pred_label
stringclasses 2
values | pred_label_prob
float64 0.5
1
| wiki_prob
float64 0.25
1
| text
stringlengths 136
1M
| source
stringlengths 39
45
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
__label__cc
| 0.742727
| 0.257273
|
AfricaUtopia
Africa Utopia: The Review
The Africa Utopia is back for a third year celebrating the act and culture of one of the world’s most beautiful, dynamic and fast-growing continent. The festival looks at how Africa can lead the way in think about culture, community, business and technology and includes topics ranging from fashion, gender and power to politics, sustainability and activism.
This year’s festival features some of Africa’s greatest artistes across music, dance, literature and art. The three day event held at London’s Southbank centre features fascinating and exciting events that reflect the richness of African culture and heritage and in some cases, what to expect from African creatives’ based at home and in the diaspora.
The Festival features also interrogate key themes attributed to the narratives of the continent such as migration, and displacement through visual art and theatre.
There were lots of events lined up at Africa Utopia. Some of the features from the 3 day festival:
Through Dance, music, art and literature the festival showcased appearances from Tavaziva Dance-when king Gogo met the chameleon,
legendary drummer Tony Allen, one of the acknowledged co-founders of Afrobeat,
Senegalese super group Orchestra Baobab;
Phoebe Boswell’s Transit Terminal,
Funmi Adewole,
Maia Von Lekow,
powerfully soulful West African(Mali) singer Kassé Mady Diabaté;
Europe’s first Black and Minority Ethnic classical symphony orchestra, Chineke! and lots of others.
Fashion and food lovers were not left out as there was an African-inspired fashion, a buzzing marketplace and delicious African street food to enjoy.
Eritrean Food
Africa Utopia Friday Day Pass was an opportunity for people to participate in panel discussion, exploring African politics, technology, education and trade. Everything from disruptive innovation to the power and politics of data in Africa were discussed. A panel of writers with African roots explores migrations real and imagined, asking if we inevitably circle back to where we came from.
It was a great and colorful festival.
Image courtesy: AfricaUtopia
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line7
|
__label__cc
| 0.608587
| 0.391413
|
Before the Bigs
Preview: Sunstock Solar Festival September 9 Aug 23, 2017
Short link https://tfn.tw/9yv/
Sunstock Solar Festival is proud to announce its first wave of music programming. On the Gold Stage we will see headliners Ra Ra Riot, along with Robert DeLong, Run River North, and Wild Club. The Green Stage, focused on local bands, will feature Trapdoor Social, Freedom Fry, Bloodboy, and The Fuzzy Crystals. Additional acts will be announced soon!
For the first time, a VIP package will be available. For $50, attendees will receive separate entry, Sunstock Tote and Swag, and Access to the "Future is Bright" Lounge featuring a Sustainable Mixology Bar by Award-Winning mixologist, Robin Chopra, Free Food and Drink Tastings, Shaded Seating by Hang High and more!
The festival in partnership with GRID Alternatives will be raising funds to provide a rooftop solar installation for A Safe Place for Youth, a shelter for homeless teens on the west side.
In addition to GRID Alternatives, this year’s non-profit partners include the Sierra Club, SoCal 350 Climate Action, Climate Hawks Vote, South Bay Clean Power, Food & Water Watch, and Rootskeeper, with more to be announced soon. Media Partners include LA Weekly and Alt 98.7.
Sunstock Solar Festival impassions, educates and activates our local communities through music, art, food, discussions and more, all centered around building greener cities and better futures. The event will focus on clean energy, sustainability, and social justice in a positive, engaging way, featuring solar-powered light installations, organic food trucks, immersive art, workshops, games, sustainable vendors, social action opportunities and the headlining feature - music powered by the sun. The all-ages show intends to engage festival-goers with the causes and calls-to-action that we need to protect our future.
Tickets are now on sale! Read more for details!
What: Sunstock Solar Festival
When: Saturday September 9th 2:00pm-11:00pm
Where: Magic Box LA
Complete details, along with submissions to participate as a visual artist or vendor can be found at SunstockSolarFestival.com.
ABOUT SUNSTOCK
Sunstock began in 2016 with 2500+ Los Angelenos in attendance, with local bands including Cults, Wavves, The Allah-Las and more, and with a fundraising mission that resulted in a $10k donation of solar power to Kids Cancer Connection. The festival is non-profit, solar-powered, and focused on strengthening the LA community and sustainability movement to create a better future. Sunstock is the brainchild of Trapdoor Social, who also produce solar-powered concerts on tour around the country.
Website: http://sunstocksolarfestival.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SunstockSolFest
Twitter: @SunstockSolFest
Instagram: @SunstockSolFest
Promo Video: https://youtu.be/9UrVWc_ggaA
Latest faves (7/4-7/14)
Arroyo Seco Weekend Day 2: Magic Giant, The Mowgli's, The Revivalists, Fitz & The Tantrums, Weezer, The Shins, and Mumford & Sons
June 9-16, 2019 Favorites of the Week (Playlist)
Favorite of the Week (6/17-6/23): Gethen Jenkins, Half The Animal, Injury Reserve and more!
Latest favorites (6/24-7/3): Omar Apollo, Paco Versailles, Friendly Fires, Royal Teeth, Cold War Kids and much more!
Providing you with the best up-and-coming musicians while assisting their efforts to break into mainstream. We feature artists and their music from a variety of genres including hip-hop, indie/alternative, rock, pop mashups, and electronica/remixes.
Los Angeles, CA 90038, US
zach@beforebigs.com
© 2019 Copyright: Before the Bigs, LLC
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line26
|
__label__cc
| 0.72698
| 0.27302
|
Brink of Battle: Skirmish gaming through the ages (Review)
This is my first review where I have received a preview copy of a set of rules that are yet to be released - and also being the first person to review them. So it has been very exciting, and I hope you guys find this review informative. Feel free to post questions and comments about it and I'll answer in more detail if there is something specific that you would like to know.
“Brink of Battle: Skirmish gaming through the ages” is a pretty unique set of rules. It is not period or setting specific, instead it allows players to create their own bands of warriors and fight a skirmish battle in any year of human history from ancient times up to modern day. To achieve this without making the game too thin in theme, history is divided into 3 categories. “Ancient/Medieval”, “Early Modern” and “Modern”, each have its own set of character traits for soldiers to pick from, period specific weapons and gear.
The focus is entirely historical gaming, but perhaps the most important thing to know is that this set of rules is a toolbox for your imagination.
Both players roll D10 dice pretty much every time something happens and add various bonuses, skills, penalties, cover etc. Battles are fought on a small scale which means that players takes turns in activating , moving, shooting and fighting with their warriors one at a time. And since the game is played on a small scale, 3-20 models per side, all warriors can be very individual in how their stat line looks like, their weapons and actually conveys a sense of “Dirty Dozen” feel where you can make each soldier different and specialized to a high degree by tweaking the stat lines in the building step.
Models for this game can be 20-54mm in size, and should be single based (unless they are part of a HMG team or similar). Bases also follow a certain standard, but I think the most important thing is to have all models based the same rather than to have the exact correct size. I have for instance already a bunch of stuff based on 30mm bases when the rules recommend 25mm. I don’t think this is a game breaker.
Let’s talk details. The game includes a lot of new ideas which I think sets it apart from other wargames that I know or currently play. This make learning the rules a bit more time consuming since you don’t have the “copy pasted” flow of ideas that is so obvious in many games these days. Much thought has been put into every step, phase and rule.
Building your force
Starting with how you build your warband, perhaps the most fresh take on this formula that I have come across. There are but 3 stats for all warriors in the rules, Command, Combat and Constitution.
Then there are 3 types of forces, Elite, Standard, Horde. You also have 3 types of units – Commander, Veterans and Troopers – each with a cap of how skillful they can be in each of the 3 stats.
So when building your troops you start out by picking what type of force you want to represent. A horde of ill trained peasants for instance in a medieval uprising – then you pick the “Horde” which allows you to include lots of regular “troopers”, 1 commander and 1 veteran. Then you may have the idea of the Commander leading the angry peasant mob to be an old knight so you make him skilled and well armed – while you make the peasants weak, bad at fighting and arm them with crappy weapons. The stat lines for each single model can be different, this is the beauty of this system. Each point of each skill costs a certain amount of “Supply Points”, so you can tweak your warband to be truly unique in composition. You may have one peasant armed with a bow to have a hunter skill and be a good shoot, another peasant may really suck at fighting but have a great constitution and be hard to wound, while a third may be a great fighting but very weak and unable to carry more than a single weapon.
Models in this game are armed according to the “What you see is what you get” (WYSIWYG) rule. So a peasant armed with a spear and tunic will have gear matching his looks. The gear in the book covers pretty much everything you can think of. Most weapons are grouped into categories, for instance the weapon profile of “Cleaver” includes hand weapons that you can chop up your enemies with – including all types of battle axes and heavy single edged swords. The name is but a term under which a lot of different stuff is organized. (The rules actually suggest that you rename the Gear to what you like if you find it “offensive” – so if your peasant general has a Broadsword then just write “Broadsword (Cleaver)” in his unit profile.
The 3 stats Command/Combat/Constitution have several purposes in the game. The constitution number tells you how resistant your soldier is to damage, but also the amount of “gear” he can carry. Command is used to determine how many “tactical points” your commander will generate at the start of each turn but most importantly the morale of a soldier and how he will cope with the mental strain of war. The Combat rating is used to determine how well your soldier handles weapons – but also to which degree he has the skill to avoid injury. All stats are can range from 1-7 and also be increased by additional traits.
The various phases of the game
The game is divided into several phases each turn.
“The Sitrep phase”
Rout Checks – Check whether any side breaks and retreats from battle
Psychology Checks – Check the individual state of panicking soldiers
Random Movement – Sometimes models move out of your control
Recover Shocked models – Soldiers attempt to rally
“Order Phase”
Strategy check – players roll for initiative or “The Edge”. The player who wins will be able to activate first during this turn. The player who lost will receive 1 “Break” action which can be used once per turn to disrupt enemy movement. Very similar to an overwatch action.
Smoke removal - Remove smoke markers generated by weapons or smoke ammunition from the table.
Generate tactical pool – At the start of battle each player gets an equal amount of “activation” tokens as his commander has “Command” rating. You add +3 activation tokens if you won the initiative this turn.
Order actions – Players take turns in placing tokens next to the models they want to activate this turn.
“Exacuting action phase”
This is where the game begins, players take turns in activating one model at a time – from the models that received an order token at the start of the turn. Actions are divided into “combat“ and “standard actions”. The first include 6 different combat actions, such as charging, moving and shooting, taking aim etc. The 6 standard actions include such things as climbing, running, moving , ambushing and so on. Also unless you order a panicking soldier currently fleeing to “steady” he will keep running in a random direction in the next “Sit Rep – Random movement” phase.
Playing the game
So we have built our warband, and generated command points, placed orders and are ready to fight.
The primary stat used here is Combat + rolling a D10 and add the two together. A soldier with Combat 3 rolls 8 on a D10, hence his combat amounts to 11. In the meantime, the opponent rolls to avoid damage. The opponent rolls a D10 and adds half of his Combat rating value to defend himself. If concealed the opponent would roll his full Combat rating in defense, and if in Cover he would roll 2D10 and pick the highest result.
The side which rolls highest wins, be it a successful hit, or dodging a bullet. As you can imagine, Elite warriors will have the edge over untrained mobs (but they will be severely outnumbered). Once hit you roll again to see if you manage to stun or wound your opponent. Here the attacker rolls 1D10 and add the weapon strength while the defender rolls 1D10 and add his constitution. If the defender has his result beaten by 5 or more, the attacker has wounded your model and it is removed from play. If the defender lost by less than 5 his model received a flesh wound and is classed as “stunned”, this state makes the model unable to activate this turn and it has to recover at the start of the next turn.
Cover (hard objects like wood/stone), Concealment (bushes, long grass, smoke etc) and range penalties all come into play as well and affect the attack rolls in an appropriate way and satisfying way. Defenders most definitely benefit from cover as it both gives them 2D10 in defense and allow them full Combat while rolling their defensive value. As the attacker it makes sense to sacrifice Rate of Fire to increase your Combat skill to become more accurate. Blackpowder weapons also have the benefit of creating concealment when fired as the nearby area is covered in smoke.
Weapons, traits and gear
As already mentioned the game is divided into Ancient/Medieval (3000BC – 1450AD , Early Modern (1450AD-1880AD) and Modern (1880- present day). Each period has weapons and traits. You start out with rather archaic weapons in the first period, and then early blackpowder weapons are introduced until you get to machineguns of modern day battles. The neat thing here is that the it is realized that traits, tactics, ideas, skills and technology from the past carries over into the future. As such commanders from the modern period may sport skills available to commanders of the ancient era as well. But of course ancient commanders are clueless about what the future holds.
Weapons have a Rate of Fire, which actually indicates how fast a weapon reloads, how easy it is to handle etc than amount of bullets fired as such. In Brink of Battle you roll and equal amount of D10 dice as you have Rate of Fire in the weapon profile, and then pick the highest result and use that to roll to wound. To do damage with ranged weapons the basic “damage” profile of the weapon is used along with a D10.
Close combat weapons roll 1D10 to hit, but use the damage rating of the weapon + the constitution of the attacker added together and a D10 on top of that. The defender uses his constitution and any armor he might be wearing and combine those two values with a D10 to prevent being wounded. Also, in close combat, the defender always gets to use their full Combat rating when rolling to avoid damage.
As for ranges, everything is measured in inches, and ranged weapons have “point blank”, “effective range” and “long range”. Point blank is pretty much shooting someone in the face, the opponent does not benefit from concealment and cover defensive bonuses are also reduced. Effective range is the regular range of your weapon, no bonus or penalty applies when firing this way. Long range is any shot over 20” in which case it becomes harder to hit your opponent. Weapons have a maximum range of 2x Effective range.
Ranged weapons can also misfire or run out of ammo whenever you roll a 1 to hit, in which case a “weapon check” is made. If you pass it the shot is fired as normal, if failed the shot never goes off.
Winning/Losing battles
Claiming objectives that you’ve made up for your game is one way to win, another is if you or the enemy force simply breaks and withdraw from combat due to mounting casualty numbers. In Brink of Battle each force is allowed to take up to 25% casualties before force morale comes into play. If any or both players have lost more than 25% of their troops then each player rolls 1D0 at the start of the next turn and add either the “Command” rating of their Commander or if he is dead, a Veteran warrior – or if none of those are left then a single D10 without modifiers.
The better command your leader has the more likely your force is to stay in the fight.
Thus a commander with Command rating 7 would roll 1D10 and add 7 to the outcome. The opponent also rolls an opposing roll at the same time, 1D10 + the number of models you have lost and add those two together. If you have lost 4 models it would be 1D10 + 4 against you, and should he roll higher than your result – your force breaks and leaves the battlefield.
Campaign games and “after action report” phase
As this game leans towards campaign gaming as well, there are a number of very cool additional features. Soldiers are able to earn experience if they survive the battle and have inflicted casualties to enemy troops, you get resupply points to spend on new recruits and extra gear and such. What I think is the most exciting part is what happened to your wounded models as they were removed from table. After the battle, if you want to play a campaign game, you roll on a chart for each soldier that was removed from play and see what has happened to him. Here the results range from light and severe wounds to being killed or actually “Missing in action”.
Injuries reduce stats and traits, getting killed is kinda obvious – however the “Missing in action” means that a soldier has been captured by the enemy. This leaves the player holding the prisoner with a couple of possibilities. Either he can execute the captive – and take the gear from the corpse. The captive can be turned over for interrogation and your warband receives 25% of the models Supply Points to add to their own force for their trouble. Or you can make a prisoner exchange with your opponent for one of your own MIA soldiers. I think this is a really neat and unique twist.
Overall impressions
The game mechanics feel very innovative and fresh. There is certainly something about the way hits/saves are handled in this game that make it a bit more dynamic than having a static save. The pace is pretty high as both players are involved all the time in almost every action – each player rolling dice to succeed or prevent something from happening. There are a lot of modifiers and tweaks built into this game but everything is made easy by being consistent.
Combat ratings are divided by 2 when defending in the open, long range penalty is also Combat divided by 2. Concealment allows full Combat rating in defense, Cover allows 2 defensive dice to be rolled and most other stats and attributes are also easy to memorize. The whole is made a lot easier to keep track off since you only have 3 stats for each model – Combat, Command and Constitution – all of which are used for various checks and provide multiple ingame uses.
Combat is used to attack and defend, Constitution to carry stuff and survive hits, Command to generate a pool of tactical markers and when rolling for morale. Long range for all weapons work the same, point blank for all weapons work the same – it is just a simple case of learning what Long range is (2x Effective range). Stats for weapons and characters becomes pretty short and compact this way.
Movement and the way terrain works is all standardized. Traits add flavor to individuals that are meant to stand out. Customizing each soldier to have appropriate Command, Combat and Constitution ratings gives you the ability to write your force in detail.
The book is focused on historical skirmish games for now. Infantry and cavalry rules are there. Vehicles will be added in expansions and there are thoughts about a Fantasy/Sci Fi supplement as well in the future. But this book is pretty much all you need to play a game from ancient times up to Modern warfare. A perfect system for those out there that already have a ton of different miniatures and who don’t want to get into another “range” just to play a new set of rules. This book if anything encourages you to use whatever you already have at home – or just buy random models that you always wanted but could not find any use for in your other games.
The rules are well written and detailed, there are well explained profiles for weapons and traits, a clear division between the 3 provided periods and you also have a very nice collection of charts at the back of the book that summarize all the points costs for ratings, traits, weapons (and what profiles they contain) etc.
The game is, as already mentioned, a toolbox for your imagination. Although it comes with 3 scenarios it is meant to be used by players who want to create their own campaigns and stories.
The lack of proper pictures is obviously explained by the rules being written to be generic – as such you get stylistic silhouettes in all the explanatory pictures and diagrams.
I hope I have given a good picture of what can be expected from the game and given a bit of insight on the game mechanics. I will elaborate on how results are generated in a bit more detail in an upcoming battle report which will be posted tomorrow.
Brink of Battle will be released on March 19th, and the price will be 29.95 USD. The books is 135 pages, paperback and A4 size. It will be available through www.brinkofbattle.com as well as through www.lulu.com
Also check out the flyer explaining the idea behind this set of rules http://www.lead-adventure.de/downloads/BrinkofBattle_MarketingRelease.pdf
Labels: Brink of Battle, Rules review
Faust March 6, 2012 at 9:24 AM
Much thanks for the kind words and high quality review!
Robert Faust
Good review and sounds like an interesting set of rules.
I appreciate that it's difficult, due to these being non-period specific, but how do they stack up against other rule systems?
Anatoli March 6, 2012 at 9:46 AM
@Arlequin, it is completely different from any other system I play. Mainly because the way the 3 stats work, how you build your team and the use of D10 dice. And of course the rules being non-period specific and actually written in such a way that it works and functions on all levels makes this a one stop set of rules for pretty much anything historical you might want to play on a skirmish level.
I have already planned to play and make battle reports from all 3 periods to show how it works. Battle reports will be posted as soon as games are played.
First out will be a French Indian War (Early Modern) game, already played and written so expect it to be posted tomorrow. Then I hope to follow that up with WW2 and medieval period games.
Byteknight March 6, 2012 at 12:36 PM
How easy do you think it would be to add-on with house rules for futuristic weapons? (blasters, phasers, etc)
Ray Rousell March 6, 2012 at 2:32 PM
Hhmm? These sound very interesting!!!
Anatoli March 6, 2012 at 4:11 PM
@Byteknight, it would work. The whole idea behind the rules is that soldiers through time are basically the same - human beings with varied training and physical attributes with the big change being weapons, traits and tactics.
So you could use the rules to create a futuristic warband for a Fallout or Deus Ex like setting. It would take some imagination to write up profiles for weapons such as lasers etc. But most of the rules would work "out of the box" so to speak.
As mentioned in the review, a fantasy and sci fi expansion supplement will be released and work together with the basic "historical" themed rules.
Faust March 6, 2012 at 4:57 PM
Just a note here regarding sci-fi weapons; I have them all mostly worked out. In the next few months, once people have had an opportunity to play the game, I will post the rough draft for futuristic weapons and armor on my website at www.brinkofbattle.com
When we wanted to goof around during playtesting, we would play the Modern period and use our sci-fi minis as proxies. It still worked just fine. I just used Assualt Rifles for my Gauss Rifles and Heavy Armor for my Traveller Marines in Battledress. But don't worry, I have full rules in the works for a kick ass sci-fi release. :}
Eddie March 6, 2012 at 6:07 PM
I love this idea. I currently have "This Very Ground" for my french and indian period. Can't wait to see your batrep with that period using these rules. Are there rules for cannons and such? Or will that come into play with the vehicle expansion?
@Eddie, no rules for cannons. Grenades, smoke grenades, Machineguns, and all kinds of small arms are included. But no cannons, artillery or vehicles yet.
This Very Ground is still good for larger battles, but Brink of War is excellent for smaller more irregular formations and raiding parties.
scotty March 6, 2012 at 9:27 PM
Great review. These seem very interesting. Could be what I am looking for, for my VBCW games
Faust March 6, 2012 at 11:12 PM
@Eddie - For now, I've kept it to mostly man portable weapons. Next year I will release Treadhead which is the vehicle expansion. It will cover heavier stuff.
The core concept of my development is this: Once the skirmish game gains traction with players, I will have a poll to determine which historical micro-set to release. So let's say the poll says French & Indian war; I'd then put together a PDF release that would cover in more detail that conflict within the overall period.
The Fantasy supplement Epic Heroes is scheduled to release by Thanksgiving (November) of this year. After the main rules have had some sales, I'll be asking for play testers on the Fantasy rules.
Should Brink of Battle prove popular enough, I will then release my larger battle game that will work off a modified version of this system.
Smillie March 7, 2012 at 11:35 PM
Nice review, the system sounds interesting
Faust March 10, 2012 at 6:17 PM
We just posted the Force Rosters for download, as well as the Tables from the book that list the Ratings, Traits & Gear.
Go to the resources page at www.brinkofbattle.com to see them!
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line30
|
__label__wiki
| 0.568228
| 0.568228
|
Mumbai: Cars do vanishing...
Fire brigade begins crack...
Alpesh Thakor Will Soon J...
Second Vande Bharat Expre...
Asaduddin Owaisi Said Ami...
Admin Reporter- Ajay
Delhi University Third Cutoff List 2019 Released, Know In Details
Delhi,09,July,2019
Delhi University's third cut-off will give students an opportunity to get admission in commerce and science programs. Most of the Humanities programs have been closed for general category in many colleges. Programs in this list of colleges in North and South Campus have reduced from 25% to .5%, few colleges have kept it between 1% and 2%. Students on this list can get admission till 11th July. The next list will be on July 15. 44 thousand admissions have been made for 61500 seats of undergraduate courses based on merit based in DU. However, many colleges have more admissions than the seats in the Humanities program, according to which 20 thousand seats are vacant.
Science in Eco, SRCC and KMC in Miranda In some colleges, including the Hindu College, Miranda, LCR, ARSD, Kirori Kamal, the seats for the general are still left. In Miranda House where Eco Honors is at the last cut-off of 97.75%, 96.25% (.25% less) in social engineering, 97.5% in Geography Honors and 94% (.5% less) in Philosophy will get admission to the students. Physics, Zoology, Botany Honors are also open here. At the same time, Dr. Pramila Kumar, the principal of Gargi College told that this cutoff has come down to .25% in BCom, it is at 95%. There are only few seats remaining in BCom Honors, so it has been kept at 96.25%. Maths Honors 94.75%, Chemistry 94.33% and Physics Hons fell 1% to 95%. SRCC has also opened the BCom Honors for General at 97.75% in its third cutoff list, with a fall of 25%. Principal Dr. Simrat Kaur told that fewer seats are available for this course, However, there is scope for reservation category. Kirori Mal College has reduced English to 96% and Eco to 97.5% with a decrease of 5% for general category. Both Bcom and BCom Honors are open at 97%. Physics 96.33%, chemistry 95.66% and Maths Honors 96.5% will be admired in this list.
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line37
|
__label__cc
| 0.531477
| 0.468523
|
Forum - Are Silicon Valley Workers Abandoning Libertarianism For Socialism?
By EditorDavid from Slashdot's IDE-ideologies department:
Salon writes that Silicon Valley tech workers are "defying their overlords," arguing that recent unionization attempts by Kickstarter employees may be only the beginning:
The workers' Kickstarter campaign is not the first attempt, though, or even the first time rumblings of unionization, have circulated among programmers. In 2018, software engineers at the startup Lanetix announced their intent to unionize -- and were promptly fired by management (It is illegal to fire employees for trying to unionize). The National Labor Relations Board intervened, and ultimately forced Lanetix to pay the 15 fired engineers a total of $775,000. The show of worker power at Lanetix may have paved the way for Kickstarter's workers. Similarly, workers across the video game industry -- generally among the most overworked, underpaid workers within the tech industry -- have been making steps towards unionization. Game Workers Unite, profiled by Salon last year, is building a grassroots movement to organize the ranks of video game makers.
Together, this suggests that a small but visible movement for white-collar software engineers unionizing has been gaining steam in the Valley over the past few years -- suggesting that the people who make up the tech industry, once a bastion of libertarianism, are starting to understand the often subtle ways that their employers exploit them... For decades, libertarianism was part and parcel to the tech industry. Despite a grueling work culture and a high-profile collusion scandal among major tech corporations to suppress software engineers' wages, tech workers were more likely to see themselves as future founders than an exploited underclass -- a point of view encouraged by employers through high wages and generous, often absurd office perks. Recent developments suggest such endearing tactics are no longer working.
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line41
|
__label__cc
| 0.724255
| 0.275745
|
Development Consulting
Art For Life
Project Outputs
Vertical Brochures
Banglanatak Youtube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/user/banglanatak
Akhra@Baitanik
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEtrmLzUTpxLYCecNdGcKLQ
banglanatak dot com
https://www.facebook.com/Banglanatak-dot-com-1517150615199176/
TourEast:
https://www.facebook.com/villagefestivals/?fref=ts
MusiCal:
https://www.facebook.com/MusiCal-1546624375552582/?fref=ts
Bengal Craft Hubs:
https://www.facebook.com/Bengal-Craft-Hubs-1377119429274795/?fref=ts
Akhra@Baitanik:
https://www.facebook.com/AkhraAtBaitanik/?fref=ts
Sur Jahan:
https://www.facebook.com/Sur-Jahan-101231333629782/?ref=br_rs
Biswa Bangla Haat:
https://www.facebook.com/RCCH-at-Biswa-Bangla-Haat-913844122085239/
Be Alert Raise Alarm
https://www.facebook.com/IfightTIP/
KEY Campaign
https://www.facebook.com/groups/keycampaign/?fref=ts
Green Champions:
https://www.facebook.com/greenearthcause/?fref=ts
Madurkathi:
https://www.facebook.com/Madurkathi-Weaving-Bengal-with-the-World-1519389701694611/?fref=ts
Air Quality:
https://www.facebook.com/Kolkatas-Air-Quality-1624924817804409/?hc_ref=SEARCH&fref=nf
https://www.facebook.com/Women-Empowered-1523765741254628/
Revival of Sholacraft in West Bengal
https://www.facebook.com/Shola-Craft-904196613305761/?ref=settings
https://www.instagram.com/banglanatakdotcom/
https://twitter.com/ifightTIP
https://twitter.com/banglanatak
Banglanatak Blog
http://contactbase.blogspot.in/
188/89, Prince Anwar Shah Road, Kolkata - 700045
58/114 Prince Anwar Shah Road, Kolkata-700045
Delhi Office Address:
E-781, Chittaranjan Park, New Delhi - 110019
Goa Office Address:
Rio Sol Tower
Flat No - 31 , 3rd Floor, Campal, Panjim, Goa - 403001
Rajyashree Mukherjee (Resident Representative)
Phone : +91 9800403759
Purulia Office Address:
S.K. Bechu Lane, Huchuk Para, Purulia - 713101
Prabir Banerjee (Regional Manager)
Landline: +91 03252 222134
Nimdih Office Address:
Nimdih, Seraikela Kharswan, Jharkhand - 832401
Rural Craft and Cultural Hubs (RCCH): To Contact Folk Artists and Crafts Persons, call:
Nirmalya Roy
Landline: +91 33 40047483
Moumita Kundu
Mobile: + 91 8420106396
TourEast : Visiting artist villages
MusiCal : Performance at Akhra and Musical Collaboration
Debalina Bhowmick
Arpan Thakur Chakraborty
Ours is a turbo charged work environment where passion runs high. We are an equal opportunity workplace and summarily apolitical. Here roles are offered with no cap on one’s ability to own responsibilities and demonstrate leadership capability. Candidates should be ready to travel and may be required to stay at project locations for a short duration
+ Work with us
Shows the pop up section when set to on. And make sure give an id name in menu link section instead of URL
Cookies are files with small amount of data, which may include an anonymous unique identifier. Cookies are sent to your browser from a web site and stored on your computer's hard drive. Like many sites, we use "cookies" to collect information. You can instruct your browser to refuse all cookies or to indicate when a cookie is being sent. However, if you do not accept cookies, you may not be able to use some portions of our Site.
Rallying students against trafficking & child marriage
Swayangsiddha aims to trigger student and youth-led action against trafficking in persons (TIP) and child marriage. Undertaken in association with UNICEF, the initiative is being supported by the West Bengal Government and West Bengal Police. Launched on 18 July, 2017, it is covering 118 schools in the district of South 24 Parganas within 31 August. The next phase, covering 72 more schools, will start after the Puja festivities. The objective is to sensitize students about the various ploys and tactics of human traffickers and their agents as well as the dangers of underage marriage. This can help them to remain alert and combat the twin menace, safeguarding the rights of girls and children. The campaign has already yielded results. Quite a few youngsters provided crucial leads to the police that led to the arrest of traffickers.
www.swayangsiddha.org
www.facebook.com/SwayangsiddhaWBP
banglanatak dot com is the umbrella brand shared by i-land informatics Ltd - a Company and Contact Base - a Society. We are a social enterprise working across India with a mission to foster pro-poor growth and protect and uphold the rights of women, children and indigenous communities. We specialise in communication for development (C4D) using theatre, and developing community-led creative industries based on intangible cultural heritage like performing arts and crafts.
www.banglanatak.com
www.folklibrary.com
www.madurofbengal.com
www.rcchbengal.com
bncmusical.co.in
www.madhubaniart.co.in
www.ruralcrafthub.com
www.toureast.in
www.naturallybengal.com
Designed & Developed By Mad Earth Design and
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line45
|
__label__cc
| 0.660698
| 0.339302
|
3 Bros Barker
Diplo Net Worth
Thomas Wesley Pentz Jr. who is broadly known as “Diplo” is an American DJ and record maker. He is the co-maker and one of the main individuals from Major Lazer which is an electronic music dancehall venture. Diplo is additionally a crucial individual from another super gathering called LSD. Sia and Labrinth additionally work with Thomas. Aside from his music profession, Diplo likewise remained an educator in Philadelphia.
Thomas likewise worked with M.I.A an English entertainer who acquainted him with the music world. Amid his profession, he worked with numerous stars including M.I.A, Gwen Stefani, Justin Bieber, Shakira, Britney Lances, Trippie Redd, Terrible Bunny, Madonna and Beyoncé. He embraced his stage name “Diplo” from his enthusiasm with dinosaurs.
Diplo’s net worth is $26 million in 2019.
Early Life:
Diplo was born on November 10th, 1978. In 1978 in the territory of Mississippi. Diplo’s dad and mom names are Thomas Pentz and Barbara Jean individually. Diplo burned through the vast majority of his adolescent and youth life in Miami. He took affirmation in the University of Central Florida in the year 1997. Subsequent to finishing contemplates from the University of Florida, Thomas moved to Temple University to additionally carry on his examinations. This is indistinguishable college from where he got consideration from a DJ.
In 2003, Diplo and his individual DJ Low Budget used to toss parties. As these gatherings ended up effective, the pair discharged their diverse mixtapes. “Never Scared”, was one of those mixtapes that made it to one of The New York Times’ main ten collections of 2003.
Diplo wedded Kathryn Lockhart and he has two children with her. He likes football and cricket.
Prior to coming into the music world, when he was concentrate from Temple University, he used to do diverse employments to procure his vocation. He was a social laborer in his town. He likewise filled in as a cinema representative. Those days were tough to the point that he didn’t have the house lease to pay. Thus, Thomas and his similarly invested companions DJ Low Budget began their very own work. They made “Hollertronix”. Under the sign of “Hollertronix”, “Never Scared” mixtape was propelled by both the DJs which was a super hit.
In 2004, Diplo propelled his performance make a big appearance collection with the assistance of “Big Data”. The collection concentrated more on tune and instruments. From that point forward, he completed a ton of impressive work in the realm of music. “Piracy Funds Terrorism”, Vol. 1 mixtape is a standout amongst the most acclaimed works of Diplo. He discharged the mixtape in 2004.
As referenced above, Diplo worked with numerous universal VIPs. “Camila Cabello, Quavo”, and “Travis Scott”, that’s only the tip of the iceberg. In 2017, he discharged many singles under his name.
Diplo’s Net Worth:
Diplo’s net worth in 2019 is evaluated at around $26 million.Show 102550100 entriesSearch:
$26 Million dollars
Full Name: Thomas Wesley Pentz Jr.
Country of Origin: Tupelo, Mississippi, U.S.
Date of birth: November 10, 1978
Source of wealth: DJ/Record Producer
Partner: Kathryn Lockhart (ex)
Last Updated: 2019
Lindsay Lohan Net Worth
Chad Hurley Net Worth
Post Malone Net Worth
Sergey Brin Net Worth
Trevor Noah Net Worth
Fun Facts: Bryson Robinson
Fun Facts: Garren Lake
Fun Facts: OBB
Fun Facts: Jason Drucker
Fun Facts: Xena: Warrior Princess
Rising star Cameron Boyce Dies at 20
Lil Nas X Comes Out as Gay
The Band in the Verizon Wireless Commercial
The Vamps want to collaborate with The Chainsmokers.
Cole Sprouse opens up about Luke Perry’s death
DIPLO TO THROW 2-DAY MAD DECENT BLOCK PARTY
THE MANNEQUIN CHALLENGE in 2019?
Chris Pratt on DEFENSE
‘So far gone’ to stream
GAGA defends CARDI
© 2018 barkerrr.com
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line47
|
__label__wiki
| 0.970171
| 0.970171
|
Red Army Bet
Brian McClair
RedArmyBet Home
What are United’s best and worst case group stage scenarios?
As the Champions League draw is set to take place, who could United face?
Ben Ibson | 29th August 2018
Whilst Champions League qualifiers have been underway for over a month now, the true action is about to begin as the most exciting competition in club football gears up to make its return.
The Champions League draw will take place on Thursday in Monaco and after a slow start to the Premier League season, United fans will be anxiously watching the draw and hoping for a painless group. Albeit Jose Mourinho’s team are in pot two and will have to take on one of Europe’s best.
Follow RedArmyBet on Twitter here
Despite coming up against the likes of Benfica, FC Basel and CSKA Moscow in the group stage, then topping the group with 15 points out of a possible 18, United still managed to crash out of the tournament in the round of 16 last season.
Juan Mata along with the rest of the squad were disappointed with the way they left the competition last year.
Mourinho’s side looked like a threat, but after two poor performances against Spanish side Sevilla, the Reds bid farewell to one of the biggest competitions in world football.
Ahead of the draw, RedArmyBet takes a look at the best and worst case scenario for United.
Best draw
Lokomotiv Moscow, PSV Eindhoven and Viktoria Plzen
Depending on results of tonight’s qualifying matches, United could also face the likes of Salzburg, Red Star Belgrade, PAOK Salonika or BATE Borisov in a favourable draw.
Out of the first pot fans will be hoping for Lokomotiv Moscow who despite being champions of the Russian Premier League, crashed out of the Europa League last season in the round of 16.
Although PSV Eindhoven did claim victory over the Reds back in 2015, the side have failed to get out of the group stage since and could not get further than the qualifying round of the Europa League last season, meaning that they could be a good side to face in the Champions League.
Viktoria Plzen meanwhile have not been a part of the Champions League group stage since the 2013/14 season and are relatively inexperienced in the tournament.
RedArmyBet is the only bookmakers that share 50% of net profits directly with United fans.
Worst draw
Real Madrid, Monaco and Internazionale
The likes of Bayern Munich, Barcelona, Schalke and Ajax could also await.
Despite only winning two La Liga titles in the last eight years, never underestimate Los Blancos. They have exceptional form in this competition and despite no Cristiano Ronaldo, the team still have the talent to dominate Europe.
Likewise Monaco are a side that could challenge in Europe this year. After securing a Ligue 1 title back in 2016/17, Leonardo Jarim will want success in the Champions League in order to keep up with French rivals Paris Saint-Germain.
Despite a poor decline since their last European victory in 2010, Internazionale are finally back in the Champions League for the first time in seven seasons and will want to make their mark on the competition after such a long absence.
Real Madrid defeated Liverpool in last year’s Champions League final.
United comfortably qualified for the Champions League after finishing second in the Premier League table – unfortunately a huge gap of 19 points separated them from League leaders Manchester City.
Manager Mourinho will be closely watching the draw on Thursday, anticipating a Champions League run that can revive his career at United.
Since United’s last victory in Europe back in 2008, the Reds have struggled with Champions League football, along with their manager who last won the competition eight years ago.
Whilst fans will be hoping for an easy ride in the group stage, that doesn’t always guarantee a free pass into the round of 16 or beyond.
Perhaps a tough group stage for the Reds could bring out the best in their top players, and victory over some of the biggest names in Europe could be a great boost for morale at Old Trafford.
The likes of Paul Pogba and Romelu Lukaku will have had enough time to recover from their World Cup run this summer by the time the Champions League begins and could produce some of their greatest football. United’s stars are struggling to shine in the Premier League, but can they stand up and be counted against European giants?
If United fail to perform in the Champions League as well as the Premier League, will United and Ed Woodward stick with Jose Mourinho? If not, who would you want in charge?
Follow Ben Ibson on Twitter @JournalismBen
Manchester United Champions League United MUFC
Taking a look at the latest #MUFC transfer rumours with @AngelinaKelly...
"A reserved young kid, head down, getting on with his business and trying to forge his way in football."
@westlimkmusc's Brian Murphy says @McTominay10 needs more praise...
More #MUFC transfer talk!
Former United and Scotland striker.
Professional boxer & former British & WBA World Lightweight Champion
Ambassador Bios
* Odds subject to change. Maximum bet regulations may apply. Terms & conditions apply. 18+. Gambling can be addictive. Please bet responsibly.
18+. Gambling can be addictive.
Read more about responsible gambling
RedArmyBet.com is operated by Viral Interactive LTD a company incorporated in Malta, company registration number C66828 with its registered address at 2nd Floor, Cobalt house, Triq Notabile, Birkirikara, BKR 3000. The website RedArmyBet.com is operated and managed by Viral Interactive Ltd (‘’Operator’’) and is licensed and regulated by the UK Gambling Commission with license number 000-042739-R-321859-004. UK resident persons wagering via the website are doing so in reliance on the license issued by the UK Gambling Commission. If you are not from the UK and are playing MicroGaming Quickfire, Play ‘n Go and SB Tech(Sportsbook), then these are governed by Viral Technologies NV, a company constituted under the laws of Curacao, with corporate registration number 123604, and its registered address on Landhuis Groot Kwartier, Groot Kwartierweg 12, Curacao with online E-gaming license is 8048/JAZ2011-015.
Sports betting How to bet on sports Tips & Tricks Sports Rules Bet types
Casino Live casino How to play Casino How to play Live Casino
About redarmybet Responsible gambling Terms and conditions Bonus terms Cookies Privacy policy
See Our Promotions
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line54
|
__label__cc
| 0.503077
| 0.496923
|
Amber Heard, Johnny Depp reach divorce settlement
Jake Harris
August 16, 2016 celebrity.
Amber Heard and Johnny Depp have reached a settlement in their divorce case, TMZ reports.
In this Jan. 2, 2016 file photo, Amber Heard, left, and Johnny Depp arrive at the 27th annual Palm Springs International Film Festival Awards Gala in Palm Springs, Calif. Heard is withdrawing allegations that Depp physically abused her and has settled her divorce case with the Oscar-nominated actor. Heard filed for divorce in May and days later obtained a temporary restraining order accusing the Pirates of the Caribbean star of hitting her during a fight in their Los Angeles apartment in May. Depp denied he abused her, and police said they found no evidence of a crime. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP, File)
Depp agreed to settle for $7 million and Heard dropped her request for a domestic violence restraining order. Heard filed for divorce from Depp in May, which is also when she alleged that Depp abused her. She has now dismissed the domestic violence case with prejudice, meaning she can’t file it again.
More— Remember: ‘Magic Mike XXL’ star Amber Heard is one of Austin’s own
According to TMZ, Heard and Depp released a joint statement through their lawyers Tuesday that said,
“Our relationship was intensely passionate and at times volatile, but always bound by love. Neither party has made false accusations for financial gains. There was never an intent of physical or emotional harm. Amber wishes the best for Johnny in the future. Amber will be donating financial proceeds from the divorce to a charity.”
The Cassowary died 31 years ago today: The genius life and sad death of an Austin ornithologist
Michael Phelps shows Katie Ledecky best way to wear her Olympic medals
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line61
|
__label__wiki
| 0.511521
| 0.511521
|
Home > Girls > Laguna Hills’ Pankowski claims WCHA women’s weekly honors
Laguna Hills’ Pankowski claims WCHA women’s weekly honors
Laguna Hills native, Anaheim Lady Ducks graduate and University of Wisconsin junior forward Annie Pankowski was named the WCHA Offensive Player of the Week for the week ending Nov. 20, 2016.
Pankowski tallied Wisconsin’s first natural hat trick since 2012, leading the top-ranked Badgers to a 4-1 win at No. 3 Minnesota-Duluth in Saturday’s series finale.
The junior scored an even-strength goal, a power-play marker and a short-handed strike, becoming only the fifth Badger in program history to collect a hat trick with the three types of goals.
Returning to the UW lineup after missing the previous four games while playing with the U.S. National Team at the Four Nations Cup, Pankowski’s three goals led the WCHA last weekend and matched six others for tops in the NCAA.
This is Pankowski’s first WCHA weekly award of the 2016-17 season and her sixth career honor (including three Rookie of the Week accolades).
Lady Ducks grad, Laguna Hills native Pankowski named WCHA Forward of the Week
Lady Ducks closing in on 20 years of grassroots player development, 100-plus NCAA athletes
WCHA tabs Lady Ducks alum, Laguna Hills native Pankowski Forward of the Week
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line76
|
__label__wiki
| 0.738045
| 0.738045
|
faculty of medicine, memorial university of newfoundland (13)
health sciences library, faculty of medicine, memorial university of newfoundland (13)
newfoundland. dept. of education (12)
memorial university of newfoundland (7)
howley, james patrick, 1847-1918 (4)
linda white (4)
white, linda, 1950- (4)
chas. e. goad, ltd. (3)
jarvis, dale (3)
image/jpeg (111)
application/pdf (100)
image/jpeg application/pdf (58)
text/xml (17)
canadian newspapers -- newfoundland and labrador -- st. john's -- 19th century (797)
government agencies -- newfoundland and labrador (71)
moon -- phases (71)
newfoundland and labrador -- directories (71)
newfoundland and labrador -- registers (71)
school boards (71)
All fields: detailed
LibQUAL+ 2007 Survey Memorial University of Newfoundland [Canada]
Academic libraries--Administration; Academic libraries--Evaluation; Academic libraries--Use studies; College students--Attitudes--Statistics; Memorial University of Newfoundland. Libraries--Statistics; Memorial University of...
The LibQUAL+ survey was conducted by Memorial University of Newfoundland Libraries from March 12th through April 9th, 2007 to assess user perceptions of how well the libraries are meeting the needs of students, faculty and staff. 5,024 LibQUAL+™...
Morning Courier, 1849-01-23
The Morning Courier was published in St. John's from 21 October 1844 to 28 December 1878. The frequency stabilized into semiweekly in mid-1849 and the "Morning" was dropped after 1853.
The Weekly Herald And Conception-Bay General Advertiser, 1849-01-30, vol. 07, no. 325
The Labrador Garden Project: Annotated Bibliography and Research Notes
Knowledge of the land/water and environment;
The Labrador Garden Project: Annotated Bibliography and Research Notes, from The Agricultural History Society of Newfoundland and Labrador. Document prepared by Lisa Wilson, January 15th, 2015.
The Newfoundland Patriot, 1834-02-18, vol. 01, no. 33
Journal of the House of Assembly of Newfoundland 1919 (8th Session)
Newfoundland and Labrador--Politics and government--1855-1934
The journal of the Newfoundland House of Assembly.
Number 156, Newsletter - Association of Canadian Map Libraries
Association of Canadian Map Libraries; Association des cartotheques canadiennes; Map collections--Canada--Periodicals; Cartography--Periodicals;
The Colonist, vol. 05, no. 087 (16 April 1890)
The Colonist began on 6 March 1886, changing its name to The Newfoundland Colonist after 18 July 1891. Having printed local and international news Monday to Saturday for six years, the paper came to an abrupt end when its offices were destroyed in...
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line81
|
__label__wiki
| 0.765276
| 0.765276
|
Home Unlisted Couple takes fight for treehouse to Supreme Court (video & poll)
Couple takes fight for treehouse to Supreme Court (video & poll)
After spending tens of thousands of dollars in legal fees, Lynn Tran and Richard Hazen are taking the fight to keep their Florida beachfront treehouse all the way to the Supreme Court.
Prior to beginning construction on the treehouse, which was built around an Australian Pine on their property in 2011 on Anna Maria Island on Florida’s west coast, Hazen asked the city whether they needed a permit. They were told “No.”
An anonymous complaint was later lodged about the treehouse, which sparked an investigation. The city then learned that the couple did actually need to go through the permitting process, because the treehouse was found to be located in an area where building is prohibited. The couple asked if they could get around that legal snafu by having local voters weigh in, but were denied.
Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson acknowledged how the courts have sided with the city, and he called the situation “quite honestly a waste of time,” according to an Associated Press report.
“For some reason these people have this fixation on it,” he said.
The treehouse cost the couple about $30,000 to construct and probably five times that in legal fees as they’ve fought local authorities over it, Tran said. The Supreme Court is their last hope.
The justices had their first opportunity to consider taking the case at a closed-door conference Friday, and a decision on whether they will weigh in could come as early as Monday, according to Detroit News.
Attorney David Levin, who’s representing the couple, says that his clients’ rights were violated by the city of Holmes Beach.
“Part of me still believes there’s got to be justice out there and we didn’t do anything wrong,” Tran told reporters. She noted that in hindsight, they could have taken the money they’ve spent on the treehouse and built an actual house somewhere else.
They’ve been accumulating a $50-a-day fine for not taking down the treehouse which has reached tens of thousands of dollars.
“It’s kind of fun to have around,” said Tran as she cherishes each moment that the structure still exists.
A beachfront treehouse on Anna Maria may get the attention of the U.S. Supreme Court. Will it stay, or will it go?https://t.co/mppGj0B8bu
— Herald-Tribune (@HeraldTribune) January 6, 2018
We’ve like YOUR opinion – please take our poll below:
Below is another video filmed in 2013 with additional details on the situation.
Previous articleList grows as over 1 million workers now getting “tax bill” bonus
Next articleWhite Nationalist charged with terrorism in Amtrak plot (video)
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line86
|
__label__wiki
| 0.849651
| 0.849651
|
“I’ll run for President”, Carlo Croce unveils Election Manifesto for World Sailing re-election
by Michele Tognozzi -
Today the World Sailing President Carlo Croce presented his manifesto for re-election. Values promoted are of course fully endorsable, though as they are absolute and general, in case others will decide to run, they’ll end up saying more or less the same, so at the end the man with the strongets support and personality will win.
The UK based communication Consultancy Vero Comunication is a step up in World Sailing history, as never before such kind of professional approach to comunication was used in former ISAF/World Sailing elections.
We will present all documents that any candidate will present and whish the best to sailing.
The opening page of the Manifesto PDF
Press release below:
“Carlo Croce, who is standing for a second and final term as President of World Sailing [WS], has today unveiled his election Manifesto “A New Era for World Sailing” [attached]. His Manifesto builds on what has already been achieved in his first term as President and includes six themes which would underpin and guide his final Presidential term. The Decision to elect the next WS President will be made at its Annual Conference which will be held in Barcelona in November 2016. The six themes that underpin “A New Era for World Sailing” are:
· Ensure World Sailing is a global leader in sporting governance
· Become a world leader in ocean sustainability
· Embrace innovation to drive the global growth of Sailing
· Establish one-design standards to ensure athletes are competing fairly
· Consolidate Sailing’s place in the Olympic Games
· Ensure the return of Para Sailing to the Paralympic Games
Carlo Croce, President of World Sailing said:
“My Manifesto builds on what has already been achieved in my first term as World Sailing President, and I am confident that the ideas I have outlined are not only deliverable, they would also herald an exciting new era of growth for our organisation and for the sport of Sailing. My Manifesto is rooted in the opportunities of tomorrow and our unique heritage. It is this approach that would underpin my second and final term as World Sailing President if I have the honour of being re-elected.
“Since being elected President of the International Sailing Federation (ISAF) in 2012, I am proud of what we have achieved together, particularly a significantly enhanced Emerging Nations Programme, steps to improve governance, the appointment of a top class Chief Executive in Andy Hunt, the development of a new Sailing World Cup strategy and securing a five year deal with GAZPROM International as a top level sponsor.”
“I believe that given my track record as President of World Sailing and the measures I have outlined in this Manifesto, that I am the right person to help lead our sport into a new era of opportunity, innovation and modern governance. I very much look forward to speaking to the global Sailing family over the coming months to listen and exchange views on ensuring our great sport continues to prosper and flourish in the years ahead. It would be an enormous privilege for me, working in full partnership with the Sailing family, to serve as President for a final term, and I believe that we have much to look forward to as we prepare for the next phase of our development.”
Carlo Croce
Olympic fever countdown… 49er, the battle of the giants
Olympic fever… Vasilij Zbogar (SLO, Finn) talks about his fifth Games
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line87
|
__label__wiki
| 0.679231
| 0.679231
|
To Preserver and Interpret Dundee's Historic Past
Our Attractions:
Verdant Works
Dundee Heritage Trust
Collections Database
Curators' Choice
Visit our other sites Dundee Heritage Trust RRS Discovery Verdant Works
Search Website>
Welcome to the Online Collections Database of Dundee Heritage Trust
This website is your chance to discover Dundee Heritage Trust's unique and varied collections, which are split between the Royal Research Ship Discovery and the associated polar materials and the industrial textile collections based in the 'A' listed Verdant Works, originally a 19th century flax and jute mill. Both of which are Recognised Collections of National Significance.
The Antarctic scientific research vessel RRS Discovery is part of the UK's National Historic Fleet of pre-eminent historic ships. The polar collections tell the story of RRS Discovery and the men who served on her. Items vary from navigational instruments and scientific specimens collected on the ship's expeditions to more personal objects which vividly represent daily life for polar explorers of the period. The polar collections are not limited to the Discovery though and feature material from many other expeditions, most notably Captain Scott's second fateful journey to the Antarctic onboard the Terra Nova.
The textile collections at Verdant Works give an insight into the history of Dundee's textile industries from the dominance of the jute industry to the later manufacture of man-made fibres in the city. As well as the large working machinery that illustrates the processing of jute; smaller objects and archives reveal topics such as the industry's Indian connections, research and development, textile products, textile engineering and the lives of the workers.
Our Database
Please be aware that the Collections Database is a 'work in progress'. Although we will be continually adding and updating, it does not contain everything in our collections and the level of detail that accompanies each record varies. Records which currently do not have an image available will show the Dundee Heritage Trust logo.
If you cannot find a particular object, wish to find out more information or arrange a viewing of material not currently on display, please do get in touch through our contact page.
We are always looking for ways to improve this resource so please let us know if you have any information about our collections, comments or if you find any errors. All information is welcomed so please get in touch quoting the relevant object number through our contact page.
Both collections are constantly growing and we would be very pleased to hear from you if you have relevant items which you might consider loaning or donating.
Please select browse collections or search using the search bar at the top right of the page
The Trust sprang from a small dedicated band of local people concerned that unless action was taken important aspects of the city’s history would be lost forever. Trustees are drawn from a diverse range of community and business interests in Dundee and Tayside.
All donations to help support Dundee Heritage Trust will be very gratefully received. Donations can be general or specific to particular projects or aspects of our work e.g. Education, collections care or ship restoration. If you would like to discuss the options available, please use the link below
Discover more about Dundee Heritage Trust’s unique and varied collections, designated by the Scottish government as ‘Recognised Collections of National Significance’, demonstrating their uniqueness, authenticity, comprehensiveness and national value.
Dundee Industrial Heritage LTD
E: admin@dundeeheritage.co.uk
Website design , Development and Hosting by mtc
© Dundee Heritage Trust
All text and images are protected by copyright and are only available for reproduction on request. Although we strive to ensure all published images do not breach copyright any omissions are entirely unintentional, please let us know if you believe an infringement has occurred.
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line88
|
__label__wiki
| 0.885974
| 0.885974
|
Leadership Group
Variety Guide
Disease Ranks
Variety Trials
Facts on Friday
CSD TV
Variety Performance Comparison
Single Variety Performance
Soil Temperature Network
Canopy Temperature Network
Cotton Fields Weather Network
Cotton Planting Rate Calculator
Seeds Per Kilogram
Statement of Seed Analysis
Boll Factors
2016/17 Weather Summary
Annual Disease Surveys
Replant Calculator
Synchrony 746
Got the green light for planting?
SEED INCREASE
Seed Increase Application Forms
AGENCY NETWORK
Agency Portal
Seed Ordering
Cotton Breeding Australia
Home > News > Vale Dr Stephen Allen
Vale Dr Stephen Allen
The Australian cotton industry has lost one of its long-time contributors, with the recent passing of renowned plant pathologist Dr Stephen Allen.
Dr Allen spent 39 years serving the industry, including 16 years with Cotton Seed Distributors. He made major contributions to the understanding, management and control of diseases affecting cotton production in Australia, most notably Fusarium wilt.
Dr Allen received a number of awards over his career, including Researcher of the Year in 1990 and 2007, and the Honorary Membership Award from Crop Consultants Australia in 2014. He was included in the Australian Cotton Industry Awards roll of honour in 2016 after his retirement in 2015.
Cotton Seed Distributors extends condolences to Dr Allen’s family and friends.
For more on Dr Allen’s career, please see a media release which was first published by CSD in December 2015.
Dr Stephen Allen announces retirement
After 39 years serving the cotton industry and the wider farming community Dr Stephen Allen has announced his intention to retire at the end of 2015.
Dr Allen has made a major contribution to the understanding, management and control of diseases affecting cotton production in Australia and around the world. He is recognised as a global leader in dealing with Fusarium Wilt in cotton.
In Australia Dr Allen’s ability to relate to growers and understand their needs saw him develop disease management strategies and tactics that fitted within the Australian cotton production systems and contributed to the profitability of those systems.
After completing his science degree (with First Class Honours and a University Medal) and his PhD at the University of New England, Stephen joined the NSW Dept. of Agriculture at Narrabri in 1983. Dr Allen’s initial challenges included Bacterial Blight, Verticillium wilt and seedling diseases. He established the annual cotton disease surveys and contributed to the development of an effective seed scheme controlling blight in the very susceptible Deltapine varieties.
Dr Allen’s research also included significant contributions on mycorrhizae, microbial fibre damage in rain-delayed harvests, control strategies for Verticillium Wilt, the first record of black root rot on cotton in Australia and a major role in formulating and implementing the Australian cotton industry response to the escalating threat of Fusarium Wilt. He also completed an exhaustive evaluation of seed treatments based on Systemic Induced Resistance. His ‘Come Clean-Go Clean’ slogan has been widely adopted.
His efforts earned him the Researcher of the Year award twice – in 1990 and again in 2007. In 2014 he received an Honorary Membership Award from Crop Consultants Australia.
CSD recruited Dr Allen in 1999 and he was immediately seconded to CSIRO as a visiting scientist working with the CSIRO cotton breeding team based at ACRI Narrabri. Here he played an important role in focusing research into managing Fusarium (including developing and maintaining the F.rank and V.rank systems) as well researching and developing methods to control other diseases of importance such as Alternaira and Black Root Rot.
Mr Peter Graham, Managing Director at CSD said that the industry had been fortunate in being able to secure the services of Dr Allen who helped CSD provide expert and ongoing strategic direction to research into combating the Fusarium threat.
CSD’s Chair Mr James Kahl has also thanked Dr Allen for his work more broadly in cotton based plant pathology. “Steve Allen led a collaborative approach to this that effectively leveraged knowledge and technology from across and outside the cotton industry which enhanced the sustainability of cotton production In Australia.” Mr Kahl pointed to the development and commercialisation of Bion seed treatment as an example of this leadership.
CSD thanks Stephen, his wife Kristine and the entire family for their contribution to the industry.
New Extension and Development Agronomist for Cotton Seed Distributors
Cotton Seed Distributors shaping young futures with six new appointments
Winning cotton growers announced for the 2018-19 FastStart™ Establishment Awards
Partnership extension to grow cotton industry collaboration in 2019 and beyond
CSD reflects on the year that was 2018
© 2019 Cotton Seed Distributors Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
Facebook | Terms of Use | Privacy | Contact
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line91
|
__label__wiki
| 0.943701
| 0.943701
|
'''2015/2016:''' meanwhile there is in addition to BotE Alpha 7 (PC) a further developed version called '''BotE Android''' 0.6.73 and out of this Android version there is also a Windows version (0.6.66) of "BotE Android" http://www.forum.birth-of-the-empires.de/viewforum.php?f=102
2015/2016 BotE Android: meanwhile there is in addition to BotE Alpha 7 (PC) a further developed version called BotE Android 0.6.73 and out of this Android version there is also a Windows version (0.6.66) of "BotE Android" http://www.forum.birth-of-the-empires.de/viewforum.php?f=102
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line98
|
__label__cc
| 0.598276
| 0.401724
|
Topic: Max Remy
APSU student-athletes post department-wide 3.0 GPA for a record fourth straight semester
By APSU Sports Information | May 22, 2019 |
Clarksville, TN – Austin Peay State University (APSU) student-athletes posted a departmental grade-point average of 3.0 or better for a program-record fourth consecutive semester finishing the Spring 2019 semester with a 3.096 mark.
A department-record 70 percent of Austin Peay’s 289 varsity student-athletes earned academic honors for the spring semester. The last eight semesters dating back to Fall 2015 have yielded eight of the top-10 semester GPA’s since tracking data began in 1993. For just the fourth time, more than 100 Govs earned a spot on the Dean’s List, with 48 posting perfect 4.0 GPA’s for the semester.
Sections: Announcements, Associations, Austin Peay State University, Baseball, Basketball (Men), Basketball (Women), Beach Volleyball, Colleges, Cross Country, Featured Story, Football, Golf, NCAA, Ohio Valley Conference, Soccer (Women), Softball, Sports, Tennis, Track & Field, Volleyball | No Comments
APSU’s Garrett Spain’s first collegiate homer delivers Janssen’s 200th career win
By APSU Sports Information | March 6, 2019 |
APSU Sports Information
Clarksville, TN – Center fielder Garrett Spain picked the perfect time to hit his first collegiate home run, his eighth-inning blast giving the Austin Peay State University (APSU) baseball team a 12-11 come-from-behind win against Lipscomb, Tuesday, on Joe and Cathi Maynard Field at Raymond C. Hand Park.
Austin Peay Baseball comes from behind to beat Lipscomb at home 12-11 Tuesday. (APSU Sports Information)
Sections: Associations, Austin Peay State University, Baseball, Colleges, Featured Story, NCAA, Ohio Valley Conference, Sports | No Comments
Austin Peay Govs stun No. 1 Vanderbilt in extras
By APSU Sports Information | February 27, 2019 |
Nashville, TN – The Austin Peay State University (APSU) baseball team scored seven unanswered runs and stunned No. 1 ranked Vanderbilt, 7-6 in 10 innings Wednesday night at Hawkins Field.
Trailing 5-3 entering the ninth, Austin Peay (3-4) turned a moment of anguish into a rallying point. With a runner on base and one out, first baseman Parker Phillips was called out on strikes and in the ensuing moments the Governors head coach was ejected.
Austin Peay Baseball rallies to tie #1 Vanderbilt in the ninth then scores two in the tenth to beat the Commodores, 7-6. (APSU Sports Information)
Sections: Associations, Austin Peay State University, Baseball, Colleges, Featured Story, NCAA, Ohio Valley Conference, Southeastern Conference, Sports, Vanderbilt University | No Comments
Governors student-athletes set department record with 3.15 GPA in Fall 2018
By APSU Sports Information | January 4, 2019 |
Clarksville, TN – Austin Peay State University (APSU) student-athletes set a department record with a 3.15 grade-point average for the Fall 2018 semester.
For the first time, Austin Peay student-athletes have posted a department-wide GPA of 3.0 or greater in three consecutive semesters. A record 209 student-athletes received academic recognition for the Fall 2018 semester, including 107 recognized on the dean’s list. It’s the third time 100 or more student athletes have been named to the dean’s list.
Sections: Associations, Austin Peay State University, Baseball, Basketball (Men), Basketball (Women), Colleges, Cross Country, Featured Story, Football, Golf, NCAA, Ohio Valley Conference, Soccer (Women), Softball, Sports, Tennis, Track & Field, Volleyball | No Comments
Austin Peay Govs look to improve tourney position with OVC set at SIUE
By APSU Sports Information | May 3, 2018 |
Austin Peay at SIU Edwardsville
May 4th-6th, 2018 | 6:00pm, 1:00pm, 1:00pm
Edwardsville, IL | Roy Lee Field
Clarksville, TN – Assured a spot in the 2018 Ohio Valley Conference baseball championship with six league games left, Austin Peay State University’s baseball team continues jockeying for seeding with a three-game OVC set at SIU Edwardsville, Friday-Sunday, at Roy Lee Field in Edwardsville, Illinois.
The Govs enter the weekend tied for fourth place with Southeast Missouri but are in a four-team logjam which includes the second through fifth seeds in the upcoming tournament.
Austin Peay Baseball tooks to improve it OVC Tournament position heading into weekend series at SIU Edwardsville.
APSU Govs can’t complete series sweep against Redhawks
By APSU Sports Information | March 31, 2018 |
Clarksville, TN – Austin Peay State University’s baseball team could not get on track and dropped its Ohio Valley Conference series finale against Southeast Missouri, 20-4, Saturday afternoon at Raymond C. Hand Park.
Austin Peay (17-11, 7-5 OVC) still clinched the series victory by virtue of winning both games of Friday’s doubleheader.
Austin Peay Baseball junior Garrett Giovannelli had three hits in loss to Southeast Missouri at Raymond C. Hand Park, Saturday. (APSU Sports Information)
Kueber’s grand slam sends Austin Peay Govs to sweep of Racers
Clarksville, TN – Shortstop Garrett Kueber hit a grand slam and drove in six runs as Austin Peay State University’s baseball team corralled Murray State, 19-7, Sunday at Raymond C. Hand Park to complete a sweep of the three-game Ohio Valley Conference series.
Sunday’s finale started much like Saturday’s contest with Murray State (10-10, 2-4 OVC) grabbing an early 2-0 lead on right fielder Brandon Gutzler’s two-run home run in the first inning.
Austin Peay Baseball beats Murray State Sunday for three game sweep. (APSU Sports Information)
Austin Peay Bat Govs downed by Blue Raiders early charge
Clarksville, TN – Austin Peay State University’s baseball team fell behind early and could not recover, dropping a 9-0 nonconference decision to Middle Tennessee, Tuesday night at Raymond C. Hand Park.
Middle Tennessee (9-8) jumped out a quick lead when it sent 11 batters to the plate in the first inning, scoring six runs. Left fielder Blake Benefield had a two-run double and catcher Jake Hagenow added a two-run single to help build the 6-0 lead.
Austin Peay Baseball loses to Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders at Raymond C. Hand Park Tuesday night. (APSU Sports Information)
APSU Govs baseball a week away, preseason OVC poll released
Clarksville, TN – In just seven days Austin Peay State University’s baseball team will take the field at Raymond C. Hand Park to begin its 2018 campaign, opening with a 3:00pm, February 16th contest against Maryland Eastern Shore.
Third-year head coach Travis Janssen has led the Governors to the Ohio Valley Conference baseball tournament in each of his first two seasons after they missed the tournament the two years before his arrival.
Austin Peay Baseball kick off the 2018 campaign February 16th against Maryland Eastern Shore at Raymond C. Hand Park. (APSU Sports Information)
88 Austin Peay Governors named to OVC Commissioner’s Honor Roll
By APSU Sports Information | August 11, 2017 |
Brentwood, TN – Eighty-eight Austin Peay State University student-athletes were named to the Ohio Valley Conference Commissioner’s Honor Roll, Friday, following the 2016-17 academic year.
Student-athletes must have achieved a 3.25 grade-point average, were eligible and on the team throughout the competitive season in their chose NCAA-sponsored sport(s) and used a season of competition in that sport.
Austin Peay’s numbers include 22 athletes who competed in multiple sports during the season and are counted just once in the department’s total.
88 Austin Peay Athletes make OVC Commissioner’s Honor Roll. (APSU Sports Information)
Sections: Announcements, Associations, Austin Peay State University, Baseball, Basketball (Men), Basketball (Women), Colleges, Cross Country, Featured Story, Football, Golf, NCAA, Ohio Valley Conference, Soccer (Women), Softball, Sports, Tennis, Track & Field, Volleyball | No Comments
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line107
|
__label__wiki
| 0.763226
| 0.763226
|
Daily Domestic Gross Tue, Nov. 24 2015
Tue, Nov. 24 2015
1 The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 2 $11,356,003 33% 4,175 -- $2,720 $122,562,341 1 Lionsgate
2 The Peanuts Movie $2,207,063 38% 3,671 -231 $601 $103,157,472 3 Fox
3 Spectre $2,185,908 39% 3,659 -270 $597 $157,901,967 3 Sony / Columbia
4 The Night Before $1,543,127 36% 2,960 -- $521 $12,557,536 1 Sony / Columbia
5 Secret in Their Eyes $803,449 34% 2,392 -- $336 $8,057,729 1 STX Entertainment
6 Love the Coopers $606,704 39% 2,603 0 $233 $16,172,372 2 CBS Films / Lionsgate
7 The Martian $510,274 15% 2,086 -702 $245 $214,090,849 8 Fox
8 Goosebumps $306,230 10% 1,787 -1018 $171 $76,701,051 6 Sony / Columbia
9 The 33 $284,752 15% 2,452 0 $116 $10,536,118 2 Warner Bros.
10 Bridge of Spies $240,956 10% 1,532 -1156 $157 $65,698,276 6 Disney / DreamWorks
1 Spotlight $461,514 30% 598 538 $772 $6,621,020 3 Open Road
2 Brooklyn $143,707 14% 111 88 $1,295 $2,439,949 3 Fox Searchlight
3 Hotel Transylvania 2 $137,555 11% 828 -1006 $166 $166,707,072 9 Sony / Columbia
4 Suffragette $89,841 23% 517 21 $174 $3,730,730 5 Focus
5 Pan (2015) $63,308 23% 365 2 $173 $34,126,843 7 Warner Bros.
6 The Intern $57,802 11% 514 -341 $112 $74,279,972 9 Warner Bros.
7 Sicario (2015) $38,493 -8% 285 -244 $135 $45,865,954 10 Lionsgate
8 Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials $36,747 7% 309 -60 $119 $80,896,860 10 Fox
9 The Last Witch Hunter $33,081 -19% 624 -855 $53 $26,896,445 5 Lionsgate / Summit
10 Woodlawn $29,362 -1% 303 -519 $97 $14,095,398 6 Pure Flix
11 Burnt $26,824 -8% 326 -1288 $82 $13,499,308 4 Weinstein Company
12 Paranormal Activity: The Ghost Dimension $25,359 -7% 361 -424 $70 $18,300,124 5 Paramount
13 Minions $23,605 36% 182 -24 $130 $335,673,715 20 Universal
14 By the Sea $22,050 1% 126 116 $175 $364,584 2 Universal
15 Everest (2015) $16,815 32% 134 -62 $125 $43,276,740 10 Universal
16 The Visit (2015) $12,310 8% 153 -52 $80 $65,092,855 11 Universal
17 Steve Jobs $11,395 13% 126 -200 $90 $17,635,768 7 Universal
18 Crimson Peak $10,155 -15% 184 -347 $55 $31,079,055 6 Universal
19 Black Mass $9,521 23% 160 -72 $60 $62,520,881 10 Warner Bros.
20 Rock the Kasbah $9,492 -11% 189 33 $50 $3,002,440 5 Open Road
1 Carol $30,111 5% 4 -- $7,528 $312,286 1 Weinstein Company
2 Legend (2015) $12,092 9% 4 -- $3,023 $109,982 1 Universal
3 The Man in 3B $2,131 -34% 31 -4 $69 $267,214 3 Freestyle Releasing
4 Our Brand Is Crisis (2015) $1,897 12% 50 -451 $38 $6,949,684 4 Warner Bros.
5 No Escape (2015) $1,189 10% 16 -15 $74 $27,288,219 13 Weinstein Company
6 Ingrid Bergman in Her Own Words $1,006 -6% 2 1 $503 $22,095 2 Rialto Pictures
7 Big Stone Gap $424 -44% 10 -11 $42 $975,527 7 Picturehouse
8 Rififi (2015 re-issue) $403 12% 2 0 $202 $54,472 12 Rialto Pictures
9 Army of Shadows (2015 re-issue) $171 10% 1 -- $171 $27,723 13 Rialto Pictures
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line108
|
__label__wiki
| 0.613301
| 0.613301
|
Dungeness crabbing trip in southern Puget Sound reveals eye popping experience
I’d been hearing for more than a month now about how stellar the winter Dungeness crab fishery has been going, and just needed to get an up close and personal account of it myself.
So on the day after Christmas I had a chance to fish with Tony Floor, the director of fishing affairs for the Northwest Marine Trade Association who’d been scoring big numbers of monster-sized Dungeness crabs for the past few weeks in southern Puget Sound.
I was joined by retired Seattle Times outdoors columnist Brad O’Connor and my son Tegan who boarded Floor’s boat “The Starship Truth” at the West Bay Marina in Budd Inlet as we made the quick 20 minute ride near the southwest side of Hartsene Island.
This was also a chance for me to catch up on old times with O’Connor, and our conversation was quickly interrupted by Floor as we neared the shoreline where his six crab pots were soaking overnight at a depth of 130 feet.
“I guarantee they’ll be loaded with Dungeness crabs,” he said.
There is a lot of excitement when you first pull in that buoy, toss it on the boat and attach the electric pulley winch to the rope and begin pulling up the pot.
“Look on the fish-finder and you can see the pot coming up, 50 feet, 40 feet, 30 feet,” said Floor.
This sure beats the old school method of the human winch, which is simply using your own brute strength of arms and shoulders to pull up the rope from the bottom.
Once the first giant commercial-sized pot came to the surface we saw the color of the crabs we pulled up from the briny depths that had about a seven Dungies, and each one was well over the minimum size limit of 6 1/4 inches. We sorted and kept the four of the largest crabs, and then re-set the pot with fresh (or stinky and frozen) squid and salmon carcasses.
“I liken these to a filet mignon steak,” says Floor who holds up one of the giant crabs. “You don’t need any butter and should just enjoy the rich flavor of a fresh crab boiled in saltwater.”
We moved the boat over to the next two smaller-sized pots that had a few legal Dungeness crab, and also contained a handful of red rock crabs and pretty starfish that we released.
The fourth pot had the mother-lode of more than 25 Dungies, and all of them were jumbo-sized with some measuring well over eight inches.
We had our daily limit of five crabs apiece before we even pulled the final two pots, and each of those contained 20 more “jumbos.”
“This has been going on all winter long, and it’s not just in this spot,” Floor pointed out. “I’ve been hearing about good crabbing in many other areas of the sound as well.”
This past summer and the current winter crab fishery will likely go down in the crabbing history book as one of the most stellar sport fisheries seen in a long time around the inland marine areas of Puget Sound.
“Once we tally up all the catch cards and we get the numbers of crab caught, it’ll most likely be a record year for the recreational fishery,” said Rich Childers, the state Fish and Wildlife crab manager.
More than 240,000 sport crab licenses were sold this past summer generating a catch of slightly more than two-million crabs. Add to that another 25,000 or more licenses issued this winter, and while harvest figures aren’t known yet, word has it that catches remain excellent.
“In the (inland marine) areas that remained opened this winter all were doing quite for crabs, except for (the San Juan Islands) where it is more like a normal harvest year,” Childers said.
