265830 10693692 53210 163404870 478222 179930 25240 126742525 39101816 42520 74936 51500 1442720
-10512830 10121992 -11379730 -137570 -7560 -44230 468150 75534 -25241428 -7800 -46434745 -39420 -128039508.5 -41040 5422614 45780710 34800 -1404170 -11470438 -16000 35588 2200
PROPERTY ARTHALAND CORP 0.85 0.87 0.84 0.88 0.84 0.87 4030000 3478140 -8800 43.2 43.5 43.85 44 43.2 43.2 6208500 270442585 -41222545 AYALA LAND ARANETA PROP 1.39 1.4 1.44 1.44 1.4 1.4 6000 8550 1.87 1.88 1.9 1.9 1.88 1.88 387000 731100 28410 BELLE CORP A BROWN 0.71 0.72 0.71 0.73 0.71 0.72 57000 40770 0.84 0.85 0.83 0.83 0.83 0.83 23000 19090 CITYLAND DEVT CROWN EQUITIES 0.184 0.188 0.184 0.184 0.181 0.181 290000 52520 CEBU HLDG 6.5 6.7 6.5 6.89 6.5 6.88 91000 625911 616348 4.69 4.7 4.8 4.8 4.67 4.7 412000 1944760 75080 CEB LANDMASTERS CENTURY PROP 0.54 0.55 0.55 0.55 0.54 0.55 1095000 594830 -52800 18.28 18.3 18.26 18.6 18.26 18.3 230000 4239830 -1202864 DOUBLEDRAGON DM WENCESLAO 9.48 9.65 9.22 9.66 9.22 9.65 87600 840895 -138737 0.415 0.43 0.43 0.43 0.43 0.43 20000 8600 EMPIRE EAST FILINVEST LAND 1.53 1.54 1.55 1.56 1.52 1.54 17433000 26769860 3587280 1.1 1.12 1.17 1.17 1.09 1.12 281000 309520 GLOBAL ESTATE 8990 HLDG 14.72 14.82 14.72 14.74 14.72 14.72 501800 7386556 PHIL INFRADEV 1.17 1.2 1.21 1.21 1.18 1.18 558000 661390 -21600 4.3 4.32 4.37 4.37 4.27 4.32 27371000 118293340 -15690240 MEGAWORLD MRC ALLIED 0.247 0.248 0.243 0.26 0.243 0.247 59250000 14860770 -29290 0.405 0.415 0.41 0.41 0.41 0.41 30000 12300 PHIL ESTATES PRIMEX CORP 2.17 2.21 2.2 2.24 2.17 2.17 406000 896340 89200 27.6 27.65 27.75 28.1 27.25 27.6 1752300 48466105 5546275 ROBINSONS LAND PHIL REALTY 0.335 0.345 0.325 0.355 0.325 0.345 1130000 387450 7000 ROCKWELL 2.11 2.13 2.09 2.11 2.09 2.11 52000 109290 3.18 3.24 3.24 3.24 3.24 3.24 20000 64800 -16200 SHANG PROP STA LUCIA LAND 2.39 2.43 2.42 2.45 2.42 2.43 27000 65600 40.65 40.7 40.9 40.95 40.5 40.7 14451500 588151950 -122938235 SM PRIME HLDG VISTAMALLS 5.8 5.85 5.87 5.87 5.8 5.85 41300 241577 1.56 1.57 1.67 1.69 1.57 1.57 12022000 19462990 SUNTRUST HOME VISTA LAND 7.39 7.4 7.46 7.46 7.4 7.4 8099800 59971622 -10076076 SERVICES ABS CBN 18 18.02 18.2 18.4 18 18.02 265400 4797940 5.42 5.45 5.41 5.45 5.41 5.45 176800 960306 GMA NETWORK MANILA BULLETIN 0.395 0.41 0.41 0.41 0.41 0.41 100000 41000 2058 2062 1996 2066 1996 2062 93230 191912740 52391940 GLOBE TELECOM PLDT 1082 1097 1110 1110 1082 1082 264715 290250770 -44004610 0.046 0.047 0.045 0.047 0.045 0.047 8700000 399200 APOLLO GLOBAL IMPERIAL 1.66 1.81 1.77 1.77 1.66 1.66 8000 13620 ISLAND INFO 0.104 0.106 0.102 0.11 0.102 0.106 4480000 474810 4.1 4.11 4 4.1 3.92 4.1 6845000 27665250 352340.0003 ISM COMM NOW CORP 2.55 2.59 2.68 2.68 2.53 2.57 1633000 4242990 2780 0.265 0.27 0.27 0.28 0.265 0.27 2830000 765500 TRANSPACIFIC BR PHILWEB 2.61 2.65 2.69 2.7 2.61 2.61 430000 1134500 -18470 9.6 9.8 9.85 9.85 9.6 9.6 3800 37075 -1929.9999 2GO GROUP CHELSEA 5.55 5.57 5.58 5.61 5.44 5.57 487600 2713735 178560 88.6 88.7 88.5 88.85 88.45 88.7 52400 4646453 207109.5 CEBU AIR 131.5 131.8 131.9 132.8 130.5 131.5 1524240 200705687 -85437782 INTL CONTAINER LBC EXPRESS 13 13.9 13.94 13.94 13.94 13.94 700 9758 13.22 13.32 14.3 14.4 13.12 13.22 1758000 23665096 -10266902 MACROASIA METROALLIANCE A 0.9 0.96 0.9 0.96 0.9 0.96 45000 40560 0.9 1 1 1 1 1 5000 5000 4000 METROALLIANCE B PAL HLDG 7.8 7.85 7.5 7.85 7.3 7.85 6200 48305 1.42 1.43 1.31 1.45 1.31 1.42 4485000 6250880 268220 HARBOR STAR WATERFRONT 0.61 0.62 0.61 0.63 0.61 0.62 591000 362620 FAR EASTERN U 891 893 890 892 890 892 50 44530 0.6 0.61 0.6 0.61 0.6 0.61 21857000 13116530 36920 STI HLDG BERJAYA 3.55 3.56 3.65 3.9 3.56 3.56 2946000 11005540 113610 10.74 10.84 10.9 11 10.74 10.84 1499700 16258910 8383134 BLOOMBERRY PACIFIC ONLINE 2.21 2.3 2.34 2.34 2.2 2.3 95000 213660 -124500 2.44 2.45 2.45 2.52 2.45 2.45 101000 247660 -2450 LEISURE AND RES MANILA JOCKEY 3.17 3.2 3.2 3.2 3.18 3.2 122000 388700 4.61 4.98 4.5 4.5 4.5 4.5 2000 9000 PH RESORTS GRP PREMIUM LEISURE 0.59 0.6 0.61 0.61 0.59 0.6 4791000 2854820 -439800 ALLHOME 11.48 11.5 11.52 11.54 11.48 11.5 1018000 11705286 -1651958 2.08 2.09 2.09 2.1 2.08 2.09 628000 1314470 -551680 METRO RETAIL PUREGOLD 39.1 39.45 39.75 40.1 39 39.1 802300 31705485 -2156815 77.8 78 79.2 79.2 77.5 78 676450 52861559.5 -33989217.5 ROBINSONS RTL PHIL SEVEN CORP 135 137 138.1 138.1 137 137 370 50755 -12395 2.7 2.71 2.73 2.74 2.7 2.71 1586000 4303730 130290 SSI GROUP WILCON DEPOT 18.6 18.62 18.48 18.7 18.4 18.6 7111000 132127994 41245806 APC GROUP 0.4 0.405 0.41 0.41 0.4 0.405 390000 158300 8.6 8.84 8.54 8.85 8.54 8.6 9200 79395 EASYCALL GOLDEN BRIA 430.2 439 435 449 429.2 438.6 47190 20717766 7.6 7.8 7.8 7.8 7.8 7.8 100 780 IPM HLDG PRMIERE HORIZON 0.36 0.365 0.345 0.37 0.345 0.365 14900000 5366000 -120899.9997 9.1 9.44 9.45 9.45 9.28 9.44 4200 39585 SBS PHIL CORP MINING & OIL ATOK 10.06 10.86 10.9 10.9 10.9 10.9 100 1090 1.05 1.06 1.03 1.06 1.03 1.05 732000 762290 APEX MINING ABRA MINING 0.0014 0.0015 0.0014 0.0014 0.0014 0.0014 9000000 12600 2.5 2.53 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 256000 640000 -640000 ATLAS MINING BENGUET B 1.1 1.2 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 12000 13200 13200 0.27 0.275 0.27 0.27 0.27 0.27 110000 29700 COAL ASIA HLDG CENTURY PEAK 2.85 2.86 2.9 2.95 2.84 2.86 2104000 6025620 -206640 DIZON MINES 7.1 7.19 7.19 7.19 7.08 7.19 900 6396 1.58 1.6 1.62 1.65 1.56 1.58 5011000 7942680 -1217380 FERRONICKEL GEOGRACE 0.22 0.221 0.202 0.24 0.202 0.22 24700000 5575250 -180000 0.099 0.1 0.101 0.101 0.099 0.099 320000 31920 LEPANTO A MARCVENTURES 0.89 0.9 0.9 0.91 0.89 0.89 544000 489160 1.04 1.08 1.02 1.12 1.02 1.08 1313000 1416830 -50180 NIHAO NICKEL ASIA 3.16 3.19 3.06 3.19 3.04 3.19 6977000 21896330 1153700 0.42 0.45 0.42 0.425 0.42 0.425 40000 16950 -12750 OMICO CORP 0.74 0.76 0.75 0.76 0.74 0.76 53000 40040 ORNTL PENINSULA PX MINING 2.96 2.98 3.05 3.05 2.96 2.96 699000 2107330 -1742930 21.8 21.9 21.9 21.9 21.55 21.9 1173700 25555915 -6606400 SEMIRARA MINING ACE ENEXOR 8.42 8.75 9.2 9.2 8.4 8.75 630200 5447618 103117 0.011 0.012 0.011 0.012 0.011 0.011 16200000 184800 ORNTL PETROL B PHILODRILL 0.01 0.011 0.01 0.011 0.01 0.011 23200000 255000 9.33 9.4 9.62 9.62 9.2 9.33 450400 4220460 -1550440 PXP ENERGY PREFFERED HOUSE PREF A 99.05 99.75 99.05 99.75 99.05 99.75 6910 689265.5 501 501.5 501.5 501.5 501.5 501.5 5210 2612815 AC PREF B1 ALCO PREF B 100.4 103.1 101.5 101.5 101.5 101.5 860 87290 100.8 106 104.9 105 104.9 105 14100 1480442 ALCO PREF C AC PREF B2R 500 505 500 500 500 500 60 30000 100.2 101.2 101.2 101.5 101.2 101.3 3080 312293 -50600 CPG PREF A DD PREF 100.4 100.5 100.5 100.5 100.5 100.5 180 18090 FGEN PREF G 105.1 110 110.7 110.7 103.8 110 10330 1085832 500 501 501 502 501 501 12020 6029020 GLO PREF P GTCAP PREF B 980 992 970 970 970 970 50 48500 100.2 103.8 100.7 100.7 100.2 100.2 22270 2232699 MWIDE PREF PNX PREF 3B 107 108.9 108.9 108.9 108.9 108.9 1210 131769 1027 1028 1029 1030 1028 1028 4835 4976405 PNX PREF 4 PCOR PREF 3A 1027 1049 1030 1030 1027 1027 1560 1605900 1050 1055 1055 1055 1055 1055 10120 10676600 PCOR PREF 3B SMC PREF 2C 76.95 77.6 78 78 76.8 77.6 93810 7234082 SMC PREF 2D 74.6 75.2 75.2 75.2 75.2 75.2 200 15040 75 76 75 75 75 75 27000 2025000 SMC PREF 2E SMC PREF 2F 76 76.5 75.85 76 75.8 76 13920 1055555 75.1 75.4 75.1 75.1 75.1 75.1 6000 450600 SMC PREF 2G PHIL. DEPOSITARY RECEIPTS
ABS HLDG PDR GMA HLDG PDR
WARRANTS LR WARRANT
SMALL & MEDIUM ENTERPRISES ITALPINAS 3.95 KEPWEALTH 9.84 0.85 XURPAS
4.12 10.24 0.89
-9850 -
EXHANGE TRADE FUNDS FIRST METRO ETF
-3062840 281593
Holcim bullish on helping boost PHL devt with better ops, new products, sustainability
By Roderick L. Abad
@rodrik_28
OLCIM Philippines Inc. (HPI) is positive that it is better positioned to back up the nation’s development and even continue its business growth with the completion of major plant expansion initiatives, favorable market reception of its new products and stronger sustainability focus.
In 2019, the company completed the upgrade of its manufacturing facilities in La Union, Bulacan and Davao, increasing its annual cement output capacity to 10 million metric tons. The enhanced production allows it to supply more cement for the local construction sector, which grew by 16.3 percent in the third quarter of 2019 on the back of constant development of public and private infrastructure projects. In March, the firm officially introduced nationwide a blended cement called “Solido,” designed as a better alternative to Ordinary Portland Cement for roads and light infrastructure. The sales of this new offering significantly formed part of Holcim’s product mix last year as customers shifted to this due to its superior strength and durability. Moving forward, the cement
maker started preparations to make available its 24-hour concrete SuperFast-Crete to other key urban markets nationwide. It, likewise, develops its soil stabilization solution for enhanced durability of farm-to-market roads and permeable concrete technology for flood control applications. In addition, Holcim has beefed up its involvement with key government offices and customers in line with its social and environmental thrusts.
Safety record
For instance, the company posted significant improvement in the workplace and road safety records of its contractor and haulers in 2019 via skills trainings and strict implementation of standards. It also engaged its customers on the value of workplace safety, resulting in a number of business partners putting up their own departments
PAL offers promo for New Year
LAG carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) is celebrating New Year 2020 with a ticket sale that goes as low as P20 for domestic and $20 for international tickets. One-way economy domestic tickets on selected flights may be availed of for low prices starting at P20, while roundtrip economy international tickets (base fare) go as low as $20. The promo fares are applicable for those traveling in twos. Those flying solo also get a discount.
Tickets may be purchased from January 20 to 24, 2020. Travel period is July 1, 2020, to December 10, 2020. Special travel dates will be applicable on PAL’s new routes: ManilaPerth, Davao-Manado, Zamboanga-Kota Kinabalu, Davao-Iloilo, Cebu-Zamboanga, Cebu-Dipolog, Zamboanga-Tawi-Tawi, and more. Details may be obtained by visiting philippineairlines.com, any PAL ticket office or accredited travel agents. Recto L. Mercene
Co-ops, rural banks improve credit reporting compliance to CIC Continued from B1
The increase in cooperative compliance is supported by Memorandum Circular 2019-01 issued by the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), stating that cooperatives must submit credit information to the CIC. Other financial institutions that made the list were AND Financing Corp.; Asialink Finance Corp.; Citystate Savings Bank Inc.; First Digital Finance Corp.; Pagasa ng Masang Pinoy Microfinance Inc.; Pagasa Philippines Lending Co. Inc.; Philippine Trust Co.; and RSA Prosperity Microlending Philippines. As of December 31, 2019, there are 1,736 submitting entities that are registered with the CIC. These are made up of universal and commercial banks, credit-card issuers, thrift banks, rural banks, cooperatives, government-owned and -controlled corporations, private lending institutions, insurance companies, and financing and lending institutions. Out of this number, 474 are already contributing both positive and negative credit data—among other relevant data points—making
the CIC database the largest in the Philippines, with the most diverse set of contributors. Other lenders are currently working on their compliance requirements. “The old way of thinking is that the use of negative data about a borrower is more important than positive data in order to prevent default when giving out loans,” CIC President and CEO Jaime Casto Jose P. Garchitorena shared. “But research over the last decade has shown that when positive and negative data are used, default rates are actually lower.”
Balanced view of creditworthiness
A recent release of the Credit Reporting Knowledge Guide 2019 from the World Bank includes studies showing that the inclusion of positive information in the lending process had the potential to reduce default rates of 22 percent to 45 percent in some economies. “If we were to oversimplify the value of lenders using positive and negative data, we could say that if lenders only look at negative data, then the likelihood of approving a loan will be lower. In other words, the loan application will be denied,” Garchitorena explained.
dedicated to this. Holcim kept helping local government and industry partners manage their waste in a sustainable manner by using qualified and properly sorted materials as alternative fuels in making cement. With this, it again diverted tens of thousands of waste materials away from landfills last year and contributed to easing the country’s challenge in this area. “There continues to be a bright
outlook for the Philippines and its construction industry. The many initiatives we implemented in 2019 make us more capable in helping the country achieve its development goals,” said John Stull, president and chief executive officer of HPI. “We are confident that our focus on innovation and commitment to sustainability enables us to continue being a partner of the country’s progress, helping our customers grow and driving our performance,” he added. January 15, 2020
NAV One Year Three Year Five Year Y-T-D per share Return* Return Stock Funds ALFM Growth Fund, Inc. -a 251.34 -5.79% -0.26% -1.05% -0.22% ATRAM Alpha Opportunity Fund, Inc. -a 1.3393 -11.54% -0.51% -4.41% -3.09% ATRAM Philippine Equity Opportunity Fund, Inc. -a 3.5395 -14.89% -4.3% -4.46% -3.77% Climbs Share Capital Equity Investment Fund Corp. -a 0.8853 -6.97% n.a. n.a. -1.32% First Metro Consumer Fund on MSCI Phils. IMI, Inc. -a 0.8472 -3.73% n.a. n.a. -0.25% First Metro Save and Learn Equity Fund,Inc. -a 5.2926 -5.85% 1.15% -1.28% -0.67% First Metro Save and Learn Philippine Index Fund, Inc. -a,6 0.8501 -4.83% -2.56% n.a. -0.41% MBG Equity Investment Fund, Inc. -a 102.16 -15.05% n.a. n.a. -1.13% PAMI Equity Index Fund, Inc. -a 51.1014 -3.2% 2.04% n.a. -0.35% Philam Strategic Growth Fund, Inc. -a 530.83 -3.07% 0.97% -0.86% -0.37% Philequity Alpha One Fund, Inc. -a,d,8 1.0244 n.a. n.a. n.a. -0.55% Philequity Dividend Yield Fund, Inc. -a 1.2844 -3.2% 1.8% 0.13% -0.19% Philequity Fund, Inc. -a 37.7192 -3.36% 2.68% 0.08% -0.47% Philequity MSCI Philippine Index Fund, Inc. -a,1 1.0142 -3.52% n.a. n.a. -0.38% Philequity PSE Index Fund Inc. -a 5.2063 -2.3% 1.15% -0.33% 2.68% Philippine Stock Index Fund Corp. -a 869.19 -2.36% 2.6% 1.06% -0.33% Soldivo Strategic Growth Fund, Inc. -a 0.8207 -9.9% -1.3% -2.98% -3.61% Sun Life Prosperity Philippine Equity Fund, Inc. -a 4.1707 -3.24% 1.88% 0.15% -0.91% Sun Life Prosperity Philippine Stock Index Fund, Inc. -a 0.9976 -2.66% 2.47% n.a. -0.32% United Fund, Inc. -a 3.643 -2% 3.76% 1.83% -0.28% Exchange Traded Fund First Metro Phil. Equity Exchange Traded Fund, Inc. -a,c 116.5809 -1.99% 3.31% 2.02% -0.32% ATRAM AsiaPlus Equity Fund, Inc. -b $1.046 10.08% 6.25% 1.08% 1.71% Sun Life Prosperity World Voyager Fund, Inc. -a $1.3998 20.34% 9.86% n.a. 1.53% Balanced Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities ATRAM Dynamic Allocation Fund, Inc. -a 1.5427 -10.92% -3.69% -4.57% -1.29% ATRAM Philippine Balanced Fund, Inc. -a 2.1551 -6.39% -1.85% -1.88% -1.19% First Metro Save and Learn Balanced Fund Inc. -a 2.6134 -1.97% 1.46% -1.63% -0.69% First Metro Save and Learn F.O.C.C.U.S. Dynamic Fund, Inc. -a,5 0.2305 n.a. n.a. n.a. 0.88% Grepalife Balanced Fund Corporation -a N.S. N.S. N.S. N.S. N.S. NCM Mutual Fund of the Phils., Inc. -a 1.9591 2.69% 2.29% 0.72% -0.2% PAMI Horizon Fund, Inc. -a 3.7693 4.55% 1.29% -0.2% -0.52% 16.8684 2.94% 1.2% -0.27% -0.54% Philam Fund, Inc. -a Solidaritas Fund, Inc. -a 2.1293 -0.82% 1.19% 0.78% 0.16% Sun Life of Canada Prosperity Balanced Fund, Inc. -a 3.8332 0.64% 1.8% 0.19% -0.79% Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2028, Inc. -a,d,2 1.006 n.a. n.a. n.a. -0.96% Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2038, Inc. -a,d,2 0.9911 n.a. n.a. n.a. -0.53% Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2048, Inc. -a,d,2 0.9882 n.a. n.a. n.a. -0.5% Sun Life Prosperity Dynamic Fund, Inc. -a 0.9648 0.32% 1.13% -0.98% -1.03% Primarily invested in foreign currency securities $0.03829 8.13% 2.59% 2.01% 0.16% Cocolife Dollar Fund Builder, Inc. -a PAMI Asia Balanced Fund, Inc. -a $1.0983 15.56% 6.82% 2.19% 5.82% Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Advantage Fund, Inc. -a $3.9524 15.07% 7.65% 4.57% 1.06% Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Wellspring Fund, Inc. -a,7 $1.1355 10.34% 4.48% n.a. 0.59% Bond Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities ALFM Peso Bond Fund, Inc. -a 358.21 4.16% 2.76% 2.28% 0.11% ATRAM Corporate Bond Fund, Inc. -a 1.904 2.62% 0.41% -0.67% 0.11% Cocolife Fixed Income Fund, Inc. -a 3.1198 4.73% 5.14% 5.17% 0.11% Ekklesia Mutual Fund Inc. -a 2.2193 3.79% 1.85% 1.78% -0.26% 1.99% 1.39% -0.41% First Metro Save and Learn Fixed Income Fund,Inc. -a 2.3494 5.81% Grepalife Fixed Income Fund Corp. -a P N.S. N.S. N.S. N.S. N.S. Philam Bond Fund, Inc. -a 4.3422 12.94% 1.99% 1.45% -0.7% Philequity Peso Bond Fund, Inc. -a 3.7761 6.08% 2.73% 1.27% -0.32% Soldivo Bond Fund, Inc. -a 0.9581 6.22% 0.87% -0.14% -0.64% Sun Life of Canada Prosperity Bond Fund, Inc. -a 3.0496 8.97% 3.8% 2.33% -0.86% Sun Life Prosperity GS Fund, Inc. -a 1.6817 7.91% 3.28% 1.68% -1.14% Primarily invested in foreign currency securities ALFM Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a $469.07 4.46% 2.64% 2.75% 0.18% 1.28% -0.02% ALFM Euro Bond Fund, Inc. -a Є219.69 3.37% 1.64% ATRAM Total Return Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -b $1.2086 6.89% 2.95% 2.51% 0.12% First Metro Save and Learn Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a $0.0259 4.02% 1.46% 1.45% 0.39% Grepalife Dollar Bond Fund Corp. -a N.S. N.S. N.S. N.S. N.S. PAMI Global Bond Fund, Inc -a $1.0983 5.74% 1.22% -0.6% 0.28% Philam Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a $2.41 10.13% 3.01% 2.7% 0.26% Philequity Dollar Income Fund Inc. -a $0.0604152 5.88% 2.24% 1.98% 0.17% Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Abundance Fund, Inc. -a $3.1923 10.68% 2.54% 2.67% 0.54% Money Market Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities ALFM Money Market Fund, Inc. -a 125.96 2.88% 2.19% 0.14% 4.05% First Metro Save and Learn Money Market Fund, Inc. -a,3 1.0298 n.a. n.a. n.a. 0.34% Philam Managed Income Fund, Inc. -a 1.2503 6.03% 2.92% 1.6% -0.51% Sun Life Prosperity Money Market Fund, Inc. -a 1.2662 3.72% 2.91% 2.39% 0.13% Primarily invested in foreign currency securities Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Starter Fund, Inc. -a $1.0379 2.08% n.a. n.a. 0.07% Feeder Fund Primarily invested in foreign currency securities ALFM Global Multi-Asset Income Fund Inc. -b,d,4 $1 n.a. n.a. n.a. 1.01% a - NAVPS as of the previous banking day. b - NAVPS as of two banking days ago. c - Listed in the PSE. d - in Net Asset Value per Unit (NAVPU). 1 - Launch date is January 3, 2019. 2 - Launch date is January 28, 2019. 3 - Launch date is February 1, 2019. 4 - Launch date is November 15, 2019. 5 - Launch date is September 28, 2019. 6 - Renaming was approved by the SEC last October 12, 2018 (formerly, One Wealthy Nation Fund, Inc.). 7 - Adjusted due to stock dividend issuance last October 9, 2019. 8 - Launch date is December 09, 2019. "While we endeavor to keep the information accurate, the Philippine Investment Funds Association (PIFA) and its members make no warranties as to the correctness of the newspaper’s publication and assume no liability or responsibility for any error or omissions. You may visit http://www. pifa. com.ph to see the latest NAVPS/NAVPU."
Editor: Angel R. Calso
World Companies
NSA finds major security flaw in Windows 10, free fix issued
he National Security Agency (NSA) has discovered a major security flaw in Microsoft’s Windows 10 operating system that could let hackers intercept seemingly secure communications. But rather than exploit the flaw for its own intelligence needs, the NSA tipped off Microsoft so that it can fix the system for everyone. Microsoft released a free software patch to fix the flaw on Tuesday and credited the intelligence agency for discovering it. The company said it has not seen any evidence that hackers have used the technique. Amit Yoran, CEO of security firm Tenable, said it is “exceptionally rare if not unprecedented” for the US government to share its discovery of such a critical vulnerability with a company. Yoran, who was a founding director of the Department of Homeland Security’s computer emergency readiness team, urged all organizations to prioritize patching their systems quickly.
An advisory sent by the NSA on Tuesday said “the consequences of not patching the vulnerability are severe and widespread.” Microsoft said an attacker could exploit the vulnerability by spoofing a code-signing certificate so it looked like a file came from a trusted source. “The user would have no way of knowing the file was malicious, because the digital signature would appear to be from a trusted provider,” the company said. If successfully exploited, attackers would have been able to conduct “manin-the-middle attacks” and decrypt confidential information they intercept on user connections, the company said. “The biggest risk is to secure communications,” said Adam Meyers, vice president of intelligence for security
German prosecutors charge 6 more in VW emissions scandal
R ANKFURT, Germany—Prosecutors in Germany have filed charges against six more individuals in connection with Volkswagen’s diesel emissions scandal, bringing the total to 11. Prosecutors in the town of Braunschweig said on Tuesday that the suspects—all Volkswagen executives at the time—were responsible for cars that had software that let them pass emissions tests in labs but then turned off pollution controls. It said the illegal actions involved took place at different times between 2006 and 2015. The prosecutors’ statement did not
name the individuals charged. Three of the accused were charged with direct offenses, and the other three as accessories to the offenses, meaning they assisted or facilitated them. The prosecutors said 32 more individuals were under investigation. Those charged earlier include former CEO Martin Winterkorn. He resigned after the scandal erupted in 2015. Winterkorn also faces charges in the United States but cannot be extradited. The company has paid more than €30 billion ($33 billion) in fines, settlements and recall costs. AP
Pfizer eyes IPO of Glaxo consumer health joint venture in 3 to 4 years
fizer Inc. is planning an initial public offering (IPO) of its consumer-health joint venture with GlaxoSmithKline Plc. in three to four years as the two drugmakers turn back toward the lab. Pfizer Chief Executive Officer Albert Bourla discussed the time frame for the IPO at the JP Morgan Healthcare Conference, in San Francisco, on Tuesday. The plan provides New York-based Pfizer with a clear exit strategy, he said. The world’s biggest supplier of over-the-counter medicines will be one of the industry’s only standalones, facing off with companies integrated into larger entities, such as Johnson & Johnson, Bayer AG and Procter & Gamble Co. With annual sales of about $13 billion, it brings under one roof Advil painkillers, Tums stomach tablets, Sensodyne toothpaste and Nicorette gum. Both Glaxo, the majority owner, and Pfizer, which has about a third of the business, are looking to focus
on drug development. Recent shifts in the healthcare business and in the broader economy have challenged a model in which drugmakers control every corner of home medicine cabinets. Big pharma companies are increasingly focused on developing high-priced new medicines that draw on cutting-edge research in genetics and other fields. At the same time, the cost of researching new cures is climbing even as insurers and governments demand lower prices. On the consumer-health front, intense price competition online from the likes of Amazon, as well as own-brand store products have dented margins in the United States and parts of Europe. When the deal was announced, Glaxo said it expected a listing within three years of its close, which took place last August. Glaxo shares rose less than 1 percent to 1,815 pence in London trading. Bloomberg News
Malaysia Airlines halts 737 Max deliveries in fresh blow to Boeing
alaysia Airlines Bhd. suspended deliveries of Boeing Co. 737 Max aircraft it had on order for this year, the first Southeast Asian carrier to publicly take such a step since the global grounding of the plane in March. The airline said it made the decision because it’s unclear when the 737 Max will return to service following crashes in Indonesia in late 2018, and Ethiopia 10 months ago that killed 346 people. Malaysia Airlines has 25 of the jets on order and hasn’t received any. “In view of the production stoppage and the delayed return to service of the 737-Max, Malaysia Airlines has suspended the delivery of its orders which are due in 2020,” the carrier said in a statement. “Malaysia Airlines views safety of its operations and customers of utmost priority, and welcomes moves by Boeing to improve procedures to ensure the safe operations of the 737 Max.” The crashes and subsequent grounding of
the single-aisle 737 Max plunged Boeing into an unprecedented crisis that’s led to multiple lawsuits, weighed heavily on sales and cost former Chief Executive Officer Dennis Muilenburg his job. The Chicago-based company said on Tuesday that deliveries slumped to 380 jetliners in 2019. That left Airbus SE as a clear winner with its 863 deliveries. Saudi Arabian budget carrier Flyadeal became the first airline to officially drop the 737 Max back in July, when it reversed a commitment to buy up to 50 of the Boeing jets, saying instead it would operate an entirely Airbus fleet. PT Garuda Indonesia said in May it would cancel a 737 Max order, though it remains on Boeing’s books, while Lion Air’s owner Rusdi Kirana warned he may cancel tens of billions of dollars worth of orders. Kirana said the US manufacturer unfairly implicated his airline in the 2018 crash, but he hasn’t followed through on his threat. Bloomberg News
This August 7, 2017, file photo, shows a Microsoft Windows sign on display at a store in Hialeah, Florida. The National Security Agency has discovered a major security flaw in Microsoft’s Windows operating system. Microsoft says the NSA notified the company about it. A fix was made available on Tuesday, January 14, 2020. (AP Photo/Alan Diaz)
firm CrowdStrike. Some computers will get the fix automatically, if they have the automatic update option turned on. Others can get it manually by going to Windows Update in the
computer’s settings. Microsoft typically releases security and other updates once a month, and waited until Tuesday to disclose the flaw and the NSA’s involvement. Microsoft
and the NSA both declined to say when the agency privately notified the company. The agency shared the vulnerability with Microsoft “quickly and responsibly,” Neal Ziring, technical director of the NSA’s cyber-security directorate, said in a blog post on Tuesday. Priscilla Moriuchi, who retired from the NSA in 2017, after running its East Asia and Pacific operations, said this is a good example of the “constructive role” that the NSA can play in improving global information security. Moriuchi, now an analyst at the US cyber-security firm Recorded Future, said it’s likely a reflection of changes made in 2017 to how the US determines whether to disclose a major vul-
nerability or exploit it for intelligence purposes. The revamping of what’s known as the “Vulnerability Equities Process” put more emphasis on disclosing vulnerabilities whenever possible to protect core Internet systems, and the US economy and general public. Those changes happened after a mysterious group calling itself the “Shadow Brokers” released a trove of high-level hacking tools stolen from the NSA, forcing companies, including Microsoft to repair their systems. The US believes that North Korea, and Russia were able to capitalize on those stolen hacking tools to unleash devastating global cyber attacks. AP
TheBroa BACKYARD HOG RAISE WITH SWINE VIRUS’S IM B4
By Alladin S. Diega Contributor
HE African swine fever (ASF) that ravaged backyard hog raising is said to have been weakening alongside the hopes urban livestock raisers can recoup their losses as well as the source of their income. According to Department of Agriculture Spokesman Noel O. Reyes, the ASF is showing signs of slowing down, even in the most affected areas. “The ASF [outbreak] is tapering off, in Pampanga and Bulacan, and even in Quezon City, and quarantine has been sustained to contain the disease,” Reyes told the BusinessMirror last Wednesday, more than a week after another reported discovery of ASF-tainted pork in another supermarket in Quezon City. Reyes asserted, however, that sentinel animals are showing no signs of new symptoms. He emphasized that the government is serious in banning hog raising in all highly urbanized areas in the country, specifically the National Capital Region (NCR). And after six months when the first confirmed outbreak was reported, Reyes said that right now the assistance is only composed of the P5,000 per head of culled animals and a loan for those qualified. Told of the concerns of affected backyard raisers in Quezon City that switching to other livelihood is not easy and will take time, Reyes said that the DA is ready to provide training for alternative small livelihood for affected backyard hog raisers. All the local government units concerned have to do is to coordinate with the agency. “We are also encouraging urban gardening and the DA will assist with technical assistance even with free vegetable seeds for those in the urban areas who are interested with urban gardening,” Reyes added.
QC loan
ON Sunday, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte said that about P16.9 million cash aid was already given by the local government unit (LGU) to hog raisers, adding that around 5,824 pigs were culled since the first ASF incident from floating dead pigs was reported in Silangan, a village near the Araneta commercial area. The Quezon City LGU extended P3,000 cash assistance for every pig voluntarily surrendered for culling by backyard hog raisers in infected areas. Belmonte also said the ASF is already contained in her city, with no new positive blood tests reported since November 13 and no ASF-related death in the past 30 days. She, however, clarified that the monthlong disinfection process continues and given no new cases will be completed by end of the year. By February, the Quezon City government will prohibit backyard piggeries and poultries in all barangays through an ordinance, according to City Veterinarian Dr. Ana Maria V. Cabel. “We had a meeting with all barangays and they already know about this proposed ordinance,” Cabel said. She added that last year the local government has allowed backyard raisers to sell or dispose of the pigs, those that are not affected, in time for the Christmas season.
Un-augmented feeds
BELMONTE has instructed the Small Business Development and Promotions Office to assist backyard hog raisers in starting alternative livelihood programs. “We will endorse these hog raisers to the Small Business Development and Promotions Office for alternative livelihood programs,” Belmonte said in a statement. Feeding of swill or food refuse locally known as kaning-baboy is also blamed for the spread of ASF virus as contaminated feed can easily reach many backyard raisers. Norly Garcia, a resident of Payatas, Quezon City, is a longtime backyard hog raiser and had used swills sourced from local restaurants. Garcia said she cooks the swill before feeding it to her pigs. She asserts that uncooked swills affect the flavor of the meat and “you can identify traces of fishy smell” in the uncooked pork meat. Garcia explained that the main reason she used swill and augment it to commercial feeds is that the profit is better than using un-augmented commercial feeds. Four months ago, she sold all of her five adult hogs, including a sow, at a much lower price despite the absence of ASF symptoms for fear of eventual contamination and greater losses. She has stopped raising hogs since and is waiting for the local government of Quezon City to roll out its alternative livelihood program for growers like her.
A crisis
RECORDS from the Philippine Statistics Authority revealed that as of October 1, 2019, the total inventory of swine in the country was estimated at 13.01 million heads. This represents a decrease of 0.9 percent compared with the previous year’s stocks of 13.13 million heads. In backyard farms, swine inventory at 8.20 million heads decreased by 1.7 percent from the previous year’s count of 8.34 million heads. Stocks in commercial farms at 4.81 million heads have increased by 0.6 percent from the previous year’s level of 4.78 million heads. Among the regions, Central Luzon recorded the highest swine inventory of 2.21 million heads. Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon) and Western Visayas followed with stocks of 1.57 million heads and 1.27 million heads, respectively. The combined stocks of these three regions accounted for 38.8 percent of the country’s total swine inventory. According to Romeo Andres C. Royandoyan, convener of Al yansa Agrikultura, an alliance of different farmers groups and associations, backyard hog raisers are among the poorest of Filipinos. And, if the crisis is not resolved immediately, the incidence of poverty will intensify, particularly in provinces where hog raising is a main livestock activity, Royan doyan said.
Rendering assistance
AGRICULTURAL Credit and Policy Council (ACPC) Director Meliton M. Montenegro said that the DA assistance for backyard hog raisers affected by the ASF is P5,000 per head of depopulated swine. Qualified beneficiaries are those with 20 heads or less but the maximum number that will be paid is for 10 heads, Montenegro said. The affected farmer should report to the local government about the affected livestock. Afterward, a team composed of representatives from the barangay, municipal and provincial government will conduct assessment, interview and basic information from the affected grower. A couple is considered as one unit for the purposes of assistance, Montenegro explained. Aside from the direct assistance, the affected hog raisers will be eligible for loans from the ACPC. Eligible borrowers are those raising hogs with up to 20 heads and the borrower can access a loan of P3,000 representing per head of the livestock up to a maximum of 10 heads, or the equivalent of P30,000 maximum loan. “The loan can be used for any IGP [income-generating projects], except hog raising, until the DA issues a clearance,” Montenegro told the BusinessMirror. The mode of payment can be varied, depending on the nature of the IGP. If it is used for a sari-sari store, the payment can be monthly. If is used for broiler-raising, which can be harvested after 45 days, the loan payment can be quarterly, similar with vegetables.
Accessing loans
ACCORDING to Montenegro, the ACPC could not directly release the loan because the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act forbids so. Hence, a conduit is needed, he explained. Cooperatives were also barred from accessing loans for their members under the 2019 General Appropriations Act. However, in the past they were able to access loans from the agency, Montenegro recalled. The New Rural Bank of San Leonardo (NRBSL) was chosen as one of the conduit banks by the ACPC to distribute the loan facility to eligible borrowers. The bank has recently identified 2,500 borrowers from Pampanga, Bulacan and Nueva Ecija. Other banks that also serve as conduits include the Land Bank of the Philippines. In the case of the NRBSL, the rural bank is already a conduit bank of the ACPC starting in 2017. It received P50 million for broiler raisers who were affected by the avian influenza outbreak. According to NRBSL Vice President for Branches Department Liza J. Ison, the ACPC allowed them to use and extend the unused portion of the avian flu fund for the ASF onslaught. Ison said they were already preparing for the liquidation of the fund but the ACPC’s move allowed the bank to start processing eligible borrowers. A separate P60-million allocation for the bank’s ASF loan portfolio is being readied by the agricultural credit agency, she added.
NRBSL line
ISON said her bank has a total of P80-million credit line ready for ASF-related loans. She added that as of December 13, the NRBSL has P6 million worth of loans approved for affected hog raisers in Apalit, Pampanga, and several barangays in Bulacan. Asked whether based on their
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sMirror
Editor: Dennis D. Estopace | Thursday, January 16, 2020
ERS, GROUPS GRAPPLE MPACT WITH LOANS
Records from the Philippine Statistics Authority revealed that as of October 1, 2019, the total inventory of swine in the country was estimated at 13.01 million heads. This represents a decrease of 0.9 percent compared with the previous year’s stocks of 13.13 million heads. assessment the borrowers are capable of paying the loans considering they are backyard raisers, Ison replied in the affirmative. “They [borrowers] undergo the usual bank process, assessment, review of the plan they are proposing and modes of payment, and other processes,” she told the BusinessMirror. According to Montenegro, his agency is positive with the arrangement as the bank’s internal procedure will prevent the Napoles-type scheme, in which many of the beneficiaries were proven fictitious. “This is also our advocacy for financial inclusion, our way of helping the unbanked access the formal channel and give them better alternative from loan sharks,” Montenegro said. According to him, the Quezon City LGU is preparing a list of backyard hog raisers who are eligible for assistance and loans. Ison clarified that her rural bank will treat the release of loans using the normal credit evaluation policy. Hence, there is a real possibility that some loan applications would not be approved, she said. Montenegro, on the other hand, clarified that his agency’s role is to assist qualified hog raisers affected by ASF to access the fund. Other assistance not in the form of loans should come from the department [DA] that, for now, is P5,000 per head of depopulated swine for backyard raisers. “In terms of fund, the government has no problem to assist, particularly the affected backyard hog raisers,” Montenegro said.
PIXELROBOT | DREAMSTIME.COM
The Spanish experience
THE experience of using cash against the ASF is best exemplified by Spain, the Philippines’s former colonial master. Spain’s history with ASF is well documented. When the disease first entered the country in the 1960s, control was difficult as veterinary services were still developing. The first documented cases of the virus being associated with ticks were recorded in Spain. The ASF is the only known arthropodvectored DNA virus of animals. Some believe it is actually a virus of ticks that happens to affect pigs. In the 1980s, as Spain was preparing to enter the European Union, it began to receive funding from the EU to combat ASF. The funding resulted in improved diagnostics for quicker identification of outbreaks in the 1990s. After Spain became officially clear of ASF in 1995, the virus reemerged in 1999. This was possibly due to an infected tick that survived eradication. Spain had a good solid indemnity program based on the actual price of pork and swine at the time of the outbreak. It also built a solid collaboration between the federal government, regional government units, private sector, the scientific community and universities. Spain’s pork producers have the natural incentive to convince their members and other producers that it was in everyone’s best
interests to eradicate the virus and follow the national program.
FOR Royandoyan, hog raising is a literal “piggy bank” for farmers as it’s their source of income to pay for their children’s tuition and other important household expenses. Backyard raisers sell their hogs in times of need and emergencies, he said. It’s unlike a sari-sari store wherein you need to earn in small amounts every day, he added. The markup can be higher especially if the backyard raiser is engaged in producing piglets. Hence, according to Royandoyan, indemnity to culled animals should be equal to the farmgate price of hogs, or at least on a par with the prevailing price. “There is a need for immediate relief to affected backyard hog raisers by indemnification, and this calls for a swift but thorough identification of all victims, and that the amount of indemnification should be based on the actual value of pigs culled and not a ‘uniformed’ amount,” Royandoyan told the BusinessMirror. The indemnification for culled animals at present is at P5,000 per head. Royandoyan said that backyard hog raisers in urban areas and even near areas would have more difficulty because they would not be able to go back to hog raising while other alternative livelihoods would be very difficult to pull through because of oversaturation. “Do you think other possible alternative livelihoods have not been already considered by other Filipinos with not enough income? Do you think [operating a] sari-sari store will do the trick?,” Royan doyan said.
Natural magnet
BACKYARD hog raisers in Quezon City are selling their hogs to traders between P105 and P110 a kilo before the ASF struck. For a fullgrown animal at 85 kilos, this is between P8,925 and P9,350. Quezon City is a natural magnet for backyard hog raising, particularly the areas of Commonwealth, Payatas and Silangan, because of their proximity to Rodriguez, Rizal, and San Jose del Monte, Bulacan. These are well-known areas for small and commercial-size piggeries. Backyard raisers from Quezon City source their piglets and swine materials, including boar services and artificial insemination, from the nearby provinces. Collectors of food refuse from food establishments segregated by garbage collectors, a raw material for kaningbaboy (swill), daily ply along these routes of Quezon City. Those hog raisers who produce their own piglets have a better income, as a newly weaned piglet is usually sold between P2,800 and P3,500. Some of the backyard hog raisers in Quezon City have already received payment for their culled animals but are still waiting for the financial assistance for alternative livelihood promised by the local government.
For Royandoyan, the ASF also affected rice farmers. Rice farmers are naturally hog raisers because of the darak, the inner covering of rice packed with minerals, a known raw material for locally produced feeds for local hogs, he explained. “Hence, the ASF crisis is a double-whammy for the rice farmers who are already affected by the steep fall in the prices of their produce because of the rice tariffication law. “Affected backyard hog raisers should be given free piglets, for them to start all over once the ASF is contained,” Royandoyan said. He called on the government to draw up a road map for the backyard piggery sector.
Enter supermarkets
LAST Monday the DA said it will improve measures against the ASF as it validates another reported discovery of ASF-tainted pork in another supermarket in Quezon City. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of his meeting with pork industry stakeholders, Agriculture Secretary William D. Dar said they have agreed to “strengthen” existing guidelines to further control and contain ASF in Luzon. Dar said DA teams are currently validating another report that ASF-affected pork was being sold in a Quezon City supermarket, the second under the DA’s radar after it confirmed recently the ASFtainted pork in their shelves. “We are one in seeing to it that the ASF is properly managed, controlled and contained,” he said. “We will continue to strengthen existing guidelines to ensure that nothing gets past us. The validation is ongoing [on the reported case]. Only one has been confirmed [so far],” he added. Dar did not provide details on the possible changes in DA’s existing guidelines on ASF, saying that they are “too general to mention now.” He pointed out, though, that everything would be “elevated.” Dar disclosed that he will talk to Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea this week for the possible issuance of an executive order on the government’s National ASF Zoning plan. He expects the document to be issued by Malacañang before February 1. In a separate interview with reporters, Belmonte said the pork samples that “allegedly” tested positive for ASF virus were tested by the Bureau of Animal Industry. “Given that, there’s more than one supermarket now that has been identified having tainted meat regardless of the fact that they have NMIS [National Meat Inspection Service] certification,” Belmonte said. The mayor said she called for an immediate meeting this week with supermarkets and their respective meat suppliers to thresh out issues surrounding ASF-tainted pork being sold in retail stores. With additional report from Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas
The World BusinessMirror
US-China pact signing to ease tension but leave much undone
ASHINGTON—After 18 months of economic combat, the United States and China are set to take a step toward peace on Wednesday. At least for now. President Donald J. Trump and China’s chief negotiator, Liu He, are scheduled to sign a modest trade agreement in which the administration will ease some sanctions on China and Beijing will step up its purchases of US farm products and other goods. Above all, the deal will defuse a conflict that has slowed global growth, hurt American man-
ufacturers and weighed on the Chinese economy. But the so-called Phase 1 pact does little to force China to make the major economic reforms—such as reducing unfair subsidies for its own companies—hat the Trump administration sought when it started the trade war by imposing tariffs on Chinese imports in July 2018. The US
A worker waits to transport containers at the container port in Qingdao, in eastern China’s Shandong province on Tuesday, January 14, 2020. China’s exports rose 0.5 percent in 2019 despite a tariff war with Washington after growth rebounded in December on stronger demand from other markets. Chinatopix Via AP has yet to reveal details of the agreement, though US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer has said they would be made public on Wednesday. Most analysts say any meaningful resolution of the key US allegation—that Beijing uses predatory tactics in its drive to supplant America’s technological supremacy—could require years of contentious talks. And skeptics say a satisfactory resolution may be next to impossible given China’s ambitions to become the global leader in such advanced technologies as driverless cars and artificial intelligence. “The signing of the Phase 1 deal would represent a welcome, even if modest, deescalation of trade hostilities between China and the US,” said Eswar Prasad, a Cornell University economist and and former head of the International Monetary Fund’s China division. “But it hardly addresses in any substantive way the fundamental sources of trade and economic tensions between the two sides, which will continue to fester.’’ In a letter to Trump on Monday, the top Senate Democrat, Chuck Schumer of New York, complained that the Phase 1 deal appeared to make “very little progress in reforming China’s rapacious trade behaviors and seems like it could send a signal to Chinese negotiators that the US can be steamrolled.’’ The thornier issues are expected to be taken up in future rounds of negotiations. But it’s unclear when they will begin. And few expect much progress before the November US election. “Phase 2—I wouldn’t wait by the phone,’’ said John Veroneau, who was a US trade official in the George W. Bush administration, and is now cochair of the international trade practice at Covington & Burling. “That is probably a 2021 issue.’’ Under the Phase 1 agreement, which the two sides reached in mid-December, the administration dropped plans to impose tariffs on an additional $160 billion in Chinese imports. And it halved, to 7.5 percent, existing tariffs on $110 billion of good from China. For its part, Beijing agreed to significantly increase its purchases of US products. According to the Trump administration, China is to buy $40 billion a year in US farm products—an ambitious goal for a country that has never imported more than $26 billion a year in US agricultural products. The deal may be most notable for what it doesn’t do. It leaves in place tariffs on about $360 billion in Chinese imports—a level of protectionism that would have been unthinkable before Trump took office. Chad Bown of the Peterson Institute for International Economics calculates that the Phase 1 agreement will leave nearly two-thirds of Chinese imports covered by Trump’s tariffs. Beijing’s retaliatory tariffs affect more than half of American exports to China. The average US tariff on Chinese imports has risen from 3 percent in January 2018 to 21 percent now. High tariffs between the world’s two biggest economies, Bown says, are now “the new normal.’’ The Trump administration argues that the Phase 1 deal is a solid start that includes Chinese commitments to do more to protect intellectual property, curb the practice of forcing foreign companies to hand over sensitive technology and refrain from manipulating their currency lower to benefit Chinese exporters. In advance of the Phase 1 signing, in fact, the Treasury Department on Monday dropped its designation of China as a
currency manipulator. And by maintaining significant tariffs on Chinese imports, the administration retains leverage to force Beijing to abide by its commitments—something the US says Beijing has failed to do for decades. “We’ve never punished them before,” said Derek Scissors, China specialist at the American Enterprise Institute. “If you don’t have tariffs, you can write down anything you want, and the Chinese will cheat.’’ The administration contends that, however narrow the Phase 1 agreement may be, it represents a significant breakthrough. “Across the board, it’s a really, really good deal for the United States,’’ Lighthizer told Fox Business Network on Monday. “And, it will work if reformers in China want it to work. And if that happens, great. If it doesn’t happen, [the pact] is fully enforceable....We expect them to live up to the letter of the law. We’ll bring cases—we’ll bring actions against them if they don’t.’’ Scissors said the trade war has already delivered a benefit for Trump, even if it hasn’t forced Beijing to make major changes to its economic policy: Trump’s tariffs have reduced Chinese exports to the US and narrowed America’s trade deficit with China. The president has long lambasted the US trade gap with Beijing as a sign of economic weakness, though many economists disagree. A wide trade deficit can actually reflect economic strength because it means that a nation’s consumers feel prosperous and confident enough to spend freely—on imported goods, as well as on home-grown goods. So far this year, the US deficit with China in the trade of goods has declined by 16 percent, or $62 billion, to $321 billion compared with a year earlier. And the deficit will narrow further if Beijing lives up to its pledges to buy dramatically more American imports. Trump’s tariff hikes have proved to be a headwind for China’s economy, which was already slowing, though the damage has been less than some forecasters expected. Chinese global exports eked out a 0.5-percent increase in 2019, despite a plunge in sales to the United States, according to Chinese customs data. Chinese exporters responded to Trump’s tariff hikes by shipping goods to the US through other countries and by stepping up sales to Asia, Europe and Africa. The government reported doubledigit gains in 2019 exports to France, Canada, Australia, Brazil and Southeast Asia. Economists said the tariff war slowed Chinese growth, which hit a multi-decade low of 6 percent in the quarter ending in September, by as little as 0.6 percentage point. Weak domestic demand and the cooling of a construction boom inflicted more damage. “It is unrealistic for the US government to think they could defeat China by exerting extreme pressure,” said Tu Xinquan, director of the China Institute of WTO Studies at the University of International Business and Economics in Beijing. “As an economy with a massive size, China will gradually absorb such external shocks.” “China didn’t get everything they wanted out of this deal, and the US has obviously not got the structural changes in the Chinese economy they wanted,” said Julian Evans-Pritchard of Capital Economics. “But they are going to get a substantial increase in exports and a reduction in the bilateral trade [deficit], which I think the Trump administration will clearly see as a win.” AP
Singapore overhauls fund rule to enhance financial hub allure
ingapore has just made it easier for investment firms to register funds locally in a bid to increase its allure as a financial hub. A new law, which came into effect on Tuesday, encourages asset managers to domicile their funds in Singapore by allowing the creation of a single structure to hold a pool of assets and multiple sub-funds, and offers investors added confidentiality. While many asset managers have offices in Singapore, most of their funds are still registered in offshore jurisdictions. The new rules offer investors greater flexibility, and can be used for traditional and alternative strategies. Firms will be allowed to use both Singapore and international accounting standards. The move is part of government efforts to build on Singapore’s traditional strength as a financial center and reduce the economy’s reliance on more volatile sectors, such as trade. Singapore’s asset-management industry grew more than 5 percent to S$3.4 trillion ($2.5 trillion) in 2018, according to the Monetary Authority of Singapore. The new law, known as the Variable Capital Companies Act, is “another salvo in the island republic’s efforts to further promote Singapore as both an assetmanagement and fund-domicile hub,” said Daniel Yong, a partner at law firm Withers KhattarWong LLP. At the same time, the city-state is set to benefit from months of unrest in its long-time regional rival, with more Hong Kong-based asset managers inquiring about opening offices in
Singapore. There was about $74 trillion of assets under management globally in 2018, according to Boston Consulting Group Inc. The simplified fund structure has been launched alongside a pilot program involving 18 asset managers, who incorporated or re-domiciled 20 funds as variable capital companies on Wednesday. Asset managers are allowed to hold multiple sub-funds under one company, a change from the current system where they typically need to incorporate special purpose vehicles for each fund. That means just a single set of service providers, financial statements and board of directors are required for multiple sub-funds, substantially cutting costs. The company is treated as a single entity for tax purposes, and has access to Singapore’s network of 67 double-tax treaties. The move may create more than 1,000 jobs for services, such as legal and accounting firms and fund administrators over the next two years, according to Indranee Rajah, Singapore’s second minister for finance. Gordian Capital Singapore Ltd., a fund platform that participated in the pilot program, has launched a sustainable investment fund in partnership with GoImpact Capital Partners this quarter, targeting $100 million in assets. “Offshore jurisdictions in general are losing ground slowly by surely to onshore jurisdictions,” said Mark Voumard, Gordian’s chief executive officer.
Malaysia wants to break up big companies without hurting stocks
alaysia is considering the merits of having the state control, its biggest companies, after moves to break up their dominance in sectors from the Internet to electricity led to declines in Asia’s worst major stock market. The government needs to review on a caseby-case basis whether it needs to hold on to its golden shares in state-linked firms, as the 1MDB scandal proves it’s still needed, Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad said on Tuesday. His administration has sought to make the companies more efficient to meet its campaign promise of lowering living costs, a drive that analysts expect to benefit the economy in the long run. Yet, Mahathir walks a tightrope as he tries to overhaul state-linked firms that have stifled competition, without causing an earnings upheaval and spooking investors. The US-China trade war that triggered foreign stock outflows across Asia hasn’t helped either—Malaysia’s benchmark index fell 6 percent last year, the most since 2008. State operator Telekom Malaysia Bhd. was the first hit when the country slashed broadband prices as part of an election pledge. That triggered a loss of almost $1 billion in its market value since May 2018. Now, power firm Tenaga Nasional Bhd. is bracing for new players as the government moves to open up the retail electricity market. Its shares have slumped 18 percent since September 2018, when the government first mooted the plan. “The government’s push for industry specific and procedural reforms aimed at increasing competition and transparency are for the greater good in the long-term,” said Geoffrey Ng, director at Fortress Capital Asset Management Sdn. It’s the lack of public education and market engagement that created short-term uncertainty, “resulting in perception of increased policy risk when investing in Malaysia,” he added. While Malaysians welcomed cheaper Internet and the prospect of smaller electricity bills, some of the cost may be borne by state funds Permodalan Nasional Bhd. and Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF), which are among the biggest shareholders in the companies.
Golden shares
Public pension fund EPF, which owns a 16-percent stake each in Telekom and Tenaga, said its investment income fell 7.6 percent to 13.5 billion ringgit ($3.3 billion) in the third quarter from a year ago due to the decline in Malaysia’s stock market. Permodalan, or PNB, announced its lowest income distribution since 1990 to unit holders of Amanah Saham Bumiputera, which owns 12 percent of Telekom and 9 percent of Tenaga. PNB was formed by the government in 1978, to help boost the wealth of ethnic Malays and
indigenous people, who can buy its trusts. Telekom shares dropped 1.8 percent as of the midday break in Kuala Lumpur trading, while Tenaga slid 1.1 percent. “The government should be more cognizant of the impact of policy changes on publicly traded companies and service providers,” said Alexander Chia, head of regional equity research at RHB Bank Bhd. That includes consulting stakeholders and giving the market enough time to prepare for the changes “to avoid shocking the system,” he added. Representatives for the finance ministry, EPF and Telekom declined to comment, while a representative for Tenaga didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment. Khazanah Nasional Bhd. called for the government to move away from the practice of using golden shares to have clout over stateowned companies, and to wield its influence through legislation and regulators instead, Managing Director Shahril Ridza Ridzuan said at the same conference where Mahathir spoke on Tuesday in Kuala Lumpur. A golden share allows the government to outvote all other shareholders on certain matters, such as in appointing chief executive officers. To be sure, the reform has pushed the companies to become leaner. Telekom cut costs by dismissing workers, renegotiating contracts and delaying capital spending. UBS Group AG analyst expects its net income to rise to 412 million ringgit in the fourth quarter, which would be the biggest since 2011, from 261.3 million in the previous period. Tenaga is splitting itself into three units, including one to handle retail electricity, and planning a debt sale for the first time since 2017 to gear up for new competition.
“GLC reforms are definitely good for the country,” said Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid, the chief economist of Bank Islam Malaysia Bhd., referring to government-linked companies. “The way I see it, the critical thing to do is to ensure that the GLC’s existence will not crowd out the private investment.” The move to open up industries dominated by state companies is also meant to encourage smaller private companies to take a bigger role in the economy. Malaysia wants small and medium-sized enterprises to contribute 50 percent to the gross domestic product, from 38.3 percent in 2018. As Mahathir put it, the government has “no business to be in business.” Overall, the government’s handling of the corporate reform has improved, said RHB’s Chia. While the broadband price cut was abrupt, the government is now communicating well and phasing in the plan to open up the electricity sector, he said. Bloomberg News
www.businessmirror.com.ph · Editor: Angel R. Calso
Davos forum: Trump to attend; Iran’s foreign minister cancels
ENEVA—Ira n’s foreig n m inister has ca nceled an ex pected appearance at next week ’s World Economic For u m in Davos, Sw it zerl a nd, orga n i z ers sa id on Tuesd ay, c it i ng t he “ bac kd rop of u ncer t a int y” in t he Midd le East. The move averts a possible crossing-of-paths with top US officials, including President Donald Trump, in the Alpine town at a time when relations between Iran and the United States have hit a new low. WEF President Borge Brende cited only the “cancellation” by Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, who was notably blacklisted by the Trump administration even before the new tensions. Brende declined to elaborate on the reasons for it. “We have to understand the cancellation against the backdrop of uncertainty in the region and what is happening in Iran,” he told reporters at WEF headquar ters in Geneva at a look-ahead event to the 50th anniversar y of the forum. Word of Zarif ’s absence came as WEF founder Klaus Schwab warned that the world faces a “state of emergency” and said the window for opportunity is closing fast—notably when it comes to acting to save the environment.
He insisted the annual meeting will be “a ‘do-shop,’ not a ‘talk-shop.’” All told, nearly 3,000 leaders from 118 countries are expected for the January 21 to 24 event. The president of Iraq, Barham Salih, and German Chancellor Angela Merkel are among the 53 heads of state and government set to attend, along with hundreds of business leaders and civil-society activists, like environmental campaigner Greta Thunberg of Sweden. Schwab emphasized the importance of sustainable economic growth, the need for decent jobs and salaries, and plans for skills training for a billion people worldwide over the next decade. He expressed hopes that a “Green Revolution” will go mainstream and said the World Economic Forum would encourage partner businesses to become carbon neutral. He highlighted an environmental project to plant 1 trillion trees worldwide by 2030 to help gobble up excess carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Sc hwab rev ived h is ca l l for “s t a k e ho l d e r c a p it a l i s m” t o help t a ke t he lead in solv ing globa l problems. “Environmental responsibility is very much a part of the stakeholder responsibility,” he said. AP
Microsoft CEO calls India’s new citizenship limits ‘sad’
wo high profile, Indian-born business leaders— Microsoft’s Satya Nadella and venture capitalist Vinod Khosla—have added their voices to criticisms of India’s new religion-based citizenship law that has roiled the country and led to violent protests. Nadella, Microsoft Corp.’s chief executive officer, said the Citizenship Amendment Act, which bans undocumented Muslim migrants from neighboring countries from seeking citizenship in India while allowing immigrants from other religions to do so, is “sad.” “I think it’s just bad,” Nadella said on Monday at a Microsoft event for technology editors in New York. “If anything, I would love to see a Bangladeshi immigrant who comes to India and creates the next unicorn in India, or becomes the CEO of Infosys. That should be the aspiration.” Longtime Silicon Valley venture capitalist Khosla, echoed Nadella’s comments on the topic. “I strongly believe India should be a secular country!” he wrote via e-mail late on Monday, when asked about the law. The software maker’s Indian Twitter account later tweeted a statement from Nadella that seemed to moderate the initial comments, beginning with the thought that “every country will and should define its borders, protect national security and set immigration policy accordingly.”
‘Multicultural India’
“I’m shaped by my Indian heritage, growing up in a multicultural India and my immigrant experience in the United States,” the written follow-up statement continued. “My hope is for an India where an immigrant can aspire to found a prosperous start-up or lead a multinational corporation benefiting Indian society and the economy at large.” The comments were reported earlier by Buzzfeed, which asked Nadella the question at the event. Protests, led mostly by students of all faiths, have erupted across India since Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government pushed the Citizenship Amendment Act through Parliament in December. However condemnation from prominent Indians, within the country and abroad, has been slow to come. “Well-known names criticizing the citizenship move is bad for India’s image abroad,”said Arati Jerath, a New Delhi-based author and political analyst. Criticism from eminent people along with continuing protests will “scare off potential investors at a time when economy desperately needs infusion of capital. I don’t think the government can afford to ignore this anymore.” A spokesman and federal lawmaker for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party however sought to dismiss Nadella’s comments. “How literate need to be educated! Perfect example,” Meenakshi Lekhi tweeted, adding “How about granting these opportunities to Syrian Muslims instead of Yezidis in USA?” Lekhi was likely referring to President Donald Trump’s travel ban that includes visa restrictions on five majorityMuslim nations: Iran, Libya, Somalia, Syria and Yemen, as well as Venezuela and North Korea. The Yezidis, a tiny religious minority in northern Iraq, faced a brutal genocide at the hands of militants of the Islamic State.
EU pressures Iran on nuclear deal in last-ditch bid to save it
RUSSELS—Britain, France and Germany on Tuesday ratcheted up pressure on Iran to stop violating its landmark nuclear deal in a last-ditch effort to resolve their differences through talks while also starting a process that could bring back punishing UN sanctions on Tehran.
The three European Union countries are being pressed on one side by US President Donald Trump to abandon the agreement like he did unilaterally in 2018, and on the other side from Iran to provide enough economic incentives for them to roll back their violations. Now, the Europeans have reluctantly triggered the accord’s dispute mechanism to force Iran into discussions, starting the clock on a process that could result in the “snapback” of UN and EU sanctions on Iran. The three nations specifically avoided threatening the sanctions while emphasizing hopes for a negotiated resolution. They held off their announcement until tensions between the US and Iran had calmed down after the January 3 killing of an Iranian general in an American drone strike so their intent would not be misinterpreted. “Our goal is clear: We want to preserve the accord and come to a diplomatic solution within the agreement,” German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said in a statement. “We will tackle this together with all partners in the agreement. We call on Iran to participate constructively in the negotiation process that is now beginning.” I r a n ’s F o r e i g n M i n i s t r y warned of a “serious and strong response” to the European move. But at the same time, ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi held out an olive branch, saying his country was “fully ready to answer any good will and constructive effort” that preserves the nuclear deal, Iran’s official IRNA news agency reported. The US State Department said it fully supports the decision to initiate the dispute resolution mechanism. “We believe further diplomatic and economic pressure is warranted by nations,” it said in a statement. “The civilized world must send a clear and unified message to the Iranian regime: Your campaign of terror, murder, mayhem will not
be tolerated any longer,” Trump said, according to the statement. The accord, which Iran signed with the US, Britain, Germany, France, China and Russia in 2015, has been unraveling since Trump pulled Washington out in 2018 and reinstated sanctions designed to cripple the Islamic Republic under what the US called a “maximum pressure” campaign. The Europeans felt compelled to act, despite objections from Russia and China, because every violation of the deal reduces the socalled breakout time Iran needs to produce a nuclear bomb, Britain’s Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab told Parliament. “Each of these actions were individually serious,” Raab said. “Together, they now raise acute concerns about Iran’s nuclear ambitions.” Iran insists it is not seeking an atomic weapon. At the time of the signing of the deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action or JCPOA, Iran’s “breakout” time was estimated to be as little as two months. With the safeguards in place, limiting Iran’s stockpiles of enriched uranium and heavy water, the number and types of centrifuges it can use to enrich uranium, and the purity that is allowed, that estimate grew to more than a year. Trump said the deal should be renegotiated because it didn’t address Iran’s ballistic missile program or its involvement in regional conflicts, and reimposed US sanctions that have left Iran’s economy reeling. To pressure the remaining signatories to provide enough economic incentives to offset the US sanctions, Iran last year began violating its limitations in stages. Throughout, it has announced the violations publicly and continued to allow inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency in to its facilities. Following the US drone strike that killed Revolutionary Guard Gen. Qassem Soleimani, Iran announced what it said was its
European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell is surrounded by reporters at the European parliament on Tuesday, January 14, in Strasbourg, eastern France. Britain, France and Germany have launched action under the Iran nuclear agreement paving the way for possible sanctions in response to Tehran’s attempts to roll back parts of the deal, Borrell said on Tuesday. AP/Jean-Francois Badias
fifth and final step in violating the deal, saying it would no longer abide by any limitation to its enrichment activities. T hat lef t the Europeans “w it h no c hoice” but to invoke t he d ispute mec ha nism, R a ab told Pa rl i a ment. “We do so with a view to bringing Iran back into full compliance,” he said, adding that they hope the move will “reinforce the diplomatic track, not to abandon it.” In their letter to the EU’s foreign policy chief announcing their move, the three countries distanced themselves from the new US sanctions. “Our three countries are not joining a campaign to implement maximum pressure against Iran,” they said. “Our hope is to bring Iran back into full compliance with its commitments.” At the same time, they rejected Tehran’s argument that it was justified in violating the deal because Washington broke the agreement first when it pulled out. Invoking the dispute mechanism starts a 30-day period in which to resolve the problem, which can be extended and probably will be. If the problem persists, the matter could be brought before the UN Security Council and might result in the “snapback” of sanctions that had been lifted under the deal. After receiving the letter, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, who coordinates the agreement on behalf of the world powers, stressed that the pressure on Iran from Europe does not mean international sanctions will automatically be imposed. Despite Iran’s recent violations, all remaining parties to the JCPOA have said it is worth
preserving, saying it is the best way to curb Iran’s nuclear program. Diplomats note that even with its violations, Iran is still enriching uranium to a lower purity than it did before the deal, and IAEA inspectors continue to have access to its facilities. “We see no reason for such a step,” the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement about the EU countries’ decision. It called the move an “ill-considered decision” that could lead to a new escalation and make a return to the original framework “unachievable.” With the growing skepticism that the deal will be saved without US i nvolvement, Br it ish Prime Minister Boris Johnson sug gested the possibility the agreement could be reworked somehow to address some of Trump’s concerns. “Let’s work together to replace the JCPOA with the Trump deal,” he told the BBC. Borrell refused to comment on that but again emphasized that the remaining signatories feel it is the best solution to limiting Iran’s nuclear ambitions. “We have to preserve the nuclear deal and work to go back to full and effective implementation,” Borrell said in Strasbourg, France. He described the pact as a “significant achievement” and underlined that “there is no alternative to this agreement.” Raab told Britain’s Parliament that “the government in Iran has a choice.” “The regime can take the steps to de-escalate tensions and adhere to the basic rules of international law. Or sink deeper and deeper into political and economic isolation,” he said. “We urge Iran to work with us to save the deal.” AP
Oil near 6-week low after report of growing US crude stockpiles
il traded near a six-week low after a repor t indicated American crude stockpiles increased, while signs that trade tensions between the US and China haven’t gone away damped investor sentiment. Futures in New York edged lower after rising 0.3 percent on Tuesday to snap a five-day losing streak. The American Petroleum Institute reported inventories expanded by 1.1 million
barrels last week, according to people familiar with the data. Existing US tariffs on Chinese goods are likely to stay in place until after the presidential election, people familiar said, while Reuters reported the US is drafting more rules to block sales to Huawei Technologies Co. The renewed trade frictions are a reminder that the phase one deal to be signed by the US and China this week won’t necessarily spur a
rebound in economic growth and crude demand. That’s adding to a bearish outlook for oil after Washington and Tehran stepped back from the brink of war last week. “While the stay in existing tariffs may be disappointing, further details from the agreement tonight might change the mood in the market,” said Howie Lee, an economist at Oversea-Chinese Banking Corp. in Singapore.
“Additional positive details, especially pertaining to phase two negotiations, might yet give crude prices a lift.” We s t Te x a s I n t e r m e d i at e c r u d e f o r February delivery fell 15 cents, or 0.3 percent, to $58.08 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange as of 7:43 a.m. in London. The contract closed at $58.08, Monday, the lowest since December 3. Bloomberg News
B8 Thursday, January 16, 2020
E- Commerce delivery firm partners with WorldVision
Coffee table book to empower PWDs, their loved ones, and the communities launched
D Featured PWDs are joined by their parents, officers of FPPF, NCDA, supporters, and media representatives.
Philippines, highly achieving architectblind Jimmy Silva, and Vico Cham, a poster boy for PWDs in the workplace. Many of the photographs were taken by project coordinator Cris Cleofas and art director Joy Ganaden culled from their extensive volunteer-work for PWDs. The book’s editorial team also included editor-head writer Yugel Losorata (pioneer photographer profiler for Manila Bulletin’s Picture Perfect fold) and layout artistgraphic designer Buccino de Ocampo. “This book is a culmination of the many photographs our group has taken from our years of support and charitable activities for the PWDs and for various groups working with and for them ,” said FPPF President Pablo “Lito” Beltran.
In attendance were some of the PWDs featured and their parents who gave inspiring stories about the struggles and little successes of their children in battling their disabilities and acceptance by people around them. Joey de Leon is now the country’s champion in boccia despite having cerebral palsy while Muneer (Angelico Amir Peña) and his mom, Jan, continues their advocacy of helping fellow children with autism. Also gracing the event were representatives from private NGOs helping the PWDs such as Project Inclusion and the NCDA which gave update on the government policies for the PWDs. For book reservation, call 09562692610 or 0995-0132515 or email myfppf@yahoo.com.
Asset Magazine cites BPI economist for research excellence
BPI Lead Economist Emilio Neri Jr.
HE Asset Magazine cited Bank of the Philippines Islands (BPI) Lead Economist, Emilio Neri Jr., as the Philippines' Best Local Currency Bond Individual in Research for 2019. In the Asset Benchmark Research Awards, Neri was given “Rank 1”, which is the first time such ranking was topped by a local bank.
Having been acknowledged as one of the best in the industry, Neri was recognized by institutional investors to be among the top economists who made accurate forecasts for economic and financial market indicators. “It is truly an honor to have been recognized by the Asset,” said Neri. “This inspires me and my team to bring the quality of our research output to a much higher level. By doing so, we hope to contribute more to building a bigger community of well informed and financially astute Filipinos.” The BPI Economics and Market Research team led by Neri has provided valuable insights on various macroeconomic indicators, as well as local currency fixed income and foreign exchange forecasting. For its methodology, the 2019 Asian Local Currency Bond Benchmark Review surveyed over 300 institutional fixed income investors who are active in 11 Asian currency bond markets: China (onshore and offshore), Hong
Kong, Indonesia, India, Korea, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand. This year, more than 600 sell-side individuals active in Asian local currency bond markets were nominated and over 180 achieved a rank. Neri has also ranked high in international economic polls in both GDP and inflation forecasting conducted by Bloomberg. With his leadership, BPI has won several awards throughout the years from the Fund Managers Association of the Philippines, Asiamoney, and The Asset, among others. Furthermore, Neri was voted as the president of the Philippine Economic Society (PES) for the year 2020. As the president, Neri hopes to further strengthen networks of economists in the academe, government, and business sector. He will continue to provide a venue for free and open discussion on economics education, financial literacy and other policy issues through conferences, training, and symposia.
Bai Hotel Cebu’s Alfred M. Reyes clinches 2019 Mabuhay Gold Award
LFRED M. Reyes, VP of Operations and General Manager of Bai Hotel Cebu, declared the 24th Mabuhay Gold Awardee by the prestigious Association of Human Resources Managers in the Hospitality Industry (AHRM) during the Awards Night held recently at the Manila Marriott Hotel. With the advent of technology, the already dynamic industry has become even more exciting. Industry professionals are driven to innovate and integrate new technology and young minds with time-tested approaches in hospitality to exceed client expectations. Thus, the 24th Mabuhay Awards theme of “Going Beyond”. Such is this year’s Mabuhay Gold Awardee. In his thirty-something years of being a hotelier, Reyes has always gone beyond expectations. Now, he joins the roster of the most notable names in the history of the tourism industry – Mabuhay Gold Awardees that include former Tourism Secretary Mina Gabor (2000), Senator Richard Gordon (2001), former Tourism Undersecretary Dr, Evelyn Pantig (2004), Taipan Lucio C. Tan (2005), Arthur Gindap (2007), Vanessa Suatengco (2008), and Lyceum of
“We are truly privileged to be a part of this effort. We are J&T Express share the same mission with WorldVision of helping children in need,” said Zoe Chi, Vice President of J&T Express Philippines. “We want to give these kids a chance to feel the true spirit of the season by allowing them to enjoy the love generosity from others.” J&T Express, the number one e-Commerce delivery in Southeast Asia, while a relatively new player in the Philippines, has made strong inroads in the country its aggressive expansion programs. To date, the company has more then 400 branches across the country. J&T Express hopes to continue to impact the online business segment by providing better value and operation presence 365 days of the year.
MSMEs goes green, help save the environment
PHOTO-DRIVEN hardbound entitled Inspire/Empower: Images and Stories of Persons with Disabilities in the Philippines was recently introduced to the media at the FPPF office (Room 302A, FEMII Building, A. Soriano Avenue. Intramuros, Manila. A project of Federation of Philippine Photographers Foundation, Inc. (FPPF) , the book contains several unpublished pictures and features chronicling the plight and triumph of PWDs, their families, and concerned groups. Also included are features about NCDA (National Council on Disability Affairs), Tahanang Walang Hagdanan, Apolinario Mabini Awards, SM Cares, among others. Some of the interesting persons tackled were the late photography icon John Chua who initiated efforts to reach out to children with disabilities, photography hobbyist Luis Harder who now heads the Down Syndrome Association of the
&T Express and WorldVision recently brought he holiday cheer to some 30 children, all between the ages of 5 to 7 years old. The children were all from the Baseco Port Manila. The partnership was in line with J&T Express’ corporate social responsibility of helping children in need by giving a chance to enjoy the warmth and spirit of the season. The kids were joined by 11 volunteers from J&T Express. During the event, they were treated to a lunch, games and gift giving. The children also performed a dance number as part of the program’s intermission. The kids belonged to the community that the global foundation regularly supported. The company chose WorldVision since it has long been catering to the needs of underprivileged children in the country and around the world.
the Philippines University’s Atty. Roberto P. Laurel (2015), to name a few. A befitting accolade to one of the tourism industry’s prime movers. Even during the early years of his career, Reyes always found ways to provide service beyond expectations. After three years with Cebu Plaza Hotel, and in constant pursuit of ways to improve himself and to learn more, Reyes left his hometown Cebu to pursue a career in the hospitality industry in Manila. After a decade of learning and gathering experience from the capital city, Reyes returned to Cebu as the General Manager of the Waterfront Airport Hotel and Casino. The recognition of his exceptional talent did not escape the attention of the international industry players. He was soon offered positions overseas, which he gladly took and excelled in. Despite his successful career overseas, his heart remained in his home country. His vision to make a significant contribution to the Philippine hospitality industry never wavered. He returned to the Philippines and took the reins of Linden Suites Under SwissBelhotel International. Now as Vice President for Operations and General Manager of bai Hotel Cebu, Reyes
has proved to be steps ahead in ensuring that he and his team provide globallycompetitive With Reyes at the helm of its operations, bai Hotel Cebu is already considered an industry leader. At the tender age of two years, bai Hotel Cebu has established a standard of a holistically sustainable hotel. Not only does it provide outstanding amenities and hospitality to its guests, it also maintains environmental consciousness and sound community service all while providing for a healthy milieu for mentoring its personnel.
Bai Hotel VP for Operations and GM Alfred Reyes (center) during the awarding rites.
ESPITE being one of the fastestgrowing countries in Asia, the Philippines is considered the most susceptible to hazards brought by climate change. This alarming reality, which can put the lives of Filipinos at risk, calls timely attention to the pressing environmental issues that need to be acknowledged and addressed before it is too late. Local organizations, especially the Micro, Small, and Medium-Scale Enterprises (MSMEs), have a role to play in tackling these environmental challenges. With 99.56 per cent of companies in the Philippines registered as MSMEs in 2017, these businesses have the potential to take the lead in helping address the collective burden and help mitigate the effects of climate change in the country. When it comes to running an ecofriendlier business, Epson’s printers can help SMEs reduce its energy consumption through its heat-free Micro Piezo and PrecisionCore printing technology and can consider these three steps to go green and save the environment. One option for MSMEs is the use of efficient office equipment, such as printers, projectors, and other electronic devices, that can support business processes using less power. For instance, MSMEs can consider switching from laser to inkjet printers, which can save up to 85 per cent energy in normal operations. MSMEs should incorporate the habit of recycling paper, plastic, and e-waste into
their regular operations. MSMEs should also consciously seek out alternatives to reduce garbage disposal, such as recycling spent consumables or using office devices like inkjet printers that do not employ non-reusable cartridges, which can significantly lessen the environmental impact of using printers. Eco-initiatives play a key role in companies to impact climate change. It may come in simple ways like taking part in annual environmental activities or by conducting social responsibility projects, such as information dissemination campaigns on environmental issues, clean up drives, among others. For instance, Epson Philippines Corporation has partnered with the Environmental Management Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-EMB) and its youth-led organization GREENducation Philippines in rolling out eco-initiatives for two years now. This year, Epson Philippines’ eco-projects focus on upcycling, a practice that transforms by-products and waste materials into new materials of better quality and environmental value. These initiatives include a denim upcycling workshop for the youth beneficiaries of Alay Pag-Asa Christian Foundation, Inc. and the EcoVision Short Film Competition, an inter-collegiate competition which taps the artistry of Filipino students in raising public understanding of the environment and its conservation through the power of the visual medium.
Kink Cakes welcomes the new year with a twist & good fortune
APPY New Year to all ! How fun it is to welcome year 2020 with a twist and good fortune through a money pulling cake, a cake that has money coming out of its topper. Not exactly a game, but likewise results into good family fun. So, where can we get this money pulling cake which can also signify good fortune? Well, look no further than Kink Cakes. As one of the country’s pioneers in specialized creative custom cakes, Kink Cakes actually makes cakes for every demographic and caters to all occasions. All cakes, novelty chocolates, cookies, and treats are handmade and decorated. The money pulling cake is one of Kink Cakes’ most popular creations, especially around the celebrations of both western and Chinese New Year.
The cake itself is available in Double Chocolate, Butter Pound, Carrot Cake, and other flavors then frosted with a choice of fondant or Marshmallow Meringue icing. Designs vary from different types of bags to cute piggy banks. You can even custom made your own design, all ready to dispense cash. Perfect for the whole family’s fun celebrations, where greetings of “Happy New Year!” and “Kung Hei Fat Choi!” echo within the warm walls of their loving homes. So what are you waiting for, surprise your loved ones not only with a cake but a Money Pulling Cake...." Kink Cakes branches are located at: Timog – C12 Landsdale Arcade, Timog Avenue, QC – 09176343274 and 83724454 ; Makati – Berjaya Makati Hotel 7835 Eduque Street corner Makati Avenue – 09176344039 and 83986586; and Commonwealth – Don Antonio Arcade, Holy Spirit Drive, QC -73585390 and 09171106969. Check out Kink Cakes: website www.kinkcakes.com.ph; FB:@ kinkcakesph; or contact hotlines: 09178651006 and 77442377
DREAMING BIG FOR TOKYO 2020 Sports BusinessMirror
| Thursday, January 16, 2020 mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph Editor: Jun Lomibao
Israel’s national baseball team poses for a group photo at a team practice in Tel Aviv, Israel. AP
By Aron Heller The Associated Press
EL AVIV, Israel—As a baseballcrazed kid growing up in Miami, Danny Valencia dreamed of playing in the Major Leagues. The thought of heading to the Olympics, for a foreign country no less, never crossed his mind. But after nine years and nearly 100 homers in the big leagues, that’s the next surreal step for the 35-year-old Valencia, who recently became an Israeli citizen thanks to his Jewishness and is now the star player in Team Israel’s improbable run to the Tokyo Games. Baseball is returning to the Olympics after being dropped for 2012 and 2016 and Israel is one of six teams vying for the three medals. “It’s pretty cool to be playing in the Olympics,” he told The Associated Press at a team event in Tel Aviv. “For it to come about the way it did, especially for my mother who is a practicing Jew and very pro-Israel, it just meant a lot to her. So, to do this, especially at the end of my career, it is like the icing on the cake.” It’s even more of a dream fulfilled for the small baseball community in Israel, comprised mostly of American immigrants, and which has languished for decades in the country’s sporting wilderness. Israel has zero tradition of the American pastime, which is largely derided by locals as an arcane and boring sport. In Israel, soccer and basketball reign supreme while baseball, long popular among American Jews, has failed to catch on with the rough-and-tumble native-born Israelis who have taken more of a liking to the strategy and hard hitting of American football. Only about 1,000 kids play baseball in Israel and there is just one regulation baseball field in the country. In 2007, a group of American supporters launched the Israel Baseball League, a semi-professional league comprised almost entirely of foreign players that generated little interest and folded after just one season. But thanks to a creative outreach campaign to Jewish-American pros, Israel’s national team has surged to unthinkable heights. It started when Israel fielded a qualifying team for the 2013 World Baseball Classic that was skippered by future Detroit Tigers manager Brad Ausmus and included former all-star Shawn Green. In 2017, Israel made the showcase tournament, upsetting South Korea and Taiwan en route to a surprising 6th-place finish. But even that paled in comparison to the sensation of knocking off the top 3 European teams before routing South Africa
11-1 in September to earn the Europe/Africa Olympic berth and becoming the first team to qualify after host Japan. Mexico and South Korea, which won the Olympic gold in 2008, have since also qualified with the final two openings to be decided in the coming months. It’s an achievement that Gili Lustig, the executive director of the Israel Olympic Committee, said was nothing short of “unbelievable.” Extolling praise this week in Hebrew upon the team—nearly none of whose members understood the language— he expressed hope that their Olympic odyssey would finally give the sport its long-awaited boost in Israel. “What’s important is to leverage your participation to grow baseball in Israel,” he said. “I have no doubt you will represent us well.” Lustig noted that the 24-member group will represent the first time Israel is sending a team sport to the Olympics since 1976, when it sent a soccer team, and will make the Israeli delegation to Tokyo the country’s largest ever. Baseball is one of five sports that were added to the 2020 Summer Olympics. It won’t be back in Paris in 2024 but seems likely to return once again for Los Angeles 2028. Unlike the World Baseball Classic, whose “heritage rule” allowed countries to field players who were merely
eligible for citizenship, the Olympics requires its participants to be full-fledged citizens of the countries they represent. Israel grants citizenship to anyone with at least one Jewish grandparent and in recent months the players have been going through the process, providing marriage certificates, letters from rabbis and other proof of their Judaism. Five of the players have Major League experience and others who find themselves outside opening day rosters may join later before the games kick off in July. Among the former major leaguers on the team are Jon Moscot, Ty Kelly and Josh Zeid. Once in Israel, they’ve faced an even greater challenge in drawing interest among a skeptical audience that
American Jew who plans to apply for citizenship, said he is aiming to double the number of local players in Israel within two years of the Olympics. He said his primary mission was to “instill our love and passion to the five and six-year-old kids throughout this country and show them what a great game this is.” As for the Olympic Games themselves, he noted that Israel would be an underdog, as usual, but still had a theoretical 50 percent chance of winning a medal. “Nobody gave us a shot...and we shocked the world,” Holtz said of the qualifying process. “It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity and we as a team couldn’t be prouder to represent Israel.”
couldn’t tell the difference between a strikeout and a stolen base. Even Israeli President Reuven Rivlin offered his greetings with a caveat while meeting the team during their current weeklong promotional visit to the Holy Land. “It’s not a secret that I prefer soccer, but you can’t ignore your exciting achievement,” he told them at his Jerusalem residence. Team Israel Head Coach Eric Holtz, himself an
Bach: Iran vows to stop violating Olympic Charter
nternational Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach claimed Iran has not been suspended by the organization because the country has sent a letter assuring it will end its discriminatory policy against athletes from Israel. Bach said the National Olympic Committee of the Islamic Republic of Iran (NOCIRI) promised to “in future fully comply with the Olympic Charter” in a letter to the IOC. Bach claimed the document had been signed by Iranian Sports Minister Masoud
International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach says Iran is not suspended because of controversies including its order on Saeid Mollaei to withdraw from the Judo World Championships in August to avoid facing an Israeli.
Soltanifar and NOCIRI President Syed Reza Salehi Amiri. NOCIRI escaped any punishment from the IOC, despite the government in Tehran continuing to order Iranian athletes not to face Israelis at sports events—a clear violation of the Olympic Charter that Bach helped draft. Iran sent a similar letter to the International Judo Federation (IJF), copied to the IOC, in May of last year, where the nation vowed to end its decades-long boycott against Israeli athletes. But the Iranian government then
allegedly ordered Saeid Mollaei to lose at the World Championships in Tokyo in August, to ensure he did not face an Israeli in the under-81 kilograms class, prompting the IJF to ban the country. The 27-year-old former world champion alleged he had been instructed to withdraw from the competition by Iran Judo Federation head Arash Miresmaeili and the NOCIRI president. Mollaei has since defected from Iran, seeking refuge in Germany before being cleared to compete for Mongolia by the IJF. “We are in contact with the IJF to shed further light on what happened at the World Championships and whether the National Olympic Committee [NOC] was involved,” Bach—who praised Iran’s support for “principles of political neutrality in sport” in a letter to the country’s President Hassan Rouhani last month—said. “We have had an exchange of letters with the NOC, we have received a letter having been signed by the minister of Sport of Iran, as well as the president of the NOC, assuring us that in the future Iran will fully comply with the Olympic Charter. “We have forwarded these assurances to the IJF and they are, at this moment in time, discussing among themselves how to proceed there and whether this assurance is enough, or whether they would need more evidence. “This is happening in close cooperation with the IOC and the IJF, in other words this is an ongoing procedure where no final decision has been taken yet.” Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has repeatedly praised athletes who have refused to face opponents from Israel.
Since its Islamic Revolution in 1979, Iran has refused to recognize Israel. The suspension initiated by the IJF threatens Iran’s participation in the sport at Tokyo 2020 and it is possible other organizations could follow suit if Iran does not relax its stance. In November, United World Wrestling postponed its Greco-Roman World Cup in Tehran in response to “current instability” in Iran. Two teams had withdrawn from the event on the advice of their governments. Iran’s only female Olympic medalist Kimia Alizadeh announced her defection this week after criticizing the regime’s “hypocrisy, lies and injustice.” Iran has also faced worldwide criticism for another clear breach of the Olympic Charter by not allowing female spectators to attend football matches and other events in stadiums. Clerics in Iran have claimed women must be shielded from the masculine atmosphere at sports events and the sight of semi-clad men. Last September, world football’s governing body Fifa ordered Iran to allow women access to stadiums without restrictions. A small number of female fans were subsequently allowed into the 80,000-capacity Azadi Stadium for Iran’s 2022 World Cup qualifier against Cambodia in October. The Fifa order followed the death of Sahar Khodayari, who set herself ablaze outside a court in Tehran in September, after finding out she could face a two-year jail sentence for attempting to enter a stadium dressed as a boy. Insidethegames
C2 Thursday, January 16, 2020
ROSE FINED $25,000 FOR TOSSING A PEN N QATAR’S Nasser Al-Attiyah and his French codriver Matthieu Baumel race their Toyota in the ninth stage of the Dakar Rally between Wadi al-Dawasir and Haradh in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday. AP
Sainz’s lead in Dakar Rally cut to 24 secs
ARADH, Saudi Arabia—Carlos Sainz’s lead of the Dakar Rally was slashed for a second straight day and reduced to 24 seconds on Tuesday with three stages to go. Sainz was powering over the 410-kilometer stony route from Wadi Al-Dawasir northeast to Haradh with title rivals Nasser Al-Attiyah and Stephane Peterhansel when he made a navigation error and was left behind. The Spaniard conceded five minutes at the time then lost tread on a tire and, eventually, finished 6 1/2 minutes behind Peterhansel, who earned a rally-leading third stage win. Sainz, 10 minutes up on Al-Attiyah on Sunday, was just 24 seconds up on the defending champion from Qatar. But Al-Attiyah was wary that there was still lots of room for error on Wednesday on the longest stage, 534 kilometers. “Tomorrow and after tomorrow will be very, very difficult for everybody,” Al-Attiyah said. “It’s good tomorrow that Stephane is opening [the way] on marathon day.”
Peterhansel, third overall, was six-and-ahalf minutes back. The teammate of Sainz was chasing his 14th Dakar victory, and eighth in cars. “We made no mistakes at all with the navigation,” Peterhansel said. “We only lost 10 or 15 minutes, but that’s nothing. We’ll try to keep the pressure on the leader.” After the eighth motorbike stage was canceled on Monday so riders could mourn the death of racer Paulo Goncalves, Ricky Brabec resumed as the leader and was still well in front after the ninth stage. Pablo Quintanilla won his first stage of this Dakar, two minutes ahead of defending champion Toby Price. Joan Barreda was third, and Brabec limited the damage to his overall lead by finishing fourth and only four minutes behind Quintanilla. The American still led second-placed Quintanilla of Chile by 21 minutes overall, while Price was 27 minutes back in third. AP
EW YORK—Pistons guard Derrick Rose was fined $25,000 by the National Basketball Association (NBA) on Tuesday for tossing a pen across the court during the end of Detroit’s loss to New Orleans. With 37 seconds left in overtime and play stopped on Monday night, Rose sat slumped on a courtside table and flung the pen into the stands. The Pelicans beat the Pistons, 117-110. The punishment was announced by NBA Executive Kiki VanDeWeghe. Rose had 23 points and eight assists, but it was a costly and frustrating night. His bank shot tied the score at 100 in regulation with 30 seconds left, capping Detroit’s rally from 16 points down with 11 minutes remaining. E’Twaun Moore missed two short jumpers, giving Detroit the ball with 14 seconds to go. That gave Rose a chance to replicate his winner from December 9 in New Orleans, but he missed at the buzzer. In overtime, Rose had two turnovers in the last 90 seconds. In Los Angeles, Kawhi Leonard more than did his part to make sure the Clippers made quick
work of the Cleveland Cavaliers. The All-Star forward scored a season-high 43 points in 28 minutes Tuesday night as the Clippers cruised to a 128-103 rout. According to the Elias Sports Bureau, he became the third NBA player in the shot-clock era to score at least 43 points in under 29 minutes—and the first in franchise history to have at least 40 points in less than 30 minutes. “We had great ball movement and, obviously, I made shots tonight,” said Leonard, who didn’t play in the fourth quarter. “The rest of the guys
were making shots and they got me in my spots and opened the floor for me.” According to Sportradar, it was only the second time since 1996 a Clippers player scored at least 40 points in the first three quarters. Lou Williams had 40 against Golden State in a 2018 game. Leonard had 14 points in the second quarter and set a career high for 3-pointers in one period with four as the Clippers broke open the game. He finished two points from tying his regularseason career high, going 14 of 22 from the floor and six of 10 from beyond the arc. “His pace was fantastic. When
INTENSE ACTION Czech Republic’s
Jakub Hrstka (front) and Ukraine’s Dmytro Ilchenko battle for the ball during their Men’s Handball European Championship preliminary round match in Vienna, Austria, on Tuesday. AP
IT’S a costly and frustrating night for Derrick Rose. AP
Kawhi is that efficient it is pretty impressive to watch,” Clippers Coach Doc Rivers said. Williams added 24 points for the Clippers, who played again without injured star Paul George. They have won five of six and had six scorers in double figures. “We had the right mindset and the right spirit tonight, both ends playing the right way,” said guard Landry Shamet, who scored 12 points. Collin Sexton led Cleveland with 25 points and Cedi Osman added 21. Rookie guard Darius Garland, the fifth overall pick in last June’s draft, had 14 points and a career-high 10 assists for his first double-double. Cavaliers Coach John Beilein thought Garland’s double-double and Osman hitting five threes were some positive things to take away despite his team’s 10th loss by at least 20 points. “There’s a lot of things we look at and say OK, in any lopsided loss earlier in the year we didn’t have those numbers,” he said. “The only thing we can do is find those growth areas. We know we are in transition.” Osman’s 3-pointer gave the Cavs a 34-33 lead with 9:58 remaining in the second quarter before Los Angeles outscored them 33-16 the remainder of the half. The Clippers scored the final 13 points of the first half, including nine from Leonard. He closed the half by intercepting Osman’s pass and going down the floor for a dunk while drawing a foul from Garland. Leonard’s free throw completed the three-point play to put Los Angeles up 66-50 at halftime. The Clippers’ largest lead was 36 early in the fourth. AP
Smoke haze again forces delay in Australian Open qualifying
ELBOURNE, Australia—Australian Open officials have delayed the start of play by two hours on the second day of qualifying, hoping that smoke from regional wild fires will clear later Wednesday. Smoke and hazy conditions at Melbourne Park on Tuesday affected the opening day’s play with organizers criticized for allowing qualifying matches to proceed. A number of players complained, including Australian Bernard Tomic, who sought medical treatment during his first-round loss when he struggled to breathe. Slovenia’s Dalila Jakupovic feared she would pass out before retiring from her match when she collapsed to her knees with a coughing spell. Health authorities expect the air quality to
bounce between the “very poor to hazardous range” until at least Wednesday afternoon, with a top temperature of 34 oCelsius (93 oFahrenheit) before a late weather change that’s set to bring rain. Tennis Australia said it will continue to work with its medical team, the Bureau of Meteorology and Environment Protection Authority Victoria scientists when making decisions about whether it’s safe to play. The Australian Open begins Monday. Former Australian Open champion Angelique Kerber, meanwhile, sustained a lower back injury and retired from her Adelaide International match on Wednesday. The former world No. 1 trailed 6-2, 2-0 in her match against Dayana Yastremska when she stopped playing. Kerber, who won the Australian
Impressive young netters Tessa Jazmines | tessa4347@gmail.com
PART OF THE GAME PHILIPPINE tennis has a bright future. That’s what Ivy League coaches from three US NCAA Division I schools said after conducting a camp in Manila to train and identify local talent with potential to get scholarships into top universities. Twenty young tennis players were given the rare opportunity at the DreamBig Gold Series Tennis Camp at the Manila Polo Club on January 11 and 12 to learn from the Ivy League tennis coaches and undergo extensive, hands-on training that gave them a taste of how US colleges run their programs. Ezequiel Gils of Rice University Athletics, Rob Raines of Cornell University and Jesse Frieder from Boston University saw huge potential in the 20 young netters who joined the camp—not just to improve their game but, more importantl—to get the opportunity to be scouted by foreign coaches who could provide them the chance to study and hone their game in US schools. DreamBig Events, headed by its Founder/CEO Akshay Maliwal, has been bringing the best coaches from US schools to Asia, including Manila, to give young Asian athletes a once-in-a-lifetime experience to get all-important training and the opportunity to network with world-class coaches through the tennis camps. The camps give them a chance to get access into top US academic colleges and play college tennis there as student athlete recruits—a chance that is hard to come by if they were to do it on their own. In the recent Gold Series Camp, the young netters impressed the coaches with their eagerness to learn. Boston U Coach Jesse Frieder said “The students here are very coachable, which leads me to believe that were they to end up in
any of our teams, we could help them reach that ceiling because they’re open to feedback.” Coach Rob Raine was also pleasantly surprised with the Filipino talents. “The Philippines was not in my radar as a place to find tennis talent. I can’t believe I’ve been missing out on the Philippines. It’s a place a lot of coaches are missing out on. And it’s certainly a place that I’ll keep in mind when recruiting.” “The level’s great. Talent is everywhere. I’ve seen a lot of players that can play at a really high level [here] if they just commit to spending time on the court and practicing. The talent is here for sure and DreamBig is really providing something special. A chance to talk with college coaches in the US is very hard to come by in Asia. In the US, it’s really common to go to tennis camps. So to bring that service across the ocean really closes the gap,” continued Coach Rob. Boston U Coach Jesse laid down what he and most international coaches are looking for in young players. “I look for millions of things. I look for a high level [of play] so you can potentially win a lot for our team. I look for potential that a player’s game [will] improve. We look for players who haven’t yet played their best tennis. Players who have a ton of potential. The ceiling is really high for them. That with hard work, good coaching and good team culture, we can help them reach that ceiling. I also look for really strong character—those who are really disciplined, who are kind to each other, who are empathetic, and who are incredibly competitive. Who are going to do so many things before they lose a set, a point, a match, whatever it is beyond tennis and academics, because those are kind of prerequisites. I look for players who are good people. I want to be excited to
Open in 2016 and also has Wimbledon and US Open titles, had on-court medical help for the injury and then retired. Kerber lost in the first round to Sam Stosur last week at the Brisbane International. In other second-round women’s matches in Adelaide, Donna Vekic beat Maria Sakkari, 2-6, 7-5, 6-1, and American Danielle Collins upset her seventh-seeded compatriot Sofia Kenin 6-3 6-1, to secure a quarterfinal spot. In the men’s Association of Tennis Professionals tournament at the same venue, third-seeded Andrey Rublev beat Sam Querrey, 6-3, 6-3. Australia’s Lizette Cabrera, on the other hand, is into the Hobart International quarterfinals after completing a second come-from-behind upset in two days. AP spend the next four years with [them].” The coaches were particularly impressed with the country’s up and coming tennis sensation Sebastien Lhuillier who participated in the camp. According to the coaches, the 16-year-old son of former Olympian Bea Lucero, showed potential to play in the division 1 level. “He hits the ball very nicely and has a nice technique. He hits a heavy ball, which is something I look for at the Division 1 level. Physicality and fitness are so important. It’s so easy to lose to somebody because they hit the ball harder than you because they’re bigger than you are. But he hits a heavy ball and we want to see him consistently beating players who are ranked higher than he is, winning three-set matches and proving to us that he’s really tough and really gritty. Frankly, we want to see him in millions of matches because it makes the UTR [Universal Tennis Ranking] more accurate and it makes you a tougher tennis player. We want players in our team who are tough, who are not scared of pressure and not scared of the moment. But I think he has a ton of potential overall,” Coach Jesse said. Does the Philippines have a chance to produce a world-class tennis player? “Absolutely,” said Coach Jesse. “The talent exists. It’s how it’s cultivated. It’s the infrastructure of facilities, of coaching, of money to fund that player’s career. Based on what I saw today, it’s totally possible. But so much of it is the infrastructure to support it. “I think if you want to be top 10 in the world, you have to be supremely talented. Outside of that, people who work the hardest, who are the most disciplined, who go to the gym the most, who practice buckets of serves the most are generally the most confident. You gain confidence from preparation. If you prepare well, you gain confidence, The more confident player generally wins,” Coach Jesse concluded. DreamBig Founder/CEO Maliwal said DreamBig will bring in more camps in tennis, golf and soccer to help local talents achieve their personal dreams and the country’s own: to have Filipino players compete and win in the international stage.
orts
PACQUIAO WARNING
Malonzo, Tungcab lead D-League Draft roster
he new batch of aspirants take their first step of making it to the pros as 137 players have declared their availability for the 2020 Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Developmental League Draft. Fil-Am high-flyer Jamie Malonzo and Gilas pool member Jaydee Tungcab lead the list of hopefuls for Monday’s Draft at the PBA Office in Libis, Quezon City. The 6-foot-6 Malonzo, 23, burst into the scene in his short stint at De La Salle that saw him earning a spot in the Mythical Team in the last University Athletic Association of the Philippines season. Tungcab, 22, is a 6-foot-3 guard who played sparingly during his stint with University of the Philippines but caught the attention of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) that led to his inclusion in the national team pool. The two are expected to be picked in the first round. For the fourth straight year, AMA Online Education holds the right to the top pick. Also joining the Draft are former Batang Gilas standout Jollo Go, ex-UAAP Juniors MVP Jerie Pingoy, Cebuano standouts Darrell Menina and Jaybie Mantilla, former Centro Escolar University scorer Judel Fuentes and University of the East forward John Apacible. From the field, 17 are Fil-foreigners led by Malonzo, former La Salle shooter Joshua Torralba and UP’s James Spencer, David Murrell and JJ Espanola. Players from Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League have also applied, including Yves Sazon and King Destacamento.
Kyusi@80 in U-24 Finals
YUSI@80 bucked a sluggish start and frustrated a determined Batang Maynila, 109-104, in their winner-take-all semifinal duel on Tuesday in the Metro League 24-Under Men’s Basketball Tournament at the Vista Real Classica Gym in Quezon City. The Mayor Joy Belmonte-backed Quezon City squad advanced to the best-of-three title series against playoffs top seed Taguig. The Finals begin on Thursday at the Hagonoy Gym.
The Generals, who topped the classification round with a 7-1 record, were first to advance to the Finals after they beat fourth-ranked Makabagong San Juan, 84-75, on Friday at the San Andres Gym. Kyusi@80 unleashed a 23-4 run in the second period with combo guard Nathaniel Lopez carrying the scoring load with his 19 first half-points en route to a tournament-best 32 points. Lopez bounced back from a letdown in Kyusi@80’s 107-109 double overtime loss in their first semifinal meeting last Tuesday where he fouled out early in the regulation by connecting six of his seven three-point attempts. Lopez also recorded four steals and two blocks.
CeresNegros celebrate their victory.
Ceres edges Myanmar side in Champions League duel N
ational team player OJ Porteria sparkled with a goal and an assist to help lift CeresNegros past Shan United of Myanmar, 3-2, on Wednesday night to advance to the second round of the Asian Football Confederation Champions League preliminary round at the Rizal Memorial Stadium. Porteria set up Bienve Marañon for Ceres’s second goal, before scoring the marginal strike in the 79th minute as the Busmen forged a duel with Port FC of Thailand in the next round in Bangkok. Admittedly short on preparation, the Busmen
came out sharp with Senegalese striker Robert Lopez Mendy breaking the ice in the fifth minute with a leftfooter to the bottom corner off a cutback from new teammate Pika Minegishi. “We were pressured them and we were unlucky not to get more goals,” Porteria said. “We only had four or five training sessions so we were really tired. But we just stuck in there and got the win.” “We’re not fit that’s why we wanted to keep the ball. We just showed the heart to survive the game,” he added. Despite their dominance, the Busmen only scored
CLOSE aide of Sen. Manny Pacquiao warned the public against bogus fundraisers who are using the boxing icon’s name for relief efforts for the victims of Taal Volcano’s eruption. Jake Joson, the longtime assistant of the eight-division world champion Pacquiao, said on Wednesday that scammers are taking advantage of the catastrophe and are soliciting monetary donations using fraudulent accounts. Joson added that the 41-year-old boxer— who earned $435 million from his fights, pay-per-view shares and endorsements in the last decade—always spends his own money for his charity work. “There are many Facebook accounts that offer raffles or prizes. Those are fake,” Joson said. “We all know that Sen. MP uses his own money to help people. He doesn’t need to source funds from the government nor get donations from the people.” He reminded the public that there is only one legitimate charity that the lawmaker personally supports—the Manny Pacquiao Foundation. “Those people who want to donate should only trust his foundation,” Joson said. Staff members of Pacquiao’s Senate office are now tracking individuals behind the deceptive accounts. Ramon Rafael Bonilla
their second goal just before halftime when Marañon’s deflected effort had Shan goalkeeper Thiha Sithu nailed to his spot. Zin Min Tun pulled a goal back in the 73rd minute, but Porteria quickly restored the two-goal cushion by meeting Mike Ott’s pass inside the box. Maximin Djawa set the stage for a thrilling finish as his 87th-minute strike made it 3-2. But Ceres hung on to pick up the victory, moving within two wins of reaching the group stage of Asia’s most prestigious club competition.
FROM 30 TO 30K BOOKS
GIFT TO SCOTLAND A
By Doug Ferguson The Associated Press
lastair Johnston returned home to Scotland after an internship with IMG and brought with him 30 golf books that had been collecting dust in a storage room. That was more than 50 years ago. His next shipment to Scotland is going to be substantially more. What began as a hobby has become the largest golf library in the world. Johnston has kept his stunning exhibit in rows of shelves on the second floor of his home in the Cleveland suburbs. It now contains more than 28,000 volumes covering five centuries of the royal and ancient game. So enormous is his library that it requires two volumes totaling 944 pages for the bibliography alone. And he’s giving it all away. Johnston, vice chairman at IMG and former chairman of Rangers Football Club, is gifting the entire library to the R&A in St. Andrews to establish the most comprehensive collection of golf books. The location has not been determined, though it will be within walking distance from the Old Course. It will be called the Alastair J. Johnston Library. For the Scottish-born Johnston, it only made sense—for the home of golf and for himself. “I had a sense of appreciation from having seen so many of my friends in the collecting world try to leave it to family, sell it or do something that would dampen their enthusiasm the last 20 years of life,” Johnston said Monday. “I tried to have a plan that would make me more enthusiastic the last 20 years of life.” In other words, he’ll still be searching, spending and acquiring. That’s what keeps him going. One of his greatest finds was the first edition of The Goff, written by Thomas Mathison in 1743, the first book devoted to golf. His collection includes an original copy of the 1457 Scottish Acts of Parliament, in which the king banned golf because he feared it was taking time from archery practice. It also has The Chronicles of Golf, an exhaustive tome that covers 400 years of history starting with the 1457 Scottish Acts of Parliament. Johnston and his father spent eight years researching and writing it. Johnston grew up in Glasgow and is an R&A member. In his role at IMG, he has been heavily involved in TV negotiations for The Open Championship.
But this was more about his native home. Johnston can recall more than one occasion when he was in Scotland and would find pamphlets from the 19th century or club histories that revealed so much about the early establishment of golf. Stuffing them into a briefcase, he would board a plane in Prestwick to return to IMG headquarters in Cleveland and feel like a thief. “I was taking pieces of great Scottish history from authors,” Johnston said. “And I was thinking it should not have been leaving the country.” The idea of returning it to Scotland never left him, even as the collection grew and he began to appreciate the magnitude of the library he was building. The trick was to find a beneficiary that could keep it together, grow it and protect it. Is there a better fit than the oldest golf in the world? A better place than St. Andrews? “I told them I wasn’t looking for tax breaks,” Johnston said. “I wasn’t looking for anything except to do the right thing.” The R&A is making plans to move everything to St. Andrews, where it will be managed by the Museum and Heritage division. It’s part of a redevelopment plan ahead of the R&A celebrating the 150th British Open at St. Andrews in 2021. Johnston said it would be ambitious to have everything in place by then. “We are committed to nurturing the world-class
status of the library and ensuring that Alastair’s legacy is maintained for the enjoyment of those who love this great sport,” said Martin Slumbers, chief executive of the R&A. That might be the best part of this enormous gift. St. Andrews is the top golf destination in the world, at least the most romantic. The gray, old town is steeped in centuries of golf heritage. It’s far more visible than the second story of a home in Pepper Pike, Ohio. That’s not to suggest Johnston kept it all to himself. He often built his global travel schedule around anyone who loved golf, literature and history, and wanted to see the collection he had amassed. When the seniors were at Canterbury for majors, or the World Golf Championships was at Firestone in nearby Akron, there was plenty of traffic. Johnston was Arnold Palmer’s longtime agent and top confidante for decades, and both Palmer and Gary Player toured the exhibit, along with Jim Nantz at CBS Sports and golf historians from all corners of the globe. Those 30 books turned into to nearly 30,000 during a passion that lasted more than a half-century. Johnston always believed it was a library the likes of which would never be seen again. Except that soon everyone will get a chance to see it.
So enormous is Alastair Johnston’s library that it requires two volumes totaling 944 pages for the bibliography alone.