“Everyone agrees that crab abundance is very high and their size is much bigger,” Floor said. “You can go back not that far in time like about 20 years ago when the state didn’t even recognize a crab population in south sound. Whether the current carried the crab larva down there or there had always been a population. I truly believe the crab had already been in South Sound, and back then most crab fishers would go to Hood Canal and from Tacoma north up into the San Juan Islands.”
“It has been a windfall of a new sport fishery in South Sound, and the greatest populations of crab are in the Nisqually Delta, which is a wonderful habitat for crab,” Floor said. “It is different from most other areas in Puget Sound, and the best success comes from 130 to 190 feet in the northern section of the delta and that depth range has been money for the past few summers and winters now.”
Floor says the delta isn’t the only place to find huge populations of crab, and points out the southeast corner of Anderson Island, and the region from the Puget Marina and off Zittel’s Marina are good crabbing zones.
Floor says that Childers had a fact that got him pretty excited, and that is for every male crab that was 6 ¼ inches or greater is a surplus to the rest of the population.
A Dungeness crab won’t win any beauty contest, and some say their mouth resembles the ugly creature from the movie Alien.
Their hard as armor shelled body is a brownish-purple color, and each is equipped with two ferocious looking pincers. But they’re by far the tastiest creatures you can pull out of Puget Sound.
While setting crab pots by boat is the most popular way, I’ve had a great time about a year ago during the winter time venturing out in the pitch black dark of night with chest waders, a headlamp and a dip-net in search of Dungies on the outgoing tide.
The best spots are lagoons and bays with a sandy bottom and extensive beds of eelgrass like we had found off the south side of Whidbey Island on that cold winter night.
Simply wade out into the water and look for them by using a strong spot light type lamp, and when you spot them simply scoop them up.
It does sound a lot easier than it really is and takes more than a tries to be successful as the crabs will quickly move away from your net kicking up a cloud mud and silt.
State Fish and Wildlife enforcement increased their patrols on the waters this past summer to see how well sport fishermen are following rules, and according to Childers were quite surprised at how well they complied with all except for one rule that stood out.
“We know compliance was very good in all areas like not keeping any undersized crabs, no female crabs kept, and no over limits,” Childers said. “It was just across the board good except for failure to punch their catch cards immediately after the land the crabs. We need to stress to people that right after they keep their crab they need to mark it down. It isn’t something you do when you get home. We even had crabbers tell us that they’ve had a great season of crabbing, and then when we look at their cards they have nothing punched on them.”
Floor mentioned that writing down your catch on the punch card is a new rule that was implemented this season.
“It is a new rule and there will be a learning curve so it will improve over time and get better,” Floor said.
Childers says as part of the new crab policy he’ll provide a yearly report to the state Fish and Wildlife Commission in February on the performance of the recreational, non-tribal commercial and tribal treaty fisheries.
The commission has the right to change the policy, but that is unlikely to happen in the near future.
It’s still not too late for people to take advantage of the fishery, which can be accessed using pots or traps from boats or piers, or wading the shorelines at low tide with dip nets or rakes.
Open areas through this Saturday are the Strait of Juan de Fuca east of Neah Bay; San Juan Islands; east side of Whidbey Island; most of northern Puget Sound; and south central and southern Puget Sound.
The daily catch limit in Puget Sound is five Dungeness crab, males only. In addition, you may keep six red rock crab of either sex daily.
Reporting your catch is now mandatory, and must be mailed or done on-line by Feb. 1. Crabbers who fail to file reports will face a $10 fine that’ll be imposed when applying for a 2012 fishing license. For details, visit http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/shellfish/crab/crc.html.
The summer Dungeness crab season will reopen in most areas of Puget Sound on July 1.
(Photos by Brad O’Connor)
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line111
|
__label__wiki
| 0.856195
| 0.856195
|
What McGregor/Khabib Camps Are Saying After Fight-Night In Las Vegas
— Окт 10, 2018
The post-fight meleé has gained so numerous headlines but the fourth round finish will rankle McGregor for a while yet.
Here is Tukhugov talking about McGregor last week.
Unpleasant to hear but McGregor would do well to pay them some heed.
This fight marks McGregor's return to the Octagon since being stripped of his title at UFC 223 due to inactivity.
What happens next wasn't caught on the original UFC footage however as McGregor tries to vault the cage too, just as one of Nurmagomedov's coaches is doing likewise.
Читайте также: South African finance minister criticized after testimony
White said that it would be now up to the Nevada State Athletic Commission to decide if Nurmagomedov would face further sanctions.
Apparent fans of Khabib Nurmagomedov and Conor McGregor got into a confrontation with police on October 6 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Despite McGregor tapping his arm to indicate his submission, Nurmagomedov seemed to hold on to the winning choke rather than releasing it, encapsulating the bad blood between the pair.
"Again, we need to see how this plays out. What about this...?" Nurmagomedov asked during the press conference. "I know this is not my best side". "There's gonna be an investigation by the Nevada State Athletic Commission, and. there's gonna be big-money fines, and these guys are in big trouble". I thought people would throw whatever they had into the octagon and it would be a risky situation, so I didn't do it.
Nurmagomedov was not given the belt in the ring after the fight and was escorted from the octagon by police and security staff. I'm a human being, but I don't understand how people can talk about jumping on the cage when he talks about my religion, he talks about my country, he talks about my father and he comes to Brooklyn and he broke the bus and nearly killed a couple of people. I always say you should aim for peace, but if you can't aim for peace, aim between the eyes.
The post-fight meleé has gained so numerous headlines but the fourth round finish will rankle McGregor for a while yet.Here is Tukhugov talking about McGregor last week.Unpleasant to hear but McGregor...
http:///2018/10/what-mcgregor-khabib-camps-are-saying-after-fight-night-in/
Unai Emery happy with Arsenal's 'confident' game at Fulham
SpaceX successfully launches - and lands - rocket in Southern California
Israel PM's wife goes on trial in delivery meals case
Def Leppard, Stevie Nicks Lead 2019 Hall of Fame Nominees
This year's nominees have just been announced and there are a handful of fan favorites in the fray. Leading the bunch are LL Cool J and Janet Jackson , who are joined by Stevie Nicks .
Caroline Wozniacki wins her 30th WTA singles title
World number two Caroline Wozniacki secured her third win of the campaign at the China Open after beating Anastasija Sevastova . Argentine top seed Del Potro was far from his best and has been fighting flu or a cold for several days in the Chinese capital.
Taylor Swift gets political at awards
Additionally, several of gospel and R&B's heaviest hitters will assemble for what's sure to be a touching Aretha Franklin tribute. Some of music's top stars, including Drake, Ed Sheeran , Beyoncé, Ariana Grande, Rihanna and Kanye West, were absent on Tuesday.
Crude Oil Price Surges on Iran Sanctions, Gulf of Mexico Fears
Brent crude prices are now hovering around US$86 a barrel and global traders are betting that they will go past US$100. On Monday, petrol and diesel were selling at Rs 82.03 per litre and Rs 73.82 per litre, respectively, in New Delhi .
International Monetary Fund lowers SA's economic growth forecasts
In several key economies, moreover, growth is being supported by policies that seem unsustainable over the long term. It said that a full-blown trade war between the U.S. and China would put a significant dent in economic recovery.
Star Trek: Discover Has Spock With A Beard
But fans were surprised to see Michelle Yeoh , who is returning as Empress Georgiou, and Wilson Cruz, whose Dr. Culber was killed last season. " Discovery has been an incredible joy this season", said Kurtzman.
Should Red Sox Expect Retribution From Yankees Over Unwritten Rules?
Against the Red Sox this season: 1-0 in two starts, 3.46 ERA, 15 strikeouts, five earned runs on 10 hits over 13 innings. In the seventh, still leading 10-1, Benintendi swung at a 3-and-0 pitch from Yankees reliever Jonathan Holder .
Hurricane Michael Expected to Grow into a Major Hurricane
Roy Cooper said, adding, "A number of homes have rooftop tarps that could be damaged or blown away with this wind". A hurricane warning was in place from the Alabama-Florida border to the Suwannee River in Florida.
Taylor Swift gets political with rare endorsement
Bredesen is thankful for Swift's support, writing in a tweet over the weekend, "Thank you for the kind words, [Taylor Swift]". She also acknowledged her past reluctance to address political issues but said that had changed in the past two years.
Mental Disorders Identified To Be The Cause Of Students Failures
Discussing a difficulty with a trusted confidant greatly assists in resolving issues which consequently reduces stress levels. These assessments help them provide recommendations that prevent mental illnesses, Dr Emmanuel Alhassan said.
Trump said Kavanaugh was ‘proven innocent.’ He wasn’t.
But when asked again Sunday about it, he said different rules might apply if the same party controls the Senate and White House. Collins, a four-term United States senator, cast what was a crucial vote on Brett Kavanaugh's nomination to the Supreme Court.
U.S. Ambassador to United Nations Nikki Haley Resigns
Trump spoke to reporters at the White House before departing for an event in Iowa, hours after announcing that current U.N. Trump told Haley that "hopefully you'll be coming back at some point. maybe a different capacity, you can have your pick".
Hurricane Michael takes aim at 300-mile Gulf Coast target
Monday, Michael's top sustained winds were around 85 miles per hour (140 kph) as it headed north at 12 miles per hour (19 kph). He also has declared a state of emergency for 35 counties and asked President Donald Trump for assistance ahead of the storm.
Steelers’ WR Antonio Brown Reported $80K, Gun Stolen From Florida Apartment
Brown, a Miami native in his ninth National Football League season, has until Thursday to respond to the lawsuit, KDKA reports . The incident was investigated by security personnel, who determined Brown was responsible for throwing the objects.
IOS 12.0.1 Release Notes, Changes, Security Content Detailed By Apple
A bug was causing some of these models to hook up with a slower 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network instead of a faster 5GHz signal. Apple first addressed the new iPhone's charging issues ( Chargegate ) in a beta release of iOS 12.1 .
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line114
|
__label__wiki
| 0.943597
| 0.943597
|
Manchester United fans turn on Paul Pogba after performance vs Southampton
They will now turn their attentions towards preparing for their crunch home clash against Arsenal at Old Trafford on Wednesday night in the Premier League.
"Another is to compare ourselves with what Manchester United was in the past because it is impossible".
Stuart Armstrong and Cedric Soares handed Saints the dream start, before Marcus Rashford teed up Romelu Lukaku and Ander Herrera for two United goals in six minutes. "But that second level is not what Manchester United is".
The former Liverpool midfielder said: "Awful is... yeah".
Mourinho said some clubs could buy multiple full-backs at the same time, a comment he has made before when referencing City's transfer policy.
It was very bad from United.
Many have been upset by the way the manager continues to criticise them in public and Mourinho is struggling to keep harmony in the group.
Читайте также: Former U.S. President George H.W. Bush dead at 94
United have spent nearly £400 million (US$510 million) on players since Mourinho arrived at the club in 2016, but the manager claims buying top-level players is becoming increasingly hard.
"This is what you have to do as a professional footballer when you're playing week-in, week-out for one of the biggest clubs in the world is be ready". The manner in which they let it slip, however, definitely brought them back to the ground - scoring 2 goals in 20 before letting in 2 in 19 minutes. At least with Rashford you know he's trying.
De Gea has been one of United best players of recent years and he has been a regular victor of the club's Player of the Season award.
"I can not say the answer because one of the answers you had a few weeks ago".
"You have no chance in the transfer market unless you go to insane numbers, or instead you go to what you call the second level players and still have insane numbers".
Michael Obafemi fed Armstrong inside the area and from a tight angle the Scottish worldwide smashed the ball confidently past De Gea for his third goal in two league games.
They will now turn their attentions towards preparing for their crunch home clash against Arsenal at Old Trafford on Wednesday night in the Premier League."Another is to compare ourselves with what Ma...
http:///2018/12/manchester-united-fans-turn-on-paul-pogba-after-performance/
Former Springboks star Naka Drotske shot in suspected house robbery
Markets may have misread Powell speech, analysts say
Google Hangouts to be shutdown in 2020
NYPD hunt couple who lost ring during romantic proposal
CCTV images show the romantic proposal going wrong and the pair unsuccessfully trying to retrieve the piece of jewellery. US Police have an urgent message for the couple who lost their engagement ring in Times Square: We have the ring.
China halts scientist's controversial baby gene-editing project
He said he would monitor the two newborns for the next 18 years and hoped they would support continued monitoring thereafter. The Crispr gene editing tool he claims to have used is not new to the scientific world, and was first discovered in 2012.
Box Office Report: Close to 100 cr in worldwide gross
Out of the ₹74 crore, the Hindi version of 2.0 contributed about ₹21 crore, while collections from Tamil Nadu stood at ₹20 crore. Rajinikanth and Akshay's latest movie 2.0 has created hype as the film is doing great at the box office.
Callum Hudson Odoi could be latest England youngster to move to Germany
The teenager then set up sub Alvaro Morata to make it 4-0 to the Premier League side, with the Spaniard scoring with his first touch the game.
South's military: North Korean soldier defects to South
Kim agreed to travel to Seoul after hosting Moon in Pyongyang in September for their third summit this year. In the weeks before, both countries had also withdrawn parts of their troops and weapons from a few posts.
AWS enters blockchain market with 2 dedicated services
Enterprises migrating to AWS often need to manage a large number of accounts, distributed teams, and applications. Outposts let AWS scale while making building, electrifying and cooling data centre space its customers' problem.
New Zealand clinch sixth Dubai Sevens title
The Scots scored four tries plus a penalty try against the Shujaa's two tries for the comfortable win. In the rematch, New Zealand took a 7-0 lead, but the US capitalized on a penalty to make it 7-5.
Putin high-fives MBS at G20, but did he shake Trump's hand?
Trump, who was seen passing by MBS and Putin without interacting with either, is not expected to meet with the crown prince . The comments were made in a private conversation between two leaders during the ongoing G20 summit Friday, Reuters reported.
Ebola kills 198 in Democratic Republic of Congo
The outbreak is the tenth in DRC since Ebola was first detected there in 1976. "We will not rest until this outbreak is finished". The combination of rebel violence and pre-election unrest is creating a "perfect storm" for an even worse epidemic, he said.
NASA chief tells Elon Musk to stop drinking and smoking pot
But after several extensions, that competition ended quietly this year with none of the finalists even attempting a launch. He gave the example of retroreflectors - essentially, fancy mirrors that reflect light in the direction it came from.
No-deal Brexit would not be a disaster, says Fox
As numerous European leaders have made clear in recent weeks, the alternative to the Prime Minister's deal is a no-deal scenario. She declined to entertain questions about what alternative she might offer if the current agreement is rejected December 11.
New Jersey Man Charged With Killing Brother, Family In Colts Neck
The prosecutor's office has not discussed a possible motive in the crime. "His family fully support his defense of this charge". Hours later, the blaze at the home of his brother Keith was reported about 10 miles (16 kilometers) away in Colts Neck.
Trump agrees to USMCA agreement with LGBT provisions
Asked Thursday why the two had no meeting scheduled, Trump said: "I would have met with him but we didn't set that one up". But he said he could support it with a "few tweaks that move it in the direction of a more pro-trade agreement".
Pelosi wins Democratic nomination for leader as opposition crumbles
In January, she will face a final decision and vote among her caucus on whether she will regain the speakership. Kim was one of 32 Democrats who opposed Pelosi's nomination during a closed-door caucus meeting in Washington.
Former police officer charged with the murder of St Lucian
She said most officers are good, but in this case, "We're talking about bad cops that go out there and do things against the law". The indictment came three months after Guyger fatally shot Botham Jean , 26, on September 6, after she returned home from work.
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line115
|
__label__cc
| 0.543946
| 0.456054
|
Spotlight and Review - Earth's Blood (Earth Reclaimed, Book 2) by Ann Gimpel
Earth’s Blood
Earth Reclaimed, Book 2
by Ann Gimpel
Publisher: Musa
Release Date: 2/7/14
Genre: Urban Fantasy/Romance
99,000 words
Clinging to their courage in a crumbling world, Aislinn and Fionn vow to save Earth, no matter what it takes.
In a post-apocalyptic world where most people have been slaughtered, the Celtic gods and a few humans with magic are all that stands between survival and Earth falling into alien hands. The combination of dark sorcery leveraged by the enemy is daunting. Destruction is all but certain if the small enclaves of humans who are left can’t get past their distrust of the Celts.
Captured by the enemy, Aislinn Lenear wonders if she’ll ever see her bond wolf or Fionn, a Celtic god, again. She’s had nothing but her wits to rely on for years. They haven’t failed her yet, but escape from her current predicament seems remote.
An enticing blend of urban fantasy and romance, this second volume of the Earth Reclaimed Series provides fertile ground for Aislinn and Fionn’s relationship to deepen. Headstrong and independent, the pair runs up against each other’s demands time and time again. Fireworks spark. In the end, they learn to savor every moment in a bittersweet world where each day may well be their last.
Fionn tumbled through a gateway and leapt to his feet. Something was decidedly wrong. The wolf and raven were right behind him, but he’d lost all sense of Aislinn’s presence in the traveling portal. It made him half-crazy with fear, but there was nothing he could do until the spell spit him out. Mouth dry, heartbeat thudding in his ears, he waited to see who would follow him out of the ragged hole he’d left in the ether.
For the love of the goddess, please let me be mistaken about this.
Rune emerged. A howl split the still air. “Where is she?” the black and gray timber wolf demanded. He reared up and plunked his paws on Fionn’s chest. “What happened to my bond mate? I cannot feel her anywhere.” He howled again. It was a mournful sound, full of grief. Fionn wrapped his arms around the wolf, but Rune dropped to the ground, apparently not interested in comfort.
“Yes, where did Aislinn go?” Bella demanded, bouncing forward with her awkward avian gait. Ever cantankerous, the raven was bonded to him, so Fionn was used to her moods. She spread her large wings, took to the air, and cawed her displeasure. He stared after her and struggled to manage a mounting sense of panic while balling his hands into fists. Both bond animals knew the truth: Aislinn had disappeared somewhere between Ely, Nevada and wherever they were now. He barked a word to close off his magic. The place they’d rolled out of shimmered and disappeared.
He loosed a string of Gaelic curses. “What the fuck went wrong?” he muttered. Fionn drew magic to augment his night vision and gazed wildly about for clues. They were in the midst of rubble that could well be Salt Lake City. So at least that part of his casting had been true. No, an inner voice corrected him, I doona know that. This could be anywhere. He shoved straggling strands of blond hair out of his eyes and sent his magic spinning outward to gather data. His heart beat a worried tattoo against his ribcage.
The air to his right took on a pearlescent hue. Bran and Arawn leapt through a portal in a flash of battle leathers, the snug-fitting garments indistinguishable from Fionn’s attire. Arawn barked a command; their gateway winked shut. His midnight gaze scanned the small group. “Why is Gwydion not here?” he demanded. “He left afore any of us.”
Rune threw his head back. Another desolate howl split the night.
Bran’s coppery eyes narrowed. “Aye, and where is the lass?”
“And that Hunter scum, Travis,” Fionn growled. He spread his hands in front of him. “I havena felt Aislinn since a few moments after we entered the portal. Join your magic to mine so we might figure out what has happened.”
Bran nodded curtly. “Aye, Travis must have lied to us, but to what purpose?”
“To save his own sorry hide, what else?” Fionn snapped. “Or mayhap because he wanted Aislinn for himself.”
The air took on an iridescent waviness. Gwydion stumbled out of the odd-looking place. Tangled in a welter of blue robes, he clutched an intricately carved staff; blond hair swirled around him. “Be gone, I say—Wait, what happened to—?” He took in the tableau as he lurched unsteadily to his feet. Fionn almost heard wheels turning as Gwydion tallied who was missing. The warrior magician pounded the end of his wooden staff into broken asphalt. Lightning crackled from the end of the staff, betraying his annoyance.
Something snapped in Fionn. Bright, brittle anger lanced through him He launched himself at Gwydion and drove the other Celtic god to the ground. “Bastard,” he screamed. “Ye were in charge of Travis. What? Ye couldna control a simple human? Look what your slipshod seeds have sown—” He raised a fist and drove it into the side of Gwydion’s face. It was more satisfying than using magic. Closer and more personal.
Rune jumped into the fray and sank his teeth into Gwydion’s leg. Bella cawed her disapproval. She tangled her talons in the mage’s long hair and pulled as she pecked at him. Gwydion bellowed in pain. The air thickened and developed an electric quality as he reached for his magic.
Fionn had just cocked his arm back to hit Gwydion again—before his fellow Celtic god shielded himself—when strong arms closed about him and dragged him back. Magic surrounded him, forming a barrier.
“That willna help,” Arawn, god of the dead, revenge, and terror, said, voice stern with command.
“Aye, it willna get your lass back,” Bran agreed. God of prophecy, the arts, and war, he often had a gentler approach than the other Celtic deities.
Gwydion rolled to a sit, looking dazed. He placed his hands on the wolf and raven, muttering in Gaelic. After a time, both animals retreated. He touched the bloodied places on his thigh; the flesh mended quickly. The master enchanter and god of illusion did not make any move to get to his feet. He settled his blue gaze on Fionn, bowed his head slightly, and said, “I am most sorry. Ye are right to be angry with me. The lad came at me flanked by Lemurians. I never even knew how many. When I sent my magic spiraling out to find Travis, he was gone beyond my reach.”
“Why didn’t ye tell me?” Fionn growled.
“How?” Gwydion countered, sounding weary. “Communication isna possible in the portals.”
Fionn groaned inwardly. He knew that. Where were his brains? Taking a wee holiday, a sarcastic inner voice suggested. Fionn jerked against the magic holding him. “You can let me go now,” he told Arawn and Bran. “I’ve returned to my senses.”
He stepped forward and extended a hand to Gwydion, who grasped it. “I am sorry I lost my temper.”
Something sparked from the mage’s blue eyes—compassion laced with pity. Gwydion stood, and then brushed off his robes; dust flew in all directions. He bent to retrieve his richly carved staff. It glowed blue-white when he touched it and he arched a brow at Fionn. “See, the staff knows battle lies ahead. The important thing is what we do now. A good start would be not tearing one another to bits.”
Though Fionn agreed, he secretly wondered if Gwydion might have tried harder were it not for the bad blood between them over Tara, Aislinn’s dead mother. As a MacLochlainn, Aislinn was bound to him, just like her mother had been. But Tara had loved Gwydion. To avoid marrying Fionn, she’d given herself to a stranger and run away to America, effectively severing an age-old bonding. Tara MacLochlainn had been an Irish queen. Under laws of blood and dynasty, she should have belonged to him, Fionn MacCumhaill, Celtic god of wisdom, knowledge, and divination…
Guess she had other ideas about that. What a fankle. Mayhap one we are still paying for. Fionn forced his mind to stay in the present. No point in dragging old bones out and chewing them half to death. Rune’s large black and gray head rammed his side. The wolf bared his fangs and growled.
“I understand.” Fionn settled his blue gaze on Rune. “We have to find her. And we will.”
“Let us go over what we know.” Bran stepped closer. Blond braids were tucked into tight-fitting battle leathers. He had a dreamy look about him, but Fionn wasn’t fooled. The god of prophecy’s mind was sharp as a whip.
“Good idea,” Arawn echoed. Dark hair cascaded down his leather-clad shoulders. Looking as grim as the dead he commanded, his face etched into harsh lines. Eyes so dark iris and pupil were indistinguishable, flashed fire.
“Let us ask the goddess’ blessing,” Fionn intoned. A weight like a cold stone settled into his guts. They couldn’t afford to make any mistakes. Aislinn’s life depended on them getting this right the first time. And my life right along with it. Fionn thought about the next thousand years without the only woman he’d ever truly loved; his soul shriveled. He cursed his immortality. Life without Aislinn wouldn’t be worth very damned much.
Gwydion began a Celtic chant. The other three joined in at proscribed intervals punctuated by Bella’s shrieks and Rune’s barks, whines, and howls. Night yielded to a sickly orange sunrise as they sang.
“I believe we are ready,” Gwydion murmured.
“Aye, I feel a goddess presence.” Arawn spoke reverently. “’Twill provide a balance point against all our male energies.”
“Let us return to cataloging what we know.” Fionn gestured impatiently. Though he understood the wisdom of securing divine assistance, he wanted to get moving before something lethal happened to Aislinn. A vision of her being tortured—long limbs splayed over a rack—rose to taunt him. He muffled a cry, but his mind wouldn’t clear. Blood ran down Aislinn’s face and blended with the red of her hair. Her golden eyes were glazed with pain. He bit down hard on his lower lip, feeling powerless. Adrenaline surged; it left a sour taste in the back of his throat.
“We are, indeed, ready.” Bran nodded.
Fionn latched onto the sound of Bran’s voice and let it pull him out of the black pit his mind had become.
Bran inhaled sharply. “The Hunter, Travis, sought us out. I dinna try verra hard to test his words, but there was enough truth in his tale to satisfy me.”
“And I, as well,” Gwydion agreed. “So mayhap his small group of humans truly was set upon by Lemurians—”
Fionn snapped his fingers. “I have it. That putrid poor-excuse-for-a-human cut a deal to save himself. Mayhap part of it was designed to wrest Aislinn away from me since he was in love with her, too. She told me—” The words curdled in his throat. He couldn’t bear the thought of Aislinn fucking anyone else. She’d been with Travis once. If she was telling me the truth… Mayhap she was with him many times and softened the telling to spare me.
Arawn cocked his head to one side. “Even though ye stopped midstream, what ye did say made sense. Travis agreed to serve as bait in exchange for his life—and mayhap the life of his bond animal as well. If he had his eye on the lass afore all this, well, the pot would have been all the sweeter.”
Fionn waved him to silence. “Ye say ye felt Lemurians?” He looked at Gwydion who nodded. “Well, then, she must be in Taltos. Where else would they take her?”
Relieved to have a destination and something to do, Fionn pulled magic, intent on leaving immediately.
“Hold.” Gwydion put up a hand.
“What?” Annoyed, muscles strung tighter than a bow, Fionn locked gazes with him. Blue eyes sparred with a nearly identical set.
“Ye canna go off half-cocked. There are not enough of us.” Gwydion hesitated. “As the god of wisdom, knowledge and divination, Fionn MacCumhaill, I would think ye would know that without me having to tell you.”
Frustration fueled rage. Fionn opened his mouth to tell Gwydion what he really thought of him. “Why you sanctimonious—”
“Never mind that,” Bran spoke up. “We need a strategy.”
“And mayhap more of us,” Arawn added.
“Aye, and what about Dewi?” Ignoring Fionn’s bitten off words and the challenge beneath them, Gwydion furled his brows.
Fionn blew out an impatient breath; his anger receded. The others were right. Dewi, the blood-red Celtic dragon god, was linked to the MacLochlainn women. She’d also spent centuries in the tunnels beneath Taltos, spying on the Lemurians. Yes, they definitely needed the dragon.
“All right,” he ground out through gritted teeth. “I get it. I agree we need Dewi, and probably more of us as well.”
“We must return to Marta’s house. As soon as we can.”
The wolf’s voice startled Fionn. He turned to look at Rune. The wolf padded closer. “I have been to Taltos both ways,” the wolf reminded him, growling low. “It is much easier and more direct if we enter through the portal in Marta’s basement. That way we maintain the element of surprise. The Mount Shasta gateway is akin to going to their front door and ringing a bell.”
Fionn kicked himself. Even the wolf is thinking more clearly than I am.
Rune had been bonded to Marta and knew her secrets. She’d been onto the Lemurians, delving deep into the extent of their lies. Before they’d killed her, she’d managed to figure out that the war against the dark gods was a sham. The Lemurians were actually in league with the dark. They were the ones who’d masterminded cracking the veils between the worlds to allow the dark ones access to Earth. An ancient race, the Lemurians understood they were dying. They needed an infusion of magic so they’d cut a deal. Access to Earth in exchange for—
Fionn filled his lungs with air, blew out a breath, and did it again. He had to get hold of himself or he’d be less than useless hunting for Aislinn. That will not happen. Focus, goddamn it. Pull it together. Fionn pushed the ache in his heart aside and buried it deep. He couldn’t afford emotion. Not now. Or mental forays into Lemurian treachery. When he’d met Aislinn, she’d been a foot soldier in the Lemurian army, branded so she couldn’t use her magic against them.
Voices flowed over him. When words fell into coherent patterns again, he heard Gwydion ticking off a plan on his fingers. Apparently one the others had formed without any input from him. How dare they? Anger flared hot and bright. Fionn welcomed it like a drowning man might grab a spar. He needed the energy to find the woman he loved.
“…agreed, Bran will hunt for Dewi. Arawn will return to the Old Country to muster as many of us as he can find. Fionn and I and the bond animals will return to Marta’s house. We will sneak into the tunnel a time or two to see what we can discover, but we will not move to rescue the lass until you arrive with reinforcements.”
Gwydion nailed Fionn with his blue gaze. “Aye and ye have returned to us. Did ye hear—?”
“Aye.” Fionn cut off Gwydion’s next words. “Let’s get moving.”
The master enchanter inclined his head. “As ye will.”
Fionn looked at him and wondered if it were mere coincidence Gwydion would end up babysitting him. He decided to test those waters. “I really would be fine with just the bond animals, feel free to join either Arawn or—”
“Pah!” Gwydion interrupted. “Not on your life. I know you, Fionn MacCumhaill. If ye returned alone, ye would turn Taltos upside down to find your lady love. Then the rest of us would have two to search for.”
Arawn moved forward and laid a hand on Fionn’s arm. “Remember,” he said, “the Lemurians came from Mu. They may still have a way to retreat there. If they do so, we will not be able to follow. Or they might strike a deal with the five remaining dark gods and go to one of their worlds if they feel threatened. We can travel to the border worlds, but it isna pleasant. Nay, if they have truly taken Aislinn to Taltos—and we do not know this as a fact—it is imperative they remain there. So, doona do anything foolish.”
“I understand.” Fionn clamped his jaws shut. Thoroughly chastised, he felt like a child again. He hadn’t considered either of the alternatives Arawn had just outlined. Apparently they’d come up in the part of the conversation he’d missed while wrestling with himself.
“I know ye do.” Arawn favored him with a rare smile. “Bran and I are leaving.” The words had scarcely left his mouth when the air around both mages took on a numinous quality.
Fionn locked gazes with Gwydion. “Are ye ready?”
“I am.” Rune took up his traveling position next to Fionn’s side.
“As am I.” Bella settled on his shoulder in a flutter of wings.
Fionn stared at the bond animals. They’d returned to audible speech; that must mean they’d gotten their anger under control. If they can do it, so can I.
Gwydion nodded slowly. “I do not believe there is aught else to be done right now, so the answer to your question would be aye.”
The air thickened as Gwydion drew magic to open a portal. Blessedly numb inside, Fionn added his own to the mix, buried a hand in Rune’s neck ruff, and stepped through.
After they returned to Marta’s house in the ruins of Ely, Nevada, Fionn spent the next hour rattling through it looking for clues that might help them. He started in the bedroom, but Aislinn’s scent, a mix of honey and musk, clung to everything and nearly undid him. When he caught himself pulling her pillow to his nose, he threw it against the wall and stormed out of the room they’d shared.
The rest of the house hadn’t yielded anything. Fionn didn’t bother going up to the attic. Marta’s parents were there, trapped in a state of suspended animation by a strong spell. Best leave them to their rest since they held the gates between the worlds open.
Because there wasn’t anything else to do, he settled at the kitchen table with a bottle of mead and nearly emptied it. The anesthetic effect he hoped for hadn’t happened, though. At least not yet.
“Would ye like to talk about it?” Gwydion’s melodic voice interrupted Fionn’s bleak thoughts. He swiveled his head to look at the mage standing in the doorway, flanked by Rune and Bella. Dirt clung to his robes; Fionn wondered where he’d been. Gwydion had told him where he was going, but Fionn hadn’t paid much attention.
Hmph. Even the animals deserted me.
I’d have deserted me, too, a different inner voice inserted dryly. The way I banged around in here wanting to kill something—anything—if only it would bring Aislinn back to me. Fionn understood at a level beyond reckoning, if he ever laid eyes on Travis again, the Hunter would be dead before he saw what hit him.
He tipped the bottle in Gwydion’s direction. “Not sure what there is to say,” Fionn mumbled.
“Och and there is much to be said between us.” Gwydion clomped to the table, hooked a chair out with one of his perpetually bare feet, and sat heavily. “For example, we havena ever truly talked about Tara—”
“With good reason,” Fionn snapped.
Gwydion shook his head. “Ye doona trust me. I sense your hesitation. We must clear the air.”
Fionn opened his mouth, but Gwydion shook his head. “Hear me out. That empty place inside you? The one ye’re trying your damnedest to ignore—or drown with spirits? ’Tis akin to how I felt when Tara fled Ireland to escape having to choose you or me. She wanted me, but the ancient bond demanded she wed you.”
“I know all that. I still doona see—”
“For the love of the goddess, would ye stop interrupting?” Gwydion’s blue eyes flashed dangerously. Fionn subsided against the back of his seat. “’Twas no skin off your ass when the lass left Ireland, yet I mourned her loss every day. It’s been years, but I miss her still. ’Twas a gift to see her once again in the tunnels under Slototh’s lair—even if she was already dead.”
Something in Gwydion’s words penetrated the desolation surrounding Fionn. He’d known Gwydion cared for Tara, but he’d never appreciated the extent of his loss. Truth hit home and shame washed over him. When Gwydion waved it in front of his nose—no, make that shoved his nose right in it—Fionn recognized kindred pain. He drew his brows together. “Why were ye not angrier at me? We had words, but it seemed we made things up soon enough.”
“Nay, I simply buried my resentment. What would have been the point in holding a grudge? I tracked Tara to America. By then she’d wed another and made it painfully clear she wanted nothing to do with you or me—or the dragon—ever again.”
“At least part of that was my fault. I could have—”
A bitter laugh bubbled past the close-cropped red-blond beard on Gwydion’s face. “Aye, ye see it now. Ye dinna see it then. All ye could see then was that she was the MacLochlainn. Your MacLochlainn.”
Fionn looked at his hands. What Gwydion said was true. He hadn’t loved Tara and he’d known she didn’t even like him, yet he’d insisted on pressing forward with marriage. Of course, there was the niggling problem he already had a wife, so he’d been finagling a divorce. That had been when Tara, finally eighteen, took matters into her own hands and left Ireland.
“I really am sorry. I should have been more considerate—of both of you.”
“Och, aye.” A thread of magic forced his gaze to meet the master enchanter’s. “I forgive you.”
A corner of Fionn’s mouth turned downward. “The question is whether I can forgive myself.”
Gwydion held out a hand for the mead. Fionn passed it to him. Eyeing what was left of the bottle’s contents, Gwydion said, “There never was a drink that offered enough oblivion to purge Tara from my thoughts.”
“Wasna working for me, either.” Fionn snorted. “I should know this. Ye told me, but I wasna paying attention. Where did you and the animals go?”
“We did the same outside as ye were supposed to be doing within. That would be hunting for clues Travis may have dropped while he was here.”
Fionn waited. Instead of talking, Gwydion tipped the bottle and drank until it was empty. “Did ye find aught?” he asked after it appeared the other mage wasn’t going to say anything else.
Gwydion’s forehead creased. He shoved blond hair over his shoulders, pulled a leather thong out of his robes, and bound it out of the way. “It was odd,” he murmured. “At first we all,” he gestured toward Rune and Bella, “thought we sensed Old Ones—ah, I meant to say Lemurians. When I looked more closely, though, whatever had been there was gone.” He shrugged.
Something tugged at Fionn’s internal alarm system. Attuned to danger, it rarely failed him. “Do ye suppose they were after Marta’s parents?”
For a moment Gwydion looked confused. His features smoothed. “Och, ye mean the Lemurian-human hybrids ensorcelled in yon chamber.” He waved a hand over one shoulder. “Mayhap. There is little else here to draw the Old Ones.”
Fionn thought about the genetic manipulation that must have gone into hybridizing the couple in the attic and shuddered. Did the Old Ones want Marta’s parents’ blood so they could do the same thing to Aislinn?
“At least Aislinn is likely still on this side of the veil,” Gwydion muttered.
Fionn looked sharply at Gwydion, realizing the other mage must have read his thoughts. He dragged a hand down his face. “Aye, we all hope that.”
Something sharp closed over his calf. Rune had bitten him. “It is time. We should go into Taltos. I must see for myself whether my bond mate still lives.”
“Can ye feel her?” Fionn asked.
The wolf’s amber eyes gleamed in the dim kitchen. “No, but if she is in Taltos, I will know it once we open the gateway and I cross over.”
“They might have her shielded in some way—” Fionn cautioned.
“Enough words.” Rune nipped Fionn again. As if to support her fellow bond animal, Bella landed on Fionn’s shoulder and dug her talons deep.
A wry smile split Gwydion’s face. “It would appear the animals have spoken.”
“We did tell the others we’d do a reconnaissance.” Fionn stood.
Gwydion followed suit. Both men went to the corner of the kitchen with the hidden trap door. Fionn kicked the rug aside and tugged the door upward. When he looked back he saw Gwydion’s staff glowing with a blue-white light.
Fionn worked his way down the ladder, helping the wolf. It was awkward. When Aislinn had gone into Taltos without him, she’d used magic to transport the wolf to the gateway. The thought of her seared his soul. His throat felt thick. A pulse pounded behind one eye, promising a mother of a headache if he didn’t focus magic to soothe the inflamed blood vessels.
At the bottom of the ladder, he strode to the section of wall holding the gateway and began the incantation from Marta’s journals. Gwydion’s energy vibrated next to him. Stones scraped against one another as the gateway swung open. Fionn bent to give Rune instructions, but the wolf bounded through the opening and disappeared into the dark.
“Damn it.” Fionn swore softly. “Ye stay with me,” he said to Bella.
“I am not going past this doorway,” the bird informed him. She fluttered from his shoulder to a chair and perched on it. “Fewer of us, less chance of discovery. Safer for Aislinn.”
Fionn couldn’t help but agree with her. His bird had warmed to Aislinn much to his relief, since she’d taken a perverse delight in making all the other women in his life—including Tara—miserable.
“Mind speech,” Gwydion said sharply. “And precious little of that.”
“I suppose we follow the wolf. He gave us little choice.”
“After you.”
Fionn stepped through into a dark tunnel. Careful to mute his magic in case the Lemurians had posted guards nearby, he turned left and trailed after Rune. Guts tight, barely breathing, he moved beneath Taltos, the city built by Lemurians deep inside Mount Shasta. Desperation thrummed through him.
I have to find her. Failure is not an option.
My Mini Review:
This story was just a great as the first in this awesome series! It starts off exactly where Earth's Requiem (find it here) ended and I found myself again drawn into this tale. The romance between Aislinn and Fionn continues to heat up as they navigate the challenges of their growing relationship. This is a fantastic mix of Urban Fantasy, romance and action. More secrets get unveiled and the fight for earth continues across countries, planets and realms. I highly recommend this book but with a warning that the first book should be read to fully enjoy this one! *This is a mini review because I did not want to post any spoilers at all! Just read this series for yourself and I am positive you will love it as much as I do!*
Ann Gimpel is a clinical psychologist, with a Jungian bent. Avocations include mountaineering, skiing, wilderness photography and, of course, writing. A lifelong aficionado of the unusual, she began writing speculative fiction a few years ago. Since then her short fiction has appeared in a number of webzines and anthologies. Her longer books run the gamut from urban fantasy to paranormal romance. She’s published 19 books to date, with several more contracted for 2014.
A husband, grown children, grandchildren and three wolf hybrids round out her family.
www.anngimpel.com
http://anngimpel.blogspot.com
http://www.amazon.com/author/anngimpel
http://www.facebook.com/anngimpel.author
@AnnGimpel (for Twitter)
Spotlight - Wanton Heat by Nicola Marsh
Title: Wanton Heat Author: Nicola Marsh
Publisher: Entangled Brazen
At his majesty’s service…or so he thinks.
With her job and her self-respect on the line, advertising executive and reformed bad-girl Zoe Keaton heads to Italy to score a vital business deal. Unfortunately, the guy she needs to convince is the wickedly hot—and totally closed-off—Prince Dominic Ricci, who has no intention of listening to her pitch. So with the queen’s help, Zoe does the only thing that will get the job done. She kidnaps him.
But the joke’s on her when the queen’s matchmaking strands Zoe and the prince on the royal family’s secluded island. Zoe vows not to mix business with pleasure—and prove that she’s more than a spoiled rich girl who bought her way to success—but when the prince turns up the heat, the chemistry between them ignites. Is it just sizzling sex, or could an Italian prince with a tragic past fall for a take-no-prisoners American?
Amazon (only 99 cents)
ABOUT NICOLA MARSH:
USA TODAY bestselling author Nicola Marsh writes flirty fiction with flair for adults and riveting, eerie stories for young adults.
Based in Melbourne, she has published 45 books and sold over 5 million copies worldwide. She writes contemporary romances for Harlequin Mills & Boon, Entangled Publishing and is self-published. Her first indie release, Crazy Love, was a 2012 ARRA (Australian Romance Readers Award) finalist. BANISH, a thriller with Harlequin Teen Australia, is her young adult debut (August 2013), closely followed by the release of a paranormal YA series starting with Scion of the Sun (Month9Books, November 2013)
She’s also a Waldenbooks and Bookscan bestseller, a 2013 National Readers’ Choice Award and RBY (Romantic Book of the Year) winner, a multi-finalist for awards including the Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award, RBY, HOLT Medallion, Booksellers’ Best Award, Golden Quill, Laurel Wreath, More than Magic and has won several CataRomance Reviewers’ Choice Awards.
A physiotherapist for thirteen years, she now adores writing full time, chasing after her two little heroes, barracking loudly for her North Melbourne Kangaroos footy team and her favourite, curling up with a good book!
She also loves interacting with readers. She blogs, tweets incessantly, chatters on Facebook and answers emails.
TWITTER * FACEBOOK * WEBSITE * GOODREADS * BLOG
Cover Reveal - Catch (Broken #1.5) by Michelle Congdon
Broken # 1.5
By- Michelle Congdon
Genre- New Adult Contemporary
***Recommended for ages 18+ due to mature situations, sexual content and language***
Even the best fall down sometimes…
Ryan Fox thought he had it all: money, women, fast cars, and a stellar baseball career. He also thought he could hide the memories of his dark past behind the witty charm and the devilish smile. Truth is, he had almost everyone, including himself, fooled. But the past cannot be ignored forever and eventually it finds a way of catching up.
When it all came crashing down, one girl was there to mend the broken pieces. Evangeline Montgomery. Not only did the troubled heiress turn Ryan’s world upside down but she helped him to see what’s most important: It’s not the past that defines you.
In Slide, we heard from Evangeline. It’s now Ryan’s turn to share his story about the girl who stole his heart and changed his life forever.
Release Blitz and Giveaway - Spark (Spark Series #1) by Jennifer Ryder
Title: Spark (Spark Series #1)
Author: Jennifer Ryder
Not many people know that I, Eevie Lawson, have a problem. An addiction to romance novels. I eat them for breakfast. I hide it the best I can, but I need them to breathe. It’s how I cope.
I’ve had a swag of book boyfriends, but now that I’m free from the responsibility of caring for my three younger brothers, it’s time to find one in the flesh.
In real life, no girl meets their hero on page one, or even at the end of chapter one. I should know.
My journey is real. It’s not perfect, and it sure as hell isn’t easy—but the fight for something worthwhile never is.
New Adult and erotic romance writer. My debut novel 'Spark', part of a four part romantic suspense series will be released on 28 February 2014!
A sexy imagination, a life-long love of books and a sucker for romance, Jennifer Ryder couldn't stifle her creativity any longer. Writing steamy adult romance has become her new focus. Living on a rural property in New South Wales, Australia, she enjoys the best of city and country. Her loving husband is ever willing to provide inspiration, and her two young cherubs, and sheep that don't see fences as barriers, keep life more than interesting. Jennifer placed third in the International Stringybark Erotic Short Fiction Award 2013.
Connect with Jennifer:
Facebook | Goodreads | Twitter
Spotlight and Giveaway - How to Be a Man by Tamara Linse
How to Be a Man
by Tamara Linse
Genre: Literary Short Story Collection
Publisher: Willow Words
ASIN: B00HKSLFSQ
Word Count: 59,650
Amazon Kindle Amazon Print Smashwords Scribd Google Books
“Never acknowledge the fact that you’re a girl, and take pride when your guy friends say, ‘You’re one of the guys.’ Tell yourself, ‘I am one of the guys,’ even though, in the back of your mind, a little voice says, ‘But you’ve got girl parts.’” – Birdie, in “How to Be a Man”
A girl whose self-worth revolves around masculinity, a bartender who loses her sense of safety, a woman who compares men to plants, and a boy who shoots his cranked-out father.
These are a few of the hard-scrabble characters in Tamara Linse’s debut short story collection, How to Be a Man. Set in contemporary Wyoming—the myth of the West taking its toll—these stories reveal the lives of tough-minded girls and boys, self-reliant women and men, struggling to break out of their lonely lives and the emotional havoc of their families to make a connection, to build a life despite the odds. How to Be a Man falls within the tradition of Maile Meloy, Tom McGuane, and Annie Proulx.
The author Tamara Linse—writer, cogitator, recovering ranch girl—broke her collarbone when she was three, her leg when she was four, a horse when she was twelve, and her heart ever since. Raised on a ranch in northern Wyoming, she earned her master’s in English from the University of Wyoming, where she taught writing. Her work appears in the Georgetown Review, South Dakota Review, and Talking River, among others, and she was a finalist for an Arts & Letters and Glimmer Train contests, as well as the Black Lawrence Press Hudson Prize for a book of short stories. She works as an editor for a foundation and a freelancer. Find her online at tamaralinse.com and tamara-linse.blogspot.com
from short story “How to Be a Man”
Never acknowledge the fact that you’re a girl, and take pride when your guy friends say, “You’re one of the guys.” Tell yourself, “I am one of the guys,” even though, in the back of your mind, a little voice says, “But you’ve got girl parts.”
You are born on a ranch in central Colorado or southern Wyoming or northern Montana and grow up surrounded by cowboys. Or maybe not a ranch, maybe a farm, and you have five older brothers. Your first memory is of sitting on the back of Big Cheese, an old sorrel gelding with a sway back and—you find out later when you regularly ride bareback—a backbone like a ridge line. Later, you won’t know if this first memory is real or comes from one of the only photos of you as a baby. You study that photo a lot. It must be spring or late fall because you’re wearing a quilted yellow jacket with a blue-lined hood and your brother’s hands reach from the side of the frame and support you in the saddle. You look half asleep with your head tilted to the side against your shoulder, a little sack of potatoes.
Your dad is a kind man, a hard worker, who gives you respect when no one else will. When you’re four, if he asks, “Birdie, do you think the price of hogs is going up?” ponder this a while. Take into account how Rosie has just farrowed seven piglets and how you’re bottle-raising the runt and how you’ve heard your brothers complaining about pig shit on the boots they wear to town. Think about how much Jewel—that’s what you’ve decided to name the pig—means to you and say, “Yes, Daddy, pigs are worth a lot.” He’ll nod his head, but he won’t smile like other people when they think what you say was cute or precocious.
Your mother is a mouse of a woman who takes long walks in the gray sagebrushed hills beyond the fields or lays in the cool back bedroom reading the Bible. When your brothers ask “Where’s Mom?” you won’t know. You don’t think it odd when at five you learn how to boil water in the big speckled enamelware pot and to shake in three boxes of macaroni, to watch as it turn from off-yellow plasticity to soft white noodles, to hold both handles with a towel and carefully pour it into the colander in the sink while avoiding the steam, to measure the butter and the milk—one of your brothers shows you how much—and then to mix in the powdered cheese. You learn to dig a dollop of bacon grease from the Kerr jar in the fridge into the hot cast iron skillet, wait for it to melt, and then lay in half-frozen steaks, the wonderful smell of the fat and the popping of ice crystals filling the kitchen. When your brothers come in from doing their chores, they talk and laugh instead of opening the cupboards and slamming them shut. And your dad doesn’t clench his jaw while washing his hands with Dawn dishwashing liquid at the kitchen sink and then toss big hunks of Wonder Bread into bowls filled with milk.
When you wear hand-me-downs from your brothers, be proud. Covet the red plaid shirt of your next older brother, and when you get it—a hot late summer afternoon when he tosses three shirts on your bed—wear it until the holes in the elbows decapitated the cuffs. If you go to town with your dad for parts, be proud of your shitty boots and muddy jeans and torn-up shirts. It shows that you know an honest day’s work. Work is more important than fancy things, and you are not one of those ninnies who wear girlie dresses and couldn’t change a tire if their lives depended on it.
Be prepared: when you go to school, you won’t know quite where you fit. All the other kids will seem to know something that you don’t, something they whisper to each other behind their hands. They won’t ever whisper it to you. But they won’t make fun of you either because—you’ll get this right away and take pride in it—you are tough and also you have five older brothers and the Gunderson family sticks together. Be proud of the fact that, in seventh grade social studies, you sit elbows-on-the-table next to a boy about your size, and he says with a note of admiration, “Look at them guns. You got arms bigger than me.” It’s winter, and you’ve been throwing hay bales every morning to feed the livestock.
Your friends will be boys. You understand boys. When you say something, they take it at face value. If they don’t understand, hit them, and they’ll understand that. For a couple of months—until your dad finds out about it—your second oldest brother will give you a dime every time you get into a fist fight. The look on your brother’s face as he hands you those dimes will make your insides puff to bursting. Use the dimes to buy lemons at the corner grocery during lunch time. Slice them up with your buck knife and hand them out to see which of the boys can bite into it without making a face.
Tamara Linse grew up on a ranch in northern Wyoming with her farmer/rancher rock-hound ex-GI father, her artistic musician mother from small-town middle America, and her four sisters and two brothers. She jokes that she was raised in the 1880s because they did things old-style—she learned how to bake bread, break horses, irrigate, change tires, and be alone, skills she’s been thankful for ever since. The ranch was a partnership between her father and her uncle, and in the 80s and 90s the two families had a Hatfields and McCoys-style feud.
She worked her way through the University of Wyoming as a bartender, waitress, and editor. At UW, she was officially in almost every college on campus until she settled on English and after 15 years earned her bachelor’s and master’s in English. While there, she taught writing, including a course called Literature and the Land, where students read Wordsworth and Donner Party diaries during the week and hiked in the mountains on weekends. She also worked as a technical editor for an environmental consulting firm.
She still lives in Laramie, Wyoming, with her husband Steve and their twin son and daughter. She writes fiction around her job as an editor for a foundation. She is also a photographer, and when she can she posts a photo a day for a Project 365. Please stop by Tamara’s website, www.tamaralinse.com, and her blog, Writer, Cogitator, Recovering Ranch Girl, at tamara-linse.blogspot.com. You can find an extended bio there with lots of juicy details. Also friend her on Facebook and follow her on Twitter, and if you see her in person, please say hi.
www.tamaralinse.com
http://tamara-linse.blogspot.com
www.facebook.com/tlinse
www.twitter.com/TamaraLinse
www.pinterest.com/tlinse
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1481856-tamara-lines
Tour wide giveaway
$100 Amazon of BN Gift Card
Spotlight and Giveaway - The S.E.R.A. File (Volume 2) by C.T. Green
The S.E.R.A. Files
by C.T. Green
Genre: PNR
Publisher: Soul Mate Publishing
Number of pages: Approx. 105
Word Count: approx. 30, 400
Cover Artist: Cass Green
SATISFYING SIMON
Will satisfaction be guaranteed?
For Serena Roberts, getting to know her new SERA partner is an uphill task. Simon’s distant and ‘by the book’ demeanor is at odds with his playboy past. Serena believes she’ll never find out the real story behind the torture Simon endured at the hands of a demon nor discover a way past the Fae warrior’s ice-cold reserve.
Simon doesn’t mind his reputation for being hard to please, but when he meets Serena he finds there is something he cares about more than keeping his distance from others. As they hunt for a kidnapper can he trust Serena enough to leave them both satisfied?
PROTECTING PENELOPE
Angels and demons don’t mix. Prepare for an apocalypse.
Adar works as a special operative for SERA. He’s a demon who loves the thrill of close calls and blood-pounding action. But no way in hell is he ready to do protection detail for an angel. After all, everyone knows those guys are short tempered and deadly.
Penelope, a messenger angel, is minding her own business when she witnesses a crime. Now she’s under the care of a big, strong SERA agent and she’s determined to go for his heart. When the bad guys catch up with them and Adar is forced to unleash his inner demon, will the angel he’s fallen in love with still want him?
CATCHING FLAME
A fire prince always knows how to light a girl’s fire.
Saskia “Sass” Boots has been watching Flame, and he’s every bit as absorbing as his namesake. But as an agent with SERA, she’s determined to keep her mind on the job and off the fire prince’s smokin’ hot body. A pyromaniac’s on the loose and Flame is SERA’s top suspect.
When Sass announces she’s moving in with him, Flame knows it’s going to be hard to resist the girl of his dreams while chasing a murderer. There’s no way Flame is going to let some creep kill innocent people, but when things become heated, the scorching chemistry between him and Sass might prove a fatal distraction.
TOUCHING TORREN
SERA Agent. Werewolf. Guard Dog. No one said anything about ‘walkies’.
After Sophy Bancroft is blinded by a spell, Torren is determined to protect the human from a killer still at large. But for a werewolf, playing at being a guard dog is tough work. He hates deceiving the woman he’s fallen in love with, but until Sophy’s sight returns there’s no other way to ensure her safety.
Sophy’s delighted to regain her vision. When she discovers her beloved canine companion is a seriously gorgeous werewolf will she be able to trust him not to shed on the furniture, and more importantly, save her from the creature determined to end her life?
AFTER OBLIVION
Not even Hell itself is going to keep these lovers apart.
Mia Haviland and Avenian of the Fae mourned the loss of Oblivion, the demon prince who bound the three of them together. Now their lover is back and determined to re-take his place in Mia and Aven’s life.
Oblivion endured two years in Hell, imprisoned and tortured by a sadistic killer who escaped SERA’s justice. Now he wants his beloved Fairy and Fae back by his side and his captor’s head on a platter. Can he destroy his nemesis and convince Aven and Mia that neither Hell nor high water will ever keep him from them again?
Before becoming a writer C.T. Green worked in advertising for ten years. She also completed a Bachelor of Arts with majors in communication and literature.
C.T. Green now lives in regional Australia with her husband, children and extensive collection of animals - amongst which are the world's bossiest goldfish.
In between writing, i.e. arguing with her characters and occasionally posting to her blog, she reads, drinks vanilla coffee, kid wrangles, enters writing contests and avoids the goldfish.
http://www.ctgreen-author.com/
http://www.ctgreen-author.com/blog.html
https://www.facebook.com/C.T.GreenAuthor
https://twitter.com/CTGreenAuthor
https://plus.google.com/+ctgreen/posts
https://www.pinterest.com/ctgreenauthor/ct-green-likes/
http://www.amazon.com/C.T.-Green/e/B009F86386
Tour giveaway:
$15 gift voucher from Amazon
1 ebook copy of The S.E.R.A. Files Vol. I
1 ebook copy of The S.E.R.A. Files Vol. II
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line116
|
__label__wiki
| 0.782672
| 0.782672
|
Armenia and the European Union launched negotiations Monday on a new agreement to deepen their cooperation, after a previous deal fell apart over the country's decision to join the Russia-led Eurasian Economic Union. Brussels (dpa) - "We aim for
Shortened tax haven blacklist
The European Union has removed eight countries - including Panama, the United Arab Emirates and South Korea - from its 17-country blacklist of international tax havens, just seven weeks after the list was compiled. Brussels (dpa) - The eight
German Diesel scandal widens
The crisis gripping the German car industry has emerged as a new election campaign battleground, forcing Berlin to call auto bosses to an emergency summit on Wednesday to help restore confidence in the motor vehicle sector ahead of the September poll. Berlin
Opel under the PSA banner
The sale of the German carmaker Opel by General Motors to the French is sealed. In Germany people are asking: What is in store for Opel under the PSA banner? Frankfurt (dpa) - A "European Champion" is what Carlos Tavares, head of the
Berlin's airport again delayed
A fresh set of technical glitches is expected to further delay the opening of Berlin's new airport by another four to six months, city mayor Michael Mueller said on Wednesday. Berlin (dpa) - "There is a chain of nuisances," he told state
Draghi facing the parliament
European Central Bank chief Mario Draghi on Monday tried to quell European lawmakers concerns about historically-low interest rates amid questions about uneven growth and low inflation in the eurozone. Strasbourg, France (dpa) - "It is true that
BASF accused of avoiding taxes
The German chemicals giant BASF used aggressive tax strategies to avoid paying 923 million euros (1.03 billion dollars) in taxes over a five-year period, according to a study commissioned by the Green Party in the European Parliament, released Monday. Brussels
Wallonia destroys years of work
Since Belgium's French-speaking region of Wallonia decided earlier this month not to back the EU-Canada free trade deal CETA, many questions about the future of CETA and the EU‘s ability to commit to other international trade deals have emerged. Brussels
Fresh money for Greece
Eurozone finance ministers have given their go-ahead for Greece to be granted 1.1 billion euros (1.2 billion dollars) in bailout aid, while holding back on a further 1.7 billion euros until Athens clears outstanding arrears. Luxembourg (dpa) - The
Social democrats backing CETA
Germany's Social Democrats (SPD) - junior coalition partner to Chancellor Angela Merkel's Christian Democrats (CDU) - agreed Monday to back the EU-Canada trade deal CETA after some convincing from their party leader. Berlin (dpa) - The majority of
EU-Commissioner attacks VW
Volkswagen appears to have violated EU consumer protection rules, a top official from the bloc said Monday, pointing to complaints about a lack of transparency from the German automobile giant during its emissions scandal. Brussels (dpa) - The United
Klishina allowed to compete
Russia's lone athletics team member at the Rio Games, long jumper Darya Klishina, on Monday welcomed the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruling to allow her to compete and is thankful she can turn her attention to the competition. Rio de
Google surpasses Apple
Google has overtaken Apple to take the top spot as the worldÄs most valuable brand, according to an annual report released Wednesday. Washington (dpa) - With a value of 229.2 billion dollars, Google is 32 per cent more valuable than a year ago,
Goris
"Goris" (Armenian: ; until 1924, "Geryusy", "Geryusi" or "Gerusi"; formerly, "Goraik", "Gores", "Hin Kores", "Kores", "Korus", "Koru", "Kuris", "Zangizour", "Zankazour", and "Kyuryus") is a city in the Syunik Marz of Armenia. It is about 240 km away
Spitak
:"For the nearby village, see Spitak (village).""Spitak" (; formerly, "Amamth", "Hamamlu" ) is a city in northern Armenia located in the region with a population of 18,237. It was mostly destroyed by the devastating Spitak Earthquake in 1988, and
Sisian
"Sisian" (, also Romanized as "Sisavan") is a city in Armenia in Syunik province,historical Zangezur province. It is located on both banks of Vorotan River, 6 km south of the passing highway Yerevan - Meghri, 217 km from Yerevan and 115 km from
Stepanavan
"Stepanavan" (, also Romanized as "Step’anavan" and "Stepahavan"; also, "Stepanawan-"; until 1938 "Dzhalal-Ogly", meaning "Son of Jalal", also Romanized as "Dzhelaloglu" and "Dzhalalogly") is the second largest city (after Vanadzor) in the
Eriwan
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line126
|
__label__wiki
| 0.687051
| 0.687051
|
When Life Imitates Art - The Wire
Bullettyme
Post subject: When Life Imitates Art - The Wire
Of course it could also be art imitating life.
Crazy case of police corruption in Baltimore, it's like something out of The Wire or a movie:
A federal jury has found two Baltimore police officers guilty for their role in a sprawling police corruption case that involved robbing city residents.
Daniel Hersl and Marcus Taylor were convicted of racketeering and robbery charges and cleared of others.
They were part of an elite unit tasked with seizing illegal firearms. But instead the squad went rogue, stealing cash and guns and reselling drugs.
Thousands of cases could have been affected by the unit's corruption.
Baltimore Police Commissioner-Designate Darryl De Sousa issued a statement after the verdict, noting the trial uncovered "some of the most egregious and despicable acts ever perpetrated in law enforcement".
"Our job moving forward is to earn back the trust and respect of the community," he said, adding that it would "be a process".
Baltimore police have struggled to regain public trust after Freddie Gray, a young black man, died in police custody in 2015.
The city's police department is currently subject to federal monitoring as part of court-ordered reforms due to discriminatory and unconstitutional policing.
The verdict follows three weeks of explosive testimony in a federal courtroom.
Additional officers named in the testimony have either been suspended or announced their retirement.
A jury deliberated on Thursday and Monday over a series of charges stemming from an FBI investigation of the Baltimore Police Department unit, the Gun Trace Task Force (GTTF).
In additional to the guilty findings, they cleared Hersl and Taylor on charges of possession of a firearm in a crime of violence. They face a maximum sentence of 60 years.
After the verdict on Monday State's Attorney Marilyn Mosby called the facts revealed at the trial "deeply disturbing" and said her office was "continuing to comb through the cases" potentially implicated by the officers' illegal acts.
According to the Baltimore city's Office of the Public Defender, as many as 3,000 cases could have been affected by the GTTF.
All but one member of the task force was indicted and arrested in March 2017.
Six former officers pleaded guilty, and four of those - Maurice Ward, Jemell Rayam, Evodio Hendrix and Momodu Gondo - were called to the witness stand to testify against their former colleagues.
They detailed a series of thefts that went back years, including pilfering cash during street arrests, cracking safes, stealing kilograms of drugs to resell and armed robberies committed by wearing masks and brandishing guns.
Over the years, the thefts amounted to hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Although Hersl and Taylor were on trial, much of the most shocking testimony centred on the actions of the unit's officer-in-charge, former sergeant Wayne Jenkins.
Ward testified Jenkins liked to stop anyone over the age of 18 carrying a backpack, and pulled over specific vehicle models he called "dope boy cars" without cause.
The unit routinely filed false police reports to cover their tracks, according to court testimony.
Former detectives also testified they went into houses without search warrants for so-called "sneak and peeks" to see if there was money or drugs inside.
Jurors were shown Halloween masks, an 18-inch (46cm) machete and a grappling hook the men said Jenkins intended to use in home invasions.
Jenkins advised them to carry realistic looking BB guns, two detectives said, so they could plant them if they shot an unarmed citizen.
Jurors also heard from Donald Stepp, a bail bondsman who said he resold an estimated $1m (£720,000) worth of stolen drugs for Jenkins, including two garbage bags full of prescription opiates that Stepp said were taken from pharmacies during the civil unrest following the death of Freddie Gray.
Throughout the trial, the defence attempted to discredit the testimony of the former officers, saying they lied about Hersl and Taylor's participation in hopes of getting reduced sentences. They also picked apart the credibility of witnesses who admitted they were dealing drugs at the time they were robbed.
Hersl's lawyers also argued the 17-year veteran was being unfairly held accountable for some of the task force members' most egregious acts.
"The government lumped Daniel Hersl's wrong conduct - there's no excuse for it - into a racketeering enterprise where other officers did commit real robberies, real drug trafficking and real extortion," said defence lawyer William Purpura.
While Taylor's family declined to be interviewed, Hersl's older brother Steve Hersl sobbed outside the courtroom and expressed outrage at the verdict.
"My brother was innocent," he told reporters. "Let's talk about the corruption on top - everybody starts from the bottom, the little guy. My brother was a little guy."
But prosecutors argued both officers were just as involved as their colleagues were, showing specific instances of theft.
During the trial, about a dozen additional names of Baltimore police officers were mentioned in connection with illegal or improper acts, including one who tipped off GTTF that they were under investigation.
The testimony had real-time effects - one officer was suspended. Another high-ranking officer announced his retirement on the day he was mentioned.
A special agent for the FBI told the court a wider corruption investigation is active and ongoing, opening up the possibility of more charges.
Post subject: Re: When Life Imitates Art - The Wire
BokJock
More The Shield than the Wire
BokJock wrote:
Just because it's Balmer.
Beaver_Shark
Location: Mzansi
Inch high hogs eye
naki
You play in dirt, you get dirty
Although this thread turned out better than I hoped.
tabascoboy
Location: 曇りの街
crash 669
I assume some of the images I couldn't view covered "SHHEEEEEEEIT".
I love the Woody Allen quote "Life doesn't imitate art, it imitates bad television". Or good telly in this case.
hermie wrote:
Andalu
If there's anything positive it's that it's a black guy and a white guy working together.
mabunch78
During the first series of Undisclosed (about a miscarriage of justice in Baltimore) it was mentioned that David Simon shadowed members of the Baltimore police force just prior to writing the screenplay for the first series of The Wire. Some of the corruption he depicts in the series are exactly what some of the police were up to in the case, mostly around manipulation of evidence to fit a preconceived narrative that suited individuals involved in the investigation for personal reasons. A healthy dose of cognitive dissonance was required in order to see it through, which they did with success given their knowledge of the weaknesses and pressure points in the city judicial system. The implication is that the art was imitating life. It seems Simon produced a faithful depiction of policing culture in the city that lives on...
mabunch78 wrote:
Tehui
I watched the Wire for the first time last year. I completed all 5 seasons in about 6 weeks. A terrific TV series with a great story.
Bullettyme wrote:
Dubya Howard
Location: Bondi Centrelink
Tehui wrote:
Lucky fu*ker. Wish I could erase it from my memory and rewatch it from scratch...
Dubya Howard wrote:
Same. As golden as this age of television is, I don't think there's been anything as good recently.
Did the same about 3 years ago. And all because it kept being mentioned on the bored as a brilliant piece of television.
I ended up binging all 5 seasons in about 3 weeks. Then went back and re-watched seasons 1 and 4 because they were so fantastic.
covrich
Location: Middle England
Beaver_Shark wrote:
Was season 4 the season that focused on the school aged youth? If so, that was probably my favourite season of the lot.
Yep, an absolute masterpiece. My favourite season along with S2.
3 and 4 are the best. I'd possibly say 4 with a gun to my head.
DragsterDriver
Location: Gypsy Jack Nowell
I absolutely loved it, the wire and sopranos are something i'll sit and watch again someday
DragsterDriver wrote:
I've still yet to watch the Sopranos. Or Breaking Bad. I'll give them a go soon as they've been well reviewed.
The Wire is in my fav top 3 TV shows of all time with Game of Thrones and Lost.
mr bungle
I've watched S01E01 so far, about 4 years back. Lucky me to have this to look forward to.
Deadtigers
Location: I. S. Of The Bronx
Andalu wrote:
I literally did laugh out Loud. Teamwork makes the dreamwork!
FFS you haven't watch the Sopranos or Breaking Bad either?! What the fudge have you been doing with your TV life?
That's my top 3 right there. If I was to rate them it would be
mr bungle wrote:
The first 3 or 4 episodes are slow burners so you just need to hang in there. Once you get pass those, you'll end up watching the whole lot in a couple of months its that good.
I did the same with Breaking Bad. Took me 5 years to finish the first series, then boom.
UncleFB
I'm kind of the same. I watched the first episode and loved it, watched the second and thought it was average and then didn't watch for another 4 years. I enjoyed it, especially S3, but BB doesn't come close to The Wire in my books.
With The Wire a mate had it on DVD and said why don't you watch first episode, it's really good - I did that and then watched another 5 that night before getting up and finishing S1 in the morning. Then watched the rest over the next couple of weeks.
I do know people who can't watch it because they find it dated - I tell them to watch it as a period show.
Location: Spiritual Guardian
The wire is excellent. Best TV show ever imo, though GoT is pretty close.
Couldn't get into breaking bad at all. Seemed more like a dark comedy/satire than a seriously TV show (which is fine, just not my cup of tea). Am I wrong about BB?
dam0 wrote:
Each to their own I reckon - as an example, GoT is not even close to The Wire for me. The first few seasons it was top class but only been good since then, but then again I'm not a fantasy fan so for it to keep me watching is a good effort.
That was my experience. I watched a few episodes and found it very slow going. The only reason I stuck with it was due to the reviews it received, and the people who recommended it to me. I'm glad I stuck at it.
Users browsing this forum: assfly, BBB, booji boy, Cullen, Google Adsense [Bot], Google [Bot], guy smiley, kingswood, Lenny, Majestic-12 [Bot], Mick Mannock, MungoMan, Rumham, The Man Without Fear, Wendigo7, Wilderbeast and 1 guest
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line144
|
__label__cc
| 0.73806
| 0.26194
|
Articles tagged with: Generator
Home » Publishing on Demand
10 Years of Diffusion
Submitted by Giles Lane on September 17, 2010 1:10 pm4 Comments
10 years ago this month we published the very first series of Diffusion eBooks, Performance Notations, launching our particular brand of hand-made hybrid digital/paper publishing on an unsuspecting public. Over the past decade we have followed that series with several others of our own (and a few by partners and collaborators) such as : Species of Spaces, Liquid Geography, CODE, Short Work, Topographies and Tales & Transformations and published well over 400 eBooks (and nearly 200 StoryCubes too). In 2002 we published the design schematics allowing others to create their own Diffusion eBooks (with recent updates for all 4 design variations and right-to-left reading too) and followed that in 2006 with the first version of our online web application for creating eBooks & StoryCubes, the Diffusion Generator. Hundreds of eBooks and StoryCubes were created (not all published here) by its users over a two and a half-year period. For a more in depth history of Diffusion read this post from 2007.
In 2008 we won a small grant from the Technology Strategy Board to build a new prototype service that would be vastly more powerful and flexible than the old Generator – what eventually became bookleteer.com. The alpha version was launched at the end of September 2009 and we now have several hundred users who have created almost one thousand eBooks and StoryCubes with it during its first year, including some in languages such as Arabic and Hindi. In the past 6 months we’ve rolled out lots of new features, such as new sizes, customisable front covers and our exclusive Publish & Print On Demand service. We have also created a crowdfunding scheme for collaborators, partners and friends to support bookleteer’s technical development, Alpha Club. We’ve run a series of events, Pitch Up & Publish, introducing bookleteer to new users – both in our own studio in Clerkenwell and around the country with the Empty Shops Network.
To kick-off Diffusion’s next decade we’re devising a new series of events, Pitch In & Publish, and adopting a new model of participatory publishing for our curated series. Rather than selecting individuals to create eBooks as we have done for previous series we will host events where people can collaborate in designing and creating a series of publications with others. Proboscis will define the series theme and individual topics for each issue, which will be put together during a one-day event. We will be publishing the collaborative publications (which could be an eBook or a series of StoryCubes) on this site and we will be inviting the participants to use bookleteer to create their own personal contributions to the series. A limited edition run of the publication will be printed using the PPOD service for participants. Pitch In & Publish will launch in October 2010 with the first series, City As Material. Topics will include: river, streetscapes, skyline and underside.
Details on dates, guests, topics and how to participate – http://cityasmaterial.eventbrite.com/
eBook Observer – Diffusion categories | bookleteer blog
[...] http://proboscis.org.uk/projects/diffusion/ http://diffusion.org.uk/?page_id=2 http://diffusion.org.uk/?p=2152 [...]
Diffusion – 10 years old | bookleteer blog
[...] written a post over on diffusion.org.uk recapping on the past decade and looking forward to what we’re planning to…
10 Years of Diffusion | Proboscis
[...] first series of Diffusion eBooks – how time flies! Over on diffusion.org.uk we’ve written a short recap of what…
Tweets that mention 10 Years of Diffusion | Diffusion eBooks + StoryCubes -- Topsy.com
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by proboscis, Giles Lane and Rob Annable, bookleteer. bookleteer said: RT @gileslane: its…
Home » Community & Events, Events, Publishing on Demand
Pitch Up & Publish
Submitted by Giles Lane on September 21, 2009 12:41 pm4 Comments
Starting in October we will be running regular informal evening workshops for people to literally pitch up and publish using bookleteer.com. Initially these will be held at our Clerkenwell Studio for up to 15 participants – all you need is a laptop and some content (text /photos/ drawings etc) you’d like to create and share as eBooks or StoryCubes (shareables). We will provide free user accounts to bookleteer and guide you through the steps of preparing and generating your shareables to share online, via email or as physical publications. Once created you can publish them on your own website or, if appropriate, we can publish them on Diffusion.
The first workshop will be held during the week beginning October 12th 2009 (date tbc) between 6.30-9pm.
To reserve a place please email us at diffusion (at) proboscis.org.uk
Participants will be asked to make small donation to cover materials and refreshments.
Click to continue reading “Pitch Up & Publish”
Bookleteers : les successeurs des Diffusion e-Books sont là | Lire.Ecrire.Jouer
[...] j’espère pouvoir en envoyer un compte-rendu à Giles à temps pour la prochaine édition de Pitch Up and Publish,…
Bookleteers : les successeurs des Diffusion e-Books sont là
Hi Sho, the Generator/Bookleteer service is not yet public. I'll contact you separately about how we might help.
Sho Halajian
I am interested in the Diffusion generator and would like information on the cost and formatting guidelines. Where can I…
Diffusion Generator: latest news (May 09)
Last month we completed our Feasibility Study for the Technology Strategy Board to investigate the potential for third parties to use Diffusion Generator to create and publish eBooks and StoryCubes via an API. As part of this process we developed a completely new platform for the Generator which makes it much more flexible – the prototype now includes numerous new features:
creation of portrait and landscape eBooks
use of both ‘classic’ and ‘book‘ binding methods for eBooks (see our design schematics)
creation of single and double sided StoryCubes
offline content design ability for eBooks & StoryCubes (via PDF upload)
ability to flow HTML content into eBooks & StoryCubes
Unicode support for non-Roman typefaces for languages such as Chinese, Arabic, Cyrillic, Greek, Japanese, Korean, Hebrew, Aramaic and many others
eBook templates supporting right-to-left languages (e.g. Arabic)
support for personalised/branded eBook & StoryCube templates
support for future shareable designs to be incorporated into Generator
We have been testing the system since late March and shortly will publish some eBooks created recently using the new Generator to demonstrate some of the new formats (e.g. landscape and ‘book’ binding options). Meanwhile we are fundraising for the next stage of development to build a web interface for individual access, as well as some demonstrator projects with 3rd party partners (a museum, a university, a data aggregation platform, a visitor attraction centre) exploring how institutions might use the Generator to offer “tangible souvenirs” of digital experiences.
The “tangible souvenir” concept has been developed by Proboscis over the last couple of years based on our own experiences of creating projects that engage people with digital technologies (e.g. Urban Tapestries, Snout, Feral Robots etc) but which require digital technologies (e.g. a web browser) to review. We frequently find that people want to refer back to an experience with others but are often in a place (the pub, a cafe, over the dinner table etc) where they don’t have access to a suitable screen or fast web connection for showing what they experienced. The idea behind “tangible souvenirs” is simply to create physical outputs culled from digital assets created or engaged with during a ‘digital’ experience (such as using an interactive museum guide). A personalised eBook or StoryCube is then provided which can be kept in a pocket, passed around, given away and re-created as often as the person likes.
More updates next month…
Generator developments
In Autumn 2008 Proboscis won a Feasibility Study grant from the Technology Strategy Board to investigate the potential for third party sites to add access to our Diffusion Generator online software to their systems, enabling their own users to be able to create and publish eBooks and StoryCubes directly from their sites. Over the next couple of months we will be developing a re-engineered prototype of the Generator designed to allow 3rd parties to hook into it through an open API (Application Programming Interface) and offer their own users eBook and StoryCube creation.
As the popularity of Diffusion grows – we have now passed an average of 110,000 downloads per year – Proboscis needs to develop sustainable revenue streams (e.g. from licensing the API to 3rd parties) to keep Diffusion going, and to create successful and meaningful partnerships with potential users (museums, galleries, universities, companies etc) who wish to add this unique publishing system to their own sites. The feasibility study and the re-engineered Generator will enable us to model these potential revenue streams and demonstrate a functioning service to other potential partners.
Later this year we aim to unveil the new Diffusion Generator and welcome expressions of interest from organisations and institutions who would like to test the API. I’ll be at BookCamp on January 17th and would be delighted to hear from anyone interested in working with us.
Diffusion Shareables Film
Diffusion Shareables from Proboscis on Vimeo.
JoycMAjiski
Hey yu guys I am at a friends place using his computor with most recent flash viewer and a…
Publishing as a conversation
Submitted by Giles Lane on March 6, 2008 12:53 pmNo Comment
One of the most transformational aspects of Diffusion as a platform for publishing-on-demand is our ability not only to commission and publish new writing and ideas, but to enable other people to participate by creating their own eBooks and StoryCubes through the Generator and have them included alongside commissioned authors; publishing as a conversation rather than a privileged monologue.
We have been interested since the late 1990s in utilising network technologies to create alternatives to the traditional ‘centre to the margins’ nature of the media; the broadcast and publishing model sustained since the 19th century and only beginning to be seriously challenged in the late 20th Century through the rise of the internet and its distributed network structure. We have been exploring how, through concepts like ‘public authoring’ and ‘cultures of listening’, we can create new ways for people to participate more widely in the creation of the cultures and societies they live in – such as in our Urban Tapestries project and Social Tapestries research programme, as well as our current Anarchaeology projects (with Render in Canada & ICE in Australia).
A key feature of future series of Diffusion commissions will be this conversational aspect – where we will be inviting the public to participate in the series by using the Diffusion Generator to create eBooks & StoryCubes of their own – the best and most relevant of which we will include in the series alongside the authors we commission directly. This will be different to the kinds of conversation that happen through blogging and commenting – creating an eBook or StoryCube is a much more considered affair, requiring time and reflection to create what is, after all, a publication that exists not only on the web but as a physical entity too.
The first of these ‘conversation series’ will be Transformations – we will be announcing the initial commissions in April and publishing the outcomes later in the year, inviting contributions from the public once the first 3 or 4 are available. Watch this space.
Home » Community & Events, Events, Publishing on Demand, Residencies
Diffusion Discussion Day, 30/11/2007
Submitted by Orlagh Woods on December 18, 2007 10:15 pm3 Comments
On Friday 30th November, an informal evaluation of the Diffusion Generator Case Study Residency programme took place at the Proboscis studio. Those who participated included Bev Carter, artist and community development consultant; Paul Goodwin, a writer, curator and urban researcher; Andrew Hunter, artist, writer and the Director/Curator of RENDER, University of Waterloo, Canada; Michelle Kasprzak, curator, writer, artist and the Programmes Director of New Media Scotland and finally Tony White, a writer – author of novels including Foxy-T (Faber and Faber), and the non-fiction work Another Fool in the Balkans (Cadogan). They were hosted by Karen Martin who facilitated the residency programme, Phil Ayres, an architect, programmer and lecturer at the Bartlett School of Architecture (programmer of the Generator), Giles Lane, Alice Angus, Orlagh Woods from Proboscis.
The day began with an informal look at the different approaches and processes taken by each of the participants in the residency programme, exploring and sharing how they each used the Diffusion Generator to create and publish eBooks (as well as the occasional StoryCube). These included two way communications between children in the UK and Nigeria, a way to collate research for a book creatively, as a means to document an exhibition and research programme, as a visual journey through the city, as a series of interviews with curators and as a storytelling device.
In the afternoon, several other people were invited to take part in a larger discussion to explore other ways the Generator could be used. Among our guests were Linda Doyle of Trinity College Dublin, Michael Bhaskar of Pan Macmillan, Ellie Smith and Charles Beckett of Arts Council England, London.
Some of the various ideas for future uses of the Shareables and Generator included:
as an evaluation tool for conferences or events
within galleries or museums as interpretation tools
for community engagement projects
for internal marketing within organisations
as a brand consulting tool
to collect conversations and feedback dialogues
for a short story competition
to promote emerging writers alongside mainstream first publications
for sampling ideas
for rapid publishing of poetry slams
and as educational tools
A more detailed evaluation will be published as an eBook in the new year.
Biogeek29
yo, I LOVE BIOLOGY! especially diffusion. like biology is totally an art, if i could i would…
well i wish i was there and i love talking about diffusion. tell me when the next one…
Michael Bhaskar
Thank you for having me over; it was an extremely enjoyable afternoon. I wrote on our blog how I thought…
Home » eNotebooks, Learning, Schools & Education, Publishing on Demand
eNotebooks: learning diaries, field notebooks and evaluation tools
In addition to using the Diffusion eBook format to publish essays and artists books, Proboscis has also been using it to create notebooks for specific activities and projects. The eBook format allows us to design and distribute a notebook that participants in a project or workshop can fill in by hand (writing, drawing or adding stickers as they wish) which can then be scanned and turned back into a PDF file for sharing – either within the group or more widely. This ‘virtuous circle’ moving from digital to material to digital is at the core of the ‘Shareables’ concept. We have designed the Shareables so that they can be used without always needing a computer, but still providing a path for capturing and sharing digitally.
Proboscis has successfully used ‘eNotebooks‘ in our schools projects as learning diaries (e.g. Sound Scavenging, Everyday Archaeology and Experiencing Democracy) and, in our community projects as a simple means of gathering local knowledge and information (e.g. Robotic Feral Public Authoring, St. Marks and Conversations and Connections).
Learning Diaries
The eNotebooks have been very effective for the schoolchildren participating in our projects, giving them a single place to record and reflect on what they have learned from the different activities and how they are integrated into everyday learning. Over the three years we have collaborated with the Jenny Hammond Primary school on Social Tapestries projects, we have worked ever more closely with the teachers to use the learning diaries to make the bridge between the activities of the workshop and what the children are learning as part of everyday school. The diaries themselves are also an invaluable tool for the teachers and us to gauge each child’s engagement with the project and its concepts – some children choose to do the minimum whilst others spend considerable time and effort embellishing their drawings and writings. This serves an additional function in helping to assess the impact on learning that the workshop has had – the diaries show how the children are absorbing new ideas, vocabulary and improving their spelling as the project progresses.
Examples: Sound Scavenging, Everyday Archaeology, Experiencing Democracy
We have also used the eNotebooks in community-based projects and workshops to record knowledge about places and communities. The eNotebooks offer a familiar ‘interface’ and technology (paper and pens) that is very inclusive and engaging – allowing people to write, draw or stick photos into them. In communities and situations where access to computers and broadband internet was not possible the eNotebooks allowed us to design a simple and effective means of asking open (but targeted) questions and enabling people to complete them there and then or post them back to us at their leisure. We see many other possible uses of this kind of eNotebook for researchers in the field doing ethnographic or anthropological studies.
We have also speculated on using the Diffusion Generator in brainstorming activities, where the eBooks are used to create iterations or snapshots of the process in situ. This would both provide an immediate outcome to the activity, but also document the creative processes along the way.
Examples: Robotic Feral Public Authoring, St Marks, Havelock Community Mapping
Proboscis has begun to experiment with creating structured notebooks for people to give feedback and evaluation on an event (such as a conference or workshop) or project. The StoryCubes have also been used in this way – at the Enter Festival in Cambridge (April 2007) conference delgates helped create a landscape of ideas, images and themes relating to the event. Futurelab also used the StoryCubes to engage delegates at their Why Don’t You… conference (October 2007) in mapping and exploring ideas relating to new education practices and uses of innovative technologies in schools and learning. Proboscis also uses the StoryCubes as a notetaking tool (instead of taking minutes) for its own advisory group meetings, enabling us to combine the questions and observations that the group members note down in an ever-growing and evolving landscape.
Examples: Enter Conference,
One of our key aims for Diffusion is to explore its uses in places (such as developing countries) with poor access to publishing technologies (both traditional print and electronic). A Diffusion eBook can, of course, be made with nothing more than some blank sheets of paper which can then be written and drawn on – or even have sections of typwritten text pasted onto them. Once made, these unique handmade books can be scanned and turned into Shareable eBooks (PDF files), endlessly reproducible and distributable through email and web downloads.
Examples: we plan to make some illustrative examples available soon
New! Improved!
Submitted by Karen Martin on November 10, 2007 1:50 amNo Comment
Welcome to the new look Diffusion website. This blog will track all of the various projects, publications, authors and collaborations which take place around the DIFFUSION eBooks, the DIFFUSION Generator and the StoryCubes. On this site you will find posts about each eBook we have published (and in the future StoryCubes too), posts about the authors as well as the various series of eBooks we have published over the years. The site also has a page with details on how to make eBooks and StoryCubes, as well as the Library listing all the published eBooks in a single, browsable page. There is also information about Proboscis’ DIFFUSION Generator – a prototype publishing-on-demand service we are currently testing (examples of which are listed on the blog), with details about how to join our private beta trial.
We are also inviting people to add reviews of their favourite eBooks as comments to individual posts, as well as comments about how people are using them; for instance we know of one example where the Performance Notations series was used as a ‘set text’ for students at an art school. As we add new eBooks and StoryCubes to the site we hope that it can become a more useful forum for sharing ideas about how they can be used as well as a site for downloading the publications themselves. Enjoy…
A brief history of Diffusion
Diffusion began life back in 1999 as a response to the increasing difficulty that I was having in distributing the books and journals I was then publishing – both for Proboscis and for the Royal College of Art‘s Computer Related Design Research Studio. The bookselling world had been changing rapidly in the previous few years – from the collapse of the net book agreement to the increasing consolidation of bookshops into chains and closure of independent outlets and distributors. These shifts affected the practice of bookselling too – large chains became less willing to stock niche publications and ordering became computerised across the chain rather than by buyers in individual shops with responsibility for specific subjects. In short, our publications were becoming harder for our readers to find and more expensive to print, warehouse and distribute.
Working for an interaction design research lab and having previously investigated the nascent printing-on-demand systems then available, it occurred to me that it would be possible to create an ‘eBook’ that could be downloaded from the internet and printed out on home printers to be folded into a paper book format. I was also skeptical that electronic books would take off in the form that was then being touted – who would want an ugly device with a small screen and poor resolution costing hundreds of pounds, and then have to pay for the ‘books’ to read on it? It seemed so odd considering the obvious pleasure and tactile enjoyment that people derive from handling physical books, as well as their relative low cost, to replace them (as was being widely prophesied) with a much poorer experience.
Diffusion then became a research project to devise a paper folding and layout format that could be used to create small files using Adobe’s PDF file format. A conversation with an officer in the Arts Council of England’s Combined Arts department led to a funding proposal and grant to develop the format and a first series of commissioned publications – Performance Notations. In the Autumn of 1999 Paul Farrington (my design assistant at the RCA) and I set down to develop the format. Over the next six months we looked at a number of ideas before Paul devised the unique Diffusion folding format (experts at the British Library informed us later that they had nothing similar in their collection). The first series of eBooks was completed and published in September 2000.
From this beginning we began to develop ideas for many different uses that the eBooks could have, but lack of time, funding and other commitments meant that Diffusion developed slowly. With further assistance from the Arts Council’s Collaborative Arts Dept, we developed and published the design schematics for the eBooks as a way of ‘open sourcing’ the format in Spring 2002 (with the help of Nima Falatoori). However we quickly realised that very few people would be able to benefit from them as they needed some graphic design skills to interpret and make use of, not to mention access to costly professional desktop publishing software (such as Adobe InDesign or QuarkXPress). This meant that very few of the people we thought might make most use of Diffusion could do so, as they would not likely be designers themselves.
So in 2003 I began researching whether we could create our own software application that would enable people to create eBooks simply and without needing graphic design expertise. I discovered the Reportlab open source software solution for creating PDF files and a summer intern from Kings College London’s computer science department (Diab Al-Kudairi) developed a working proof-of-concept prototype for the Diffusion Generator which we demonstrated at the People Inspired innovation conference in September 2003 (held at BT’s Adastral Park research campus). It then took a while to find a programmer who could use the prototype to develop a proper application, and in Spring 2004 I was introduced to Phil Ayres, who was teaching at the Bartlett School of Achitecture and developing a python-based intranet for the school. Phil soon began to develop a framework combining Zope, the Plone content management system and Reportlab. A first stage prototype was tested from March to June 2006, followed by a second stage in November 2006. The current prototype (stage 3) is in private ‘beta’ testing and has been used extensively during the 2007 case study residencies, which have been ably facilitated by Karen Martin, who also developed the new diffusion website.
Our next aims for Diffusion are to advance the Generator from its current state towards being a public online service and to focus on creative projects using it in the developing world.
London, November 2007
[...] http://proboscis.org.uk/projects/ http://proboscis.org.uk/projects/diffusion/ http://diffusion.org.uk/?page_id=2 http://diffusion.org.uk/?p=2152 http://diffusion.org.uk/?p=202 [...]
Home » eBooks, Residencies
Ahead in the Line by Tony White
Submitted by Giles Lane on November 9, 2007 3:51 pmNo Comment
About : Ahead in the Line is part of the Balkanising Bloomsbury project for the Generator Case Studies. The story was created by cutting up, remixing and re-narrativising fragments from various sources including the Richard Burton translation of The Book of the Thousand Nights and One Night, the letters of Lady Mary Wortley Montagu and transcripts from the trial of Slobodan Milosevic at the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia (ICTY). Ahead in the Line was written for Barbara Campbell’s 1001 Nights Cast project.
Tony White is a writer. He is the author of novels including Foxy-T (Faber and Faber), and the non-fiction work Another Fool in the Balkans (Cadogan). Editor and co-editor of the fiction anthologies Britpulp (Sceptre) and Croatian Nights (Serpent’s Tail/VBZ). Tony White has edited and published the artists’ book imprint Piece of Paper Press since 1994 and contributed to numerous magazines and journals – he is also literary editor of the Idler magazine. Tony is currently working on another novel and undertaking research into creative writing in interdisciplinary and research contexts which is supported by Arts Council England through Grants for the Arts.
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 2.0 UK: England & Wales License.
Gobbledegook by Tony White
About : Gobbledegook is part of the Balkanising Bloomsbury project for the Case Study Residencies. The story was created by cutting up, remixing and re-narrativising fragments from various sources to tell a completely new story. Sources include Alan Burgess, Lawrence Durrell and transcripts from the trial of Slobodan Milosevic at the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia (ICTY). Further titles and the first version of a rolling, iterative bibliography for the whole series will be published shortly.
booktwo.org Notebook » Paper eBooks
[...] author of one of my favourite books, Foxy-T, and literary editor of The Idler, has just published a series…
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line146
|
__label__wiki
| 0.516532
| 0.516532
|
Evansville E-books
Home Evansville Electronic Books page 24
Plans for the development of a system of major streets, Evansville, Indiana
Plate 10
Modern Land Subdivision
The City Plan Commission is trying to help the future Evansville to become a better city. As a means toward accomplishing this end, it is urging that greater interest be taken by the general public in the practice of land subdivision. The impression has prevailed in Evansville in years past that straight streets and square blocks are always more desirable and serviceable than any other kind. The adherence to this belief has brought about serious circulation problems which will increase as the city grows.
So far, in the development of Evansville, the problem of street grades has been relatively unim¬ portant. East of Pigeon Creek, and for a short distance west of it, the land admits the application of a rigid, mechanical pattern of streets; beyond this level area, however, there are hills and valleys which demand a street layout of the utmost freedom and lack of conventionality.
Over certain portions of this rugged area the square pattern has already been laid. The conse¬ quences are apparent. There are impassable streets and numerous building lots that are inaccess¬ ible and practically useless. In the district known as Forest Hills, however, an effort has been made to adapt streets to contour. This principle should be followed in the street arrangement of all territory of a similar nature. The county roads, moreover, offer, to a certain extent, a hint of the adjustment which must be made in planning the thoroughfares of the hilly areas.
In the future it will be the aim of the Evansville Plan Commission to secure diversity and at¬ tractiveness, as well as economy of space, in new subdivisions, wherever possible. In this endeavor it seeks no gain for itself and no personal advantage for any of its members. Its motive is solely that which brought about its creation, a desire to improve the city of Evansville and to make it more worth living in.
The Plan Commission has a set of rules by which it will judge land subdivision plats submitted to it. These rules are printed in the appendix together with appropriate explanatory comments.
Supplementing these rules is the major street plan. This plan has already been referred to. It represents the broad, general requirements of the Commission with respect to the thoroughfares and principal traffic arteries of the city.
It is the aim of the Commission to carry out the major street plan substantially as shown. This plan is so organized and coordinated with the other phases of the city plan that it cannot be radically changed. The local or minor streets, however, are only of incidental interest to the Commission. 11 will be concerned with them only insofar as is necessary to protect the general welfare, and to show the subdividers of land how they may better serve their own ends.
In any area, such as that southeast of the city, toward which growth is now directed, the major street plan will determine, in a general way, the manner in which the entire area will later be subdivid¬ ed. Pleasure drives, however, will be interwoven with the major streets so as to connect the various outlying parks and provide additional means of approach to the heart of the city. All other streets, however, will be secondary to the thoroughfares. The layout of minor streets, in the areas between ma¬ jor streets, may be varied. Those in one district may be altogether different in arrangement from those in another. The map opposite illustrates merely how certain sections might be subdivided.
The local streets shown on the plate opposite are not given the Commission's stamp of approv¬ al for development precisely as shown. The map is illustrative only. Detailed information as to lo¬ cal conditions are required with each subdivision plat. The approval of a scheme of minor streets cannot be secured without presentation of this detailed information regarding the area covered. In all cases where practicable it will be noted that secondary streets are made to cross major streets and pleasure drives at right angles. Minor streets should, as a general rule, always be turned and brought in upon major streets in such a way as to avoid creating small triangular lots. These latter reduce the value of frontage upon these important streets, and make diagonal thoroughfares objec¬ tionable, as sometimes laid out.
In the planning of a street system for any district, moreover, it will often be found desirable to provide, at the time the land is platted, sites for local store groups at important street crossings, for churches and schools, for neighborhood parks, for interior playgrounds in the centers of large blocks that do not lend themselves to further subdivision, for small triangular parks in residential areas at the angular intersections of minor streets. The City Plan Commission will not insist upon the production of such features in every subdivision plat, but, by pointing out from time to time how subdivisions may be improved by the application of modern principles, will aim to elevate the general practice in this important field, and incidentally to bring about a general betterment of conditions in all parts of Evansville.
Title Plans for the development of a system of major streets, Evansville, Indiana
Personal Author Bartholomew, Harland, 1889-
Corporate Author Evansville (Ind.). City Plan Commission
Original Publisher City Plan Commission
Original Date 1925
Physical Description 56 p. : ill., maps, ; 31 cm
Subjects Streets -- Indiana -- Evansville
City planning -- Indiana -- Evansville
Evansville (Ind.) -- Streets
Digital Publisher Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library
Digital Date 2009
Original Repository Central Library Indiana Collection
Format and Resolution Full view: 400 ppi jpg 2000 ; Archived: 400 ppi tiff
Scanner HP Scanjet 8300
Usage Statement The Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library (EVPL) digitizes certain educational and historical materials so as to provide customers with access to these materials by using computers or the Internet. Unless otherwise claimed for specific items, the EVPL makes no assertions as to the original copyright to images digitized for our site. All images in the collections are intended for personal or educational/research use only. Any other use may be subject to additional restrictions, including but not limited to the copyrights held by parties other than the EVPL. Users are responsible for determining the existence of such rights and for obtaining any permissions and/or paying any associated fees necessary for the use of any particular image.
Call Number 917.7233 EVANS
EVPL Catalog http://172.16.10.20/record=b1001820
Usage Statement Public domain
Transcript Plate 10 Modern Land Subdivision The City Plan Commission is trying to help the future Evansville to become a better city. As a means toward accomplishing this end, it is urging that greater interest be taken by the general public in the practice of land subdivision. The impression has prevailed in Evansville in years past that straight streets and square blocks are always more desirable and serviceable than any other kind. The adherence to this belief has brought about serious circulation problems which will increase as the city grows. So far, in the development of Evansville, the problem of street grades has been relatively unim¬ portant. East of Pigeon Creek, and for a short distance west of it, the land admits the application of a rigid, mechanical pattern of streets; beyond this level area, however, there are hills and valleys which demand a street layout of the utmost freedom and lack of conventionality. Over certain portions of this rugged area the square pattern has already been laid. The conse¬ quences are apparent. There are impassable streets and numerous building lots that are inaccess¬ ible and practically useless. In the district known as Forest Hills, however, an effort has been made to adapt streets to contour. This principle should be followed in the street arrangement of all territory of a similar nature. The county roads, moreover, offer, to a certain extent, a hint of the adjustment which must be made in planning the thoroughfares of the hilly areas. In the future it will be the aim of the Evansville Plan Commission to secure diversity and at¬ tractiveness, as well as economy of space, in new subdivisions, wherever possible. In this endeavor it seeks no gain for itself and no personal advantage for any of its members. Its motive is solely that which brought about its creation, a desire to improve the city of Evansville and to make it more worth living in. The Plan Commission has a set of rules by which it will judge land subdivision plats submitted to it. These rules are printed in the appendix together with appropriate explanatory comments. Supplementing these rules is the major street plan. This plan has already been referred to. It represents the broad, general requirements of the Commission with respect to the thoroughfares and principal traffic arteries of the city. It is the aim of the Commission to carry out the major street plan substantially as shown. This plan is so organized and coordinated with the other phases of the city plan that it cannot be radically changed. The local or minor streets, however, are only of incidental interest to the Commission. 11 will be concerned with them only insofar as is necessary to protect the general welfare, and to show the subdividers of land how they may better serve their own ends. In any area, such as that southeast of the city, toward which growth is now directed, the major street plan will determine, in a general way, the manner in which the entire area will later be subdivid¬ ed. Pleasure drives, however, will be interwoven with the major streets so as to connect the various outlying parks and provide additional means of approach to the heart of the city. All other streets, however, will be secondary to the thoroughfares. The layout of minor streets, in the areas between ma¬ jor streets, may be varied. Those in one district may be altogether different in arrangement from those in another. The map opposite illustrates merely how certain sections might be subdivided. The local streets shown on the plate opposite are not given the Commission's stamp of approv¬ al for development precisely as shown. The map is illustrative only. Detailed information as to lo¬ cal conditions are required with each subdivision plat. The approval of a scheme of minor streets cannot be secured without presentation of this detailed information regarding the area covered. In all cases where practicable it will be noted that secondary streets are made to cross major streets and pleasure drives at right angles. Minor streets should, as a general rule, always be turned and brought in upon major streets in such a way as to avoid creating small triangular lots. These latter reduce the value of frontage upon these important streets, and make diagonal thoroughfares objec¬ tionable, as sometimes laid out. In the planning of a street system for any district, moreover, it will often be found desirable to provide, at the time the land is platted, sites for local store groups at important street crossings, for churches and schools, for neighborhood parks, for interior playgrounds in the centers of large blocks that do not lend themselves to further subdivision, for small triangular parks in residential areas at the angular intersections of minor streets. The City Plan Commission will not insist upon the production of such features in every subdivision plat, but, by pointing out from time to time how subdivisions may be improved by the application of modern principles, will aim to elevate the general practice in this important field, and incidentally to bring about a general betterment of conditions in all parts of Evansville. 24
Post a Comment for page 24
Plans for the development of a system of major streets,...
foreward
Indiana Room
Evansville Courier and Press Photo Archive
Evansville Directories
Evansville Images
Evansville in WWII
Evansville Postcards
Evansville Yearbooks
EVPL Centennial Collection
Karl K. Knecht Collection
USS LST 325 Memorial Museum Collection
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line147
|
__label__wiki
| 0.777756
| 0.777756
|
ABC / Blog Post / Clinton / NBC
Clinton Post Goes Viral, But TV Barely Notices
by Alex Theriot · Published September 20, 2016 · Updated September 21, 2016
ABC and NBC both covered Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton’s effort to address criticism that she can’t show her human side…but NBC’s approach plowed new ground. Unlike ABC, NBC recognized the power of social media.
Humans of New York originated as a photography project in 2010, capturing the lives of people who live in New York City, according to the project’s Facebook page.
It now posts photos, interviews and human-interest stories from around the world to 17 million followers.
This post centering on Hillary Clinton was shared more than 206,000 times across one social media platform alone.
In an election where social media is used to connect to young voters, is it significant enough to be covered in the evening news?
“If it’s relevant and important and enhances the case you’re making, then yes, you should include it.” former NPR and Mic executive editor Madhulika Sikka said. “I think it’s important for people to understand there are multiple ways in which the candidates are trying to reach the electorate.”
Clinton directly answers the criticism both networks have presented, but only NBC chose to include the post in its support of their analysis.
“The candidates are both going to directly to voters on social media, disintermediating the press. And social media is the only source of news for more and more voters,” Vivian Schiller, former head of news and journalism partnerships at Twitter said.
“This was clearly a carefully thought through move on the part of Clinton campaign. It did not just happen,” Schiller said. “Should [ABC have] include the post in the TV package? No need. The point here is not the post, but rather her response to the criticism that she’s not “human” enough.”
More Madhulika Sikka:
“Even though ABC labeled their story as trying to look at Hillary Clinton making a turn in her campaign, I actually don’t think they did that particularly well. They didn’t set it up, they had it as their chryon, the title on the bottom. They really focused on her response to the question during her press conference where she turned around and came back.”
“NBC sort of set up a premise and looked back at how this has sort of dogged her since her days as first lady. I think they did a much better job at holistically trying to dig into the premise that they set up. I think it was more effective for what it was promising.”
“I don’t think [the Humans of New York post] would have made any difference in that particular piece because I don’t think [ABC] executed the idea very well.”
“[The Humans of New York post] was useful in the NBC piece because they set up talking about a memo in the Clinton White House in the 90s and this issue that has sort of dogged her and she shared an example of where she dealt with this from a very early age. I think it just bolstered it.”
More from Vivian Schiller:
“[Social media] messages can be newsworthy, though probably more on on the Trump side as he can be off the cuff and more revealing than the carefully crafted message of the Clinton campaign.”
“Social media also matters in terms of what’s catching on with voters, be it memes, outrage of support. However, it’s important that the network put it in context. [For example], Trump equates likes and followers on twitter to polling. That’s nonsense.”
Tags: FacebookHumans of New YorkMadhulika SikkaSocial MediaTwitterVivian Schiller
Alex Theriot
Alex Theriot is a senior multi-platform journalism major, minoring in global terrorism studies. Previously, Alex served as staff writer, style editor and webmaster for Unwind Magazine, the campus arts and entertainment publication. Alex has held communications internships at the National Endowment for the Humanities and the Department of Homeland Security. She completed her journalism internship at CNN. Upon graduation, Alex hopes to attend graduate school in the Washington, D.C. area, continuing to pursue a career in national security.
NBC omits “tapp” tweet while ABC, CBS tackle spelling error head on
by Jacqueline Hyman · Published March 17, 2017 · Last modified March 22, 2017
Pros Split On Coverage of Trump PTSD Controversial Comments
by CNS Election Watch Staff · Published October 12, 2016
NBC Misses Key Facts in Clinton Hacked Email Coverage
by Summer Bedard · Published October 31, 2016
Next story To Cover, or not to Cover: The Johnson Campaign Question
Previous story Graphics and the Media’s Mindfulness
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line154
|
__label__wiki
| 0.561583
| 0.561583
|
DC3 Forever
MenuHome Music -Spotlight Now -Charts Then -1997 Reviews In-Depth Columns -#ThePettyEST -97 Words -Top 5 -You Tried It -InFormation Playlists Culture
#ThePettyEST
You Tried It
Home / Music / Listen: Melanie Fiona’s new single “Bite The Bullet”
Listen: Melanie Fiona’s new single “Bite The Bullet”
By Mario on May 12, 2015
It’s hard to believe it has been 4 years since Melanie Fiona last released an album, but it’s true. It’s just that her last album, The MF Life, still sounds fresh!
Today, the Canadian R&B songstress is back with her Reggae-tinged new single, from her 3rd album which we hope will be released soon. The track is called “Bite The Bullet” and it’s available for purchase on iTunes.
Tidal subscribers can already stream the song in HQ, but we’ll make sure to update this post as soon as other streaming services receive the track so keep an eye on it!
← Previous Story Album Review: Jackie by Ciara
Next Story → Watch: Britney Spears drops “Pretty Girls” video
Mario | April 23, 2019
#LEMONADEStreamingParty
Vincent | October 10, 2015
Album Review: Janet Jackson’s ‘Unbreakable’ is a subtle reminder of her musical genius
Jason | May 16, 2015
Mariah Carey’s “Vision of Love,” at 25, is the most influential vocal performance of all-time.
Vincent | May 15, 2015
Janet Jackson is readying a modern-day Rhythm Nation!
Staff | December 31, 2018
The 19 “97” Albums of 2018
Vincent | December 7, 2018
Ever “Fearless,” Michelle Williams shines with new single and Broadway role
Phenomenal review, everyone. I am so thankful...
She sound good in the performance in South Af...
This is a good review, those I do disagree wi...
EST. 1997 is a "contemporary, yet nostalgic" online music magazine focusing on popular music and its symbiotic relationship with its surrounding culture over time. A particular focus will be placed on the music and musicians of the 1990s. However, EST. 1997 also aims to keep up with contemporary artists who themselves may have either debuted in the 90s, or been influenced by prominent artists from the 90s. Our goal is to provide quality, thoughtful writing that is purely about the music. Finally, we want to make the experience as inclusive as possible, by soliciting contributions from our readers, as well.
Featured pop charts hot 100 billboard 200 Hot RnB/Hip-Hop Airplay Mariah Carey Music RNB hip-hop R&B new music Beyoncé review reviews Anniversary 1997 Janet Jackson news Destiny's Child 90s new soul Michelle Williams Kelly Rowland Aretha Franklin Nostalgia For the Nostalgia concert playlist Album Mary J. Blige Lady Gaga dance Mariah25 Tour Butterfly live NYC Rap
Copyright © 2014-2015 EST1997.com. Copyright © 2013 Hot Topix Theme. Theme by MVP Themes, powered by Wordpress.
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line157
|
__label__cc
| 0.726251
| 0.273749
|
800 Words: Back to 800 Words
It’s been an amazing six or seven months as I’ve written these semi-daily 800 Word posts that invariably tended to be 2-5000 words. The activity was - without a doubt - my highlight of 2011(don’t judge). At my most productive, I must have churned out as much as 15,000 words a week, and that doesn’t count all the pieces I didn’t finish. As I started writing, I realized that there was more to say about more subjects than I ever thought possible, and I followed my thoughts to whatever length it found me going - occasionally churning out a 10-12,000 word essay over the course of a week. And it would seem that a good two to four dozen of you seemed reliably willing to follow me to wherever I found myself going, and there are another four-dozen who would check in when things caught there interest. I’m glad you’ve found enjoyment in what I’ve written.
In one sense, and only one, I’m the victim of my own success. This attempt to create consistent writing was never supposed to be so extensive. My plan was to have 800 words of sharply defined commentary about any subject about which I would think of over the course of the day - an endeavor that should never take more than 90 minutes and can usually be wrapped up in less than an hour. The problem is, as most newspaper columnists should know - that there is no way to cover a subject in 800 words without sticking to base generalizations. Any real analysis of a subject requires tons more critical thought, digestion, background, and statistics than even the most fleet-footed essayist (Malcolm Gladwell? Tom Wolfe?) could give in 800 words. There was simply too much to say. How can you sum up Jon Stewart, Johnny Cash, or Disney in so little space?
For more than a hundred years, the 800 Worder was almost the exclusive province of newspaper columnists. 800 words is just enough space to endow the newspaper with a double purpose. On the one hand, a newspaper columnist functions as a filter through which the reader can interpret all the facts with which the rest of the newspaper inundates him every day. Whether the subject was politics, movies, books, or sports, newspaper columnists were people who taught hundreds of millions in the newly literate middle class how to think critically about the information you process every day. On the other, a newspaper columnist is a personality, selling not only her point of view but also himself. Whereas straight reporting should be anonymous, the newspaper columnist’s persona is a juxtaposition to the bland profusion of facts, figures, and events that make up our daily intake of news.
In the heyday of the columnist, it was something incredibly new and exciting - a combination of educator and entertainer who allowed millions more of people to be better informed and engaged. But in today’s world, the 800 worder is almost obsolete. Think of how many columnists in today’s mainstream publications are writers who encourage us to think deeper? Now think of how many encourage us to simplify our thinking. If your list of #1 outnumbers your #2, I’m envious of you, because you’ve wasted less time than the rest of us reading newspaper columns.
And yet, that’s precisely the appeal of the 800-worder. It’s so simple to write - any child can form a coherent opinion on a simple subject. Imagine that your 3rd grade class were the New York Times op-ed page asked to come in tomorrow with an assignment based on the value of homework: you’d have a Thomas Friedman explaining why homework is essential to help us compete with his pen-pal in Bangalore; you’d have a David Brooks longing for the days of 1st grade when everybody thought homework was fun; you’d have a Paul Krugman who uses it as an excuse mounting weekly assaults on the mendacious inefficiency of the teacher’s homework assignments, and a Maureen Dowd speculating about the teacher’s affair with the after school janitor.
My purpose in calling this series ‘800 words’ was neither to parlay this into a bad newspaper column (where would anybody do that in today’s world?) nor to pay homage to newspaper columns of any sort. It was to create an easily digestible way to force myself to write every day. I hoped to find a rhythm that would enable me to write more rather than less. But once I started these 800 words posts, 800 words became grossly inadequate. I wanted 7 new 800 word posts a week, but I was lucky in even my most productive weeks to put up three or four. The reason was all too simple - I got carried away every time. There’s simply too much to write about. If the subject grew too extensive, I broke up the essay into parts. But I rarely ever finished those multi-part essays, because there was usually another subject that ‘required’ my attention. By month 3 or 4, I found myself obsessed by this venture to the point that it came to the exclusion of most non-work related activities. I used to play music, remember?....
So now that I’m back to playing music, I have to curb the excess verbiage. For now until whenever, these blogposts will now be leaner. If I get past 800 words, I know that it’s time to wrap it up. If I get to 1000 words, I will simply stop. If I really have something so important that it can neither remain unsaid nor be fit into 800 words, I will resume speaking of it in the next day’s post.
Furthermore, tomorrow I will begin the process of retooling, and for a while the blog will resemble a construction site - with lots of links that don’t work. There will be lots of posts taken down (and saved) because I’m not particularly satisfied with them, for whatever reason. Some of those links will reappear over time, some of them probably won’t.
Aaaaand, we’re past 1000 words...
Labels: 800 Words
800 Words: Chait vs. Perlstein, One on One for You...
St John's Night on Bare Mountain
800 Words: We Don't Love Billy Crystal Anymore
800 Words: Hamlet Rant
Friday Playlist #4
800 Words: Where's Osvaldo? A 'Lament'
Another Carl Sagan Moment: Part of an Ongoing Seri...
A Carl Sagan Moment - The first of an ongoing seri...
800 Words: A Brief History of Film Music - John Wi...
800 Words: A Brief History of Film Music - The Sil...
Jurowski/Beethoven
Hall of Underrated Music #1 Grazyna Bacewicz
800 Words: Ten Hours of My Life Spent Arguing Wit...
800 Words: A Brief History of Film Music - The Bro...
Goethe Totentanz: The Lego Version
800 Words: John Williams Bigotry
FDR: American Badass
800 Words: Manning Up America with Clint
BWV 8
Some People by Wislawa Szymborska
800 Words: Writer's Block
Sergiu Celibidache Wants More Viola
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line159
|
__label__cc
| 0.717694
| 0.282306
|
Home > About F-DIESEL > News and Knowledge > Knowledge Library
F-DIESEL 4/25/2016 12:25:27 AM
[Key Words] maintenance engines diesel engine compression tester engine manufacturer cylinder head crankshaft
A mechanic tells you your engine is worn out and needs to be rebuilt or replaced, but how can you quantify what is actually wrong? Definitively determining the condition or health of your engine is anything but subjective; unsurprisingly, all that’s required are the right tools and the requisite knowledge for their proper use.
Any engine relies on compression of a gas, air, or a fuel/air mixture, created by a reduction of cylinder volume, which occurs as a result of each piston’s upward movement. In both gasoline and diesel engines, the expansion of that compressed gas is the result of an explosion or, more accurately, a controlled burn of the fuel and air. That’s what generates a piston’s reciprocal motion, known as the power stroke, which is then transformed into rotational energy via a crankshaft. All of this combined ultimately results in propulsion.
For this system to work efficiently, the seal established between the moving pistons and cylinder walls is vitally important, and it’s no small feat to accomplish, as all the parts are very hot metal moving at high speed over the course of thousands of hours of run time.
While this process is critical for any engine, it’s especially important in diesels because they rely on heat generated by very high compression (as the air is compressed, its temperature increases dramatically) to ignite fuel that’s injected into the cylinder. It’s why diesels are sometimes referred to as compression-ignition engines. Testing the compression generated in either gas or diesel engines is relatively straightforward, and doing so can provide a picture of the condition of the cylinder, piston rings, and exhaust and intake valves.
The first and simplest test relies on an aptly named compression tester. This is inserted into the hole where a spark plug, glow plug or injector would be located. The engine’s ignition and fuel systems are then disabled to prevent the motor from starting during the test. Once that’s done, the engine is cranked or turned through several revolutions using the starter, and the pressure generated by the piston is recorded by the gauge. The pressure readings are then compared to those provided by the engine manufacturer.
While the compression test is valuable, it can provide only a pass or fail grade; it’s unable to provide details or clues about where a fault may lie and how serious it may be.
Enter the leak-down tester. This device is similar to the compression tester in that it plugs into the cylinder via one of the aforementioned ports; however, instead of using the engine’s rotation to generate pressure, it utilizes an external compressed air source, which is pumped into the cylinder. The tool is equipped with two gauges, one measuring the pressure of air available to the cylinder and another that measures air pressure maintained within the cylinder — hence the term “leak-down tester.”
The amount of leakage is a direct indication of wear or damage within the cylinder. Additionally, the areas where the air leaks out of the cylinder can tell a mechanic a great deal about what needs to be done to fix the problem. Air leaking from the intake or exhaust manifolds indicates worn valves or seats, respectively, which is comparatively easy to repair because it only requires the cylinder head to be removed. Air leaking from the crankcase vent often foretells something more ominous: worn or damaged piston rings or scored cylinder walls, which in turn requires an engine rebuild or replacement. In the hands of a competent mechanic, the compression and leak-down testers remove much of the guesswork from engine diagnostics.
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line164
|
__label__wiki
| 0.58168
| 0.58168
|
'christian' Tagged Entries
EastKippur
In an effort to unify religions, George and Neal combined Easter and Yom Kippur, (known as "EastKippur"). Unfortunately, this resulted in a cruel irony wherein children are surrounded by chocolate rabbits but denied the opportunity to eat them.
Tags: blends(3) christian(8) holidays(8) jewish(6) mashups(12) rabbits(2) religion(11)
Names Mentioned: easter(1) yom kippur(1)
Sisters of Endless Guilt
In 1962 George and Neal dressed as nuns and moved into the Sisters of Endless Guilt convent, just for kicks. We lived there for three and a half months before we were discovered. After being sent out of the convent we took our habits to Antarctica to live with the penguins. So far our guise has not been penetrated (and neither have we, luckily).
Tags: 1962(1) animals(16) antarctica(2) christian(8) costumes(4) crimes & scams(16) george's fashion sense(12) neal's fashion sense(20) religion(11)
Names Mentioned: antarctica(2)
Darwin Loves Us!
In 10,000 BCE, Neal and George invented the opposable thumb. In secret documents, Darwin acknowledged this fact, and renounced his natural selection theory. Confusingly, the Vatican has suppressed this information for generations.
He couldn't have been that mad; he gave us a signed copy!
Tags: .10000 bce(1) ancient wonders(9) body parts(14) christian(8) evolution(5) inventions(48) people of history(33) prehistoric(6)
Names Mentioned: charles darwin(1) vatican(3)
Jerry Falwell's 65th Birthday Party
Riding the success of their 1992 appearance in Under Siege, George and Neal opened a cake delivery business called "Under Siege 2: Dark (Chocolate) Territory". George would bake the cakes and deliver them and Neal would jump out of them. This was a very successful business until August, 1998, when Neal believed he was being sent to a bachelorette party. At the designated time Neal leaped out of the cake and began shaking his stuff while bills got stuffed into his speedo. After about 10 minutes Neal realized that the laughs were slightly deeper than what he would expect from a bachelorette party. Upon wiping the whipped cream from his eyes Neal realized he was actually at Jerry Falwell's 65th birthday party and Mr. Falwell was just about to stuff another $20 into Neal's G-String. Neal shouted and ran, closely followed by a mob of seniors stuffing change down his coin slot, toward the door yelling for George to "Start the van! Start the van!" Neal escaped with a whopping $1,642.63 in those 10 short minutes, not including the roll of quarters he kept stuffed in his banana hammock.
Taken just seconds before Neal took off running, much to Jerry and Pat's disappointment.
Tags: 1992(2) 1998(9) business ventures(44) celebrities(69) christian(8) food(45) movies(40) neal's fashion sense(20) phallus(8) religion(11) scantily clad people(15) xxx(11)
Names Mentioned: jerry falwell(2) pat robertson(1) under siege(3) under siege 2: dark territory(1)
Olympic Snowball
In 2022, at George and Neal's insistence (ok, it was actually persistence - we agreed to finally stop whining about it if the IOC included it - we can be very persuasive) Snowball Fights became an Olympic sport. USA won the first two Olympics with the event (mainly because the IOC refused to acknowledge it and there were no other competitors in 2022 and only Ghana in 2026). Unfortunately by 2041 global warming had progressed to the point where holding Winter Olympics was pretty pointless (the 2040 Olympics were mainly a soggy, slushy mess), so 2044 marked the first ever Spring Olympics (since Winter as a season no longer existed anywhere on Earth except Detroit for some reason, but no one wanted to travel there). Instead of Bobsled there was the Mudslide, Speed Skating became Liquid Mountaineering (look it up), and Snowball Fights became The Mud Sling. Throwing mud rekindled George and Neal's interest in the Olympics (they quickly realized in 2023 that snowball fights were a bit immature) and George and Neal promptly joined the 2048 US Olympic Mud Slinging Team where they led the team to 18 consecutive Olympic Mud Slinging Gold Medals (including 48 of the 51 World Mudslinging Championships in non-Olympic years - The Republican and Democratic parties won the other three years).
Members of the 2030 Canadian Snowball Team deftly dodging a barrage of snow from the signature move, Holy White Fury, of the Vatican team.
Neal preparing to sling a whopper at Flu Pou Tou Eue, the captain of the Chinese team, in 2056. Neal claimed the extra weight gave him an advantage, but we think he just liked eating too much mud. And he never had an excuse for the loincloth...
Tags: 2022(4) 2023(2) 2026(2) 2040(4) 2041(2) 2044(1) 2056(2) awards and recognition(12) christian(8) neal's fashion sense(20) politics(9) sports(23) things neal eats(9) weather(7)
Names Mentioned: canada(4) china(3) democratic party(1) ghana(1) olympics(3) republican party(1) vatican(3)
Keeping Kosher
Neal enjoys eating pickled pig snouts, but only if they're Kosher. George enjoys eating all the foods his wife won't let him eat.
Rabbi Rosenberg's Kosher Pickled Pigs Feet can be found in the eternal damnation section of most grocery stores, next to Cardinal O'Leary's D'Licious Friday Lenten Pickled Tripe, which coincidentally is just down from the Westboro Bun Size Wieners.
Tags: christian(8) food(45) jewish(6) religion(11) westboro baptist church(2)
Names Mentioned: westboro baptist church(2)
George Neal
In 2029, George and Neal decided to tinker with building functional teleportation technology. Unfortunately, it had been years since either Neal or George watched the 1986 Jeff Goldblum film, The Fly, which illuminated the dangers of teleportation. When the first opportunity arose to use the teleportation device, the men fought over who could use it first. George raised the fact that whoever went first had the potential to be a Neal Armstrong-like figure. Neal raised the fact that Neal Armstrong's first name was Neal, and therefore he should go first. It was sound logic. George refused to accept it, however, and flung himself into the device. Neal did the same. The result was catastrophic (and sexy), in which Neal and George's DNA were combined, creating what at least two people believe to be the smartest man in history. This amalgamation dubbed itself "George Neal." Unfortunately, while the teleportation / recombination was occurring, knobs got fiddled accidentally (that's what she said) and George Neal was flung back into the late 1700's. Though possessing great knowledge and incredible oration skills, George Neal had none of the memories of George or Neal. George Neal believed himself to be the son of a Scottish Highlander who set up permanent residence in South Carolina. For reasons unknown, George Neal chose to stay loyal to the British during the War of Independence. George Neal distinguished himself during the war, even being promoted to Major. He later became an explorer, exploring the north shore of Lake Erie by boat. Ultimately, after leaving America, Major Neal became Canada's first saddlebag preacher for the Methodist church.
Voted sexiest man alive, 1821.
Major Neal married, had a daughter Esther, and purchased 200 acres in the Port Rowan Long Point area at Cope's Landing, Ontario. On February 27, 1840, while his granddaughter was reading scripture to him, Major George Neal was hit on the head with an errant pineapple. How the pineapple found its way to Canada remains a mystery. In any event, the noggin clockin' caused the amnesia to disappear and both George and Neal's memories overwhelmed Major Neal.
Missing his/their respective families (and vowing he/they would never tell them about his/their wife, children, grandchildren, and Canadian property ownership), Major Neal faked his/their death the very next day. It was easy back then. He/they just said, "I'm dying" closed his eyes, and held his/their breath. When no one was looking, he/they built a rudimentary time machine out of twigs, berries, and of course, rocks and put it in his/their pocket. After his/their burial, he/they activated the time machine, traveling back to 2029. He/they reverse-engineered their DNA joining (did I mention, ewww?), thereby finally separating George and Neal. There were little long-term physical ramifications, other than Neal smelling like George (egg drop soup) and George smelling like neal (feet, soaked in egg drop soup). Like everything else in this chronology, the events were entirely true. As proof, one need only to visit the Neal Memorial Methodist Church in Port Rowan, Ontario (which was established in September 1912 by George Neal's grandson, Rev. George Neal Hazen, and which still remains to honor "Canada's First Saddlebag Preacher"). One could also read more about these events at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Neal.
Tags: 1700s(1) 1912(1) 1986(8) 2029(2) britain(9) celebrities(69) christian(8) genetics(16) george funk(11) historic events(18) movies(40) neal funk(18) offspring(13) ouch! that'll leave a mark(13) people of history(33) religion(11) teleportation(10) that's what she said(6) time machine(37) wives(15)
Names Mentioned: britain(8) canada(4) george neal(1) jeff goldblum(1) lake erie(1) neil armstrong(1) ontario(1) rev. george neal hazen(1) scotland(3) south carolina(1) the fly(1)
DTBTXY
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line170
|
__label__cc
| 0.541247
| 0.458753
|
Western Digital VelociRaptor Preview
By Guest Eugene, April 21, 2008 in Storage News & Reviews
Spending more money on a faster processor, video, or memory doesn't usually go far because it's not the bottleneck (again, that's in most cases), and the uptick in performance isn't a lot (single digit %).
Uhhh what???
Really depends what you're doing. It is true, the harddisk is the slowest part of the computer by far, but how much time does a typical user spend waiting for disk-bound tasks?
That's the key... most people don't spend a whole lot of time waiting, or they find that from 4 seconds to 5 seconds just isn't much, vs., say, gamers and a video card upgrade... e.g.: http://www.xbitlabs.com/articles/video/dis...li_8.html#sect0
An extra $140 from a single 9600GT to SLI'ed 9600GT's .. or an extra $80 from a single 9600GT to a single 8800GTS is an average 10fps difference from 19fps to 29fps or more, which is a HUGE difference in playablity. (granted, these is a sensitive range. If it's between 50fps and 60fps that's not much of a difference to the end user, much less sensitive). We're still talking a 50% increase in average frame rate, hardly single digit. I would say far more enthusiasts out there are more worried about going from 19fps to 29fps then they are about saving 3 seconds out of 40 seconds in level load time. Sure they'd like to do both, but if money is finite, you can guess the video card would win 98 times out of 100.
When you have something that's giving you 15-100% better performance, like a Raptor over just about any SATA hard drive, that's a difference you notice.
If you frequently do disk-bound tasks, I absolutely agree. Hell I run 15K SAS for that reason, I'm disk-bound due to access-time for a lot of what I do...
But for most users... they are disk bound, yes, but it's for what, a minute or two or five scattered about their whole 8 or 12 hour day... they find it a lot harder to justify.
Even the 150G raptor has faster random access than almost all other drives, so it still works better than other drives that have better raw performance numbers.
Maybe, maybe not. It does hold up very well, but look at SR's own benchmarks...
http://www.storagereview.com/WD3000BLFS.sr?page=0%2C2
SR hasn't tested the Samsung F1 1TB or WD 6400AAKS yet, but even the 7K1000 is frighteningly close to the Raptor 150 in performance.
mikegas 0
It's not just the 15mm enterprise height of the VelociRaptor that prevents normal usage in a laptop or USB enclosure. It's also the power requirement, as the SR and TR reviews mention.
We should note that unlike 2.5" mobile drives, which only draw power from the 5V line, the VelociRaptor pulls from both 5V and 12V rails.
So even if I find a 2.5" HDD USB enclosure that fits the VelociRaptor, it would have to use its own 5V/12V AC adapter instead of being (dual) USB bus-powered?
Well, you wouldn't want to get the fastest SATA drive and stick it to a USB enclosure only to be limited by the USB transfer rate...
Jeff Poulin 0
I think drives used to be a big bottleneck up until 5-10 years ago. When ATA drives (and later SATA drives) became much faster and UDMA became the norm, the difference between ATA and SCSI for desktop use started to diminish. Nowadays with big/fast/cheap drives and 2-4GB of RAM on many desktops, drive speed is even less of a factor. With enough RAM, almost everything becomes read cached in short order. Drive speed is still important for write intensive applications or in servers where random I/O is the norm, but outside of that, it's getting harder to justify big investments in drives because the return on investment just isn't what it used to be.
RaptorMac 0
Will this drive work with Mac Pros? I have heard that it will not but nothing official from WD, aside from the absence of "OS X" in the system requirements blurb. Doesn't look good, but I have no idea why they would intentionally cut out a huge segment of the target market (creative professionals using Mac Pros) by doing this. Anyone hear anything definitive from WD on their plans in this regard? Thanks... - RM
Will this drive work with Mac Pros?
Electrically, yes, it should work fine.
Mechanically, no, since the SATA connector position is not aligned properly when it's installed in the 3.5" heatsink thing it comes with from WD. So you're SOL unless someone makes a proper 2.5" to 3.5" adapter.
And since when has the lack of any spec in the system requirements for a harddisk stopped anyone?
bagpuss8472 0
Would be interested in seeing how this drive performs in comparison to the Fujitsu 2.5" 10/15k Enterprise offerings in an SR benchmark?
boli 0
For 2008 Mac Pros it's not difficult to use one of the two "hidden" onboard SATA connectors and put a hard drive into either of the optical drive days, check out the articles I posted:
Mac Pro (2008): Raptor in optical drive bay
Mac Pro (2008): Adding an SSD to the Raptor already in the optical drive bay
For the earlier (2006) Mac Pros it's more involved:
How I "silenced" a WD Raptor in a Mac Pro (2006)
Edited May 14, 2008 by boli
rebus9 0
It's May 22. Anybody heard when these things might actually hit dealer stock?
Note to Eugene: Thanks for the review. I haven't been this excited about a hard drive in.... can't remember when. Can't wait to see how the retail version stacks up against the engineering sample.
Also, as a 20+ year die-hard SCSI fan, I'd love to see this drive benchmarked against a group of 10k and 15k SAS drives. I've been spending extra for Seagate Savvio drives (the HP servers I buy use 2.5" disks). If the Velociraptor is made available without the IcePAK, and if it makes strong competition for the Savvio, I may opt to try it out in a few servers instead.
http://www.storagereview.com/php/benchmark...26&devCnt=6
Check the Performance Database?
lunadesign 0
Anybody have any idea when these will be available? The original WD press release said they would be on sale on their site by mid-month and I still don't see 'em.
Also any idea how the 150GB model will perform (performance-wise, heat-wise, noise-wise) versus the reviewed 300GB model?
DaPotato 0
They are available on Newegg now! http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx...N82E16822136260
I noticed that-- at full MSRP. Very un-like NewEgg, who usually has good prices. I'm sure the price will come down after the initial "gotta have it at any price" crowd gets their fill. At least I hope so because I really want one, just not at $299.99.
Also looking forward to seeing a followup SR article benchmarking the retail version, so we know if WD was accurate in saying the engineering sample SR tested was only 90% optimized.
Edited May 28, 2008 by rebus9
I noticed that-- at full MSRP. Very un-like NewEgg, who usually has good prices.
You haven't noticed NE prices creeping up, especially at launch, to ridiculous prices recently?
It's now typical behaviour from Newegg...
Really? It shows you how far behind the curve I am. The servers I buy for work are... well... servers, and we buy the boring, tried-and-proven bread-and-butter models instead of bleeding edge.
At home, my primary machine is (if you can believe it) a Celeron 1.2 GHz that I built IIRC sometime in 2002. I have an E6750 Core2 Duo 2.66 that I built in January but I've been "living" in my Celeron box for so long and have so much installed, it's taking a long time to gradually get everything moved over.
I've been kicking myself with both feet for 4 months for not putting an SAS drive in the E6750 (every PC I've had for 20+ years has been SCSI) because the 7200 RPM SATA is so DOG SLOW compared to the servers I work with everyday with 15k SAS. When I came to Storage Review to read the reviews on new SAS controllers, by happy coincidence I saw the review of the VelociRaptor and really got excited. If it's as good as they say, and if WD ever releases them without the IcePAK, I'm going to try them in a few servers, too.
SnowHiker 0
10,000 rpm disks have 3 ms of rotational latency not 2 ms. Or am I missing something?
You're absolutely right, thanks.
3.9 ms measured seek time... even more impressive.
Hey Eugene I just looked at the WD VelociRaptor article again and see:
The VelociRaptor turns in a measured average read access time of 6.9 milliseconds (ms). After accounting for the 2 ms associated with a 10,000 RPM spindle speed, WD's latest is left with an average read seek time of 4.9 ms and misses the manufacturer's 4.2 ms claim by over half a millisecond.
Did the ISP downtime screw up the revisions you made on the article, or am I on crack, as I see the 2 ms number again???
It seems that people are reporting 7.1 ms access time for the shipping drive so seek seems to be 4.1ms, pretty close to the 4.2ms claim?
Weird, a double post within a single post. I should look for a job that hires idiots to find holes in data entry systems.
Kent10 0
I just bought a new Velociraptor to replace my 150GB Raptor. I wasn’t expecting miracles with increased speeds but I noticed that at least in one area it was slower than my Raptor. When booting my Windows XP SP3 Home it takes about 5 secs longer than it did with the old Raptor. I am comparing an image that I took directly from the Raptor and put on the Velociraptor. I think it is being held up in the first part of the boot. I noticed that it takes about 5 secs longer when the computer says “Verifying DMI Pool Data.†Does anyone know why my boot would be slower with the Velociraptor. Is XP taking longer to recognize the new drive or what else could be going on.
Also, I am in IDE mode. I wonder if AHCI would be better for the Velociraptor.
Thanks for your ideas, Kent
Edited June 4, 2008 by Kent10
Roy Tam 0
For startup issue, usually the position of files on disk are different after disk cloning.
Slacker 0
Hi Eugene, just want to point out the Review Discussion link at the end of the article links to the Hitachi Travelstar discussion thread instead of this thread.
impar 0
WD just announced the enterprise version with a surprise, 3ms latency instead of the 5,5ms previously reported.
The enterprise version is the BLFS, the enthusiast version is the GLFS.
And there will be a 150GB BLFS version.
Edited July 23, 2008 by impar
The 150 GB version was bound to turn up sooner or later. As in many other tech releases, they always go for the biggest, fastest headline grabber for the initial launch, then gradually trickle the new tech down to cheaper models.
As for the 3ms latency. that's the rotational latency - how long, on average, it takes the platter to spin to the right place (parrallel to the edge) at 10,000 RPM. There's also the seek time - how long it takes the head to move (perpendicular to the edge) to get to the right place. Combined, they make the average access time. This is often different for reads and writes.
Looking at the 2.5" specs, it says average latency of 3 ms - that's half the time it takes for the platters to do one full rotation at 10,000 RPM. It'll be the same for any 10K drive.
It also lists average read and write seek times of 4.2 ms and 4.7 ms respectively. That represents how fast the actuators are, and matches the specs for the rest of the VR line.
When I look at the 3.5" specs, it lists average latency of 5.5 ms, which matches neither the rotational latency, the seek time nor the average access tiome. In fact, it's actually the rotational latency of a 5400 RPM drive - in other words, another typo by WD in one of their press releases. Not the first time that's happened.
The conclusion? It's the same drive, at the same speed, but without the 2.5" to 3.5" adaptor, and with an additional 150 GB option that's not yet available in the 3.5" form factor.
It'll be interesting to see what this costs.
elho 0
That's purely a software/OS issue though.
My current desktop has been installed many years ago (using a single floppy to fire up the network-install, if you can believe that these days ) on a 366 MHz Celeron with 3 IBM DNES SCSI drives and went through a PIII to a 2.4 Ghz P4 with a Seagate Cheetah 15K drive (and some IDE drives for storage). From there I moved it to the current box 1.5 years ago, a E6700 Core 2 Duo having a RAID1 of 2 WD740ADFD Raptors (and a RAID6 of 6 WD5000YS RE2's for storage) on a 3ware controller. Did the move quickly in 1-2 days without any problems.
I've been kicking myself with both feet for 4 months for not putting an SAS drive in the E6750 (every PC I've had for 20+ years has been SCSI) because the 7200 RPM SATA is so DOG SLOW compared to the servers I work with everyday with 15k SAS.
Hehe yes, before the current box, I haven't been accepting anything but good SCSI drives where performance and reliability matters either. But with the ever increasing prices of SCSI, the Raptors on a 3ware did sound like a good alternative, and oh yes, they are.
Its just a shame that I do have an unused Cheetah lying around now.
My favourite real-world "benchmark" is firing up the GIMP (which loads a whole slew of plugins on startup). On my laptop (1.5 Ghz G4, Hitachi Travelstar 7K100) it takes 30s the first time, 6-7s when cached, on the desktop 3-4s the first time, 2s when its cached. The Core 2 Duo is obviously way faster, but it also shows that a fast disk does go a long way.
So you're SOL unless someone makes a proper 2.5" to 3.5" adapter.
Which is a very good question, do those adapters exist?
It would be a major shame if one would be forced to use the old raptors if one does not want to get new systems featuring 2.5" backplanes along with. Besides cost, wanting to use some large capacity drives alongside the raptors seems like quite a good reason not to.
(Of course, its no problem to find/build systems featuring both, but options are fewer and chances to be able to convert an existing system yet lower.)
Actually, someone on the HardOCP forums had pictures of a new IcePak version from WD, one with an adapter board bolted to the sled. This allows the drive to stay centered in the sled while still presenting a hotswap-compatible SATA connector. No idea if this sled is available ala carte or only comes with certain versions of the VR, though.
Actually, someone on the HardOCP forums had pictures of a new IcePak version from WD, one with an adapter board bolted to the sled.
This thread?
http://www.hardforum.com/showthread.php?t=1332698
There is also some benchmark of the new 80GB Raptor:
Edited August 7, 2008 by impar
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line176
|
__label__cc
| 0.700063
| 0.299937
|
Board index Site Administration News
Official site news [DEPRECATED]
Moderators: Moderators General, Prelates
Site Ninja
Contact xkcd
Postby xkcd » Mon Aug 07, 2006 5:24 am UTC
You can now get signed posters and prints here:
http://xkcd.com/store/
I'm really sleepy now, so goodnight! First batch will be shipped out at the end of the week, and then just rolling as-they're-ordered after that.
(THERE ARE ALSO POSTERS)
Thanks for supporting!
Vocal Terrorist
Location: Basingstoke, England.
Contact Jesse
Postby Jesse » Mon Aug 07, 2006 1:03 pm UTC
I'll be ordering a couple of posters soon, but I still wish you'd do one of 'Secret World's (Although I'm not sure of the legal liability of using a Gaiman quote to sell work.)
Good adventure games, bad platformers, and British swear words.
Postby xkcd » Mon Aug 07, 2006 1:08 pm UTC
I wrote to him a month or two ago to ask for permission to use the quote, and he never replied. So I guess no. :(
It's in that legal grey area of derivative works.
And if you were to send me it free as part of a different order thereby making no money from it yet I happened to have to pay extra 'shipping' on the order except for the fact I've got so complicated and murky I feel I should be in some East London gangland film.
It's a shame though, because it's a great piece. Maybe I shall pester him.
RealGrouchy
Nobody Misses Me As Much As Meaux.
Contact RealGrouchy
Postby RealGrouchy » Mon Aug 07, 2006 3:07 pm UTC
I know it's fickle, but it would be nice to see thumbnails, so I don't have to go back and forth between the list of available comics and the actual comic.
Maybe in checkout 2.0.
Jack Saladin wrote: etc., lock'd
Mighty Jalapeno wrote: At least he has the decency to REMOVE THE GAP BETWEEN HIS QUOTES....
Sungura wrote: I don't really miss him. At all. He was pretty grouchy.
Contact Penguin
Postby Penguin » Mon Aug 07, 2006 8:30 pm UTC
On the Gaiman front, you could leave that part of the comic blank to sell it, and let people fill it in themselves (or substitute a quote they like better) when they get it!
That'd be legal, right?
Couldn't laminate it though, and also, it wouldn't be the same.
Yeah, but then the people who want it could buy it. And Mr. Randyman can make money off it, too!
Plus, with a sharpie (or a wet-erase marker, if your taste in quotes is fickle like that), you can write on laminationystuff.
Postby Jesse » Mon Aug 07, 2006 11:32 pm UTC
My handwriting is atrocious.
rainshine2s
Postby rainshine2s » Wed Nov 29, 2006 9:29 pm UTC
Is there any chance official prints will be coming back ever? There are a few I was waiting to buy, but the sale option never arose again and is now completely unmentioned in the store. Will I have to resort to making my own at Kinko's (as gifts for friends, myself, not for profit)?
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line179
|
__label__cc
| 0.729294
| 0.270706
|
Obama announces immigration reform plan
EMTP
Location: Elbow deep in (mostly) other people's blood.
Postby EMTP » Fri Nov 21, 2014 1:17 am UTC
Much as expected:
In an address to the nation from the East Room of the White House, Mr. Obama displayed years of frustration with congressional gridlock and a desire to frame the last years of his presidency with far-reaching executive actions. The president’s directive will shield up to five million people from deportation and allow many to work legally, but will not give them a path to citizenship.
"Reasonable – that is, human – men will always be capable of compromise, but men who have dehumanized themselves by becoming the blind worshipers of an idea or an ideal are fanatics whose devotion to abstractions makes them the enemies of life."
-- Alan Watts, "The Way of Zen"
Paul in Saudi
Joined: Fri Sep 07, 2012 12:52 pm UTC
Location: Dammam, Saudi Arabia
Re: Obama announces immigration reform plan
Postby Paul in Saudi » Fri Nov 21, 2014 10:00 am UTC
As long as they pay their taxes and play nice, it makes no nevermind to me.
Joined: Mon Jun 18, 2012 12:28 pm UTC
Postby leady » Fri Nov 21, 2014 10:31 am UTC
Not my country, but it does affect you even if they pay their taxes
5,000,000 x $250,000 in social security and medicare so a shade over a trillion dollars
Postby Chen » Fri Nov 21, 2014 1:08 pm UTC
leady wrote: Not my country, but it does affect you even if they pay their taxes
I don't think the proposed work permits allow social security OR medicare (and medicare is for 65 and older anyways). Next, where did you pull that $250k out of? And, even if that number was accurate, presumably your tax income from those 5 million would be way more than that anyways.
Postby leady » Fri Nov 21, 2014 1:26 pm UTC
they get a SSN so even if its not baked it now, its just a matter of time.
very low paid workers barely cover their immediate costs let alone the expensive long term costs (unsurprisingly). Their tax take will barely touch the long term benefits
$250,000 was my guess, but it looks reasonable based on a retiree making it to 75 , $12k on social security, $12k on average medical costs
Postby sardia » Fri Nov 21, 2014 2:15 pm UTC
leady wrote: they get a SSN so even if its not baked it now, its just a matter of time.
You're assuming that they stay poor, or like there would be a political party dedicated to oppressing them.
I'm a pessimist I acknowledge, but out of 5 million I suspect 4.9m fall into the category of the uneducated, unskilled labourer with poor English - a tiny number might become neutral or positve tax consumers I imagine.
Postby Dauric » Fri Nov 21, 2014 6:57 pm UTC
I'm rather amused by the bit about (paraphrasing) "Congress: If you don't like the executive action, do your job and pass a reform bill."
Probably not a good idea politically speaking and I have no hopes for it working (as intended or even at all), but it's amusing.
Postby Tyndmyr » Fri Nov 21, 2014 7:03 pm UTC
Dauric wrote: I'm rather amused by the bit about (paraphrasing) "Congress: If you don't like the executive action, do your job and pass a reform bill."
Oh, the whole statement is a challenge to red team, politically speaking. That much is obvious.
Yablo
Location: Juneau, Alaska
Postby Yablo » Fri Nov 21, 2014 8:34 pm UTC
I am very much opposed to this for a couple reasons. First and foremost, Executive Action should never be used as a way for the President to get what Congress won't give. There are three branches of government in the U.S. for very good reason. It's not okay for the Judicial branch to create legislation with its rulings, it's not okay for the Legislative branch to enforce its own laws (except possibly indirectly by censuring or removing a President who refuses to enforce them), and it's not okay for the Executive branch to create its own laws.
The other reason I oppose this is that it sends a very negative message to the world as a whole. It tells U.S. citizens that the value of our citizenship is not what we believe it is. It tells everyone lawfully going through the immigration process that we don't care anything for their efforts to follow our rules. It tells the entire world that if enough people break our laws for long enough, we'll eventually give up.
I am a big fan of immigration, and I am proud of the fact that I live in a country to which so many people want to move. I believe immigration and diversity go a long way toward making my country great, but that has to be achieved in an orderly and legal manner. I don't delude myself with the thought that the U.S. immigration process is flawless, and there are many things that should be fixed, but Executive Action is absolutely not the way to fix it.
If you like Call of Cthulhu and modern government conspiracy, check out my Delta Green thread.
Please feel free to ask questions or leave comments.
Postby JudeMorrigan » Fri Nov 21, 2014 9:30 pm UTC
Yablo wrote: ... and it's not okay for the Executive branch to create its own laws.
Good thing then that that's not at all an accurate description of what Obama is doing. Here. This:
http://www.slate.com/articles/news_and_ ... r_are.html
is a reasonable summary.
morriswalters
Postby morriswalters » Fri Nov 21, 2014 11:04 pm UTC
leady wrote: I'm a pessimist I acknowledge, but out of 5 million I suspect 4.9m fall into the category of the uneducated, unskilled labourer with poor English - a tiny number might become neutral or positve tax consumers I imagine.
I have no doubt. It's funny though, I see them on roofs, in restaurants, oh just about everywhere, working. I somehow admire people who have the unmitigated gall, to up and leave everything behind, language, culture, home. And go off to a place where they know they are not particularly welcome. That makes them hungry. Most people I know would never take that kind of leap. To much cushy, easy, life. I of course include me in that cushy crew. I shudder to think of living someplace where I don't know the language or the customs.
Cleverbeans
Postby Cleverbeans » Sat Nov 22, 2014 3:46 am UTC
Yablo wrote: The other reason I oppose this is that it sends a very negative message to the world as a whole. It tells U.S. citizens that the value of our citizenship is not what we believe it is. It tells everyone lawfully going through the immigration process that we don't care anything for their efforts to follow our rules. It tells the entire world that if enough people break our laws for long enough, we'll eventually give up.
I don't really feel the process deserves the respect you're giving it. When I did the paperwork for immigration the prevailing thought was "This process is ridiculous. They need to fix this." It's long, there is a mountain of paperwork and it's full of redundancies. I can fully understand why people try to avoid it and was definitely tempted to enter illegally. Everything was underfunded. The paperwork for my wife, two stepchildren and two biological children to come to Canada was less than 1/5 the size of my application to immigrate to the US, and the process took 1/3 as long. It's just straight up broken.
"Labor is prior to, and independent of, capital. Capital is only the fruit of labor, and could never have existed if labor had not first existed. Labor is the superior of capital, and deserves much the higher consideration." - Abraham Lincoln
Postby sardia » Sat Nov 22, 2014 4:05 am UTC
Cleverbeans wrote:
The disdain that Yablo shows is emblematic of what is wrong with the GOP. Unless you are ripped out of a movie caricature of a sympathetic immigrant, he wants you to eat shit and die. It is people like Yablo that actually devalue citizenship. They wrap themselves up in the flag so they can use it to smother minorities.
Postby Zamfir » Sat Nov 22, 2014 12:09 pm UTC
That's not really a new message, is it? The US has been passing these weird amnesties every few years since I can remember. I have always read the message as 'poor Latin americans can become citizens, but first they have to suffer some years of fence-climbing, low wages and uncertainty to show they are worthy. We won't make binding promises'.
Effectively, it's just another part of the immigration process.
Postby elasto » Sun Nov 23, 2014 4:41 am UTC
Does that take into account the economic benefit they provide to others?
If an uneducated, unskilled laborer fixes a hole in a shop roof and the shop then goes on to make tons of money and pay tons of taxes, can't a portion of all that economic activity be attributed to the laborer - above and beyond any money that was directly paid to him? (Or are we going to maintain the polite fiction that the market will divide up such proceeds equitably?)
(I bet your proportion is way off. I also bet that they are way harder working than the average native uneducated, unskilled laborer - simply because they were capable and determined enough to move to another country to find work.)