Sports BusinessMirror
Shiffrin beaten for second straight slalom F
THE American four-time world champion Mikaela Shiffrin yields the spotlight to Petra Vlhova. AP
LACHAU, Austria—After her rare second straight defeat in a women’s World Cup slalom on Tuesday, Mikaela Shiffrin admitted to lacking confidence. Not that she felt overly confident when she was winning almost every slalom race in recent years. “I am not somebody who really believes in myself,” the American four-time world champion said after Petra Vlhova won a night race by 0.10 seconds over Anna Swenn Larsson of Sweden, 10 days after the Slovakian skier had also triumphed in a slalom in Zagreb. Shiffrin, who was second after the opening run, came 0.43 behind in third for her worst result in the discipline in two years, when she failed to finish in the final race before the Pyeongchang Olympics. “The way that I have been able to be on the top for so long, is I always did more work, harder work and better work than everybody else did,” said Shiffrin, who has a record 43 World Cup wins and six season titles in the discipline, and has won four straight world championships and Olympic gold in 2014 in skiing’s most technically demanding event. “So I could come to race day and I didn’t have to be confident,” she added. “I could just ski, I could just ski really hard and it would be enough sometimes. On the rare days when I was confident, then you could see these really big, spectacular margins.” Shiffrin won a record 17 races last season. And while many started to take her wins for granted, Shiffrin never did. “I have said this so many times when I am winning and
[the media] ask, ‘Is it so easy?’ and ‘Are you unbeatable?’ And I am always saying, that these big margins, these wins, they can disappear so easily,” she said. The wins have disappeared. Shiffrin convincingly won two races in two days in Lienz just after Christmas but is yet to win an event in 2020. “Look at someone like Petra, who has just been getting better and better and better,” she said. “Her technique is nearly perfect and the way that she is working is like she is doing what I have been able to do, better than I can do it right now. So that’s motivation for me.” Vlhova positioned herself for the win by building a lead of six tenths of a second in the opening run. Though she lost some time on Shiffrin and Larsson in the final run, she had done enough for her 12th career win, and seventh in slalom. “Both of us, we had a lot of emotions. I have really big respect for her, for me she is a champion. It’s a really good battle,” Vlhova said about her American rival, who gave her a hug after the race to congratulate on the victory. “I know she is angry because she wants to always win,” Vlhova said. “It’s good to have Miki close to me because she pushes me. It’s good for our sport to have two girls like this. We are both on the top.” Vlhova closed the gap to Shiffrin in the slalom standings to 80 points, but she still trails the American by 273 in the overall rankings. Vlhova had beaten Shiffrin by a margin of 1.31 seconds
in Zagreb, which ended the American’s winning streak in slaloms after nearly a year. The previous time that Shiffrin lost back-to-back slaloms in a single season was more than five years ago. In three races in November and December 2014, she placed 11th, fifth and fourth, respectively, and parted ways with long-term Coach Roland Pfeifer shortly afterward. “I am happy to be on the podium again. I am disappointed with my skiing. But that’s ski racing,” Shiffrin said. “After Zagreb, I knew I had to get some training and fix some things with my slalom skiing. I feel like I accomplished a lot in my training but it’s also another race, it’s a different race, it’s a different day, and I didn’t quite put it out there in the race today.” Shiffrin failed to make up her deficit in the final run even though she was 0.17 seconds faster than Vlhova on a course with more sharp turns than the first leg. Her head coach, Mike Day, placed the gates for the final run but Shiffrin denied it was set against Vlhova, who favors more straightforward courses. “You can’t set a course against her right now because her skiing is the best,” Shiffrin said. “So she is able to do any course and handle it the way she needs to.” All 25 World Cup slaloms since January 2017, when Sweden’s Frida Hansdotter triumphed here, have been won by either Shiffrin—with 19—or Vlhova. Runner-up Swenn Larsson matched her career best result and came just one-tenth short of her first win. AP
Man United scraps planned training camp in Middle East
Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford (left) celebrates with teammate Mason Greenwood after scoring his side’s first goal during their English League Cup quarterfinal match with Colchester United at Old Trafford in Manchester last month. AP
ANCHESTER, England— Manchester United has scrapped a planned midseason training camp in the Middle East amid high tensions in the region, Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said Tuesday. “If there’s one thing that worries me, it’s not on the football pitch,” Solskjaer said. “It’s other things that worry me more. “We were looking at the Middle East but that’s definitely not going to happen.” Last week, Iran launched missile attacks on two military bases in Iraq that house US troops. The missiles were a retaliation following an American drone strike that killed Qassem Soleimani, the leader of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard’s powerful Quds Force.
In another incident, a Ukrainian passenger jet was shot down as it left Tehran by Iranian military, killing all 176 people aboard. Iran has said the jetliner was brought down “unintentionally” and blamed human error. Man United, one of the world’s most famous soccer teams, has been a frequent visitor to the Nad Al Sheba Sports Complex in Dubai in recent years, and the squad was looking to use the upcoming and newly introduced winter break in the English Premier League schedule for another warm-weather camp. Solskjaer indicated he would instead give his players some time off to spend alone during the break, which will follow United’s home match against Wolverhampton in the league on February 1.
“I don’t know where they’ll all scatter around but we’ll stay in Europe,” Solskjaer said. Solskjaer sees the mid-season break as vital for his players after an intense run of games. With United still competing on four fronts, the FA Cup third-round replay against Wolves at Old Trafford on Wednesday will be the team’s 15th game in 49 days, and the number will reach 19 in 66 days by the time they meet again at the start of February. “I think the mid-season break is very, very important for everyone,” he said. “We’ve got five or six games now until then, we’ve just got to stick at it, hang in there until then, get the performances and the results that we hope we’re going to get, and then use that to get some vitamin D.” AP
God of mercy and love
EAR God, from age to age You are God. We place our hope in You and pray: Show pity on Your people, oh God. Encourage those who suffer disappointment, loss, despair or hardship. Shower Your care upon those who are in transition and those who experience change in their mind, body or attitude. Heal those who suffer betrayal, the termination of a long relationship or bullying. May the Word of God be a lamp for our feet and a light to our path all the days of our lives. Amen. GIVE US THIS DAY, SHARED BY LUISA LACSON, HFL Word&Life Publications • teacherlouie1965@yahoo.com
Editor: Gerard S. Ramos • lifestylebusinessmirror@gmail.com
“WALES is Britain’s best-kept secret, especially the beaches. They’re mainly pretty quiet, even on a superhot, sunny day in the summer. On the south side, where you have the Severn Estuary, the difference between high and low tide is immense,” says furniture guru Bethan Gray.
Life BusinessMirror
REELING: ‘IL CARNEVALE E FINITO’: ‘THE TWO POPES’ D4
SINGAPORE AIRLINES TO ADD BRUSSELS TO ROUTE NETWORK
HANNAH GERRISH
Could this be the best beach in the world?
BY MARK ELLWOOD Bloomberg News
ETHAN GRAY is one of Britain’s foremost furniture gurus. She began her awardwinning career with affordable design store Habitat before striking out on her own a little more than a decade ago to focus on high-quality furniture that employs natural materials in modern ways. Gray’s latest collection, Shamsian, is made in Oman, one of her favorite destinations, and is inspired by the crafts and techniques there. The designer, who lives in London with her husband and business partner, Massimo, and their five-year-old son, says Emirates is her favorite airline, as she’s often in the Middle East. “I’ve traveled for business and also traveled for pleasure with my son, and they’re amazing at both—they’re really good with kids.” Gray usually logs about 350,000 miles per year, but in 2019 she reached double that thanks to a threemonthlong family trip. YOU WON’T BELIEVE WHERE GRAY CLAIMS THE BEST BEACHES IN THE WORLD ARE WALES is Britain’s best-kept secret, especially the beaches. They’re mainly pretty quiet, even on a superhot, sunny day in the summer. On the south side, where you have the Severn Estuary, the difference between high and low tide is immense. The beach goes on for so long when the tide is out that it can take you 15 minutes to walk across it. It’s unimaginable. And it creates these amazing rock pools that I love. It means I get quite disappointed with other beaches. I had a friend go to California recently, and he said, “I don’t know why I came all the way over here when we have it all in Pembrokeshire.” I’d also recommend Mwnt (pronounced Munt), a tiny cove with a medieval sailors’ chapel. It has a wonderful place to eat fresh seafood, Café Môr, which means “sea” in Welsh. I went last July, and while we were swimming in the cove, dolphins came in. YES, YOU CAN COLLECT SHELLS AS AN ADULT—IF YOU DO IT LIKE THIS EVERYBODY has a keen connection with shells from when they were children. It just reminds us of being little, I guess. So I have an ever-expanding collection of shells, and when it is ethically responsible to do so, I always bring home a few. To display them, I pick up lots of the same (shell)
going from small to large, or (different shells) of the same size in different colors. Something in repetition works well as a display. FORGET APPS, AND EMBRACE THE JOY OF MAPS MOST people start gathering travel tips only when they know they’re visiting somewhere new. But my father, a geography teacher, is fascinated by maps, so you can’t tell him about a good restaurant or an interesting museum without him marking the location on one—even if he’s got no intention of visiting. I used to drive a scooter around London, and I would photocopy a page of the A to Z, and that’s how I got to learn the city. I’ve given maps to friends as a gift. The best place to buy them is the Kempton antiques market in London; you’ve got to go really early in the morning, and it has amazing things. WHAT TO PACK TO TURN ANY UNFAMILIAR HOTEL ROOM INTO A COZY HAVEN I’VE got a really sensitive sense of smell, so scent has always been very important to me. Sometimes you arrive in a new place, and it smells amazing, but often hotels forget about our fifth sense, so I always bring rose and frankincense oil with me when I travel. Frankincense is used in by lots of people in perfume, but they don’t think about having it in the house as a staple like we do. I mix it myself, with rose, around 70 percent versus 30 percent. I pack a diffuser to spray it on the pillow, or I use it in the bath. It gives me such a sense of grace and keeps me grounded. Even when you don’t consciously notice the ambient fragrance, it can really affect your sense of well-being, particularly when you’re in unfamiliar surroundings. WHAT MAKES OMAN A MUST-VISIT IN THE GULF BECAUSE Oman is close to Dubai, people think it will be like it, but it’s nothing like Dubai. There’s only one building over 10 stories high in the whole country, because the Sultan saw it in 1976, and then said, “Never again.” The Wave, a new residential and shopping area, is where lots of people, especially youngsters, go and hang out. The country is clean, with lots of character and a heritage that’s been well preserved. Oman is a very thin, long country, so there’s such varied landscapes: Inland, there are mountains like Jebel Shams and Jabel Akhdar, which is where a lot of
roses are grown. I go to the souk to buy my essential oils. Farther south, there’s monsoon weather, and even an island, Masirah. Omani hospitality is second to none. The Chedi hotel is beautiful, with such symmetry in the pathways and arches inside and out. There’s quite a large Indian population, so I buy a lot of kantha scarves, those beautiful, hand-embroidered ones that are superfine and will go through a ring. SWAP OUT FLORENCE FOR THIS LESSER-KNOWN PART OF TUSCANY A LOT of people think of Tuscany as very rural, hilly, and full of yellow fields. But I love Pietrasanta, about an hour north of Pisa, on the coast in an area called Versilia—it’s where my husband and I got married. He’s Italian, and we’ve spent a lot of time there with his family. It’s near Carrara, where the white marble comes from, and it has marble, too; Michelangelo said it was better here. Now the streets are filled with sculptures, turning the whole town into an open-air art gallery. There are artisans’ studios and marble and bronze workshops tucked away in every corner, so it’s full of craftsmanship that’s been there for centuries. From the town, it’s about a 20-minute bike ride to the beach, a really lovely ride through the pine forests. They’re Italian-style beaches: sandy, quite white, long, with not much tidal variation, and row upon row of beach clubs. Gilda beach club has a fabulous restaurant, and La Perla is family-friendly, with a lovely pool. I also like Ristorante Franco Mare. DON’T HESITATE TO MAKE A WORLD TRIP AS A FAMILY—AND INVOLVE YOUR CHILDREN’S SCHOOL, TOO I JUST returned from a three-month trip across Asia and Australasia with Massimo and our son, Cian. It was an incredible immersion into all sorts of experiences. Having a child-friendly airline like Emirates made a huge difference. They come in, take a little picture with an instant camera, and give it you; then they bring a little kids’ pack, give them a toy and their food comes first. They really think about things. And we thought about the trip as a project that Cian’s class could benefit from, when he was away. He kept in touch with his class a lot; we would make a PDF of each country we visited, and they would learn about it. They made their whole term about traveling the world. ■
BRUSSELS will become the latest European destination in Singapore Airlines’ (SIA) route network this year, when nonstop flights are introduced from Singapore to the Belgian capital. The first flight will be launched on October 25. “We are excited to launch services to Brussels—a city which is both an important economic and political hub in Europe. This also represents SIA’s commitment to constantly expand our network reach and provide our customers with a more seamless travel experience,” said SIA Senior Vice President in Marketing Planning Tan Kai Ping. Subject to regulatory approval, flight SQ304 will depart Singapore on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays at 2355hrs (local time) and will arrive at Brussels the next day at 0650hrs. The return sector, operated as flight SQ303, departs Brussels on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 1120hrs (local time) and arrives at Singapore the next day at 0655hrs. SIA will operate the Airbus A350-900 on these flights. As the capital of Belgium, Brussels is home to the European Union and is also dubbed as the EU’s capital city. Its unique geographical location makes Brussels an ideal hub for rail, road and air traffic, earning the city the moniker “The Crossroads of Europe.” The introduction of the new route allows SIA to enhance the Benelux’s connection to Singapore with nonstop flights from Amsterdam, Dusseldorf and Brussels. Tickets for the new Brussels flights became available for sale through various distribution channels on December 17.
TOURISTS enjoying the serene waters of Burnham Lake
DOT chief vows to revitalize Baguio THE triumvirate of the Department of Tourism (DOT), led by Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo Puyat, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government visited the City of Pines on January 10. Puyat, together with Secretaries Eduardo Año and Roy Cimatu, visited Burnham Park, Wright Park, Mines View Park, Baguio City’s sewage treatment plant and Balili River, and the sanitary landfill in Irisan. An interagency meeting with the Baguio local government unit took place to tackle the prevailing problems that ail the premier tourist site, such as overtourism, and discuss the possible sustainable infrastructure rehabilitation projects on the urban carrying capacity of Baguio, La Trinidad, Itogon, Sablan, Tuba and Tublay, along with other plans to redevelop and decongest the Unesco Creative City. “The commitment to our mandate to sell and protect our natural attractions remains our paramount objective. It is a shared responsibility, however, among government and our people to be responsible stewards of our planet,” the tourism chief added. More than a year since Boracay underwent massive restoration, the DOT bared plans to rehabilitate the flagship tourist destination. Among the projects the DOT pledged to bankroll in the City of Pines, through its infrastructure arm, the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority, is the P480-million rehabilitation of the iconic Burnham Park. Tieza and Baguio signed a MOA on the funding commitment. Meanwhile, the DOT and Tieza are also intently studying Baguio’s request for funding for the construction of a sewerage system and the rehabilitation of the Mines View Park.
Entertaining BusinessMirror
The perfect baked potato begins with russets
By Elizabeth Karmel The Associated Press
FLUFFY baked potato is a glorious thing, but too often you slice into the potato and it is shiny and waxy, not light and creamy in texture. Baking a potato is the easiest thing in the world, right? Then why are so many potatoes lacking in texture and flavor? First, for the traditional baked potato that is going to be loaded with toppings, you must buy a Russet potato. Russets have a thicker skin and a beautiful starchy, snowy—almost meaty—interior that soaks up all your butter, cheese and sour cream. I love making smashed potatoes with red new potatoes or baby Yukon gold potatoes, but only a Russet will do for a “baked potato.” For my latest cookbook Steak and Cake, I tested several popular ways of baking potatoes. I have friends who swear by wrapping the potato in foil before baking. I have always baked the potato without the foil, but I tried both ways. I baked them at 350 degrees Fahrenheit and at 400 degrees, too. The potatoes took a bit longer to bake at 350 but they were fluffier, and had a better crust and interior texture. Generally, when you cook anything at a higher temperature, the outside gets done before the inside. That means you risk an overdone exterior by the time the interior is cooked through. Potatoes are no exception. That’s why I prefer a lower temperature. But if you like to bake your potatoes at a higher temp, do so. It is all about what works. The potato wrapped in foil was waxy and had a hard texture even when fully cooked. The foil also prevents the skin from become crusty, which I think is the best part of a baked potato. If you are a fan of twice-baked potatoes, you have to bake them unwrapped or the skin/shell will be too soft to restuff. When I bake potatoes, I preheat the oven to 350
Today’s Horoscope By Eugenia Last
CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Kate Moss, 46; Richard T. Jones, 48; Debbie Allen, 70; John Carpenter, 72. HAPPY BIRTHDAY: Look at the positive in life. Walk with the people who are forward thinkers. Take the time to invest in yourself, your personal surroundings and your involvement in things that matter to you. Dedication and determination will lead to success. Don’t live in the past when you should be moving forward. Take control and make things happen. Your lucky numbers are 9, 17, 24, 28, 30, 38, 46.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Take care of business. If you fall short, someone will complain. Channel your energy instead of letting it fuel anger. What you accomplish will make you feel good and prompt you to relax later in the day with someone you love. HHH
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Share what’s on your mind. Intellectual interaction will be the key to getting things up and running or putting your plans into motion. Being able to give and take will help you reach your goal faster and without complications. HHH
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): A relationship will take a turn that will prompt you to do things differently. Make plans that encourage a closer connection to someone you feel is special. Romance is on the rise and will improve your life. HHH
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Try something different, but don’t make a change for the wrong reason. A realistic approach to partnerships, joint ventures and money matters will deter you from getting involved in something that could lead to financial loss, heartache or injury. HHHH
degrees Fahrenheit and place a sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil on the bottom shelf of the oven in case any of the juices drip. After washing and drying the potatoes, I coat them with either a little regular Crisco shortening or olive oil—both work well. Next, I prick them four or five times with a fork to let steam escape while they are baking. Sometimes, I sprinkle them with a little kosher salt to add to the skin’s flavor, but it doesn’t affect the interior. I place the potatoes in the center of the oven, directly on the oven rack set over the foil. Drips are generally not an issue for Russet
potatoes, but they are a big issue for sweet potatoes, which I bake exactly the same way. After an hour of baking, I stick the end of a paring knife into the potato to gauge its doneness. It generally takes another 20 minutes to be perfect, but it depends on the potato’s size. A little tip for those who like to make twice-baked potatoes: Always bake three potatoes for two finished potatoes, so you can mound the filling over the top. I make them often for dinner parties since they are best made in advance and reheated just before serving. n
WELCOMING THE CHINESE NEW YEAR OF THE METAL RAT AS you pursue new opportunities this year, involving matters of the heart or maybe a career change, F1 Hotel Manila (www.f1hotelmanila.com), welcomes another prosperous year ahead with a bountiful Chinese New Year lunch buffet on January 25, at F All Day Dining for only P2,288 net per person.
The festivities will commence at the hotel with the traditional Lion Dance performance as it is believed to bring good luck and fortune. Accompanied by the music of beating drums, pounding gongs and clashing cymbals, the lion dancers imitate the lion’s movements to bring prosperity and scare off evil spirits. Guests enjoying the Chinese New Year buffet will have front row seats to the Lion Dance. The Chinese New Year buffet will be prepared by F1 Hotel Manila’s award-winning culinary team, featuring special Chinese dishes, including Yee Sang, a prosperity salad that symbolizes abundance and vigor, which is tossed for good luck; DongPo Pork Knuckle, pan-fried braised pork flavored with secret Chinese spices; Duck Wrap pancakes with hoisin sauce; Suckling Pig and Tang Yuan, sweet glutinous rice balls with a hint of ginger, which may remind diners of local ginataan but with a twist. Fortune cookies will also be handed out at the hotel lobby and restaurant so that guests can learn their prophecies for the coming year. To complete the Chinese New Year ambiance at F All Day Dining, a legendary Money Tree will be placed at the foyer of the restaurant to bring money and good fortune to everyone who rubs it.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Play time will lift your spirits and help you build enthusiasm to work harder and achieve more. Get physical and join forces with someone who motivates you to be your best. HH
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Keep your life simple, your emotions under control and your plans doable. Refuse to let anyone upset your world or tempt you to get involved in something that isn’t in your best interest emotionally, physically or financially. HH
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Focus on personal and physical changes that will make you feel good about the way you look, who you are and the relationships you want to nurture. Make a point to distance yourself from those who bring you down. HHHHH
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Communication can help solve problems, but arguing will not. Stay calm and address issues intellectually and with facts to avoid being pressured by someone who likes to bait you into a conversation that is upsetting. HHH
i j
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Bypass anyone you don’t trust. Stick to the people who share common interests and beliefs. Positive changes at home will help you put the past behind you. HHH
PINOY COMFORT FOOD FOR GLOOMY DAYS
A WARM bowl of soup is sure to bring you comfort and warmth on a gloomy day. So beat the blues with a piping-hot Pinoy favorite Sinigang na Salmon at Isla Sugbu Seafood City (www.seafoodcity.ph). With fresh and chunky salmon cuts, Sinigang na Salmon, one of Isla Sugbu Seafood City’s Sugbu Specials, may be enjoyed any time of day. You may also want to try other delectable Sugbu Specials. The Salt and Pepper Calamari, smothered in slices of chives, and red and green bell peppers, is a nice way to start your meal. Vegetable lovers may want to try the Scallop Broccoli with garden-fresh cauliflower and broccoli, crisp carrot slices and steamed scallops. The Sugbu Specials are included in the Paluto All-You-Can offer available for only P848 per person (lunch) and P888 (dinner) at the Venice Grand Canal in McKinley Hills, Taguig City; or P797 per person (lunch) and P848 (dinner) at the Cebu branch.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Share your thoughts with someone you live with or would like to go into partnership with. You may not agree on everything, but with cooperation, you’ll come up with a plan that will satisfy the needs of you both. HHHHH
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Don’t share your secrets or your plans until you have everything in place. Taking proper steps to protect what you want to do will ensure that no one interferes. HH
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Get involved in something that interests you. The people you meet along the way will offer good advice and inside information that will encourage you to make changes to the way you handle your money or pending negotiations. HHHH BIRTHDAY BABY: You are friendly, compassionate and helpful. You are fashionable and unique.
‘refurnishing’ BY KEN ALBRIGHT The Universal Crossword/Edited by David Steinberg
ACROSS 1 Flock calls 5 Very small, informally 10 First-rate 14 Part of AKA 15 Chile con ___ 16 Sword whose name has two accents 17 Furniture for a reporter? 19 Hit the books 20 First-rate 21 Annual carnival locale 22 Ergo 23 Furniture for a clotheshorse? 28 Superhero movie trailer? 30 Beethoven’s “Third” 31 Puts forth 34 E-mail folder 35 Tennis court ruling 38 What many a maze path leads to 40 Downhill stick 42 Antlered beast 43 Track event 45 Unwelcome looks 46 Twitches 48 Zeros’ counterparts
9 Furniture for a chemist? 4 54 Lesser of two ___ 55 Rainy mo. 56 Corp. money person 59 Carton sealer 60 Furniture for a spiky-haired singer? 64 Idyllic spot 65 Talk show host 66 Viral cultural element 67 Apartment expense 68 Apple discontinued most models of them 69 Genesis guy DOWN 1 Munich star Eric 2 Baldwin of 30 Rock 3 At this very moment 4 Emergency call 5 Outfit 6 Where the Eiffel Tower and Tower Bridge are 7 Society page word 8 Retirees’ fund org. 9 “___ Are My Sunshine” 10 Mother who won a Nobel Prize
1 Double-clicks on, perhaps 1 12 Quiet’s partner 13 Passover feast 18 It becomes another garment when its middle letter is changed to “o” 22 Frenzied 24 Stereotypical coder 25 Millennium’s thousand: Abbr. 26 Female deer 27 Curling venues 28 Yield, as property 29 Skating jump 32 Music speeds 33 Sam of 20th-century golf 35 Like some gowns 36 Magazine whose title is a French pronoun 37 Durbeyfield girl 39 He loved Lucy 41 Place to play with noodles 44 Network for film buffs 46 Like early movies 47 Risked, as a wager 49 2020 Bachelor Weber 50 Sidestep
1 Become less sour, say 5 52 ___-ski (relaxation time) 53 “My man!” 57 Disaster aid org. 58 City near Provo 60 Longtime architect I.M. 61 Ballpark figure 62 Barracks VIP 63 Award for Kacey Musgraves: Abbr. Solution to yesterday’s puzzle:
Parentlife BusinessMirror
FROM LEFT: Our amiespourjamais group taking our senior barkada photo; our 4-B Class Photo with Mrs. Ang in 1995; Luisa, Mia, myself and Ods at our recent homecoming.
DOMWNL: My Yellow Home (Part I) MOMMY NO LIMITS
MAYE YAO CO SAY
mommynolimits@gmail.com
UST last weekend, we celebrated our Poveda high-school homecoming at Saint Pedro Poveda College. I was grateful to be given a few minutes to speak about my advocacy: “Poveda is a big part of my advocacy’s roots and its future. It was Poveda’s ever-nurturing Ms. Sally Villavicencio who pushed me to finish my Education course here at Poveda and pass my LET exam last September. It is my great memories with my teachers and classmates in Poveda, that I wish for child education to be as enriching as what I experienced in my Yellow Home. From my series “Diary of a Mom with No Limits” (DOMWNL), this week let me share my treasured journey in my Yellow Home. In August 1993, I came home for summer break from New York. I was set to go back for junior year but was exploring options of coming back to Manila on
my graduating year. As it turned out, no school would grant you a diploma without studying at least two years in their institution. Before I knew it, I remember being told I was no longer going back to New York. I was quite resentful because I promised my teachers in New York I would be back and had prepared to get my college achievement test that year. More than that, I had to catch up on a whole semester’s school work again since the first tri-semester just concluded. I remember telling myself: “Just study well. You survived catching up in New York. Just stay in the library every break time. No point to socialize. It’s just two years!” Little did I know those two years would have the greatest impact in my high-school life. I still remember vividly my first day of school in my yellow checkered uniform. Camille Macapanpan invited me to join her for lunch. She introduced me to her barkada. I remember meeting Eirene Aguila, who remains a great friend today. I kept quiet most of the time. Coming from Saint Jude Catholic School, Poveda was definitely a very different environment. There were few Chinese. Students were more vocal. It was an all-girl environment. Being rigid-minded back then, I felt I would not fit in. I was as aloof as any transferee would be. It was surprising for me that in every encounter when I could have felt out of place, there will always be someone initiating a welcome. My classmates like Anna Martirez, Camille, Carmela Beltran, Carmela
Jose, Jing Osias, Karla Ermita, Katrina Odi, Lea Disini, Lia Pastrana, Luisa Evangelista, Mia Capistrano, Mary Ann Santos, Missy Castro, Nikki Mercado, Nona Reyes, Sunshine Garcia, Tiggy Hernandez, Tyreen Catral and, of course, my seat mate Paula Locsin were very patient with my very serious ways. Slowly, they peeled through me. Eventually, especially after our retreats at the Poveda House of Prayer, I understood what it meant to be truly real with people—that it was OK to cry, listen, be accepting, be angry...because this was home. I remembered it started with my notes. I copy fast and would do so with almost every word a teacher said, and so classmates would borrow my notes to photocopy. I also remember a statistics class when I was asked by a classmate to explain a lesson during recess, and I ended up explaining it on the board to the class. My barkada from Poveda are five amazingly strong women: Maika, Pia, Chin, Chris and Kends. They granted me the gift of amiespourjamais (“friends forever” in French, and what we called our group), and together we faced our fears, hurts and challenges with candid solace and meaningful togetherness. Even at one of the most dangerous times during college, we all marched to be with Kends. I truly believe we were strong women then, and even stronger and happier women today. Learning also took on a different shape in Poveda. Outside of our regular homework and tests, there
was the famous IW (individual work). An hour before formal class started, we visited each subject stations for projects to process our formal lessons. For example, when we were learning Shakespeare in Ms. Terry’s class, we were tasked to make our own sonnet, create a tune and record it as a song with our own voice. In another quarter, when we were reading The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer, we were tasked to pick a character, create the costume ourselves, and participate in a gathering acting exactly like that character. I will always remember Poveda as a school of open-armed opportunities, not just from teachers but from fellow students. It was an English class, in my first school year there, that I was surprised to be given the task to lead our final class play for the year. I remember asking myself: Who will listen to a newcomer? And yet, with everyone’s enthusiasm and cooperation, we got an E (excellent). At the beginning of the next school year, before class elections, Katrina Odi, our class president in our junior year, approached me. She said that I did a good job in the English project, so would I like to run for class president that year? I told her I might not be ready but Ods, as we fondly called her, said she would help me. And she, together with the whole class, truly did. Up to this day, this benevolent act of Ods is a story I tell my kids, and one that I am forever grateful for. To be continued.... n
WE ASKED KIDS TO SEND US THEIR BURNING QUESTIONS— HERE ARE 5 OF OUR FAVORITES FROM 2019 By Maggie Villiger The Conversation
PLANTING THE SEEDS OF ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS
THERE’S no refuting the fact that trees are the source of life, and their value to Mother Earth cannot be denied. In the face of environmental degradation and massive deforestation, instilling the importance of trees and properly caring for the environment among the young is best started early. It’s against this pressing backdrop that Natalia Sali, a social worker with an innate love for the environment, took action. Together with her family, the One Child, One Tree movement was born. Launched under the auspices of the Fostering Education and Environment for Development Inc., the Sali family has been supporting environmental projects in Hagonoy, Bulacan, that educate, encourage and foster awareness on ecological preservation. From 2017 to present, the One Child, One Tree movement’s series of mangrove reforestation efforts saw the planting of 5,000 mangrove seedlings along the Tibaguin seashore in Hagonoy, Bulacan, as well as the planting of over 2,000 fruit-bearing and native trees in different elementary schools and forests in the province. They have also planted 1,000 cropped plants and 150 trees in different elementary schools in the same area. “The initiative is good as kids become aware early on, as they are oriented on the value of planting trees,” said Leonora Robles, a teacher from Sitio Buga Elementary School, a beneficiary of the family’s One Child, One Tree movement. No doubt, the selfless and impactful work of the Sali family for the environment could not be more timely or relevant. In light of the world that we live in, initiatives such as the One Child, One Tree movement are truly deserving of emulation and praise, with the Jollibee Family Values Awards bringing recognition to the Sali family’s efforts.
SO this year, The Conversation US jumped on a great idea dreamed up by our colleagues in Australia, and launched a series of articles meant to answer questions kids ask, but that everyone probably wonders about. The Conversation’s editors collect children’s questions and then look for scholars who can provide clear answers based on their own research and expertise.
probably spend a fair amount of time listening to music or watching music videos.... For many people over 30, job and family obligations increase, so there’s less time to spend discovering new music.”
WHY IS MONEY GREEN? THIS one could only have come from an American kid. Marek, age 12, asked the question; history PhD student Jonah Estess gave an answer. It turns out that green ink is hard for counterfeiters to get right on their phony bills. And in the quirks-ofhistory department: “Also, there was lots of green ink for the government to use when it started printing the money we have now. The green color also does not fade or decompose easily.”
IF YOU BARELY EVER HEAR THE LATEST BANGERS, YOU MIGHT NOT LIKE THEM EITHER. WHAT can you learn from an animal’s scat? Verity Mathis from the University of Florida’s Florida Museum of Natural History confirmed that Cora, age nine, was onto something with this question. Poop is a window into animals’ hidden lives. “Scat can tell us a lot about an animal’s diet, habits and movement, so scientists like to study it both in nature and in the lab. Outdoors, scat can identify what animals are present in an area. Then researchers take it to a lab, dry it out and dissect it for clues about the animal’s diet.” Researchers can even extract DNA from scat, a hands-off way to learn more about what’s going on with a particular population.
WHY DO OLD PEOPLE HATE NEW MUSIC? MAYBE Holly, age 14, got sick of adults yelling “turn that racket down” and decided to ask this question. Psychology researcher Frank McAndrew had some ideas for her. As they age, brains get worse at telling apart chords, rhythms and melodies. Another factor: Grown-ups might gravitate to the music they listened to back when they were young and their emotions were more intense. Or, it might come down to what’s called the “mere exposure effect”—just hearing something more tends to make you like it more. “When you’re in your early teens, you
WHY DO FEET STINK BY THE END OF THE DAY? OUR inbox suggests that kids are very interested in all things gross and smelly. Indiana University microbiologist Bill Sullivan took a stab at this question from Helen, age six. He points the finger (toe?) at a harmless type of bacteria that live all over people’s skin, happily eating up dead skin cells. The stinkiness problem arises inside your warm, moist shoes—conditions the bacteria love and take advantage of to chow down and multiply. “Like anything else that eats, these bacteria make smelly waste. It is their waste that gives sweaty feet their funky odor: It
contains stinky chemicals like those made by skunks and rotten eggs.” WHERE DOES THE SAND ON THE BEACH COME FROM? KIDS write in with big questions about how the Earth works, too. Sly, age six, posed this one that many an adult relaxing at the shore might have wondered about. University of Washington geomorphologist David Montgomery explained that there’s “more to beach sand than meets the eye.” “It has stories to tell about the land, and an epic journey to the sea. That’s because mountains end their lives as
sand on beaches.” It’s a story of erosion. And the sizes, shapes and colors of the individual grains of sand you see can tell you about the kinds of rocks they originally came from. What are you wondering? Over the past year, we had a blast hunting down answers to about everything from stargazing with binoculars to why kids aren’t very patriotic these days to what makes pizza so infernally delicious. Thank you to all the kids who were curious enough to ask questions—and keep ‘em coming in the new year.
Show BusinessMirror
‘Il carnevale è finito’: ‘The Two Popes’ REELING
TITO GENOVA VALIENTE
titovaliente@yahoo.com
PON assumption of Papacy, the Argentine Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio was asked by the Vatican staff to put on the official habit of the Pope. The future Pope Francis kept on saying no to the requests of the staff but they persisted. To the repeated entreaties, the new Pope looked intently at the person so eager to see him in the “costume” of the Pontiff, and muttered: “Il carnevale è �inite.” The carnival is ended. I laughed and I am sure for audiences all over the world, that scene must have elicited loud laughter, as well. It was the kind of response we, by hindsight, expected to hear from the Jesuit Pope. It was also a scene that, perhaps, the Vatican would not validate. The scene comes from The Two Popes, which is claimed by the film itself as having been inspired by the presence of the two popes: Pope Francis and Pope Benedict XVI. There have been stories about these two Popes. One is the claim that when Pope John Paul II died in 2005, the enclaves had two frontrunners: Bergoglio and Ratzinger. The latter was elected as the Pope that year and assumed the name Pope Benedict XVI. Several years later, Benedict would resign as a Pope, the first in modern history to do so (the last Pope to resign was in the 15th century). Bergoglio would be elected as the next Pope, a reluctant one if we are to believe cinema. The artifice of cinema. This is exactly the problem of The Two Popes. Did the conversation really happen between Benedict and Francis? Did the two meet and engage in such heated, if not witty, debates about God, spirituality and football? The film starts with Bergoglio traveling to the Vatican. Benedict summons him for a meeting at the summer home of the Pope, in the Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo. Bergoglio arrives at the papal retreat and does not hide his contempt for the luxury of that place. He is there to submit his resignation letter
as a cardinal. Benedict waits to confront him about differences and some possibilities. Immediately, we see how Bergoglio is not Ratzinger/Benedict. In between the meetings of the two, there are flashbacks to the life of Bergoglio as a young man leaving a marital engagement in order to follow the calling of a Church. The short stay of the guest and the reception given by the host allows us to witness what seems like a thawing of the cold façade of Benedict. In the process, we also get a glance of Bergoglio softening his stance from what seems to be, early on, an adversarial position to one that is a bit more accommodating. The conversation between the two begins always from points of inquiry and escalates to more heated exchanges. The dialogue is not what we expect between a Pope and one of his cardinals. There is spite from the cardinal; there is a surprise sarcasm from the Prince of the Church. The two make candor magical and heartwarming. The same openness, however, is also the reason why, at a point, we close our heart to the relentless epiphanies demonstrated like a vulgar morality play before us. Toward the end of the film, we start bracketing our experiences. In that moment, we come to a realization, never too late really, that the film is a game played for us not by the real popes but by a film with two characters seductive in the orality or verbosity of their hearts and minds. Now herein is the problem of this film about two Popes coexisting: who vets the veracity of the encounter of these two theologians at loggerheads with each other for the conflicted ideas they both hold on to? No one really. We wish the bickering and witticism and pedantry did take place. What The Two Popes accomplished is in illustrating how an enthralling film can be made about popes. No violence. No sexuality. No nudity even. And yet, all throughout, our eyes are glued on the screen as if all the saints have been implored for our concentration. What the same film has done is to convince us that a film with two characters (for the most part) talking to each other can make for good cinema. Where lies the power and the glory of The Two Popes? Very simply, they are enthroned in two of the most convincing characterizations: that of Pope Benedict XVI in the grippingly eccentric presence of Anthony Hopkins and in the bristling warmth of Pope Francis as portrayed by Jonathan Pryce. This is not to
mention that the two actors look very similar in the physicality of the persons they are incarnating. As the outgoing Pope, Anthony Hopkins has the less sympathetic character. His Benedict is aloof, with a smile that is forever a grin and a look that is too sharp to be deemed sacred. But when he is shown dining and walking alone, this astute and rigid theologian begins to manifest the aura of a forlorn old man. The film, by virtue of the screenplay, belongs to the Pope—Francis—that is going to be known for his disdain for royal protocol. It will take, perhaps, many more long years before we would encounter again on-screen an actor who makes us forget he is merely performing another life. Pryce’s Pope Francis makes us wish the real Pope Francis is really like the man we apprehend on-screen.
In fact, when the film abruptly ends, we wish the story is really true. We are left holding on to a truth—the pomp and pageantry that the institutional Catholic Church has to stage to keep its power and hold on the believers. I believe the greatest problem a modern Pope can face is not the crisis of celibacy and the issues of homosexuality the Church is at a loss to deal with. The Pope’s predicament will be how to live like a Christian and be humble amid the trappings of a Mother Church professing to be one for the poor while wallowing in wealth that requires justification. Now streaming on Netflix, The Two Popes is directed by Fernando Ferreira Meirelles, with the screenplay written by Anthony McCarten (Darkest Hour; Bohemian Rhapsody). Meirelles is known for the acclaimed film The City of God. ■
Martin del Rosario, Cathy Yang, ‘Mystified’ and ‘Alanganin’ win in Asian Television Awards BY DINNA VASQUEZ MARTIN DEL ROSARIO won the award for the Best Leading Male Performance-Digital category for his role in the digital series Born Beautiful as one Filipino film, and a Filipino song also topped their respective categories in the 24th Asian Television Awards, held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater in Resorts World Manila on January 11. ABS-CBN News Channel (ANC) anchor Cathy Yang was named best news presenter. In Born Beautiful, which was directed by Perci Intalan, del Rosario plays Barbs, a transgender woman who works as a mortuary beautician at Happy Ending Funeral Homes. Filipino actor Mark Neumann served as one of the hosts alongside Yang, as well as Thai actress Ase Wang and Singapore media personality Wallace Ang. Mystified, the Filipino digital series starring Karylle, Diana Zubiri, Iza Calzado and Sunshine Dizon, won the Best Single Drama or Telemovie category, while the song “Alanganin,” performed by artists Kris Lawrence and Krizza Neri for the animated series Barangay 143, received the Best Theme Song award. The Asian Television Awards honors the best performances, TV shows and networks in the regions. The winners are chosen by a panel of over 50 judges from different parts of Asia. Launched in 1996, the Asian Television Awards is considered the region’s most prestigious gathering of TV artists and professionals in the region. Lee Keen Whye, chairman of the Asian Television Awards, acknowledged that the competition gets tougher year after year. “The awards have traveled to Manila for the first time. Every single entry was carefully selected by their respective organizations. My heartiest congratulations to our nominees and award winners,” said Lee. This year’s panel of judges was composed of producers, directors, creatives, company executives and CEOs from different countries. They include Riaz Mehta, Imagine Group Pte Ltd. president and founder; Joe Teng, Nada Holdings CEO; Dan Zonmani, Line Corp Global Brand Lead; Kyle Murdoch, NHNZ (Beijing) managing director; Chen Shengyin, Great Sports Media executive managing director; Sienna Olaso, Cignal TV vice president/head of Channel; Gillian Carr, Moody Street Kids MD/executive producer; and Craig Galvin, iFlix Sdn Bhd Global head of Content. The other acting awards went to Taiwanese actor William Hsieh (Best Actor in a Leading Role), Thai actress Tisanart Sornsuek (Best Actress in a Leading Role), Thai actor Attaphan Poonsawat (Best Actor in a Supporting Role), and Thai actress Anyarin Terathananpat (Best Actress in a Supporting Role). Sky Castle from Korea was named Best Drama Series. Indonesian singer-songwriter Anggun received the special award for Outstanding Contribution to Asian Television Performing Art, while Filipino businessman Manny V. Pangilinan received the special award for Outstanding
ANC Anchor Cathy Yang was named Best News Presenter
Contribution to Asian Television. Anggun was honored for being one of the few Asian entertainers who have earned international acclaim. The Indonesian-born former child star moved to Europe when she was only 20. Pangilinan was honored for his business acumen and vision for the companies he has handled, and how he built the Philippine businesses of First Pacific. He was not able to receive the award but he did mention the intense network war in the Philippines in his acceptance speech read by TV5 President and CEO Jane Basas. ANC Anchor Yang and the GMA animated show Barangay 143 were among the winners of the Technical and Creative Awards in the 24 Asian Television Awards. Yang was named Best News Presenter or Anchor winner for her work in her program Market Edge With Cathy Yang on cable channel ANC. Barangay 143 was the Best 2D Animated Program winner. Here is the complete list of the winners of the 24th Asian Television Awards: ■ Best Actor in a Leading Role: William Hsieh (First Love) ■ Best Actress in a Leading Role: Tisanart Sornsuek (True Life of a Drama Queen) ■ Best Direction (Fiction): Jeevan Nathan (Avenue 14) ■ Cable/Satellite Network of the Year: Line Co. Thailand ■ Terrestrial Broadcaster of the Year: China Global Television ■ Best Host/Presenter-Digital: Panirin Tumwattana (Little Nirin) ■ Best Entertainment Presenter/Host: Alana Nichols (Follow Alana)
MARTIN DEL ROSARIO won as Best Leading Male Performance-Digital
■ Best Adaption of an Existing Format: MasterChef Junior Thailand Season 1 ■ Best Reality Show: My Kitchen Rules Australia ■ Best Original Digital Drama Series: The Deadline ■ Best Digital Fiction Program/Series: Social Syndrome ■ Best Leading Male Performance-Digital: Martin del Rosario (Born Beautiful) ■ Best Leading Female Performance-Digital: Chanya McClory (The Deadline) ■ Best Actor in a Supporting Role: Attaphan Poonsawat (The Gifted) ■ Best Actress in Supporting Role: Anyarin Terethananpat (Loop of Vengeance) ■ Best Single Drama or Telemovie: Mystified ■ Best Drama Series: Sky Castle ■ Best Theme Song: “Alanganin” by Kris Lawrence and Krizza Neri (Barangay 143) ■ Award for Outstanding Contribution to Asian Television Performing Arts: Anggun ■ Award for Outstanding Contribution to Asian Television: Manny V. Pangilinan TECHNICAL AND CREATIVE AWARDS: ■ Best Documentary Program (one-off/special): Is Australia Sexist? ■ Best Documentary Series: China From Above 2 ■ Best Natural History or Wildlife Program: Orangutan Jungle School ■ Best Single News Story/Report (10 minutes or less): Giant Clams-Nature’s Climate Archive ■ Best News Program: Sunaina’s Story
■ Best News Presenter or Anchor: Cathy Yang, Market Edge with Cathy Yang (ABS-CBN News Channel, Philippines) ■ Best Social Awareness Program: Planet Healers ■ Best Current Affairs Presenter: Andini Effendi, Q&A Metro TV ■ Best Current Affairs Program: Kerala Floods-The Human Story ■ Best Comedy Program: The Family Law Season 3 ■ Best Lifestyle Program: The Spirit of Zen ■ Best Infotainment Program: Mega Icons ■ Best Entertainment Program (One off/Annual): 20182019 Jiangsu Satellite TV New Year’s Eve Concert ■ Best General Entertainment Program: Sasuke Ninja Warrior 2018 ■ Best Original Digital Entertainment Program: Super Nova Games ■ Best Children’s Program: Bodypedia Baby ■ Best Preschool Program: Didi & Friends ■ Best 2D Animated Program: Barangay 143 ■ Best 3D Animated Program: Treehouse Detectives ■ Best Live Sports Coverage: Australian PGA Championships 2018 ■ Best Sports Program: Go Top Heroes ■ Best Sports Presenter/Commentator: Michael O’Dwyer (Live@HWWC HSBC Singapore 2019) ■ Best Talk Show: Koffee with Karan Season 6 ■ Best Game/Quiz Program: Boom! Vietnam ■ Best Music Program: The Producer ■ Best Music Video: “Sandcastles” by Olinda Cho ■ Best Influencer Content/Series: Stupid Man Smartphone Singapore ■ Best Branded Content (>15 mins): Prison Rat ■ Best Branded Content (<15 mins): Queensway: Home of Football ■ Best Branded Marketing Content: Mitsubishi Adventure with National Geographic ■ Best Digital Non-Fiction Program/ Series: Painted Love: Our Story ■ Best Scriptwriting for Web Series: The Deadline ■ Best Cinematography: Kumar Subramaniam (Breaking Point Haws) ■ Best Original Screenplay: Ekachai Uekrongtham (Bangkok Love Stories: Plead) ■ Best Editing: Zhou Quan, Life Matters Season 2 ■ Best Direction (Non-Fiction): Prabhu Asgadnkar (Breaking Point Haws) A concert closed the 24th Asian TV Awards 2020. The Sundown concert took place at the Newport Theater at Resorts World Manila. The performers included Anggun, K-pop girl group Cherry Bullet, and Vietnamese singer Hoang Yen Chibi. Pinoy artists included in the lineup are Martin Nievera, Gab and Kiana Valenciano, Jona, Morisette, Kris Lawrence and 4th Impact.
ANTHONY HOPKINS (right) and Jonathan Pryce in the acclaimed Netflix film The Two Popes.
Envoys&Expats
www.businessmirror.com.ph | Thursday, January 16, 2020 E1
65 YEARS OF PHL-LAO PDR DIPLOMATIC TIES
Envoy expands his country’s reach, cooperation beyond borders
By Recto L. Mercene
@rectomercene
NCE dubbed as “The Kingdom of a Million Elephants Under the White Parasol,” Lao People’s Democratic Republic, or Lao PDR, is a landlocked Southeast Asian country known for its mountainous terrain, French colonial architecture, hill-tribe settlements and Buddhist monasteries.
The capital city of Vientiane is the site of the That Luang monument, where a reliquary reportedly houses the Buddha’s breastbone. Also found there is the Patuxai war memorial, and the Talat Sao or the Morning Market, a complex teeming with food choices, clothes and craft stalls. Ambassador Songkane Luangmuninthone hopes to regain his nation’s old glory, as he campaigns for a more educated Laos population and the construction of modern infrastructure to link Laos to
the rest of the developed world. For one, he explains that, although it is a solid landmass of 236,800 square kilometers. (which can fit inside Metro Manila), his country has a hilly geography and would need concrete, paved roads to complete its modernization program. “This is not only the dream of our Prime Minister [PM] [Thongloun Sisoulith]; it’s our government policy for many years since we opened up in 1986 to integrate
with the world economy,” Luangmuninthone explained. “We can’t be landlocked—literally; we have to connect with our neighbors. We need to be able to get products out of [our country through cheaper means] to be competitive with others. One way to get out of that [predicament is to transform our country from being] landlocked into land-linked.” The Laos emissary explained, “We’re trying to make the infrastructures [that will] bridge us with Thailand and Myanmar. Such would be augmented by another railway link to China.” Today, he said a high-speed rail system would eventually connect Vientiane to their more prosperous Asian neighbors. “I hope this train [service] will reduce the cost of transport for goods and foreign direct investments,” the good ambassador told Envoys&Expats in an exclusive interview. He volunteered that it is scheduled for completion in 2021. “It is a great opportunity for Lao PDR to connect with all its Asean neighbors—including
the Philippines—[because] we’re one economic, political and social community.” In this exclusive interview, the Laos envoy also bannered their abundance of natural resources and young work force, as well as affordable cost of utilities, such as electricity. He explained that Laos’s electricity is cheaper than neighboring Myanmar or Cambodia, as it comes from hydroelectric sources generated by the mighty Mekong River and its tributaries, as well as other waterways, which traverse his country. Speaking of traversing spaces, his country’s flag carrier, Lao Airlines, connects to China, Japan, Korea, Thailand and Vietnam. He wishes, though, that Philippine Airlines would also fly to Laos, which will transit to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh to make the route economically feasible. “That’s how I can see PAL stopping over to Vietnam, or even Thailand, for more passengers, because we have a very small number of passengers.” Luangmuninthone, however,
shuns suggestions of turning Laos into an aviation hub in Southeast Asia. “We don’t compete to be a hub, because there are already many in the ‘neighborhood,’ like those in Thailand, Singapore, Vietnam and even in the Philippines.” “Everyone wants to be the original hub, but we only want to reach out to our neighbors [and to connect with them], so that it could be easy for our people’s goods to reach the region without any tariff barriers,” the ambassador expounded. Last year, the Laos diplomat brought a delegation of foreign investors to his country, “because I want them to determine what areas need investments, and not just believe what we say.”
English and education
LUANGMUNINTHONE is a Master of Legal Science (Master equivalent) in Public International Law from the Moscow Institute of International Relations. While fluent in Russian and English, he wishes that many of his young compatriots would be well versed in the latter, as well. “English is the road to technologi-
cal progress,” the diplomat admitted, but said many Laos students know either Vietnamese or Chinese instead, since his country shares borders with native speakers of these languages. To speed up educating many young Laotians as part of his country’s ongoing reforms, the envoy said he had visited several colleges and universities across the Philippines, appreciating its many schools of higher learning. He said he is hoping there would be more of their students matriculating locally or being able to bag a scholarship program, like those provided by the late Ambassador Antonio L. Cabangon Chua, whom he greatly admires still. (The brains behind BusinessMirror’s creation, Cabangon Chua was a former Philippine ambassador to Laos under the administration of former president Gloria MacapagalArroyo. Fondly called “Amba” by friends and close associates, he was very active in promoting the connections between the Philippines and Laos.) Continued on E2
Envoys& BusinessMirror
E2 Thursday, January 16, 2020
FILIPINOS IN LAO PDR
PHL medical mission brings more smiles anew to Lao kids
IENTIANE—The Philippine Embassy in Lao PDR, in coordination with the Medical Corpsman Department of the Lao Ministry of National Defense and assisted by the Global Shapers Vientiane Hub, organized the second Philippines-Laos Cleft Mission, conducted by the Philippine Band of Mercy (PBM) and Smile Train Philippines in early September 2019 at the Lao Military Hospital.
In the opening ceremony, Ambassador Belinda M. Ante highlighted the mission as a way to strengthen Philippines-Laos diplomatic relations in the fields of military and health cooperation. Lao Ministry of National Defense-Medical Corpsman Department Deputy Chief Colonel Vanpheng Phuangsawaddy expressed her gratitude for the return of the Philippine doctors and expressed hopes that the Laos medical personnel would learn more about medical procedures and skills during the mission. A total of 38 Laos patients,
mostly children, were operated on during the mission. At the same time, Philippine surgeons conducted on-site lectures, as well as training for the Laos doctors and nurses of the Military Hospital 103 on surgery procedures. The Philippine delegation also followed up on the patients who underwent cleft lip/palate surgery during the first Philippines-Laos Cleft Mission held in August 2018. During the closing ceremony on September 5, 2019, Philippine delegation head Dr. Hector Santos Jr. expressed his appreciation for the
PHL talents featured in Lao PDR fashion week
AMBASSADOR to Lao PDR Belinda M. Ante (center) congratulates Philippine fashion icon Albert Andrada (second from right) for a successful show at the culmination of the Lao Fashion Week 2019. JEAN-CHRISTOPHE OLRY/DFA DR. Mel Anthony Cruz (center, in black uniform) conducts a handson lecture and training on cleft-lip surgeries for Laos doctors and nurses.
VIENTIANE PE/DFA
DR. Hector Santos (left) hands a certificate of appreciation to Lao PDR Ministry of National DefenseMedical Corpsman Department Deputy Chief Colonel Vanpheng Phuangsawaddy. VIENTIANE PE/DFA
Laos people’s hospitality and for placing their trust on the Philippine doctors. He hoped that PBM and Smile Train Philippines would be invited again this year to conduct another mission. A private nonstock, nonprofit
foundation established in 1937, the PBM aims to provide medical assistance to disfigured underprivileged Filipinos. During the mission, it collaborated with Smile Train Philippines, a foundation which provides free cleft-repair surgery. DFA
IENTIANE—Aiming to promote the fashion industry in Lao PDR, more than 50 local and international designers showcased their latest collections at the Laos Fashion Week in September 2019 at the Landmark Mekong Riverside Hotel in the capital city. Laos designers, former Lao Fashion Week winners and designers from the Philippines, Indonesia, Japan, Singapore, France and Germany, among many other countries, joined the event that included nightly fashion shows, workshops and seminars on various subjects. It also included the announcement of the winner of Lao Fashion Week 2019, who will then study in fashion institutes in Paris, London, Manila and Bangkok. Participating fashion designers were also asked to donate some of their works, which were for retail at the Designers Pop-Up Store set up in the event. A percentage of the sales revenue was earmarked to support the Lao Young Designers project, disabled people, as well as the victims of the typhoon and floods in the
southern provinces of Laos. The artistic works of several Filipino designers graced the fashion week’s runway, including Cambodiabased Filipinos Don Protasio, Reynier Abello (Armada), Julius Tarog (JT clothing line), Renan Pacson (creative director of the Arin fashion brand), Christian Edward Dalagaog (CHED Studio), Bryan Peralta (Bryan Peralta Designs), Ann Lorio (Ann Lorio Couture that featured sea glass jewelry) and Albert Andrada, who promoted his Luxewear collection during the culminating event of the fashion week. Recent graduates of the Fashion Institute of the Philippines (FIP) JJ Aquino and Mariton Villanueva also presented their collections, which featured colorful woven textiles from the Philippines. In addition, FIP Director Iross Santos-Cramer represented the institute as a judge during the Lao Fashion Week 2019 Contest. Filipino designers paid a courtesy call at the Philippine Embassy on September 12, 2019. DFA
Envoy expands his country’s reach, cooperation beyond borders Continued from E1
“I knew him very well. He sent many Lao scholars to school, and some of them serve in our foreign service,” Luangmuninthone confirmed. “During my tenure, I’ll try to expand [the entry of more Lao] students coming here to study,” he promised, adding he had a dialogue with some Filipino “movers and shakers” who are willing to support scholarships for his country’s learners. “I’ll try my best to increase the number of [our] students studying in the Philippines,” he committed, while saying in jest that he had already added a couple of students by way of his two sons: a 20-year-old studying Commerce at the AMA University, and one who is 22 taking up a business course at the Far Eastern University. While the ambassador admitted that many of his compatriots are still poor, he appreciates the country’s potentials, such as its agricultural front, service sector and educational system. Speaking of which, since Filipinos are proficient in English, he would like their students to study here, instead of in Australia or Singapore. “Your English teachers are of very good quality. There are nearly 2,000 Filipinos in Lao PDR teaching [the language].” He volunteered there are also Filipino engineers, consultants and lawyers there. The Laos envoy noted one more of his country’s potential, which is in tourism. It is Laos’s plan, and among his wishes within his four year- (or longer) tenure, that Filipinos would know more about the said nation, in the same manner that his people would, of their Asean neighbor to the east. Luangmuninthone takes pride that half of Laos’s population of 7 million comprises its work force. “We don’t have [an issue on our
elders, but the young] are unskilled. We need to teach them vocational skills; to get them to work in industrial processing plants, for example. That’s the issue.”
sia, Singapore and Thailand. Brunei Darussalam joined on January 8, 1984, Vietnam on July 28, 1995, Laos and Myanmar on July 23, 1997, and Cambodia on April 30, 1999.) He noted with appreciation that since becoming integrated with the Southeast Asian regional bloc, Laos was extended a high level of political cooperation of other membercountries. Both his country and the Philippines have hosted the visits of their respective leaders. Duterte’s first official foreign trip as Chief Executive was to Laos.
Expanding cooperation
LAOS’s highest-ranking envoy to the Philippines is a highly skilled director general in foreign affairs, policy analysis, political science and government. He hopes that his country would regain its status as a highly cultured nation, able to equal the economic stature of its neighbors after years under colonial rule, proxy wars and a general decline following years of neglect. (A socialist state, Laos had countless political upheavals over the course of its history. It became a French protectorate in 1893, was occupied by the Japanese in 1945, recolonized by France thereafter, won autonomy in 1949 and became independent in 1953. Then, civil war ensued, followed by a number of United States-backed military dictatorships. As the Vietnam War ended in 1975, the Laos nation came under Communist rule.) Luangmuninthone said Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro L. Locsin Jr. is scheduled to visit Vientiane in February to confer with other AsiaPacific officials and “discuss deliverables, which is a good impetus for our expanding relationship.” Laos PM Sisoulith, the diplomat shared, was to fly to Manila early this year. However, President Duterte’s full schedule warranted the highlevel visit to be postponed to the latter half of 2020. “I think the Department of Foreign Affairs agreed it to be on the third quarter,” Luangmuninthone revealed. Of Laos-Philippine relations, he described it as “very good. But on the economic front, we must do more because, although we have a trade investment council, the level
Thoughts about PHL AMBASSADOR of Lao PDR to the Philippines Songkane Luangmuninthone (left) receives a plaque of appreciation from Asian Studies students of the University of Santo Tomas in November 2019.
of bilateral trade and investment is very minimal.” He said in 2017, trade between Manila and Vientiane was a little over $1 million, “which is very small. I think both countries have great potential to expand; [although] certainly, there are difficulties.” “We have about 20 memoranda of understanding and agreements signed by both sides, but only a few were implemented due to lack of money, resources and people,” according to the envoy. There are many grand projects, but both countries lack funding, he said. “If we have the money, we can expand cooperation in various fields.” Luangmuninthone avers that 2020 is a very important year for the two countries’ bilateral relations, marking the 65th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between them. “January 14, 1955, was a very auspicious date. It’s an occasion when we established cordial and mutually beneficial relations,” acknowledged the Asian diplomat. He said during the Indo-China War, Operation Brotherhood (OB), an overseas-assistance program
initiated by the Philippine Junior Chamber of Commerce, was very active in Laos starting in 1957. During the OB program, a group of Filipino doctors, nurses, nutritionists and social workers traveled to the said country. They provided medical and relief assistance, as well as community development-projects, to more than 1 million Laotians. (The ambassador intimated that he was born in an OB-operated hospital, although when he was young, he did not know what OB meant. The structure of the health-care facility no longer stands. The Laos government has reclaimed the lot, which has been converted into a park adjacent to the aforementioned That Luang.) At the height of the Vietnam War, when the Philippines remained on the side of the US and Laos was a Communist state, both sides pulled out their embassies in the respective countries. “But we re-established relations in 1997, when Laos joined the Asean.” It was then that the Philippines— a founding member of Asean—lent its active support to Laos and helped integrate the latter with the association (together with the rest of the original members Indonesia, Malay-
THE Laos envoy, who also studied at the National University of Singapore (predecessor of the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy), admitted that the conduct of Philippine elections that produce frequent changes in national and local leadership could discourage investors—although he does not want to intrude into internal politics. “If a new government changes the investment policy for foreign investors, would [the latter want to come over]? Of course, they [do], but they are reluctant, because there are other countries who can provide more stability for investments.” He said some investors might be encouraged to place financial resources, aware of the many skilled and hardworking Filipinos. “But if I own the money, I would ask: ‘If the new government changes the tax policy, what should I do? [Am I willing to pay more taxes], or should I withdraw?’” “That’s my impression about the [Philippine] system,” the ambassador opined. “But your education and legal foundations are very good. And if you keep implementing the rule of law, that’s what will make the Philippines very strong.” Luangmuninthone is also appreciative of the country’s womenempowerment policy: “One of the
best in Asean—if not in the world.” “The females’ opportunities here are bigger, more than in any other countries. We in Lao PDR are trying to reach your level, but it is still difficult—even though we have a female president of the National Assembly and many [of our] ministers at that. Compared with [the Philippines], we’re still lagging behind. We want to reach that point of your women’s empowerment,” he emphasized. Although the Lao diplomat is at a loss for words praising the many Philippine tourist spots, he said: “You need to improve on a lot of infrastructure to sell [your country] to foreigners, like airlines, hotels, services...everything for their convenience.’’ “The Philippines has all the ‘beauties:’ mountains, rivers...and your people are very kind [and] open… they love foreigners,” Luangmuninthone observed. “But overall, I think you need better infrastructure.” He compared the Philippines to Singapore, which is more efficiently run in terms of governance. “I studied there for one-and-a-half years; but here, there is more beauty; although Lao PDR, too, has natural and cultural beauty in our many temples.” Luangmuninthone presented his credentials in Malacañang in March 2019. Since then, he has been to some parts of the country. He likes Baguio City the most because of its cool weather, and had gone to Cebu and Davao. “I like Cebu—it is near the sea. It’s cleaner than Manila. I went to Clark [in Pampanga], but not yet to Palawan, although I plan to go to Coron during my stay.” The Laos ambassador likes to cook and plays golf for recreation. He has developed a craving for chicken tinola, and regularly sends her daughter, who is based in Japan, Philippine dried mangoes, which he said are “the best, compared with the rest.”
&Expats
envoys.expats.bm@gmail.com |Thursday, January 16, 2020 E3
‘GOLDEN FRIENDSHIP’
PHL, Japan agree on bolstering bilateral ties
HE Philippine and Japanese governments vowed to increase their bilateral cooperation to maintain peace and security, as well as uphold the rule of law in the region.
JAPANESE Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi speaks before the media. JOYCE ANN L. ROCAMORA/PNA
Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro L. Locsin Jr. and Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi made the commitment after their bilateral meeting in Makati City. “A survey of the most pressing concerns in the regional security environment is an indispensable element of our strategic dialogue. I was pleased with my candid exchanges with Minister Motegi on issues, such as the Rule of Law in the maritime commons and the situation in the West Philippine Sea,” Locsin said during his speech. “We committed to continue our cooperation—bilaterally, and in all possible forums—to maintain peace and security, stability, and the Rule of Law in our region,” he added. Meanwhile, Motegi echoed the pacts forged between him and the Philippines’s top diplomat in the area of maritime security. “Secretary Locsin and I were able to deepen our discussion from such perspectives and agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation in [a] wide area, including security and enforcement of the laws of the seas,” he said. The Philippines, China and other neighboring countries have overlapping claims in the resource-rich South China Sea/West Philippine Sea, a vital trade route in the region. Japan, on the other hand, is locked in a territorial dispute with China in the East China Sea over an island chain called Senkaku by Tokyo and Diaoyu by Beijing. Aside from the commitment of upholding the Rule of Law in the region, the two foreign ministers also “reviewed” the direction of the two states’ defense and security engagement. Locsin thanked Japan for supporting Manila’s acquisition of new air and maritime assets and equipment to enhance its maritime domain awareness and capability, as well as law enforcement and humanitarian responses. Among others, they further discussed “future acquisitions” in aid of the modernization of the Philippines’s armed forces and maritime forces. “This is the first of our many meetings which I look forward to having with Minister Motegi. The Philippines-Japan Strategic Partnership has been a positive force, not just for Philippine development and security, but in the best interest of our larger region,” Locsin affirmed. “In 2017, President Duterte described the Philippine-Japan Strategic Partnership as having entered a ‘golden age.’ Minister Motegi’s visit adds further luster
to that golden friendship, which remains one of the region’s closest and strongest,” he added.
Notes exchanged on Metro bridges
MEANWHILE, both governments of the Philippines and Japan signed diplomatic notes on the same date for the additional financing of a project aimed to reinforce major bridges in Metro Manila against earthquakes. Tokyo, through the Japan International Cooperation Agency, will provide a supplemental loan amount of ¥4.409 billion, or about P2 billion, for the Metro Manila Priority Bridges Seismic Improvement Project-Phase 2, which will rehabilitate the Guadalupe Bridge in Makati City, and the Lambingan Bridge in the City of Manila. With the exchange of notes, Motegi is hopeful the additional yen credit would contribute to the country’s efforts strengthen its infrastructure versus strong temblors. “Recently, several large-scale earthquakes struck various places in the Philippines, such as [in Metro] Manila and Mindanao. I wish to express my heartfelt condolences to those who have lost their lives, the victims, and their families,” he said after signing the diplomatic notes with Locsin in Makati City. “Japan wishes to cooperate by leveraging on our knowledge in responding to natural disasters, which [are common challenges] for both our countries,” he added. The original loan agreement amounting to ¥9.783 billion, or about P4.5 billion, was signed on August 25, 2015. According to the Department of Foreign Affairs, the current project responds to the increase in the total project cost and the extension of its implementation period by more than one year until August 2023. The cost augmentation stems from changes in construction technology that will be applied into the Guadalupe Bridge, the need for temporary detour bridges in the area, and the need for additional work shifts to the construction period, among others.
Continued support hailed
ON the part of the palace, President Duterte expressed his gratitude to Japan for its unwavering assistance to his administration that “helps boost the Philippine economy,” Malacañang said. The Chief Executive acknowledged Tokyo’s relentless support when the Japanese foreign minister paid him a visit at Malacañang. “ The Philippine leader [ex-
FINANCE Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez (center, left) and Motegi (center, right) hold their bilateral meeting. PNA
FOR Japan’s continuous support to his government’s development, President Duterte thanked Motegi at Malacañang during the latter’s courtesy call on January 9. KING RODRIGUEZ/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO/PNA
FOREIGN Affairs Secretary Teodoro L. Locsin Jr. and Motegi sign the diplomatic notes on the Metro Manila Priority Bridges Seismic Improvement Project-Phase 2 in Makati City, on the same day. The project will improve the resilience of two major spans: the Lambingan Bridge and Guadalupe Bridge, through the incorporation of improved seismic bridge-design specifications. JOYCE ANN L. ROCAMORA/PNA
pressed] his gratitude to Japan for its continuing support to the country’s development agenda,” the Palace said in a press statement. “The President highlighted numerous Japan-financed projects in the Philippines, which make Filipinos grateful to the Asian economic powerhouse for its continuing assistance.” As of September 2019, Japan is the Philippines’s top source of official development assistance, with $8.64 billion in loans and grants. The former makes up nearly half, or 46 percent, of the country’s total ODA portfolio. Malacañang said the President also thanked Motegi for finding time to visit Manila for the first time. It quoted the foreign minister, to wit: “The Philippine-Japanese bilateral relations has entered a golden age since Duterte’s election.” For Motegi, it was a “great honor” to meet Duterte during his stay in the Philippines. He, likewise, expressed his appreciation for the chief executive’s attendance to the Japanese Emperor’s enthronement rite in October last year. The Palace said Motegi also expressed his condolences and sympathies to the survivors of the recent typhoons that hit the central Philippines, as well as the series of powerful earthquakes that devastated parts of Mindanao in December 2019. Moteg i hai ls f rom Japan’s Tochigi Prefecture, particularly
development assistance, Japan, he assured, will continue to support the famous “Build, Build, Build” program, and assist in achieving sustainable economic, under the Asian superpower’s guiding principle of implementing “quality work infrastructure” to its projects worldwide. Such entails the elements of financial stability, transparent procurement, as well as environmental and financial sustainability. Atsushi cited the earlier exchange of notes signing for the new 40 year, ¥4-billion loans for the priority bridges project as an example for this. For what he termed as “positive and welcome development,” the deputy press secretary revealed the decision of lifting the restrictions for agricultural products from Japan, especially those emanating from the southern part of the country, as well as Fukushima Prefecture, which was the site of a nuclear disaster in the Daiichi power plant a few years back. He shared that the people from the area are very much encouraged with the decision as they can resume their food exports to Filipinos, which include meat, fruits and vegetables. Regarding peace and development in Mindanao, Atsushi said Japan welcomes the lifting of martial law in the island-region, as it will “further strengthen its assistance in decommissioning and disarming Moro Islamic Liberation Front
its fifth district, and has served in Japan’s House of Representatives for nine times. Before his appointment as foreign minister in September 2019, he worked in the Minister of State for Economic and Fiscal Policy, minister in charge of Social Security Reform, minister in charge of Transpacific Partnership, as well as for trade negotiations between Japan and the United States in October 2018. The Japanese government official also became his country’s minister for Human Resources Development and minister in charge of Economic Revitalization. He graduated from the University of Tokyo’s Faculty of Economics in March 1978, and completed his Master’s degree at the Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government in June 1983.
Briefing with press secretary
ON the evening of the same day, Deputy Press Secretary and Deputy Assistant Minister Kaifu Atsushi met with select members of the local media to recapitulate and clarify some of the matters that were earlier dealt with between executives of the Philippine and Japanese governments, with the latter’s delegation led by Motegi. Atsushi reemphasized Japan’s deep cooperation with the Philippines in the areas of law enforcement, national and maritime security, as well as many others. With regard to economic and
soldiers, and will further support social infrastructure development, for the people [there] to feel the actual dividends of peace.” He also added a gist of discussion points between Motegi and Duterte, the themes of which echoed those which were brought up together with the DFA chief and Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez III. These included policies on Build, Build, Build, Japan’s support for peace and progress in Mindanao, cooperation on migrant law enforcement, as well as exchanges of views on regional and international affairs, including those taking place in Iran, in North Korea, and in the South China Sea. Atsushi also mentioned that Motegi was able to visit the Philippine Coast Guard headquarters during the latter’s brief stay in Manila. The Japanese foreign minister had a briefing with Vice Admiral Joel Garcia. Japan helped procure about 10 high-speed boats for the PCG via the yen loan that was obtained back in 2013. These are currently being utilized, Japan’s deputy press secretary said, for law enforcement, sea patrolling and anti-piracy activities. Other items that were quickly reviewed were those involving the infrastructure project concept in Subic Bay and the comprehensive tax-reform structure, among others. (Joyce Ann L. Rocamora and Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos/PNA, with a report from Mike Policarpio)
Envoys&Expats BusinessMirror
EMBASSIES, EVENTS, ETC.
SFA: New child-protection measures needed
N the face of new challenges confronting children of the region, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro L. Locsin Jr. called on participants at an Asean Dialogue in Manila to find more ways to interpret and implement the provisions of the Convention on the Rights of the Child. In a message read by Asean Intergover nmenta l Commission on Human Rights (AICHR) Rep. Ambassador Elizabeth P. Buensuceso, who co-organized on December 11 and 12, 2019, with Child Rights CoalitionAsia, the Asean Dialogue on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) General Comments, Locsin enjoined government decisionmakers and civil-society representatives to give meaning to the convention’s core objective of promoting and protecting children’s rights, as well as to share best practices that have saved children from abuse and neglect. The dialogue shared best practices in addressing challenges by discussing the General Comments, as authoritative interpretations of the UNCRC articles and as a means to identify regional, and international, similarities in advancing the rights of the child. General Comment 12 on the “Right of the Child to be Heard,” and General Comment 14 on the “Right of the Child to Have His or Her Best Interests Taken as a Primary Consideration” were extensively discussed.
The dialogue also came up w it h recom mend at ion s a nd identified ways to include these as inputs in policy formulation at the national and regional levels. Special focus was given to children in vulnerable situations, such as those of illegal migrants, child brides, children of sex workers and those with disabilities. A special session with a child-rights advocate Ericka Quilos, acting as a resource person, was also held. Representat ives of A sea n member-states, AICHR and other Asean sectoral bodies, government agencies, national legislators, civil-society organizations and other persons working with children attended the forum. Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway to the Philippines Bjørn Staurset Jahnsen emphasized the need to strengthen children’s awareness on human rights. For the part of the Philippine government, Social Welfare Undersecretary Florita Villar read the message of Social Welfare Secretary Rolando Joselito Bautista, who challenged the participants to realize efforts in advancing children’s rights. DFA
PARTICIPANTS of the Asean Dialogue on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child PHILIP FERNANDEZ/DFA
AMBASSADOR of Norway Bjørn Staurset Jahnsen delivers a message during the opening ceremony. CRC ASIA/DFA
ATTY. Mikiko Otani (center) of the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child discusses the General Comments. CRC ASIA/DFA
Canada pledges ₧7.25-M grant for 11 PHL groups
A NA DA has ear marked CAD$185,000, or about P7.25 million, to fund projects in the Philippines focused on advancing inclusive governance and human rights. Its embassy in Manila said 11 organizations across the country would receive the grants from Canada Fund this year. “By working with Philippine organizations through the Canada Fund, the Embassy of Canada is championing the values of inclusive and accountable governance...by promoting human rights, women’s empowerment, gender equality and respect for diversity,” Chargé d’affaires Crista McInnis said. McInnis noted that advancing inclusive governance remains a strategic priority for Canada in the Philippines. “We are partnering with civil-society organizations in addressing barriers that prevent marginalized groups from realizing their full potential and participating in the development, and prosperity, of their families and communities,” she explained. The following organizations and their respective projects will receive the said Canada Fund grants: n Active Citizenship Foundation’s Safe Campuses Project—which promotes safe spaces by establishing desks for women, as well as students who are part of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer/questioning, or LGBTQ+, communities in five universities across the Philippines. n Samahan ng mga Pilipina para sa Reporma at Kaunlaran Inc. (or Spark! Philippines)’s Humanizing Sogie (sexual orientation and gender identity expression)—which aims to increase Filipinos’ willingness to accept, and recognize, the diverse sexual orientations, gender identities and LGBTQ+ expressions.
n Ateneo de Manila University’s Ateneo Human Rights Center—in collaboration with the provincial government of the Dinagat Islands, which seeks to improve access to justice in the province by empowering barangay officials to promote peace and order. n Pakigdait Alang sa Pag-amoma sa Kalinaw—which is working with six communities in Lanao del Norte to sustain peace, and prevent violent extremism by organizing community dialogues with Bangsamoro women and youth. n League of Cities of the Philippines—which is establishing evidence-based mechanisms for its 145 member-cities to share best practices for implementing gender and development policies. The project will research examples of best policies and gather relevant statistics for publication in a database and guidebook for local leaders, which will allow cities to ensure maximum effectiveness of the existing GAD focal-point system. n University of the Philippines Center for Women’s and Gender Studies—which will continue the Phase 2 of its Angat Bayi Women’s Political Empowerment Program that supports and expands a network of Filipino women-political leaders committed to advance feminist and rights-based, democratic governance. n Foundation for the Advancement of Clinical Epidemiology’s Technological Intervention to Protect Teenagers Against Early Unintended At-Risk Pregnancies and
Sexually Transmitted Illnesses in the Philippines, or PROTECT—which is in its second year of researching of developing an innovative chat robot on Facebook Messenger. n Ba h ay T u luya n’s cont i nued work to empower marginalized youth by building their capacities to protect themselves from abuse and exploitation. n Pa m ba n s a n g K o n g re s o n g Kababaihan sa Kanayunan Inc.’s Women in Emergencies Network in the Philippines’s promotion of women’s capacity in disaster-risk reduction management by boosting women’s leadership in decision-making and participation in disaster-risk reduction management, climate-change adaptation, as well as peace and security. n Simbahang Lingkod ng Bayan’s work on a nationwide project that aims to increase active, and more meaningful, political engagement of community-based and civil-society organizations, parishes, and schools by conducting political and civic education, advocacy campaigning and local support networks building. n G over nment Watc h (or G Watch)—which will continue to train and mobilize officials of the Sangguniang Kabataan (local youth councils) to effectively monitor anti-poverty programs in their respective barangays to enhance transparency, participation, and accountability and improve outcomes for beneficiaries. The Canada Fund is a competitive grants program implemented by the Embassy of Canada in the Philippines, which provides direct financial support to local organizations for projects that promote inclusive governance, including empowering women and girls, strengthening democracy, advancing human rights and promoting the rule of law. Joyce Ann L. Rocamora/PNA
BusinessMirror January 16, 2020
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My review of "The 10,000 Year Explosion"
Here's the opening:
This Thursday, February 12, 2009, marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of Charles Darwin, author of the 1859 book On the Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection: Or The Preservation of Favoured Races in the Struggle for Life.
(I guess Darwin didn’t get the memo about race not existing. You’ll see vast heapings of praise in the press for Darwin this week. Keep in mind, though, that if he were alive today, the same people now lauding the dead Darwin would be denouncing the living one the same way they demonized James Watson in 2007.)
I’m pleased that a new book, The 10,000 Year Explosion: How Civilization Accelerated Human Evolution , demonstrates that Darwin has two worthy 21st Century successors of comparable insight and ambition: co-authors Gregory Cochran and Henry Harpending. (They’ve set up an official website for The 10,000 Year Explosion here).
On a rather less epochal note, the publication of The 10,000 Year Explosion marks the tenth anniversary of my invitation-only Human Biodiversity email group, which I started in 1999.
And that’s where Greg and Henry got to know each other! Peter Brimelow recently called to my attention that the inscription on the Westminster Abbey tomb of concert impresario J.P. Salomon reads, "He brought Haydn to England …" Perhaps my gravestone will read, "He introduced Cochran to Harpending."
Henry Harpending, a professor at the University of Utah and member of the National Academy of Sciences, is one of the few field anthropologists (he lived for 42 months with hunter-gatherer peoples in Africa, such as the tongue-clicking Bushmen) with the mathematical skills to grapple with the current deluge of genetic data.
(Here’s Henry’s hair-raising tale of going hunting with Bushmen for the most lethal African game animal, the Cape buffalo.)
Greg Cochran, a physicist turned evolutionary theorist, is a polymath who might be the most ferociously brilliant idea man of his generation in America.
Obviously, I’m biased about their The 10,000 Year Explosion. Over the last decade, I’ve spent perhaps a thousand hours talking to Greg Cochran on the phone. Or, to be more accurate, listening to Greg, which is how I’ve gotten a sizable fraction of my best ideas. (My worst ideas are all mine.)
Cochran the conversationalist is at his acerbic best in a five part interview on the 2Blowhards blog: Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, Day 4, and Day 5.
On the first page of The 10,000 Year Explosion, Cochran and Harpending quote the reigning conventional wisdom about humanity:
"There’s been no biological change in humans in 40,000 or 50,000 years. Everything we call culture and civilization we’ve built with the same body and brain."— Stephen Jay Gould
The co-authors then announce that they will undermine this standard presumption:
"We intend to make the case that human evolution has accelerated in the past 10,000 years, rather than slowing or stopping, and is now happening about 100 times faster than its long-term average over the 6 million years of our existence. The pace has been so rapid that humans have changed significantly in body and mind over recorded history. Sargon and Imhotep were different from you genetically as well as culturally."
As Greg quips, "The past may never be the same again."
By Steve Sailer on 2/08/2009 Labels: books, Gregory Cochran, human biodiversity
Frank said...
Very interesting. I'll have to to add that book to my reading list. Possibly off topic, but here's a paper from PLoS I've been struggling with:
http://biology.plosjournals.org/perlserv/?request=get-document&doi=10.1371%2Fjournal.pbio.1000026&ct=1
From the summary:
"Regions of the human genome that appear to evolve rapidly may have been under strong positive selection and could contain the genetic changes responsible for the uniqueness of our species. However, neutral (nonadaptive) evolutionary processes can give rise to signals that can be mistaken as signs of selection.....
....This leads to the provocative hypothesis that many of the genetic changes leading to human-specific characters may have been prompted by fixation of deleterious mutations."
Does this mean that the "deleterious" mutations carried with it changes that weren't all that bad? Is my interpretation too simple?
testing99 said...
Steve, when you venture out into history, you betray your weak spots.
In fact, Cortez suffered just as much as the Aztecs, from Yellow Fever and Dysentary and other diseases, which caused the loss of about 40% of his men, and he had only around 200 total during the final conquest of Mexico City.
What allowed Cortez to conquer the Aztecs and Pizarro the Incas was the habit of both peoples of exacting mass tributes in the form of captives to be sacrificed. The Aztecs mocked the Mexicas during the final assault on Tenochticlan, saying they would be enslaved in turn. Which they were and the Mexicas and other natives knew well.
However, they so hated the Aztecs (and the Peruvian Indians the Incas) that they willingly exchanged the yoke of human sacrifice for that of Spanish slavery. As bad as the Spaniards were, they did not rip the hearts out of their children on top of a Pyramid.
The true effect came a generation later, as epidemics wiped out natives to the degree you say. But note ...
It was AFTER the empires of both native peoples had been crushed by their enemies.
Why then did they not crush them before?
Because the Spaniards showed they could be beaten, believed it, and had the advantage of acting essentially like tanks through infrantry without air cover or tanks or artillery. Mounted Spanish mailed cavalry were unstoppable by the stone weapons of the Incans and Aztecs. They could be pulled down and killed, and many were, if left unspported by native Indian infantry.
But if they had support no native Incan or Aztec warrior group could stop them. Ever. And none did.
Hanson rebukes Diamond directly on this point, noting that Cortez during the battle ran out of gunpowder, so went to a volcano to fetch sulfur. Within twenty years (in violation of Spanish orders too) the Conquistadors were creating their own cannon and gunpowder from native Mexican resources.
The natives too had a larger population than Europe, before conquest and disease. Mexico City was far larger in population than that of any European city, and cleaner and more provioned too.
What allowed Cortez to conquer was besides native allies who hated the Aztecs and used him to break them, was the cooperation and wider/deeper resources of Europe.
Had the Aztecs killed Cortez, another would have succeeded in his place. With an endless supply line running all the way back to Spain.
Had the Aztecs managed to get a giant sailing ship together, and invaded Spain, killed the Royal Family, some other group would have declared itself Royal, and simply fought till they pushed them out.
Cooperation, ordering of society, matters as much as the physcial environment and IQ. Indeed, after the first Agricultural explosion, with most everyone agricultural, HOW the agriculture was ordered, mattered more than simply the vastness of the resources.
Egypt was the modern breadbasked of Europe until the Arab Conquest. Yet Egypt's power pretty much ended around 1000 BC or so, becoming the playthings of the Babylonians, the Persians, the Greeks, and the Romans. Despite the far greater Agricultural resources.
Because it was a society of Pharoahs and slaves, and not much else. Despite the size of the population and the wealth and the power.
Those are good points, Testing. I think Sailer was ill-served by Jared Diamond, who was practically obsessed with differences in disease resistance. The idea that Meso-American culture may have evolved to deal with constant overpopulation through constant mass murder has probably been glossed over. I suppose this is because it may serve to make it seem like violence in Mexico is completely predictable.
gcochran said...
Testing99 never fails to say something stupid. Yellow fever originated in Africa, didn't exist in the Americas before Columbus: in fact, it didn't reach the Americas until 1648. It was slow to reach the Americas because it depended upon a particular species of mosquito, Aedes aegypti.
There was no malaria in Mexico in those days either.
Cortez's expedition didn't lose a lot of people to disease: he started out with about 600. He then marched towards Tenochtitlan with about 400, leaving the rest to garrison Veracruz.
He entered Tenochtitlan with about 400 Spaniards - but then Narvaez landed with 1100, threatening to take over the expedition. Cortez left about 140 Spaniards in the capital and marched with the other 260 to attack Narvaez. Amazingly, he won (in a night attack), capturing Narvaez and persuading Narvaez's force to accompany him back to Tenochtitlan.
Things had gone sour (because of a massacre by Pedro de Alvarado) and the Aztecs soon rebelled. They almost wiped out the Spaniards.
Cortez was driven out of Tenochtitlan and lost more than 600 men.
But the Spaniards survived, and with later reinforcments from Cuba, conquered and destroyed the Aztec capital.
All this was greatly aided by the Indian allies that Cortez acquired, but a smallpox epidemic raging among the Aztecs during the Noche Triste sure helped. The leader of that attack died of smallpox within hours of its success...
Richard H said...
Ever think about releasing to the public some of these conversations of this invitation only HBD club? I think it would be fascinating, although I can think of a few reasons why you wouldn't.
Peter Piper said...
Steve says Cochran 'might be the most ferociously brilliant idea man of his generation in America'. And the man himself has the temerity to appear in the very same thread. Shameless, really.
(I guess Darwin didn’t get the memo about race not existing.
Since this is 1859 we are talking about, Darwin is going by a rather archaic definition of the word "race". The first usage of the word "race" in the book refers to "the several races, for instance, of the cabbage", and discusses "the hereditary varieties or races of our domestic animals and plants". The book title isn't referring to human biodiversity, but biodiversity in general.
Two greatest idea men? Oh come on, get off it. Few have heard of them and few care. Darwin's tree of life recently took a battering. What's next?
Fred Karno said...
Well, I wouldn't blame Steve if he'd never actually read [i]OTOS[/i]. Is there any important scientific/technical work published before, say, WW1, that would still repay serious study in the modern day?
Tod said...
Anonymous B.B. said:-
"Darwin is going by a rather archaic definition ... the word "race"...isn't referring to human biodiversity, but biodiversity in general"
Darwin clearly did use 'race' for discussing human biodiversity in his later work.
"… the races of man differ from each other and from their nearest allies, in certain characters which are of no service to them in their daily habits of life, and which it is extremely probable would have been modified through sexual selection (Darwin, 1936 [1888], p. 908).
SEXUAL SELECTION AND HUMAN GEOGRAPHIC VARIATION
albertosaurus said...
I ordered and read this book as soon as it was published. I also ordered Lynn's latest book on IQ (The Global Bell Curve)and a
another book on IQ called "Understanding Human History" by Michael Hart which carries an endorsement by Harpending.
I hadn't read much in the IQ and genetics literature for some time (Rushton and Jensen a decade ago). I read the Lynn and Hart books first as a warm up for the Cocheran/Harpending book.
So I can say with some authority, If you can only read one race/genetics book this year make it this one.
"The 10,000 Year Explosion" is unlike the Lynn or Hart book, very well written. It abounds with anecdotes and gracious phrasing.
Cochran is indeed the current heavy weight champeen of new provocative scientific notions. The two most notable being the theory of infectious homosexuality and the theory of Ashkenazi smarts. This book elaborates on the Ashkenazi IQ selection theory. They have been marshaling evidence for the last couple years and currently the theory is highly plausible if not yet completly overwhelming. I suspect they will continue to work on this theory.
Its always fun to read attacks on Steven Jay Gould. I must have nearly a dozen Gould books. I enjoyed reading them years ago before I understood much about Gould's biases and I still enjoy them today - but in a different way.
The major thesis of the book is that Gould is wrong about human evolution stopping 50,000 years ago. After a chapter or two citing a lot of well known evidence for continuing human evolution, it's obvious that Gould was wrong. Indeed it's hard to remember why anyone could ever have accepted this idea at all.
Gould's method was to proceed from his political views (he was a Marxist) to his scientific views and thus his interpretation of biological evidence. In his imaginings all races were equal. This led him to require that there be no evolution since the emergence of modern man some 50,000years ago. Racial differences for the good Marxist are necessarily just fortuitous epiphenomena of culture not deep differences that arise from genes.
This accusation is hilarious, when you consider the source.
I read this book during the first week after it came out. I agree with its main thesis - of course human evolution didn't stop during the Stone Age. The authors present a convincing case that it accelerated considerably after the invention of agriculture. In other words, Steve Jay Gould was a liar. But you knew that already.
I have no idea if the authors are right about introgression of Neanderthal genes into the gene pool of modern-looking humans. It's the kind of thing that could be proven or disproven by new evidence within our lifetimes though.
I must say that I didn't buy the authors' idea that the lactose tolerance gene could have been responsible for the spread of IE languages. They accept the Kurgan hypothesis that places the IE homeland in what's now eastern Ukraine and the adjoining bit of Russia. However the modern epicenter of lactose tolerance lies very far from that region, in Denmark. Why? I think that they dismiss too lightly the theory that the spread of IE languages could have been facilitated by the domestication of the horse. All the other nomadic steppe conquerors of settled lands (Scythians, Huns, Mongols, the original Turks, etc.) rode into history on the backs of horses. Why should the story have been different with the proto-IE folk?
As Steve has said in his review, the book is written in a fun, witty, but down-to-earth style. The authors' ruminations on the circumstances surrounding the birth of the state in peasant societies are a particular gem. I'm curious about which one of the authors was responsible for most of the humor. Looking at the pictures on the back flap, I'm guessing that it was Harpending, though of course I could be wrong.
Moxy said...
...the theory of infectious homosexuality
Yikes! Reason enough to continue avoiding public toilets.
As for Gould, I know he was a leftist, but was he really a Marxist?
Blode032222 said...
Gould was affiliated with Science for the People, which E.O. Wilson identified as a Marxist group.
"Marx and Engels were quick to recognise what Darwin had accomplished and to exploit its radical content", remarks Gould (Ever Since Darwin, 1978) adding that "Darwin was, indeed, a gentle revolutionary". But Gould also distils out the more conservative elements in Darwin’s work and presents them for criticism. Darwin was an "intellectual radical" but a "cultural conservative".
That is of course the magazine of the Socialist Party of England and Wales - i.e., the party that's to the left of ultra-multicult New Labour. The Party praises him to the heavens (he's really the academic equivalent of the current President).
For his whole life, science was a means to an end for Gould. That end was the usual: enforced equality, the shrouding of facts that might help "reactionaries", obtaining praise by "liberal" college students (i.e., the type who show their liberalism by screaming "redneck" at everyone less affluent than them), etc.
He manufactured lies about Goddard out of whole cloth - like the one that Goddard had doctored photographs of psychometric study subjects he didn't like to make them look "sinister". That's right, folks, IQ isn't just a tool created to shore up capitalism, it's actually a tool we evil greedy types use to make dumb people seem "sinister". Because everyone knows every capitalist's worst nightmare is not an evil genius, but an evil imbecile.
Gould was a self-parody for most of his career.
Yes, indeed. Gould was a very, very "bad person."
It's too bad we don't have automatic "bad people" detectors to help us avoid these sorts of problems in the future...
Hee, hee, hee!
I think I mentioned this before, but Gould always came across in his columns and TV interviews as a laid-back, likeable raconteur, the kind of guy you'd love to have as your professor--and then I met him and found out he was just a nasty, abusive little creep with a monstrous ego. His unflattering cameo on The Simpsons didn't even begin to suggest how obnoxious he really was (but at least the show deserves credit for depicting him as lazy, vain, and pompous).
E. O. Wilson, on the other hand, was just about the nicest guy you'd ever want to meet. A real old-fashioned Southern gentleman.
mnuez said...
Steve, this is as good a time as any to again express my appreciation for what you do. Thanks.
mnuez
P.S. A thought just came to me, I'll email you.
Didn't Gould theorize that evolution proceeded in rapid bursts? Why wouldn't the the spread of humans into vastly different and widely separated environments, such as happened during the last 50,000 years, have spurred substantial evolutionary development among the many isolated populations? If humans were selected for various body types and skin colors during this period, why wouldn't they have been selected for various aptitudes and behavioral traits as well?
Why wouldn't the the spread of humans into vastly different and widely separated environments, such as happened during the last 50,000 years, have spurred substantial evolutionary development among the many isolated populations?
It would, unless you repeat to yourself "Human equality is a contingent fact of history" several times a day before breakfast. Gould believed in equality the way Catholics believe in the Immaculate Conception. The difference is, Original Sin is an intangible, non-measurable part of their theology, so it makes perfect sense to understand their Holy Virgin with faith alone. Human abilities are measurable and measurements are averageable, so what Gould said several times a day before breakfast is demonstrably false. Which makes him a liar.
But what would you expect from an academic radical? These people welcomed new departments on campus which consider Cleopatra VII (the Ptolemy!) to have been black.
I liked their book. As I read through it, I kept noticing things which confirmed how right Rushton is in his racial differences theory. These guys know Rushton is right too, but pull their punches to some extent. I guess I understand why they did so.
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Sabarimala Case: Supreme Court Refuses Urgent Hearing Of Review Petitions
judiciary Jan 22, 2019 Staff Reporter 0 0 Shares
The Supreme Court today i.e., January 22, 2019, declined an urgent hearing of petitions seeking a review of its judgment passed on September 28, 2018, allowing women of menstruating age to enter the Sabarimala temple in Kerala.
The refusal came when advocate Mathews Nedumpara mentioned the matter in the court. Chief Justice of IndiaRanjan Gogoi said that he cannot fix a date for hearing the review petitions as JusticeIndu Malhotra is on medical leave till January 30, 2019.
“We cannot fix a date, we have to ascertain from the learned judge (Justice Indu Malhotra) when she will be back and then we will decide a date. She is on leave till January 30,” CJI Gogoi said.
Also Read - Supreme Court Allows Entry Of Women Into Sabarimala Temple
The matter was scheduled to be listed for today. However, on January 15, 2019, CJI Gogoi revealed that it was unlikely to come up today, as Justice Malhotra was on medical leave.
The Supreme Court on November 13, 2018, has agreed to hear the forty-nine review petitions filed against its September 28, 2018, judgment allowing women of all ages’ entry into the Sabarimala temple in open court.
Also Read - Justice Indu Malhotra Opposes Entry Of Women In Sabarimala Temple [Read Judgment]
The review petitions were listed before a Bench headed by CJI Gogoi, along with JusticesInduMalhotra, Rohinton Nariman, A.M. Khanwilkar, and D.Y. Chandrachud.
A Constitution Bench by 4:1 majority struck down Rule 3(b) of the Kerala Hindu Places of Public Worship (Authorisation of Entry) Rules, 1965, to allow entry of women, irrespective of their age, into the Sabarimala Ayyappa temple in Kerala. The Bench headed by then CJIDipak Misra and comprising of Justices Rohinton Nariman, A.M. Khanwilkar, D.Y. Chandrachud, and Indu Malhotra held that Rule 3(b) of 1965 Rules which bars entry of women between the ages of 10 and 50 years into the Sabarimala temple is a clear violation of right of Hindu women to practice religion under Article 25 of the Constitution of India. Following the judgment, violence had erupted in and around the temple to prevent women from entering the shrine.
Supreme Court questions the ban on women's entry in Sabarimala Temple
Ban on Women in Sabarimala temple cannot be ignored: SC
Jul 27 2018 Staff Reporter
Supreme Court Allows Entry Of Women Into Sabarimala Temple
Sabarimala Case: SC To Decide Tomorrow On Taking Up Review Petitions
Supreme Court To Hear Sabarimala Review Petitions On November 13
SC To Hear Sabarimala Review Petitions In Open Court On January 22 [Read Order]
SC Directs Kerala Govt To Provide Round-The-Clock Security To Two Women Who Entered Sabarimala
Jan 18 2019 Staff Reporter
Supreme Court: Sabarimala Judgment hearing on Wednesday [Read Notice]
SC Issues Notice On Plea Seeking Entry Of Women Into Mosques To Offer Prayers
Apr 16 2019 Staff Reporter
Breaking: Supreme Court Refers Sabarimala Review Petitions To Larger Bench
We Won’t Allow Entry But We Won’t Stop Them Either: SC Says On Women’s Entry To Sabrimala
Dec 13 2019 Editor: Kshipra Srivastava
9 Judge Bench Headed by CJI SA Bobde will hear the reference made in Sabarimala Review
Jan 07 2020 Editor: Kshipra Srivastava
Sabarimala Case Controversy: What Did The 9-Judge Bench Decide, Up Until Now?
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Gregory S. Beane
4311 Oak Lawn Avenue, Suite 450 Dallas, Texas 75219
gbeane@vernerbrumley.com
Firm: Verner Brumley Mueller Parker PC
Contact this lawyer
Verner Brumley Mueller Parker PC
Every family law matter, just like every person, is different. As such, Greg Beane provides each client with personalized attention throughout each step of the case. A careful listener, he focuses on his clients’ individual goals as he strives to obtain a favorable result.
Greg’s background in accounting and finance have helped him to lead clients through one of the most significant financial transactions of their lives while protecting and preserving their assets for the future. His logical and compassionate approach help guide his clients through the emotional turmoil of custody cases and give them the peace of mind to confidently make decisions that are in their children’s best interests.
Greg has successfully litigated complex cases involving property division, business valuations, reimbursement claims, multijurisdictional issues, separate property trusts, high conflict custody disputes, and enforcements.
Greg is collaboratively trained and is a member of the Collaborative Law Professionals of North Texas, where he is currently serving as the president. His skills in both litigation and collaborative law provide him with the knowledge and experience to determine which cases should be tried and which cases can be effectively settled.
Greg first began to be recognized for his litigation skills at the SMU Dedman School of Law, where he competed in and won mock trial competitions. He was also named to the Order of the Barristers, an honor which is bestowed to a maximum of 10 students per year.
Like all partners at VernerBrumley, Greg is Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. In addition to being active in the family law community, he is on the Board of Directors of the Collin County Young Lawyers Association. He is also on the Board of Directors of the Young Community Partners of Dallas, an organization dedicated to the protection of abused and neglected children in the Dallas area.
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National Order of the Barristers
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Champion, Spring 2006 On-Campus Mock Trial Competition
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Runner-up, Spring 2005 On Campus Mock Trial Competition
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Lawyers Without Borders
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LWOB Executive Director Application
Posted on June 29, 2019 by LWOB.org
Lawyers Without Borders, (LWOB) headquartered in New Haven, Connecticut, with offices in Washington, DC, and Nairobi, Kenya, is seeking a successor to its founder to lead the organization forward in its global rule of law and worldwide justice sector programming. Yesterday, LWOB founder Christina M. Storm, announced her plans to retire in the coming year. The following Press Release announcing the retirement was issued on June 26th. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply. Click here for the online application.
2019 Duty of Care Awards
Posted on June 6, 2018 June 24, 2019 by LWOB.org
Lawyers Without Borders has been selected to the short list of the annual Duty of Care Awards. The organization has received this recognition for being, “an exceptional example of how organizations are engaging with themes such as sustainability, business continuity, and resilience.” The winners of the award will be announced live at the Duty of Care Awards and Summit on October 17, 2019, in Shanghai, China.
Tanzania: Stakeholder meeting follows Assessment Visit
Posted on June 6, 2018 by LWOB.org
In summer 2015 two senior lawyers joined by two undergraduate fellows conducted a week-long visit to Dar es Salaam in Tanzania. The trip was designed to meet and introduce key stakeholders to LWOB’s human trafficking programming and offerings and to continue to distribute LWOB’s “Find Me” educational board game and supporting trainer materials to NGO’s there as part of LWOB’s grant to produce and distribute the game globally.
Following that visit, in November 2015, a senior LWOB team hosted a stakeholder meeting and symposium in Dar which brought together the different sectors grappling with the country’s unique regional human trafficking issues. One of the key findings from the meeting was the key need for collaboration among the different sectors as well as the need to disseminate information throughout the country to generate awareness in communities about the problem and how to be part of a new initiative to improve law enforcement’s capacity to address it.
Special thanks to the University of Connecticut which generously funded the two students who joined the August assessment team and who spent several weeks at LWOB’s headquarters preparing the documentation and materials in preparation for the visit. Plans are underway to build on the progress made in the November meetings. LWOB’s senior team included LWOB’s senior counsel, a partner from Jones Day and a senior prosecutor volunteer.
Amazon Smile: Support LWOB with your Amazon Purchases
LWOB is an approved charity in the Amazon Smile program. Designating LWOB as your charity in your Amazon purchase account will dedicate a small percentage of your dollars spent to LWOB. Believe it or not, LWOB can realize up one to two hundred dollars per month with only a dozen purchases. To get a sense of how your dollars spent can impact our constituent audience–$57 will provide an NGO with an educational game to teach human trafficking to young and old who may be at risk for being victimized by traffickers.
$75 will purchase a crime scene processing tool kit to teach officers how to process an elephant or other wildlife crime scene in Africa. No donation is too small–in the end, your Amazon purchases when combined with LWOB’s own purchasing power and the purchases of other supporters can begin to create an income stream that is meaningful. And, with Amazon–all you have to do is select LWOB as your charity at the Amazon Smile link.
When you shop through Amazon Smile using this link–your shopping dollars not only give to family and friends, they support our charity and rule of law programming.
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Lawyers Without Borders Establishes New Advisory Council
Christina M. Storm
Executive Director/Founder
cstorm@lwob.org
Lawyers Without Borders Establishes New Advisory Council Recently Appointed Members Will Support Non-Profit’s Leadership and Mission WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 22, 2015) — Lawyers Without Borders, Inc. (“LWOB”) announced the creation of an Advisory Council (“Council”) to help grow and inspire pro bonoservice among members of the legal profession and to enhance the organization’s capacity building programming around the world. The Council will provide complimentary support to LWOB’s leadership while delivering ideas and suggestions for how LWOB can improve its programming, pro bono management, and organizational development. The inaugural Council has been selected and consists of the following individuals from law firms and institutions that have contributed substantial financial or project support to LWOB rule of law initiatives:
Joel M. Cohen, Partner – Gibson Dunn
Stephen D. Hibbard, Partner – Shearman & Sterling LLP
Sara Lulo, Assistant Dean – Yale Law School
Gregory G. Palmer, Partner – McDermott Will & Emery LLP
Laura Tuell Parcher, Partner – Jones Day
“We are thrilled that these committed professionals have agreed to serve on our inaugural Advisory Council,” said Christina Storm, LWOB Founder and Executive Director. “They have all played a pivotal role in managing or overseeing large-scale LWOB projects, and we are confident that they will use their keen insight to help LWOB in its mission to support the rule of law and access to justice around the world.” About Lawyers Without BordersFounded in 2000, Lawyers Without Borders is a U.S.-based international non-profit dedicated to preserving the integrity of the legal process through training, community outreach, capacity building, neutral observation and other mechanisms that support rule of law and access to justice in national contexts consistent with international norms. Regions where the group has projects ongoing or planned include Liberia, Namibia, Ghana, Nepal, Indonesia, Burkina Faso, the Caribbean, Tanzania, and Kenya. The official Lawyers Without Borders currently has only these two affiliates, LWOB-UK and LWOB-Kenya. This year marks the 15th anniversary of LWOB operations.
You can support LWOB’s work globally – by donating via Network for Good or The Big Give or by clicking on the “donate” button at LWOB’s website: lawyerswithoutborders.wordpress.com.
LWOB partners with LegalElite and Engajer
Lawyers without Borders proudly announces LegalElite and Engajer as our new supporter and partner! Both companies are leaders of technological innovations in their respective fields, particularly targeted for functional and mass-scale operational improvements of legal market stakeholders. Engajer will assist LWOB produce a series of interactive videos hand-crafted into effective, comprehensible educational tools, with the benefit of LegalElite’s experience in legal technology.
About LegalElite: LegalElite provides website design and digital marketing services for law firms. Our mission is to establish and grow your digital presence with the objective of creating new business opportunities online. When you sign up with us, we start by creating a modern and mobile-friendly website for your firm. Once your new website launches, our marketing specialists get to work growing your digital presence through a combination of content and search engine optimization, social media management, email marketing, and online advertising. Our websites are safe and secure so you can be worry-free and just focus on the leads we deliver. You focus on doing business. We work on creating it. That’s the way it should be.
KENYA Summer Wildlife Crime Project Closes
LWOB’s eighth year of trial advocacy programming launched in August 2015, with a 10 day combined Train The Trainer and Trial Advocacy Training in Nairobi, Kenya representing the launch of a two year initiative combating wildlife crime in the region.
In contrast to previous trial advocacy programs, this program offered additional focus on the investigatory side of the prosecution and the relevant forensics. Consultation with forensic and clinical scientists will continue to play an important role in the two-year program–all reflective of the international commitment to support the preservation of at-risk wildlife in Kenya and surrounding regions.
LWOB is collaborating with scientists from the Henry C. Lee Institute of Forensic Science, in New Haven CT on creation of forensic eLearning modules.
The program wrapped up early in 2017 with several hundred officers trained by LWOB and future training overseen by the KWS and a team of specially trained officers who will continue officer crime scene processing training in the years to come.
LWOB returns to Liberia to continue Human Trafficking Programming
After nearly a year’s delay in programming in Liberia due to the Ebola situation, the LWOB team was delighted to return to Monrovia in August to launch its first eLearning programming. The programming was developed to facilitate training outside major urban areas, equipping our Liberian partners with fully self-administered training materials supplemented by Trainer Manuals and Guides. It was also designed to enable LWOB programming to continue uninterrupted should there be any future obstacles to in-country travel and programming.
Multiple day-long eLearning sessions were conducted, with 10 attendees each day, each equipped with his or her own pre-programmed lap top. The majority of the attendees at this session represented members of the NGO community working with victims and was focused on important ways they can intersect with the prosecution and law enforcement, using collaboration and cooperation strategies to improve victim protection and the success of TIP (trafficking in persons) prosecutions. The eLearning was supplemented by hard-copy course materials (graphic novels, RRC’s) and LWOB’s newly developed board game, “Find Me!” The eLearning and newly developed materials were all exceptionally well received and are destined to become a regular feature of LWOB programming.
HISTORY OF LWOB PROGRAMMING IN LIBERIA:
Our work in Liberia follows LWOB’s completion of a large scale project meeting a need identified in its assessment three years ago for a cumulative index to the entirety of Liberian case law. Having worked with over 100 lawyers at Linklaters indexing all Liberian case law LWOB was well positioned to incorporate Liberian case law into its programming. LWOB is pleased to report that the LWOB/Linklaters/Thomson Reuters collaboration on the Liberian Digest project started years ago, continues, now underwritten entirely with in-kind pro bono support. It is possibly one of the most important examples of the pro bono paradigm that inspired LWOB’s founding fifteen years ago. It is a testament to the power of pro bono collaboratives and sustainability.
Two trial advocacy trainings in Liberia are now complete (2010, 2013). Those trainings taught standard basics in trial advocacy in a customized, created for and by LWOB, mock trial scenario based upon a Liberian trafficking in persons prosecution. LWOB incorporates its own version of the NITA “learning by doing™” approach in the trial advocacy modules which involve taping, reviewing and critiquing lawyers direct and cross examination, opening statements and closing arguments. NITA supports the LWOB programming with the donation of its Modern Trial Advocacy text books, trainers and underwriting support.
In 2010, LWOB partnered with the Avon Center for Women and Justice at Cornell Law School to develop and deliver trafficking-specific modules which included an overview of Trafficking and the role and use of international conventions and obligations in a trial. LWOB tapped into portions of the UNODC Toolkit as a resource and guide. Additional LWOB materials were created to compliment the UNODC Toolkit as well.
LWOB integrated its own signature special challenges modules on substantive and evidentiary issues using avatar technology donated to LWOB by Oddcast.com. That portion of the program included evidentiary demonstrations and programming designed to illustrate “best practices” in victim pre-trial interviews and investigation and witness preparation as well as actual Liberian cases illustrating rules governing such issues as witness voir dire and the child as witnesses. The program was supplemented with community oriented materials created by lawyers at Linklaters LLP who worked with LWOB’s graphic artist to create two illustrated publications featuring best practices for the practitioner working on TIPS issues and educating citizens to recognize trafficking situations and rights and resources for the person victimized by trafficking.
Click here to view the illustrated publication “Understanding Human Trafficking” created for the Liberian Bar: Human Trafficking – Liberia – Illustrated graphic novel . A second publication accompanied by a trainer manual has been completed and distributed to lawyers and judges throughout the country that focuses on the lawyer/judge interaction with victims of human trafficking that come before them. The third in a series of four (4) graphic novels is scheduled for distribution at the 2014 training and the fourth in the series will be distributed at the 2015 training. They involve the police investigatory phase of trafficking prosecutions and the trafficking trial.
In 2013, LWOB’s training included, for the first time, 20 law enforcement personnel and connected their important role in the investigatory stage to successful prosecutions in Court. LWOB’s work in Liberia for the next three years is funded by a grant from the JTIP department of the United States Department of State. Interim police trainings will continue throughout the life of the grant. Two additional large-scale trainings integrating all the stakeholders in human trafficking prosecutions, are now scheduled for late 2014 and spring 2015.
Current pro bono partners working on materials for those trainings include the lawyers from Linklaters, who now enter their fourth year of work with LWOB on human trafficking in Liberia and McDermott Will & Emery’s London office which completed LWOB’s first human trafficking publication educating youth to dangers that expose them to potential trafficking scenarios. Lawyers from Pfizer, Jones Day and Shearman & Sterling rounded out the 2013 training team.
The Fall 2015 team, delayed by the Ebola emergency, will again be led by Hon. Virginia Kendall (DC Ill) a federal judge recognized internationally for her work in human trafficking and will include partners from several international law firms in a supportive relationship with LWOB. Lawyers at Linklaters have completed the fourth in a series of Human Trafficking Graphic Novels that will be integrated into the eLearning as well as distributed in hard-pring.
LWOB has received a small funding award that will support mass production and distribution of the educational board game FIND ME! Distribution will launch, in Liberia, in the summer of 2015. LWOB will also introduce the game at a convening of several state stakeholders during international human trafficking event sponsored by the ILO in May 2015. Organizations interested in purchasing a copy of the Human Trafficking Training board-game should reach out to LWOB at info@lwob.org with the words FIND ME! in the subject line
LWOB wraps up successful Judicial Training in Accra, Ghana
With a grant from The Virtue Foundation and financial and logistics support from Kirkland & Ellis LLP, LWOB brought 11 trainers to Ghana for a judicial training for magistrates and circuit judges focused on effective strategies to improve the experience of the pro se litigant in the juvenile, circuit and family courts there. The Virtue Foundation has been a steady supporter of LWOB programming in gender violence and has supported its trial advocacy trainings in Kenya for the last several years. Kirkland & Ellis is a new supporter of LWOB and in addition to playing a critical role in creation of the training materials sent two partners and an associate to complement six LWOB in-house lawyers and judges.
The program tapped into LWOB lawyers’ experience with state family courts, gender violence and juvenile law. New role-play exercises and modules prepared especially for this training and contextualized to Ghana were featured for the first time. Interactive modules and game play learning environments are a signature of LWOB programming.
The program was conducted under guidance from Ghana’s Judicial Reform Unit and Chief Justice Georgina Wood. Hon. Ann C. Williams led the LWOB delegation, joined by Hon. Ellen Gesmer and Chief Judge of the Cook County Circuit Court, Hon. Timothy Evans.
MTV SHUGA: INNOVATIVE PRO BONO COLLABORATION
LWOB in collaboration with long time supporter Shearman & Sterling and its clients Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN) launched a groundbreaking multimedia campaign to maximize public awareness of the rights and obligations of Kenyans under the Kenya Sexual Offences Act.
The team designed public education materials using the characters, storyline and distribution platform of Shuga: Love, Sex, Money—a TV drama produced by MTV Networks Africa in association with The MTV Staying Alive Foundation, through a partnership with PEPFAR (The US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief), The Partnership for an HIV-Free Generation and the Kenyan government. The series is being shown on television stations worldwide including DStv (across Africa), Kenyan terrestrial channels Citizen TV, Kiss TV and Nation TV, BET (international), e.tv (South Africa) and Silverbird TV (Nigeria). It addresses “taboo topics such as rape and sex-for-gifts, told through the lives of realistic characters and emotional situations drawn from real life.”
Viacom International Media Networks, Lawyers Without Borders and Shearman & Sterling consulted with the Shuga team during the pre-production stage of the series in support of a rape plotline around which the public legal education campaign could be based. The Shearman & Sterling team also provided pro bono guidance and support to Shuga: Love, Sex, Money by analysing Kenyan case law, identifying core messages for public education, and drafting materials such as a gender violence resources section, blogs, a graphic novel and other non-traditional educational media. Many of these materials can be found online at www.mtvshuga.com. The graphic novel has been running in a weekly serial in Nairobi’s newspaper The Star and is now available online: http://mtvshuga.com/downloads/Shuga%20Graphic%20Novel.pdf
“This important project demonstrates the passion and commitment that both Viacom International Media Networks and Shearman & Sterling share for social responsibility,” said Roger James, Senior Vice President and General Counsel for Viacom International Media Networks. “The goal of this project is to increase legal education with respect to gender-based violence in a dynamic, truly engaging and original manner. We’re very proud that our efforts are helping to make a difference.” To download the magazine right click and select ‘download’ here.