Postby sardia » Sun Nov 23, 2014 6:25 am UTC
elasto wrote:
I think that's accounted under less labor costs for using under the table workers. If anything, labor costs will rise now that they can demand actual wages.
Postby Thesh » Sun Nov 23, 2014 8:38 am UTC
It should be noted that social security is paid based on what you earned in a 35 year span, and thus what you paid in taxes - low skilled workers aren't going to earn much, and thus won't break the social security bank. Also, we do need a lot more tax-paying immigrants if we want to pay for all of the retiring baby boomers while maintaining a decent quality of life (this assumes that there is work to do, which requires congress to actually do something about the weak demand for labor we have had for nearly 15 years now).
sardia wrote: I think that's accounted under less labor costs for using under the table workers. If anything, labor costs will rise now that they can demand actual wages.
Not sure I follow.
Leady's point as I understand it is that the economy is worse off for having an extra low-skilled worker as they will contribute less in taxes over their lifetime than they will receive from ss/medical. My point was that personal taxes aren't the only way a worker contributes economically.
Let's assume a worker fixes a roof and that's worth $1000 to the economy over the lifetime of the fix. The worker might receive $100 in wages and they might pay $20 of that in taxes (just making up numbers).
A naive view is that if the worker receives more than $20 in ss/medical then they are a net drain to the economy but obviously that isn't the case: The roof owner received a net $900 in economic benefit from the work done and might pay $180 in taxes on that - taxes which should really be attributed to the worker - at least in the sense that if the fix hadn't been done the economic benefit would never have been realized.
Labor costs rising doesn't make any difference to any of this: That just shifts some of the $1000 in economic benefit from the roof owner's side of the balance sheet to the worker's, but the combined tax take is unaffected. (Previously the worker was paying no income taxes at all though so it represents a strict improvement from that point of view.)
Postby sardia » Sun Nov 23, 2014 3:08 pm UTC
I was proposing a benefit of immigration that was unrelated to taxes. They provide a source of cheap labor, so people can use the savings in labor from immigration and spend it on other things they otherwise couldn't have. It's one of the many benefits of immigration.
Postby leady » Mon Nov 24, 2014 10:45 am UTC
I bet the african american community in the US is delighted by that.
partschmants
Joined: Mon Nov 24, 2014 3:37 am UTC
Postby partschmants » Mon Nov 24, 2014 1:41 pm UTC
I'm mostly curious about the timing behind this. Why wait to do this until the republicans hold congress? Why the last year of his presidency? Why not do this immediately after his reelection?
Yablo wrote: I am very much opposed to this for a couple reasons. First and foremost, Executive Action should never be used as a way for the President to get what Congress won't give. There are three branches of government in the U.S. for very good reason. It's not okay for the Judicial branch to create legislation with its rulings, it's not okay for the Legislative branch to enforce its own laws (except possibly indirectly by censuring or removing a President who refuses to enforce them), and it's not okay for the Executive branch to create its own laws.
I have some reservations, but oddly enough, not about that. Amnesty has happened before(Reagan, IIRC), and thus, this seems like it's on fairly safe ground legally speaking for an EO due to this and other precedent. Not really much of a change in terms of power.
I'm more concerned due to
A. This signals the start of another round of partisan escalations. This seems tedious.
B. Bad incentives.
I agree that the current process is broken, for sure. An amnesty doesn't fix that, though. It's...kind of just a bandaid thing.
partschmants wrote: I'm mostly curious about the timing behind this. Why wait to do this until the republicans hold congress? Why the last year of his presidency? Why not do this immediately after his reelection?
That's easy enough. It would have hurt dem re-election chances, so they wanted immigration pushed off until after that. Given their loss, Obama is facing an imminent loss of power. While we're still in a lame duck status, there's simply less chance that they can do something by passing a law to derail this.
Postby sardia » Mon Nov 24, 2014 2:25 pm UTC
leady wrote: I bet the african american community in the US is delighted by that.
They are very delighted. As are you on Christmas when you get clothes made from child labor. This is globalization, you can't escape low wages without agreeing to pay more for your goods.
Postby leady » Mon Nov 24, 2014 2:45 pm UTC
yeah shaving 50c of the cost of a T-shirt vs having no job probably makes them delerious with joy.
Sure globalisation is a competitor, but there is a certain supply of non-transferable min wage jobs. If you want one of these (or more likely need) you are screwed (and the increased demand of extra people isn't going to come close to closing this gap)
leady wrote: yeah shaving 50c of the cost of a T-shirt vs having no job probably makes them delerious with joy.
Are you telling me you pay extra to buy fair trade goods? Or that its bad to accept goods made with low wages but you'll still buy them? In addition, these people didn't magically appear, they are already here when the rules changed. Don't you cry crocodile tears on the plight of the poor to me. I know your political positions on the poor.
What crocodile tears? I'm just pointing out that mass unskilled immigration screws over the current unskilled workforce. Even though this group is already in the US, doesn't mean they won't have a displacement effect now they are free from arbitrary deportation. Also once you factor in the fixed pie of social services which this group will also steadily get increased access to, then the existing unskilled workforce is doubly screwed.
Naturally this is one of those areas that political representation and self interest seems to diverge wildly
leady wrote: What crocodile tears? I'm just pointing out that mass unskilled immigration screws over the current unskilled workforce. Even though this group is already in the US, doesn't mean they won't have a displacement effect now they are free from arbitrary deportation. Also once you factor in the fixed pie of social services which this group will also steadily get increased access to, then the existing unskilled workforce is doubly screwed.
Eat citations leady. REALITY: Immigration Actually Boosts American Wages And Productivity
Economic Policy Institute: Immigration Has "Positive Impact On The Wages Of Native-Born Workers." A February 2010 study by the Economic Policy Institute found that immigration has a "positive impact on the wages of native-born workers overall: although new immigrant workers add to the labor supply, they also consume goods and services, which creates more jobs." [Economic Policy Institute, 2/4/10]
National Bureau Of Economic Research Paper: Immigrants Have Positive Long-Term Impact On Wages Of Native-Born Workers. A working paper from the National Bureau of Economic Research found that from 1990 to 2006, immigration had a positive long-term effect on the wages of native-born workers. [National Bureau of Economic Research, 7/08]
Brookings Institution: "Many Immigrants Complement The Work Of U.S. Employees And Increase Their Productivity." The Brookings Institution reported similar findings, that "immigrants and U.S.-born workers generally do not compete for the same jobs; instead many immigrants complement the work of U.S. employees and increase their productivity":
The most recent academic research suggests that, on average, immigrants raise the overall standard of living of American workers by boosting wages and lowering prices. One reason is that immigrants and U.S.-born workers generally do not compete for the same jobs; instead many immigrants complement the work of U.S. employees and increase their productivity. For example, low-skill immigrant laborers allow U.S.-born farmers, contractors, or craftsmen to expand agricultural production or to build more homes -- thereby expanding employment possibilities and incomes for U.S. workers. [The Brookings Institution, 9/10]
I don't dispute that the average american will gain (in the short term at least) so I accept your citation and shrug
Consumption rises to the level available. If a dude comes here and gets a minimum wage job, he'll generally be spending that money. Or at least, the lions share of it. Money saved and invested just goes back into the economy via reinvestment instead of spending, which is also fine. No worry there.
The only real difference is it makes the economy larger, which isn't inherently a problem or anything. My view on immigrants, having worked with a number of them, is that they are often much more appreciative of minimum wage jobs than the natives are, and are very willing to work hard and be reliable. Obviously, there are exceptions to everything, but a *lot* of people I see complaining about being completely unemployable are not so because "they took ur jerbs", but because they are simply not an asset. Or at least, enough of an asset to bother hiring. Of course, it's always easier to just blame others.
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line180
|
__label__cc
| 0.62409
| 0.37591
|
HomeSportsFerr or Foul?Ferr or Foul: The Cardinals are on the clock
Ferr or Foul: The Cardinals are on the clock
April 19, 2019 Matt Ferris Ferr or Foul?, Sports 0
With just under a week until the 2019 NFL Draft, the Arizona Cardinals still have no idea whom they will select with the first overall pick.
During an April 16 press conference, the team’s General Manager Steve Keim came out and said the team has yet to decide whom they will be drafting. They still have some evaluating to do before the draft.
Based on rumors that have been swirling around all offseason, it is reasonable to assume the Cardinals are between two players to pick first – Nick Bosa and Kyler Murray.
Bosa, who is rated as the best player in the draft by many experts, is a defensive end out of Ohio State.
He makes a lot of sense to go first for many reasons.
First, he is a defensive end and that is one position that the Cardinals need to upgrade from last season.
Last season, Arizona was the worst team in the NFL against the run – something that Bosa specializes in.
His biggest knock by scouts is his pass-rush ability.
However, the Cardinals were a top-10 team in sacks last season, so Bosa could learn from elite pass rushers on the Cardinals roster, including Chandler Jones and Terrell Suggs.
Bosa’s family history will also bode well for him. His older brother Joey plays for the Los Angeles Chargers and is one of the best defensive players in the NFL. If he is just half of what his older brother is, he will have a good NFL career.
But what about Murray?
The 2018 Heisman Trophy winner had one of the best seasons in recent memory last year at Oklahoma.
However, quarterback isn’t really a team need for the Cardinals as they just drafted Josh Rosen in the first round last year.
But Rosen was less than impressive last season, throwing more interceptions than touchdowns and winning just three games.
On top of that, the Cardinals just hired Kliff Kingsbury as their new head coach this offseason, and Murray fits his offensive scheme perfectly.
Murray not only has one of the biggest arms in the draft, but also one of the most accurate, too – not to mention, he is a freak athlete and was selected in the first round of the MLB Draft by the Oakland A’s.
The biggest problem with Murray is his size. He is significantly undersized as a quarterback, standing at five feet, 10 inches.
This is a whopping three inches shorter than 2018’s first overall pick, Baker Mayfield, who also was considered undersized.
Like Bosa, Murray also has a very high ceiling for potential, but his chance of being a bust is much higher.
So what should the Cardinals do?
Throw a hail mary.
Sure, Murray is a much riskier pick, but you don’t come across talent like his every day.
If Murray pans out, he could be one of the best players in the NFL with his dual-threat ability.
But if Bosa pans out, odds are he won’t be one of the best players in the NFL, but he will be a solid pro.
Bosa is the safer choice, but the reward is much lower.
The Cardinals, who were the worst team in football last season, don’t have time to be making the safe pick. They need to get risky and select their quarterback for the foreseeable future.
It will be very interesting to see what route the Cardinals take with the first pick.
One thing is for sure – whatever direction they decide to go, they can’t go wrong between Bosa and Murray.
Ferr or Foul
Ferr or Foul?
Ferr or Foul What’s next for Zion Williamson?
March 1, 2019 Matt Ferris 0
Women’s Basketball earns win over Lasell College
November 30, 2018 Liam Gambon 0
Women’s soccer drops to 0-3 with loss to WPI
September 14, 2018 Matt Ferris 0
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line187
|
__label__wiki
| 0.744698
| 0.744698
|
Tomb Raider Review: Alicia Vikander Is So Good in Such A Bad Movie
Tomb Raider is an uninspiring hodgepodge of clunky CGI effects and poor storytelling. But it does have one saving grace that is the most important attribute by far. Oscar winning actress Alicia Vikander is a Lara Craft to believe in. She makes the character real, not a buxom video game vixen. Vikander adds humanity and depth to essentially a cardboard cutout. The previous film iterations of Tomb Raider with a sexualized Angelina Jolie were popcorn spectacles with an invulnerable lead. Vikander reboots the franchise with realism. She just needs a better vehicle for her talent.
Tomb Raider opens in London with Lara Croft eeking out a living as a bike messenger. She’s turned her back on her wealth. Expressing her anger and frustration by getting beaten to a pulp at boxing gyms. The seventh anniversary of her father’s (Dominic West) disappearance forces Lara to confront her past. She must sign legal documents to declare her father dead, and finally acknowledge his passing.
In his will, Lord Richard Croft leaves Lara a Japanese puzzle. They were her favorite gifts as a child. The puzzle gives a tantalizing clue to his fate. Lara leaves her inheritance behind and travels to Hong Kong. She must find the man that took her father to a mysterious island with a deadly secret. What awaits her is far more dangerous and surprising than she could have ever imagined.
The direction by Norwegian filmmaker Roar Uthaug (The Wave) is plodding. Tomb Raider lacks sizzle, feels unoriginal. It plays out as expected with the requisite big action scenes and sidekick characters. It’s almost as if everyone just wanted to get this movie done so the real adventures can begin. The third act in Tomb Raider is very similar to the climax of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. The difference being that movie was interesting, while this one goes through the motions. Uthaug is collecting a paycheck here. He clearly had no enthusiasm for the film.
The action scenes are CGI heavy and don’t integrate into the narrative. I am a huge fan of the 20th anniversary edition Tomb Raider video game. It had tremendous game play set in a lush, jungle setting. The film attempts to recreate this, but it just doesn’t look good. These types of effects need to be seamless for believability. The raging water scenes, falling through the jungle, and the hidden temple look too computerized. A lot of money was spent to produce this film. It’s strange to me that the visual effects are lackluster. Chalk another demerit for Roar Uthaug.
Now that the bad has been discussed, let’s extol the virtues of Alicia Vikander. She plays Lara well at the nascent stage. She’s not an ass-kicking, gun-toting heroine yet. Lara gets hurt, feels pain, and is afraid. You can see the fear in Vikander’s eyes when Lara is first threatened with a gun. She is horrified when she has to kill. Vikander is extremely fit, but not hulking or intimidating in any way. Her Lara Craft is played as an actual woman in extraordinary circumstances. She’s deadlier at the film’s conclusion because the character has grown. Vikander’s next outing as Lara Craft will be ferocious.
From Warner Bros., Tomb Raider is exactly what the trailers promised. We’re introduced to the new Lara Craft with very little else going for it. At two hours, the film is not substantial enough to warrant that runtime. I didn’t like the movie, but was impressed by Alicia Vikander. Now that the groundwork has been laid, the inevitable Tomb Raider sequel has a chance to be great. The studio just needs to find a director and screenwriter more capable with this type of material.
Spider-Man 2 Casting Call Hints at Villain & New High School Lead
Captain Marvel Loses DeWanda Wise
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line189
|
__label__wiki
| 0.546427
| 0.546427
|
Get Your Show On-Air!
Submit Your Music!
Go to ...Get Your Show On-Air!AdvertiseSubmit Your Music!Song RequestDonateSpecial ProjectsEvents Go to ...Coverage MapDonate NowListen NOW on 100.3 FM! | Get The APPSong RequestSubmit Your Music!
Listen NOW on 100.3 FM! | Get The APP
On-Air Now!
Featured Artist: Aaron Ray
Judah – Major Way
Aaron Way – The Word
Ready 4 Impact
Host: Lady J and LuvLuv
Sundays 5:00 PM
The Gospel Truth
Host: Preston Love Jr and Martha Parker-Love
Saturdays 9:00 AM
Host: Spiritual Destiny Ministries
Saturdays 12:00 PM
Support Our Station
Category jimmy carter
At 94-Years-Old, Former President Jimmy Carter Still Teaches Sunday School at Georgia Church to Crowds of People Who Line Up to Hear Him
Comments Off on At 94-Years-Old, Former President Jimmy Carter Still Teaches Sunday School at Georgia Church to Crowds of People Who Line Up to Hear Him Posted in africa, asia, Christian, Ellen Sherwood, emory university, George Williams, Guinea worm disease, Habitat for Humanity, health care systems, jimmy carter, latin america, Maranatha Baptist Church, mental health care, nobel peace prize, Presidents Day, Rosalyn Carter, sunday school, The Carter Center foundation, U.S. Rep. John Lewis, U.S. Sen. Cory Booker
Visitors line up early to squeeze into the small sanctuary of Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, Georgia.
Headlights piercing the black night, cars arrived one by one, at 1:45 a.m., 2 a.m., 2:11, every few minutes until past dawn, just as they always do when former President Jimmy Carter teaches Sunday school at Maranatha Baptist Church.
On Sunday of Presidents Day weekend, we turned into the parking lot at 2:52 a.m., car No. 20, written on a piece of paper handed over by George Williams, who, as always, is there welcoming each car with a hearty, “Good morning. I’m George. Where y’all from?”
He tugged at his orange Ronald McDonald cap and told us the rules: You can take a cellphone OR a camera inside, no big purses, no knives, no nail clippers. “Thank you for coming.”
George, 75...
Jerry Falwell Jr., Jimmy Carter, and Liberty University Set a Great Example for the Rest of America in These Divisive Times
Comments Off on Jerry Falwell Jr., Jimmy Carter, and Liberty University Set a Great Example for the Rest of America in These Divisive Times Posted in Baptists, bernie sanders, Christian, common ground, conservatives, jerry falwell jr, jimmy carter, liberals, Liberty University, Opinion, progressives, Southern Baptists, zTransfer-ICH, zTransfer-UCN
Former President Jimmy Carter, left, talks with Liberty University President Jerry Falwell Jr. during the 45th commencement ceremony at Liberty on May 19, 2018, in Lynchburg, Va. (Lathan Goumas/The News & Advance via AP)
by Jacob Lupfer
As Jimmy Carter waited to appear before a commencement crowd at Liberty University, it looked like he might be entering the lion’s den. The school, founded by Carter’s political foe, Jerry Falwell Sr., has stayed true to its socially conservative roots. Carter has been steadfastly to the left.
But Liberty President Jerry Falwell Jr. gave Carter a generous introduction, praising his kindness, warmth and humility. In a curious comment, Falwell said: “The longer I live, the more I want to know about a person and give my political support to a person...
Presbyterian Church USA to Hold Devotional Services on Capitol Hill to Build Relationships With Congress
Craig Parshall: Silicon Valley Needs to be Held Responsible for Censorship of Christian Views
Michael Brown: Were President Trump’s Recent Tweets to ‘Progressive Democrat Congresswomen’ Racist?
Greg Stier: Stop Doing the Same Thing Over and Over in Youth Ministry and Ask “What If?”
Copyright © 2019 Gospel Music Omaha 100.3 FM - 100.3 FM Contemporary Urban Gospel Music
Designed by free wordpress theme, thanks to: Free Wordpress Game Themes, jucarii din lemn and SJThemes.com
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line191
|
__label__cc
| 0.552206
| 0.447794
|
Home Narmer Amenuti FIFA World Cup: The Greedy Wolf And Its 13+1 Spots
FIFA World Cup: The Greedy Wolf And Its 13+1 Spots
The Greedy Wolf
Europe alone has 13 (+1) spots and Africa just 5 in the World Cup. The idea that because European teams (UEFA) rank higher in FIFA Rankings they must be granted more spots in the FIFA World Cup Festival is an unfair idea. Exactly because the rankings themselves are FIFA’s! Worse, it is European greed.
The rest of the world that also plays the game, albeit without Europe’s monied funfair, is entitled to plenty more than just a few spots in a festival that wants to be regarded as truly global.
A few words about FIFA’s troublesome rankings. Every continent has competitions. But Europe alone has 10,000 tournaments (literally) where their players get all the exposure, even from playing “bought” talented African players on and off the pitch. Yaya Touré, for instance, a world class midfielder from the Ivory Coast, did nothing else last season in the British Premier League, except to warm the bench and enrich the skills of De Bryune (Belgium) and Aguero (Argentina) at training. The list here is endless. Heck, Europeans have control of world resources enough to be able to fund all this entertainment and free transfer of hard earned African skills. But to turn around and say African teams are weaker for it is odd.
These African players are right there making these European teams stronger and stronger each year. What? Like Lukaku is from Belgium? Like Pogba and Kante are French? Like the French, and not the African Union, defeated Iceland in the last European Cup? To punish other confederations, the African Federation in particular, to only 5 spots while Europe spots 13 of those, in a tournament that FIFA wants to be regarded as global is a bit rich, or dare I say, greedy.
If it’s all about the money then stop making the case that it is a true world event. For it is not. It does not look or feel like it. The FIFA world cup feels European. All in the name of a meritocratic FIFA ranking? So Poland ranks like number 8 and Senegal like 27? Like Czech Republic ranked 2 and Ghana like 50 back in 2006? It is fraudulent!
When you begin to look at the rankings and its disingeniousness, together with the oversized exposure European players get because of their money and control over world resources, I see FIFA only making European soccer markets more and more money so they can have better and better leagues, than say Africa. And then to use that ranking to further punish other federations. It’s a vicious cycle for everyone but European teams and to a lesser extent the “favored” South American teams, including the USA.
Previous articleFrom Now On, You Are Robert.
Next articleRace, Cakes & Tacos: Discrimination In the United States
Simon Eyram Tsike-Sossah Jun 29, 2018 at 3:09 pm
Then KN helps lose the shine even more…Is this a FiFA case or one of incompetence… I mean, KN (again), Hayatou(?). Sierra Leone FA is busy fighting for 3+ years without actually organizing a league!
Kwame Jun 29, 2018 at 3:10 pm
Agreed 100 percent. The FIFA cup is always the European championships with a side of Brazil and Argentina (these teams are now white too). I think the solution is a Pan African World Cup where all black teams will actually get their fair shake like African teams, Jamaica, Trinidad, Haiti, etc.
Narmer Jun 29, 2018 at 3:11 pm
There’s a case there to be made, Nye Bro. Eyram. Although Hayatou is an employee, not the employer. And I don’t actually like Hayatou. What case does anyone have when his employer insists that Hayatou is great? FIFA remains a private corporation with the goal of remaining a global corp.
This is where my problem arises with them: They seek to win the trust of all soccer fans the world over.
But for those of us in Ntoaboma, we see a multinational with horns fattened on African and Latin America largess, but with a mouth that spouts the idea that nowhere else but in the European academy is soccer possible.
FIFA and its CAF tentacle have reduced the Beautiful Game to a matter of business. And since it is a matter of business, Issa Hayatou and Nyantekyi, for example, are replete with the worst business practices! Africa suffers as a result, and not for the want of talent, or African suffers not because it cannot outplay others at the Beautiful Game.
Now, to the bigger point: Why would anyone, outside of Europe, want to see England, Ireland and Germany in the same tournament? But FIFA likes that simply because those fans have more spending power put together than for say Germany, Ghana, Ecuador put together!
My point is: If the world cup is a matter of business, then it must stop lying that it is a truly global festival. It is not. It is very European!
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line193
|
__label__cc
| 0.634759
| 0.365241
|
James Dean --- Part Two
I thought I’d come to the wrong place when Rebel Without A Cause started and those three neatly dressed teenagers filed into police headquarters. Now granted this movie was there to demonstrate how delinquency was a blight upon middle and upper-class neighborhoods as well as the ghettos, but honestly, how could Sal Mineo, Natalie Wood, and James Dean have represented any kind of real challenge to the status quo, even in 1955? Natalie’s adorable in a Warnercolor Teen Vogue outfit that suggests anything but a troublemaker, while Sal looks ready to crawl into a bassinet. Imagine an officer’s relief today if juvenile cases could be so benign and non-threatening as these! Sal and Jim are even wearing coat and tie --- but then so were other Rebel Without A Cause cast members when Warners arranged a field trip for them down to the local station house. It’s only a glimpse on one of the DVD extras, but there they all are, dressed as if for Sunday school and showing proper respect for L.A.’s law enforcement community. It really was an idyllic world back then. Jim Stark’s high school is an orderly environment where all the kids wear neat outfits (Natalie’s scarf!) and even the gang members lean toward natty sport shirts and leather jackets any of us oldsters would be thrilled to own. There’s also Cinemascope and color to put a candy-coated gloss on this picture postcard of Southern California before the real cultural breakdowns got underway. Rebel Without A Cause depicts the Sunny Cal that Herb Vigron imagined during that train ride in The Bandwagon --- pure sunlight, breathtaking views from nostalgic locations (especially the Griffith Park Observatory) and "troubled" kids who just needed a hug from Daddy.
I can fully appreciate James Dean’s popularity, and ongoing cult status, after watching Rebel Without A Cause. He plays his part like a star. If this guy’s an outsider, we should have all been Jim Stark on our first day at high school. It's clear he’ll succeed Buzz as leader of the pack, probably within days of the incidents dramatized here. After East Of Eden, there’s no way Dean was really going to play a geek. The perhaps unintended leadership qualities Jim Stark displays may have been the natural consequence of James Dean’s dominance over his fellow cast members, with much of the dialogue emphasizing his feelings of inadequacy being continually undercut by Dean’s studied application of movie star charisma during what was said to have been oft-improvised exchanges. He and Natalie and Sal are no more authentic teen-agers than any contract player Warners might have cast. They’re auditioning here for the transitional leap into adult stardom, and Dean in particular cunningly plays the attractively confused teen we’d all like to have been.
Wouldn’t it be great to go back and experience Rebel Without A Cause with first-run audiences during that fall and winter of 1955? No matter the quality of today’s presentation (and Warner’s DVD is superb), none of us will ever really comprehend the seismic effect this one had when it was new. We can appreciate how brilliantly calculated Rebel was in flattering its youthful audience with personalities and situations designed to make them feel good (or better) about themselves. Hollywood today could use a Nicholas Ray (and his writers) to teach them a thing or two about manufacturing teen product. My only complaint was the contrivance in Act Three. The stuff in the old mansion was fine, but all that chasing around with the gang and the extended police standoff got things a little crowded toward the end. Still, this is my favorite J.D. movie. It isn’t nasty or unpleasant like The Blackboard Jungle (I could just kill that Vic Morrow) and it has all the gloss and big studio money denied to AIP cheapies along the lines of High School Caesar, Runaway Daughters, and the like. Certainly they didn’t get this kind of coin --- $3.9 million in domestic rentals for Rebel Without A Cause (as opposed to the $334,000 Runaway Daughters brought back). Rebel scored overseas as well, with an additional $3.2 million in foreign rentals, for a worldwide $7.1. Final profit was a stunning $3.9 against a negative cost of $1.4 million (good as this was, it couldn’t touch the fantastic $9.0 earned by The Blackboard Jungle, easily the king dog of all the juve dramas, with an eventual profit of $4.9 million).
You think Dean’s cool? Well, after comparing Gig Young interview segments from the old Warner Brothers Presents series (included on the DVD), I’ve adopted Jim Backus as my role model for a suave and self-assured middle-age. The Dean footage we’ve known from a hundred documentaries and compilations --- he shuffles around in the Jett Rink outfit and mumbles something about road safety (and ironically, within weeks, he … no, I’ll spare you that). Backus I’d not seen before. His piece had been buried in Warner vaults since pterodactyls flew (or at least since the ABC 1955 broadcast date), so I had no idea what a cool, unflappable pro he was off-screen. Dean looks pathetic compared with this more than seasoned trouper. Could Jimmy have ever measured up to senior Jim’s level of relaxed professionalism? Imagine an alternate mid-sixties universe where James Dean not only lives, but winds up competing with Russell Johnson for the "Professor" role on Gilligan’s Island. I can imagine Sherwood Schwartz consulting with Jim Backus --- Hey Jim, you worked with this guy once when it looked like he’d be big; should we use him for this? Then Backus’ thoughtful reply, Yeah, why not? Maybe he’s learned a little something since then. Let’s give him a chance. After all, he was fairly good in that episode of Hawaiian Eye …
posted by John McElwee at 5:09 PM
Oscar Grillo said...
Yesterday they've shown "Larger than life" on British TV. Remains one of the most impresive American films of the fifties...The colour photography and the art direction are stunning, but...What was Nicholas Ray fascination with red bomber jackets?!
erik hogstrom said...
I just finished "Live Fast, Die Young: The Wild Ride of Making 'Rebel Without a Cause,'" by Lawrence Frascella and Al Weisel. It is a fabulous book that explores all angles of the gestation, production, and aftermath of "Rebel."
Keep up the good work -- you have got a great blog!
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line195
|
__label__cc
| 0.745035
| 0.254965
|
Greensboro Sports
Your Source For Sports News In Greensboro
Tuesday - July 16, 2019, 2:36 am
GreensboroSports Radio
Newer Videos
College Men’s Lacrosse Final – Guilford 16, Pfeiffer 13
Posted by Press Release on March 21, 2019 at 9:18 am under College | Comments are off for this article
MISENHEIMER, N.C. – Brennan Sweeney (Northville, Mich./Northville) scored a career-high six goals and an assist in Guilford College’s 16-13 lacrosse win at Pfeiffer University Wednesday night. Teammate Zach Berkowitz added three scores and one helper as the Quakers improved to 5-3 on the season.
Sweeney and Berkowitz both scored goals in the decisive third quarter in which Guilford outscored the Falcons 5-0. Pfeiffer’s Jared Nelson tallied 56 seconds into the fourth frame, but the Quakers answered with three scores to take a 16-9 advantage with 3:28 left in regulation. Pfeiffer (4-5) scored four times in the final 2:52, including three tallies in the last 31 seconds.
Sweeney, who scored six times on nine shots, netted Guilford’s most goals in a game since Joey Chrisman ’11 scored six times in a March 10, 2009, win over Shenandoah University. Sweeney dent the twine at least once in all four quarters and assisted on Joe Eggleston’s fourth-quarter man-up goal that concluded the Quakers’ scoring.
Sweeney’s twin brother, Connor, added two goals and an assist, as did Guilford’s Bryce Craig (Greensboro, N.C./Ragsdale). Goalie Jack Rogers (Apex, N.C./Athens Drive) made a career-best 16 saves in goal for the Quakers, 11 in the middle two quarters. Connor Leamey won 12 face-offs and collected a game-best 10 ground balls.
Pfeiffer’s John Allen scored six goals and Nelson added three goals and four assists. Treven King tallied two goals and an assist. Josh Reffey won 17-of-26 draws and goalie Tom Romanik made 12 saves.
Coach Mark Crisco’s Quakers resume Old Dominion Athletic Conference play Saturday (3/23) with a 4:00 p.m. home game with Roanoke College.
Tags: Mens Lacrosse
© 2019 Greensboro Sports
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line196
|
__label__wiki
| 0.500142
| 0.500142
|
Home » Big Knight in Wheatland
Big Knight in Wheatland
Harrison Epstein photo
Catcher Bryston Jennings barehands the throw from the outfield during the first game in Wheatland before catching another runner on the basepaths.
Harrison Epstein harrison@glenrockind.com
“Who’s gonna put one in the sprinklers?”
The joke made its way through the Glenrock dugout when, midway through the first game between the Glenrock Knights and the Wheatland Lobos, the sprinklers came on over the left-field fence.
The question was answered in the fourth inning of the first game when catcher Bryston Jennings hit a grand slam to give his team a 6-2 lead.
They went on to win the game 14-13 and took the second game 13-8. It was their first sweep of the season and came as the visiting team in Wheatland.
Without head coach Allen Jennings, who was away on work, the team looked to their assistant coaches to lead the way.
“They really came together as a team and just showed how tough they are mentally and that’s something we’ve been gearing our practices toward,” infield coach Allen Holmes said.
Opening the day, the Knights went with Jake Redman on the pitcher’s mound. Wheatland got on the scoreboard right away in the bottom of the first inning. It took the Knights until the third inning to score their first run.
Shortstop Aidan Orozco knocked an RBI single that scored Gavin Swanson to get Glenrock on the board. The top of the fourth inning is where the Knights seized the game.
Another RBI hit from Orozco, this time scoring left fielder Cade Griffitts, led the way for Bryston Jennings’ grand slam off the scoreboard.
“It was right down the pipe, just a fastball and I thought, ‘Why not take this one?’ It was the first pitch and it went,” Jennings said.
After taking his sweet time trotting the bases and celebrating around home plate with his teammates, the game was back on. Kaden Jackson made his way to third base with Redman on first base. The batters distracted Wheatland’s pitcher just enough to force him into a balk, scoring Jackson. A delayed double steal allowed Redman to cross home plate later in the inning and Glenrock went to the bottom of the fourth inning leading 8-2.
Wheatland retaliated with a trio of runs, and Jennings drove in another, before infielder Larry Siegel stepped up with the bases loaded. Despite his best efforts, Siegel failed to make contact between the bat and ball.
Instead, the ball made contact with him, knocking in a run and collecting an RBI hit by pitch. With the score at 10-5, Glenrock made their first trip to the bullpen and brought in Jackson.
Jackson showcased his entire three-pitch repertoire. Despite using different arm angles for each pitch, going from highest to lowest with his fastball, knuckle curve and knuckleball, in order.
Despite keeping the hitters off-balance, the Lobos were able to scratch two runs across the plate in their first time seeing Jackson.
With nobody out in the inning, back-to-back hit by pitches on Griffitts’ upper back and Swanson’s sideloaded the bases for Orozco. He hit a double, followed by another RBI hit from Jennings to give the team a 14-7 lead.
“I was really confident every time I came up to bat. Even if I popped up or something I was confident,” Orozco said.
Wheatland came back and scored three runs in the bottom halves of the sixth and seventh innings before getting to the final at-bat. Wheatland trailed 14-13 with two runners in scoring position before Jackson struck out their final batter and clinched the opening win.
For the second leg of the doubleheader, Glenrock went with Jennings on the mound and put Hunter Blaylock behind the plate. Right away, the Knights kept their hot hitting going.
Orozco led off the game by getting on base and stole his way across the diamond before coming around for the game’s first run. In the top of the third inning, it took everyone in the Knights lineup to reclaim the lead.
Batting around in the inning, the team took a 6-3 lead into the fourth. It was the fourth where they broke the game open further. A single from Adam Bearfield and double from Jackson left the Knights with a five-run lead — if only for a brief moment.
The Lobos batters figured out Jennings’ pitches to the tune of a five-run inning of their own. With the time approaching 10 p.m., the Knights and Lobos were tied going into the game’s sixth inning.
Orozco got on base once again, scoring on another RBI single from Bearfield. Jennings then took the game into his own hands and knocked in Bearfield to take a 10-8 lead.
When the Knights retook the field, they went with a change on the mound, Siegel moved from shortstop to the pitchers mound and Jennings went behind the plate. Despite the added responsibility of being the closer, Siegel was not worried about any additional pressure.
“I know that either way, they’ll have my back so I just do the best that I can,” Siegel said.
Holding on tightly to their slim lead, the Knights were on the edge of disaster with Wheatland getting the game-tying run on first base before Siegel struck out the batter and ended the inning.
When the inning ended, it was 10:27 p.m. and according to the game’s umpires, if it was 10:30 or later they would not have started another inning. But by the grace of 180 seconds, each team would have one more opportunity to win.
Playing with reckless abandon, the Knights turned to the base paths to slam the game shut. Every time a runner reached first base they would wait no longer than two pitches before heading for second base.
With one out, Blaylock was standing at third base as Griffitts made his lead from first. Griffitts took off for second base, leading the Lobos catcher to sail his throw into center field. Blaylock scored and Griffitts made his move for third, the center fielder’s throw sailed over third base and he came around to score as well.
With runners at the corners for the second time in the inning, Redman took the same chance at second base. This time, neither middle infielder for Wheatland made it to second base in time for the throw and Swanson was able to trot home before the center fielder could recover in time to make a throw.
Capitalizing on those defensive miscues, the Knights had a 13-8 lead going into the bottom of the seventh inning.
They held the score and went to the bus with their first doubleheader sweep of the season. The wins give the Knights momentum going into conference play.
“I feel like if we’re mentally prepared and ready we can do it,” Jennings said.
The Knights will be in conference play until the middle of July when the season will lead into the Legion B State Tournament.
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line202
|
__label__cc
| 0.586424
| 0.413576
|
The Myth of the US Knocking the Hell Out of ISIS
February 7, 2019 February 7, 2019 GIHAdmin
ISIS is a US creation. So are al-Qaeda, its al-Nusra offshoot, and other terrorist groups – used by the Pentagon and CIA as proxy troops.
Trump claiming “(w)e’re knocking the hell out of ISIS…We have defeated ISIS in Syria” are Big Lies. Earlier he boasted that he “know(s) more about #ISIS than generals do…”
Days after his December pullout announcement, he claimed “ISIS is largely defeated.” In January, he said we are “continuing to fight ISIS.” After promising to “rapidly withdraw from Syria” in December, he U-turned saying a pullout “could leave American forces there for months or even years.”
Some inconvenient facts Trump, his geopolitical team, and US media do not wish to acknowledge are as follows:
The US and its imperial partners support the scourge of ISIS and likeminded terrorist groups they pretend to oppose.
Syria and Hezbollah forces, greatly aided by Russian airpower alone, are “knocking the hell out of ISIS,” its ranks greatly diminished but not defeated.
Turkey’s Erdogan pretends to oppose the scourge he actively supports, giving ISIS and other terrorists safe haven in the country’s territory, letting them move freely back and forth cross border.
On Wednesday, sources quoted by Sputnik News’ Arabic-language website said around 1,500 terrorists entered Syria’s Idlib province from Turkey in the last 48 hours – a flagrant Sochi agreement violation.
Erdogan is a tinpot despot, never to be trusted, an obstacle to conflict resolution in Syria, an enemy of Bashar al-Assad, wanting him toppled, wanting Syrian territory bordering Turkey annexed, mainly its oil-rich areas.
He lied to Vladimir Putin, breaching the Russian/Turkish northern Idlib province demilitarized zone agreement.
It remains a hotbed of US/NATO/Saudi/Israeli/Turkish supported terrorists. Nearly five months after Erdogan promised to disarm them, they’re more heavily armed and entrenched than earlier – using their positions to attack government forces and civilians.
On Wednesday, Trump turned truth on its head roaring: “It should be formally announced sometime next week that we will have defeated 100% of the caliphate…I want to wait for the official word. I don’t want to say it too early,” adding:
“ISIS controlled more than 20,000 square miles in Iraq and Syria” before he took office, falsely claiming he’s working with US partners “to destroy (its) remnants…”
Like Obama, his regime is doing precisely the opposite, including in Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya, and likely elsewhere, deploying ISIS and other jihadists to these countries – arming, funding, training and directing them.
Congress, the Pentagon and CIA want US forces remaining in Syria. On Monday, Senate members overwhelming voted against withdrawal of US troops from Syria and Afghanistan – falsely claiming ISIS and al-Qaeda pose a serious threat to the United States.
The legislation claimed that “a precipitous withdrawal” of Pentagon forces could “allow terrorists (the US supports) to regroup, destabilize critical regions and create vacuums that could be filled by Iran or Russia.”
No pullout of US forces from any countries where they’re deployed is likely. They came to stay indefinitely, not leave, including in Syria.
A Final Comment
According to the Damascus-based Syrian Human Rights Network head Ahmad Kazem, al-Nusra terrorists, aided by White Helmets, moved barrels of toxic chlorine to Idlib’s Khan Sheikhoun “in two ambulances,” the location of a 2017 CW false flag, wrongfully blamed on government forces.
He added that the barrels were stored in a refrigerator truck to preserve them for use against civilians when ordered.
In late January, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova warned that Western-supported White Helmets were preparing to film staged CW attacks in Idlib.
Time and again, government forces are wrongfully blamed for incidents they had nothing to do with. US, UK and French warplanes earlier attacked Syrian sites after false flag CW incidents.
In January, John Bolton said the following:
“There is absolutely no change in the US position against the use of chemical weapons by the Syrian regime and absolutely no change in our position that any use of chemical weapons would be met by a very strong response, as we’ve done twice before.”
It’s just a matter of time before the next staged CW false flag, a pretext for Pentagon-led warplanes to attack Syrian military sites, perhaps Damascus on the US target list as well.
← US Humanitarian Intervention in Venezuela?
House Undemocratic Dems Reopen Russiagate Probe →
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line203
|
__label__wiki
| 0.844131
| 0.844131
|
Guttenberg Press
Clayton County Register
Courier Press
Historic Prairie du Chien
North Iowa Times
Monarchs find sanctuary with Guttenberg gardener
Warning: array_merge(): Argument #1 is not an array in _simpleads_render_ajax_template() (line 133 of /home/pdccourier/public_html/sites/all/modules/simpleads/includes/simpleads.helper.inc).
Notice: Trying to get property of non-object in _simpleads_adgroup_settings() (line 343 of /home/pdccourier/public_html/sites/all/modules/simpleads/includes/simpleads.helper.inc).
No, that's not a pin accenting Rosalie Kickbush's top, but a newly-hatched Monarch butterfly. The Guttenberg woman has been using a "nursery" box to protect the species as it transitions from egg to adult stage. (Photo submitted)
By Shelia Tomkins
It all began at a quilt retreat in Oelwein. Rosalie Kickbush of Guttenberg learned more than just new quilting skills, she also met a fellow quilter who arrived bearing boxes of caterpillars munching on milkweed leaves.
The woman explained how the caterpillars would eventually emerge as Monarch butterflies after passing through the chrysalis (or pupa) stage. Meanwhile, she provided them a haven from predators and gave them a steady supply of leaves.
"The lady had about 20-25 going in different stages, in six or seven containers," said Rosalie. "She was going to be gone for four days, so she brought them along to take care of them."
Monarch butterflies have seen alarming declines in population in recent years due to the loss of habitat — namely, the milkweed plant they depend on during all stages of their life cycle. In fact, the caterpillar ONLY eats milkweed leaves during its feeding stage.
Her curiosity piqued, Rosalie checked out the milkweed plants at her property and found two caterpillars. "I decided I would try and see what happened," she said.
She has since become something of an expert on the life stages of the beautiful orange and black butterflies, and has advanced from sheltering caterpillars to identifying eggs and bringing them to a "nursery" box in her home.
Using a clear plastic shoe box, she faithfully provided her first two caterpillars with milkweed leaves. "They each could eat a whole leaf in a night," she said.
She watched as the two grew in length until they were ready for the next stage in their lifecycle. "They go up and hang on the top of the container as they form their chrysalis," she said. "First they form a little dot. That's what they hang on to. They form a "J" shape, and then they spin some kind of webbing and turn into a chrysalis."
The chrysalis or pupa stage can happen rather quickly, she said. "One of them, I was surprised when overnight it went into chrysalis." They remain in that stage for a couple weeks.
Next comes the final fascinating stage when they emerge as butterflies. "It sheds all that 'skin,' and then you have a butterfly," she said.
It takes a little time before they can fly. "They hang on for awhile, and eventually walk alongside the edge of the box. Then it was all the way around the container, then down on the bottom of the box. That's when I opened it. I was going to see if it would come on my hand, but it went down on the floor, and walked up my leg." There it rested long enough for Rosalie to photograph her butterfly "tattoo."
After they have rested, Rosalie takes them outdoors and releases them. Thanks to the internet, she has learned a lot about Monarchs and can even tell a male from a female by their markings.
"The last one stayed on my shirt for two hours and hung on my necklace," she said. Even before studying the markings, Rosalie knew it was a female. "It hung on my necklace — she likes diamonds!"
As of Aug. 9, she had released two butterflies and had five caterpillars that hatched from eggs she harvested found on milkweed plants. She looks forward to releasing them in time for their fall migration to Mexico.
Willie's Weather
Weather Sponsored by Lansing Furniture.
Click Here For Full Forecast
Copyright 2013 | Courier Press | All Rights Reserved
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line208
|
__label__wiki
| 0.511785
| 0.511785
|
Having sex with homeless girl shay barton 3
December 22, 2013 admin Leave a comment Dating
It was barely the beginning of May, but temperatures were already topping 95F 35C , and the glare of the sun off the sides of the 4, white UNICEF-distributed tents left Holiya feeling disorientated. Over three years, residents have had the opportunity to customize their tents — reinforcing tarpaulin divides with concrete bricks and sheets of corrugated iron. Water tanks sit beside sporadically functional portable air-conditioning units, and 1in- 3cm- thick foam mattresses provide a gesture toward comfort at night. The sisters know they are lucky to have ended up here: And we went to school. As she speaks, she rubs her arm.
Photos of woman shot homeless man appear on escort site Online
You see, people tend to assume most homeless have penises, so they fail to consider the special needs of female types. Continue Reading Below Advertisement Then there are the little things you don’t notice until you don’t have them, like underwear. Well, some of us wouldn’t notice, anyway. Also, for some reason, despite society’s disgust toward hairy ladies, we’re often hard-up on razors and I almost never saw more than one or two small things of shaving cream or lotion at the same time back there” she continues.
Don’t you want your homeless ladies smooth?
To apply for assistance the following items are needed:
Police say the girl died after being severely beaten by her mother. Shandricka Nakesha Mack, 27, is charged with murder and injury to a child. On September 5, Houston police were flagged down after the 2-year-old girl was found unresponsive. Police say officers also noticed external injuries on her 1-year-old sister while they were waiting for paramedics. This time, on Sept. So, Metro Police showed up to investigate the claims, but a woman and a man there denied any abuse had taken place, and the officers left.
Investigators believe a man who was dating her killed her. The ex-husband of Lyne, 40, reported her missing Saturday morning, and a homeowner discovered the head, arm, lower leg and foot that afternoon, court documents show. Seattle police arrested Charlton Monday north of the city, in Snohomish County. King County prosecutor Jennifer Worley said in court Tuesday that detectives found human flesh and blood in Lyne’s bathtub near the saw. Charlton’s public defender, Gordon Hill, countered that no forensic evidence connected Charlton to her death and it couldn’t be proven she was killed when Charlton was with her.
A booking photo from Montana shows John Robert Charlton, 37, the man accused of dismembering Lyne in her home.
I was tired of being hassled by tuk t
Could not subscribe, try again laterInvalid Email A year-old schoolboy was subject to a beating by a group of men after he was spotted talking to a girl who was in his class, a court has heard. The Bengali student was taken prisoner by the Pakistani girl’s uncle, before her father, brother and cousin all joined in the attack, a court was told. Preston Crown Court heard the boy was escorted to a cul-de-sac, where he was repeatedly kicked in the head, battered with weapons and told: She was a fellow pupil at their high school and the men found pictures of them together on the smartphone, the court was told.
Cavendish Press Manchester Ltd The victim was eventually released when the men drove him away from the scene and dumped near a local barber’s shop. The boy, from Blackburn, Lancs, was later treated in hospital for injuries similar to those administered by a knuckleduster. He was left with a scar to his head and is now too scared to leave home by himself. Details of the assault emerged at Preston Crown Court where trainee accountant Khizum Baig, 29, the girl’s brother, college student Saqib Mirza Baig, 29, the girl’s cousin father of seven Ghazanfar Mirza, 37, the girl’s uncle all of Blackburn, and taxi driver Mirza Baig, 48, of Preston, the girl’s father faced jail after each pleaded guilty to affray.
The court heard the boy – who cannot be named – had been targeted after he dated a year old girl from the Pakistani community in Blackburn.
Homeless Tube
Eros Writer – Warner plantation, Georgia, Summer Silas Warner sat on his porch sipping lemonade. The Georgia weather was hot today, but not as hot as his blood. Today was the day.
This is more common in America than we would like to actually believe.
If you are on the door, remember to collect any bottles of alcohol, label them, and lock them in the cupboard. If you are nervous about talking to anyone, try offering them a cup of tea or a sandwich. The guests police themselves – they don’t want to be ejected. I keep looking to see where my handbag is. A menu is chalked on a board. Salmon steaks with cheese sauce, a vegetarian option of pasta bake.
Dating an unemployed girl. Dating a Homeless Man
Mentesana is the homeless liaison for the Beaverton School District. In city centers, the problem is obvious — and largely adult. In Beaverton and Hillsboro, Vancouver and Gresham, the more common story is a quieter one: In , people in families represented 28 percent of the homeless population in Multnomah County. They represented almost half of all homeless people counted in Clark and Clackamas counties and a third of those in Washington County.
Some of that is simple economics:
She never sent it.
By Samantha Scelzo But what happens if parents can’t afford the monthly dues and financial commitment it takes to put their children through Scouts? What if girls don’t have have a home, let alone a troop, to call their own? Girl Scout Troop is the first scout troop in New York City designated solely for homeless girls, and it’s changing community programming for the better. According to a New York Times profile on Troop , the troop is comprised of 28 girls ages who live in a Sleep Inn where New York City’s Department of Homeless Services pays to shelter homeless families on 10 floors of the hotel.
Girl Scouts adds 23 STEM badges in biggest rollout in nearly a decade Giselle Burgess, who started Troop in February, is a single mom with five kids ranging from After her landlord decided to sell the building she lived in, Burgess struggled to find a new place to live and entered the city’s shelter system.
Homeless Joshi ***Gakusei
After discovering in the pilot episode that her live-in boyfriend, Spencer, is cheating on her, she moves into the guys’ apartment where Nick, Schmidt, and Winston help her move on from her break-up. The series follows her adventures as she goes through various relationships and jobs. He and Winston are childhood friends from Chicago. In the episode “Bells”, it is revealed that he is fairly frugal and prefers to repair things in the apartment by himself rather than hire outside help.
It is implied by Schmidt that he dropped out of law school. In the episode “Secrets”, it is shown he is not good at keeping secrets, and sweats on his lower back.
Moments are looking up.
Inside Gaza with Photographer Peter van Agtmael This experience had a profound effect on Jeffries, sharpening the focus on the subject matter of his street photography—the homeless—and defining his approach to taking pictures. He didn’t want to exploit these people or steal photographs of them like so many other photographers who had seen the homeless as an easy target.
In an effort to make intimate portraits, Jeffries would try to connect with each person on an individual basis first. He rarely takes notes, feeling it immediately raises suspicion, and prefers to take pictures while he is talking with his subjects to capture the “real emotion” in them. The way that Jeffries processes his images and the heavy use of shadow and light within his pictures is a direct reference to the religious overtones he felt while photographing the beggars and homeless in Rome.
The underexposure in camera and process to dodge back light where he wants it—although done in a digital environment—relate more to the traditions of analog printing. The effect of the subjects on the photographer is equally heavy: The photographer’s passion has become his life mission. He uses his photography to draw attention to and raise funds for the homeless, posting the images to Flickr and entering the work into competitions.
Over the past three years Jeffries has placed third, second and second in an annual Amateur Photographer magazine award contest, and has won separate monthly contests which come with a camera as a reward. Each of the half dozen cameras he’s won has been donated to raise funds for charities, including homeless and disability organizations.
Homeless man accused of trying to rape sleeping women in
Every man at KRM has access to the education classes such as: I came to the Kokomo Rescue Mission in spring I cam to the Mission after taking care of my dying mother for four and a half years before passed. We had moved her to Tipton, to have my sister help. She had been a hospice nurse.
Everyone is excited that this evening, a beautiful, year-old acoustic singer called Sophie will be performing Beatles songs as well as her own compositions for the guests.
Get daily news updates directly to your inbox Subscribe Thank you for subscribingWe have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Could not subscribe, try again laterInvalid Email Video Loading Click to play Tap to play The video will start in 8Cancel Play now Meet homeless Joe – the rugged roaming Romeo who lives many men’s dream lifestyle despite occasionally sleeping on the cold, hard pavement.
Because it’s a case of a different girl every night for the ladies’ man, aged 26, who relies on pulling women to keep a roof over his head in Manhattan, New York. Throughout the daytime, he manages to blag as many freebies as he can, pinching free shop samples of deodorant and hairgel, while spending what little money he earns from begging on keeping up his appearance. Even though Joe has only four different outfits, he claims his arrogance and swagger charm women into inviting him into their homes for up to several nights at a time.
This homeless guy beds around women a year- that’s fifteen times more lovers than the average lifetime Strange but true: He picks up different women every other night He said: Joe spends money he picks up begging on his appearance Speaking to Elite Daily , he added: This abstract lifestyle is not for everybody. Come join us on Facebook
Please come back often. If you find a broken link, please help us by reporting it to: K-Z – by Thexxxee – A liberated female of stretches her horizons and just about everything else when she becomes a Jezebel for a group of African graduate and post graduate students who are studying at a Midwest USA university. MF, wife, cheat, intr, rom, preg A Bad African Experience – by Savvas – June and Ray accept a two year contract in Nigeria with great anticipation and excitement, but end up regretting their decision.
MF, nc, blkmail, intr Abby Was Next – by Rose Eastmann – A mother is raped by her 13 year old daughter’s boyfriend, there are drugs and pain involved and Abigail the youngest daughter was next!
In Beaverton and Hillsboro, Vancouver and Gresham, the more common story is a quieter one:
Dazir lay posted 5 years ago That is vary much true not all homeless people look filthy dirty and bad in fact you could maybe even know a person who is homeless but no realize it because they don’t look dirty I think it’s fine to fall in love with a homeless person I mean I did It’s not that he’s homeless cause he dose have a home and a family who supports him but where he lives Do you believe in love at first sight?
Cause it happened to me and him and we have been together now for 4years I love him to bits and maybe JUST MAYBE we might even think about getting married and moving into a big nice house! I have to say I would open my heart [not let my brains fall out], and date a homeless women with compassion, wisdom , sensitivity, and all that could be described as love. JC was homless when he was born. I have dated women whom struggle with mental illness, and loneliness.
Its to bad , but she couldn’t believe in a relationship lasting. I would have stayed with her.
Family Homelessness Facts
A subreddit to discuss and vent about the dating process and learn from the experiences of others! No sexism, racism, homophobia, ad hominem posts, or rudeness will be tolerated. If you do not agree with a post, ignore it and move on. This is a not a place to get dates This sub is mainly for talking about dating experiences, advice, and questions. For actual reddit dating, try one of the subreddits listed below No Spam or Self-Promotion Spam will not be tolerated and repeated offenses will result in a ban.
I made some mistakes, absolutely.
Aaron Herschell confessed to crime after victim said he tried to force himself upon her Image: Could not subscribe, try again laterInvalid Email A sex attacker who announced he had changed gender to female after he was arrested for his crimes has been jailed. Aaron Herschell, 20, told prison bosses that he wanted to be known as Alexis after being remanded at Polmont Young Offenders institution last year.
But by the time he went to trial, Herschell seemed to have abandoned plans for a gender reassignment and it was not mentioned during the case. The pervert was jailed for two years for the attempted rape of a year-old he met on a dating site. High Court in Glasgow Brazen con posts picture on social media AFTER cops sweep prison for mobile phones The High Court in Glasgow heard how Herschell was captured on video confessing to his crime by friends of his victim, who laid a trap for him.
“The Confident Homeless Man”
Teacher charged with raping student flipped out over prom date
Profile of Julio Macat
Alabama Alimony Laws and Spousal Support
Sexy nurse or sexy cop outfit
← Kapampangan Online: Sasalpantaya ku / Apostle’s Creed / Sumasampalataya ako
WICHITA, KANSAS hookup listings →
ČeštinaالعربيةPortuguêsEesti keelLëtzebuergeschEnglishFrançaisNorskPolskiSuomiDanskSvenskaItalianoEspañolΕλληνικάTürkçeMagyar日本語Nederlands中文(简体)Deutsch
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line210
|
__label__cc
| 0.652585
| 0.347415
|
Senate Foreign Relations Chairman Kerry supports Cuba Travel For All Bill
Posted December 08, 2009 by publisher in US Embargo
Senator John Kerry in the Saint Petersburg Times
For nearly 20 years after the fall of Saigon, the Vietnam War took a less bloody but equally hostile form. The United States and Vietnam had no diplomatic relations. Vietnamese assets were frozen. Trade was embargoed. But in 1995 the United States normalized relations with Vietnam. The Cold War had ended, and we even signed a trade deal with a country where 58,000 Americans had given their lives.
The result? A Vietnam that is less isolated, more market-oriented, and, yes, freer — though it has miles to go.
Yet when it comes to a small impoverished island 90 miles off the coast of Florida, we cling to a policy that has manifestly failed for nearly 50 years.
While our Cuba policy has largely stood still, reality has changed dramatically. Today, the Cuban “threat” is a faint shadow, change is afoot in the Cuban leadership, and — importantly — Cuban-Americans increasingly seek broad, far-reaching interaction across the Florida Straits.
We need a Cuba policy that looks forward, brings our strengths to bear, and builds on what works to help the Cuban people shape their country’s future.
Democracy in Cuba rightly remains an American policy goal. But for 47 years, our embargo in the name of democracy has produced no democracy at all. Too often, our rhetoric and policies have actually furnished the Castro regime with an all-purpose excuse to draw attention away from its many shortcomings. We have played to Fidel Castro’s strengths, not ours.
Fortunately, we know there is a different strategy that can succeed. The Clinton administration refocused policy around what matters: on the Cuban people, not the Castro brothers; on the future, not the past; and on America’s long-term national interests, not the political expediencies of a given moment.
We improved cooperation on issues like migration and fighting drug trafficking. Family travel in both directions skyrocketed, and the regime’s portrayal of us as the neighborhood bully was readily debunked. Americans helped repair a synagogue roof, and Baltimore Orioles players visitingCuba for an exhibition game gave children bats and balls — gestures of American generosity.
As promised, the Obama administration has expanded licenses for Cuban-Americans — albeit only Cuban-Americans — to travel to Cuba. Controls on family remittances, gift parcels and telecommunications transactions have been loosened as well. Mid-level talks about immigration and postal relations have resumed. And we’ve turned off an Orwellian electronic billboard flashing political messages from our Interests Section in Havana.
These are positive steps, but they are only a start. So what comes next?
First, at a minimum, the administration should reinvigorate people-to-people relations. When announcing expanded family travel, the president said, “There are no better ambassadors for freedom than Cuban-Americans.” True, but there are 299 million other Americans whose challenging minds, economic success, love for democracy and solid values make them proud ambassadors as well.
Second, the administration should review the programs that the Bush administration funded generously to substitute for people-to-people diplomacy.
The Senate Foreign Relations Committee is already considering how best to reform Radio and TV Martí. After 18 years TV Martí still has no significant audience inCuba. U.S. civil society programs may have noble objectives, but we need to examine whether we’re achieving them.
In addition, I am announcing my support for the Freedom to Travel to Cuba Act. Nowhere else in the world are Americans forbidden by their own government to travel. Americans who can get a visa are free to travel to Iran, Iraq, Sudan, and even North Korea. This act does not lift the embargo or normalize relations. It merely stops our government from regulating or prohibiting travel to or fromCuba, except in certain obviously inappropriate circumstances.
Free travel is also good policy inside Cuba. Visiting Europeans and Canadians have already had a significant impact by increasing the flow of information and hard currency to ordinary Cubans. Americans can be even greater catalysts of change.
Studies of change in Eastern and Central Europe find the more outside contact a country has, the more peaceful and durable its democratic transition. That’s one reason why all ofCuba ‘s major prodemocracy groups support free travel, as do longtime Castro critics like Freedom House and Human Rights Watch. A majority of Cuban-Americans have joined the rest of the country in supporting travel toCuba by all American citizens.
Today, we have a choice: seek solace in old rhetoric, ignore change and resist it, or mold it and channel it into a new policy to help achieve our goals. After 50 years of failure, it’s time to try something new.
John Kerry, D-Mass., is chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
Follow up post #1 added on December 08, 2009 by jmw1 with 62 total posts
Blah de blah, thank you for stating the obvious.
It appears Mr. kerry now sees the reality of the situation, hence the prompt boarding on the (very) slow moving bus travelling in the correct direction. A watershed time is upon us. Before you know it, all self-seving political animals shall be promoting themselves as die hard supporters of change. Strange they were not involved in the action of change. Fence dwellers ‘til the last moment.
Freedom is around the corner.
I say we study Francisco Chaviano and Yoanni Sanchez.
Follow up post #2 added on December 11, 2009 by publisher with 3905 total posts
The US Cuba blog has the text of the speech by Senator Kerry supporting the Freedom of Travel to Cuba bill.
Cuba consulting services
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line211
|
__label__wiki
| 0.649445
| 0.649445
|
MAY 18: COLONIAL LEGACIES TODAY: INDONESIA AND THE NETHERLANDS
On May 18, the IIRE will host an event organized by Histori Bersama:
This seminar will bring together two themes. One is colonialism in the Netherlands Indies as a form of racism, leaving ideological and mental legacies in the Netherlands and how those legacies can be identified, critiqued and overcome. The second is a critique of colonial policies and their impact on conditions in Indonesia until today. How are labor, agrarian, human rights and women's movements working to overcome those conditions? How can international collaboration on these issues be advanced?
Registration required via https://eventix.shop/r989d588
Ticket price: €8,50 / 11,00
Initiated by: 'Indonesia-Netherlands Meetings Group'
Contact persons: Max Lane or Marjolein van Pagee
Speakers: Max Lane, Jan Breman, Francisca Pattipilohy, Michael van Zeijl, Lara Nuberg, Jazie Veldhuyzen, Riksa Afiaty
Workshops by: Ratna Saptari, Jan Breman, Max Lane, Nadya Karimasari, Faiza Mardzoeki, and Marjolein Van Pagee
About the speakers:
* Dr. Max Lane is Senior Visiting Fellow at the Institute of Southeast Asian Studies - Yusof Isak Institute and Visiting Lecturer, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Gajah Mada University, He is author of 'Unfinished Nation: Indonesia Before and After Suharto' (Verso, 2008); 'Catastrophe in Indonesia' (Segaull 2010) and 'Indonesa Tidah Hadir di Bumi Manusia' (Djaman Bare, 2017). Lane is the translator of six books by Pramoedya Ananta Toer, including This Earth of Mankind and its three sequels. For this seminar Max Lane will talk about: 'Colonialism's Contribution to Indonesia's 21st Century Dead End.'
* Francisca Pattipilohy (93) s a living witness of both the Dutch, Japanese and Republican time. Together with Jeffry Pondaag (K.U.K.B.) she is the initiator of the open letter that was sent to the Dutch governemt in November 2017, which questioned the outline and approach of the Dutch research on violence in Indonesia (45-49). She will share her views regarding the long-term impact of colonialism on Indonesia and the Netherlands.
* Michael van Zeijl is a decolonial activist and co-founder of the Majority Perspective foundation. For this occasion Van Zeijl will present the findings of his research on the 4.5 billion payments of Indonesia to the Netherlands: 'The Dutch post war recovery financed by Indonesia: A classic Dutch tale of fraud, theft, extortion and genocide'.
* Jan Breman is an Honorary Fellow at the International Institute for Social History (IISH) in Amsterdam. He is the author of many works on Indonesian social history and also India. His work has focused on the impact of both colonial and contemporary policy on poverty and the struggles of the poor. The title of his talk is 'Colonialism as Racism', focusing on the historical background.
* Jazie Veldhuyzen is dual city council member for Amsterdam 'BIJ1', co-founder of Decolonization Network former Dutch East Indies and social entrepreneur. His talk will focus on 'Racism in the Netherlands' from a contemporary perspective.
* Lara Nuberg studied history and graduated in 2014 with a thesis on Dutch military forces in North Sumatra, 1945 - 1950. Currently she writes the blog 'Gewoon een Indisch meisje' in which she explores the meaning of the colonial past on modern Dutch society and in particular on the mixed Indo-Dutch communities living in the Netherlands. For this seminar she will focus on the Dutch government sponsored research on violence in Indonesia (45-49) and the criticism that this project received. In this context she will further elaborate on the question: 'How to deal with institutionalized colonialism.'
* Riksa Afiaty is an Indonesian curator and participant at the Jan van Eyck art institute (2018-2019) in Maastricht. She will talk about 'the current position and representation of Indonesian arts (and artists) in the Netherlands.'
- 'The 1965 Genocide and Crimes Against Humanity: Efforts for Truth at National and International Level.' By Dr. Ratna Saptari, anthropologist, assistant professor at Leiden University, researcher for the International People’s Tribunal 1965.
- 'Reviving Solidarity: Wim Wertheim and Henk Sneevliet and their responses to the Indonesian Struggle'.
By Prof. Jan Breman and Alex de Jong.
- 'Teaching and Understanding Colonial History: Oppression and Resistance. Dutch schoolbooks, how to include colonial history.' By Marjolein van Pagee, historian, publicist, photographer and founder of Histori Bersama.
- 'Trade Unions In Indonesia Today: How to build solidarity.' By Dr. Max Lane.
- 'Agrarian and Environmental Struggles Today'. By Nadya Karimasari, PhD candidate in Sociology, Wageningen University and Research (WUR), volunteer with the Indonesian Peasants Union.
- 'Understanding the Indonesia Women's Movement Today: an Introduction.' By Faiza Mardzoeki, playwright and theatre producer/director and director of The Institut Ungu
Link to Facebook event.
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line212
|
__label__cc
| 0.688453
| 0.311547
|
Acacia linifolia (Vent.) Willd.
Fully-hardy, sparsely branched, arching shrub with narrow, linear leaves (phyllodes) and terminal, rounded heads of fragrant cream flowers in slender racemes from summer to winter. To 2m. [RHSD, Beadle, FNSW].
‘This was first brought from NSW, which is its native country, about the year 1790; being one of the earliest importations from that fertile region.’ [LBC no.383, 1819]. Acacia abietina was introduced to Britain in 1823 [JD] although it was clearly introduced earlier under the name Acacia linifolia. ‘The Acacia linifolia is an ornamental shrub from the delicacy of its branches and foliage. It has a good deal of similarity with Acacia linearis (No. 2156,) but it is at once distinguished not only by the shortness of the leaves, but by the globular heads of flowers being always supported on short Pedicles, whereas in linearis they are sessile on the main flower-stalk. Its flowers, which very generally appear in the winter time, are sweet scented.’ [BM t.2168/1820]. ABR pl.394/1804.
Listed in the 1850 and 1857 catalogues [T.6/1850]. Widespread on sandstone in the Sydney region [Beadle, FNSW] and probably collected locally.
Acacias are often classified in their own family, Mimosaceae. It seems likely that Macarthur collected native species as much to barter with his overseas contacts as for decorating his own garden.
Published Feb 15, 2009 - 04:46 PM | Last updated Jul 18, 2010 - 03:48 PM
Acacia linifolia (Vent.) Willd. | BM t.2168/1820 | BHL
Acacia abietina Willd.
Mimosa abietina (Willd.) Poir.
Mimosa linifolia Vent.
Mimosa pinifolia Page
Flax-leaved wattle
Acacia abietina
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line219
|
__label__wiki
| 0.527839
| 0.527839
|
Mild Alcohol Consumption is Not Associated With Increased Fibrosis in Patients With Chronic Hepatitis C
J Clin Gastroenterol. 2010 Sep 2. [Epub ahead of print]
Cheung O, Sterling RK, Salvatori J, Williams K, Hubbard S, Luketic VA, Stravitz TR, Sanyal AJ, Contos MJ, Mills S, Shiffman ML.
* Hepatology Section daggerDepartment of Pathology, Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center, Richmond double daggerLiver Institute of Virginia, Bon Secours Health System, Newport News, VA.
BACKGROUND: Excessive alcohol consumption is associated with an increased risk for fibrosis progression and cirrhosis in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. However, the impact of mild-moderate alcohol use on the severity of liver fibrosis is unclear.
GOALS: The objective of this retrospective study was to assess the impact of mild alcohol consumption on liver fibrosis in patients with chronic HCV.
STUDY: 857 patients with well-characterized chronic HCV were enrolled. All underwent liver biopsy to assess hepatic fibrosis. The duration of HCV infection was determined by detailed questionnaires and personal interviews. Alcohol use history was estimated by the Skinner Alcohol Examination Questionnaire. Mild alcohol use was defined as 1 to 3 alcoholic beverages/day (<30 grams/d). Participants were divided into 4 groups based on their average lifetime daily alcohol consumption (essentially none, <1, 1 to 3 or >3 drinks/d) and into quartiles based on their presumed duration of HCV infection (<23, 23 to 31, 31 to 38, or >38 y).
RESULTS: Mean alcohol consumption was 2.7 drinks/d; mean duration of HCV infection was 29 years. Daily alcohol consumption was not significantly higher among participants with advanced fibrosis (bridging fibrosis or cirrhosis) when compared with those with none or portal fibrosis (3.2 vs. 2.2 drinks/d, respectively, P=NS). The degree of fibrosis increased significantly with the duration of HCV infection (P<0.0001) and was independent of mild-moderate alcohol consumption.
CONCLUSIONS: Mild alcohol use does not seem to adversely affect the severity of fibrosis in patients with chronic HCV.
PMID: 20818236 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Labels: Alcohol, Fibrosis, HCV
Androgen Receptor May Explain Male Dominance in Liver Cancer
ScienceDaily (Sep. 14, 2010) — A University of Rochester study helps to explain why men get liver cancer more often than women and opens the door for a new treatment pathway, by showing a direct link between the androgen receptor, which is more active in men, and the hepatitis B virus as it relates to the deadly cancer.
The study is published May 19, 2010, in Science Translational Medicine.
Primary liver cancer is the fifth most common cancer in men. It often arises after infection from the hepatitis B virus (HBV), which is widespread across the globe and growing in the United States. Other studies of liver cancer have focused on risk factors such as age, family history, and use of alcohol and cigarettes, but those epidemiology studies have not explained the mechanisms driving hepatocellular carcinoma and why men are more susceptible.
Now, corresponding author Chawnshang Chang, Ph.D., the George Hoyt Whipple Distinguished Professor of Pathology at the University of Rochester Medical Center, and colleagues, showed that the androgen receptor (AR), a protein that mediates male sex hormones, promotes liver cancer when hepatitis B is present by altering DNA replication of the virus. Chang's laboratory created a mouse model for HBV-induced liver cancer and reported that knocking out AR suppressed the HBV-induced cancer.
According to an accompanying editorial in the journal, the identification of the AR pathway is a potential new treatment target that could translate to the clinic.
"Our study is the first in vivo evidence to demonstrate a direct connection between HBV-induced liver cancer and the AR," Chang said. "This is important because so far most work has focused on eliminating total serum androgen levels, a type of therapy that has shown little success."
"This important paper offers insight into something we have long observed but not entirely understood, namely that men with HBV are much more likely to develop cancer than women with the same infection," said Aram Hezel, M.D., a gastrointestinal oncologist at the James P. Wilmot Cancer Center at University of Rochester Medical Center. "This is great use of the tools of genetics and mouse modeling to explain a clinical finding and most importantly turn our attention to potentially more promising treatment approaches for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma."
"This study also raises the possibility of prevention among men with HBV infection through inhibition of the androgen receptor," Hezel added. "The potential impact on clinical care is great."
For decades Chang has focused on the particular role of the AR in human health. In 1988 he successfully cloned AR, which led to breakthroughs in several AR-related diseases such as prostate and bladder cancer, and Kennedy's neuron disease, a rare and progressive motor disorder similar to Lou Gehrig's disease, and that affects only men.
The AR is central to the action of testosterone and has a profound effect on many organs. In previous experiments, Chang has shown that mice without AR have dramatically lower rates of bladder cancer, a cancer that strikes men three times more often than women.
Male dominance in liver cancer suggested that the AR would be a key factor, as well. (About 74 percent of liver cancer cases occur in men.) Chang's objective was to locate a new pathway for treatment that would not require depletion of androgen levels in the entire body, which amounts to castration and causes severe side effects for patients.
His study took the first step toward demonstrating this could be done, at least for early stage liver cancer. Researchers showed that an experimental drug, ASC-J9, attacked and degraded the faulty AR, and suppressed liver tumors in mice.
Chang developed ASC-J9 earlier this decade and first reported on its clinical potential in March 2007 in the journal Nature Medicine. The drug is a synthetic compound loosely based on the compounds found in curcumin, the polyphenol that gives the spice tumeric its yellow color. It has been used for centuries as a folk medicine in Asia and India. In this case, however, scientists significantly altered the natural substance to be more powerful, and are carefully screening it for safety and effectiveness.
AndroScience Corp., a biotech company founded by Chang and others in 2000, is evaluating ASC-J9 in several clinical settings, although not yet in the treatment of liver cancer, Chang said. The URMC owns a stake in AndroScience, and has licensed several of Chang's research findings.
In the current study, researchers found that AR cooperates with the hepatitis B virus to trigger the expression of several oncogenes, resulting in normal liver cells transforming into cancer cells. Furthermore, they showed that liver tumors without the AR had fewer proliferating cancer cells, which helps to explain the gender disparity in the disease.
Some of the findings are in agreement with earlier studies by Chang's lab on the role of AR in prostate cancer. Just as in prostate cancer, the liver tumor microenvironment is rich in various cell types, each of which has a distinct role in promoting the cancer.
"It will be interesting to see if targeting AR at different stages or in different liver cancer cell types may also lead to differential effects during the progression of cancer," the paper concluded.
The hepatitis B and C viruses account for approximately 80 percent of primary liver cancer cases worldwide. Newborn vaccines and screenings for HBV and HCV, particularly in Asian and African countries, have reduced the incidence of liver cancer in later years. Still, an estimated 560,000 new cases are diagnosed annually. In high-risk areas such as China, Japan and sub-Saharan Africa the male-to-female ratio of liver cancer can be as high as 8 to 1. The current best treatment is surgery; median survival is generally six months.
The National Institutes of Health and the George Whipple Professorship Endowment funded the research. Co-authors from the Whipple Lab and the URMC James P. Wilmot Cancer Center are: Ming-Heng Wu, Wen-Lung Ma, Cheng-Lung Hsu, Yuh-Ling Chen, Charlotte Kathryn Ryan and Shuyuan Yeh. Additional co-authors include Jing-Hsiung James Ou, of the Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles; Yao-Ching Hung and Wen-Lung Ma, of the Sex Hormone Research Center at China Medical University/Hospital in Taiwan. Ming-Heng Wu is also associated with Cheng Gung University in Taiwan; and Cheng-Lung Hsu, with Chang Gong University in Taiwan.
Labels: HBV, HCC
Ribavirin potentiates interferon action by augmenting interferon-stimulated gene induction in HCV cell culture models
Accepted Article (Accepted, unedited articles published online for future issues)
Emmanuel Thomas 1, Jordan J. Feld 1,2, Qisheng Li 1, Zongyi Hu 1, Michael W. Fried 3, T. Jake Liang 1,*
DOI: 10.1002/hep.23985
Copyright © 2010 American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases
1 Liver Diseases Branch, NIDDK/NIH, 10 Center Dr., Building 10, 9B17, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
2 Toronto Western Hospital Liver Centre, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, 6B Fell Pavillion Room 160, 399 Bathurst St, Toronto, ON M5T 2S8, Canada
3 Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of North Carolina, CB 7584, Room 8015 Burnett Womack Building, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
Email: T. Jake Liang (JakeL@bdg10.niddk.nih.gov)
* Correspondence: T. Jake Liang, Liver Diseases Branch, NIDDK/NIH, 10 Center Dr., Building 10, 9B17, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
Accepted manuscript online: 14 SEP 2010 08:04AM EST
Manuscript Accepted: 4 SEP 2010
Manuscript Revised: 2 SEP 2010
Manuscript Received: 25 MAR 2010
The Intramural Research Program
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
NIH K24 mentoring award. Grant Number: DK066144
The combination of peginterferon and ribavirin is the standard treatment for chronic hepatitis C. Our recent clinical study suggests that ribavirin augments the induction of interferon stimulated genes (ISGs) in patients treated for HCV infection [1]. In order to further characterize the mechanisms of action of ribavirin, we examined the effect of ribavirin treatment on ISG induction in cell culture. In addition, the effect of ribavirin on infectious HCV cell culture systems was also studied. Similar to interferon-α, ribavirin potently inhibits JFH-1 infection of Huh7.5.1 cells in a dose-dependent manner, which spans the physiological concentration of ribavirin in vivo. Microarray analysis and subsequent quantitative PCR assays demonstrated that ribavirin treatment resulted in the induction of a distinct set of ISGs. These ISGs, including IRF7 and IRF9 are known to play an important role in anti-HCV responses. When ribavirin is used in conjunction with interferon, induction of specific ISGs is synergistic when compared to either drug applied separately. Direct up-regulation of these antiviral genes by ribavirin is mediated by a novel mechanism different from those associated with interferon signaling and intracellular double stranded RNA sensing pathways such as RIG-I and MDA5. RNA interference studies excluded the activation of the Toll-like receptor and NF-KappaB pathways in the action of ribavirin. In conclusion, our study suggests that ribavirin, acting via a novel innate mechanism, potentiates the anti-HCV effect of interferon. Understanding the mechanism of action of ribavirin would be valuable in identifying novel antivirals. (HEPATOLOGY 2010.)
Labels: Peg-Ifn/Ribavirin, Pegylated Interferon, Ribavirin
FDA Hepatitis Update -- Availability of draft Guidance: Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection: Developing Direct-Acting Antiviral Agents for Treatment
Below is an email message that I received from the FDA:
You are receiving this message as a subscriber to the FDA hepatitis electronic list serve. The purpose of the list serve is to relay important information about viral hepatitis-related products and issues, including product approvals, significant labeling changes, safety warnings, notices of upcoming public meetings and alerts to proposed regulatory guidances for comment.
Please do not reply to this message.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is announcing the availability of draft guidance for industry entitled “Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection: Developing Direct-Acting Antiviral Agents for Treatment.” At present, there are a large number of drugs for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C (CHC) in active development. The purpose of this guidance is to assist sponsors in all phases of development of direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs), defined as agents that interfere with specific steps in the hepatitis C virus (HCV) replication cycle. The guidance outlines the types of nonclinical studies and clinical trials recommended throughout the drug development process, such as early phases of clinical development, phase 3 protocol designs, and endpoints for the treatment of CHC to support approval of treatments for CHC, including patients with compensated and decompensated cirrhosis and those co-infected with HIV. The guidance also addresses pre-approval access in the form of treatment investigational new drug applications (INDs) and intermediate-sized safety protocols (collectively known as expanded access).
Important issues addressed in this guidance include: drug development methods to reduce the emergence of drug resistance, types of trial designs to assess optimal dose and treatment duration, combination therapy with multiple investigational drugs, recommendations on development of drugs to meet unmet medical needs, and use of treatment INDs or other smaller safety protocols to provide early access of multiple DAAs for patients at risk of imminent progression of liver disease.
The draft guidance, when finalized, will represent the agency’s current thinking on developing DAAs for treatment of CHC virus infection. It does not create or confer any rights for or on any person and does not operate to bind FDA or the public. An alternative approach may be used if such approach satisfies the requirements of the applicable statutes and regulations.
The draft guidance is available on the FDA web site at http://www.fda.gov/downloads/Drugs/GuidanceComplianceRegulatoryInformation/Guidances/UCM225333.pdf
Although comments are accepted for any guidance at any time, to ensure that the agency considers your comment on this draft guidance before it begins work on the final version of the guidance, please submit written or electronic comments on the draft guidance by November 15, 2010, and include the docket number, FDA-2010-D-0462, in any comment you submit.
You may submit written comments on the draft guidance to the
Division of Dockets Management (HFA-305)
5630 Fishers Lane, rm. 1061,
You may also submit electronic comments at http://www.regulations.gov/search/Regs/home.html#submitComment?R=0900006480b4e9b3.
Jeffrey Murray,
Center for Drug Evaluation and Research,
Food and Drug Administration,
10903 New Hampshire Ave.,
Bldg. 22, rm. 6360,
Silver Spring, MD 20993-0002,
The complete Federal Register Notice announcing availability of this draft guidance is available at http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2010/pdf/2010-22806.pdf
Office of Special Health Issues
Kimberly Struble
Division of Antiviral Drug Products
Source: Received via email
Labels: Direct Acting Antivirals, HCV
TV Show Delivers Hope for Hepatitis C
A recent television news piece helped boost awareness of Hepatitis C - but it also may have created false hope by alluding to the speedy arrival of a Hep C cure.
by Nicole Cutler, L.Ac.
As the number of people receiving a Hepatitis C diagnosis grows, media attention focusing on this virus has intensified. Education about the prevalence and potential severity of Hepatitis C is badly needed to raise awareness of this highly communicable and often asymptomatic (until it's too late) disease. A television program broadcast in June of 2010 is to be commended for spearheading such an awareness campaign; but it also has some people expecting a cure for Hepatitis C to arrive unrealistically soon.
As described in a recent TV presentation, scientists around the world are fervently working to find effective, safe drugs for treating and preventing Hepatitis C. However, those who are not familiar with the process of drug development could easily misinterpret the progress described on television with the notion that a vaccine for Hepatitis C will hit the market any day now.
Believed to currently infect between four and five million Americans, those infected with Hepatitis C far outnumber those with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. A leading cause of chronic liver disease that has no vaccine or reliable cure, Hepatitis C presents many challenges to the medical community. Among those challenges are:
· The current treatment in effect is only successful in about half of all cases.
· The virus demonstrates an ability to develop drug resistance.
· Chronic Hepatitis C can progress to severe or even fatal liver disease.
According to their website, KQED Public Television 9 is one of the nation's most-watched public television stations during primetime with more than 1.5 million households viewing per month. A KQED weekly program, This Week in Northern California with host Belva Davis follows a magazine format and is committed to news and public affairs. The June 25, 2010 episode of This Week in Northern California featured an informative piece entitled "Hepatitis C: The Silent Epidemic." Summing up this segment, KQED reports:
"A San Francisco Task Force on Hepatitis C is helping to find a cure for the disease, which is four times more prevalent in the Bay Area as AIDS. ...Dr. Jeffrey Glenn and his team of researchers at the Stanford University School Of Medicine are looking for compounds that will prevent the Hepatitis C virus from replicating. And at the Gladstone Institutes at UCSF, Dr. Melanie Ott and her staff are doing groundbreaking research on the relationship between the virus and fat droplets in the liver that could soon lead to a cure."
Watching the video segment delivers hope to those waiting for a reliable solution for Hepatitis C. The researcher interviewed appears excited to be a part of a Hepatitis C-soon-to-be-cure. While it is hard not to get caught up in the excitement, the research from Stanford and UCSF's Gladstone Institutes are still in the beginning stages of making progress against this virus.
A scientific discovery that further unravels the mystery behind Hepatitis C is definitely reason for celebration, but it is far from delivering a cure. After realizing the clinical impact of the discovery, scientists begin the process of identifying potential substances that could inhibit or fight the virus. Once a promising medication is apparent, the testing of that drug is a long process. Typically taking about 12 years to come to fruition, a new drug must persevere through pre-clinical testing, clinical trials and U.S. Food and Drug Association (FDA) approval before it finally reaches the marketplace. For more detailed information about this process, read "An Overview of the HCV Drug Development Process."
The research described in the KQED segment is encouraging. Scientists at the Gladstone Institute of Virology and Immunology found that an important viral protein, called the "core" protein, localizes to the mitochondria. Through examining liver fat droplets in the mitochondria, new mechanisms for treating Hepatitis C could follow. While drugs capitalizing on this information could be in the future, there are others that are closer to actualization. This television program focused solely on San Francisco Bay area developments. However, there are other medications, such as telaprevir, that have already endured years of development. Shown to drastically boost the Hepatitis C cure rate, telaprevir could be available to the public as early as 2011.
Good job to KQED for bringing the lack of Hepatitis C awareness and education to the forefront. The research focusing on fat droplets in the liver is invaluable to the eventual conquering of the Hepatitis C virus, but it has not yet produced a cure. As we see more education campaigns exposing the gravity of Hepatitis C infection, a greater level of comprehension will also be needed to understand the drug development process. In the meantime, rest assured that progress is being made - and even if it doesn't end the Hepatitis C epidemic this year - the scientific community is certainly headed in that direction.
http://news.ucsf.edu/fyi/daily/2010/06/28/, UCSF Television Coverage, Retrieved August 26, 2010, The Regents of the University of California, 2010.
http://www.gladstone.ucsf.edu/wp/2010/02/hepcviralprotein/, Hepatitis C Viral Protein Associates with the Mitochondria, Retrieved August 25, 2010, J. David Gladstone Institutes, 2010.
http://www.hepatitis-central.com/mt/archives/general_hepatitis_c_newsupdates/, An Overview of the HCV Drug Development Process, Nicole Cutler, L.Ac., Retrieved August 28, 2010, Natural Wellness, 2010.
http://www.kqed.org/tv/programs/thisweek/watch/archive/226569/b, Hepatitis C: The Silent Epidemic, Retrieved August 26, 2010, KQED, 2010.
http://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/2/5/1195/, Lipid Metabolism and HCV Infection, Paul Targett-Adams, et al, Retrieved August 25, 2010, Viruses, May 2010.
Sourcehttp://www.hepatitis-central.com/mt/archives/2010/09/tv_show_deliver.html?eml=hepcen115
Labels: HCV Awareness
Partial Hep C Treatment Response Offers Health Benefits
Even a partial response to hepatitis C virus (HCV) therapy confers significant health benefits to people coinfected with both HIV and HCV, though not as much as a full response. These data were presented September 14 at the 50th Annual Interscience Conference on Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy (ICAAC) in Boston.
The goal of HCV therapy is total eradication of the virus. This outcome, called a sustained virological response (SVR), means that a person achieves and maintains undetectable HCV levels for at least six months after completing a course of pegylated interferon and ribavirin treatment, which is the standard of care for hepatitis C. People who achieve an SVR are generally considered to be “cured” of their HCV infection.
Unfortunately, standard treatment is not particularly effective for people infected with HCV genotype 1, the most common and difficult to treat strain in the United States. SVR rates in people coinfected with both HIV and HCV genotype 1 are generally no higher than 25 percent. There is, however, a segment of people who have undetectable HCV levels at the end of treatment, but who see their virus come back in subsequent months. These people are considered to have an end of treatment response (ETR). What remains unknown is whether and to what degree these individuals have benefited from taking HCV treatment.
To explore this question, Juan Berenguer, MD, from the Hospital Universitario Gregorio Maranon in Madrid, and his colleagues, analyzed data from the GESIDA 3603 cohort, which follows HIV and HCV coinfected people from 19 clinics across Spain. Out of the 1,428 people in the analysis, 697 did not respond to HCV treatment (non-responders), 211 had an ETR, and 520 had an SVR.
The analysis looked at the rate of developing a variety of liver problems over a four-year period after completing HCV treatment. The presentation did not report on the participants’ average age, CD4 counts, distribution of HCV genotypes or other demographic factors, but those factors were included in the analysis.
Berenguer’s team found that although people with an ETR had poorer outcomes than people who achieved an SVR, they still did far better than non-responders. People with an ETR were 60 percent less likely to have liver damage (decompensation) than non-responders. People with an SVR were 92 percent less likely. People with ETRs and SVRs were both about 95 percent less likely to die from liver disease than non-responders.
The best treatment outcomes were achieved with an SVR, the authors concluded. They added, however, that ETR was associated with less liver-related mortality and liver decompensation than a non-response to treatment.
Search: Hepatitis C, HCV, genotype 1, ICAAC, SVR, ETR, liver, liver decompensation, Juan Berenguer
Labels: Genotype 1, HIV/HCV Coinfection, Peg-Ifn/Ribavirin, SVR
A Multidisciplinary Therapeutic Approach for Reducing the Risk of Psychiatric Side Effects in Patients With Chronic Hepatitis C Treated With Pegylated Interferon α and Ribavirin
J Clin Gastroenterol. 2010 Oct;44(9):e210-e217.
Neri S, Bertino G, Petralia A, Giancarlo C, Rizzotto A, Calvagno GS, Mauceri B, Abate G, Boemi P, Di Pino A, Ignaccolo L, Vadalà G, Misseri M, Maiorca D, Mastrosimone G, Judica A, Palermo F.
Departments of *Internal Medicine †Psychiatry ∥Internal and Specialty Medicine, Center of Statistics, University of Catania §Research Doctorate in Hepatology, University of Catania ‡School of Psychology, Kore University, Enna, Italy.
GOALS: To evaluate the effectiveness of psychiatric counseling in reducing the rate of development of psychiatric side effects of antiviral therapy with interferon-α and ribavirin among study participants compared with standard clinical monitoring alone.
BACKGROUND: Interferon-α is used to treat chronic hepatitis C. Interferons may induce adverse events that usually, but not always, reverse within a few days after the end of therapy.
STUDY: Two hundred eleven patients with chronic hepatitis C, genotype 1b were treated with peginterferon and ribavirin for 48 weeks in a prospective trial. Two groups were randomly created. Group A was interviewed by a team of gastroenterologists, psychiatrists, and psychologists and treated with psychotherapy once a month. Group B was monitored once a month according to a conventional protocol that did not include psychotherapy. SVR (sustained viral response), severe psychiatric symptom onset, and mood progression were assessed (P calculated using Fisher exact test, Friedman test, Dunn posttest, and Mann-Whitney U-test).
RESULTS: At baseline, there was no difference in depressive symptoms or liver histologic score between the 2 groups. The onset rate of severe psychiatric manifestations was 4.7% (Group A) and 16.1% (Group B) between the 24th and 36th weeks (P<0.01). Fifteen participants in Group A and 39 in Group B required antidepressants and benzodiazepines (P<0.05).
CONCLUSIONS: Patients can develop depressive symptoms during interferon therapy. Multidisciplinary medical treatment with psychiatric counseling provided during the treatment of chronic hepatitis C may contribute to the decrease or prevent the higher rates of depression associated with interferon treatment.
PMID: 20838237 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher
Labels: Depression, Peg-Ifn/Ribavirin
Kidney Grafts From HCV-Positive Donors: Advantages and Disadvantages
Transplant Proc. 2010 Sep;42(7):2436-46.
Maluf DG, Archer KJ, Mas VR.
Division of Transplantation Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center, Richmond, Virginia.
The Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network database (2001-2006) was reviewed for kidney transplant (KT) recipients, to evaluate the effects of use of grafts from donors positive for hepatitis C virus (HCV) on recipient outcome. Data for 76,787 de novo adult KT recipients were included in the analysis. Serologic tests revealed HCV positivity in 6.25% of cadaver kidneys and 2.97% of living-donor kidneys. Median follow-up in patients still alive was 36 months. At multivariable Cox regression analysis in recipients of cadaver kidney, HCV serostatus was significantly associated with overall and graft survival (both P < .001), with a hazard ratio for HCV-positive patients of 1.43 for overall survival and 1.48 for graft survival. Similar results were obtained for living-donor kidney recipients. Recipients of HCV-positive organs tended to be male and African American and to have a shorter waiting time. Infection was the most commonly reported cause of death in recipients of organs from HCV-positive donors. In patients willing to accept HCV-positive grafts (929 [25.6%]), waiting time was significantly shortened (P < .001). However, this benefit was offset by decreased patient survival (P < .001) and graft survival (P = .007).
PMID: 20832522 [PubMed - in process]
Labels: HCV, Kidney Transplant
Individualized treatment with combination of Peg-interferon alpha 2b and ribavirin in patients infected with HCV genotype 3
J Hepatol. 2010 Aug 4. [Epub ahead of print]
Mangia A, Bandiera F, Montalto G, Mottola L, Piazzolla V, Minerva N, Pellicelli A, Ricci GL, Cela M, Carretta V, Scotto G, Bacca D, Annicchiarico B, Romano M, Russello M, Barbarini G, Agostinacchio E, Andriulli A.
Liver Unit, IRCCS, "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza" Hospital, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy.
BACKGROUND & AIMS: The benefit of individualizing treatment for patients with genotype 3 HCV infection on the basis of viral clearance at week 4 (wk4-R) has not been firmly established.
METHODS: Four hundred and fourteen patients received Peg-interferon alpha-2b plus 1000-1200mg of ribavirin daily according with body weight > or <75kg. Patients were randomized to standard 24weeks (Std24) or to a 12 or 36weeks variable treatment duration (Var12/36). In the variable treatment arm, patients with or without wk4-R were allocated to either 12 or 36weeks duration.
RESULTS: At treatment week 4, HCV RNA was undetectable in 262 patients (63.3%), 136 in the Std24, and 126 in the Var12/36 group (p=0.41). In patients with wk4-R, end-of-treatment (EOT) responses were 80.4% (CI 85.4-95.3) and 97.6% (CI 94.9-99.9) in the two arms, respectively (p=0.019). In patients without wk4-R, corresponding rates were 61.9% (50.6-73.2) and 75.3% (CI 65.9-84.6) (p=0.08). SVR was attained in 302 patients, 71.4% (CI 65.3-77.6) in the St24 group and 74.3% (CI 58.4-80.3) in the variable 12/36 arm. Among patients with wk4-R, SVR was 81.6% (CI 75.1-88.1) and 82.5% (75.9-89.1), respectively. In patients without wk4-R, SVR amounted to 52.1% (CI 40.4-63.7) and 61.7 (CI 51.1-72.3) in the two arms (p=0.25).
CONCLUSIONS: HCV genotype 3 patients with week4-R may be treated safely with 12weeks of therapy, provided that sufficiently high doses of ribavirin are administered. For patients still viremic at treatment week 4, SVR rates were numerically higher after 36weeks of treatment than after the currently recommended 24weeks.
Labels: Genotype 3, Peg-Ifn/Ribavirin, RVR, SVR
Pretreatment prediction of response to peginterferon plus ribavirin therapy in genotype 1 chronic hepatitis C using data mining analysis
J Gastroenterol. 2010 Sep 10. [Epub ahead of print]
Kurosaki M, Sakamoto N, Iwasaki M, Sakamoto M, Suzuki Y, Hiramatsu N, Sugauchi F, Yatsuhashi H, Izumi N.
Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, 1-26-1 Kyonan-cho, Musashino, Tokyo, 180-8610, Japan, kurosaki@musashino.jrc.or.jp.
BACKGROUND: This study aimed to develop a model for the pre-treatment prediction of sustained virological response (SVR) to peg-interferon plus ribavirin therapy in chronic hepatitis C.
METHODS: Data from 800 genotype 1b chronic hepatitis C patients with high viral load (>100,000 IU/ml) treated by peg-interferon plus ribavirin at 6 hospitals in Japan were randomly assigned to a model building (n = 506) or an internal validation (n = 294). Data from 524 patients treated at 29 hospitals in Japan were used for an external validation. Factors predictive of SVR were explored using data mining analysis.
RESULTS: Age (<50 years), alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) (<8 ng/mL), platelet count (≥120 × 10(9)/l), gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) (<40 IU/l), and male gender were used to build the decision tree model, which divided patients into 7 subgroups with variable rates of SVR ranging from 22 to 77%. The reproducibility of the model was confirmed by the internal and external validation (r (2) = 0.92 and 0.93, respectively). When reconstructed into 3 groups, the rate of SVR was 75% for the high probability group, 44% for the intermediate probability group and 23% for the low probability group. Poor adherence to drugs lowered the rate of SVR in the low probability group, but not in the high probability group.
CONCLUSIONS: A decision tree model that includes age, gender, AFP, platelet counts, and GGT is useful for predicting the probability of response to therapy with peg-interferon plus ribavirin and has the potential to support clinical decisions regarding the selection of patients for therapy.
Labels: Peg-Ifn/Ribavirin, SVR
Risk factors for infection during treatment with peginterferon alfa and ribavirin for chronic hepatitis C
Hepatology. 2010 Jul 29. [Epub ahead of print]
Roomer R, Hansen BE, Janssen HL, de Knegt RJ.
Departments of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
Neutropenia during treatment with peginterferon alfa and ribavirin for chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a common cause of dose reductions of peginterferon alfa. These reductions are performed to prevent bacterial and fungal infections, which are common during HCV treatment and can be attributed to neutropenia. The aims of this study were to investigate the occurrence of infections and their relation to neutropenia and to identify potential risk factors for infections during HCV treatment. In this single-center cohort study, 2,876 visits of 321 patients treated with peginterferon alfa and ribavirin were evaluated for neutropenia, infections, dose reductions, and potential risk factors for infection during HCV treatment. The baseline mean absolute neutrophil count (ANC) was 3,420 cells/μL, and 16 patients had a baseline ANC of <1,500 cells/μL. During treatment, neutropenia, which was defined as ANC <750 cells/μL, was observed in 95 patients (29.7%) and ANC <375/μL was observed in 16 patients (5%). Ninety-six infections were observed in 70 patients (21.8%). Thirteen infections (13.5%) were defined as severe. Infections were not correlated with neutropenia during treatment. Dose reductions did not lead to a decrease in infection rate. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that age >55 years (odds ratio [OR] 2.06, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.19-3.56, P = 0.01) and baseline hyperglycemia (OR 2.17, 95% CI 1.15-4.10, P = 0.016) were associated with an increased risk of infection during HCV treatment. Cirrhosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were not risk factors for infection. Conclusion: Bacterial infections during treatment with peginterferon alfa and ribavirin are not associated with neutropenia. Older patients and patients with poorly controlled diabetes mellitus have a greater risk of developing infections during HCV treatment. (HEPATOLOGY 2010).
Labels: Peg-Ifn/Ribavirin
Statin therapy improves sustained virologic response among diabetic patients with chronic hepatitis C
Gastroenterology. 2010 Sep 9. [Epub ahead of print]
Rao GA, Pandya PK.
Kansas City Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 4801 E. Linwood Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64128; Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, 800 Sumter St, Columbia, SC 29208.
BACKGROUND & AIMS: Patients with chronic hepatitis C infection are 2-3-fold more likely to develop type-2 diabetes, which reduces their chances of achieving a sustained virologic response (SVR). To identify differences in predictors of SVR in patients with and without diabetes who received combination antiviral therapy, we conducted a retrospective analysis of national Veterans Affairs (VA) administrative database.
METHODS: We analyzed data from VA Medical SAS Datasets and Decision Support System for entire cohort and separately for diabetics (n=1704) and non-diabetics (n=6589). Significant predictors of SVR were identified by logistic regression analysis.
RESULTS: Diabetics had a lower SVR compared to non-diabetics (21% vs. 27%, p < 0.001). Diabetics had higher clustering of previously established negative predictors of SVR. On multivariate analysis of diabetics for SVR, the positive predictors were higher low density lipoprotein (OR=1.45, p=0.0129), use of statin (OR = 1.52, p = 0.0124) and lower baseline viral load (OR = 2.31, p < 0.001), while insulin therapy (0.7, p = 0.0278) was a negative predictor. Diabetics on statins had a higher pre-treatment viral loads (log 6.2vs.6.4, p= 0.006) but better early virologic response. There was a graded inverse relationship between HbA1c and SVR rate (p=0.0482). This relationship was highest among insulin users (p=0.0154) and lost among metformin users (p=0.5853).
CONCLUSIONS: Statin use was associated with an improved SVR among both diabetics and non-diabetics receiving combination antiviral therapy. Diabetics who received insulin achieved lower SVR compared to those not receiving insulin. Poor diabetes control was associated with lower SVR rates.
Labels: Diabetes, HCV, SVR
Alcoholic liver disease-related mortality in the United States: 1980-2003
Am J Gastroenterol. 2010 Aug;105(8):1782-7. Epub 2010 Feb 23.
Paula H, Asrani SK, Boetticher NC, Pedersen R, Shah VH, Kim WR.
Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA.
OBJECTIVES: Data on temporal changes in alcoholic liver disease (ALD)-related mortality in the United States are lacking. This longitudinal assessment is important, given the divergent data on trends in worldwide ALD-related mortality, concerns for underestimation of mortality attributed to ALD in previous investigations, and shifting attention to hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related mortality.
METHODS: We analyzed mortality data compiled in the multiple cause-of-death public-use data file from the National Vital Statistics System from 1980 to 2003 using categorization by both International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-9 and ICD-10 systems. The main outcome measure was age- and sex-adjusted death rates attributable to ALD, HCV, or both (ALD/HCV) listed as immediate or underlying cause of death.
RESULTS: A total of 287,365 deaths were observed over the 24-year period. Age- and sex- adjusted incidence rates of ALD-related deaths decreased from 6.9/100,000 persons in 1980 to 4.4/100,000 persons by 2003. After introduction of HCV diagnostic testing, HCV-related liver mortality increased to 2.9/100,000 persons by 2003. Death rates for subjects with concomitant ALD/HCV rose to 0.2/100,000 persons by 1999 and then remained unchanged through 2003. Age-specific mortality related to ALD was highest in the ages of 45-64 years. Between 1980 and 2003, the age- and sex-adjusted ALD-related mortality (per 100,000 persons) decreased from 6.3 to 4.5 among Caucasians, 11.6 to 4.1 among African Americans, and 8.0 to 3.7 among the "other" race group.
CONCLUSIONS: Despite a decline in ALD-related mortality, the proportion of alcohol-related liver deaths is still considerably large and comparable in scope to that of HCV.
PMID: 20179691 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] PMCID: PMC2916935
Free Author Manuscript
Labels: Alcohol
Study Spells End of the Road for One Anti-HIV Gel
Reviewed by Barry S. Zingman, MD; Professor of Clinical Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY
and Dorothy Caputo, MA, RN, BC-ADM, CDE, Nurse Planner
A microbicide gel -- PRO2000 -- aimed at preventing HIV infection in women was ineffective, despite promising early clinical trials, researchers reported.
In a large randomized phase III trial, the PRO2000 microbicide was safe, but did nothing to prevent women from acquiring HIV, according to Sheena McCormack, MD, of the MRC Clinical Trials Unit in London, and colleagues.
The report, online in The Lancet, comes only a few weeks after researchers studying another microbicide gel combined with an antiretroviral drug reported partial success -- a significant 39% reduction in the risk of HIV infection. Further studies of microbicides that include antiretroviral drugs are underway.
The PRO2000 compound is a synthetic naphthalene sulphonate polymer that -- in animals and the lab -- had shown anti-HIV activity, McCormack and colleagues noted. A phase II/IIb trial, reported in 2009, also found a nonsignificant but promising trend toward protection in humans.
But only a few days after that report, the data monitoring committee of this study called a halt to one of the arms -- testing a 2% solution of PRO2000 -- on the grounds that there was little likelihood of benefit. The other arm, testing a 0.5% solution, was allowed to continue to completion, McCormack and colleagues reported.
The study, conducted in 13 clinics in South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia, randomly assigned sexually active, HIV-negative women to get one of three gels -- a hydroxyethylcellulose placebo, 0.5% PRO2000, or 2% PRO2000.
The researchers reported two efficacy analyses -- all three arms compared at the time of the 2% PRO2000 discontinuation and the placebo and 0.5% PRO2000 arms compared at the planned end of the study.
Overall, McCormack and colleagues found, adherence was high, with an average reported gel use at the last sex act of 89%.
Despite that, the incidence of HIV was much the same in both analyses:
• At the discontinuation of the 2% PRO2000 arm, the incidence per 100 woman-years was 4.7 for 2% PRO2000, 3.9 for 0.5% PRO2000, and 3.9 for placebo. Neither treatment was significantly better than placebo.
• At study's end, the incidence per 100 woman-years was 4.5 for 0.5% PRO2000 and 4.3 for placebo. The 1.05 hazard ratio had a 95% confidence interval from 0.82 to 1.34 and was nonsignificant at P=0.71.
The primary safety endpoint was an adverse event of grade 3 or worse, and again there was little difference -- 4.6 per 100 woman-years in the 0.5% PRO2000 group and 3.9 in the placebo group at study's end. It was 4.5 in the 2% PRO2000 group at discontinuation, the researchers reported.
The findings are "disappointing," especially in view of the earlier trial that showed a nearly significant result, according to Sandra McCoy, PhD, of the University of California Berkeley, and colleagues.
Writing in an accompanying commentary, McCoy and colleagues said the report "will certainly indicate the end of the road for PRO2000 as a potential HIV-prevention tool for women."
But, they noted, the positive results of the latest microbicide study, combined with other interventions that are showing promise in reducing HIV incidence among women, "have the potential to greatly expand prevention options for women in sub-Saharan Africa."
The study was supported by the Microbicides Development Programme, the U.K. Department for International Development, the European and Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership, and the U.K. Medical Research Council. Study gels were provided by Endo Pharmaceutical Solutions. McCormack reported no conflicts.
Commentary author Charlotte Watts, of the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, is supported by the Sigrid Rausing Trust and the Microbicides Development Programme.
All authors said they had no conflicts.
Primary source: The Lancet
McCormack S, et al "PRO2000 vaginal gel for prevention of HIV-1 infection (Microbicides Development Programme 301): a phase 3, randomised, double-blind, parallel-group trial" Lancet 2010; DOI: 10.1016/S0140-6736(10)61086-0.
Additional source: The Lancet
McCoy SI, et al "Preventing HIV infection: Turning the tide for young women" Lancet 2010; DOI: 10.1016/S0140-6736(10)61309-8.
Atorvastatin and Antioxidants for the Treatment of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: The St Francis Heart Study Randomized Clinical Trial.
Am J Gastroenterol. 2010 Sep 14. [Epub ahead of print]
Foster T, Budoff MJ, Saab S, Ahmadi N, Gordon C, Guerci AD.
Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA.
OBJECTIVES: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is defined as the spectrum of benign fatty liver to necroinflammation and fibrosis. Its prevalence has been found to be as high as 39%. It is estimated that up to 15% of those affected will go on to have progressive liver disease. Currently, there is no proven therapy for NAFLD. In this study, we aim to determine whether statin therapy may be an effective treatment for NAFLD and identify independent predictors of NAFLD.
METHODS: In all, 1,005 men and women, aged 50-70 years were randomized to receive either a daily combination of atorvastatin 20 mg, vitamin C 1 g, and vitamin E 1,000 IU vs. matching placebo, as part of the St Francis Heart Study randomized clinical trial. Liver to spleen (LS) ratios were calculated on 455 subjects with available computed tomography scans performed at baseline and follow-up to determine NAFLD prevalence. Baseline and final LS ratios were compared within treatment groups, and results were compared between the treatment and placebo groups using univariate and multivariate analyses. Mean duration of follow-up was 3.6 years.
RESULTS: There were 80 patients with NAFLD at baseline. We identified baseline triglyceride levels (odds ratio (OR)=1.003, P<0.001) and body mass index (OR=0.10, P<0.001) as independent correlates of NAFLD. Treatment with atorvastatin combined with vitamins E and C significantly reduced the odds of NAFLD at the end of follow-up, 70 vs. 34% (OR=0.29, P<0.001).
CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, atorvastatin 20 mg combined with vitamins C and E is effective in reducing the odds of having hepatic steatosis by 71% in healthy individuals with NAFLD at baseline after 4 years of active therapy.Am J Gastroenterol advance online publication, 14 September 2010; doi:10.1038/ajg.2010.299.
Labels: NAFLD
Mild Alcohol Consumption is Not Associated With In...
Androgen Receptor May Explain Male Dominance in Li...
Ribavirin potentiates interferon action by augment...
FDA Hepatitis Update -- Availability of draft Guid...
Partial Hep C Treatment Response Offers Health Ben...
A Multidisciplinary Therapeutic Approach for Reduc...
Kidney Grafts From HCV-Positive Donors: Advantages...
Individualized treatment with combination of Peg-i...
Pretreatment prediction of response to peginterfer...
Risk factors for infection during treatment with p...
Statin therapy improves sustained virologic respon...
Alcoholic liver disease-related mortality in the U...
Atorvastatin and Antioxidants for the Treatment of...
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line232
|
__label__cc
| 0.694775
| 0.305225
|
Disabled endures Jammeh’s wrath
A disabled woman has become the latest victim of President Yahya Jammeh’s wrath along Kombo Coastal Road. Fatoumata Balajo got fainted after Jammeh’s entourage threw a cartoon of biscuits on her as she awaited transport.
She was immediately rushed to the hospital with an ambulance.
Bystanders were shocked as the President’s convoy failed to stop to assist or find out the condition of their victim. The incident is one of many incidents involving the President’s convoys; a similar incident caused the live of a young boy who was hit by one of the vehicles of the convoy, as he attempted to grab a packet of biscuits being thrown by the President’s convoy.
Analysed by Bamba Mass editor Kibaaro News
Foroyaa Newspaper report of the story explained that every Gambian has a right to personal security and safety and any action on the road that threatens the safety of road users and bystanders is against the traffic regulation of the country. The article charged that the government is well aware of their duties every Gambian road users with regards to their safety and security. The article reasoned that throwing packets and cartons of biscuits on the road from vehicles moving at high speed is threatening the safety and security of road users and bystanders. They urge the Gambian Leader to show maturity and cease such incomprehensible practices. They urge him to use his electric broom to cease the unlawful killing and suffering of Gambians.
They further urge the President to allow access to human rights defenders and those concerned to investigate the case of Ms Fatoumata Balajo and many others, who were victimised as a result of the throwing of biscuits by the President and his convoy. They further questioned why the government and the president could not send the biscuits to schools, mosques and churches for an orderly distribution to its intended recipients rather than throwing them to hungry bystanders in the streets.
The security and safety of the people are paramount. All actions that threaten road safety should be nipped in the bud.
Dr. Jammeh who appears to care so much about his people need to take action now before more heads roll just because they happen to be at the wrong place at the wrong time like Mrs Balajo. It is indeed sad that our Leader who can give hundreds of thousands as handouts would not care about someone’s death as a result of his lack of care on the part of his convoy. Gambians would love to see their leader take personal responsibility and curb on such malpractices of his drivers and soldiers.
The Kibaaro News and Radio urges the Gambian leader to take actions without delay before giving credit to speculation that there is more to his biscuit throwing than just mere distribution of biscuits for the benefit of his intended recipients. We urge the Gambian leader to respect the Gambian people’s right to safety and security on the roads. The least person they expect to be causing their deaths on the roads is their president. They said a word for the wise is sufficient.
Previous Post: Jammeh showers blessings on Jalikebba
Next Post: Jammeh rains money on Jalex
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line233
|
__label__cc
| 0.662232
| 0.337768
|
Kokomo Marines
Marines of all ages getting together in camaraderie
Fallen Members
Bike Run
Haynes Apperson
Memorials and Holidays
Funeral Detail
USERS MENU
Member Email
Memorial Shoot, Bike Run,Toys for Tots Golf Outing
Our mission statement is based upon the stated purposes of the Marine Corps League’s Federal Charter.
The Albert E. Shockey Detachment, Marine Corps League shall:
-preserve the traditions and promote the interests of the United States Marine Corps
-band those who are now serving in the United States Marine Corps and those who have been honorably discharged from that service together in fellowship that they may effectively promote the ideals of American freedom and democracy
-fit its members for the duties of citizenship and to encourage them to serve as ably as citizens as they have served the Nation under arms
-hold sacred the history and the memory of the men who have given their lives to the Nation
-foster love for the principles which the Marine Corps has supported by blood and valor since the founding of the Republic
-maintain true allegiance to American institutions
-create a bond of comradeship between those in the service and those who have returned to civil life
-aid voluntarily and to render assistance to all Marines and former Marines as well as to their widows and orphans
-perpetuate the history of the United States Marine Corps and by fitting acts to observe the anniversaries of historical occasions of peculiar interest to Marines.
© 2019 - Kokomo Marines Proudly powered by WordPress Weaver II Pro by WP Weaver
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line235
|
__label__cc
| 0.741447
| 0.258553
|
KB Gibson Home
Writing has changed over the years. Information surrounds us in many forms and by just as many delivery methods. More and more of today’s writers are generalists instead of specialists because that’s how the modern human brain works. We’re multi-taskers in reading. We read to learn, enlighten, and entertain. And because we have so much information and content at our disposal, we want you to grab our attention fast.
That’s not to say that writer’s don’t have niches. We do. Mine center around making learning more enjoyable, whether it’s through curriculum, a children’s book, or a travel article. Feel free to explore. Discovery is an amazing thing!
Women in Space was included in books round-ups for “Books to Read if You Loved Hidden Figures” that ran on EntertainmentWeekly.com and on People.com on January 30, 2017.
The Oregon Trail by Baristanet
Have a history buff? For those interested in the issues surrounding western expansion and Manifest Destiny in United States history, there is The Oregon Trail: The Journey Across the Country from Lewis and Clark to the Transcontinental Railroad. As with other Build it Yourself books from Nomad Press, there is a detailed timeline, word cloud, and background information (included a map) to help children familiarize themselves with what is to come.
Meteorology: Cool Women Who Weather Storms from The Old Schoolhouse
…a wonderful job of highlighting the diversity of many fields of science. They focus on the variety of jobs within each field, the history of the field and the rewards of working hard to achieve these positions. This series is one that will benefit many young readers and can broaden our views. Whether just reading for fun or using as supplemental learning resources, these books are packed full of encouraging and helpful information.
Women in Space from Universe Today
Throughout the just over 200-page book, Gibson relates the successes and setbacks of nearly two dozen women from ten different countries who made history and forged a path for countless females to follow. Gibson’s book features photographs and nods to access additional learning resources, valuable for any interested reader in showing that this book is truly only just scratching the surface of women’s enormous impact on spaceflight.
Marine Biology: Cool Women Who Dive by Dr. Claudia Benitez-Nelson, College of Arts & Sciences Distinguished Professor School of the Earth, Ocean, & Environment
This is a wonderful book for those of you who have girls (or any child) interested in marine science. Not only does it talk about the research each of these amazing women conduct, but their very different paths of how they achieved their goals.
Texas for Kids from School Library Journal:
Everything is bigger in Texas, and this book does its best to make the eventful happenings of the Lone Star state fun and accessible. Beginning before Texas was even a state, some 500 years ago with the Spanish missions, and continuing up to the 20th-century space age and oil boom, Gibson makes the material relatable and approachable, while teachers will appreciate the activities. VERDICT While this book is no replacement for a textbook, it will become an invaluable tool for those teaching or learning about Texas history.–John Trischitti, Midland County Public Libraries, TX
Women in Space from VOYA Magazine:
With a plethora of information, Women in Space will be an asset to any library and will be useful for those choosing to learn about unsung heroes by combining both biographical and historical information in one handy volume.-Charla Hollingsworth, April 2014.
Women Aviators from Air & Space Smithsonian
Women Aviators (9781613745403) was included in the December 2013 Air & Space Smithsonian‘s (print circ 197,866) Best Children’s Books of 2013 roundup of aviation and space-themed books.
Native American History for Kids from Bookloons
Not only is this a good general introduction to the Native American peoples but the accompanying activities also allow young readers eight or nine years of age and older the opportunity to get involved in some hands-on projects.-Bob Walch, August 2010
Goodreads reviews for Women Aviators
Reviews from Goodreads.com
2 Responses to KB Gibson Home
Randynuh says:
Good news ! an amazingoffer
JeremyBic says:
Hey What we have here is , an interestingoffering
Just click on the link below to qualify
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line238
|
__label__wiki
| 0.745155
| 0.745155
|
(Mark One)
[ X ] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 [FEE REQUIRED]
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2000
[ ]TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE
ACT OF 1934 [NO FEE REQUIRED]
For the transition period from _____ to _____
Commission File Number 0-18761
HANSEN NATURAL CORPORATION
Delaware 39-1679918
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization Identification No.)
1010 Railroad Street, Corona, California 92882
Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (909) 739 - 6200
Securities registered pursuant to Section
12(b) of the Act:
Name of each exchange
Title of each class on which registered
Not Applicable Not Applicable
12(g) of the Act:
Title of class
Common Stock, $0.005 par value per share
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant: (1) has filed all
reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the
Registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such
filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes X No
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to
Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained,
to the best of the Registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information
statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any
amendment to this Form 10-K. [ ]
The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by nonaffiliates of
the Registrant was approximately $20,716,866 computed by reference to the sale
price for such stock on the NASDAQ Small-Cap Market on March 2, 2001.
The number of shares of the Registrant's common stock, $0.005 par value
per share (being the only class of common stock of the Registrant), outstanding
on March 2, 2001 was 10,045,003 shares.
<PAGE>
<S> <C> <C>
Item Number Page Number
1. Business 3
2. Properties 16
3. Legal Proceedings 16
4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders 17
5. Market for the Registrant's Common Equity and Related 17
Shareholder Matters
6. Selected Consolidated Financial Data 18
7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial 19
Condition and Results of Operations
8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data 28
9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on 28
Accounting and Financial Disclosure
10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant 29
11. Executive Compensation 30
12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management 35
13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions 37
14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules and Reports on Form 8-K 38
Signatures 39
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
Background of the Company and Subsidiaries
Hansen Natural Corporation ("Hansen" or the "Company"), which was incorporated
in Delaware on April 25, 1990, maintains its principal place of business at 1010
Railroad Street, Corona, California 92882, and its telephone number is (909)
The Company is a holding company and carries on no operating business
except through its direct wholly-owned subsidiaries, Hansen Beverage Company
("HBC") which was incorporated in Delaware on June 8, 1992 and Hard e Beverage
Company ("HEB") formerly known as Hard Energy Company and previously, CVI
Ventures, Inc., which was incorporated in Delaware on April 30, 1990. HBC
conducts the vast majority of the Company's operating business and generates
substantially all of the Company's operating revenues. During the third quarter
of 2000, the Company, through HEB, introduced a malt-based drink under the name
Hard e which contains up to five-percent alcohol. The Hard e product is not
marketed under the Hansen's name. References herein to "Hansen" or the "Company"
when used to describe the operating business of the Company are references to
the business of HBC unless otherwise indicated and references herein to HEB when
used to describe the operating business of HEB, are references to the Hard e
(TM) brand business of HEB unless otherwise indicated.
In addition, HBC, through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Blue Sky Natural
Beverage Co., ("Blue Sky"), which was incorporated in Delaware on September 8,
2000, acquired full ownership of and operates the natural soda business
previously conducted by Blue Sky Natural Beverage Co., a New Mexico corporation
("BSNBC"), under the Blue Sky(R) trademark.
Background of the Hansen Business
In the 1930's, Hubert Hansen and his three sons started a business to
sell fresh non-pasteurized juices in Los Angeles, California. This business
eventually became Hansen's Juices, Inc., now known as The Fresh Juice Company of
California, Inc. ("FJC"). In 1977, Tim Hansen, one of the grandsons of Hubert
Hansen, perceived a demand for pasteurized natural juices and juice blends that
are shelf stable and formed Hansen Foods, Inc. ("HFI"), which was also based in
the Los Angeles area. HFI expanded its product line from juices to include
Hansen's(R) Natural Sodas. California Co-packers Corporation (d/b/a/ Hansen
Beverage Company) ("CCC") acquired certain assets of HFI including the right to
market the Hansen's(R) brand name, in January 1990. On July 27, 1992, the
Company, through HBC, acquired the Hansen's(R) brand natural soda and apple
juice business (the "Hansen Business") from CCC. Under the Company's ownership,
the Hansen Business has been significantly expanded to include a wide range of
beverages within the growing "alternative" beverage category. On September 20,
2000, HBC acquired the Blue Sky Natural Soda business, through its wholly owned
subsidiary Blue Sky, from BSNBC.
Hansen is engaged in the business of marketing, selling and
distributing so-called "alternative" beverage category natural sodas, fruit
juices, fruit juice Smoothies, "functional drinks", non-carbonated
ready-to-drink iced teas, lemonades and juice cocktails, children's
multi-vitamin juice drinks and still water under the Hansen's(R) brand name as
well as nutritional bars and cereals also under the Hansen's(R) brand name,
natural sodas under the Blue Sky(R) brand name and malt based drinks under the
Hard e brand name.
The alternative beverage category combines non-carbonated
ready-to-drink iced teas, lemonades, juice cocktails, single serve juices,
ready-to-drink iced coffees, sports drinks and single-serve still water with
"new age" beverages, including sodas that are considered natural, sparkling
juices and flavored sparkling waters. The alternative beverage category is the
fastest growing segment of the beverage marketplace. (Source: Beverage Marketing
Corporation). Sales for the alternative beverage category of the market are
estimated to have reached approximately $9.7 billion at wholesale in 2000 with a
growth rate of approximately 11% over the prior year. (Source: Beverage
Marketing Corporation).
Hansen's(R) Natural Sodas are classified as "new age" beverages and
have been a leading natural soda brand in Southern California for the past 23
years. In 2000, Hansen's(R) Natural Sodas had the highest sales among comparable
carbonated new age category beverages measured by unit volume in the Southern
California market (Source: Information Resources, Inc.'s Analyzer Reports for
Southern California). Hansen's(R) Natural Sodas are currently available in
twelve regular flavors consisting of Mandarin Lime, Key Lime, Grapefruit,
Raspberry, Creamy Root Beer, Vanilla Cola, Cherry Vanilla Creme, Orange Mango,
Kiwi Strawberry, Tropical Passion, Black Cherry and Tangerine. Hansen
discontinued its low calorie sodas in Wildberry and Cola flavors and at the end
of 2000, introduced a new line of diet sodas with Splenda(R) sweetener as the
primary sweetener. This line has been introduced in four flavors: Peach, Black
Cherry, Tangerine Lime, and Kiwi Strawberry. Hansen's(R) Natural Sodas contain
no preservatives, sodium, caffeine or artificial coloring and are made with high
quality natural flavors, citric acid and high fructose corn syrup, or in the
case of its diet sodas, with Splenda(R) and Acesulfame K. Hansen's(R) Natural
Sodas are currently packaged in 12-ounce aluminum cans.
In January 1999, Hansen's introduced its new premium line of Signature
Sodas in unique proprietary 14-ounce glass bottles. Signature Sodas are
currently available in six flavors consisting of Orange Creme, Vanilla Creme,
Ginger Beer, Sarsaparilla, Black Cherry and Sangria. Signature Sodas are being
marketed through the Company's existing distributor network but in 2001, the
Company plans to market these products in certain markets directly through its
warehouse division. During September 2000, the Company acquired the Blue Sky
Natural Soda business from BSNBC. The Blue Sky product line comprises natural
sodas in cans, which are available in fourteen regular flavors consisting of
Lemon Lime, Grapefruit, Cola, Root Beer, Raspberry, Cherry Vanilla Creme, Truly
Orange, Jamaican Ginger Ale, Black Cherry, Orange Creme, Dr. Becker, Cherry
Lemon Lime, Grape and Private Reserve Cream Soda. Blue Sky also has a premium
line of natural sodas, which contain supplements such as Ginseng. This line is
currently available in six flavors consisting of Ginseng Creme, Ginseng Cola,
Ginseng Root Beer, Ginseng Very Berry Creme, Ginseng Ginger Ale, and Ginseng
Cranberry-Raspberry. During 1999, Blue Sky introduced a line of organic natural
sodas, which are currently available in five flavors consisting of Prime Lime
Cream, New Century Cola, Orange Divine, Ginger Gale, and Black Cherry Cherish.
The Company also markets a seltzer water under the Blue Sky label. The Blue Sky
products contain no preservatives, sodium, caffeine or artificial coloring and
are made with high quality natural flavors. All Blue Sky Natural Sodas and
seltzer waters are currently packaged in 12-ounce aluminum cans.
During April 1997, the Company introduced a lightly carbonated citrus
flavored Hansen's(R) energy drink in an 8.2-ounce slim can. The Company's energy
drink falls within the category that has generally been described as the
"functional" beverage category, namely, beverages that provide a real or
perceived benefit in addition to simply delivering refreshment. Management
believes that the "functional" beverage category has good growth potential.
During the first quarter of 1998, the Company extended its functional product
line by introducing three additional functional drinks in 8.2-ounce slim cans,
namely, a ginger flavored d-stress(R) drink, an orange flavored antioox(R) drink
(since renamed bo well(TM)), and a guarana berry flavored stamina(R) drink.
During the fourth quarter of 1998, the Company introduced its power functional
drink in 8.2-ounce slim cans, which is currently marketed in a grape flavor.
During 2000 the Company introduced slim down, its sixth functional drink.
slim-down is a berry-flavored drink that has no calories. Each of the Company's
functional drinks contains different combinations of vitamins, minerals,
nutrients, herbs and supplements ("supplements").
The Company has concentrated on marketing its carbonated functional
drinks and Smoothies and Signature Sodas in glass bottles through its
distributor network, which continued to expand during 2000. The Company intends
to leverage its existing distributor network to facilitate sales of its new
premium line of alternative healthy iced teas and drinks, which is currently
being launched under the "Medicine Man" label, as well as other new single-serve
products in glass bottles and cans that it plans to introduce during 2001,
certain of which are described more fully below.
The Company's fruit juice product line currently includes Hansen's(R)
Natural Old Fashioned Apple Juice which is packaged in 64-and 128-ounce
polyethylene terephthalate ("P.E.T.") plastic bottles, and Apple Strawberry and
Apple Grape juice blends in 64-ounce P.E.T. plastic bottles. These juice blends
were introduced in the second quarter of 1998. These Hansen's(R) juice products
contain 100% juice as well as 100% of the recommended daily intake for adults of
Vitamin C. Certain of these products also contain added calcium. Hansen's(R)
juice products compete in the shelf-stable juice category. The Company plans to
introduce an Apple-Cranberry juice blend, a Cranberry juice cocktail and an
Orange-Carrot juice blend in 64-ounce P.E.T. plastic bottles during 2001. These
products will not contain 100% juice.
In March 1995, the Company expanded its juice product line by
introducing a line of fruit juice Smoothies. The Company's fruit juice Smoothies
have a smooth texture that is thick but lighter than a nectar and contain
approximately 35% juice (the Company plans to reduce the juice level to an
average of 25% juice in line with the current juice level of the Company's
Smoothies in 12-ounce glass bottles). The Company's fruit juice Smoothies
provide 100% of the recommended daily intake for adults of Vitamins A, C & E
(the antioxidant triad) and represented Hansen's entry into what is commonly
referred to as the "functional" beverage category. The Company's fruit juice
Smoothies are packaged in 11.5-ounce aluminum cans and in new unique proprietary
12-ounce glass bottles designed by the Company, as well as in 64-ounce P.E.T.
plastic bottles. Hansen's(R) fruit juice Smoothies are available in eleven
flavors: Strawberry Banana, Peach Berry, Mango Pineapple, Guava Strawberry,
Pineapple Coconut, Apricot Nectar, Tropical Passion, Whipped Orange and
Cranberry Twist. The product line also includes a Cranberry Raspberry lite
Smoothie as well as an Energy Smoothie which has a unique formula. The Company
extended its Smoothie line in 64-ounce P.E.T. plastic bottles from two flavors
to six flavors during 2000.
During the second half of 1999, the Company introduced a new line of
premium functional Smoothies in 11.5-ounce cans Energy, Power, Protein and Vita.
Each of these products contain different combinations of supplements. Energy has
a tropical fruit flavor. Power has a berry flavor. Protein has a banana citrus
flavor. Vita has an orange carrot flavor. The juice levels of these products are
generally higher than the juice levels of the regular Smoothie line. The Company
plans to reposition this line as line extensions to its existing regular
Smoothie line. The Company is in the process of reformulating these products to
reduce the juice levels to the same levels as the regular Smoothie products.
During the fourth quarter of 1999, the Company introduced certain of such
premium functional Smoothies as line extensions to its existing Smoothie line in
12-ounce glass bottles.
During the second quarter of 1998, the Company launched its first
Healthy Start product, Dyna Juice(R), a shelf stable 100% juice blend with 15
vitamins and minerals added. Dyna Juice(R) was renamed VITAMAX-JUICE during the
fourth quarter of 1998 to more directly communicate its attributes to consumers.
During the fourth quarter of 1998, the Company expanded its Healthy Start
product line with three new Healthy Start 100% juices namely, ANTIOXJUICE(R),
IMMUNEJUICE(TM) and INTELLIJUICE(R). ANTIOXJUICE(R) is a carrot and tropical
juice blend, IMMUNEJUICE(TM)is an aronia and cranberry juice blend and
INTELLIJUICE(R) is an orange and tomato juice blend. Each of the Healthy Start
products contain different combinations of supplements. The Healthy Start line
was originally launched in 46-ounce P.E.T. plastic bottles and at the end of
1998 the Company expanded this line into 64-ounce P.E.T. plastic bottles as
well. Early in 2000, the Company entered into a licensing agreement with the
Silver Foxes Network for the licensing to the Company of the Silver Foxes(TM)
brand and trademark, which is positioned towards consumers in the 50+ age group,
for and in connection with certain of the Company's products. The Company
determined to use that trademark for and in connection with its Healthy Start
100% juice line. The Company redesigned the labels for its Silver
Foxes(TM)/Healthy Start juice line and relaunched the re-named line during 2000.
However, sales from such relaunched line have been disappointing and the Company
is currently reevaluating this line.
In the first quarter of 2000, the Company introduced its Healthy Start
100% juice line in single-serve glass bottles, which was marketed through its
distributor network. However, response from distributors and consumers has been
disappointing and the Company is currently commencing to market this product
line through its warehouse division to selected retail outlets, where such
products may have greater appeal.
Hansen's(R) ready-to-drink iced teas and lemonades were introduced in
1993. Hansen's(R) ready-to-drink iced teas are currently available in three
flavors: Original with Lemon, Tropical Peach and Wildberry. Lemonades are
currently available in one flavor: Original Old Fashioned Lemonade. Hansen's(R)
juice cocktails were introduced in 1994 and are currently available in four
flavors: Kiwi Strawberry Melon, Tangerine Pineapple with Passion Fruit,
California Paradise Punch and Mango Magic. The Company plans to introduce a new
12-pack variety pack of iced teas during the first half of 2001. Hansen's
ready-to-drink iced teas, lemonades and juice cocktails are currently packaged
in 16-ounce non-returnable wide-mouth glass bottles.
Hansen's(R) ready-to-drink iced teas are made with decaffeinated tea.
The Company's other non-carbonated products are made with high quality juices.
Hansen's(R) non-carbonated products (other than its 100% juice products) are
also made with natural flavors, high fructose corn syrup, citric acid and other
After offering a ready-to-drink green tea in a 20-ounce glass bottle,
the Company introduced a full line of Specialty teas in 20-ounce glass bottles,
which it named its "Gold Standard" line. This line was introduced in the
20-ounce glass bottles that were being used by the Company at the time, while
the Company proceeded with the design and manufacture of a new unique
proprietary 20-ounce glass bottle for the line, which was introduced towards the
end of 1999. During 2000, the Company introduced two additional green tea
flavors, as well as two diet green flavors, and six juice cocktails in 20-ounce
bottles. All of the products in the Gold Standard line contain different
combinations of supplements, but at lower levels than in the Company's
functional drinks.
In the third quarter of 1999, the Company introduced two new lines of
children's multi-vitamin juice drinks in 8.45-ounce aseptic packages. Each drink
contains eleven essential vitamins and six essential minerals. Each line was
introduced in three flavors. The Company has since introduced additional flavors
and intends to continue to introduce new flavors in the place of existing
flavors from time to time. One of these two lines is a dual-branded 100% juice
line named "Juice Blast(TM)" that was launched in conjunction with Costco
Wholesale Corporation ("Costco") under the "Kirkland Signature(TM)/Hansen's(R)
Natural" brand name and is sold nationally through Costco stores. The other line
was a 10% juice line named "Juice Slam(TM)" that was available to all of
Hansen's customers. During 2000, the Company repositioned that line as a 100%
juice line under the Juice Slam(TM) name and is currently marketing that line to
grocery store chain customers, the health food trade, and other customers.
In 2000, the Company introduced a new line of nutritional food bars
under the Hansen's(R) brand name. This line is made from grains and fruit. The
Company intends to introduce additional lines of nutritional food bars and, in
particular, a line of functional food bars, during the first half of 2001 and
thereafter. In addition, the Company introduced a new line of premium G.M.O.
free (free from genetically modified organisms) cereals under the Hansen's(R)
brand name.
The Company is actively engaged in the development of additional new
products, including new lines of soy based drinks and sparkling lemonades in
1-liter proprietary glass bottles, which the Company plans to introduce later
During the third quarter of 2000, the Company introduced a malt-based
drink under the name Hard e, which contains up to five-percent alcohol. The Hard
e product is not marketed under the Hansen's name.
Hansen's(R) still water products were introduced in 1993. Hansen's(R)
still water products are primarily sold in 0.5-liter plastic bottles to the food
service trade.
The Company continues to evaluate and, where considered appropriate,
introduce additional flavors and other types of beverages to complement its
existing product lines. The Company will also evaluate, and where considered
appropriate, introduce functional foods/snack foods that utilize similar
channels of distribution and/or are complementary to the Company's existing
products and/or to which the Hansen's(R) brand name is able to add value.
Manufacture, Production and Distribution
The concentrates for Hansen's(R) Natural Sodas, Signature Sodas and
Blue Sky Natural Sodas products are blended at independent production
facilities. In each case, the concentrate is delivered by independent trucking
companies to Hansen's various co-packers, each of which adds filtered water,
high fructose corn syrup or cane sugar or, in the case of the diet sodas,
Splenda(R) brand sweetener, Acesulfame K, citric acid, and carbonation and,
where appropriate, supplements, and packages the products in approved
containers. Hansen's most significant co-packing arrangement is with Southwest
Canning and Packaging, Inc. ("Southwest") pursuant to a contract under which
Southwest packages Hansen's(R) Natural Sodas. This arrangement continues
indefinitely and is subject to termination on 60 days written notice from either
The ingredients for the Company's fruit and grain nutritional food bars
are purchased by the Company's co-packer for manufacturing and packaging of the
finished bars. The Company's cereal products are manufactured for the Company by
an overseas supplier who supplies all of the ingredients therefor.
The Company purchases juices, concentrates, flavors, vitamins,
minerals, nutrients, herbs, supplements and other ingredients for its juice
products, ready-to-drink iced tea, lemonade and juice cocktail products, Gold
Standard specialty tea and juice cocktail line, fruit juice Smoothie products,
functional drinks, Healthy Start juice line and children's multi-vitamin juice
drinks from various producers and manufacturers. Such materials are then
delivered to the Company's various co-packers, who add high fructose corn syrup
and water, for manufacture and packaging of the finished products.
All of the Company's beverage products are co-packed by various
co-packers situated throughout the United States and Canada under separate
arrangements, each of which continue on a month-to-month basis, except for the
arrangement with Southwest which is described above.
The Company has concluded arrangements with certain co-packers and
suppliers in respect of equipment installed at the facilities of such co-packers
and suppliers for the specific purpose of facilitating the production of certain
of the Company's products.
In the Western states, the Company's Natural Sodas, juice products,
iced tea, lemonade, and juice cocktail products and Gold Standard Specialty tea
and juice cocktail line, fruit juice Smoothie products in cans and P.E.T.
bottles, Healthy Start juice line in P.E.T. bottles and children's multi-vitamin
juice drinks are primarily sold to major grocery chain stores and, in certain
instances, to mass merchandisers through food brokers; to club stores, specialty
chain stores and, in certain instances, mass merchandisers directly by Hansen
and to the health food trade through specialty health food distributors. In
Colorado, a licensed distributor is responsible for sales of certain of the
above products. The Company's fruit juice Smoothie products in glass bottles,
functional drinks in 8.2-ounce slim cans, Signature Sodas and Healthy Start
juices in glass bottles are distributed almost exclusively by bottles and/or
distributors that do not distribute other products of the Company. However,
commencing in 2001, Signature Sodas and Healthy Start juices in glass bottles
may be sold to major grocery chain stores, mass merchandisers and club stores,
in certain states and/or counties directly by Hansen's. The nutritional food
bars and cereals will primarily be sold to major grocery chain stores, club
stores, mass merchandisers, and convenience chains through food brokers, and to
specialty chain stores, directly by Hansen's and to the health food trade
through specialty health food distributors.
Management has secured limited additional co-packing arrangements
outside the West to enable the Company to produce certain of its products closer
to the markets where they are sold and thereby reduce freight costs. As volumes
in markets outside California grow, the Company will secure additional
co-packing arrangements to further reduce freight costs.
The Company's ability to estimate demand is imprecise, particularly
with new products, and may be less precise during periods of rapid growth,
particularly in new markets. If the Company materially underestimates demand for
its products or is unable to secure sufficient ingredients or raw materials
including but not limited to glass, cans or labels, or co-packing arrangements,
it might not be able to satisfy demand on a short-term basis. See also "Item 7 -
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYISIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS."
Although the Company's arrangements for production of its products are
generally of short duration or are terminable upon request, management believes
that (subject to what is stated herein) a short disruption would not
significantly affect the Company's revenues since alternative co-packing
facilities in the United States with adequate capacity can be obtained for most
of its products at commercially reasonable rates, if necessary or desirable,
within a reasonably short time period. However, there are limited co-packing
facilities in the United States with adequate capacity for products in 8.2-ounce
slim cans. There are also limited shrink sleeve labeling facilities available in
the United States with adequate capacity for the Company's Signature Soda line
and Healthy Start line in glass bottles. A disruption in production of any of
such products could significantly affect the Company's revenues from such
products as alternative co-packing facilities in the United States with adequate
capacity may not be available for such products at commercially reasonable
rates, if necessary or desirable, within a reasonably short time period. In
addition, with regard to the Hard e product, while there are many co-packing
facilities in the United States with adequate capacity that could produce such
product, due to regulatory issues it may not be feasible for such product to be
co-packed at alternative co-packaging facilities on short notice. Consequently a
disruption in production of such products could affect the Company's revenues
from such products. The Company is taking measures to secure the availability of
alternative co-packing facilities in the United States or Canada with adequate
capacity for the production of certain of its products to minimize the risk of
any disruption in production.
The Company itself is primarily responsible for marketing its products
(other than its fruit juice Smoothies in glass bottles, functional drinks in
8.2-ounce slim cans, Signature Sodas, Healthy Start juices in glass bottles and
Medicine Man iced teas and drinks in glass bottles) in the United States. The
Company has entered into distribution agreements with distributors to distribute
Smoothies in glass bottles and/or functional drinks in 8.2-ounce slim cans
and/or Signature Sodas in more than 40 states. In many of such states, however,
distribution is only on a limited scale. Certain of the Company's products are
also marketed in Canada, and on a more limited basis, in other countries outside
of the United States, including the United Kingdom, Mexico, Philippines, Guam,
the Caribbean, and the United Arab Emirates. During 2000, sales by the Company
to distributors outside the United States amounted to approximately $753,000.
The Company intends to aggressively expand the distribution of its
products into new markets, both within the United States and abroad.
At the end of 2000, the Company introduced its new line of diet natural
sodas and is currently introducing its new premium line of iced teas and drinks
in glass bottles, under the Medicine Man label. Presentations are currently
being made to grocery store chains to secure their agreement to carry the diet
natural sodas and to the Company's existing distributor network to endeavor to
secure their agreement to distribute the Medicine Man line.
The Company is developing a separate network of brokers and
distributors to support the introduction, sale and distribution of the Company's
nutritional food bars and cereals to the health food trade, convenience and drug
store chains, grocery chain stores and mass merchandisers.
The Company is continuing to expand distribution of its products by
seeking to enter into agreements with regional bottlers or other direct store
delivery distributors having established sales, marketing and distribution
organizations. Hansen's licensed bottlers and distributors are affiliated with
and manufacture and/or distribute other soda and non-carbonated brands and other
beverage products. In many cases, such products are directly competitive with
the Company's products. The Company's strategy of licensing regional bottlers to
produce Hansen's(R) Natural Sodas from concentrate provided by the Company, did
not fulfill management's expectations, partly because bottlers preferred to
focus on alternative beverage products having higher margins than sodas.
During 2000, the Company expanded the distribution of its Natural Sodas
and Smoothies in cans into Oregon and Washington. The Company plans to secure
additional distribution of its Natural Sodas and Smoothies in cans in Oregon and
Washington during 2001. In these states, the Company has retained responsibility
for securing sales and providing marketing support. To this end, the Company
appointed a regional sales manager for the northwestern states during 2000.
In 2000, the Company continued to expand its national sales force to
support and grow the sales primarily of functional drinks in 8.2-ounce slim cans
together with Smoothies in glass bottles and Signature Sodas and intends to
continue to build such sales force during 2001.
The Blue Sky(R) Natural Soda products are sold primarily to the health
food trade through specialty health food distributors.
The Hard e malt based drinks are manufactured for HEB by Reflo, Inc.
("Reflo"), pursuant to a manufacturing and distribution agreement dated as of
March 23, 2000 ("Reflo Agreement") which has a term of two years. Under the
terms of the Reflo agreement, Reflo administers the sales and distribution of
such products throughout the United States, excluding California, Nevada and
Oregon where HEB is itself responsible for the sales and distribution of such
products. Reflo, Inc., acting on behalf of HEB and HEB itself, have entered into
distribution agreements with a number of independent distributors to distribute
Hard e in more than twenty-six states. However, in many of such states,
distribution is only now commencing and is on an extremely limited scale.
Management continues to evaluate various alternatives to expand the
distribution of its products into selected new markets.
The principal warehouse and distribution center and corporate offices
of the Company relocated to the Company's current facility in October 2000. The
Company is in the process of consolidating its Ontario, California warehouse
space into its new facility and is taking steps to reduce its inventory levels,
in an endeavor to lower its warehouse and distribution costs. See also "ITEM 2 -
PROPERTIES."
Source and Availability of Raw Materials
The Company purchases beverage flavors, concentrates and supplements
from independent suppliers located in the United States and Mexico, juice, bars
and other ingredients from independent suppliers in the United States and
abroad, and cereals from an independent supplier located abroad.
Suppliers regard flavors as proprietary to them. Consequently, Hansen
does not currently have the list of ingredients or formulae for its flavors and
certain of its concentrates readily available to it and may be unable to obtain
these flavors or concentrates from alternative suppliers on short notice. The
Company has identified alternative suppliers of many of the supplements
contained in its carbonated functional drinks, Smoothies, Healthy Start, Gold
Standard and multi-vitamin juice lines. However, industry-wide shortages of
certain supplements have been and could, from time to time in the future, be
experienced, which could interfere with production of certain of the Company's
Management is continuing with its attempts to develop back-up sources
of supply for its flavors and concentrates from other suppliers as well as to
conclude arrangements with suppliers which would enable it to obtain access to
certain concentrate or product formulae in certain circumstances. The Company
has been partially successful in these endeavors.
Hansen's goal is to ensure that all raw materials used in the
manufacture and packaging of the Company's products, including natural sodas,
Signature sodas, functional drinks and non-carbonated drinks and juices,
including, but not limited to, concentrates and juices, high fructose corn
syrup, cane sugar, citric acid, caps, cans, glass bottles, P.E.T. plastic
bottles, aseptic packaging and labels, are readily available from two or more
sources and is continuing its efforts to achieve this goal, although each of
such raw materials are, in practice, usually obtained from single sources.
However, the cans for the Company's functional drinks are only manufactured by
one company in the United States. Additionally, the ability of HEB to have its
Hard e products manufactured and/or distributed by other parties may be
restricted by HEB's agreement with Reflo, Inc. and/or the necessity to obtain
certain regulatory approvals and licenses.
In connection with the development of new products and flavors, the
Company works with independent suppliers who bear a large portion of the expense
of product development, thereby enabling the Company to develop new products and
flavors at relatively low cost. The Company has historically developed and
successfully introduced new products and flavors and packaging for its products
and currently anticipates developing and introducing additional new beverage and
food products and flavors.
The beverage industry is highly competitive. The principal areas of
competition are pricing, packaging, development of new products and flavors and
marketing campaigns. The Company's products compete with traditional soft drinks
(cola and non-cola), and alternative beverages, including new age beverages and
ready-to-drink iced teas, lemonades and juice cocktails and energy drinks as
well as juices and juice drinks and nectars produced by a relatively large
number of manufacturers, most of which have substantially greater financial and
marketing resources than Hansen.
The Company's functional energy drink competes directly with Red Bull,
Red Devil, Lipovitan, MET-Rx, Hype, XTC, Adrenaline Rush, 180 and KMX and many
other brands and its other functional drinks compete directly with Elix,
Lipovitan, MET-Rx, Think, Sobe Essentials and other brands. The "functional"
beverage category is in its infancy and increased competition is anticipated
within a relatively short period of time. A number of companies who market and
distribute iced teas and juice cocktails in larger volume packages, such as 16-
and 20-ounce glass bottles, including Sobe, Snapple Elements and Arizona, have
added, or are in the process of adding, supplements to their products with a
view to marketing their products as "functional" beverages or as having
functional benefits. However, many of those products are believed to contain low
levels of supplements and principally deliver refreshment. In addition, many of
the competitive products are positioned differently than the Company's
functional drinks. The Company's functional Smoothies and Gold Standard lines
are positioned more closely against those products.
For its Natural Sodas, Smoothies, functional drinks and Signature sodas
as well as other products, Hansen competes not only for consumer acceptance, but
also for maximum marketing efforts by multi-brand licensed bottlers, brokers and
distributors, many of which have a principal affiliation with competing
companies and brands. The Company's products compete with all liquid
refreshments and with products of much larger and substantially better financed
competitors, including the products of numerous nationally and internationally
known producers such as The Coca Cola Company, PepsiCo, Inc., Cadbury Schwepps,
which includes Dr. Pepper/Seven-up, RC Cola, Snapple, Mistic and Stewart's
brands, Nestle Beverage Company, The Quaker Oats Company and Ocean Spray. More
specifically, the Company's products compete with other alternative beverages,
including new age beverages, such as Snapple, Mistic, Arizona, Clearly Canadian,
Sobe, Stewart's, Everfresh, Nantucket Nectars, Kerns Nectars, Mistic, VeryFine,
V8 Splash, Calistoga, Red Bull, MET-Rx, Adrenaline Rush, 180, KMX and Crystal
Geyser brands. Due to the rapid growth of the alternative beverage segment of
the beverage marketplace, certain large companies such as The Coca Cola Company
and PepsiCo, Inc. have introduced products in that market segment which compete
directly with the Company's products such as Nestea, Fruitopia, Lipton, Ocean
Spray and Dole. The Company's products also compete with private label brands
such as those carried by grocery store chains and club stores. Important factors
affecting Hansen's ability to compete successfully include taste and flavor of
products, trade and consumer promotion, rapid and effective development of new,
unique, cutting edge products, attractive and different packaging, brand and
product advertising and pricing. Hansen must also compete for distributors who
will concentrate on marketing the Company's products over those of Hansen's
competitors provide stable and reliable distribution and secure adequate shelf
space in retail outlets. Competitive pressures in the alternative and functional
beverage categories could cause the Company's products to lose market share or
experience price erosion, which could have a material adverse effect on Hansen's
The Company's fruit juice Smoothies compete with Kern's nectars in the
Western states and Libby's in the Eastern states and Whipper Snapple, Mistic and
Nantucket Nectars nationally and also with single serve juice products produced
by many competitors. Such competitive products are packaged in glass and P.E.T.
bottles ranging from 8- to 20-ounces in size and in 11.5-ounce aluminum cans.