A special thanks to the Nairobi STAR http://www.the-star.co.ke/ newspaper, for running the graphic novel in the weekend edition of its paper following the televised episodes. The Star has a circulation of over 30,000 and its support of LWOB pro bono work in this and other projects has exponentially increased the audience and impact at zero cost, thanks to the paper’s generosity.
We are pleased to announce that this tremendous collaboration will continue throughout 2014-2015 with a new venture involving the same partners in a SHUGA Nigeria roll out. Watch the first episode of SHUGA Nigeria here: http://www.bellanaija.com/2013/12/06/its-finally-here-watch-episode-1-of-mtv-bases-shuga-season-3-ho…
Lawyers Without Borders is in no way affiliated with Doctors Without Borders. Doctors Without Borders is a registered trademark of Bureau International de Medicins sans Frontieres.
Border Briefs
2016- 2017 Biennial Report
LWOB @Amazon
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LOoW BLOG
PROCESS DESIGN WORKSHOP
POST WORKSHOP MEETINGS
PROCESS DESIGN 2017
PARTICIPATING PHYSICISTS
TRANSLATION HUB 2018
PROCESS REDESIGN MEETINGS
PARTICIPATING SCHOLARS
Leaning Out of Windows
Art and Physics Collaborations through Aesthetic Transformations
Science, like art, plunges itself into the materiality of the universe though with very different aims in mind. …This is not to say that art does not draw on science or that science does not draw on art, but in drawing on the other’s resources each must transform the work of the other into its own language and its own purpose.
– Art and science philosopher, Elizabeth Grosz
IMAGE: Ingrid Koenig, LOoW Process Design, 2016
Leaning Out of Windows (LOoW) is a four-year SSHRCC funded interdisciplinary art and science project, involving four phases between 2016 to 2020. It involves co-designing, curating, testing, and analyzing models of collaboration for art and science. Participants include Emily Carr University’s faculty, art students, visiting artists + physicists, post-doctoral researchers and graduate students working at TRIUMF, Canada’s particle accelerator centre and accelerator-based science located at the University of British Columbia.
In this venture we join together artists and physicists to share the quest to understand the nature of reality. Their diverse experiences, views, and interactions bring each discipline to see a new perspective on the creative process while also broadening the potential for communication between disciplines. Our aim is to transform the grammar of abstract knowledge by specifically addressing the barely discernible phenomena studied by physics through aesthetics, analogy, metaphor, and other inventive methods.
During the collaborative process, scientists frame a physics topic for artists who in turn make material-based, intuitive investigations and responses. These transformations are manifest in visual art forms that include sculpture, painting, drawing, performance, photography, installation, sound, text, interactive media, dance and other cultural forms. The aim is to open new pathways for the possibility of a much richer understanding of human experience than each can attain separately. The process and outcomes of this creative research project has relevance beyond art and physics as it presents an emergent model of practice for the apprehension of complex knowledge and diverse ways of knowing.
At the end of the production period from January to September 2017 the resulting works from 26 artists will be exhibited and performed. In the next Phase beginning in February 2018 we will redesign the experimental set up which will be followed by another production period with artists and scientists in 2018. During 2018/19 the two phases will be analyzed resulting in writing on the project in preparation for a publication. In 2019/20 the four year project will be reconceived as a final exhibition accompanied by the publication with essays, the scientists’ drawings, equations and stories as well as the documented artworks.
Research Creation Questions
1. In what ways can transformative methodologies of collaboration work to engage with the diverse languages employed by artists and physicists?
2. What are possible models for interdisciplinary learning in the studio and science lab that are creative and effective generators of new knowledge and its visualization?
Objectives of the Proposed Research
1. To explore how artists might work with scientists to develop a shared understanding of how knowledge can be translated across their disciplinary communities.
2. To organize and assess a process of interdisciplinary collaboration between art and science that enables “hybrid research” which can then be shared by artists and scientists.
Higher Education, Interdisciplinary Studies, Visual Arts
Areas of Research:
Arts and Culture, Post-secondary Education and Research, Science and technology
art; science; physics; collaboration; interdisciplinary; aesthetics; transformation; metaphor; analogy; visualization; poetry; cross-disciplinary interactions; process-based research; creative field; knowledge generation; relational; education models
© 2020 LEANING OUT OF WINDOWS. SITE BY HEY SHAUNA
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WestVirginia National Guard Used to Help People Several Yeras Ago in Capital NYT (tags)
Parts of West Virginia are a chemical minefield. One company a very large corporation is involved in the Bhopal mass disaster of Union Carbide Dow Chemical
26 Ways Trump Has Increased The National Debt By 4 to 5 Trillion Dollars (tags)
The corporate media boycott of Kevin De Leon, abolitionists of the death penalty, animal rights activists, vegans, and antiwar experts, There is a little more discussion about Trump's savaging of our national treasury.
GOVERNMENT DRAMATICALLY UNDER ESTIMATED DEATH TOLL FROM MARIA (tags)
“The official death count of 64 is a substantial underestimate of the true burden of mortality after Hurricane Maria,” researchers wrote. “Our estimate of 4,645 excess deaths from September 20 through December 31, 2017, is likely to be conservative since subsequent adjustments for survivor bias and household-size distributions increase this estimate to more than 5000.” FEMA Respond sable.
FEMA has the authority to order martial law and open up FEMA camps for dissident Americans (tags)
Some people have referred to it as the "secret government" of the United States.
FEMA unprepared and lacks pre strategic planning (tags)
The mayor of Puerto Rico’s capital city San Juan issued a plea for urgent help as she expressed frustration with the speed at which rescuers were being sent to work on the hurricane-ravaged U.S. territory. “This is a big S.O.S for anybody out there,”
Importance Of Emergency Volunteers (tags)
in reality during times of great emergencies and disasters trained Volunteers become the most available and therefore the most important...
A Nation, Founded on LIES, Part Five (tags)
An Article prove that the Fifth Amendment is a lie.
Oscar Contender Truth Explains Why the News Doesn't Tell It Anymore (tags)
The movie, or rather documentary, "Truth", establishes the retaliation that takes place when newsmen and producers tell the truth.
Black New Orleans 10 Years Post-Katrina (tags)
Washington Wants War on Donbass (tags)
Kiev Demands Russia Pay $350 Billion for Destruction Its Own Aggression Caused in Donbass (tags)
US-Dominated NATO Readying for War on Russia? (tags)
Kiev's Ongoing Dirty War o Donbass (tags)
Biden Congratulates Poroshenko for Violating Minsk (tags)
Kiev Junta War Crimes (tags)
Kiev Surrenders Debaltsevo: A Key Strategic Victory for Rebel Forces (tags)
West Intends More Heavy Weapons for Kiev's Battered Military (tags)
Kiev Junta Plans Escalated War (tags)
Pacific Radio Discovers Audio Of Speech by Dr King To London Audience (tags)
Pacific Radio has discovered audio tape of a speech Dec 7 1964 Dr Martin Luther King gave in London days before his acceptance of the Nobel Peace Prize as the youngest recipient ever at that time. It is in audio at http://democracynow.org and in text at http://pacificradioarchives.org
US-Backed Naked Kiev Aggression on Donbas (tags)
Perfect Storm Conditions Threaten Ukraine (tags)
Knee-Jerk Reaction to Sydney Hostage Siege (tags)
Lawless US Sanctions on Venezuela (tags)
Obama v. Venezuela's Maduro (tags)
Ferguson: an episode in the war class (tags)
On August 9 in Ferguson, a small suburb of St. Louis, a cop killed Michael Brown firing 6 bullets into him: this young black man, unarmed, with his arms raised in the air, had made the mistake of not responding to his order to walk on the sidewalk. Michael Brown was left like a dog in the street for several hours without even his parents allowed to come close to his body.
Kiev War Crimes (tags)
Whitewashing Kiev Mass Murder (tags)
WJ Columnist Mary O'Grady: US Imperial Tool (tags)
Saber Rattling Ahead of Resumed Ukraine Conflict (tags)
Illusory Ceasefire in Ukraine (tags)
Nuclear Bomb Witness, Mobile Audit Club Daily Forewords, ISIS good Sissies like Reid Fag, (tags)
Robin Williams was led and coaxed helped to his death by those who did not care for him. Our leaders, some of them have tried to do the same to many of us. It is time to awaken to the facts revealed by Mobile Audit Club's Saintrambone
Amnesty International Fronts for Power (tags)
9/11: The Mother of All Big Lies (tags)
Kiev Fascists Murder Russian Journalist (tags)
Organized Labor in America Today (tags)
Russia: Waging Peace in Ukraine (tags)
Mercenary Extremists in Eastern Ukraine (tags)
War Without Mercy Continues (tags)
Ukraine's New President (tags)
Post-Ukrainian Election Violence (tags)
Ukrainian Presidential Election (tags)
US-Led NATO's War on Humanity (tags)
Freedom or Fascism (tags)
Fake Ukrainian National Unity Talks (tags)
Democracy Landslide in Eastern Ukraine (tags)
Eastern Ukrainians Vote (tags)
Blackwater Killers in Ukraine (tags)
Fascism's Dark Side (tags)
Kiev Plans False Flag Against Russia (tags)
Stoking Confrontation with Russia (tags)
Kiev-Style Democracy (tags)
Obama Heads for War in Ukraine (tags)
Crimean False Flag Attack? (tags)
Washington's Dirty War on Venezuela (tags)
Israel Bombs Syrian/Lebanese Border (tags)
Wall Street Journal Reinvented History (tags)
Western Manipulated Violence in Ukraine (tags)
NSA's Fake War on Terror (tags)
Legislating Tyranny (tags)
War on Terror Advocate to Head Homeland Security (tags)
Fuck the NSA (tags)
Please share the following confidential information will all the people you know so they can share it with every body they know and so on and so on between now and late tomorrow!
US Hatched Terror Plots (tags)
state terror
Berkeley's Free Speech Movement (tags)
Waging War on US Workers (tags)
Public Banking Works (tags)
Remembering Russell Means (tags)
Labor Radicalism Alive & Well in U.S., Smith Says (tags)
Author and activist Sharon Smith came to San Diego to speak to Occupy San Diego's Labor Solidarity Committee, the International Socialist Organization (ISO) and other community members September 1, but it was her unannounced co-speaker -- a teachers' union activist from Chicago identified only as Becca -- who galvanized the crowd. Smith used the Chicago teachers' union struggle as an example that radical labor activism in the U.S. is alive and well despite decades of repression from the ruling class.
"This Is What a Police State Looks Like" (tags)
Protestors confront Anaheim's notorious killer cops.
Reclaiming America: In Opposition to this State of Police (tags)
The funds do not exist in America to continue to pay for a racist, oppressive police force.
Scoundrel Media Support for Obama (tags)
Life in Occupied Chicago (tags)
Chicago Militarized for NATO (tags)
FBI Entrapment Snares More Victims (tags)
Police State Harshness (tags)
BTL:U.S. Judge Clears Way for Deportation of Former El Salvadoran General for War Crimes (tags)
Interview with Patty Blum, senior legal adviser to the Center for Justice and Accountability, conducted by Melinda Tuhus
Obama's Failed State of the Union (tags)
America Lurches Toward Full-Blown Tryanny (tags)
Criminalizing OWS Protesters (tags)
Iran Falsely Charged with Fake Terror Plot (tags)
Entrapping Muslims in America (tags)
Allegedly Foiling Jerusalem Terrorist Attacks (tags)
Leonard Peltier: Victimized by Criminal Injustice (tags)
LONG LIVE THE 32 YEAR VICTORY OF THE SANDINISTA REVOLUTION OF 1979! (tags)
Today, July 19, 2011, the Alliance-Philippines (AJLPP) commemorates as it congratulates the revolutionary people of Nicaragua and the ruling FSLN party for the 32nd anniversary of the victory of the Nicaraguan Revolution on July 19, 1979. For the Alliance, the history Nicaragua is akin the history of the Philippines. A bloody history of foreign intervention. Both were under the Spanish colonialist and under the US occupation. The US marines occupied Nicaragua from 1912 to 1933,
A Decade of US War Costs (tags)
The Business of America Is War (tags)
Waging War at Home and Abroad While Pledging Peace (tags)
False Flags: An American Tradition (tags)
ALL OUT ON MAY 1st in LA, FIGHT FOR IMMIGRANT RIGHTS (tags)
Immigrants all of nationalities under attack, what should we do? Rise up, Fight Back! The Echo Park Community Coalition (EPCC) is calling all immigrants and their advocates in Los Angeles to mobilize and hit the streets of LA on May 1. For the EPCC --May 1, International Workers' Day, marks the fifth anniversary of the historic nationwide immigrant workers’ strike. On that day, millions upon millions of immigrant workers—documented and undocumented—flooded the streets of Los Angeles with millions of their supporters also in small towns and large cities demanding respect for all workers.
Border and Community Vigilantism (tags)
state terrorism
Sheriff Paul Babeu is a liar? (tags)
You have to shovel the BS if you want to get reelected.
Russell Defreitis: Terrorist or Political Prisoner? (tags)
Wisconsin: For a General Strike Now! (tags)
A law challenging the very existence unions of government workers has just been rammed through the legislature in Wisconsin. In addition, wages have been slashed by up to 10 percent to make up for cuts to health insurance and pensions. The labor movement and workers nationwide and internationally are vividly aware of the stakes. There has been a lot of talk in the last three weeks about a general strike. The Wisconsin South Central Labor Federation even voted to authorize one. But now that the moment of truth has arrived, the union bureaucrats have gotten cold feet. They are doing everything to prevent strike action and instead to divert anger at this vicious law into a drive to recall Republican senators, to be replaced by Democrats, whose “alternative” budget bill would also have drastically slashed wages and benefits. There should be no delay: this is the hour for powerful labor action. A general strike is needed to shut down Wisconsin now!
Union Busting in America (tags)
Live Reporting from the Wisconsin Protests (tags)
Madison, Wisconsin IMC is offline right now- however there are other NONCORPORATE places to go for breaking news from Wisconsin-
Peace and Freedom Party Statement on Wisconsin's Worker and Student Demonstrations (tags)
Peace & Freedom Party Stands in Solidarity with Wisconsin's Worker and Student Demonstrations
Wisconsin Labor Leads 2d American Revolution (tags)
One year ago, on March 4, California students and teachers had a one-day strike for education, but nothing has improved because we did not have a general strike. Today, Wisconsin workers are striking and protesting the planned Democrat-Republican attack on the workingclass so as to maximize the profits of the capitalist class. The whole country should join this 2d American Revolution with all deliberate speed.
US Workers: Resurgent or Waging a Rearguard Action? (tags)
Egypt's Spirit Lands in Wisconsin (tags)
Field Notes on American-Style Democracy (tags)
Annabel Melongo: Victimized and Imprisoned (tags)
another political prisoner
Holder Defends Entrapment (tags)
entrapment is illegal
America's War on Food Not Bombs (tags)
eroding freedoms
Lawless Spying in America to Obstruct First Amendment Freedoms (tags)
lawless spying
Katrina five year anniversary; revisiting the good work of Rainbows and friends (tags)
This press release is from a year ago, the hurricane hit five years ago...and the Gulf Coast still needs help
Continuity of Government: Coup d'Etat Authority in America (tags)
America on a fast track toward despotism
Arctic contaminants threaten polar bears (tags)
Arctic contaminants threaten polar bears
Border Security Plan Adds 1,000 Federal Law Enforcement Border Patrol Agents (tags)
Obama said the 600 million additional funding for border security "answers my call to bolster the essential work of federal law enforcement officials," adding that the measures "will make an important difference as my administration continues to work with Congress toward bipartisan comprehensive immigration reform to secure our borders, and restore responsibility and accountability to our broken immigration system."
I-19 Shutdown in Tucson, Az- Spanish & English (tags)
Communique from Freedom for Arizona. Other updates available on Az Indymedia.
Blood on the Border (tags)
Today in the United States, under the Democratic administration of Barack Obama, xenophobic and racist violence is escalating. The criminal agents of the Border Patrol have reached the point of killing in cold blood, before the eyes of hundreds of witnesses. On May 28, construction worker Anastasio Hernández Rojas was beaten to death by some 20 agents of the U.S. Border Patrol. Then on June 7 in Ciudad Juárez, across the river from El Paso, Border Patrol agents fired into a group of youths on the Mexican side of of the border, murdering 14-year-old Adrián Hernández with a shot to the head. These crimes are part of a policy of racist repression looking for scapegoats, typified by the legalization of xeonophobia and police use of racial profiling in Arizona’s SB 1070 law. But while Obama criticize the law, “Obama, listen, we are in the struggle,” his thugs are killing on the border. It is an illusion to think that the commander in chief of U.S. imperialism, or his counterpart and semi-colonial underling, Mexican president Felipe Calderón, will defend the workers. It is necessary to mobilize the power of the working class to defend immigrants.
Haiti Earthquake: Capitalism, Occupation and Revolution (tags)
The earthquake that wrecked the capital of Haiti and surrounding areas on January 12 produced human tragedy of almost unfathomable proportions. It has been termed “the most destructive natural disaster in modern times.” Five months later, Haiti is no longer in the headlines or on the nightly TV news, but for the hard-hit Haitian population the scene has hardly changed. Now a new disaster is in the making as the hurricane season begins. This was a calamity made by capitalism: the earthquake was predictable and was predicted; the inferior construction methods are the result of Haiti’s poverty, and the swollen slums were the result of U.S. policies that have destroyed Haitian agriculture, forcing peasants off the land. On top of everything, Haiti is under imperialist occupation: Washington makes sure it has ultimate control of the strategically placed island, as it has throughout the Cold War and since. Haiti's devastation is not the result of “natural” causes or even “neo-liberal” policies – it is the product of the oppression of this semi-colonial country by the imperial masters ever since black slaves rose up to abolish slavery and throw out the colonialists two centuries ago. No new “economic model” can resolve this: what’s required is a new Haitian Revolution, a workers revolution overthrowing capitalism throughout the Caribbean and extending into the heart of imperialism.
100% Cal Assembly Honors Fascist Ronald Reagan (tags)
Are you still registered Democrat? On June 28, 2010, the entire California Assembly, Democrats and Republicans together, voted 100% to honor the fascist Ronald Reagan with a remembrance day, his birthday, February 6. In case you forgot or are too young to remember, here is a remembrance you should memorize, as you change your voter registration to Peace & Freedom or Green IMMEDIATELY.
Why is there popular protest in Venezuela? (tags)
* For the benefit of those who find themselves surprised or disconcerted by the generalised decline of conditions in Venezuela, as well as the increase in popular struggle (2,893 street demonstrations between October 2008-September 2009; compared with 1,763 in the same period in 2007-08) – either because they are unaware of the situation here, they are based abroad, or because they always accept the official version of events – we expound below on some factors which contribute to social conflicts here.
Rhetorical Militancy for a Rhetorical Mass Movement? If Only We Could Make Them Like Us… (tags)
The main purpose of this article is to address the questions of strategy and tactics in the anarchist movement with specific reference to the roles the Black Block tactic, and militant direct action play in our movement.
Lights going out in Gaza again (tags)
Lights going out in Gaza again
Fighting Company Union Ideology (tags)
The evolution of the company union in the U.S. is a history of both labor’s progress and its missteps. It is a story that, at bottom, speaks to the battle of workers to find an independent, powerful presence on the job — and to push this clout into the community to help shape the broader public realm. Unions came into existence organically wherever capitalism developed. As soon as workers were brought together by a small number of employers and compelled to make profits for them, the employees naturally sought to defend themselves. A living wage and decent working conditions failed to emerge through the good will of the employers, unfortunately, so workers took matters into their own hands.
Stop Police Abuse - Build Community Self-Defense (tags)
Police killings and abuse with impunity are systemic. We can't rely on the courts for justice, but must build inter-communal solidarity and resistance and the capacity for community self-defense.
Vetelca: The story of the first ever Bolivarian maquila factory (tags)
* This report originally appears in issue #57 of Venezuelan anarchist newspaper El Libertario www.nodo50.org/ellibertario [website in Spanish, English & other languages]. It is a detailed examination of the events behind the mobile telephone manufacturer Vetelca, in which the notion of a socialist industrial production model in Venezuela is unmasked.
Medical marijuana gets a boost from major doctors group (tags)
Medical marijuana gets a boost from major doctors group
Push to legalize marijuana gains ground in California (tags)
Push to legalize marijuana gains ground in California
Economic recovery underway - a cruel deception (tags)
Venezuela: The murderers can not make justice. On the exhumations of the Caracazo (tags)
* Different organizations and individuals from Venezuela with tradition in the social struggles linked to different anti-authoritarian and critical leftist approaches, with whom we have converged at the space called INSURGENTES, set position before the exhumations of the Caracazo.
Endangered species listing sought for Arctic reindeer (tags)
Endangered species listing sought for Arctic reindeer
Martial Law Alert Over Swine Flu (tags)
Potential draconian laws coming over swine flu
Reviewing F. William Engdahl's "Full Spectrum Dominance:" Part II (tags)
the threat of totalitarian democracy
The San Francisco Strike of 1934: It’s Lessons Today (tags)
The progressive sector of the US labor movement marked July 5, 1934 - a day striking labor unions called "Bloody Thursday" - a turning point in the history of working people on the West Coast. On that day, strikes, riots, tear gas and armed troops on the San Francisco waterfront 1934 strike still had an impact that is still felt to this day. "I think it is still relevant to the Bay Area," said Kevin Starr, the pre-eminent historian of California who wrote about the strike in "Endangered Dreams," a history of California in the Great Depression.
Reviewing Marjorie Cohn and Kathleen Gilberd's "Rules of Disengagement" (tags)
Right of GIs to refuse to fight in illegal wars
Minuteman imposter Shawna Ford charged in double murder (tags)
The attempts at damage control at the anti-immigration groups in the United States following the arrest of Shawna Forde and her gang is on going, but as more and more information becomes available, it’s clear that Forde was not an unknown outsider within the anti-immigrant (and… more to the point… anti-Mexican) movement.
Venezuela: El Libertario warns of possible sentence to the 14 SIDOR workers (tags)
* After taking part in a demonstration for lack of job security in 2006, 14 workers of contractor “Transportes Camila de SIDOR” could be sentenced to 5 to 10 years in jail.
Local San Diego Activists Defend Friendship Park (tags)
Since 1971, the Monument Mesa at Friendship Park on the U.S.-Mexico border has been an informal gathering place where people kept from physically coming together by the border fence could nonetheless reach out and pass each other greetings, kisses, presents and food. No longer: the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, seemingly determined to wipe out any sign that the people of the U.S. and Mexico should actually regard each other with anything other than wary hostility, have put the mesa straight in the cross-hairs of the triple border fence. Local activists Christian Ramirez and John Fanestil addressed a San Diego audience April 17 to tell what they're doing to try to save Friendship Park.
Alert-Potentially Deadly Swine Flu spreading throughout the U.S. (tags)
Experts warn that it may be too late to contain the new outbreak, given how widespread the known cases are. If the confirmed deaths are the first signs of a pandemic, then cases are probably incubating around the world by now, said Dr Michael Osterholm, a flu expert at the University of Minnesota.
Government Internment Camps (tags)
Government Internment Camps
Obama's War on Labor (tags)
targeting labor rights
Ice Chief Janet Napolitano announces huge Mexican border deployment (tags)
An insider of the Calderon camp told the U.S. Border Fire Report that help is needed at the Mexican ports of entry mainly because the current Mexican border guards are looking the other way and allowing contraband to enter his country.
Updating the Militarization and Annexation of North America (tags)
The North American Union is still viable.
Mexico's Catholic Church and President Felipe Calderon Charge U.S. with Corruption (tags)
After describing the US military as vain and bewildered, the hierarchy of the Church indicated in its weekly publication that Mexico has recognized the serious problem of corruption among its authorities and public servants and demanded that the U.S. do the same
Venezuela: Why Unlimited Re-election is Bad for the Revolution (tags)
A supporter of Hugo Chavez' anti-imperialist efforts explains why he is nevertheless opposed to Venezuela's recent constitutional amendment abolishing term limits.
Bush administration claims U.S. military can police American citizens (tags)
The Bush administration indicates that the President is authorized by the Constitution and Title 10 (10 USC 331–334) to suppress insurrections, rebellions, and domestic violence.
Border Patrol shot at with automatic weapons while uncovering new smuggling tactic’s (tags)
A third vehicle was spotted south of the border fence where a subject was observed firing an automatic rifle in the direction of the agents. Several additional subjects with weapons were seen climbing over the fence and they began unloading marijuana from the Chevy Avalanche
Obama's War Cabinet (tags)
plan for continued wars
Corruption is common on both sides of the border where cash is king (tags)
A high ranking member of the Caldron administration who want to remain unknown says, “there is corruption in regards to Narco trafficking in both governments and when there is unlimited cash available that cash finds its way to the powers to be and has no borders when it comes to influence.”
GOVERNOR PROPOSES RECKLESS CUTS TO PROGRAMS THAT DELIVER PROVEN RESULTS TO VETERANS (tags)
On Veterans Day, (Tuesday November 11th) disabled veterans and the workers who provide their home care will rally to demand Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and lawmakers protect efficient programs that provide proven results to taxpayers—like the In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program.
Martial law threat? Rep.Brad Sherman/DN! expose (tags)
California Congressman Brad Sherman says threats were made to instigate martial law if the Wall Street bailout was not passed. Democarcy NOW! Army Col.Micheal Boatner & THE PROGRESSIVE's editor Mathew Rothschild re: deployment of US troops inside the U.S.
The Fleecing of America (tags)
Public and private looting.
Grand Theft America (tags)
The government-business looting of America.
NYCLAW ANTIWAR DIGEST (tags)
It was Mr. Obama who seemed more aligned with President Bush's current policy of authorizing American special forces to cross the Afghan-Pakistan border into Pakistan's tribal areas that Al Qaeda and the Taliban have used as a sanctuary.
The Battle Of The River (tags)
A Fiction
Vying To Be Toughest (tags)
Both candidates promise permanent imperial wars.
Katrina Redux (tags)
Militarizing New Orleans and making it whiter.
Democrat's Reality Check: Obama Provides No Hope of Change of the Permanent War Economy (tags)
The Obama campaign reply to the Corsi smear book, Obama Nation, "Unfit for Publication: An Investigative Report on the Lies in Jerome Corsi's `Obama Nation,'" leaves no doubt: Obama has no intention of reversing America's permanent war economy.
Choice in November - Nader v. Twiddle Dee or Twiddle Dum (tags)
The criminal class in Washington is bipartisan.
Disturbing 2008 Global Peace Index Report (tags)
GPI unfairly targets Venezuela.
Plan Colombia Heads for Mexico (tags)
Call it NAFTA on steroids.
Grow Them Young, Pay Them Well - anti-Chavistas, That Is (tags)
Who said crime doesn't pay? Read on.
Disturbing Stirrings - Ratcheting Up For War On Iran (tags)
Worrisome signs resurfacing.
How business starves the world's poor (tags)
How business starves the world's poor
Toxic e-waste pouring into Third World (tags)
Toxic e-waste pouring into Third World
$100 fill-ups arrive at gas pumps (tags)
$100 fill-ups arrive at gas pumps
Hunger plagues Haiti and the world (tags)
Hunger plagues Haiti and the world
US looking at lead levels in artificial turf (tags)
US looking at lead levels in artificial turf
Military Test is Mandatory in Hundreds of High Schools (tags)
The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery or ASVAB provides the military easy access to more than a half million high school students nationwide. It is one of the military’s most successful recruiting devices. Although the military calls the ASVAB voluntary, many students are coerced into taking it and thousands of high school juniors are forced to do so.
US undermining Afghan trials (tags)
US undermining Afghan trials
US lawmakers invested in Iraq, Afghanistan wars (tags)
US lawmakers invested in Iraq, Afghanistan wars
U.S. Command Denies Military Task Force Exists (tags)
NORTHCOM was established following the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, to provide for the defense of the United States and to provide military support to civil authorities when requested by the president or secretary of defense. NORTHCOM also is responsible for overseeing military responses to natural and man-made disasters,such as hurricanes and incidents involving weapons of mass destruction within the United States borders.
U.S. Military Headed For The Border To Protect Us Or What? (tags)
Americans are afraid that this is just subterfuge. That the real intent of this administration is to suppress decent, control the masses and some even fear it is designed by Bush to delay the elections in the fall. Invade Iran imprison many Americans and designed for him to remain President for as long as he can.
U.S. Military Being Sent to the Border with Mexico (tags)
They are being staged and immediately available as emergency "on call" units for use against terrorist threats on the nation's border and local disasters, said Gen. Victor E. Renuart Jr., commander of United States Northern Command and the North American Aerospace Defense Commander
South American anarchists and anti-militarists say NO to war (tags)
* The threat of armed conflict involving the governments of Colombia, Ecuador and Venezuela has mobilized anarchists and anti-militarists across the continent, in words and in action, to repudiate what would be a monstrous aggression by state powers against our peoples. Below there are two documents that call for struggle against this evil.
Francis A. Boyle's "Protesting Power - War, Resistance and Law (tags)
International law supports the right to resist state crimes.
False Flag Prospects, 2008-- Top Three US Target Cities -- (tags)
Captain Eric H. May, the Internet intelligence writer, examines the prospects of a 2008 follow-up to the 9/11 attacks. After providing a damning case for official direction of 9/11, he names the top three American cities in danger of "the next 9/11."
Puerto Rico: All Out to Defend the Teachers’ Struggle! (tags)
We are on the threshold of a major class battle in Puerto Rico. Every day new preparations are announced for the coming strike of the Puerto Rican Teachers Federation (FMPR). With 42,000 members, a majority of them women, the FMPR represents almost all of Puerto Rico’s teachers and is by far the largest union on the island. The Shock Force of the Puerto Rican Police and National Guard are being readied to go after the strikers. The struggle of the Puerto Rican teachers affects everybody. The working class as a whole, students and parents, teachers and defenders of workers’ rights around the world must come out in defense of the FMPR! If there are mass arrests, the response must be massive blockades and spreading the struggle to the point of shutting the island down. In order to win this strike, it is necessary to prepare for a struggle not only of the teachers but within the whole workers movement against the pro-capitalist labor bureaucracy that sabotages the workers’ struggle. Above all, it is necessary to fight against illusions in and ties with bourgeois parties and politicians. It’s high time to begin building a revolutionary internationalist workers party.
Bush to veto bill curbing waterboarding (tags)
Bush to veto bill curbing waterboarding
Infragard - Martial law enforcement has been privatized (tags)
Martial law enforcement has been privatized
Just one question! Who is going to invade the USA? (tags)
Well is probably part of the government jobs program for over paid generals and military leaders.
They're known as "Los Zetas (tags)
The men are known as the Zetas, former members of the Mexican army who defected to Mexico's so-called Gulf drug cartel in the late 1990s
Daniel Watman: Activist Bridges Cultural, Sexual Borders (tags)
Bisexual activist DANIEL WATMAN doesn’t believe in walls — whether they’re the artificial “borders” between countries or the psychological borders between straight and Gay people. His involvements in the Border Meetup Group and the Bisexual Forum are bringing people together in new and unusual ways.
CIA SET TO DESTABALIZE ARGENTINA (tags)
Operation "Pliers" intercept shows CIA set to stage coup in Argentina.
CIA Operation "Pliers" Uncovered in Venezuela (tags)
Last night CNN en Español aired the above image, which captions at the bottom "Who Killed him?" by "accident". The image of President Chavez with the caption about killing him below, which some could say subliminally incites to assassination, was a "production error" mistakenly made in the CNN en Español newsroom. The news anchor had been narrarating a story about the situation between Colombia and Venezuela and then switched to a story about an unsolved homicide but - oops - someone forgot to change the screen image and President Chavez was left with the killing statement below. Today they apologized and admitted it was a rather "unfortunate" and "regrettable" mistake. Yes, it was. On a scarier note, an internal CIA memorandum has been obtained by Venezuelan counterintelligence from the US Embassy in Caracas that reveals a very sinister - almost fantastical, were it not true - plan to destabilize Venezuela during the coming days. The plan, titled "OPERATION PLIERS" was authored by CIA Officer Michael Middleton Steere and was addressed to CIA Director General Michael Hayden in Washington. Steere is stationed at the US Embassy in Caracas under the guise of a Regional Affairs Officer. The internal memorandum, dated November 20, 2007, references the "Advances of the Final Stage of Operation Pliers", and confirms that the operation is coordinated by the team of Human Intelligence (HUMINT) in Venezuela. The memo summarizes the different scenarios that the CIA has been working on in Venezuela for the upcoming referendum vote on December 2nd. The Electoral Scenario, as it's phrased, confirms that the voting tendencies will not change substantially before Sunday, December 2nd, and that the SI (YES) vote in favor of the constitutional reform has an advantage of about 10-13 points over the NO vote. The CIA estimates abstention around 60% and states in the memo that this voting tendency is irreversible before the elections.
Another CIA sponsored Coup D'Etat? Venezuela’s D-Day (tags)
Apart from the deep involvement of the US, the primary organization of the Venezuelan business elite (FEDECAMARAS), as well as all the major private television, radio and newspaper outlets have been engaged in a vicious fear and intimidation campaign. Food producers, wholesale and retail distributors have created artificial shortages of basic food items and have provoked large scale capital flight to sow chaos in the hopes of reaping a ‘no’ vote.
The Fires of Class (tags)
An analysis of how the recent fires in Los Angeles and San Diego counties demonstrates how much America has given up even lip service to the notion that "all men are created equal" and how this nation has evolved into an aristocratic society that judges people's intrinsic worth based on their wealth.
Full Spectrum Mercenaries: Blackwater Goes to Mexico (tags)
If and when private security contractor Blackwater USA and its heavily-armed operatives are forced to pull out of Iraq as the result of the September 16th rampage in downtown Baghdad when its employees massacred up to 28 Iraqis, Mexico could be a profitable option for the North Carolina-based company.
Blackwater ‘Fire Relief’ a PR Campaign to Win Hearts and Minds, Timed Influence Voters (tags)
s Blackwater ‘Fire Relief’ Part of Larger PR Campaign to Win Hearts and Minds and Timed to Influence Local Voters? Potrero Residents/Fire Victims Speak-Out in Wake of Up Coming Recall Election - Referendum Could Put End to Blackwater West Project– Deadline to Mail Ballots to Voters in Just Two Weeks Conflict of Interest Questions Raised as Mercenary VP Allowed Through Sheriff’s Blockade With Supplies While Community-Based Relief Efforts for Potrero and Immigrant Residents of Surrounding Area Were Thwarted or Delayed
Message to George Bush from a San Diego Evacuee (tags)
Neither the Border Patrol nor George Bush is welcome in San Diego! We’ve Suffered Enough! Message to George Bush, I believe… 1. Nature caused these fires 2. Global Warming, the most dangerous side effect of Capitalism, made them worse. 3. The lack of resources to fight these fires and which are currently being used in the imperialist war in Iraq prevented most of these fires from being extinguished expeditiously.
Money for Firefighting & Prevention; Not for War (tags)
The World Socialist Website has 2 excllent articles providing the details of the Southern California fire crisis and their relation to the neglect of our domestic needs in favor of war profiteering.
Worse than Katrina: Burned-up Residents Fault Officials for SD's Devastating Fires (tags)
Worse than Katrina: Burned-up Residents Fault Officials for San Diego's Devastating Fires Earlier Recommendations Ignored by Governor; Equipment, Personnel Unavailable, Undeployed, Late in Coming “It’s like Armageddon,” Jill Michaels said, after watching her home burn to the ground in the Harris fire. In the early hours of the worst fire in California history, the Michaels family received no evacuation warning and found exit routes blocked, forcing them to turn back to their home in Potrero. Now, the Michaels are among half a million evacuees who have fled four raging wildfires, the worst fire disaster in California history. Worse even than the 2003 Cedar fire, which until now held that shameful record.
Rev. Billy Graham: A Prince of War Exposed (tags)
The Rev. Billy Graham, a darling of the Evangelical Right, has never seen a U.S. war that he couldn’t bless. He once advocated that President Richard M. Nixon bomb the “dikes” in the north of Vietnam. He also criticized the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. for speaking out against the war. A new book, “The Prince of War: Billy Graham’s Crusade for a Wholly Christian Empire,” by Cecil Bothwell exposes the camera-mugging preacher as a serial warmonger.
Reviewing Naomi Klein's "The Shock Doctrine" (tags)
The human wreckage of disaster capitalism.
9/11:CIA,Daily Kos,Markos Moulitsas Zúniga,ICTS Israel, Securacom Kuwait,ragingbull Fraud (tags)
And it was probably not fear of right wing El Salvador death squads that led the parents of Markos Moulitsas Zúniga to the U.S. at the time of his birth,as was the case of most poor Salvadorans fleeing for their lives from the right wing death squads of the regimes the U.S. and Ollie North and Kos' future employer the CIA were backing.They probably just wished to give him U.S. citizenship and a chance to join this right wing 'elite'.
Labor Day Hypocrisy (tags)
Government and business mock labor's day.
You cynics may may sneer (tags)
But our glorious leaders are brave men who will make the right decision on Iraq in September.
Venezuela: Workers control under attack-Struggle at Sanitarios Maracay (tags)
workers control
Feds Train Clergy To "Quell Dissent" During Martial Law (tags)
Shocking KSLA 12 news report confirms story we broke last year, Pastors to cite Romans 13 as reason for public to obey government orders, relinquish guns and be taken to camps during state of emergency
The Militarization and Annexation of North America (tags)
NAFTA on steroids enforced with an iron fist
amiri baraka on democracy now! (tags)
On 40th Anniversary of Newark Rebellion, a Look Back at Historic Unrest that Changed the Nation
Reviewing Michel Chossudovsky's America's War on Terrorism (tags)
Exposing the war on terrorism as a cruel hoax
the Iraq War -- a Socialist perspective (tags)
The war in Iraq is at the heart of the instability in the Middle East – and the U.S. It is now the third-longest-running war in U.S. history: longer than the American Civil War, the First and Second World Wars, and the Korean War. Only the Philippine-American and Vietnam Wars have lasted longer. Although control over Iraq’s oil was a major reason for the invasion, it was not the main factor. Overall strategic control over the region and teaching a “lesson” to any country that dares “step out of line” was the main objective. However, none of U.S. imperialism’s political, economic, or military objectives have been achieved. Far from demonstrating its power, U.S. imperialism has demonstrated the limits of its power. The results will be far-reaching both internationally and within the U.S. itself.
Build a United Anti-War Movement (tags)
After weeks of political show-boating, the Democrats have voted to continue the war in Iraq. Without even the fig leaf of a time line for a partial withdrawal, they have appropriated over $100 billion more public dollars to continue the occupation of Iraq, condemning thousands more Americans and Iraqis to death and dismemberment. This is another $100 billion that will not be used to create jobs, provide health care, or build schools and affordable housing. The total spent on the war now totals over $556 billion. Even the richest nation on earth cannot afford this policy of “guns before butter” forever. Bush is completely discredited, with little popular support and virtually none of his infamous “political capital”. And still the Democrats caved on the one issue that has galvanized the entire country, the one issue that propelled them to Congressional power in the mid-term elections. The message in November was crystal clear: “end the war now!”
Local Soldier, Rhys W. Klasno, Killed in Iraq (tags)
Sgt. Klasno, 20, of Riverside, was killed Sunday in Iraq after an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle.
Complicit Democrats Ripped at Pro Peace Rally (tags)
As a result of the Bush-Cheney Gang’s insane “Surge” strategy, 1,300 Maryland Nation Guard members will be deployed to the hell hole that is Iraq. On May 3, 2007, in Baltimore, a rally was held to protest that action. Maryland State Del. Jill P. Carter blasted U.S. Senators Barbara Mikulski and Ben Cardin for funding the war and then saying that they wanted to “protect the troops.” She called that bizarre conduct: “politically schizophrenic.”
How to get out of Iraq for just $450 million (tags)
If Nancy Pelosi and Congress really want the war to end and U.S. personnel to leave Iraq, it doesn't have to cost $100 billion or even $10 billion. For just $450 million, Congress could hire U.S. airlines to fly all U.S. troops (and contractors) home for good, in time to enjoy summer with their families.
Kent State Shootings ORDERED on May 4th, 1970 (tags)
New evidence reveals that National Guardsmen at Kent State were given orders to shoot students on May 4th, 1970
Full rights for all immigrants! (tags)
A new mass leaflet.
What’s Really in the Flake-Gutierrez (STRIVE) Act? (tags)
Many traditional immigrant rights organizations are putting enormous pressure on grass roots groups to support the “Security Through Regularized Immigration and a Vibrant Economy Act” (STRIVE). This proposal, put forward by Democrats Jeff Flake (AZ) and Luis Gutierrez (IL), is being presented as a “lesser evil” and “the best we can get”. While on the surface it isn’t as overtly aggressive as Sensenbrenner’s HR4437, this remains an enforcement-first bill and offers little or nothing to immigrant workers and their families. ImmigrantsThis is not what millions of immigrant workers marched for last spring. This is not why hundreds of grass roots organizations were formed across the country in order to fight for unconditional legalization for all.
U.S. Ambassador Sam Fox:From Swift Boat War Fraud to Brussels,Belgium SWIFT Finance Fraud (tags)
Sam Fox would be an economic,political and social parasite by any other name but to place him as U.S. Ambassador to Belgium after the W Bush Regime's SWIFT financial spying scandal by ex Treasury Secretary John Snow and the U.S. CIA in Belgium is a lot like putting a fox in charge of the chicken coop.
Send Sen. Mikulski to Iraq, Not the MD National Guard! (tags)
As Marylanders prepare to celebrate Easter, some of them, members of the state’s National Guard, are receiving a notice from the Pentagon. It says that they will be deployed to Iraq. They are being called up to fulfill the insane “Surge” strategy of the Bush-Cheney Gang. Sen. Barbara A. Mikulski (D-MD) has voted to fund the “Surge.” She is complicit in that regime's wrongdoing. I say: Keep the MD National Guard home and send Sen. Mikulski to Iraq!
Activist's 2007 Information Source (tags)
Seek & Yee Shall Find!
Bonfire (tags)
Got marshmallows?
Counter The Racists! (tags)
Ted Hayes leads Minutemen/SOS thru Downtown Los Angeles
I fully agree: “There IS a strategy against freedom of expression in Venezuela” (tags)
VHeadline en Español News Editor Jesus Nery Barrios writes: On Sunday, March 18, at the 63rd half-yearly meeting of the Inter American Press Association (IAPA) in Bogota, its chairman, Rafael Molina said that “there is a strategy against freedom of expression in Venezuela” ... a statement with which I fully agree.
Local Soldier, Dennis L. Sellen, Killed in Iraq (tags)
Army Guardsman Spc. Dennis L. Sellen Jr., a 20-year-old former College of the Canyons student, died this week while serving in Iraq, California Army National Guard officials said Tuesday.
ON THE QUESTION OF ANTI-WAR SOLDIER AND SAILOR SOLIDARITY COMMITTEES (tags)
FORGET 'SOFT BALL' NON-BINDING CONGRESSIONAL RESOLUTIONS
Demcrat Agenda Omissions (tags)
Democrats in Congress again betraying the public trust.
THE CALIFORNIA ANTI-WAR SOLDIERS MUST NOT STAND ALONE (tags)
IMMEDIATE WITHDRAWAL FROM IRAQ
Spc. Doug Barber: One Year After His Tragic Suicide-Unaired Interviews (tags)
Two previously unreleased audio interviews with Spc. Douglas Barber, who served in Iraq with the Ohio National Guard. Released to commemorate the one year anniversary of his suicide due to untreated PTSD and overwhelming mental trauma.
Holiday Hyposrisy (tags)
The corruption of US holidays for patriotism and profit.
FOIA,Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales and SEC Chris Cox's Enron legal conflict (tags)
So SEC Chairman Christopher 'WMDS' Cox who lies about 'securities' the way he lied about WMDs in Iraq that sent thousands upon thousands of people to their deaths while allowing money to be laundered around the world post 911,including in known terrorist suspect money laundering havens such as Kuala Lumpur and Dubai through the help of U.S. 'market makers' such as Charles Schwab,Refco, vFinance,etc.,etc.,is being asked through use of the Freedom of Information Act or FOIA about conflict of interest in sweeping his law firm's former clients corrupt involvement with Enron under the rug.Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales also deserves much of the discredit for what is going on inside and outside the SEC as well.
Venezuela 2006: Continued repression of popular protest (tags)
* El Libertario, the voice of the Comision de Relaciones Anarquistas of Venezuela, analyzes the how and the why of the increasing state repression against the growing social discontent that belies the pseudo-revolutionary discourse of the Chavez regime.
By Definition Every American Soldier is Legally Insane (tags)
Apply the facts to the law and judge for yourself.
A Look Back and Ahead in an Age of Neocon Rule (tags)
A review of the past year and review of year ahead.
Sexual Abuse and Harassment In The Military (tags)
I have two deadlines: 1st deadline: NEED AIR NATIONAL GUARD WOMEN OF SEXUAL ABUSE AND HARASSMENT: 2nd DEADLINE: ALL MILITARY SERVICES MEN AND WOMEN OF SEXUAL ABUSE, HARASSMENT -SYSTEM FAILED THEM.
BTL:Bush Signs Federal Legislation Expanding Power to Declare Martial Law (tags)
Interview with Frank Morales, writer & activist, conducted by Between the Lines' Scott Harris
BTL:Pentagon Misinforms National Guard & Reserve Soldiers About... (tags)
...Education Benefits~Produced by Between the Lines' Melinda Tuhus
Omissions in the Iraq Study Group Report (tags)
Omissions in the ISG Report are more important than what's in it.
News thats fit to print...on toilet paper (tags)
"Hot document" from Faux News reveals savvy hyperbole-free rigorous journalism, not.
violent video game effects linger in brain (tags)
violent video game effects linger in brain
Iraq conquest longer in duration than WWII (tags)
Iraq conquest longer in duration than WWII
Scientists fret over missing grey whales (tags)
Scientists fret over missing grey whales
NY Congressman Charles Rangel wants to reinstate the draft. Is the draft constitutional? (tags)
So NY Congressman Charles Rangel wants to reinstate the draft. Is the draft, military conscription, or slavery which is really what it is constitutional? Let's take a walk thru the Constitution and Supreme Court decisions and check it out. Is slavery a constitutional method of supplying soldiers for the U.S. Military?
THE PRICE OF IMPERIAL ARROGANCE (tags)
THE HARM AT HOME AND ABROAD OF BUSH ADMINISTRATION POLICY
Schwarzenegger, Rove, Bush, and Fascism (tags)
Thinking about voting for Schwarzenegger--or not voting at all for Governor? Please refresh your memory about Schwarzenegger's family heritage, and please consider Schwarzenegger's own words: "I was always dreaming about very powerful people - dictators and things like that...people who could be remembered for hundreds of years."
Is It Martial Law Yet? (tags)
In a stealth maneuver, President Bush has signed into law a provision which, according to Senator Patrick Leahy (D-Vermont), will actually encourage the President to declare federal martial law.
Bush Moves Toward Martial Law (tags)
In a stealth maneuver, President Bush has signed into law a provision which, according to Senator Patrick Leahy (D-Vermont), will actually encourage the President to declare federal martial law (1).
Force and Fraud (tags)
This is the reality you are facing, and denial will not help you this time.
Drivers License, internal passport, whats the difference? (tags)
Wow! This candidate for governor admits that the driver’s license really has become the American “internal passport”. Makes you feel like your in the Soviet Union! - Len Munsil Arizona Republican Governor canidate - "Napolitano's idea will make it easier for terrorists and other criminals to legally obtain our version of a domestic passport,"
EXPLOSIVE: Tampa Bay News has Conspiratorial Emails in 2000 Election Fraud Coup d'État (tags)
Tampa Bay News now in possession of Douglas Alexander (former U.K. E-Commerce Minister) election emails. Emails deal with direct communications between Alexander, Karen Hughes (chief aide to Bush) Mel Sembler aka Bay Point Schools and Democratic traitor Al Rodgers of Fort Lauderdale, Florida along with current Florida A.G. Charlie (gay-in-the-closet) Crist.
4 more years of war in Iraq? (tags)
Good news for those wacky billionaries for Bush
Back Breaking News Exposes Chris Matthews of MSNBC (tags)
He condones Congressman Foley’s sexual activity with a Page of 21 years old because he was of age at the time. Matthews ignores the solicitation of the Page by the pedophile Foley before the Page turned 21 years old. Then it gets worse. Matthews compares the activities of homosexual-in-the-closet Foley to what Matthews considers scandalous which is President John F. Kennedy’s marriage to Jacqueline Kennedy when she was 22 years old and he was 34 years old. Is he insane or what?
Four Years of CODEPINK Rabble-Rousing for Peace (tags)
Medea Benjamin looks back on 4 years of the CODEPINK peace movement.
Hidden Costs of the Iraqi War Exposed (tags)
As of Oct. 3, 2006, the Iraqi War has led to the deaths of 2,720 U.S. military personnel, cost taxpayers $331.1 billion, while Iraqi civilian casualties are estimated at over 100,000. However, there are also “hidden costs” to this awful conflict. Some were revealed at a Capitol Hill “Iraq Forum” on Sept. 26, 2006. They are the costs to the children of Iraq; to the Iraqi War Veterans; and to the American taxpayers, who are stuck with the tab, while other economic and social priorities go unanswered.
IMPERIALISM 101 - THE US ADDICTION TO WAR, MAYHEM AND MADNESS - PART I (tags)
THE US HISTORICAL PURSUIT OF GLOBAL DOMINANCE
RED ALERT: CHICAGO 9/11 (tags)
Are we due for the much-discussed "next 9/11" in Chicago, on or around 9/11, 2006? A former Army intelligence and public affairs officer, the commander of the cyber-intelligence group, Ghost Troop, writes a powerful letter of warning to the US Army Inspector General and other US VIP's, warning that the next set up event is ready to be staged in Chicago between 9/7 and 9/11, 2006 -- and the newspapers are telling all about it in advance.
Katrina, one year later: For black liberation through socialist revolution! (tags)
We revolutionaries insist that black liberation, including the conquest of full democratic rights for blacks in the US, can only be achieved through socialist revolution. It is hopeless and naïve to expect the US government to "rebuild for democracy". The face of US capitalist "democracy" was unmasked by Hurricane Katrina, and it's not going to get any prettier.
Photos of the National Guard Military base on 52nd Street and McDowell Road (tags)
Photos of the National Guard Military base on 52nd Street and McDowell Road.
The Troop Question (tags)
As the shaky ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel lumbers on, the European governments expected to ‘enforce the peace’ have been stuttering and stalling in the face of actual commitment. It was France who took the initiative originally, who as head of UNISFL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon), promised 3000 troops. After analyzing the situation further, an about-face occurred, and the troop level was reduced to 400 non-combatant personal. Italy saw opportunity and declared itself the replacement, promising 2000 troops; France, not to be outdone, reasserted leadership responsibilities, but with 2000 troops this time; Italy was then, thanks to its charitableness, awarded France’s old job as head of UNISFL. After all this, the seesawing attitude of the rest of Europe continues. These governments are demanding more definitive ‘rules of engagement’; they’re curious about the prospects of actual fighting, and are rightfully scared of being viewed as a foreign occupier in Hezbollahland. Bush is intent on seeing that his backfired war-effort is partially salvaged, and has insisted that Europe “hurry up” with military aide, since the U.S. has none to spare. It may be prudent to examine why Europe— who views Israel and the U.S. with apt distrust— is both eager and terrified to help them pursue their interests. Note: a working assumption will be that ‘humanitarian reasons’ is a sophistic answer, meant to lure citizens into obedience.
A MOM'S FYI: The Bush Wars, Saddam vs Usama (tags)
Looking for evidence of GWB linking Saddam Hussein, Iraq, and 9/11? Read on.... -------------------------------
The Hidden Draft in Our Schools (tags)
With a vast majority of the US public disapproving of the quicksand war in Iraq, how can American educators continue to allow unchecked and unscrupulous recruiting in our high schools? A former Army officer takes a look at the problem of gutless school leaders who let their students be turned into Bush League cannon fodder -- then offers some suggestions on how to change things.
The Coming Repression (tags)
If one listens closely to those directing U.S. foreign policy, accusations, infighting, and panic are clearly audible. If one listens closer still, bursting seams can be heard. The U.S. corporate-ruled elite are in a crisis they can’t escape from; what this means for the public is easily discernable, if one only listens.
Permanent Goodbye to US (tags)
"Sometimes you get your best light from a burning bridge" - Don Henley, "My Thanksgiving" CARACAS - It was about a week before I left the United States forever that I watched Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. tell Charlie Rose something all of us already know in our hearts. "Today," he said, "the United States is hated around the world far worse than it was at the height of the Vietnam War." I remember the Vietnam War. I will never forget it.
the terrorist alert level is raised to pink! or is that azul, sienna, pale violet (tags)
the terrorist alert level is raised to pink! or is that azul, sienna, pale violet red or maybe sandstone orange???? and remember the government has banned toothpaste, makeup, suntan lotion, and all other liquids and gels from carry on luggage for your protection!!!
FEMA CONCENTRATION CAMPS: Locations and Executive Orders (tags)
There over 800 prison camps in the United States, all fully operational and ready to receive prisoners. They are all staffed and even surrounded by full-time guards, but they are all empty
surviving the bush democracy (tags)
Iraq Vet and NJ Native Tells His Story (tags)
Another casualty of war speaks out about what he has witnessed.
Seeds of Hope, Seeds of War: Race, Class and the Battle for the South Central Farm (Final) (tags)
The world is literally watching. Media worldwide have covered the case of the South Central Farm, the largest urban garden in the United States, the efforts of the city's elites to drive the farmers from the land, and the farmer's remarkable resistance. On June 13th, the County moved to evict, concentrating a massive police presence in the area to uproot the resistor's encampment on the land. The South Central Farm arose from the ashes of the 1992 Los Angeles rebellion, and stands as a symbol of hope to millions. Despite the eviction, the struggle continues, with a court hearing this week challenging the City's sale of the land to a private developer. When the Los Angeles City Council sold the 14 acre plot called the South Central Farm to developer Ralph Horowitz, they sold land they didn’t own.
Protest in Costa Mesa 7/8 (tags)
9/11 Con in LA (tags)
American Scholars Symposium http://americanscholarsymposium.org http://infowars.com
The problem with the idea of “an immigration problem.” (tags)
Why so many different takes to "the immigration problem?" The answer lies in the oversimplification of the issue. I will not diagnose the source(s) of these over-simplistic notions, only attempt to clear up the mud.
CHERYL SEAL REPORTS: WEEK IN REVIEW (tags)
Commentaries and news from Cheryl Seal Reports, June 23-29
US House votes to cut the estate tax (tags)
US House votes to cut the estate tax
Wow!!! A special type of arrest and on the spot plea bargin for gov employees (tags)
Wow!!!! A special type of arrest and on the spot plea bargin that allows government employees guilty of crimes to get a slap on the wrist with out being arrested or charged with a crime
Sir No Sir, a Fim Review (tags)
A Review of the new documentary on the anit-war movement among Vietnam era soldiers.
When People Become Commodities (tags)
By Jonathan Rowe
Iraqi Resistance responds to Zarqawi killing… (tags)
By sending multiple American war criminals to an early grave. Iraqi Resistance Report for events of Monday, 12 June 2006.
THREE HOUR SPECIAL - DEPLETED URANIUM - MONDAY 6/12 (tags)
8PM - 11PM Pacific time ......Three Hour Special
Why Americans should be packing their bags NOW (tags)
Why Americans should be packing their bags NOW
1,400 targeted killings in Baghdad last month (tags)
1,400 targeted killings in Baghdad last month
Denver ruling lets City regulate assault weapons, handguns (tags)
Denver ruling lets City regulate assault weapons, handguns
56 vanish from Baghdad (tags)
56 vanish from Baghdad
Senate Passes The Temporary Guest Workers Program (tags)
The Coalition in Defense of Immigrant Rights (CDIR) learned today, May 27 through news sources that the US Senate finally passed by a vote of 62-36 votes, the temporary guest workers program or the Immigration Reform Overhaul Bill after more than a week of debate
My America (tags)
My opinion on creating as Lincoln said, "a "government of the people, by the people, for the people," beginning with impeachment of Bush and Cheney to major changes throughout all levels of our political system and thereby society to significantly improve our daily lives. From legalization of drugs and prostitution, a constitutional convention, prisoner advocates, and much more...
Snuggly, the security bear (tags)
Snuggly, the security bear
America's worsening healthcare travesty (tags)
America's worsening healthcare travesty
The Border War Comes Home (tags)
With our lives and community on the line it is time to take the struggle for migrant's rights to a new stage - Resistance.
AUDIO: Nativo Lopez, of the March 25 Coalition responds to President’s speech. (tags)
Interview with Nativo Lopez, recorded via cell phone: Tuesday, May 16, 2006 one day after Bush’s announcement of plans to send 6,000 National Guard troops to patrol the US border with Mexico.
Pentagon releases phony video of "Flight 77" (tags)
Pentagon releases phony video of "Flight 77"
Bush’s immigration speech—an appeal to militarism and reaction (tags)
The Socialist Equality Party unequivocally condemns the vicious anti-immigrant policy put forward by President George W. Bush in his speech from the White House Oval Office Monday night. We condemn as well the craven response of the Democratic Party, which embraced in all essentials the administration’s attacks on millions of immigrant workers living and working in the US. Bush’s speech was ignorant, short-sighted and reactionary. While crafted with the short-term goal of satisfying both the prejudices of the Republican Party’s extreme right-wing base and the profit interests of the American Manufacturers Association, the proposals outlined by the US president have far-reaching and ominous implications.
National Guard Not Allowed? (tags)
reposted from right wingersite
5/14 Urgent Action Alert! A Call for A National Immigrant Solidarity Movement! (tags)
The Upcoming Battle Against Anti-Immigrant Legislation, And A Call for A National Immigrant Solidarity Movement
Uranium Weapons Exposed - The X Zone - Listen Live Tonight - It's a MUST HEAR! (tags)
"The American Revolution on Uranium Weapons will Bring Down this obscene Government. They all have to go. Are you ready?" - Bob Nichols
THREE STATES to vote on forwarding REAL impeachment bills that require US House votes (tags)
author: Constitutionalist ....your own state's legislators can introduce Impeachment Proceedings against Bush immediately as a State Legislature Joint Resolution, that then goes on to be a preferred bill, meaning that it automatically takes precedence over all other bills then in Congress!
WEAPONS TO DIE FOR: Leuren Moret (tags)
FROM THAT PENTAGON DEATH STAR, AND THE UNIVERSITY THAT POISONED THE WORLD
What Immigrants Must Learn from the Black Civil Rights Movement ... and Soon (tags)
Un Pueblo Unido
THE ABC'S OF THE RUSSIAN REVOLUTION, 1917. (tags)
THIS IS A REVIEW OF LEON TROTSKY'S HISTORY OF THE RUSSIAN REVOLUTION, ORIGINALLY PBLISHED IN 1930-23, BY AN UNREPENTENT DEFENDER OF THE OCTOBER REVOLUTION
The Hidden Terror of HR4437: No Compromise in the Movement for Migrants Rights (tags)
What We Must Learn Now from the Black Civil Rights Movement
THE WAR ON IMMIGRANTS (tags)
THE US WAR AGAINST IMMIGRANTS IN THEIR FIGHT FOR EQUITY AND JUSTICE
No yellow ribbons from this ex-marine (tags)
We can and should support troops-to-be, but do so before they become troops. We should post a warning sign, and disclaimer, in all recruiting stations. Prospective enlistees should be told that their new employer will not be the Department of Defense, but the Department of War; and that their service will not be in the defense of freedom and democracy, but in the building of an empire for America's powerful elite. And that their countrymen, for all the yellow ribbons and pseudo-patriotic talk, will ultimately blame them for the added terrorism they instigate with their wars. Just like there is truth in lending, we should demand truth in recruitment.
The Ghost of George Wallace: Immigration and White Racism (tags)
They were on the verge of a walled off country, a police state whose target would be Brown people. Then, on Saturday, their dominace cracked.
Speak Now, or Never: Stopping Sensenbrenner (tags)
Tomorrow morning, anti-fascists and anti-racists join together in the streets.
Brown Skin / Yellow Star: Why You Must Join the March 25th Demo (tags)
The US Senate debates legislation that would make migrants an openly felonized, legally scapegoated racial and cultural under-caste, with deeply dangerous implications for us all. 600,000 or more to march this Saturday, March 25th, Broadway and Olympic, 10 AM.
Pasadena Rally on March 19th (tags)
Sunday, March 19: March on Parsons Corporation in Pasadena
Zogby: The Troops Want Out, The Sooner the Better (tags)
Forget the president and his self-serving blather about not “cutting and running.” If you want to help our soldiers, why not do what THEY want, and work to bring them home? That’s the message for the grunts in Iraq.
241 mile MARCH for PEACE: Latino Voice of Opposition to the War (tags)
A 241 mile march that aims at ensuring that the Latino voice of opposition to the War is heard loud and clear across the Americas.
W Bush U.S. Petroleum-Trafficker-In-Chief addresses addicts (tags)
So W Bush sacrificed those of low income American soldiers and our National Guard who should have been at home protecting our shores and raising their children as well as women who should not have been on a battlefield in the first place and now he goes around Congress and the American people to make deal with United Arab Emirate Muslim fundamentalists to guard our ports,a job those dead soldiers and National Guard in Iraq should have been performing !
The Arizona Minuteman comes to Costa Mesa (tags)
Blasting President George W. Bush for being weak on "homeland security," Simcox demanded that National Guard and U.S. military troops be placed in "civic observation posts" all along the U.S./Mexico border. "I don't care if it offends the government of Mexico or the people of Mexico," Simcox told the approving crowd. "I don't care about the treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo! Your country got beat! Our army got what it wanted! And that's history! You follow by our rules now!"
Those Who Can't be Fooled (tags)
At the Corretta Scott King funeral African-Americans spoke out against Bush's policies right to his face. They are the only group of Americans who never shy away from speaking the abosolute truth.
The Waco Massacre (tags)
Many people believe that David Koresh (or the Branch Davidians) were responsible for the deaths of the 74 men, women and children who died in the inferno at Waco on April 19, 1993. http://www.serendipity.li/waco.html
Bush Protests-No MSM Airtime...Cartoon Protests-Tons of MSM Air (tags)
January saw a rash of demonstrations against the Bush Administration in the cold and rain but still there is no Main Stream Media coverage of any of those events.....not one word. News reports of protests over the cartoon of Mohamed, however, are everywhere, every day. The corporate media continues to close it's eyes to the growing dissent and calls for impeachment even by members of Congress. Many thousands of protesters in over 65 cities banged pots and pans and drums and chanted to drown out the State of the Union speech on Jan. 31.
Catastrophe as Blueprint (tags)
"The majority of the electorate is now living outside the cities. The people there don't want to spend one cent for the cities. This rejection of all public spirit arose through America's suburbanization."
Save Our Face – SOS, Fascistic Immigration Laws + the “Thrill” of Defeat (tags)
The war is on. It’s a war the Mexican People and their allies must win.
10 Reasons Why the U.S. Must Leave Iraq (tags)
AFSC asks that you publish this as widely as possible. http://afsc.org/iraq/activism/10-reasons.htm
Local National Guard Soldier Killed in Iraq (tags)
Army Spc. Marcelino R. Corniel had just five days left in Baghdad, 13 days before he would arrive stateside and 23 days before saying, "I do." But the life of the 23-year-old National Guard member from La Puente was cut short Saturday when he was killed in a mortar attack, authorities said.
Katrina’s Aftermath: The Catastrophe Continues (tags)
Katrina was not a natural disaster; it was and still is a social disaster. Katrina and its aftermath is the market at work for you
Minuteman leader has troubled past (tags)
Minuteman leader Chris Simcox paints himself as a heroic guardian of national security. Those close to him see him differently.
9th Circuit, Supreme Court Fed & State, Democrats & Republicans Murder Tookie (tags)
With one clenched fist, the United Front of the Capitalist Class, namely the falsely labeled "liberal" 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, the Surpeme Courts of Cal & US, Democratic candidates for governor Phil Angelides and Steve Westley, and Republican Nazi Schwarzenegger murdered Tookie Williams. They need to be threatened to stop their murder with political labor strikes and by voting for anti-death penalty parties such as Peace & Freedom Party and the Green Party.
Iraq took away our innocence!- Spc. Douglas Barber OIF Vet with PTSD (tags)
Interview with Spc. Douglas Barber- OIF Vet suffering from PTSD
Letters from Redeploying Soldiers (tags)
THE TRUTH FROM OUR OWN SOLDIERS ABOUT IRAQ
TRUTH FROM U.S. SOLDIERS ABOUT IRAQ: Letters from redeploying soldiers (tags)
Letters from redeploying soldiers
Admit It: The US Has Been Defeated in Iraq (tags)
Congressman Murtha is right to call for a withdrawal from Iraq, as no amount of further combat will change the truth. This war is lost. Now it’s time to assign blame for the disaster and to punish the culprits.
true friends (tags)
buy a dog it cheaper then selling Guns
Venezuela Purging Border Drug Plots (tags)
Venezuela Purging Border Drug Plots
Why SMALL Protests - People Want VIolence! (tags)
she says that everyone cooperated and planned at every single protest and then she backs this up with lies from some lady saying that in the 60s rude behavior was intolerable. All of this is the kind of middle class mentality that lies so easily with omissions and generalizations. I wish Jeneine had just made this up – ignorance is easier to tolerate than pre-meditated lying.
Sgt. Shakere T. Guy, 23, of Pomona, was killed in Baghdad on Saturday.
When The Levee Breaks… (tags)
A full account of the Katrina/New Orleans crisis. From the National Guard, to police murder, to the Ninth Ward, to whiskey in the French Quarter.
U.S. deaths in Iraq near 2,000 (tags)
U.S. deaths in Iraq near 2,000, showing human cost of conflict; Californians constitute greatest share (10.6 percent) of casualties ALMOST UNNOTICED ARE THE 15,220 WOUNDED, INCLUDING 404 AMPUTEES
"The People are Boiling with Rage" (tags)
Hurricane Katrina had blown the problems in GW Bush's face that he wanted to be rid of with churches and caritas. The chaotic emergency relief was also a consequence of a policy of state dismantling and deregulation
Is your twelve year old safe from the military? (tags)
With recruiting targets unmet, 250 National Guard troops visit middle school, mingle with twelve year olds. Is it a recruiting ploy?
KFI Protest (tags)
Circle the wagons; there are non-white people exercising their right to assemble and free speech.
Repealing Posse Comitatus Would Mean Iraq in the US. Do We Really Want This? (tags)
After watching what the Commander in Chief does with the military in Iraq and Afghanistan, do we really want to have the army going in every time there is some kind of natural disaster in America.
British Troops Set Loose By Violent Jailbreak Had Been Caught, Red-Handed, Engaged in St (tags)
British Troops Caught Planting Explosives in Basra? Do you remember that British Officials admitted that they drew the borders of the Middle East eighty years ago in such a way as to expressly keep the region fighting amongst themselves?
Progressive Left: Stop Bashing the Red Cross Without Reason! (tags)
Why is KPFK saying, "Don't donate to the Red Cross"?
“Iraq is a No-Win, No-End War!” - Max Cleland (tags)
On Sept. 15, 2005, a Congressional “Forum” was held on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. It was chaired by anti-Iraqi War advocate, Rep. Lynn Woolsey (D-CA). She accused the Bush-Cheney Gang of creating a “bloody and ruinous debacle,” in Iraq, and that it was long past the time to discuss exit strategies. Max Cleland, a witness at the Forum and a Vietnam War veteran, and ex-U.S. Senator, said, “Iraq is a No-Win, No-End War!”
Who's to blame for Katrina response? Bush supporters try to lie their way out of this one! (tags)
Right-wing spin doctors add insult to injury!
Along Baltimore City’s Peace Path (tags)
On 09/11/05, demonstrators in Baltimore City turned out to protest rabid militarism and the Iraqi War. If this action also leads political hack, Sen. Barbara A. Mikulski (D-MD), to speak out against the Iraqi War and to stop funding it, it will be a huge success! Her priority has been to give tens of billions of taxpayers’ money to Israel, while the Chesapeake Bay is dying from “dead zones,” and the levees at N.O. were in desperate need of repairs.
The real heroes and sheroes of New Orleans (tags)
Copied from Socialist Woker online.
Sheriffs Begin Shooting Friendly Stranded Dogs in St. Bernard's Parish (tags)
shooting stranded animals in st. bernard's parish! by mz kittinz Friday, Sep. 09, 2005 at 1:37 PM St. Bernard Parish Sherriffs shooting friendly dogs from the back of a pick-up truck. Video, ways to call and voice outrage Video link of St. Bernards Parish Sheriff shooing dogs (with wagging tails) from the back of a pickup truck. (Requires Quicktime and takes almost minute to start, be patient and brave, we must stand witness to this outrage.) http://www.dallasnews.com/s/dws/photography/2005/katrina_video/straydogs.html regarding THE OFFICER THAT MURDERED MORE THAN ONE DOG, BY RUNNING IT OVER AND SHOOTING THEM: GET HIM FIRED..... HIS NAME IS SGT. MIKE MINTON OF ST BERNARDS SHERIFF'S PHONE# 504-271-2504
Hurricane Katrina-Our Experiences (tags)
Must-read eyewitness report by 2 paramedics stranded in NO
what REALLY happened in New Orleans!?!? (tags)
is this what really happened in new orleans? i wonder....
Katrina's Silver Lining (tags)
The costs for the American public, in higher energy costs, higher food bills, economic recession and a burst housing bubble, are the just deserts of decades of self-centered voting habits.
Military Recruiters preying on hurricane victims (tags)
Military recruiters are descending on our schools now that they are open. That's bad enough. But now they also are targetting traumatized hurricane victims....from Houston IndyMediaC
Venezuela: Eyewitness report from the heart of the revolution (tags)
Bolivarian Revolution
First hand account -"Trapped in New Orleans" (tags)
Two eye witnesses give their account of police hostility and official indifference to Katrina victims.
9/5 Hurricane Katrina Alert: Calls For Progressive Emergency Supports! (tags)
ActionLA Coalition and several other progressive organizations, will launch a national call for a donation drive to supports New Orleans areas progressive agencies for the humanitarian-aid efforts. Detail will coming soon and please donate generosity!
Looking for ORGANIZERS to support / go to New Orleans (tags)
It is not acceptable to sit in our seats while people within our own borders are systematicallydying in New Orleans under martial Law. We need to STEP UP our EFFORTS. SUGGESTIONS?
Katrina Open Letter to Radical/Progressive Community (tags)
Introspective call for mutual aid to victims of both Katrina and a failed system of government.
The Right Of Return To and the Right To Remain In New Orleans. (tags)
As the White House launches its sociopathic defense of the FuckYou Government response to Hurricane Katrina the latest from the dry ground in New Orleans is that even neighborhoods that did not flood, that are high and dry must be evacuated.
Hurricane Katrina Confronts Imperialism (tags)
Some thoughts about the catastrophe in New Orleans
GOVERNMENT MASSACRE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (tags)
GOVERNMENT MASSACRE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
People of the Dome (tags)
The U.S. Government had intentionally kept water and food from desperate people in New Orleans
Baghdad on the Big Muddy (tags)
There seems to be an MO for how this White House handles urban crises: let the place descend into chaos and anarchy and only then go in. Could there be method to this madness?
Well Fed Media Pigs Call It "Looting" (tags)
Eat shit, Bill!
Guard Belongs in New Orleans, Not Baghdad (tags)
Repost fron Alternet.org
Bush as God's Warrior (tags)
"The religious fundamentalist gave the American superpower's mission character to the megalomaniac worldview. its soldiers bring freedom everywhere as the gift of the almighty God, not as America's gift.."
The Real Disaster: Bush and the Democrats (tags)
If Bush hadn't sent everyone off to war and blown the budget on the military, there'd have been stronger dykes in New Orleans and more troops and equipment to help with the rescue effort.
16th WFSY - Chavez once again calls for socialism as the only way to destroy capitalism (tags)
Danny DeVito for Governor: Dump the Evil Twin (tags)
The evidence is overwhelming. Not only has the Evil Twin caused great harm in his first political role, there’s no forecasting the disaster if he gets to star in the sequel. If the voters are committed to having an actor as their governor, they should at least have the right to the performance of a good actor. Californians should dump Schwarzenegger and elect Danny DeVito, as Governor of California. He’s smarter, better looking, and we can understand (and believe) what he says.
Why do the gov's critics keep finding themselves targets of strange police scrutiny? (tags)
Criticizing Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger can be risky business these days. It's a lesson that a small but growing number of activists have learned in recent months, after speaking out against the governor's policies and being subjected to unsettling police scrutiny.
Declaration of Independence (tags)
Targets of opportunity anyone?
Kucinich: New Urgency to bipartisan efforts to pass "Homeward Bound" (tags)
Last night’s nationally televised speech by the President made it clear we are in Iraq for time indefinite...Withdrawal from Iraq has never been in the Administration’s plans - not when the war was being planned, nor during its execution. The occupation in "sovereign" Iraq will continue unless we stop it. We are building several permanent military bases in Iraq. "We will stay in Iraq as long as we are needed, and not a day longer," the President said last night. When the Administration ties Iraq into the "War on Terror" the war never has to end. It then becomes a steady source of cash for the 20,000 "private contractors" in Iraq
Calif. National Guard Unit Set Up To Deter Terrorism Monitored Anti-War Rally (tags)
Three decades after aggressive military spying on Americans created a national furor, California's National Guard has quietly set up a special intelligence unit that has been given ``broad authority'' to monitor, analyze and distribute information on potential terrorist threats, the Mercury News has learned. Known as the Information Synchronization, Knowledge Management and Intelligence Fusion program, the project is part of an expanding nationwide effort to better integrate military intelligence into global anti-terrorism initiatives.
The 'Downing St. Memos' destroyed? Not on your Nelly! (tags)
If one as an investigative journalist wants to stay alive, one way to do it is 'serving' the explosive information in portions. First fifty%, then 25, and the last 25% is a kind of 'life guard': used until a 'case of emergency' erupts, like when the journalist or whistleblower is "suicided".
GI resistance today: New challenges ahead (tags)
Today’s anti-militarist GI confronts a military that has changed enormously since the first Gulf War 15 years ago. The behemoth conscript military of the Vietnam era, with 4 million-plus GIs, bears little resemblance to today’s model.
Minutemen Project Gearing Up For Another Round of Vigilante Actions (tags)
Conservative Alerts Just Went Out to the Same People Who Are Pro-War, Pro-Globalization, and Pro-Bush are sending out calls for action, spreading lies and enlisting people for their racist war on the poor people of Mexico and other Central and South American countries that have fallen victim to the United States Neo-Policies. Below is the email:
Isikoff and Rather: Different Strokes for Different Folks (tags)
Although the journalistic errors of Michael Isikoff and Dan Rather were similar—both involving some misinformation from a source—the way the political right and the White House have responded is quite at odds. Could it be Isikoff’s record as the reporter who brought us Monica Lewinsky? ---------------------
Who dies in your place? (tags)
Republican Christians, do not enlist. They decide to allow thousands of non-American citizen-soldiers to die in their stead. 60,000 of these green-card holders have been serving in Iraq and Afghanistan while born-again white citizens stay home and live off their mommies and daddies.
US/EU coup in Kyrgyzstan (tags)
Continuing the process of "regime change" against countries with governments not fully subservient to the US/EU, a coup was launched yesterday in the former Soviet Central Asian country of Kyrgyzstan. It is believed that the president was about to evict the US "anti-terror" military base there.
Veterans and military familes say: 'Bring troops home now - and care for them' (tags)
ST. LOUIS - “Those in the armed services right now can speak the truth about Iraq because we've been there, we've seen with our own eyes the disaster we've created in Iraq. And we can tell you that the only way to cope with this disaster is to bring the troops home now - and care for them when they return!”
New Pentagon plans to conquer nations, secure oil, advance globalization, militarize space (tags)
Need some motivation to march for peace this Saturday and to keep working for peace every day? Then please read the following. And please forward it far and wide.
New VIDEO!!! Graphic Abuse by US Guards in Iraq (tags)
See new graphic VIDEO/story!: Guard video shows harsh war scenes, racism towards the people US supposedly there to liberate
Vermont towns say ‘Bring our troops home’ (tags)
In more than 50 towns voters took a day usually reserved for decisions on school budgets and new snow plows to debate an issue of international significance — the war in Iraq.
Set the date! Time to bring the troops home (tags)
Lawmakers rejected Bush’s boast in his State of the Union address that the Jan. 30 election in Iraq vindicates his war policy.
Iragi Elections: The calm before the storm (tags)
Anti-war ex-soldier refuses to fight for US imperialism (tags)
Back Door Draft tries to prevent part time soldier from finishing his contract and forces him to go AWOL.
BTL:Rightwing Talk Show Host Armstrong Williams Implicated in... (tags)
...Taxpayer-Funded Government Propaganda Campaign ~ Interview with Josh Silver, executive director of Free Press, conducted by Between the Lines' Scott Harris
Chavez nationalises VENEPAL under workers control (tags)
Hands Off Venezuela Campaign
We have met the enemy, and it is US (corporate media) (tags)
On December 18, I attended Gary Webb’s memorial service in Sacramento, along with about 250 other people.
Are you ready for the Government Domestic Detention Camps? (tags)
This was just recently posted at TBRNews.org and it clearly details WHAT our so-called "government" has in store of a select few of we citizens. I've posted it in it's entire length, and while it will take a while to read, it is well worth the effort to become DULY INFORMED. It is so comprehensive that I doubt even serious trolls/debunkers will try to refute it, but nonetheless, let the trolls begin their debunking....
A New Year's Revolution? (tags)
Corporate managers have always hated that they have to pay time and a half for more than 40 hours’ work. Now US Air has come up with a great new idea: get the workers to “volunteer” their time when there’s extra work to be done.
Iraq 04 like Vietrnam 66. (tags)
Iraq 04 like Vietrnam 66. CIA working with “Moonies.” Ghost jets take insurgents away for “questioning.” Interesting reading. Please circulate widely.
100 Facts and 1 Opinion (tags)
From the Purple States to your brain
Like the Song Says: It's Deja Vu All Over Again (tags)
Soldiers dissing the Secretary of Defense, mutinies, desertion at record highs. Can officer fragging be far behind? Does any of this sound familiar?
People of the the Lie (tags)
couldn't believe what I wrote... hoped someone there might be ablel to validate this...
Guard Sgt. Quoc Binh Tran, 26, Mission Viejo; Killed in Iraq
Venezuela's election: defeat for opposition, advance for the Bolivarian movement (tags)
Osama's Endorsement (tags)
BAD BUSH WEEK ENDS WITH KEY ENDORSEMENT
Bush's War on the Rocks (tags)
Whatever the president says, things are going from bad to worse in Iraq and in the “War” on Terror. If the voters are paying attention, it may cost him the election next week.
First the Back-Door Draft, Next the Foot-in-the-Door Draft (tags)
Beware presidents asking for a few good women to tend the troops. If they push the door open a little way, the draft will come right on through.
Noam Chomsky and Marxism (tags)
Noam Chomsky and Marxism
A MOM'S FYI: Of Politics & War, An Information Quest (tags)
Poltics/War Info Quest
There's a Draft in the Air All Right (tags)
Bush and the Republican Congress are frantically trying to squelch rumors that the government is getting ready to bring back the Draft, but the reality is, they’ll have to do it before too long.
Kerry's Militaristic Intent (tags)
I watched the first of the Presidential Debates in Florida with amazement. Amazement, not at John Kerry's eloquence or George Bush's stuttering comments, but at the audacity of the remarks I was hearing. If I was unaware of the record of George Bush on civil rights and illegal maneuvers that he has made while in office, I would have actually thought that Bush, not Kerry was the lesser of two evils.
A MOM'S FYI: "The George W. Bush Wars: An Internet Primer for Dummies" (tags)
The George W. Bush Wars: An Internet Primer for Dummies
Fair Expectations (tags)
George W. has always only had to "exceed expectations", which are always set low to begin with. He has never actually had to "win" a debate; he wins by not losing, or in some cases, even by not losing badly.
US runs low on soldiers (tags)
A radio is playing Marvin Gaye's What's Going On as the Veterans for Peace create a memorial known as Arlington West on the beach beside Santa Monica Pier. They are placing 1008 white crosses in the sand - one for each US soldier killed in Iraq as of September 12.
A Trinity of Evil: George Bush, Big Oil, 9-11 (tags)
As more documents concerning 9-11 surfaces, it is becoming increasing clear the top officials in the Bush administration were at least complicit if not an active participants in the attacks. There is enough evidence now to bind George W. Bush, big oil companies and 9-11 into a trinity of evil. By allowing the 9-11 attacks to take place unhindered Bush and all of his top advisers are guilty of the mass murder of over 3000 innocent people.
Yes! I’ve Killed Innocent People In Iraq! I Refuse To Go Back Again! It’s a Sin! (tags)
Interview with a Conscientiously Objecting soldier who says he will not return for a second tour of duty in Iraq
How long can this go on? (tags)
Bush’s Trampling of Dissent: Kerry’s Chance to Stand Up for Civil Liberties (tags)
The ACLU has filed suit on behalf of a couple arrested at a Bush rally for wearing T-shirts saying “No Bush”—more evidence that this president has no respect for the Constitution or basic American values.
‘TRAGIC MILESTONE’ U.S. deaths in Iraq pass 1,000 mark (tags)
Bush policies not making us safer As George W. Bush and Dick Cheney claimed their policies were making Americans safer, the death toll of U.S. soldiers in Iraq topped 1,000.
FEMA camps for enemies of the state (tags)
This is where they plan to store people for liquidation if they don't go along with the program, the only way to dislodge them from power is using their own tactics, otherwise this will be the fate many will endure...
Massive NY march (tags)
Some of Kerry's biggest fans are in the press (tags)
Those Campaign Commercials (tags)
On Aug. 29, Be There, Wherever ‘There’ Is (tags)
Whatever a state court decides, the anti-Bush, anti-War march in New York City is on, so don’t let Mayor Bloomberg’s efforts deter you from heading to Manhattan this Sunday.
What is this American Fetish About Military "Experience" for Presidents? (tags)
Why are American's so obsessed with having Presidents with military backgrounds? The record of such presidents has not been all that admirable.
Blood Money: The Human-Capital Equation of the U.S. Occupation of Iraq (tags)
When a state is determined to pursue war, and all forms of indirect symbolic protest actions have failed to sway politicians to halt their imperialist aggression, the only remaining option is direct action by the working class. One option is a general strike by workers that can effect the production and transpiration of military capital, that is the materials essential for the war machine. The other is to deprive the military of the labor it needs to fight the war.
August 29 Could Be a Very Slow Day, So Bring a Toothbrush (tags)
New York Cops Tax Forever to Write Up a Ticket, and Things Could Get Even Slower if They Decide to Go on Strike August 29
Bush is his own Enemy (tags)
"In the slipstream of the Iraq war, he carried out one of the greatest tax gifts for the economic elites in the history of the country. He cut pensions and income support and promoted the privatization of schools and the health system. He cut the pay of soldiers.."
Ten Ways to Become a Better Democrat (tags)
Fellow radicals: recent events have made it clear that the primary task facing good people everywhere is unconditional support for the Democratic Party, the only party capable not only of removing a very, very bad man from office, but also increasing the pay envelope of starving and desperate Nation, Salon, MoveOn, and Sierra Club coffee-coolata-warriors across America. I submit my humble contribution to this effort by offering a list of ten virtues to cultivate in your personal journey towards becoming a better Democrat.
NEW IRAQ TORTURE SCANDAL! (tags)
OregonLive.com has published 23 photographs taken by the US Army that documents Iraqi civilians being tortured by the police of the "new democratic Iraq." The entire photo series can be seen at: www.oregonlive.com/galleries/news/index.ssf?iraq
Revealed: how 'war hero' Kerry tried to put off Vietnam military duty (tags)
Senator John Kerry, the presumed Democratic presidential candidate who is trading on his Vietnam war record to campaign against President George W Bush, tried to defer his military service for a year, according to a newly rediscovered article in a Harvard University newspaper.
The Demoracts' Top Ten (tags)
with the help of more ex-radicals turned sensible, pragmatic Democrats like you to convey our message, we can definitely save America. For ourselves.
"The pain of my son's death does not get any better, it just gets worse as time goes (tags)
Interview with Celeste Zappala, Mother of Army Sgt. Sherwood R. Baker
Terror Threats To Be Used for 2004 Election Tampering (tags)
How a "terror threat" might be used to throw the 2004 elections.
BOSTON NUKED (tags)
Bush nukes Boston...
US Taxpayer: Your itemized bill for the Iraq Occupation (tags)
Findings by the Institute for Policy Studies and Foreign Policy in Focus: over 9,000 Iraqi civilians were killed; al-Qaeda's membership stands at 18,000; costs will exceed $3,400 for every US household.
Kill Kimmitt for this. (tags)
Kill Kimmitt for this. Kimmitt pushes American GIs to die as thieving terrorists, who instead of arresting bad guys, bomb homes of innocent families, while refusing to go after those nazi bush bitches in the Berg film who are whitey overweight slobs with towels on their heads.
BTL:Army Conscientious Objector Who Opposed Abuse of Iraqi Civilians and... (tags)
...Prisoners Sentenced to 1 Year in Prison for Desertion~ Interview with Maritza Castillo, mother of Staff Sgt. Camilo Mejia Castillo, conscientious objector convicted of desertion, conducted by Between the Lines' Melinda Tuhus
Resurgent America: Crimes and Times of Reagan (tags)
Ronald Reagan--the U.S. president from 1981 to 1989--relentlessly drove this planet to the very brink of nuclear world war--while preaching, with a fundamentalist fervor, that a nuclear Armageddon was "winnable." Now Reagan has finally died. And this empire, its leaders and its utterly shameless media are all honoring this monster. This myth-making, this utter reversal of right and wrong, says a lot about them and their system. And it says a lot about this moment in history--when American is in a midst of a new aggressive global offensive.
Anti-Reagan Protest 611 (tags)
Leimert Park Anti-Reagan Protest
In Memory: to veterans of war and peace (tags)
... I failed that young man. I should have confronted him, made him see what he must see by now -- if he is alive ...
Kerry calls for more troops (tags)
May 28 (Bloomberg) -- Democratic presidential candidate John Kerry called for increasing the U.S. military by 40,000 troops, probably for a decade, in order ``to match its new missions'' in the war on terror and homeland security.
WAR MACHINE: U.S. Casualties in Iraq Top 200 For April & May (tags)
American troops in Iraq died in May at a rate of more than two per day, pushing the combined death count for April and May beyond 200, according to Pentagon figures.
Military's officer corps: too political? (tags)
"There is a lot of dissension right now about the Iraq war plan, or lack of plan, within the uniformed community, both at leadership and rank and file levels. It may well be that more retired folks are speaking out because they feel that the uniformed folks cannot."
Are the Israelis planning something for the G-8 Summit? (tags)
Nuclear Submarine Base Locked Down Report; Posted on: 2004-05-24 02:58:05 [ Printer friendly ] Two Israelis attempted to enter posing as furniture movers. Just last week two Israeli "movers" were arrested in a rural area of Tennessee, where nothing exists except two active nuclear power plants, and a third under construction
THE DRAFT IS COMING: PARAMILITARY FORCES AND RESERVES: Rare Reserve Call Up (tags)
May 24, 2004: The U.S. Armed Forces are calling to active duty the Individual Ready Reserve (IRR). These are soldiers in the reserve who are not assigned to a unit (and are thus not paid), but are still serving out there remaining time (that they signed up for) in the reserves or active duty. Until their time is expired, they are liable to call up. Some are going to be called up. This is rarely done.
Prison abusers were 'stupid,' retired intelligence officer says (tags)
Army Maj. Steve Hillebrand, a military intelligence specialist, suspects elements of military intelligence condoned or encouraged the practices at Abu Ghraib prison -- "I hope those leaders are held accountable for what happened."
Colombian paramilitaries prepare coup in Venezuela (tags)
Another coup attempt has failed in Venezuela. 88 Colombian paramilitaries were captured in Caracas while training for an assault on a military installation. According to Venezuela’s ambassador in Bogota, the detained are Colombian ex-military, and the possible involvement of Colombian authorities is under investigation.
MAY 4TH - KENT STATE - 4 DEAD IN OHIO (tags)
April 30th, 1970... The U.S. invades Cambodia, expanding the war against Vietnam. Protests break out across the U.S. Campuses are paralyzed by strikes and shutdowns. May 4th, 1970... National Guard troops at Kent State University fire live ammunition into crowds of unarmed demonstrators... killing four and wounding nine.
John Kerry Is A Bonesman (tags)
and cousin to boy george bush...abolish the federal reserve.
“Asteroid Hits Earth, Millions Die—GOP Says Clinton Responsible” (tags)
Bill Clinton has been blamed by his detractors for just about everything from curdled milk to genetic mutations. But might there be a more recent president whose own record of misdeeds puts Clinton's to shame? Read the following for why it just may be time for Clinton critics to quit caterwauling.
Venezuela Week in Review-April 17th-HOV (tags)
U.S.War in Venezuela
40 Reasons to Support Gun Control (tags)
If it’s war you want, vote Kerry (tags)
As the Bush administration comes under increasing fire for its decision to attack Iraq, the Democratic contender, John F. Kerry, is profiting from his perceived status as a critic of Bush’s foreign policy. A patrician grandee with a pleasing mix of liberal and patriotic views might seem to many Americans a welcome relief from the bellicose Texan with his faux swagger and his team of men who seem to have ‘military-industrial complex’ written across their menacing foreheads. But if anti-war Americans do elect Kerry for that reason, they will have duped themselves. Warmongering will be worse under Kerry than under Bush, and real peaceniks should therefore vote for Dubya.
Cuban Right-Wing Terrorist Group F-4 Commandos Training Venezuelan Paramilitaries in Miami (tags)
A Deserter Speaks (tags)
The young man across the table looks sad, but not as stressed as one might expect from a US Army deserter. Camilo Mejia served with a unit that crossed into Iraq just after the invasion and then, for five months, fought in the counterinsurgency war in the Sunni Triangle, where he says he was in firefights, killed people, almost got killed, helped torture prisoners and finally had his life saved by a small-scale mutiny. Now he is a declared conscientious objector who spent five months absent without leave, facing the wrath of US military justice.
Criminal Escapes Shrine Auditorium (tags)
A Blur, just like his memory of his National Guard service.
Chavez Calls Bush 'Asshole' (tags)
Over 100,000 Venezuelans march to protest againt the role of U.S. imperialism in their country.
CHERYL SEAL EXCLUSIVE: Deep Throat II Reveals Secret Bush Agenda!! (tags)
Our mouse in the White House has done it again!! Another investigative triumph!
Iraq and Beyond (tags)
This is an inspiring article about envisioning a better, post-imperialist world, and the fight that's necessary to gain it. (reposted by imc volunteer)
PR expert says "President Bush did fine" (tags)
"This is a dangerous world. I wish it wasn't. I'm a war President. I make decisions here in the Oval Office with war on my mind. The American people deserve someone who sees the world for what it is and acts decisively." President Bush on Meet the Press
Bush the Deserter (tags)
When are they going to hang this guy?
Two US Soldiers ask: "When will we stop dying so senselessly?" (tags)
Over the Christmas holidays I managed to find two US soldiers who were back from Iraq. They were both somewhat willing to be interviewed and describe their time in Iraq in their own words.
Bush Reform of Immigration Policy may have a Hidden Agenda: Hispanis Beware! (tags)
Hispanics are Sitting Ducks: "We're addressing an important economic need (and) we're being compassionate to those undocumented workers who are here now ... many of (whom) are probably being abused and exploited,... part of this policy will help make America more secure because we'll know who's here." --White House spokesman Scott McClellan 01/08/04.
Are you Afraid of Bush? (tags)
This is simply a must read...
[gangbox] THE JAVITS CENTER SHUFFLE (tags)
THE JAVITS CENTER SHUFFLE...discrimination, unequal distribution of work and the pitfalls of seeking workplace justice in the court system at New York City's convention center
The Imperial Gong Show Year (tags)
author: Tom Engelhardt, tomdispatch.com Great article about the MESS that is the Neo-Con Cabal. 2003 was THEIR year of global chess moves, and it ended as their "grand" theories "pitched over into the nearest ditch". 2004 is OUR year to rip apart the seams of their LIES and reclaim our future as if our lives depend on it. The Neo-Con Piñata is waiting, GO GET YOUR BAT!!!
Why is the Pentagon ripping off the troops? (tags)
Explains WHY Pentagon penny-pinching budget cutters are betraying the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Constitutional Rights Enforcement & Support Team (tags)
The Constitutional Rights Enforcement & Support Team (C.R.E.S.T.) is now starting. Be the first to join and get in on the ground level of this soon to be mighty wave of force against tyranny.
Bush Delivers A Turkey (tags)
To President Bush, America's soldiers are nothing more than props for his never-ending campaign. They were props on May 1 and they were props on Thanksgiving Day. An appearance at the funeral of one of the soldiers who has died in a war that has increased the terrorist threat against America, not diminished it, would be far more meaningful. So would an appearance to greet the coffins coming back from Iraq, ending an unprecedented policy forbidding the media from filming the arrival of America's war dead. Of course, footage like that would not make for jolly White House political propaganda.
Bush Dishonors Fallen Soldiers (tags)
The Deserter-in-Chief, not content with cutting Veteran's benefits, Combat Pay, benefits for depends of those deployed, is now putting a blackout on those who have fallen in his ill begotten War to Steal Iraqi Oil. He will not even be seen anywhere near the Flag Draped Coffins of those he has consigned to death. What a Scumbag.
Bring'em Home - Not Send'em Off (tags)
I have worked for years with veterans of other wars living under bridges, in abandoned cars and empty tenements. Forgotten cannon fodder-kicked to the curb. War is about, and always has been, despite the Public Relations propaganda; power-greed and conquest; with the poor doing the dirty work of filling rich men's coffers. No politician's sons or daughters are over there, and President Bush's daughters (for all his "Bring'em On" bravado), won't be joining young, beautiful NH Commander Mary. I rest my case. Jude Moriarty
G.W.Bush. a Satanic mind. (tags)
Assassination is big business. It is the business of the CIA and any other power that can pay for the "hit" and control the assured getaway. The CIA brags that its operations in Iran in 1953 led to the pro-Western attitude of that important country. The CIA also takes credit for what it calls the "perfect job" in Guatemala. Both successes were achieved by assassination. What is this assassination business and how does it work? Col. L. Fletcher Prouty . Col. Prouty spent 9 of his 23 year military career in the Pentagon (1955-1964): 2 years with the Secretary of Defense, 2 years with the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and 5 years with Headquarters, U.S. Air Force. In 1955 he was appointed the first "Focal Point" officer between the CIA and the Air Force for Clandestine Operations per National Security Council Directive 5412. He was Briefing Officer for the Secretary of Defense (1960-1961), and for the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
Soldiers Scrape Up Money To Pay For Supplies (tags)
Another example of "Support Our Troops" in action. Happy Veteran's Day Team.
Cheers for returning troops? (tags)
The below story is horrible! How could any American help speed the war machine? We need to stay a peaceful country and supporting the troops is the wrong way to do it. I urge all that see troops returning home for this so-called-war to let the troops know what you think a simple "boo" or "how could you kill" would do. If the media, troops and administration see that American’s are not happy with what they have turned our peaceful National Guard reserve force into killers for oil they will see more disfavor. Every troop return needs to meet with protest to the war. These national guard troops are supposed to be here to protect the physical united states soil and for state natural emergencies like fire and flood not to go to kill others on foreign soil for his oil.
Iraq ‘nightmare’ hits soldiers, families (tags)
Events in Iraq took a new, deadly turn when a troop helicopter was shot down near Baghdad, Nov. 2, killing at least 15 U.S. soldiers and wounding nearly two dozen others. The soldiers had been en route to two weeks home leave in the U.S.
Bush renames Body Bags, Transfer Tubes (tags)
As the saying goes, if you can't convince them, confuse them. With more lies told each day by President George Bush, here is yet another one. The US Department of Defense changed the name from "Body Bag" to "Transfer Tube" to describe how the bodies of our young warriors are returned home in the dark of night, with no official count of their growing numbers, and no solemn public ceremony to honor their proud service
War Profiteers Flourish; Soldiers and Their Families Pay the Price (tags)
Operation Iraqi Freedom does not represent freedom for neither the Iraqi nor the American people; the freedom it represents is only for war profiteers to enrich themselves at our expense. It does not guarantee Iraqi or American security; it is driving us deeper and deeper into insecurity. Iraqis and Americans are dying and are being wounded daily; we are all facing an insecure future, while George Bush and his friends hold barbeques at his ranch and discuss the division of the spoils.
Saving Specialist Gray (tags)
While the daily headlines report that we need more soldiers in Iraq, I know one soldier that would disagree. For 22-year old Specialist Roy Alan Gray, there were more than enough soldiers here when the task at hand was to save his life.
$87 billion for war: ‘senseless & reckless’ (tags)
Congress voted to approve the Bush administration’s $87 billion package for the occupation and reconstruction of Iraq and Afghanistan, but not without vocal and sometimes vehement opposition by lawmakers and peace activists.
Imperial ills: The Great American Problematic: The Youth and Imperial Justification (tags)
Here is but a taste of what the American regime, as nation-state, faces because of its manipulated misdirection into an all encompassing global regime: the American-led corporate global empire -- Imperium in Imperio.
On Tactics and Strategy: How Bush has Misunderstood Military Strategic Doctrine (tags)
You know you never defeated us on the battlefield, said the American colonel. The North Vietnamese colonel pondered this remark a moment. That may be so, he replied, but it is also irrelevant.
Sick, Wounded U.S. Troops Held in Squalor (tags)
Hundreds of sick and wounded U.S. soldiers including many who served in the Iraq war are languishing in hot cement barracks here while they wait -- sometimes for months -- to see doctors.
[gangbox] LA NUEVA CARA DE CONSTRUCCION (tags)
LA NUEVA CARA DE CONSTRUCCION...how mass immigration has changed the American building trades
Disposable Soldiers (tags)
Besides cutting veteran's benefits and forcing wounded soldiers to pay for hospital meals, this is another indication of how the US ruling class views the soldiers who fight for their profits and power overseas. They are disposable. Also, it is an indication of the effects of depleted uranium.
Neophyte Gorge (tags)
The president has for the first time in months violated the all too common coincidence in political speeches of "lips moving" and "lying through teeth." He speaks the truth. Some people like George’s decisions, and some do not.
Into the Meatgrinder, more National Guard Troops to be sent to Iraq (tags)
86 U.S. soldiers have been killed in Iraq since the man in the White House declaired the war over on May 1st. Now U.S. forces are engaged in a classic guerilla war with the people of Iraq... time to send more warm bodies. Hey George.... where are those weapons of mass destruction you launched the war to find?
The Truth about FEMA and the Future of America (tags)
This information can be backed up by the American Justice Federation
Sign Military Families' Petition: Bring Reserve Troops Home (tags)
On September 9th, 2003, our loved ones, currently serving in the Iraqi theater, were delivered orders extending their overseas stay. They have been told that there is a chance they could be home in May 2004 with the possibility of an extension to January 2005. May 2004 is a minimum 16 month deployment for this Reserve Unit.
$87 billion for Iraq: Another Vietnam? (tags)
President Bush stunned the nation Sunday night with his request for an additional $87 billion for the occupation of Iraq and Afghanistan.
September 11- two years on (tags)
GEORGE W. BUSH ACCOMPLISHMENTS AS PRESIDENT (tags)
Atta boy - sumthin' to really be prouda'.
Wide Right (tags)
George W. Bush is doing for his Party what the Kremlin did for theirs...
CHERYL SEAL REPORTS: Bush Anti-Terrorism "Medicine": Only the Drug Lords Win (tags)
While Bush is handing out over $10 billion to "anti-terrorism" programs designed to enrich a few pharmaceutical corporations, cities and states go begging - Just $1 billion has been tossed them, to be divided among all 50 states, to cover the cost of anti-terrorism public health upgrades for over 260 million Americans.
Opinion: who says progressive activists are a mish-mash? (tags)
Progressive activists and supporters have one clear, complete agenda: Trust The People. All power to ordinary folks. This is a massive contrast with the republican slogan of “Distrust the people, trust only a tiny elite, all powers to a tiny elite.”
How Quebec Almost Saved Iraq (tags)
It was a great day when Canada’s Québécois Prime Minister Jean Chrétien held a press conference at his offices in Ottawa and declared, “The Canadian military will do everything it can to assist in the American-led intervention in Iraq.” “I ask Allah to save me from the wrath of Dudley Do-Right,” Hussein reportedly told his Imam.
Saving face, losing a war (tags)
"Bring 'em on," the man said. He is not a brave man, but he plays one on television. When it came his turn to fight in a war, he hid behind Daddy. Then he had another drink and hid from the National Guard. Then he had another drink.
Venezuela- the revolution faced with sabotage (tags)
HOLLOW MAN (tags)
a poem about a shrub...
"Caped Crusaders" release biting satirical online ad series. (tags)
"Caped Crusaders" release biting satirical online ad series. http://www.capedmaskedandarmed.com/video According to the authors of CampedMaskedandArmed.com "All the Television Commercials have somehow gotten mixed up. Now people are going to see things that make them very uncomfortable and not want to buy stuff. All that carefully crafted public relations work is ruined! This is quite a predicament. Must be those confounded caped crusaders at work again"
Democratic Party History: a Revealing Rap Sheet (tags)
A history of the Democratic Party's role in co-opting and diverting independent political movements, while advancing the agenda of the global capitalist police state. This and similar pieces can be found at
Read it and weep.
Dead for a Lie (tags)
But Straseskie’s father had seen enough of the war to know that Iraq did not and in fact had never posed any threat to the United States as the President had claimed. John Straseskie who had served in the Army and National Guard for 26 years expressed anger at the loss of his son in a war that that he now thinks was sold under false pretenses. “He put our troops over there to finish what his dad didn't do. They found no weapons of mass destruction," he told the Capital Times, a Madison, WI. newspaper.
In The Kingdom Of Forgetting (tags)
Memory can be an embarrassing thing. In politics, it's often more convenient to forget. The classic illustration of this idea was Orwell's dystopian Ministry of Truth, where functionaries fed any inconvenient bit of information down the memory hole -- "whereupon it would be whirled away on a current of warm air."
Bush unchallenged by media (tags)
"But Bush's fighter-plane landing on the deck of a U.S. battleship earlier this month, and his emergence from the cockpit in combat gear and mussed-up hair, was even more stage-managed (right down to the soft-tone sunset lighting and the "Mission Accomplished" backdrop sign perfectly angled for TV viewers). As for laughable, it's hard to outdo Bush — who went AWOL from the National Guard during the Vietnam War..."
THE AIR NATIONAL GUARD TRAITORS (tags)
Remembering, that the District of Columbia Air National Guard operates out of Andrews Air Force Base, which is only 10 miles from the Pentagon, it is clear that on 9-11 the Air National Guard didn't quite live up to "the highest possible state of readiness" or to being "the premier organization for fulfilling our federal, state, and community missions".
THE NEW JERSEY AIR NATIONAL GUARD TRAITORS (tags)
The installation's mission is to maintain fighter aircraft on continuous peacetime air defense alert to preserve U.S. air sovereignty. During wartime, the mission is to mobilize personnel and equipment for deployment to designated locations and to use air-to-air munitions in strategic defense of the North American continent.
Impeached Crook needs Job (tags)
Spread this around.
G.W. Bush: Drunk on Power (tags)
The president he got his wars folks don't know just what it's for; No one gives us a rhyme or reason have one doubt they call it treason. Eugene McDaniels "Compared to What?"
Our fearless f--kin' leader... (tags)
GW is a one man weapon of mass destruction.
Would the US Plant WMD’s – A Stroll Down Memory Lane (tags)
This article by ex-CIA officials discusses the question of US vs UN inspection teams looking for the notorious weapons of mass destruction. Also addresses the question of 'would the US plant evidence?......
The Bush Resume (tags)
I recently had an email exchange with a right-winger from my local newspaper, and of course the war with Iraq came up pretty quick. But he said something in defense of George Bush that really surprised me. In defense of the attack on Iraq he said 'between Hussein and Bush, Hussein is the bad guy'.
Don't F with the motha' f--kin' GW DYNASTY baby... (tags)
If most Americans knew this would they vote Bush in 04?
Deaths connected to Bush Crime Family (tags)
How many more have to die before something is done to put these criminals where they belong??
Nine Theses on Moving the Peace Movement Forward (tags)
[Editor: John Gershman, Interhemispheric Resource Center (IRC) Editor's Note: This piece was commissioned under the auspices of the Project Against the Present Danger. Foreign Policy In Focus www.fpif.org]
Tribulations: Terrror Targets Everwhere--Everyone (tags)
Danger from terrorism increase everywhere everyday. Be aware, be prepared and be brown skinned if you can (safer in most of the world from now on !). Al Qaeda and other terror cells laugh at US and its people who think their government spends good money to protect them
Memphis 1968: We remember (tags)
An assassin’s bullet felled the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. on April 4, 1968. King had come to Memphis to support a strike by the city’s sanitation workers.
Embedded Truths? (tags)
A scathing satire of the journalistic integrity of "embedded" reporters.
The War Show ["Pulse"/Fox/Thursday] (tags)
Tonight on Fox, the show "Pulse" looked into various facets of the war. Here is my description and a suggestions to balance what was presented.
BUSH'S "WAR" RECORD (tags)
GW Bush may be sending our boys overseas to fight, but he never seemed to make it there himself.
Call To Action (tags)
From a Plaintiff in the Anti-War Lawsuit against President Bush being appealed in Boston and the widow of a Viet Nam veteran.
VENEZUELA: ALL OF THEM MUST GO! (tags)
ALL OF THEM MUST GO!
Surviving Martial Law (tags)
The following guide will help you plan, prepare, and get ready in the event that martial law threatens you safety and well being. It is divided into two parts. The first part describes the framework for martial law and the second part the actions to take in preparing or the actual declaration of martial law.
Sandino" General of the Free Men (tags)
seven decades ago, on february 21, 1933, Sandino was murdered in Nicaragua, but his name arose again decades later to triumph in a popular revolution in 1979.
Veterans Call to Conscience to Troops and Reservists (tags)
If the people of the world are ever to be free, there must come a time when being a citizen of the world takes precedence over being the soldier of a nation. Now is that time. When orders come to ship out, your response will profoundly impact the lives of millions of people in the Middle East and here at home.
BartCop (tags)
a timeline of CIA atrocities (tags)
the author Steve kangas was suicided in 1999
neighborhood bully (tags)
ramsey clark on american militarism
Red-baiting. "The Anti-War Movement and Its Critics. (tags)
"Do we have an antiwar movement? We're getting there. We must be, because we're catching flak from the anti-anti war movement, Light Infantry division, staffed by Marc Cooper, Todd Gitlin, David Corn, and Christopher Hitchens."
XENOPHOBIA & NATIVISM (tags)
What Nativism & Xenophobia have to do with Bilingual / Bicultural Education in America
Message to the Troops: Resist! (tags)
A former conscientious objector tells soldiers that the best way to defend their families is to stay alive and healthy and resist the war. Cut, paste, and send it to any service-people you know.
Not In Our Name Protest October 6th (tags)
Sunday October 6 - War Without End? NOT IN OUR NAME! Westwood Federal Building 1pm
INTERNMENT CAMPS AND AUTHORITARIAN US FAST BECOMING REALITY (tags)
Extraordinary revelations from the investigative journalist who broke the TIPS story. Versions of this article have been printed in Australia and Europe, but this is Goldstein's full-length, un-edited copy.
ACTION ALERT: Bush trying to smash ILWU, the most powerful radical union in America (tags)
Bush is attempting to bust the most powerful radical union in America, the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU). They've done numerous solidarity actions for environmental, labor & human rights groups & they need our support on the West Coast.
Bush threatens troops in longshore dispute (tags)
LOS ANGELES – The International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) revealed this week that a secret Bush administration task force has threatened a military takeover of West Coast ports if the union decides to strike.
Transcript of militarized police forum (tags)
In light of recent Bush administration efforts to expand the domestic role of the military, "Declassified Radio" is re-releasing the transcript of a past program on the military's growing influence on domestic policing. This program, initially released in October of 2001, includes material from a September 25, 2001 symposium on militarized policing held at Judson Church in New York City. Speakers included Paul Richmond of the National Lawyer's Guild, "Covert Action Quarterly" writer Frank Morales, and Sam Smith, editor of the "Progressive Review".
BUSH ADMINISTRATION SEEKING DOMESTIC MILITARY POWERS (tags)
The White House and Homeland Security Czar Tom Ridge are calling for a review of the Posse Commitatus Act, which currently prohibits the military from engaging in domestic police activities.
The Enemy is inside the gates (tags)
Urgent Urgent !!
People’s needs vs. guns and corporate greed (tags)
MADISON, Wisc. – Groups with diverging politics converged June 14 -18 around the annual meeting of the U.S. Conference of Mayors.
"U.S. armed forces surrounding Iraq under veil of secrecy" (tags)
(YellowTimes.org) – As Dick Cheney tours the Middle East in search of support for an American offensive against the Iraqi regime, Yellowtimes.org has learned through multiple independent sources that the Pentagon has already begun planning and building new bases in the area.
OPPOSE THE GROWING DOMESTIC MILITARY PRESENCE (tags)
The Pentagon recently announced plans for the creation of a Homeland CINC, or military command. Urge your representatives to oppose military "mission creep" into domestic affairs. (Sample letter below:)
Fascists get their asses kicked (tags)
Our movement never stops in the war against fascism
from the airports-are-now-a-no-speech-zone dept. (tags)
As one of the U.S. Green Party's top officials, Nancy Oden is used to controversy. But Oden never expected to be hassled by National Guard troops at her hometown airport of Bangor, Maine on Thursday and barred from flying out of it.....
Who Aree the Terrorists? (tags)
"The Secret War, Strategy of Terror" was what the cloak & daggar crowd branded the war in Central America staged in Honduras during the 1980s.
HYSTERIA REIGNS ABROAD LA FLIGHT (tags)
Airliner Returns To Los Angeles Amidst Fear Of Terrorism
ANTI-WTO ACTIVISTS IN SEATTLE CALL FOR INTERNATIONAL OBSERVERS FOR N30, 2000! (tags)
Activists In Seattle Prepare For Possible Confrontations With Police On WTO Protest Anniversary
national guard gets ready (tags)
national guard gets ready with weapons for LA - LAT article the last line is interesting
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Labor Notes #461
Irish Retail Workers Strike for Secure Hours
August 02, 2017 / Moira Murphy
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In Ireland the retail sector employs 1 in 7 workers—and their fight for a living wage, secure hours, and union rights is heating up. Recent strikes at the country’s largest private sector employers, Tesco and Dunnes, have grabbed headlines and working-class support.
Ohio Teachers Win Back Regular Raises
July 27, 2017 / Myra Warne
In 2014, members of the Maysville Education Association voted to accept a deal that would end our pay freeze, which dated back to 2011, in exchange for replacing our traditional pay scale with a new merit-pay system.
Local union leaders were warned by Ohio Education Association staff that a return to the step-and-ladder system of regular raises might be impossible—or require a strike. But this year, as the money for sweeteners and incentives dried up, a group of members committed to winning back our old pay scale.
How D.C. Grocery Workers Got Their Groove Back
July 25, 2017 / Alan Hanson
Grocery workers in the Washington, D.C., area have reversed concessionary bargaining in the industry for the first time in a generation. Last November 17,000 workers at Giant Food and Safeway stores ratified a contract that:
B&H Workers Fight to Save Camera Warehouse Jobs
July 14, 2017 / Jorge Lora
Read this article in Spanish here.
For the last four years I’ve been working at B&H Photo and Video, the largest non-chain electronics company in New York City, with a long history of health and safety violations and abuse of workers. The workforce in the company’s warehouses is made up predominantly of Latino workers, the majority of them Mexicans, Guatemalans, and Dominicans. My job is to ship orders and box up merchandise that arrives at the warehouse.
Workers Shine a Spotlight on Employer Abuses in Music City
July 13, 2017 / Sonia Singh
Marches by immigrant workers are not an everyday sight in Nashville, Tennessee. But 50 hotel workers and supporters took to the streets June 20 to make visible the conditions facing low-wage workers in this city.
With the support of the worker center Workers’ Dignity, they marched through downtown and led delegations to management at six prominent hotels, handing in petitions calling on the hotels to adopt a Cleaning Workers’ Bill of Rights.
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Hardcore Hits the Coffee Table
By Brian Kim Stefans
Triptych image: Megan Cotts, “ECU”
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA HARDCORE would probably top most lists of popular music genres least likely to be monumentalized in a coffee table book, resting there next to tomes on the paintings of Raphael, classic Fabergé eggs, and entrancing, exploitative photographs of the Brazilian favelas. All told, We Got Power! is 300-plus semi-gloss pages of essays, photographs, and gorgeous reproductions of the six-issue punk fanzine of the same name (published from 1981 to 1983). Celebrants of the first big wave of Internet activity in the late 1990s drew a lot of inspiration from the fanzines of punks and, before them, the “mimeo revolution” of the downtown poets of 1960s New York. In their minds, this decentralized, uncensored Wild West of the Internet would create a new, robust counterculture that would fend off the anticipated encroachment of corporate interests, since who could surveil all the new sites popping up hundreds at a time? Google and Facebook have put an end to that folly, but the rise of the robots has only amplified the romance of renegade self-publishing to the point where digital archives of seemingly ancient texts like We Got Power — replete with hunt-and-peck manual typewriter fonts, hand-drawn logos, literally cut-and-pasted collages, and Never Mind the Bollocks ransom note–style headlines — are just not enough. Hence, a return to print.
Southern California punk hasn’t received the treatment British punk did in such books as Jon Savage’s England’s Dreaming on the Sex Pistols or, with a dash of theory, Greil Marcus’s Lipstick Traces or Simon Reynolds’s excellent Rip It Up and Start Again on British and American post-punk from 1978 to 1984. Barney Hoskyns’s Waiting for the Sun: A Rock ‘n’ Roll History of Los Angeles devotes a pretty good chapter to L.A. punk, appropriately titled “Decline of the West,” but naturally Hoskyns doesn’t follow through to hardcore since, by that time, the music had moved out of the city into the burbs and, eventually, into vans to crisscross the United States. Steven Bush’s comprehensive American Hardcore: A Tribal History, which like many books about punk (Please Kill Me, We Got the Neutron Bomb) are “in their own words” style collages from bits of interviews, lingers in the Southland quite a bit, offering its fair share of wisdom-in-hindsight about some of the absurdities of the moment while keeping the flame alive for fans. Though die-hard punks would be quite happy if the urbane, overeducated music critics of the Reynolds’s variety kept their distance, Los Angeles hardcore seems to cry out for a comprehensive treatment, tracing the various elements that spawned it: the setting of lower middle-class surfing towns, the political state of Reagan-era conformity, the rapid influx of punk music in stark contrast to radio-friendly AOR, and, if Jack Grisham of T.S.O.L.’s harrowing memoir An American Demon can be believed, the widespread adolescent depravity and violence endemic to a generation of kids whose parents were too self-absorbed to talk to them.
We Got Power! operates somewhere between being comprehensive — it’s a fantastic archive of photographs, the entire fanzine, and short essays by the scene’s major and minor players — and a continuation of the oral history–style books of the past. The book starts with a perfectly ambivalent essay by the one contributor who might need no introduction, Henry Rollins. He writes that Los Angeles “has, over the last thirty years, become something of a home to me. It is not a place I miss. It is not a place I think of with any degree of fondness, but it is a place where I have seen and learned much.” So much for boosterism. Rollins, a D.C. transplant, writes of his place in the scene: “I felt like some naïve Boy Scout voyeur around these people [who] pushed their existence to the edge as almost a matter of course. I couldn’t quite call them friends. I didn’t feel anything in common with them, and, quite often, they let me know the feeling was mutual.”
Rollins introduces one of the central characters of We Got Power!, the colorful scenester Kim Pilkington, who was “extremely intelligent [with] the lowest fear quotient of anyone I have ever met,” and recounts his first experiences of taking LSD with her, which, perhaps unsurprisingly, takes place mostly on freeways and in a Burger King. Pilkington reappears several times in this volume, notably in Jennifer Schwartz’s “Out of Vogue, Woman,” where her female perspective sheds unique light on how standard pop-fandom operates in this quasi-criminal environment:
Her favorites were SST bands. But her crème de la scam was T.S.O.L. She would gush about their all-American good looks, especially when she was around scruffy, dirty SST fans. “There are more cute guys at a T.S.O.L. rehearsal than at an entire Black Flag gig,” she’d sneer.
Schwartz writes that, “Kim was likely schizophrenic, or, at the very least, bipolar, but there were no meds back then to quell such genius/insanity.” Pilkington is one of the many lost souls, talismans of sorts, around which the book’s nostalgia for this time seems to congregate.
Though the term is splashed across the cover, “hardcore” as denoting a musical style does not make much sense for many of the bands covered by We Got Power! Saccharine Trust, for instance, went on to become something more like a punk/jazz act, especially as guitarist Joe Baiza perfected his distinctive method of improvisation. But even at their start, Saccharine Trust was less about pogoing and anti-government rants than Jack Brewer’s poetical ramblings over breakneck, fluid song structures. The Minutemen, whose early tracks were more recalcitrant, enigmatic fragments akin to the lesser celebrated L.A. punk band the Urinals, pushed way beyond the one-two polka beat of the typical hardcore single. Unfortunately, we don’t hear too much about these innovations in the book — Brewer, Watt, and Keith Morris of the Circle Jerks don’t contribute more than a few paragraphs — but this perhaps isn’t really their stage, and they’ve answered these questions elsewhere over the years.
The good news is that this clears the way for other minor deities, like the late Mike Webber, “South Bay’s very own Darby Crash” and singer for the nearly forgotten but often brilliant band Nip Drivers. Jula Bell writes:
Sometimes watching Mike perform was like watching an exorcism. He sang in an amazing whining falsetto, and would growl, moan, add a few tra-la-las, and scream his head off. He made all this sound while writhing around in a ripped-up dress, molesting the mic, dancing some weird little jig, or just standing there slumped over something with his eyes rolled up in his head looking like he was going pass out.
As for the “jocks” in the audience: “These homophobes had no idea that they were being captivated by a bisexual heroin addict hedonist who lived with his dad.” In the recordings, far from being clowns, Webber and his band come across as equal parts musical technicians, bratty Dadaists, and perverse pop gods (not unlike the decidedly non-punk Frank Zappa, himself of Los Angeles). Nip Drivers, like Bell’s own band Bulimia Banquet, took a lot of the basic elements of hardcore and made it funny, proficient, experimental, and weird, bringing punk back to its earliest roots in bands like Pere Ubu and away from the Oi! styled call-and-response anthems for which it is often reviled.
These pages are replete with stories about battles with cops, long afternoons surfing and skateboarding, being driven around on the freeways by the “only one with a license,” bass guitars thrust through frat house windows, and nights at the unofficial “Mecca” of the scene, the Oki Dog. Rodney Bingenheimer of KROQ fame makes a brief appearance, not in the humiliating light of the documentary Mayor of Sunset Strip but as the hero of Rodney on the Roq. Schwartz lovingly recounts the origins of his friendship with Markey on a rainy afternoon when the two, aged 16 and having just met, took a daylong tour of the neighborhood to skate all the garages flooded by a recent rain. The essay by Markey, who also documented the scene in Super 8 and went on to direct the cult classic Desperate Teenage Lovedolls, is largely concerned with ambitions for the magazine, listing a pretty impressive roll-call of bands they were covering — I count about 70 in a single paragraph — including acts nowhere near “hardcore,” like Suburban Lawns and Paul Roessler’s post-Screamers project, Twisted Roots.
As for the photographs, there seem to be three distinct ways to look at them: 1) you were there, in which case you recognize friends, places, and shows and it brings a whole lot back, or 2) you were not there but were alive at the time somewhere else doing kind of the same thing, in which case you get the spirit, can smell the smells and sense the dangers, but don’t know who the fuck a lot of these folks are, or 3) you weren’t even born yet, in which case (if you are a fan) this looks like a glorious, mythical past you would like to be a part of in the way some artsy high school students dress like 1890s decadents from Montmartre. For me, it’s pretty neat to see pictures of Mike Webber spinning around in spandex, Milo Aukerman of the Descendents looking like a lost 12-year-old chemistry prodigy onstage with his thick glasses and string bean frame, Joe Baiza chilling with a beer and a young Jack Brewer pulling a Ride-A-Rock-Horse pose, and the very young Minutemen — the cherubic D. Boon (who died at 27 in a car accident), Mike Watt, and a kind of jockish George Hurley — performing in a nondescript backyard. There’s a great picture of a scrawny Jordan Schwartz donning a porkpie hat, with braces and zits, buttoning his shirt in front of a wall desiccated by graffiti and posters; several pages later is a cute photo of his fresher-faced, but also scrawny, sister Jennifer at Rip City Skates, where they both worked assembling roller skates. The more inviting photos are in the back, where color brings every pimple, orange hair job, spray-painted basement, and tattoo to life. Dottie Danger, better known as Belinda Carlisle, makes a cameo here but well into her svelte, feminine pop queen stage, as does Kim Gordon of Sonic Youth, who was raised in Los Angeles but by the time of the photo, 1988, was just visiting. Sometimes the images don’t quite match with the essays — there are a few nice ones of the Gun Club’s charismatic lead singer, Jeffrey Lee Pierce, but no writing about him — and other times one feels one’s looking at someone else’s photo album, for instance the diptych captioned “Jennifer Schwartz cuts Steve Cervantes’ hair,” which is pretty much that. But as they say, one man’s Steve Cervantes is another man’s Mike Webber.
The irony of We Got Power! appearing in glossy reproduction is that the original was already of high printing quality; as Markey writes, their printer — the father of infamous punk singer John Macias of Circle One, who, plagued by mental illness, was shot by Santa Monica police after throwing someone off a pier — suggested “offset printing, Day-Glo ink, glossy cover, and high quality paper,” which put them a step above the mimeo norm of the day. The issues are packed with stuff: earnest reviews of new releases (T.S.O.L.’s Beneath the Shadows is “hardcore muzak”); reviews and addresses of other punk fanzines (“I love strainin’ my eyes to read the teeny type! Wat exorsize. I CANT FUCKING SPELL!”); subversive collages, cartoons (some by Raymond Pettibon), letters, fiction, and, I think, poetry. Best are the interviews that veer from the mundane to the absurd, many with bands like The Misfits — “Cops are cool in New York. They know that they got better things to do than be bothering little kids. They’re assholes here!” — Hüsker Dü, and D.O.A. when they were touring California.
We Got Power! gives a great impression of the scene’s liveliness, the fans’ intense devotion to the music, the audience’s intimacy with the performers — everyone’s on a first-name basis here, like Henry — and the excitement of being part of something new, especially as the kids came to see the Hollywood punk scene (X, the Germs, the Screamers, the Weirdos, the Plugz, the Dickies, etc.) as largely expired or simply passé and the energy had moved to the beach towns. Most remarkable is that, with even less support than their urban peers, with ephemeral clubs, no promoters, and renegade labels, these bands, some of which only managed to cut a single, some even less, seem even fresher in the digital age, as if the gods of analog had swooped in to argue their virtues and to document them, piecemeal but carefully, in books like this.
We Got Power!
Hardcore Punk Scenes from 1980s Southern California
By Jordan Schwartz, David Markey
Published 2012-10-30 00:00:00
Daughters of D.I.Y.: Girl Bands from Motown to Modern
By Alex Niven
Ivory Minority: Punk in the University
By Joseph Martin
The Incorporation Artist
By Michael Szalay
Guilty of Being White
By Sara Jaffe
Cherry Bomb: On Ellen Willis
By Sara Marcus
Ambush Haircuts
By Grace Krilanovich
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Altria suing over Brokeback Mountain (idea)
See all of Altria suing over Brokeback Mountain, no other writeups in this node.
(idea) by Tato Wed Mar 29 2006 at 1:08:46
Don't let the pretty new name fool you, Altria is the same old Phillip Morris. My buddy who works for the New York Times (and who shall remain nameless) faxed me a copy of a memo that has been circling around his office, which was leaked from the lovely and insane on-staff lawyers at the Altria Group's headquarters in Cavendish, MA.
It seems these lawyers have been figuring out how best to sue the 6 production companies responsible for Brokeback Mountain (your menu, gentlemen, is class action du jour or a la carte: Alberta Filmworks, Focus Features, Good Machine, Paramount Pictures, River Road Entertainment, and This is That Productions.) Why? Because sales of Marlboro have been in rapid decline in all Midwestern American counties, excepting a few in Texas and Georgia, since the movie's 2005 release. (They cite "47.2 billion fewer units [cigarettes] in Q1".)
It seems a little field research showed that good old country boys are having a little Brokeback-a-phobia, and switching to other brands that don't feature the Brokeback-esque Marlboro Man.
Their challenge, it would seem, is how to make a legal case to help reverse said trend. The primary argument being considered in the memo is one of—are you sitting down?—copyright infringement. Citing that McDonald's has successfully defended its copyright of something as abstract as a color and a shape, one lawyer suggested that Altria claim grandfather rights to the concept of "mountain masculinity," and the brand equity it has built up through "repeated association of the MM [sic] with scenes of ranch life, broad vistas, and manhood." But the movie, it would seem, has corrupted these pristine concepts. The Marlboro Man is now too gay to ape.
One section lists the possible likely counterarguments against the suit and subsequent counter-counterarguments. My favorite is about "parody," to wit, "[Ang] Lee can't possibly claim this to be parody, since less than 'a significant amount' of the original is present in the Work, c.f. 17 USC § 107." Hello! None of the original is in the "Work" because it has nothing to do with you!
In an even crazier bit of twisted logic, a minor paragraph near the end of the memo (did you know lawyers number their memo paragraphs? Neither did I.) suggests that Altria look not to receive consideration for the moneys lost from the "infringement," but rather to get a cut of DVD sales because "the Work clearly benefits from the branding efforts that has come before it, and Altria deserves to materially benefit."
But even if the lawyer logic isn't so airtight, no biggie. The conclusion notes that "It's not important that we win this case. It's important that we make a big media splash that firmly establishes Marlboro's disgust with all things Brokeback, to win back our lost consumers, esp. the younger ones."
So, anyway, somebody should publicize this litigious pre-fiasco and nip it in the bud, right?
No, no, and again, no. My buddy tells me that Altria is already aware of the leak but the NYT is burying the story—not because the leaked memo can't be solidly attributed, and certainly not because it's just a stupid abuse of an already screwed up intellectual property law—it's because of pressure from NYT board member Henry B. Schacht, who is jai alai buddies with none other than Lucio A. Noto, on the board of—you guessed it—Altria.
As if it needed saying, it's all a giant lie.
I like it! 11 C!s
RumourQuest 2006 Meanwhile, the PILOT, who has been laughing hysterically through the entire sequence, finally loses it. He falls out of his chair and bangs his head against the panel, causing the ship to lose control and crash into a nearby planet Philip Morris big tobacco
Master Settlement Agreement Jai Alai The Marlboro man Brokeback Mountain
"A gentleman and a scholar" is only half right Born with the gift of laughter, and a sense that the world was mad How to Quit Smoking: A Practical Guide Altria
Jack Morris Can a straight guy be a gay flirt? losing control to hysterical laughter McDonald's
intellectual property brand equity Aranti Lucio Quinctio Cincinnato nuntiatum est eum dictatorem esse factum Golden
New York Times Mount Olivet Cemetery
My old man
Selected Ambient Works II
Please Don't Bury Me
Pledge of death
Some like it in the pot, nine days old
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To book call our experts on
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FIA WEC 6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps review
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Five things we learned from the FIA WEC 6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps
1. Alonso already looks impressive
While there wasn’t an enormous amount of wheel-to-wheel racing in LMP1, or a true battle for the overall lead, it was still nevertheless pleasing to see two-time Formula One World Champion Fernando Alonso get up to speed so quickly in his debut race in the FIA WEC. The Spaniard, along with teammates Sebastien Buemi and Kazuki Nakajima didn’t put a foot wrong all weekend, and went on to win. Alonso, during his stints was nothing short of impressive, multiple times he was shown clearly pushing hard through traffic, and at the end of the race when the car suffered a gearbox temperature issue he managed his pace well, ensuring it made the finish.
Despite the fact that team orders were clearly at play, preventing the No.7 Toyota, which came from a lap down at the start to within striking distance of the No.8 towards the end, this was still a significant moment. Alonso is up to speed, already, and will head to Le Mans confident. If he wins that, not only is it a global story, but a very strong start to what could be a World Championship-winning season.
2. BMW & Aston’s cars look reliable
The two new GTE cars for this year also had an impressive showing at Spa, not in speed, but far more importantly, in reliability. The M8 GTEs and Vantage GTEs spent the entire weekend far off the pace of the front-running Fords and Porsches. But at this stage, that means little, partly because Balance of Performance can turn the fortunes of a manufacturer quickly, and even if BoP wasn’t to blame, it’s more than likely that political game-playing was.
The key here is that all four cars finished their debut FIA WEC races, and without any notable niggles; a far cry from the debuts of some GT cars of old. The extensive pre-season testing programmes have paid off, because both MTEK and Aston Martin Racing will head to Le Mans full of confidence. Both can be in the mix, and like Ford in 2016, have a chance to win at La Sarthe in the first year of the car’s life. We just need to hope now, that the race organisers don’t mess up the Balance of Performance for Le Mans, because if it’s anything like Le Mans 2016, it will leave a sour taste in the mouths of everyone track-side and at home watching.
3. GTE Am didn’t disappoint
Going into round 1, looking at the entry list it was easy to come to the conclusion that the expanded nine-car GTE Am category could produce the best racing in the FIA WEC. At Spa, despite a few silly driver errors, it produced the goods, especially at the end after the last safety car. New teams Project 1 Racing and TF Sport impressed mightily. The former had its hopes dashed by an off from Egidio Perfetti, but when the team’s 911 RSR was kept between the white lines, it was competitive, and was odds on for a podium.
TF Sport, which many UK fans may know from its championship-winning form in the British GT Championship, also produced the goods. Euan Hankey, on his WEC debut was the star here, battling reigning champion Pedro Lamy all the way to the flag for the class lead in the final hour. He didn’t score the team a historic win in its first race, but he did, along with Charlie Eastwood and Salih Yoluc showed off that Tom Ferrier’s team mean business this year, and that its ambition to win the world title in the ‘Super Season’ is not unrealistic. The only issue may turn out to be the Porsche 911 RSRs in the class, as so far, on pace they’ve been head and shoulders above the Ferrari and Aston teams. Porsche’s customers could have dominated at Spa, but due to a cocktail of poor luck and driver error none of the four found the podium. Le Mans is therefore going to be very interesting indeed!
4. LMP2 looks open
This year’s LMP2 field in the FIA WEC has a fresh look about it, with new teams, new drivers, new chassis and a tyre war. The racing, while far from thrilling for most of the race at Spa, did show some really positive signs. The main signal for positivity, was just how open this year’s title race is. DragonSpeed, Jackie Chan DC Racing, G-Drive Racing and Alpine all look capable of winning races this year and challenging for the title. Even Racing Team Nederland’s Dallara, with its 2018 Joker package, looked pacey too, and could make waves later in the year when hot-shoe Nyck DeVries steps into the car’s third seat.
Michelin’s tyres also appear to be capable of going toe-to-toe with Dunlop, so it could be interesting to see if anyone else makes a switch mid-season to gain an edge, as in raw pace, the French rubber does look to have an advantage at this stage.
5. Shaky start for the non-hybrids
Spa provided fans with their first chance to see the new LMP1 non-hybird challengers, though it was a somewhat fractured showing from the eight-car group, only five of which started the race. CEFC TRSM Racing’s weekend unfortunately never got going, financial issues preventing Ginetta from releasing its G60-LT-P1s for the race. DragonSpeed’s BR1 meanwhile, had a monster shunt at Eau Rouge, Pietro Fittipaldi going straight on into the tyres at full-speed, fracturing both his legs, and ending his chances of an Indy 500 birth just a month out from the race.
The cars that did take the start however, did put on a bit of a show, ByKolles CLM, SMP Racing’s BR1s and Rebellions pair of R-13s did all enjoy some thrilling on-track battles, giving us a glimpse into what could be a very competitive race for third place each weekend during the season.
There were two issues though, one being that SMP Racing’s No.17 BR1 failed to finish after a big shunt at Raidillon, and that other that none of the Privateers came even remotely close to challenging the Toyotas in pace or efficiency, the whole field getting lapped, not just by the eventual winners in the #8, but by the No.7 crew, which started a lap down. That’s not very encouraging, especially given the promises made to the privateers that they would have a chance should they run a perfect race. Rebellion’s No.3 R-13, which finished third, did indeed enjoy a perfect race debut, and wasn’t even in with a slim chance of securing second or first.
Equivalence of Technology, is crushingly difficult to understand and indeed work out if you’re a rule-maker. But so far, it’s not hard to spot that it appears to be skewed very much in the favour of Toyota, which could mean it goes one of two days at Le Mans: either the EoT swings back the other way – or Toyota run away with the French classic. The only saving grace here, is that there are rumblings in the paddock that due to the what’s capable for the non-hybrids in terms of top speed, could mean that they are far closer to the Toyotas in June. A number of the cars, are perfectly capable of blowing by the Toyotas on top speed, once the Hybrid cars’ superiority under acceleration peters out. The wide open spaces at Mulsanne and the run down to Indianapolis could prove to be happy hunting grounds for a well sorted and well driven non-hybrid LMP1.
We’ll have to wait and see…
Written by Stephen Kilbey
Photography by Dailysportscar
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Elizabeth Warren Suggests Kristen Gillibrand Had Sex For Campaign Contributions In Tweet
Published on December 12, 2017 December 20, 2017 in News/Politics by Shane Trejo
This morning, President Donald Trump focused the power of his twitter on yet another Swamp creature: New York Senator Kristen Gillibrand. Trump proclaimed that the “disloyal” and “lightweight” Gillibrand “would do anything” for campaign contributions. The obvious implication here being that she would perform Harvey Weinstein-esque acts for the cash.
Interestingly, the suggestion that Gillibrand was guilty of using sex to pump up her campaign war chest was confirmed by none other than one of Trump’s other Twitter-foes, Senator Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts. Her response did not deny what Gillibrand had done, only admonished Trump as a slut-shamer for calling out Gillibrand for her behavior.
Warren’s choice of the phrase “slut-shame” as opposed to saying Trump is lying about New York’s Junior Senator implies that Warren is aware of Gillibrand’s actions, and suggests there is nothing wrong with such behavior. Of course, Warren, rumored by many to have her eyes set on the 2020 Democratic nomination, may just simply see an opportunity to undercut a potential serious rival.
What is obvious, however, is that Donald Trump is once again able to pull the strings of the beltway with just a few strokes of his thumb.
Tags: Campaign ContributionsElizabeth WarrenKristen GillibrandSexual Favorstrump
Pompeo Publicly Backs Syria Withdrawal: Troop Presence “No Longer Makes Sense”
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo demonstrated his loyalty to the President by publicly backing Trump’s Syria
Rand Paul’s Alliance With Mitch McConnell Pays Off, Industrial Hemp Estimated As $20 Billion Industry
Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) was decried for attempting to mend fences with Senate leadership shortly after
Posted on October 14, 2018 January 4, 2019
Thomas Massie’s Olive Branch Rejected By Brazenly Radical Leftists
Sen. Rand Paul’s wife, Kelley, is currently waging a press campaign to stop the extremism of
Shane Trejo
Shane is a proud paleolibertarian who has been a political activist for over a decade.
Orwellian Lynch Mob Attacks Right-Wing EMT, Putting Lives In Jeopardy
Did Justin Amash Want Brett Kavanaugh’s Life Ruined By Leftist Witch Hunt?
Chrissie Chaloupecky says:
Pocahontas is at it again 🙂
Jason Marcus Cunningham says:
we know the left stole massive amounts of money for years form cities accounts I know this as i live in texas houston is thefting ritually for acorn which is a mob arm of the left which is lawless and violent besides being a moneywasting pilferer fo state welfare funds and suing it all to set up illegal voting components in election season
Joe Eldred says:
I notice that he did not say that he turned her down though.
I see Gillibrand wants to have hearings on Trump sexual assault. I don’t really have a problem with that, but I am not sure what good it will do. He admitted to obnoxious behavior before the election and won anyway.
But I wrote to, and called Gillibrand asking whether she was on the Hush Fund list and got no response. I want to know about her, Schumer and my Congressman. Get your own House in order first before worrying about someone else’s.
#UnsealTheDeals
Austin Given says:
Trump suggested it, not Warren.
Dennis Lanning says:
Its the Whinstine Effect… Its. How stuff is done in D.C…. And Hollywood. …. and sports… You be a good little indian and roll over … Its cow boy and Indian’s time….
#slutgillibrand
Joseph Murphy says:
True or not, and I am no fan of her, politicians have done far far worse for campaign money. Like allowing companies to dump poisonous chemicals in local waterways, helping companies to secure contracts where they are grossly overpaid and fail to deliver, etc.
Craig Hodder says:
Well, at least she didn’t claim to be native american for educational benefits. 😉
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/Is It Time to Upgrade Your Control System?
Is It Time to Upgrade Your Control System?
Are your machine or robot control systems good enough, or should you make a change?
The machines and robots you build work well. You’ve kept up with periodic improvements. Most of your support calls are predictable. Why rock the boat?
As a machine or robot builder OEM, you understand the favorable economics of selling machines or robots for which your company has recovered its initial investment, particularly in the control system. Your margins are good, but are they as good as they could be with a control system upgrade?
Maturity Indicators
Most of the factors affecting decisions to upgrade can be categorized as performance related. However, other decision criteria include communication requirements, reliability, and safety.
Does the machine still do what it was designed to do as efficiently as it could to satisfy customers’ production requirements? “An automation system upgrade should increase Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), often an important benefit for our customers,” says Mel Bahr, executive vice president at MGS Machine (www.mgsmachine.com), Maple Grove, Minnesota, in Control Design’s October 2010 cover story, “Time to Make a Change.”
MGS Machine builds top and horizontal-load cartoning machines as well as product feeding equipment. The image to the right shows how this work cell from MGS Machine feeds and opens auto-lock bottom, flat-blank, or glue-bottom cartons. The top is closed after a robot loads products into the carton. “Automation upgrades often make it easier to change products, crucial to our contract packaging clients, and increases in speed are also often realized,” adds Bahr in the cover story.
“Other reasons why we upgrade our automation systems periodically are improved HMIs and help screens, ability to control robots from a common machine control platform, improved servo performance and control, better data collection and tracking, automated data transfer to items like printers, and the need for vision systems and vision inspection,” concludes Bahr in the same Control Design story.
There are many reasons to upgrade automation systems says Joe Sebastian, senior systems engineer at Optimation, a system integrator servicing robot and machine builders along with other customers. “Safety, efficiency, increased availability of spare parts, easier or less maintenance required, improved connectivity to other systems, higher production capacities, less operator involvement and quicker setup or changeover times have all initiated automation upgrades,” he says in the cover story. His company has added very basic automation to machines and doubled their production speeds.
“Changeover times are also a huge consideration, as new machines can automate a great deal of the product changeover process, or even do it on the fly with it being initiated directly from an MES system,” Sebastian notes in the story. “Usually it is some combination of all of these factors that add up to an automation upgrade with an acceptable ROI.”
Reasons for Control Systems Upgrades
Increased machine speed
Increased reliability
Need for better, faster communications
Better visualization fo machine operation
Increased production capacity
Quicker changeover times
Increased machine marketability
Is ‘Old Reliable’ Still Reliable?
“If it ain’t broken, don’t fix it,” is a variation of an old maintenance and repair adage. Many machine control components continue to work well even as they approach obsolescence. Evaluating what to keep and what to replace often boils down to reliability, maintainability, and how the components in question affect machine performance.
Dan Jensen, senior automation engineer at Nelson Sales Corp (www.nelsonsales.com) in Muskego, Wisconsin, says in the same Control Design cover story, “The real question is, does the machine work well overall. In the case of older hydraulic systems, their on/off nature and abrupt directional or velocity changes often wear out parts and mean headaches for maintenance personnel.”
According to Jensen, replacing the old directional valve with a new hydraulic proportional servo valve/ motion controller combination can prolong the life of a machine due to reduced mechanical stress. Also, using better closed-loop controls can often enhance the reliability of some of the older hydraulic and mechanical components which are still functional for the application. “The machine builder can often cut costs by keeping the hydraulics and mechanicals, and replacing just the controls,” Jensen explains in the cover story.
Jensen did exactly that with a welding system he upgraded for a customer (Figure 2). His company used the existing hydraulic system, but it required a positioner that could stand up to weld spatter. “We added a linear magnetostrictive displacement transducer for positioning a slide that held the assembly being welded, a PLC, an operator screen, and a motion controller,” Jensen explains in the story.
A control system should probably be upgraded if it’s based on old relay logic, but what if solid-state control hardware is discontinued? The Internet makes supporting just about any legacy hardware or equipment possible, but is it desirable to rely on third-party support?
Obtaining support isn’t necessarily the primary reason for control system upgrades, as Jensen suggests. “Does the machine work well now, and will it stay working?” he asks in the Control Design story.
Do you remember floppy disk drives? “Does the computer software work with newer laptops, or do you have to keep an old laptop with special software on the shelf just in case?” Jensen asks in the story.
The machines may work and the designs may still be viable, but at what cost? If older components have high failure rates, maintaining or supporting a legacy control system can become costly. “Failure of obsolete components is generally unpredictable and almost always occurs at the least convenient time,” says Phil Gilkes in the Control Design cover story. Gilkes is director of product support at Intelligrated (www.intelligrated.com), a builder of material handling equipment in St. Louis, Missouri. “The downtime can result in significant costs to the end user.”
Additionally, controller ease-of-use can make selling machines a bit easier. “Traditionally, robot manufacturers used their own proprietary controller, which was complicated to program and had to be interfaced with other system components,” observes Gilkes in the cover story. “Now, complete robotic systems can be controlled by a single, powerful PLC. Customers are far more comfortable with PLC controls and tend to prefer systems and vendors that use them.”
Sometimes, there may be psychology at work in the use of the expression “new and improved.” But sometimes a new and improved control systems platform will better handle all the new tasks, requirements, and regulations that continue to surface in today’s manufacturing environments.
Playing it Safe
Safety continues to be a valid consideration when deciding if a control system upgrade is in order. In the Control Design cover story, Roger Rosinski, plant manager at All American Poly in Piscataway, New Jersey, says “Safety standards have become more stringent over the years, and older machines generally can be made much safer with an investment in controls.”
The European Machine Safety Directive (EN ISO 13849-1 or EN IEC 62061) is one of the new safety standards global machine and robot builders must satisfy. However, safety upgrades may not present value to an OEM for machines that already meet the standards required in their markets.
Jensen advocates simplicity. “A safety-networked architecture has to be large and duplicated to be cost-effective,” he notes in the cover story. As an example, he states, “Safety in a robot cell may be easier to do with discrete components such as a door interlock and a couple of E-stops.”
A systems integrator suggests an integrated approach. “An integrated automation and safety system is the accepted norm for most industries,” says Sebastian in the Control Design cover story. “If the existing system is proven safe, however, then safety is a hard sell by itself. Many old machines don’t have safety mechanisms built in, so safety controls can’t be added without major mechanical changes.”
Gilkes advises in the story, “The most compelling safety-related reason to upgrade is based on an assessment of the system itself to determine whether it meets with current standards, which can change as new legislation is developed.”
Safety relays and hard-wired safety interlocks may be employed in older safety systems to stop the equipment. However, if an emergency stop occurs, the control system could end up in an unknown state when these relays and interlocks cut power to critical components.
Unless compliance with standards is an issue, safety by itself is typically not a sufficient reason to upgrade a control system, according to system integrators and OEMs.
A Failure to Communicate?
A major advantage to upgrading your machine control platform is the ability to offer modern communications functionality such as Ethernet, fieldbuses, wireless, and Web access.
Michael Gurney, CEO at systems integrator Concept Systems (www.conceptsystemsinc.com) in Albany, Oregon, says in the Control Design cover story that communications is easier with newer control systems. “With the evolution of communication standards, there’s no reason that manufacturer to manufacturer communications can’t be done easily. If you’re considering a hardware manufacturer that’s difficult to interface to other automation components, you might want to reconsider using that supplier.”
The ever-increasing need for manufacturing and equipment data is another significant factor to consider. For example, modern communications can allow machine-to-machine, HMI/ SCADA, Internet, and enterprise software connectivity. “In any automated environment, sharing data in real time is the key to efficient operation,” says Duane Grob in the story. Grob is the vice president of engineering at Optimation. “Without a means of sharing and communicating information with other subsystems, all actions are basically reactionary.”
The image to the right shows how operators can now enter recipes on the touch screen of this welding machine due to automation system upgrades.
Better data means better information and better decisions. “Many older systems don’t integrate well with an overall automated environment,” Grob adds in the cover story. “Another related item is smart I/O communications for gathering more detailed device status. Some device information is simply inaccessible unless smart I/O platforms are incorporated into the overall system design. The data gathered from these devices can enable better decisions about maintenance, OEE, and system performance—as well as inform plant personnel on repairs needed to continue operations.”
Many control system components and platforms are available today with a plethora of communication protocol choices such as Ethernet and various fieldbuses. The demand for MES and ERP integration is growing among end users. Some OEMs are offering remote service and VPN functionality, which greatly reduce the demand on their support staff and lower their customers’ maintenance costs. If a control platform can’t keep up with data demands, it may be time for an upgrade.
Rick de Jong, general manager, AEMK Systems, a robot manufacturer in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada comments in the cover story: “The most significant changes in machine and robot building are controls and flexibility. Flexibility means a machine or robot should be designed with product changes in mind. This means less fixed tooling, and a control platform that can be modified with minimal cost and time. Avoid the automation graveyard by ensuring that automated systems can not only be upgraded and modified, but also that the technology can be recycled into new applications.”
Sometimes, the decision comes down to money. “The overall cost of ownership needs to be considered,” advises Gurney in the story. “This includes maintenance costs, downtime costs, and the cost of not having something faster, more accurate, and/or more functional. These costs need to be considered over an acceptable ROI period.”
Where do systems integrators and machine builders stand on the question of whether to choose a single supplier, or work with multiple equipment and software vendors?
In the cover story, de Jong says, “It’s wise to focus on a single vendor that integrates various products to one common platform. This reduces integration time and cost, provides faster service and support, reduces the training time, and eliminates the complexities of multiple vendor interfaces.”
Gurney also advocates vendor standardization. “We encourage companies to standardize on a single vendor for similar functions,” he advises in the Control Design story. “For example, companies should standardize on a PLC manufacturer, an HMI manufacturer, and a drive manufacturer. This minimizes spare parts and training requirements.”
Jensen offers a different perspective. “Using single-vendor systems usually means sacrificing capability for the sake of a name. Just because a manufacturer makes PLCs doesn’t mean their control architecture for servo control is worthwhile. Nowadays, everything worth using comes with an Ethernet interface and will communicate via various protocols, so being limited to one manufacturer isn’t necessary,” he said in the Control Design cover story.
Procurement comes with significant inherent overhead. Buying from multiple vendors can increase costs that are not always easy to quantify. Using a single vendor can help reduce these costs. “From a purchasing perspective, the customer only has to deal with one vendor and thus can generally negotiate better discounts,” adds Gilkes in the story.
On the other hand, not upgrading is one way to avoid the single-source/ multiple vendor debate. “If a machine is old but otherwise performing well, it may be best to leave it unchanged, providing it continues to meet production and product life cycle requirements,” de Jong sums up in the cover story.
By Jack Smith
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lucifermeanslightbringer
The Mythical Astronomy of Ice and Fire
Con of Thrones!
Starry Host
The Last Hero and the King of Corn
November 28, 2016 November 21, 2019 / lucifermeanslightbringer
Hey everyone, today we are going to talk about one of the more perplexing elements of ASOIAF, and that would be zombies. We’re to talk about a lot of things, like green men and the last hero and Coldhands and Jon Snow, but they will all be related to zombies. Resurrected people. The walking.. well you know. ASOIAF has got some serious zombie-creep going on, and I am pretty sure I know why. That is the point of this episode – to explain why exactly it is that George just can’t let sleeping corpses lie. It’s not only interesting for its own sake, it’s actually quite central to the puzzle of defeating the Others and dealing with the Long Night. This will be a bit of an unusual essay in that you don’t need to have read or listened to any Mythical Astronomy to understand what we will be talking about today. I may occasionally mention ideas we’ve discussed elsewhere, but for the most part, this essay will not be based on any previous theories. As is my general policy, we will be “spoilers all books,” but we will not discuss any TWOW sample chapters, nor anything from the TV show after seasons 5, which is the point where the show passed the books on most plotlines.
So, zombies. There are some transformed beings out there who blur the lines between life and death, but what we are going to talk about today are zombies. The reanimated dead. Human beings, brought back from death. We have seen three distinct varieties of them: icy undead, fire undead, and whatever you call what Qyburn did with Gregor’s corpse.
The first are the wights raised by the Others, which we will refer to as cold wights or icy undead. They rise with eyes like cold burning blue stars and are swathed in cold in every sense of the word – their flesh is frozen, and they make the air colder in their immediate vicinity, just as the Others do. They appear to have only the vaguest of remnants of memory and no free will whatsoever. They are zombies in the classic sense – they represent corpses reanimated with some kind of necromancy. I think it is safe to say they are reanimated by what we would call “ice magic,” although that’s a loose term by necessity, because we do not understand what if any delineations there are between what seem like different types of magic.
Coldhands is a bit of an unusual case, and I’ll offer my explanation for his current state in a moment, but for the most part, he’s also in the category of icy undead. He has important differences between himself and the cold wights such as speech, apparent free will and no blue star eyes, but in terms of physiology, he appears to be the similar to the cold wights – a dead and frozen corpse with no vital processes. We’ll talk more about Coldhands in a minute.
The second example would be, for lack of a better term, fire undead people, such as Lord Beric Dondarrion and Lady Stoneheart, formerly Catelyn Stark. Their indisputably dead bodies are resurrected by “the fiery kiss,” a R’hllorist tradition which up until recently was not known for reanimating corpses. Thoros, a red priest, resurrected Beric six different times, and when Beric gave Catelyn the same fiery kiss, Thoros says in AFFC that “the flame of life passed from him to her.” Beric has the trademark black blood of someone transformed by fire magic (regular listeners and readers of mythical Astronomy will know what I am talking about), and his own blood is capable of lighting his sword on fire. Again I think it is safe to say that it is the magic we associate with fire and R’hllor which has reanimated Beric and Catelyn. We can speculate as to why this ritual suddenly started resurrecting people and if that might have had something to do with the weirwoods that grow in the Riverlands, but nevertheless, it is fire magic and a fire sorcerer who is making these particular undead people. That means that so far, we have zombies of ice and fire. Makes sense, right?
King Bran
✧ Greenseer Kings of Ancient Westeros
✧ Return of the Summer King
✧ The God-on-Earth
End of Ice and Fire
✧ Burn Them All
✧ The Sword in the Tree
✧ The Cold God’s Eye
✧ The Battle of Winterfell
Bloodstone Compendium
✧ Astronomy Explains the Legends of I&F
✧ The Bloodstone Emperor Azor Ahai
✧ Waves of Night & Moon Blood
✧ The Mountain vs. the Viper & the Hammer of the Waters
✧ Tyrion Targaryen
✧ Lucifer means Lightbringer
Sacred Order of Green Zombies A
✧ The Last Hero & the King of Corn
✧ King of Winter, Lord of Death
✧ The Long Night’s Watch
Great Empire of the Dawn
✧ History and Lore of House Dayne
✧ Asshai-by-the-Shadow
✧ The Great Empire of the Dawn
✧ Flight of the Bones
Moons of Ice and Fire
✧ Shadow Heart Mother
✧ Dawn of the Others
✧ Visenya Draconis
✧ The Long Night Was His to Rule
✧ R+L=J, A Recipe for Ice Dragons
The Blood of the Other
✧ Prelude to a Chill
✧ A Baelful Bard & a Promised Prince
✧ The Stark that Brings the Dawn
✧ Eldric Shadowchaser
✧ Prose Eddard
✧ Ice Moon Apocalypse
Weirwood Compendium A
✧ The Grey King & the Sea Dragon
✧ A Burning Brandon
✧ Garth of the Gallows
✧ In a Grove of Ash
Weirwood Goddess
✧ Venus of the Woods
✧ It’s an Arya Thing
✧ The Cat Woman Nissa Nissa
Weirwood Compendium B
✧ To Ride the Green Dragon
✧ The Devil and the Deep Green Sea
✧ Daenerys the Sea Dreamer
✧ A Silver Seahorse
Signs and Portals
✧ Veil of Frozen Tears
✧ Sansa Locked in Ice
Sacred Order of Green Zombies B
✧ The Zodiac Children of Garth the Green
✧ The Great Old Ones
✧ The Horned Lords
✧ Cold Gods and Old Bones
We Should Start Back
✧ AGOT Prologue
Click to open in iTunes
As for Melisandre, she’s another unusual case. I tend to think the signs point to her undergoing a transformation process, as I’ve said before, as opposed to a death and resurrection process, but we cannot know for sure and some people do think she has died and been resurrected. If so, it would have been with fire magic. We’ll talk more about her later as well.
The third kind of “zombie,” to use that as a catch-all term, would be Franken-Gregor, or un-Gregor as he is called. This is the one we know the least about – Qyburn seems like a fairly straightforward Dr. Frankenstein parallel, using some kind of fantasy pseudo science to reanimate the dead based on his knowledge gained from vivisection and other twisted pursuits… but it’s pretty vague. There is no sign of any kind of elemental force at work, no icy clouds wafting out of Qyburn’s laboratory or sulphur and brimstone stink, nothing like that. Un-Gregor himself doesn’t give us many clues as to his nature except that he seems to be even stronger than before, and he might not be able to speak – he might not even have his own head, actually. Our main clue as to what Qyburn is up to comes from a comment he made to Cersei about blood magic being the most powerful type of sorcery, and the seemingly implied possibility that he is using the blood sacrifice of the people delivered to him in the dungeons to work some kind of blood magic, but that’s about all we can say. Gregor is not the type of zombie we are interested in anyway, so we won’t have too much more to say about him.
One final outlier – Patchface. He does seem to have drowned, but we can’t say for sure. If he has undergone a death and resurrection process, which does seem like the most probable scenario, then it would have been accomplished through some freaky kind of water magic. This magical process might even be the origins of the Ironborn’s drowning-and-CPR ritual. Like Gregor, Patchface isn’t really the kind of zombie we are looking for, so we’ll only mention him in passing.
We also have other sorts of magical beings who have extended their lifespan and become something other than human, such as the Undying of Qarth, who have become mostly shadow; or the Others, who are god-only-knows how old and appear to be vaguely human-like, with icy bones and blood. This is also the category I believe Melisandre probably belongs in – magically transformed humans – and the point is that these creatures are something more than resurrected human corpses. As such, they aren’t quite what we are talking about. We are talking only about human beings who die and are then resurrected, and really what we care about are the fire undead people and Coldhands.
There’s some dispute about what has raised Beric and Stoneheart, so let me pull the quote from ASOS, and this is Thoros speaking:
I have no magic child. Only prayers. That first time, his lordship had a hole right through him and blood in his mouth, I knew there was no hope. So when his poor torn chest stopped moving, I gave him the good god’s own kiss to send him on his way. I filled my mouth with fire and breathed the flames down into him, down his throat to lungs and heart and soul. The last kiss, it is called, and many a time I saw the old priests bestow it upon the lord’s servants as they died. I had given it a time or two myself, as all priests must. But never before had I felt a man shudder as the fire filled him, nor seen his eyes come open. It was not me who raised him, my lady. It was the Lord. R’hllor is not done with him yet. Life is warmth, and warmth is fire, and fire is God’s and God’s alone.
Again, it is certainly a mystery as to why this last kiss suddenly was able to bring a dead man or woman back to life, but I think it is should be beyond dispute that it is primarily what we would call fire magic that is at work here. The two main candidates for explaining this sudden potency would be the birth of the dragons, which seems to have made all magic stronger throughout the world, or something having to do with the magic of the weirwoodnet. There are some weirwoods and weirwood stumps in the Riverlands, such as the High Heart and in Beric’s cave (which may well be below the High Heart). However Thoros is not a greenseer and no greenseers are present at any of Beric’s many resurrections, so all we can speculate on is some sort of regional effect, perhaps something like the Wall being a hinge of the world which makes magic stronger in its vicinity.
One bit of speculation I will throw out here – what if the original purpose of the ‘last kiss,’ which is given to people as soon as they die, was to resurrect people? Similar to the way the Ironborn CPR ritual may have an origin in a real water magic resurrection, it could be the same for the last kiss of the R’hllorists. As I’ve mentioned before, the R’hllorists do seem quite fixated on becoming fire people, wearing robes meant to look like shifting flames and tattooing flames on their faces. It’s not really hard to picture ancient R’hllorists making fire undead people like Beric.
The thing I want to focus on here is Beric’s quality of life and state of being. He’s much better off than the cold wights, completely different in fact, because Beric has free will and conscious thought, whereas the wights seem enslaved and retain very little of their original consciousness or memory. Beric even has a measure of vital function – his black blood still flows, and he can eat and drink, and presumably digest. At the same time, Beric also lost quite a bit of himself, as he tells Thoros in ASOS:
“Can I dwell on what I scarce remember? I held a castle on the Marches once, and there was a woman I was pledged to marry, but I could not find that castle today, nor tell you the color of that woman’s hair. Who knighted me, old friend? What were my favorite foods? It all fades. Sometimes I think I was born on the bloody grass in that grove of ash, with the taste of fire in my mouth and a hole in my chest. Are you my mother, Thoros?”
It seems that Beric is losing something of himself each time he comes back. Later in ASOS, we have the following quote from Beric to Thoros, right after Thoros admits that lighting his tourney blades on fire wasn’t a good way to treat a sword. Beric walks up unannounced and sort of kills the vibe with:
“Fire consumes.” Lord Beric stood behind them, and there was something in his voice that silenced Thoros at once. “It consumes, and when it is done there is nothing left. Nothing.”
“Beric. Sweet friend.” The priest touched the lightning lord on his forearm. “What are you saying?”
“Nothing I have not said before. Six times, Thoros? Six times is too many.” He turned away abruptly.
Beric doesn’t even have it as bad as Lady Stoneheart, who was dead for three days before she was resurrected. Her physical state is decomposed, and it seems her mental state may be as well. While Beric rides around and employs strategy and thinks about logistics and feeding people and so on and so forth, while Stonehart simply gazes with malice and condemns people to die – her other names are “Mother Merciless” and “The Hangwoman”). She can speak, albeit in a strangled fashion, so some part of herself does remain… but she seems like further decomposed than Beric in every way. Thoros actually refused to give her the kiss, in fact, because she had been dead so long, but for some reason Beric chose to give up his burden and pass the flame of life along to Lady Catleyn-turned-Lady Stoneheart.
If I had to characterize the state of existence of Beric and Stoneheart, I would compare it to the way ghosts are portrayed in pop culture and myth. The most prevalent belief about ghosts is that they linger on the earthly plane clutching at something – some grievance or tragedy or remorse or other form of unresolved attachment to their life. It is almost always tied to whatever they were doing and however they were feeling when they died, and they key to helping set a ghost free to move on to the next realm generally has to do with bringing resolution to whatever the ghost is fixated on.
The last thing Beric was doing when he died was attempting to bring Gregor Clegane to justice and defending the Riverlands – and this becomes his sole motivation for existence after he is resurrected. He stays loyal to the mission he was sent on by Ned in the name of King Robert even after Robert and Ned are both dead. In similar fashion, Stoneheart is completely consumed with revenge for the Red Wedding, which is classic ghost material – a tragedy so heinous and unjust that there is no way the victim’s shade can find rest. She is a spectre who haunts the Riverlands, taking revenge on Freys and and anyone else connected to the Red Wedding.
I think all of this is indicative of Beric and Stoneheart as remnants of their former selves, not the complete soul returned to the body. They seem more like ghosts inhabiting their own reanimated corpses. We can’t hope to be too technical here about what is a soul and what is a shade, but the point is that Beric and Cat are both significantly deteriorated…
…and we don’t want that to be true of Jon Snow. That’s really what this comes down to – Jon is dead, and we don’t want to see him turn up like Beric or Stoneheart. This has led people to try to rationalize a way that Jon didn’t actually die there in the snow, because they just can’t accept the idea that Martin is going to turn the beloved Jon Snow into a Beric. Well, I am pretty sure Jon is dead – bleeding out from a neck wound so fast he loses consciousness in less than a minute – but take heart. I don’t think he’ll be a Beric, a remnant who can barely remember his former life or where his castle is. I don’t think that resurrected Jon will be obsessed with avenging his death on his conspirators, and if he does return to the last thing he was doing – planning an assault on Ramsay at Winterfell – I would expect that to not be the end of the line fore Jon. No, I think there is very good reason to think that Jon will turn out to be the optimal type of ‘zombie,’ the kind who can help save us from the Long Night.
The key is that Jon is a skinchanger.
Jon of the Dead
This section is brought to you by Patreon supporter and newest claimant to one of the 12 houses of heaven, Wyrlane Dervish, woods witch of the Wolfswood, Earthly Avatar of Celestial House Scorpio
With his dying words, Jon calls out to Ghost. And we know from the Varamyr prologue of ADWD that when a skinchanger’s human body is killed, his spirit goes into his animal, there to linger for an unspecified amount of time before it eventually fades away into the beast spirit – this is known as a skinchanger’s “second life.” We hear the same thing from Bloodraven as he and Bran are chatting after Bran’s first successful attempt to skinchange a raven in ADWD:
“Someone else was in the raven,” he told Lord Brynden, once he returned to his own skin. “Some girl. I felt her.”
“A woman, of those who sing the song of earth,” his teacher said. “Long dead, yet apart of her remains, just as a part of you would remain in Summer if your boy’s flesh were to die upon the morrow. A shadow on the soul. She will not harm you.”
While this spirit of this singer is no threat to Bran, something of the original skinchanger does linger inside the animal and can have an effect on any new skinchanger tp take possession of that animal . When the wildling skinchanger Orell is killed by Jon Snow, his spirit lives on inside his eagle with a fierce hatred for Jon. Later, Varamyr Sixskins takes possession of Orell’s eagle and says to Jon:
“Once a horse is broken to the saddle, any man can mount him,” he said in a soft voice. “Once a beast’s been joined to a man, any skinchanger can slip inside and ride him. Orell was withering inside his feathers, so I took the eagle for my own. But the joining works both ways, warg. Orell lives inside me now, whispering how much he hates you.
We get the most information about this in Varamyr’s prologue of ADWD, which practically seems like it is designed to function as a kind of skinchanger 101 for the reader:
“They say you forget,” Haggon had told him, a few weeks before his own death. “When the man’s flesh dies, his spirit lives on inside the beast, but every day his memory fades, and the beast becomes a little less a warg, a little more a wolf, until nothing of the man is left and only the beast remains.” Varamyr knew the truth of that. When he claimed the eagle that had been Orell’s, he could feel the other skinchanger raging at his presence. Orell had been slain by the turncloak crow Jon Snow, and his hate for his killer had been so strong that Varamyr found himself hating the beastling boy as well.
In fact, this process of a skinchanger merging with his beast can happen even without death being involved, as Jojen warns Bran in ASOS when Bran is gone too long in Summer’s skin:
“Bran the boy and Summer the wolf. You are two, then?”
“Two,” he signed, “and one.” He hated Jojen when he got stupid like this. At Wintefell he wanted me to dream my wolf dreams, and now that I know he’s always calling me back.
“Remember that, Bran. Remember yourself, or the wolf will consume you. When you join, it is not enough to run and hunt in Summer’s skin.”
Jojen’s point is punctuated by just how wolfish Bran acts when in Summer – he thinks and acts like a wolf, more or less. Jojen asks him to mark trees as a means of exercising his human thought while in the wolf, but Bran fails. This shows us that the beast presence is very strong and is always trying to take over the human presence, given enough time. It is no wonder that upon entering second life, a skinchanger would begin to become beast-like before too much time goes by.
So, getting back to Jon Snow’s body, lying in the bloody snow… Jon is dead and his spirit has almost certainly gone into Ghost. It will almost certainly be put back into Jon’s body somehow, lest we have only wolf-POV’s from Jon for the rest of the series, but we know there is a limited time in which to do so. This is probably the meaning of a vision Melisandre sees of Jon in the flames in ADWD:
The flames crackled softly, and in their crackling she heard the whispered name Jon Snow . His long face floated before her, limned in tongues of red and orange, appearing and disappearing again, a shadow half-seen behind a fluttering curtain. Now he was a man, now a wolf, now a man again. But the skulls were here as well, the skulls were all around him. Melisandre had seen his danger before, had tried to warn the boy of it. Enemies all around him, daggers in the dark . He would not listen. Unbelievers never listened until it was too late.
A man, and then a wolf, and then a man again – that seems pretty straightforward as far as prophecy goes. Almost everyone takes this to mean that Jon’s spirit will “go into” Ghost for a time and then eventually be returned to his body – a man and then a wolf and then a man again. In this scenario, Ghost is essentially acting as a soul-jar for Jon’s spirit, a storage vessel to keep it protected from dissolution until it can be put into a new host body… or a resurrected host body. This is a common trope in fantasy stories, the ancient wizard who keeps coming back no matter how often he is killed because he has a soul jar hidden somewhere which he returns to upon death, only to have his acolytes bring him a new host body so he can reincarnate.
Although I doubt Martin is imagining anything quite so fantastical as that, Ghost is in fact serving as a protective vessel for Jon’s soul – that is likely the meaning behind Martin’s choice to name the wolf ‘Ghost.’ This is the main reason why Jon will not be a Beric or a Stoneheart – his spirit will not dissolve into the ether upon death. When a normal person like Beric is called back, even right after his death, we’ve seen that large part of the self is already gone. But from everything we know about skinchnagers and second life, the human soul goes into the animal, and I think we are talking about the whole thing here. He will start to merge with Ghost and become more wolf-like, but assuming that someone can act in time, I believe that we have hope of getting a resurrected Jon who can still remember where his castle is, what fired bread dipped in bacon grease tastes like, and how to crack dick jokes with Tormund. And that is the beginning of why skinchangers make the best zombies, because their animals can act as storage vessels for a short time.
Sounds great, but there are three major obstacles.
First, his dead body will need to be reanimated or resurrected. That’s actually the least difficult problem, as we have multiple means by which this could occur. Jon is in the north, so ice magic is a possibility, and Melisandre is nearby, so fire magic is in play as well. It may even be possible that there is a way to resurrect people with greenseer magic, primarily based on this line from ADWD which comes after Bran wakes from his first round of greenseer visions through Winterfell’s heart tree and reports back on what he saw:
Bran’s throat was very dry. He swallowed. “Winterfell. I was back in Winterfell. I saw my father. He’s not dead, he’s not , I saw him, he’s back at Winterfell, he’s still alive.”
“No,” said Leaf. “He is gone, boy. Do not seek to call him back from death.”
It’s an odd line, because Bran isn’t even talking about attempting some sort of resurrection magic or anything, and Leaf just volunteers that a greenseer should not try to raise people from the dead. The only reason to really warn Bran against resurrection would be if it is indeed possible for a greenseer to raise the dead, and presumably this would have dire consequences. I tend to think greenseers can and have raised the dead, and we will talk about that more later, but for now we can simply say that there are multiple avenues to raise Jon’s body, be it a process based in ice or fire magic, or even a more theoretical greenseer-based process involving Bran and/or Bloodraven.
Jon’s body will be preserved from decomposition by the extreme cold – likely inside an ice cell – so the method of resurrection will determine the state of Jon’s physical body when he is returned to live. A fire resurrection seems to have a chance to restore some manner of vital processes like flowing blood and the ability to eat and drink, so I tend to favor that over ice, but who knows, maybe Jon doesn’t need to eat or drink to make for an interesting POV. Bran does see Jon in his coma vision “sleeping alone in a cold bed, his skin growing pale and hard as the memory of all warmth fled from him,” which could certainly be foreshadowing to Jon’s dead body becoming pale and hard like an ice wight or like Coldhands.
Now If Jon’s body is raised by cold magic, that means his body will have been wighted, and that presents the additional problem of having to drive the wight spirit out of the body so Jon can repossess it – that could make for some interesting drama, certainly. This may have happened to Coldhands, a cold wight who is not possessed by the Others’ blue-star-eyes magic, so we have to say this is a possibility for Jon too.
Old Nan had told her there were spiders down here, and rats as big as dogs. Robb smiled when she said that. “There are worse things than spiders and rats,” he whispered. “This is where the dead walk.” That was when they heard the sound, low and deep and shivery. Baby Bran had clutched at Arya’s hand. When the spirit stepped out of the open tomb, pale white and moaning for blood, Sansa ran shrieking for the stairs, and Bran wrapped himself around Robb’s leg, sobbing. Arya stood her ground and gave the spirit a punch. It was only Jon, covered with flour. “You stupid ,” she told him, “you scared the baby.”
This is one of the well-known foreshadowings of Jon’s death and resurrection – Arya’s punch mimics Bowen Marsh stabbing of Jon in the gut, which was also described as a punch. Jon is a pale white spirit with a shivery sound, so you could lean towards interpreting Jon as a cold resurrected being, but it’s not what I would call conclusive. His ghost could be pale white with red eyes, like his wolf Ghost, after all.
Consider also that if he is to wield a burning red sword, being an ice-wight might pose a problem – Coldhands stays well away from the fire, indicating that he is as vulnerable to fire as other ice wights are. And although I am probably biased in the way of fire, I really do like the idea that Ghosts’s red eyes are a foreshadowing of what Jon’s ghost will look like – pale white with eyes like two red suns. The second sun, if you will.
Heck, maybe Jon’s body will be raised by the Others ice magic and repossessed with the aid of Melisandre’s fire magic. I am trying to keep our speculation grounded in the examples of magic that we have already been given in the books, but we also do not know what limits of any magic are, so I am also suggesting things that may be one step further that what we have seen. Common fire breaks the spell over the wights by destroying them, perhaps fire magic could be used to simply break the hold of the Others on the corpse, whereupon can be repossessed by the original skinchanger spirit.
We don’t have any idea what a theoretical greenseer resurrection might look like, so that option is pretty much wide open. It may well be the best way, since both ice and fire resurrections seem to have certain limitations. A greenseer resurrection could be the ticket to getting a resurrected Jon that is basically whole, one that could perhaps sire children on a certain thought-to-be-infertile-but-maybe-isn’t Silver Dragon Queen.
The second obstacle to achieving resurrected skinchanger Jon is that we don’t know how long we have to get Jon’s spirit out of Ghost before his memories fade and he begins to merge with Ghosts’s spirit. If Jon is only in Ghost for a day or three, perhaps the human spirit can be separated from the wolf spirit and returned to his body. This leads to the third problem, which is ‘how do you put a skinchanger’s soul back into his resurrected body after he’s already begun his second life,’ but assuming that can be managed, this would be the more straightforward of the resurrection scenarios that we can imagine with the information we have. Ghost keeps Jon’s soul safe for just a couple of days, then it is somehow returned to his body, more or less intact.
But if he is in there longer… it’s possible his spirit could have merged with Ghost’s to the point where they can no longer be separated. In this scenario, the only way to get Jon back in his body would be to bring the wolf spirit along too, to put the merged man / wolf spirit back into the human body. This would make for some kind of badass wolfman zombie, the kind of dude I can see whooping ass on the Others or anyone else who gets in his way…. that’s pretty cool. The downside to this is that the wolf body would have to die, because if the merged wolf / man spirit is going back to Jon’s body, there is nothing left in the wolf.
This would actually line up very well with Jon’s many parallels with Mithras, because as we know, the white bull who is a friend to Mithras and even a part of Mithras in a sense has to be sacrificed so that Mithras can be reborn. In our other podcasts, we have seen that Ghost has several scenes of foreshadowing involving bulls and sacrifice, so I feel like there is a good chance this will happen. In this case we could look at the idea of a merged wolf-man spirit going back into Jon as a silver lining, because Ghost won’t really be dead – just his wolf body. Ghost will live on in Jon… with Jon’s ghost.
The third problem, which I already mentioned, is how to get Jon’s spirit or the merged Jon / Ghost spirit out of the wolf and into the man again. A skinchanger cannot do this himself – once he begins second life in his animal, he cannot then skinchange other animals or a new human body. Someone is going to have to help, and I think were got a likely foreshadowing of this in ASOS when Orell recalls being kicked out of his eagle:
One moment, he had been soaring above the Wall, his eagle’s eyes marking the movement of the men below. Then the flames had turned his heart into a blackened cinder and sent his spirit screaming back into his own skin, and for a little while he’d gone mad. Even the memory was enough to make him shudder.
This isn’t exactly like Jon’s scenario will be, because Orell is not dead, merely inhabiting his eagle when the eagle is killed, but if we look at this as potential literary foreshadowing, what we just saw was Melisandre use fire to drive a skinchanger’s spirit from his animal. It could be a similar scenario with Ghost being burned to send the wolfman spirit back into the reanimated Jon body.
Another potential foreshadowing of Jon’s resurrection comes from Mirri Maz Duur’s attempts to save Drogo’s life. Consider Mirri’s words as she sacrifices the stallion:
“Strength of the mount, go into the rider,” Mirri sang as horse blood swirled into the waters of Drogo’s bath. “Strength of the beast, go into the man.”
If Drogo had been a skinchanger, this ceremony might have actually worked. Drogo’s body wasn’t quite dead, but it was slipping into a coma and his spirit could easily have been beginning to separate from his body – we don’t know the theoretical rules of magic in this fictional universe. But the point is this – if Drogo was a skinchanger, this whole thing would have made a lot of sense. His spirit would have gone into that horse as he died, and therefore killing the horse in such a way as to have the strength of the horse go into the rider would be akin to returning Drogo’s spirit from his horse back to his body. Mirri’s leaf-shaped bronze knife, engraved with runes, almost reminds us of a First Men type of blood sacrifice ritual.
And just to tell you, there is a really cool theory that the Dothraki bond with their horses – they let other share their wives but not their horses, for example, and their horse are slaughtered when they die – is a leftover remnant of a time when Dothraki actually skinchnaged their horses. This is speculative, but not impossible, because in TWOIAF we learn of the Ifequevron, the Woods Walkers, who sound more or less exactly like cotf – and they live in a forest just north of the Dothraki sea and were revered by the Dothraki. There are tales of centaurs in the ancient past in that area, which could be accounts of horse skinchangers. If that’s the case, Mirri might well have been using a skinchanger resurrection ceremony quite intentionally, knowing it would not work on Drogo and produce a vegetable. Now, regardless of whether any of that is true, I do think this botched resurrection involving the horse and Drogo might be serving as a loose parallel to the resurrection process for Jon.
George has also given us a Biblical zombie reference here, as Mirri is of the people known as the Lhazar, a seeming variant of Lazarus, whom Jesus raised from the dead.
Thinking again of Qyburn and un-Gregor, it may be that Qyburn was somehow using blood magic to send the strength or life force of the various torture victims into Gregor’s corpse to animate it, just as Mirri tried to send the strength of the horse into the rider.
It’s pretty interesting to note that both Qyburn and Mirri are practicing what we would call blood magic, and both studied magic in Asshai. But while Qyburn’s blood magic has neither fire or ice involved, Mirri’s blood magic performed on Drogo gives us a whiff of both, and here we find another parallel between this ceremony and Jon Snow’s potential resurrection. This is Dany’s inner monologue from AGOT:
Inside the tent the shapes were dancing, circling the brazier and the bloody bath, dark against the sandsilk, and some did not look human. She glimpsed the shadow of a great wolf, and another like a man wreathed in flames.
Jon Snow, being the son of Rhaegar and Lyanna, of dragon and dire wolf, is very much a representation of the unity of ice and fire. Sometimes I like to call him ‘Azor Ahai reborn in an icy sheath’ – consider his dream in ADWD where is manning the Wall alone, armored in black ice with a sword that burns red in his fist. So when we consider the man wreathed in flame and the great wolf in Mirri’s tent, we can see a personification of Jon Snow. The flaming man can represent his Targaryen side – dragons are fire made flesh, Dany proclaims herself fire made flesh when she wakes the dragons, and Azor Ahai reborn is the “warrior of fire.” The great wolf, on the other hand, seems like an obvious callout to the dire wolf of House Stark.
Why would there be parallels to Jon’s resurrection here at Drogo’s botched resurrection? For one, simply as a means to foreshadow the animal sacrifice component of Jon’s resurrection in a clever way; two, equating Jon with Drogo , Dany’s husband, may serve to foreshadow a union between Dany and Jon; and three, because both Jon and Drogo play into the larger “solar king” archetype which is a part of the Azor Ahai character. Regular listeners and readers of Mythical Astronomy will know what I am talking about here, and if you’re curious about this, simply check out the first episode of the Bloodstone Compendium, our very first podcast. The main point is that the death of the solar king is the first part of the Azor Ahai reborn process. In Dany’s case, Drogo the solar king dies at the same time Daenerys rises as Azor Ahai reborn, the new solar king. She takes his place as Khalessi and wears the lion pelt to signify to all that she “has Drogo’s strength inside her.” In Jon’s case, he is both the dying solar king and the reborn Azor Ahai. Dany had a symbolic rebirth in the pyre, and Jon will have a more literal resurrection, becoming Azor Ahai reborn the zombie, which is kind of what we are getting at here.
So let’s return to the matter at hand, which is how to get Jon’s spirit or a combined Jon / Ghost spirit back into Jon’s resurrected body. So far, it doesn’t look good for Ghost’s wolf body surviving, and we aren’t done yet. We have other examples of skinchangers being forced out of their animal by pain – it happens to Bran in ACOK when he tries to climb a tree in Summer’s body as the Ironborn are invading – Summer falls and Bran is forced out by the pain. It also happens to Jon and Ghost in the skirling pass – Jon is forced out of Ghost in ACOK when Ghost is viciously attacked by Orell’s eagle. And in A Storm of Swords, Bran’s wolf Summer takes a wound while saving Jon’s life from the wildling party, and when Bran tries to reach out to Summer afterward, we read that:
Bran had reached out for Summer time and time again, but the pain he found drove him back, the way a red hot kettle makes you pull your hand back even when you mean to grab it.
Pain seems to be a pretty reliable way to force a skinchanger out of an animal, and here the pain is even compared to a red hot kettle, another potential allusion to the idea of burning Ghost.
Approaching this problem from the opposite end, how else might we accomplish the moving of Jon’s soul back into his body? Well, we have one other example of how this might be done, and I’m happy to say that it actually gives Ghost a chance to live! Wouldn’t that be nice. It comes from Varamyr’s prologue in ADWD:
None of them had been as strong as Varamyr Sixskins though, not even Haggon, tall and grim, with his hands as hard as stone. The hunter died weeping when Varamyr took Greyskin from him, driving him out to claim the beast for his own. No second life for you, old man.
Again, the important difference between this example and Jon’s resurrection scenario is that Haggon was simply driven out of his wolf and back into his still living body; what we need to do with Jon is going to be harder, because we need to put the spirit back into a reanimated corpse, and because Jon’s spirit may have merged with Ghost’s to some extent. Nevertheless, this is the only other precedent for forcing a skinchanger spirit out of an animal, so it is worth considering.
The obvious candidates for a skinchanger powerful enough to pull off something like this would of course be Bloodraven or Bran. I’d like to give a shout-out to radio Westeros here, whose episode “Jon Snow: Only the Cold” suggests Bran’s involvement in Jon’s resurrection, perhaps in the Weirwood ‘Grove of Nine’ where the Night’s Watch brothers say their vows in front of heart trees. They also suggested the idea of a merged Jon-Ghost which produces a more wolfish Jon, which I obviously think is a terrific idea with a good chance of shaking out to be true.
Alright, so we’ve presented multiple ways by which Jon might be resurrected, and two different ways he might be sent out of Ghost and back into his body. Let’s say that some combination of these possibilities works out, and now we’ve raised Jon from the dead. His skinchanger status has hopefully preserved his spirit more than other zombies we have met. Maybe he’s a wolfman, maybe it’s mostly same old Jon, but either way, he’s a skinchanger zombie, and he’s the best zombie we ever met. He’s got to be handsome enough to woo Daenerys, after all.
So what’s the point of killing Jon and raising him from the dead, other than a dramatic narrative cliffhanger where we all think Jon is dead for five years while George writes the next book? I’ve made this point elsewhere in passing, but it really deserves it owns time in the sun, and that’s why I made this stand along episode about zombies. This is the ultimate purpose of not only Jon’s resurrection, but of the general increase in zombie activity in the story which admittedly, strikes some people as out of place or odd.
So what’s all this zombie stuff about?
This is about the last hero. The old last hero and the new last hero.
This is about creating the ideal person to journey into the cold, dead lands and confront the Others. We don’t know if that means fighting the Others or something more complex, some kind of negotiation, trade, or sacrifice; but the main thing we do know is that the last hero journeyed into these “cold dead lands” and confronted the Others, and this is thought to have somehow brought about the end of the Long Night. We’ll talk about all that, but just think for a moment about the skill-set offered by a fully conscious resurrected person.
“There’s been too much going around,” Meera insisted, “and too many secrets. I don’t like it. I don’t like him. And I don’t trust him. Those hands of his are bad enough. He hides his face, and will not speak a name. Who is he? What is he? Anyone can put on a black cloak. Anyone, or any thing . He does not eat, he never drinks, he does not seem to feel the cold.”
It’s true. Bran had been afraid to speak of it, but he had noticed. Whenever they took shelter for the night, while he and Hodor and the Reeds huddled together for warmth, the ranger kept apart. Sometimes Coldhands closed his eyes, but Bran did not think he slept.
He doesn’t need to eat.
He doesn’t need to sleep.
He doesn’t need to seek warmth or shelter.
Like I said, pretty much the ideal skill set to survive north of the Wall, right? Those are the major problems – food, shelter, warmth, and all solved by zombie-hood. This is exactly what is going on with Coldhands, who has been ranging the frozen dead lands beyond the Wall for God-only-knows how long. I’m not saying Coldhands is the original last hero – though it is possible – but what I am proposing is this: both Coldhands and the last hero have something in common with Jon Snow, and that is being a resurrected skinchanger or greenseer. I am proposing that only a resurrected skinchanger can ultimately face down the Others and their cold winds and that Jon is going to become a resurrected skinchanger precisely because he will be the man to confront the Others, the new last hero for a new Long Night which is surely coming.
We have a lot less to go on with the last hero, so we will start with him and then go on to Coldhands, one of the best mysteries in ASOIAF… I have been waiting since like forever to talk about Coldhands, and he might be my favorite character, as odd as that sounds. Talk of Jon will be woven throughout, and we might see some little Green Men pop up here and there.
The Last Hero Was a Zombie
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This is the theory in a nutshell – the Last Hero was a skinchanger or greenseer who became a zombie in order to defeat the Others. Again, we don’t know how exactly this was done – the annals of the Night’s Watch speak of the Last Hero slaying Others with a blade of Dragonsteel, so fighting is probably involved, but in a story like AOSIAF, it’s also unlikely that the fate of the world will come down to just sword fighting. That’s not really important for the matter at hand though – however he confronted the Others, being a skinchanger zombie is what made it possible in my opinion. Jon will be called upon to do the same, and he is about to be a skinchanger zombie.
That’s actually one of the best supporting pieces of evidence for this theory – Jon IS in fact going to be a resurrected skinchanger, and we are left to ask why. I believe this theory provides compelling reason for it, and I cannot think of any other reason for him to be undead other than ‘it uniquely prepares him to journey into the cold dead lands,’ as Coldhands does now and as the Last Hero once did.
Alright, so let us consider the last hero. We are told of him in AGOT by none other than Old Nan:
“So as cold and death filled the earth, the last hero determined to seek out the children, in the hopes that their ancient magics could win back what the armies of men had lost. He set out into the dead lands with a sword, a horse, a dog, and a dozen companions. For years he searched, until he despaired of ever finding the children of the forest in their secret cities. One by one his friends died, and his horse, and finally even his dog, and his sword froze so hard the blade snapped when he tried to use it. And the Others smelled the hot blood in him, and came silent on his trail, stalking him with packs of pale white spiders big as hounds—”
The idea that the last hero might have been a Stark, together with the dog in this story, have been taken by many as clues that the last hero was a skinchanger. We generally associate the First Men with skinchanging and the Starks with being wargs, so it just kind of feels right. The tradition of creating stone effigies of the Kings of Winter with a wolf at their side which goes back eight thousand years in the past or more speaks of a family that has always been a family of wargs. When you consider that Bran and Jon, the characters who most closely parallel the last hero, are both skinchangers, it starts to seem more and more likely.
In any case, we are all familiar with the basics: twelve companions who died, a dog and horse who also died, a sword broken from the cold, the Others and their ice spiders… and then there’s a gap in the story, as Martin interrupts Old Nan with other events in the chapter. But later in the chapter, Bran and the rest receive news from Yoren that BenJen Stark has not been seen in a while, and we get a clue about the resolution of the last hero’s story:
All Bran could think of was Old Nan’s story of the Others and the last hero, hounded through the white woods by dead men and spiders a big as hounds. He was afraid for a moment, until he remembered how that story ended. “The children will help him,” he blurted, “The children of the forest!”
Theon Greyjoy sniggered, and Maester Luwin said “Bran, the children of the forest have been dead and gone for thousands of years. All that is left of them are the faces in the trees.”
“Down here, might be that’s true, Maester,” Yoren said, “but up past the Wall, who’s to say? Up there, a man can’t always tell what’s alive and what’s dead.”
Truer words were never spoken – north of the Wall, it’s hard to tell what is alive and what is dead. Lots of foreshadowing in this passage, which is why I quoted a bit more of it than necessary. The key point is the last hero’s story – at some point after the death of his twelve companions, his horse, and his dog, he receives some kind of aid from the children of the forest that allows him to triumph.
That’s pretty wide open – we don’t know what kind of help he received or how that enabled him to win. We can immediately speculate that they might have sheltered him from the Others, because we have seen the children do that for Bran in Bloodraven’s hollow hill, which is warded by spells that the wights cannot break. (Those same spells keep Coldhands out as well, confirming that Coldhands is basically similar in nature to the cold wights except for not being possessed.) But sheltering the last hero from the Others doesn’t defeat Others or win the War for the Dawn, so there must be a few more pieces to the puzzle.
The only other clue about the last hero comes in AFFC when Sam reports back to Jon his findings in the annals of the Night’s Watch. It’s short, so we’ll just quote it to be exact:
“I found one account of the Long Night that spoke of the last hero slaying Others with a blade of dragonsteel. Supposedly they could not stand against it.”
Somehow, the last hero goes from cold and alone and chased by the Others to possessing this mysterious sword of dragonsteel which the Others could not stand against. That is all we have to go on regarding the last hero, and it leaves a lot of questions. The children in ancient day provided dragonglass weapons to the Night’s Watch, so if dragonsteel is simply a big, sword-sized hunk of dragonglass, then maybe the children gave him the sword and that is that. But if it is something more, some kind of metal, then it’s hard to see how the children could have provided it.
Aziz from History of Westeros suggested on our recent collaborative episode on the Great Empire of the Dawn that the rumors of the children trading with seafaring traders in the Dawn Age at Battle Isle could account for the children somehow coming into possession of an advanced steel weapon that they could have later provided to the last hero. That is one possibility, and otherwise it’s hard to see how the children could have provided the last hero with a sword.
The other possibility is that they didn’t – perhaps they provided him some other kind of help crucial to defeating the Others. .
Perhaps they raised the last hero from the dead.
If the Last Hero was an undead skinchanger as I suggest, then someone has to raise him from the dead. It could have been anyone, someone not pictured in the story, but the children are the obvious candidate.
“Do not seek to call him back from death.”
So you’re saying there’s a chance… ha ha. There’s another clue about the children being able to interact with the dead in ACOK, when Lord Commander Mormont leads the ranging into the haunted forest and they come upon Whitetree and its monstrous weirwood. Mormont is contemplating a human skull found in the maw of the weirwood like some kind of barbarian Hamlet:
“Would that bones could talk,” the Old Bear grumbled. “This fellow could tell us much. . How he died. Who burned him, and why. Where the wildlings have gone.” He sighed. “The children of the forest could speak to the dead, but I can’t.”
For what it’s worth, Martin did create a “Yorick Yronwood” who apparently joined the Night’s Watch sometime in the past, so the odds are good that this scene is a humorous nod to Hamlet. In any case, this idea that the children could speak to the dead could be a garbled account of greenseers “speaking with the dead” in the sense that they can hear the words spoken in the past by people who are now dead. But from what we have seen so far, the most greenseers seem to be able to do is to rustle their leaves a bit for the person in the past or breathe a word on the wind in the present time, as Bran does by making the Winterfell heart tree whisper Theon’s name. That’s not really speaking with the dead though, so perhaps this is a clue about the children being able to actually interact with deceased souls – and maybe, just maybe, call them back.
A slight variation on this idea would be the possibility that the last hero was killed by the Others and wighted, and the children helped him by driving out the Other’s magical possession, freeing his soul and making him a conscious cold wight. This may be how Coldhands was created, and it could happen to Jon, as I mentioned. If the last hero was a skinchanger, then the same logic applies to him that applies to Jon – his soul might have been stored in an animal until his body could be freed of Other-possession, and the children are a likely candidate to have helped accomplish this.
Once again, on the most basic level, Jon will be an undead skinchanger, so his parallels to the last hero – which we will discuss in more detail as we go – demand that we consider the possibility that the last hero might have been an undead skinchanger, however he might have been resurrected. If we look at the last hero story as a fable, we can see that his very act of journeying into the “dead lands” is thematically symbolic of someone journeying into the realm of death, into the grave, and seeking for a way to defeat it. Thematically, it’s about defeating death, and thus, resurrection, and it may well be literally about those things too.
Jon parallels the last hero, but he also parallels Azor Ahai, a character who is, as it happens, fundamentally about being reborn. He ain’t called Azor Ahai reborn for nothin, right? Jon is about to become Azor Ahai reborn as a zombie, so again, we must consider it possible that the original Azor Ahai was a zombie.
If you know anything about Mythical Astronomy of Ice and Fire, you know that I believe the concept of ‘Azor Ahai reborn’ does not apply to merely one person, that it is more like an archetypal role which multiple characters play into. Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen are the two most obvious and important manifestations of the idea of ‘Azor Ahai reborn,’ but other characters seem to parallel Azor Ahai as well, such as Beric Dondarrion and Stannis Baratheon, two people who wield flaming swords in the series. That does not mean that every single person who echoes some part of the Azor Ahai symbolism will play a part in ending the Long Night as we expect Jon and Dany to. Beric, for example, is already dead – dead as in permanently dead – so we know that his echoes of Azor Ahai are probably meant to be symbolic in nature. Stannis is basically an imposter Azor Ahai with a fake Lightbringer, and he too I tend to view as a symbolic echo, meant to inform us about the nature of Azor Ahai.
With that brief explanation of archetypes and how there are used in mind, consider Beric and Stannis, two of our flaming sword wielders, because both give us clues about an undead skinchanger or greenseer version of Azor Ahai. Stannis is an obvious Azor Ahai parallel by virtue of being called Azor Ahai reborn and wielding a flaming sword called Lightbringer, but it goes further. Stannis heads north to the Wall and he is primarily concerned with facing the threat of the Others, just like the last hero. And wouldn’t you know it, Stannis is often described as half a corpse. He’s apparently been drained by making shadow babies with Melisandre, as Davos observes in ACOK:
Now that Stannis Baratheon had come into his power, the lordlings buzzed around him like flies round a corpse. He looks half a corpse too, years older than when I left Dragonstone.
Half-corpse Azor Ahai, in other words. He also keeps a fire-magic user at his side and even practices a bit of fire magic as well, seeing a vision or two in the flames in his own right.
As for clues about skinchanging or greenseeing, we must look to his House. Stannis is a Baratheon, whose sigil is the stag (Stannis’s is a burning stag enclosed in a fiery heart) and the Baratheons typically wear helms with antlers on them. The ancient Storm Kings of Durrandon also wore “the stag crown,” which is more of the same symbolism. Naturally, this reminds us very much of the green men on the Isle of Faces who are said to either have antlers on their heads or to wear antlered head gear, and who are likely to be greenseers of some fashion or another. Thus, Stannis is a half-corpse stag man who carries Lightbringer. Apologies for just dropping something tasty like the Green Men in there offhandedly, but we’ll talk about green men quite a bit in just a minute.
Then we have Beric, owner of perhaps the largest inventory of meaningful symbolism in the entire series. He’s got the flaming sword, and he’s a resurrected corpse, and he’s strongly tied to fire magic, so like Stannis, he implies Azor Ahai the fiery half-corpse. Beric has weaker parallels to the last hero in that he heroically leads a noble brotherhood against long odds and wears a black cloak, although admittedly Beric’s black cloak is speckled with stars and that is clearly against the Night’s Watch dress code.
Beric isn’t a stag man, but he is sworn to one – King Robert, in whose name he fights on. Beric also has several clear parallels with Bloodraven which I am sure most of you are familiar with which work to imply Beric as a stand-in for a greenseer. When we first see resurrected Beric, he’s in a cave threaded through with weirwood roots, just like Bloodraven’s cave, and he is seated in a tangle of weirwood roots, very like Bloodaven and the other greenseers in the cave who sit in weirwood thrones. Beric had one eye put out, just like Bloodraven. Beric is called “a scarecrow knight” while Bloodraven is the three-eyed crow and was once a crow of the Night’s Watch. Beric is also called “the lord of corpses,” while Bloodraven is called the corpse lord in a Bran chapter of ADWD. Beric is called the “wisp o’ the wood,” and wisp means ghost, while Bloodraven is essentially a ghost turning into a tree.
All of which is to say, Beric is showing us the symbolism of a resurrected greenseer or skinchanger who wields Lightbringer, just like Stannis, and just like Jon. And perhaps, just like the last hero.
Jon and Stannis also have the blood of the dragon in their veins, while Beric parallels someone who does, Bloodraven. The notion of the last hero being a resurrected skinchanger with the blood of the dragon meshes well with the idea of the last hero being connected to Azor Ahai, who almost certainly had the blood of the dragon in his veins. Once again, Jon seems to be the culmination of all of this, uniting greenseer blood and dragon blood, wielding a burning red sword (only in his dreams so far, but you know it is coming in real life too), becoming a resurrected person, leading the fight against the Others… And if you are curious about hearing some of the other evidence for the idea of Azor Ahai being a greenseer, check out my episode called “The Grey King and the Sea Dragon” if you haven’t already. This is my current hypothesis about Azor Ahai, that he was a greenseer, and that’s irrespective of whether or not he is the hast hero, although obviously I think there is some sort of close connection.
It’s also worth noting that fire magic is the key to the transformation process of both Stannis and Beric. Beric is resurrected by fire magic, and Stannis has been drained and turned corpse-like though the use of Melisandre’s fire magic. This may be another clue about Jon’s resurrection coming via fire magic, and / or a clue about the last hero being raised with such, though I want to stay open minded about that. I am holding out hope for a greenseer resurrection, if only to see what happens.
Alright, I think our theory makes sense. A skinchanger zombie is ideally suited to face the cold dead lands, and that is what the last hero did. Jon will be a skinchanger zombie, and he’s probably fated to journey into those same cold dead lands. Several major characters who parallel Azor Ahai reborn to some extent suggest the idea of a resurrected skinchanger or greenseer. But Jon hasn’t been resurrected yet, and we may have already seen a resurrected skinchanger… so let’s talk about Coldhands.
Hands of Cold are Always Old
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“Brother!” The shout cut through the night, through the shrieks of a thousand ravens. Beneath the trees, a man muffled head to heels in mottled blacks and greys sat astride an elk. “Here,” the rider called. A hood shadowed his face.
He’s wearing blacks. Sam urged Gilly toward him. The elk was huge, a great elk, ten feet tall at the shoulder, with a rack of antlers near as wide. The creature sank to his knees to let them mount. “Here,” the rider said, reaching down with a gloved hand to pull Gilly up beside him. Then it was Sam’s turn. “My thanks,” he puffed. Only when he grasped the offered hand did he realize that the rider wore no glove. His hand was black and cold, with fingers hard as stone.
And with that memorable scene from ASOS, Coldhands rides into our imagination, giving rise to a thousand fan theories and one. First off, I have to say that I do not think Coldhands is being skinchanged by Bloodraven, a theory which is out there. I think this is apparent from the way that Coldhands speaks and acts, as we will see in our analysis here. No, I believe Coldhands is his own man – his own dead man, rather. I am proposing that is an undead skinchanger or greenseer. Not only that, but he seems to still be in possession of his greenseer magic, which is a good sign for resurrected Jon being able to use magic. It probably couldn’t be any other way, if you think about it – it doesn’t make much sense to take away Jon’s magic before the conclusion of the books. If anything, I am expecting resurrected Jon to potentially have more access to magic, not less. So let’s start there, with why I think Coldhands is a skinchanger or greenseer, and why I think he is still in possession of his magic.
The first clue is that the great elk which Coldhands rides is not terrified of him, as animals usually are of the corpse stink of the wights, which Coldhands definitely has. We are introduced to the idea that animals are not keen for the smell of wights in AGOT, when Jon and the Night’s Watch discover the corpses of Jafer Flowers and Othor in the haunted forest. None of the dogs will go near the corpses, no matter if they are kicked and dragged by mean old Chett. Even when the corpses are wrapped up in cloaks, they cause the horses to go mad when the brothers try to put the corpses on their back. The horses kick and scream and bite to the point where the black brothers had to rig up sleds to drag the bodies back to Castle Black themselves.
The direwolves are not quite as terrified of the cold wights – recall that it was Ghost who found the corpses and tore off a hand to bring back to show Jon. But they still smell the peculiar cold corpse stink of the wights and they do not like it. This is from the first Bran chapter of ADWD when the party is starting north with Coldhands:
The elk stopped suddenly, and the ranger vaulted lightly from his back to land in knee deep snow. Summer growled at him, his fur bristling. The dire wolf did not like the way Coldhands smelled. Dead meat. dry blood, and a faint whiff of rot. And cold, cold all over.
Notice that there’s only a faint whiff of rot – the cold and or the cold magic seems to preserve the wighted bodies. It was the same when Jon and company found Other and Jafer Flowers – they did not smell like decomposing bodies. So the smell of these icy undead is different than a dead body, and presumably not as bad – nothing is as bad as decomposing flesh, after all. Despite this, normal animals are terrified of them, and even direwolves are not too keen on them. There is something about their smell which is just plain old wrong, and thematically, this makes sense because the wights are essentially an abomination of natural life.
The great elk, however, shows no signs of being troubled by Coldhands ‘wrong’ smell, permitting Coldhands to ride on its back as if it were a horse or a mule. The only explanation is magic, of one sort or another.
Note the puny humans in the background.
Even without the corpse-stink problem, riding a great elk is basically a miracle. How many of you know what a great elk actually is? It’s a real thing, and it’s absolutely terrifying. Do yourself a favor, right now if you can, and look up ‘irish elk skeleton’ or ‘monoceros skeleton’ and take a look at these beasts. Ten feet tall at the shoulder is not an exaggeration, and a rack of antlers the same distance across is no lie either.
Why does this elk have dragon wings instead of antlers?
And saying “rack of antlers” doesn’t really do it justice – they look like two five foot dragon wings made of bone with swords attached to them. Take a look and tell me if you have a better description, because that’s pretty much whether look like. The muscle necessary to lift a head with those giant multi-pronged man-skewers must’ve been stupendous – this was an immensely powerful, truly terrifying creature if angered. Normal stags are symbolic of wild male virility, the ultimate untamable animal, and this is basically like a stag reimagined in some sort of demonic alternate universe. Dragon wings, with swords sticking out, made of bone, I’m telling you. You don’t want nunna this.
All your nightmares have come true.
I’ve been meaning to rant about irish elk for a while now, but the point is that this is a wild beast, not a mule, and the only way anyone could ride one is through greenseer magic. Additionally, and of course this is the point, Coldhands isn’t just any old person, he’s an icy undead, with his unnatural smell that animals really do not like – so Coldhands is not only taming a fearsome wild beast, but he’s somehow overcoming the fear of wighted corpses which all animals seem to share. It’s a mystery deserving of an answer.
Perhaps more inexplicably, the elk seems to obey Coldhands’ commands even after he separates from the party to go after the rogue Night’s Watch mutineers. The elk carries the children to a pre-designated spot, or at least very close to it, which is the little abandoned wildling village by the lake. On the way, Bran thinks how he cannot tell from the snow-covered landscape where the lake ends or begins but that the elk seemed to know the way – and indeed it did. This is highly intelligent, coordinated, cooperative behavior between the elk and Coldhands, and again it really doesn’t make any sense without greenseer magic as an explanation. And on the flip side, greenseer magic very neatly explains what we see – except that Coldhands is dead.
Here we come upon a problem with the idea that Bloodraven is skinchanging Coldhand’s corpse – if he is inhabiting Coldhands’s body, who is working magic on the elk? It seems unlikely Bloodraven is doing all of that at once – we’ve never been shown a skinchanger who can split his consciousness and inhabit two beings simultaneously – much one less one who can simultaneously inhabit something that is dead and something that is living. It make more sense that the relationship between the elk and Coldhands is more typical of a skinchanger and his animal, as it appears to be.
Skinchangers do not need to literally inhabit an animal to control it. Varymyr Sixskins is able to ride his snow bear without actually skinchanging it for example – the mere fact that he has established a skinchanger bond with the bear is enough to control it. We are told the bear hated Varamyr’s bonding with it, so we know that when Varamyr rides it, he is in fact using his skinchanger magic to control a wild beast without actually inhabiting its consciousness from moment to moment. Otherwise, he’d be in a dream state on top of the bear and he would fall off. It just wouldn’t work, you know?
We could also look to the Starks and their wolves as examples – the wolves are fearsome deadly beasts, but never hurt the Stark children, and the Stark children don’t need to be skinchanging their wolves from moment to moment to make it so. What we can say from all of this is that if Coldhands has access to skinchanger magic, it explains the problem of the elk very well.
The one major possibility are those children of the forest greenseers Bran sees in Bloodraven’s cave. They seem pretty far gone, but who knows, maybe they reforming the elk to carry a corpse on its back against its will. The main argument I have against this is that there are signs of a personal relationship between Coldhands and the great elk which smacks of a typical human – animal bond or a skinchanger – animal bond. I am mentioning it in the interest of good scholarship, but I think this option unlikely, as you will see.
The next sign of Coldhands using skinchanger magic that we need to discuss is his communication with ravens. Although we associate the idea of using ravens to communicate with the maesters, this practice actually originated with skinchangers, as we learn from Lord Brynden Rivers a.k.a. the three-eyed crow in ADWD:
“Do all the birds have singers in them?”
“All,” Lord Brendan said. “It was the singers who taught the First Men to send messages by raven… but in those days, the birds would speak the words. The trees remember, but men forget, and so now they write the messages on parchment and tie them round the feet of birds who have never shared their skin.”
The last line makes it clear that the original practice was to share the skins of the birds being used to communicate, not just a matter of training the ravens to speak or even understanding the speech of ravens, though the children are also said to be able to understand animal speech. But here Bloodraven is specifically indicating that human skinchangers in ancient day used ravens communicate with each other by means of sharing their skin. Right after this quote, Bran thinks that Old Nan had told him similar stories, and in TWOIAF the maesters also refer to the idea that children of the forest “could speak with ravens and make them repeat their words,” and that the children taught this “higher mystery” as they call it to the First Men so they might use ravens to communicate. In other words, the idea is out there, but Bloodraven has the insider information – it was originally skinchangers, first children the forest and then First Men – who used their magic to communicate via raven.
And so, in the first Bran chapter of ADWD, we see Coldhands… well let’s just read it:
From a nearby oak a raven quorked, and Bran heard the sound of wings as another of the big black birds flapped down to land beside it. By day only half a dozen ravens stayed with them, flitting from tree to tree or riding on the antlers of the elk. The rest of the murder flew ahead or lingered behind. But when the sun sank low they would return, descending from the sky on night-black wings until every branch of every tree was thick with them for yards around. Some would fly to the ranger and mutter at him, and it seemed to Bran that he understood their quorks and squawks. They are his eyes and ears. They scout for him, and whisper to him of dangers ahead and behind .
If Bloodraven was skinchanging Coldhands, there would be no need for Coldhands to use the ravens for scouting, because Bloodraven can already see anything he wants through the weirwoodnet. But if we look at Coldhands as a greenseer or skinchanger, this scene makes perfect sense – he’s communicating with the ravens just like an ancient First Man skinchanger would. If it weren’t for the fact that he is dead, he would be easy to recognize as a greenseer or skinchanger.
In fact, we might even recognize him as a green man, as in the Sacred Order of Green Men that keep watch on the Isle of Faces. When Samwell emerges for the well at the Nightfort to the great surprise of Bran and company in ASOS, he begins to tell them about Coldhands:
“He said.” Jojen frowned. “This … Coldhands?”
“That wasn’t his true name,” said Gilly, rocking. “We only called him that, Sam and me. His hands were cold as ice, but he saved us from the dead men, him and his ravens, and he brought us here on his elk.”
“His elk?” said Bran, wonderstruck.
“His elk?” said Meera, startled.
“His ravens ?” said Jojen.
“Hodor?” said Hodor.
“Was he green?” Bran wanted to know. “Did he have antlers?”
The fat man was confused. “The elk?”
“Coldhands, ” said Bran impatiently. “The green men ride on elks, Old Nan used to say. Sometimes they have antlers too.”
We do not really know what the green man are – humans, or elves, or something in between – but it is worth noting that Coldhands seems to be imitating one by riding the elk and keeping watch over the deep wood… except that he’s a dead man in blacks instead of a living one in green. Whatever the green men are, they are certainly associated with greenseeing and the children of the forest, as we know they are said to “keep their silent watch” on the Isle of Faces, one of the only places in the south where the weirwoods were not cut down. The story goes that in the Dawn Age, the children of the forest and the First Men gathered on the Isle of Faces to sign the Pact. Maester Luwin picks up the story on AGOT:
So the gods might bear witness to the signing, every tree on the island was given a face, and afterward, the sacred order of green men was formed to keep watch over the Isle of Faces.
Personally, I think it would make sense that the people stuck on the Isle of faces with nothing but trees with faces would be able to… you know, use the trees with faces. Bran thinks to himself in ASOS that “All the tales agreed that the green men had strange magic powers,” and the most likely magic to associate with green men on an island full of weirwood trees would be greenseer or skinchanger magic. I definitely think we can take the association drawn between Coldhands and the green men as another clue about Coldhands having something to do with greenseers and their magic, if nothing else. We are going to find more signs of green men as we go, however, so there may be something more specific to green men going on here.
Turning back to evidence that Coldhands currently uses skinchanger magic, we find that he seems to have a great deal of remote knowledge. This is most likely though the scouting of the ravens, as we’ve seen, but it’s not impossible that he has some more direct connection to the weirwoodnet and / or Bloodraven. Just because I do not think Bloodraven is skinchanging Coldhands doesn’t mean they can’t have a method of communication. Perhaps Bloodraven speaks to Coldhands through the ravens, or perhaps he can send Coldhands occasional visions as he does to Bran.
The picture being painted here is that the ranger Coldhands has the haunted forest on lockdown. Not only does Coldhands detect the Night’s Watch mutineers from Craster’s keep and go back to slaughter them – with great savagery, it would seem – he also knows that Bran and company are waiting for Sam at the top of the well at the Nightfort, as Sam tells us in ASOS:
“He said there would be people,” he huffed. “People in the castle. I didn’t know you’d be right at the top of the steps, though.”
Coldhands even knows what is going on south of the Wall, it would seem. Again the choices seem to be that his ravens flew over the Wall to the Nightfort and reported back to Coldhands, or that he has a link to either Bloodraven, or most ambitiously in terms of Coldhands’ power, perhaps he can directly access the weirwoodnet itself.
And don’t forget, the ravens don’t just talk to Coldhands and act as his eyes and ears. They also attack in coordinated fashion with Coldhands when he saves Sam and Gilly from the wights. It’s quite dramatic – they descend on the wights in “angry clouds,” tearing them apart and filling the sky to the point where Sam cannot see the moon. Then one of the ravens tells Sam to go, go, go, and Coldhands appears and whisks them away. This is less conclusive that Coldhands talking to the ravens, because the ravens certainly seem intelligent enough to attack wights on their own, or it could be Bloodraven sending the ravens to attack. However, it fits with all the other Coldhands scenes in which he works together with the ravens and the elk in a highly coordinated fashion, and all of it is very neatly explained by the possibility of Coldhands being a greenseer or a skinchanger. Except that he’s dead.
A final clue about Coldhands having access to magic lies in the fact that Coldhands seems to be able to detect the presence of the wights. At the start of the chapter where Bran, Coldhands, Jojen, Meera, and Hodor fight their way up the hill to enter Bloodraven’s cave, Coldhands reaches the base of the hill and simply announces “they’re here.” It’s almost like he can smell them, but Coldhands has no flowing blood or appetite, and therefore it’s unlikely that he has a functioning olfactory system. There was no raven talking to Coldhands here either, so it wasn’t like he was warned by them. I think the only explanation can be that Coldhands can use magic.
I think the one of the main narrative purposes of Coldhands is to tell us about Jon, and by extension, the last hero. I could be totally wrong about this – maybe he’s Bloodraven’s meat suit after all. Maybe the children are controlling the elk and Coldhands is just a corpse with no magic. But I don’t think so, for all the reason I’ve laid out and for more yet to come. In particular, I return to the argument that it makes no sense for Jon Snow to be resurrected and lose his magic. And if Jon’s going to retain his magic or better yet, gain new magic, that means that resurrected people can do magic. Beric proves it as well when he lights his sword on fire with his own blood. It’s a small magic, but it’s definitely magic. Therefore the idea of Coldhands having access to magic is not only reasonable, it has precedent. And Beric wasn’t even a skinchanger!
Here’s what I think: just as Varamyr’s prologue is there in large part to inform us about what will happen to Jon when he dies, Coldhands is there to show us a bit about what’s going to happen when he’s resurrected. Coldhands is primarily here to show us that a skinchanger can be resurrected and still retain his magic, and that when this happens, what we get is an immortal zombie impervious to cold, hunger, fatigue, and other human failings that can whoop ass on the Others by day or by night.
Did I just say immortal? Well, some qualifications. First, I assume Coldhands can be killed, or re-killed you might say, just as any other wight can be. He stays well away from the fire, as I mentioned. But who knows how long a zombie lives, if undisturbed?
…what is dead, may never die, after all…
…and if a skinchanger’s soul is preserved in its animal and thus is in a more intact state than other souls when it is put back in its body, who’s to say how long the resurrected person can ‘live?’
The famous line about Coldhands’ age comes from Leaf, when she says “they killed him long ago,” seemingly referring to the wights and the Others killing Coldhands long ago. The thinking is that “long ago” to the children of the forest, who live for several centuries, must be long ago indeed. There’s another clue that Coldhands is very, very old which comes when they are forced to butcher the elk, after it finally collapses:
It had been twelve days since the elk collapsed for the third and final time, since Coldhands had knelt beside it in the snowbank and murmured a blessing in some strange tongue as he slit its throat.
That “some strange tongue” is likely to be the Old Tongue. There are some wildlings north of the Wall who speak the Old Tongue, particularly the Thenns, but it is not common at all for a member of the Night’s Watch to speak it… not for thousands of years, at least. Even if it was something other than the Old Tongue – what language would we be talking about? Everyone in Westeros now speaks the common tongue, so whatever the language here that Coldhands is speaking, it is still an indicator of a Coldhands having knowledge that does not belong in modern Westeros.
Coldhands and his elk.
It’s also worth noting that Coldhands’ behavior here does not speak of being skinchanged by Bloodraven, but rather of having a personal set of beliefs. There’s an elegant, sad beauty to the description of Coldhands kneeling in the snow and uttering a prayer of blessing for his loyal steed as he puts it out of its misery. It seems ritualistic, perhaps consistent with older beliefs about hunters who respect the forest and the animals they take from it that we see in hunter-gatherer societies all around the world. This could be consistent with Coldhands being a green man or simply a First Man in tune with the forest and the mindset of the greenseers, and it is also suggestive of a bond between Coldhands and the elk.
Put it all together, and I think they killed Coldhands very long ago indeed. A greenseer or skinchanger who speaks the Old Tongue, rides a great elk, is attended by flocks of ravens with which he communicates, and who joined the Night’s Watch at some point – Coldhands seems like something from the ancient past. In fact, I don’t think it’s hyperbole to say that Coldhands may literally be eight thousand years old.
Think about it. Even if he has only been a zombie ranger for eight hundred years, or even just eighty years – it indicates that zombies do not wear out on their own, at least not very quickly, when in the frozen North. Aging has to do with cell growth and cell death, but Coldhands is already dead. There is nothing to wear out. The cold magic apparently preserves his body, and if his spirit isn’t fading out like Beric’s because he is a resurrected skinchanger… there is potentially no limit to how old he is.
It’s worth noting that Coldhands seems much more agile than other cold wights as well – in the first Coldhands quote that we pulled, Coldhands “vaulted lightly” off the back of the ten-foot-tall-at-the-shoulder great elk. It’s quite the contrast to the wights, which Sam noted to be clumsy things (though strong and persistent). Coldhands, on the other hands, is limber and lithe, and he also seems a good fighter – he made short work of the rebel Night’s Watch brothers, although he was probably aided by the ravens; and if he fights wights or Others with any regularity and has ‘lived’ to tell the tale… it bodes well for resurrected Jon Snow’s potential physical abilities. I would suggest that something about being a skinchanger is what explains Coldhands’ un-zombie-like physical and mental capabilities and his ability to persist for however long he has.
Think about the possibility of a merged Ghost / Jon spirit returning to Jon’s body – might not resurrected Jon inherit a bit of Ghosts’s quick reflexes or wolfish instinct? Perhaps a resurrected skinchnager created in this way, with a merged human animal sprint, is actually stronger than a regular human. The wights are very strong as it is; perhaps Coldhands has some sort of animal spirit inside him giving him strength or skill. You need every advantage you can get in the cold dead land, after all.
The King of Corn and the Green Monster
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Meera’s gloved hand tightened around the shaft of her frog spear. “Who sent you? Who is this three-eyed crow?”
“A friend. Dreamer, wizard, call him what you will. The last greenseer.” The longhall’s wooden door banged open. Outside, the night wind howled, bleak and black. The trees were full of ravens, screaming. Coldhands did not move.
“A monster,” Bran said.
The ranger looked at Bran as if the rest of them did not exist. “Your monster, Brandon Stark.”
“Yours ,” the raven echoed, from his shoulder. Outside the door, the ravens in the trees took up the cry, until the night wood echoed to the murderer’s song of “Yours, yours, yours.”
“Jojen, did you dream this?” Meera asked her brother. “Who is he? What is he? What do we do now?”
“We go with the ranger,” said Jojen. “We have come too far to turn back now, Meera. We would never make it back to the Wall alive. We go with Bran’s monster, or we die.”
Here in Bran’s first chapter from ADWD, we can really see Martin’s love of horror writing come through – the wind blowing the door open, the tree full of a murder of ravens screaming, Coldhands watching implacably with his black eyes as they realize he’s a walking dead man… yeah. That’s the stuff. In any case, the thing I want to zero in on is Coldhands as Brandon Stark’s monster. Because of the wording, it is initially unclear if Bran is calling Coldhands a monster or the last greenseer a monster, but Jojen makes it clear when he says “we go with Bran’s monster” in response to a question about whether or not they should follow Coldhands. Coldhands belongs to Bran in some sense.
A few people have speculated that this is because of a time loop – Bran at some point went back into the past and helped create Coldhands, something like that. The idea of a greenseer creating a zombie is obviously something I consider a reasonable possibility, but I am generally hesitant to use time travel as a way to explain mysteries in the books. I believe Martin maybe involving a bit of that, but I feel strongly that he’s going to strictly limit the sort of time travel paradoxes more common to science fiction. Basically, it’s something we can’t completely rule out, but it’s also a bottomless can of worms which quickly turns into wild conspiracy and tinfoil which attributes everything that ever happened to time-traveling Bran. My approach is to look for more logical answers that do not involve time travel first, and if and when Martin shows us Bran affecting the past or skinchanging Bran the Builder, we can draw conclusions based on what we see in regards to how limited time travel is in ASOIAF.
So setting aside the time-travel interpretation of Coldhands being Bran’s monster, what could this mean? I think the most logical answer is that Coldhands is bound to the Stark bloodline in some way, and perhaps to Bran in particular if he is some sort of special chosen one. Most people think the last hero was a Stark in some sense, and probably the Night’s King too, so if Coldhands does go back to the time of the founding of the Night’s Watch and the Long Night, he may well have been created by a Stark or had a duty laid upon him to wait for the promised Stark to come along. If anything like this is true, then Coldhands would be like 8,000 years old, which… kinda makes you feel sorry for the guy.
When I look at Coldhands, what I see is someone who is under some sort of eternal obligation, someone who is in a sense condemned to literally wander the frozen lands for hundreds or even thousands of years waiting for Bran Stark to show up, or perhaps guiding the occasional choices for the new ‘greenseer of the north’ to Bloodraven’s cave to assume the position. Recall that Bloodraven was the Lord Commander when he was supposedly lost on a ranging – perhaps Coldhands had a hand in that.
Think about what it would be like to be Coldhands – it would pretty much suck, right? I mean riding the great elk was cool at first, but really, there isn’t a whole lot to keep you busy with north of the Wall. Coldhands has not been seen by any wildlings that we know of, so he must keep a low profile. What is he doing? I mean again they killed him long ago, and even if long ago is only 80 years ago… that’s 80 years of wandering the tundra, staring at snow. And don’t forget, you’re dead. The savor of food, of sex, of laughter and fellowship – all gone. I have to think Coldhands could put himself out of his misery any time by simply walking into a fire. And yet, he doesn’t. Coldhands persists, faithful as ever, solely dedicated to his mission.
To me, this speaks of either sacrifice or punishment on Coldhands’ part. He’s either condemned to this boooorrrring-ass mission as a way of atoning for some great sin, or he’s the most self-sacrificing dude who ever lived. Speaking in terms of atonement, perhaps he is the Night’s King, chastened and humiliated, somehow compelled by guilt or other means to serve out this lonely watch as recompense for his crimes. My big theory about Azor Ahai is that he was a villainous type – he broke the moon when he forged Lightbringer, according to the legend, and I believe this was responsible for meteors which caused the Long Night. Perhaps that’s who Coldhands is – Azor Ahai the fallen, penitent zombie. I have speculated that Azor Ahai may have even become the Night’s King himself – I’m by no means sold on that, but their symbolism overlaps in some areas and Stannis seems to be impersonating both of them at once, a possible clue about Azor Ahai becoming the Night’s King…. any maybe that’s who Coldhands is.
It’s hard to say for sure without more information, but Coldhands’ current mission could be consistent with someone who has brought low and made to atone for their evil deeds, and the two likely suspects in that scenario would the Night’s King or Azor Ahai. This idea of atonement also fits into the larger theme of the Night’s Watch itself – in fact it is the theme of the Night’s Watch, as they are exiled criminals who atone for their sins by guarding the realms of men. Coldhands has kind of taken this duty to the next level.
The other possibility here is sacrifice, and that’s actually the one I want to focus on. Essentially, if Coldhands is not on his crappy, cold mission because of some evil he himself committed, then he is absolutely making a sacrifice of himself. He’s given up almost everything it means to be human for his eternal, lonely ranging. In this case, he might be connected to the last hero – either the last hero himself or one of his party of O.G. Night’s Watch brothers – because there are thematic clues about the last hero being something of a sacrifice, and because self-sacrifice is perhaps the ultimate in heroic virtue. Jon and Bran are the two characters who parallel the last hero most closely, and both have obviously sacrificed a lot, and probably are not done sacrificing either.
The fact that Coldhands keeps the scarf over his mouth and speaks with a raspy voice could indicate that Coldhands’ has a neck or throat wound of some kind, consistent with a sacrifice. Jon takes a throat wound as well, it should be noted. It’s the classic way to sacrifice animals or even people, as we see in Bran’s weirwoodnet vision of human sacrifice at Winterfell.
In fact, George has made a fairly direct allusion to Jon Snow as a ‘corn king,’ which is a term used to describe the very common mythological archetype of a sacrificed male god or king whose death brings about the turning of the seasons – typically they are sacrificed in the autumn, mimicking the death of the leaves and greenery, and are resurrected in the spring, bringing with them the return of fertility and fecundity. The corn king concept is very important to understand if we want to know what is going on with zombies and resurrection, and with Jon and the last hero and quite possibly Coldhands. That is why George gives us a direct reference to it, one of the most direct shout-outs to external mythology anywhere in ASOIAF. It comes in ADWD, out of the mouth of Mormont’s raven:
He rose and dressed in darkness, as Mormont’s raven muttered across the room. “Corn,” the bird said, and, “King,” and “Snow, Jon Snow, Jon Snow,” That was queer. The bird had never said his full name before, as best Jon could recall.