The juice content of such competitive products ranges from 1% to 100%.
The Company's apple and other juice products compete directly with Tree
Top, Mott's, Martinelli's, Welsh's, Ocean Spray, Minute Maid, Langers, Wildland,
Apple and Eve, Seneca, Northland and also with other brands of apple juice and
juice blends, especially store brands. The Company's Healthy Start line competes
with Langer's, V8 Splash, Knudsen, Nantucket Nectars, Wildland and other juice
products. The Company's still water products compete directly with Evian,
Crystal Geyser, Naya, Palomar Mountain, Sahara, Arrowhead, Aquafina, Dannon, and
other brands of still water especially store brands.
The nutritional food bar and cereal categories as well as flavored
malt-based drink categories are also highly competitive. Principal areas of
competition are pricing, packaging, development of new product and flavors and
marketing campaigns. The Company's cereals compete with traditional cereals of
companies such as Kellogg's, General Mills and Kashi and the Company's
nutritional food bars compete with products of other independent bar companies
such as Power Bar, Balance Bar, Gatorade, Kashi, Cliff Bar, MET-Rx, and numerous
other bars. HEB's Hard e product competes with wine coolers, such as Seagram's
and Bartles and James and flavored low alcohol beverages such as Mike's Hard
Lemonade, Hooper's Hooch, Doc Otis Hard Lemon, Smirnoff Ice, Zima and Rick's
Spiked Lemonade and other flavored malt and alcohol based drinks. Many of these
products are produced by large national and international manufacturers, most of
which have substantially greater financial and marketing resources than
Hansen's. Such companies include Anhaeuser Busch, Coors, Gallo Winery, Diageo
plc, etc.
Important factors affecting Hansen's ability to compete successfully
include taste and flavor of products, trade and consumer promotions, rapid and
effective development of new, unique cutting edge products, attractive and
different packaging, branded product advertising and pricing. Hansen also
competes for distributors who will concentrate on marketing the Company's
products over those of Hansen's competitors provide stable and reliable
distribution and secure adequate shelf space in retail outlets. Competitive
pressures in the cereal, nutritional food bar and flavored malt beverage
categories could cause the Company's products to be unable to gain or to lose
market share or experience price erosion, which could have a material adverse
affect on Hansen's business.
Hansen's marketing strategy is to focus on consumers who seek products
that are perceived to be natural and healthy. To attract these consumers, the
Company emphasizes the natural ingredients and the absence of preservatives,
sodium, artificial coloring and caffeine in the Company's beverages (other than
the Company's functional energy, stamina(R) and power drinks which do contain
caffeine) and the addition to most of its products, of one or more supplements.
This message is reinforced in the product packaging, the majority of which was
redesigned in 2000. The regular wholesale price of Hansen's(R) Natural Sodas in
cans is slightly higher than mainstream soft drinks such as Coca-Cola and Pepsi,
although generally lower than the prices of the products of many competitors in
the new age category. In its marketing, Hansen emphasizes its high quality
"natural" image and the fact that its soda products contain no preservatives,
sodium, caffeine or artificial coloring. The regular wholesale price of the
Company's iced teas, lemonades and juice cocktails, including its Gold Standard
line, is comparable to or slightly lower than that of competitive non-carbonated
beverages marketed under the Snapple, Sobe, Arizona, Mistic, Lipton, Nestea,
Fruitopia, Ocean Spray and Nantucket Nectar brands. In its marketing, Hansen
emphasizes the high quality natural and healthy image of its products. The
regular wholesale price of the Company's fruit juice Smoothie products is
similar to that of Kern's nectars. Without abandoning its natural and healthy
image, the Company launched a lightly carbonated energy drink in 8.2-ounce slim
cans, containing certain supplements, to appeal to the young and active segment
of the beverage market that desires an energy boost from its beverage selection.
The Company has since launched five additional lightly carbonated functional
drinks, namely, stamina(R), d-stress(R), anti-ox(R) (since renamed b-well(TM)),
power(TM) and slim-down. The supplements contained in each of the functional
drinks are intended to provide specific but different functional benefits to the
consumers of each of such products. Hansen's marketing strategy with respect to
its nutritional food bars and cereals is similarly to focus on consumers who
seek bars and cereals that are perceived to be natural and healthy. To attract
these consumers, the Company emphasizes the natural ingredients and the absence
of preservatives and, in the case of the cereals, the fact that they are
G.M.O.-free. HEB's marketing strategy with respect to its Hard e product is to
focus on adult consumers who seek an alcohol-based beverage that is good
tasting, fashionable and meets consumers' needs.
To cater to consumers, who purchase juices in multi-serve sizes and
perceive the inclusion of supplements therein to be of added value, the Company
launched its Healthy Start line of 100% juices in 1998. Although marketed in
larger multi-serve packages that are appropriate for grocery store chains, club
stores, specialty chains and health food stores, the positioning of these
products is similar to the Company's lightly carbonated functional drinks in
8.2-ounce slim cans. To distinguish these products from those of competitors,
each label indicates the function of the product, in addition to listing the
supplements contained therein. As stated above, following the conclusion of a
licensing agreement by the Company with the Silver Foxes Network, the Company
had the labels for its Silver Foxes(TM)/Healthy Start 100% juice line
redesigned. The new renamed line, which was targeted at the 50+ age group, was
relaunched during 2000. However, sales of this line were disappointing and the
Company is currently reevaluating this line. During the year, the Company also
introduced its Healthy Start 100% line in single serve 12-ounce glass bottles,
through its distributor network. Sales of this line did not meet expectations
and the Company is in the process of repositioning the distribution of this
product line. In this regard, the Company plans to market these products
directly through its warehouse division with focus on the health food trade and
specialty retail stores.
According to Roche Vitamins, very few American children meet all of the
recommendations of the Food Guide Pyramid. In 1999, the Company introduced a new
line of children's multi-vitamin juice drinks in 8.45-ounce aseptic packaging.
These products are positioned to assist parents improve the daily intake by
their children of essential vitamins and minerals.
The Company's sales and marketing strategy is to focus its efforts on
developing brand awareness and trial through sampling both in stores and at
events in respect to all its beverage, food and alcoholic beverage products. The
Company intends to continue to place increased emphasis on product sampling and
participating in direct promotions. The Company proposes to continue to use its
branded vehicles, PT Cruisers and other promotional vehicles at events at which
the Company's products, including its fruit juice smoothies, natural sodas and
functional energy drinks will be distributed to consumers for sampling. Hansen
utilizes "push-pull" tactics to achieve maximum shelf and display space exposure
in sales outlets and maximum demand from consumers for its products including
advertising, in store promotions and point of sale materials, prize promotions,
price promotions, competitions, endorsements from selected public figures,
coupons, sampling and sponsorship of selected sports figures as well as sporting
events such as marathons, 10k runs, bicycle races, volleyball tournaments and
other health- and sports-related activities, including extreme sports, and also
participates in product demonstrations, food tasting and other related events.
Posters, print, radio and television advertising together with price promotions
and coupons are also used extensively to promote the Hansen's(R) brand.
Management increased expenditures for its sales and marketing programs
by approximately 18% in 2000 compared to 1999.
While the Company retains responsibility for the marketing of the Juice
Slam(TM) line of children's multi-vitamin juice drinks, Costco has undertaken
sole responsibility for the marketing of the co-branded Juice Blast(TM) line.
The Company intends to support its planned expansion of distribution
and sale of its functional drinks in 8.2-ounce slim cans, Smoothie products in
glass bottles, Signature Sodas, Healthy Start juices in glass bottles, and
Medicine Man iced teas and drinks in glass bottles, through the in-store
placement of point-of-sale materials, use of glide racks, suction cup racks and
a proprietary rolling rack for its functional drinks, co-operative trade
marketing with customers and by attending and sponsoring many sporting events,
including extreme sports and selected sports figures and through endorsements
from selected public and sports figures, through focused radio campaigns and by
developing local marketing programs in conjunction with its distributors in
their respective markets. By enlisting its distributors as participants in its
marketing and advertising programs, Hansen intends to create an environment
conducive to the growth of both the Hansen's(R) brand and the businesses of its
distributors.
In January 1994, the Company entered into an agreement with a barter
company for the exchange of certain inventory for future advertising and
marketing credits. The Company assigned a value of $490,000 to these credits
based on the net realizable value of the inventory exchanged. As of December 31,
2000, unused advertising and marketing credits totaled $111,000. Although such
credits remain available for use by the Company through January 2002, management
was unable to estimate their remaining net realizable value at December 31,
1997. Accordingly, in the year ended December 31, 1997, the Company fully
reserved against and expensed such advertising and marketing credits.
Management continues to believe that one of the keys to success in the
beverage industry is differentiation; making Hansen's(R) products clearly
distinctive from other beverages on the shelves of retailers. Management is of
the view that the same keys to success apply to its nutritional food bars and
cereals and Hard e products. The Company reviews its products and packaging on
an ongoing basis and, where practical, endeavors to make them different, better
and unique. The labels and graphics for the Company's juice products, Natural
Sodas and Smoothie products were redesigned in an endeavor to develop a new
system to maximize their visibility and identification, wherever they may be
placed in stores.
Retail and specialty chains, and club stores represented 56% of
Hansen's sales in the year ended December 31, 2000 and 58% in the year ended
December 31, 1999, while the percentage of sales to distributors (primarily of
Hansens(R) functional drinks in 8.2-ounce slim cans, Smoothies in glass bottles
and Signature Sodas) in the year ended December 31, 2000, was 33%, about the
same as in the previous year.
Hansen's major customers in 2000 included Costco, Trader Joe's, Sam's
Club, Lucky, Vons, Ralph's, Wal-Mart and Albertson's. One customer accounted for
approximately 23%, 25% and 27% of the Company's sales for the years ended
December 31, 2000, 1999 and 1998, respectively. A decision by that or any other
major customer to decrease the amount purchased from the Company or to cease
carrying the Company's products could have a material adverse effect on the
Company's financial condition and consolidated results of operations.
Hansen normally experiences greater sales and profitability during its
second and third fiscal quarters (April through September). The consumption of
beverage products fluctuates in part due to temperature changes with the
greatest consumption occurring during the warm months. During months where
temperatures are abnormally warm or cold, consumption goes up or down
accordingly. Similarly, consumption is affected in those regions where
temperature and other weather conditions undergo dramatic changes with the
seasons. Management anticipates that the sale of the Company's products may
become increasingly subject to seasonal fluctuations as more sales occur outside
of California in areas where weather conditions are intemperate. Sales of the
Company's juice products, functional drinks and children's multi-vitamin juice
drinks are likely to be less affected by such factors. Similarly, sales of the
Company's nutritional food bars and cereals are likely to be less affected by
such factors. However, as the Company has not had experience with such products,
it is unable to predict the likely sales trend of such products with any degree
of accuracy.
The Hansen's(R) trademark is crucial to the Company's business. This
trademark is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and in various
countries throughout the world. The Hansen's(R) trademark is owned by a trust
(the "Trust") which was created by an agreement between HBC and the predecessor
company of Fresh Juice Company of California ("FJC") (the "Agreement of Trust").
The Trust licensed to HBC in perpetuity on an exclusive world-wide royalty-free
basis the right to use the Hansen's(R) trademark in connection with the
manufacture, sale and distribution of carbonated beverages and waters and shelf
stable fruit juices and drinks containing fruit juices. In addition, the Trust
licensed to HBC, in perpetuity, on an exclusive world-wide basis, the right to
use the Hansen's(R) trademark in connection with the manufacture, sale and
distribution of certain non-carbonated beverages and water in consideration of
royalty payments. A similar license agreement exists between the Trust and HBC
with regard to non-beverage products. No royalties are payable on sodas, juices,
lemonades, juice cocktails, fruit juice Smoothies, the Signature Soda line or on
the children's multi-vitamin juice drinks. Royalty expenses of $12,000 were
incurred in 1999. As explained below, no royalty expenses were incurred during
HBC, FJC's predecessor and the Trust also entered into a Royalty
Sharing Agreement pursuant to which royalties payable by third parties procured
by FJC or its predecessor or HBC are initially shared between the Trust and HBC
and, after a specified amount of royalties have been received, are shared
equally between HBC and FJC. Under the terms of the Agreement of Trust, FJC
receives royalty income paid to the Trust in excess of Trust expenses and a
reserve therefor.
Effective September 22, 1999, HBC entered into an Assignment and
Agreement with FJC pursuant to which HBC acquired exclusive ownership of the
Hansen's(R) trademark and trade names. Under the Assignment and Agreement, among
other matters, HBC acquired all FJC's rights as grantor and beneficiary of the
Trust, all FJC's rights as licensee under certain license agreement pursuant to
which FJC has the right to manufacture, sell and distribute fresh juice products
under the Hansen's(R) trademark and all FJC's rights under the Royalty Sharing
Agreement referred to above, as well as certain additional rights, for a total
consideration of $775,010, payable over three years. FJC is permitted to
continue to manufacture, sell and distribute fresh juice products under the
Hansen's(R) trademark for a period of five years. Consequently, HBC now has full
ownership of the Hansen's(R) trademark and its obligation to pay royalties to,
and to share royalties with, FJC has been terminated. As of December 31, 2000, a
balance of $287,500 was payable to FJC.
The Company has applied to register a number of trademarks in the
United States including, but not limited to, THE REAL DEAL(TM), IMMUNEJUICE(TM),
Hansen's energy(TM), Hansen's power(TM), Hansen's Natural Multi-Vitamin Juice
Slam(TM), Defense(TM), Powerpack(TM), Medicine Man(TM), b-well(TM), Hard e(TM),
Hard Energy(TM), and A New Kind a Buzz(TM).
The Company owns in its own right, a number of trademarks including,
but not limited to, LIQUIDFRUIT(R), Imported from Nature(R), California's
Natural Choice(R), California's Choice(R), Dyna Juice(R), Equator(R),
be-well(R), anti-ox(R), d-stress(R), stamina(R), Aqua Blast(R), Antioxjuice(R)
Intellijuice(R) and Juice Blast(R) in the United States and the Hansen's(R) and
"Smoothie(R)" trademarks in a number of countries around the world.
In September 2000, in connection with the acquisition of the Blue Sky
Natural Beverage business, the Company, through its wholly owned subsidiary Blue
Sky, acquired the Blue Sky(R) trademark, which is registered in the United
States and Canada.
On April 4, 2000, the United States Patent and Trademark Office issued
a patent to the Company for an invention related to a shelf structure (rolling
rack) and, more particularly, a shelf structure for a walk-in cooler. Such shelf
structure is utilized by the Company to secure shelf space for and to
merchandise its functional drinks in 8.2-ounce slim cans in refrigerated Visi
coolers and walk-in coolers in retail stores.
The production and marketing of beverages are subject to the rules and
regulations of the United States Food and Drug Administration (the "FDA") and
other federal, state and local health agencies. The FDA also regulates the
labeling of containers including, without limitation, statements concerning
product ingredients.
In connection with Hard e, the production and marketing of alcoholic
beverages are subject to the rules and regulations of the Bureau of Alcohol,
Tobacco and Firearms and in each state, are also subject to the rules and
regulations of state regulatory agencies. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and
Firearms and state regulatory agencies also regulate the labeling of containers
containing alcoholic beverages including, without limitation, statements
concerning product name and ingredients as well as advertising and marketing, in
connection therewith.
As of March 2, 2001, Hansen employed a total of 107 employees, 100 of
whom are employed on a full-time basis. Of Hansen's 107 employees, 34 are
employed in administrative and quality control capacities and 73 are employed in
sales and marketing capacities.
Compliance with Environmental Laws
The operation of Hansen's business is not materially affected by
compliance with federal, state or local environmental laws and regulations. In
California, Hansen's is required to collect deposits from its customers and to
remit such deposits to the State of California Department of Conservation based
upon the number of cans and bottles of certain of its carbonated and
non-carbonated products sold. In certain other states and Canada where Hansen(R)
products are sold, the Company is also required to collect deposits from its
customers and to remit such deposits to the respective conservation agencies
based upon the number of cans and bottles of certain of its carbonated and
non-carbonated products, sold in such states.
TEM 2. PROPERTIES
Hansen's corporate offices and main warehouse are located in a single
building at 1010 Railroad Street, Corona, California 92882. This facility is
leased by HBC for a period of ten years commencing October 20, 2000. The gross
area of the facility is approximately 113,600 square feet. The monthly rental
payments, according to the terms of the lease, are subject to increase during
the third, sixth and eighth years. HBC also utilizes public warehouses situated
throughout the United States and Canada.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Towards the end of 1998, HBC, together with the Trustee of the Hansen
Trust, commenced arbitration proceedings before the American Arbitration
Association in Los Angeles, California, against FJC, the former Trustees of the
Trust, and a company called Hansen's Juice Creations LLC ("Creations"), in which
HBC and the Trustee claimed, among other matters: (i) that certain acts of the
former Trustees of the Trust constituted breach of trust; (ii) a certain license
agreement purportedly entered into between the former Trustees of the Trust and
Creations (the "Purported Agreement") was, in whole or in part, void or
terminable by the Trust; and (iii) certain acts of Creations constituted
infringement of the Hansen's(R) trademark and certain acts of FJC constituted
contributory infringement of the Hansen's(R) trademarks. HBC and the Trustee
sought damages and injunctive relief against FJC and Creations. Such proceedings
were settled in September 1999. Pursuant to written settlement agreements among
the various parties to such proceedings, the Purported Agreement was terminated
by mutual consent, the right of the successor to Creations to use the
Hansen's(R) trademark on limited, but clearly defined, fresh juice products, was
clarified and agreed upon, and certain other matters relating to and concerning
the use of the Hansen's(R) trademark, were resolved.
During 2000, the Company commenced arbitration proceedings against
Sammy Sosa before the American Arbitration Association in Orange County, for the
repayment by Mr. Sosa to the Company of the sum of $175,000 which was paid to
Mr. Sosa, by virtue of Mr. Sosa's failure to perform his obligations in terms of
his agreement with the Company. Mr. Sosa has filed a counter claim against the
Company seeking damages approximating $2.8 million. The Company believes that
Mr. Sosa's counter-claim has no factual or legal basis whatsoever and is
completely unmeritorious. A hearing has not yet taken place in the arbitration.
Late in 2000, Rhonda Morris filed a complaint in the Superior Court for
the State of California, County of San Francisco against the Company, in which
she claims sexual harassment by an employee of the Company in connection with an
alleged denial of employment to her and in which she seeks unspecified monetary
damages. The Company has removed the complaint to the United States District
Court for the Northern District of California. The Company believes the claim is
without merit and is defending the claim.
In March 2001, the Company filed a complaint in Federal Court for the
Central District of California against South Beach Beverage Company LLC
("Sobe"), for patent infringement, violation of trademark rights, false
advertising, unfair competition, trespass to chattels and tortious interference
with business relations arising from Sobe's unlawful conduct and unauthorized
use of the Company's property and the patent held by the Company in respect of
its rolling rack shelf structure, Sobe's improper business practices,
interference with the Company's right to conduct its business, injunctive relief
and unspecified monetary damages.
The Company is subject to, and involved in, claims and contingencies
related to lawsuits, arbitration proceedings, and other matters arising out of
the normal course of business. The ultimate liability associated with such
claims and contingencies, including those mentioned above, is not likely to have
a material adverse effect on the financial condition of the Company.
Except as described above, there are no material pending legal
proceedings to which the Company or any of its subsidiaries is a party or to
which any of the properties is subject, other than ordinary and routine
litigation incidental to the Company's business.
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
The annual meeting of stockholders of the Company was held on November
3, 2000. At the meeting, the following individuals were elected as directors of
the Company and received the number of votes set opposite their respective
Votes For
Rodney C. Sacks 8,514,511
Hilton H. Schlosberg 8,514,611
Benjamin M. Polk 8,514,611
Norman C. Epstein 8,514,461
Harold C. Taber, Jr. 8,514,611
Mark S. Vidergauz 8,514,611
In addition, at the meeting the stockholders of the Company ratified
the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as independent auditors of the Company
for the year ended December 31, 2000, by a vote of 8,510,325 for, 4,555 against
and 10,782 abstaining.
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED
Principal Market
The Company's Common Stock began trading in the over-the-counter market
on November 8, 1990 and is quoted on the NASDAQ Small-Cap Market under the
symbol "HANS". As of March 2, 2001, there were 10,045,003 shares of the
Company's Common Stock outstanding held by approximately 659 holders of record.
Stock Price and Dividend Information
The following table sets forth high and low bid closing quotations for
the Common Stock,on a quarterly basis from January 1, 1998 to December 31, 2000:
High Bid Low Bid
First Quarter $ 4 5/8 $ 4
Second Quarter $ 4 1/2 $ 3 13/32
Third Quarter $ 5 29/32 $ 4 1/8
Fourth Quarter $ 5 3/8 $ 3 1/4
First Quarter $ 5 5/8 $ 3 7/16
Second Quarter $ 5 1/2 $ 3 5/8
Third Quarter $ 5 5/8 $ 4 5/16
First Quarter $ 2 9/16 $ 1 15/32
Fourth Quarter $ 6 17/32 $ 2 15/16
The quotations for the Common Stock set forth above represent bid
quotations between dealers, do not include retail markups, mark-downs or
commissions and bid quotations may not necessarily represent actual transactions
and "real time" sale prices. The source of the bid information is the NASDAQ
Stock Market, Inc.
Hansen has not paid dividends to its stockholders since its inception
and does not anticipate paying dividends in the foreseeable future.
ITEM 6. SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA
The consolidated statements of operations data set forth below with
respect to each of the years ended December 31, 1996 through 2000 and the
balance sheet data as of December 31, for the years indicated, are derived from
the consolidated financial statements audited by Deloitte & Touche LLP,
independent certified public accountants, and should be read in conjunction with
those financial statements and notes thereto included elsewhere in this and in
the 1996, 1997, 1998 and 1999 Forms 10-K.
(in thousands, except per
share information)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
2000 1999 1998 1997 1996
--------------------------- ---------------- ----------------- ---------------- ----------------- -----------------
Net sales $ 79,733 $ 72,303 $ 53,866 $ 43,057 $ 35,565
Net income $ 3,915 $ 4,478 $ 3,563 $ 1,250 $ 357
Net income per
common share
Basic $ 0.39 $ 0.45 $ 0.38 $ 0.14 $ 0.04
Diluted $ 0.38 $ 0.43 $ 0.34 $ 0.13 $ 0.04
Total assets $ 38,745 $ 28,709 $ 22,557 $ 16,933 $ 16,109
Long-term debt $ 9,732 $ 903 $ 1,335 $ 3,408 $ -
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
During 2000, the Company continued to expand its existing product lines
and further develop its markets. In particular, the Company continues to focus
on developing and marketing beverages that fall within the category generally
described as the "functional" beverage category.
The Company achieved record sales in 2000. The increase in sales in
2000 was primarily attributable to the growth in sales of the Company's
functional drinks in 8.2-ounce slim cans, as well as increased sales of the
children's multi-vitamin juice drinks in 8.45-ounce aseptic packaging and
increased sales of apple juice and natural sodas as well as sales of Blue Sky
Natural Sodas since the acquisition by the Company of that brand. The increase
in sales was partially offset by decreased sales of Smoothies and the Company's
Silver Foxes juice line as well as lower sales of iced teas, lemonades and juice
cocktails and Signature Sodas. Despite such changes in the Company's product
mix, the gross profit percentage achieved by the Company in 2000 was marginally
higher than the gross profit percentage achieved in 1999.
During 2000, sales outside of California represented 37% of the
aggregate sales of the Company, as compared to approximately 39% of the
aggregate sales of the Company in 1999. Sales to distributors outside the United
States during 2000 amounted to $753,000 compared to $800,000 in 1999.
During 2000, the Company introduced slim-down, its sixth functional
drink in 8.2-ounce slim-cans. slim-down is a berry-flavored drink that has no
calories. During the year, the Company introduced two additional Smoothie
flavors in 11.5-ounce. cans: Whipped Orange and Cranberry Twist. The Company
also extended its Smoothie line in 64-ounce P.E.T. plastic bottles from two
flavors to six flavors. In the first quarter of 2000, the Company introduced its
Healthy Start 100% juice line in single serve glass bottles, which it marketed
through its distributor network. However, response from customers and consumers
was disappointing and in consequence the Company has decided to market that line
through its warehouse division to selected retail outlets where such products
may have greater appeal. The Company also introduced two additional Green Tea
flavors as well at two diet Green Tea flavors and six juice cocktails in the
same 20-ounce glass bottle as its "Gold Standard" Green Tea and Specialty Teas.
Each of the products in the "Gold Standard" line contain different combinations
of supplements.
The Company also entered the functional foods market in 2000 with the
introduction of a line of fruit and grain nutritional food bars and commenced
test marketing a line of G.M.O.-free gourmet cereals. The Company intends to
expand its nutritional food bar business with the introduction of functional
food bars in 2001 as well as additional nutritional food bars later in 2001.
During 2000, the Company entered into a license agreement with the
100% juice line. The Company had the labels for its Health Start juice line
redesigned under the Silver Foxes brand and trademark and relaunched the new
re-named line during the year. However, sales of the Company's Silver Foxes
juice line were disappointing and the Company is currently reevaluating this
Sales of the Company's dual-branded 100% juice line named "Juice
Blast(R)", which was launched in conjunction with Costco under the "Kirkland
Signature(TM)/Hansen's(R) Natural" brand name and is sold nationally through
Costco stores, were satisfactory. The Company has, in conjunction with Costco,
introduced new flavors in place of certain of the existing flavors and will
continue to introduce new flavors in an effort to ensure that its variety pack
remains fresh and different for consumers.
During 2000, the Company repositioned its Juice Slam(TM) line as a 100%
juice line. The Company is currently marketing this line to grocery store
chains, specialty chains, the health food trade and other customers directly
through its warehouse division.
On September 20, 2000 the Company, through its wholly owned subsidiary
Blue Sky, acquired the Blue Sky Natural Soda business. The Blue Sky Natural Soda
brand is the leading natural soda in the health food trade. Blue Sky offers
natural sodas, premium natural sodas with added ingredients such as Ginseng and
anti-oxidant vitamins, organic sodas and seltzers in 12-ounce cans.
The Company is currently launching a new premium line of iced teas and
drinks with a unique theme under the Medicine Man label, in proprietary glass
bottles. This line will initially be introduced in four flavors.
At the end of 2000, the Company launched a new line of diet sodas in
four flavors: Peach, Black Cherry, Kiwi-Strawberry, and Tangerine Lime. These
products are sweetened with Splenda(R) brand sweetener and Acesulfame K and are
aspartame free. Initial response from both customers and consumers to this line
has been extremely encouraging.
During 2000, the Company entered into several new distribution
agreements for the sale of its products, both within and outside the United
States. As discussed under "ITEM 1 BUSINESS - MANUFACTURE, PRODUCTION and
DISTRIBUTION", it is anticipated that the Company will continue building its
national sales force in 2001 to support and grow the sales of its products.
Further, during 2000, the Company, through its wholly owned subsidiary,
HEB, introduced a malt-based beverage called Hard e, which contains up to 5%
alcohol. The Hard e product will not be marketed under the Hansen's name.
products, including new lines of soy-based drinks and sparkling lemonades in
1-liter proprietary glass bottles.
The Company continues to incur expenditures in connection with the
development and introduction of new products and flavors.
Results of Operations for the Year Ended December 31, 2000 Compared to the Year
Ended December 31, 1999
Net Sales. For the year ended December 31, 2000, net sales were $79.7
million, an increase of $7.4 million or 10.3% over the $72.3 million net sales
for the year ended December 31, 1999. The increase in net sales was primarily
attributable to increased sales of the Company's energy and other functional
drinks in 8.2-ounce slim cans and increased sales of the Company's new
children's multi-vitamin juice drinks. To a lesser extent, the increase in net
sales was also attributable to increased sales of apple juice and Natural Sodas
and sales of Healthy Start in glass bottles as well as Blue Sky Natural Sodas
since the acquisition by the Company of that brand in September 2000. The
increase in net sales was partially offset by decreases in sales of the Silver
Foxes juice line, Smoothies in cans, glass and P.E.T. bottles, Signature Sodas
and iced teas, lemonades and juice cocktails.
Gross Profit. Gross profit was $37.1 million for the year ended
December 31, 2000, an increase of $3.6 million or 10.6% over the $33.5 million
gross profit for the year ended December 31, 1999. Gross profit as a percentage
of net sales increased marginally to 46.5% for the year ended December 31, 2000
from 46.4% for the year ended December 31, 1999. The increase in gross profit
was primarily attributable to increased net sales. The increase in gross profit
as a percentage of net sales is primarily attributable to slightly higher
margins achieved as a result of a change in the Company's product mix.
Total Operating Expenses. Total operating expenses were $30.2 million
for the year ended December 31, 2000, an increase of $4.2 million or 16.0% over
total operating expenses of $26.0 million for the year ended December 31, 1999.
Total operating expenses as a percentage of net sales increased to 37.9% for the
year ended December 31, 2000, from 36.0% for the year ended December 31, 1999.
The increase in total operating expenses was primarily attributable to increased
selling, general and administrative expenses and was partially offset by a
decrease in other operating expenses. The increase in total operating expenses
as a percentage of net sales was primarily attributable to the increase in net
sales and the comparatively larger increase in selling, general and
administrative expenses.
Selling, general and administrative expenses were $29.8 million for the
year ended December 31, 2000 an increase of $4.5 million or 17.7% over selling,
general and administrative expenses of $25.3 million for the year ended December
31, 1999. Selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of net
sales increased to 37.4% for the year ended December 31, 2000 from 35.0% for the
year ended December 31, 1999. Selling expenses were $20.8 million for the year
ended December 31, 2000, an increase of $3.0 million or 16.7% over selling
expenses of $17.8 million for the year ended December 31, 1999. Selling expenses
as a percentage of net sales increased to 26.0% for the year ended December 31,
2000 from 24.6% for the year ended December 31, 1999. The increase in selling
expenses was primarily attributable to increased promotional expenditures,
distribution (freight) expenses, expenditures for merchandise displays and point
of sale materials, as well as fees paid for slotting. The increase in selling
expenses was partially offset by a decrease in expenditures for in-store
demonstrations. General and administrative expenses were $9.0 million for the
year ended December 31, 2000, an increase of $1.5 million or 19.9% over general
and administrative expenses of $7.5 million for the year ended December 31,
1999. General and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales increased
to 11.4% for the year ended December 31, 2000 from 10.4% for the year ended
December 31, 1999. The increase in general and administrative expenses was
primarily attributable to increased payroll costs and certain other expenses
incurred in connection with product development and expansion activities into
additional states.
Amortization of trademark license and trademarks was $371,000 for the
year ended December 31, 2000, an increase of $63,000 over amortization of
trademark license and trademarks of $308,000 for the year ended December 31,
1999. The increase in amortization of trademark license and trademarks was
primarily attributable to the acquisition of the Blue Sky trademark, which was
acquired during 2000 and is being amortized over a period of 40 years.
No other operating expenses were incurred for the year ended December
31, 2000 as compared with $380,000 in other operating expenses incurred for the
year ended December 31, 1999. Other operating expenses incurred in 1999 were
primarily attributable to expenses incurred in connection with a proposed
business combination that was not completed.
Operating Income. Operating income was $6.9 million for the year ended
December 31, 2000, compared to $7.5 million for the year ended December 31,
1999. The $601,000 decrease in operating income was primarily attributable to
increased operating expenses, which was partially offset by increased gross
Net Non-operating Expense. Net non-operating expense was $369,000 for
the year ended December 31, 2000, which was $317,000 higher than net
non-operating expense of $52,000 for the year ended December 31, 1999. Net
non-operating expense consists of interest and financing expense and interest
income. Interest and financing expense for the year ended December 31, 2000, was
$382,000 as compared to $171,000 for the year ended December 31, 1999. The
increase in interest and financing expense was primarily attributable to the
increase in long-term debt, primarily related to the acquisition of the Blue Sky
business. See also "Liquidity and Capital Resources" below. Interest income for
the year ended December 31, 2000 was $13,000, as compared to interest income of
$118,000 for the year ended December 31, 1999. The decrease in interest income
was primarily attributable to a reduction in the cash available for investment
during the year ended December 31, 2000.
Provision for Income Taxes. Provision for income taxes for the year
ended December 31, 2000 was $2.6 million as compared to provision for income
taxes of $3.0 million for the year ended December 31, 1999. The effective
combined federal and state tax rate for 2000 was 40.1% as compared to 39.9% for
1999. The decrease in the provision for income taxes was primarily attributable
to decreased operating income.
Net Income. Net income was $3.9 million for the year ended December 31,
2000, compared to $4.5 million for the year ended December 31, 1999. The
$563,000 decrease in net income was attributable to decreased operating income
of $601,000 and increased non-operating expense of $317,000, which was partially
offset by decreased provision for income taxes of $355,000.
million, an increase of $18.4 million or 34.2% over the $53.9 million net sales
drinks in 8.2-ounce slim cans, the introduction of the Company's new children's
multi-vitamin juice drinks in the third quarter of 1999, as well as the
Company's Signature Soda line, which was introduced in the first quarter of
1999, increased sales of the Company's Healthy Start product line and sales of
Smoothies in 64-ounce P.E.T. bottles. To a lesser extent, the increase in net
sales was also attributable to increased sales of juice blends, Smoothies in
cans, apple juice, soda in cans and sales of Super Smoothies, which were
introduced in the second half of 1999. Net sales of iced teas, lemonades and
juice cocktails in 1999 were comparable to the sales of such products in 1998.
The increase in net sales was partially offset by the discontinuance of
Equator(R) and other marginal products.
December 31, 1999; an increase of $7.0 million or 26.4% over the $26.5 million
of net sales decreased to 46.4% for the year ended December 31, 1999 from 49.3%
for the year ended December 31, 1998. The increase in gross profit was primarily
attributable to increased net sales. The decrease in gross profit as a
percentage of net sales are primarily attributable to lower margins achieved as
a result of a change in the Company's product mix.
for the year ended December 31, 1999 an increase of $5.4 million or 26.5% over
Total operating expenses as a percentage of net sales decreased to 36.0% for the
selling, general and administrative expenses and other operating expenses. The
decrease in total operating expenses as a percentage of net sales was primarily
attributable to the increase in net sales and the comparatively smaller increase
in selling, general and administrative expenses.
year ended December 31, 1999 an increase of $5.1 million or 25.3% higher than
selling, general and administrative expenses of $20.2 million for the year ended
December 31, 1998. Selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage
for the year ended December 31, 1998. Selling expenses were $17.8 million for
the year ended December 31, 1999 an increase of $3.7 million or 26.2% higher
than selling expenses of $14.1 million for the year ended December 31, 1998.
Selling expenses as a percentage of net sales decreased to 24.6% for the year
ended December 31, 1999 from 26.2% for the year ended December 31, 1998. The
increase in selling expenses was primarily attributable to increased
distribution (freight) expenses, advertising costs and promotional expenditures,
particularly in-store demonstrations and coupon expenses. The increase in
selling expenses was partially offset by a decrease in expenditures for
merchandise displays and point of sale materials. General and administrative
expenses were $7.5 million for the year ended December 31, 1999; an increase of
$1.4 million or 23.4% higher than general and administrative expense of $6.1
million for the year ended December 31, 1998. General and administrative
expenses as a percentage of net sales decreased to 10.4% for the year ended
December 31, 1999, from 11.4% for the year ended December 31, 1998. The increase
in general and administrative expenses was primarily attributable to increased
payroll costs and certain other expenses incurred in connection with the
Company's product development and expansion activities into additional states.
Other operating expenses were $380,000 for the year ended December 31,
1999, an increase of $320,000 over other operating expenses of $60,000 for the
year ended December 31, 1998. The increase in other operating expenses was
business combination that was not completed. The increase in other expenses was
partially offset by the expiration of a consulting agreement with a director of
1998. The $1.5 million increase in operating income was primarily attributable
to increased gross profits, which was partially offset by increased operating
Net Non-operating Expense. Net non-operating expense was $52,000 for
the year ended December 31, 1999, which was $278,000 lower than net
non-operating expense of $330,000 for the year ended December 31, 1998. Net
non-operating expense consists of interest and financing expense interest income
and for 1998, other non-operating expense. Interest and financing expense for
the year ended December 31, 1999 was $171,000 as compared to $387,000 for the
year ended December 31, 1998. The decrease in interest and financing expense was
attributable to a reduction in financing fees that were fully amortized in 1998
and to the fact that the principal amounts outstanding on the Company's term
loan were lower in 1999 than 1998. See also "Liquidity and Capital Resources"
below. Interest income for the year ended December 31, 1999 was $118,000, which
was $46,000 higher than interest income of $72,000 for the year ended December
31, 1998. The increase in interest income was primarily attributable to interest
earned on excess cash invested.
combined federal income taxes were primarily attributable to increased operating
income and the increase in the effective tax rate for 1999. Certain net
operating loss carry forwards resulted in a lower effective tax rate in 1998.
Such net operating loss carry forwards were not available in 1999.
$915,000 increase in net income was attributable to increased operating income
of $1.5 million and decreased non-operating expense of $278,000, which was
offset by increased provision for income taxes of $904,000.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
As of December 31, 2000, the Company had working capital of $13,644,000
compared to working capital of $8,997,000 as of December 31, 1999. The increase
in working capital was primarily attributable to net income earned after
adjustments for certain non-cash expenses, primarily amortization of trademark
license and trademarks, depreciation and other amortization, and compensation
expense related to the issuance of stock options. The increase in working
capital was partially offset by increases in trademark license and trademarks,
property and, to a lesser extent, increases in deposits and other assets.
During 2000, the Company's cash reserves were used for working capital
including the acquisition of the Blue Sky business, trademark licenses and
trademarks, increases in accounts receivable, purchases of property and
equipment, acquisition of increased inventories and to reduce accounts payable.
The acquisition of increased inventories, increases in accounts receivable,
increases in deposits and other assets, acquisition of property and equipment,
acquisition of trademark licenses and trademarks, and repayment of the Company's
line of credit, are expected to remain the Company's principal recurring use of
cash and working capital funds.
Net cash used in investing activities for the year ended December 31,
2000, was $7.9 million as compared to net cash used in investment activities of
$1.5 million in 1999. The increase in net cash used in investing activities was
primarily attributable to the acquisition of the Blue Sky business and trademark
licenses and trademarks, the purchases of property and equipment as well as
increases in deposits and other assets. Management, from time to time, considers
the acquisition of capital equipment, particularly, merchandise display racks,
vans and promotional vehicles, coolers and other promotional equipment and
businesses compatible with the image of the Hansen's(R) brand as well as the
introduction of new product lines.
Net cash provided by financing activities was $7.1 million for the year
ending December 31, 2000, as compared to net cash used in financing activities
of $1.6 million in 1999. The net cash provided by financing activities is
primarily attributable to borrowings on the Company's line of credit of $9.2
million which was partially offset by repayments in respect of the Company's
term loan and line of credit of $1.6 million in the year ended December 31, 2000
as compared to payments of $2.1 million made in the year ended December 31,
1999. The Company also repurchased 206,761 shares of the Company's stock for
$815,000 in 2000. Additionally, cash generated by the issuance of common stock
increased to $257,000 in 2000 from $28,000 in 1999.
In 1997 the Company obtained a credit facility from Comerica
Bank-California ("Comerica"), consisting of a revolving line of credit of up to
$3.0 million in aggregate at any time outstanding and a term loan of $4.0
million. The utilization of the revolving line of credit by HBC was dependent
upon certain levels of eligible accounts receivable and inventory from time to
time. Such revolving line of credit and term loans were secured by substantially
all of HBC's assets, including accounts receivable, inventory, trademarks,
trademark licenses and certain equipment. That facility was subsequently
modified from time to time, and on September 19, 2000, the Company entered into
modification agreement with Comerica which amended certain provisions under the
above facility in order to finance the acquisition of the Blue Sky business,
repay the term loan, and provide additional working capital ("Modification
Agreement"). Pursuant to the Modification Agreement, the revolving line of
credit was increased to $12.0 million, reducing to $6.0 million by September
2004. The revolving line of credit remains in full force and effect through
September 2005. Further, the rate of interest payable by the Company on advances
under the line of credit are based on bank's base (prime) rate, plus an
additional percentage of up to 0.5% or the LIBOR rate, plus an additional
percentage of up to 2.5%, depending upon certain financial ratios of the Company
from time to time.
The initial use of proceeds under the Modification Agreement was to pay
the seller in connection with the acquisition of the Blue Sky business, to repay
the remaining $807,000 balance due under the term loan and to finance working
capital. The Company's outstanding borrowings on the line of credit at December
31, 2000 were $9.2 million.
The credit facility contains financial covenants, which require the
Company to maintain certain financial ratios and achieve certain levels of
annual income. The facility also contains certain non-financial covenants. At
both December 31, 2000 and 1999, respectively, the Company was in compliance
with all covenants.
Management believes that cash available from operations, including cash
resources and the revolving line of credit, will be sufficient for its working
capital needs, including purchase commitments for raw materials, payments of tax
liabilities, debt servicing, expansion and development needs, purchases of
shares of common stock of the Company, as well as any purchases of capital
assets or equipment through December 31, 2001.
Within Europe, the European Economic and Monetary Union (the "EMU")
introduced a new currency, the Euro, on January 1, 1999. The new currency is in
response to the EMU's policy of economic convergence to harmonize trade policy,
eliminate business costs associated with currency exchange and to promote the
free flow of capital, goods and services.
On January 1, 2000, the participating countries adopted the Euro as
their local currency, initially available for currency trading on currency
exchanges and non-cash transactions such as banking. The existing local
currencies, or legacy currencies, will remain legal tender through January 1,
2002. Beginning January 1, 2002, Euro-denominated bills and coins will be used
for cash transactions. For a period of up to six months from this date, both
legacy currencies and the Euro will be legal tender. On or before July 1, 2002,
the participating countries will withdraw all legacy currencies and exclusively
use the Euro.
The Company's transactions are recorded in U.S. Dollars and the Company
does not currently anticipate future transactions being recorded in the Euro.
Based on the lack of transactions recorded in the Euro, the Company does not
believe that the Euro will have a material effect on the financial position,
results of operations or cash flows of the Company. In addition, the Company has
not incurred and does not expect to incur any significant costs from the
continued implementation of the Euro, including any currency risk, which could
materially affect the Company's business, financial condition or results of
The Company has not experienced any significant operational disruptions
to date and does not currently expect the continued implementation of the Euro
to cause any significant operational disruptions.
New Accounting Pronouncements
In June 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued SFAS No.
133, Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, which the
Company is required to adopt effective in its fiscal year 2001. SFAS 133, as
amended, establishes accounting and reporting standards for derivative
instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other
contracts and for hedging activities. Under SFAS 133, certain contracts that
were not formerly considered derivatives may now meet the definition of a
derivative. SFAS No. 133 requires derivatives to be reported as assets or
liabilities at fair value, and is effective for all fiscal years beginning after
June 15, 2000. The Company will adopt SFAS No. 133 effective January 1, 2001.
Management does not expect the adoption of SFAS 133 to have significant impact
on the financial position, results of operations or cash flows of the Company.
In December 1999, the Securities Exchange Commission staff issued Staff
Accounting Bulletin No. 101, Revenue Recognition in Financial Statements ("SAB
No. 101"). SAB No. 101 summarizes certain of the staff's views in applying
accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America to
revenue recognition and accounting for deferred costs in the consolidated
financial statements and is effective no later than the fourth quarter of fiscal
years beginning after December 15, 1999. Based on the Company's current revenue
recognition policy, there was no material impact to the Company's financial
position and consolidated statements of income from the adoption of SAB No. 101.
In accordance with Emerging Issues Task Force No. 00-10, Accounting for
Shipping and Handling Fees and Costs, reimbursements of freight charges are
recorded in net sales in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. For
the years ended December 31, 2000, 1999 and 1998, freight-out costs amounted to
$4.9 million, $4.3 million, and $3.0 million, respectively, have been recorded
in selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying consolidated
statements of income.
Year 2000 Compliance
Prior to January 1, 2000, the Company reviewed the readiness of its
computer systems and business practices for handling Year 2000 issues. Since
entering the Year 2000, the Company has not experienced any major disruptions to
its business nor is it aware of any significant Year 2000 related disruptions
impacting its customers and suppliers.
Cost incurred to achieve Year 2000 readiness, which include any
contractor costs to modify existing systems and costs of internal resources
dedicated to achieving Year 2000 compliance, were changed to expense as incurred
and were not material in 2000.
The Private Security Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the "Act") provides
a safe harbor for forward looking statements made by or on behalf of the
Company. The Company and its representatives may from time to time make written
or oral forward looking statements, including statements contained in this
report and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and in
reports to shareholders and announcements. Certain statements made in this
report, including certain statements made in management's discussion and
analysis, may constitute forward looking statements (within the meaning of
Section 27.A of the Securities Act 1933 as amended and Section 21.E of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) regarding the expectations of
management with respect to revenues, profitability, adequacy of funds from
operations and the Company's existing credit facility, among other things. All
statements which address operating performance, events or developments that
management expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future including
statements related to new products, volume growth, revenues, profitability,
adequacy of funds from operations, and/or the Company's existing credit
facility, earnings per share growth, statements expressing general optimism
about future operating results and non-historical information, are forward
looking statements within the meaning of the Act.
Management cautions that these statements are qualified by their terms
and/or important factors, many of which are outside the control of the Company
that could cause actual results and events to differ materially from the
statements made including, but not limited to, the following:
o Company's ability to generate sufficient cash flows to support capital
expansion plans and general operating activities;
o Changes in consumer preferences;
o Changes in demand that are weather related, particular in areas outside of
California;
o Competitive products and pricing pressures and the Company's ability to
gain or maintain share of sales in the marketplace as a result of actions
by competitors;
o The introduction of new products;
o Laws and regulations, and/or any changes therein, including changes in
accounting standards, taxation requirements (including tax rate changes,
new tax laws and revised tax law interpretations) and environmental laws as
well as the Federal Food Drug and Cosmetic Act, the Dietary Supplement
Health and Education Act, and regulations made thereunder or in connection
therewith, especially those that may affect the way in which the Company's
products are marketed as well as laws and regulations or rules made or
enforced by the Food and Drug Administration and/or the Bureau of Alcohol,
Tobacco and Firearms and/or certain state regulatory agencies;
o Changes in the cost and availability of raw materials and the ability to
maintain favorable supply arrangements and relationships and procure timely
and/or adequate production of all or any of the Company's products;
o The Company's ability to achieve earnings forecasts, which may be based on
projected volumes and sales of many product types and/or new products,
certain of which are more profitable than others and in respect of many
which the Company's experience is limited. There can be no assurance that
the Company will achieve projected levels or mixes of product sales;
o The Company's ability to penetrate new markets;
o The marketing efforts of distributors of the Company's products, most of
which distribute products that are competitive with the products of the
Company;
o Unilateral decisions by distributors, grocery store chains, specialty chain
stores, club stores, mass merchandisers and other customers to discontinue
carrying all or any of the Company's products that they are carrying at any
time;
o The terms and/or availability of the Company's credit facility and the
actions of its creditors;
o The effectiveness of the Company's advertising, marketing and promotional
programs;
o Adverse weather conditions, which could reduce demand for the Company's
products;
o The Company's ability to make suitable arrangements for the co-packing of
its functional drinks in 8.2-ounce slim cans and Smoothies in 11.5-ounce
cans.
The foregoing list of important factors is not exhaustive.
The table set forth below discloses selected quarterly data regarding
sales for the past five years. Data from any one or more quarters is not
necessarily indicative of annual results or continuing trends.
Sales are expressed in actual cases and case equivalents. A case is
o Soda concentrate sold that will yield twenty-four 12-ounce (354-ml) cans
measured by volume.
o Soda cases equal twenty-four 12-ounce cans or 11-ounce (325 ml) bottles,
thirty 12-ounce cans, or twelve 23-ounce (680 ml), twenty four 14-ounce
(414 ml) or twelve 1-liter bottles measured by volume.
o Juice and juice blend cases equal twelve 32-ounce bottles, six 64-ounce
glass bottles, eight 64-ounce P.E.T. bottles, four 128-ounce P.E.T.
bottles, twenty-four or twenty-seven 8.45-ounce (250 ml) tetra-pak boxes or
the equivalent volume.
o Non-carbonated iced tea, lemonade and juice cocktail cases equal
twenty-four 16-ounce (473 ml) or fifteen or twenty 20-ounce (591-ml)
bottles measured by volume.
o Still water cases equal twenty-four 0.5-liter, twelve 1.0-liter and twelve
1.5-liter plastic bottles measured by volume.
o Fruit juice Smoothie cases equals twenty-four 11.5-ounce (340-ml) cans or
twenty-four 16-ounce or 13.5-ounce (400 ml) or 12-ounce bottles or eight
64-ounce P.E.T. bottles measured by volume.
o Functional drink cases equal twenty-four 8.2-ounce (243-ml) cans measured
by volume.
o Healthy Start cases equal twelve 46-ounce (1.36 L), eight 64-ounce P.E.T.
bottles or twenty-four 12-ounce glass bottles measured by volume.
o Hard e cases equal twenty-four 12-ounce bottles, measured by volume.
o Fruit and grain bar cases equal ninety 1.76-ounce bars.
o Natural cereal cases equal twenty 13-ounce boxes measured by volume.
The Company's quarterly results of operations reflect seasonal trends
that are primarily the result of increased demand in the warmer months of the
year. It has been Hansen's experience that beverage sales tend to be lower
during the first and fourth quarters of each fiscal year. Because the primary
historical market for Hansen's products is California, which has a year-long
temperate climate, the effect of seasonal fluctuations on quarterly results may
have been mitigated; however, such fluctuations may be more pronounced as the
distribution of Hansen's products expands outside of California. The Company has
no experience with its food bars, cereal products and Hard e malt based products
and consequently has no knowledge of the trends which may occur with such
products. Quarterly fluctuations may also be affected by other factors including
the introduction of new products, the opening of new markets where temperature
fluctuations are more pronounced, the addition of new bottlers and distributors,
changes in the mix of the sales of its finished products, soda concentrates and
food products and increased advertising and promotional expenses. See also "ITEM
1. BUSINESS - SEASONALITY."
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Case Sales (in Thousands)
2000 1999 1998 1997 1996
----------- ------------ ----------- ------------ ------------
Quarter 1 1,730 1,372 1,237 861 940
Quarter 2 2,331 1,716 1,566 1,383 1,340
Quarter 4 1,985 1,779 1,241 1,234 876
Total 8,284 6,941 5,889 5,126 4,497
=========== ============ =========== ============ ============
Net Revenues (in Thousands)
2000 1999 1998 1997 1996
Quarter 1 $ 15,978 $ 15,229 $ 11,265 $ 7,120 $ 7,365
Quarter 2 22,667 19,142 13,950 11,496 10,394
Quarter 4 18,386 17,441 12,062 11,002 6,989
Total $ 79,733 $ 72,303 $ 53,866 $ 43,057 $ 35,565
The Company does not believe that inflation had a significant impact on
the Company's results of operations for the periods presented.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
The information required to be furnished in response to this item is
submitted hereinafter following the signature page hereto at pages F-1 through
F-19.
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
Directors of the Company are elected annually by the holders of the
common stock and executive officers are elected annually by the Board of
Directors, to serve until the next annual meeting of stockholders or the Board
of Directors, as the case may be, or until their successors are elected and
qualified. It is anticipated that the next annual meeting of stockholders will
be held in September 2001.
Set forth below are the names, ages and principal occupations for the last five
years of the directors and/or executive officers of the Company:
Rodney C. Sacks (51) - Chairman of the Board of Directors of the
Company, Chief Executive Officer and director of the Company from November 1990
to the present. Member of the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors of
the Company since October 1992. Chairman and a director of HBC from June 1992 to
the present. Mr. Sacks resigned from his position as Chief Financial Officer of
the Company in July 1996, which office he had held from November 1990 to July
Hilton H. Schlosberg (48) - Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of
the Company, President, Chief Operating Officer, Secretary, and a director of
the Company from November 1990 to the present. Chief Financial Officer of the
Company since July 1996. Member of the Executive Committee of the Board of
Directors of the Company since October 1992. Member of the Audit Committee of
the Board of Directors from September 1997 to April 2000. Vice Chairman of the
Board of Directors, Secretary and a director of HBC from July 1992 to the
present. Director and/or Deputy Chairman of AAF Industries PLC, a United Kingdom
publicly quoted industrial group, from June 1990 until April 1995.
Benjamin M. Polk (50) - Director of the Company from November 1990 to
the present. Assistant Secretary of HBC since October 1992 and a director of HBC
since July 1992. Member of the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors of the
Company from September 1997 to November 2000. Member of the Compensation
Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company from April 1991 until
September 1997. Partner with Wintson & Strawn (New York, New York) where Mr.
Polk has practiced law with that firm and its predecessors, Whitman Breed Abbott
& Morgan LLP and Whitman & Ransom, from August 1976 to the present. (1)
Norman C. Epstein (60) - Director of the Company and member of the
Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company since June 1992.
Member and Chairman of the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors of the
Company since September 1997. Director of HBC since July 1992. Director of
Integrated Asset Management Limited, a company listed on the London Stock
Exchange since June 1998. Managing Director of Cheval Acceptances, a mortgage
finance company based in London, England. Partner with Moore Stephens, an
international accounting firm, from 1974 to December 1996 (senior partner
beginning 1989 and the managing partner of Moore Stephens, New York from 1993
until 1995).
Harold C. Taber, Jr. (61) - Director of the Company since July 1992.
Member of the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors since April 2000.
Consultant to the Company from July 1, 1997 to June 30, 2000. Consultant to The
Joseph Company from September 1997 to March 1999. President and Chief Executive
Officer and a director of HBC from July 1992 to June 1997. On June 30, 1997, Mr.
Taber resigned from his employment as well as director, President and Chief
Executive Officer of HBC. In addition, effective June 30, 1997, Mr. Taber
resigned as a member of the Executive Committee on which he served since October
Mark S. Vidergauz (47) - Director of the Company and member of the
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Sage Group LLC from April 2000
to present. Managing director at the Los Angeles office of ING Barings LLC, a
diversified financial service institution headquartered in the Netherlands from
April 1995 to April 2000. Prior to joining ING Barings LLC in April 1995, Mr.
Vidergauz was a managing director at Wedbush Morgan Securities, an investment
banking firm in Los Angeles, from 1991 to 1995. Prior to joining Wedbush, Mr.
Vidergauz was a corporate finance attorney in the Los Angeles office of
O'Melveny & Meyers.
1 Mr. Polk and his law firm, Winston & Strawn, serve as counsel to the Company
Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance
Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act requires the Company's directors and
executive officers, and persons who own more than ten percent of a registered
class of the Company's equity securities, to file by specific dates with the SEC
initial reports of ownership and reports of changes in ownership of equity
securities of the Company. Officers, directors and greater than ten percent
stockholders are required by SEC regulation to furnish the Company with copies
of all Section 16(a) forms that they file. The Company is required to report in
this annual report on Form 10-K any failure of its directors and executive
officers and greater than ten percent stockholders to file by the relevant due
date any of these reports during the most recent fiscal year or prior fiscal
To the Company's knowledge, based solely on review of copies of such
reports furnished to the Company during the year ended December 31, 2000, all
Section 16(a) filing requirements applicable to the Company's officers,
directors and greater than ten percent stockholders were in compliance.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The following tables set forth certain information regarding the total
remuneration earned and grants of options/stock appreciation rights ("SARs")
made to the chief executive officer and each of the four most highly compensated
executive officers of the Company and its subsidiaries who earned total cash
compensation in excess of $100,000 during the year ended December 31, 2000.
These amounts reflect total cash compensation paid by the Company and its
subsidiaries to these individuals during the years December 31, 1998 through
SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
ANNUAL COMPENSATION Compensation (4)
----------------------------- ----------- --------------- ----------- ----------------- --------------------
Other Securities
Annual underlying
Name and Principal Bonus (2) Compensation Options/SARs
Positions Year Salary (1)($) ($) ($) (#)
Rodney C. Sacks 2000 194,400 10,000 6,262 (3)
Chairman, CEO 1999 180,000 25,000 6,088 (3) 100,000
and Director 1998 160,000 34,000 1,927,431 (6) 75,000
Hilton H. Schlosberg 2000 194,400 10,000 6,263 (3)
Vice-Chairman, CFO 1999 180,000 25,000 6,088 (3) 100,000
President, Secretary and 1998 160,000 34,000 1,689,972 (7) 75,000
Mark J. Hall 2000 160,000 20,000 8,061 (3)
Sr. Vice President 1999 150,000 40,000 7,551 (3) 30,000
Distributor Division 1998 136,250 65,000 180,982 (8) 120,000
Kirk S. Blower 2000 115,000 4,000 7,316 (3)
Juice Division 1998 111,250 16,800 363,440 (9)
Timothy M. Welch 2000 110,000 3,000 14,202 (10)
Senior Vice President Soda 1999 99,000 12,960 12,310 (10) 72,000
Division 1998
1 SALARY - Pursuant to employment agreement, Mrs. Sacks and Schlosberg are
entitled to an annual base salary of $194,400 and $180,000 for 2000 and 1999
respectively. For 1998, Mrs. Sacks and Schlosberg agreed to a temporary
reduction of their respective salaries to $160,000.
2 BONUS - Payments made in 2001, 2000 and 1999 are for bonuses accrued in 2000,
3 OTHER ANNUAL COMPENSATION - The cash value of perquisites of the named persons
did not total $50,000 or 10% of payments of salary and bonus for the years
shown.
4 LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLAN PAYOUTS - None paid. No plan in place.
5 RESTRICTED STOCK AWARDS - The Company does not have a plan for restricted
stock awards.
6 Includes $1,921,625 representing the dollar value of the difference between
the price paid for common stock of the Company through the exercise of stock
options and the fair market value of the common stock on the date of exercise;
and $5,806 for automobile expense reimbursement.
7 Includes $1,684,125 representing the dollar value of the difference between
and $5,847 for automobile expense reimbursement.
8 Includes $179,660 representing the dollar value of the difference between
9 Includes $362,040 representing the dollar value of the difference between the
price paid for common stock of the Company through the exercise of stock options
and the fair market value of the common stock on the date of exercise; and
$1,400 for automobile expense reimbursement.
10 Includes $6,000 for auto reimbursement expenses and $6,000 for housing
expenses in 2000. Includes $5,500 for auto reimbursement expenses and $5,500 for
housing expenses in 1999.
ALL OTHER COMPENSATION - none paid
OPTION/SAR GRANTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2000
AGGREGATED OPTION/SAR EXERCISES DURING THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31 2000 AND
OPTION/SAR VALUES AT DECEMBER 31, 2000
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Number of Value of unexercised
underlying in-the-money
unexercised options/SARs at
options/SARs at December 31, 2000
December 31, 2000 ($)
--------------------- ------------------------
Shares acquired on Value Exercisable/ Exercisable/
Name exercise (#) Realized ($) Unexercisable Unexercisable
------------------------------- --------------------- --------------------- --------------------- ------------------------
Rodney C. Sacks - - 70,500/67,000 (1) 85,688/0
Hilton H. Schlosberg - - 70,500/67,000 (1) 85,688/0
Mark J. Hall - - 68,000/48,000 (2) 180,820/135,120
Kirk S. Blower - - 2,500/10,000 (3) 0/0
Timothy M. Welch - - 14,400/57,600 (4) 0/0
1 Includes options to purchase 37,500 shares of common stock at $1.59 per share
of which all are exercisable at December 31, 2000, granted pursuant to a Stock
Option Agreement dated January 30, 1998 between the Company and Messrs. Sacks
and Schlosberg, respectively; and options to purchase 100,000 shares of common
stock at $4.25 per share of which 33,000 are exercisable at December 31, 2000,
granted pursuant to Stock Option Agreements dated February 2, 1999 between the
Company and Messrs. Sacks and Schlosberg, respectively.
of which 48,000 are exercisable at December 31, 2000, granted pursuant to a
Stock Option Agreement dated February 10, 1997 between the Company and Mr. Hall;
options to purchase 20,000 shares of common stock at $1.59 per share of which
20,000 are exercisable at December 31, 2000, granted pursuant to a Stock Option
Agreement dated January 30, 1998 between the Company and Mr. Hall.
3 Includes options to purchase 12,500 shares of common stock at $4.25 per share
of which 2,500 are exercisable at December 31, 2000, granted pursuant to a Stock
Option Agreement dated February 2, 1999 between the Company and Mr. Blower.
Stock Option Agreement dated February 1, 1999 between the Company and Mr. Welch.
Performance Graph
The following graph shows a five-year comparison of cumulative total
returns: (1)
TOTAL SHAREHOLDER RETURNS
ANNUAL RETURN PERCENTAGE
For the years ended December 31,
Company Name/Index 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000
---------------------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
HANSEN NAT CORP 54.59 70.62 196.63 (19.78) (10.13)
S&P SMALLCAP 600 INDEX 21.32 25.58 (1.31) 12.40 11.80
PEER GROUP 49.88 34.05 (43.03) 9.99 17.78
INDEXED RETURNS
Company Name/Index 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000
---------------------- ------ -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
HANSEN NAT CORP 100 154.59 263.76 782.39 627.66 564.05
S&P SMALLCAP 600 INDEX 100 121.32 152.36 150.37 169.02 188.96
PEER GROUP 100 149.88 200.91 114.46 125.90 148.28
1 Annual return assumes reinvestment of dividends. Cumulative total return
assumes an initial investment of $100 on December 31, 1995. The Company's
self-selected peer group is comprised of Saratoga Beverage Group, National
Beverage Corporation, Clearly Canadian Beverage Company, Triarc Companies, Inc.,
Leading Brands, Inc. and Northland Cranberries. All of the companies in the peer
group traded during the entire five-year period with the exception of Saratoga
Beverage Group, which traded through 1999, and Triarc Companies, Inc., which
sold their beverage business in October 2000.
The Company entered into an employment agreement dated as of January 1,
1999, with Rodney C. Sacks pursuant to which Mr. Sacks renders services to the
Company as its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer for an annual base salary of
$180,000, for the twelve-month period ended December 31, 1999, increasing by a
minimum of 8% for each subsequent twelve-month period during the employment
period, plus an annual bonus in an amount determined at the discretion of the
Board of Directors and certain fringe benefits. The employment period commenced
on January 1, 1999 and ends on December 31, 2003.
The Company also entered into an employment agreement dated as of
January 1, 1999, with Hilton H. Schlosberg pursuant to which Mr. Schlosberg
renders services to the Company as its Vice Chairman, President, Chief Operating
Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Secretary for an annual base salary of
The preceding descriptions of the employment agreements for Messrs.
Sacks and Schlosberg are qualified in their entirety by reference to such
agreements which have been filed or incorporated by reference as exhibits to
Directors' Compensation
The Company's current policy is to pay outside directors (non-executive
officers) who are not contractually entitled to be nominated to serve as
directors, annual fees of $7,000 plus $500 for each meeting attended of the
Board of Directors or any committee thereof. Norman E. Epstein, Benjamin M. Polk
and Harold C. Taber, Jr. earned director's fees of $8,000 and Mark S. Vidergauz
earned director's fees of $7,500 for the one-year period ended December 31,
Employee Stock Option Plan
The Company has a stock option plan (the "Plan") that provides for the
grant of options to purchase up to 3,000,000 shares of the common stock of the
Company to certain key employees of the Company and its subsidiaries. Options
granted under the Plan may either be incentive stock options qualified under
Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended or non-qualified
options. Such options are exercisable at fair market value on the date of grant
for a period of up to ten years. Under the Plan, shares subject to options may
be purchased for cash, for shares of common stock valued at fair market value on
the date of purchase or in consideration of the cancellation of options valued
at the difference between the exercise price thereof and the fair market value
of the common stock on the date of exercise. The Plan is administered by the
Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company, comprised of
directors who have not received grants of options under the Plan. Grants under
the Plan are made pursuant to individual agreements between the Company and each
grantee that specifies the terms of the grant, including the exercise price,
exercise period, vesting and other terms thereof.
Outside Directors Stock Option Plan
The Company has an option plan for its outside directors (the
"Directors Plan") that provides for the grant of options to purchase up to an
aggregate of 100,000 shares of common stock of the Company to directors of the
Company who are not and have not been employed by or acted as consultants to the
Company and its subsidiaries or affiliates and who are not and have not been
nominated to the Board of Directors of the Company pursuant to a contractual
arrangement. On the date of the annual meeting of stockholders at which an
eligible director is initially elected, each eligible director is entitled to
receive a one-time grant of an option to purchase 6,000 shares (12,000 shares if
the director is serving on a committee of the Board) of the Company's Common
Stock exercisable at the closing price for a share of common stock on the date
of grant. Options become exercisable one-third each on the first, second and
third anniversary of the date of grant; provided, however, that options granted
as of February 14, 1995 are exercisable 66 2/3% on the date of grant and 100% on
July 8, 1995; provided further, that all options held by an eligible director
become fully and immediately exercisable upon a change in control of the
Company. Options granted under the Directors Plan that are not exercised
generally expire ten years after the date of grant. Option grants may be made
under the Directors Plan for ten years from the effective date of the Directors
Plan. The Directors Plan is a "formula plan" so that a non-employee director's
participation in the Directors Plan does not affect his status as a
"disinterested person" (as defined in Rule 16b-3 under the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934).
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND
(a) The following table sets forth information, as of March 2,
2001, of the only persons known to the Company who
beneficially own more than 5% of the outstanding common stock
of the Company:
Title Name and Address of Amount and Nature of Percent
Of Class Beneficial Owner Beneficial Ownership of Class
-------------- ---------------------------- ------------------------ -----------
Common Stock Brandon Limited
Partnership No. 1 (1) 654,822 6.5%
Brandon Limited
Partnership No. 2 (2) 2,831,667 28.2%
Rodney C. Sacks (3) 3,967,989 (4) 39.1%
Hilton H. Schlosberg (5) 3,929,086 (6) 38.8%
1 The mailing address of Brandon No.1 is P.O. Box 30749, Seven Mile Beach, Grand
Cayman, British West Indies. The general partners of Brandon No. 1 are Rodney C.
Sacks and Hilton H. Schlosberg.
2 The mailing address of Brandon No. 2 is P.O. Box 30749, Seven Mile Beach,
Grand Cayman, British West Indies. The general partners of Brandon No. 2 are
Rodney C. Sacks and Hilton H. Schlosberg.
3 The mailing address of Mr. Sacks is 1010 Railroad Street, Corona, California
4 Includes 387,500 shares of common stock owned by Mr. Sacks; 654,822 shares
beneficially held by Brandon No. 1 because Mr. Sacks is one of Brandon No. 1's
general partners; and 2,831,667 shares beneficially held by Brandon No. 2
because Mr. Sacks is one of Brandon No. 2's general partners. Also includes
options to purchase 37,500 shares of common stock exercisable at $1.59 per share
granted pursuant to a Stock Option Agreement dated January 30, 1998; and options
presently exercisable to purchase 56,500 shares of common stock, out of options
to purchase a total of 100,000 shares, exercisable at $4.25 per share, granted
pursuant to a Stock Option Agreement dated February 2, 1999 between the Company
and Mr. Sacks.
Mr. Sacks disclaims beneficial ownership of all shares deemed beneficially
owned by him hereunder except: (i) 387,500 shares of common stock; (ii) the
94,000 shares presently exercisable under Stock Option Agreements; (iii) 243,546
shares held by Brandon No. 1 allocable to the limited partnership interests in
Brandon No. 1 held by Mr. Sacks, his children and a trust for the benefit of his
children; and (iv) 250,000 shares held by Brandon No. 2 allocable to the limited
partnership interests in Brandon No. 2 held by Mr. Sacks, his children and a
trust for the benefit of his children.
5 The mailing address of Mr. Schlosberg is 1010 Railroad Street, Corona,
California 92882.
6 Includes 348,597 shares of common stock owned by Mr. Schlosberg, of which
2,000 shares are jointly owned by Mr. Schlosberg and his wife, 654,822 shares
beneficially held by Brandon No. 1 because Mr. Schlosberg is one of Brandon No.
1's general partners; and 2,831,667 shares beneficially held by Brandon No. 2
because Mr. Schlosberg is one of Brandon No. 2's general partners. Also includes
granted pursuant to a Stock Option Agreement dated January 30, 1998 between the
Company and Mr. Schlosberg; and options presently exercisable to purchase 56,500
shares of common stock, out of options to purchase a total of 100,000 shares,
exercisable at $4.25 per share, granted pursuant to a Stock Option Agreement
dated February 2, 1999 between the Company and Mr. Schlosberg.
Mr. Schlosberg disclaims beneficial ownership of all shares deemed beneficially
owned by him hereunder except: (i) 348,597 shares of common stock, (ii) the
Brandon No. 1 held by Mr. Schlosberg and his children; and (iv) 250,000 shares
held by Brandon No. 2 allocable to the limited partnership interests in Brandon
No. 2 held by Mr. Schlosberg and his children.
(b) The following table sets forth information as to the ownership
of shares of common stock, as of March 2, 2001, held by
persons who are directors of the Company, naming them, and as
to directors and officers of the Company as a group, without
naming them:
Title of Class Name Amount Owned Percent of Class
---------------- ------------------------ ------------------ -------------------
Common Stock Rodney C. Sacks 3,967,989 (1) 39.1%
Hilton H. Schlosberg 3,929,086 (2) 38.8%
Harold C. Taber, Jr. 107,419 (3) 1.1%
Mark S. Vidergauz 8,000 (4) * %
Officers and Directors as a group (6 members: 4,526,005 shares or 44.1% in
aggregate)
*Less than 1%
Mr. Sacks disclaims beneficial ownership of all shares deemed beneficially
share held by Brandon No. 1 allocable to the limited partnership interests in
2,000 shares are owned jointly by Mr. Schlosberg and his wife; 654,822 shares
Mr. Schlosberg disclaims beneficial ownership of all shares deemed beneficially
3 Includes 71,137 shares of common stock owned by Mr. Taber; and 36,281.7 shares
of common stock owned by the Taber Family Trust of which Mr. Taber and his wife
are trustees.
4 Includes options presently exercisable to purchase 8,000 shares of common
stock, out of options to purchase a total of 12,000 shares, exercisable at $3.72
per share, granted under a Stock Option Agreement with the Company dated as of
June 18, 1998 pursuant to the Directors Plan.
There are no arrangements known to the Company, the operation of which,
may at a subsequent date result in a change of control of the Company.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
Benjamin M. Polk is a partner in the law firm of Winston & Strawn, a
law firm (together with its predecessors) that has been retained by the Company
Rodney C. Sacks is current acting as the sole Trustee of a trust formed
pursuant to an Agreement of Trust dated July 27, 1992 for the purpose of holding
the Hansen's (R) trademark. The Company and HBC have agreed to indemnify Mr.
Sacks and hold him harmless from any claims, loss or liability arising out of
his acting as Trustee.
During 2000, the Company purchased promotional items from IFM Group,
Inc. ("IFM"). Rodney C. Sacks, together with members of his family, own
approximately 27% of the issued shares in IFM. Hilton H. Schlosberg, together
with members of his family, own approximately 43% of the issued shares in IFM.
Purchases from IFM of promotional items in 2000, 1999 and 1998 were $115,520,
$121,289 and $151,393, respectively. The Company continues to purchase
promotional items from IFM Group, Inc. in 2001.
The preceding descriptions of agreements are qualified in their
entirety by reference to such agreements, which have been filed as exhibits to
ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES AND REPORTS ON
(a) 1. Exhibits
See the Index to Exhibits included hereinafter.
2. Index to Financial Statements filed as part of this Report
Independent Auditors' Report F-2
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2000 and 1999 F-3
Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended
December 31, 2000, 1999 and 1998 F-4
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity for the
years ended December 31, 2000, 1999 and 1998 F-5
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for the years
ended December 31, 2000, 1999 and 1998 F-8
(b) Financial Statement Schedules
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts for the years ended
December 31, 2000, 1999 and 1998 F-19
(c) Reports on Form 8-K
Pursuant to the requirements of Sections 13 and 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on
its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
By: /s/ Rodney C. Sacks Date: March 30, 2001
Rodney C. Sacks
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,
this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the
Registrant in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
Signature Title Date
/s/ RODNEY C. SACKS Chairman of the Board of Directors March 30, 2001
-------------------------- and Chief Executive Officer
Rodney C. Sacks (Principal Executive Officer)
/s/ HILTON H. SCHLOSBERG Vice Chairman of the Board of March 30, 2001
-------------------------- Directors, President, Chief
Hilton H. Schlosberg Operating Officer, Chief Financial
Officer and Secretary
/s/ BENJAMIN M. POLK Director March 30, 2001
Benjamin M. Polk
/s/ NORMAN C. EPSTEIN Director March 30, 2001
Norman C. Epstein
/s/ HAROLD C. TABER, JR. Director March 30, 2001
Harold C. Taber, Jr.