Jon’s Snow’s corn king status is pretty straightforward – Jon is the corn king whose death and resurrection will hopefully turn the seasons and bring the end of the Long Night, which seems to be about to fall. His death comes right as winter falls, and of course we hope his resurrection will bring a dream of spring. Before we go any farther with this line of analysis, I just want to stress how heavy a bit of foreshadowing this is: George is telegraphing to us that Jon will be resurrected and that that resurrection will help to bring the spring. I mean it’s not a big shocker – most people think Jon is a hero, the special Snowflake – but as corn king, he’s a specific type of hero who is defined by the death and rebirth cycle.
Another role of the corn king is to promote the fertility of the land – his death is a sacrifice which literally causes the earth to be fertile so it can feed the people. That’s something of the role Jon plays with the wildlings in ADWD, where he lets them through the Wall to find food and shelter – and this quote with the raven saying ‘corn king Jon Snow‘ is in fact the beginning of that chapter. The act of feeding the wildlings is the very act he is killed for, so he is indeed sacrificing himself to feed thousands of people. Earlier in ADWD, in the chapter where Jon is laying out his plans to let the wildlings through, the raven also says “Corn. King,” though without Jon’s name added on just yet. In other words, it’s no coincidence the two ‘corn king’ references come in conjunction with Jon’s act of feeding the wildlings… and thus eventually sacrificing himself.
As you can see, the last hero could very easily be a corn king figure, since he brought about the turning of the seasons after they had been a bit stuck for a while, particularly if he died in the process as I am proposing. As a matter of fact, there is big giant flaming red clue encouraging us to associate Jon’s corn king status with the last hero and Azor Ahai – that’s really why I brought this up in the first place. That chapter where Jon lets the wildlings through the Wall, the one where the raven says “corn king Jon Snow,” well, it actually begins with Jon’s Azor Ahai dream, the one where he is defending the Wall alone against the forces of the north which include dead men who scuttle up the ice like spiders, armored in black ice with his Valyrian steel blade burning red in his fist.
This dream is remarkable because it foreshadows Jon’s impending role as some kind of Azor Ahai reborn figure – he has a burning red sword, and later in the dream, he slays his love, Ygritte, just as Azor Ahai slew Nissa Nissa. But it’s also remarkable because it unites the roles of Azor Ahai with that of the last hero – Jon is the Lord Commander of the Night’s Watch, abandoned and alone, fighting the forces of the North, which parallels the idea of the last hero’s companions, dog, and horse dying while he sought for ways to defeat the Others in the cold dead lands.
The potential implication is clear – Azor Ahai and the last hero might be the same person, or closely linked to one another. At the very least, we already know they are parallel legends, stories of a hero who fought of the darkness of the Long Night with a magic sword. So what we have here is Jon dreaming of being some combination of Azor Ahai and the last hero, then waking to be labelled a corn king as goes about doing corn king things, feeding the people and eventually getting himself killed. Most importantly, the corn king’s resurrection brings the spring, just like the last hero and Azor Ahai did in ancient day, and just as our Azor Ahai reborn characters like Jon and Dany are expected to do.
This is why I say it’s critical to understand the basics of the corn king – because George has based his Long Night savior figures at least in part on the various corn king figures in world mythology. As an aside, I will just tell you that there are many, many myths and legends based around the turning of the seasons, and since George has chosen to make the cycle of the seasons a focal point of his world building and storyline, he is in fact incorporating elements of many of these world myths, of which the corn king ideas are but one. Another great one is tale of the abducted moon maiden Persephone, and you can read all about that on my friend sweetsunray’s blog, Mythological Weave of Ice and Fire.
All this corn king stuff might seem like a bit of a side-track from zombies, but it’s actually just the opposite – this is the deeper context in which we must think about resurrected people in the story, particularly Jon and my idea of the zombie last hero. Usually a corn king figure is reborn afresh in the spring, however, George has given us a literally resurrected corn king instead. Using a zombie in place of the reborn corn king is a kind of a dark twist on the classic tale, but then, that’s George R. R. Martin. Instead of looking for a hero to save us from the zombie apocalypse, we are actually looking for a zombie hero to save us from the apocalypse. We need Ghost-Jon, the King of Corn.
by Shaneesja (DeviantArt)
So the corn king relates to zombies and Jon Snow and the last hero; does it relate to Coldhands, Brandon Stark’s monster? I believe it does, whether or not he is the last hero or one of the last hero’s party. We mentioned the possibility that Coldhands is a green man – an undead one, of course – due to the connection of elk riding and generally being a protector of the forest. Well, the green men are based on a particular type of corn king, the archetype known as the “horned god” whose examples include the Celtic Cerrunos, the English Herne the Hunter, the ubiquitous Green Man (who sometimes has branches on his head in place of horns), the Greek Pan, and many others. As far away as India we find him – his name in the Rig Veda is Pashupati, a testament to the proto-indo-european roots of the horned nature god idea. All of these figures have horns or antlers or sometimes branches on their heads, some have green skin or some kind of leafy decoration, they all have something to do with the spirit of male virility and fertility, they are usually thought of as “solar” deities, they all bring fertility to the land and act as protectors of the wood and of nature. Many can speak with animals. Most of all, they are killed and resurrected to bring about the turning of the seasons, because what they are is more or less a personification of the cycle of nature
The Gundestrup Cauldron, ca. 300 BCE, featuring Cerrunos in the center
Essentially, the stag-man is a forest-centric version of the corn king. There are other forest-dwelling or fertility based corn kings which match up most or all of this, but do not have the horns, such as Jack in the Green, Jon Barleycorn, the green-skinned Egyptian death and resurrection god Osiris, who is also a corn god, the Greek Dionysus (who is followed by satyrs, which are always some kind of goat-horned human).
A green man from the Green Man Festival in Crickhowell, Wales, UK
As you can see, some of that is consistent with the little we know of the Sacred Order of Green Men, who are said to have antlers on their heads, green skin or green clothing, and who are said to keep eternal watch over the Isle of Faces. I mean the green man is pretty famous, whose green, leafy face can be found decorating cathedrals and old buildings all over Europe, so calling these folks “green men” is basically not all that subtle. The children of the forest wears vines and leaves, and they certainly seem to have a strong connection to the green men on the Isle of Faces.
Like the rest of the corn king lore, the horned god ideas are also consistent with the idea of a last hero who is resurrected to end the Long Night and bring the spring. Said another way, both the last hero and the green men seem to be drawing from related mythology, and this has to make us wonder about a connection between the last hero and the green men. I would suggest that Coldhands may be the confluence of these ideas. I believe he is at the very least a prototype for making a last hero, a skinchanger zombie, and he reminds Bran, and us, of the green men in certain ways. Coldhands rides his elk and keeps eternal watch over the frozen north kind of like a green man exiled to the frozen dead lands.
The entire thing is like an twisted version of the story of the fertility god wandering a fertile land; Coldhands is like a corpse version of a fertility god wandering the cold and almost-dead lands. He still protects the woods that remain, however, and is obviously in communion with the animals that remain as well. He’s also dedicated to fighting the Others, so we know he is still on team green, deep down. This is actually pretty close to the English folktale of Herne the Hunter, a ghost version of the horned god who rides a horse and guards the woods in spectral form. In fact, if Martin is intending Coldhands to play into the green man / horned god ideas as I propose, then Herne the Hunter is the figure we should look to – he’s the clearly undead version of the horned god.
Besides being dead, Herne is associated with midnight and winter, which is another good match for Coldhands. If Coldhands’s mission is one of atonement as we speculated a moment ago, this would be highly consistent with Herne the Hunter, whose tale has him committing some great sin and then hanging himself from an oak for fear of shame and disgrace, only to become a ghostly guardian of the woods after his death. I mentioned before that Coldhands may have a neck or throat injury based on the scarf he wears and his voice – the exact description was “his voice rattled in his throat, as thin and gaunt and he was.” Coldhands is dead, so it makes sense his voice would ‘rattle,’ like a death rattle, and it could be yet another match for Herne and his strangulation form the oak tree. Finally, we know Martin is thinking about Herne the Hunter, because Herne gets a clear shout-out in the form of a Westerosi legend about a pair of brothers called Harlon the Hunter and Herdon of the Horne who took to wife a woodswitch and built the castle at Horn Hill in the Reach. That’s why their descendants, House Tarly, have a striding huntsman, red on green, as their sigil. Naturally, the first person to meet Coldhands, our Herne the Hunter impressionist, is Samwell Tarly – it’s almost like he is meeting his ancient ancestor. And the first word Coldhands says to Sam is “brother!”
Herne the Hunter
Party on, Garth… Party on, Bobby B
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There’s actually an even more prominent allusion to Cerrunos and his horned cousins than the green men in ASOIAF, and it too is specifically associated with the theme of sacrificing the horned god to turn the seasons, and therefore may have something to do with the last hero and the Long Night. Here I speak of Garth the Green, the legendary founding father of many lineages in the Reach (and perhaps even the Starks, according to some tales). He’s also called Garth Greenhand, or Garth Greenhair, or the Green God, and much like the Green Men, he too is thought in some tales to have a stag’s antlers on his head, as well as green skin. He is actually a perfect incarnation of the horned god, causing maidens and the land alike to be fertile and fruitful in an almost over-the-top way – Garth is said to have made even barren women or old crones fertile with a touch.
Garth’s royal line of Gardener kings wore crowns of vines and flowers and sat in a living tree throne called the Oakenseat, which supposedly grew from an oak Garth the Green himself planted. To me, that sounds suspiciously like greenseer activity. The Oakenseat was destroyed in the ancient past, so we have no way of knowing the truth of the matter, but the general idea of a living wooden throne certainly has our attention. Garth also supposedly planted the three intertwined weirwoods in the godswood at Highgarden known as “The Three Singers,” which is a clue linking Garth to greenseers and their magic. Garth is referred to as a god in some tales, and in TWOIAF we read that:
A few of the oldest tales of Garth Greenhand present us with a considerably darker deity, one who demanded blood sacrifice from his worshippers to ensure a bountiful harvest. In some stories the green god dies every autumn when the trees lose their leaves, only to be reborn with the coming of spring. This version of Garth is largely forgotten.
This version of Garth this largely consistent with the horned god archetype, is what he is. He’s a signature corn king, proving beyond a doubt that the horned god and corn king mythology is woven into the fiber of the story. We can’t help but notice that Garth is more or less indistinguishable from the green men and wonder if perhaps Garth was a green man, or if perhaps the green men descend from him. The stories of both Garth the Green and the Sacred Order of Green Men are dated back to the time before the Long Night, so they could well be connected.
The corn king idea of sacrificing and resurrecting Garth to turn the seasons, given to us so clearly here, causes us to wonder again if Garth and the green men have some connection to the last hero. The story of Garth’s sacrifice and resurrection may be telling us a story about horned people having something to do with ending the Long Night – specifically, a story about horned people being sacrificed to help end the Long Night.
My notion of skinchanger zombies fits nicely here, explaining just how human sacrifice might actually lead to the capability to defeat the Others. Instead of sacrificing humans to harvest their magic as we have seen elsewhere, this could have been more like volunteerism – green men volunteering to become skinchanger zombies. Elsewise, someone might have raised green men slain in battle with the Others. If Coldhands were to be a green man, his origin story might be something along these lines.
In fact… we just talked about Sam Tarly’s ancestors, Herndon of the Horne and Harlon the Hunter, as a clear shout-out to Herne the Hunter, but what I didn’t mention is that in TWOIAF, we learn that Herndon and Harlon were one of the “twelve notable descendants” of Garth the Green. That’s right, the Herne the Hunter ideas which fit Coldhands so well are directly tied to an ancestry from Garth the Green, the horned god who is sacrificed to turn the seasons. Herne the Hunter was also associated with a particular oak tree, called “Herne’s Oak,” just as garth was associated with a specific oak tree, the Oakenseat. My my my. Finally and somewhat humorously, we find that the greatest Gardener King in the history of the Reach was named Garth Goldenhand. Much ado is made about “hands of gold are always cold,” if you recall, so perhaps George is making a hands of gold / hands of cold joke here if Coldhands is descended from Garth or the Green men. Golden hands comes from Garth, in other words, so perhaps Coldhands does too.
There might be a clue about a connection between green men and the last hero to be found in the idea of Bran the Builder having possibly descended from Garth the Green. Another one of those twelve notable children of Garth the Green is someone called “Brandon of the Bloody Blade,” who according to some legends in the Reach may be an ancestor of Brandon the Builder. It’s all very old folktale and legend of course, but the suggestion here is of a connection between House Stark and Garth the Green, who might have been a green man. If the last hero was a Stark, he may be descended of the green men too. We’ll have more to say about his in part 2 of our zombie extravaganza, where will we will have a look at the myth of the King of Winter.
In fact, many of the Houses of the Reach and even the Lannisters are thought to descend from Garth, and thus potentially from green men. If only we knew what green men are! Are they closer to humans, children of the forest, or something else entirely? Do they really have horns on their head like a satyr or a stag man, or just very creative hats? Or are they perhaps skinchangers who ride elk, like Coldhands? Could they have been some of the first First Men to whom the children taught their magic?
If I were to try to narrow it down a bit, I would say that they are probably not children, or else they wouldn’t use the word “men” to them. If they are a cousin to the children, a different type of elf species, perhaps taller, that would really be something. I really want to believe in some sort of awesome Cerrunos-like beings, but the more conservative or skeptical option would be that the green men are human skinchangers or greenseers. However, the idea that they have lived essentially isolated and self-sufficient on the Isle of Faces for 8,000 years or more would make a bit more sense if they were long-lived beings like the children who did not breed very often or in large numbers.
Here’s the thing: memories of the stag-man are to be found all throughout Westeros, even as far north as the lands beyond the Wall! As Jon is letting the wildlings through the Wall, doing his corn king thing, he sees the fearsome men of the frozen shore riding bone chariots with hounds as big as dire wolves – a bad lot, those, Tormund says – and we get these lines:
Some of the men wore antlers on their hats, and some wore walrus tusks. The two sorts did not love each other, he soon gathered.
It could be nothing, or it could be something done in memory of horned green men. Additionally, there was a wildling King Beyond the Wall in ancient day called “the Horned Lord.” He led an attack on Westeros, allegedly using sorcery to pass by the Wall. He’s also the guy who gave us the famous ASOIAF-truism “sorcery is a sword without a hilt. There is no safe way to grasp it,” so it seems that the “Horned Lord” was associated with sorcery and magic, which is consistent with the idea of the green men being able to use magic. The Wildlings named a constellation after him, The Horned Lord (which is called “the Stallion” in Westeros), so he must have been an important dude… or perhaps the idea of horned lords was important, and he was just playing into a powerful idea which already existed.
The wildlings live in something of a cultural time capsule north of the Wall, so any cultural beliefs they have in common with people from Westeros proper most likely originated before the Wall was built. The horned lord ideas fit this pattern – they are found in the very oldest legends from the Reach, and so even though the Reach is very far away from the Frozen Shore, this could be one of the old First Men cultural ideas carried over into wildling culture, dating back to a time before the Wall cut off the wildlings from the rest of Westeros. That’s about the approximate time when the Sacred Order of Green Men was established and when Garth was said to live.
By the way, “The Horned Lord” is also the particular name that practitioners of Wicca use to name their version of the horned god – the full title is “the Horned Lord of Death and Resurrection” – so we can see that what George is doing is referencing various types of horned gods and corn kings in various places… and there’s more to come!
Now if Coldhands or the last hero is connected to the green men, it could mean the green men actually came north and left a more direct impression on the people there. Osha the wildling does say that the children and the giants “and the other old races” are still alive north of the Wall, and we know she is right about children and giants. Other old races? Could these include green men?
Of course, we’ve actually been seeing horned folk front and center from day one – or at least, people who have a strong recollection of horned folk. I mean, it’s a fact that somebody with antlers on their head sure made a big impression on the Durrandon Storm Kings, who have been wearing antlered helms and antlered crowns for thousands of years. The Storm Lords of House Baratheons picked up this habit when Orys Baratheon defeated the last Storm King Argilac Durrandon, took his daughter to wife, and took on all the trappings of the Storm Kings. That’s why we see Robert and Renly gallopping around in antlered helms, and why Stannis has a black stag in his sigil. Renly goes further, wearing green armor – he’s called “the green knight” when he is first introduced to us in AGOT.
Ser Duncan the Tall vs. Lyonel Baratheon, by Chase Stone
Where did they get this image? The Stormlanders don’t have any references to Garth the Green in their folklore, but they have the same taste in headgear, it would seem. And they are definitely cut from the same mythological cloth: Martin hangs an allusion to the horned god mythology on Robert in AGOT as Ned lies delirious in the dungeons of King’s Landing:
He found himself thinking of Robert more and more. He saw the King as he had been in the flower of his youth, tall and handsome, his great antlered helm on his head, his warhammer in hand, sitting his horse like a horned god. He heard his laughter in his eyes, blue and clear as mountain lakes.
The idea of sacrificing the horned god at the end of summer is present with the Baratheons too, as Robert and Renly are both associated with being summer kings who are sacrificed as winter draws close. Robert’s reign consists of a long summer and he comes to Winterfell talking of the rich fertility of the south, from the food to the wine to the women – a scene which is broken down in detail by sweetsunray in her chthonic cycle essays. Robert is also mimicking the fertility aspect of Garth and the horned god, spreading his royal oats everywhere he can. Meanwhile, Renly’s warriors are literally dubbed “the knights of summer” by Catelyn, and Renly’s armor is described thusly before he is killed: “a deep green, the green of leaves in a summer wood, so dark it drank the candlelight.” That’s a nice way of evoking summer while also perhaps foreshadowing something darker. This description also associates Renly the green knight with the woods… just where a green man belongs.
Robert’s and Renly’s deaths are, of course, both laden with appropriate symbolism. Just before he is killed by the boar, Robert is hunting a white hart – a stag – in the Kingwood. The idea of hunting the symbol of your own house symbolizes Robert’s own self-destruction, which he achieved by getting himself too drunk to survive the encounter with the boar and by essentially ignoring the ills of the kingdom and outsourcing the duty of governance irresponsibly. Ned remarks on this upon leaving Robert’s death chamber, saying:
“Even the truest knight cannot protect a king against himself.”
Robert aims to sacrifice a stag and becomes the sacrificed stag himself, in other words. After he does, summer is over, the good times are over, and everyone starts dying, burning and starving. Robert was also wearing green clothing – his hunting greens – when he was wounded, and wore them until his death.
Renly’s death is even more apropos of the horned god, because he is slashed across the throat like a sacrifice right at the the moment that he is putting on his green armor and antlered helm. All the lights gutter out, and Renly’s last word is “cold…” which could be to put us in mind of the end of summer and the Long Night, the appropriate time to sacrifice the horned god. Similarly, as Robert lay dying in a very warm room, he says “Gods, why is it so cold in here,” and of course Jon the corn king never felt the fourth knife, only the cold; so this looks like a depiction of winter’s onset at the death of the horned god or corn king, as the legend demands.
Adding to this imagery, Catelyn thinks to herself in the aftermath of Renly’s murder that “Death came in that door and blew the life out of him as swift as the wind snuffed out his candles,” which is a nice way to tie Renly’s death to the fall of an evil darkness. He was killed by a shadow-being with a “shadowsword,” after all. Recall his armor being a green so dark it drank the candle light – everything about this death scene is associated with snuffing out light and bringing darkness. Recall also that the stag man is typically a solar character – note that Renly is all green and gold – so killing the sun is implied here anyway just by killing the stag man. And killing the sun, of course, is more or less the theme of the Long Night.
This is one of my favorite scenes in the books, as dark as it is, because the way Martin worked the sacrifice of the horned god scene into his fiction here is absolutely stupendous. This is a scene that people alive on earth four thousand years ago would understand in a visceral, intrinsic way, and that’s not an overstatement.
The Baratheons are proving to be excellent horned gods so far, and don’t think resurrection is left out of the mix – oh no, not by a long shot. See, I told you this green man / horned god stuff had something to do with zombies! Here is Robert’s death scene, from AGOT:
“By rights, he should be dead already. I have never seen a man cling to life so fiercely.”
“My brother was always strong,” Lord Renly said. “Not wise, perhaps, but strong.” In the sweltering heat of the bedchamber, his brow was slick with sweat. He might have been Robert’s ghost as he stood there, young and dark and handsome. “
It’s almost like Renly is showing us Robert’s ghost leaving his dying body and standing over his own corpse. And in ACOK, after Robert is safely in the grave, we get this description of King Renly from Catelyn when she finds him holding a tourney on the road to King’s Landing:
In their midst, watching and laughing with his young queen by his side, sat a ghost in a golden crown. Small wonder the lords gather around him with such fervor, she thought, he is Robert come again.
So twice now we have seen Renly called a ghostly version of Robert the Horned God, and here in this quote he is specifically associated with a resurrected Robert. He’s a ghostly, resurrected horned god, just the fellow we are after. He even allies with Highgarden, the former seat of Garth’s royal line of Gardener Kings, now ruled by House Tyrell, and his stag crown is worked in the colors of Highgarden to symbolize his union with Margarie Tyrell. In other words, the ghostly green resurrected horned god Renly is specifically tied back to Garth by his union with Highgarden.
Best of all, after Renly dies in his “emerald castle,” he himself is “resurrected,” in a manner of speaking. You’ll recall that Garlan Tyrell dons Renly’s green antlered armor at the Battle of the Blackwater and saves the day masquerading as Renly’s Ghost. Davos hears the story of the end of the battle in ASOS:
“The Lannisters had taken him from the flank, and his fickle bannermen had abandoned him by the hundreds in the hour of his greatest need. “King Renly’s shade was seen as well,” the captain said, “slaying right and left as he led the lion lord’s van. It’s said his green armor took a ghostly glow from the wildfire, and his antlers ran with golden flames.”
Alright, that’s cool, now he really is a resurrected green horned god. And consider who is in side the armor: Garlan, a Tyrell whose name is derivative of Garth (Garlan, Garth). This simply adds to the horned god symbolism and anchors resurrected Renly back to Garth the Green once again. It also implies using skinchanging to bodysnatch, like Bran does with Hodor, as we have one person wearing another’s “skin” and masquerading as them. That could be trouble. But what’s with those fiery golden antlers? Is this going to turn into an Azor Ahai thing again?
Garth Vader
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This is Ser Dontos recounting the tale of resurrected Renly to Sansa in ACOK:
They plunged through Stannis like a lance through a pumpkin, every man of them howling like some demon in steel. And do you know who led the vanguard? Do you? Do you? Do you? ”
“Robb?” It was too much to be hoped, but …
“It was Lord Renly! Lord Renly in his green armor, with the fires shimmering off his golden antlers! Lord Renly with his tall spear in his hand! They say he killed Ser Guyard Morrigen himself in single combat, and a dozen other great knights as well. It was Renly, it was Renly, it was Renly! Oh! the banners, darling Sansa! Oh! to be a knight!”
A fiery hart and a fiery heart.
A fiery warrior leading an army of demons conforms very well with my interpretation of Azor Ahai as a villain who brought on the Long Night. Most importantly, this resurrected burning stag man which Renly has become is simply a mimicking of the burning stag symbolism of Stannis, who is of course playing the role of Azor Ahai. There’s actually a clever pun to be found in Stannis’s sigil, because a stag can also be called a hart, and therefore his sigil is actually saying the same thing in two different ways: it’s a fiery hart, and a fiery heart. It’s clever wordplay, to be sure, but it’s sending us a very, very important message – the burning stag man fiery hart is intrinsically connected to the fiery heart of R’hllor, symbol of fire magic and Azor Ahai.
The image that Renly and Stannis are showing us is a fiery horned lord version of Azor Ahai, but one who is a corpse in some sense. Again I say this makes perfect sense in terms of mythology – the Azor Ahai and Last Hero stories are all about the fixing the broken cycle of the seasons, and that’s exactly what horned god and corn king mythology is about – turning the seasons. The horned god does this by dying and being resurrected, and thus we see all of this resurrection and zombie action around the last hero and Azor Ahai. Now that we have a better idea of what the stag-man implies, we can see that this is another clue about Garth and / or the green men being wrapped up in this whole Azor Ahai / last hero / ending the Long Night business.
I believe that’s also why George makes such a big deal of the dragon’s horns, even showing us musical horns made from dragon horns, just as other animals’ horns are. Azor Ahai is strongly tied to dragons, and so I think the idea of Azor Ahai the fiery horned lord basically overlaps with the idea of a horned dragon person.
The 19th century image of a Sabbatic Goat, created by Eliphas Levi.
George is also taking advantage of the fact that the modern Christian image of Satan as a goat horned or goat-legged devil is essentially a corrupted version of the classical horned god idea, and this was done primarily as a way to tarnish pagan religions with evil in the eye of believers. Eli Levi’s baphomet, created in 1855, is another example of a darker, more occult twist on the horned god archetype, and I believe George is dipping into some of this mythology to create Azor Ahai. Baphomet is actually not as nefarious as he looks, and there’s a lot of interesting ideas there about balance between male and female, higher awareness, knowledge, and learning. That’s a subject which we shall have to expand on another time, but it’s useful to point out that there is plenty of precedent for a darker or even demonic version of the horned god, as we see with Stannis and resurrected Renly (and there are plenty of references to Stannis worshipping a demon god as well to complement this idea).
House Morrigen: a black crow on storm green
Returning to that scene from the Battle of the Blackwater we just quoted, we have last hero symbolism! Consider the deeds of fiery resurrected Renly – he slew Guyard Morrigen in single combat and a dozen other great knights. Guyard is leading a group of twelve, plus one, just like the last hero and his twelve. Guyard himself would be the last hero then, and his symbolism lines up. He is called Guyard the Green, a former member of Renly’s own rainbow guard, meaning that he’s a green knight too, like Renly was before he was killed. House Morrigen’s castle in the Stormlands is named Crow’s Nest, and their sigil is a black crow in flight on storm green.
In other words, Guyard is a green knight and a black crow who leads a group of twelve like the last hero, very suggestive of a green man joining the Night’s Watch and becoming a crow last hero. Unfortunately, the last hero dies, oh no! What to do! Time to make a green man zombie.
At this point, the idea of Coldhands being an undead green man isn’t looking so far-fetched, huh?
This grouping of twelve things being led by a thirteenth thing is what I like to call ‘last hero math’ – Guyard is a great knight, worth of Renly’s Rainbow Guard, and his died along with a dozen other ‘great knights.’ This math is always around the last hero character in a given metaphor, as we see with Guyard the Green in this battle. We see the same thing thing when Renly is playing the role of green man to be sacrificed – you’ll recall the line from that scene “Death came in that door and blew the life out of him as swift as the wind snuffed out his candles.” By ‘his candles,’ Cat is referring to the twelve iron braziers in Renly’s tent which transformed it into an “emerald castle, alive with light.” Renly’s death is specifically likened to the snuffing out of a candle, and then compared to twelve other candles, so it’s the same thing – a group of twelve, lead by a thirteenth, who all die. As a further reading exercise, look for any example you can find of twelve things with a thirteenth thing that is somehow set apart. The word “dozen” is thrown around a lot, but it’s that extra thirteenth thing which makes the pattern.
So, Guyard and Renly are both playing the role of green man last hero when they die, surrounded by a dozen companion of a sort. Who kills the last hero? It’s the same person in both scenes – someone playing the role of a demonic, undead Azor Ahai. You’ll recall that it was Stannis’s shadow, complete with a shadowsword version of lightbringer, who murdered Renly when Renly was playing the role of green man. Guyard the Green is killed by resurrected Renly, a fiery horned god with a demonic host who, again, is just mimicking the burning stag symbolism of Stannis, a clear Azor Ahai symbol.
What does this tell us? Well, Azor Ahai and the last hero seem to be fighting or killing each other, and there might be some kind of cycle going on, because we see Renly play both roles, a last hero being sacrificed and an undead Azor Ahai killing the last hero. I have proposed that the connection between Azor Ahai and the last hero might have been a father-son or brother-brother relationship, and an adversarial one at that where the one opposes the other, which might be what we are seeing here.
Robert’s death actually plays into the pattern of the green horned man being killed by a horned Azor Ahai too – he’s wearing green when he dies, and he is killed by a “black devil” of a boar which Robert says must’ve been sent by the gods to punish him. Azor Ahai the wild boar? One thinks of TV-show Renly’s joke about Azor Ahai’s smoke and salt making him sound like roast ham, and chuckle all you want (it’s a good joke), but the key thing here is the idea of the “black devil sent by the gods” killing the green man, with the boar’s tusk being similar to a horn.
House Morrigen from which Guyard hails is a great example of how George uses the sigils and history of each House to support important metaphors in the story. The entire history of House Morrigen is built around this moment when Guyard plays the last hero in a metaphor, a black and green crow leading group of twelve, only to be killed by an Azor Ahai figure. To whit: the only two historical members of House Morrigen that we know of get killed by things which symbolize Azor Ahai – dragons and people who are the blood of the dragon. Dickon Morrigen was killed by Queen Rhaenys’s dragon Meraxes at the battle known as “The Last Storm.” That’s also where Argilac, the last of the Durrandon Storm Kings, met his fate, reinforcing the metaphor of a dying stag man at that scene. Argilac was in turn slain by a dragon-blooded person, the Targaryen bastard Orrys Baratheon, who then became a stag man himself… only, he would be a dragon-stag man at that point.
Then we have a Morrigen who left his name behind to become Ser Damon the Devout of the Warrior’s Sons, only to be killed in a trial of the seven going against Maegor I Targaryen, called Maegor the Cruel. All together, we have three dead crows of House Morrigen, killed by demonic fiery stag Renly, actual golden dragon Meraxes, and the most monstrous Targaryen in history, Maegor the Cruel. All of this history only serves to reinforce the idea that the last hero is apparently supposed to be killed by Azor Ahai.
But here’s the important part – the last hero is famous for winning, not losing. All of these scenes with the green man last hero being butchered signaled a loss for their side – they are not heroic sacrifices to achieve victory. I believe the answer is simple: the death of the last hero is merely one of the first steps in his quest to end the Long Night. According to my theory, the last hero has to die so he can become a skinchanger zombie, and only then is when he can face the others and end the Long Night. It’s the resurrection of the horned god and the corn king that bring the spring.
In fact, what best describes what we are seeing here with a horned Azor Ahai killing the green last hero is a cycle of two horned gods killing one another, and that’s no accident. Some versions of the horned god see him as a pair of brothers or a father and son who kill each other every six months – the most famous version of this is the Oak and Holly King. You could write a whole essay on those two, but the point is that they are like two aspects of the same god, and yet also like rival brothers, with the Holly King representing winter and the Oak King summer. Their cycle of fraternal deicide is yet another depiction of the cycle of the seasons by means of a dying god.
The Holly King and Oak King.
It plays out nicely with Stannis and Renly – fiery, demonic Stannis kills green Renly, and then fiery “resurrected Renly” returns with a host of steel demons to defeat Stannis’s forces at the Battle of the Blackwater. It goes both ways, too – Robert the Horned God killed the dragon man, Rhaegar, on the Trident. Robert was called the “demon of the trident however,” so the green horned people can be demons too. At the Blackwater, the wildfire unleashed by Tyrion – who is on the same side as resurrected Renly – was called the “jade demon” which seemed to have hands and whips of green fire, which is the same idea. All of this points towards a cycle, with both types of horned gods being killed and resurrected. It’s ASOIAF, folks: everyone dies. The important part is that a lot of things rise harder and stronger afterward.
I’ll have more to say about this idea of rival horned gods in the future, but for now the thing to take away here is that the last hero and Azor Ahai are both tied to this collective horned god mythology, and that the events which surrounded their deaths and resurrections seem to be right at the heart of the story of the Long Night and the War for the Dawn.
To sum up what we’ve just learned, we can see that Martin is working the theme of the horned god and the corn king in to the story in several intertwined ways. The idea of the turning of the seasons being personified as a dying and resurrected fertility god is a natural match for Martin’s world, where the turning of the seasons is kind of a big fucking deal, to quote Joe Biden. It make sense to align the sacrificed fertility god who is resurrected to bring the spring with characters who undergo a death and resurrection process in the process of bringing an end to the Long Night such as the last hero and presumably Jon Snow. While it’s not conclusive, Coldhands does seem to fit into this line of symbolism as well, which is why I think he might be a green man, or one of the last hero’s party or both, and at the very least, a resurrected skinchanger or greenseer who ranges the haunted forest.
So what about those twelve companion of the Last Hero? What about the original brothers of the Night’s Watch? Could they have been zombies too?
But of course… But we are out of time for today, so in three days this topic will rise from the dead and give birth to another podcast, titled “Sacred order of Green Zombies 2: The Undead Night’s Watch. It’s already written and recorded, and was original part of this script, but instead of releasing a three-hour plus podcast, I took out my zombie-slaying sword and cut it in twain. Part 2 will actually be a lot shorter, so look out for that by moonrise on the third day.
I originally set out to write about zombie skinchangers only, not green men, but I kept running into green men and horned god references, as you’ve seen, and there are more yet to come in the next episode . I even tried to split it into a zombie episode and a green men episode, but there was no keeping them separate – their spirits had co-mingled too long. As I said, I believe the resurrected fertility god ideas are the lens through which we must view Jon’s resurrection and impending zombie-hood, and the context in which we must understand the last hero and the problem of ending the long night. And that’s why I’ve given you my thoughts on zombies and the last hero AND the Sacred Order of Green Men at the same time – because they belong together.
See you in three days, and if any crows ask you for corn, don’t give them any.
As always, a deep debt of gratitude is owed to our Patreon supporters who fuel the fires of Mythical Astronomy. We’ve started having pre-episode chats on the topics for upcoming podcasts and it’s been a lot of fun, so that’s one of the things you can look forward to if you choose to join our patreon campaign. As always, thanks to Animals as Leaders for providing the music to our show – their new album The Madness of Many just came out, and it’s awesome, of course, so go check it out. A huge thank you to Martin Lewis, who did the vocal performances podcast version of this episode, with an assist from the Amethyst Koala. Martin is currently performing chapters from the first novel, A Game of Thrones, on his Facebook page, “Echoes of Ice and Fire,” so check that out, and you will recognize him from our joint podcast with History of Westeros on the Great Empire of the Dawn, which he did the vocals for as well.
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50 thoughts on “The Last Hero and the King of Corn”
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Kerry Garrigan
Awesome. I wanted to point out that two cool things I noticed. One: Storm Gods are often associated with Horned Animals (bull/stag/goat) and Oak Trees (look at the similarities between Thor and Robert- virility/appetite/temper) and the Oaks bring us back to Garth the Green/Gardener. Second, Bran the Builder helping to build Storms End (a name similar to Winter Fell) shows us that not only has stark and barathdon/durrandon been connected a very long time, but also gives credence to the descendant of Garth theory. After all, why would a Northern hero go visit the storm lands and go back to the North. More likely a hero starting out in the south, the Reach, going firth on his own journey/quest through the south (storm lands) before turning North. Bran coming from the reach and the Garth the Green God/horned God symbols could also be how Duran got involved with the Horned God imagery to begin with (especially since he had managed to piss off the local Storm/sky/sea gods and might need a new allegiance.!
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I know this post was a while ago, but I one recently found this blog. I was thinking about this post recently and noticed something that might be relevant, considering this:
“Stannis is basically an imposter Azor Ahai with a fake Lightbringer”
I wonder if this reference to the Small Council’s attempt to defame him as a cuckold is also a reference to his “AA impostor” status:
“Selyse has given me horns, and tied a fool’s bells to the end of each.”
We’ve seen fool parodies many times in the series. Ser Dontos, for example, is made to become a fool as a mockery of a knight. Is Stannis the equivalent for Azor Ahai?
Regarding the fact he says Selyse did it, was she the one who started all this stuff? I believe she brought Melisandre to Dragonstone. If I understand that rightly she would be the one who set Stannis up to become fool-AA.
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Great Elk
This was a fantastic read/listen. Lot’s of good stuff in here, I particularly enjoyed your take on Coldhands and Jon’s resurrection. I have to admit, the Bloodstone Compendium went a little over my head.
Now this project is far more accessible, which is a good thing. Looking forward to reading. the rest to Green Zombie series.
One suggestion: You might want to add timestamps to your podcast, to make it easier to revisit/jump to specific sections of your text.
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Luc, it’s been a long time! (And I apologize in advance for the length, but I tried to edit it and the little monster only grew):
About Gregor’s creation, from Cersei’s AFFC chapters:
“There had been another storm last night, a savage one. The rain had come down in black sheets for hours.”
“Until this storm has passed, I want your ships crewed and on the water.”
Wasn’t Frankenstein created during a storm—a spark of electricity gave him… life after Dr. Frankenstein put several people’s body parts in/on him? The series only mentions the serious storms: the ones that try to destroy Storm’s End, the one that killed Steffon and Cassana and “produced” Patchface, the one that happened on the night Daenerys was born. For a good effect: ice (water) + fire (lighting). So, maybe Gregor’s literally Frankenstein’s monster.
Thoros isn’t a greenseer, but maybe he has green dreams?
I know a lot of readers think magic is powerful because of the return of the dragons, but I think this is a bit paradoxical, since dragons are magical beings:
Q: “Why is magic back?”
A: “Because the dragons are back.”
Q: “Why are the dragons back?”
A: “Because magic is back.”
Q: “Why—?”
A: “Shut up.”
I digress. But the point is, since back in 210ish AL a bunch of people were using magic: Bloodraven (even if his glamour wasn’t magic, he was at least warging to fulfill his duties as spymaster), Shiera, Mad Danelle; Aerys I was studying it. Also, the constant wildling attempts to bypass the Wall seem to imply that the Others were up and about as well—and they are, as far as we know, magical in nature. Magic was weak, and the idea that the dragons brought it back implies that it simply wasn’t there, when it’s clear it was. Not to mention that from Qarth to Asshai it was pretty strong.
“One bit of speculation I will throw out here – what if the original purpose of the ‘last kiss,’ which is given to people as soon as they die, was to resurrect people”
The idea isn’t farfetched. The COTF die and think they become part of the trees. The Ironborn are more than happy to become fish food…
Another difference I noticed about the between the ice and fire zombies is the fact that the fire ones are pretty easy to hurt and more functional, as if they still live, whereas the ice wights are slow, clumsy, but very vicious when on attack mode (except on the show, where they’re Olympics athletes), a bit hard to hurt and more, er, resistant (see how long it took Jon to kill Othor). I don’t remember if it’s mentioned if Beric/Stoneheart smell, but the hand Ser Alliser takes to KL rots and withers after some time; similarly, Othor and his friend don’t reek, as Sam pointed out.
Beric waking up with the taste of fire in his mouth is interesting; Tormund says something about slaying the cold, as if the wights are the embodiment of it. I can’t wait for Jon to wake up and tell someone that his mouth tastes of ice or fire or if he just feels like he put his finger in the socket. As for Stoneheart, I wonder if the fact that she spent three days in the river had something to do with how broken she is: maybe she’d crossed the light and the last kiss forcefully brought her back, or something metaphysically similar? Also, Beric says he doesn’t remember much of his life, but what does remember of the moments between dying and being brought back?
About Jon: you raised some really good points, but I’m going to focus on:
– No, not Ghost! Kill anyone, even those stupid dragons, but don’t kill the wolves! No!
– I’ve always thought that MMD’s ritual went wrong when Jorah walked into the tent with Daenerys: she did warn Daenerys to keep everybody out of the tent, and Melisandre also says something about sacrificing kids (Shireen is so doomed).
– I believe the skinchanging is a way to create a powerful vessel to store a soul: if Jon goes into Ghost’s body—and there’s a chance that Ghost’s actually powerful enough to keep his spirit from overriding Jon’s (after all, he opened his eyes as soon as they were found, and kind of instructed Jon on where to find him)—, perhaps Ghost is, I don’t know, teaching Jon how to be a… well, Jon is going to die a boy and be reborn a scary SOB King of Winter.
– About the Lazarus imagery: I don’t remember if I saw a movie/cartoon or if I read it, but I think he spent four days dead before Jesus resurrected him. So, perhaps Jon will spend four days dead, warging Ghost. Cat spent three and grew a bit crazy, but she wasn’t a skinchanger, so it must factor in.
“This is about creating the ideal person to journey into the cold, dead lands and confront the Others”
Okay, we’re in GEOTD territory: I hope you’re on the “BSE (aka AA) forced AE (aka NN), his sister, to wed him, and then he killed her” camp: let’s say that AA killed NN, regretted it and then tried to bring her back. She came back wrong—like Lady Stoneheart, and fled after destroying some things (and people) in her path, and he felt like he had no choice but to fix his mistake: he creates/forges Dawn and sails the world, becoming the Dayne/Hightower/Stark/whatever forefather with his tiger-woman wife AND the last hero. Or maybe not, seems like an awful lot of things for a single man to do in such a short time.
About Coldhands possibly being the last hero: back then, I found it interesting that GRRM kind of denied that the night king, Lann and Brandon were real figures that have lived for millennia. But he ignored the last hero. Because, if it means something, the last hero isn’t alive—but he isn’t dead-and-gone either.
“Jon is going to become a resurrected skinchanger precisely because he will be the man to confront the Others, the new last hero for a new Long Night which is surely coming”
The prince that was promised, the owner of the song of ice and fire, etc. 🙂
“This is the theory in a nutshell – the Last Hero was a skinchanger or greenseer who became a zombie in order to defeat the Others”
Seemingly unrelated, but here it goes: how right do you think the show is about how the Night’s King was made/the Others were created? Because, if the COTF created him and he got an affinity with ice, perhaps they tried the same on another man—and since obsidian is frozen fire, and we already had a receptacle for fire, it left fire in the equation… the new man would be more than warm enough to act as radar for the wights (Old Nan says the wights smelled his hot blood) and, at the same, fend off the harsh conditions (he can sleep, he can eat ≠ he needs to eat, he needs to sleep). Also, isn’t it odd that the wights couldn’t gang on him, take him down or something, like disemboweling him or ripping him to shreds?
“Half-corpse Azor Ahai, in other words”
Soulless 13th Lord Commander with his corpse bride…
As I said before, storm is ice + fire. As a descendant of House Durrandon, Stannis is thought to be AA—I wonder if the GEOTD also had a descendant in the form of Durran Godsgrief…
“Beric isn’t a stag man, but he is sworn to one”
Houses Dondarrion and Baratheon must have intermarried a lot, so the Dondarrions have a drop of Durrandon blood, too. Also, it’s interesting that the first Lord Dondarrion was saved by lightning during a fierce storm. So, odds are Beric also has dragon blood as well. If bloodlines have something to do with magic, maybe that’s why Beric was resurrected, when the last kiss was known as a simple formality after people forgot what it was about.
“I have to say that I do not think Coldhands is being skinchanged by Bloodraven”
Yep, I agree. Coldhands, for plot purposes, must be more than a meat suit. A lot of the tension between him and the kids could’ve been avoided if he just said he was a dead guy warged by the three-eyed raven. Maybe his name won’t be important, but what became of him certainly is.
Now, since we’re talking about Irish elks: the Others are the Sidhe, right? I mean, GRRM instructed the guy who illustrated AGOT comics to think of the Others as the Sidhe, and then there’s the imagery of the Round Table surrounding the last hero (thirteen warriors), and the x+1 badass swords, with Dawn and Lightbringer being very similar to Excalibur. And if we look at it, we can even fit the Holy Grail somewhere.
The most awesome thing about Green Men is that, maybe, Daemon Targaryen is one of them—everything considered, I think that is the one guy who can give reliable advice on dragon riding if the time to take a dragon to the North comes.
“perhaps he can directly access the weirwoodnet itself”
Let’s say the COTF die and become a part of weirwoods; so, the greenseers probably do, too. When Coldhands died, he became a part of it and his bond remained even after he was brought back.
I feel like the spirit animal inside the dead greenseer is a great way to empower the host. It preserves the soul, and gives the host the mindset of a predator of sorts—which’s why I’m defending the thesis that Jon will wake up as a King of Winter; no one messed with those guys and lived.
I’ve spent ages defending that Coldhands was saying *he* was Bran’s monster, not Bloodraven.
Time travel is the subject I believe GRRM won’t touch: it’s very tidy to say that Bran’s consciousness traveled in time to make Walder Hodor, but there are many variables that, when messed, could collapse the timeline to the Bran who traveled, deeply affecting the Bran who was trying to change the past (aka future Bran).
“I think the most logical answer is that Coldhands is bound to the Stark bloodline in some way, and perhaps to Bran in particular if he is some sort of special chosen one”
Maybe a human greenseer must have Stark blood (after the Pact). See the Blackwood/Stark shared history—the Blackwoods must’ve married Starks before being kicked out of the North. And then, there’s the marriage between Cregan and Aly. The bloodline idea may seem odd, but when Bloodraven admonished Bran for being late, I felt like Ned’s brother was supposed to be the Brandon, with Aerys’s attack meant to incapacitate him and open his third eye. Didn’t work out so well.
“Coldhands would be like 8,000 years old, which… kinda makes you feel sorry for the guy”
You know, GRRM once said the last book would be a thousand-pages-long books describing snow blowing… I had no idea he was going to write Coldhand’s biography. O.o
“When I look at Coldhands, what I see is someone who is under some sort of eternal obligation”
Yes, the classic “ghost in chains.” Coldhands is paying for a crime he committed—if he was the Night’s King or the KITN who deposed him, it was either taking a wight/female Other or kinslaying. But I lean toward Coldhands being the Night’s King/BSE. However, I don’t think it matters if he knew he was committing a crime or not—Ned kills Gared even after attesting that Gared was mad, so Coldhands helping the Night’s King, or being the Night’s King himself of his own volition, or being “infected” with that black stone and becoming BSE/AA/NK: all of it can be called a crime, even committed in ignorance. Or Coldhands could be one of the 79 sentinels, buried alive so as to never leave their posts.
Jon’s dream reconciles three roles: NK (the Lord Commander who took an outsider—a wildling—for wife), AA (who kills NN) and the last hero (out of all the Brothers, he’s the only one who sees the wildlings as potential arsenal to the Others… I don’t remember even the ones who survived the Fist to reach the same conclusion).
About the corn kings: Herne the Hunter is said to be leader of the wild hunt, an army of bloodthirsty fairies/Sidhe. The Others/wights are the wild hunt, who force the living to join them by dying. The wild hunt’s tied to a Woden/Odin-like figure, and since the weirwoods are stand-ins for Yggdrasil, then it makes sense that a greenseer would be Herne the Hunter. It just makes the parallels between Coldhands and the NK/AA/LH more interesting.
Again, sorry for the length.
SerDiscoVietnam
I still think Coldhands is Dunk
Three Headed Chimaera
Holy crap was this essay amazing. You really tied together a lot of mythology from the series to make sound conclusions. There is one thing that stuck out to me. I’m beginning to believe that the story of the Night’s King is a cautionary tale about having immortal zombies around too long. Over time the humans will forget the purpose of the zombie (I’m assuming offering babies to the Others was part of the pact that the NK observed, but over time people forgot why and saw the act as monstrous, thus deposing him) and if the zombie marries another zombie they will have an eternal reign. That could mess with the natural order. Maybe the NK was the Last Hero, who returned home after being zombified and his eternal life was something the North and the Wall did not appreciate.
Right on Chimera! I ran out of time to talk about the Night’s King, but I would agree with you as far as all of that speculation being highly plausible. You’re right to point out that the immortal zombies would kind of unwelcome after their job was finished. One of the big questions here is whether or not any kind of resurrected person can have children. Beric could eat and bleed; could he cum? Lol. Stannis is having shadow babies with Melisandre, but of course his corpse imagery is more symbolic than literal.
Great comments, don’t be a stranger. Thanks for reading!
Stacey Flanagan
Wonderful as always! I’m absolutely loving all the material based around the Greenseers and can’t wait for more. I have no deep knowledge of mythology or religious history so I’m finding it absolutely fascinating discovering this stuff through your essays. I have no constructive comment other than – more plz.
I’ve really been enjoying all your podcasts, had you every considered Maester Wyllis from The World of Ice and Fire – The Wall and Beyond: The Wildlings for Coldhands ?
Some of Coldhands dialogue is very similar to Qyburns description of Ser Gregor. Also if Coldhands could lift up Sam well on to 10 foot high elk he must über strong.
On a previous podcast you mentioned there was foreshadowing for the comet returning…. is it Euron’s home coming on the Silence with its red hull on a ink Black Sea , mirroring the comet visually ?
Small suggestion, you should encourage your loyal listeners to leave a review on iTunes, it would help your visibility when others are searching for a Asoiaf podcast.
Hey thunderclap, glad to hear it. So Maester Willis – wasn’t a black brother, so I don’t see how he could be Coldhands. I do love that story about Hardhome though.
What the similarity between Coldhands and Gregor exactly? Not sure what you’re referring to exactly.
Yes, that’s a good point you make about CH being very, very strong to lift Sam up to the elk, good catch.
Euron is full of blood and darkness symbolism, which is a match for the comet, yes. Think of the waves of night and blood seen in Oathkeeper’s steel, that’s the idea. Euron is a big Bloodstone Emperor impressionist for sure.
Great suggestion about iTunes, I think I shall do just as you say.
Coldhands description of himself
The ranger studied his hands as if he had never noticed them before. “Once the heart has ceased to beat, a man’s blood runs down into his extremities, where it thickens and congeals.”
The terminology seemed to be medical or at least educated,it occurred to me that Coldhands was a Maester and like Qyburn was expelled from the citadel for experimenting with corpses.
Haha ok I follow you now. You’re right, it’s a humorously clinical description, for sure. I kind of wonder if Coldhands forgets he’s dead sometimes like a ghost would.
blackeyedlily
Loved the connection between the botched resurrection of Drogo and how the Dothraki may have been able to skin change their horses in the past. That makes so much sense and then you could see how Miri’s spell could have worked if that was still the case. Fascinating stuff. And only one bit of the fascinating stuff in this essay/podcast.
Thanks Lily, and yeah I had to cut that part down because I started going off on the idea of Dothraki skinchangers and it was too much of a divergence. But yeah, it’s a great idea I saw on the forums somewhere a long time ago. You can also look at barber Dustin’s line about Lyanna and Brandon being like centaurs as a clue, because they actually carry the non-expressent skinchanger gene, in a manner of speaking. The thing that tips me over the edge is the idea that the Dothraki revered the Ifequevron and made brutal war on the folks who drove them to seeming extinction. In my next episode, we will be talking about Rhaego and Rhaegal and the general topic of green dragons representing greenseer dragons, and now that we have this conversation I am realizing that in a sort of distant, symbolic sense, if the Dothraki used to be skinchangers, then Dany making Rhaego with Drogo is very like Rhaegar making Jon with Lyanna – combining skinchanger and dragon blood. It’s a distant echo but it’s interesting.
Hi there, I LOVE your podcast! The analysis is great and extremely well-researched. I’m an Arthurian legend/Celtic mythology nerd; have you looked at the legend of the Fisher King, or Bran the Blessed in the Mabinogion? Apologies if you have and it’s already been mentioned; there’s a lot of content here and I might have missed it. If not, I would definitely recommend checking it out, if you’re interested (although it does admittedly stray from your mythical astronomy focus).
Hey Jen, many thanks, and glad you’re liking the podcast. I have to say I am a bit lacking in Arthurian knowledge, but I know Martin is using a bunch of it and I really need to do a crash course here soon so I am not missing big ideas. I am a bit familiar with the Fisher King idea, it has something to do with the grail and taking a crippling leg wound, and also the idea of the health of the king dictating the health of the land or whatever. Martin is using that idea in a couple of places, such as with Bloodraven and the Fisher Queens of Essos that we read about in TWOIAF. There was also an ancient House Fisher in the Riverlands who were kings. If you have any notions about how these things are working, please feel free to chime in here and point me in the right direction.
Ok, so glancing back over the bran the Blessed stuff, a few things jump out – mainly his cauldron and his evil brother who eventually sacrificed himself to destroy the cauldron. Do you see an analog to the cauldron in the story, or an analog to Efnysien? Is it the weirwood bowl containing the paste? That weds Bran tot he tree, perhaps it can also raise the dead somehow? Did they feed Coldhands weirwood paste? We see the talking head idea down at the whispers, which seems unconnected to Starks except for the the weirwood growing above the Whispers. Or perhaps the weirwood tree is Bran’s talking head? That makes more sense, as the weirwoods speak with the knowledge of departed greenseers. Bran’s head is buried on a hill, where the White Tower now stands, which makes me think of the white sword tower of the KG, because there are extensive parallels between the Others (who come from weirwoods in some sense) and the white knights of the KG, and of course they have a huge weirwood table in the shape of a shield in the LC’s quarters. One thinks of the greenseer below the weirwoods in general as a good match for the idea of burying Bran’s head. I wonder what it means that King Arthur dug it up and declared himself to be the only protector of England?
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Category Archives: Latest news
If Pamela Anderson and Khloe Kardashian can do it! Talk show host Wendy Williams, 48, is the latest star to strip naked for PETA
ShE is known for her brazen personality and sharp-tongued on-air comments.And it seems that Wendy Williams isn’t too shy about shedding her clothes either.Joining the likes of Pamela Anderson and Khloe Kardashian, the 48-year-old has stripped naked to pose for PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals).
Posted in Latest news, LIfestyle, Showbiz
Tags: Alicia Silverstone, Olivia Munn, Pamela Anderson, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, PETA, Times Square, Wendy, Wendy Williams
‘Female porn stars are happier than other women and enjoy sex more’ [ Startling Study]
Happy … a scientific study rejects claims porn stars are ‘damaged goods’
FEMALE porn stars are happier than other women, a startling study claims.
The adult entertainers were found to have higher levels of self-esteem, positive feelings, social support, sexual satisfaction and spirituality than a control group.
Less surprisingly, the adult actresses also enjoy sex more and have much more of it, researchers found.
Porn stars typically start having sex earlier — on average aged 15 rather than 17.
Posted in Articles, Latest news
Tags: damaged goods, Female porn stars, Sex, Shippensburg University
GRAMMAR!!! Honourable Patrick Obahiagbon Speaks On Private Jet Pastors
“I cast my vote for Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah and Pastor Tunde Bakare in their demosthenic vitriol against spiritual megalomaniacs whose modus vivendi has become increasingly byzantine and repulsively narcissistic.
“We must all begin to deprecate this razzmatazz and Nestorian braggadocio in the “HOUSE OF GOD” because when there is no difference between the values of a Pastor and a typical Nigerian Politician, then it’s truly a bolekaja ambience…..”
– Patrick Obahiagbon
Tags: pastors, Patrick Obahiagbon, Private Jet
Three University of Lagos (UNILAG) students wins Google Apps Developer Challenge
News coming out says three University of Lagos (UNILAG) students, have won the Google Apps Developer Challenge for the Enterprise/Small Business Solutions category in sub-Saharan Africa.
The students: Bolutife Ogunsola, Michael Adeyeri and Willie Aniebiet, created the Form+ application software; an interface that creates application forms by just dragging and dropping components. The user can create forms – such as curriculum vitae (CV) or résumé submission forms for businesses and coursework submission page for lecturers.
Emeka Afigbo, Program Manager, Google, stated: “Our expectation is that this motivates more young Nigerian developers to develop apps that change the way we live in Nigeria and Africa at large.”
The winners were rewarded with Chromebooks and $20,000. They also won a grant worth $18,000 for their school’s department.
UNILAG Student Hospitalised After Outing With Facebook Friend (mablizzyofficial.com)
Tags: Africa, Chromebook, Curriculum vitae, Drag-and-drop, Google, Nigeria, Program Manager, University of Lagos
Gangster!!! Married Kolo Toure on £90,000 a week ‘tricked model into two year affair telling her he was a car salesman’
Premier League star: Manchester City defender Kolo Toure is alleged to have had a two year affair, despite being married with two children
Premier League family man Kolo Toure had a two year tryst with a model after he fooled her into believing he was a car salesman, it is alleged.
Posted in Latest news, Sports
Tags: Africa, Kolo Touré, MailOnline, Manchester City, Manchester City F.C., Premier League, Sunday Mirror
Bloody rites and agonising ceremony: Muslims all over the world mourn the slaying of Imam Hussein, grandson of Prophet Mohammad
Muslims all over the world pay their respects with the flowing of their blood as they mourn the slaying and martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Mohammad. In some Shi’a regions of Muslim countries such as Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Pakistan, Lebanon, and Bahrain, the commemoration of Husayn ibn Ali has become a national holiday.
View more images below: WARNING GRAPHIC CONTENT
Tags: Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Hussein ibn Ali, Iraq, MailOnline, Muhammad, Mumbai, Shia Islam
Kenyan Gospel artistes who are they serving JESUS or ILLUMINATI????…….. (VIDEOS)
Monday, November 26, 2012 – For the past one week, two videos have been going round the social media network, the videos are investigative details of how Kenyan gospel artists are involved in secret societies and in specific Illuminati.
Well the rumor about some celebrated artists in Kenya being members of Illuminati has been in the media and also in the social networks though no proof has been issued to confirm the allegations. Some of the alleged members have over time come out clean and in some people’s judgment they may have just been ignorant while using the signs associated with the secret society.
Below are two links of the videos from Okare’s investigation.
Posted in Entertainment, Latest news, Showbiz
Tags: Arts, Chuchu, Facebook, Freemasonry, Illuminati, Kenya, Secret society, United States
Is milking the most pointless internet craze yet? Students filmed pouring four-pint cartons over their heads
The group of Newcastle University students have filmed the bizarre video which sees them pour pints of milk over their heads in public places around Newcastle. The video became an instant hit after it was uploaded on Monday night and has amassed nearly 30,000 views. It has received mixed reviews, including a local councillor accusing it of giving students a bad reputation. Read the rest of this entry →
Tags: Jesmond, Milk, Monday, Monday Night Football, Newcastle, Newcastle University, Student, YouTube
We Need More Money For Food At Aso Rock – Presidency To Senate [Video]
The Presidency on Wednesday asked the Senate to increase the N1, 305, 292, 050 set aside in the 2013 budget for refreshment and meals and other miscellaneous expenses in the State House.
A breakdown of the Miscellaneous sub-head in the Presidential Villa’s budget shows that N203,752,432 was allocated for refreshment and meals; N107,412,768 would be spent on honorarium and sitting allowance while N37, 277,825 will be for publicity and advertisement.
The State House Permanent Secretary, Emmanuel Ogbile, who appeared before the Senator Dahiru Kuta-led Committee on Federal Character and Inter-Governmental Affairs, defended the N14, 715,566,104 budget for next year.
Posted in Latest news, News, Politics
Tags: European Food Safety Authority, food, more money, Presidency, Senate
Woman Tries To Suffocate Her Boyfriend To Death With Her Big Breasts
This sounds hilarious. Franziska, 33 from Germany, who weighs nine stone is accused of ‘attempted manslaughter with a weapon’ after her 13-stone boyfriend claimed she tried to smother him with her breasts and pretend it was a sex game.
She denies the claim saying it was a sex game and he knew what it was all about.Tim Schmidt told the German court that although they had had a difficult relationship, until then everything in the bedroom had been normal.
Tags: Breast, Franziska, German language, germany, Part-time, Schmidt, Sex toy, Unna
Saudi Arabia implements electronic tracking system for women
“Why don’t we just install a microchip into our women to track them around?” joked another.
“If I need an SMS to let me know my wife is leaving Saudi Arabia, then I’m either married to the wrong woman or need a psychiatrist,” tweeted Hisham.
“This is technology used to serve backwardness in order to keep women imprisoned,” said Bishr, the columnist.
“It would have been better for the government to busy itself with finding a solution for women subjected to domestic violence” than track their movements into and out of the country.
Rawstory
Posted in Latest news, News
Tags: Domestic Violence, Hisham, Middle East, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Sharia, SMS, Twitter
Parents skipping meals so children don’t go hungry as families struggle with longest cost of living squeeze in 60 years
One in ten families are skipping meals or relying on charity and hand-outs
Mothers are putting their health at risk by eating only every other day
Food banks now forced to ration the donations they give to hungry families
By Sean Poulter
Hunger is becoming a reality for one in ten families who are skipping meals or relying on charity and hand-outs, a study said yesterday.
In some cases, mothers are putting their health at risk by eating only every other day to make sure their children do not go hungry.
Some nine per cent of people have sometimes skipped meals, gone without to feed their children or relied on friends, family or charity for food in the past 12 months, according to a study backed by Tesco.
Tags: Donation, FareShare, Food bank, MailOnline, People In Need (Czech Republic), Philip Clarke, Tesco, Trussell Trust
OAP billed 120,000 Naira for watching porn for 12 hours
Shock … Ron and Ann Hayward were billed for hundreds of adult films
By RACHEL DALE
A PENSIONER couple have been left stunned after receiving a bill totalling over £500 (120,500 Naira) – for watching an average of TWELVE hours of porn a day.
And it is the SECOND time that the Christian couple — who have been married for over 50 years — have been accused of watching the X-rated flicks.
Ann, 71, and Ron Hayward, 74, said that they are “disgusted” by the Virgin Media’s extortionate usage charges for what they label an “Additional Feature (18)”.
On one day the Porn-Again Christians were billed for watching over 14 adult movies and their latest bill racks up over 150 pay-per-view films costing £5.99 each.
Tags: Antiques Roadshow, Countryfile, Greater Manchester, Pensioner, Personal identification number, Pornography, Richard Branson, Virgin Media
Woman, 37, accused of hording skeletons for sex, I want my man like he is, whether he is dead or alive’ she says
Bones … the woman has been charged with ‘violating the peace of the dead’
Published: 1 hr ago
A WOMAN is accused of hoarding human skulls and bones in her flat – to have SEX with.
The alleged necrophiliac, 37, kept at least six skulls, one spine and “a large number of other bones” in a secret compartment, along with a drill, body bags and morgue pictures.
Cops found photos of the woman performing sex acts on a skeleton, as well as two CDs entitled “My necrophilia” and “My first experience”.
The unnamed woman, from Gothenburg, Sweden, was yesterday charged with “violating the peace of the dead”, following her arrest in September.
Tags: Bone, Compact Disc, Gothenburg, Human skull, Necrophilia, Skeleton, sweden, Woman
Mother of two sons jumped to her death from a cliff after she found out she was pregnant with twin boys – because she wanted a baby girl
A pregnant mother-of-two who desperately wanted a daughter jumped from a cliff-top when she discovered the twins she was carrying were boys, a coroner’s court has been told.
Anna Byrne, 35, a nurse from Dunboyne, County Meath, was left ‘devastated’ when ultrasound scans in March this year showed she would be having two more boys.
In the months before her death she noticed baby girls everywhere and avoided her friends – particularly those with daughters.
Tragic death: Anna Byrne, 35, was 38 weeks pregnant when she jumped from a clifftop at Howth Summit near Dublin in March
Tags: Anna Byrne, Byrne, Coroner, County Meath, Dublin, Dunboyne, Rotunda Hospital, suicide, Terry Byrne, tragedy
Horrific fate of six men shot dead and dragged through the streets for being ‘Israeli spies’ [Graphic]
WARNING- GRAPHIC CONTENT: Six men accused of being ‘Israeli spies’ were dragged through the streets of Gaza City and executed in front of a chanting mob today as Israel warned Palestinians to evacuate some areas of the territory in apparent preparation for a ground invasion. Witnesses said the six were taken to an intersection in the north of the city where they were summarily shot for providing intelligence that helped Israel pinpoint key figures in Hamas and the Islamic Jihad targeted by their warplanes.
Tags: agreement, Gaza City, gazza, hamas, isreali spies, Middle East, Palestinians, UN
Aids scare in Diamond bank as 7 managers test positive
Fear and uncertainty rules the waves in Diamond bank now as 7 of their middle range Manager tested to Aids in a random health test carried out after a Management retreat done few weeks back,Naijahottestgist investigations reveal that the Affected staff have been informed and that the management were at a crossroad what to do.
Tags: AIDS, Ban Ki-Moon, Business, Business and Economy, HIV, Millennium Development Goals, Sexually transmitted disease, United States
Boko Haram Dispatches Snipers to Kano, Kaduna, Bauchi, Abuja
The Nigerian intelligence community appears unravelled by the latest maneuverings of the Boko Haram. Sources close to the Nigerian intelligence community reveal there are strong indications that agents of Boko Haram recently dispatched snipers to the North East region of Nigeria – with a changed focus towards targeted killings and/or assassinations of persons considered prized targets.
Tags: Abuja, BokoHaram, Borno State, Kano, Kano State, Maiduguri, Nigeria, snipers, YouTube
Cruel sisters jailed for humiliating sex assault after sharing video on BBM
A PAIR of cruel sisters have been jailed after they subjected a man described as a “vulnerable adult” to a degrading sexual assault and sent photos of the abuse to friends on a BlackBerry Messenger.
Twisted Yasmine, 19, and Whitney Notice, 20, lured the man back to their flat after meeting him over social media.
After plying the 22-year-old victim with cider, they threatened him with a fake handgun, forced him to strip and demanded he perform sex acts.
Police were alerted to an image the day after and specialists from the Public Protection Unit were able to track the images to Yasmine’s phone.
Tags: bbm, cruel, sex assault, sisters, Yasmine and Whitney
California Legalizes Google’s Driverless Car On Public Roads
The state of Carlifornia has passed a bill which allows the usage of Google’s driverless car on the state’s public roads.
Governor Jerry Brown rode to the signing ceremony at Google headquarters in the passenger seat of a vehicle that steered itself, a Prius modified by Google. Google co-founder Sergey Brin and State Senator Alex Padilla, who sponsored the bill, were along for the ride. An engineer for the technology company, Chris Urmson, sat in the driver’s seat, but the car drove itself.
Tags: California, driverless car, Google
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The 82nd Annual Meeting of the American Association of Physical Anthropologists (2013)
Programs > 2013 > Poster Session > Poster Abstract
Preliminary Research on Hereditary Features of Yinxu Population
WEN ZENG1,4, JIAWEI LI2, HONGBIN YUE3, HUI ZHOU2,4 and HONG ZHU1,4.
1College of Humanities, Jilin University, 2College of Life Science, Jilin University, 3Institute of Archaeology, CASS, 4Research Center for Chinese Frontier Archaeology, Jilin University
Thursday All day, Park Concourse
Yinxu was the capital during the last phase of the Shang dynasty (ca. 1250-1050 B.C.), located northwest of Anyang city in Henan province, China. It is one of the oldest and largest archeological sites in China, famous for the discovery of China oldest writing evidence, the oracular bones. Until today, no DNA research had been made on the human remains of Yinxu.
The 37 individuals sampled in this study have been discovered in middle to small size burials, and therefore constitute a representative sample to study Yinxu commoners’ society. Mitochondrial DNA analysis showed that the Yinxu population included the haplogroups D, G, A, C, Z, M10, M*, B, F and N9a. According to the analysis of molecular variance, the distribution frequency and the rare published data, the Yinxu population shows a closest genetic affinity with the populations of Dadianzi and Zhukaigou early Bronze Age sites (Inner Mongolia), but a more distant relation to the historical period populations. The Yinxu population is also very similar to the modern northern Han Chinese.
The archaeological and anthropological evidence show that the society of Yinxu was composed of individuals coming from various regions. The comparison of the genetic traits of Yinxu population to the modern northern Han Chinese population shows that Yinxu population significantly contributed to the formation of the matrilineal genetic heritage of the modern northern Han Chinese population. The Y-chromosome DNA research is still ongoing, and will provide more genetic information of Yinxu residents soon.
This study was supported by the graduate school of Jilin University, National Philosophy and Social Science Foundation (Grant number: 11&zd182).
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'The Rise of Skywalker' stars explain Star Wars to Stephen Colbert's crew
By Adam Rosenberg 1 month
If you're looking for news, J.J. Abrams does admit here that "we don't really get into Midichlorians in" Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. Congrats to The Late Show with Stephen Colbert for landing that scoop!
The stars of the final chapter in the so-called "Skywalker Saga" (aka the reason Star Wars exists) spent a little time recently putting them all through a "Just One Question" gauntlet. The result is a hilarious mix of skewered Star Wars stereotypes, fresh (and less-than-fresh) takes on tired gags, and – the real highlight – an epic Star Wars explainer for anyone who's never seen these movies.
Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker arrives in theaters on Dec. 20.
Curl up in front of a cozy Lego yule log that's streaming on YouTube 24/7
Porsche's Star Wars 'spaceship' sorta looks like the Taycan?
Claire Saffitz attempts to recreate the Milky Way, and it's a journey
Watch the best news bloopers of 2019 and try to keep yourself from totally losing it
TOPICS: Entertainment, Entertainment, movies tv shows, Movies & TV shows, star wars, The Late Show With Stephen Colbert, Star Wars, Star Wars The Rise Of Skywalker
'Parasite' makes history with major award win, standing ovation from half of Hollywood
Rami Malek thought Robert Downey Jr.'s emails were a prank
Michelle Obama works out to Lizzo, Beyoncé, and Ed Sheeran
HBO's 'Avenue 5' charts a ballsy voyage to comedy's final frontier
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All the flexible, foldable devices we saw at CES 2020
By Karissa Bell 1 week, 2 days
While we were expecting CES to be filled with flexible display tech, we were still surprised at just how many forms these new displays took. The show floor was packed with laptops, phones, speakers, and televisions all with flexible, bendy screens.
Still, it's obvious that the technology is in its relatively early stages and many companies are still trying to figure out how best to utilize screens that can fold and roll. But with so many gadget makers now tinkering with the tech, it seems that our bendable-device future is all but inevitable.
While CES wasn't the first time we saw Lenovo's foldable laptop, there's a good reason why the ThinkPad X1 Fold was one of our favorite gadgets from the show: It feels like something we'd actually want to use every day.
Lenovo's foldable laptop is compact enough to take with you.
Image: zlata ivleva / mashable
Pair it with a keyboard for a tablet-like experience.
With a 13.3-inch display, the ThinkPad X1 Fold is compact enough to use on the go whether it's partially folded or fully extended. And the kickstand and keyboard accessories make the PC feel more like an iPad Pro than a traditional laptop. All that (literal) flexibility won't come cheap though: The ThinkPad X1 Fold will be available later in 2020 for $2,499.
Dell Ori concept
Dell showed off what could be the beginnings of a flexible laptop with its Ori concept. While not as sleek as some of the foldable products we saw, the Ori was nonetheless intriguing.
Dell's Ori concept is a sign the company is thinking about how to make laptops with flexible displays.
Image: karissa bell / mashable
The Ori felt surprisingly solid compared with other early-stage foldable devices. You can sort of feel a slight ripple if you carefully trace your finger over the display — there isn't an ugly crease, or a gap, or some of the other accommodations we've seen from certain hardware makers. Though Dell is so far making no commitments about whether it will become a real product, Dell executives told us they're focused on reliability and durability. And that the Ori can already handle up to 15,000 folds.
Royole Mirage
Royole was one of the first companies to debut a smartphone with a foldable screen with its FlexPai phone. At CES, the company introduced its next flexible-screen device: Mirage, an Alexa-enabled speaker with a wraparound display.
Royole's Mirage smart speaker.
The speaker, which was made in collaboration with audio company Cleer, has a unique, futuristic look the company is hoping will set it apart in the increasingly crowded smart speaker market. It also comes with a hefty price tag of $899.
One more look: pic.twitter.com/JVXIKSiHi7
— Karissa Bell (@karissabe) January 10, 2020
But its curved display does open up some interesting possibilities. Think: Custom animations that correspond with your timers or visualizations that dance around with music playback. It's not yet clear exactly how that would come together, but Royole CEO Bill Liu told Mashable he wants developers to come up with ways to take advantage of the speaker's curved screen.
Intel Horseshoe Bend
Unlike Lenovo, Intel opted to make its foldable PC concept more like a full-sized laptop. The Horseshoe Bend can alternate between a 12-inch laptop and a downright huge 17.3-inch tablet. Thankfully, that extra screen comes with thinner bezels than either the ThinkPad X1 Fold or Dell's Ori concept.
Intel's Horseshoe Bend is downright huge when fully unfolded.
Image: Walden Kirsch / Intel Corporation
It also has thinner bezels and a detachable keyboard.
The Horseshoe Bend also comes with a separate keyboard that can slip inside the device when it's folded up.
As with so many other foldable prototypes, Intel's bendy laptop is just a concept, with no guarantee it will ever amount to anything more than a flashy CES demo. But even if we never see it in its current form, Intel's investment in the tech will no doubt inspire other PC-makers to follow suit.
Unlike some other smartphone makers, TCL seems to be content for now with showing off foldable phone concepts, rather than market-ready devices. The Chinese electronics company gave us our latest taste of this at CES with its second foldable phone concept in a year.
TCL's latest foldable concept looks much farther along than the one we saw a year ago.
Four rear cameras and a prismed green design give it a unique look.
But this latest phone looked much different than the questionable design we saw last year. Instead of a big ugly hinge, the latest (so far unnamed) concept looks like a phone people might want to actually buy. It has a slightly iridescent green design along with four rear cameras. Unfolded, it has a 7.3-inch display with only a slight crease.
As with other foldable phones, the software seemed a bit buggy, which isn't a huge surprise considering most developers still don't support foldable devices. And even though it looks like a more finished product, TCL has made it clear it's not in any rush to get a flexible screen on the market just yet.
When it comes to bendable screens, LG has a significant head start over its competitors. At CES, the company clearly went out of its way to show off just how far ahead it is with several concepts. Of the many demos we saw from LG, our favorites were its bendable OLED prototypes which enable televisions to bend on command.
Who’s ready for bendy TVs? LG Display is showing off TVs that can bend on command, it’s still a concept but it seems like a cool way to get a curved set when you want it and a regular flat OLED when you don’t #CES pic.twitter.com/IqxVp4qqOC
— Karissa Bell (@karissabe) January 7, 2020
It sounds a little gimmicky, but it looks incredibly cool. And there could be some practical reasons for the design. Gamers, for example, may want to take advantage of the extra visibility of a curved set, but also have a regular flat panel when they aren't gaming.
We also saw concepts for televisions that roll down from the ceiling projector screen-style, smart speakers, and a laptop (LG Display supplied screen tech for Lenovo's aforementioned ThinkPad).
LG Display showed off a laptop with a foldable screen.
LG Display's smart speaker concept.
Like many other companies, these were all just concept devices, but there will be a rollable TV sooner than you think. Elsewhere, the consumer electronics arm of LG was again showing off its roll-up TV, the LG Signature OLED TV R, which is expected to go on sale later this year.
Motorola may have recently announced that it was delaying the launch of its much anticipated revival of the Razr, but that didn't stop the company from showing it off during CES.
The Razr is still a one-handed phone.
And the Razr is unique among its foldable phone brethren in that it folds vertically, flip phone-style, rather than horizontally like a book. Besides the nostalgia factor, this could also help with one-handed use. While other foldable phones can feel unwieldy when fully unfolded, the new Razr remains a one-handed phone.
TOPICS: Tech, Tech, consumer tech, Consumer Tech, CES, Flexible Displays
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“we will burn, we will burn together” or: Re-reading The Crucible now — John Proctor, cruelty and betrayals
Continued from here, a series of reflections on re-reading The Crucible in the wake of Richard Armitage’s casting as John Proctor at the Old Vic. This is going to be my last post on this particular topic, as we’ll have reactions to previous available in only a few days! The time has passed really quickly. A blog has been announced to collate the experiences of Armitage fans who see the play — follow it here.
Tonight I want to write about my perception of the personal level of the play and the role cruelty plays between John Proctor, Abigail, and Elizabeth Proctor. I’ve illustrated it with a few period musical selections.
Richard Armitage and Samantha Colley in rehearsal for The Crucible, Summer 2014. Source: Old Vic Theatre on FB.
There are so many ways to be cruel, and I wonder which of them Richard Armitage will use John Proctor to plumb.
I don’t know if the notes that Miller interpolated in the script are shared with the audience in performance, but Miller introduces Proctor early on in Act I with the note that Proctor’s low tolerance for hypocrisy and foolishness made him a target of “calumny.” The key statement, however, is Miller’s notation that Proctor is a sinner against his own notion of morality. “Proctor,” he writes, “respected and even feared in Salem, has come to regard himself as a kind of fraud.” I can only imagine the sort of ferment that that might have provoked in the mind of Richard Armitage the reader.
The lengths to which one will go to protect one’s own self-concept even against one’s awareness of how flawed it is. How cruel we can be to others in order to keep ourselves whole. I don’t know what Miller means when he says Puritan society lacked a mechanism for expiating sin; sin is not the problem here so much as Proctor’s inability to see himself as sinner in the way that counts most — from the inside.
In Act One, however, this contradiction is not yet visible, and Proctor is strong, powerful, and frightening, scaring his own hired woman when he enters the scene and flirting a little with Abigail, although, as it turns out, he has no intention of coming through despite the memories that animate the impulse to joke with her and his admiration for her “wickedness.” Here we see the basic cruelty of gender relations in the society of the play, and the way they affect the end of any intimate relationship — with the separating lover denying the telling of the common story that united lovers share. As Proctor says, Abby, I may think of you softly from time to time. But I will cut off my hand before I’ll ever reach for you again. Wipe it out of mind. We never touched, Abby.
It makes me wonder what Richard Armitage dreams as John Proctor — wild nights, brief encounters, violent joinings, curt brushoffs, with Abigail Williams? And his own inability to control Abigail, his threat to resort to violence to keep these women, disobedient servant, spurned lover, under control?
And what about Proctor’s relationship to his wife? What does Armitage dream about that?
The psalter used by Parris’ congregation would have been a later edition of the Bay Psalm Book of 1640, the first book printed in North America. (You may remember that it is exceedingly rare, now, with only eleven known copies surviving, of which five are complete, and that a copy was sold last fall for $14.1 million.) Early editions of this work indicated only the melodies to which the psalms were to be sung; musical notation was not included until the 1698 edition. Below, a choir sings a setting of Psalm 23 (“The Lord to Mee a Shepherd Is”) harmonizing to the notation of the melody in the 1698 edition.
The beginning of Act Two sharpens this conflict Proctor feels between rectitude and desire, and the line he’s willing to walk to keep his notion of himself clean, with the stage direction that when Proctor walks into the house, he puts down his gun, then tastes the food cooking on the fire and seasons it. I find this a fascinating moment — it could, indeed, be comic. But then it’s clear, once Elizabeth puts the stew on the table, that it was an artifice — for as she watches him eat it, he praises it as “well seasoned” and she blushes with the compliment. Think a moment about what might be happening there. John is not willing to eat a badly seasoned stew; neither is he willing to salt it in the presence of his wife; neither is he willing to lie about it. So he salts the stew himself so he can have it as he pleases without forcing himself to suffer nor lying to his wife. (Incidentally, salt was an expensive commodity in the early modern world, so parsimony with salt signaled either a thrifty wife or a stingy one, though I don’t know whether Miller knew this.)
John has, in the end, told the truth. He has avoided something that’s apparently a bone of contention between them, but only by adjusting the circumstances to fit his later words about them. Things about the scene suggest that he feels manipulated to this end by Elizabeth — he tells he wants to please her, but she is not willing to accept his affections — and then he has to ask her for a drink, so that he appears to be criticizing her anyhow. He says he wants to please her, but he himself manipulates the situation so that he may do so without wounding his own rather casuist sense of truth-telling. His desire not to be cruel is thus a superficial move on his part, for in the end, if we take the seasoning as a synecdoche, he changes nothing about himself in his attempt to please Elizabeth. And this, one suspects, is what he most needs.
Indeed, the script suggests John thinks he’s already conceded enough, that he has no more obligation to suffer for his dalliance with Abigail, and that his wife’s suspicion of even a brief encounter with her is unfounded. As he says to Elizabeth, You forget nothin’ and forgive nothin’. Learn charity, woman. I have gone tiptoe in this house all seven month since she is gone. I have not moved from there to there without I think to please you, and still an everlasting funeral marches round your heart. I cannot speak but I am doubted, every moment I am judged for lies, as though I come into a court when I come into this house! And yet: it’s clear, he has lied.
And still lies. Elizabeth points out that she is not the judge, but his own heart — which points to guilt he still feels for things he still does. As he has no cause to whip his wife, he then turns to Mary Wolcott, whom he threatens to whip for her absence, in her place. When Elizabeth points out something they both know, tentatively albeit it reasonably — that Abigail wants to take her place — and urges him to disabuse the girl of any fantasy she might have of becoming Goody Proctor, John puts off the indictment of his own feelings by reading Elizabeth’s insistence as further cruelty to him. Agreeing to do as his wife acts, he nonetheless replies, I see now your spirits twists around the single error of my life, and I will never tear it free!
Elizabeth’s insistence that she will win, the curiously foreboding forecast that John will come to know that [she] will be [his] only wife, is then interrupted by the entrance of Mr. Hale. When John attempts to list the commandments, her attempt to save him by pointing out the one he’s forgotten is the prohibition on adultery thus strikes the reader as both a lifesaver and a condemnation.
At the very latest, the photos released earlier this week should have suggested the possibility that the scene that Arthur Miller omitted from the first performance of the play because it slowed down the tempo of the production, Act II, scene one, John Proctor’s encounter with Abigail Williams in the forest, will play a role in this production. (That placement doesn’t make narrative sense to me — it would work better narratively as Act III, scene one, which is why I am discussing it here.) That scene makes clear that Abigail is motivated by desire; jealousy / greed; and the desire for revenge. Miller’s script clearly adds madness to this list — or at least some kind of dissociation from the reality that Proctor is unlikely to marry the woman whose testimony hangs his wife — but this seems like overkill to me. Can a madwoman truly be cruel?
In this scene, it’s clear, Proctor’s decided — he’s going to ruin Abigail and defend Elizabeth (or try). One wonders why — out of loyalty to Elizabeth? But certainly out of a desire to preserve his own position and more importantly, his self-image. This move is, in part, a cruelty toward which his society forces him, a cruelty that Elizabeth has demanded as payment for his transgressions, but also, let us admit, a cruelty that he commits willingly or necessarily, particularly once he sees how far from reality Abigail is. To me, the more interesting thing about this scene than Abigail’s apparent madness or John’s apparent decisiveness — in essence, I think, he still gets what he wants here, if his plan works — is the bandying about of hypocrisy. Abigail’s real knowledge — the thing she knows that she can truly torture him with as no other person in the play can — is her awareness of his hypocrisy. Telling the truth about their relationship and confessing his fornication to the court, she points out quite astutely, makes him the hypocrite.
One of the tunes recommended for use in the original Bay Psalm Book (the metrical index with of tunes can be found here) is Old Hundredth — the original melody for Psalm 100 as derived from the 1551 Geneva psalter and thus one of the oldest tunes of Protestant Christianity. Here’s a performance of that psalm following the melodic and rhythmic style of the seventeenth century (without harmony), beginning at 2:30. Note that the Puritans would not have used musical instruments in worship and that pianos of the style they are using were not current until the 1720s.
Act Three of the play takes us to the courtroom, where John brings Mary Warren to the court in order to have her testify that the poppet used as evidence against his wife was given to her. The officials suspect this testimony, knowing as they do that Proctor is no friend of Parris and that his cultivation of a Christian life has suffered under this enmity. When they ask him whether his only impulse is to free his wife, and not to upset the court, he falters in his answer — on the one hand, as if he hadn’t thought they could think something of him; but on the other, I find myself asking, given the character’s history of showing that his only recourse when he loses an argument is to (threats of) violence, if there isn’t something to this charge.
I think most viewers will be inclined to sympathize with the Proctors in Act Three; Elizabeth is the target of a false accusation from Abby because Abby wants Elizabeth’s place, a false accusation that could bring Elizabeth to her death; John goes to court to prove his wife innocent and he’s fully willing to blacken his own reputation to do but even that will be insufficient. This reading, with the failure of the Proctors’ private lives made manifest as an ideological or political failure brought home at the hands of the crazed Abby, is fully in line with the Arendtian reading of the play I proposed last time and is close to Miller’s original thinking about the play. My understanding is that this is how the play is usually played, with the Proctors’ contradiction of each other seen as a sort of O. Henry paradox in which each sacrifices himself in order to save the other.
At the same time, however, the problems set up by the triangle are potentially more complex than this. Leaving aside the problem of Abby’s madness, we still have the question of she can best get payback for Elizabeth’s decision to put her out and John’s turning away; it does not matter, in the end, if John is unwilling to marry Abby, for Elizabeth’s destruction is sufficient to remedy both her social disgrace and her having been discarded as lover. All Abby can do to get what she wants is to behave cruelly — the society gives her no other choice — but the act is nonetheless malevolent. John’s willingness to proclaim in open court of Abby, repeatedly and forcefully, that she is a whore, a harlot, is a lie — everything the play tells us suggests that he was as willing as she — and cruel to her. He blackens his honor temporarily but only strengthens the picture he wishes us to see of him, as the man who clings to the truth. He admits to fornication in order to prove that he has told the truth, just like he salted the soup in order not to lie to Elizabeth — again doing exactly as he pleases to support his view of himself but not telling us the whole story.
Finally — we have to ask ourselves, based on Act Two, about the extent to which we believe John’s charge that Elizabeth will never let him free of awareness of his sin. Is this John’s defensive posture or is it an accurate description of his betrayed wife? It’s John who tells us that Elizabeth lies to save his honor. But whether she does it to save her honor or to gain her own revenge, she ends up the victor on that score (especially since we know by this point that as a pregnant woman, she will not be executed immediately), even if not on the charge of witchcraft. And when John’s attempts to insist Mary tell his version of things fails and sets loose a wave of behavior that indicates demonic possession and ends in accusations against him, John realizes the mistake of this — that it is the man who “quails,” the man who cannot tell the truth, the man he has been all this time, arranging the circumstances, telling half truths, in search of maintaining his own notion of his rectitude — only when he sees that the possessed girls’ accusation against him is now inevitable and irrevocable. He may not have possessed Mary Warren, but it’s thoroughly clear that he must have threatened her.
John may not have come in order to upset the court, but in fact he does exactly that.
Richard Armitage in rehearsal for The Crucible, Summer 2014. Source: Old Vic Theatre on FB.
And Elizabeth?
Miller disappears Abby in Act Four, conveniently, and the audience is left with the problem of how the Proctors will resolve their relationship. Hale no longer believes in what he is doing, but the maw of the machine must still be filled, and so if John is to come free, he must do so in a procedurally correct way, by confessing. Hale tries to get Elizabeth to push him to do so — and it is at this point that one wonders most, independently of John’s charges that she lacks charity (the seventeenth century idiom for the term ἀγάπη, the love referred to in 1 Corinthians 13), exactly what Elizabeth’s feelings are. John enters the scene, clear that he is no saint — as if, perhaps, he’s realized exactly what his self-image has done to himself and his family. Elizabeth, while reminding him that part of his problem has always lain in his own stubborn insistence on clinging to his image of his responsibilities — for who can forgive someone who refuses forgiveness? and is not the refusal to accept forgiveness, the refusal to forgive oneself, the height of arrogance? — now concedes her own role, that part of what he has said about her coldness is true. And while she bends in this scene on some level, still the cold quality of her principle is clear — she will not beg John to abandon the self-conception that has brought himself to this point in the first place. She will not.
The end of the play is usually read as heroic, with Porter Proctor going almost eagerly, indeed heroically, to his death. Since high school, I’ve not cared for that reading; I see the end of the play as heavily ambivalent, for it is entirely irrelevant to a society that believes in witches on the level that Miller depicts this one as doing whether the victims are innocent or guilty — they serve as examples either way. If we prefer the roman à clef reading (sustained by an excerpt in the Old Vic’s teaching guide to the play, although it’s frustrating that they reproduce only Miller’s memories of this incident and not Kazan’s, because they are strikingly different) that Proctor’s death is some kind of reproach from Miller to Elia Kazan, it’s still not entirely clear that making the arrogant hero die pointlessly is really a statement in praise of naming no names. Proctor does die.
In the end, despite his disclaimer that he is no saint, Proctor goes to his death as proudly as he scoffed at the existence of witches in Act One; in the end, as Elizabeth points out when she refuses to plead with him to change his mind about the confession and says to Hale, He have his goodness now. God forbid I take it from him!, his picture of himself has been sustained throughout. We can read this as heroic if we want to see this play as the fate of the martyr before the totalitarian authority, I suppose. But in the end, John Proctor ends the play where he started it — a stubborn man who has maintained his notion of himself and is willing that others should suffer the consequences for him. He cannot remake his world in the way he salted the soup, but neither can he let go of the incredibly hubris of believing that he can somehow do so by dying. And Elizabeth? She supports this notion — he has his goodness now — but if she is as cold as she admits, this statement is can also be read as bitter rejoicing. She will not betray him. If this is a decision to be cruel, or to be kind — given the fact that he’s about to die — we can only leave to the actors and to the audience watching them.
And again, I wonder — I wonder so hard — how Richard Armitage dreams John Proctor’s death.
~ by Servetus on June 20, 2014.
Posted in Armitage as mirror, attempts at bravery, evil, fear, forgiveness, heterosexual dystopias, humiliation, if I could interview Mr. Armitage, John Proctor, me, morality / ethics / norms, redemption, resentment, Richard Armitage, status transactions, The Crucible, the hype, theatre theatre, thinking / feeling, Why me?
Tags: Bay Psalm Book, cruelty, John Proctor, Richard Armitage, The Crucible
32 Responses to ““we will burn, we will burn together” or: Re-reading The Crucible now — John Proctor, cruelty and betrayals”
Well said! Thanks for the primer!
Gratiana Lovelace said this on June 20, 2014 at 4:43 am | Reply
You’re welcome, but this isn’t really a primer. I’m reading against the conventional position on this play (and have been throughout the series). But I’m glad if it is useful to you!
Servetus said this on June 20, 2014 at 5:14 am | Reply
I’ve just finished leading Act II, and I believe it’s Act II, Scene 2 that is the dropped scene in the forest, right?
I don’t know what combination of reasons Proctor has for choosing to save his wife, but he did say of Elizabeth that “that goodness will not die for me!” Maybe his conscious cannot let Elizabeth be torn down as he remains safe.
I loved the line at the end of scene 1! “It is a Providence, and no great change; we are only what we always were, but naked now.”
I can’t read the rest of your comments until I read for myself how events unfold!
Thanks for this, though. Certainly a self-examining play.
trudystattle said this on June 20, 2014 at 5:15 am | Reply
the edition I have gives it as Act Two, scene one, but that can certainly be a mistake (as it doesn’t make sense there).
I wish you a lot of enjoyment with the remainder of your reading!
I’m reading this from the repeated perspective that the actors articulated regarding “cruelty”. Also, I find both John and Elizabeth seriously unsympathetic characters. I think if one had a more sympathetic view of these characters one would certainly read the play differently.
I looked it up and my (public library) Penguin edition says the missing scene is Scene 2.
Ok, you’re analyzing for cruelty.
‘Unsympathetic’ meaning these two characters express little sympathy for others or that you as a reader find little sympathy for the characters?
I don’t doubt it (I have the Bantam 1975).
Both, I suppose. I really develop very little sympathy for John. Elizabeth is harder for me to read, insofar as she starts off as the wronged party. I really don’t know how to read her in Act Four.
What you’ve written in this series is truly fascinating. There is, however, a general consensus on how this play and its characters are to be interpreted in a production. While I understand the method of your analyses and your position as a certain type of theorist, I doubt the director, or any member of the cast for that matter, will deviate much from that consensus. Your analyses, to theatre people, would inevitably lead to the conclusion that Miller’s creation of the Proctor characters is a failure; well, it isn’t normally seen that way. Characters that deserve more criticism are probably Hathorne and Danforth. They are described by some critics as puppets of evil because Miller didn’t seem to understand the nature of that particular brand of evil himself, leaving people knowing the language of theatre confused.
Harry Kennedy said this on June 20, 2014 at 6:58 am | Reply
This is not to diminish the value of your views. I’m not the most qualified to critique them. They are certainly unique, of a play quite thoroughly explored in the past. And it is very rare and refreshing to find a fan of Mr Armitage’s so well-learned and astonishingly eloquent.
Thanks for the comment and welcome. To clarify — I was hardly writing to try to influence the director, and neither she nor any member of the cast is reading this blog, so what I think is immaterial to their views.
Servetus said this on June 20, 2014 at 4:11 pm | Reply
I don’t think that I said anywhere that the Proctor character is failure — I would say, however, that it is at least arguable, if you want to look at this play from the standpoint of classic Greek tragedy, that he does not achieve the character arc of the classic Greek tragedic hero.
That I don’t like this play especially well has probably been obvious since the beginning of the series, though 🙂
to me, Danforth and Hathorne are throwaways from the standpoint of talking about cruelty — representatives of the state are encompassed by the Arendtian view (see previous post).
Du schriebst: I don’t know what Miller means when he says Puritan society lacked a mechanism for expiating sin; sin is not the problem here so much as Proctor’s inability to see himself as sinner in the way that counts most — from the inside.
Zuerst mal: Ich habe bisher keine Aufführung oder Verfilmung gesehen, auch das Stück nicht gelesen, geschweige denn Sekundärliteratur dazu – nicht mal deine Texte komplett, nur diesen hier -, und über Puritaner habe ich auch nur das (ähem) Fachwissen, das man mit einem kurzen Überfliegen des deutschen Wikipedia-Artikels erlangen kann.
Anders ausgedrückt: Ich sollte die Klappe halten.
Allerdings ging mir dein oben zitierter Satz nicht aus dem Kopf, während ich deine Gedanken über die Beziehungen der Charaktere gelesen habe, und deshalb sage ich doch was.
Sehr kurz zusammengefasst, scheint die puritanische Lehre vor allem auf der Annahme zu basieren, dass der Mensch an sich schlecht ist und nur das eiserne Festhalten am Leben nach dem Wortlaut der Bibel garantiert, dass die angeborene Verderbtheit des Menschen nicht in den Vordergrund tritt. 100%ige Einhaltung der biblischen Regeln, wenn jemand ein aufrechtes Mitglied der Gemeinde ist.
Für mich heißt das: Wer strauchelt (falsch handelt, sündigt), dem kann nicht vergeben werden. Rituelle Buße, zeremonielle Reinigung, wie es sie wohl – vermute ich – in den meisten Religionen in der einen oder anderen Form gibt, existiert bei den Puritanern nicht.
Wie kann dann ein angesehener Mann auch nur vor sich selbst eingestehen, dass er, der so stolz ist, ein vorbildliches Mitglied der Gemeinde zu sein, ein Sünder ist? Nicht nur die Sünde des Ehebruchs müsste er sich eingestehen, sondern auch noch (viel wichtiger!) die des Stolzes. Er müsste sich eingestehen, dass er ein Heuchler ist.
Ja, ich weiß: Genau das sagst du auch.
Und in einer Gesellschaft, die Buße – und die anschließende Vergebung – als normal ansieht, wäre es vielleicht möglich, dass er es sich eingesteht. Es wäre peinlich, es wäre demütigend, aber es wäre nicht der Verlust allen Ansehens. – Wäre es das bei den Puritanern?
Kurz: Ich sehe durchaus einen Zusammenhang zwischen der Nicht-Existenz von Buße-Ritualen und Proctors Unfähigkeit, sich selbst einzugestehen, ein Heuchler zu sein.
OT: Du hast einen schlechten Einfluss auf mich – dieser ganze Text nur wegen EINEM Satz von dir. gg
OT: Bin ich die einzige, deren Blick beim ersten Bild immer wieder magisch zu Richards Hand hingezogen wird?
Hedgehogess said this on June 20, 2014 at 4:54 pm | Reply
Hmmm. I hope it’s okay if I answer in English.
Part of the problem with this play from the perspective of a religious historian is that Miller makes repeated errors about religion. Most of them are not really serious, for instance, Miller refers to the Puritans singing a psalm that refers to Jesus (and the consequences for the possessed girls). Actually, the Puritans sang the psalms as religious texts, and none of them refer to Jesus, having been written centuries before. Or he has the court ask Proctor if he reads the Gospel, and when Proctor says he does, they refer to an incident that’s not in the Gospels (the story of Cain and Abel).
On this one, though, he’s just plain wrong. Puritans certainly had confession of sins — both a corporate confession of sins during worship, and the injunction to confess one’s sins privately to G-d and to the injured party, which shows up over and over again in the literature of their divines. Moreover, they had institutions of social discipline, consistories and consistory like institutions that called sinners before them in order to examine them, alter their behavior, and punish them for wrong-doing through various types of exclusion up to and including excommunication. The participation in these activities was certainly a public act. I’m not exactly sure why that fails to meet the criteria for expiation of sin.
If we want to speak theologically, Miller is in even worse shape. The Puritans did not believe in free will in the sense of capacity to affect one’s salvation by one’s actions. (They were what is sometimes sloppilly called “double predestinarians”). People could not be saved by being particularly holy. This did not mean, however, that they thought the sins of the reprobate (those who would not be saved) unimportant, nor that lacked a mechanism for people to confess them (see above). If one were a church member (see below, I’m not exactly sure what Miller understands that to be), there would be higher standards for behavior, certainly, as the Christian is supposed to gradually become sanctified in his outward actions. In essence, Calvinists of this stripe thought that (apart from the political use of the law, and the purpose of make humans aware of what awaited them) the law actually encouraged Christians in their path toward sanctification.
This failed reading on Miller’s part is why the body of historians who were expert on Puritanism in the 1950s and 60s panned this play so thoroughly — it operates on a modern understanding of “how I might feel if I lived in that society.” Miller seems to have accepted Max Weber’s reading of the meaning of predestination for Protestants generally wholesale, but a historian of that period would laugh himself silly. Protestants generally found predestination to be a comforting teaching; it was a reason to join the Reformed Church. Moreover, on this level, the question fails to meet the requirement of distinction, in that every Protestant Church was that way.
I’m not sure if Proctor was actually a church member in Miller’s eyes (or historically — I would have to look it up — but I think he was not a member of the Salem village church). Miller seems to think that all church members were created equal, so to speak. But there was a difference in Salem society between people who were professed members of the church (like Mary Sibley, whom Parris called out from the pulpit, or Rebecca Nurse — this is why her case was so particularly scandalous) and everyone else. Members of the church were subject to greater degrees of church discipline than those who were not.
Danke für die Erklärung.
Ich hab’s ja selbst gesagt: Ich sollte die Klappe halten, wenn ich keine Ahnung habe. 🙂
Da du Prädestination erwähnt hast: Ich habe nie verstanden, wie das ein ansprechender Gedanke sein konnte (kann?). Wenn du Zeit und Lust dazu hast, wäre es nett, wenn du mir (ganz grob) erklären könntest, was daran reizvoll war und welche geistige Grundeinstellung dahinter stand.
If you start from a free will supposition — G-d has enough merit available to save everyone and aspires to do so; humans have the capacity to act to save themselves, either by initiating the process (congruent merit) or cooperating in a process that G-d initiates (condign merit — both of these views were current in the medieval church and the latter becomes the official view of the Roman church after 1563); if they do not cooperate, they will not be saved — some theologians in the 1500s and 1600s argued that the struggle for salvation was unbearable because there were no guarantees that what one did was sufficient. On the one hand, you affect your own fate; on the other, you would never be certain that you were good enough to merit salvation because you cannot know the mind of G-d.
Predestination ends discussion about knowing the divine will, which is inscrutable, because G-d has already decided this (depending on your view, either before time began or shortly after the Fall into Sin.) If you start from a no free will position, then whatever you do is “good enough” because everything you do is irrelevant. G-d has already made this decision (and in the view point of an orthodox Calvinist, the saints are elected “unconditionally,” i.e., G-d elects not for merit or lack of same, but simply according to G-d’s will) and the decree is eternal and impossible to resist. Moreover, everyone is worthy of damnation, so that G-d chooses to save anyone at all is a huge gift for which humans should be grateful. As humans simply don’t know what will happen, they are free to live their lives in conformity to that divine will without anxiety.
Arguments about which of these views is philosophically more consoling have been going on for centuries; I think the answer to that depends on your own personality. But historically speaking, in multi-confessional areas in Europe where people could choose their own religious confession, we find literate people writing and preaching to each other that predestination is a consoling doctrine. Interestingly, and this is also controversial from our standpoint, we find in areas like East Frisia where Anabaptist options were available, that people left the Reformed Church because they did not think the discipline it practiced was severe enough. In our world, the Puritans stand for all that is harsh and severe in religion but in their own world that was not quite so clearly the case.
Danke. Ich glaube, ich kann jetzt nachvollziehen, wie der Gedankengang abläuft.
I grew up in a “no free will” setting and I tend to agree that it’s crushing — if I were picking a Christianity today I’d totally pick a free will Christianity — just that it’s hard to read that back onto the 17th c.
I think the point for understanding Proctor is not the spurious question of a public ritual — that could have been a throwaway for Miller — the play says clearly, or rather Elizabeth points out repeatedly, that Proctor’s problems are in his head. She says, he can’t forgive himself but my reading of it is more that he isn’t willing to change how he sees himself.
In anderen Worten: Ein verdammter sturer Esel.
Eben ein echter Mann …
Ich werde das Stück erst mal lesen, dann werde ich sehen, wie ich Proctor einstufe.
noting that what I write above is not the conventional view of the character, which sees him as a heroic man resisting the demands of his society although without any hope of success. It is, however, a possible one.
Ich halte selbst nicht viel davon, einen “conventional view” nachzuplappern, nur weil das die übliche Sicht ist.
Vielleicht werde ich Proctor als heroisch sehen, vielleicht so wie du, vielleicht habe ich eine dritte Ansicht – das wird sich zeigen.
Und jetzt verschwinde ich und lese noch was, aber ganz sicher nicht The Crucible. Schönen Abend/Tag noch. 😉
re: Richard’s hand — no I don’t think that’s strange at all!
Igelchen: Auch ich kann nicht an der Hand vorbeisehen…… YOU ARE NOT ALONE! 🙂
cRAmerry said this on June 20, 2014 at 5:43 pm | Reply
Noch eine, die mich hier “Igelchen” nennt?!
if the shoe fits …
Sorry, guylty hat’s angefangen 🙂
Besser nicht ?
Ja, Guylty war die erste. 😉
Naja, Euer königliche Hoheit Queen Hedgehogess wäre auf Dauer ja auch wirklich unpraktisch lang und umständlich, also akzeptiere ich huldvoll auch die Kurzform Igelchen.
Na dann Eure stachelige Highness (ESH)!
[…] side table and tastes the stew and corrects the seasoning (I wrote about that moment in the script here), and then moves to the basin of […]
[spoilers!] Richard Armitage working; John Proctor topless | Me + Richard Armitage said this on September 1, 2014 at 5:52 am | Reply
[…] After watching the play so many times, I grew to appreciate Farber’s emphasis on a sort of reflexive personal cruelty as a synecdoche for the political issues in the play even more than I had…, in part because it shows how unfair and personally motivated certain sorts of moralistic charges […]
Musings on Richard Armitage’s remarks on John Proctor: Digital Theatre interview | Me + Richard Armitage said this on December 7, 2014 at 5:55 am | Reply
[…] is that Hale is much more important for the audience as witness to the events of the play than Proctor, who changes very little from the beginning to the end of the play. Hale makes the journey that I believe the audience is supposed to trace itself, from a belief that […]
Religion, superstition, piety, belief: me + adrian schiller in The Crucible | Me + Richard Armitage said this on February 16, 2015 at 8:36 am | Reply
[…] are four posts about the historical significance of the play as a text we read in U.S. high school classrooms, as a commentary on Salem and witchhunting, as a […]
Nipple, nipple, nipple! I’ve been informed that I’m not taking The Crucible on screen seriously enough | Me + Richard Armitage said this on March 21, 2015 at 7:13 pm | Reply
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Tag Archives: Enid Justin
Compleat Idler, Free Society, Humor
Boots – a tradition
30/09/2012 loboviejoboots, Brannock device, Casey Tibbs, Charlie Hyer, cowboy action, Double H, Enid Justin, Hyer, Justin, Little Britches, Luchese, Mexican saddle, Nocona, Olathe Boot, Ralph Moody, rodeo, Spanish heel, Tony Lama Leave a comment
Joaquin Ochoa and I were buddies in grade school in Arapaho County, Colorado. His dad worked at Highland Ranch when it was a ranch. It was in 1955 that I left to journey back to Nebraska where five generations of my mother’s family—both sides—had lived. But during the time we played together we mostly practiced roping and mounting horses and other stuff. At 10 Joaquin finally got permission to do Little Britches, a junior circuit rodeo taking its name from Ralph Moody’s book series that took place in Arapaho County. I did not. One of the disadvantages of a brain injury from breathing before I got out of the canal is a tremor and some loss of muscle control that my parents decided I might ruin my career as a scholar if my body got more screwed up.
Since I was 11 they offered me Scout Camp instead. And when my troop could not come up with a patrol, they let me spend an extra four weeks at my Aunt’s place in Wyoming. Scout camp was not really an acceptable option because I knew from my Uncle’s cowboys what kind of groupies they had at the rodeo and I was 11. But going to the ranch meant that I would get a decent pair of boots to wear for school.
We moved to a small town in Nebraska and then to the west coast. I went on to college and law school and a few jobs before my career as an investigator and administrator—a career being a job you stay at too long. Working retail after retirement I ran into Joaquin. He was involved in stock procurement for a rodeo circuit—having his MBA. His first reaction was to ask if my square toed boots were Tonys or Noconas.
“Noconas—Mexican.” I replied.
“Can’t afford Lucheses.” After we both stopped laughing, he told me about Manuel Almanza, a custom builder in Fort Worth. He gave me a card and told to look the shop up.
As things were going I had been doing some security consulting for a small manufacturer near the airport so the next trip down I took a rental into Fort Worth—I remembered the Almanza brand etched into my Uncle’s square toes—it had taken fifty years to realize why he liked them. I had even practiced a little Spanish just in case. It was a little out of the way place and I went in. The guy who came out of the back said, “Buenos dias, Y’all. I’m Manny.”
“Joaquin sent me.”
“Yeah, he told me about you and I used to read your posts on the forum—you’re Lobo.”
A pair of black boots covered with dust caught my eye. “Something like those.”
“My daddy made those for a Wyoming rancher back in the 70s. He died before picking them up.”
“Probably my uncle. We called them old guy boots.”
“Let me guess—you liked pointed toes.”
“Casey Tibbs wore pointed toes.”
So he measured my feet with the Brannock device and made a tracing. A couple months later—after getting an email that the boots were ready—I went back down to Fort Worth to discuss my report and pick up the boots. I had more time because I was no longer working retail so I hopped in my little Tacoma and drove. I did not need to worry because the Life NRA sticker in my window was sufficient to mitigate the Kansas tag. The little wheelchair on the tag helped in parking.
I went in. As I looked at the counter there was a pair in my style, but they were too short. “Don’t worry Amigo,” Manny said. “I have yours in back. These boots were made for Joaquin.”
As a writer of fiction—I used to write budget justifications for state positions and equipment—I use stories for illustration. Characters may be fictitious, but they are composites of people I met. If Almanza Boot Company exists, let me know—I’ve got a pair wearing thin on top.
Boots are important to people from the part of the world I inhabited as a child. Mostly I got boots from my aunt and uncle—my mother kept me in orthopedic shoes. When I got away to the University of Denver I walked into JC Penney’s, went downstairs and found a pair of H&H oiled leather Wellingtons. It was rebellion. During my career in government service I wore Frye, Hyer, Acme, Dan Post, Tony Lama, Nocona and H&H. I also wore Chippewa, Danner and H&H hiking and military boots.
But today we are discussing western boots like the ones on my feet as I write this. If I hit the PowerBall, I will buy two pair of Lucheses, black and oxblood with square toes. My favorite footwear is the forbidden fruit of my high school years when I wore Dr Scholl’s and some Italian made suede shoes that were oh so comfortable and oh so bad for my feet.
Pointed toes were what the rodeo cowboys of the fifties were wearing—square toes were what “old men” wore. My uncle must have been at least 55. In the beginning Charlie Hyer built a round toed boot at Olathe, Kansas. There were probably dozens of bootmakers in the west but Charlie was close to Kansas City and had a knack for publicity. I do know that the riding heel was at times referred to as the Spanish heel—much like what we call a western saddle is referred to in some circles as a Mexican saddle.
As things go, in 1974 I drove into Olathe to buy some boots at the bankruptcy sale for Hyer boot company—I think I was four or five when my grandfather got me a pair of Hyers for Christmas. But this was a bankruptcy sale and for $150 I bought two pair of boots and a 3X Stetson hat. Amazingly they fit. I have on a couple occasions bought boots that do not—and have paid dearly.
It was about 1976 when I fell in love with a woman 50 years my senior named Enid Justin. Miss Enid wrote a statement I have remembered since about fit. She said that boots which do not fit when you first try them on will never fit—countering my grandmother’s statement about breaking in time. I violated that once and I regretted it. Miss Enid, when her father died and her brothers decided to move the business from Nocona to Fort Worth, opened the Nocona Boot Company with existing employees. There was a reason that Justins and Noconas felt similar. By the way, Nocona is a Comanche word and was the name of Chief Quanah’s father.
So much for history. Olathe boot company opened in the old Hyer factory and builds boots that are used by a lot of cowboy action shooters because they have a 19th Century look. The company was, the last time I checked, located in Mercedes (pronounced Mer-sid-ez’) Texas.
Miss Enid’s company merged with Justin Industries in 1981. In 1991, following her death, all operations were moved to Fort Worth. Tony Lama, also a Justin Company, occupies the same factory but has a slightly different process. There is a low end Nocona built in Mexico. It does not differ much from a similar Lama Boot. Like I said, I cannot afford Lucheses. Justin is now owned by Berkshire Hathaway.
Some hints:
Make sure of your fit and make sure the boot will handle any orthotic device you use. This is a lot more important when you hit 60 than when you are 18 and immortal. (Note: by the time I was 21 I had been clinically dead three times. The last was when I was 20 so I’m only 48, right?)
Do not assume that all boots with the same brand name have the same last. This especially applies to boots made in China.
Decide if you can wear a Spanish heel or you need a walking heel. Some of us interchange.
The pointed toe is for controlling a horse. It originated in Mexico and became popular with the rodeo circuit. I became aware of it in 1953-54. If you plan to do a lot of walking, get a round or square toe.
Realize that they are not really “cowboy” boots until they have had excrement cleaned off of them.
We had a couple of politicians decide to go native and dress in jeans and boots to meet with ranchers. The latter showed up in suit and tie. Note: I was more comfortable wearing boots in Washington than a friend of mine from the east was wearing boots out here.
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The Ninth Cavalry of Colored Troops, heroes of San Juan, inaugural parade, Washington, D.C., March 4, 1905
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Machinery Hall from across central and eastern cascade, World's Fair St. Louis, 1904
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[Soldiers returing from World War I parading through arch on street in Minneapolis]
Inauguration of President Roosevelt, March 4, 1905 / The splendid pageant sweeping through Pennsylvania Ave.
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Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, D.C. / The Rotograph Co.
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It takes the 9th and 10th Cavalry to make the Germans lay their amunitions down
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About the showEpisodesWhere to listen
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London is Ok I Guess
A show about finding your place...in a place you’d rather not be.
A Very Queer First Episode ft. Sacha CowardStart listening
Publishes Every 2-3 weeks
Hey I’m Hannah. I’m from the States, and I live in London. Objectively I know I’m lucky to be here, but if I can be honest...I’m just not feeling it.
I’m not the kind of person to settle for “it’s ok I guess.” So I’m going to be taking my relationship with London to the next level by bringing some new people into the mix. I’ll be asking interesting people to show me the places in London that represent what they love about the city. Hopefully, they can help me figure out what it takes to really live in London...instead of just being an under-funded long term tourist.
Hannah Hethmon
Podcast Production and Consulting for Museums, History Organizations, and Cultural Nonprofits
Hannah Hethmon is a consultant and producer specializing in all things podcasting for museums, history organizations, and cultural nonprofits. She is the creator and host of two shows: Museums in Strange Places and London is Ok I Guess. She is the author of the book Your Museum Needs a Podcast: A Step-By-Step Guide to Podcasting on a Budget for Museums, History Organizations, and Cultural Nonprofits. Her production and consulting work includes shows and projects for the UK National Archives, the Smithsonian Institution, the Science History Institute, the Peale Center, and the Vagina Museum. Hannah holds an MA in Viking and Medieval Norse Studies from the University of Iceland and is a Fulbright alumni. Originally from the greater Washington, D.C. area, she has lived in Iceland, Denmark, and Poland and currently lives in London….which is ok she says.
A Very Queer First Episode ft. Sacha Coward
I meet up with escape room creator, museum professional, and self-proclaimed mermaid hunter Sacha Coward, who takes me somewhere that will inspire me a bit and help me see the beauty in …
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Bacon Food history Musings
Food for Thought: BACON!
By Brian February 13, 2019 February 13, 2019
Leave a Comment on Food for Thought: BACON!
“Ok class,” I said, as I plugged in my laptop, and fired up the projector, “today we’re going to be talking about economic unrest in the Colonial era, looking specifically at Bacon’s Rebellion.”
As students shuffled their bags under their desks, and opened their computers, I pointed at a raised hand in the back of the class, hoping for an early, thought-provoking question.
“Mr. Murph,” the student said, his hand still raised, “is this dude responsible for naming bacon after himself?”
I must have looked as dumbfounded as I felt, because after a surprised silence, the remainder of the class started in with titters of surprised laughter.
“No,” I paused to think. “At least I don’t think so. I think the word bacon has been around for a long time.”
“Oh,” he said, looking dejected. “just think it would be badass to be the guy who named bacon.
“Why’s that?” I asked, with genuine curiosity.
“Well, bacon is pretty awesome,” he mused. “So in order to name bacon after yourself, you’d probably have to be pretty awesome.”
“Fair enough.” I said. “Well, I don’t think it’s this guy, but I can tell you that he did think a lot of himself, as you’ll see in a few minutes, right after you jot down your homework.”
An artist’s rendering of Bacon’s Rebellion, complete with fire in the background, possibly for cooking bacon.
The students gave a low laugh again, this time at my awkward transition into the lesson. But as I moved into my first few slides, I kept thinking about bacon.
Bacon IS awesome. Where DID the name come from? Was it a specific person? Why haven’t I researched this before?
A short history of the best food in the world:
It turns out that the etymology of “bacon” is widely debated. Bacon is an English language word, but like many English words, it has a complicated history.
When I talk about bacon – which I do, frequently – I’m referring to salt-cured and smoked meat and fat from the belly of a pig. As we’re all aware, it usually comes pre-sliced, and has a healthy (not really though) ratio of meat to fat: about 50-50. It can be either wet or dry cured, and is usually smoked.
Pork Belly Bacon – Look at all that delicious fat!
The word “bacon” probably comes from the Old English word “bacoun,” which historians generally agree is used to refer to all salt-cured pork products. “Bacoun” itself is possibly derived from one of a few French or Germanic words: the French “bako”, the Germanic “bahho” or “bakko,” and/or the Teutonic (a 2nd-century Germanic tribe) “backe,” all of which refer to the back. This probably means that “bacon” has historically been cut from the back of the hog, where the meat includes both the loin and a portion of the fatty upper belly. This product is commonly referred to as “back bacon”, and is the most common cut in both Britain and Ireland (were it’s called “bacon”), where slices are sold as “rashers”. It also makes sense that the fatty belly would be preserved and used as cooking fats, rather than consumed outright as bacon (as we know it).
Back bacon rashers. Notice the leaner slice of loin, and the small section of fatty belly at the bottom.
Likewise, it makes sense that the popularity of pork products – especially bacon – would persist throughout the centuries. Wild hogs were originally indigenous to Eurasia, but they were spread the world over through the process of human migration. A species of pig was most likely first domesticated from wild hogs in the area of the Tigris river valley around 13,000 BCE. The rest is delicious history.
Pigs have followed their associated human populations around the world for the past 15,000 years. By 5,000 BCE, pigs were the most common domesticated animal in China. Eurasian migrations spread different breeds across the continent, and as far as Africa. Voyages of exploration saw the exportation of swine to “newly discovered lands”, like the Americans and Oceania, where the ever-adaptive, omnivorous species were traded, and in some cases became invasive (like in Hawaii and Samoa). A major commodity, pigs and other livestock were transported live, as butchered meat was more likely to go bad on a voyage of unknown length. Christopher Columbus brought live pigs with him on each of his voyages, introducing them to the Islands of the Caribbean. North American settlers brought their staple food animal with them, in some cases letting the population literally run wild: subsequent feral generations of pigs introduced to the Island of Manhattan plagued the streets of Ney York city until the early 1800’s. During industrialization, British citizens were known to keep pigs in their homes, and until the practice was outlawed in the 1930’s, city-dwelling Englanders had taken to housing domesticated swine in their basements.
All of this points to one common idea: the value of pigs as a source of food. In a pre-refrigeration world, it stands to reason that butchered pork would have been salted or smoked; those are two of the common food preservation techniques. The process of curing and smoking bacon, and then cooking it, is scientifically proven to release compounds known as furans, aldehydes, and ketones, which – in combination – give the product that sweet, fatty, buttery, umami flavor that generations of humanity have come to know and love. In addition, pork is protein rich, and fatty.
In other words, it’s delicious.
So there you have it, a quick history of bacon, with some fun facts thrown in. As you ponder all that you’ve learned here today, why not check out a few of my favorite bacon-inspired (below), or for some further reading, check out my reference links at the bottom of the page!
Bacon-heavy recipes from lovefoodandbeer.com:
My favorite Bacon Mac and Cheese
Rockfish BLT’s
Fish cakes with bacon and Old Bay
Bacon-wrapped Pork Tenderloin
Turkey Sliders with Bacon and Slaw
Smoked Salmon and Bacon Dippies
Links and Outside Reading:
“The Domestication of Pigs” ThoughtCo.
“The Science Behind What Makes Bacon Taste so Delicious” The Daily Meal
“Bacon History” The Bacon Scouts
“Bacon History” Bacon Wikia
“A Short History of Bacon” The Spruce Eats
“The History of Bacon” The English Breakfast Society
“The Domestication of Pigs: Sus Scrofa’s Two Distinct Histories” ThoughtCo.
Tags: bacon cooking food history
Published by Brian
I am a teacher. I love my wife and kids, cooking, teaching, beer, and living in the Pacific Northwest! View all posts by Brian
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Agriculture Department Updates Guidelines To Determine If Students Are Eligible for Free Meals
By Ana Martinez-Ortiz Earlier this week, the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition service announced that updates were made to the income eligibility guidelines, which determine who is … [Read more...]
Popular Interests In This Article: Ana Martinez-Ortiz, Free Meals, Reduced Price Meals, United States Department of Agriculture
National Black Farmers Association to Convene 26th Annual Conference in Mississippi
Washington, D.C. – In a historic milestone, the National Black Farmers Association (NBFA) will mark its 26th year of standing up for African American farmers and their families. The NBFA … [Read more...]
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USDA Food Safety Results
USDA plays a role in ensuring that virtually all foods produced and eaten in the United States are safe to consume. Our primary responsibility, however, is to make sure America’s supply of meat, … [Read more...]
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USDA Announces $8.4 Million to Support a Diverse Next Generation of Farmers and Ranchers
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced the availability of $8.4 million in competitive grants to support the work of partner organizations that provide training, … [Read more...]
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Studies May Shed Light on Food-Stamp Purchases
Jonathan Ellis, USA TODAY WASHINGTON (USA Today)—The U.S. Department of Agriculture is expected to release studies this spring that will provide more information about the types of foods purchased … [Read more...]
Popular Interests In This Article: Food Stamps, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, United States Department of Agriculture
COA Youth & Family Centers announces Summer Food Program
Stressing the importance of offering nutritious meals to children during the summer months, COA Youth & Family Centers announces the sponsorship of the Summer Food Service Program. The Summer … [Read more...]
Popular Interests In This Article: COA Youth and Family Centers, Summer Food Service Program, United States Department of Agriculture
USDA: Wisconsin among most accurate states for Foodshare payments
State to receive nearly $1.5 million in bonus payments Wisconsin will receive nearly $1.5 million in bonus payments for having one of the highest FoodShare accuracy rates in the nation, according to … [Read more...]
Popular Interests In This Article: Bonus Payments, Food Share, United States Department of Agriculture
Wisconsin’s best run program reaches highest accuracy rate in its history
Program integrity enhanced even as demand increased The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) released a statement last week lauding States for improved performance in administering … [Read more...]
Popular Interests In This Article: FoodShare, The Milwaukee Hunger Task Force, United States Department of Agriculture
FoodShare privatization illegal
Hunger Task Force joins Cong. Gwen Moore in efforts to protect Federal funds By Lynda Jones Last week Congresswoman Gwen Moore (D-Milwaukee) wrote Governor Scott Walker and implored him to … [Read more...]
Popular Interests In This Article: Food Share, Gwen Moore, Lynda Jones, Scott Walker, The Milwaukee Hunger Task Force, United States Department of Agriculture
USDA Official forced to resign
NAACP says resignation should be reconsidered USDA Official, Shirley Sherrod was forced to resign this week over a edited tape that was made public and gave a false impression that she had been … [Read more...]
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Messianic Jewish Rabbinate
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Tag: cognate languages
Now Accepting Book Submissions
April 13, 2017 June 15, 2017 · 7 Comments ·
הוֹצָאָה לְאוֹר
MJR has just launched our own publishing house: MJR Press. We will be publishing works in the following areas of Jewish culture:
Bible (includes Parashot & Haftorot studies, commentaries, & original midrash)
Rabbinical Literature (introductions, commentaries, monographs, tutorials, etc.)
Prayer/Liturgy
History/Biography
Classic Reprint Series: Judaica & Hebraica
Our first Classic Reprint, Granville Sharp’s A Letter respecting Some Particularities of Hebrew Syntax (London, 1803), will be available by the end of April 2017, and Brian Tice’s Reflecting on the Rabbis: Sage Insight into First-Century Jewish Thought will be out in May 2017.
Granville Sharp was the very definition of a Renaissance Man: self-taught in Law, Hebrew, Greek, and Music – and highly accomplished in all of them. In this formerly out-of-print work, Sharp dissects all of the available grammars for any inkling of data on the function of the waw-hahipuch and proceeds to formulate the most comprehensive set of rules with regard thereto, complete with examples from Scripture. This edition includes a new biographical introduction and an annotated bibliographical survey of the grammars with which Sharp interacted. As an added bonus, Granville Sharp’s rather impressive family is presented in a family tree in the inside back cover.
We used to know a lot about First-Century Judaism… until we realized we didn’t. The First Century CE was what is known as Judaism’s “creative phase.” There were Sadducees, Pharisees, Zealots, Essenes, Therapeutae… just to name a few of the Jewish sects and movements. And, most of these had sub-sects or sub-movements of their own as well. The Pharisaic sect was certainly no exception. In this volume, Jewish Studies professor Brian Tice presents the six most prominent and influential Sages of this period, drawing from the Bible, both Talmuds, the Midrashic literature, the Targums, and other scholarly sources to set the scene of a First-Century Judaism which is likely more diverse than you realized. What were the essential beliefs? Who were the main players? Where did their worldviews differ? What were the religious politics? What was considered out of bounds? The author takes readers on a pilgrimage through the rabbinical schools of some of the greatest Jewish minds of the time period to offer some “Sage insights into First-Century Jewish thought.” <b>Recipient of the 5777 Yiddishkeit 101 College-Level Literature Award!</b> Order in June, and get free enrollment in the MJR course which corresponds to the book! https://mjrabbinate.teachable.com/p/fjt-120/
Your Jewish literature proposals or submissions can be sent to us at publishing@mjrabbinate.org.
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Posts tagged ‘Putin’
US Strike in Syria: Failed Strategic Attempt or Previously Planned Strike?
On Wednesday the 6th of April 2017, two days before the US strike on Syria, a Syrian opposition member called an Arab diplomat saying “America will conduct an attack on Shouairat airport (Homs).” The latter transferred the news to a Syrian diplomat that, in turn, transferred it early Thursday to the Syrian command.
This is what the Security Specialist Vadislav Sheurgen said, and added “The US informed Russia previously through diplomatic channels with its plans to target Syria, and in turn, Russia informed its Syrian counterpart to evacuate its soldiers and equipment.”
In return, other Russian officials confirmed that they knew nothing about the US strike before it happened, and Moscow described what happened as an “aggression on a sovereign state”, and it announced that it will enhance Syria’s aerial defenses and halting cooperation with the US that prevented aerial conflicts over Syria.
What are the background information before the happenings of Friday dawn?
The US airstrike came before any true and objective investigation was made for the claimed “Khan Shikhoun Chemical attack”. Moreover, it didn’t get any international accreditation from the UN’s security council nor the US Congress, which means president Donald Trump needed to hasten the strike.
The first vital question is “why this hastening”?
First of all, because the media outburst that was caused by the death of the children prepared the globe for that, exactly like what happened post-9/11 in 2001 (despite the slight difference). Trump must’ve taken the global emotional opportunity and present himself as a humanitarian hero. So in that case, there’s no need for an investigation, with the accusation ready and decision already made.
Second, Trump wanted to strike the Syrian airport after two hours from dinner with the Chinese president, to send a strong warning message to China, saying “if you don’t stop North Korea, our missiles and jets are ready to do the same thing that we did in Syria”. For the past weeks, POTUS has been sending warning after warning to North Korea, whom performed Ballistic missiles tests a while ago, and said that if “China doesn’t move, he will do so himself to stop North Korea… and all options are open”.
But the question here is: did Trump inform his Chinese guest about the strike? That’s unknown, but the Chinese reaction was bound by calling all sides of the conflict for negotiations and stressed on political solutions, denouncing usage of barred weaponry. This means that China didn’t have its usual reaction, such as its Russian counterpart, and did not denounce the strike that didn’t have the security council’s approval.
Third, the strike came one night after the failure of the security council to take a unified decision concerning the chemical attack issue. Trump wanted to say that he doesn’t give any importance to the international coalition, especially that he has been supported by several nations, especially Arab Gulf states, Jordan, Turkey, and Israel. Unlike when Bush invaded Iraq with the opposition of France.
Fourth, the repercussions that the US airstrike on Mosul made, which killed tens of civilians, started to receive international condemnation, even calls to open a serious international investigation.
The key question here is “did the strike happen by mistake or was there someone who needed in get Trump involved into other options?” but the hastening of the strike on Syria was aiming to divert attention from Mosul’s “massacre” and shed light over Syria.
Fifth, the US strike came in midst of investigations with the Trump administration concerning cooperation with Russians, and there were several pressures being made and accusations of spying by some of the people close to Trump.
Sixth, the US strike also came after a meeting between both Iran’s and Russia’s presidents, where the latter two signed several military agreements with their Chinese counterpart.
After this, Trump would have two options left:
He, either, continues the battle with regional forces (Turkey, Israel, and Saudi Arabia) to put pressure on Iran, Hezbollah, and tries to halt Russia, or he goes to negotiations and mutual understanding, especially that his secretary of state, Rex Tellerson, will visit Moscow soon.
This US intervention in Syria is the first major military development since the Russian direct intervention, with means that the war in Syria has shifted from its local and regional players to its international ones.
Washington wants to set a foot directly in North or Eastern Syria, through political, military, and security methods, and it’s impossible that Trump will retreat from that, and Russia will never back-down from Syria because that would damage its role in the ME region, as well as cause a national security threat.
Keep in mind that days before the US strike, there was a blast in St. Petersburg’s metro station, the Russian opposition moved on the ground, and the Russian Ruble price went down. Iran also sees that its retreat from Syria will cause great damage on its security, politics, and coming elections.
Tags: America, Assad, Chemical Attack, Homs, Idlib, Iran, Putin, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Syrian Crisis, Trump, Turkey, US
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« Arrival
La La Land »
Director: Tom Ford.
Screenplay: Tom Ford.
Starring: Amy Adams, Jake Gyllenhaal, Michael Shannon, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Armie Hammer, Isla Fisher, Ellie Bamber, Karl Glusman, Robert Aramayo, Laura Linney, Andrea Riseborough, Michael Sheen, Jena Malone, Graham Beckel.
“Enjoy the absurdity of our world. It’s a lot less painful. Believe me, our world is a lot less painful than the real world”
Former fashion-designer Tom Ford took his first steps into film directing with A Single Man in 2009. It’s a film that didn’t initially catch my eye but when I finally caught up with it, it really impressed. In fact, I thought it a near masterpiece of style and composition. As a result, I’ve been very eager to see what Ford would do next and although his follow-up isn’t quite as good as his debut, there’s still much to recommend.
Plot: Wealthy art curator Susan Morrow (Amy Adams), receives a manuscript from her ex-husband Edward Sheffield (Jake Gyllenhaal). As she settles into reading Edward’s story, she is forced to confront her past and the breakdown of their relationship as the story within the manuscript turns violent and deadly.
Based on the novel Tony and Susan by Austin Wright, there’s a clever structure to Nocturnal Animals. It’s a story-within-a-story and not being content with that, it also employs flashbacks just to make it more narratively complex and frames it’s all as three stories in one. The stories aren’t vignettes or separate, though. They are very much related and feed into each other as the film addresses the differences between past and present and the fine line between reality and fantasy with one fictional story even serving as a metaphor for another. It’s quite an ambitious project for Ford in only his second film but he’s able to keep command of all the narratives and manages to combine a reflective drama with a mysterious, psychological thriller while bringing it all together to make a complete and coherent whole.
It’s not just Ford’s narrative juggling that impresses, though. There’s plenty to admire throughout the entire film; Ford’s direction is ambitious and, like his work in A Single Man, he has a keen artistic eye with some vibrant and striking imagery captured by Christopher Brown’s art direction, Seamus McGarvey’s sombre cinematography and the gorgeous production design by Shane Valentino and Meg Everist invites you into the characters’ dark, dual existences without ever losing its consistent tone. It also boasts a very impressive cast who are all on good form; after her anchoring work in Arrival, the always reliable Amy Adams delivers another strong, reserved performance; the Oscar nominated Michael Shannon manages to convey so much with the minutest facial expression and Golden Globe winning Aaron Taylor-Johnson tackles a darker role, that he’s not normally associated with. Put simply, he knocks it out the park and I hope that Johnson continues to explore more of his range in the future.
Like the performances themselves, there are so many layers to Nocturnal Animals that it stays with you long after the credits have rolled. It’s had its critics with many claiming style over substance as a major issue. Personally, I disagree, and happen to think it has an abundance of both. It’s a very well crafted film that’s awash with symbolism and has you continually questioning it’s meanings and messages.
A complex and elegant love story that successfully interweaves with a sadistic film-noir. Tom Ford has shown that A Single Man was no fluke. This a director with sophistication and one that delivers material that’s as dense as it is captivating.
Trivia: Amy Adams and Jake Gyllenhaal have been cast in another project called ‘Ezekiel Moss’ which would have been directed by Philip Seymour Hoffman. However, the project was scrapped after Hoffman’s death in 2014
This entry was posted on February 15, 2017 at 11:00 pm and is filed under Drama, Film-Noir, Mystery, thriller with tags 2016. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
18 Responses to “Nocturnal Animals”
I really disliked the movie and thought it was very juvenile with all the jump scares and quite banal plot but Shannon’s performance here is my single favorite performance from 2016. He made it worth seeing, just an amazing work and so funny too
I was actually surprised how much I liked it, Sati. I thought all the narratives blended seamlessly and I really like its use of atmosphere. Great performances too. Shannon and Taylor-Johnson were both outstanding but I thought Gyllenhaal overplayed it on this rare occasion.
I found this film very haunting and arresting. Ford’s direction was so striking and kept me invested. And Michael Shannon rocked it.
Yeah, I’m with you on this one, Vinnie. A lot of people didn’t like it but i thought was brilliant. The performances were superb (don’t know about Gyllenhaal though) and Ford really does have an artistic eye.
Yes, I noticed it has divided people. I reviewed it the other month, if you’d like to read my thoughts.
Three Rows Back Says:
It does rather beg the question as to why Adams hasn’t been Oscar nominated doesn’t it? I mean I greatly respect Muriel Streep and everything, but her performance in Florence Foster Jenkins wasn’t as good as Adams in Arrival, say (not seen this yet so can’t comment).
Adams’ omission from the Oscars this year is poor, man. I love Streep an all that but others should be getting a chance before her.
Hmmm, might have to bump this up my watch list Mark! Great work, as always!
A lot of people seem a bit lukewarm on it, Zoë. I thought it was great though.
This wasn’t perfect but so fun to look at, and some terrific performances too.
The performances were fantastic, Jay. I also liked how all the stories fit together. There’s not thrillers getting made this way anymore.
Jordan Dodd Says:
I loved this. A mixed reception usually means its a keeper. I think The Neon Demon has a 56% rating on RT and that was easily my favourite film of last year, and after five times I still can’t stop watching it.
I need to see more Shannon. He is pure awesome
Yeah, I don’t know why people have been so harsh on this yet so in love with Moonlight. People’s heads have been up their arses this year. 😉
Indeed. Things actually happened in this film! The best actor in it is on screen for more than 10 minutes too! And it wasn’t just another in a long line of well made genre-movies. Its fucking -unique- as fuck and it barely missed my top ten.
We have been sharing a lot of similar views this year, man. I loved Nocturnal. “Unique as fuck” is a good place to start with this. Great flick, great writing, direction and great fuckin acting too. What more did people want?
Who knows man. Shannon’s performance was enough for me, but the whole thing was pretty damned interesting.
Yeah, it really grabbed me too. Shannon and Taylor Johnson were superb.
Ahhhh talking about it makes me want to see it again! I need to get this, tho I’m kinda waiting for 4k releases to become the norm.
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Revealing and Reflecting the Heart of Christ Within Marriage
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PDA – Public Displays of Affection
When you first fell in love, and before you married, was your love for each other evident? Did you speak and show love to each other through affectionate words and actions? We sure did. PDA was something we never hesitated to do.
As a matter of fact, it probably sickened some people around us to see all the mushy-gushy stuff that was going on between us. We thought nothing of it. It seemed like the “natural” thing to do.
PDA: Public Displays of Affection
Ask me if we still show our affection for each other, both in public and at home. Go ahead; ask me. I’m ready for that one (because it’s something that’s important to Steve and me).
To that question, my answer would still be, we sure do. And we love it! We truly believe that just because we’re married, it doesn’t mean that we need to stop showing our love for one another.
We believe that Christian married couples should have the best and freshest love life going on with each other. That doesn’t mean that we do things that are inappropriate with each other in public. It does mean, however, that demonstrating our love should never stop. After all, isn’t that what God did and does for us?
We’re told in the Bible, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8) How much more public can you get in demonstrating His love, than for Jesus to die publicly on the cross for us?
Theological PDA
Yes, I know that I’m making this a bit theological. But when it comes to showing love to each other as husband and wife, that’s okay. We even have a license to display love. We obtained it when we both said, “I do” before God and many witnesses. As a matter of fact, the first “official action” we engage in as husband and wife is sealing our wedding vows with a kiss. Remember what the pastor said? He said, “by the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife.” And to the husband he said, “You may now kiss your bride.”
Does that mean that we’re to stop kissing each other because we kissed publicly “once and for all” on our wedding day? I’m not thinking so. I think it’s a crying shame when I see married couples —especially Christian ones, who stop showing each other love and affection. It can spark, or re-spark some great feelings when you flirt with each other. This is true even after some 45 (plus) years of marriage.
If you aren’t doing this, if you’re “out of practice” in flirting with your spouse, “demonstrating” your love to your spouse, then try it. You may just find that you like it… a WHOLE lot! I’m not talking about falling all over each other in public. That can get sickening for others to see. But simple flirting, holding hands, putting your arm around your sweetheart, and stealing a kiss here and there is great. Include in that, winking, blowing a kiss, squeezing a shoulder or a knee, finding each other’s foot under a table —trying not to let others see, and the list goes on.
Steve and I find that when we do this, our own feelings for each other soars. We’re married; we love God and each other, and we aren’t ashamed to let the world know it. God, whose very name means LOVE has taught us and continues to guide us into loving each other “in word and deed,” as we’re told to do in the Bible. Why should we keep it secret?
I remember our son David (who is now in his 40’s) used to come in sometimes when he was outside, or in the other room playing. He would see us hugging each other and kissing, and he would wrap his arms around the both of us and give us a group hug. I believe it was his way of saying, “I’m so glad you love each other. It makes me feel so blessed.” It sure made his world a lot more secure.
He told us this later in life as he realized how many of his friends parents were splitting up. He said that he never had to worry about his home going down that same road. And he didn’t. After we came to know Christ personally, we vowed to never let that happen.
It made us feel good when David told us that because we really worked hard at making our marriage a good one. Did we ever argue and NOT act loving sometimes? Yes, we did. We are human, after-all. But we worked at keeping our grievances short and at giving and showing each other love, just as Christ would have us.
Christian Marriages SHOULD Be Loving
Again, I’ll say it. I believe that Christian marriages should be the most loving ones on earth. We know God, we love God, and we follow His ways. And because God IS LOVE, it only makes sense that even though we clash sometimes, we should make the effort to especially love each other as Christ loves us. He loves, so we should love. He gave and gives, so we should give. That is our mission —to reveal and reflect the love of God to everyone, ESPECIALLY our marriage partner. Marital PDA is part of our evangelical mission.
So, go ahead and start flirting with your spouse. Include PDA (public and private displays of affection). They are great ways to spark your love for each other, just as it did for each of you before you married. Except now that you ARE married, you even have a license to do it. So, please do!
P.S. If you want a little “refresher course” please read, HOLDING HANDS AND KISSING.
Cindy Wright of Marriage Missions International wrote this blog.
More from Marriage Missions
Holding Hands and Kissing Spouse
Simple Ways of Connecting Daily in Your Marriage
Misguided Affection – MM #359
Love And Affection Are Different
Connection Questions and a Kiss
The “Job” of Kissing
Tagged: kiss your spouse, tokens of affection
Filed under: Marriage Blog
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2 responses to “PDA – Public Displays of Affection”
Tara from United States says:
My husband shows me… 0… zero p.d.a. I feel like people look at us like we’re roommates. But in the very beginning the tables were turned; it lasted about 4 years. Then when we finally married in 2008, I wanted pda so bad. Now it just hurts. He would rather pull out his phone than to pay any attention to me.
Ram Das from India says:
The way people choose to express their affection for each other in public is fascinating to me. It’s completely different than physical affection in private, because with public display of affection you’re walking a fine line between social norms and personal intimacy.
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Home Biography Speedy Claxton
Speedy Claxton Biography
Updated On 03 Dec, 2019 Published On 27 Nov, 2019
Facts of Speedy Claxton
May 8 , 1978
Birth Country :
Birth Sign :
5 Feet 11 Inch
Relationship short Statistics of Speedy Claxton
What is Speedy Claxton marital status ? ( married,single, in relation or divorce):
How many children does Speedy Claxton have ? (name):
Is Speedy Claxton having any relationship affair ?:
Yes1 affair
Is Speedy Claxton Gay ?
1 Affair 1 Marriage
Speedy Claxton was one of the exciting players to watch in the basketball court in early 2000. Playing for NBA teams like Philadelphia 76ers, San Antonio Spurs, Golden State Warriors, New Orleans Hornets, Atlanta Hawks, he left a lasting impression on the basketball fanatics, especially during his time in San Antonio Spurs where he won the 2003 NBA championship.
Speedy Claxton's Personal Life
The former basketball player is in lovey-dovey with his charming girlfriend. The mysterious lady with whom he shares pictures on social media goes by the user name glamouramber on her Instagram is a fashion designer by profession.
Speedy Claxton with his current partner. SOURCE: Speedy Claxton's Instagram (speedy_clax10)
The two came out as lovebirds in 2017 and are together ever since. With no controversies surrounding their relationship, they seem happy with each other.
Already Married Before And Father of Two Kids
The former Philadelphia 76ers player was in wedlock with reality series "Basketball Wives" star Meeka Claxton. The duo tied the knot in the presence of their close ones in 2006.
The celebrity pair lived a normal married life for over eight years and share two daughters, Aniya Claxton and London Claxton. Unfortunately, due to several disputes, they parted ways in early 2014.
Divorce Settlement
After separating from her husband, Meeka filed for the divorce in New York Court, but the divorce procedure did not go well. The reality star demanded her estranged partner pay for temporary alimony and child support until the divorce became official.
Speedy Claxton with his estranged wife Meeka Claxton. SOURCE: Bossip
Although the Judge announced the temporary support for Meeka, Speedy immediately protested and pleaded to the judge to reconsider the decision.
In 2016, the retired athlete filed a lawsuit against his ex-wife for contempt of the court order. After a few years of much hassle, Speedy and Meeka officially divorced on June 14, 2017.
Net Worth and Career Earnings
From his successful basketball career, which lasted a decade, he made massive wealth. As of 2019, he boasts a net worth of $29.5 million. In contrast, another former Philadelphia 76ers player Allen Iverson holds a net worth of $1 million.
In his rookie year in 2000, he signed a four-year contract with Philadelphia 76ers worth $4.68 million. Three years later, Golden State Warriors signed him, and he agreed to a three-year contract worth $10 million.
Check out the clip of Speedy Claxton playing in the NBA!
On July 12, 2006, Claxton signed a $25 million four-year contract with Atalanta Hawks.
Quick Facts: Speedy Claxton
Speedy Claxton played at Hofstra University, wearing the number 10 jersey.
He was selected by the Philadelphia 76ers and was the 20th overall pick in 2000 NBA draft.
In 2002, he was traded to the San Antonio Spurs for Mark Bryant, Randy Holcomb, and John Salmons.
In 2003, he played as the starting point guard in the NBA championship-winning team of San Antonio Spurs.
Claxton donated a reasonable sum of money to help build the 5,000 seat arena of Hofstra University basketball.
Hofstra retired his number 10 on January 31, 2009.
The 1.80 meters tall man served as a college scout with the Golden State Warriors.
Since 2013 he is working as an assistant coach for the Hofstra Univeristy.
Keep in touch with us at Married Wiki for more celebrity News and Biography!!!
#celebrity dating
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#basketball player
Speedy Claxton Affairs
Second Affair with Unknown
Speedy Claxton is in dating relationshio with a mysterious lady whose Instagram user name is glamouramber.
Speedy Claxton Married
First Marriage with Meeka Claxton
Married date: 2006 Divorce
Speedy Claxton was in a matrimonial relationship with Meeka Claxton. Meeka is an American reality star and a businesswoman.
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About Our Research Program
Dr. Sarah A. Morrow
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Dr. Morrow is an Associate Professor in the Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences at Western University (London, ON). She received her MD from the University of Calgary and completed her residency training in neurology at Western University. This was followed by a clinical fellowship in MS at the London MS clinic at Western University and a research fellowship on Cognition and MS with Dr. Ralph Benedict, a neuropsychologist, at the Jacobs Neurologic Institute in Buffalo NY. Dr. Morrow has also completed a Master's of Science in Epidemiology at the State University of New York at Buffalo. In addition to her clinical work in the London MS clinic, she established the first MS Cognitive clinic in Canada located at Parkwood Institute. She currently has over 70 peer-reviewed publications in the area of MS. She is a Board member for the Consortium of MS Centers and on the editorial board of both the International Journal of MS care and the Canadian Journal of Neurological Sciences. She is on the steering committee of MS in the 21st Century, an international collaboration with the aim of defining how MS treatment and standard of care should look in the 21st century. Her research interests are cognition in MS and the use of corticosteroids for the treatment of relapses in MS.
Learn more about Dr. Morrow
How did you become interested in MS research? What inspires you to continue advancing research in this field?
I became interested in MS research as a medical student while studying at the University of Calgary. I was lucky enough to work with Dr. Luanne Metz, the director of the University of Calgary’s MS clinic, on a research project regarding the use of oral corticosteroids for MS relapses. Working on this project, and shadowing her and other neurologists in the clinic, inspired me to become an MS specialist and clinician-researcher.
What do you enjoy most about doing research and what are some of the challenges you face?
There are two things I enjoy most about my research program. First is my interaction with patients. MS patients are a wonderful group of people to interact with, both clinically and in a research setting. My patients motivate me to want to improve treatment options and their quality of life. Secondly, I enjoy the excitement of answering a question that has not previously been answered, the discovery of a new positive result that will impact MS patients or our understanding of the disease.
Describe the importance and level of collaboration in your research?
Cognitive impairment is a frequent and devastating consequence of MS, affecting 40-65% of persons with MS. Persons with MS and cognitive impairment are more likely to choose, or be forced, to decrease their contribution at work; some leave the workforce completely. Cognitive impairment also has a substantial negative impact on interpersonal relationships. Previous studies have demonstrated that, once present, cognitive impairment is unlikely to remit. Yet, to date, there are no treatments available to help with this distressing symptom. Collaboration is of utmost importance for research. Sometimes our research does not answer the question we want but provides information that steers you in a new direction or generates new hypotheses. It is only by collaborating with others that we can achieve our long-term common goal, which is improving treatment options, slowing down or stopping the effects of MS on our patients and improving their quality of life.
How important is the support from the MS Society in enabling you to conduct research?
I am honoured to have received support from MSSC to conduct this research. It is truly a pan-Canadian study, with five cities across the country, addressing an understudied area of MS. Without MSSC funding, we would not be able to carry out this project.
Dr. Morrow’s MS Society supported project:
A double-blind placebo controlled study of mixed-amphetamine salts, extended release (Adderall XR) for cognitive impairment in MS
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Seating Update: Revised Wheelchair Seating Standards Get ANSI/RESNA Approval
The newly revised ANSI/RESNA Standard for Wheelchairs, Vol. 3, has been approved for publication.
In a news announcement, RESNA said the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) has approved the revision and publication of the document, which was the result of five years of collaboration among wheelchair seating experts.
“This newly expanded volume not only includes improvements and clarifications, it also offers new test methods for characterizing wheelchair seating support surfaces,” RESNA said in the announcement.
The revised standards, said the Standards Committee on Wheelchair and Related Seating (WRS), “are created by the people who need them and use them, including clinicians, engineers, academics, manufacturers, regulators, and end users – ‘standards by us and for us.’”
The committee noted the standards’ “stakeholder-based approach,” which “ensures relevance and clarity, so that the standards can provide a common language and approach to seating, and be beneficial in differentiating between the scores of seating options available.”
The documents include the following sections:
• Section 1: Vocabulary, reference axis convention and measures for body postures and postural support surfaces.
• Section 2: Determination of physical and mechanical characteristics of seat cushions intended to manage tissue integrity.
• Section 3: Determination of static, impact and repetitive load strengths for postural support devices.
• Section 6: Determination of the changes in properties following simulated extended use of seat cushions.
• Section 12: Envelopment testing of seat cushions with dual semispherical indenter.
“As new standards are published by ISO (International Organization for Standardization), they are considered for inclusion in future volumes,” the committee said in the news announcement. Revisions are currently underway to integrate the ISO microclimate and flammability methods. If you are interested in joining these efforts, please lend your critical voice to this important work!”
The RESNA Standards Committee on WRS is chaired by Kara Kopplin. Evan Call is the Vice Chair, and Patricia Karg is the Secretary. The revised standards document can be purchased on the RESNA site (www.resna.org). For more information on the WRS standards committee, visit www.resna.org/standards/wheelchair-seating/wheelchair-and-related-seating.
BOC Congratulates New Executive Committee & Directors
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These over-the-top home customizations will bring down your real estate value
by Kathryn Vasel @KathrynVasel December 4, 2014: 10:03 AM ET
Backyard water parks. Hedges shaped like animals. A six-person Jacuzzi bath with mood lighting.
When it comes to adding value to a high-end home, an amenity with a large price tag doesn't guarantee a return on investment. Sometimes, a customized modification can actually reduce a home's value.
But that can be a tough sell to high-end homeowners.
"If they have sought out a unique feature, and paid for it, they think it's valuable and will overprice the home because of it," said Brendon DeSimone, real estate expert from Zillow.
Over-the-top features and customizations can even degrade a luxury property to fixer-upper status.
"I once saw an apartment in the city with Venetian plaster on all the walls. The new buyer would have to take it all off. That comes with a cost," said DeSimone.
Here's a look at luxury home customizations that might not be worth the investment:
Ornate landscaping
Strong curb appeal is a must, but there's a limit to just how far to take landscaping.
"Today's buyers want a cleaner cut yard and landscaping, they don't want all the fuss with multiple trees, shrubs and bushes," said Bo Mastykaz, a luxury real estate agent in Miami. "They don't want to feel like they're in a jungle."
Related: 5 luxury amenities wealthy homebuyers want
Elaborate outdoor pools
Turns out, not everyone wants an amusement park in their back yard.
"Elaborate rocks fixtures, slides and waterfalls may be nice to look at, but may require a lot of maintenance and safety can be a factor for some buyers," said Jud Henderson, broker associate at Sotheby's International Realty in Princeton, N.J.
Be warned: If you're thinking of adding a pool, it takes a long time for the investment to pay off.
Huge tubs in the bathroom
Gone are the days of needing to host a party in the bathroom.
"Most modern buyers want a normal-sized bath tub and a large shower, there's no longer the desire for a six to eight person Jacuzzi in the bathroom," said Mastykaz.
He added that overspending in the bathroom tends not to bring a strong ROI, but one upgrade that's worth the money is walling off the toilet. "When it's out in the open, that's a definite draw back."
High-end materials
Imported marble might cost a pretty penny, but it could also be a deal-breaker for a potential buyer down the road.
"It doesn't matter if it was flown in from Italy or Spain, a lot of today's buyers think it's too ornate, especially the size of the tiles," said Mastykaz.
Even the once-popular granite is falling out of buyers' favor. "Quartz is less busy and more minimalist and it has a natural sparkle finish that buyers want."
Related: No end in sight for New York's multimillion dollar housing boom
Using too many colors for the cabinets, tiles and floors and can also turn off buyers. "It's difficult for the vast majority of people to envision living in a highly expressive space or anything outside a more neutral color palate that they can then add their own personalization to," said Dean Jones, CEO of Realogics Sotheby's International Realty in Seattle.
Too much automation and security
While luxury homeowners want to be able to control their home's features remotely, the technology still has to be manageable.
"They want to touch one button to have all the lights turn on and off and control the temperature," said Danny Hertzberg, luxury realtor with The Jills of Coldwell Banker Miami Beach. "But when the showing agent can't work the system, the buyer isn't going to want to bother."
Security tends to be a top-priority with million-dollar homeowners, but too many cameras can become creepy, Mastykaz added.
Oversized rooms
Taking away a bedroom to create a larger room or re-purposing it into something like a wine cellar or recreation space will likely reduce a home's resale value. "There's a reason the first thing typically detailed on a home listing is the number of bedrooms," said Jones.
Related: Own a pricey pied-à-terre? Get ready to pay more taxes
Another no-no, is converting a garage into a living space.
"Buyers spending $10 million on a home have a lot of toys that they they're going to want to store," said Hertzberg.
A special room for the man of the house is so 2010.
"No husband that I have taken out in the last three years has put an emphasis on that," said Mastykaz. "And women just disregard it and have it changed."
Screening/media room
With today's large screen technology, media rooms have become old news.
"These are definitely out, especially those with projections screens," said Mastykaz. "When you add in the stadium seating and everything else, it feels gimmicky rather than true value to buyers and they will pursue something else."
CNNMoney (New York) First published December 4, 2014: 10:03 AM ET
When will I be a millionaire?
My current savings
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Another bear market for tech stocks?
by Paul R. La Monica @lamonicabuzz May 2, 2016: 11:36 AM ET
Chris Sacca: Twitter is 'a series of missed opportunities'
What the heck has happened to the tech sector?
Sure, the Nasdaq is still up sharply from the lows it hit in early February -- just like the rest of the market.
But the Nasdaq has fallen for the past seven days and was flat on Monday. The tech heavy index is down nearly 5% this year and 9% below last year's record high while the Dow and S&P 500 are in the black so far in 2016 and not too far from their peaks.
Disappointing earnings from Apple (AAPL), Google parent company Alphabet (GOOGL) and Microsoft (MSFT) all weighed on the Nasdaq last week.
The tech wreck is clearly hurting individual investors.
According to data provided to CNNMoney by investment performance tracking app Openfolio, Apple, Microsoft, Netflix (NFLX) and Twitter (TWTR) are among the most widely held stocks. They all fell about 10% last month.
The sector is clearly in a funk. Only one tech company has gone public so far this year -- and it was a flop. It wasn't a sexy startup either. It was SecureWorks, the cybersecurity spinoff of privately held Dell.
Related: First tech IPO of the year looks like a dud
But have tech stocks once again fallen too far too fast? There might be some bargains.
Daniel Morgan, senior portfolio manager with Synovus Trust Company, notes that Apple, Microsoft and Intel (INTC) all trade at reasonable valuations.
He added that the first quarter is typically weak for tech companies -- and that they are not immune to what's going on in the rest of the market. So he's not too concerned by the pullback.
"Where is tech today? Is this another 2000 or 2001? I'd say no. But these companies are still subject to the overall economy," Morgan said. "Tech isn't dead. It was just a tough quarter."
Big tech companies are even starting to go shopping.
Larry Ellison's Oracle (ORCL) has announced two small deals for cloud software firms in just the past few days.
Related: America's earnings recession just got worse
Oracle agreed to buy Opower (OPWR) for $532 million. And last Thursday, Oracle snapped up Textura (TXTR) for $663 million. Oracle paid about a 30% takeover premium in both acquisitions.
Leslie Thompson, managing principal at Spectrum Management Group, added that investors need to look beyond Apple, Alphabet and other Silicon Valley giants when thinking about the tech sector.
Thompson said companies like consulting firms Accenture (ACN) and Cognizant (CTSH) and payment processing leader MasterCard (MA) are all stocks that could be considered tech -- and they are all relatively attractive. She likes software developer Adobe (ADBE) too.
Of course, not all tech companies are getting dumped by Wall Street. Facebook (FB) and Amazon (AMZN) both surged last week following their strong results. Those two stocks are also among the 10 most widely-held stocks by Openfolio users.
CNNMoney (New York) First published May 2, 2016: 11:36 AM ET
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Ford's New CEO Already Has a Comeback Story: Saving Michigan Football
Everyday Money
College Planner
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Money 50: The Best Mutual Funds
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By Jennifer Calfas
Jim Hackett is no stranger to turnarounds.
When the new CEO of Ford began his 16-month tenure as interim athletic director at the University of Michigan in 2014, the embattled program was in one of its most tumultuous periods in its history. With a controversial athletic director having just resigned, a losing football team and concerns rising over the safety of student athletes, Michigan athletics were at a tipping point.
But Hackett, a Michigan alum and former football player under coach Bo Schembechler, turned it around with a key hire and a brand overhaul — and top school officials and student leaders credited him with revitalizing the spirit of Michigan athletics and inspiring its fans. Appointed as President and CEO of Ford Motors last week, Hackett now faces another challenge in revitalization, this time in returning one of America’s most beloved car brands back to a leading force in the auto industry.
So how will he do it? Hackett said his stint as Michigan’s athletic director will help inform his new role.
“Leadership principles apply in both cases,” Hackett told MONEY in an email about his experience at Michigan and now at Ford. “People want to be with people who have a vision of being the best, upholding the institution or enterprise values and are humble enough to get better.”
While Hackett’s tenure at Ford has been brief, his ability to climb the ladder there has been anything but. He started as a board member back in 2013 and was elevated to executive chairman of Ford Smart Mobility LLC last March. Hackett’s appointment as CEO comes during a volatile time at Ford. Just a week before he assumed his new role, the car giant announced it was eliminating 1,400 jobs. The auto industry is also in the midst of a cultural shift as Silicon Valley gains traction in the market with a push toward autonomous vehicles. For the first time, Tesla’s market valuation surpassed that of both Ford and General Motors in April.
When announcing Hackett’s appointment, Bill Ford, executive chairman of Ford, described him as a “a true visionary who brings a unique, human-centered leadership approach to our culture, products and services that will unlock the potential of our people and our business.”
And Hackett displayed those same qualities while at Michigan when he stepped in to fill the coveted role vacated after Dave Brandon, now the CEO of Toys ‘R’ Us and a former CEO of Domino’s Pizza, resigned.
“Just his perspective on problem solving really seems applicable [for all of his work], from furniture manufacturing and workplace design to running an athletic department to running an enormous automobile manufacturer,” University of Michigan President Mark Schlissel said in an interview with MONEY.
Brandon’s tenure was plagued with problems including fan unrest over rising ticket prices and a high-profile sexual assault case involving a football player. There were also questions about athlete safety after a Michigan quarterback was kept in a 2014 game after he suffered a concussion.
When Hackett arrived, he said the sports program was focused on television revenue and “an arms race for football excellence.”
“Michigan lost sight of how to invest in this in a future way that supported the values of the football program and its university,” he said. “By restoring its vitality, we were able to prove that not only did football improve, but the morale at the whole university improved.”
Hackett worked under intense media scrutiny, quickly ousting football coach Brady Hoke and replacing him with fan-favorite Jim Harbaugh — the first of several decisions that cemented his legacy at the university. An NFL coach, former Michigan quarterback and entertaining character, Harbaugh, like Hackett, has a knack for turning around fallen and suffering programs quickly.
University of Michigan Interim Athletic Director Jim Hackett introduces Jim Harbaugh as the new head coach of the University of Michigan football team at the Junge Family Champions Center on December 30, 2014 in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Gregory Shamus—Getty Images
The Harbaugh hire was all thanks to Hackett, Schlissel said.
“As you might imagine, we had back-up candidates in mind, but it was the personal relationship that Jim Hackett developed with Harbaugh that led to our ability to recruit the best coach possible that was available to us,” Schlissel said.
With the noteworthy hire, football ticket sales rebounded. Hackett also extended the contract of beloved basketball coach John Beilein — who this year led his team to a surprising Big 10 victory — and secured an 11-year contract with Nike for Michigan apparel.
Schlissel, who even as Hackett’s boss sometimes felt like one of his mentees, said Hackett’s contract negotiations were one of his greatest accomplishments at Michigan. “He was masterful at playing these companies off of one another and getting for the university at that time the best contact in college athletics,” Schlissel said.
Hackett also connected with students and fans in a way his predecessor didn’t. After Michigan’s stunning defeat at the hands of the Michigan State Spartans in 2014, Hackett penned a letter to fans and students amid threats against Michigan players, asking “our community not to lose this game twice by condoning thoughtless comments.”
“He really had a great sense of the moment and stepped up with a wonderful message — and that’s what a lot of corporate leadership is about and what a leader needs,” Schlissel said.
Now Hackett faces a challenge on a national scale at Ford, where he faces big expectations to serve as a visionary leader ready to change Ford from a less of a traditional car company to one that’s more flexible and forward-thinking.
“He seems like the right man at the right place at the right time,” Schlissel said.
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Six Things That Make a Brokered Democratic Convention More Likely
The odds of a brokered convention are greater than most think.
Five Significant Changes
The superdelegates do not get to vote in the first round this year unless a candidate has a majority. Unlike 2016 when they all went to Hillary, this year they don’t vote until round 2 unless it is already decided.
California is now part of Super Tuesday. In 2016, the California primary was held on June 7. This year, the survivor bias bandwagon effect will be significantly reduced and possibly eliminated.
Following NH there will be two debates, and likely 4 candidates minimum at each. Currently there are six.
This will likely not be a two-way races headed into Super-Tuesday. Elizabeth Warren may have little overall chance, but she does have a chance of getting 15% in many states.
Progressive Split: Bernie Sanders are battling each other for the Progressives. Bernie will get most of this vote, but Warren will likely have have enough money to stay in until the end if she wants.
Bloomberg and Steyer may target a couple of states hard: Texas, Colorado perhaps? They may each pull 15% in a couple of them.
1: Superdelegates
One of the rule changes since 2016 is that superdelegates (uncommitted) cannot vote in the first round unless there is already a clear majority.Specifically
If a single candidate wins at least 2,268 pledged delegates: Superdelegates will be allowed to vote at first ballot, as their influence can not overturn the majority of pledged delegates.
If a single candidate wins 1,886–2,267 pledged delegates: Superdelegates will be barred from voting at first ballot, which solely will be decided by the will of pledged delegates.
If no candidate wins more than 1,885 pledged delegates: This will result in a contested convention, where superdelegates are barred from voting at the first formal ballot, but regain their right to vote for their preferred presidential nominee for all subsequent ballots needed until the delegates reach a majority.
In 2016 Sanders supporters howled, and correctly so, about superdelegate bias for Hillary.
This change alone increases the chances of a brokered convention.
2: Super Tuesday Changes
Compared to 2016, California adds 495 delegates. North Carolina adds 122 delegates. Maine adds 32. And Georgia subtracts 120.
That is a net new 528 delegates that will have at least some survivor bandwagon bias removed.
By survivor bias, I mean increasing the tendency of people to vote for winners as the campaign progresses.
As noted above, the California primary in 2016 was held on June 7. This is a very significant change.
3: Debate Schedule
Six are qualified for the next set of debates.
Billionaire Tom Steyer just qualified. He joins Joe Biden, Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren, and Amy Klobuchar.
There will be two Democratic debates following the New Hampshire primary. The rules will change then, but we do not yet know how.
Those 4-way to 6-way debates can easily take momentum from whoever wins Iowa and New Hampshire.
4: Not a 2-Way Race
The DNC was hoping to narrow the field to two or three. Nope. This will not be a 2016 repeat of Hillary vs Bernie.
Warren is likely to get 15% in many states and might even win Massachusetts.
5: Progressive Split
Bernie is a very strong favorite to beat Warren in the battle for the progressives.
But she has a dedicated following and might easily take 15% of the vote in many states.
Also Warren is good at fundraising. She will likely last to the end.
6: Billionaires
Please note Tom Steyer's Surprise Surge in SC and NV.
Tom Steyer and Michael Bloomberg are both billionaires. They can self-finance to the end if so desired.
Steyer is highly unlikely to win any states let alone the nomination, but he could easily disrupt South Carolina enough so there is not much momentum for any candidate headed into Super Tuesday.
Bloomberg could conceivably win New York and do very well in Texas on Super Tuesday. By very well I mean 15% or better.
Importance of 15% Threshold
Note that 15% keeps popping up in my analysis.
I discussed why in What Are the Odds of No Winner in the Democratic Primaries?
Let's recap.
Proportional Voting
Republicans have winner-take-all rules in some states but the Democrats generally have some sort of proportional allocation, typically with a 15% threshold.
In California, 35% of the votes are statewide, the rest by district.
California Example
According to the California Democratic Party 2020 Delegate Selection Overview, the California Delegation will send a total of 495 delegates the Democratic National Convention comprised of 416 Pledged Delegates and 79 Unpledged Delegates.
Of the pledged delegates, 90 are at-large (statewide) delegates. Another 54 are pledged party leaders (mayors, legislators, state officials, etc.) committed to candidates who get at least 15% of the vote.
(90+54)/416 = 35%
Of the pledged delegates, 326 are allocated by district. The 15% rule comes into play, but at the district level.
Let's run the above math based on a hypothetical California poll that has Bernie at 24%, Warren at 21%, and Biden at 20%.
I am told the poll is real, but there is no reporting on it that I can find.
California Statewide Math
24 + 21 + 20 = 65
Sanders would get 24/65ths of the statewide delegates (37%)
Warren would get 21/65ths of the statewide delegates (32%)
Biden would get 20/65ths of the statewide delegates (31%)
Sanders would get 33 statewide delegates.
Warren would get 29 statewide delegates.
Biden would get 28 statewide delegates.
Those are the statewide allocations.
Pledged Delegate District Math
Sanders would get 24% minimum of 326 district delegates.
Warren would get 21% minimum of 326 district delegates.
Biden would get 20% minimum of 326 district delegates.
Those are approximations for two reasons.
Although there is a 15% minimum, that also applies at the district level. It's possible that Sanders, Warren, or Biden would not get 15% in every district.
It is also possible some candidates get 15% in some districts without hitting the 15% statewide threshold.
Consider the possibility Buttigieg got 15% in half the districts but only 11% statewide. In that case he would get about 7.5% of the 326 or 24 delegates.
Someone is going to "win" but that someone may only have 35-45% of the delegates.
Would that be enough to cause winner bias to kick in?
I don't know. Nor does anyone else. But I doubt it.
Project similar three-way splits across Texas, Illinois, Florida, and New York.
You have no overall winner and thus a "Brokered Convention" even if Bloomberg does not win New York or Warren win Massachusetts.
How Likely?
A brokered convention may seem unlikely, and probably is, but unlikely does not mean zero.
Should it come to a brokered convention, Warren's delegates would likely go to Bernie.
And expect massive howls if Bernie were to have more delegates in round one but lost to Biden when the superdelegates kicked in.
Some say it is too early to be discussing such things, but I would rather discuss this now and throw it away than be in a mad rush to figure everything out at the last minute on Super Tuesday.
Low odds does not mean no odds. I suspect the odds right now are at least 15% and perhaps way higher.
Pointless, expensive circus.
tz3
The Democrats, especially the socialists and the progressives told the Electors of the Electoral College to not vote for Trump in 2016. Maybe we can have faithless delegates at the conventions?
Rvrider
Depressing list of front runners. Think I’ll take a nap until they decide which Democratic Socialist (communist incognito) wins the nomination. Hmm, maybe Hillary will get another bite at the apple, perhaps more palatable? ... puke
GruesomeHarvest
Whether the convention is brokered or not, the establishment from both parties better perk up their ears. The American people are telling them they have had enough of their BS: selling the American people down the drain while enriching themselves. That's why nut jobs like Sanders and Trump are succeeding.
Greggg
Politics - Let's break that down: Poly - Meaning 'Many'. Ticks - Parasitical Blood Suckers That pretty much describes all the candidates.
the longer it takes to choose a winner the weaker the democrats become is my view. the opportunity for hurt feelings grows along with the risk that a losing nominee hones on useful opposition research for Donald Trump.
Ebowalker
Biden will win iowa and it will be over quickly
Pelosi all but guaranteed it by holding the articles until now. The dnc beat bernie again
You also can't rule out with both parties having absolutely abysmal candidates,will the DoD military junta step in like they do in all 3rd world bankrupt banana republics and seize power,cancel elections and invoke martial law,dusk to dawn nationwide curfew.
Felix_Mish
Let's go beyond the conventions. What are the odds the general is a race with more than two candidates? I put 'em as "high".
Biden is still in the race because people who answer polls recognize his name. Bernie and Warren are this year's George McGovern / Barry Goldwater candidates. Buttigieg? Small town mayor with an truly unfortunate name.
And there are two, maybe three, Ross Perot / George Wallaces.
I'd not be surprised if this year - or maybe 2024 - there is a major realignment of who is on which party's team.
@Mish Is "California adds 494 delegates" right?
wootendw
Trump would beat Biden, Sanders or Warren, easily.
In fact, Trump is most likely going to win.
The 2016 election, especially when coupled with the Brexit referendum, represented a much bigger change than an election since 1994. It's a world-wide rejection of globalism in general, manifesting itself as anti-immigration in the US.
This year's election cannot be predicted by looking at the state-by-state returns from 2016. Expect the unexpected.
495 CA delegates is correct. 79 of them are superdelegates unpledged and cannot vote in first round
Problem solved: https://www.zerohedge.com/geopolitical/world-war-iii-already-happened-america-simulation
World War III Already Happened, America Is A Simulation
"There are no Russians. There are no Arabs. There are no third worlds. There is no West. There is only one holistic system of systems,…
Freebees2me
Sanders volunteer says Milwaukee (site of the 2020 Democratic convention) will “burn” if Sanders isn’t the nominee...
'Gulags Weren't That Bad': Sanders Staffer Says Trump Supporters Will Need To Be 'Re-Educated In Camps'
"There is a reason Stalin had Gulags"
Politics. Yawn. Nothing ever changes. A lifetime of voting stops this cycle. It's delusional to believe your vote makes a difference, particularly at the national level. Local judges are another matter. I'm going to stop pretending. I suggest all thinking adults do the same.
My sense is that Warren is falling apart and getting desperate(she's now playing the gender card and no longer being issue based and high brow). Booker just pulled out. Bloomberg is only at 6% now and Sanders can't grow beyond the most progressive part of the party and unlike 2016 majority of Democrats really do get this is about beating Trump. Right now a lot of the noise isn't coming from voters but from surrogates looking to push an agenda. I still believe the most likely outcome is a Biden win
hillary should step up and save the party
If sanders were to become president, would he stay in the democratic party or move back to being an independent?
Herkie
It will be a brokered convention and this time when Sanders is not the nominee it will split the party. I say good riddance, let the communists form their own party. Just as the GOP needs to come back to reality and force their own far right to form a Nazi party (nationalist white party).
Centrists, reasonable people with some differences, as well as the ability to be rational and compromise, make up 80% of the overall electorate and it is time we take our parties back from the radicals. I am a lifelong democrat that has always sought to work with republicans in the past, even voted for McCain and Reagan (once) and while I am overall a democrat that does not mean I accept everything in their platform every election cycle, some of my values are solid GOP territory, but, I absolutely cannot abide the so called moral majority, a self appointed group of people that work to kill individual rights in the name of liberty. They are in fact great propagandists in that there is nothing moral about them and they would not know liberty if it bit them on the ass. What they mean is let's keep the elite status quo based on individual net worth.
So, I like the 2020 campaign slogan; Make Orwell Fiction Again!
Just that some so called democrats would be worse than even the lunatic far right is. I am looking at you Sanders and your crazy hate filled borg.
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Are “hidden features” questions allowed in super user?
I'm asking this because a question about hidden features of Windows Vista was allowed, while mine about hidden features of Ubuntu was not. I'm wondering why?
Tom BritoTom Brito
I am a windows guy trying out Ubuntu, I want this question to live! – Binoj Antony Jun 11 '10 at 12:54
I think SuperUser is a good place for sharing and exchange of ideas, not only Q&A, as some answers are saying. – Tom Brito Jun 11 '10 at 14:09
@Tom: This is not a discussion board, this is a place for questions that can be answered! – Gnome Jun 11 '10 at 14:55
@Gnome, got it, we should rephrase the question with a "What are the Hidden Features of Ubuntu" :) – Binoj Antony Jun 14 '10 at 5:13
Also how about "Would someone tell me what the Hidden Features of Ubuntu are"! – Binoj Antony Jun 14 '10 at 5:14
I think I like Hidden Questions and for this cause I am sure if Morpheus were here he would say Isn't that worth fighting for? isn't that worth dying for? :) – Binoj Antony Jun 14 '10 at 5:23
Edited, now it is a question. How about open it now? – Tom Brito Jun 14 '10 at 12:52
"Hidden features" is a series of poll "questions", without being answerable questions in the sense that Super User is a Q&A site, that started on SO and is now largely discouraged. Due to popularity, older "hidden features" questions are kept, even though they make poor questions, though I believe they should probably be closed and locked to avoid copycats.
Also see the comment on your question:
poll-style questions like this are discouraged; they are better suited to discussion forums. Super User is designed for more concrete questions. a question like superuser.com/questions/149055/… is a bit more palatable because it's restricted to the uses of a single program. as @hotei's answer points out, none of your own examples are particularly "hidden features" of Ubuntu.
But I hope everyone changes their minds, because I just posted 50 "hidden features" questions on Super User:
Hidden features of Edubuntu 10.04 LTS
Hidden features of Windows for Workgroups 3.11
Hidden features of Vim
Hidden features of Emacs
Hidden features of Geany
Hidden features of Google Chrome
Hidden features of Opera
Hidden features of Firefox
Hidden features of Mosaic
Hidden features of XChat
Hidden features of Screen
Hidden features of Less
Hidden features of Sed
Hidden features of Ed
Hidden features of the Magnetic Needle
Hidden features of Butterflys
Hidden features of parsing HTML with regex
Hidden features of insanity
Hidden features of pharmacology drug abuse
Hidden features of god, where does it end?
GnomeGnome
i can see the user-suspension email now. "dear Gnome: you have been suspended from Super User until the end of time for an excessive amount of truly stupid posts. hidden features of god? really??" – quack quixote Jun 10 '10 at 14:11
Right, I'm off to create 100 sock puppets so I can upvote Hidden features of parsing HTML with regex 100 times. – Andy E's head Jun 10 '10 at 14:18
"everyone changes their minds", or the users will be others in the future.. :) – Tom Brito Jun 11 '10 at 14:14
I like Hidden features of parsing HTML with regex. – BalusC Jun 11 '10 at 14:21
Also Hidden features of ping and Hidden features of NOTEPAD.EXE. – Aarobot Jun 11 '10 at 15:42
@aarobot I also made some and thought I'd put them in this list – Earlz Jun 11 '10 at 16:31
@aarobot: Put ".log" as the first line; open, save, close it, and repeat in notepad a few times. – Gnome Jun 11 '10 at 17:20
@Gnome: That feature actually is hidden, and therefore invalid. True hidden-features questions are only allowed to list well-documented, mundane, totally ordinary features that excite the sorts of programmers who write a lot of empty catch blocks - like the ?? operator and lambda syntax. – Aarobot Jun 11 '10 at 17:38
@Aarobot: Put "bush hid the facts" as the only line, then save, close, and reopen. (Works with some other sentences too, but I don't know them offhand.) – mmyers Jun 11 '10 at 17:39
@Aarobot: Why do you say that? – mmyers Jun 11 '10 at 17:40
@mmyers: That's a bug, not a feature. ;) It also works with the text this app can break, and almost any other sentence with 4 words of those exact lengths. – Aarobot Jun 11 '10 at 17:42
And @mmyers, if you're referring to my comment about hidden-features questions not actually being hidden, look at the C# hidden features question. Which ones are actually "hidden?" The question would be better worded as "post your favourite C# language feature", but of course that would get closed, so we resort to misleading titles instead. And at least one of the highest-voted answers is actually advocating a horrible practice. – Aarobot Jun 11 '10 at 17:45
@aarobot: You're absolutely right, actually. It's apparent people want to copy other questions with these series (including the later "Urban Myths" and others), but it doesn't help that the currently highest voted question is a hidden-features either -- it really sends the wrong message. – Gnome Jun 11 '10 at 18:12
Also, over half of the "Answers" to the hidden-features in Vista "question" are wrong, most of those features were available in previous versions of Windows. The lack-luster quality of the answers reflects the poor question quality. – Chris S Jun 14 '10 at 17:20
@Tom: I've thought about it again, and I still stand by the assertion that in most of the particular cases cited here the poor answers are generally a product of the poor questions. The same generalization can be applied to most questions and answers I believe; if you ask a vague question you'll either get a vague answer, or possibly a totally wrong one. In either case you're very unlikely to get a "correct" answer, and the question's lack of specifics are the root cause. – Chris S Jun 17 '10 at 19:11
I can only answer for my vote.
The secrets you had as example was so very basic (how tab completion works and how to copy/paste in a terminal). I could not on that basic take your question serious and felt that it had no merit being on SU.
NifleNifle
The question is CW, so your or anyone could give better examples.. ;) – Tom Brito Jun 10 '10 at 18:58
@Tom Brito: the point is that by providing non-hidden features (they're standard fare for any book on u/li-nix) you appear to be trolling. The question is valid, but you need to do a serious re-write if you want it opened. I'd suggest editing out the original list and simply asking straight-out something like "What are some hidden features of Ubuntu (specifically) and other unix-like systems (in general)?" You could even mention you know about common features like tab-completion, but are interested in features folk rarely seem to know about. – Randolpho Jun 11 '10 at 13:44
@Randolpho done, now it is equal the open Windows question. Let's hope something happens... – Tom Brito Jun 14 '10 at 12:45
I would say that Ubuntu is at same time too wide and not enough.
When asking about hidden features for Ubuntu, you will end with answers matching to Linux in general, or particular programs used by this or that distribution. So it's too narrow, because it should extend to whole Linux, and at same time too wide, because extending to plenty of pieces of software you can identify.
When asking about "hidden features of Vista", you can't single out really parts of it. By its nature, it's a monolith: the desktop manager, the file manager, everything is included in this monolith.
As opposed to Linux, where the desktop manager is not only used by different distributions, but as well changeable for the same distribution. Same for most of parts. It's hard to give a list of "hidden features", for a system on which you can potentially change all of its parts.
GnoupiGnoupi
I think "too wide" isn't a good reasons to close a discussion. Excepting if the question should be split in more questions. – Tom Brito Jun 11 '10 at 14:05
@Tom: Super User is not a discussion forum. – quack quixote Jun 11 '10 at 14:56
@QuackQuixote but, as I just posted, it should. Many users want to use it as so. – Tom Brito Jun 14 '10 at 12:49
@Tom - no, it shouldn't. Discussion is a noise in a Q&A context. It clutters useful information with personal opinions. It's the reason why you can't find easily a solution on forums. Forums are adapted for discussions, Stack Exchange is not. – Gnoupi Jun 14 '10 at 12:53
As quack quixote mentioned in the comments to your question, "poll" questions are discouraged from the trilogy sites because there is no solid "correct" answer, people just vote for the ones they like the most. Unfortunately for you, you picked a topic that was less favourable to the community browsing the site at the time you posted it, hence the quick close and down votes.
FYI, If you look at the revisions for the Windows Vista question, you'll see that it was "locked" and "unlocked" several times over.
Andy EAndy E
So timing of the question is the key? – Binoj Antony Jun 11 '10 at 12:55
@Binoj: I would say it's an important factor. I've seen questions get closed very fast and similar questions stay open or not gain enough close votes and it all seems to depend on the vigilance of the community. It doesn't mean the questions should be allowed, however. – Andy E's head Jun 11 '10 at 14:56
@Binoj: Timing is important because 100% of the users are not online 100% of the time. The subset of users who will see a question is essentially random, and will have a collectively different standard from the subset online at any other given instant in time. That doesn't mean that there are better times to post, it just means that some users get lucky. As another meta user has explained, it's like buying a lottery ticket; you might win big, but most of the time you'll lose and it's foolish to play. – Aarobot Jun 11 '10 at 15:49
This looks like an error on the system. Maybe it should allow just a close vote at an hour.. – Tom Brito Jun 14 '10 at 12:47
In addition to Andy's response, and this is just a hunch, here are a couple of other thoughts on this:
The Vista question was asked about a year ago when things were still settling down after SU was launched. Could be that the community attitude toward these types of questions has shifted since. The locking activity that Andy mentions could be an indication of this.
The Vista question had a bounty set on it (indicated by the gold border around the accepted check mark). Bounty questions can't be closed or deleted during the bounty period (short of mod interaction). May be that people decided to bypass it during the bounty period and then never came back to it. The bounty was set on it a couple of months after the question was asked, so maybe it was set to prevent it from being closed. I've seen that strategy used before with varying success.
squillmansquillman
Many of the Hidden Features question brings out hidden gems and hence adds good view value to it.
Check for example the Hidden Features of HTML.
I have been working in HTML since 1998. Still I had no idea about the first 3 answered features.
I am willing to bet that most of you did not know at least one of them, please comment honestly!
Binoj AntonyBinoj Antony
I use several resources for programming discussion, but that doesn't mean SO must be one of them. Q&A sites should have questions and answers. – Gnome Jun 11 '10 at 13:45
This same argument could be used for any open-ended question. If somebody has a great "tip", they would be doing the community a far greater service by creating a self-answered question tailored specifically to the problem said protip solves instead of chucking it in the middle of a "hidden features" poll. The former is specific, maintains the Q&A format, and is far more useful in a search. – Aarobot Jun 11 '10 at 15:46
@Binoj: you didn't know about DOCTYPE, meta-refresh and fieldset? Hmmm... Even if that's the case, surely these would be better as answers to specific questions: "How can I control how my document [is validated|quirks mode]?", "How can I cause a page to refresh without using script or HTTP headers?", "How can I improve accessibility for dense forms?", etc... – Shog9 Jun 11 '10 at 16:52
@Shog, I meant top3 voted questions, 1.protocol-independent absolute, 2. label for and 3. contenteditable=true. U knew all three of these? – Binoj Antony Jun 14 '10 at 5:10
Well, still none of you have commented on whether you learnt something new by reading that page or not.. – Binoj Antony Jun 14 '10 at 5:21
@Binoj: yeah, but again that's beside the point - those work better as answers to specific questions. If I need to make my labels work properly, I'm not going to search for "Hidden features of HTML"! (incidentally, it's sorta sad that two of the top-voted answers violate the conditions set forth by the question...) – Shog9 Jun 14 '10 at 6:58
@Shog, other than asking questions I have found SO to be a good place to learn things, I am guessing from your answer that you did not know all three, and if learning 3 new things did not make sense to you and was besides the point then whats the point! You seem to imply that you come to SO just to find answers to the specific questions you ask, and nothing else. How about the simple attitude of hey I learnt that something like this can be done, maybe I can use this when need arises, take it easy, lighten up, its not Armageddon. – Binoj Antony Jun 14 '10 at 8:52
@Binoj: I did know those three things. I knew them because the topics interest me and so in the past I've spent free time reading books, articles and discussions on them. I'm not saying you must learn only via Q&A - that would be silly! However, Stack Overflow is a Q&A website: therefore, it's just as silly to use it in a way contrary to this nature, especially when there are plenty of good sites dedicated to hosting tips and tricks, discussion, and full articles on these topics. As for Armageddon... – Shog9 Jun 14 '10 at 14:32
@Shog, I have a dream I want to see SO grow beyond just Q & A, in effect change its nature. As for Armageddon {which I loved btw} I look beyond it to the federation – Binoj Antony Jun 15 '10 at 11:37
@Binoj: I recently wanted my shovel to be a hammer, as I was driving in a post and badly needed a hammer. However, repeatedly hammering on the post with this spade did little to accomplish my goals, and nothing at all to change the nature of the implement. Eventually, I realized my mistake and walked back to the house to get a hammer. The Swiss Army knife is a fun gimmick, but sometimes you need a tool built for a specific purpose; the jack of all trades is the master of none... – Shog9 Jun 15 '10 at 16:02
Are smartphone questions permitted on Super User?
What kind of questions are allowed on super user?
Questions about WordPress on Super User
Super User tagging convention: Ubuntu and variants
Windows 7 Edition-Specific Tags
are questions of the type which option is better A or B allowed?
Are consumer features of fingerprint biometric scanners on-topic?
Should Windows have a Stack Exchange site?
Are batch script questions allowed on Super User?
Would this question about printing a webpage be on-topic on Super User?
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thebeast Posted a new blog.
VATHOS set to release debut album, Underwater Monday January 20 2020, 10:31 AM
Bucharest, Romania based Post Black Metal quintet VATHOS announce they have finished recording their debut album, Underwater, scheduled to be soon released in collaboration with Loud Rage Music.The 8 tracks material to be featured on Underwater... More
Bucharest, Romania based Post Black Metal quintet VATHOS announce they have finished recording their debut album, Underwater, scheduled to be soon released in collaboration with Loud Rage Music.The 8 tracks material to be featured on Underwater was recorded at Studio148 (https://www.facebook.com/148studio) with Marius Costache. VATHOS have already released a first video for the track Curse of Apathy here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_iyjIeVNN38More details to come soon.Contact:Váthosfacebook.com/vathosbandinstagram.com/vathos.officialLoud Rage Musicwww.loudragemusic.comloudragemusic.bandcamp.com Less
all music news
DORO announces first USA tour dates for 2020 Monday January 20 2020, 10:24 AM
Today, Doro Pesch - the legendary and undisputed Queen of Metal - announces her first U.S. tour dates of 2020. Following her performances on this year's Monsters of Rock cruise set for February 8-13, DORO will take to the stage in the following... More
Today, Doro Pesch - the legendary and undisputed Queen of Metal - announces her first U.S. tour dates of 2020. Following her performances on this year's Monsters of Rock cruise set for February 8-13, DORO will take to the stage in the following cities: April 16 - Phoenix, AZ @ Club RedApril 17 - San Diego, CA @ Brick by BrickApril 19 - Los Angeles, CA @ Rainbow Bar & GrillMay 2 - Columbia, MD @ M3 FestivalMay 3 - Poughkeepsie, NY @ The ChanceMay 4 - Sellersville, PA @ Sellersville TheaterMay 6 - Cleveland, OH @ The WinchesterMay 7 - Chicago, IL @ Reggies DORO experienced success on a global scale with her latest 2CD studio album, Forever Warriors, Forever United (released in August 2018 via Nuclear Blast). The album achieved an astounding #1 in the vinyl charts and #4 in the album charts in Germany, #3 in Finland, and #3 (vinyl) and #7 (album) in Sweden. It also landed #2 in the UK rock charts as well as numerous other top rankings across Europe and the USA. Forever Warriors, Forever United was DORO’s 20th album (including Warlock and live releases), and it is proof of her long-lasting chapter of the finest creativity and power. The album was released just in time for her 35th anniversary of live performances. The release included 25 brand-new songs, which all had one thing in common: incredible stylistic diversity paired with the highest quality. In 2019, DORO toured across the globe playing to thousands of fans, including a massively successful USA tour with co-headlining legends Metal Church. Now in 2020, DORO will celebrate at venues around the globe on her upcoming eponymous World Tour that leads her once again across the USA in April and May! DORO is excited to continue the Forever Warriors, Forever United tour and bringing a smashing show to the USA, where she will play all of the highlights of her entire career, including all of the Warlock classics! In 2018, her power was fully demonstrated on her 35th live anniversary on August 3rd during her fantastic headline performance in front of 80,000 fans at the legendary Wacken Open Air. Directly afterwards, still onstage and surrounded by the cheering of her fans, DORO was officially inducted into the US Hall of Heavy Metal History. There she is in good company with the likes of Lemmy Kilmister, Ronnie James Dio, and Judas Priest. The world has officially known Doro Pesch as a living legend since June 17, 2013, when the "Queen of Rock & Metal" won the Metal Hammer UK "Legends" award at the prestigious Golden Gods Awards in London. Only three months later, on September 13th, 2013, she was given the same honor in Germany, when she also received the German Metal Hammer "Legend" award. On May 15th 2016, DORO received her next major accolade in the US when she was awarded the "Metal Goddess Legends Award" in Las Vegas. For the newly crowned rock and metal goddess, it was just one of the highlights in an exciting year. After a successful US tour in February and March 2016, DORO celebrated the live premiere of the band’s new hit song "Love's Gone To Hell" in April, when they played as special guests on the Rock Meets Classic tour, which comprised 16 shows across Germany and Switzerland in front of more than 110,000 spectators. In March 2016, DORO landed her own radio show on Rock Antenne, where she can still be heard every first Sunday of the month from 12:00-14:00 CET, playing her favorite music. DORO now even has her own record label in Rare Diamond Productions, which was founded in the autumn of 2017. It allows DORO to be able to release her own rarities, re-releases, and special editions. DORO Discography Current Release:Forever Warriors, Forever United (August 17th, 2018) Vinyl/CDs:Burning The Witches (1983)Hellbound (1985)True As Steel (1986)Triumph & Agony (1987)Force Majeure (1989)DORO (1990)Rare Diamonds (1991)True AT Heart (1991)Angels Never Die (1993)DORO – Live (1994)Machine To Machine (1995)Love Me in Black (1998)Calling The Wild (2000)Fight (2003)Classic Diamonds (2004)Warrior Soul (2006)Fear No Evil (2009)Under My Skin (2012)Raise Your Fist (2012)DORO – Strong And Proud – 30 Years Of Rock And Metal (June 24th, 2016)Für Immer (Oct., 27th, 2017) DVDs:Für Immer (2003)Classic Diamonds (2004)20 Years of Warrior Soul (2007)DORO - 25 Years of Rock (2010)DORO – Strong And Proud – 30 Years Of Rock And Metal (June 24th, 2016) MORE INFO:www.doro.dewww.facebook.com/DoroPeschOfficialwww.youtube.com/DoroOfficialwww.youtube.com/DOROSCHANNEL Less
thebeast Posted new YouTube videos.
Swiss Alternative-Rock power-trio Misty Bliss unveiled... Monday January 20 2020, 9:53 AM
About 18 months after the release of the release of its debut S/T EP and then some line-up changings, Swiss alternative/rock/grunge power-trio Misty Bliss just unveiled a brand new music video illustrating the title-track from its upcoming single... More
About 18 months after the release of the release of its debut S/T EP and then some line-up changings, Swiss alternative/rock/grunge power-trio Misty Bliss just unveiled a brand new music video illustrating the title-track from its upcoming single "Under The Sun" coming out on February 7th on all digital platforms. Watch the music video of "Under The Sun" [jrEmbed module="jrYouTube" youtube_id="vN9llt38KOc"] __...For the record... Misty Bliss is a Swiss rock band formed in 2017.It’s a wave of melodies made to thrill the quiet souls and all those who are searching to stimulate their senses through music. It’s a time machine that travels from blues to stoner and from garage rock to alternative/grunge.Distorted riffs, powerful vocals and bold energy on stage, "Misty Bliss" doesn’t waste time with futilities and goes directly to the point... It’s a love story, it’s a story of “mutual thrills” between the members and the audience.Our “colors” are sad and somber but in the same time bright and joyful, because we don’t forget that “after the darkness comes the light”. For fans of Black Angels, BRMC, Queens Of The Stone Age, Nirvana, Soundgarden. Less
ANGELES Walk The Red Carpet @The Metal Hall Of Fame 2020,... Monday January 20 2020, 9:44 AM
Platinum selling legendary LA rockers ANGELES, besides several interviews, walked The Red Carpet on January 15th, at The Metal Hall Of Fame 2020 at the Marriott Delta Garden Grove, in Anaheim CA. Dark Star Records have posted on their Youtube... More
Platinum selling legendary LA rockers ANGELES, besides several interviews, walked The Red Carpet on January 15th, at The Metal Hall Of Fame 2020 at the Marriott Delta Garden Grove, in Anaheim CA. Dark Star Records have posted on their Youtube Channel a 9:30 minutes video from the event. Watch it here: https://youtu.be/tp14g-hQ9Z0Pictures from The Metal Hall Of Fame 2020:ANGELES ANGELES' Dale with Wendy Dio ANGELES with their label owner Jeffrey A. Swanson Just recently ANGELES, released a 'Behind-the-Scenes' video For "Fire it up", watch here: https://youtu.be/ImVs8GDbGp0Furthermore the band has pre-announced their US tour, hitting 16 states and 21 shows heading out in June 2020 starting from the west coast to the east coast. More details TBA.“Fire it Up” is now available worldwide via MVD Entertainment, Dark Star Records, Sony Music plus Plastichead and Cargo Music in Europe. Get the new album at WALMART, TARGET, BEST BUY, AMAZON, BARNES & NOBLE and other fine retailers. Fire it Up by Angeles is now a certified Top 40 Album coming in at #36 on the Metal Radio Charts and is the #3 Most Added Album in the Nation.Choose below the option to get your copy of "Fire It Up" album:BUY THE CD FROM AMAZON (USA) - https://www.amazon.com/Fire-Up-ANGELES/dp/B07YTD3CPJBUY THE CD DIRECT (USA) - https://sgl.ecwid.com/Fire-it-Up-by-Angeles-CD-p150004434BUY THE CD (Worldwide) - https://darkstarrecords.ecrater.com/p/34547689/fire-it-up-cd-by-angelesDOWNLOAD THE ALBUM FROM APPLE MUSIC - https://music.apple.com/us/album/fire-it-up/1483320340DOWNLOAD THE ALBUM FROM GOOGLE PLAY - https://play.google.com/store/music/album/Angeles_Fire_It_Up?id=Bi7qkk37wv4qhj6nrcb3vpptb6yDOWNLOAD THE ALBUM FROM AMAZON.COM - https://www.amazon.com/Fire-Up-Angeles/dp/B07YNQDCFFNext ANGELES shows:February 14th - @Sunshine Studio Live, Colorado Springs w/TORA TORAMarch 7th - @Petie's Place w/PRETTY BOY FLOYDMarch 27th - @Whisky A Go-Go w/LAST IN LINEApril 19th - Party in the Parking Lot @Rainbow Bar and GrillOctober 10th - @Whisky A Go-Go w/KROKUSMore dates TBA. Less
EXCALIBUR will see their '96 unreleased album finally out... Monday January 20 2020, 9:41 AM
Fighter Records is proud to announce the official release of the unreleased sophomore album by the mythical Spanish Heavy/ Rock band EXCALIBUR. Entitled "Cero" and originally from 1996, the album will be released on CD as well as in a limited... More
Fighter Records is proud to announce the official release of the unreleased sophomore album by the mythical Spanish Heavy/ Rock band EXCALIBUR. Entitled "Cero" and originally from 1996, the album will be released on CD as well as in a limited print run of 250 copies on 12"LP vinyl next 24th of March through Fighter Records. "Cero" was originally recorded in 1996, but due to several circumstances it wasn't released and only 50 copies were duplicated on CD-R just for close friends. EXCALIBUR ceased their musical activity right after, until their reunion in 2013. This album has a more Hard Rock orientation than their legendary debut "Generación Maldita" from '88, although with the unmistakable style of the band. This "Cero" re-issue contains a new cover art, and the CD version will feature 8 live bonus tracks recorded between 1987 and 2014, of which 5 of them are previously unreleased and were never recorded in studio. Tracklist for "Cero" is as follows: 01. Cero02. Ramiro el Legionario03. Ni Siquiera Tú04. A Cara de Perro05. Siempre me Pides Más06. Insatisfacción07. Blues Blues08. Aquellas Fotos09. Tú Eres Especial10. El Jeta11. Merlín [Live 1987 - Elche] *+12. Rockterapia [Live 1987 - Elche] *+13. Tinieblas [Live 1987 - Elche] *+14. Metal y Cristal [Live 1988 - Aspe] *+15. Cierra el Pico [Live 1992 - Elda] *+16. Ramiro el Legionario [Live 2013 - Elda] *17. Cero [Live 2014 - Elda] *18. Insatisfacción [Live 2014 - Elda] * (*) Exclusive live bonus (+) Previously unreleasedEXCALIBUR's “Cero" release will see the light on 24th of March on CD & 12"LP formats through Fighter Records. You can check their official Facebook site here: www.facebook.com/Excalibur.rockband and listen to the 1st advance single on the following link: https://youtu.be/EL6XCJKGtus Less
WARPED CROSS release lyric video for "Heart Of Stone" Monday January 20 2020, 9:39 AM
On February 7th the new album from psychedelic doomcore maniacs Warped Cross will be released under the title of "Rumbling Chapel". Throughout 50 minutes of its running time, these 11 new tracks will be rolling full of emotional gloom into your... More
On February 7th the new album from psychedelic doomcore maniacs Warped Cross will be released under the title of "Rumbling Chapel". Throughout 50 minutes of its running time, these 11 new tracks will be rolling full of emotional gloom into your ears and brain. The album opener "Heart Of Stone" is now available on the MDD Youtube Channel as an advance! The album was recorded and produced in the Larox Studio in Chemnitz, the mastering was done by Roland Wiegner / Tonmeisterei Oldenburg. Check out the complete tracklist below. Be prepared! Watch the lyric video for "Heart Of Stone" right here: https://youtu.be/lZs2e5i64Hg 1. Heart of Stone2. Iron Fix3. Cold Rain Shiver4. Bite the Wire5. Terminate Hate6. The Lawfulness of the Administration7. Infinite Fuss8. Thickets9. Ride into Fall10. Over the Sea11. Mourn Everest Links:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/warpedcrossWebsite: http://www.warpedcross.com/ Orders:MDD: https://mdd-records.de/warpedcrossAMZN: https://amzn.to/2RssiUu Less
THREE SIDES OF THE COIN® creates the... Monday January 20 2020, 9:35 AM
San Francisco, CA – THREE SIDES OF THE COIN®, the premier fan produced KISS podcast, has selected Stationhead to create the first 24/7/365 KISS themed radio station. On the station the KISS Army can listen to KISS deep cuts,... More
San Francisco, CA – THREE SIDES OF THE COIN®, the premier fan produced KISS podcast, has selected Stationhead to create the first 24/7/365 KISS themed radio station. On the station the KISS Army can listen to KISS deep cuts, KISS demos, bands covering KISS, KISS members solo albums, albums produced by KISS members, songs written by KISS members and bands that have opened for KISS. There is currently over 17 hours of music in rotation on the station. THREE SIDES OF THE COIN® Radio airs 24 hours a day on the Stationhead app. THREE SIDES OF THE COIN® programs the radio show, they pick the songs... no corporate overlord telling them what to play. These are the song the fans want to hear! Stationhead is a social radio platform that lets anyone have their own radio station and create and connect over interactive audio content with live talk, guest callers, messaging, and music streaming from Apple Music and Spotify."THREE SIDES OF THE COIN has become more than just a KISS podcast and Stationhead allowed us to create a 24/7 KISS radio station so we can play all the music we only talk about in the podcast." stated Michael Brandvold, Cofounder of THREE SIDES OF THE COIN®. "The amazing features of Stationhead like instant listener requests, a live chat room and the ability to easily bring listeners directly on the air make this truly interactive radio.""We're delighted to welcome KISS fans into the Stationhead community," said Ryan Star, CEO and co-founder of Stationhead. "As a Long Island native--and one who, as a teenager, played his first stadium gig opening for KISS in Prague--I couldn't be more excited to give the KISS Army a home to connect over music I grew up on."THREE SIDES OF THE COIN® Radio is live every day of the year on Stationhead, visit www.ThreeSidesOfTheCoinRadio.com###About THREE SIDES OF THE COIN®THREE SIDES OF THE COIN®, www.ThreeSidesoftheCoin.com is the largest, most listened to KISS podcast. Over 6 million plays since launching in 2012. They can average 20,000 plays for each new weekly episode just in the first week. Three Sides of the Coin was cofounded by Michael Brandvold and Tommy Sommers. Every week they are also joined by cohosts Mark Cicchini and Lisa Martini.THREE SIDES OF THE COIN® is not endorsed by KISS.THREE SIDES OF THE COIN® has been joined by many special guests including Gene Simmons and Eric Singer, Vinnie Vincent, Big John Harte former head of security in the 70s, producer Michael James Jackson, former KISS lead guitarist Bruce Kulick, Lydia Criss, Eddie Trunk, WWE Superstar and lead singer of Fozzy Chris Jericho, Angel lead guitarist Punky Meadows, Five Finger Death Punch guitarist Jason Hook, Vinnie Vincent Invasion and Slaughter lead singer Mark Slaughter, Twisted Sister’s Dee Snider and Jay Jay French, comedian Craig Gass, KISS’ former business manager Chris Lendt, former KISS Art Director Dennis Woloch, the Black Veil Brides' Andy Biersack, Frank Munoz associate producer for Ace Frehley's Anomaly album, award winning songwriter Adam Mitchell, Ed Kanon (Peter Criss' drum tech), Kevin Valentine (drummer on KISS' Psycho Circus album).www.ThreeSidesoftheCoin.comTwitter: @threesidescoinInstagram: @threesidesofthecoinFacebook: @threesidesofthecoinAbout STATIONHEAD®Stationhead is the YouTube of audio, a social radio platform that lets anyone have their own radio station and create and connect over interactive audio content with live talk, guest callers, messaging, and music streaming from Apple Music and Spotify. Stationhead offers creative freedom, real human connection, and the power of social streaming at scale. Fueled by conversations and music streaming from Spotify and Apple Music, Stationhead is a revolutionary social platform redefining the way people create, consume, and interact with audio. Stationhead was founded in 2016 and is based in Brooklyn, New York. For more information, please go to http://www.stationhead.com and follow us @Stationhead on Instagram.www.Stationhead.com Less
Terror Empire release new song “Snake Nest” Monday January 20 2020, 9:33 AM
Portugal’s Terror Empire kick off the 2020’s with fresh new music that’s set to kick you down your seat. “Snake Nest” is the first of a series of singles to be released during the year, in order to celebrate more than 10 years of heavy music.... More
Portugal’s Terror Empire kick off the 2020’s with fresh new music that’s set to kick you down your seat. “Snake Nest” is the first of a series of singles to be released during the year, in order to celebrate more than 10 years of heavy music. Listen here: [jrEmbed module="jrYouTube" youtube_id="IP5Rc9_cmY8"]While the pace and riffery is still fast, there’s a new dimension to the portuguese band that make the band sound a little bit different. This new song is somehow more direct and straightforwad, and adds a ton of weight to riffs that just sound massive. Ricardo Martin’s vocal performance has also upgraded for these new tunes, with catchy choruses that you can sing along to without losing their fed-up edge. As for the lyrics for Snake Nest, “they are all about power and betrayal; about those who do try to make a change but are stabbed in the back during the process”, the vocalist sums up.The main songwriter and guitarrist Rui Alexandre says he “tried to write riffs that would sound huge, a soundtrack to you breaking your neck”. There’s still plenty of blast beats, “but everything is so raw and there’s this strong and powerful energy that gets you hooked in a way that traditional thrash just doesn’t seem to do”. Terror Empire aren’t trying to reinvent the wheel, though. Recorded, mixed and mastered at Golden Jack Studios Coimbra by the drummer João Dourado, “you can hear a lot of old school influences blending in together to make this sonic attack”, Rui adds.“Snake Nest” was released in January 17th on all important streaming platforms, and will have exclusive physical distribution via Metal Hammer Portugal’s “Subsolo” compilation, worldwide. The band is currently looking for shows to promote the new singles, contact them via Move Up Bookings. Terror Empire is:Ricardo Martins - VocalsRui Alexandre - GuitarristRui Puga - BassistJoão Dourado - DrummerNuno Raimundo - GuitarristDiscography:2020 - Snake Nest (Single, Mosher Records)2017 - Obscurity Rising (LP, Mosher Records)2015 - The Empire Strikes Black (LP, Nordavind Records)2012 - Face the Terror (EP, independent release) Videography:2020 - Snake Nest - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IP5Rc9_cmY82018 - Times of War - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8TvSTFbNmZU2017 - Burn the Flags - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8SJJ6aBV-Sw2015 - The Route of the Damned - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wjBH0CqkkKsLinks:www.terrorempire.netwww.instagram.com/terrorempirewww.facebook.com/terrorempirewww.twitter.com/terrorempireSTUDIO: www.goldenjackstudios.comSTUDIO: www.facebook.com/goldenjackstudiosLABEL: www.mosherrecords.comLABEL: www.mosherrecords.bandcamp.comMERCH: www.mosherclothing.comGEAR: www.musix.comBOOKING: info@moveup.pt Less
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Cern challenges laws of special relativity by ‘breaking speed of light’
Fred AttewillThursday 22 Sep 2011 10:28 pm
Scientists have said they have clocked subatomic particles travelling faster than light – a feat that, if true, would break
Albert Einsteinâs special theory of relativity and undermine laws that underpin physics.
Speed-of-light experiments give baffling result: Albert Einstein’s special theory of relativity is being challenged by findings by the Cern team
The Cern team says a neutrino beam fired from a particle accelerator near Geneva to a lab 730km (454 miles) away in Italy travelled 60 nanoseconds faster than the speed of light.
They calculated the margin of error at just ten nanoseconds, making the difference statistically significant.
The researchers have asked others to independently verify the data before claiming the discovery.
âWe have not found any instrumental effect that could explain the result of the measurement,â said Antonio Ereditato, a physicist at the University of Bern, Switzerland, who was involved in the experiment.
But other experts have remained cautious.
âThis would be such a sensational discovery, if it were true, that one has to treat it extremely carefully,â said physicist John Ellis.
âThe feeling that most people have is this canât be right, this canât be real,â said James Gillies, a spokesman for Cern, which also hosts the massive Large Hadron Collider which did not take part in the experiment.
Einstein insisted nothing could travel faster than light â 300,000km (186,282 miles) a second.
He reasoned something that travels faster than light would, in theory, arrive before it left.
Special relativity, which helps explain everything from black holes to the Big Bang theory about the origins of the universe, underlies âpretty much everything in modern physics,â added Mr Ellis. âIt has worked perfectly up until now.â
He also warned that the neutrino researchers would also have to explain why similar results werenât detected before, such as when stars exploded.
Sorry, this video isn't available any more.
Dead Nasa satellite space debris on course to hit Earth
Southern Lights seen from above in amazing Nasa space video
A-level results: ‘Brian Cox effect’ inspires upturn in science subjects
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Findon Estate Agents
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We are delighted to announce that Curtis & Son Estate Agents in Findon have been incorporated into the broader Michael Jones and Company operation and will trade as ‘Michael Jones & Curtis’. As of 30th May 2019 the office will be led by Senior Branch Manager, Peter Hassell and former Curtis & Son Branch Manager, Barry Parker will be staying in the newly merged business. For full details on the merger, please read our blog.
Our Findon team love working in an area of outstanding natural beauty which is steeped in history and the local village feel means that we enjoy a close knit community. We have a broad local knowledge of all the areas that we cover which includes Findon Village, Findon Valley, High Salvington and the surrounding areas, including Nepcote.
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Peter's local recommendation
Peter, his wife, children and their very boisterous cockapoo enjoy Findon and the surrounding areas and make the very most of having beautiful Downland countryside on the doorstep. After a walk on The Gallops and up to Cissbury Ring, the whole family enjoys a lovely Sunday lunch. The four pubs in the village, The Gun, The Village House, the Black Horse and the Snooty Fox all offer wonderful food and a great selection of ales and gins amongst other beverages. The Findon Manor Hotel is in a beautiful and picturesque setting and is a favourite for weddings. The restaurant is of a great standard too.
High Salvington boasts a stunning working Windmill that you can visit on the open day once a month during the summer. There are also lovely walks across the Downland National Park just a stone’s throw away.
About Findon
Findon is a charming Downland village in the Arun district of West Sussex situated four miles north of Worthing. It lies between two hills, Cissbury with its Iron Age hill fort to the east and Church Hill to the West.
The popular residential area of Findon Valley lies to the south of Findon Village and enjoys a bustling shopping parade with a good selection of well supported shops as well as a nearby doctor’s surgery, library, churches and vets. The Gallops, is a large public open space with playground and there are many lovely walks and bridle paths within our area with the added pleasure of spectacular Downland views.
High Salvington is also a prime residential area and has a landmark windmill which has been restored to working condition over the last 30 years which is open to the public. Findon also includes the hamlet of Nepcote which is the venue for the annual Findon Sheep Fair in September, an event which dates from the 1780’s.
There is a parish church in Findon Village and St John the Baptist school which is a small primary school situated on School Hill with a Good Ofsted rating.
If you enjoy good food and a wide selection of wines and ales, there are four public houses (The Gun Inn, The Black Horse, The Village House and The Snooty Fox) all located in the High Street where you will receive a warm welcome.
There is a very strong sense of community within the village and it boasts many annual events, including a fireworks display and May Day celebrations.
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Smangus Tree Battle
The aboriginal town of Smangus has found itself in that ugly spot between official intransigence and local traditions -- and so far imperialism is winning. The Taipei Times gives a brief account:
A group of Atayal Aborigines from Smangus Village in Hsinchu County yesterday said they would appeal a Taiwan High Court ruling that sentenced members of their tribe to prison terms for removing a fallen tree in their village forest.
"We did not steal anything. We live there and of course we have the right to handle the environment were we live," said Icyeh Sulung, head of Smangus Village, in front of the court yesterday.
"We will appeal this case to the Supreme Court," he said.
The high court sentenced three men from the village to three months in jail on charges of theft for removing a fallen tree on Sept. 1, 2005, from a forest. The men said they removed the tree because it was blocking the road after Typhoon Talim blew it down.
The three villagers moved the tree to the side of the road after cutting it free from its roots. The Forest Bureau then removed the tree, leaving only the stump.
The three villagers removed the stump and roots and took it home, intending to make the root into a piece of commemorative art.
The high court judges said they respected the fact that the tree was located inside the village, but added that the forest belongs to the bureau and not the villagers.
Removing the remaining part of the tree was illegal because it belonged to the government, the court said.
What happened is that a tree blew down in a storm, and then the aborigines move the tree, and took the stump home. The government's view is that the stump belonged to the government, so taking the stump home was theft.
A three-month sentence for stealing a stump? All over aboriginal lands river beds have been illegally mined for gravel, forests chopped down for illegal bamboo and betel nut stands, animals are regularly poached, land is grabbed by developers for resorts and recreational farms, streams and reservoirs polluted by untreated run-off, but if a couple of aborigines take out a stump, suddenly It Is A Really Serious Thing. It reminds me of the kind of mindset one might find in the Raj, when in the midst of an El Nino-driven famine that killed millions, the British insisted on collecting every last penny of tax from farmers starving to death....somebody in the government needs to apologize loudly to these men.
Global Voices Online, a great source for local commentary, has a collection of stuff. One poster observed:
Whose mountain is it? Whose forest is it? This is always a controversial question.
Both Japan government and this government confiscated the mountains, and the ownership of the traditional land of the aboriginal people is always an ignored issue. Although there are many name-rectification actions that showed the respect to the aboriginal people, these actions only put on a beautiful doorplate while they don't have proper ownership of their homeland. All the aboriginal people know that the Forest Bureau is the largest landlord of the mountain.
Too true. There is actually a police force tasked with stopping illegal logging and poaching, created in 2004, according to this Taiwan Journal Article:
"It is high time we address these issues. With this new, specialized task force we hope to make tourism safer in our forest areas and react more quickly in the event of forest fires. We are in dire need of better control over poaching and illegal deforestation," COA Chairman Lee Ching-lung was reported as saying in a local English newspaper.
Police officers with powers of arrest will be stationed at government forestry agencies, including the Taiwan Forestry Bureau (TFB) and the bureau's regional offices throughout the island. Officers from the government's forestry departments will work alongside the new police force to deter violations. Local government spokesmen have welcomed the creation of a police force dedicated to protecting Taiwan's forests.
"We have faced many difficulties guarding the forests," said Yeh Sian-liang, head of the TFB Chiayi office. "Regular forest rangers are not equipped with professional training, nor are they empowered with the authority to arrest people who break the law." According to Yeh, his office is responsible for patrolling forested areas in no fewer than seven counties, including Nantou, Yunlin, Tainan and Kaohsiung. This is an area of 144,979 hectares of state-owned forested land.
As always in Taiwan, the law is ignored if someone is making money. Reality is thus, according to another Taiwan Review article:
Lee explains that large tracts of state-owned forests are rented to farmers. There is a provision in the lease that 70 percent of the land they rent should be forest, but those farmers mostly ignore it, planting cash crops like tea and betel nuts instead. They also frequently build roads that block vital waterways. "I warned years ago that these places were fragile, that people shouldn't be living there," he says. "But all they see is quick financial profit, not the lurking danger. And even though the farmers were using the land illegally, the Council of Agriculture still went right on sponsoring them [by subsidizing certain crops, including tea]. This shows lack of cooperation on the part of concerned government agencies."
In other words, take a stump home from a windfall tree, and you get a three month sentence. Deforest the land that you've rented from the Forestry Commission, and... nothing happens. And the DPP government wonders why it can't fix its relationship with the aborigines!Sure, these policies date back well into the KMT period -- but the DPP can hardly complain about Chinese expansionism, and then turn around and do the same thing to the aborigines. You can bet that come election time, the Smangus tale is going to be told and retold in aboriginal hamlets all over the island. I hope someone in the DPP will step in and fix this problem pronto.
UPDATE: David says you can sign a petition on the Smangus blog.
[Taiwan] [DPP] [aborigines]
3 Comments Labels: aborigines, DPP, forestry, land laws
Oct 6 Shannon Meet up
In the middle of putting up a diary about Taiwan and China at DailyKos, the massive Democratic blog, Jerome Keating sent around his "come one, come all" notification of the next meetup at The Shannon:
It has been a while since our last meeting and I hope you have all had a good summer.
To get back in the swing of things, we will have a meeting on the first Saturday of October, October 6 at Shannons.
I have several interesting speakers for the coming year but none are available in October.
Despite that, this will give us a good chance to catch up with each other and I propose that people bring some information on projects that they are working on or that they are interested in. Make it a "What did you do last summer?" or "What are you working on now? etc.
I will bring some xeroxed pages from the black list books that I saw over the summer and pass them around..
Shannon's is at #6 Dunhua North Road, (phone 2772-0948) at 10 am. Shannons is a half block south of Nanking on the west side of Dunhua. Breakfast options will be the same as last time, however I have the chef looking into other choices--but will only have that confirmed during the week.
Since it has been a couple of months since our last meeting, drop me a line if you expect to be attending. I don't know if Syd is back yet, but he is scouting the prospects of having his book made into a movie; if he is back, he can fill people in.
The Shannon is on Tun Hua between Chang-an and Nanking, next to Dan Ryan's, and across from the Concert Venue. The room is large and there is plenty of space. See ya there!
[Taiwan]
Two Different Commentaries
It's interesting to contrast how the center-right Japan Times views Taiwan with the views of a Green Party candidate from Canada. You decide which one actually has a grip on reality. First, the Japan Times.....
Mr. Chen certainly has political calculations in mind as he presses the U.N. campaign and proceeds with a referendum on U.N. membership that will be held at the same time as the presidential election in March. But to dismiss this entire phenomenon as a political scheme is wrong, too. Increasing numbers of people in Taiwan do not think of themselves as Chinese. They have made extraordinary progress in building a vibrant democracy and creating one of the world's economic powerhouses. They want credit for those accomplishments.
Ignoring this yearning will not make it go away. Beijing's merciless campaign to deny Taiwan international space is strengthening a collective sense of grievance and — yes — a separate identity. All nations must help find a middle ground that acknowledges the remarkable gains made by Taiwan without crossing the red lines that would provoke a crisis.
Respect for Taiwan, rather than fear of China, should be the guiding principles of cross-strait relations. It would pay dividends on both sides of the strait and for all nations of the region.
Now, Martin Willison, former Green Party candidate, university prof, and currently on sabbatical in China, writes in the Chronicle Herald:
When the drums of separation roll in Quebec, Nova Scotians are naturally concerned about the effects that separation of Quebec would have on the Acadian people, most of whom do not want to see a separate Quebec. Is it too much to ask that the editorial board at The Chronicle Herald give a thought to what the people of mainland China think regarding the province of Taiwan, and about political machinations in the multi-party democracy of Taiwan?
This letter, which Johnny Neihu rightly described as "hallucinatory," is factually inept -- two, not one, of the four main parties are pro-independence, among its numerous errors. It also refers to democratic activities as "machinations" and repeats Beijing code-phrases like "the feelings of China's 1.3 billion people." As I often say, I understand the people who fight authoritarians, and I understand the people who want to be authoritarians, but I will never, never understand the people who serve them....
[Taiwan] [US] [China] [Democracy] [UN] [DPP] [Taiwan Independence] [US Foreign Policy]
Vignettes from the New School Year
Practicing fan dancing in the morning at NCKU.
The Old One
Entering the elevator, I found myself among a bevy of young women wearing t-shirts from a university department I hadn't seen before.
"So," I essayed, "What department are you all from?"
"We're from the Department of Senior Citizen Welfare," explained one. There was a pause, and then another, eyeing me, gave vent to a jocular "Yes! And we'll be helping you soon!"
Seen on a student t-shirt.
The Omniscient One
Being omniscient is just like being a psychic -- it's easy if you can get the mark to supply all the information for you.
Just before the evening class I ran into two students in the class. I had memorized all their names the previous week, but without the reinforcement of homework, of course I'd forgotten them. But ya gotta try....after all, it's important to keep up that pose of omniscience....
"Patrick?" I asked the man.
"Jay!" He laughed. I turned to the young woman, a pretty, bronze-skinned girl.
"J...J...."
"Jamie!" She looked familiar, like I'd seen her before elsewhere. I studied her.
"Haven't I taught you before? I know you," I began cautiously, "from OCIT...."
"Yes! Wow! You remember! From the TOIEC class!" It was a class I had taught for a semester a couple of years before at another university. Of course I had been about to say ....from the night class... She grinned at me. "Wow! You remembered me! That's really smart." She immediate got out her cellphone to tell her friends the amazing news.........
My omniscience is in good hands.
A breakfast place near NCKU.
The Hero's Sidekick
Coming home today we passed my neighbor standing by the side of the road with her daughter, who is half my daughter's age. As we passed, she gave my wife such a terrifying look of utter heartbroken despair that we drove around the block again to see what was wrong.
"My son! My son!" She wailed as we pulled up. "I got a call from the school! They said he's been kidnapped."
"What!"
"The Educational Affairs office called," she said, fighting back tears. "Then the kidnappers called and said they wanted me to take out $200,000 and wait at home. 'If you don't take out the money,' they said, 'we're going to kill him!'"
My wife quickly explained that the whole thing was probably a con and her son was no doubt safe at the school, a local junior high. Fake kidnappings are one of Asia's most common cons; we've encountered it several times.
"Did you call the school and double-check?"
"The call was from the school!"
"Are you sure?" My wife demanded. Dawning hope. We got the boy's name and class, and called the school while the mother waiting anxiously outside the gate of her home for the kidnappers to appear. The school authorities promptly found the boy and brought him to the phone, and we brought about a tearful reunion between mother and son, much to everyone's relief and joy. Afterwards my wife chatted up the teacher at the school, who said that with the new semester and many new children starting at the local junior high school, parents were full of vague fears for their children, easy prey for amoral mobsters.
How do such people live with themselves?
UPDATE: The papers reported yesterday that parents of dozens of new kids were hit with this scam in Taichung yesterday, with more than ten falling victim. It is very easy to get hold of class lists -- cram schools I know buy them from teachers on a regular basis. The schools themselves need to warn parents the first day about this scam. And I must say it again: here is an issue where an inexpensive all-out campaign can save people lots of money.
I'm an advisor again, this time to the third year students. Yesterday after Business Writing several of them sat down with me to explain their situations. They were applying for the subsidy for low-income students, and I had to fill out the forms and interview them. I then had to write up their stories on the form.
Each told me a variant of the same story. Dad had either passed away or was sick, and Mom was shouldering the burden of providing for the family, invariably by working in a factory. Not just them either; one of the girls remarked that lots of students were in similar situations (something I have also noticed), but they weren't impoverished enough to get a subsidy from the university. Apparently working single moms are the sinews of the working class; I'd be curious to see stats on what percentage of families in lower income groups in Taiwan derive the bulk of their income from the mother's production.....
6 Comments Labels: Education in Taiwan
Daily Links, Sept 29, 2007
Lots of stuff being shipped out on the blogs recently:
A-gu reports on the upcoming National People's Congress in China, which plans to map a new Taiwan policy.
Jerome points out that where China is concerned, we're feeding the bully.
Craig takes beautiful pictures of Confucius Birthday ceremonies.
Poagao takes beautiful pictures in Danshui.
Talking Taiwanese reviews a report on Taiwan's cram school system. It's good to see this; far too many presentations on Taiwan's educational system don't mention the cram school system. Good work!
Todd goes to Sitou.
The Iranian leader's visit to the US and speech at Columbia drew some attention in the local English blogosphere. Here too.
The Foreigner rips Ma Ying-jeou for lying about the flag incident. And points to some articles on name rectification in Myanmar/Burma.
The Only Redhead posts long and wise on UN day in Taiwan.
The Real Taiwan does some photojournalism on the destruction of an old military village in southern Taiwan.
Pinyin News comments on the A-do-ga restaurant in Taiwan.
HUMOR: Chinese Authorities Execute 10 Million Recalled Toys (via Chewing in the Chung). Hilarious.
AWESOME NEW TECH: Gigapan for massive panoramas.
Rodin Exhibition in Taichung
Ni Howdy alerts readers to the upcoming Rodin exhibition in Taichung:
2007 marks the 6th year into the Shining Taichung Arts Festival. Continued this year, we have again incorporated the much loved Jazz Music Festival and Colorful City Festival as parts of program. In addition, we have teamed up Modern Art Gallery, Taichung to win the permission from the Artco-France Foundation to organize this exhibition. 32 pieces of Rodin's bronze sculptures, including the international renowned works, the Thinker, Monument to Balzac and the Age of Bronze, along with more than 100 pieces of Rodin's prints will be on display in this one and only exhibition in Taiwan. Former Taichung Municipal Office, a carefully restored historic building, has been selected as the perfect location for the event. This Baroque style building complements Rodin's sculptures. It is as if we are decorating Rodin's residence in Taichung.
Wow! Definitely have to go take a look.
[Taiwan] [Taichung]
Taiwan Gets Help From Congress on F-16s, makes own missiles
The Taipei Times reported that the US Congress, which houses the largest collection of invertebrates outside the Smithsonian, took the State Department to task for its opposition to Taiwan's purchase of F-16s, and sent a resolution through the Committee on the F-16 purchase...
The US House Foreign Affairs Committee on Wednesday approved a resolution that aims to press the administration of US President George W. Bush to allow Taiwan to purchase advanced F-16C/D fighter aircraft to proceed, despite State Department efforts to obstruct the sale. The approval was by a voice vote without objections.
The action sends the measure to the full House, which is expected to take it up soon. The measure was passed under a special House rule, which allows it to be voted on early, but which requires a two-thirds affirmative vote for it to pass.
The action came at an unusually contentious meeting of the committee, after members squabbled over issues related to Ethiopia and Iraq. The Taiwan measure was delayed for more than two hours, presenting time restraints that prevented the committee from engaging in what was expected to be a spirited discussion of the issues and recent administration policies toward Taiwan.
The bill, which is based on US commitments under the Taiwan Relations Act (TRA) of 1992 to supply the nation with defensive weapons, states that it "shall continue to be the policy of the United States" to make available to Taiwan arms sufficient to defend itself, and that Washington must make arms sales decisions "based solely" on "the legitimate defense needs of Taiwan," with decisions shared jointly by the Congress and the administration and not based on political considerations.