/s/ MARK S. VIDERGAUZ Director March 30, 2001
Mark S. Vidergauz
INDEX TO EXHIBITS
The following designated exhibits, as indicated below, are either filed
herewith or have heretofore been filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission under the Securities Act of 1933 or the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 as indicated by footnote.
<S> <C>
----------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Exhibit No. Document Description
2.1 Asset Purchase Agreement among Blue Sky Natural Beverage Co., a Delaware Corporation, as
Purchaser and Blue Sky Natural Beverage Co., a New Mexico Corporation as Seller and
Robert Black dated as of September 20, 2000.19
----------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3(a) Certificate of Incorporation. 1
3(b) Amendment to Certificate of Incorporation dated October 21, 1992. 2
3(c) By-Laws. 2
10(c) Asset Purchase Agreement dated June 8, 1992 ("Asset Purchase Agreement"), by and among
Unipac Corporation ("Unipac"), Hansen Beverage Company ("Hansen"), California Co-Packers
Corporation ("Co-Packers"), South Pacific Beverages, Ltd. ("SPB"), Harold C. Taber, Jr.
("Taber"), Raimana Martin ("R. Martin"), Charles Martin ("C. Martin"), and Marcus I.
Bender ("Bender"), and with respect to certain provisions, ERLY Industries, Inc.
("ERLY"), Bender Consulting Incorporated ("Bender Consulting") and Black Pearl
International, Ltd. ("Blank Pear"). 2
10(d) First Amendment to Asset Purchase Agreement dated as of July 10, 1992. 2
10(e) Second Amendment to Asset Purchase Agreement dated as of July 16, 1992. 2
10(f) Third Amendment to Asset Purchase Agreement dated as of July 17, 1992. 2
10(g) Fourth Amendment to Asset Purchase Agreement dated as of July 24, 1992. 2
10(h) Subordinated Secured Promissory Note of Hansen in favor of ERLY dated July 27, 1992 in
the principal amount of $4,000,000. 2
10(i) Security Agreement dated July 27, 1992 by and between Hansen and ERLY. 2
10(j) Stock Option Agreement by and between SPB and Unipac dated July 27, 1992 for an option
price of $4.75 per share. 2
10(k) Stock Option Agreement by and between Taber and Unipac dated July 27, 1992 for an option
10(l) Stock Option Agreement by and between Co-Packers and Unipac dated July 27, 1992 for an
option price of $4.75 per share. 2
10(n) Stock Option Agreement by and between SPB and Unipac dated July 27, 1992 for an option
10(o) Stock Option Agreement by and between Co-Packers and Unipac dated July 27, 1992 for an
10(p) Assignment Agreement re: Trademarks by and between Hansen's Juices, Inc. ("FJC"), and
Hansen, dated July 27, 1992. 8
10(q) Assignment of Trademarks dated July 27, 1992 by FJC to Gary Hansen, Anthony Kane and
Burton S. Rosky, as trustees under that certain trust agreement dated July 27, 1992 (the
"Trust"). 8
10(r) Assignment of License by Co-Packers to Hansen dated as of July 27, 1992. 8
10(s) Employment Agreement between Hansen and Taber dated as of July 27, 1992. 3
10(t) Consulting Agreement by and between Hansen and Black Pearl dated July 27, 1992. 3
10(u) Consulting Agreement by and between Hansen and C. Martin dated July 27, 1992. 3
10(w) Registration Rights Agreement by and among Unipac, SPB, Co-Packers, Taber, Wedbush Morgan
Securities ("Wedbush"), Rodney C. Sacks, and Hilton H. Schlosberg, dated July 27, 1992. 3
10(z) Soda Side Letter Agreement dated June 8, 1992 by and among Unipac, Hansen, SPB, Black
Pearl, Tahiti Beverages, S.A.R.L., R. Martin and C. Martin. 4
10(bb) Hansen/Taber Agreement dated July 27, 1992 by and among Hansen and Taber. 8
10(cc) Other Beverage License Agreement dated July 27, 1992 by and between Hansen and the Trust.
10(dd) Non-Beverage License Agreement dated July 27, 1992 by and between Hansen and the Trust. 8
10(ee) Agreement of Trust dated July 27, 1992 by and among FJC and Hansen and Gary Hansen,
Anthony Kane and Burton S. Rosky. 8
10(ff) Carbonated Beverage License Agreement dated July 27, 1992 by and between Hansen and the
Trust. 8
10(gg) Royalty Sharing Agreement dated July 27, 1992 by and between Hansen and the Trust. 8
10(hh) Fresh Juices License Agreement dated as of July 27, 1992 by and between Hansen and the
10(ii) Incentive Stock Option Agreement dated July 27, 1992 by and between Unipac and Taber at
the option price of $2.00 per share. 2
10(jj) Co-Packing Agreement dated November 24, 1992 by and between Tropicana Products Sales,
Inc. and Hansen. 4
10(kk) Office Lease, dated December 16, 1992 by and between Lest C. Smull as Trustee, and his
Successors under Declaration of Trust for the Smull family, dated December 7, 1984, and
Hansen. 5
10(ll) Stock Option Agreement dated as of June 15, 1992 by and between Unipac and Rodney C.
Sacks. 5
10(mm) Stock Option Agreement dated as of June 15, 1992 by and between Unipac and Hilton H.
Schlosberg. 5
10(nn) Stock Option Agreement dated as of February 14, 1995 between Hansen Natural Corporation
and Benjamin M. Polk. 7
10(oo) Stock Option Agreement dated as of February 14, 1995 between Hansen Natural Corporation
and Norman C. Epstein. 7
10(pp) Employment Agreement dated as of January 1, 1994 between Hansen Natural Corporation and
Hilton H. Schlosberg. 6
10(qq) Employment Agreement dated as of January 1, 1994 between Hansen Natural Corporation and
Rodney C. Sacks. 6
10(rr) Stock Option Agreement dated as of July 3, 1995 between Hansen Natural Corporation and
Rodney C. Sacks. 8
10(ss) Stock Option Agreement dated as of July 3, 1995 between Hansen Natural Corporation and
10(tt) Stock Option Agreement dated as of June 30, 1995 between Hansen Natural Corporation and
Harold C. Taber, Jr. 8
10(uu) Standard Industrial Lease Agreement dated as of April 25, 1997 between Hansen Beverage
Company and 27 Railroad Partnership L.P. 9
10(vv) Sublease Agreement dated as of April 25, 1997 between Hansen Beverage Company and U.S.
Continental Packaging, Inc. 9
10(ww) Packaging Agreement dated April 14, 1997 between Hansen Beverage Company and U.S.
Continental Packaging, Inc. 10
10(xx) Revolving Credit Loan and Security Agreement dated May 15, 1997 between Comerica Bank -
California and Hansen Beverage Company. 10
10(yy) Severance and Consulting Agreement dated as of June 20, 1997 by and among Hansen Beverage
Company, Hansen Natural Corporation and Harold C. Taber, Jr. 10
10(zz) Stock Option Agreement dated as of June 20, 1997 by and between Hansen Natural
Corporation and Harold C. Taber, Jr. 10
10 (aaa) Variable Rate Installment Note dated October 14, 1997 between Comerica Bank - California
and Hansen Beverage Company. 10
10 (bbb) Stock Option Agreement dated as of January 30, 1998 by and between Hansen Natural
Corporation and Rodney C. Sacks.11
10 (ccc) Stock Option Agreement dated as of January 30, 1998 by and between Hansen Natural
Corporation and Hilton S. Schlosberg.11
10 (ddd) Warrant Agreement made as of April 23, 1998 by and between Hansen Natural Corporation
and Rick Dees.12
10 (eee) Modification to Revolving Credit Loan and Security Agreement as of December 31, 1998 by
and between Hansen Beverage Company and Comerica Bank - California.13
10 (fff) Employment Agreement as of January 1, 2000 by and between Hansen Natural Corporation and
Rodney C. Sacks.13
10 (ggg) Employment Agreement as of January 1, 2000 by and between Hansen Natural Corporation and
Hilton S. Schlosberg.13
10 (hhh) Stock Option Agreement dated as of February 2, 2000 by and between Hansen Natural
10 (iii) Stock Option Agreement dated as of February 2, 2000 by and between Hansen Natural
10 (jjj) Stock Repurchase Agreement dated as of August 3, 1998, by and between Hansen Natural
10 (kkk) Stock Repurchase Agreement dated as of August 3, 1998, by and between Hansen Natural
Corporation and Hilton H. Schlosberg.14
10 (lll) Assignment and Agreement dated as of September 22, 2000 by the Fresh Juice Company of
California, Inc. and Hansen Beverage Company. 15
10 (mmm) Settlement Agreement dated as of September 2000 by and between and among Rodney C. Sacks,
as sole Trustee of The Hansen's Trust and Hansen Beverage Company The Fresh Juice Company
of California, Inc. 15
10 (nnn) Trademark Assignment dated as of September 24, 2000 by and between The Fresh Juice
Company of California, Inc. (Assignor) and Rodney C. Sacks as sole Trustee of The
Hansen's Trust (Assignee). 15
10 (ooo) Settlement Agreement dated as of September 3, 2000 by and between The Fresh Juice Company
of California, Inc., The Fresh Smoothie Company, LLC, Barry Lublin, Hansen's Juice
Creations, LLC, Harvey Laderman and Hansen Beverage Company and Rodney C. Sacks, as
Trustee of The Hansen's Trust. 15
10 (ppp) Royalty Agreement dated as of April 26, 1996 by and between Hansen's Juices, Inc. and
Hansen's Juice Creations, Limited Liability Company. 15
10 (qqq) Royalty Agreement dated as of April 26, 2000 by and between Gary Hansen, Anthony Kane and
Burton S. Rosky, as trustees of Hansen's Trust and Hansen's Juice Creations, a limited
liability company. 15
10 (rrr) Letter Agreement dated May 14, 1996. 15
10 (sss) Amendment to Royalty Agreement as of May 9, 1997 by and between The Fresh Juice Company
of California and Hansen's Juice Creations, Limited Liability Company. 15
10 (ttt) Assignment of License Agreements dated as of February 2000 by Hansen's Juice Creations,
LLC (Assignor) to Fresh Smoothie, LLC (Assignee). 15
10 (uuu) Amendment to Revolving Credit Loan and Security Agreement between Comerica Bank -
California and Hansen Beverage Company dated March 28, 2000. 16
10 (vvv) Endorsement and Spokesman Arrangement dated as of February 18, 2000 by and between Hansen
Beverage Company and Sammy Sosa. 16
10 (www) Standard Industrial Lease Agreement dated as of February 23, 2000 between Hansen Beverage
Company and 43 Railroad Partnership L.P. 16
10 (xxx) Amended and Restated Variable Rate Installment Note by and between Comerica Bank -
10 (yyy) Sixth Modification to Revolving Credit Loan & Security Agreement by and between Hansen
Beverage Company and Comerica Bank - California, dated May 23, 2000. 18
10 (zzz) Contract Brewing agreement by and between Hard e Beverage Company and Reflo, Inc. dated
March 23, 2000. 18
10.1 Modification dated as of September 19, 2000, to Revolving Credit Loan and Security
Agreement by and between Hansen Beverage Company and Comerica Bank California. 19
21 Subsidiaries 5
23 Independent Auditors' Consent
27 Financial Data Schedule
99.1 Audited Financial Statements of Blue Sky Natural Beverage Co., a New Mexico corporation
("BSNB-NM") for 1999 and 1998. 20
99.2 Unaudited Balance Sheet at September 30, 2000 for BSNB-NM and Unaudited Statement of
Operations for the nine-months then ended. 20
1 Filed previously as an exhibit to the Registration Statement on Form S-3
(no. 33-35796) (the "Registration Statement").
2 Filed previously as an exhibit to the Company's proxy statement dated
October 21, 1992.
3 Filed previously as an exhibit to Form 8-K dated July 27, 1992.
4 Filed previously as an exhibit to Post-Effective Amendment No. 8 to the
Registration Statement.
5 Filed previously as an exhibit to Form 10-KSB for the year ended
December 31, 1992.
8 Filed previously as an exhibit to Form 10-K for the year ended
9 Filed previously as an exhibit to Form 10-Q for the period ended
10 Filed previously as an exhibit to Form 10-Q for the period ended
September 30, 1997.
11 Filed previously as an exhibit to Form 10-Q for the period ended
12 Filed previously as an exhibit to Form 10-Q for the period ended
13 Filed previously as an exhibit to Form 10-K for the year ended
14 Filed previously as an exhibit to Form 10-Q for the period ended
16 Filed previously as an exhibit to Form 10-K for the year ended
19 Filed previously as an exhibit to Form 8-K dated September 20, 2000.
20 Filed previously as an exhibit to Form 8-K/A dated September 20, 2000.
INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE
HANSEN NATURAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Independent Auditors' Report F-2
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2000 and 1999 F-3
December 31, 2000, 1999 and 1998 F-4
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity for the years
ended December 31, 2000, 1999 and 1998 F-5
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for the years ended
December 31, 2000, 1999 and 1998 F-19
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
The Board of Directors and Shareholders
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Hansen Natural
Corporation and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of December 31, 2000 and 1999,
and the related consolidated statements of income, shareholders' equity and cash
flows for the years ended December 31, 2000, 1999 and 1998. Our audits also
included the financial statement schedule listed in Item 14. These consolidated
financial statements and financial statement schedule are the responsibility of
the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these
consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule based on our
audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted
in the United States of America. Those standards require that we plan and
perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial
statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a
test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial
statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and
significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall
financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a
reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all
material respects, the financial position of Hansen Natural Corporation and
subsidiaries as of December 31, 2000 and 1999, and the consolidated results of
its operations and cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2000, 1999 and
1998 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United
States of America. Also, in our opinion, such financial statement schedule, when
considered in relation to the consolidated financial statements taken as a
whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth
therein.
/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2000 AND 1999
<S> <C> <C>
2000 1999
-------- --------
Cash and cash equivalents $ 130,665 $ 2,009,155
Accounts receivable (net of allowance for doubtful
accounts, sales returns and cash discounts of $486,462
in 2000 and $415,305 in 1999 and promotional allowances
of $2,583,088 in 2000 and $1,651,604 in 1999) 6,584,486 3,751,258
Inventories, net (Note 3) 10,907,895 9,894,414
Prepaid expenses and other current assets (Note 4) 823,387 553,689
Deferred income tax asset (Note 8) 881,618 743,364
----------------- -----------------
Total current assets 19,328,051 16,951,880
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, net (Note 5) 1,863,044 504,191
INTANGIBLE AND OTHER ASSETS:
Trademark license and trademarks (net of accumulated amortization
of $3,366,358 in 2000 and $2,995,285 in 1999) 16,887,914 10,768,493
Deposits and other assets 665,731 484,388
17,553,645 11,252,881
$ 38,744,740 $ 28,708,952
================= =================
Accounts payable $ 3,681,956 $ 5,936,873
Accrued liabilities 607,443 345,794
Accrued compensation 281,629 462,285
Current portion of long-term debt (Note 6) 234,655 863,501
Income taxes payable (Note 8) 878,266 346,636
Total current liabilities 5,683,949 7,955,089
LONG-TERM DEBT, less current portion (Note 6) 9,731,956 902,716
DEFERRED INCOME TAX LIABILITY (Note 8) 1,274,139 1,225,271
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note 7)
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY: (Note 9)
Common stock - $0.005 par value; 30,000,000 shares
authorized; 10,148,882 shares issued, 9,942,121 outstanding
in 2000; 10,010,084 issued and outstanding in 1999 50,744 50,050
Additional paid-in capital 11,667,619 11,340,074
Retained earnings 11,150,878 7,235,752
Common stock in treasury, at cost; 206,761 and 0 shares
in 2000 and 1999, respectively (814,545)
Total shareholders' equity 22,054,696 18,625,876
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2000, 1999 AND 1998
<S> <C> <C> <C>
2000 1999 1998
-------- -------- --------
NET SALES $ 79,732,709 $ 72,303,186 $ 53,866,294
COST OF SALES 42,646,677 38,776,532 27,332,028
-------------------- -------------------- --------------------
GROSS PROFIT 37,086,032 33,526,654 26,534,266
Selling, general and administrative 29,814,609 25,337,374 20,217,818
Amortization of trademark license and trademarks 371,073 307,823 296,584
Other operating expenses 380,378 60,000
Total operating expenses 30,185,682 26,025,575 20,574,402
OPERATING INCOME 6,900,350 7,501,079 5,959,864
NONOPERATING EXPENSE (INCOME):
Interest and financing expense 382,152 170,506 387,446
Interest income (12,914) (118,413) (72,352)
Other nonoperating expense 14,719
Net nonoperating expense 369,238 52,093 329,813
INCOME BEFORE PROVISION
FOR INCOME TAXES 6,531,112 7,448,986 5,630,051
PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES (Note 8) 2,615,986 2,971,118 2,066,922
NET INCOME $ 3,915,126 $ 4,477,868 $ 3,563,129
==================== ==================== ====================
NET INCOME PER COMMON SHARE:
Basic $ 0.39 $ 0.45 $ 0.38
Diluted $ 0.38 $ 0.43 $ 0.34
NUMBER OF COMMON SHARES USED
IN PER SHARE COMPUTATIONS:
Basic 9,957,743 9,964,778 9,386,688
Diluted 10,405,703 10,510,604 10,430,727
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Retained
Additional earnings Total
Common stock paid-in (accumulated Treasury stock shareholders'
------------------------ -------------------------
Shares Amount capital deficit) Shares Amount equity
------------ ---------- -------------- -------------- ----------- ------------ -----------------
January 1, 1998 9,130,869 $ 45,654 $ 10,858,315 $ (943,190) - $ - $ 9,960,779
Issuance of common stock 781,036 3,906 72,051 75,957
Compensation expense related
to issuance of nonqualified
stock options 64,919 64,919
Reduction of tax liability in
connection with the exercise
of certain stock options 277,399 277,399
Net income 3,563,129 3,563,129
------------ ---------- -------------- --------------- ----------- ------------ -----------------
December 31, 1998 9,911,905 49,560 11,207,765 2,684,858 - - 13,942,183
Issuance of common stock 98,179 490 38,331 38,821
Compensation expense related to
issuance of nonqualified
stock options 73,026 73,026
of certain stock options 93,978 93,978
December 31, 1999 10,010,084 50,050 11,340,074 7,235,752 - - 18,625,876
Issuance of common stock 138,798 694 255,945 256,639
Purchase of treasury stock (206,761) (814,545) (814,545)
December 31, 2000 10,148,882 $ 50,744 $ 11,667,619 $ 11,150,878 (206,761) $(814,545) $ 22,054,696
============ ========== ============== =============== =========== ============ =================
<S> <C> <C> <C>
2000 1999 1998
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income $ 3,915,126 $ 4,477,868 $ 3,563,129
Adjustments to reconcile net income to
net cash (used in) provided by operating activities:
Amortization of trademark license and trademarks 371,073 307,824 296,584
Depreciation and other amortization 314,662 258,343 246,494
Loss on disposal of plant and equipment 52,786 15,569 317
Compensation expense related to issuance of stock options - 73,026 64,919
Deferred income taxes (89,386) (75,554) 557,461
Effect on cash of changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable (2,833,228) (1,912,674) (285,813)
Inventories (1,013,481) (4,683,337) (1,295,094)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets (269,698) (309,371) (29,850)
Accounts payable (2,254,917) 4,066,620 (324,947)
Accrued liabilities 261,649 (58,070) (84,943)
Accrued compensation (180,656) (13,716) 153,887
Income taxes payable 603,230 (828,571) 1,508,784
---------------- ---------------- ----------------
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities (1,122,840) 1,317,957 4,370,928
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchases of property and equipment (1,191,762) (258,543) (435,838)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment 12,433 81,963
Increase in trademark license and trademarks (6,490,494) (1,072,900) (91,885)
Decrease in note receivable from director 20,861 39,391
Increase in deposits and other assets (181,343) (272,485) (26,821)
Net cash used in investing activities (7,851,166) (1,501,104) (515,153)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Borrowings on long-term debt 9,204,471 431,250
Principal payments on long-term debt (1,551,049) (2,072,818) (520,874)
Issuance of common stock 256,639 27,781 75,957
Purchases of common stock, held in treasury (814,545)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 7,095,516 (1,613,787) (444,917)
NET (DECREASE) INCREASE IN CASH (1,878,490) (1,796,934) 3,410,858
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, beginning of year 2,009,155 3,806,089 395,231
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, end of year $ 130,665 $ 2,009,155 $ 3,806,089
================ ================ ================
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Cash paid during the year for:
Interest $ 315,876 $ 184,891 $ 372,256
Income taxes $ 2,067,337 $ 3,908,586 $ 2,400
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (CONTINUED)
NONCASH TRANSACTIONS:
During 2000, the Company entered into capital leases of $546,972 for the
acquisition of promotional vehicles.
During 2000, the Company reduced its tax liability and increased
additional paid-in capital in the amount of $71,600 in connection with
the exercise of certain stock options.
During 2000, the Company issued 15,360 shares of common stock to employees
in connection with a net exercise of options to purchase 23,327 shares
of common stock.
During 2000, the Company issued 7,786 shares of common stock to a director
During 2000, the Company issued 5,652 shares of common stock to a
non-employee in connection with a net exercise of options to purchase
10,000 shares of common stock.
During 1999, the Company reduced its tax liability and increased
During 1999, the Company issued 8,000 shares of common stock to an
employee in connection with the execution of a note receivable in the
amount of $11,040.
additional paid-in capital in the amount of $277,399 in connection
with the exercise of certain stock options.
During 1998, the Company issued 554,732 shares of common stock to two
officers in connection with a net exercise of options to purchase
725,000 shares of common stock.
During 1998, the Company issued 138,900 shares of common stock to
employees in connection with the net exercise of options to purchase
During 1998, the Company issued 71,137 shares of common stock to a
non-employee in connection with a net exercise of options to purchase
1. ORGANIZATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Organization - Hansen Natural Corporation (the "Company" or "Hansen")
was incorporated in Delaware on April 25, 1990. The Company is a
holding company and carries on no operating business except through its
direct wholly-owned subsidiaries, Hansen Beverage Company ("HBC") which
was incorporated in Delaware on June 8, 1992 and Hard e Beverage
Company ("HEB") formerly known as Hard Energy Company, and previously
known as CVI Ventures, Inc., which was incorporated in Delaware on
April 30, 1990. HBC conducts the vast majority of the Company's
operating business and generates substantially all of the Company's
operating revenues. During the third quarter of 2000, the Company,
through HEB, introduced a malt-based drink called Hard e which contains
up to five-percent alcohol. The Hard e product is not marketed under
the Hansen's name. References herein to "Hansen" or the "Company" when
used to describe the operating business of the Company are references
to the business of HBC unless otherwise indicated and references herein
to HEB when used to describe the operating business of HEB, are
references to the Hard e brand business of HEB unless otherwise
Beverage Co. ("Blue Sky"), which was incorporated in Delaware on
September 8, 2000, acquired full ownership of and operates the natural
soda business previously conducted by Blue Sky Natural Beverage Co., a
New Mexico corporation ("BSNBC"), under the Blue Sky(R) trademark (Note
Nature of Operations - Hansen is engaged in the business of marketing,
selling and distributing so-called "alternative" beverage category
natural sodas, fruit juices, fruit juice Smoothies, "functional
drinks", non-carbonated ready-to-drink iced teas, lemonades and juice
cocktails, children's multi-vitamin juice products and still water
under the Hansen's(R) brand name as well as nutritional bars and
cereals also under the Hansen's(R) brand name, natural sodas under the
Blue Sky(R) brand name and malt based drinks under the Hard e brand
name, primarily in certain Western states as well as in other states
and, on a limited basis, in other countries outside the United States.
Principles of Consolidation - The accompanying consolidated financial
statements include the accounts of Hansen and its wholly owned
subsidiaries, HBC, HEB and Blue Sky since their respective dates of
incorporation. All intercompany balances and transactions have been
eliminated in consolidation.
Reclassifications - Certain reclassifications have been made in the
consolidated financial statements to conform to the 2000 presentation.
Cash and Cash Equivalents - The Company considers certificates of
deposit with original maturities of three months or less to be cash and
cash equivalents.
Inventories - Inventories are valued at the lower of first-in,
first-out (FIFO) cost or market value (net realizable value).
Property and Equipment - Property and equipment are stated at cost.
Depreciation of furniture, office equipment, equipment and vehicles is
based on their estimated useful lives (three to seven years) and is
calculated using the straight-line method. Amortization of leasehold
improvements is based on the lesser of their estimated useful lives or
the terms of the related leases and is calculated using the
straight-line method.
Trademark License and Trademarks - Trademark license represents the
Company's exclusive world-wide right to use the Hansen's(R) trademark
in connection with the manufacture, sale and distribution of carbonated
beverages and waters, shelf stable fruit juices and drinks containing
fruit juices on a royalty free basis and other non-carbonated beverages
and water and non-beverage products in consideration of royalty
payments. In September 1999, HBC entered into an Assignment and
Agreement with the Fresh Juice Company of California, Inc. ("FJC"),
pursuant to which HBC acquired exclusive ownership of the Hansen's(R)
trademark and trade names. The Company also owns in its own right, a
number of other trademarks in the United States as well as in a number
of countries around the world. The Company amortizes its trademark
license and trademarks over 40 years.
Long-Lived Assets - The Company accounts for the impairment and
disposition of long-lived assets in accordance with Statement of
Financial Accounting Standard ("SFAS") No. 121, Accounting for the
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to Be
Disposed Of. In accordance with SFAS No. 121, long-lived assets to be
held are reviewed for events or changes in circumstances that indicate
that their carrying value may not be recoverable. The Company
periodically reviews the carrying value of long-lived assets to
determine whether or not impairment to such value has occurred. As of
December 31, 2000, management does not believe that the Company's
long-lived assets have been impaired.
Revenue Recognition - The Company records revenue at the time the
related products are shipped. Management believes an adequate provision
against net sales has been made for estimated returns, allowances and
cash discounts.
Freight Costs And Reimbursement Of Freight Costs - In accordance with
Emerging Issues Task Force No. 00-10, Accounting for Shipping and
Handling Fees and Costs, reimbursements of freight charges are recorded
in net sales in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. For
the years ended December 31, 2000, 1999, and 1998, freight-out costs
amounted to $4.9 million, $4.3 million, and $3.0 million, respectively,
and have been recorded in selling, general and administrative expenses
in the accompanying consolidated statements of income.
Advertising - The Company accounts for advertising production costs by
expensing such production costs the first time the related advertising
takes place. Advertising expenses included in selling, general and
administrative expenses amounted to $5.6 million, $5.7 million and $4.3
million for the years ended December 31, 2000, 1999 and 1998,
respectively. In addition, the Company supports its customers,
including distributors, with promotional allowances, a portion of which
is utilized for indirect advertising by them. Promotional allowances
amounted to $8.3 million, $6.3 million and $5.6 million for the years
ended December 31, 2000, 1999 and 1998, respectively.
Net Income Per Common Share - In accordance with SFAS No. 128, Earnings
per Share, net income per common share, on a basic and diluted basis,
is presented for all periods. Basic net income per share is computed by
dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares
outstanding. Diluted net income per share is computed by dividing net
income by the weighted average number of common and dilutive common
equivalent shares outstanding, if dilutive. Weighted average common
equivalent shares include stock options and purchases of the Company's
common stock, held in treasury, using the treasury stock method.
Concentration Risk - Certain of the Company's products utilize
components from a limited number of sources. A disruption in production
of such components could significantly affect the Company's revenues
from those products, as alternative sources of such components may not
be available at commercially reasonable rates or within a reasonably
short time period. The Company continues to take steps on an ongoing
basis to secure the availability of alternative sources for such
components and minimize the risk of any disruption in production.
One customer accounted for approximately 23%, 25% and 27% of the
Company's sales for the years ended December 31, 2000, 1999 and 1998,
respectively. A decision by that, or any other major customer, to
decrease the amount purchased from the Company or to cease carrying the
Company's products could have a material adverse effect on the
Credit Risk - The Company sells its products nationally, primarily to
retailers and beverage distributors. The Company performs ongoing
credit evaluations of its customers and generally does not require
collateral. The Company maintains reserves for potential credit losses,
and such losses have been within management's expectations.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments - SFAS No. 107, Disclosures about
Fair Value of Financial Instruments, requires management to disclose
the estimated fair value of certain assets and liabilities defined by
SFAS No. 107 as financial instruments. At December 31, 2000, management
believes that the carrying amount of cash, accounts receivable and
accounts payable approximate fair value because of the short maturity
of these financial instruments. Long-term debt bears interest at a rate
comparable to the prime rate; therefore, management believes the
carrying amount for the outstanding borrowings at December 31, 2000,
approximates fair value.
Use of Estimates - The preparation of the consolidated financial
statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles
requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the
reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent
assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the
reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.
Actual results could differ from those estimates.
New Accounting Pronouncements - In June 1998, the Financial Accounting
Standards Board issued SFAS No. 133, Accounting for Derivative
Instruments and Hedging Activities. SFAS No. 133, as amended,
establishes accounting and reporting standards for derivative
instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other
contracts and for hedging activities. Under SFAS No. 133, certain
contracts that were not formerly considered derivatives many now meet
the definition of a derivative. SFAS No. 133 requires derivatives to
be reported as assets or liabilities at fair value, and is effective
for all fiscal years beginning after June 15, 2000. The Company
will adopt SFAS No. 133 effective January 1, 2001. Management does
not expect the adoption of SFAS No. 133 to have a significant
impact on the financial position, results of operations or cash flows
of the Company.
Accounting Bulletin No. 101, Revenue Recognition in Financial
Statements ("SAB No. 101"). SAB No. 101 summarizes certain of the
staff's views in applying accounting principles generally accepted in
the United States of America to revenue recognition and accounting for
deferred costs in the consolidated financial statements and is
effective no later than the fourth quarter of fiscal years beginning
after December 15, 1999. Based on the Company's current revenue
recognition policy, there was no material impact to the Company's
financial position and consolidated statements of income from the
adoption of SAB No. 101.
2. ACQUISITION
On September 20, 2000, the Company acquired through its subsidiary,
Blue Sky, the beverage business of BSNBC, including the Blue Sky(R)
trademarks and certain other assets for a purchase price of $6.5
million. The Blue Sky(R) products include a range of all-natural
carbonated sodas and seltzers that are marketed throughout the United
States and in certain international markets, principally to the health
food trade. The acquisition has been accounted for as a purchase in
accordance with Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 16, Business
Combinations. Accordingly, the purchase price, inclusive of certain
acquisition costs, was allocated to the tangible and intangible assets
acquired based on a valuation of their respective fair values at the
date of acquisition. The purchase price, inclusive of certain
acquisition costs, was financed through the Company's credit facility
(Note 6).
Trademarks acquired will be amortized on a straight-line basis over 40
years. The operating results of Blue Sky have been included in the
Company's results of operations since the date of acquisition.
3. INVENTORIES
Inventories consist of the following at December 31:
2000 1999
-------- --------
Raw materials $ 4,704,363 $ 3,615,269
Finished goods 6,371,941 6,442,193
------------ ------------
11,076,304 10,057,462
Less inventory reserves (168,409) (163,048)
$10,907,895 $ 9,894,414
============ ============
4. PREPAID EXPENSES AND OTHER CURRENT ASSETS
company for the exchange of certain inventory for future advertising
and marketing credits. The Company assigned a value of $490,000 to
these credits based on the net realizable value of the inventory
exchanged. As of December 31, 2000, unused advertising and marketing
credits totaled $111,000. Although such credits remain available for
use by the Company through January 2002, management was unable to
estimate their remaining net realizable value at December 31, 1997.
Accordingly, in the year ended December 31, 1997, the Company fully
5. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Property and equipment consist of the following at December 31:
2000 1999
-------- --------
Leasehold improvements $ 153,812 $ 61,277
Furniture and office equipment 662,481 546,105
Equipment and vehicles 1,555,008 768,576
Machinery in progress 569,432
-------------- --------------
2,940,773 1,375,958
Less accumulated depreciation
and amortization (1,077,689) (871,767)
--------------- --------------
$ 1,863,044 $ 504,191
=============== ==============
6. LONG-TERM DEBT
In 1997, the Company obtained a credit facility from Comerica
Bank-California ("Comerica"), consisting of a revolving line of credit
of up to $3.0 million in aggregate at any time outstanding and a term
loan of $4.0 million. The utilization of the revolving line of credit
by HBC was dependent upon certain levels of eligible accounts
receivable and inventory from time to time. Such revolving line of
credit and term loans were secured by substantially all of HBC's
assets, including accounts receivable, inventory, trademarks, trademark
licenses and certain equipment. That facility was subsequently modified
from time to time and on September 19, 2000, the Company entered into a
modification agreement with Comerica to amend certain provisions under
the above facility in order to finance the acquisition of the Blue Sky
business, repay the term loan, and provide additional working capital
("Modification Agreement"). Pursuant to the Modification Agreement, the
revolving line of credit was increased to $12.0 million, reducing to
$6.0 million by September 2004. The revolving line of credit remains in
full force and effect through September 2005. Further, the rate of
interest payable by the Company on advances under the line of credit
are based on bank's base (prime) rate, plus an additional percentage of
up to 0.5% or the LIBOR rate, plus an additional percentage of up to
2.5%, depending upon certain financial ratios of the Company from time
to time.
the seller in connection with the acquisition of the Blue Sky business,
to repay the remaining $807,000 balance due under the term loan and to
finance working capital. The Company's outstanding borrowings on the
line of credit at December 31, 2000 were $9.2 million.
The credit facility contains financial covenants which require the
Company to maintain certain financial ratios and achieve certain levels
of annual income. The facility also contains certain non-financial
covenants. At December 31, 2000 and 1999, respectively, the Company was
in compliance with all covenants.
During the year ended December 31, 2000, the Company entered into
capital leases for acquisition of certain vehicles, payable over a
five-year period and having an effective interest rate of 8.8%. At
December 31, 2000, the assets acquired under capital leases had a net
book value of $519,688, net of accumulated depreciation of $66,819.
Long-term debt consists of the following at December 31:
<S> <C> <C>
Line of credit to Comerica, collarteralized by substantially
all of HBC's assets, at an effective interest rate of
9.5% as of December 31, 2000 $9,164,884 $ -
Note payable to Comerica, collateralized by substantially all of HBC's
assets, payable in variable amounts of principal and interest
which escalate over time. Note was repaid during 2000 1,331,881
Note payable in connection with the acquisition of the Hansen's(R)
trademark and trade name, payable in three equal annual installments of
$143,750 each, due between August 2, 2000 and August 2, 2000 287,500 431,250
Capital leases, collateralized by vehicles acquired, payable over 60
months in monthly installments at an effective interest rate of 8.8%,
with final payments ending in 2005 514,227
Other 3,086
------------------ ------------------
9,966,611 1,766,217
Less: current portion of long-term debt (234,655) (863,501)
$9,731,956 $ 902,716
================== ==================
Long-term debt is payable as follows:
Year ending December 31:
2001 $ 234,655
2002 242,502
2004 1,481,545
Thereafter 6,000,000
Interest expense amounted to $380,651, $168,131 and $368,896, for
the years ended December 31, 2000, 1999 and 1998, respectively.
7. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Operating Leases - The Company's warehouse facility and corporate
offices are leased for a period of 10 years from October 20, 2000, when
the Company first occupied the facility. The facility lease and certain
equipment and other non-cancelable operating leases expire through
2010. The facility lease has scheduled rent increases which are
accounted for on a straight-line basis. Rent expense under such leases
amounted to $416,505, $391,000 and $369,000 for the years ended
December 31, 2000, 1999 and 1998, respectively.
Future minimum rental payments at December 31, 2000 under the leases
referred to above are as follows:
2001 $ 605,779
2002 602,179
Thereafter 3,199,953
Employment and Consulting Agreements - The Company entered into an
employment agreement with Rodney C. Sacks dated as of January 1, 1999,
pursuant to which Mr. Sacks renders services to the Company as its
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and entered into an employment
agreement with Hilton H. Schlosberg dated as of January 1, 1999,
pursuant to which Mr. Schlosberg renders services to the Company as its
Vice Chairman, President and Chief Financial Officer for an annual base
salary of $180,000 each, increasing by a minimum of 8% for each
subsequent twelve-month period during the employment period, plus an
annual bonus in an amount determined at the discretion of the Board of
Directors of the Company and certain fringe benefits for the period
commencing January 1, 1999 and ending December 31, 2003. After such
date, such agreements provide for automatic annual renewals unless
written notice is delivered to each of them by June 30, 2003 or any
subsequent June 30 thereafter.
Purchase Commitments - As of December 31, 2000, the Company had open
long-term purchase commitments for certain raw materials of
approximately $814,000.
Litigation - The Company is subject to, and involved in, claims and
contingencies related to lawsuits and other matters arising out of the
normal course of business. The ultimate liability associated with such
claims and contingencies, if any, is not likely to have a material
adverse effect on the financial condition of the Company.
8. INCOME TAXES
The Company accounts for income taxes under the provision of SFAS No.
109, Accounting for Income Taxes. This statement requires the
recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the future
consequences of events that have been recognized in the Company's
financial statements or tax returns. Measurement of the deferred items
is based on enacted tax laws. In the event the future consequences of
differences between financial reporting bases and tax bases of the
Company's assets and liabilities result in a deferred tax asset, SFAS
No. 109 requires an evaluation of the probability of being able to
realize the future benefits indicated by such asset. A valuation
allowance related to a deferred tax asset is recorded when it is more
likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax asset will
not be realized.
Components of the income tax provision are as follows:
Year Ended December 31,
<S> <C> <C> <C>
2000 1999 1998
-------- -------- --------
Current income taxes:
Federal $2,106,316 $2,409,512 $1,180,688
State 599,056 637,160 328,773
------------------ ------------------ -----------------
2,705,372 3,046,672 1,509,461
Deferred income taxes:
Federal (57,309) (97,681) 675,528
State (32,077) 22,127 159,813
Less change in valuation allowance (277,880)
(89,386) (75,554) 557,461
$2,615,986 $2,971,118 $2,066,922
================== ================== =================
The differences between the income tax provision that would result from
applying the 34% federal statutory rate to income before provision for
income taxes and the reported provision for income taxes are as
<S> <C> <C> <C>
2000 1999 1998
-------- -------- --------
Income tax provision using the statutory
rate $2,220,578 $2,532,655 $1,914,217
State taxes, net of federal tax benefit 380,945 434,604 295,272
Change in utilization of certain net
operating losses 106,718
Permanent differences 31,865 3,859 6,318
Other (17,402) 22,277
Change in valuation allowance (277,880)
---------------- ---------------- ---------------
$2,615,986 $2,971,118 $2,066,922
================ ================ ===============
Major components of the Company's deferred tax assets (liabilities) at
December 31 are as follows:
<S> <C> <C>
Reserves for returns $ 130,642 $ 111,681
Reserves for bad debts 51,910 45,192
Reserves for obsolescence 72,146 69,850
Reserves for marketing development fund 221,319 159,327
Capitalization of inventory costs 136,284 72,670
State franchise tax 243,328 267,189
Accrued compensation 25,989 17,456
Stock-based compensation 59,096
Amortization of trademark license (1,421,415) (1,412,994)
Amortization of graphic design 151,844 124,664
Depreciation (4,568) 3,962
--------------- ---------------
$ (392,521) $ (481,907)
=============== ===============
During the year ended December 31, 1999, the Company was audited by the
Internal Revenue Service ("IRS Audit") for the years ended December 31,
1998, 1997 and 1996. Based on the results of the IRS Audit, certain
deductions taken in certain years were postponed until later years. The
effect thereof on the Company's provision for income taxes for the year
ended December 31, 1999 was immaterial.
9. STOCK OPTIONS AND WARRANTS
The Company has two stock option plans, the Employee Stock Option Plan
("the Plan") and the Outside Directors Stock Option Plan ("Directors
Plan").
The Plan provided for the granting of options to purchase not more than
2,000,000 shares of Hansen common stock to key employees of the Company
and its subsidiaries. During 1999, the Company amended the Plan to
provide for the granting of options to purchase up to an additional
1,000,000 shares under the Plan. Stock options are exercisable at such
time and in such amounts as determined by the Compensation Committee of
the Board of Directors of the Company up to a ten-year period after
their date of grant, and no options may be granted after July 1, 2001.
The option price will not be less than the fair market value at the
date of grant. As of December 31, 2000, options to purchase 2,150,200
shares of Hansen common stock had been granted under the Plan, net of
options that have expired, and options to purchase 849,800 shares of
Hansen common stock remain available for grant under the Plan.
The Directors Plan provides for the grant of options to purchase up to
100,000 shares of common stock of the Company to directors of the
Company who are not and have not been employed by or acted as
consultants to the Company and its subsidiaries or affiliates and who
are not and have not been nominated to the Board of Directors of the
Company pursuant to a contractual arrangement. On the date of the
annual meeting of shareholders, at which an eligible director is
initially elected, each eligible director is entitled to receive a
one-time grant of an option to purchase 6,000 shares (12,000 shares if
the director is serving on a committee of the Board) of the Company's
common stock, exercisable one-third each on the first, second and third
anniversary of the date of grant; provided, however, that options
granted as of February 14, 1995, are exercisable 66 2/3% on the date of
grant and 100% on July 8, 1995; provided, further, that all options
held by an eligible director become fully and immediately exercisable
upon a change in control of the Company. Options granted under the
Directors Plan that are not exercised generally expire ten years after
the date of grant. Option grants may be made under the Directors Plan
for ten years from the effective date of the Directors Plan. The
Directors Plan is a "formula" plan so that a non-employee director's
participation in the Directors Plan does not affect his status as a
"disinterested person" (as defined in Rule 16b-3 under the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934). As of December 31, 2000, options to purchase
36,000 shares of Hansen common stock had been granted under the
Directors Plan and options to purchase 64,000 shares of Hansen common
stock remained available for grant.
For the years ended December 31, 2000, 1999 and 1998, the Company
granted 189,000, 424,000 and 297,500 options to purchase shares under
the Plan and Directors Plan at a weighted average grant date fair value
of $2.26, $2.52 and $1.18, respectively. Additional information
regarding the Plan and the Directors Plan is as follows:
2000 1999 1998
-------- -------- --------
Weighted Weighted Weighted
average average average
exercise exercise exercise
Shares price Shares price Shares price
------------- --------- ----------- --------- ----------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Options outstanding,
beginning of year 1,093,327 $2.60 833,900 $1.49 1,475,500 $1.34
Options granted 189,000 $4.15 424,000 $4.38 297,500 $2.04
Options (38,327) $1.49 (93,573) $1.35 (919,900) $1.49
Options canceled or
expired (109,600) $3.17 (71,000) $1.82 (19,200) $1.11
------------- ----------- ------------
end of year 1,134,400 $2.84 1,093,327 $2.60 833,900 $1.49
============= =========== ============
Option price range $0.75 to $0.75 to $0.72 to
end of year $5.25 $5.25 $4.50
The Company has adopted the disclosure-only provisions of SFAS No. 123,
Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation. Accordingly, no compensation
cost has been recognized for the stock option plans. The impact of
stock options granted prior to 1997 has been excluded from the pro
forma calculation; accordingly, the 2000, 1999 and 1998 pro forma
adjustments are not indicative of future period pro forma adjustments,
when the calculation may apply to all applicable stock options. Had
compensation cost for the Company's option plans been determined based
on the fair value at the grant date for awards in the years 1998
through 2000 consistent with the provisions of SFAS No. 123, the
Company's net income and net income per common share would have been
reduced to the pro forma amounts indicated below:
<S> <C> <C> <C>
2000 1999 1998
Net income, as reported $3,915,126 $4,477,868 $3,563,129
Net income, pro forma $3,670,524 $4,176,799 $3,383,375
Net income per common share,
as reported
Basic $0.39 $0.45 $0.38
Diluted $0.38 $0.43 $0.34
The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date of grant
using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following
weighted-average assumptions used for grants in:
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Risk-Free
Dividend Yield Expected Volatility Interest Rate Expected Lives
-------------- ------------------- ------------- --------------
2000 0% 48% 6.0% 6 years
The Company has granted warrants to various non-employees to purchase
shares of Hansen common stock. Such warrants vest in various increments
over an eighteen-month to three-year period.
For the year ended December 31, 1998, the Company granted 180,000
warrants to purchase shares at a weighted average grant date fair value
of $1.08. No warrants were granted for the years ended December 31,
2000 and 1999, respectively. Additional information regarding
non-employee stock options and warrants is as follows:
2000 1999 1998
-------- -------- --------
average average average
Shares price Shares price Shares price
------------ ----------- ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Options and warrants
outstanding, beginning of year 137,000 $2.37 225,000 $2.29 145,000 $ 1.42
Options and warrants granted 180,000 $ 2.48
Options and warrants exercised (117,000) $2.48 (30,000) $1.50 (100,000) $ 1.38
Options and warrants canceled or
expired (20,000) $1.72 (58,000) $2.50
------------ ------------ ------------
Options and warrants outstanding,
end of year - 137,000 $2.37 225,000 $ 2.29
============ ============ ============
Option and warrant price range, $1.50 to $ 1.50 to
end of year $3.75 $ 3.75
The following table summarizes information about fixed-price stock
options outstanding at December 31, 2000:
Options Outstanding Options Exercisable
------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------
Number average Weighted average Number Weighted
outstanding at remaining exercise exercisable at average
Range of exercise prices December 31, 2000 contractual price December 31, 2000 exercise
life (in years) price
------------------ ----------------- ------------------ ------------------ --------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$0.75 to $1.13 264,000 2 $1.00 144,000 $0.98
$2.50 to $3.72 73,000 5 $3.45 8,000 $3.72
$4.19 to $4.38 357,000 4 $4.26 91,800 $4.25
----------- ---------
1,134,400 547,200
=========== =========
10. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLAN
Employees of Hansen Natural Corporation may participate in the Hansen
Natural Corporation 401(k) Plan, a defined contribution plan, which
qualifies under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Participating employees may contribute up to 15% of their pretax salary
up to statutory limits. The Company contributes 25% of the employee
contribution, up to 8% of each employee's earnings. Matching
contributions were $49,323, $37,274 and $29,438, for the years ended
11. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
A director of the Company is a partner in a law firm that serves as
counsel to the Company. Expenses incurred to such firm in connection
with services rendered to the Company during the years ended December
31, 2000, 1999 and 1998 were $180,954, $414,932 and $173,673
A director of the Company was a consultant to the Company from July
1997 through June 1999. Expenses incurred to such director in
connection with consulting services rendered to the Company during the
years ended December 31, 1999 and 1998 were $30,000 and $60,000,
Two directors of the Company are principal owners of a company that
provides promotional materials to the Company. Expenses incurred to
such company in connection with promotional materials purchased during
the years ended December 31, 2000, 1999 and 1998, were $115,520,
$121,289 and $151,393, respectively.
12. QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (Unaudited)
Net Gross Net Net Income per Common Share
Sales Profit Income Basic Diluted
---------------- --------------- --------------- ----------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Quarter ended:
March 31, 2000 $ 15,978,002 $ 7,203,960 $ 688,103 $0.07 $0.07
June 30, 2000 22,666,775 10,691,928 1,652,087 0.17 0.16
September 30, 2000 22,701,624 10,978,326 1,365,188 0.13 0.13
December 31, 2000 18,386,308 8,211,818 209,748 0.02 0.02
---------------- --------------- --------------- ----------- -----------
$ 79,732,709 $ 37,086,032 $ 3,915,126 $0.39 $0.38
================ =============== =============== =========== ===========
June 30, 1999 19,142,247 8,980,540 1,440,190 0.15 0.14
September 30, 1999 20,491,265 9,430,337 1,336,768 0.13 0.12
Certain of the figures reported above may differ from previously
reported figures for individual quarters due to rounding.
VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
Balance at Charged to
beginning of cost and Balance at end
Description period expenses Deductions of period
------------ --------------- ------------- ------------ ----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Allowance for doubtful accounts, sales returns and cash discounts:
2000 $ 415,305 2,171,731 (2,100,574) $ 486,462
Promotional allowances:
2000 $ 1,651,604 8,295,866 (7,364,382) $ 2,583,088
Inventory reserves:
2000 $ 163,048 249,067 (243,706) $ 168,409
1998 $ 383,227 4,027 (119,021) $ 268,233
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT
We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statements No.
33-92526, No. 333-41333 and No. 333-89123 of Hansen Natural Corporation on Form
S-8 of our report dated March 23, 2001, appearing in the Annual Report on Form
10-K of Hansen Natural Corporation for the year ended December 31, 2000.
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
This schedule contains summary financial information extracted from the
consolidated balance sheets and consolidated statements of operations found on
pages F-3 and F-4 of the Company's Form 10-k for the year, and is qualified in
its entirety by reference to such financial statements.
</LEGEND>
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> DEC-31-2000
<PERIOD-START> JAN-01-2000
<PERIOD-END> DEC-31-2000
<CASH> 130,665
<SECURITIES> 0
<RECEIVABLES> 9,654,036
<ALLOWANCES> 3,069,550
<INVENTORY> 10,907,895
<CURRENT-ASSETS> 19,328,051
<PP&E> 2,940,773
<DEPRECIATION> 1,077,689
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 38,744,740
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES> 5,683,949
<BONDS> 0
<PREFERRED-MANDATORY> 0
<PREFERRED> 0
<COMMON> 50,744
<OTHER-SE> 22,003,952
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY> 38,744,740
<SALES> 79,732,709
<TOTAL-REVENUES> 79,745,623
<CGS> 42,646,677
<TOTAL-COSTS> 30,185,682
<OTHER-EXPENSES> 0
<LOSS-PROVISION> 0
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 382,152
<INCOME-PRETAX> 6,531,112
<INCOME-TAX> 2,615,986
<INCOME-CONTINUING> 3,915,126
<DISCONTINUED> 0
<EXTRAORDINARY> 0
<CHANGES> 0
<NET-INCOME> 3,915,126
<EPS-BASIC> 0.39
<EPS-DILUTED> 0.38
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line249
|
__label__cc
| 0.685268
| 0.314732
|
How statins could boost your love life: Cholesterol lowering drugs 'reduce erectile dysfunction'
This is self-report data so should be treated with caution
Statins are known for lowering cholesterol but they could also improve your love life, according to a new study. American researchers have found the commonly used drugs may benefit men with erectile dysfunction.
They now hope their findings will encourage men with high cholesterol to take their medication.
Erectile dysfunction is common in older men, especially among those with heart problems, for which cholesterol-lowering statins are frequently prescribed.
Previous research has suggested that taking statins can negatively affect testosterone levels. This has led to questions about the effects of the widely used medication on the quality of erections.
In the first analysis of previous studies on erectile dysfunction and statins, researchers identified 11 trials that measured erectile function using the International Index of Erectile Function.
The IIEF is a self-administered survey with five questions, each scored on a five-point scale and totalled, with lower values representing poorer sexual function.
Analysis of all 11 studies combined found a statistically significant effect of statins on erectile function in men who had both high cholesterol and erectile dysfunction.
Overall, erectile function scores rose by 3.4 points in men who took statins - from 14.0 to 17.4.
This represents a 24.3 per cent improvement.
'The increase in erectile function scores with statins was approximately one-third to one-half of what has been reported with drugs like Viagra, Cialis or Levitra,' said study lead investigator Dr John Kostis, director of the Cardiovascular Institute and associate dean for Cardiovascular Research at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School.
‘It was larger than the reported effect of lifestyle modification. For men with erectile dysfunction who need statins to control cholesterol, this may be an extra benefit.’
He believes that statins may work to improve erectile function by helping blood vessels dilate properly and improving vascular blood flow to the penis, which is often restricted in men with erectile dysfunction.
He added that while statins are not recommended as a primary treatment for erectile dysfunction in patients with healthy cholesterol levels, the added benefit may encourage more men who need statins to take them.
Dr Kostis added: ‘Rather than preventing the possibility of a heart attack in the future, the more immediate benefit of improving erectile function might improve adherence to statin therapy.’
Erectile dysfunction affects millions of men and occurs more often in those over the age of 40. Common causes include heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, tobacco use, depression and stress.
Dr Kostis said that larger trials are needed to further investigate the link between statin therapy and erectile function.
The study was published online by the Journal of Sexual Medicine.
Forget five a day, we should eat SEVEN a day for a long life: Eating more portions of fruit and veg can cut risk of dying prematurely by 42%
This is self report data, not experimental data, and most likely shows that middle class people, who are healthier anyway, are more likely to say they eat lots of fruit and veg -- whether they do or not
Eating seven portions of fruit and vegetables a day - two more than currently recommended - helps you live longer, claim researchers.
A new study shows that more fruit and veg slashes the risk of premature death by 42 per cent, compared with less than one helping a day.
Boosting consumption cuts the chances of dying from cancer by a quarter and heart-related deaths by one third.
Some experts want guidelines advising people to eat 5-a-day changed on the back of the study from University College London.
In particular, they say the new research shows a 17 per cent increased risk of death from canned and frozen fruit, and little benefit from fruit juice - currently counting towards 5-a-day.
But others believe moving the goalposts to 7-a-day will deter people from even trying to eat a healthier diet.
At present, only one in four Britons manages to eat 5-a-day and just one in 10 teenagers. Lead author Dr Oyinlola Oyebode of UCL's Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, said the effect was 'staggering'.
She said: 'The clear message here is that the more fruit and vegetables you eat, the less likely you are to die at any age. Vegetables have a larger effect than fruit, but fruit still makes a real difference.
'However, people shouldn't feel daunted by a big target like seven. Whatever your starting point, it is always worth eating more fruit and vegetables.
'In our study even those eating one to three portions had a significantly lower risk than those eating less than one.'
The study investigated the eating habits of 65,000 people in England between 2001 and 2013 based on their self-reported consumption of 80g portions of fruit and vegetables in the preceding 24 hours.
Deaths were recorded up to seven years later, with a total of 4,399 dying during the study period.
It found seven or more helpings a day reduced a person's overall risk of death by 42 per cent compared with one portion a day.
Those eating five to seven a day had a 36 per cent cut in risk of death, while three to five portions reduced it by 29 per cent.
Eating one to three helpings of fruit and veg was linked to a 14 per cent reduced risk of death, says the study, published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health.
Fresh vegetables had the strongest protective effect, followed by salad and then fruit.
Frozen or tinned fruit increased the risk of premature death, but experts say this could reflect shortcomings in people's overall diet including heavy reliance on processed food.
The study calls for the 5-a-day message based on World Health Organisation guidance to be revised upwards, and possibly exclude portions of dried and tinned fruit, smoothies and fruit juice which contain large amounts of sugar.
Others say it is too soon to change a public health message that is widely understood.
Brian Ratcliffe, Professor of Nutrition at Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen, said: 'The people eating the highest levels of fruit and vegetables in this study were also likely to display other healthy characteristics such as lower prevalence of overweight, higher activity levels and fewer smokers.
'The call to increase the 5-a-day advice seems a little premature considering that most people do not achieve this target and the differences between 5-a-day and 7-a-day in this study are small.'
Professor Tom Sanders, head of the Diabetes and Nutritional Sciences Division at King's College London, said a trial carried out by his unit failed to show improved blood pressure or heart risk from eating more than 5-a-day.
He said: 'While advice to eat five portions of fruit and vegetable a day is well accepted, there is little other evidence to suggest that eating more is better.'
Dr Nita Forouhi, MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, said: 'It is too early to change the current 5-a-day message to seven or more a day on the basis of this study.
'Current efforts will therefore be better spent in getting the population intake to meet the guideline of eating at least 5-a-day, which offers a win-win for all.'
John A said...
Lessee now, 80g/portion. 7portions/day = 560g or 19.8oz?
Be a herbivore or risk [earlier] death, you nasty omnivores, and as for you carnivores, well, just do not prey on my herd!
Its a controversial topic. So if our cholestrol level intake is good ,we dont need to have Generic Vaigra 100mg or something??
Posting suspended After repeating almost daily f...
Changing dietary "wisdom" Cut sugar intake by hal...
Pregnant women who take SSRI antidepressants are t...
Food for thought in fad diets Very interesting po...
Woman who lived on just CHIPS for 15 years No die...
War on salt has cut heart deaths (?) Do I have to...
Green tea CAN make you clever: Drink improves memo...
Emissions from diesel can damage children's brains...
Oral Zinc for the Common Cold The Cochrane study ...
Cochrane condemns antivirals Cochrane evaluations...
Painkillers linked to higher risk of stroke: Alert...
Why so-called 'superfoods' could be BAD for you: N...
Could watermelon reduce high blood pressure? Fruit...
Pot-smoking students 'perform better academically'...
Vegetarians are slimmer but sicker Which is inter...
Children who watch less TV are better behaved, sli...
Caveman diet twice as effective as modern diets ...
How statins could boost your love life: Cholestero...
Diet pop can also give you diabetes Rubbish. Pro...
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line252
|
__label__cc
| 0.577055
| 0.422945
|
← DUNCAN MacLAREN. Brexit: the danger of a no deal and the UK election.
JOHN TULLOH. Six days of war and 50 years of conflict. →
MUNGO MacCALLUM. Will the forgotten people be heard at last?
The crusaders of the far right have already delivered their sentence: the Uluru statement is to be dead, buried and cremated before it can infect the fairness and decency of the ignorant masses.
The elitists of the Murdoch press, the Institute of Pubic Affairs, the coalition rump and the other usual suspects tell us that the consensus for an indigenous voice in the constitution and moves to implement a treaty between the original inhabitants and the immigrants of Australia is utterly unacceptable to the majority and would be soundly defeated at any referendum, so it should be abandoned forthwith.
What they actually mean is that the proposals are utterly unacceptable to them, and that they will move heaven and earth to spread enough doubt and fear to their captive audiences, so their prediction will be self-fulfilling. And, given the history of referendums in this country, they may well be correct. But that does not mean that their arguments, such as they are, have any real merit.
Take the idea of a treaty – hardly a new one, it has been around for over a century, and has been taken seriously by those who are interested for about forty years, when the great public servant H C “Nugget” Coombs and others started working for what they called a Makarrata. As we have since been informed, the concept from the Yolgnu people of eastern Arnhem Land can loosely be defined as a ritual symbolizing the restoration of peace after a dispute – reconciliation, in fact.
The Tories insists that a treaty cannot be agreed by two groups within one country, despite the obvious fact that such countries as the United States, New Zealand and now Canada have managed to do so quite satisfactorily. But beyond that, their objection is based on denial. They like to pretend that there was no real dispute in the first place – Australia was not invaded but settled, or at worst colonised, so a treaty of any kind is superfluous.
Well, it depends who you ask. It is true the white Australia never actually declared war on black Australia, although many early proclamations went very close to it. But for that matter Japan never declared war on the United States before bombing Pearl Harbour.
Large numbers of Aboriginal Australians thought they were fighting various wars: after all the insurgents were taking their lands, their cultures and in some cases their people and it was clear the aim was to drive them into submission.
If that wasn’t war, it certainly wasn’t peace, so when it was over a Makarrata was the only appropriate conclusion. The refusal of the white reactionaries to acknowledge this reality and instead run a scare campaign about division, apartheid, even separate nations, has been predictable enough, but it still dispiriting and frustrating.
And of course the other bit – calling a constituted advisory body to parliament a third house of parliament – is either deeply ignorant or deliberately deceitful. A generous and courageous Prime Minister – a Gough Whitlam or a Paul Keating for instance – would have slapped down the Neanderthals and got on with negotiating in the determination to reach mutual agreement and understanding.
Malcolm Turnbull, as always, temporised. The fear is that his government will offer a token recognition (the equivalent of a few beads, mirrors and bolts of brightly coloured cloth), that the Aboriginal delegates will indignantly reject it, and we will be back where we a started or even further behind. But of course, that it just what the crusaders of the right want.
This entry was posted in Human Rights, Indigenous affairs, Politics and tagged Makarrata, Mungo MacCallum, Nugget Coombs, Uluru Statement. Bookmark the permalink.
2 Responses to MUNGO MacCALLUM. Will the forgotten people be heard at last?
Ted Egan says:
Excellent, Mungo. Eloquent and elegant as always.
It seems that the word “makarrata” is to be re-introduced into the vernacular. If so, please let us at least pronounce it correctly. It is not like the name of a gangster, Mack A’Rata, with emphasis on the first and third syllables. It is more correctly pronounced like the surname of the famous American General, but with a “rolled “r”. Makarrta. Emphasis on the second syllable. Perhaps we should spell it thus?
It is certainly an appropriate word for “treaty”. Makarrta is a trial by ordeal in Arnhem Land. “Makarr” equals “thigh” and “makarrta” literally means “into the thigh”. An offender is required to stand on a spot about thirty metres from a group of spearthrowers. They are usually top marksmen. But as all boys (I have only ever seen male involvement) are trained from infancy to stand and dodge spears – “you run, you die” – the dodging is usually (not always) accomplished without any wounds. I once saw an offender ask for five spears to be thrown simultaneously. So good was he that he could break spears as they whistled past his ears. But honour must be satisfied. Eventually the offended party dances to the offender, he is ritually speared in the thigh and blood is let. Makarrta. Peace is restored. The commendable “treaty” aspect is that a mortal wound is not sought.
A National Treaty? I think forget it. We keep looking for Mandela style leadership and thereby national unity among First Australians. But the moment anybody starts to talk detail “on behalf of all of us” he/she will quickly be told: “You don’t speak for me, mate”. In any case there was nothing like a “Waitangi” situation in Australia before 1901.
But regional treaties? Yes, bring em on, with State and Federal co-operation, asap. In which case there is probably a local word that equals “Makarrta”.
Colin Cook says:
5 June 2017 at 11:00 AM
In a piece published by The Guardian on 3 December 2014, George Monbiot wrote of UK, ‘Here the Remembrancer of the City of London sits behind the Speaker’s chIR IN THE House of Commons to protect the entitlements of a corporation that pre-dates the Norman conquest’.
Is it time for us to update ‘our’ Westminster system by instituting an Aborigine Remembrancer to sit behind the Speaker in the House of Representatives to protect the interests …….
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line254
|
__label__wiki
| 0.929839
| 0.929839
|
Lot S164.1 Indy 2018 May 15-20
Daytona 24 Hour Winner, Driven by Derek Bell star
Chassis no 108C-2
1989 Daytona 24 Hour Winner
1989 Palm Beach Grand Prix Winner
1989 Porsche Cup USA Winner
Acknowledged as the fastest 962 in period
Described by Derek Bell as his favorite 962 and driven to his last 24 Hour victory
Sponsored by Miller and BF Goodrich
Campaigned by Jim Busby Racing
11 top-five qualifying runs and 5 podium finishes during the 1988-89 seasons
Qualified first on the pole at Daytona in 1988 and led most of the race but finished 2nd
Jim Chapman honeycomb tub
Driven by Derek Bell, Bob Wolleck, John Andretti, Jim Busby, Mauro Baldi, Jochen Mass, Brian Redman and Daron Brassfield
Retired in 1989 and collector-owned since
Green, Gold and White Miller livery
Featured at Amelia Island, Rennsport and Daytona
Framed Miller 962 Michael Colucci firesuit, along with Miller jacket and t-shirts included
Framed Miller 962 posters included
1989 Champion 24 Hours of Daytona two-sided placards and BF Goodrich competition brochure included
Multiple vintage Miller 962 photos included
Historic Porsche brochure and Lime Rock Park '89 event sheets included
Sold on a bill of sale
Of the supremely dominant Type 962 racers built by Porsche from 1984 to 1991, this car, Chassis No. 962-108, was the fastest in the period, winning the 1989 Daytona 24 Hours with master endurance-racer Derek Bell at the controls for his final 24-hour victory and the 50th win for the 962 in international competition. Campaigned by highly successful Porsche privateer Jim Busby and sponsored by BF Goodrich and the Miller Brewing Company, it prevailed against the onslaught of the factory Porsches, Jaguars and Nissans. Bell has described the car as his favorite Group C Porsche, high praise indeed from the man who drove Porsches to four of his five overall wins in the 24 Hours of Le Mans and three at Daytona, twice winning the World Sports Car Championship in the process.
When the Busby Racing 962 arrived at Daytona in 1989 in its now famous Miller High Life livery, prognosticators had mostly written off the Porsches as no longer competitive, although the marque had won the previous year’s IMSA championship. But the Busby crew had on its side one of the best endurance drivers of all time, five-time Le Mans-winner Bell, who with co-drivers Bob Wollek and John Andretti proceeded to steamroll the field. In a precise reversal of the 1988 edition, 962-108 finished in first place, just 1:26.65 ahead of the Nielsen/Wallace/Lammers Jaguar XJR9. It was the closest margin of victory in Daytona 24 history, and the third and final win there for the extraordinarily gifted Bell. It was also the 50th win for a Porsche 962 in the model’s history, an event Porsche celebrated in a cleverly worded magazine ad headlined “The Porsche 962. 0 to 50 in 4.6 years.”
The car’s long list of racing achievements includes eleven top-five qualifying runs through the 1988-89 IMSA seasons, including the pole at Daytona in 1988 where it led most of the race and eventually finished second. During that same period 962-108 finished on the podium five times, including victories in the 1989 Daytona 24 Hours and Palm Beach Grand Prix. Its successes were hard earned, the direct results of the relentless development for which Busby was famous.
Built to IMSA GTP rules with the 3.0L air-cooled, single-turbo engine, 962-108 was one of four 962s eventually allotted to Jim Busby Racing. The car’s debut was anything but auspicious. One of two 962s Busby fielded with BF Goodrich sponsorship for the 1985 Daytona 24 Hours, it was assigned to drivers Pete Halsmer, John Morton and Dieter Quester. Halsmer crashed the car at night trying to avoid an errant backmarker, damaging the front suspension and the tub; fortunately, he was unhurt. At first it seemed beyond repair, but further examination revealed that almost every remaining component was reusable.
With Porsche’s approval, Busby hired former Lola Can Am engineer Jim Chapman to build a new tub using honeycomb aluminum and a milled billet-aluminum rear bulkhead in place of the factory-spec sheet-aluminum unit. Word of Chapman’s project soon reached Porsche ally Al Holbert, owner of competing 962 team Holbert Racing and director of Porsche Motorsport North America. After several attempts to acquire the new tub, named CO1, for his own 962, Holbert reached an agreement with Busby and it became the foundation for Holbert’s 962-HR1.
Chapman then built a second honeycomb tub, named CO2, for 962-108. At the same time, Busby’s old drag-racing friend, engine wizard Ed Pink, was extracting more power from the turbocharged flat-6. Pink back-engineered the Bosch Motronic injection system’s controls and performed some internal tweaks, raising output more than 80 HP to upwards of 830 HP. Busby’s Pink-equipped racers made so much power that IMSA soon mandated restrictor plates on all the 962 Porsches. Read More
Busby and company finally completed the car, then titled 962-108B in time for the 1987 Daytona 24 Hours. Driven by Busby, Daron Brassfield and Bob Wollek, it retired with engine failure after 89 laps. It remained well in contention for the rest of the season, however, scoring second, third, fourth and two sixth places, but in the August 2 race at Sears Point with Wollek at the wheel, it crashed while in the lead when the right rear tire exploded entering Turn 1, once again damaging the bodywork and tub.
Rebuilt with a third Chapman tub and rechristened 962-108C, the car arrived at Daytona in January 1988 in fresh BF Goodrich livery. Daytona newcomer Mauro Baldi put 962-108C on the pole and shared driving duties with endurance aces Wollek and Brian Redman. The team set the pace for the entire field, ultimately finishing in second place a mere 1:48 behind the No. 60 Jaguar. It was a disappointing result for the crew whose car had started from the pole and hammered the field for most of the race, but it was an impressive return for 108C, and more success was on the way.
Development continued. Rear subframe bracing and suspension revisions improved stability and handling, while Gurney Eagle designer Roman Slobodynskj ordered 956-style front bodywork and other changes to increase aerodynamic efficiency. Engine development was also paying dividends, ensuring the Busby Porsches would remain competitive against the Jaguars and insurgent Electramotive Nissan team. Wollek scored two thirds (one with Baldi co-driving), a fourth and two fifth-place finishes over the course of the 1988 season.
The Jaguar and Nissan factory teams had hit their stride, and finding an edge for 1989 was an urgent priority for Busby and crew. With Pink’s engine program bearing more fruit, it was again time to turn to aerodynamics. 108C was radically revised with more front-end sculpting and rear bodywork obviously inspired by the Nissans that had dominated the previous season. The most distinctive change was at the rear, where the standard upswept tail gave way to large, flat side-fences to maximize the downforce generated by the rear diffuser. Testing against a sprint-specification factory Shell Dunlop Lightweight 962C showed impressive results from these changes, with 108C running 1.75 seconds per lap quicker at Lime Rock and 2.5 seconds quicker at Road America.
The 1989 Daytona victory in hand, on April 23, 1989, Wollek and Andretti drove the newly designated 962-108C-2 to the only other Porsche victory in IMSA that year against the prodigious Electramotive Nissans. A number of third-, fourth-, fifth- and sixth-place finishes were capped by winning the 1989 Porsche Cup USA.
Chassis No. 962-108C-2 was retired at the end of the season and for many years enjoyed a pampered life in a private collection. In 2005, it became a prized centerpiece of the world-class Historic Porsche Collection in England and was immediately reunited with Bell at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. The two appeared together again in 2007 at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, where Bell was the guest of honor. Later that year for Porsche North America, they appeared at Redman’s wonderful Rennsport 3 celebration and at Daytona, starring during display laps with the new Porsche RS Spyder.
One of the most popular Porsche 962 racers in the model’s celebrated history and the fastest of them all, 962-108C-2 was driven by some of the greatest talents of the day, including Jim Busby, Rick Knoop, Mauro Baldi, Bob Wollek, Derek Bell, Jochen Mass, John Andretti, Brian Redman and Daron Brassfield. Still festooned in the famous gold, green and white Miller livery, 962-108C-2 is an icon from an exciting era in American motorsports and Daytona history. Hide
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line275
|
__label__wiki
| 0.859911
| 0.859911
|
MARIA MENA »
Music »
Aug 1st 2015, 11:28am
Yesterday Maria played at the festival Olavsfestdagene, there's a review where the reviewer mentions that some of her new songs, such as "Bend 'till I Break", "Leaving You" and "I Don't Want to See Her With You" (it seems that last song's title isn't always the same one, so I'm looking forward to see the final version of the title on the track list), makes it obvious that there is a nerve in the new songs. Review in Norwegian here: adressa.no/kultur/musikk/article11373826.ece
I'm very curious about when that new single is going to be released.
https://www.facebook.com/Kaffka.Kafe/videos/806156776146268/
Here is a soundcheck video of Bend 'Till I Break she performed in Gjøvik a while ago!
It's not the best quality, but still, it's a new MM song!
Fanclub-Mitglied
Thank your for sharing these links!
I shared this discussion on facebook, so that people can check out this other new song!
I love every single new song til now and I guess that the new record can become very successfull.
... This too shall pass ...
I really like the melody of "Bend 'till I Break"! I hope Maria returns to the studio to make proper recordings soon. I really want to encourage everyone to spread the word when the first single comes, and I very much hope that her music will make it into more charts this time around!
Sunnychili
Jitske you made my Sunday evening a lot better now.
crying like river... Every single new song is sooooo much soul touching. Maybe I'm dying when this new record comes out. :-/
Maria posted this picture: instagram.com/p/6CRHZKxeDy/?taken-by=mariamena_official, saying she's preparing for a photoshoot - and Carina asked if it's for the new album. She answered 'not yet'. When she has that photoshoot for a new album she usually takes pictures that are intended to be used as a cover for a new single as well. But could it be photos for an interview with a magazine or an newspaper? Any other possibilities?
I asked if it is for a new "record", so I guess her answer includes also a single. But I agree when you think it could be for a magazine. Or maybe something fashion related? You never know...
Norwegian fashion magazines usually do their photoshoots more than a month before the actual release of the monthly issue of the magazine. But it could also be fashion related. If it was for a TV recording I guess she wouldn't say it was for a photoshoot.
It looks like the photoshoot is for a Norwegian brand called "by Ti Mo". Picture here: instagram.com/p/6FZid5ReAb/?taken-by=mariamena_official
I guess it is not about the brand, but she is wearing their clothes.
That is also an opportunity.
Maria posted this little clip (instagram.com/p/6PovXVxeNy/?taken-by=mariamena_official) from the studio, recording what she calls 'an R'n'B vocal, with producer Martin Sjølie. It's good to know that she's back in the studio!
Maria is in the studio today as well: instagram.com/p/6R6bfORePz/?taken-by=mariamena_official
She also posted a clip of her recording vocals: instagram.com/p/6SSupyxeNE/?taken-by=mariamena_official
I knew that she posted that, good to have Instagram I think. That make hard working days sweeter.