Sponsors made it clear that the bill was aimed at Taiwan's efforts to buy 66 advanced F-16C/D fighters. The issue has taken on urgency because a Legislative Yuan budget measure allocating some US$448 million to start the purchase process would lapse if the first stage was not approved by the US by the end of next month.
The Taipei Times reported on the bill the day before, accusing the State Department of engaging in childish behavior on the F-16 sale:
The bill reflects frustration in the US Congress over the State Department's continuing refusal to allow Taiwan to make a formal request for the fighter aircraft, despite the Legislative Yuan's approval of budgets to begin the procurement process and the mandates of the Taiwan Relations Act (TRA) on defensive arms sales to Taiwan.
Sources said that many members of Congress were angry over the State Department's role in blocking the sale.
They said that senior officials of the Taiwan Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO) have tried repeatedly to submit a formal request for the F-16 purchase, but that the American Institute in Taiwan's (AIT) Washington office had refused to entertain the request, saying they had been ordered by the State Department not to accept it.
Under the rules of US-Taiwan communications, every communication of this sort must formally go through AIT rather than directly to the US government and it is not clear whether TECRO officials have been permitted to meet face-to-face with US officials to make their case to buy the aircraft.
The Bush Administration has been slowly-strangling US-Taiwan relations, and while Chen Shui-bian's high-handedness is certainly a problem, it is clear that he is not the only reason Taiwan's relations with the US have deteriorated.
At the same time the International Herald Tribune reports that Taiwan is going forward with the development of cruise missiles capable of hitting targets in China:
They said these missiles were essential to Taiwan's defense because China's soaring defense spending was tilting the military balance in the mainland's favor.
"They want to make mainland China hesitate before launching any attack," said Andrei Chang, a Hong Kong-based expert on the Chinese and Taiwanese militaries and editor in chief of Kanwa Defense Review magazine. "These missiles could not only destroy military targets, but financial and economic targets as well.
"They want to create massive panic," he added.
There have also been unconfirmed news reports in Taiwan that the military is developing short-range ballistic missiles.
Chen's independence-leaning administration refuses to comment on the existence of a ballistic missile program.
The Bush administration has signaled that it opposes Taiwan developing offensive weapons, including missiles.
At a time when Taipei has angered China with a decision to hold a referendum on the island's bid to rejoin the United Nations under the name of Taiwan, the deployment of missiles that could strike the mainland could further increase tensions.
The US opposes the deployment of cruise missiles because they are "offensive weapons" but it wants to sell Taiwan submarines -- which it told Taiwan it could not have for the twenty years prior to 2001 -- because they were "offensive weapons." And of course, the 1,000 missiles that China aims at Taiwan receive no attention....I guess they must be defensive weapons.
Whatever you may say about the weapons, hitting Shanghai with them is really a dumb idea. Nothing makes a civilian population rally round the flag faster than being bombed, which is why some radical Taiwan independence theorists have argued that the best thing to do for independence is fight a war with China to unite the island's population.
Meanwhile China continues to blast Taiwan and threaten war. Oddly everyone seems to be condemning Taiwan for this behavior. This is an excellent learning experience for Beijing, and what they are learning is that if they become nasty enough, the world leaps to do their bidding. Has any nation, anywhere, condemned China's threats of force across the Taiwan Strait?
[Taiwan] [US] [China] [Democracy] [UN] [DPP] [Taiwan Independence] [US Foreign Policy] [F-16]
10 Comments Labels: China, F-16s, military and defense, UN, US
Taiwan to make massive wind power investments
Great news for the environment...Taiwan plans to spend $3 billion on wind power installation over the next few years.
Offshore turbine capacity may total 360 megawatts by 2010, according to a report from the bureau, distributed at an industry conference yesterday. That may eventually rise to 1,200 megawatts, Wang said, without giving a time frame.
Wind farms, both those built on land and in the sea, may account for about 5 percent of Taiwan's total installed capacity by 2010, he said. That compares with 0.4 percent as of July, according to Taiwan Power's Web site.
This month the government started accepting applications from private companies for building the island's first offshore wind farm, citing difficulties in finding onshore sites. Permission for a total of 300 megawatts will be granted within three years.
The government is promoting wind power, because ``we have plentiful wind resources,'' Wang said. The island's turbines are productive for as much as 35 percent of the time, compared with 20 percent in Germany, he said.
Teco, Formosa Plastics
Waters along the island's western coast have ``suitable'' sites for offshore wind farms, Wang said. Taiwan also has companies that produce components for turbines, including Formosa Heavy Industries Corp. and Teco Electric & Machinery Co., he said.
Teco, based in Taipei, makes household appliances. Formosa Heavy, also in Taipei, is a unit of Formosa Plastics Group.
Wind power of 300 megawatts can replace the equivalent of 250,000 kiloliters (1.57 million barrels) of oil and cut emissions of more than 620,000 metric tons of greenhouse gases a year, according to the bureau. Taiwan accounted for 1 percent of the world's carbon dioxide emissions in 2004.
Another reason for the government to push for wind power is to improve ``energy security,'' Wang said.
Taiwan Power, the state-run utility that produces about 75 percent of the island's electricity and monopolizes transmission in Taiwan, suspended a plan to build a coal-fired station in June after a government panel recommended dropping the project because concerns the plant will boost carbon dioxide emissions.
Without new coal plants the island may see its back-up capacity slip to almost zero by 2015, Tu Yueh-yuan, Taiwan Power's chief engineer, said in April.
There's been some complaints about the offshore wind program in the environmental community, because planning has been haphazard and hasn't take into account its impact on local marine ecologies. But any way you slice it, this needs to be done, or we are all going to fry.
12 Comments Labels: energy, renewable energy
Chen Interview in Der Spiegel
A loyal reader informed me that President Chen Shui-bian was interviewed in the German news magazine this week:
SPIEGEL: Taiwan is a democracy, which cannot be said for many countries in the UN. But the fact remains that your wish has encountered resistance from the beginning -- with UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, but also with the United States, Taiwan's protector. Doesn't this irritate you?
Chen: I wrote a letter to Ban Ki-moon, which he rejected -- a disappointment. The United States, Japan and Australia, among other countries, have refuted his view that Taiwan is a part of the People's Republic. We can understand that Washington, in response to Chinese pressure, does not support our effort. We respect this position, even if we regret it.
SPIEGEL: One cannot help but think that you are using the referendum to stage a spectacle in the run-up to parliamentary elections in 2007, as well as a presidential election, even though the constitution bars your from running for a third term. The UN doesn't want to admit Taiwan, and you are alienating the Bush administration and risking tensions in the Taiwan Strait.
Chen: China will only be satisfied with us if we capitulate and declare that we are part of the mainland. China objected to our decision to become a democracy and, in 1996, during our first free presidential election, fired missiles in our direction. China threatened us with military force when I was elected in 2000, and the same thing happened in 2004 when we held our first referendum. Whatever we do upsets Beijing.
SPIEGEL: What can Taiwan, a small island, do to oppose China, a huge country?
Chen: We appeal to the democratic world to support us. Think of the historic example of the 1938 Munich Agreement, under which Hitler was granted the Sudetenland region. England and France wanted to appease him, but only one year later the Second World War broke out. If we make compromises with a dictatorship today we will only encourage other dictators. Small countries will suffer as a result.
Chen's reference to Munich references something that has great emotional effect on Westerners. Good work. Two pages of interviews there....happy reading.
Speaking of the UN entry campaign, Oct 24 is UN Day in Taiwan, now a national holiday.
Taiwan on Wednesday declared that it will make UN Day on October 24 a national holiday to tell the world that the island is determined to join the United Nations. "This year is the first year that we have applied to join the UN under the name of Taiwan. We want to tell the world that we will never give up," Premier Chang Chun-hsiung told a news conference.
More excellent publicity -- and more KMT-DPP cooperation.
6 Comments Labels: Chen Shui-bian, China, DPP, KMT, UN
Wasai Taiwan wants your stories
John at The Real Taiwan sends along this plea from local students who want your story and are willing to pay cold hard cash to get it:
We are graduate students in the Institute of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) at the National Chiao Tung Universtiy in Hsinchu and we need your help. Currently, we are working on a project that is chronicling cross-cultural experiences of Expats who currently live or have lived in Taiwan. Our main purpose in this endeavor is to create language and culture learning material that can enhance Taiwanese students' communicative competence. In order to achieve our goal, we need more Expats to write about their cross-cultural experiences in Taiwan. We have received some funding from our school's Humanities department and can pay NT$700 per anecdote . At the moment, we have already posted numerous cross-cultural anecdotes on our blog. If you have time please have a look: http://wasaitaiwan.blogspot.com/ .
Here is what we are looking for in the cross-cultural anecdotes:
1. Write an anecdote of your experiences that best describe a contrast between Taiwan and your home country. Try to focus on the differences that lead you amazed, surprised, or even shocked. Please try your best to describe the situation in full detail. If you do not have a specific story, you can write about your observations or opinions of the cultural items or phenomena.
2. Please try to account for the reason why this aspect of culture or items made you feel surprised or amazed.
3. 300- 600 words is enough for the essay.
4. Please provide related photos if possible.
5. Please write in a more academic style and try to be creative and humorous!!
Send your essays to wasaitaiwan@gmail.com
Payment can delivered directly to you by hand if you live in Taipei, Hsinchu, or Tainan City. If you do not live in one to these cities, we can send payment via direct deposit into your bank account.
Karen & Louis
President Chen for Chairman, Again?
One of the quirks of Taiwan's Constitution is the weakness of the Presidency. During the martial law era, and into the presidency of Lee Teng-hui, Taiwan's presidents derived their political clout from their position as Chairman of the Party, not from occupying the chief office of a government that was never intended to be more than the candy coating over a Leninist one-party state.
That precedent has unfortunately carried over into the DPP era. One problem the DPP has always faced is that its only model for how a political party should conduct itself is the KMT. During his first administration President Chen was also the party Chairman. That's far too much responsibility for one man, but that's the way it has always been done in Taiwan....so that's the way it was done, much to the detriment of the DPP.
Last week DPP Chairman Yu was indicted for receipt forgery and stepped down as party Chairman, leaving the post open amid plenty of speculation over who should be the next chair. Immediately President Chen's name came up. The Taipei Times reported that Su Tseng-chang, the Vice Presidential candidate, had come out in favor of Chen:
"It is true that the party would be stronger and better integrated in terms of campaign strategy if the president were the chairman," Su told reporters yesterday morning as he returned from St. Lucia, where he served as Chen's envoy.
The DPP caucus on Saturday urged Chen to consider doubling as DPP chairman.
Yu, who was campaigning for the party in Toronto at the time, faxed his intended resignation late on Friday night, but added on Saturday that he would not leave his post until after the party's 21st anniversary and national congress, scheduled for Sunday.
Yu had said on Monday he would like to fulfill his responsibilities and oversee the holding of the two major events.
This, however, drew criticism and speculation from DPP presidential candidate Frank Hsieh's (謝長廷) camp, which suspected Yu may have postponed his resignation until after the party congress to ensure that his amendment stipulating "Taiwan" as the national title appears in the party's final "normal country" resolution.
Hsieh's camp has questioned the timing of the passing of the draft, fearing it could scare off voters.
The Taipei Times also interviewed local political scientists, who seemed quite put off by the idea of a second Chen Chairmanship:
If the president were to become DPP chairman again, the fact that he controls the government as well as the party would leave him without a buffer zone to "shield him from US pressure" against actions taken by the party such as the proposed referendum on UN membership under the name "Taiwan," Lo said.
Both Lo and Chen Chao-jian said Hsieh, while not facing charges, faces a dilemma during the potential power struggle within the party.
"If the president takes over the DPP chairmanship, the next presidential election will become a duel between Chen Shui-bian and [Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) presidential candidate] Ma Ying-jeou (馬英九)," Chen Chao-jian said.
He said any interference by the president in Hsieh's presidential campaign would be obvious under these circumstances, and could end up "marginalizing" Hsieh in the campaign.
Lo agreed, saying that the president has always been better at setting political agendas than Hsieh.
"It is impossible for Hsieh to ask Yu to stay on as party chairman because Ma resigned [as KMT chairman] over his indictment in the special allowance case," Chen Chao-jian said.
"The best choice is to have someone from his own [Hsieh's] campaign assume the chairmanship, but this violates the party's regulations ... therefore, Hsieh cannot but agree to having Chen Shui-bian as head of the party," Chen Chao-jian said.
Lo said Hsieh had dealt with the indictment of Yu "inappropriately," referring to Hsieh's promise on Saturday that if elected he would push for an amnesty for government officials under investigation over their special fund expenditures.
Hsieh's move had distanced himself from Lu, Yu and Mark Chen, which has contributed to the divisions within the DPP and harmed his personal image, Lo said.
Hsieh's support of Yu's resignation also left him no maneuvering room in terms of other investigations he faces, Lo said.
However, Tseng Chien-yuan (曾建元), an assistant professor of public administration at Chung Hua University, said Hsieh's proposal of a pardon was a "courageous and proper act."
Tseng said Hsieh was proposing a solution not just to single cases but to a "universal problem inherent in traditional ethnic Chinese politics."
"This problem has turned our judiciary into a tool of political wrangling," Tseng said, adding that Hsieh's proposal showed the DPP candidate had done some thinking.
It's good to see the amnesty for the special funds cases still being discussed. Hopefully once Hsieh is elected that will be carried out.
It seems that even if Chen Shui-bian does not become DPP Chair, one of his people will. The DPP has done a good job of bringing up talent, so perhaps they will get someone young in the position who can gain some useful experience at the national level. Then again, perhaps they will get Chen Shui-bian. Either way, it appears that Chen is not going to quietly step into the Elder Statesman role that Lee Teng-hui has created.
[Taiwan] [DPP]
0 Comments Labels: 2008 Presidential Election, Chen Shui-bian, DPP, Frank Hsieh, Yu Shyi-kun
China Contrasts
Today the headline for an article on China's CCTV noted that China Condemns Taiwan for Separatist Move. Meanwhile the International Herald Tribune reported via AP -- same news, spun positively -- China Reaches Out Following Olympic Feud. To wit:
Speaking at a regularly scheduled news conference on Wednesday, Li Weiyi, spokesman for the Cabinet's Taiwan Affairs Office, said Beijing Olympic organizers had demonstrated "extremely full sincerity and patience" in the negotiations.
"At this stage, I can only express regret," Li said.
"However, as regards this matter, we still strongly welcome Taiwan compatriots to actively participate in Olympic Games-related activities such as sports culture exchanges, Olympic training and competition activities, Olympics-related volunteer activities and so on," Li said.
Taiwan, which has never been included in an Olympic torch relay, had objected to its placement on the route ahead of Hong Kong, saying that it would make it appear to be part of Chinese territory. Taipei also accused Beijing of introducing last-minute conditions on the display of Taiwanese flags and national symbols along the route.
Beijing, which claims the self-governing island as its own territory, said Taiwanese Olympic officials had signed an agreement on the island's inclusion in the relay, but raised objections in April after Beijing announced the route.
It's funny to imagine this as an act of reaching out. If Beijing wants to reach out, it can open negotiations with the legitimately elected government of President Chen Shui-bian, remove its missiles from their sites just across the Strait, or stop suppressing Taiwan's international space. You know, concrete stuff. This is pure theatre. Sad that AP reported it this way.
Despite the positive slant for Beijing, the article does contain an interesting formulation that is extremely rare to see in a western paper:
The comments Wednesday followed last week's clanging end to 10 months of negotiations on taking the relay to Taiwan, which fell apart over Taiwan's opposition to its position in the relay ahead of Hong Kong and Chinese conditions that no signs of Taiwanese nationalism be seen.
Pinch me friends, that's Taiwanese nationalism right there in print.
[Taiwan] [Olympics] [China]
2 Comments Labels: high speed rail
Life and Markets in Taichung
The calm before the storm of the new semester, Moon Festival gives everyone a couple of days off to drive on crowded highways to pack into remote places to barbecue slices of meat so thin that poor people use them for window panes.
This handsome fellow is a famous Taiwan blogger and a student at NCKU with me.
My good friend Dan F., Tainan resident, now liberated from ownership of a bar.
At my university, after cleaning the rooms, the students in the Labor Education program carefully arrange the chalk in this way. In order to retain my current employment, further commentary on this practice will not be offered.
We went in to renew my son's visa the other day. My wife, forty years of experience in dealing with Taiwan's bureaucracy, came prepared with a portfolio of pictures. All in vain, for it was the Goldilocks Bureaucracy: Is this picture OK? No, too small. This one? Too big. This one? Background not white enough. This one? Can't see his ears. This one? Clothing is too light a color. How about this one? How about you go to the photography shop and have some new ones made, lady? But the service was good, as always, and they let us process the visa and mail in the photos. Taiwan is a helluva a lot more flexible than it used to be.
But I did snap these Thai workers waiting for their work permits.
[It turns out that apparently the government gives these books to everyone, foreign or not, so I deleted my previous comments.] But for foreign brides, maybe the government needs to put out a series on Who To Contact When Forced Into Prostitution, Five Minute Martial Arts for The Abused Wife, and How To Make My Fine Ethnic Cuisine So It Tastes Like Stewed Pork Over Rice.
In Wufeng one of the local neighborhoods was having some kind of development meeting.
The morning market on a holiday.
I had a lot of fun today shooting kids on motorcycles. Please, folks, don't try this at home.
Everyone knows that it is impossible to have an accident near one's own home. Anyway, it will certain be the other guy's fault, and he'll pay for it. Besides, they'll just grow out of the helmets soon....and as I shot the first cycle, a second drove into the pic there on the left, another two unhelmeted kids aboard.
One of the joys of photography is finding something in the picture you hadn't known was there when you took the shot. Like that toddler scrunched up in the front of the leading cycle....
Old ladies make the world go round.
On this bright morning I met up with the brilliant Andrew Kerslake and his beautiful wife Joyce for a trip to a Taichung landmark: the Second Market, located on the corner of San Min and Chungcheng inside the building to the left in the pic above.
This market consists of clothing shops, cloth and sewing supplies, fruit, vegetable, and butcher stands, dry goods shops that sell a lot of Japanese stuff, and of course, eateries.
This popular eatery was packed for lunch.
This fruit stand has been here for decades. Andrew told me it was once owned by the husband of the indomitable Communist revolutionary Hsieh Hsueh-hung, an early and forceful advocate of Taiwan independence under the banner of Communism.
Many of the groceries carry a range of imported Japanese goods.
The Second Market is a historical landmark. Andrew and I, seeing all the original wood construction still extant, opined that it must be Japanese period, but we talked to one of the stall owners who assured us it was all post-1945. Very little of the Japanese-period market remains, apparently.
The pillar in the previous picture stands in the center of the market, whose plan is shown here.
The government "renovation" installed these faux-historical facades.
No market is complete without a place to sit and snack.
Tofu waits for buyers.
Still has plenty of that great old Taiwan feel.
Dried shrimp. Anyone who invents a machine that will devein shrimp will be my friend forever.
A butcher hard at work.
A local stall owner spotted Andrew wearing a Mariners shirt. "Are you from Seattle?" The stall owner had lived there at one time....
Joyce looks on as Andrew and the stall owner exchange opinions about a baseball team other than the Yankees. A thing almost unheard of in the Island Kingdom of Wang Chien-ming.
A panorama of the building housing the Second Market. A composite of two pictures.
Down to Tainan for class, I panned the crowds waiting for the train at the Taichung Station. Composite of five images.
5 Comments Labels: photos, Taichung
Lots of good stuff out there this week:
Islaformosa blogs his father in law's myna bird, which imitates car sounds.
Taoyuan Nights is still looking for the right girl.
ROC the Boat has a great review of Jim Mann's The China Fantasy. Don't miss all his posts on the UN referendum mess either.
Michael K. has a great post on 419 scams.
Thomas Huang writes thoughtfully on the UN bid. So does the Foreigner.
Sponge Bear visits Taoyuan and comes back with loads of pics.
Anarchy in Taiwan has a post on the migrant workers mission digest.
Taiwan Echo blogs on the meaning of "Taiwan is the ROC."
PODCASTING: Mark Forman's Getting a Leg Up has some great music.
Waldron, Beijing Advisor, on Taiwan's UN Move
Conservative China and Taiwan specialist Arthur Waldron writes in Commentary on Taiwan's UN rejection:
Taiwan’s rejection—for the fifteenth time in a row—by the agenda-setting committee of the General Assembly of the United Nations last Wednesday may well be seen, before too long, to have been a turning point. After all, who can believe that Taiwan will be turned down another fifteen times?
Chinese diplomats are nervous. They don’t want Taiwan even on the agenda, because they fear, correctly, that an open discussion might not go their way. They know that no one believes on principle that Taiwan should be excluded. Other countries are simply afraid of China.
How long can China continue to intimidate otherwise free-thinking nations? The answer is, not indefinitely.
Waldron also notes that the claim that this is only an election ploy fails to capture the complexities of Taiwan's political desires:
The Bush administration portrays Taiwan’s increasingly audible demands as no more than local political posturing and manipulation, for which their elected president is to blame, and resolutely declines comment on the merits of Taiwan’s case.
Some former officials, however, are talking sense: Michael Green, for instance, Bush’s former top Asian aide, now at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. He was recently quoted as saying:
For the U.S. side, we need to recognize the issue of identity in Taiwan is not a political game, it’s not a tactical move in Taipei, it’s a very fundamental issue, not at all unique to its 23 million people…. Look at Korea, Japan, the national identity is at the top of the agenda in every country in Asia and there is no reason why Taiwan should be any different.
Thakur and Green are absolutely right. The issues and processes they describe will not disappear or cease simply because we and China wish they would. We are dealing with nationalism. Difficult as it may be, we need to think ahead.
Waldron is a longtime Taiwan supporter. It is curious to juxtapose the Zogby poll results that show liberals strongly support Taiwan's entry into the UN, with the fact that liberal/left commentary on Taiwan is practically non-existent.
As if in counterpoint to Waldron, a top Chinese advisor lashed out at Chen Shui-bian for the UN referendum:
China's top advisor has lashed out at Taiwan leader Chen Shui-bian's push for a "referendum" on UN entry, saying the secessionist move would "endanger peace and stability across the Strait and the Asia-Pacific region."
Jia Qinglin, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), made the remark when meeting a delegation of the China Council for the Promotion of Peaceful Reunification here on Monday.
"The 'Taiwan independence' secessionist activities are still rampant," said Jia.
Disregarding Taiwan people's call for peace and strong opposition from international community, Chen had been obstinately promoting a "referendum" on the island's entry into the United Nations.
Chen's insistence in maintaining a "Taiwan independence" policy" will jeopardize the essential interests of people cross the Strait, and will endanger peace and stability across the Strait, and even the Asia-Pacific region", Jia said.
Beijing's obsessive focus with Chen Shui-bian as the driver of independence activities is an important propaganda theme that both fellow-travelers and the international media have picked up. For example, Yuan Jing-dong's utterly unimaginative and conventional piece on US-Taiwan-China relations in the Asia Times the other day echoes this propaganda line:
But Beijing is facing a serious challenge. It is quite clear that Chen Shui-bian's referendum plan is largely driven by Taiwan's election politics as much as by Chen's own craving for personal legacy. It is also obvious that despite serious warnings from both Washington and Beijing, the referendum is most likely going to take place. How Beijing should react is a test for the mainland leadership's acumen as well as resolve.
By keeping the focus on Chen, Beijing blunts the fact that Chen is speaking for the majority of Taiwanese (at least on this issue), and that at bottom it is Taiwanese nationalism and the growing Taiwan identity that is driving this referendum move, and creating conditions for its success in Taiwan. Focusing on Chen means that Beijing can pretend there is no such thing as Taiwan nationalism.
3 Comments Labels: Chen Shui-bian, China, DPP, UN, US
Aborigines Losing Their Christianity?
Peter Enav of the AP reports on declining belief in Christianity among the aborigines of Taiwan:
Sixty years after Roman Catholic and Presbyterian missionaries first converted large numbers of Taiwanese aboriginals in their leafy mountain villages, Christianity here is entering a new phase. Adherents are leaving the faith.
Faced with a declining agricultural economy in their hard pressed rural communities, more and more upcountry Christians are moving to Taiwan's bustling cities, where worldly temptations and a bewildering social framework are challenging their beliefs.
At a recent Sunday morning service in the nearby community of Laolauran, American Presbyterian missionary John McCall tried to rally the faithful, as local hill tribe pastor Sakulu translated his Mandarin Chinese sermon into the aboriginal language of Paiwanese.
'God loves you and he is your father,' McCall said. 'You're all the children of God.'
But the church was mostly empty, and the worshippers included few if any young adults.
'I used to go to church,' said Dzwo Ying-gung, who recently returned to the area to work at the Dawu Mountain National Education Center. 'But now I don't. My faith has fallen away.'
The attitude of Dzwo and thousands of hill tribe Taiwanese like him represents a fundamental challenge to McCall and the legion of local pastors he and his predecessors have helped train at three Presbyterian seminaries around the island.
Ever since Canadian George Mackay came to Taiwan in 1871, the center of the missionary enterprise on the island has always been its hill tribe people, whose ancestors migrated here from south Pacific islets about 6,000 years ago.
The Paiwan and others once proved much more receptive to Christianity than their lowland neighbors, who followed Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism.
Today, some 65 percent of the hill tribe population of 460,000 is Christian, about equally divided between Presbyterians and Catholics, according to government statistics. That compares with about 2 percent of Taiwan's 22.5 million Han Chinese, who originated on the Chinese mainland, where they constitute a large majority.
Sociologist Jonathan Unger of Canberra's Australian National University said the hill tribes were more open to the Christian message largely because of the prejudice they felt from the Han. Other Asian minority peoples, in places like southwest China, Laos, and upland Thailand, also were more willing to embrace Christianity, he said.
'It's a common phenomenon that a minority people considered inferior in many respects by the dominant culture will protect itself by turning to a world religion,' Unger said.
Rangalu, a 45-year-old primary school teacher in the hill tribe village of Sapulou, said the discrimination he experienced played a key role in forming his own Paiwan identity.
'When I was in school in Taipei the (Han) teacher would say, 'Look at this Paiwan kid, he's so dark, he's dirty, don't play with him,'' he said. 'It really made an impression.'
His wife Muni, 39, cited another reason for Christianity's popularity: the health care and other social services provided by foreign missionaries.
'They were all very poor, they had very few clothes,' said Muni, who spent seven years studying theology at the Yusan Presbyterian Seminary in the eastern Taiwanese city of Hualien. 'But the missionaries came and cured them, they gave them clothes and they taught them to love God.'
But now, she said more local young people are going to Taiwanese cities in search of work.
'They are discriminated against, they lose their connection to the church, they start to drink, their lives become unstable,' she said.
Placed near the base of a steeply rising mountain covered with coconut palms, stands of bamboo, and verdant rows of acacia trees, many of the homes in Sapulou village are decorated with handsome wood carvings depicting traditional Paiwan symbols: serpents, warriors holding spears, and hunting scenes featuring wild mountain pigs.
Sapulou lies near the southern extreme of the 240-mile mountainous spine that runs down the center of Taiwan and hosts its 13 government-recognized aboriginal tribes.
Dappled with satellite dishes _ and only a few miles removed from a railway stop on the line to the mostly Han city of Taidung _ the village is not nearly as isolated as some other aboriginal villages in the high mountain country.
In one of the village's more solid looking homes, Kanpi and his wife Lumiya, both 70, welcomed a group of foreign and local visitors with a traditional Paiwan melody embellished with modern Christian lyrics.
'We welcome our guests to the house,' they sang. 'We thank the Lord we have all come together in our home.'
The walls of the simple structure were covered with the spoils of Kanpi's hunting career _ assorted pig skulls, eagle feathers, and deer skins. They served as poignant reminders of the recent past, when hunting and subsistence farming were the core of the Paiwan existence.
One of the visitors was McCall, who first came to Taiwan in 1996 after being inspired by stories from retired missionaries near his home in Black Mountain, N.C.
A tall, youthful-looking 49, with a thick shock of salt-and-pepper colored hair, McCall said that after almost 12 years in Taiwan he remained committed to his mission of helping to prepare young hill tribes people for ordination into the Presbyterian ministry.
But mindful of Muni's earlier remarks, he acknowledged the challenge of keeping faith alive for a new generation of hill tribe Christians.
'In the first generation and even the second the fire is still very high,' he said. 'But now the struggle is harder. The fire is starting to fade.'
In In Search of the Hunters and Their Tribes an article by Henrietta Harrison points out that during the 1950s the aborigines converted to Christianity en masse. Yet that conversion was an attempt at assimilation, not an escape from it or a response to it -- missionaries reported that the young demanded Bibles in Mandarin so they would not be marginalized, and in 1957 a missionary visitor reported that there was no future for indigenous language evangelization. Desire for assimilation as a "Chinese" was strongest among females, who did most of the heavy work, and could escape by marrying a mainlander. In that same volume an article by May Bo Ching on the Atayal (written in 1995) noted in passing that although many aborigines claimed to be Christian, they knew little of the religion and did not attend Church. Perhaps the success of Christianity among the aborigines has always been overestimated....and now that aborigines in the cities lead more anonymous lives in which they are free of social pressure to attend church, they are simply shucking off what had always been mostly social practice rather than inner experience.
0 Comments Labels: aborigines, religion
New Regs cause friction between Taiwan's fishing industry and the Marshalls
Taiwan's fishing practices often cause strife between the island and other nations. Ironically, it's now an attempt to rein them in that's causing a problem. Radio New Zealand International has the summary:
A summit in the Marshall Islands next month is expected to discuss Taiwan’s decision to block tuna fishing vessels in Taiwanese shipyards.
The vessels are being built in joint ventures between Taiwanese companies and the governments of Tuvalu and the Marshall islands.
But the Taiwanese government has stopped their release amid concern by scientists about over-fishing because of the increase in the number of vessels.
The actual story is a complex one. Pacific Magazine describes the tale from the point of view of the fishing fleet operators.
Koo Kwang-ming, chairman of Koo's Fishing Company, and Foreign Minister Gerald Zackios both expressed concern about the impact that a new rule enforced since June is having on both Koo's and this central Pacific nation.
Koo and Zackios are attending the first Taiwan Pacific Allies Summit in Palau this week.
"Taiwan must provide support to develop the fishing industries (in Pacific Islands) to increase their income," Koo told Pacific Magazine.
"For me, it is very clear how to operate a fishing company to make money, and how to help support development of local industry."
Koo's currently operates one purse seiner in joint venture with the Marshall Islands Marine Resources Authority, and its five other purse seiners are all flagged and based in Majuro, the capital of the Marshall Islands.
But a new rule enforced by Taiwan's Council of Agriculture starting in June is holding up release of two purse seiners just completed at a cost of $10 million each. Zackios noted that both vessels were contracted well before the new regulation went into effect. Koo is confident that the problem is only temporary and will be resolved.
Critics who argue that the new generation of sophisticated fishing vessels are depleting fish stocks say that flagging vessels in island countries is merely a tactic to allow more Taiwanese vessels to operate, since under a new regional agreement for managing tuna on the high seas, domestic fleets of island nations get preferential treatment.
But Zackios said Koo's Fishing Company, because it is based in the Marshall Islands, is generating jobs and revenue for the Marshall Islands.
Koo blames pressure from the Japanese government and fishing industry on Taiwan for the new regulation "that is impeding the development of Pacific Island fisheries. Japan is pressuring Taiwan to not allow Pacific Islands to have a greater number of fishing vessels."
"We've done everything to raise the issue with the (Taiwan) Council of Agriculture to release the boats," Zackios told Pacific Magazine. "It is having a great impact on economic activity in the Marshall Islands."
Koo added that the new Taiwan regulation forbids the export of the boats to the Marshall Islands, even though they were contracted for by a Marshall Islands-based company.
Zackios said that Koo's, with its fleet of six vessels and a transshipment operation in Majuro, employs up to 70 Marshall Islanders.
Gaining release of the two new vessels "is of great importance to the company and to our domestic growth," Zackios said.
The aim is to expand the Koo's joint venture fishing fleet with the Marshall Islands to five or six vessels, Koo said.
Zackios said that as each new purse seiner comes out of the shipyards in Taiwan, the Marshall Islands joint venture company intends to buy one of Koo's Fishing Company's older purse seiners.
Koo said he is committed to developing the domestic fishing industry in the Marshall Islands. Pointing to past failed attempts to operate purse seiners by the Marshall Islands and other Pacific Islands, Koo said that "before, Pacific Islands didn't know how to develop their fisheries industries. Now, I have a joint venture Marshall Islands company and it knows how to make money."
What's the story from the other point of view? You have to go back to a spate of articles in the Taipei Times and other regional papers from three years ago on the new super tuna boats Taiwan operates:
At a conference on the Indonesian island of Bali in April, Japan warned the new boats could ruin the sustainability of the Pacific's tuna resources, a claim dismissed by Taiwan as sour grapes over increased competition.
The United States also expressed concern about the number of super seiners under construction and along with South Korea called for a moratorium. Fiji called for a total ban on the vessels.
Michael Powles, chairman of the Bali meeting which was aimed at setting up a Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission, said for many years it had been assumed Pacific tuna stocks were self-sustaining.
"But there are now those who say it has reached a really crucial point. There is a very real issue here .... It is such a critical resource," Powles told AFP.
Acccording to the article, Taiwanese fishing companies operate a few dozen boats under Vanuatu and Marshall Islands flags of convenience.
At the Bali conference Japan said the bulk of the Taiwanese vessels were super seiners and it alleged that Taiwan was building more vessels. It named seven Taiwanese companies and alleged they were intentionally circumventing licensing control and were fishing excessively.
"In short, it is surprisingly evident that the Taiwanese fishing industry increased its purse seiner fishing capacity dramatically," Japan's delegation said.
But Wu Hsin-chang, chief of the Pacific fishery section at Taiwan's Fisheries Agency, denied Taiwanese boats were threatening stocks and said Japan was upset by the fierce competition of the industry.
"We object to any attempt to oppress Taiwan's fishing development under the pretence of conserving fishing resources," he told AFP in Taipei.
But Wu said Taiwan would comply with any new regulations restricting fishing in the Pacific.
"What we ask for is a fair and transparent mechanism which gives us a clear idea of what is allowed and what isn't," he said.
He also said Taiwan had no jurisdiction over "flag of convenience" boats and countries which licensed them had to supervise them.
"The responsibility doesn't fall on Taiwan just because they are operated by Taiwanese investors," Wu said.
LOL. Taiwanese investors aren't responsible even though they are the boats of Taiwanese investors.
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Molière’s Dom Juan
Posted by michelinewalker in Comedy, Commedia dell'arte, Literature, Music
≈ Comments Off on Molière’s Dom Juan
Brighella, commedia dell'arte, Dom Juan, Dramma giocoso, Faux-dévot, Molière, Noblesse oblige, Sganarelle
Don Juán, illustration by Carlos Saenz de Tejada, 1938
(Photo credit: WikiArt.org)
I’ve been writing a chapter on Molière‘s enigmatic Dom Juan (1665), the same Don Juán as Tirso de Molina‘s (24 March 1579 – 12 March 1648) Burlador de Sevilla y convidado de piedra and Mozart‘s Don Giovanni (1587) composed on a libretto by Lorenzo Da Ponte.
A Dramma giocoso
Molière’s Dom Juan does not seem a comedy. It lacks a young couple trying to marry despite a heavy father’s objections. However, it borrows elements from the Italian commedia dell’arte. Molière’s Dom Juan has in fact been labelled a dramma giocoso, a playful or comic drama, blending tragic and comical elements, which violates the rules of 17th-century French drama.
For instance, Sganarelle is a descendant of Brighella, a zanni in the Italian commedia dell’arte. He and Dom Juan are nearly always together, which makes for an incongruous relationship: Dom Juan is the master and Sganarelle, the valet. Molière’s play is a Saturnalia.
The Characters and other Elements
Our main characters are Dom Juan and his valet, Sganarelle (Mozart’s Leporello), played by Molière when the play premièred on 15 February 1665.
Dom Juan is Done Elvire’s husband. She has left a convent to marry him, but he no longer wishes to be her husband. He wants to be “free.” Done Elvire’s brothers, Dom Carlos and Dom Alonse, must avenge Done Elvire: (point d’honneur, point of honour), but fail to do so. When Dom Carlos speaks to Done Juan (V. iii), the latter has become a faux dévot, a man who feigns devotion to serve earthly needs. It appears Molière is meditating his Tartuffe (1664).
The play also features two peasant girls, Charlotte and Mathurine, whom Dom Juan tries to “seduce.” He’s told Charlotte that he will marry her, but her fiancé, Pierrot, puts up a fight. Dom Juan has also told Mathurine that he will marry her. However, there is no successful seduction in Molière’s play, not even a kiss, except on Charlotte’s hand, that she describes as black. This scene is the “La ci darem la mano,” of Mozart’s Don Giovanni (see video below).
Molière’s play on Don Juán is singularly devoid of eroticism. His Dom Juan is compiling conquests, as does Leporello in Mozart’s Don Giovanni. However, the catalogo Dom Juan keeps is a metaphorical rather than literal catalogo. Yet, at the beginning of the play (I. i) Sganarelle tells Gusman, Done Elvire’s escort and servant, that Dom Juan is the very devil. He is a grand seigneur [lord] méchant homme, an aristocrat, but an evil man.
Don Giovanni by Angela Buscemi
www.teatrodimessina.it
(Photo credit: Google Images)
In fact, other than the above-mentioned events the plot of Molière’s Dom Juan consists in a series of fruitless attempts to save Dom Juan from eternal damnation. The individuals begging Dom Juan to convert are Sganarelle (1), Dom Juan’s valet, Done Elvire (2), Dom Juan’s abandoned wife, and Dom Louis (3), Dom Juan’s father.
When Sganarelle warns his master, whom he calls a pèlerin, a pilgrim, that he may be punished, he is silenced immediately, not by an angry, but verbose or quiet Dom Juan. Sganarelle falls short of words and when his master will not speak, he collapses (III. i).
Similarly, when Dom Louis, Dom Juan’s father, bemoans the fact that aristocracy is no longer as it was, Dom Juan listens, but does not hear. When Dom Louis is finished, Dom Juan simply invites him to sit down so he can speak more comfortably (IV. iv). In 1665, the noblesse oblige of earlier years has been replaced by self-interest.
Later (IV. vi), Done Elvire implores Dom Juan to mend his ways as God is about to strike. He lets her speak, but as she is leaving, he invites her to stay overnight. It is late. Done Elvire leaves. It is as though she had not spoken a word.
Dom Juan as faux dévot
At the beginning of act V, Dom Louis returns and praises his son who now feigns devotion. Dom Louis does not notice that Dom Juan is putting on an act. Moreover, it is as a faux dévot that Dom Juan dismisses Dom Carlos. He will not live with Done Elvire as man and wife, because it is God’s will (V. iii).
However, Dom Juan has killed a Commandeur. There is a statue of the Commandeur with whom Dom Juan is to have dinner. At the appointed hour, the statue of the Commandeur takes him by the hand which causes the earth to move and engulf Dom Juan.
The above is an incomplete introduction to Molière’s Dom Juan, not to say le donjuanisme. I have left out the encounter with Francisque, a poor man, and uneven fight, &c. But this is a beginning.
Bergamo: Arlecchino & Brighella (23 July 2014) ←
The Figaro Trilogy (14 July 2014)
Picasso in Paris (9 July 2014)
Picasso’s Harlequin (3 July 2014)
Arlecchino, Arlequin, Harlequin (30 June 2014)
Pantalone: la Commedia dell’arte (20 June 2014)
Sources and Resources
Dom Juan by Molière/Sganarelle
The Trickster of Seville and the Stone Guest (Wikipedia)
Synopsis of Don Juan
Don Juan, trans. by Brett B. Dodemer, Digital Commons (pdf)
Don Juan, ou le Festin de pierre is Gutenberg’s [Ebook #5130] FR
Tartuffe; or, the Hypocrite is Gutenberg’s [Ebook #2027]
Baryton Dmitri Hvorostovsky has been diagnosed with a malignant brain tumour. He’s being treated in the best facilities, in London, England, but these are shattering news. He has a very rich voice. I hope he soon recovers.
Dmitri Hvorostovsky died on 22 November 2017. May he rest in peace.
With kind regards to all of you. ♥
I am not quite finished posts on Don JuaN, but this post is the starting-point. I am gathering more information for my book. My next post is more detailed.
Love to everyone 💕
Don Giovanni, “La ci darem la mano”
Hvorostovsky & Fleming
Dmitri Hvorostovsky
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An Act relative to second degree murder
By Mr. Murphy of Weymouth (by request), a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3403) of Paul Sheehan relative to second degree murder. The Judiciary.
Presenting Legislator is not a sponsor of this measure.
James M. Murphy (By Request)
Referred to Joint Committee on the Judiciary
1/22/2019 House Referred to the committee on The Judiciary
4/23/2019 Joint Hearing scheduled for 04/30/2019 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-1
An Act relative to disciplinary notations on college transcripts
An Act relative to ivory and rhinoceros horn trafficking
An Act relative to the penalties for accessory after the murder of a minor child
An Act relative to penalties for crimes against seniors
An Act relative to archaic crimes
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Map & Family
A Family Travel Resource
London & UK
Travelling with Teens
2 Days in London – your essential itinerary
05.22.2019 by Map & Family // 14 Comments
London is packed with colour and culture. There’s so much to see that when planning a London itinerary 2 days doesn’t seem like long enough. But in fact it’s quite possible to fit in the most iconic landmarks and still enjoy some shopping and down time too. Here’s our local’s guide to the must-see sights and sounds of the United Kingdom’s capital city from marching bands at Buckingham Palace to leafy parks and world famous views. Read on for our essential 2 days in London guide.
This post contains affiliate links, this means that I may receive a commission at no cost to you if you click a link and make a purchase.
London Itinerary 2 Days
Packed with colour and culture, from centuries old pageantry to awe-inspiring architecture, London is a real pin-up amongst capital cities. But it isn’t just about iconic landmarks. London is a fast-moving metropolis, constantly evolving so there’s always something new to see and enjoy. Which is why so many people are drawn back to the UK’s capital city again and again.
I came to London for my first job and have lived here ever since. My two sons have grown up here and London has been part of our daily life. But I know it’s a city that can seem overwhelming when you first visit: so much to see, so little time!
So I’ve put together a set of sightseeing options for two days in London. It’s a realistic London itinerary: I’m not going to suggest that you visit all the sights in one day or gaily hop back and forth around town. I’ve concentrated on the must-sees that work well together to save you time and effort.
This 2 day London itinerary is a whistle-stop tour of history, culture and icons that should appeal to adults as well as teens. I’ve skipped the custom-made tourist experiences in favour of the authentic sights that Londoners themselves cherish. It’s an action-packed schedule but you can tailor-make it to suit yourself. Each morning and afternoon has alternative suggestions, so you can pick, choose or swop sections depending on everyone’s interests, how much walking you want to do… oh, and the weather!
By the way, 2 days in London is long enough to see the major sights but I’ve had to miss out a lot of wonderful things. You won’t have time to see everything I’ve listed including the options, but then that’s a great reason to come back!
THE LONDON PASS is it worth it for 2 days in London?
The London Pass offers free entry to more than 80 London attractions along with one day’s Hop On Hop Off bus tour and boat cruise. Adults can buy Passes for 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 6 days or 10 days whilst children aged 5 to 15 years qualify for Child passes.
A one day London Pass costs £75 for an adult. But a two day pass is £99, 3 days is £125 and 6 days a comparative bargain at £169. If you’re keen to see as many sights as possible this can really help cut the costs.
The London Pass works on a credits system. Each time you scan your pass at one of the qualifying attractions credits are deducted. In credit terms the value of a 2 day Pass is £275.
So do the maths based on your own appetite for sightseeing across consecutive days, versus the stand-alone cost of each of the attractions. To help you work this out I’ve indicated which sights in this itinerary are included in the London Pass. For comparison I’ve also added the current price (Spring 2019) of an adult entry ticket without a Pass. NB If you decide not to buy a Pass, I’ve included links so that you can book tickets for individual attractions and tours.
Bear in mind that at busy times of year it’s a good idea to book London attractions in advance. Skip the line options will also help you to avoid wasting time. If you have a particular attraction high on your wish list then plan your itinerary so that you can visit it early in the day. This is especially important at weekends and public holidays.
Click here for more info and to order your London Pass.
London Itinerary: morning day 1
The first morning of our London in 2 days itinerary is all about the must-sees. It includes Palaces, pageantry and Parliament, all within walking distance if the weather is decent. I’ve given options for bailing out to go shopping and some cultural stops too.
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Buckingham Palace and London pageantry
Let’s begin at Buckingham Palace, official London residence of Her Majesty the Queen. It’s a beautiful building and looks extra special if the Royal Standard is flying from the flagpole. It’s a sign that the Queen is in residence. Visiting Buckingham Palace in the morning can also give you the chance to glimpse some of the pageantry that London is famous for.
Buckingham Palace is easy to find, a few minute’s walk from Victoria station. In front of it stands the Victoria Memorial and The Mall, a grand carriageway that stretches from the Palace to Trafalgar Square.
Changing the Guard
This very traditional military ceremony takes place several times a week at 11am in front of the Palace. Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace is popular: to get a good view you’ll need to arrive up to an hour beforehand. Even then your view is interrupted by the railings of the Palace. NB the steps of the Victoria Memorial are another popular place to stand.
But you can still admire the mounted soldiers in ceremonial uniform, a marching band and the parade ground precision of the troops from other points on their route. The Changing of the Life Guards at Horseguards Parade at the other end of The Mall takes place most days and can be less crowded than the Palace railings. For all details including timings, maps and general guidance click here for the official Changing the Guard website.
Another option is to stroll down The Mall between 10.45 and 11.45am on a day in which a Changing of the Guard is scheduled. This way you’ll see the mounted contingent ride down from Hyde Park barracks and then return after the ceremony at Horseguards. You may also see a marching band leave St James Palace to go to the ceremony at Buckingham Palace, then return later on the same route. Check the website, above, for timings.
Alternatively you can book a Changing of the Guard walking tour here, so you can walk in step with the soldiers on their route to Buckingham Palace and learn about the background of this royal ceremony.
Royal Exhibitions near the Palace
On days without a Changing of the Guard ceremony, you can still enjoy the splendour of the Palace, then pop into an exhibition in nearby Buckingham Palace Road. The Royal Mews for instance is a working stables with a fine collection of state coaches. The Queen’s Gallery displays selections from the Royal Family’s art collection. At the other end of The Mall the Household Cavalry has a living museum: a glass panel allows visitors to see inside the stables on Horseguards where troopers tend their horses. All three museums are included in the London Pass. Normal ticket prices without pass: Royal Mews, £12 ; The Queen’s Gallery, £14 ; Household Cavalry Museum, £8.
Changing of the Guard is all over by 12 at which point you can pop into St James Park, handily adjacent to The Mall. It’s an oasis of greenery with colourful formal planting and a peaceful lake and fountain. Buy an ice cream or be like a Londoner and bring your own snacks to enjoy on the park benches or the green stripy deckchairs to hire. If you cross the bridge over the lake you’ll see distant views of Buckingham Palace in one direction and the London Eye in the other.
Buckingham Palace from St James Park
Now walk down through the park or along the Mall to Admiralty Arch and Trafalgar Square where Nelson stands on his Column.
Admiral Horatio, Lord Nelson, lost his life in 1805 whilst winning a great victory at sea in the Battle of Trafalgar. His lofty statue overlooks the geographic centre of London. The four bronze lions who guard the base of the column are almost as famous.
Options: You may be thinking it’s lunchtime now. From Trafalgar Square you have the option to walk to nearby Covent Garden (see below for more details) for food, more sights and shopping. On the other hand art lovers may not want to miss the opportunity to visit the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square. Van Gogh’s Sunflowers, Constable’s Hay Wain and the Rokeby Venus by Velasquez are only a few of the world famous works of art on view. The National Gallery is free to enter and has two cafes and a restaurant inside.
The National Gallery in Trafalgar Square
Houses of Parliament
From Trafalgar Square turn into Whitehall then walk past the Cenotaph and our Prime Minister’s HQ at 10 Downing Street towards Parliament Square, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament.
So far the walk from Buckingham Palace has been 1.5 miles. It takes about 25 minutes without stops. If you decide to linger to watch parts or all of the Changing the Guard allow at least one and a half or two hours.
The Parliament buildings are under repair at the moment (Spring 2019). But round the corner Westminster Abbey is as glorious as usual. Because this is a short, two day itinerary, I suggest you admire it from the outside only.
Options: Entrance to Westminster Abbey is included in the London Pass, normal entry fee without pass is £23. So queues permitting, London passholders could pop in for a look at the stunning interior.
Or buy tickets to visit Westminster Abbey and explore its 1000 years of history. here.
Options: History buffs and/or teenagers studying World War Two will be fascinated by the Churchill War Rooms. This was the nerve centre of Winston Churchill’s defence of our realm against the forces of Hitler. It is surprising and humbling to see the low-tech, cramped and subterranean world from which Churchill and his team directed operations. The Churchill War Rooms are included in the London Pass, normal entrance cost without pass is £22.
Alternatively, buy tickets to the Churchill War Rooms by clicking here.
Or book a WW2 Westminster walking tour with entrance to the Churchill War Rooms and audio guide here.
South Bank at lunchtime
If you still haven’t had lunch, cross Westminster bridge to South Bank. This is traditionally a great spot to photograph Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. However, Big Ben is peeping out through layers of scaffolding at the moment (Spring 2019). So you might want to concentrate on views of the London Eye and County Hall instead.
The London Eye, an observation wheel to mark the Millennium, has become a landmark in its own right. But it’s a pricey ride, there’s generally queuing involved even if you book ahead and the Houses of Parliament aren’t looking their best at the moment. If you’re still keen to take a turn in the wheel click here to book tickets for the London Eye.
I’ve written a post comparing London’s best viewpoints, click here to read it.
There are lots of food choices on South Bank for late lunch or snacks.
London Itinerary: afternoon day 1
Options: If you want to do some shopping, this might be the moment to head back over the river, see the Shopping in London box below. This is also, incidentally, a good wet weather option. Otherwise continue along the Thames to Bankside.
Just north of The Strand, Covent Garden is a handy destination for a rainy day. Many of its clever mix of market stalls and high end boutiques are gathered inside a traditional wrought iron Victorian hall. The area offers lots of places for coffee and lunch as well as street entertainers, music and Instagram opportunities.
Alternatively, head to Regent Street and Oxford Street for a heady mix of the best high street shops plus luxe department stores. Although Londoners don’t really like the touristy vibe of Oxford Street we still go from time to time to visit our special favourites: Selfridges, John Lewis and (if you happen to be a teen) Top Shop. Look out for the black and white, Tudor Revival splendour of Liberty on Regent Street and the seven floors of toys in nearby Hamleys.
To get to Oxford Street from the South Bank, cross the Golden Jubilee bridge to Embankment station then catch the Bakerloo line to Oxford Circus. Or you could take the Jubilee line from Westminster station to Bond Street.
For insider tips on where to buy the best London gifts and souvenirs that you’ll treasure for years, click here.
If you’d prefer to carry on walking and sightseeing, stroll east along the south side of the Thames. A pleasant tree-lined walkway passes the Royal Festival Hall and the National Theatre and you’ll find various happenings on the way including street entertainers and food trucks. East of Blackfriars Bridge the walkway becomes Bankside.
Option: As a break from walking you could catch a Thames Clipper boat for a 10 minute river journey from the London Eye Pier to Blackfriars Pier, nearest stop to our next port of call.
It takes around 20 minutes to walk the mile from the London Eye to Bankside and the Tate Modern. Here you can cross to the north side of the river on the no-longer-wobbly Millennium footbridge. Enjoy the views, especially of St Paul’s Cathedral as you cross the Thames.
Option: Now it’s up to you to decide whether to go inside the cathedral itself. As well as the great Cathedral floor and the famous tombs and artwork, you could try out the Whispering Gallery (the Whispering Gallery is temporarily closed, May 2019, check the St Pauls website for further details) and climb to the viewing Galleries in the Dome. You’ll need a couple of hours in St Paul’s if you do go inside. St Paul’s Cathedral is included in the London Pass and the Pass allows holders to skip the line for fast track entry. Otherwise an adult ticket costs £20.
Or book a discounted fast-track entrance to St Pauls Cathedral here.
Option: If you decide against an interior visit to St Paul’s you’ll have time for our next stop, the British Museum. It’s hard to pick which of London’s many free museums to visit on a short two day trip. I’ve chosen the BM, not only because it is the oldest and the best known, but also because it’s easy to get to from St Paul’s. Just hop on the Central line tube from St Paul’s to Holborn, two stops away, followed by a short walk to the museum itself.
Here you’ll find the Rosetta Stone and the Egyptian Rooms with their famous mummies, targets of hundreds of school trips every year but no less fascinating for that. I love the Parthenon sculptures, despite the controversy over their ownership, and the Sutton Hoo hoard discovered in a field in Suffolk. And don’t miss the intriguing Lewis Chessmen who inspired the figures in the Wizard’s Chess game in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. The British Museum is free to enter although some exhibitions come at an additional cost. You will find you have to queue to enter on busy days. If there’s a long queue at the main entrance try the Montague Place entry at the back.
And here’s the bonus. Afternoon tea, a British institution, is served in the stunning Great Court at the British Museum, from 3pm to 5.30pm. It’s an affordable option compared to many of the grand hotel offerings and a convenient chance to relax at the end of a busy day of sightseeing. Book ahead for this to be sure of getting a table and plan to see the exhibits first to allow for queuing. Book Afternoon Tea at the British Museum here.
Alternatively visit the Sky Garden at Fenchurch Street (you need to book ahead for this too) for a free sunset view of London. For our tips on the best views in London click here.
West End show
If you have tickets for a West End show in the evening then you could walk from the British Museum to Shaftesbury Avenue in about 10 minutes. Or this might be the moment to splash out on a black cab ride. Otherwise use an app to check the best bus to catch, our family uses Citymapper. You’ll find lots of places to eat before or after the show in Soho, Chinatown or Covent Garden.
Where to stay for 2 days in London
I suggest you stay as centrally as you can afford so you don’t waste time by travelling in and out of town. All the sights on this itinerary are in Zone 1 on the Transport for London map which includes Westminster, the City, Southwark and much of Kensington and Chelsea.
Click here for a selection of hotels and apartments in London with Booking.com. You can set your preferred filters then scroll through the photos, descriptions and reviews to choose the accommodation you like best for your stay.
DISCOVER MORE ABOUT LONDON click here for our teen-approved guide to 105 things to do in the capital
To see London in 2 days it’s best to get up early! This is especially so if you’d like to visit the Tower of London before the rest of the world starts to queue up. I’m beginning the second morning of our 2 day London itinerary at Tower Hill where you can see two of London’s greatest icons, side by side.
Tower of London and London Bridge
City skyscrapers and the Tower of London.
Make an early start at the Tower of London before it gets very crowded. To see it properly you’ll want to allow 2 or 3 hours for a visit. Personally I think the Tower is the most beautiful and incongruous sight in 21st century London. Despite its grim history it looks like a little fairytale castle on the banks of the Thames. The Tower of London is included in the London Pass. Gate price without a pass is £28.
Book tickets to the Tower of London here.
Or start the morning at 8.15am for an early access Tower of London guided tour, click here. This tour includes entrance to the Tower, the Opening Ceremony and skip-the-queue entry to the Tower Bridge Experience too.
Afterwards cross the Thames on the iconic Tower Bridge which is just a few steps away. Pedestrians cross for free at pavement level, or you can pay admission for a visit to the bridge exhibition. This includes the aerial walkway, complete with glass panelled floor, across the Thames. If you’re lucky your visit might coincide with a bridge lift: check here for timings. The Tower Bridge Exhibition is included in the London Pass which also entitles users to skip the line entry. Normal entry cost for an adult without a pass is £10.
Or buy Tower Bridge Exhibition tickets by clicking here.
Option: If you’re using the London Pass you might decide to pay a visit to the top of The Shard. It has London’s highest viewing platform and is close to Tower Bridge. The Shard is included in the London Pass, entrance without a pass is £32.
Or to buy an entrance ticket to View from the Shard, click here.
It must definitely be lunchtime now. Bankside, south of the river, has lots of places to eat including the famous Borough Market, check the opening times before you visit. You’ll find plenty of takeaway food or sit down restaurants if you’d prefer.
You could actually spend the whole day in the London Bridge area if you want to visit all the sights. It is home to two inspired and inspiring reconstructions: Shakespeare’s Globe theatre (gate price £17) and Francis Drake’s ship The Golden Hinde (gate price £5).
Meanwhile HMS Belfast (gate price £16) is moored close to Tower Bridge. All three of these attractions are included in the London Pass.
HERE’S A SELECTION OF TICKETS AND TOURS FROM GET YOUR GUIDE
Options: If you’re keen to see a new district then go to Covent Garden if you haven’t already. Take a Jubilee line tube from London Bridge to Waterloo, then change to the Northern Line to Leicester Square.
On the other hand if you’re looking for a completely different neighbourhood then head out west to South Kensington. Catch a Jubilee Line tube from London Bridge to Green Park. Here you change to the Piccadilly Line to South Kensington. The journey takes about 20 minutes.
South Kensington Museums
This leafy and upmarket residential zone is home to an unbeatable mix of culture, shopping, history and park life. Three of London’s greatest museums reside here and they’re all free. Choose between the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum or the Victoria and Albert Museum, universally known as the V&A. All three museums are free to enter with additional charges for special exhibitions.
You’ll find plenty of places for lunch or snacks in and around the museums. For keen shoppers, Harrods is just down the road in Knightsbridge and opens until 9pm, or 6pm on Sundays. And don’t forget the fashionista’s favourite store, Harvey Nicks, with its covetable edit of luxe brands. Harvey Nichols.
If it’s a warm day and you’re suffering from culture overload then go for a stroll in pretty Kensington Gardens. Prince William and Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge, live here with their family at Kensington Palace. You can visit the Palace itself, explore the 17th century state rooms and take afternoon tea in the Pavilion. Access to Kensington Palace is included in the London Pass. Entrance without a pass is £19.50.
Or book tickets to visit Kensington Palace here.
The statue of J M Barrie’s Peter Pan in Kensington Gardens.
Or simply sit by the Serpentine Lake with an ice cream. It’ll be a chance to scroll through all the photos you’ve taken on our 2 day London itinerary.
Please note that all visitor information here is for guidance only. Please check the venues’ websites for the most up to date information on tickets, entrance requirements, opening times etc.
London in 2 Days
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Categories // City guides, Days out in London, London & UK, Real Family Travel Stories, Travelling with Teens Tags // city break, culture, England, Europe, history, hotel, London, sightseeing, teens, weekend
Scarlett Roitman says
My goodness, you really have it covered don’t you! The British Museum is a great idea for resting very weary feet, and no trip to London would be the same without a visit to Southbank – one of my favourite walks in the city. #CULTUREDKIDS
Map & Family says
Thanks Scarlett, I was slightly surprised I ended up with such a south of the river bias – but as you say it’s a lovely walk and there’s so much to see now.
Tanja/The Red Phone Box travels says
a lot packed in two days:) #culturedkids
😂 yes even the most hardened sightseer would find it hard to fit in absolutely everything – but hopefully people can pick and choose from the options!
Mandi Morrison says
London is such a huge city but you can certainly pack in a lot. Sometimes it is easy to just go on foot rather than jumping on transport. #CulturedKids
Agreed. And you can end up walking surprisingly far underground in search of trains! I’d much rather walk the pavements as every street has something interesting to see.
Jonny (daisythebus) says
Ambitious!! That said, we recently had two full days in London (plus an evening and morning), and “did” pretty much what you describe here. Totally agree that the British Museum is THE museum worth seeing, and those price tags for the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey make my eyes water! ;o) There are so many unforgettable free things to do in London that justifying paying that sort of money on a short visit is rather difficult.
Great post! #CulturedKids
Thanks so much! It is more geared to older families and adults – and it does depend so much on what individuals want to do. I agree about the price tags. Luckily most of London’s big landmarks can be enjoyed just as much from the outside as the inside – with the exception of the Tower maybe.
Zenbabytravel says
We are so spoilt in London and so difficult to pick the landmarks for 2 days! You listed in here many of our faves, parks, museums, teas included 😉 Thank you so much for linking in with #CulturedKids!
You’re right – we’re very lucky, there’s always something interesting to see.
Catherine’s Cultural Wednesdays says
All my favourite spots here, this would be an actioned packed couple of days #CulturedKids
Yes, it wouldn’t be a relaxing two days! But I’m hoping people can use the basic routes and then do as much or as little as they want.
Megan - Truly Madly Kids says
I’ve lived in London and I still get ‘all the feels’ when I see the sights. This is a jam-packed itinerary and certainly showcases the best of London. You just can’t beat it. We love Kensington Park – something for everyone, I can see why Kate and Wills like living there! #culturedkids
Me too, I never grow tired of them. Thanks Megan!
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St. Petersburg Night of Museums 2020
Night of Museums is an international event when more than 2000 museums across Europe open their doors to visitors at night. The Hermitage, the Museum of Dostoevsky, the Museum of Political History of Russia and many others museums are waiting for you!
The "Night of Museums" will take place on the night of May 16-17, 2020
Did you know that once a year the main museums of Europe open their doors at night and receive visitors under a special program?
The action "Night of Museums", or "Art Night" timed to coincide with the celebration of the International Museum Day (May 18), takes place in 42 European countries. Each country and city has its own date for the action, but all the museums are oriented on the date of May 18 and the nearest weekend.
So why is this action so good?
First, the opportunity to visit St. Petersburg museums, such as Hermitage, Michailovsky Castle, Museum of Alexander Pushkin and other cultural and educational institutions at an unusual time of day — this not only plunges into a special atmosphere of romance, but also serves as an occasion for many mysterious and mystical events. On the day of the action, 110 museums, galleries, libraries, exhibition and concert halls will open the doors. Here museums are divided into two categories: the first are those that organize the evening program, from 18:00 to 23:00 — there are 55 such museums. The second category of museums is suitable for fans of night walks — they will work from 18: 00 to 06:00.
Secondly, all the participating museums receive visitors on the day of the action with a Single ticket at an incredible low price — 400 rubles. Children under 7 years old will be able to pass for free if the adult accompanying him has purchased a ticket.
The exact list of museums participating in the action will appear around the beginning of May, but now we can already say that the largest museums of the city, like every year, will definitely take part in the Night of Museums.
In any case, even if you do not plan to visit museums, this night is an excellent occasion to stroll around the evening and night Petersburg with the whole family. You will not get such feelings from any other stock!
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Disney Cruise Line - Spring 2021 Itineraries
In early 2021, Disney Cruise Line will return to New Orleans for a limited-time engagement with sailings to the Bahamas and Caribbean, including visits to Disney’s private island paradise, Castaway Cay. A lineup of popular itineraries will continue across the Disney fleet with cruises to tropical destinations from Texas, California and Florida.
Return to New Orleans
Back by popular demand, the Disney Wonder will return to the bayou from late January through February 2021 with a series of magical voyages. A pair of four- and five-night cruises to the Western Caribbean kick off the season from New Orleans. The five-night voyage includes a visit to Progreso, Mexico, a new port of call for Disney Cruise Line on the Yucatan Peninsula. This quaint town is filled with treasures for families to explore together, from ancient Mayan ruins to hidden swimming holes filled with crystal-clear water.
Three seven-night sailings to the Bahamas with a stop at Disney Castaway Cay, plus a 14-night Panama Canal cruise, round out the departures from the Crescent City in early 2021.
Guests sailing from New Orleans will experience the flavors and flair of the Big Easy both onboard the Disney Wonder and ashore. The sounds and sights of New Orleans come to life at Tiana’s Place restaurant, where families are transported to an era of southern charm, spirited jazz and street party celebrations with live music and other surprises inspired by the Disney animated film “The Princess and the Frog.” Before or after their cruise, you can savor the city’s distinct cuisine, visit family-friendly museums and parks, and take in the sounds of world-renowned live jazz music.
Popular Itineraries from Texas and California
The Disney Wonder will also return to the popular home ports of Galveston and San Diego in early 2021. Guests sailing from Texas can enjoy the white-sand beaches of the Western Caribbean on a series of four- and six-night cruises to Grand Cayman and Cozumel. One seven-night departure will feature stops at Key West, Nassau and Disney Castaway Cay.
Following the season in New Orleans, the Disney Wonder heads to the West Coast for a variety of sailings to Baja and the Mexican Riviera departing from San Diego. Families can hunt for gold aboard a pirate ship in Cabo San Lucas, embark on an off-road adventure in Ensenada or sunbathe on glittering sand beaches on cruises ranging from three to seven nights.
Bahamian and Caribbean Getaways from Florida
Disney Cruise Line will have three ships sailing to the Bahamas and Caribbean from Florida in early 2021, and every cruise includes a day at Disney’s private island paradise, Castaway Cay. This award-winning destination, reserved exclusively for Disney Cruise Line Guests, is the ultimate escape for everyone in the family.
From Miami, the Disney Magic will sail three-, four- and five-night Bahamian and Western Caribbean cruises.
From Port Canaveral, the Disney Fantasy will sail seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries.
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Misha Collins Set to Return to ‘Supernatural’ Season 7
Misha Collins Set to Return to Supernatural Season 7
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Misha Collins is returning to Supernatural later this season in Episode 17. The actor appeared in the first two Season 7 episodes, Episode 7.01: Meet the New Boss and Episode 7.02: Hello, Cruel World as Castiel, but he hasn't starred in any episode since then. However, his guest-starring turn may be as a different character. Here's what executive producer Sera Gamble had to say about Misha Collins' return.
"It has always been our intention to bring back Misha in some form. We certainly can't say too much about where the story is going to go, but we love Misha and want to continue to work with him."
Misha Collins is also slated to guest star in two more episodes beyond Episode 17. Supernatural aired its fall finale, Episode 7.10: Death's Door this past Friday. The show is slated to return with new episodes on Friday, January 6 with Episode 7.11: Adventures in Babysitting.
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Akshay Kumar as monstrous crowman creates sensation in 2.0
December 1, 2018 December 1, 2018 0462
As Emraan Hashmi put it once, “Grey characters often are more realistic than others.” Akshay Kumar’s crowman character in Rajinikanth’s 2.0 turns out to be one of the best negative characters that we have witnessed over the years. The Crowman character in 2.0 came as a complete surprise package. Keeping in view his devilish looks, the audience is calling him the super villain of 2.0.
Behind that larger-than-life prosthetic-pumped-up creature is a man who is an environmentalist battling against ecological venomousness. The original choices for Akshay’s role in 2.0 were Kamal Haasan and Hollywood bigwig Arnold Schwarzenegger. While the former refused to do a negative role, the latter asked for the kind of money that the makers were not in a position to pay.
2.0, also starred Amy Jackson in an important role, is a sequel to the 2010 film Robot. The film is the most expensive Indian film ever. Directed by S Shankar and produced by Lyca Productions, 2.0 is dominating the box office which was released on November 29 across 7500 screens across the country.
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Hyper Dimension, Gamindustri, Worlds, Dimensions
Hyper Dimension in 2015
Not to be confused with Hyperdimension Neptunia.
The Gamindustri (ゲイムギョウ界, Geimugyō-kai) of the Hyper Dimension (超次元, Chō Jigen) is the world of the main series of Hyperdimension Neptunia, and appears in every title of the main series since Hyperdimension Neptunia mk2.
In the Hyper Dimension, instead of floating landmasses like the Super Dimension, Gamindustri is comprised of a continent in the water with surrounding islands. On the main continent, Planeptune resides in the western region, Lastation in the east, and Lowee in the north. In the southern region, separated from the main continent, is Leanbox.
At the center of Gamindustri formely lies a region called the Gamindustri Graveyard. This grim place is where those time has passed rest for eternity, including forgotten goddesses and makers. It was destroyed at the end of Hyperdimension Neptunia mk2.
There is a continent in the far east called PC Continent. Due to being across the ocean from Gamindustri, not much is known of this continent.
Gamindustri's nations, Planeptune, Lastation, Lowee, and Leanbox are ruled by its respective CPUs: Neptune, Noire, Blanc, and Vert. The CPUs have younger siblings known as CPU Candidates, who are the future successors of the CPUs. Nepgear, the younger sister of Neptune, Uni, the younger sister of Noire, and Rom and Ram, the younger twin sisters of Blanc, stand as CPU Candidates of their respective nations. The only one without a younger sibling is Vert, meaning that Leanbox doesn't have its own CPU Candidate.
Each nation has its own Oracle, acting as the head advisor for the nation's CPU. Histoire serves as the Oracle of Planeptune, Kei Jinguji, the Oracle of Lastation, Mina Nishizawa, the Oracle of Lowee, and Chika Hakozaki, the Oracle of Leanbox. However, after the events of Hyperdimension Neptunia mk2, Lastation, Lowee and Leanbox's Oracles become occupied with various tasks, leaving their nations for an indeterminate amount of time. Because of this, Histoire currently has the sole responsibilities of managing Gamindustri in times of crises, and the other CPUs without an advisor in times of peace.
It is said that Gamindustri was here from 0. After the introduction of 1, the world grew bi-dimensional and eventually transitioned into tri-dimensional existence. Time passed until it finally transcended the concept of numerical dimensions and evolved into a Hyper Dimension. Due to this change, remnants of creatures and vestiges of places from bygone eras can still be found.
2D Age
Everything was flat. People were likened to still images. Nothing had Depth.
Since the concept of depth came to be, humanity evolved from 2D to 3D. It is said that during this ancient period, nostalgic-seekers sought a 2D renaissance. The 3D Age is split into two epochs. The 3D Stone Age and the 3D Bronze Age.
3D Stone Age
Humans looked like 2D still images, pixels, and low-quality polygons. Remnants called low-res polygon monsters still exist. Celled living fossils along with their 2D counterparts, their ecosystem is unknown.
3D Bronze Age
This higher polygon-count world is similar to today's Gamindustri. Due to this age's technological potential, some long to revive the 2D Age using 3D Bronze Age technology.
Main article: Hyperdimension Neptunia mk2/Story
Celestia appears to be non-existent, and the CPUs live in their land's Basilicom. Both CPUs and CPU Candidates in this world influence Gamindustri's shares in this world by the bettering of their own nations or performing quests given out from The Guild. The Guild serves as the quest giver in Hyperdimension Neptunia mk2, but its origins and history is left unknown or is the same as Hyperdimension Neptunia's Guild.
The Arfoire in this dimension is no longer the same Arfoire from the Super Dimension. She is instead known as the Deity of Sin whose prime objective is to simply destroy the world and its goddesses. A group known as The Arfoire Syndicate of International Crime worships her and attempt to spread her influence around the world in an attempt to steal shares from the CPUs.
The group had major initial success capturing the CPUs and imprisoning them in Gamindustri Graveyard for 3 years. However the candidates are still able to combat the group's influence.
Main article: Hyperdimension Neptunia Victory/Story
The Hyper Dimension in Hyperdimension Neptunia Victory and its remake retains the same origins and history from Hyperdimension Neptunia mk2. It makes a brief appearance before Neptune is sucked into the Ultra Dimension, and its set story timeline is years after the events in Hyperdimension Neptunia mk2. The year is revealed to be 2012 during the timeline.
The time span between the Hyper Dimension and Ultra Dimension is different. One year in the Ultra Dimension is equivalent to one day in the Hyper Dimension. However, by the end of the game, both worlds have the same flow of time due to the portal staying open.
A protester tries to end the rule of the CPU. Due to the mysterious power she has gained, she brings the Hyper Dimension into a crisis while the CPU of Planeptune is still away in the Ultra Dimension.
Main article: Megardimension Neptunia VII/Story
The Hyper Dimension reprises yet again, set 3 years after the events of Victory. It is one of the dimensions featured in Megadimension Neptunia VII, along with the Zero Dimension and the Heart Dimension.
In the Hyper Dimension, there is a CPU Shift period. This is a time where faith in the CPUs are lowered and rumors are rampant. Following the CPUs' attempt to combat this era is the Gamindustri Rewrite. The CPUs are all forgotten and replaced with the Gold Third. Golden Summits also appear to signal their new rule. In addition, the Hyper Dimension becomes less peaceful as various factions attempt to begin wars against each other.
It is revealed that rewriting the history of Hyper Dimension goes even deeper than the initial rewrite. There was once a CPU from Planeptune. She had the power to turn dreams into reality. Unfortunately she lost control of her powers. This caused unrest in Hyper Dimension and eventually the CPU chose to seal herself up to protect the people of the Hyper Dimension. Due to the passage of time, the CPU grew to view the events that lead to her being sealed poorly. She grew to despise the people of the Hyper Dimension. She used her power to rewrite the history of the Hyper Dimension to forget about her and replace her with Uranus.
Retrieved from "https://neptunia.fandom.com/wiki/Hyper_Dimension?oldid=72005"
Gamindustri
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Deadman Wonderland Chapter 57 ...
Manga Series Discussion
Title Discussion
Deadman Wonderland Chapter 57 Discussion
Pages (3) « 1 2 [3]
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Poll: Deadman Wonderland Chapter 58 Discussion
5 out of 5: Loved it!
4 out of 5: Liked it
3 out of 5: It was OK
2 out of 5: Disliked it
1 out of 5: Hated it
RaidenHUN
I dont get a part of the ending:
SOO Shiro is still in a prison after the coma ? So she can't be free after all ? I think behind the bars again is even worse for her than death.
Modified by RaidenHUN, May 31, 2014 3:00 AM
SuperRed
This ending was alright even if kinda cliche, as for the rest of the manga, I dunno, I feel like there were some things I didn't read properly or I missed some of the messages it was trying to convey. I think I will need to reread this more slowly in the future. As for now it's a 7/10, I liked it especially the art.
"Legal translators and subbers for anime/manga are like the Shichibukai, basically pirates hired by companies to keep other pirates in check."-SuperRed
FlareKnight
RaidenHUN said:
Well she did kill a lot of people. No matter the circumstances her actions killed thousands if not millions. I'm pretty sure Japan isn't going to just ignore that.
Sure she could bust out if she wanted to, but then she can live as a fugitive. At least she gets to stay alive and spend time with the person she loves. That's more than a lot of characters got out of this story.
wolyeon265
I saw a picture of Shiro last night and now I'm done with the manga. And in fact I was so interested I made an account here just to post this. Despite the Necro I still do want to hear if anyone still have anything left unsaid about this manga.
So first this part I do feel is a bit unfortunate. But you have to consider this is a really dark manga. The author gave it a sushine everywhere kind of ending, which didn't quite feel right. Though I personally love a happy ending it would just seem too out of character for the author to end completely perfect.
Also having Shiro in prison isn't as bad as it may seem. A big part of her misfortune was her loneliness, but now that they're both alive and conscious they will no doubt spend a lot of their time together even if it's within bars.
Moreover if you really want to go nuts on this, Crow still have his power, breaking her out of that prison will be easier than teaching Shiro how to cook.
So overall prison or not, it's pretty much a completely happy ending, since every possible good thing that can happen happened, while the least significant bad thing happened that can easily be "fixed" in an limitless number of ways.
Personally i give it a 10/10. I love cute crazy chicks. Minatsuki is also extremely loveable.
Woot I feel much better about the prison thing now that I can verbalize it in words. I am a sucker for happy endings.
MadLane
Amazing Ending <3
Zeebrah
I was a bit worried that Shiro will never wake up
T^T dammit eyes
Toarujisuru
➝➝
I always enjoy afterwords for series with plenty of likable characters. Kinda nice.
This was quite the great journey. The heartwarming ending has been truly earned and well deserved.
Andhrimnir
Damn, Shiro went through so much. Great ending for a great manga. 10/10
blessofcurse
is Shiro trolling Ganta? She just suddenly woke up after Ganta leaves the hospital. lol
Satan-sama
And there we go, finished vol. 13, it was short yet entertaining journey, I think the ending is so good considering how dark the series is, I was hopping Ganta doesn't kill Shiro and that what happened, that was traumatizing me throughout the entire series, it was just wrong if they try to actually kill each other, we got that, and lots of cool stuff like what's happening with the other deadmen, their daily routine. Ganta was so cheerful unlike him, he used to be sad all the time, yet he looks in good shape, I was afraid he would not get used to normal life giving the fact his life turned upside down.
I'll give this series 7 out of 10 since it is really short and felt like a rush, maybe because I read it in 3 days, I should've slowed down a little bit, I was planning on reading a vol. per day, I read like 6 today lol, We don't have lots of characters, only the main 2 characters; Ganta and Shiro, I couldn't feel the presence of the other characters apart from Crow, the rest were just unimportant to me, like seriously we only got to see some of their backstories near the end.
Looking forward to Kataoka Jinsei's next Manga.
Sep 6, 2015 1:33 AM
SzJ
Not a bad manga but not a masterpiece either. 7/10
your waifu is shit
SinXtian
That was a great ending. Those fucking lines are great.
When they asked about the ending of the song I cried...
Glad to know what happened to the other characters.
TAK3Z0
I liked the ending and I really enjoyed the whole manga...
This is one of the many examples of how to end a series right. It tied up all lose ends while give the characters a content ending without it feeling mushy or cheesy. My only question is how did shiro end up getting so badly hurt? And how is Ganta not as badly hurt as she is? Idk it could be right in front of me but I just can't figure it out
kidreddevil
Just finished this. It was a great Manga, the ending I needed some time to think about, but I think its a good one. I liked seeing everyone, even though Crow was really the only character to make an impression besides Toto and his "sister".
What I haven't seen on this thread is the fact that Ganta lost is branch of sin, since he was the "cure" I can only assume Shiro did too, maybe that is why she is in the Coma. She was kind of grown around the nanomachines and their abilities. So I guess if you take them away her regeneration wouldn't work, and the battle with Ganta damaged both of them.
It is open ended, which leaves room for the imagination which is always ... a catch 22. I want to know more, but I think if they gave more it would have ruined the series.
thelumpur
Poor Shiro got the bad end of the stick. But it's probably the best way the manga could have ended at that point. There was no way Shiro could just get away with everything like nothing happened, and there was no way Ganta would have let that happen either. They both have to share their burden forever. But Shiro is still the most unfortunate one. The ending is drawn so that we won't think too much of the unfortunate implications of this setting, but it's ok, nobody was expecting a happy ending anyway; it just wouldn't have fit.
thelumpur said:
It's pretty much a happy ending in all respects. The prison is something that can be easily fixed: they're super-humans, after all.
Orvieto said:
It's a story of guilt and redemption, breaking out of prison would make absolutely no sense for Shiro; as I said Ganta wouldn't let it happen.
PrOxAnto
Damn, what an ending, Shiro is in prison (in a coma? - probably sedated)
It was nice seeing how everyone moved on after the events, Minatsuki going to school :D
Deadman Wonderland was actually the reason I started reading manga as I was really unsatisfied with how the anime just ended (which is fair considering the sales)
It wasn't the clearest on some points as we didn't know a few things untill later on but it was a really good story.
The fights were amazing, the gore was just right, I could feel the relationship between Shiro and Ganta just by reading.
So I'm guessing Shiro woke up from the coma, probably just to tease an open ending.
Shiro is one of my favourite characters still, started from the anime and still favourite after the manga.
RileyReid
Those scars looks badass on Ganta
Just wish there was another chapter or something like that with a reunion now that all of them have normal lives and so
and how does the song goes on huh? HOW DOES THE SONG GOES ON?!
That smile.
Really liked the ending. Glad everyone's living a normal life now.
Overall it was a really enjoyable manga.
LunarPisces1
Thought I'd never say this, but for once I think I enjoyed the anime more than the manga. I like how more detailed the manga got but I enjoyed the ride with the anime.
I really wanted both of the to die, it just made sense that way, instead of being cliché.
So good to see the other characters found themselves once again.
Deadman Wonderland still has to be one of my top favorite mangas.
The author is brilliant, Smokin' Parade is even more of a thrill read.
James_xeno
The one thing I hated was the fact that even while leaving Shiro and Ganta's ending open and ambiguous (which is bad enough, being such an overused and terrible way to end a story to begin with) They had to throw in the fact that there are bars on her room's window without explaining anything more! Meaning that it could very well be that she may not actually be free now. Even though it's probably just a precaution because of the fact that she hasn't been awake yet and they don't know how she'll react and such.. But still, did they really have to show that if they were going to leave it open?
The only thing worse is that people seem ok with this because of "everything she's done." It's like, WTF? did you people even read the same story as I did? And we're talking about a little girl here, a child!
The only person who needs to be forgiven, and arguably maybe should be.. Is Ganta's mother. She was basically "saved" from the dark side through all that happened. She started out as pretty much a full on monster like Hagire, but gained back her humanity and conscience because of this.. starting with giving birth to her child and ending with Shiro. Though it is kind of hard for me to forgive her for doing that to her son (and shiro), by killing herself, even if it was to try to help Shiro. I always feel that way when this type of issue/story point comes up. mothers killing themselves, even for what seem like good reasons. (But at least it's not as bad or as extreme as shinji ikari's mother's "plan"... just wtf at that.. :'( *puke* )
natsucule said:
Still can't get over that girl (which I totally forgot her name's death) but I still feel the best way to end was a double kill. I mean all the things ''Shirou'' did, all the suffering she brought upon the other characters and Ganta's friends death can't be forgiven by just being in a coma then opening your eyes in the last page, and since it was Ganta's fault to begin with that all these things happened, it would make sense that he die with her, that way they can be together and atone for their sins.
It can easily be forgiven, and has been pretty clearly, with everything that's happened. And if you really want to get into it, there's nothing that either needs to be forgiven for. A death ending for either or both of them wouldn't only have been horrible and stupid, but pointless as well.
Wait, what is Ganta's fault?? O_o
FlareKnight said:
Get away,... get away with WHAT?! She was a small child, raised from infancy as a LAB EXPERIMENT! Her whole life has been nothing but pain worse than what most people would call sever torture, more than it would take to kill a normal person! She had no family, lost her only friend, as well as the woman who was like a mother to her.. At one point SHE WAS DISSECTED piece by piece while FULLY CONSCIOUS! Plus, on top of all that, and the only thing that really matters here, she was and still IS a child! Now to be fair, it's probably only temporary though. As for Ganta "not letting her get away" I have to ask again, get away with what? I really don't think he would give a shit anyway at this point. (not with her and everything he knows now at the very least)
And you know.. I don't see people saying this about all the other chars that "got away." pretty much everyone had blood on their hands here.
A happy ending is pretty much the only thing that fit here.. With the horrors they all went through..
LunarPisces1 said:
Calling something cliché is such an overused thing. Not to mention cliché =/= makes less sense. Nor is a happy ending such in the first place! (people don't even understand the term) I mean, I can't even... why would anyone want an ending like that ever anyway, let alone in a series like this.. with what all the chars went through!
James_xeno said:
Ganta gave a shit, actually. He said it himself, he said that he completely understood what she went through, and that he basically loves her, but still can't forgive her for what she did, and can't forgive himself at the same time. We know that she is a sympathetic character who didn't deserve any of this, but she still has to face her responsibilities. For example, would a parent of a child she killed be just fine with her being free? The idea here for me is that, no matter what your circumstances are, you still own your actions and choices, and you have to live with their consequences.
While I am a huge fan of happy endings, I am an even bigger fan of endings that fit with the overall theme of the story, whether they're tragic or not. And this one did.
Dec 5, 2017 1:54 PM
Hodor96
I liked the manga a lot. Took me ages to finish though. The ending was great, and the anime should have continued!!! Still waiting for that sequel.
NotJustJuice2
It's been a while since I've read such a nice manga.
I didn't agree with all of the events that happened, but the story had me on the edge of my seat, and I enjoyed reading Ganta and Shiro's story. Lovely character development. Good resolution of the plot, and a satisfying ending.
Glad to have read this.
I have to remember to remember these:
"There's no shame in falling down... true shame is to not stand up again!"
"Aah? Of course I won't miss!"
"My blood tastes like Iron."
"Run through the tape in life! Never give up! Run through the tape!"
Ganta would've wanted Shiro to see the sun, she's been stuck in a cell her whole life, it would absolutely make sense, and I'm sure that's the eventual outcome if she isn't released within a year or so. It's pretty much a happy ending in all respects.
Modified by Orvieto, Mar 22, 2019 8:14 PM
Kitsu-nee
Gotta admit, that wasn't a satisfying ending to me. Expected something more bitter-sweet. Not that I would be instantly in love with it, if everyone just died, but the way it ended left no real impression on me :x
Overall it was an okay read, nothing special. Easily the best thing about this manga is the artstyle - it's beautiful, character-designs are great (not counting MC, for some weird reason he looks like shit), and the volume covers/color pages inside are a real piece of art. Shiro is just hnnng~, such a cutie!
Sadly, the plot was like from any other mediocre shounen, just filled with more blood, gore, and weird, edgy themes. Nothing impactful or meaningful. The setting itself was hard to accept as "possible", but that's one thing - after the last chapter I'm supposed to believe that within just a few years people started doubting what DW's real purpose was, or that they forgot it was even a thing? Sure xD There are SOME limits to my suspension of disbelief, even in sci-fi manga like this one.
I guess reading it wasn't a waste of time or anything, I just wish I enjoyed it a bit more. Still, I totally love Shiro, she deserves better story! 6/10
Chrome_Falcon
So we get a happy ending. Not that I complain as I am a fan of happy endings. But this makes their battle with all the build up pointless. Shiro wanted Ganta to kill her, but she was attacking him too. That didn't make sense.
There were way too many over the top characters and I could not take some of them seriously. This was a shounen series with most of the clichés executed poorly. The blood is just a bait to make it look like a mature show.
I came to read this due to the anime leaving things off and knew what to expect. The story pretty much goes along the same route as established initially. But I still think anime was better because the action scenes in this manga are hard to follow. The chapters near the end of the manga improved in storytelling and I liked the backstory of Shiro more than - say, Guilty crown's characters. Overall 5/10.
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RYA Yachtmaster Ocean
Prerequisite for MCA Chief Mate 3000t
The RYA Yachtmaster ocean course is for individuals who would like to be able to skipper a 200-ton yacht across oceans in any parts of the world. The Yachtmaster Ocean certificate is also a prerequisite for a crew member who is qualifying for their 3000t chief mate certificate of competency.
Find an RYA Yachtmaster Ocean training provider near me
Prerequisites for the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean examination:
Sea time:
A qualifying passage as skipper or mate in sole charge of a watch on a suitable vessel, which meets the following criteria: (within the past ten years)
The candidate must have been fully involved in the planning and execution of the route.
A non-stop distance of 600 miles must have been logged during the passage, during which at least 96 hours must have been run while being at least 50 miles from land or a charted object (objects capable of being used for navigational aid), while sailing a distance of at least 200 miles.
The shortest navigable route between departure and arrival points must exceed 600 miles.
View more Information on Qualifying passages on the RYA website
A candidate must hold an RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate of Competence
Exam Breakdown
Records provided prior to oral and written examination:
48 prior to the exam, the candidate must provide the examiner with a narrative account of the planning and execution of the qualifying passage. All relevant details must be provided.
Onboard navigational records completed during the qualifying passage while being out of sight of land. The records must show that the yacht was navigated without the assistance of electronic navigational aids.
During Oral Exam
Candidates are required to answer questions on all aspects of ocean passage making in a yacht, including passage planning, navigation, worldwide meteorology, crew management and yacht preparation, maintenance and repairs.
The written exam will include questions on sights and sight reduction and worldwide meteorology.
If candidates already hold the RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean Shorebased Course Completion Certificate they will be exempt from the written examination. The same applies to candidates who have been issued an MCA full STCW Certificate of Competence as a Deck Officer (Unlimited).
For candidates who are gaining their certification in order to work on MCA compliant commercial vessels, their ticket will have to be commercially endorsed as previously mentioned on the Yachtmaster overview page.
Find more information about commercial endorsements for RYA certificates.
RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Training School Locations:
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Palace dismantles negotiating panel with Reds
Dharel Placido, ABS-CBN News
Posted at Mar 20 2019 06:50 PM
Representatives from the Philippine government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines meet at the Holmenkollen Park Hotel's "Nobel" room in Oslo, Norway during a round of talks in August 2016. Danny Buenafe, ABS-CBN News/File
MANILA - Malacañang has terminated a government panel tasked to hold peace talks with communist rebels, according to documents released Wednesday.
In a letter dated March 18, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea told Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III that his role as chairman of the government’s peace negotiating panel “is hereby terminated immediately.”
“To ensure uninterrupted delivery of public service, you are hereby directed to turn over all official documents, papers, and properties in your possession to the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity,” Medialdea said.
Medialdea also sent letters to Antonio Arrelano, Angela Librado-Trinidad, Rene Sarmiento, and Hernani Braganza which said that their role as members of the government peace panel has also been terminated.
President Rodrigo Duterte signed Proclamation No. 360 on Nov. 23, 2017 declaring the termination of peace negotiations with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines - Communist Party of the Philippines - New People's Army.
Another resumption was scheduled in late June last year but it was cancelled as the government sought to review all agreements the communists signed with past administrations.
Gov't suspends backchannel talks with Reds, seeks 3-month review of agreements
Government troops have pursued offensives against communist rebels across the country since the suspension of talks.
In December last year, Duterte signed Executive Order No. 70 directing the creation of a national task force to “end local communist armed conflict.”
Duterte wants ‘end’ to communist armed conflict
Government has also sought the declaration of the communist movement as a terrorist group.
Palace says to pursue move to declare NPA as terrorists
peace talks, Salvador Medialdea Silvestre Bello III, communist movement, NDFP, CPP, NPA, National Democratic Front of the Philippines, Communist Party of the Philippines, New People's Army
Read More: peace talks Salvador Medialdea Silvestre Bello III communist movement NDFP CPP NPA National Democratic Front of the Philippines Communist Party of the Philippines New People's Army
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Steve Cohen’s Modigliani and $75 Million Leonardo at Heart of Yves Bouvier Case
Bouvier allegedly flipped the Leonardo for $127.5 million.
Lorena Muñoz-Alonso, March 13, 2015
Yves Bouvier. Photo via Wikimedia Commons.
The case of freeport king Yves Bouvier, arrested in Monaco in late February and indicted for fraud and complicity in money laundering, keeps unraveling (see Arrest of Swiss Freeport Owner Yves Bouvier Over Art Fraud Ring Rocks Art World and Swiss Freeport King Yves Bouvier Will Stay in Custody for Extra 48 Hours).
The Financial Times reports that a court in Singapore, where Bouvier resides, has now ordered a worldwide freeze of all his assets. This includes a prohibition to divest any shares in companies worth up to $500 million.
The court has also ordered Bouvier to hand over a 1951 Mark Rothko painting, entitled No.6 (violet, vert et rouge), which is the bone of contention between the disgraced Swiss businessman and an unspecified client.
According to the FT, Swiss police conducted two raids at the Bouvier-owned Geneva freeport. One of the raids took place in the offices of Bouvier’s art storage, shipping, and servicing company Natural Le Coultre. The second one, in the Post Impressionist-specialized Gallerie Nelombos, run by his associate Jean-Marc Paretti.
Dmitry Rybolovlev Claims Bouvier Overcharged Him
Meanwhile, Forbes Magazine has revealed the specific reasons why the Russian billionaire Dmitry Rybolovlev, with whom Bouvier had had a long-standing professional relationship, filed the criminal complaint against Bouvier that started it all.
According to Forbes, Bouvier’s downfall was set in motion on New Year’s Eve, during an evening which Rybolovlev enjoyed in the company of Sandy Heller, über-collector Steve Cohen’s art adviser (see Hedge Fund Honcho Steve A. Cohen Is Buyer of $101 Million Giacometti and Forbes’s 2015 Ranking of Billionaires Features Art Players Aplenty).
It was then that Heller dropped the bomb, by telling Rybolovlev about a stunning Amedeo Modigliani nude that Steven had sold for a whopping $93.5 million to an undisclosed buyer.
The Russian billionaire, who owns the Monaco football club, quickly realized that the painting was the same Modigliani he had previously bought from Bouvier for $118 million.
Crunching the numbers and seeing red, he filed the criminal complaint against Bouvier in Monaco’s Palais of Justice just nine days later. He claimed that Bouvier had overcharged him on several paintings worth hundreds of millions of dollars, including a Leonardo da Vinci he purchased for $127 million, which Rybolovlev believes Bouvier had bought for $50 million, according to FT. (See A Tale of Two Leonardos.)
Rybolovlev’s net worth is estimated at $8.5 billion and an art collection that includes Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, Paul Gauguin, and Claude Monet. He is listed by Forbes as the world’s 156th wealthiest person—even after his ex-wife was awarded half of his fortune in their 2014 divorce settlement.
Bouvier Denies the Allegations
Bouvier, who is currently on a €10 million bail (see €10 Million Bail for Yves Bouvier, Indicted for Defrauding Dmitry Rybolovlev and Is Swiss Freeport King Yves Bouvier Free on €10M Bail, or Not?), denies all charges.
A statement, issued by Bouvier’s lawyers when he was released, said that he would prove the “fantasy and non-existence” of the “alleged damages,” according to FT.
Art Crime Contemporary Impressionism & Modern Old Masters
Lorena Muñoz-Alonso
Hedge Fund Billionaire Steve Cohen Donates $50 Million to New York’s Museum of Modern Art
Looted Antiquities Seized in the United States Returned to Iraq
By , Mar 16, 2015
Cuban Government Brands Tania Bruguera a Criminal
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Ja’Mal Green withdraws from Chicago mayoral race, 17 candidates remain
By Amee LaTour
In Local
On Monday, activist Ja’Mal Green withdrew from Chicago’s nonpartisan mayoral race, bringing the candidate field to 17.
In his withdrawal announcement, Green said his campaign lacked sufficient resources to continue amid a petition challenge launched by candidate Willie Wilson’s campaign lawyer. The challenge stated that Green didn’t have the required number of valid signatures (12,500) to qualify for the ballot.
The Chicago Board of Election Commissioners was in the process of considering the challenge at the time of Green’s withdrawal.
Last week, three candidates were disqualified from the ballot. Richard Mayers and Conrein Hykes Clark did not have the required number of valid signatures, and Sandra Mallory filed her paperwork incorrectly, an election board spokesperson said.
Petition challenges against five candidates are still being considered by the board: Dorothy Brown, Catherine Brown D’Tycoon, La Shawn Ford, Neal Sales-Griffin, and Roger Washington.
A total of 21 candidates initially filed to run in the mayoral race, left open after incumbent Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced in September that he would not seek re-election. The election is on February 26, with a runoff on April 2 if no candidate receives more than 50 percent of the vote in February.
Chicago is the third-largest city in the U.S. by population.
Amee LaTour
Amee LaTour is a staff writer at Ballotpedia and can be reached at amee.latour@ballotpedia.org
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Drunk Baggage Handler Falls Asleep in Hold, Flies to Chicago
Police say a baggage handler told them he was drunk when he fell asleep in a cargo hold and flew from Kansas City to Chicago.
UK Village Resents Being Used in US Midterm Election Post
A recent post on Facebook by Republican candidate Nick Stella used an out-of-date photo of a rundown neighborhood in a small coastal village in eastern England.
Emanuel Opposes Tax on High-End Real Estate to Address Homelessness, Lead
The mayor said he understands the seriousness of homelessness and the city’s lead pipes, but he doesn’t think homeowners should be treated “as an ATM machine.”
The Choice for Governor: A WTTW News Special
Exclusive, in-depth profiles of the two primary contenders for Illinois governor in 2018: Democratic nominee and Republican incumbent, Gov. Bruce Rauner.
Chicago Police Sergeant Implicated in Beating of 2 Men Outside Bar
An off-duty sergeant and suburban officer allegedly beat two men in an unprovoked attack outside a gay bar in September. But weeks after they were identified, no criminal charges have been filed.
Nine Mexican Wolves Leaving Brookfield Zoo for New Homes
They are one of the most successful packs within the nationwide Mexican Wolf Recovery Program, but nine of the 10 wolves will leave Chicago for new homes as part of a plan to help save the endangered species.
Long Shot Libertarian Candidate for Governor Short on Cash
U.S. Navy veteran Grayson “Kash” Jackson may be one candidate for governor that few people have heard of. He tells us about his plans to fix the state.
Singer Paul Marinaro ‘Blessed’ to be Performing in Chicago
One of Chicago’s hottest singers is on the comeback trail following a severe health scare. We catch up with Paul Marinaro at the Green Mill.
Ask Geoffrey: Why Traffic Reports Mention Thorndale
Chicagoans hear about Thorndale Avenue all the time in traffic reports, and a viewer wonders why. Geoffrey Baer speeds by with the story in this encore edition of “Ask Geoffrey.”
Ex-Gymnastics Coach Faces 18-Count Indictment in Sexual Assault Case
Jose Vilchis, who was charged in October with sexually assaulting a teenage gymnast in south suburban Channahon, now faces additional charges of criminal sexual assault and sexual abuse, according to a grand jury indictment.
Field Museum Begins 3-Year Renovation of Native American Hall
Many of the displays in the museum’s Native American Hall have gone unchanged since the 1950s. Now, Native American scholars and tribal members will work with the museum to better represent these stories.
Eve Ewing’s Talents Expanding, But CPS Focus Endures
She is a poet, sociologist, podcaster and now comic book writer. Eve Ewing’s list of professional titles keeps growing, but her focus on Chicago Public Schools endures. And her interest is not just academic – it’s personal.
Health, Politics
City Finds High Levels of Lead in Water of Some Homes
The mayor’s office seeks to downplay a just-released study that found high levels of lead in nearly 20 percent of city homes that were tested.
Nov. 1, 2018 - Full Show
Watch the Nov. 1, 2018 full episode of “Chicago Tonight.”
In ‘Scientific Method,’ Politics in the Lab Are as Rigorous as the Research
If you think this country’s political culture is the quintessential hornet’s nest, you probably haven’t been exposed to life in the world of scientific research. Jenny Connell Davis puts it under a powerful magnifying microscope in this world premiere work.
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Prehistoric Bird Used Club-like Wings as Weapon
Long before the knights of medieval Europe wielded flails or martial artists brandished nunchucks, it appears that a flightless prehistoric bird used its own wings as a similar type of weapon in combat.Paleontologists at Yale University and the...
When It’s Cool, Female Butterflies Chase Males in Sex Role Reversal
If you want to be surrounded by females on the prowl, it pays to be cool, at least if you are a male butterfly.In an unusual example of sex role reversals, females actively court males after being exposed to cool, dry temperatures as caterpillars, Yale...
Activity of a single brain cell can predict if we spend or save
By eavesdropping on the activity of a single brain cell, Yale University researchers can predict the outcome of decisions such as whether you will dip into your retirement account to buy a Porsche. In a study published online January 12 in the journal...
Yale’s Jo Handelsman Receives Presidential Award for Science Mentoring
Microbiologist Jo Handelsman, professor of molecular, cellular and developmental biology at Yale, was one of 11 individuals selected by President Barack Obama on Friday to receive the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and...
Newly Discovered Dinosaur Likely Father of Triceratops
Triceratops and Torosaurus have long been considered the kings of the horned dinosaurs. But a new discovery traces the giants’ family tree further back in time, when a newly discovered species appears to have reigned long before its more well-known...
Scientists synthesize long-sought-after anticancer agent
A team of Yale University scientists has synthesized for the first time a chemical compound called lomaiviticin aglycon, leading to the development of a new class of molecules that appear to target and destroy cancer stem cells. Chemists worldwide have...
Yale Researchers Find Clues to Mystery of Preterm Delivery
Researchers at Yale School of Medicine have found that excessive formation of calcium crystal deposits in the amniotic fluid may be a reason why some pregnant women suffer preterm premature rupture of the membranes (PPROM) leading to preterm delivery.This...
Scientists Build the World’s First Anti-laser
More than 50 years after the invention of the laser, scientists at Yale University have built the world’s first anti-laser, in which incoming beams of light interfere with one another in such a way as to perfectly cancel each other out. The discovery...
Kavli Commitment Expands Mission of Yale Neuroscience Research Institute
Building upon a grant made in 2003 that established the Kavli Institute for Neuroscience at Yale, The Kavli Foundation has announced that it will contribute additional endowment funds to diversify and strengthen the institute’s interdisciplinary brain...
Before the Explosion – Volcano’s Warning Tremors Explained
No matter their size or shape, explosive volcanoes produce tremors at similar frequencies for minutes, days or weeks before they erupt. In the Feb. 24 issue of the journal Nature, researchers at Yale University and the University of British Columbia...
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Hanley Energy Inter-Provincial Fixtures 2018
Hanley Energy Inter-Provincial Fixtures released, T20 Festival added
Cricket Ireland today officially released the fixture list for the Hanley Energy Inter-Provincial Series 2018, with the addition of an eye-catching new three-day T20 Festival added to the programme.
The season will lead off with defending winners Leinster Lightning taking on the North-West Warriors on 1 May at Oak Hill, with recently announced Lightning Captain, George Dockrell, set to lead the team out.
“It’s another big year for the Lightning. The Inter-Pro’s goes from strength to strength and we are very keen to make it four Championships in a row.” said Dockrell.
The inclusion of a T20 Festival is expected to provide a boost for that form of the game in Ireland, and Leinster Cricket General Manager, Philip Smith jumped at the opportunity to host the three-day tournament:
“Cricket Leinster is delighted to have the opportunity to host the inaugural Inter-Pro T20 Festival in July at Pembroke Cricket Club,” said Mr Smith.
“We intend to make the occasion a memorable one for all cricket fans with full bar, catering and a kids zone available throughout. We are also delighted that the Festival matches will be live-streamed online.”
“With Ireland rightfully taking its place on the world stage – in what is the second largest sport globally – it is important to ensure good, competitive domestic cricket can provide that conveyor-belt of talent to the national sides,” said Clive Gilmore, CEO and Co-Founder of Hanley Energy.
“Hanley Energy chose to invest in first-class cricket in Ireland in order to support the growth and sustainability of the game. We wish all teams well for the coming season.”
WARRIORS INTERPRO FIXTURES
Leinster Lightning v NW Warriors (Championship, May 1-3, Oakhill)
Northern Knights v NW Warriors (T20, May 18, Carrickfergus)
NW Warriors v Munster Reds (T20, May 25, Eglinton)
Northern Knights v NW Warriors (50-over, May 28, Stormont)
NW Warriors v Leinster Lightning (T20, June 8th, Bready)
NW Warriors v Leinster Lightning (50-overs, June 19th, Eglinton)
NW Warriors v Leinster Lightning (Championship, June 20-22, Bready)
Northern Knights v NW Warriors (Championship, July 2-4, Comber)
T20 Festival at Pembroke, July 6-8
NW Warriors v Northern Knights (50-over, July 16, Eglinton)
NW Warriors v Northern Knights (Championship, July 17-19)
Leinster Lightning v NW Warriors (50-over, September 9, Rathmines)
further details on the fixture can be found HERE
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Oregon NOW
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March 30, 2018 by NOW National
Combat Sexual Harassment? Mitch McConnell Says “Never Mind”
Statement of NOW President Toni Van Pelt:
When the House voted on the recent omnibus spending bill, lawmakers included language to support survivors of sexual harassment and discrimination. But when it got to the House, Mitch McConnell said, “never mind,” and removed provisions that would have finally brought accountability and transparency to Congress’ sexual harassment reporting process.
As Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) said, “It begs the question: Who are they trying to protect?”
We know who. Every woman knows who. We know how men who harass women are protected and the sexual harassers are enabled. The indifference of Senator McConnell echoes the mistreatment and neglect of hundreds of women who have been abused in spaces of power.
“Sexual coercion knows no party lines,” states Toni Van Pelt, President of the National Organization for Women, “in order to end sexual harassment and assault in all workplaces, we must begin with our leaders. It is time for our representatives on the hill to be a part of solution instead of perpetuating the problem.”
It’s time for a change. NOW supports the initiative taken by all 22 female Senators, Republicans and Democrats alike, to amend the 23-year old law that governs employment complaints in Congress. The current Congressional Accountability Act places an unfair burden on survivors requiring that they undergo counseling, mediation and a month-long “cooling off” period before filing suit against their harassers. Policies like these protect predators and leave survivors vulnerable to further abuse. The Equal Employment Opportunities Commission (EEOC) reports that 75% of survivors experience retaliation when they report their abuse.
The House of Representatives did the right thing in taking the necessary steps to change the culture of sexual harassment on Capitol Hill. The Senate needs to step up as well. Harassers must be held accountable for their actions, survivors deserve justice, and our nation’s leaders must begin to vote with the moral integrity they claim to hold dear. Enough is Enough.
Dee Donavanik, press@now.org, 951-547-1241
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NorteñoBlog
music, charts, opinions
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A Brief Timeline of Regional Mexican Radio in Chicago
Last night I had the jarring experience familiar to anyone who still listens to terrestrial radio: I turned to one of my favorite radio stations and… IT WASN’T THERE. Chicago’s regional Mexican station 95.5 “El Patrón” had turned without warning into “Big [but not Rich] 95.5,” a hit country station currently in its eerie “no-DJs-no-commercials-just-songs-and-cheery-promos” phase. It felt like regional Mexican music had been raptured, and some corporate overlord was scrambling to fill the gap with Jason Aldean, who hadn’t made the divine cut.
Or maybe:
iHeartMedia Chicago (formerly Channel Channel Meda and Entertainment) said today its 95.5 FM outlet in Chicago is shifting to an all-country music format effective immediately. The station previously was a Spanish music-formatted station branded as El Patron.
It’s fitting that the new station is DJ’d by robots, because iHeart’s president has a curiously android-like demeanor:
Noted Matt Scarano, president of iHeartMedia Chicago, of the format shift: “Big 95.5 is going to be a dynamic country music leader and a breath of fresh air for country radio in Chicago. The station will deliver the biggest hits, the biggest stars and the biggest results for our advertising partners.”
I’ve never trusted our other (very popular) country station, 99.5 “US 99,” whose idea of classic legacy cuts seems to be 10-year-old Tim & Faith duets. Competition is good. But based on my initial experience with Big 95, I have trouble seeing how they’re a “breath of fresh air.” “Hope You Get Lonely Tonight” (ug) into “The Perfect Storm” (blarg) into “Two Black Cadillacs” (better…) into “Drinking Class” (um…) is just the same old musty air. It’s not clear what they offer that US 99 doesn’t. (Somewhere I saw something about “legacy acts.” Hmmm…)
Mostly I’ll miss being able to say I live near a city with more regional Mexican stations than Top 40 stations. Even with El Patrón’s demise, Chicago is still home to 105.1 “La Que Buena” and 107.9 “La Ley,” so I can’t complain. El Patrón was a relative newcomer to the game, whose outline looks something like this:
1977: WOJO 105.1 launches, playing a Latino mix:
With its mix of news, community affairs and “international” music – ranging from the airy ballads of Julio Iglesias to the occasionally merry mariachi – WOJO projected an image of above-the-fray elegance and inclusion, a place where the city’s Mexicans, Puerto Ricans and other Latinos could meet to discuss events and enjoy their music.
Skip ahead two decades to…
1997: WLEY 107.9 launches, playing strictly regional Mexican music, including mariachi, banda, and an hourly show devoted to “forbidden corridos.” They start beating WOJO in the ratings, due to both Chicago’s demographics and the quality of regional Mexican music:
Ranked fifth in the U.S. with 932,806 Latinos as of a 1998 census estimate (behind Los Angeles, New York, Miami and the San Francisco Bay area), Chicago has been the third population hub in the country among Mexicans since 1970 (exceeded only by California and Texas), making the local Mexican community multigenerational, bilingual, and economically mixed.
“Numbers aside, we also realized music has changed in the last few years,” said WOJO’s Pagliai. “Two or three years, there were pop soloists with excellent material. Then the regional Mexican groups got much stronger and many of the pop artists chose to record in English and try to crossover. Still, the truth is that Spanish-language radio has never survived on pop or rock but on Vicente Fernandez and Juan Gabriel and those kinds artists. We are programming to people who live in a Spanish-language universe, speak Spanish at home, listen to Spanish CDs, watch Spanish-language TV. They may be bilingual, but Spanish is their language of choice. And the majority of those people in Chicago are Mexican.”
WLEY could skip along unimpeded for only so long, until…
2000: WOJO sees the light and goes regional Mexican. A minor pissing contest ensues:
“All we’re doing is reflecting the taste of most Latinos in Chicago,” said Jose Santos, WOJO program director.
Over at WLEY, local sales manager Raul Chavarria has a different take on it. “Their ratings weren’t going anywhere with their old format,” he said with a laugh. “We were No. 1 (in Spanish-language radio), they were No. 2. That was very stable for a long time, so it’s really a play to go to No. 1 status.”
Which, in fact, is what happened. By 2003, WOJO would surpass WLEY, and they’d both be among the 10 most-heard radio stations in the market. The whole Chicago radio market. English or Spanish. WOJO was #8, WLEY #9. The pissery continued:
But over at WLEY, station managers show signs of frustration. They allege that while WOJO has done well in the most recent ratings quarter, it is only because they have followed their own station’s path.
“What we did was we really brought regional Mexican to the high profile that it is today and made it into a format in this market,” said Mario Paez, WLEY’s general manager. “Whereas our competitor took a couple of years to realize that Mexicans are important and decided to copy us.”
Whoever zoomed who, you can’t blame WNUA 99.5 for wanting to get in on the action. Now, if the letters “WNUA” sound familiar, they should. They belonged for years to our smooth jazz station, which employed Ramsey Lewis and released annual compilations that were wildly popular, at least in Chicago. They sold out at local Borders stores faster than I could change the channel whenever WNUA came on.
In 2009, WNUA switched from smooth jazz to Spanish AC, “Mega 95.5.” (The alarm clock at a downtown Chicago hotel still had 95.5 programmed into its “jazz” wake-up preset, which, when you imagine boomer businessfolk hoping to wake up to the dulcet sounds of smooth Chicago jazz, is pretty funny.) Just three years later, 2012 was the dawn of El Patrón. By then, WLEY’s popularity had continued to slide:
The move places WNUA in direct competition with Univision’s “La Que Buena 105.1” WOJO and SBS’ “La Ley 107.9” WLEY in the Regional Mexican format. WOJO was 8th in the market last month with a 4.2 share. WLEY 20th with a 2.2.
And now with this move, just the two veterans remain. In December, WOJO was #11 in the market, but that’s just because Lite FM was playing Christmas music and pied pipering away with all Chicago’s children. WOJO was top 10 the months before, it’ll be top 10 this month, with ratings somewhere in the 4’s. WLEY is somewhere farther down the list with a 1.8 share, WNUA right above them. If anyone stands to benefit from this change, it’s probably WLEY. Though who knows, maybe WNUA will start broadcasting Rick Jackson’s Country Classics and I can stop resorting to a staticky Milwaukee station.
joshlanghoff
¿Qué Estamos Escuchando?
radio, Regional Mexican Songs
4 thoughts on “A Brief Timeline of Regional Mexican Radio in Chicago”
Joe Roman
I will miss that station. Me voy a extranar ese estacion. Don’t care about the country station.
Totally. So far there’s not much to care about at the country station, though things may improve once they get some DJs and an identity.
A Not-So-Brief Timeline of Regional Mexican Radio in Houston – NorteñoBlog
¡Feliz 2017! (y ¡Lo Mejor de 2016!) – NorteñoBlog
¡Ask A Mexican! – Gustavo Arellano
Bandamax
Billboard: Latin Charts
Billboard: Latin Notas
CorridosAlterados.net
monitorLATINO
MundoNorteño
Regional Ramblings
The Strachwitz Frontera Collection of Mexican and Mexican American Recordings
Beto Cervantes D.E.P.
NorteñoBlog's Top Singles of 2016: Enero - Marzo
Joni Sandez on sierreño, "Las Mañanitas," and "secrets nobody wants to say"
Fiesta de Aniversario: THE PICKS TO CLICK
Marco Flores y Los Inquietos Saluden a Su Madre
T3R Elemento, El Fantasma, and Other Fired Up Country Boys (Desfile de Éxitos 1/6/18)
Selena and Ariel Camacho: coming to MoPOP 2019
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June Roundup
Posted by Loughlin O'Nolan on July 7, 2017
Unfortunately there was quite an amount of data daftness on display last month.
1. EU Proposes to Mandate end-to-end encryption; UK still trying to break it
In May the US Senate approved the use of encrypted messaging app Signal for staff. A European Parliament committee followed suit in June in a draft proposal “that will enforce end-to-end encryption on all communications to protect European Union citizens’ fundamental privacy rights. The committee also recommended a ban on backdoors.”
The government in the UK is still making noises about creating a backdoor in encryption. This is one of those very silly ideas that refuses to go away. The argument is almost always made in the name of national security, but in reality crippling encryption in this way would weaken or even entirely nullify the security encryption provides for everyone.
Notes for humans
As well as providing secure messaging channels, encryption makes your online banking more secure. Encryption makes your online shopping more secure. Yes, bad people can use encryption to do bad things. Bad people also use cars, public transport and forks. Nobody is calling for these things to be banned.
While at a cursory glance creating a backdoor available to law enforcement to increase security may seem like a good idea, the world doesn’t work that way. As soon as a form of encryption with a backdoor is created, a mass of skilled people will work diligently to find it and exploit it. A useful way to think of a backdoor is as if the builder of your house kept a copy of your front door key when she handed the house over to you. Changing the lock on your door is not an option. You can’t stop the builder from coming into your house or lending the key to someone else, who can make a copy of it and pass it to yet another person.
+ ‘European Parliament Committee Recommends End-To-End Encryption For All Electronic Communications’, Tom’s Hardware
+ ‘Why We Encrypt’, Bruce Schneier
+ ‘Reason To Encrypt Your Data’, Kaspersky
+ ‘Amber Rudd is Wrong About Encryption’, Hackernoon
2. Data Protection Demotion
There’s an old saying that the longer the (departmental or ministerial) title, the less power the holder actually has. In Leo Varadkar’s reshuffle the data protection portfolio was removed from Dara Murphy, plucked from its ritzy location in the Department of the Taoiseach, given to Pat Breen in the Department of Social Welfare and bundled in with a bewildering array of other responsibilities. This was a daft move irrespective of the reasons why it was made, as Karlin Lillington eloquently explains.
Shortly before that the Data Protection Commissioner was in with the Oireachtas Justice Committee discussing the general scheme of the 2017 Data Protection Bill. She was opposed to the state’s plan to broadly exempt public bodies from fines as laid out in the draft bill.
the DPC’s firm position is that all organisations should be treated in the same way without distinction as to whether they are engaged in commercial activity or any other activity, so that, in principle,all public bodies and authorities are capable of being fined where they infringe the GDPR. If this is not the case, the deterrent value of administrative fines in the public sector would be nullified. Based on its experience in regulating the public sector to date, the DPC’s position is that making all public authorities/ bodies liable to administrative fines is crucial if we are to encourage greater levels of compliance with data protection law amongst public authorities and public bodies than that sector has traditionally demonstrated.
To an outside observer the Irish state appears to be downgrading the role of data protection within government, restricting the ability of the Data Protection Commissioner to impose meaningful sanctions on public sector bodies guilty of misbehaviour with personal data while simultaneously forging ahead with multiple questionable population scale identity registries. This is concerning as the state’s record in safeguarding and properly using individuals’ data is frankly poor. A trial collapsed in June after the state was unable to vouch for the accuracy of data from the Pulse system. This casts renewed doubt on the state’s ability to manage any sort of large data register competently.
+ ‘Data protection ministry lost in Pat Breen’s vast portfolio’, Irish Times
+ ‘‘Serious concern’ over exemption of public bodies from data protection fines’, Irish Times
+ ‘Trial collapses after State unable to vouch for accuracy of Pulse data’, Irish Times
+ ‘The Identity Card That Most Assuredly Isn’t An Identity Card’, Privacy Kit
3. Facebook doxxes Its own contractors
Facebook inadvertently doxxed some of its own employees. Some of these employees were working in Facebook’s counter-terrorism unit in Dublin. One of them, who was paid just €13 an hour, had to flee the country and has filed a legal claim for compensation.
Facebook is not a trustworthy actor in many of the areas in which it operates. You’d be better off not using it but, being realistic, that’s probably not going to happen any time soon. If Facebook is this casual in protecting the sensitive information of employees carrying out extremely high risk work how much can you trust it with your information?
+ ‘Revealed: Facebook exposed identities of moderators to suspected terrorists’, Guardian
+ ‘Learn a thing or two about Facebook’, Privacy Kit
4. 198 million voter records leaked in the US
Researchers found personal information and profiling data on what is believed to be every registered US voter dating back a decade.
Each record lists a voter’s name, date of birth, home address, phone number, and voter registration details, such as which political party a person is registered with. The data also includes “profiling” information, voter ethnicities and religions, and various other kinds of information pertinent to a voter’s political persuasions and preferences, as modeled by the firms’ data scientists, in order to better target political advertising.
This is what happens when security of data, even massive amounts of data, is not taken seriously. These records were found lying around on an unsecured Amazon server, visible to anyone who went looking for it.
There’s a delicious little shot of irony in the name of one of the companies involved: Data Trust.
Data leaks are a common news item, fast becoming unremarkable. We check to see if our details may have been compromised, change our passwords if that’s the case, and move on. Only the larger ones such as the US voter database mentioned above attract much media attention. But behind every row in a database there is an individual’s information. Also in June it was reported that the University of East Anglia sent out confidential and highly sensitive student data in a mass email.
Megan Baynes, a 23-year-old American Literature and Creative Writing student, told the BBC that she was granted extensions for her coursework due to an illness suffered by a family member.
“I felt sick at seeing my personal situation written in a spreadsheet, and then seemingly sent to everyone on my course,” she said. “My situation was not the worst on there but there are some on there that are so personal. There are people I know and I feel so awful for them and can’t imagine how they are feeling.”
+ ‘198 million Americans hit by ‘largest ever’ voter records leak’, ZDNet
+ ‘The RNC Files: Inside the Largest US Voter Data Leak’, upguard.com
+ ‘University of East Anglia leaks confidential and highly sensitive student data in mass email’, International Business Times
5. Law Enforcement use of familial DNA record searches Approved in New York State
The New York state Commission on Forensic Science voted to allow police to perform what are described as ‘familial DNA searches’ when investigating certain cases. Rather than being limited to looking for specific matches in DNA databases they can now also search for close matches, i.e. your relatives.
“This first level of doing familial searching is a genetic look. And then the information of the relatives is handed over to law enforcement, and then there’s absolutely no guidance as to what they can and can’t do,” she said. She continued, “It’s this really invasive sort of secret government surveillance, that we may not even see, to the point where they could knock on your door, knock on your neighbor’s door, reveal that actually you fathered the boy downstairs, reveal all sorts of private things about the structure of your family.”
The Data Protection Commissioner told the Irish government’s inaugural Data Summit in June that genetic testing websites still don’t outline the privacy implications for you of sending them your genetic material. There are very large amounts of possible consequences to sharing this information with anyone. The results may be reasonably benign. On the other hand they most certainly may not. Where a database exists it will be put to use. This may well not be accurate or to your benefit so as always, think twice before giving your DNA to someone in exchange for more information about your family tree.
+ ‘Many genetic testing sites ‘fail to outline privacy implications’’, Irish Times
+ ‘State Panel Approves Police Use Of Controversial Familial DNA Records Searches’, Gothamist
7 in 10 smartphone apps share your data with third-party services. It’s nigh on impossible for you to know where your personal data and location information ends up and who is building a profile of you.
A piece of privacy news which bubbled into the mainstream slightly in June was the announcement that Google is to stop reading the contents of emails sent through Gmail. Google will continue reading and processing the metadata associated with emails however – who you email, when you email them, who emails you and so on. This could be interpreted as Google having decided that the message metadata was just as valuable if not more so than the message contents for profiling purposes. After all, they’ve had more than a decade to weigh up the benefits of the two. It also heads off some potentially bruising future encounters with regulators.
Snapchat introduced a new map feature which allows users to track other users’ location in real time. As with all of these services, we’d advise you turn it off unless you have a really good reason to use it.
Donald Trump’s United States continues to deploy surveillance measures originally designed to track terror suspects to locate and deport immigrants. Scanning people’s fingerprints on the street and before they are taken into custody.
As rapidly as the US is moving to increase surveillance and monitoring of citizens, it’s miles behind China. The road intersections know your face and your name there now. In Mexico the government has been caught using spyware to target journalists, activists and their families.
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Archiv: journalism
15.01.2020 - 16:42 [ Anadolu News Agency ]
‚Egypt should immediately release Anadolu Agency employees‘
Turkey’s ruling party on Wednesday called on Egypt to immediately release Anadolu Agency employees who were detained in a police raid Tuesday evening on the agency’s Cairo office.
Nachrichten Kategorie: International. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: (international) media complex, Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, Cairo, detentions / arrests, Egypt, journalism, raids, repression (de / en), tensions und Turkey.
The president didn’t threaten just Iran’s culture sites. He threatened culture.
Will my country lay waste to the great mosques and bridges of Isfahan and the remains of Persepolis? Will we destroy the last stones of the Achaemenid and Sasanian empires? If we are to be a barbarian nation, what are our new limits? Do we have any?
Nachrichten Kategorie: Weltöffentlichkeit / World Public Opinion. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: civilization, culture, extreme right-wing crazies, international law, Iran, journalism, Konvention zum Schutz von Kulturgut bei bewaffneten Konflikten / Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict, Philip Kennicott, presidents (executive branch), press, Trump, Trump Iran campaign election year 2020 / Soleimani assassination, USA, war crimes, Washington Post und World Heritage.
Malta’s ruling party lawmakers back embattled prime minister
The Labour Party statement after its meeting on Sunday also said Chris Cardona, the economy minister who suspended himself from his duties on Tuesday after having been mentioned by a suspect in the investigation, has now been reinstated in his position.
Nachrichten Kategorie: Kontinent Europa / Continent Europe. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: Daphne Caruana Galizia, governments / regimes, journalism, killings / murders und Malta.
01.09.2019 - 18:47 [ Columbia Journalism Review ]
Op-Ed: Bernie Sanders on his plan for journalism
Walter Cronkite once said that “journalism is what we need to make democracy work.” He was absolutely right, which is why today’s assault on journalism by Wall Street, billionaire businessmen, Silicon Valley, and Donald Trump presents a crisis—and why we must take concrete action.
Nachrichten Kategorie: Presse, Internet, Medienkomplex / Press, Internet, Media Complex. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: (international) media complex, Bernie Sanders, candidacies / nominations, favourites, independent media, journalism, monopolies / cartels, press, progressives, social democracy / democratic socialism, the American Left und US presidential election 2020.
Can Bernie Sanders Really Win? After This Week, It Seems More Possible Than Ever
Sanders published his plan in The Columbia Journalism Review, outlining his desire to undo moves by the Trump administration that have made media mergers easier. He wants to freeze all major media tie-ups until their effects can be studied, and he aims to protect local news outlets and independent media from corporate consolidation.
Nachrichten Kategorie: International. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: (international) media complex, Bernie Sanders, candidacies / nominations, favourites, independent media, journalism, monopolies / cartels, press, progressives, social democracy / democratic socialism, the American Left und US presidential election 2020.
Philippines: 13th Journalist Murdered Since Duterte Took Power
The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) said Thursday if Dizon’s murder is connected with his work, then he would be the 13th journalist to be murdered since President Rodrigo Duterte came to power in 2016.
Dizon, who shot was by two gunmen riding a motorcycle while he was driving home after work, was receiving death threats days before the shooting. He informed police about the threats according to local news reports.
Nachrichten Kategorie: International. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: journalism, killings / murders und Philippines.
26.06.2019 - 15:09 [ ABC.net.au ]
Why the ABC is going to court over police raids
The police raid on the ABC was the first thing a group of visiting ASEAN journalists asked about when we met at Ultimo a few days ago.
The journalists — from Laos, Brunei, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Singapore and Indonesia — wanted me to explain what had happened, and why.
Nachrichten Kategorie: Kontrollmechanismen / Control Mechanisms. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: (electronic) police state, (international) spy complex, (law) enforcement, (mass) observation (surveillance), Association of Southeast Asian Nations / Verband Südostasiatischer Nationen (ASEAN), Australia, cooperations / collaborations, freedom of speech / expression / language, freedom of the press, governments / regimes, journalism, press, raids, reporters / journalists und state (executive branch / authorities).
17.06.2019 - 10:31 [ John Pilger / Information Clearing House ]
There is a global war on journalism
Julian Assange: Countdown to Freedom, with Randy Credico and today’s guest, award winning filmmaker, John Pilger interviewed by Dennis J Bernstein and Randy Credico on KPFA Flashpoints
Nachrichten Kategorie: Kontrollmechanismen / Control Mechanisms. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: freedom of speech / expression / language, John Pilger, journalism, Julian Assange und WikiLeaks.
16.06.2019 - 09:24 [ Ryukyu Shimpo ]
Editorial: UN special rapporteur indicates freedom of expression in Japan in danger; infringing on freedom of expression is inexcusable
The report also expresses concern over the pressure the government is applying on the protests against the new base construction in Okinawa, and advised against infringing on the freedom to demonstrate in opposition of public policy, and suggested the government cooperate with the protests and related journalism.
The new report once again criticizes the Japanese government, stating that almost none of the previous report’s recommendations have been implemented.
Nachrichten Kategorie: Kontrollmechanismen / Control Mechanisms. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: civil / equal / human rights, David Kaye, freedom of assembly, freedom of speech / expression / language, freedom of the press, governments / regimes, Japan, journalism, Okinawa, protests, reports, Shinzo Abe, special envoys / rapporteurs / representatives, United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) und UNO.
12.06.2019 - 09:51 [ Sydney Morning Herald ]
ABC raids a wake-up call to journalists who left Assange swinging
It is easy, and for some convenient, to forget how much in journalism was changed by the arrival of WikiLeaks.
It’s perhaps one reason that he is rejected by so many journalists.
Nachrichten Kategorie: Weltöffentlichkeit / World Public Opinion. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: (electronic) police state, (international) media complex, (international) spy complex, (international) war lobby, (law) enforcement, (mass) observation (surveillance), Afghan Files, Australia, charges / indictments / trials / sentencings / judgments / rulings, cooperations / collaborations, detentions / arrests, documents / files, Ecuador, Espionage Act, extraditions / renditions / deportations, Five Eyes (spy alliance), freedom of speech / expression / language, freedom of the press, governments / regimes, Großbritannien / United Kingdom (UK), journalism, Julian Assange, many many eyes, raids, state military, Sweden, USA und war crimes.
12.06.2019 - 09:42 [ Ruptly / Twitter ]
‚If Julian goes down, the rest of you do‘ – #Assange’s father and Weiwei visit #Belmarsh
Nachrichten Kategorie: Weltöffentlichkeit / World Public Opinion. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: (electronic) police state, (international) media complex, (international) spy complex, (international) war lobby, (law) enforcement, (mass) observation (surveillance), Afghan Files, Australia, charges / indictments / trials / sentencings / judgments / rulings, cooperations / collaborations, detentions / arrests, documents / files, Ecuador, Espionage Act, extraditions / renditions / deportations, Five Eyes (spy alliance), freedom of speech / expression / language, freedom of the press, governments / regimes, Großbritannien / United Kingdom (UK), John Shipton, journalism, Julian Assange, many many eyes, raids, state military, Sweden, USA und war crimes.
Russian officials tried to frame Ivan Golunov. Instead they made him a hero
As the investigative journalist’s editor, I know how incredible his release was. Now there’s a chance the truth will be exposed
Nachrichten Kategorie: Kontrollmechanismen / Control Mechanisms. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: charges / indictments / trials / sentencings / judgments / rulings, freedom of the press, Ivan Golunov, journalism, reporters / journalists und Russia.
Australia May Well Be the World’s Most Secretive Democracy
One journalist is being investigated for reporting that several boats filled with asylum seekers recently tried to reach Australia from Sri Lanka. Another reporter had her home raided by the authorities this week after reporting on a government plan to expand surveillance powers.
Then on Wednesday, the Australian federal police showed up at the main public broadcaster with a warrant for notes, story pitches, emails, and even the diaries for entire teams of journalists and senior editors — all in connection with a 2017 article about Australian special forces being investigated over possible war crimes in Afghanistan.
Nachrichten Kategorie: Kontrollmechanismen / Control Mechanisms. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: (electronic) police state, (international) spy complex, (international) war lobby, (law) enforcement, (mass) observation (surveillance), Afghan Files, Australia, documents / files, Five Eyes (spy alliance), freedom of speech / expression / language, freedom of the press, governments / regimes, journalism, raids, state military und war crimes.
The threat to press freedom Down Under
The Australian Federal Police’s raid of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation overnight is a national embarrassment.
Warring Against Sources: The Australian National Security State, Journalism and the Public Interest
The story supposedly linked to the AFP warrant had been published by Smethurst on April 29, 2018. More than a year had elapsed, with little in the way of public murmurings. Australians have, for the most part, fallen under the anaesthetist’s spell regarding intrusive, unnecessary and dangerous national security laws. Another set of them would hardly matter.
But since the story, titled “Let Us Spy on Aussies” broke last year, the security wallahs have been attempting to root out the source, mobilising the AFP in the process. The account detailed information on discussions between the Home Affairs and Defence departments on the possibility of granting the Australian Signals Directorate powers to monitor the emails, bank records and text messages of Australian citizens. Letters between Secretary of Home Affairs Mike Pezzullo and Defence Secretary Greg Moriarty featured.
05.06.2019 - 21:39 [ La Fleur Productions / Twitter ]
Such a shame the AU Press didn’t recognise the same issues in the persecution of #JulianAssange and get started on defending #FreedomOfThePress much earlier – instead of being part of the problem.
Nachrichten Kategorie: Kontrollmechanismen / Control Mechanisms. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: (electronic) police state, (international) spy complex, (international) war lobby, (law) enforcement, Afghan Files, Australia, detentions / arrests, documents / files, Five Eyes (spy alliance), freedom of speech / expression / language, freedom of the press, governments / regimes, journalism, Julian Assange, raids, state military, war crimes und WikiLeaks.
05.06.2019 - 21:35 [ John Lyons / Twitter ]
Bravo to the country’s media for taking on government over the new war on the media @australian @dailytelegraph @smh The Age, @GuardianAus @abcnews @SkyNewsAust all leading tonite with this story. I’ve never seen such united front. Old rivalries put aside. Journalism matters.
Nachrichten Kategorie: Kontrollmechanismen / Control Mechanisms. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: (electronic) police state, (international) spy complex, (international) war lobby, (law) enforcement, Afghan Files, Australia, documents / files, Five Eyes (spy alliance), freedom of speech / expression / language, freedom of the press, governments / regimes, journalism, raids, state military und war crimes.
“I’ve never seen an assault on the media as savage as this… I’ve never seen a warrant this comprehensive & I’d say scary… The chilling message is not so much for the journalists, but it’s also for the public,” head of ABC Investigations @TheLyonsDen tells @PatsKarvelas #auspol
05.06.2019 - 21:24 [ The Canberra Times ]
‚The AFP have just realised I’m live tweeting‘: ABC journalist lays bare police raid
John Lyons live tweeted as AFP and ABC lawyers combed through documents to determine which documents were eligible to be handed over under the search warrant. Picture: John Lyons
05.06.2019 - 21:09 [ ABC News Australia / Youtube ]
ABC News‘ Sydney headquarters raided by AFP over Afghan Files stories | ABC News
Australian Federal Police officers are raiding the ABC’s Sydney headquarters over a series of 2017 stories known as The Afghan Files. ABC Head of Investigations, John Lyons was in the room during the raid, and says the warrant gives the AFP powers to see, change and delete the data they find. Mr Lyons says he’s „never seen an assault on the media as savage“ as this. The stories, by ABC investigative journalists Dan Oakes and Sam Clark, revealed allegations of unlawful killings and misconduct by Australian special forces in Afghanistan and were based off hundreds of pages of secret Defence documents leaked to the ABC.
05.06.2019 - 21:06 [ ABC Australia ]
ABC raid: AFP leave Ultimo building with files after hours-long raid over Afghan Files stories
Australian Federal Police officers have left the ABC’s Sydney headquarters more than eight hours after a raid began over a series of 2017 stories known as the Afghan Files.
The stories, by ABC investigative journalists Dan Oakes and Sam Clark, revealed allegations of unlawful killings and misconduct by Australian special forces in Afghanistan and were based off hundreds of pages of secret Defence documents leaked to the ABC
Police raid on ABC offices sparks firestorm over press freedom and national security
It’s understood the ABC and the AFP have been in talks about the search warrant since September, when it was first brought to the attention of the public broadcaster.
05.06.2019 - 21:04 [ The Australian ]
Military lawyer on theft charge
28.2.2019 A prominent Sydney lawyer who served as legal adviser to Australia’s special forces in Afghanistan has been charged with theft over war crimes investigation files that were allegedly published in the media.
Australian Federal Police officers arrested retired major David William McBride, 55, at Sydney Airport as he sought to depart Australia to return to his new home in Europe in September last year.
Rule of Law Fails in Malta as Slain Journalist Sees No Justice: Report
The failure of Maltese authorities to identify the masterminds behind the murder of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia raises questions about the rule of law in Malta, according to Europe’s chief human rights watchdog.
Nachrichten Kategorie: Kontinent Europa / Continent Europe. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: corruption, Daphne Caruana Galizia, governments / regimes, journalism, killings / murders, Malta und state (executive branch / authorities).
„Truth ultimately is all we have:“ Julian Assange appeals for public support
Assange’s comments were made in a letter addressed to independent British journalist Gordon Dimmack, who decided to make it public following last Thursday’s announcement by the US Justice Department of additional charges against Assange under the Espionage Act. The WSWS is republishing the letter, with Dimmack’s permission, in full below.
Nachrichten Kategorie: Weltöffentlichkeit / World Public Opinion. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: detentions / arrests, Espionage Act, journalism, Julian Assange und WikiLeaks.
Julian Assange. In his own words: Google Is An Empire.
Nachrichten Kategorie: Presse, Internet, Medienkomplex / Press, Internet, Media Complex. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: (international) media complex, data networks / databases / exchange, Google, information, information access, internet / world wide web (de / en), journalism, Julian Assange, monopolies / cartels, press, search engines und WikiLeaks.
Unsealed affidavit demonstrates US seeking to prosecute Assange for his journalism
An affidavit unsealed by US prosecutors on Monday has underscored the unlawful character of the Trump administration’s request that WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange be extradited to the US in the wake of his illegal expulsion from Ecuador’s London embassy and arrest by the British police last Thursday.
The affidavit was made by Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) special agent Megan Brown on December 21, 2017, in support of two charges which had been secretly filed against Assange, under her name.
Nachrichten Kategorie: Weltöffentlichkeit / World Public Opinion. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: attorneys / prosecutors, FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation), journalism, Julian Assange, Megan Brown, Obama Administration, torture, whistleblower und WikiLeaks.
18.04.2019 - 03:54 [ Truthdig ]
First Julian Assange, Then Us
We must now all resist. We must in every way possible put pressure on the British government to halt the judicial lynching of Julian Assange. If Assange is extradited and tried, it will create a legal precedent that will terminate the ability of the press, which Trump repeatedly has called “the enemy of the people,” to hold power accountable. The crimes of war and finance, the persecution of dissidents, minorities and immigrants, the pillaging by corporations of the nation and the ecosystem, and the ruthless impoverishment of working men and women to swell the bank accounts of the rich, and consolidate the global oligarch’s total grip on power, will not only expand, but will no longer be part of public debate. First Assange. Then us.
Nachrichten Kategorie: Weltöffentlichkeit / World Public Opinion. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: (international) media complex, 9/11 attacks / Attentate am 11. September 2001, authoritarianism / absolutism / totalitarianism, Chris Hedges, Dick Cheney, Ecuador, journalism, Julian Assange, Obama Administration, Sweden, Theresa May / May-hem und WikiLeaks.
18.04.2019 - 01:50 [ Jason Ditz / Antiwar.com ]
Prosecutors Revive Long Discredited Narratives for Assange Trial
Embarrassing officials, and revealing the excesses of the American warfare state to the American public were a blow to selling the public on constant war. It’s not that this is illegal, as such, but it’s just not done, which is why officials struggle with Assange’s actions being effectively the meat of what journalists are intended to do.
Nachrichten Kategorie: Weltöffentlichkeit / World Public Opinion. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: attorneys / prosecutors, charges / indictments / trials / sentencings / judgments / rulings, Ecuador, International Monetary Fund (IMF) / Internationaler Währungsfonds (IWF), journalism, Julian Assange und WikiLeaks.
04.01.2019 - 23:15 [ Caitlin Johnstone ]
Reporter Quits NBC Citing Network’s Support For Endless War
Another way to say it would be that plutocrat-controlled and government-enmeshed media networks hire reporters to protect the warmongering oligarchic status quo upon which media-controlling plutocrats have built their respective kingdoms, and foster an environment which elevates those who promote establishment-friendly narratives while marginalizing and pressuring anyone who doesn’t. It’s absolutely bizarre that it should be unusual for there to be a civilian analyst of the US war machine’s behaviors in the mainstream media who is skeptical of its failed policies and nonstop bloodshed, and it’s a crime that such voices are barely holding on to the fringes of the media stage. Such analysts should be extremely normal and commonplace, not rare and made to feel as though they don’t belong.
Nachrichten Kategorie: Presse, Internet, Medienkomplex / Press, Internet, Media Complex. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: journalism, NBC / MSNBC (media) und war / endless war.
03.01.2019 - 14:22 [ James Risen / theIntercept ]
The Biggest Secret: My Life as a New York Times Reporter in the Shadow of the War on Terror
I was sitting in the nearly empty restaurant of the Westin Hotel in Alexandria, Virginia, getting ready for a showdown with the federal government that I had been trying to avoid for more than seven years. The Obama administration was demanding that I reveal the confidential sources I had relied on for a chapter about a botched CIA operation in my 2006 book, “State of War.” I had also written about the CIA operation for the New York Times, but the paper’s editors had suppressed the story at the government’s request. It wasn’t the only time they had done so.
Nachrichten Kategorie: Weltöffentlichkeit / World Public Opinion. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: (international) war lobby, Barack Obama, CIA (Central Intelligence Agency), freedom of the press, James Risen, journalism, New York Times, reporters / journalists, repression (de / en), Terrorkrieg / global war on terror (de / en) und USA.
Ecuador has initiated a formal „Special Examination“ of Julian Assange’s asylum and nationality (nationals cannot be extradited) as it seeks a $10billion+ IMF bailout for which the US government demanded handing over Assange and dropping environmental claims against Chevron.
Nachrichten Kategorie: Weltöffentlichkeit / World Public Opinion. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: Chevron, contracts (deals / treaties), Ecuador, embassies / consulates, freedom of the press, International Monetary Fund (IMF) / Internationaler Währungsfonds (IWF), journalism, Julian Assange, Lenín Moreno, London, USA und WikiLeaks.
Journalist Dies in Northern Mexico, Activists Demand Justice
Last month, the Human Rights National Commission (CNDH) denounced the violent situation of journalism in Mexico during the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, pointing out that 21 have been missing since 2005 and there have been 52 attacks of media offices.
Nachrichten Kategorie: Kontrollmechanismen / Control Mechanisms. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: journalism, justice / systems und Mexico.
01.12.2018 - 18:59 [ Vice ]
This Is a Dark Day for Press Freedom – Our editorial response to today’s Supreme Court of Canada ruling.
(30.11.2018) Lawyers for VICE Canada argued unsuccessfully through three levels of court that the RCMP is fishing for information and is effectively forcing a journalist to be an agent of the state. With this court decision hanging in the balance for years, Makuch has continued to produce fearless and important journalism on sensitive and often dangerous topics. Today’s decision will no doubt have a chilling effect on both sources, who may be reluctant to talk to reporters, and on journalists themselves, who could be less inclined to report on sensitive issues.
Nachrichten Kategorie: Kontrollmechanismen / Control Mechanisms. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: (international) spy complex, Canada, freedom of the press, journalism, reporters / journalists, state control, Supreme Courts / High Courts und Vice (media).
27.11.2018 - 03:28 [ Financial Post ]
Terence Corcoran: The Liberal government’s meddling in media independence has just begun
Under the Morneau proposals, the arm of government is directly involved in deciding which journalists or news organizations will receive special treatment, tax breaks, charitable status. Over five years the amount of federal money moving directly into news and journalism will exceed $600 million, which obviously results in government dependence, not independence.
Nachrichten Kategorie: Presse, Internet, Medienkomplex / Press, Internet, Media Complex. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: Canada, journalism und sovereignty / independence.
11.10.2018 - 05:43 [ Max Blumenthal / Twitter ]
Today I spoke to a longtime friend of Guardian “reporter” Carl David Goette-Luciak who worked with him in Nicaragua. He told me what it was like “inhabiting the role of a foreign agent of imperialism” and slammed the @guardiannews’s “conflict of interest”
Nachrichten Kategorie: Presse, Internet, Medienkomplex / Press, Internet, Media Complex. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: coups / attempts / regime changes / invasions (aggressions / interventions), empires / imperialism („superpowers“) / nuclear powers, journalism, Max Blumenthal, Nicaragua und the Guardian (media).
11.10.2018 - 05:40 [ Rania Khalek, journalist with opinions / Twitter ]
We’ve been at war with Afghanistan since I was 15 years old. 17 years, 3 presidents and trillions of dollars later, this war has no purpose and no end in sight. And it’s been totally forgotten.
Nachrichten Kategorie: Weltöffentlichkeit / World Public Opinion. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: Afghanistan, empires / imperialism („superpowers“) / nuclear powers, journalism, Rania Khalek, Terrorkrieg / global war on terror (de / en) und USA.
11.10.2018 - 05:32 [ Rania Khalek, journalist with opinions / Twitter ]
Check out my fake news segment where “experts” discuss whether the US should militarily intervene in a made up country called Badistan. I play all the characters. Enjoy!
Nachrichten Kategorie: Presse, Internet, Medienkomplex / Press, Internet, Media Complex. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: coups / attempts / regime changes / invasions (aggressions / interventions), empires / imperialism („superpowers“) / nuclear powers, journalism, Rania Khalek und USA.
24.08.2018 - 02:10 [ Lawrence Davidson / Counterpunch ]
Julian Assange and the Fate of Journalism
This situation puts truth tellers like Assange, and in the case of Israel, Omar Nazzal, in a bad position. They will have their defenders but they will be outside the mainstream—because truth itself is also outside the mainstream. That is their predicament, and ours as well.
Nachrichten Schlagwörter: journalism.
Egypt targets social media with new law
The bill prohibits the establishment of websites without obtaining a license from the Supreme Council and allows it to suspend or block existing websites, or impose fines on editors.
The law, which takes effect after it is ratified by Sisi, also states that journalists can only film in places that are not prohibited, but does not explain further.
Nachrichten Kategorie: Kontrollmechanismen / Control Mechanisms. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: Egypt und journalism.
Seymour Hersh on the State of American Journalism (Video)
In a conversation with Seymour Hersh, the Pulitzer prize-winning investigative reporter who broke several „seismic“ stories throughout his career, reporting on U.S. involvement in Vietnam, Cambodia, Chile and Iraq, Truthdig columnist Chris Hedges wonders if the era of great journalism Hersh embodies has passed.
Hedges says, „We are sodden with fake news, hyped-up and incomplete information and false assertions delivered non-stop by our daily newspapers, our televisions, our online news agencies, our social media and our president.“
Nachrichten Kategorie: Presse, Internet, Medienkomplex / Press, Internet, Media Complex. Nachrichten Schlagwörter: journalism und Seymour Hersh.
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We have a fantastic line up of independent experts and celebrity judges who will select a short-list of nominations for each award category. All finalists will be invited to a glittering ceremony in London where winners will be presented with their National Mentoring Award.
Independent Judging Process to ensure the integrity of the award
Selection – Independent judges read, review and grade nominations
Adjudication – Senior judging panel determine the finalists and winner
All award categories will be judged by the National Mentoring Awards panel which include top industry experts from Business, Government and Education. Entries are via the National Mentoring Awards website
Guide To Entering Awards
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Airport Surveillance Radar Market Forecast to 2023 – Top Companies are Indra, Raytheon Company, Leonardo S.p.A., Harris Corporation, Intelcan Technosystems Inc, and Others
Market Highlights:
Airport surveillance radar is an integrated primary and secondary radar system that is installed at terminal air traffic control sites. It interfaces with digital automation systems and provides six-level national weather service calibrated weather capability that offers enhanced situational awareness for both controllers and pilots.
Request for Free Sample Pages: https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/6300
A major challenge for airport surveillance radar market growth is the changes in technologies of surveillance radar. However, the high cost associated with the deployment of airport surveillance radar is hampering the market. An Airport Surveillance Radar (ASR) is a radar system used at airports to detect, display, and enable proper guidance of aircraft in the terminal area and the airspace around airports.
A major challenge for airport surveillance radar market growth is the changes in technologies of surveillance radar. However, the high cost associated with the deployment of airport surveillance radar is hampering the market.
The airport surveillance radar market has been segmented by type, application, and region. By application, the market has been segmented into military and civil. Increase in defense budgets is expected to enhance the growth of the airport surveillance radar market. Furthermore, technological development, such as integration of satellite navigation system with airport surveillance radar, is expected to boost the airport surveillance radar market growth. The market in Asia-Pacific is expected to witness the highest growth during the forecast period. The rising awareness among customers regarding the benefits of airport surveillance radar, such as high accuracy, easy air traffic management, and government support in various projects are the major reasons for the high growth of this market.
This study provides an overview of the global airport surveillance radar market, tracking two market segments across five regions. The report studies the key players, providing a five-year annual trend analysis that highlights market size, volume, and share in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East & Africa, and Latin America. The report also provides a forecast, focusing on the market opportunities for the next five years in each region. The study segments the global airport surveillance radar market by application, type, and region.
The key players in the airport surveillance radar market are Indra (Spain), Lockheed Martin Corporation (U.S.), Northrop Grumman Corporation (U.S.), Raytheon Company (U.S.), Rockwell Collins (U.S.), Leonardo S.p.A (Italy), Harris Corporation (U.S.), Intelcan Technosystems Inc. (Canada), and Thales Group (France).
Access Full Summary of Report: https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/airport-surveillance-radar-market-6300
About Market Research Future:
At Market Research Future (MRFR) we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Reports (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services.
The MRFR team has a supreme objective to provide optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients.
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Airport Surveillance, Airport Surveillance Radar, Airport Surveillance Radar Industry, Airport Surveillance Radar Market, Airport Surveillance Radar Market Share, Airport Surveillance Radar Market Size, Radar Market, Surveillance Radar Market
Airport Surveillance Radar Market Profitable Strategic Report, Competitive Landscape, Industry Improvement with CAGR of 4.62% in 2023
Marine Radar Market Analysis to 2023 – Top Companies are Lockheed Martin Corporation, Northrop Grumman Corporation , FURUNO ELECTRIC CO.LTD, Raytheon Company, Saab AB , BAE Systems, Garmin Ltd, FLIR Systems, Inc, Kongsberg Group and Alphatron Marine B.V.
Radar Simulator Market Analysis to 2023 – Key Companies are AAI Corporation, Acewavetech, Cambridge Pixel Ltd, Presagis Canada Inc, Micro Nav Limited, Harris Corporation
Radar Sensors Market Outlook and Analysis to 2023 – Top Companies are Saab AB, Hitachi, ZF Friedrichshafen AG, Omniradar BV, Airbus Group and Others
Trauma Products Market Growth and Status Explored in a New Research Report| DePuy Synthes, Smith & Nephew, Stryker, Accumed LLC
Los Angeles, United State, July 15, 2019, - The latest report published by QY Research presents a thorough analysis of the global Trauma Products market. The research report evaluates the ever-changing market dynamics that are expected to impact the trajectory of the overall market. Analysts studied the historical achievements of the market and compared it to the current market trends, to Continue Reading...
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Chinasat-1C launched from Xichang Satellite Launch Center reached GTO
Chinasat
According to Xinhuanet.com, China launched yesterday, at 16:46 UTC, next communication satellite.
Famous phrase uttered by Nikita Khrushchev on rockets extruding from factories like sausages had not became reality in USSR. But it seems that with minor changes became reality in China. Shortly after launching Yaogan-29 (You can read post here), China again is launching spacecraft with not clear purpose. According to official sources, satellite is owned by China Satellite Communications Co., Ltd. and is designed to:
"The "ChinaSat-1C" satellite was launched at 0:46 a.m. and carried by the Long March-3B carrier rocket. It will provide high-quality voice, data and radio and TV transmission services."
In opinion of western sources, Chinasat-1C is military communication satellite launched to supplement existing constellation of satellites operating 36000 km above the equator. They are actually providing voice and data communication, but according to some sources, for military in encrypted, guaranteeing complete confidentiality, form on Ku band. Satellite is based on DFH-4 platform designed by China Academy of Space Technology (CAST) and being utilized since 2007 (first military satellites built on this platform were launched on 2011). In standard version satellite based on DFH-4 has weight at 5300 kg (maximally 700 kg of payload); in extended version satellite weighs up to 6000 kg and is able to take up to 1000 kg of payload. Standard version has power output at 10000 W, extended - up to 13500 W provided by two deployable solar arrays and onboard internal battery. Main onboard instruments are C, Ku, Ka and L band transponders. Operational life is at 15 years.
During this mission Long March 3B rocket was utilized. It is three stage liquid fueled rockets with four liquid fueled boosters. Its construction origins from mid-eighties and was first attempts of China to design rocket compatible with modern, western communication satellites operating on GTO orbit. First flight of version 3B took place on 2007. In standard version "B" payload capacity for GTO is 5100 kg, with enlarged boosters (B version - 15.33 m, B/E version - 16.1 m. Diameter is at 2.25 m in both versions) it is able to lift up to 5500 kg (choice of the rocket let us suppose that satellite was in standard version, not the extended - 6000 kg it is too much for Long March 3B). Rocket in version B/E is height for 54.838 m with diameter at 3.35 m. B version weighs at 425,800 kg and B/E weighs 458,970 kg. First stage is supported by four boosters powered by one YF-25 engine with thrust at 740.4 kN and fueled by 41100 kg of N2O4/UDMH. They are working for 127 seconds; first stage (fueled in B version with 171800 kg and in B/E with 186200 kg N2O4/UDMH), which propulsion are four YF-21C engines with specific impulse lasting 260.69 seconds, and thrust at 2961.6 kN. In b version first stage is long for 23.27 m, in B/E version - for 24.76 m. Difference in length is caused by longer tanks in B/E version, but it is reflected only in burn time: 145 seconds versus 158 seconds. Second stage (fueled with 49400 kg of N2O4/UDMH) propulsion is combination of one central engine and four stabilizing, vernier engines; YF-24E with thrust at 742 kN and four YF-23C engines with thrust at 47.1 kN. Second stage is long for 12.92 m. Third stage is equipped with one YF-75 engine with thrust at 167.17 kN and is long for 12.38 m with diameter slightly smaller than previous two stages - 3 m. Fuel capacity is 18200 kg of LH2/LOX.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Long_March_3B
http://www.cast.cn/CastEn/Show.asp?ArticleID=46481
Chinasat, Launched, Long March 3B, Space News
Adam White
China Satellite Communications Co., Chinasat-1c, Long March 3, Ltd, Xichang, YF-21C, YF-24C, YF-24E, YF-75
Written by Adam White
View all posts by: Adam White
Rapid reaction Chinese rockets in 2016 and 2017 !
Failed launch of Long March 4C with Gaofen-10 on atop
Gaofen-3 SAR satellite launched from Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center
Long March 4B launched with Shijian-16-2 on atop
Disc Blades Market 2018 Players, Size, CAGR, Applications, Types, Analysis, Trends, Forecast to 2023
Report Name: 2018-2023 Global Disc Blades Consumption Market Report. Global Disc Blades market 2018-2023 report provides in-depth unique Insights with Manufacturers, Suppliers, Distributors, traders, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, Customers, Investors and major Types as well as Applications and Forecast period. The report provides a unique tool for evaluating the Overall Market, underlining opportunities, and supporting strategic and tactical decision-making. Request a sample copy Continue Reading...
Smart Ticketing Market Value Will Climb Up To US$ 5,000 Mn during 2017-2022
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CM brought transparency in Highways dept tenders: Ponnaiyan
Posted on October 14, 2018 by NT Bureau
Chennai: Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami was the first to bring transparency in tenders for works in the Highways department, said former Minister and AIADMK leader C Ponnaiyan.
Denying he had said an appeal will be made against the High Court order for CBI enquiry in the alleged favouritism in granting tender for Highways works, Ponnaiyan today said that he was misquoted by DMK leader M K Stalin.
He clarified that DVAC is an independent institution. “I only said that there are possibilities for appeal in the order,” he said.
When DMK was in power, they followed Box Tender system. It was easy for them to grant work to their own people. However after Palaniswami became Chief Minister, he made it online. All payments were initiated through RTGS. “He was the first to implement it in the country,” Ponnaiyan said.
For maintenance of Ottanchathiran – Avinashi road, it was fixed at Rs 10 crore for one kilometre. However for the same during the DMK government, it was Rs 33 crore for one kilometre, he added.
Quoting 1962 GO, the AIADMK leader said the argument that the Chief Minister showed favouritism and awarded contracts to his relatives is not true. Those in Ramalingam Company (one who got the contract) were not his blood relative, he said and added, “During 2000, 2003, 2007 and 2010, the DMK government granted contracts for the same company.”
CHENNAI, TOP STORIES admk leader c ponnaiyan on edappadi palaniswami, chief minister edappadi palaniswami news, edappadi palaniswami admk leader c ponnaiyan, latest news, nation news, news today, newstoday
NT Bureau
India suffers batting collapse as Pant, Rahane miss century
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NextGen Dog
Why Blood Smell Triggers Reactions in Wild Dogs
Researchers have decided to look at what specific substances in blood triggers behavioral reactions in certain types of carnivorous animals, including wild dogs. Results of the study surprised scientists, as different species reacted and behaved differently when coming in contact with substances in logs.
The study has been published in the scientific journal PLOS ONE.
People find the smell of blood unpleasant, but for predatory animals it means food. When behavioural researchers at Linköping University in Sweden wanted to find out which substances of blood trigger behavioural reactions, they got some unexpected results [1].
Matthias Laska is professor of zoology, specialising in the sense of smell. For some time his focus has been on scents that directly affect the behaviour of animals.
“For predators, food scents are particularly attractive, and much of this has to do with blood. We wanted to find out which chemical components create the scent of blood,” says Matthias in a press release.
The study, conducted at Kolmården Wildlife Park, found that for the animals, one particular component of blood odour was just as engaging as the blood odour itself.
“It’s a completely new discovery that raises interesting questions on evolution,” adds Matthias.
When Prof Laska did a search for the contents of volatile substances in mammalian blood, he found nothing. Human blood has been analysed for disease markers, but we have very little information on the substances that give blood its characteristic scent.
Study of substances in blood that trigger behavioral reactions
African wild dogs compete for a log impregnated with blood or a single component. Both were equally attractive / Photo: Linköping University
A master’s student was sent to Friedrich-Alexander-Universität in Erlangen Germany, to analyse mammalian blood with the help of gas chromatography and mass spectrometry, methods used for separating and identifying chemical compounds in a sample. The machine detected some 30 substances, of which some are decomposition products from fats. But the machine lost the job to the human scent experts who had also been engaged. They identified scents that the gas chromatograph missed completely.
One substance stood out: an aldehyde called trans-4,5-epoxy-(E)-2-decenal, which emits the typical metallic scent that humans associate with blood.
Once the researchers had identified a scent candidate that the predators should be attracted to, they wanted to test whether the predators were actually attracted to it in reality. So they designed a study to be conducted at Kolmården Wildlife Park, involving four predator species. How would the four predators – Asian wild dogs, African wild dogs, South American bush dogs and Siberian tigers – react when they caught a whiff of the scent?
Half-metre long wooden logs were impregnated with four different liquids: lab-produced aldehyde, horse blood, fruit essence, and a near-odourless solvent. The animals were exposed to one scent per day in their regular enclosure, while a group of students carefully observed their behaviour.
Results of the study
The results were unequivocal. The logs containing aldehyde were just as attractive stimuli as those containing blood, while the two other logs aroused little interest. The commonest behaviours were sniffing, licking, biting, pawing and toying. The tiger was the most persistent, while the South American bush dogs lost interest more quickly than the other species.
The study is the first to show that a single component can be just as attractive as the complex odour.
“How this has developed through evolution is an interesting question. Perhaps there is a common denominator for all mammalian blood,” says Matthias.
He has plans for several follow-ups of the study, including how prey animals such as mice react to blood odour. For the wildlife park, the study provided results that can be used in its daily operations. Animals in captivity require stimulation, so as not to deteriorate or become fat. The odourised logs can be a popular addition to the animal’s environment.
Sara Nilsson, Johanna Sjöberg, Mats Amundin, Constanze Hartmann, Andrea Buettner, Matthias Laska. Behavioral Responses to Mammalian Blood Odor and a Blood Odor Component in Four Species of Large Carnivores. PLoS ONE, 2014; 9 (11): e112694 doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0112694
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New artist of the week: Glass Animals
When you hear that a band are from Oxford, it’s likely that you’ll think of a well-read bunch like Radiohead or the well-read party types like Foals. Either way, you’re thinking the same ball park – rock bands.
Step forward then, Glass Animals, a band who are not easy to pigeonhole and who definitely aren’t a rock band. They are well read though – their vocalist studied neuroscience. Their style is an enigmatic one – you won’t find a blast of power chords or a drum solo here. This four-piece’s music is sultry and modern – a post-guitar band cross of R&B, Wild Beasts and the exploratory sonics of Yorke and co. Shorthand? Experimental indie R&B.
Their last single ‘Black Mambo’ used guitar scrapes as a central sound and made for a sensual slow funk track, while B-side ‘Woozy’ featured vocals from previous New Artist Of The Week Chicago singer Jean Deaux. Their latest track ‘Gooey’ has more in common with the alternative side of R&B that’s blowing up Stateside. The song is like a weird lullaby with bubbling percussion and a pinging bass with a chorus that starts with David Bayley singing “right my little poo bear, wanna take a chance / wanna sip the smooth air / kick it in the sand” before singing about “peanut butter vibes.”
The track is executive produced by Paul Epworth, who recently worked with some singer called Adele. An EP is due to be released in April. Until then, get gooey…
Sigrid announced for Indiependence 2020
Nialler9 Friday, February 21, 2014
Jungle – ‘Busy Earnin’
The Minutes – ‘Cherry Bomb’
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By Brandon Strader, June 6, 2013 in Community
Brandon Strader
Rebellion/OK, We'll Groove Director
Maybe a little early to jump on this, but with E3 only a matter of maybe 5 days away (which will be passed before we know it), I am 99.9% certain that Final Fantasy XV is going to be announced. I think it'd be a bad move if it wasn't.
Smart money has been on Versus 13 being renamed to Final Fantasy XV, which may be the case -- we'll have to see. I hope the additional rumor that it is being moved to the PS4 is not true, although a version on PS3 and PS4 would not be bad at all.
But Square-Enix also teased (that's about all they did) at the PS4 conference about a big announcement at the upcoming E3, about a "brand new final fantasy game". I don't think that could be Versus, because they specifically said it was "new".
So this thread is for discussion of Final Fantasy XV when it is INEVITABLY announced in a few days. What would you like to see from the game in terms of art style or atmosphere?
Do you think Squeenix will be able to break away from the generic style of FF13 and "Angi's Philosophy"?
The Legendary Zoltan
I think that despite being called new, it's going to be Versus XIII renamed as XV. This not what I want but that is what I think will happen. They already have Lightning Return's coming and Versus is also a XIII game in some way I guess but really the do need to make it something completely different. For Heaven's sake, I don't want Agni's Philosophy to be a Final Fantasy game. Everything about that video felt NOT like Final Fantasy and it was way too brown and grey and AK47.
I hope I am wrong but I think we won't get anything REALLY new until FFXVI.
XPRTNovice
Workshop Evaluator
My only hope is that they'll stop driving the series into the ground with their J-Pop crap, ridiculous storylines, awful voice actors, and anything that looks, sounds, or smells anything like Snow from XIII. I want my old FF back.
Brandon Strader reacted to this
avaris
Humans + Gears Director
My head has given up on Square Enix. But my heart hasn't.
I could have said this instead.
Drachefly
I haven't played any FF after 9, so let me get this straight.
10 is the one with the sphere grid and Tidus and the summoner and the guy in the red coat who's kind of already dead, right? And Blitzball. And a continuity-maintaining sequel (wtf) that seems to mainly be a dress-up game (wtf x2 combo)
Of FF's 11, 12, and 13, I think I remember that one of them was a MMO, and one or more was written for PC instead of being console-only.
Any distinguishing characteristics that I can grab onto in my head to keep them straight? Given what was said above, it seems that none of them are worth playing anyway...
The Derrit
Dr. Robotnik (+2700)
My only hope is that they'll stop driving the series into the ground with their everything that is modern japanese culture but i don't think is because it's not what i like
fixed for you
12 has a battle system similar to Xenoblade Chronicles. The main character is annoying but the rest of the game is pretty cool. If you enjoyed Xenoblade Chronicles FF12 should be fun. It's really a lesser version of Xenoblade Chronicles IMO.
Arcadia Legends Co-Director
The distinguishing characteristic of 11 is that it's my favorite game ever along with Skies of Arcadia, but not everyone is into MMO's so it kind of got ignored. However it was very successful as far as profits go.
The distinguishing characteristic of 13 is that it's extremely divisive. It was mostly a movie and if you didn't like the characters you're going to hate it. I didn't like the characters, except Lightening. She's amazing.
14 is another MMO. Had a bad start, so they're about to release the heavily revised version featuring a different storyline called "A Realm Reborn." I think it will be pretty good.
X-2 was wacky but nifty.
Never played 10 or 12.
good job bro, thanx
Anyway, that's kind of like saying that a game that reflects Jersey Shore isn't bad because it reflects a microcosm of American culture. Plenty of shit comes out of Japan that isn't all kawaii or whatever.
Edited June 6, 2013 by XPRTNovice
I'll be the first to say what I WANT from Final Fantasy XV, although this is about as likely as Square being bought by Yahoo and becoming successful again.
I want to see it have a unique art style, what comes to mind is FF: Crystal Chronicles. Also FF9 comes to mind as something clearly different, art-wise, from every other FF game. Maybe a more cutesy style with less "photo-realism" and more focus on refined graphics and augmented environmental effects (ashes, sun rays, dust particles floating around, all that cool stuff that makes games seem really beautiful and high end)
High-end graphic quality and smoothing, not like these half-baked remakes they're doing now with all the polygons and lack of AA.
If they don't hire Nobuo Uematsu which is ideal, they should get Motoi Sakuraba.
And finally, it should be released on PC. Hopefully the new President realizes the importance of PC releases, even if Tomb Raider didn't do particularly well. I can tell you it's not because there was a PC version, if anything that would help sell more than just having it on a console.
So there's what I want.
I guess I basically just described Blue Dragon.
But if they did Blue Dragon meets FF9 and focused on better storylines and characters, I think it could be the upswing that they need, not to mention a great game.
*vision for FFXV*
I noticed this in one of the other threads about what people liked about different FFs, and I think it's really interesting to see what different people value in different games. I could ask a dozen people that question and there not be a single modicum of commonality in all of them. I wouldn't have ever thought to even bring up what Brandon just said. I just think it's interesting
Yeah well I mean it's what I'd like to see, I really loved the FF8 style and I have had that game on my mind a lot but I'm kind of weary of SE's attempts at the photo-realistic sword and gun-based game based in reality... I think they've had enough attempts at that lately and Versus 13 if it ever comes out will be that type of game... So yeah I'd like to see something completely different.
Malaki-LEGEND.sys
Donkey Kong (+2600)
Brandon, you had me until you mentioned Motoi Sakuraba. Seriously, I can't think of music more generic. Have you not heard most of his recent Tales stuff.
I think they could actually make a great Crystal Chronicles game for the Wii U if they actually grew a pair and just went balls out with it.
I haven't heard recent tales stuff. But still, I love his style, and he makes an immense amount of music. He's probably working on 3 soundtracks as we speak. I don't think he'd drop the ball with Final Fantasy
Garpocalypse
Strider Hiryu (+2100)
You know Snow was Troy Baker right? Baker was really the only voice actor I could stand in FFXIII. Well, him and the guy who did Sazh. I thought the chicks were awful for the most part.
If SE really wants to do this game right they are going to need Troy for every voice for every character in the game.
Including the women...
Edited June 6, 2013 by Garpocalypse
Troy Baker? How about Joy Behar?
Ha ha ha ha ha ha...... (ffx laugh)
What I'd like to see voice acting-wise, to go with what I posted earlier, I think they should try to find some people who sound real despite going for a more fantasy setting. Part of the problem lately has been the writing. Everything is so over the top and the way it is voiced really over-emphasizes all of the cheese. They need natural writing and natural voices. And whether they choose to represent the characters as kids or adults, they should stay away from forced "tough guy" dialogue and just keep it real.
I really like the FFX voices even if others don't. And I also thought the voices were terrible and one-dimensional in FF13 and that's basically what I am hoping they avoid for the future.
Here's SE's E3 line-up not including FF titles: http://www.videogamer.com/ps4/thief/news/square_enix_reveals_e3_2013_line-up.html
Doesn't look too interesting.
Here's more info on Murdered: http://www.computerandvideogames.com/410581/square-enix-releases-murdered-soul-suspect-details-and-trailer/
Sounds......... overly cheesy.
EDIT: But after watching the trailer it looks amazing, great voice acting, and it's on PC. I'mma get.
Edited June 6, 2013 by Brandon Strader
There's a joke in here somewhere. Still looking for it...
It's always easy to blame the voice actors but i think people should be quicker to blame the voice acting directors.
Annie Felis
Goemon (+300)
Agreed. Very often the actors are just doing what they're told to do, but not always. Yuna's rushed or stuttering lines are a result of her actress trying to mash english lines into japanese mouth movements with that a priority over acting and realism, but a director could have told her to knock that crap off and change up some lines to make them more natural. Whoever directed her in X-2 had a better clue.
Thalzon
Kirby (+1500)
I really just want some whimsy back in the series. There is something seriously dour about saying the token over-30 party member is the "old man" just because everyone else is under 20.
this is also japanese culture and something any young person would say to the oldest person in the group
legit EVERY non-gameplay related complaint in this thread has been about something a japanese person wouldn't even bat an eyelash at so what i hope everyone is realizing is that you actually don't like japanese culture (even though you think you do)
djpretzel
Because FF13 epitomizes all aspects of Japanese culture? Your theory here is all sorts of weird, as if the later FF installments could somehow encapsulate an entire people. I wouldn't presume to speak knowingly about what a Japanese person would or would not bat an eyelash at - or an American person, for that matter.
For my money, I'd summarize the problem with two bullet points:
The FF universe has not survived the move to voice acting all that well; what once was text dialogue that the reader could imbue with emotion & gravitas now leaves less to the imagination, and suffers from it. I'd rather SE spent HALF of their CG budget on A/B testing different voice actors & voice acting directors, & writers that understand the difference between written dialogue and spoken dialogue. At this point, if that's not possible, I'd prefer they just switch back to text. I actually like the system that Fire Emblem: Awakening uses, with little mini-phrases & expressions substituting for the full text of what's being said, augmenting it. OR just make it ALL in some gibberish made up language. ANYTHING is preferable to what we've been getting.
There seems to be a general, fundamental mistake that MORE ELABORATE = BETTER. It's easy to confuse intricacy with quality; I'm not saying that as FF games develop they shouldn't alter the formula a bit, but it feels like there's this false pressure to make most changes additive, when I think stripping away & making subtractive (or even regressive) changes makes a ton of sense, based on the story you're trying to tell.
I really TRIED to play FF13, but for the life of me, everything felt so elaborate but simultaneously so devoid of soul that I simply couldn't proceed. Storytelling has been at the heart of the series & is what I feel it has excelled at in most of its cherished installments. It makes no sense to attribute bad storytelling & pacing to Japanese culture when they've gotten it right so many times in the past.
Edited June 7, 2013 by djpretzel
Storytelling has been at the heart of the series & is what I feel it has excelled at in most of its cherished installments. It makes no sense to attribute bad storytelling & pacing to Japanese culture when they've gotten it right so many times in the past.
Yes. And I'm not really sure why it matters if people think they like a culture but actually don't (?) or what bearing that has on what makes a game good from the player's perspective, regardless of the player's nationality.
Lyrai
Abobo (+450)
While the second point is something I think you'll find little resistance to, I do think it very important to recall the fallout after FF13 crashed and burned. It's a bitch finding articles for it now, but I believe the CEO of the company ended up screaming at the dev team to "Stop making games you want, and start making games people want to play."
The problem seemed to be even more pinpoint than elaborate = good; it seemed to be Square-Enix getting its head stuck up it's own ass after frequent repeated colossal successes. It made them headstrong, and they continued to think their fans would pied piper them wherever. FF11's initial slam into a wall barely phased them. It took 13 and 14 being colossal failures to shake them out. Seriously, both games were such broken messes, I kept looking for the EA Logo on both.
I have 13, I'm probably going to slog through to the end, but it'll be one of the few games that I push through out of obligation (I make it a point to beat every FF possible. It started when I realized I'd already done that up to FF10)
It's just so dull. It's someone's pet project, Lightning is definitely someone's wish fulfillment waifu, the whole thing just drips that it was made to appeal to a very very very limited type of person, to the complete destruction of anyone else enjoying it.
This is probably the best summary ever.
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Consumer acculturation theory: (crossing) conceptual boundaries
Luedicke, M. K. (2011). Consumer acculturation theory: (crossing) conceptual boundaries. Consumption Markets and Culture, 14(3), pp. 223-244. doi: 10.1080/10253866.2011.574824
Consumer acculturation theorists have developed an insightful body of literature about the ways in which migrants adapt to foreign cultures via consumption. The present paper revisits 14 key studies from this field to highlight its most important contributions, critique its conceptual boundaries, and present cases of conceptual border crossings that indicate an emerging need for a broader conceptualization of the phenomenon. The paper closes by introducing a model that frames consumer acculturation as a complex system of recursive socio-cultural adaptation, and discusses its implications for future research.
This is an Accepted Manuscript of an article published by Taylor & Francis in Consumption Markets and Culture on 22 Jul 2011, available online: http://wwww.tandfonline.com/10.1080/10253866.2011.574824
Publisher Keywords:
integration, consumer acculturation, acculturation agents, social systems, assimilation, nationality, culture, migration, immigration
H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor > HD28 Management. Industrial Management
H Social Sciences > HF Commerce
https://openaccess.city.ac.uk/id/eprint/4672
PDF - Accepted Version
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Auersch, Lutz (9) (entfernen)
Zeitschriftenartikel (9) (entfernen)
Englisch (9) (entfernen)
nein (9) (entfernen)
Amplitude-distance law (1)
Blasting charge (1)
Boundary element method (1)
Components of excitation (1)
Drop height (1)
Field tests (1)
Filter effect of the soil (1)
Finite element method (1)
Ground vibration (1)
Mass drop (1)
Measurement campaigns (1)
Railway track (1)
Slab track (1)
Target stiffness (1)
Track damage (1)
Track-soil interaction (1)
Train passage (1)
Train speed (1)
Train-induced ground vibration (1)
Vehicle-track-soil interaction (1)
Wavenumber integrals (1)
Wheelset accelerations (1)
- weniger
7 Bauwerkssicherheit (7)
Track-soil dynamics – calculation and measurement of damaged and repaired slab tracks (2017)
Auersch, Lutz ; Said, Samir
The damage detection and repair control have become important tasks for ballast and slab tracks. Measurements which compare the damaged and the repaired status of the same track section at different times, or which compare a damaged and an intact track section at the same time, have been successfully performed at some sites in Germany. The loss of contact between the sleeper and the track plate, between the track plate and the base plate, and between the base plate and the base layer have been analysed. The soil properties of each site have been measured and have been used to establish realistic track-soil models. Theoretical results of the wavenumber domain and the finite-element boundary element method have been compared with the experimental results. The observed experimental and theoretical results, changes in the time histories of displacements and velocities due to train passages and in the transfer functions (receptances) due to hammer impacts, are encouraging that these measurements can be used to detect track damage.
Vehicle-track-soil interaction and train-induced ground vibration – Theory and measurements in Germany, Switzerland and France (2019)
Auersch, Lutz
Three measurement campaigns of train-induced ground vibrations are evaluated for the vehicle-track-soil interaction. Ground vibrations, track vibrations and vehicle vibrations have been measured for train passages and impulse excitation and compared with theoretical results. The soil and the track-soil system are calculated by wavenumber integrals. The influence of the vehicle is introduced by a substructure method. By comparing theory and measurement the different components of excitation force and ground vibration can be analysed, the quasi-static excitation, track-alignment errors, the out-of-roundness of wheels, the wheel and rail roughness, and moreover, scattered axle impulses and ineffective high-frequency parts of the wheelset accelerations and forces.
Vibrations of soil and foundation due to railway, blast and impact loading (2016)
The vibrations of soil and foundations are demonstrated for different types of loading. Train-induced ground vibrations are studied in a measurement campaign where a test train has run with regularly varied speeds. The measured train-induced soil vibration at 2 to 100 m distance from the track is compared with the wave propagation due to hammer excitation and with the theoretical wave field. The strong influence of the soil and the train speed on the amplitudes and frequencies of the vibration has been analysed for passages of the locomotive and the carriages. - The generation of ground vibration by strong explosions has been studied on a large testing area with sandy soil. The propagating waves were measured in a regular grid of measuring points in 10 to 1000 m. Therefore, the dominance of certain waves at certain distances and the changes of compressional waves and Rayleigh waves could clearly be observed. The results are compared with impulse hammer measurements in the range of 5 to 50 m. - A drop test facility has been built on the testing area of the Federal Institute of Materials Research and Testing (BAM). Heavy masses (containers) of up to 200 t can be dropped from 10 m height on a big reinforced concrete foundation. The foundation was instrumented by accelerometers, strain gauges and pressure cells to give information about the loading condition and by geophones to measure the vibration of the surrounding soil and building. Both excitation processes, the release of the mass and the impact, produce high vibration amplitudes. On a smaller drop foundation, the influence of the drop height and the target stiffness has been studied more systematically.
Innovation in track components: heavy sleepers on soft under-sleeper pads (2015)
Rogge, Andreas ; Auersch, Lutz
The maintenance of the transport infrastructures and their further development are going to remain focal points for investment and research in Germany in future. According to the latest development forecasts made by both the federal government and Deutsche Bahn, even if rail´s percentage share of the market were to remain unchanged, growth of around 50% would be expected in the next ten years, especially in freight traffic. This growth is necessitating considerable development both in the technical design of the tracks and in the abatement of the noise and vibration caused by railway traffic.
Methods and phenomena of single and coupled floor vibrations - Measurements in apartment and office buildings (2015)
A survey of the phenomena and methods for floor vibrations is presented. Experimental results of floor vibrations are shown for many floors in six different buildings. The signals have been evaluated for waves and modes by simple procedures. General rules have been established between the material and the area of a specific floor, and its local eigenfrequency. The damping values of the floor vibrations have been found between D = 1 and 10 % where somewhat higher values have been measured for wooden floors, and a weak correlation with the eigenfrequency has been established. The velocities of bending waves propagating in a storey and the attenuation with distance in the building have been analysed. A considerable transfer of vibration from one room to far away parts of the building has been found in the studied buildings with concrete and wooden floors. An example building has been analysed for modes of coupled floor bays. The strong coupling of similar neighbouring floor bays would yield a wide band of global resonance frequencies. The measured wooden floor exhibits a weak coupling of the neighbouring floor bays and a narrower band of eigenfrequencies. A special method has been tested with the impulse measurements to estimate the coupled eigenmodes in presence of the high damping. From the ambient measurement, a low-frequency vibration mode has been detected which includes the vibration of the whole building and the soil. The coupling of floors to other floors and the whole building is an important phenomenon of structural dynamics which should be observed for the prediction of vibration due to internal and external sources.
Realistic axle-load spectra from ground vibrations measured near railway lines (2015)
Train-induced ground vibrations are generated by static and dynamic axle loads which can be calculated by vehicle-track-soil models and the vehicle and track irregularities. A fast prediction method has been developed which uses approximate transfer functions of layered soils. In the present contribution, this prediction method is used for the inverse calculation of the axle-load spectra from the measured ground vibration. The layered soils of some measuring sites show very differing ground vibration spectra in the amplitude range of 0.0001–1.0 mm/s as a consequence of the soft layer and stiff half-space, differing layer frequencies, as well as the far- and near-field measuring points. The back-calculation, however, yields axle-load spectra within a single order of magnitude around 1 kN. Axle-box measurements confirm the amplitude level of the axle loads. This standard axle-load spectrum can be used for a basic prediction at a new site. The separation of train and site-specific components allows a better evaluation of railway vibrations, for example, of different trains and different tracks. By eliminating the effects of differing soil characteristics, an important mid-frequency component has been found which lies between 8 and 32 Hz depending on the train speed. The origin of this dominant mid-frequency component is discussed using advanced prediction methods like moving constant loads, scattered axle impulses and axle-sequence spectra.
Building response due to ground vibration - simple prediction model based on experience with detailed models and measurements (2010)
Construction work, such as pile driving and soil compaction, or road and railway traffic excite nearby buildings, and the perceptible or audible vibration can be a nuisance for nearby inhabitants. A simplified building model has been created for these situations, which includes the effects of soil-structure interaction, the low-frequency amplification along the height of the building as well as the high-frequency reduction and the floor resonances. The model consists of one wall for all supporting structures (walls and columns) and one floor for each storey. The effect of different floor resonance frequencies is included in a stochastic procedure. The soil is modelled by a spring and a viscous damper, and the free-field amplitudes of the soil are applied under this soil element. The model can be calculated by transfer matrices or in a continuous wave-type version where an analytical solution can be evaluated numerically. The building response in the high-frequency (acoustic) region is calculated as mean values over wider frequency bands. The approach to an infinite building model can be found for these high frequencies and the corresponding soil-structure transfer can be described by the ratio of impedances at foundation level. The rules for choosing the parameters to obtain realistic results are derived from complex calculations for example, for the stiffness and damping of building foundations and many measurements as for the damping of floor resonances. The influences on the floor resonance from the soil (damping) and the supporting structure (detuning) are important. Some more effects will be discussed by the simplified and detailed models and by measurements to establish a good understanding of ground-induced building vibrations.
The use and validation of measured, theoretical, and approximate point-load solutions for the prediction of train-induced vibration in homogeneous and inhomogeneous soils (2014)
The layered soil is calculated in the frequency wavenumber domain and the solutions for fixed or moving point or track loads follow as wavenumber integrals. The resulting point load solutions can be approximated by simple formula. Measurements yield the specific soil parameters for the theoretical or approximate solutions, but they can also directly provide the point-load solution (the transfer function of that site). A prediction method for the train-induced ground vibration has been developed, based on one of these site-specific transfer functions. The ground vibrations strongly depend on the regular and irregular inhomogeneity of the soil. The regular layering of the soil yields a cut-on and a resonance phenomenon, while the irregular inhomogeneity seems to be important for high-speed trains. The attenuations with the distance of the ground vibration, due to point-like excitations such as vibrator, hammer, or train-track excitations, were investigated and compared. All theoretical results were compared with measurements at conventional and high-speed railway lines, validating the approximate prediction method.
Two- and three-dimensional methods for the assessment of ballast mats, ballast plates and other isolators of railway vibration (2006)
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Compapring China With Other Civilizations Ap World History Essay
Aqsa Batool
Period 5 (Ms. Finder)
LEQ
Compare China’s influence on other civilizations (LEQ Essay)
The period from 300 to 1000 was a time of intensive exchange and interaction across Eurasia. Several civilizations stand out as major influences. Gupta India, Byzantium, and the Islamic caliphates of the Middle East were remarkable powerhouses. The years from about 600 to 1500 as the Chinese Millennium, with China as the largest, strongest, and most populous civilization in Eurasia. China's success beginning under the great Tang dynasty (618-907) would prove to be the longest lasting period of success in world history. Indeed, the Tang dynasty is regarded by many historians as the most glorious period of China's long history. The years during which the Tang empire experienced its greatest power established pattern for China that would continue throughout the Song and Ming dynasties into early modern times. Tang rule set a standard mark on many facets of Chinese life, including literature and the arts. For this reason, Tang China was admired and copied by many other peoples. During Tang rule, China had its greatest influence on eastern Asia and, at the same time, carried out active trade with peoples across Eurasia. For more than 100 years, the Tang empire stretched deep into Central Asia, and various aspects of Chinese culture spread to Korea and Japan. Buddhism flourished, linking China to a widespread religious community. Tang China was an open forum for people and ideas from many cultures. Japan, Korea, both had strong ties to China as well, and until modern times, preferred keeping their links with China over other links with other civilizations around the world.
During the 7th century Tang armies conquered much of Korea, resulting in the Korean Silla Dynasty's king recognizing the Tang emperor as his overlord. Tang forces withdrew from the peninsula, and even though Korea paid tribute to China, the Silla rulers were allowed to have a greatly deal of autonomy. Significantly, though, the tributary relationship developed in a great deal of Chinese influence diffusing to Korea. The Silla built a new capital modeled on the Tang capital, Confucian schools were founded, and Buddhism sparked a great deal of popular interest. However, unlike China, Korea never developed a bureaucracy based on merit. On the other hand, Chinese armies never invaded Japan, and even Kublai Khan's great forces could not overcome the treacherous straits that lie between Korea and Japan. The straits had isolated Japan since its beginnings, and its many islands and mountainous terrain led to separations among people who lived there. As a result, small states dominated by aristocratic clans developed, with agricultural communities developing wherever they were possible. Some Chinese influence, such as Confucianism, Buddhism, and Chinese writing characters diffused to Japan, but it remained unique in many ways.
Though the Korean people have had many cultural exchanges with...
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31 days in Italy, Switzerland & France Itinerary
Created using Inspirock Europe trip planner
Start: Sydney, Australia
Fly: 24h
Sydney (SYD) — Rome (FCO)
24h via SIN(flight time: 21h 15min)
16395 kms / 26h
Sydney (SYD) — Naples (NAP)
22h 15min via DXB
Naples (NAP) — Napoli Centrale
Napoli Centrale — Rome
Sydney — Canberra (CBR)
Canberra (CBR) — Rome (FCO)
23h 15min via SYD, DOH
Rome (FCO) — Florence (FLR)
Fastest: 2h 45min(flight time: 56min)
Venice — Trieste Aeroporto
Trieste Aeroporto — Trieste (TRS)
Trieste (TRS) — Milan Linate (LIN)
Milan Linate (LIN) — Geneva (GVA)
2h 45min non-stop(flight time: 56min)
RV: 50h 30min
Geneva (GVA) — Zurich (ZRH)
50h 30min
Zurich (ZRH) — Marseille (MRS)
Zurich — Strasbourg (SXB)
Strasbourg (SXB) — Marseille (MRS)
Nice (NCE) — Paris Orly (ORY)
Paris CDG (CDG) — Sydney (SYD)
27h via DXB(flight time: 23h 30min)
Paris — Brussels (BRU)
Brussels (BRU) — Sydney (SYD)
Paris CDG (CDG) — Newcastle (NTL)
28h via DXB, BNE
Newcastle (NTL) — Hamilton Station
Hamilton Station — Sydney
End: Sydney, Australia
Read more about Switzerland
Eternal City
Aptly nicknamed the Eternal City, Rome is the birthplace of the Roman Empire, one of the world's greatest civilizations ever.
Get some cultural insight at Colosseum and Vatican Museums. Visit Pantheon and Duomo di Orvieto for their historical value. Change things up with these side-trips from Rome: Mastro Cencio (in Civita Castellana) and Civita di Bagnoregio (in Civita di Bagnoregio). There's much more to do: explore the world behind art at Galleria Borghese, pause for some serene contemplation at Santa Maria della Vittoria, don't miss a visit to Santa Maria Sopra Minerva, and get to know the fascinating history of Piazza Navona.
For reviews, ratings, and other tourist information, you can read our Rome online driving holiday planner .
Sydney, Australia to Rome is an approximately 24-hour flight. You can also do a combination of train and flight; or do a combination of bus and flight. You'll gain 9 hours traveling from Sydney to Rome due to the time zone difference. In September, Rome is somewhat warmer than Sydney - with highs of 32°C and lows of 18°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 9th (Wed) early enough to take a train to Florence.
Vatican City, Duomo di Orvieto, Civita di Bagnoregio, Mastro Cencio
10:00am, Sat Sep 5
4:00pm, Sat Sep 5
10:00am, Mon Sep 7
Birthplace of the Italian Renaissance
Considered a cultural, artistic, and architectural jewel of Italy, Florence is the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance.
You'll explore the less-touristy side of things at Basilica di Santa Croce and Campanile di Giotto. Let the collections at Academy Of Florence Art Gallery and San Gimignano 1300 capture your imagination. Change things up with these side-trips from Florence: San Gimignano (San Gimignano Bell Tower & Piazza della Cisterna). There's lots more to do: contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, appreciate the extensive heritage of Piazza del Duomo, pause for some photo ops at Loggia dei Lanzi, and take some stellar pictures from Piazzale Michelangelo.
Plan my day in Florence using traveler tips and tourist information provided by Inspirock.
Traveling by train from Rome to Florence takes 2 hours. Alternatively, you can drive; or fly. In September in Florence, expect temperatures between 30°C during the day and 17°C at night. Cap off your sightseeing on the 12th (Sat) early enough to catch the train to Venice.
Things to do in Florence
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
12:00pm, Thu Sep 10
3:00pm, Thu Sep 10
Visit Piazza San Marco and Doge's Palace for their historical value. Get some cultural insight at Basilica di San Marco and Peggy Guggenheim Collection. There's still lots to do: explore the activities along Canal Grande, take in the architecture and atmosphere at Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, admire the masterpieces at Gallerie dell'Accademia, and admire the landmark architecture of Scala Contarini del Bovolo.
For where to stay, more things to do, maps, and other tourist information, read our Venice online trip planner .
You can take a train from Florence to Venice in 2.5 hours. Other options are to drive; or take a bus. Expect a daytime high around 29°C in September, and nighttime lows around 17°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 15th (Tue) to allow enough time to take a train to Milan.
2:30pm, Mon Sep 14
On the 16th (Wed), make a trip to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, pause for some serene contemplation at Basilica di Sant'Eustorgio, then pause for some serene contemplation at Duomo di Milano, then get to know the fascinating history of Piazza del Duomo, and finally take in the architecture and atmosphere at Chiesa di San Bernardino alle Ossa. On the 17th (Thu), you'll have a packed day of sightseeing: admire the striking features of Certosa di Milano, examine the collection at Pirelli HangarBicocca, take in the architecture and atmosphere at Chiesa di Santa Maria presso San Satiro, then explore the world behind art at Grande Museo del Duomo di Milano, and finally explore the world behind art at Bagatti Valsecchi Museum.
To see photos, reviews, where to stay, and tourist information, use the Milan trip itinerary builder website .
Getting from Venice to Milan by train takes about 2.5 hours. Other options: drive; or do a combination of train and flight. September in Milan sees daily highs of 28°C and lows of 16°C at night. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 17th (Thu) so you can travel to Geneva.
Basilica di Sant'Eustorgio
11:30am, Wed Sep 16
1:30pm, Wed Sep 16
Capital of Peace
Geneva brings the world to one small city with a huge expat population and the highest number of international organizations in any one city.
On the 18th (Fri), pause for some serene contemplation at Notre Dame Basilica, enjoy the sand and surf at Bains des Paquis, then contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Eglise Russe, and finally examine the collection at Collections Baur, Musee des Arts d’Extreme-Orient. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the next day: take in the spiritual surroundings of Cathedrale de St-Pierre, view the masterpieces at MB&F M.A.D.Gallery, look for gifts at La Chocolaterie de Geneve, then examine the collection at Musee des Suisses Dans Le Monde, and finally learn about all things military at Musee Militaire Genevois.
To see traveler tips, more things to do, ratings, and more tourist information, read our Geneva road trip planner.
You can fly from Milan to Geneva in 3 hours. Other options are to drive; or take a train. Traveling from Milan in September, expect Geneva to be slightly colder, temps between 24°C and 13°C. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 19th (Sat) so you can travel to Zurich.
Things to do in Geneva
Historic Sites Museums Beaches
Musee Militaire Genevois
10:00am, Fri Sep 18
Musee des Suisses Dans Le Monde
Cathedrale de St-Pierre
10:00am, Sat Sep 19
Big Small Town
The financial hub of Switzerland, Zurich is most often associated with money and banks.
Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the next day: contemplate the waterfront views at Lake Zurich, contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Fraumünster Church, then pause for some serene contemplation at Grossmunster, and finally take a stroll through Bahnhofstrasse.
To find reviews, more things to do, maps, and tourist information, you can read our Zurich trip planning tool .
Traveling by flight from Geneva to Zurich takes 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive; or take a train. In September in Zurich, expect temperatures between 22°C during the day and 12°C at night. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 23rd (Wed) to allow time to travel to Marseille.
Things to do in Zurich
Parks Neighborhoods Shopping
10:00am, Tue Sep 22
4:00pm, Tue Sep 22
Fraumünster Church
Gateway to Provence
The 2013 European "Capital of Culture," Marseille is the largest port city on the breezy Mediterranean coast and the second largest city in France.
On the 24th (Thu), take in the spiritual surroundings of Cathédrale La Major, take in the waterfront at Le Vieux Port, then contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, and finally see the interesting displays at Musee Granet. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the next day: contemplate in the serene atmosphere at Basilique Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, see the interesting displays at Site Memorial du Camp des Milles, then take in the spiritual surroundings of Abbaye Saint Victor, and finally pause for some serene contemplation at St. Vincent de Paul Church.
To find photos, maps, and other tourist information, use the Marseille trip site .
Traveling by flight from Zurich to Marseille takes 4.5 hours. Alternatively, you can do a combination of train and flight; or drive. Prepare for somewhat warmer weather when traveling from Zurich in September: high temperatures in Marseille hover around 30°C and lows are around 18°C. Cap off your sightseeing on the 25th (Fri) early enough to go by car to Nice.
Things to do in Marseille
Aix-en-Provence, Basilique Sainte-Marie-Madeleine
Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde
Basilique Sainte-Marie-Madeleine
Site Memorial du Camp des Milles
1:00pm, Fri Sep 25
Nissa la Bella (Nice the Beautiful)
Well-known for the beautiful views of its famous Promenade des Anglais waterfront, Nice is an ethnically-diverse coastal port city on the French Riviera and the fifth most populated city in France.
Escape the urban bustle at Coco Beach and Les Grottes de Villecroze. Deepen your sense of the past at sights like Vieille Ville and Cathedrale Sainte-Reparate. When in Nice, make a side trip to see Plage de la Nartelle in Sainte-Maxime, approximately 1h 25 min away. And it doesn't end there: admire the masterpieces at Musee d'Art Moderne Et d'Art Contemporain, stroll the grounds of Cimetiere du Chateau, pause for some serene contemplation at Eglise Armenienne Sainte-Marie de Nice, and contemplate the long history of Musee Escoffier de l'Art Culinaire.
For more things to do, maps, photos, and more tourist information, read Nice trip itinerary builder site .
You can drive from Marseille to Nice in 2.5 hours. Other options are to take a bus; or take a train. In September, daily temperatures in Nice can reach 28°C, while at night they dip to 21°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 28th (Mon) early enough to travel to Paris.
Things to do in Nice
Plage de la Nartelle, Les Grottes de Villecroze, Musee Escoffier de l'Art Culinaire
Vieille Ville
3:30pm, Sun Sep 27
Musee d'Art Moderne Et d'Art Contemporain
Palais Lascaris
Give yourself a bit of retail therapy at Champs-Elysees and Saint Germain des Pres Quarter. Take a break from the city and head to Ile Saint-Louis and Île de la Cité. When in Paris, make a side trip to see Chateau de Chantilly in Chantilly City, approximately 56 minutes away. Next up on the itinerary: admire the masterpieces at Louvre Museum, appreciate the history behind Arc de Triomphe, pause for some serene contemplation at Basilique du Sacre-Coeur de Montmartre, and see the interesting displays at Musee Nissim de Camondo.
To see ratings, photos, where to stay, and more tourist information, refer to the Paris trip itinerary maker site .
You can fly from Nice to Paris in 4 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or drive. Plan for little chillier temperatures traveling from Nice in September, with highs in Paris at 24°C and lows at 13°C. Wrap up your sightseeing by early afternoon on the 2nd (Fri) to allow time for travel back home.
Basilique du Sacre-Coeur de Montmartre
33 days in Italy & Switzerland BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES April, popular sights PREFERENCES: April ATTRACTION STYLE: Popular sights PACE: Medium 34 days in Italy, Switzerland & Paris BY A USER FROM THAILAND December, popular sights PREFERENCES: December ATTRACTION STYLE: Popular sights PACE: Medium 35 days in Europe BY A USER FROM QATAR January, popular sights PREFERENCES: January ATTRACTION STYLE: Popular sights PACE: Medium 32 days in Italy BY A USER FROM AUSTRALIA April, popular sights PREFERENCES: April ATTRACTION STYLE: Popular sights PACE: Medium 34 days in Europe BY A USER FROM AUSTRALIA March, popular sights PREFERENCES: March ATTRACTION STYLE: Popular sights PACE: Medium 35 days in Italy BY A USER FROM UNITED KINGDOM March, culture, relaxing, beaches, historic sites, wildlife, popular sights PREFERENCES: March, culture, relaxing, beaches, historic sites, wildlife ATTRACTION STYLE: Popular sights PACE: Medium 32 days in Italy BY A USER FROM SINGAPORE April, slow & easy, popular sights PREFERENCES: April ATTRACTION STYLE: Popular sights PACE: Slow & easy 30 days in Italy & France BY A USER FROM NETHERLANDS March, culture, historic sites, museums, wildlife, fast-paced, popular sights PREFERENCES: March, culture, historic sites, museums, wildlife ATTRACTION STYLE: Popular sights PACE: Fast-paced 59 days in Switzerland & France BY A USER FROM NETHERLANDS March, culture, historic sites, museums, wildlife, fast-paced, popular sights PREFERENCES: March, culture, historic sites, museums, wildlife ATTRACTION STYLE: Popular sights PACE: Fast-paced 37 days in France & Switzerland BY A USER FROM THAILAND December, popular sights PREFERENCES: December ATTRACTION STYLE: Popular sights PACE: Medium 34 days in Switzerland & Paris BY A USER FROM THAILAND December, culture, relaxing, romantic, historic sites, museums, shopping, slow & easy, popular sights PREFERENCES: December, culture, relaxing, romantic, historic sites, museums, shopping ATTRACTION STYLE: Popular sights PACE: Slow & easy 34 days in France & Ile-de-France BY A USER FROM THAILAND December, culture, relaxing, romantic, historic sites, museums, shopping, slow & easy, popular sights PREFERENCES: December, culture, relaxing, romantic, historic sites, museums, shopping ATTRACTION STYLE: Popular sights PACE: Slow & easy
The Most Romantic Things to Do in Italy
The Most Romantic Things to Do in Switzerland
The Best Nature Reserves in Italy
The Best Art Museums in Switzerland
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Cámara de Comptos (Calle Florencio Ansoleaga 10, Pamplona) — this is a 13th century medieval palace which between 1525 and 1836 was used as an auditor’s office for the Navarran kingdom. From 1941 to 1994, the building was the site of Príncipe de Viana Institution. From 1995, it went back to being the site of the Camara de Comptos. It houses a collection of Navarran coins covering all periods. Free admission. Hours: 8:00 am – 3:00 pm (daily).
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Just How Serious Is The Shale Slowdown?
There has been a lot…
Will Oil Prices Crash Or Rally When Iran Reacts?
Oil prices have soared following…
Charles Hugh Smith has been an independent journalist for 22 years. His weblog, www.oftwominds.com, draws two million visits a year with unique analyses of global…
Alternative Energy, Fossil Fuels and the Importance of Middle East Oil
By Charles Hugh Smith - Feb 02, 2011, 10:25 AM CST
Below are a series of charts that take a look at the current situation of alternative energy, oil and other fossil fuels and the importance of Middle Eastern Oil Supplies:
By. Charles Hugh Smith
Charles Hugh Smith has been an independent journalist for 22 years. His weblog, www.oftwominds.com, draws two million visits a year with unique analyses of global finance, stocks and political economy. He has written six novels and Weblogs & New Media: Marketing in Crisis and just released Survival+: Structuring Prosperity for Yourself and the Nation.
Is Peak Oil Slipping Backwards to the Year 2060 and Beyond?
How is an oil shortage like a missing cup of flour?
Anonymous on February 02 2011 said:
Very valuable article. Deserves the widest possible dissemination. It was especially interesting for me to see Iraq described as "The fulcrum of the Middle East". We can thank George Bush and his lies about WMD for that. I wonder how many billions it costs to support the foolishness he left for his confused successor.
Yes, a very interesting strategic outlook. But North America is drifting away from a strict reliance on middle eastern energy resources, thanks to the Canadian oil sands and North American natural gas resources.Obama's energy starvation policies and carbon hysteric EPA and Interior Departments are doing maximum damage to the US economy, among other Obama policies. But who's counting? :-* From Bush to Obama, from the frying pan to the fire? Friends of the US are simply out of luck, although the US' enemies are cackling right about now.
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Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh
Representing the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette newsroom and full-time faculty at Point Park University | TNG-CWA Local 38061 | Trusted news gatherers since 1934
Post-Gazette contract
Point Park Faculty CBA
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Your guild officers
Welcome to your guild
Pittsburgh Local 38061 bargains and enforces the contract for newsroom reporters, photographers, copy editors and artists at the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and the full-time faculty professors at Point Park University, who voted overwhelmingly in June 2004 to join the Pittsburgh Guild, making us the first Guild local to represent faculty at a major university.
Our office suite is on the second floor of the Regus Building next door to the Post-Gazette on the North Shore in Pittsburgh.
Four times a year, we hold general membership meetings. We don’t have an office staff, but you can contact us by phone at 412-770-3147, email at pghguild.com or by mail at 322 North Shore Drive, 2nd floor, Suite 250 Pittsburgh, PA 15212. You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh wins health care arbitration
The Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh is pleased to report that we have prevailed in our arbitration regarding the Post-Gazette’s failure to pay for health-care premium increases for the past two years (and planned to do so again in 2020).
As you know, we won the same issue at the NLRB until it was thrown out by three Trump appointees to the board in Washington. We had feared that would happen which is why we chose a two-pronged approach, a federal unfair labor practice AND a contract grievance that we took to arbitration. As it turns out, this strategy was sound, necessary and successful.
Below please find the email that the arbitrator sent to Joe Pass’ son, Joseph S. Pass, who so brilliantly argued our case with his father as one of our witnesses, and PG attorney Richard Lowe.
“The arbitrator’s ruling shows in no uncertain terms that our position was right all along,” said Michael A. Fuoco, PG reporter and Guild president. “If the company wasn’t paying millions for bad legal advice from a union-busting attorney — as evidenced by this ruling and a recent federal court ruling regarding the Teamsters — we would have had fair and equitable contracts long ago.
“Our hope is the Blocks finally wake up and see there will be no union busting and it’s time to cut their losses, get rid of Lowe and negotiate in good faith. The future of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette is at stake and we want to save it.”
Full ruling of arbitrator Jay Nadelbach
By agreement of the parties, I am providing the below Award in the above matter (as promised, by the end of this calendar year), with a full Award and Opinion to follow by mid-January, on or before January 21, 2020.
1) The grievance is arbitrable. The threshold arguments of the Employer, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, regarding timeliness and the doctrine of laches are rejected.
2) The grievance is upheld. The Employer violated the parties’ collective bargaining agreement by failing to maintain the agreed-upon health care benefits established in Article XX and as set forth in Exhibit B of the agreement.
3) The Employer is directed to pay the amount necessary to maintain the specific health insurance benefit levels set forth therein (ie., all increases that may be required to keep the contractual level of benefits), subject to and until a new collective bargaining agreement is negotiated and reached between the parties.
4) Employees shall be made whole for any out-of-pocket monies paid as a result of the Employer’s failure to maintain the contractual level of benefits.
5) This Award is final and binding. I shall retain jurisdiction, however, for the limited purpose of resolving any disputes that may arise in the implementation of the remedy granted in paragraph #4 herein.
Dated: December 30, 2019
Jay Nadelbach
Author pghguild
Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh to end successful byline strike
Federal Judge Orders Post-Gazette & Teamsters to Status Conference
One thought on “Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh wins health care arbitration”
brucenelsonblog
Absolutely wonderful news! Congratulations to everyone involved in designing your two-route strategy and in presenting a stellar case. Fingers crossed that this decision will eventually evolve into a fair contract settlement. Keep up the terrific work!
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Posts Tagged ‘University of Tübingen’
Sequencing the exomes of 1,100 patients with neurodegenerative and neuromuscular diseases: A consortium of 18 European and Australian institutions
Posted in Alzheimer's Disease, Biological Networks, Gene Regulation and Evolution, Biomarkers & Medical Diagnostics, Bone Disease and Musculoskeletal Disease, Cell Biology, Signaling & Cell Circuits, Cerebrovascular and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Chemical Genetics, Disease Biology, Small Molecules in Development of Therapeutic Drugs, Genome Biology, Genomic Testing: Methodology for Diagnosis, Innovations in Neurophysiology & Neuropsychology, Medical and Population Genetics, Molecular Genetics & Pharmaceutical, tagged Agilent Technologies, Decode Genetics, European Union, Motor neurone disease, Neurology, Neuromuscular disease, University of Tübingen on December 3, 2012| 1 Comment »
Reporter: Aviva Lev-Ari, PhD, RN
With $15.5M Grant, EU Consortium to Sequence 1,100 Exomes to Develop Diagnostics for Neurologic Diseases
By Molika Ashford
A consortium of 18 European and Australian institutions and industry partners will spend five years sequencing the exomes of 1,100 patients with neurodegenerative and neuromuscular diseases to create diagnostic panels and uncover novel therapeutic targets.
The group, known as the Neuromics Consortium, is funded with €12 million ($15.5 million) under the European Union’s seventh framework program.
Headed by the University of Tübingen, the project will involve collaboration between 12 academic centers. Iceland’s Decode Genetics will do the sequencing and will support analysis and return of results to participants. The group also plans to work with Agilent Technologies to develop and validate targeted sequencing-based diagnostic panels for specific neurologic diseases, including ataxia/paraplegias, spinal muscular atrophies and lower motor neuron diseases, and neuromuscular diseases, according to Tübingen’s Holm Graessner, the manager of the consortium.
Graessner told Clinical Sequencing News in an email that the Neuromics Consortium hopes its work will yield better diagnostic panels that can increase the diagnosis rate for ten main neurodegenerative and neuromuscular disease types — including ataxia, spastic paraplegia, Huntington’s disease, muscular dystrophy and spinal muscular atrophy — as well as provide information on genes and pathways that could inform new treatments.
According to the consortium, 30 percent to 80 percent of patients with these diseases are still undiagnosed by current single-gene tests or gene panels, and cohorts for each individual disorder are small. By combining patient groups and data from many centers and looking for commonality between some of these diseases, the consortium hopes to create diagnostics that cover a greater range of causative mutations.
While each specific disorder the group will study is relatively rare, many have overlapping manifestations, which suggest similarities in disease pathways pointing to common therapeutic strategies, according to the group.
Graessner said that the project’s whole-exome sequencing component will take place mostly in the first two years. According to the consortium’s plan, Decode Genetics — which expanded last year from array-based SNP genotyping research to a next-gen sequencing approach (CSN 11/9/2011) — will use its Illumina HiSeqs to sequence at least 1,100 subjects. The group expects this to increase the percentage of disease genes known for some of the more heterogeneous diseases in the set from about 50 percent to 80 percent.
According to Graessner, RNA sequencing is also part of the plan, as well as proteomic and other ‘omic analyses, especially as the researchers move from sequencing toward diagnostic panel development and therapeutic target research.
“We plan to [do whole-exome sequencing for] 1,100 subjects for gene identification … equally distributed over 10 disease areas,” Graessner wrote. “[This] will be done mainly in the first two years. However, for some of the diseases, such as ataxia/paraplegias, we have diagnostic panels already and in that case we [will] do the panels first and send the still unclear families for WES or WGS,” he wrote.
Graessner said that the group is just now shipping its first sample package to Decode. When this is finished the group will hold a workshop to discuss and train all the participating academic centers in the use of the Decode database for analysis of the results.
He said the team plans to work with the Halo Genomics division of Agilent, to validate diagnostic panels for ataxia, spinal muscular atrophies, lower motor neuron disease, and neuromuscular diseases. Halo was acquired by Agilent last year, and had developed an enrichment technology dubbed HaloPlex that it said was especially suited for targeted gene panels less than one megabase in size (IS 12/6/2011).
The group’s bioinformatics partner, Ariadne Genomics, will also analyze data to support the diagnostics research, as well as research on potential novel therapeutic targets, according to Graessner.
In a document describing the project, the consortium wrote that at the end of the funding period, it expects “to have elucidated the genetic basis for [more than] 80 [percent] of investigated patient groups.”
According to the group, the new genes will be added to existing databases and used to develop the first overlapping gene panel that can be used to diagnose several of these individual diseases, “overcoming time consuming and costly single gene analysis.”
Molika Ashford is a GenomeWeb contributing editor and covers personalized medicine and molecular diagnostics. E-mail her here.
Genoptix Offers Targeted Sequencing on Ion PGM to Guide Treatment Decisions for Metastatic Melanoma
March 28, 2012 / Clinical Sequencing News
Genoptix Says NGS Melanoma Test Will Not Be Used to Place Patients in Trials for Parent Novartis
March 28, 2012 / Pharmacogenomics Reporter
Baylor to Evaluate Exome Sequencing of Childhood Brain and Solid Tumors under NHGRI Grant
February 1, 2012 / Clinical Sequencing News
UNC Team to Use NHGRI Grant for Study of Exome Sequencing in Clinical Care
January 25, 2012 / Clinical Sequencing News
Startup Parabase Genomics Targets Late 2013 Launch for Targeted Sequencing Neonatal Test
October 17, 2012 / Clinical Sequencing News
http://www.genomeweb.com//node/1158076?hq_e=el&hq_m=1423834&hq_l=9&hq_v=e1df6f3681
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HomeNeighborhoodsNortheast PhiladelphiaBustletonNortheast Philadelphia: A Home For Immigrants To Live
Northeast Philadelphia: A Home For Immigrants To Live
July 7, 2017 Robert Fogarty Bustleton, Featured Stories, Fox Chase, Immigration, Somerton 0
Since the ’80s, neighborhoods such as Bustleton, Somerton and Fox Chase have become a haven for Eastern European immigrants. Signs written in Russian can be seen throughout Bustleton Avenue, which hosts many immigrant businesses.
One immigrant business featured along a strip mall at 9859 Bustleton Ave. is Palace Royal, a kosher restaurant owned by Ukrainian immigrant Steve Klipach. His restaurant not only serves Russian food, but also hosts music for the heavily emigrated section on the weekends.
“Russian [speaking] people usually start to dance from 8 p.m. to 3 o’clock in the morning,” Klipach said.
Klipach, who occasionally plays the drums for his band at his restaurant, named his business after a famous tourist attraction in his hometown of Odessa, Ukraine.
“It’s the most well known tourist attraction worldwide,” said Arthur Paley, who plays with Klipach in PR, the band name another variation of Palace Royal.
Paley has known Klipach for 30 years. Their band plays all genres of music ranging from jazz, rock and even hip-hop.
“We can expand it to the whole symphony,” Paley said.
Just next door to the Palace Royal restaurant is the New World Organization of Emigrants from Eastern Europe, a place where immigrants can learn English and gain citizenship.
Executive director Marina Lipkovskaya, who also immigrated to Bustleton from Ukraine more than a decade ago, feels the Northeast is a great place for immigrants to live.
She said the organization recently welcomed two families from the Ukraine who were persecuted because of their religious beliefs.
“Some people come as refugees of economic or political situations or disasters in their countries,” Lipkovskaya said, noting the Northeast gives immigrants a sense of security.
“Northeast Philadelphia, especially far Northeast Philadelphia is safe,” she said. “We don’t have many difficult crime situations.”
Safety and quiet was one of the pluses NWA worker Orasta Koshoik noticed when she moved to the area. Koshoik, who was born in Russia, arrived in New York seven years ago. She said the city was too fast paced for her to get accustomed too.
“I wasn’t able to breathe in New York,” Koshoik said. “I wasn’t able to breathe until I came here.”
Koshoik said that she came to the Northeast because she felt comfortable contacting people who were friends of her friends that lived here.
“I felt like myself back at home,” Koshoik said.
Koshoik is a Russian teacher at Red Lion Elementary school. She also works as the literacy program coordinator at the NWA where she teaches young children English.
Much like Koshoik, Yuliya Stupen got third party help to come to the Northeast. She received a sponsor from a family friend to come to Bustleton.
“He helped us move into an apartment,” said Stupen who moved from Ukraine in the late ’90s. “He helped us get our first car. We have been family friends ever since.”
Stupen and her family were given a two bedroom apartment to settle in when they first arrived.
“The only things that were there were the mattress and utilities,” Stupen said.
The recent Temple graduate now works as the marketing communications coordinator for the Ukrainian Selfreliance Federal Credit Union. The majority of their employees come from the Ukraine, said Anatoli Murha, the business development and marketing manager.
Since the membership of the credit union is mostly immigrants, it is able to connect with the community surrounding them.
“There is no language barrier,” Murha said.
Murha’s parents came from the Ukraine and moved to Detroit, where he was born and raised. He moved to Philadelphia six years ago for his job.
“You have a minority of employees [here] like myself who are born in the U.S. but were taught Ukrainian by their grandparents or parents,” Murha said. “So we are able to communicate on both sides of isle.”
Their credit union works with small businesses throughout the area. Many are immigrant owned.
“They [immigrants] have felt comfortable,” Murha said. “They have established businesses and they have been able to settle their own community here.”
According to U.S. Census information, that Eastern European community features the majority of Philadelphia’s Ukrainian, Russian and Belarusian population. According to the Census’ American Community Survey from 2014, 47 percent of the foreign born population living in the Northeast area are from Eastern Europe
Murha’s theory is that waves of Jewish immigrants came from Russia during the ’80s and their families came decades later.
“People can talk to each other more easily,” Murha said. “It’s easier to send an email now and say, ‘Hey we settled in the Northeast,’ as opposed to trying to make a phone call 30 years ago.”
Stupen believes that opportunity is the ultimate reason for why Eastern Europeans have settled in the Bustleton, Somerton and Fox Chase areas.
“People in the Ukraine see America as this heaven,” Stupen said.
-Text, images and video by Robert Fogarty.
Palace Royal
Robert Fogarty
Bustleton: Immigrant Businesses Booming Along Bustleton Avenue
Northeast: Brain Waste Drags Down Immigrants And Economy
Washington Square West: Reliving the Past at Pine Street Pizza
April 23, 2014 Food, Gayborhood 2
Having been in business since 1983, Pine Street Pizza, located at the intersection of 12th and Pine Streets, will celebrate its 31st anniversary on April 25. The Washington Square West neighborhood pizzeria has seen the […]
Northeast: Three Republican Candidates Fight for Council Seats
October 24, 2011 Economy, Education, Elections, Fox Chase, Government, Northeast Philadelphia, Politics, Social Issues 0
https://vimeo.com/30954860] With the fall election season underway seven City Council At-Large candidates came together recently at the WHYY studio for a political debate that, considering the stakes of the upcoming election, was a testament to […]
Immigration: Maria Sotomayor Leads Refugee And Immigrant Youth In Social Advocacy
August 7, 2018 Laura Smythe Center City, Featured Stories, Immigration, Klein Fellowship- Immigration, Rittenhouse Square, Social Issues, Special Reports 0
Immigrating to the United States from Ecuador when she was 10 years old, Maria Sotomayor quickly realized immigrants to the U.S. faced an entirely different world than she expected. “My parents had lived here before […]
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About Philip
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Sky’s the limit for new Prahran High School
Posted on Friday, January 25th, 2019 January 25, 2019 Posted in Media Releases, Philip Dalidakis MP, Sport
The Sporting Club Grants Program provides grants to assist in the purchase of sports uniforms and equipment and to improve the capacity and accessibility of Victorian clubs and other community sport and recreation organisations and increase the skills of their coaches, officials and managers. The grants provide…
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What difference is there between the 50mm in a zoom lens, a 50mm prime lens, and a 50mm macro?
I would like to know the differences between:
50mm prime lens
50mm in a zoom lens
50mm macro lens
zoom prime macro-lenses comparison
SailorCire
AnnAnn
See also these basic questions: What is a macro lens? and What is prime lens?. – Please Read Profile Jun 6 '15 at 0:06
This question is now a "hot question" - upvoters remember upvoting a question means you think it is "well researched" - which this clearly isn't. – Alec Teal Jun 6 '15 at 2:56
Let's start with what is similar with all three of these lenses:
They all have a focal length of 50mm. You should also be able to have a lot of overlapping focusing distances and aperture values.
Now, to what's different.
When it comes to a zoom lens, they tend * to have a different maximum aperture values that are smaller than with a prime. The advantage is that you can zoom in and out so if your subject looks better at 55 then you can adjust your focal length to make your picture look "better".
The prime and macro lenses are very similar however, the difference comes in the focusing distance. With a macro lens you can do macro photography. This means if you want to take some very close pictures (normally people take pictures of bugs) then you can focus to that close of a range.
With a regular prime lens your biggest advantage is cost. Most non-macro lenses are cheaper than their macro counterparts.
Also, with primes you tend * to have a faster (or larger) maximum aperture. However, unlike your zoom lens you might not be able to get the picture you want and also may be unable to take a step forward (or backwards).
Some helpful definitions:
Aperture: also known as an f-stop this affects your depth of field. The larger the f-number number, the smaller your aperture is, and the larger your depth of field will be. For some pictures you may want to have a very large depth of field and then you can see everything behind your subject in focus. The downside is, when you use a smaller aperture, then you also decrease how much light is passed through the lens.
A bigger maximum aperture isn't always better. For example, people will spend more money on a 200mm with f/2.0 vs 200mm with f/2.6. It all depends on your requirements.
Minimum focusing distance: How close an object can before it will be in focus. All lenses should be able to focus to infinity; however, it is the minimum distance that is of importance (in this case). If you want things very close to you then you need a small minimum focusing distance. A macro lens will have the smallest; however, it has the tradeoff of cost.
*not always
inkista
SailorCireSailorCire
I'm ready guys...lay it on me. – SailorCire Jun 5 '15 at 19:48
See my edits. :D – inkista Jun 5 '15 at 20:06
Good answer but you realise that 'tend' already implies that it's not always the case? You footnote baited me twice there. :) – Lilienthal Jun 5 '15 at 23:34
So the difference between a 50mm zoom and a 50mm prime is that the prime will have a better maximum aperture value, right? About prime and macro, how can the minimum focusing distance be changed when they are f the same focal length? – Ann Jun 6 '15 at 4:11
A 50mm prime will tend (yes, tend) to have a larger max aperture than a zoom. But this is not an inviolate law of nature. 50-150mm f/2.8 zooms do exist, and I happen to own a 50mm f/3.5 prime! It is quite a tiny lens however, and the 50-150mm is a big one. – Staale S Jun 6 '15 at 13:20
Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged zoom prime macro-lenses comparison or ask your own question.
What is the definition of a “prime lens”?
What is a macro lens?
Can the new Canon 35mm macro lens be used as a prime lens also?
Which scenarios are better shot with a prime lens versus zoom lens or macro lens?
Why is the 50mm prime lens the most standard?
Does a 35mm prime lens show the same bokeh as a 50mm prime lens on a cropped sensor?
Zoom Lens and Prime Lens Photo Comparison
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Legacies Miss Mystic Falls
entertainment 11 months ago
Legacies Star Talks Hope's New Ally, Roman's Return and 3 Other Twists
TVLine — Andy Swift
The annual Miss Mystic Falls pageant arrived on Thursday’s Legacies, bringing with it all the requisite drama — and leaving several fan-favorite pairings in serious jeopardy. (Hey, at least no one died this time.)
Lizzie initially had her heart set on Caroline’s former title, but when she discovered that Dana’s mother was one of the judges, she decided — much to Josie’s disappointment — that Hope was her best chance to “stick it to those townies” with a win. (Does anyone else think it’s weird that Lizzie is so anti-townie, considering she was also born and raised in Mystic Falls?) Anyway, Penelope tried to convince Josie to beat Hope, but Josie was too loyal to her sister to mess up her master plan. Furious with Josie for once again putting Lizzie first, Penelope started spilling a bunch of secrets she’s collected as of late… including that she should ask Alaric about “the merge.” Gulp.
But before Penelope left school, breaking Josie’s heart in the process (that L-bomb!), she also revealed to Landon that Hope has been lying about meeting his mother — not that “Lope” needed any more drama this week, what with Roman showing up out of the blue. (Really, Alaric? You couldn’t have hired literally anyone else?) This set off a dramatic chain of events: Landon storming out, Roman filling in as Hope’s escort, Josie calling Lizzie out for being heartless, and even Hope discovering that her dress was picked out by Klaus. The tension culminated in an emotional outburst from Hope, guided by Lizzie, who’s all too familiar with the magical side effects of trauma. Lizzie even made her a deal: “You help me get Josie back, I’ll help you get Landon.”
And speaking of getting Landon, Hope’s angry ex(?)-boyfriend ended the episode in Agent Clark’s custody, delivered by MG’s mom, who’s apparently Clark’s superior. I have to admit, it was a twist I didn’t see coming — mostly because we’d spent most of the episode worrying about the freaking Gorgon skulking around campus and turning people into stone.
Below, Danielle Rose Russell breaks down the episode’s biggest moments with TVLine, including how Roman — despite, you know, his involvement in Hayley’s death — remains a very real threat to Hope and Landon’s relationship…
TVLINE | First of all, congratulations on winning Miss Mystic Falls. How was your brief experience as a pageant girl?
[Laughs] Thanks. It’s definitely something I never want to revisit. We did that whole thing in one day, and by the end, I was just like, “I never want to see this dress again, I never want to hear ‘Miss Mystic Falls’ again, and I never want to be in another pageant.”
TVLINE | Was that the actual dress Caroline wore on The Vampire Diaries, or did they design a replica?
It was the actual dress! They got it from the Warner Brothers. archive. But the problem is, the dress was made for Candice [King], who’s about seven inches taller than me. We had to be so specific about how we shot the dress. The costume team and I did hours of fittings, trying to get it OK. For example, we couldn’t shoot it from the side, because I have about four inches of toile alone on the front and back of me. So we could only show it from the front, or else I’d look like the girl from Willy Wonka who turns into a blueberry.
TVLINE | I never thought I’d see Hope and Lizzie getting along so well. Could this be the end of their life-long feud?
You know, it could be. I was also very surprised, because in the beginning of the season, everybody thought Hope and Josie would be the ones becoming friends. I was also surprised by how much Hope and Lizzie have in common, while still being so different. They annoy each other, but they also put up with each other. It’s a fun relationship that I’d like to see explored a little bit more in Season 2.
TVLINE | Then again, I never thought I’d see Hope getting along with Roman either. Were you surprised by her behavior?
Very much so. In my head, I always want Hope to get revenge, but she really has worked so hard [to improve herself]. In the last episode, you saw that even in the middle of a dark, painful moment — seeing Landon dead — she still gave MG her blood. She had a moment of understanding that she doesn’t want to be another vengeful Mikaelson. She wants to be good, and she’s always fighting for that. You could see that Hope had a tough time coming to terms with Roman. There’s a reason why she never talks about it, but I think she has genuinely forgiven him and she’s moving on from that.
TVLINE | I guess when you’re a Mikaelson, you get used to encountering people who have murdered your relatives.
Exactly! It just happens.
TVLINE | We didn’t see Roman leave. Is he sticking around?
You’ll see him again a little bit. That relationship will come to a head, as well.
TVLINE | I get that Landon was insecure, but is there any world in which Hope genuinely sees Roman as a potential love interest?
I don’t know. I go back and forth about it, actually. I always thought the dynamic between Hope, Roman and Landon would be an interesting love triangle. So I do have an idea in my mind of how that would happen, but I’m keeping it to myself in case it does. In Hope’s right mind, I’ll say, there would be no world. But Hope is also not a vampire yet, but she could be. There are many mistakes she could make if things go sour.
TVLINE | Lastly, let’s talk about Penelope, who blew up multiple people’s lives this week. How do you feel about everything she did, and the character in general?
The relationship between Josie and Penelope, to me, has always been fascinating. I’m interested to see the fans’ reaction to Penelope leaving, though I do think that’s sort of the only way that relationship could have gone. In order to give Josie what she deserves, all of this had to happen. So I don’t hate Penelope. I think she was super clever and smart, and I was always interested to see what she would pull out of her hat. She obviously also hurt Landon and Hope’s relationship, but the truth had to come out eventually.
Your thoughts on this week’s Legacies twists? Any stand-out performances? We’ve got a lot to talk about, so hit the comments with your every reaction.
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