Well, myself I don't have an Instagram account (not much into taking pictures, really) but Maria's profile is viewable for everyone. Plus I always like to keep track of her progress in the process of making new albums. Maria's producer Martin has an Instagram account (instagram.com/martinsjolie and his studio Albatross Recorders in Oslo has a Facebook page: facebook.com/pages/Albatross-Recorders/371622746242824 - but no recent news about Maria's music recording yet. Martin has posted quite a bit from the music making processes in the past, though - so maybe we get pictures/updates later on in the process this time around.
I know I'm following Martin on Instagram too. but maybe is it late autumn for the release when we can say this. Someone that work by Sony told me: September is not possible. :-/ bahhh can't wait for it.
There is a lot of promotion work that needs to be done when an artist releases an album in several countries. Maybe that's part of the reason why that person who works at Sony told you that it isn't possible to release the album in September? For example Marit Larsen's album "When the Morning Comes" was released in GSA in March 2015 but in Scandinavia in October 2014.
Just read this interview with a Norwegian newspaper (in Norwegian, attached) in which Maria says she has written most of her new songs that she intends to use for her new albums, but she still has to write three new songs. She hopes to be able to release a single before Christmas and then the album during the Christmas time (I think this means December) - but she will take the time that she needs to finish it.
pdf_id-055152201508102nexm51z2OGv1DoAaD3l2q0d000001010e00_x-5df40b06154211d92db74d901327e203_mt-print_y-d43de8ae7da6b695a0622ee597bfd29c.pdf
(448.85 kB, downloaded 2 times, last: Aug 13th 2015, 10:58am )
On instagram people suggest that the title of the new record could be "Growing pains"...
instagram.com/p/6VJwMkReG_/?taken-by=mariamena_official
And she posted what seems like a part of some lyrics, featuring the words "growing pains", about four weeks ago: instagram.com/p/4_MEVmxeMW/?taken-by=mariamena_official
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line276
|
__label__wiki
| 0.82033
| 0.82033
|
Arts, Culture and Sports
Defense and National Security
Environment, Climate and Natural Resources
Government Budget and Taxes
Government Functions
Housing and Development
International Trade and Development
Personal and Family Relations
Social Services and Disabilities
U.S. Presidency
U.S. Supreme Court and Judicial System
BROWSE REPORTS
USING CQR
Log in to your profile
Favorite Documents
Topic Alerts
LIBRARIAN ACCOUNT
Agricultural Import Shortages
Report Outline
Raw Material Losses from Japan's Conquests
Domestic Efforts to Relieve Import Shortages
Help from Latin America on Shortages
Stoppage of Essential Far Eastern Imports
The rapid sweep of Japanese armed forces through the Southwest Pacific has already deprived the United States of access to many important sources of agricultural raw materials, and current military operations in and around India and Ceylon may further disrupt imports from those producing areas. The seriousness of these losses of imports varies with the importance of the product and the degree to which its production centered in the Far East, thus making it difficult or impossible to develop other sources of supply.
The most severe loss to the United States has been the stoppage of rubber imports, which normally total about 600,000 tons a year. In recent years only two per cent of the country's imports of raw rubber have come from areas other than the Far East. From 1935 to 1940, annual average shipments of cinchona bark (source of quinine) to the United States amounted to 2,384,000 pounds, about 90 per cent from territory now held by the Japanese. Silk imports, 90 per cent of which normally originated in Japan, have been almost completely stopped since July, 1941. Tea purchases last year amounted to more than 107,000,000 pounds, all except perhaps 2,000,000 pounds coming from the Orient.
The Office of Price Administration estimates that reduced sugar imports from Pacific regions will eliminate more than a million and a quarter tons from import figures, or about one-fifth of all sugar imported by the United States during 1941. Foreign purchases of fats and oils normally amount to two billion pounds, about 15 per cent of total United States requirements, and sources of about one billion pounds are now cut off by the Japanese. Access to a number of medicinal and spice plants has been completely or partly blocked. From the Netherlands Indies came some 83 million pounds of henequen and sisal during 1939, and practically the entire world production of abaca fiber is confined to the Philippines.
ISSUE TRACKER for Related Reports
United States During World War II
Mar. 13, 1945 The Nation's Health
Aug. 14, 1943 Quality Labeling
Aug. 06, 1943 Voting in 1944
Jul. 27, 1943 Civilian Production in a War Economy
Mar. 08, 1943 Labor Turnover and Absenteeism
Nov. 06, 1942 War Contracts and Profit Limitation
Oct. 10, 1942 Control of Manpower
Aug. 14, 1942 Soldiers and Politics
Jul. 16, 1942 Reduction of Non-War Government Spending
Jul. 08, 1942 Education for War Needs
Jun. 20, 1942 Roll Calls in 1942 Campaign
Jun. 12, 1942 War Shipping and Shipbuilding
Apr. 30, 1942 Forced Evacuations
Apr. 21, 1942 Politics in Wartime
Apr. 14, 1942 Agricultural Import Shortages
Feb. 10, 1942 Disease in Wartime
Jan. 12, 1942 Wartime Rationing
Jun. 19, 1941 Sabotage
Dec. 13, 1940 Shipping and the War
Oct. 24, 1940 Price Control in Wartime
Jul. 20, 1940 Labor in Wartime
Oct. 05, 1937 Alien Political Agitation in the United States
BROWSE RELATED TOPICS:
Farm Produce and Commodities
U.S. at War: World War II
Suggest a Topic |
General Terms of Service |
Copyright Notice and Takedown Policy |
Masthead |
©2019, CQ Press, An Imprint of SAGE Publishing. All Rights Reserved. CQ Press is a registered trademark of Congressional Quarterly Inc.
Suggest a topic here.
Take our survey to help us improve CQ Researcher!
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line283
|
__label__wiki
| 0.653297
| 0.653297
|
Accession of Macedonia to the European Union
Macedonian EU accession bid
Opened chapters
Closed chapters
Secretariat for European Affairs
EU average
PPP GDP ($M)
PPP per capita ($)
Area (km2)
Accession of Macedonia to the European Union (EU) is on the current agenda for future enlargement of the EU. Macedonia has been a candidate for accession to the European Union since 2005 but has not yet entered into accession negotiations. It submitted its membership application in 2004, thirteen years after its independence from Yugoslavia. As of June 2014, it is one of six candidate countries, together with Albania, Iceland, Montenegro, Serbia and Turkey, after the latest round of enlargement that brought membership to Croatia. Among current obstacles to full membership is the ongoing objection by Greece over the country's name, which is also the reason why it is officially addressed by the European Union with the provisional appellation "Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia", rather than its constitutional name, "Republic of Macedonia". Accession to the EU has been defined as the highest strategic priority for the country's government.[1][2] The expected accession is currently described as a "medium to long term" prospect.[3]
The government's motto for the candidacy is "The Sun, too, is a star", referring to the sun from the flag of the Republic of Macedonia being displayed among the other stars in the Flag of Europe, in the official logo of the candidacy.
Macedonia is currently receiving EUR 1.3 billion of development aid until 2020 from the Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance, a funding mechanism for EU candidate countries.
On 27 June 2018, following the withdrawal of the Greek veto as part of the Prespa agreement to change the country's name to the Republic of North Macedonia, the EU approved the start of accession talks, which are expected in 2019, provided certain conditions are met.[4]
The Republic of Macedonia began its formal process of rapprochement with the European Union in 2000, by initiating negotiations about the EU's Stabilisation and Association Process, and it became the first non-EU country in the Balkans to sign the Stabilisation and Association Agreement (SAA), on 9 April 2001 in Luxembourg. The agreement was ratified by the Macedonian parliament on 12 April 2001, and was the first to be ratified by all the member states and came into force on 1 April 2004.
At the same time, on 22 March 2004 in Dublin, Ireland, Macedonia submitted its application for EU membership. On 6 September 2004, the Macedonian government adopted a National Strategy for European integration, supported by the country's parliament through its Commission for European Issues. The government subsequently began the procedure of answering the questionnaire of the European Commission regarding its performance in preparation for membership in accordance with the Copenhagen criteria, a process that was finished by 31 January 2005. The European Council officially granted the country candidate status on 17 December 2005, after a review and a positive recommendation of the candidacy by the European Commission.
politics and government of
the Republic of Macedonia
Gjorge Ivanov
Speaker: Talat Xhaferi
Recent elections
Presidential: 2009
Parliamentary: 2014
NATO accession
Naming issue
Negotiator: Z. Jolevski
A major obstacle for the accession process is the Republic's still-unresolved objection by Greece over its name, as it argues that it implies territorial ambitions towards Greece's own northern province of Macedonia. While the country prefers to be called by its constitutional name, Republic of Macedonia, the European Union, in acknowledgment of concerns raised by Greece, has maintained a practice of recognising it only as the "former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia", the compromise "provisional reference" introduced by the United Nations in 1993. Greece, as any other EU country, has veto power against new accessions, and continues to block Macedonian accession unless the naming issue is resolved beforehand.[5][6][7] In April 2008, at the NATO summit in Bucharest, Greece rejected all proposals by the Macedonian government and UN mediator Matthew Nimetz – including the name "Republic of Macedonia (Skopje)" – and vetoed Macedonia's accession to NATO. As Macedonia would have also agreed to accede as the "Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia", the Greek veto breached the 1995 Interim Agreement.[8]
In December 2009, Greece vetoed the start of Macedonia's EU membership negotiations. Since 2008, resolution of the naming conflict has also been added to the official preconditions raised by the EU.[9] [10]
In 2006 EU sources criticised the country's leadership under prime minister Nikola Gruevski for its policies against its Albanian minority and the politicisation of many state institutions, warning that these problems might become obstacles to the official start of accession talks.[11]
Bilateral conflicts also exist with Bulgaria, mainly related to conflicting views about the two countries' shared 19th- and 20th-century history and the ethnic separateness of the two nations. Bulgaria joined the EU on 1 January 2007. In July 2006, Bulgarian foreign minister Ivaylo Kalfin and president Georgi Parvanov stated that Bulgaria's support for Macedonian membership might not be unconditional, citing concerns over negative and aggressive attitudes against Bulgaria and Bulgarian history fostered by the Macedonian authorities.[12][13] Defiant answers were reported from the Macedonian political leadership.[14][15]
In October 2012, the European Commission recommended for the fourth consecutive year that membership negotiations with Macedonia be launched. On each previous occasion the opening of negotiations had been vetoed by Greece. In 2012 Bulgaria also utilised its veto.[16] [17] A solution for the long-lasting naming dispute, however, moved considerably closer, when the Greek foreign minister on 4 October 2012 forwarded a draft for a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to settle the question. According to the Euractive website the proposal was answered positively by the Macedonian foreign minister on 8 November 2012.[18] Štefan Füle, European Commissioner for Enlargement and European Neighbourhood Policy, stated that the softening of positions by the two states could allow for accession negotiations to begin before a compromise on the naming dispute was reached.[19] On 11 December 2012, the Council of the European Union concluded that Macedonia could start accession negotiations as early as the second quarter of 2013, conditional on reaching an agreement on its dispute with Bulgaria and Greece. The Council was encouraged that progress on the latter dispute had recently been made by a UN mediator.[20] [21] However, in February 2013 Füle canceled his planned trip to Macedonia to assess the country's progress on reforms due to ongoing political instability in the country, including the boycott of parliament and the threat to boycott upcoming local elections by the Social Democratic Union of Macedonia. He warned that the stalemate was “putting at risk” the launch of accession negotiations.[22] The political crisis was resolved when the EU brokered a compromise between Macedonia's political parties on 1 March 2013.[23] [24] In October 2013 the European Commission recommended for a fifth straight year that accession negotiations with Macedonia be launched.[25] At the most recent meeting of the Council of the European Union in December 2013, the Council for the fifth consecutive year concluded that "the political criteria continue to be sufficiently met", but in regards to making the final decision to open accession negotiations it was only agreed to revisit the issue in 2014. The decision whether or not to start accession negotiations will be made "on the basis of an update by the Commission on further implementation of reforms in the context of the High Level Accession Dialogue, including the implementation of the 1 March 2013 political agreement - and on tangible steps taken to promote good neighborly relations [with Bulgaria] - and to reach a negotiated and mutually accepted solution to the name issue [with Greece]".[26]
The UN mediator, Matthew Nimetz, has invited Greece and Macedonia to a new round of "name dispute" negotiations to begin on 26 March 2014.[27] In February 2014, the European Parliament passed a resolution stating that according to its assessment, the Copenhagen criteria has been sufficiently fulfilled for Macedonia to begin negotiations for EU accession,[28] and called on the Council of the European Union to confirm the date for the launch of accession negotiations straight away, as bilateral disputes must not be an obstacle for the start of talks - although they must be solved before the accession.[29] However, whether or not the Council agreed with the parliament's opinion, it had no mention of Macedonia's accession negotiations at its meeting in June 2014.
As of May 2014 the name dispute was still unresolved,[30] but it was announced that negotiations were to be resumed after the Greek EP election and local elections on 25 May.[31] At the Council meeting in June 2014, the fixing of a start date for Macedonia's accession negotiations was not on the agenda.[32] On 12 June 2018, the Macedonian and Greek governments reached a preliminary agreement to end their dispute, which would result in Macedonia being renamed the Republic of North Macedonia (Република Северна Македонија)[33]
On 12 June 2018 an agreement was reached between Greek prime minister Alexis Tsipras and his Macedonian counterpart Zoran Zaev, known as the Prespa agreement,[34] under which the Republic of Macedonia would be renamed the "Republic of North Macedonia".[35] As part of this deal, Greece withdrew its veto, allowing the EU to approve on June 27 the start of accession talks with the Republic of Macedonia. The talks are expected to begin in 2019, subject to several conditions being met.[36][37]
State of Stabilisation and Association Agreement ratification
Status of SAA ratification
Macedonia [38]
Croatia [39]
Albania [40]
Montenegro [41][Note 1]
Bosnia and
Herzegovina [43]
Serbia [44][Note 2]
Kosovo* [45][Note 3]
SAA negotiations start 2000-04-05 2000-11-24 2003-01-31 2005-10-10 2005-11-25 2005-10-10 2013-10-28[47]
SAA initialled 2000-11-24 2001-05-14 2006-02-28 2007-03-15 2007-12-04 2007-11-07 2014-07-25[48]
SAA/IA signature 2001-04-09 2001-10-29 2006-06-12 2007-10-15 2008-06-16 2008-04-29 2015-10-27[49]
Interim Agreement:
EC ratification 2001-04-27 2002-01-30 2006-06-12 2007-10-15 2008-06-16 2009-12-08 N/A [Note 4]
SAP state ratification 2001-04-27 2002-01-30 2006-10-09 2007-11-14 2008-06-20 2008-09-22 N/A [Note 4]
entry into force 2001-06-01 2002-03-01 2006-12-01 2008-01-01 2008-07-01 2010-02-01 N/A [Note 4]
Deposit of the instrument of ratification:
SAP state 2001-04-27 2002-01-30 2006-11-09 2007-11-13 2009-02-26 2008-09-22 2016-02-26
Austria 2002-09-06 2002-03-15 2008-05-21 2008-07-04 2009-09-04 2011-01-13 N/A
Belgium 2003-12-29 2003-12-17 2008-10-22 2010-03-29 2010-03-29 2012-03-20 N/A
Bulgaria entered the EU later 2008-05-30 2009-03-13 2010-08-12 N/A
Croatia entered the EU later N/A
Cyprus entered the EU later 2008-05-30 2008-11-20 2009-07-02 2010-11-26 N/A
Czech Republic entered the EU later 2008-05-07 2009-02-19 2009-07-23 2011-01-28 N/A
Denmark 2002-04-10 2002-05-08 2008-04-24 2008-06-25 2009-05-26 2011-03-04 N/A
Estonia entered the EU later 2007-10-17 2007-11-22 2008-09-11 2010-08-19 N/A
Finland 2004-01-06 2004-01-06 2007-11-29 2009-03-18 2009-04-07 2011-10-21 N/A
France 2003-06-04 2003-06-04 2009-02-12 2009-07-30 2011-02-10 2012-01-16 N/A
Germany 2002-06-20 2002-10-18 2009-02-19 2009-11-16 2009-08-14 2012-02-24 N/A
Greece 2003-08-27 2003-08-27 2009-02-26 2010-03-04 2010-09-20 2011-03-10 N/A
Hungary entered the EU later 2007-04-23 2008-05-14 2008-10-22 2010-11-16 N/A
Ireland 2002-05-06 2002-05-06 2007-06-11 2009-06-04 2009-06-04 2011-09-29 N/A
Italy 2003-10-30 2004-10-06 2008-01-07 2009-10-13 2010-09-08 2011-01-06 N/A
Latvia entered the EU later 2006-12-19 2008-10-17 2009-11-12 2011-05-30 N/A
Lithuania entered the EU later 2007-05-17 2009-03-04 2009-05-04 2013-06-26 N/A
Luxembourg 2003-07-28 2003-08-01 2007-07-04 2009-06-11 2010-12-22 2011-01-21 N/A
Malta entered the EU later 2008-04-21 2008-12-11 2010-01-07 2010-07-06 N/A
Netherlands 2002-09-09 2004-04-30 2007-12-10 2009-01-29 2009-09-30 2012-02-27 N/A
Poland entered the EU later 2007-04-14 2009-02-06 2010-04-07 2012-01-13 N/A
Portugal 2003-07-14 2003-07-14 2008-07-11 2008-09-23 2009-06-29 2011-03-04 N/A
Romania entered the EU later 2009-01-15 2010-01-08 2012-05-22 N/A
Slovakia entered the EU later 2007-07-20 2008-07-29 2009-03-17 2010-11-11 N/A
Slovenia entered the EU later 2007-01-18 2008-02-07 2009-03-10 2010-12-07 N/A
Spain 2002-10-04 2002-10-04 2007-05-03 2009-03-12 2010-06-15 2010-06-21 N/A
Sweden 2002-06-25 2003-03-27 2007-03-21 2009-03-11 2009-09-14 2011-04-15 N/A
United Kingdom 2002-12-17 2004-09-03 2007-10-16 2010-01-12 2010-04-20 2011-08-11 N/A
European Communities or
European Union and Euratom 2004-02-25 2004-12-21 2009-02-26 2010-03-29 2015-04-30 2013-07-22 2016-02-24 [Note 5]
SAA entry into force 2004-04-01 2005-02-01 2009-04-01 2010-05-01 2015-06-01 2013-09-01 2016-04-01[53]
EU membership (SAA lapsed) (TBD) 2013-07-01 (TBD) (TBD) (TBD) (TBD) (TBD)
N/A: Not applicable.
↑ Montenegro started negotiations in November 2005 while a part of Serbia and Montenegro (SiM). Separate technical negotiations were conducted regarding issues of sub-state organizational competency. A mandate for direct negotiations with Montenegro was established in July 2006. Direct negotiations were initiated on 26 September 2006 and concluded on 1 December 2006.[42]
↑ Serbia started negotiations in November 2005 while part of SiM, with a modified mandate from July 2006.
↑ Kosovo is the subject of a territorial dispute between the Republic of Kosovo and the Republic of Serbia. The Republic of Kosovo unilaterally declared independence on 17 February 2008, but Serbia continues to claim it as part of its own sovereign territory. The two governments began to normalise relations in 2013, as part of the Brussels Agreement. Kosovo has received formal recognition as an independent state from 113 out of 193 United Nations member states. The European Union remains divided on its policy towards Kosovo, with five EU member states not recognizing its independence. The EU launched a Stabilisation Tracking Mechanism for Kosovo on 6 November 2002 with the aim of aligning its policy with EU standards. On 10 October 2012 the European Commission found that there were no legal obstacles to Kosovo signing a SAA with the EU, as independence is not required for such an agreement.[46]
1 2 3 No Interim Agreement associated with Kosovo's SAA was concluded.[50]
↑ Kosovo's SAA was the first signed after the entry into force of the Lisbon treaty, which conferred a legal personality to the EU. As a result, unlike previous SAAs Kosovo's is exclusively between it and the EU and Euratom, and the member states are not parties independently.[47][51][52]
October 1992 The Republic of Macedonia appoints its representative in Brussels, agreeing to the use of the "former Yugoslav" before its constitutional name ("Republic of Macedonia") designation in bilateral relations.
22 December 1995 The Republic and the EU establish diplomatic relations. Negotiations commence directed at an agreement with a wide scope of co-operation in the fields of trade, financial operations and transport.
February 1996 The permanent Macedonian Mission in Brussels is upgraded to an ambassadorial level.
10 March 1996 Macedonia becomes a full partner in the PHARE Programme (Poland and Hungary: Assistance for Reconstruction of their Economies).
20 March 1996 Negotiations begin towards a Cooperation Agreement and a Transport Agreement between the Republic and the European Communities.
20 June 1996 Conclusion of the Cooperation Agreement and the Transport Agreement.
November 1997 The Transport Agreement enters into force
1 January 1998 The Cooperation Agreement enters into force.
February 1998 1st political talks on ministerial level are held in Ohrid, in accordance with the Cooperation Agreement.
11 March 1998 A Trade and Textile Agreement is signed (it remains in force until 1998 and is later replaced with a new agreement on 1 January 2000).
21 and 22 March 1998 1st meeting of a mutual Cooperation Council in Skopje.
5 March 1999 2nd meeting of the Cooperation Council in Brussels
24 January 2000 The European Commission adopts directives regarding cooperation and regarding the official start of negotiations for potential membership.
March 2000 Opening of the EU Delegation in Skopje; appointment of the first Chief of the Delegation.
5 April 2000 Start of 1st round of negotiations on the SAA.
June 2000 Adoption of a Perspective (regulation) on Potential Membership by the European Council in Fiera.
24 November 2000 The SAA is initiated at the Zagreb Summit.
December 2000 Entering into force of Council Regulation on Introducing Exceptional Trade Measures; Macedonia joins the Regional CARDS Programme 2002–2006.
16 February 2001 Interim Agreement on SAA Trade Provisions signed.
9 April 2001 SAA and Interim Agreement on Trade and Trade Issues signed. The Agreement enters into force on 1 June 2001.
January 2002 Supplementary Protocol on Wine and Spirits, and Textile Products Trade Agreement.
20 February 2003 The President of the European Commission, Romano Prodi, visits Skopje, reconfirming the EU position on the country's perspective for EU membership.
25 July 2003 Last of 6 meetings of the Cooperation Council in Brussels.
February 2004 “Declaration on the Application for EU membership” signed by the Macedonian parliament.
22 March 2004 At a ceremony in Dublin, Ireland, the Macedonian government submitted the application for membership in the EU.
1 April 2004 SAA enters into force following the ratifications by all the EU Member States.
3 June 2004 1st meeting of the Stabilisation and Association Committee held in Skopje.
6 September 2004 National Strategy for European Integration adopted by the Macedonian government.
14 September 2004 1st meeting of the Stabilisation and Association Council in Brussels.
1 October 2004 Questionnaire on accession preparation submitted to the Macedonian government by the European Commission.
31 January 2005 Answers to the Questionnaire finalised by the Macedonian government.
14 February 2005 Answers to the Questionnaire submitted to the European Commission by a Macedonian delegation in Brussels.
10 May 2005 Additional questions to the Questionnaire of the European Commission that were received on 22 April 2005 are answered, accepted by the Republic's government, and sent to Brussels.
9 November 2005 Positive recommendation on Macedonian accession issued by the European Commission.
17 December 2005 The European Council in Brussels approves the candidate status.
9 November 2006 The European Commission decides to start visa facilitation negotiations with the Republic.
12 July 2007 The European Parliament issues the 2006 Progress Report on the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia[54] Both Greece and the Republic declare a "victory" – The report is critical of the Bilateral Immunity Agreement with the USA (which violates the principles of the Rome Statute); failures in the implementation of the Badinter principle; the Khaled El-Masri affair; the renaming of Skopje Airport to "Alexander the Great"; and other issues such as environmental protection and neighborly relations. Two proposed amendments referring to Bulgaria and Greece's failure to recognise a Macedonian minority living in these countries, and one referring to the constitutional name Republic of Macedonia, were rejected.[55] On the other hand, the EU reiterated that the naming issue will not be considered in the accession process (although Greece's ability to veto remains intact). EuroMPs from the ruling Greek New Democracy party voted in favor of the resolution; those from the opposition PASOK party voted against.
23 June 2008 Following the EU summit, the resolution of the naming dispute was added as a precondition to EU accession.[9][56]
14 October 2009 The European Commission has recommended start of the accession negotiations for full-fledged membership of the Republic of Macedonia.[57]
8 December 2009 The EU council of ministers postpones granting Macedonia a start date for accession negotiations until at least the first half of 2010.[58]
14 March 2012 European Parliament adopts a resolution urging the Council to give the country a date to start accession negotiations. The institution regrets the fact that accession prospects are blocked by a dispute with Greece. EP also raises concerns regarding corruption and the segregation of children from different ethnic groups.[59]
29 March 2012 European Commission launches a High Level Accession Dialogue with Skopje.[60]
10 October 2012 In its report the Commission recommends the opening of accession negotiations to accelerate reforms in the country in favor to a quick resolution of the dispute over the name with Greece under the auspices of the Commission.
Negotiation progress
No chapters have been opened thus far. If the European Council approves, screening will start and once screening has finished, accession negotiations will begin.
Screening and Chapter Dates
Acquis chapter
Screening Opened
Screening Finished
Chapter Opened
Chapter Closed
Overview 0 out of 35 0 out of 35 0 out of 33 0 out of 35
1. Free Movement of Goods – – – –
2. Freedom of Movement For Workers – – – –
3. Right of Establishment & Freedom To Provide Services – – – –
4. Free Movement of Capital – – – –
5. Public Procurement – – – –
6. Company Law – – – –
7. Intellectual Property Law – – – –
8. Competition Policy – – – –
9. Financial Services – – – –
10. Information Society & Media – – – –
11. Agriculture & Rural Development – – – –
12. Food Safety, Veterinary & Phytosanitary Policy – – – –
13. Fisheries – – – –
14. Transport Policy – – – –
15. Energy – – – –
16. Taxation – – – –
17. Economic & Monetary Policy – – – –
18. Statistics – – – –
19. Social Policy & Employment – – – –
20. Enterprise & Industrial Policy – – – –
21. Trans-European Networks – – – –
22. Regional Policy & Coordination of Structural Instruments – – – –
23. Judiciary & Fundamental Rights – – – –
24. Justice, Freedom & Security – – – –
25. Science & Research – – – –
26. Education & Culture – – – –
27. Environment & Climate Change – – – –
28. Consumer & Health Protection – – – –
29. Customs Union – – – –
30. External Relations – – – –
31. Foreign, Security & Defence Policy – – – –
32. Financial Control – – – –
33. Financial & Budgetary Provisions – – – –
34. Institutions – – – –
35. Other Issues – – – –
Latest EC Assessment
Status as of April 2018[61]
Chapter Status
Overview 2 chapters in early stage
24 chapters which are moderately prepared
2 chapters with some level of preparation
5 chapters with good level of preparation
2 chapters in which there is nothing to adopt 0 chapters opened
1. Free Movement of Goods Moderately prepared Chapter not yet opened
2. Freedom of Movement For Workers Early stage Chapter not yet opened
3. Right of Establishment & Freedom To Provide Services Moderately prepared Chapter not yet opened
4. Free Movement of Capital Moderately prepared Chapter not yet opened
5. Public Procurement Moderately prepared Chapter not yet opened
6. Company Law Good level of preparation Chapter not yet opened
7. Intellectual Property Law Moderately prepared Chapter not yet opened
8. Competition Policy Moderately prepared Chapter not yet opened
9. Financial Services Moderately prepared Chapter not yet opened
10. Information Society & Media Moderately prepared Chapter not yet opened
11. Agriculture & Rural Development Moderately prepared Chapter not yet opened
12. Food Safety, Veterinary & Phytosanitary Policy Good level of preparation Chapter not yet opened
13. Fisheries Moderately prepared Chapter not yet opened
14. Transport Policy Moderately prepared Chapter not yet opened
15. Energy Moderately prepared Chapter not yet opened
16. Taxation Moderately prepared Chapter not yet opened
17. Economic & Monetary Policy Moderately prepared Chapter not yet opened
18. Statistics Moderately prepared Chapter not yet opened
19. Social Policy & Employment Moderately prepared Chapter not yet opened
20. Enterprise & Industrial Policy Moderately prepared Chapter not yet opened
21. Trans-European Networks Good level of preparation Chapter not yet opened
22. Regional Policy & Coordination of Structural Instruments Moderately prepared Chapter not yet opened
23. Judiciary & Fundamental Rights Some level of preparation Chapter not yet opened
24. Justice, Freedom & Security Moderately prepared Chapter not yet opened
25. Science & Research Good level of preparation Chapter not yet opened
26. Education & Culture Moderately prepared Chapter not yet opened
27. Environment & Climate Change Some level of preparation Chapter not yet opened
28. Consumer & Health Protection Moderately prepared Chapter not yet opened
29. Customs Union Good level of preparation Chapter not yet opened
30. External Relations Moderately prepared Chapter not yet opened
31. Foreign, Security & Defence Policy Moderately prepared Chapter not yet opened
32. Financial Control Moderately prepared Chapter not yet opened
33. Financial & Budgetary Provisions Early stage Chapter not yet opened
34. Institutions Nothing to adopt Chapter not yet opened
35. Other Issues Nothing to adopt Chapter not yet opened
Past Assessments
EC Assessment at Start
EC Assessment in 2016[62]
1. Free Movement of Goods Early stage Moderately prepared Moderately prepared
2. Freedom of Movement For Workers Further efforts needed Early stage Early stage
3. Right of Establishment & Freedom To Provide Services Further efforts needed Moderately prepared Moderately prepared
4. Free Movement of Capital Further efforts needed Moderately prepared Moderately prepared
5. Public Procurement Considerable efforts needed Moderately prepared Moderately prepared
6. Company Law Considerable efforts needed Good level of preparation Good level of preparation
7. Intellectual Property Law Early stage Moderately prepared Moderately prepared
8. Competition Policy Early stage Moderately prepared Moderately prepared
9. Financial Services Further efforts needed Moderately prepared Moderately prepared
10. Information Society & Media Considerable efforts needed Good level of preparation Moderately prepared
11. Agriculture & Rural Development Considerable efforts needed Moderately prepared Moderately prepared
12. Food Safety, Veterinary & Phytosanitary Policy Considerable efforts needed Some level of preparation Good level of preparation
13. Fisheries No major difficulties expected Moderately prepared Moderately prepared
14. Transport Policy Considerable efforts needed Moderately prepared Moderately prepared
15. Energy Considerable efforts needed Moderately prepared Moderately prepared
16. Taxation Considerable efforts needed Moderately prepared Moderately prepared
17. Economic & Monetary Policy No major difficulties expected Moderately prepared Moderately prepared
18. Statistics No major difficulties expected Moderately prepared Moderately prepared
19. Social Policy & Employment Considerable efforts needed Moderately prepared Moderately prepared
20. Enterprise & Industrial Policy No major difficulties expected Moderately prepared Moderately prepared
21. Trans-European Networks No major difficulties expected Good level of preparation Good level of preparation
22. Regional Policy & Coordination of Structural Instruments Considerable efforts needed Moderately prepared Moderately prepared
23. Judiciary & Fundamental Rights Considerable efforts needed Some level of preparation Some level of preparation
24. Justice, Freedom & Security Considerable efforts needed Moderately prepared Moderately prepared
25. Science & Research No major difficulties expected Good level of preparation Good level of preparation
26. Education & Culture No major difficulties expected Moderately prepared Moderately prepared
27. Environment Totally incompatible Some level of preparation Some level of preparation
28. Consumer & Health Protection Further efforts needed Moderately prepared Moderately prepared
29. Customs Union Considerable efforts needed Good level of preparation Good level of preparation
30. External Relations No major difficulties expected Moderately prepared Moderately prepared
31. Foreign, Security & Defence Policy No major difficulties expected Moderately prepared Moderately prepared
32. Financial Control Early stage Early stage Moderately prepared
33. Financial & Budgetary Provisions No major difficulties expected Early stage Early stage
34. Institutions Nothing to adopt Nothing to adopt Nothing to adopt
35. Other Issues Nothing to adopt Nothing to adopt Nothing to adopt
totally incompatible
considerable efforts needed
some level of preparation
further efforts needed
moderately prepared
no major difficulties expected
good level of preparation
well prepared / well advanced
Visa liberalisation process
On 1 January 2008 the visa facilitation and readmission agreements between Serbia and the EU entered into force.[64] Macedonia began a visa liberalisation dialogue with the EU in February 2008[64] and was added to the list of visa exempt nationals on 19 December 2009, allowing their citizens to enter the Schengen Area, Bulgaria, Cyprus and Romania without a visa when traveling with biometric passports.[65]
The Macedonian government has established a management infrastructure for the European integration process on the basis of a paper adopted in 1997 under the title "The strategic bases of the Republic of Macedonia on achieving the membership of the European Union". It consists of the following institutions:
The Committee for Euro-Atlantic Integration plays the central role in the decision-making of the country's policies in the European integration process. It is chaired by the Prime Minister and the Deputy Prime Ministers, all ministers in the Government, the Governor of the National Bank of the Republic of Macedonia and the President of the Macedonian Academy of Sciences and Arts are members of the Committee.
The Working Committee for European Integration of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia (WCEI) – It is chaired by the Deputy Prime Ministers in charge of EU Integration, whose deputy is the Minister of Economy. The members are the secretaries from all Ministries. It is an operational, inter-ministerial body establishing the methods and dynamics for implementation of strategic decisions, political guidelines and priorities of the Government, as well as monitoring the realisation of the concrete tasks.
The Deputy to the President of the Government is responsible for the European integration as centre in the management and coordination of the operational part of the integration process. Its support and service is the Sector for European Integration within the General Secretariat of the Government of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.
The Sector for European Integration within the Republic's government is given the task to organise, coordinate and synchronise the EU integration process. It is organised in seven units in charge of the approximation of the national legislation with that of the EU, translation of the EU legal acts, institution building, support to the WCEI, coordination of foreign assistance, and information to the broader public on EU and the European integration process.
Departments/Sectors/Units for European Integration within the Ministries have similar structure and competencies as the central Sector for European Integration within the Government, being a key link in the institutional infrastructure.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs – EU domain – is responsible for communications with the EU structures through the Mission of former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia in Brussels, gathering valid and timely information that have impact on the integration process and presenting the uniform perspectives and positions in the European structures.
The other institutions supporting the EU integration process are the following:
the Republic's Assembly and its Commission for European Issues
the Secretariat for Legislation
the General Secretariat of the Government
the Subcommittee of the WCEI for approximation of the legislation with its working groups
Impact of joining
Area (km²)
(billion US$)
per capita (US$)
Macedonia 2,058,539 25,713 10.98 4,935 Macedonian
EU28+1
(−0.1%)
Yugoslavia and the European Economic Community
Euro-Slavism
↑ "Europa, European Commission". Bilateral relations > The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. Retrieved 4 June 2008.
↑ "Europa, The European Union in the World". The European Union Mission to the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. Archived from the original on 13 January 2007. Retrieved 26 December 2006.
↑ "BBC". EU to disappoint Balkan hopefuls. 3 November 2006. Retrieved 3 November 2006.
↑ "Macedonia, Albania Hail EU Approval for Accession Talks". Balkan Insight. 27 June 2018. Retrieved 27 June 2018.
↑ "Embassy of Greece – Washington, DC". Answer of FM Ms. D. Bakoyannis regarding the FYROM name issue. Archived from the original on 2 March 2007. Retrieved 11 September 2006.
↑ "United Macedonian Diaspora". Interview with Greek Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis. Archived from the original on 29 September 2007. Retrieved 2 November 2006.
↑ "Report by B. Khiotis: «Εγώ δεν είπα ποτέ τη λέξη βέτο» (in Greek) ("I never used the word veto"), To Vima, 11 September 2007
↑ ESI, European Stability Initiative - (2017-04-04). "European Stability Initiative - ESI". www.esiweb.org. Retrieved 2017-04-04.
1 2 "Macedonia 'Name' Solution Before EU Talks". BalkanInsight.com. 20 June 2008.
↑ Sazdovska, Marina Malis, Cane Mojanoski, and Svetlana Nikoloska. "Some Aspects Of Corruption In Republic Of Macedonia." Horizons / Horizonti 16.(2014): 89. Publisher Provided Full Text Searching File. Web. 23 Oct. 2015.
↑ "Euronews.net". Western Balkans told 'hold' for EU membership. Archived from the original on 22 November 2006. Retrieved 2 November 2006.
↑ "Bulgaria's Kalfin suggests support for Macedonia's EU bid is conditional". SETimes.com. 25 July 2006. Retrieved 2013-03-25.
↑ Jul 31 2006 09:16 CET 2472 Views (31 July 2006). "Bulgaria'S Position Concerning Macedonia Unchanged- Kalfin - Bulgaria". The Sofia Echo. Retrieved 2013-03-25.
↑ Aug 07 2006 09:00 CET 2259 Views (7 August 2006). "Foreign briefs - Bulgaria". The Sofia Echo. Retrieved 2013-03-25.
↑ "FOCUS Information Agency". Focus-fen.net. Retrieved 2013-03-25.
↑ "Bulgaria vetoes Macedonia's EU accession talks". EurActive. 2 November 2012. Retrieved 2012-11-02.
↑ Tziampiris, Aristotle. "The Macedonian Name Dispute And European Union Accession." Journal of Southeast European & Black Sea Studies 12.1 (2012): 153-171. Academic Search Complete. Web. 23 Oct. 2015.
↑ "FYROM appears to welcome Avramopoulos proposal". Kathimerini (English edition). 8 November 2012. Retrieved 9 November 2012.
↑ Rinke, Andreas (9 November 2012). "Macedonia's EU talks could start without name resolution". Reuters. Retrieved 2012-11-10.
↑ "Council conclusions on enlargement and stabilisation and association process (3210th general affairs council meeting)" (PDF). Council of the EU. 11 December 2012. Retrieved 26 December 2012.
↑ Milchevski, Ilija. "A Requiem For A Dream: The Name Issue And The Accession Of Macedonia To The EU." International Issues & Slovak Foreign Policy Affairs 22.4 (2013): 40. Supplemental Index. Web. 23 Oct. 2015.
↑ Casule, Kole (15 February 2013). "EU raps Macedonia over impasse". Retrieved 2013-02-18.
↑ "EU ends Macedonian deadlock". European Voice. 2 March 2013. Archived from the original on 23 March 2014. Retrieved 22 March 2014.
↑ "Positive Accession Report Looking Likely." Emerging Europe Monitor: South East Europe Monitor 14.9 (2007): 8. Business Source Complete. Web. 26 Oct. 2015.
↑ "Key findings of the 2013 Progress Report on the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia". European Commission. 2013-10-16. Retrieved 2013-10-16.
↑ "Council conclusions on Enlargement and Stabilisation and Association Process" (PDF). Council of the European Union. 2013-12-17. Retrieved 2013-12-17.
↑ "Utrinski Vesnik, Macedonia: Matthew Nimetz sets new round of name issue talks". FOCUS News Agency. 21 March 2014. Retrieved 22 March 2014.
↑ http://www.balkaneu.com/european-parliament-passes-resolution-fyr-macedonia/
↑ "European Parliament passes the Resolution on FYR Macedonia". Independent Balkan News Agency. 6 February 2014. Retrieved 22 March 2014.
↑ "Greece, Macedonia to consider regional security". Worldbulletin News. 8 May 2014.
↑ "Greek Diplomatic Sources: The Name Negotiations to Continue after the Greek Elections". Independent.mk. 8 May 2014. Archived from the original on 10 October 2014.
↑ "Macedonia not on the agenda of the June European Council summit". Mactel. 26 June 2014.
↑ "Macedonia and Greece: Deal after 27-year row over a name". BBC News. 12 June 2018.
↑ "FINAL AGREEMENT FOR THE SETTLEMENT OF THE DIFFERENCES AS DESCRIBED IN THE UNITED NATIONS SECURITY COUNCIL RESOLUTIONS 817 (1993) AND 845 (1993), THE TERMINATION OF THE INTERIM ACCORD OF 1995, AND THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN THE PARTIES" (PDF). Kathimerini.gr. Retrieved 13 June 2018.
↑ "Tsipras: Republic of North Macedonia' for universal use". Kathimerini. 12 June 2018. Retrieved 27 June 2018.
↑ "ENLARGEMENT AND STABILISATION AND ASSOCIATION PROCESS - Council conclusions" (PDF). Council of the European Union. 2018-06-26. Retrieved 2018-06-28.
↑ "SAA Agreement with Macedonia". Council of the European Union. Retrieved 2010-04-20.
↑ "SAA Agreement with Croatia". Council of the European Union. Retrieved 2010-04-20.
↑ "SAA Agreement with Albania". Council of the European Union. Retrieved 2010-04-20.
↑ "SAA Agreement with Montenegro". Council of the European Union. Retrieved 2010-04-20.
↑ "EU, Montenegro complete negotiations on pre-membership deal to bring country closer to bloc". International Herald Tribune. The Associated Press. 2006-12-01. Archived from the original on 2008-09-25. Retrieved 2011-04-04.
↑ "SAA Agreement with Bosnia". Council of the European Union. Retrieved 2010-04-20.
↑ "SAA Agreement with Serbia". Council of the European Union. Retrieved 2010-04-20.
↑ "SAA Agreement with Kosovo*". Council of the European Union. Retrieved 2016-12-07.
↑ "Feasibility Study for a Stabilisation and Association Agreement between the European Union and Kosovo" (PDF). European Commission. 10 October 2012. Retrieved 24 October 2012.
1 2 "EU starts the Stabilisation and Association Agreement negotiations with Kosovo". European Commission. 2013-10-28. Retrieved 2013-10-29.
↑ "Stabilization and Association Agreement is initialled". Ministry of European Integration of the Republic of Kosovo. 2014-07-25. Retrieved 2014-07-25.
↑ "Stabilisation and Association Agreement between the European Union and Kosovo signed". European Commission. 2015-10-27. Retrieved 2015-10-27.
↑ "Kosovo to negotiate on Stabilisation and Association Agreement". 2013-10-27. Retrieved 2013-10-27.
↑ "Stabilisation and Association Agreement negotiations successfully completed". European External Action Service. 2014-05-02. Retrieved 2014-05-02.
↑ "Kosovo Launches Crucial SAA Talks With EU". Balkan Insight. 2013-10-28. Retrieved 2013-10-28.
↑ "Information relating to the entry into force of the Stabilisation and Association Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community, of the one part, and Kosovo (*), of the other part". EUR-Lex. 2016-03-24. Retrieved 2016-03-24.
↑ European Parliament resolution of 12 July 2007 on the 2006 Progress Report on the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia
↑ "EP adopted report on Macedonia". Makfax. 12 July 2007.
↑ "Macedonia PM in Greek outburst after EU summit". EurActiv. 23 June 2008. Archived from the original on 9 June 2011.
↑ http://a1.com.mk/vesti/default.aspx?VestID=114931
↑ "All Balkans Home". Balkan Insight. Retrieved 2013-03-25.
↑ Iceland, former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, European Parliament Press Release. Retrieved from http://www.europarl.europa.eu, 15 March 2012.
↑ "The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia". Retrieved 2013-05-18.
↑ https://ec.europa.eu/neighbourhood-enlargement/sites/near/files/20180417-the-former-yugoslav-republic-of-macedonia-report.pdf
↑ http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:52016SC0362&from=de
1 2 "EU-the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia relations". European Commission. Archived from the original on 14 June 2012. Retrieved 2012-07-24.
↑ "EU lifts visa restrictions for Serbia". 30 November 2009. Archived from the original on 3 December 2009. Retrieved 30 November 2009.
Relations of the European Union with the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (in English)
Official website of the Sector for EU integration of the Republic's Government (in English)
Republic of Macedonia articles
Kingdom of Macedon
Upper Macedonia
Roman Province
Macedonia Salutaris
Roman Diocese
Bulgarian Empire
Byzantine Empire
Theme of Bulgaria
Serbian Empire
Kingdom of Prilep
Karpos Uprising
Macedonian awakening
Ilinden Uprising
Kruševo Republic
Kruševo Manifesto
Division of Macedonia
Vardar Banovina
War in Macedonia
Independent Macedonia (1944)
Anti-Fascist Assembly (ASNOM)
Exodus from Greek Macedonia
Socialist Republic
1963 Skopje earthquake
2001 insurgency / Ohrid Agreement
2012 inter-ethnic violence
Balkan Peninsula
Naming dispute
Statistical regions
National emblem
Historical coat of arms
Enlargement and partners of the European Union
Previous enlargements
Montenegro (status)
Serbia (status)
Turkey (status)
Candidate status
Albania (status)
Macedonia (status)
Potential candidates
Bosnia and Herzegovina (status)
Kosovo* (under the Belgrade–Pristina agreement; status)
Iceland (relations)
Liechtenstein (relations)
Norway (relations)
Switzerland (relations)
Armenia (relations)
Azerbaijan (relations)
Belarus (relations)
Georgia (relations) (accession)
Moldova (relations)
Ukraine (relations)
Russia (relations)
Israel (relations)
Jordan (relations)
Lebanon (relations)
Morocco (relations)
Palestine (relations)
Current membership
Foreign relations of the Republic of Macedonia
Macedonia naming dispute
Diplomatic missions of / in the Republic of Macedonia
Macedonian diaspora
List of state visits to Macedonia
Foreign relations of the European Union
See also: Economic relationships with third countries
China (People's Republic of)
Kosovo†
Northern Cyprus (Turkish Republic of)†
Palestine†
Overseas territories of member states
European microstates
Largest trading partners
Association Agreements
†= Disputed state, may not be recognised as an independent state by some or all European Union members.
Multilateral relations and initiatives
African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States
Asia–Europe Meeting
CARIFORUM
Customs Union
Energy Community
Euro-Latin American Parliamentary Assembly
European Common Aviation Area
Euro-Mediterranean free trade area
Euro-Mediterranean Partnership
Euronest
Economic Partnership Agreements
EU CBRN Risk Mitigation CoE Initiative
Neighbourhood Policy
Stabilisation and Association Process
Administration and policies
Foreign and Security Policy
Everything but Arms
Security and Defence Policy
Humanitarian Aid and Civil Protection Department
External Action Service
High Representative (Federica Mogherini)
Parliamentary Foreign Affairs Committee
Foreign Policy Instruments Service
Diplomatic missions of the EU (ambassadors) / to the EU
Common Security and Defence Policy of the European Union
High Representative
Director General of the Military Staff
Military Staff (Military Planning and Conduct Capability)
Civilian Planning and Conduct Capability
Intelligence and Situation Centre (Club de Berne)
Crisis Management and Planning Directorate
Security & Defence College
Defence Agency
Border and Coast Guard Agency
Satellite Centre
Council preparatory bodies
Committee of Permanent Representatives
Political and Security Committee
Politico-Military Group
Committee for Civilian Aspects of Crisis Management
Defence Fund
Other arrangements
Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO)
Headline Goal 2010
Berlin Plus agreement
Military Mobility (PESCO)
Galileo navigation system
Secure Software-defined Radio (PESCO)
Service medal
Medal for Extraordinary Meritorious Service
Monitor mission medal
Defence forces of the European Union
See also: Movement Coordination Centre · Air Group · Finabel · Organisation of Military Associations · Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation · Personnel Recovery Centre
PESCO participants
Union level
Battlegroups
Medical Corps
Medical Command (PESCO)
EUFOR Crisis Response Operation Core (PESCO)
Provided through
TEU Article 42.3
Eurocorps
European Maritime Force
European Gendarmerie Force
Air Transport Command
Overseas interventions of the European Union1
See also: Operations of the European Border and Coast Guard · Exercises of the Western Union · Operations of the European Maritime Force · Operations of the European Rapid Operational Force · Missions of the European Gendarmerie Force · Exercises of the European Maritime Force · Operations of the European Corps
[Ground] force (EUFOR)
Former Yoguslav Republic of Macedonia (Operation Concordia, 2003)
Democratic Republic of the Congo (Operation Artemis, 2003)
Bosnia and Herzegovina (Operation Althea, 2004 – present)
Democratic Republic of the Congo (2006)
Chad and the Central African Republic (2008 – 2009)
Central African Republic (2014 – 2015)
Naval force (EUNAVFOR)
Adriatic Sea (Operation Sharp Guard, 1993 – 1996)
Somalia (Operation Atalanta, 2008 – present)
Mediterranean Sea (Operation Sophia, 2015 – present)
Training mission (EUTM)
Mali (2013 – present)
Central African Republic (2016 – present)
Somalia (2010 – present)
Civilian missions
Police mission (EUPOL, EUPM)
Kinshasa (2005 – 2007)
RD Congo (2007 – 2014)
PROXIMA/FYROM (2003 – 2005)
Afghanistan (?)
BiH (2003 – 2012)
Bosnia and Herzegovina (2003 – 2012)
Afghanistan (2007 – present)
Palestinian Territories (2006 – present)
Capacity building mission (EUCAP)
Sahel Mali (2014 – present)
Sahel Niger (2012 – present)
Border assistance mission (EUBAM)
Moldova and Ukraine (2005 – present)
Libya (2013 – present)
Rafah (2005 – present)
Rule of law mission (EULEX)
Kosovo (2008 – present)
Monitoring mission (EUMM)
Aceh (2005 – 2006)
Georgia (2008 – present)
Military advisory mission (EUMAM)
RCA (2015 – 2016)
Aviation security mission (EUAVSEC)
South Sudan (2013 – 2014)
Mission in support of the
security sector reform (EUSSR)
Guinea-Bissau (2008 – 2010)
Integrated rule of law mission (EUJUST)
Iraq (2015 – 2013)
Georgia (2004 – 2005)
Mission to provide advice and assistance
for security sector reform (EUSEC)
Advisory mission (EUAM)
Ukraine (2014 – present)
Iraq (2017 – present)
Police advisory team (EUPAT)
FYROM (2005 – 2006)
AMIS EU Supporting Action (2005 – 2007)
PAMECA (2002 – present)
Minesweeping operation in the Strait of Hormuz, (Operation Cleansweep, 1987 – 1988)
Police and customs operation with OSCE on the Danube (1993 – 1996)
Police contingent in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina (1994 – 1996)
Multinational Advisory Police Element in Albania (MAPE, 1997 – 2001)
Demining Assistance Mission to Croatia (WEUDAM, 1999 – 2001)
General security surveillance mission in Kosovo (1998 – 1999)
1: Conducted by the Western European Union prior to 2003. These missions were not named using conventional prefixes such as EUFOR, EUNAVFOR etc.
History of the Common Security and Defence Policy
See also: Treaties of the European Union
Treaty of Dunkirk (1947)
Treaty of Brussels (1948)
Western Union (1948 – 1951/1954; Flag · 1949 Exercise Verity · Operation Gladio)
Treaty establishing the European Defence Community (signed 1952, unratified)
London and Paris Conferences (1954)
Modified Brussels Treaty (1954)
Western European Union (1954–2011; Flag · Assembly · Secretary-General · Service medal)
Petersberg Declaration (1992)
European Security and Defence Identity (1996-1999)
Saint-Malo declaration (1998)
Helsinki Headline Goal (1999)
Seville Declarations (2002)
European Security Strategy (2003)
CAPECON project (2002-2005)
European Security and Defence Policy (1999-2009)
Lancaster House Treaties (2010)
Rapid Operational Force (1995–2012)
Operations Centre (2012-2016)
European Union portal · Military history portal
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line284
|
__label__cc
| 0.545035
| 0.454965
|
The Dawn of a New Era – BitCoin and CryptoCurrencies
Regulators globally are getting serious…really serious. Last year, I said that there was a window in which the worlds of CryptoCurrency and BitCoin could operate in a relative vacuum. I accurately predicted that the window would close by the end of 2017…and it has.
Welcome to the New Era. Welcome to a world in which every Securities Regulator, Monetary Authority and Tax Collector will monitor, evaluate and potentially prosecute bad actors in this space.
The IRS had initially asked Coinbase in July 2017 to hand over even more detailed information on every one of its then over 500,000 users in an attempt catch those cheating on their taxes. However, another court order in Nov. 2017 reduced this number to around 14,000 “high-transacting” users, which the platform now reports as 13,000, in what Coinbase calls a “partial, but still significant, victory for Coinbase and its customers.”
On Friday, Coinbase told the around 13,000 affected customers that the company would be providing their taxpayer ID, name, birth date, address, and historical transaction records from 2013-2015 to the IRS within 21 days.
Tax Collectors do not play games and generally operate within their own rules and frameworks. Anger them at your own peril.
Read the rest of the story here…
Michael Waitze
Ken Ratri Iswari - Founder & CEO GeekHunter
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line287
|
__label__wiki
| 0.702992
| 0.702992
|
Lucas Speaks • Why He Is Done Directing Star Wars
Forums • New • VII
darthpsychotic
Posted: November 20th 2015 4:11 pm
Title: darthpsychotic@gmail.com
Join: July 3rd 1971 6:59 pm
source: (cbsnews.com /george-lucas-on-why-he-is-done-directing-star-wars/)
Sith Hunter#1
Posted: November 21st 2015 7:30 am
Join: September 4th 2011 6:10 am
I feel sorry for him in one sense, he’s starting to sound a little bitter about the whole thing…however the prequels & his attitude towards the fans criticism after them has done him no favours.
“You go to make a movie and all you do is get criticized…and it’s not much fun,”…shouldn’t any director/producer expect that from any movie that is ever made….you are never going to please all the people all of the time.
George was heavily criticized after The Phantom Menace & I think that changed his attitude slightly in his decisions regarding Episode 2 & 3. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not a “Prequel Hater” but they just didn’t hit the spot for me, Revenge of the Sith being by far the best in my opinion.
I think the main difference with The Force Awakens is that it has the classic characters back. This is one of the main reasons what draws the fans back for more. While I fully understand the limitations of not being able to have them in the prequels, that was one of the major problems for the movies. They lacked the same type of characters that made the classic trilogy what it was.
To be fair to George, after selling the franchise to Disney & coming away with a very tidy sum of money in his back pocket, I suppose he has every right to criticize the new movies…he’s bound to as they won’t be how he envisaged them to play out. I just hope he keeps his comments professional & doesn’t lose the respect he has built up over the years.
He always said that Star Wars was ultimately supposed to be “fun”…I’m sure The Force Awakens will be that & so much more.
buzzfunk
Posted: November 21st 2015 2:36 pm
Join: October 6th 2004 6:01 pm
Lucas mistake was and still is that he doesn't "get" his own creation. I don't feel sorry for him because you know, when your ego is so bloated and still to this day you cannot admit that you're maybe a great story teller but a shitty writer and director, then you deserve all the bitterness in the world. Its my own opinion that the prequels are, in fact unwatchable.
They didn't age well either.
Also what people seem to forget is that ANH was as good as it was because of the cut his then wife Marcia Lucas did because 20th century fox was ready to pull the plug. Empire was great because of Irvin Kershner hands down and while im no ta huge fan of ROTJ it was still leaps and bounds better than any of the prequels. The prequels are like a bad memory. The only good think about them was the music.
Evil_Elvis
Join: April 16th 2004 2:12 am
Lucas created this whole crazy thing called "The Star Wars" so for that he gets ultimate respect and a by at a lot of things. I understand his frustration at the whole raped-childhood type behaviour of some fans, the internet has given a lot of people a voice and audience they maybe wouldn't or shouldn't have had, particularly around the time of the Prequels when the net was just coming into it's own.
Also, didn't he give the money from the sale to Disney to education charities in the States? It's not like he was down to his last million at the time though.
Evil_Elvis wrote:
Also, didn't he give the money from the sale to Disney to education charities in the States?
www.edutopia.org
Freezus
Title: Sith Lord
Join: October 10th 2014 11:38 pm
Just wanted to chime and share my opinion on this.
I feel that it is mostly the fandom's fault because since up to 1999, A huge chunk of SW fandom thought that the OT was THEIRS to own and be like, "I proudly own VHS/Laserdisc copies of the OT." and that made them feel like SW was theirs to own when it really wasn't. On the VHS copies and even on disc versions, It says, "A LUCASFILM PRODUCTION" as well, the normal "Directed by George Lucas" (ANH) and the usual "Executive Producer George Lucas" credit (TESB and ROTJ.)
Most fans did seem to forget that about all three movies which resulted in them having this ridiculously high expectations on what the PT should look like since 1983 when ROTJ left theaters. They were expecting a grown Anakin Skywalker to start out in Episode I and spend the next two films fighting the Clone Wars and that the PT should be this identical carbon copy of the OT, scene for scene, beat for beat with a fight on top of a volcano in the third film. Lucas didnt want that. He wanted to tell the prequels his way and different from the OT. The OT always was going to be the middle trilogy where everything is battle damaged and worn out. The PT was supposed to take what we've seen in the OT, then inverse the themes...
For example, It's the time of the Old Republic which meant everything had to look less worn out; nice and shiny. See? There's your inversion of the themes and senses presented in the OT. If the PT had gone what fans was dreaming about since '83. People would have accused Lucas of being unoriginal and ripping off the OT. (Funny how some people are now accusing Disney and Abrams of ripping off the OT by copying the imagery from Episode IV and V? Funny how we think like that?) He didn't do that. In fact, Lucas was smart to try new avenues in the story of the Skywalker Saga. Did it succeed? I think so, but everyone has different tastes.
So when people see stuff like the PT deviate from what they had in the back of their minds since '83, what happens? Their entitlement of "ownership" over the franchise go into "OCD" territory going so far to demand Lucas do this and there for Episode II and III to the point where it got out of control. That kind of OCD tendency seems to be unstoppable even now 10 years after the conclusion of ROTS.
I really think Disney shouldn't try so hard to appease that segment of fandom where I call the prequel haters. They should have experimented with TFA and tried new things instead of playing little too safe for comfort. Who I blame here? The Prequel haters. I'm not going to name who because some of them are members here but I believe they're to blame for the state of the franchise because of their sense of entitlement. This really needs to stop because it's becoming really silly when you have a group of disgruntled fans who think Lucas owes them shit start arguing with the Flanneled One, that's when fandom starts being fun and start looking and looking like a stupid high school fight or argument and it's one that is overdue for an intervention by a teacher/principal but unfortunately there's not one.
So I'm asking everyone involved since I know all the parties involved read this forum (Disney, LFL, Lucas, the haters, etc) to just please stop with this stupid shit and just enjoy the PT/ST for what they are: MOVIES. I know some of you will object to that and say, "But-But!" My response to that? Shut up and let us enjoy the movies. Simple as that.
Maybe EvilElvis is right.. Maybe some people were never meant to have a voice on the internet. Just like the current Republican party was never meant to have a voice on every form of media. Unfortunately we can't stop them or make them get off the net but we can learn how to tolerate these kind of people.
God, keep your smart ass pants on. Its obviously that we all bow to him for creating SW to begin with. But this wasnt about the OT. The critic hes talking about was and is for the prequels.
And what makes you think "Some fans" were frustrated? Anyone who a common sense of narrative and good film taste was frustrated. Not only people like myself (childhood raped, yes).
And no one says he isn't a good man. Yes, he cares about people and gave away a lot of his money. I respect him for that but that he can't just laugh off the critic and admit to himself well you know, the prequels were kinda crappy just shows that selling the SW property was the right thing to do.
I'm glad he did. I also thank him for creating ILM and the countless industries he invented while making star wars.
bearvomit
Join: October 19th 2004 1:27 pm
personally I think this man is just as influential if not more so than Steve Jobs. this was his baby and he took it a little personally that Disney didn't want to use his ideas for the new trilogy. He's probably had his version of the story in his mind since ROTJ and they read it and said GTFO.
He was once again being rejected by a big studio. His professional life had come full circle.
It was like poetry.
Smart ass pants? Sure, why not...
My point was, while it's totally acceptable to like/dislike things in the way people have ad infinitum, the dawn of the internet/chat rooms/forums occurred around the same time as the Prequel build up and has given every btfo virgin a forum to spew forth their venom at the fact that the film they'd imagined in their heads wasn't what they got in a way that Lucas and the world at large had never experienced before.
Everyone had their opinions and it was suddenly a matter of logging on and you could assign and share the most ridiculously OTT verbiage to describe what is essentially a children's movie with the world, writ large.
The theory of monkeys and typewriters stands here, while you can do it, sometimes maybe it's better if you don't. It's entertainment after all. If you find you don't like it, there's hunners of other shit out there for you to tune into.
That, and you missed a "had" out.
Good chat though.
Posted: November 21st 2015 10:02 pm
I agree it surely got tiring hearing everyones opinion but again the OT was about him being bitter and blaming everyone but himself for the crappy writing. Yes the fans were shitty. Yes the internet helped to spread the venom but the movies sucked and that isn't something you can blame on the fans.
bearvomit wrote:
Well, imagine if Steve Jobs was alive today...Would he have liked it if his company increased the size of the iPhone to 4.7 and 5.5 thus splitting up the market into two segments of iPhone users? How about the part that they added Touch ID or 3D Touch? Let's not forget iPad Pro..These are ideas that Jobs strongly opposed but it took his death for the company to say fuck you and went ahead with these concepts... This is basically LFL and Disney telling him, "Fuck you" in the nicest way possible and he didn't even want to direct the PT.. If memory serves, he originally wanted Kasdan to write Episode I and Kasdan told him GTFO because people know how much of a control freak he is ever since the end of Empire's production.
Lucasfilm today mirrors Apple without Steve Jobs. Apple did take a nosedive in quality during that time Jobs was not running the company. That begs the question: How long before it happens to LFL enough for Disney to beg him to come back to briefly run the company again?
My point was, while it's totally acceptable to like/dislike things in the way people have ad infinitum, the dawn of the internet/chat rooms/forums occurred around the same time as the Prequel build up and has given every butt-hurt virgin a forum to spew forth their venom at the fact that the film they'd imagined in their heads wasn't what they got in a way that Lucas and the world at large had never experienced before. Everyone had their opinions and it was suddenly a matter of logging on and you could assign and share the most ridiculously OTT verbiage to describe what is essentially a children's movie with the world, writ large.
That, and you missed a "had" out. Good chat though.
Exactly. This was just case of fans with a bad sense of entitlement going all OCD on Lucas. He didn't even deserve one iota of their venom. If they accepted these movies as something different yet still Star Warsy, you'd have seen Lucas make his version of Episode VII a lot more earlier than 2010 and Kasdan would still likely be onboard either as a writer or an executive producer. My thought? Everyone that spewed bile at Lucas owes him an apology for expecting too much from him. So I'm going to apologize to George Lucas on behalf of these haters since they will never do that themselves. So here goes..
Dear George Lucas,
If you are reading this or one of your reps is reading this...I apologize for the way a large segment of your fans have treated you for the past 15 years. Your films is still thrilling as a family film fare. I, understand what it's like to be criticized and be bullied because of choices I made or said anything. They were wrong to claim ownership over your franchise. The Prequels were yours to make. Sure, they're flawed, but we can still get together in a family room to watch them with our children and grandchildren. You should not expect these kind of fans to represent the entire fandom because a fraction of the fandom didn't like how they turned out. Some of us are actually great fans who wouldn't mind to see all six movies that you made with love and care over and over again with our hard earned money. You shouldn't let these haters define who you are and what you want to do. Be that great storyteller we know you as. We want to see you tell great stories. You are an innovator and a brilliant man. You can rise above all of this hatred that has built up in some of these fans for the past 15 years and for that I apologize on behalf of them.
Sincerely Freezus.
dromag
Posted: November 22nd 2015 4:42 pm
It saddens me to see all the GL hate.
This guy was the same guy who provided us with the amazing Original trilogy that was forward thinking and that he fought tooth and nail for. It was ground breaking and took chances that no one else would. He took the same chances with the prequel trilogy and was BBQed for it. There's really no justification for the personal attacks many have levied against him. I appreciate what George has done for film and cinema and hope filmmakers continue to take bold chances that don't appear popular.
Bush Pilot
Join: March 23rd 2005 3:46 pm
Can we not follow the Lucasfilm playbook from the 90s and rewrite history? Star Wars wouldn't be what it is without Marcia Lucas and Richard Chew. Empire wouldn't be what it is without Kirschner and Kasdan.
That's not to take away anything from George. But he does work best when there are capable people around him to reign him in.
Topeka wrote:
dromag wrote:
Exactly. It's been 10 years since Revenge of the Sith ended. My advice to these GL haters? Move. The. Fuck. On. The guy hasn't made a SW movie in a decade. Let Lucas enjoy his retirement in peace, guys.
But it does feel like May 1999 all over again because all that SW hatred still exists in a new form: Finn hatred in the other thread. "OMG, Finn's lines has racial overtones." Just. Stop. That kind of racist talk is why I want to avoid most people because no one is going to be happy with SW, PT or ST.
I'm going to see TFA just like everyone else, but I'm not going to nitpick the film just because some fans may or may not be racist. You have to wonder if these same kind of haters will spew vitriol at J.J. Abrams because they don't like the movie. If they still don't like TFA after December 18th, then I dare them to make a good SW movie while still following the GL playbook he created in 1977 then updated in 1999.
The only revisionist history going on with Star Wars are the ones to praise big Hollywood for saving Star Wars and shitting all over GL. When it was GL that fought for the independence to make these movies the way he wanted to free from the meddling of corporate suits and unions.
Everyone knows that the OT was a collaborative effort and yet it was George who chose those people free from corporations reining him in. Sheesh I don't give a fuck if you hate the PT but good lord give credit where it's due.
The funny thing? The only reason everyone's praising Hollywood is because now it's putting out endless sequels to superhero movies and also shitting out either sequels to Frozen or new CG animated movies.. Wow what originality there, Hollywood! Hollywood is in bad shape where you can't go one day without not seeing a superhero movie. It's gotten so bad to the point where you have Hollywood legends like Steven Spielberg coming out and say, "Hey, stop with that stupid shit."
Maybe Hollywood needs to be saved by GL. Again.
stan Marsh
Posted: November 24th 2015 7:22 am
Join: December 23rd 2004 11:19 pm
Location: Left side of right coast
it's easy to pick apart movies that someone else had to dream up and bring to fruition. From what I can tell Disney is making ANH 2.0, they aren't exactly going out on a limb, and as previously said they have the OT actors to bring back.
George had to make a Star Wars trilogy that was without the major actors and satin a time so drastically different it would've been tough to not do it CG. THX, American Graffiti, and Indiana Jones were pretty cool too. The guy deserves ultimate respect
Exactly. People forget that Lucas made other properties like Indiana Jones and Willow. It's easy for a large percent of people in blind rage to forget that he made movies that is not related to SW and I might add, most of them were actually DECENT. They're like "OMGZ, He made only SW lulz!!!" The guy has a decent body of work. Tucker: Man and His Dream was decent. Willow is what it is - a fun family fare. It's not like Lucas did any R-Rated movies, but his movies has for most part been decent and easy to have the kids to watch with. Like you said he deserves all the respect in the film industry for trying to challenge the conventions of filmmaking and if people want to single out the Prequels, why not give his other films a fair criticism while we're at it?
Posted: November 25th 2015 11:33 pm
I don't think Tucker or Jack were great films but bring up Coppola and all anyone says is Gidfather genius. GL gets harsh criticism
dusith
Join: March 11th 2005 9:23 am
Location: Accord, NY
All this Lucas bashing is just a bunch of whining bullshit. I saw ANH in the theatre when it released in '77; I was ten. Those of us here on MF old enough to remember know that 'Star Wars' made people freak out about seeing a movie and it changed everything regarding how movies are made, viewed, and marketed. Hollywood scrambled to produce sci-fi films in an effort to cash in on Star Wars fever, but nothing was really very good; just a bunch of rushed garbage.
Lucas fought like mad to hold onto his vision of the story he wanted to tell. I think everyone who's bitching has too much time on their hands. Yes, the prequels where not as awesome as the OT, but you know what... my kids don't think that. They can watch with wonder and be swept up in the story, and in the SW universe. Ultimately, these are films for children and families, not for basement-dwelling cranky pants fan-boys. But haters gonna hate...
dusith wrote:
All this Lucas bashing is just a bunch of whining bullshit. I saw ANH in the theatre when it released in '77; I was ten...
Of the same age group, you and I are. I agree 100% with everything you said.
stan Marsh wrote:
Agreed. Don't forget Lucas has helped produce some of Coppola's early movies.
Bandersnatch wrote:
I agree. I'm 35 myself and I loved the OT even though it was released to VHS and rereleased to theaters in the 80's.
Alexrd
Join: October 2nd 2010 7:40 am
buzzfunk wrote:
Lucas mistake was and still is that he doesn't "get" his own creation.
But the fans do?! Please... He gets it better than anyone, and the interview only proves it.
It's this pretentious attitude from fans in general and now Lucasfilm that makes this whole sad attempt to please part of the fandom laughable at best. Hopefully time will give him the recognition he deserves.
Via: washingtonpost.com
The Washington Post wrote:
Lucas, to his credit, never really took the bait, but a disturbance in the Force persists. On a recent episode of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” the host, in a twerpy mood, asked his guest Harrison Ford: “Who do you like better, George Lucas or J.J. Abrams?” The audience howled. Ford paused, feigned discomfort, and said: “George has been amazing to me. He’s been the author of the early chapters of my life and given me the opportunity to have a really extraordinary life.”
Partly so he doesn’t have to read the worst about himself and his movies, Lucas says he has assiduously avoided the Internet since 2000 — no Facebook, no Twitter, no e-mail even — but that doesn’t mean he avoids people.
Out in the world, people recognize him (in the most banal places, while catching a movie with his wife at a cineplex, or reporting for jury duty, or accidentally walking into the frame of someone’s YouTube video about molten salt reactors) and they still need to pour out their feelings. Not to kvetch about Jar Jar Binks (what would be the point anymore?), but to tell him that they were once children. To tell him what “Star Wars” meant to them then and what it means to their children and grandchildren today. That story never gets old.
I find it funny that everyone would bash him online but is apparently cowards when they approach him and tell him how they love the movies...
Join: May 25th 1977 7:00 am
How anyone could hold any type of SW related hatred towards the man is beyond me.
KyleKartanMG
Posted: December 1st 2015 9:35 am
Title: Lover of ALL SW
Join: October 8th 2014 9:20 am
SI wrote:
This article makes me melancholy in alot of ways. It's like "the last goodbye" to Mr. Lucas who brought so much joy and happiness into my life with his creations.
I really hope he enjoys his retirement and his new Family. By all means: he deserveres it. For me I would be so happy if he would have done Ep VII at least and hand it over to Abrams or some other director AFTER starting the Sequels. But we wont ever get this so I go along with the ride which is coming very very soon.
Posted: December 1st 2015 11:40 am
From from the mouth of the Creator: washingtonpost.com /lucas-to-feel-the-true-force-of-star-wars-he-had-to-learn-to-let-it-go/
royalguard96
Posted: December 1st 2015 12:42 pm
Join: October 31st 2003 7:00 am
KyleKartanMG wrote:
I could not have written a reaction any better than this.
Posted: December 2nd 2015 4:30 pm
But we wont ever get this so I go along with the ride which is coming very very soon.
They could have at least followed his story, but unfortunately they chose not to. I don't see Disney releasing his treatments either. I'm more interested in those than in the movie.
Join: November 16th 2008 3:10 pm
The prequels wouldve been better if Disney had been involved... and this new trilogy will suck without Lucas
Posted: December 4th 2015 9:54 pm
I was faffing about on youtube and came across this. There's a whole bunch of other AFI vids that are worth your time, the Carrie Fisher one is particularly funny but this one struck me as worthy of sharing. Watching this and then thinking that there are people angry at this guy because what he wrote somehow touched their lives but then didn't deliver for them whatever they had built up in their heads over the years preceding the Prequels just bewilders me.
I was accused of smart-assery previously on this thread for saying Lucas gets a pass cos he made this thing that brought us all together, this kind of moment shown in the video shows, for me, why I feel that way. He created Star Wars and Indiana Jones, two things that have touched my life immeasurably. Too fucking right this guy gets a pass from me and fuck anyone else who doesn't feel the need to get on board the appreciation of the guy.
We're on the cusp of a new generation of Star Wars, here's to it not being marred by people's belief in what it should be rather than the appreciation of what it actually is.
MTFBWY!
ETandElliott
Posted: December 4th 2015 10:54 pm
Join: March 22nd 2005 11:53 pm
Location: Deep Space Nine
He needs to stop coming out of his reclusion and making baffling comments that make him look like a jackass. We know he isn't, but fuck. Go back to banging your hot wife, George.
Posted: December 5th 2015 8:42 am
Join: December 30th 2004 7:13 am
George Lucas is the worlds most successful Film student. (hollywoodreporter.com)
Posted: December 5th 2015 10:06 am
ETandElliott wrote:
Yeah, who would want someone to speak his mind (or in this case, reveal the truth) without offending anyone?
Someone needs to check the definition of 'jackass'...
kmartnintendude
Join: September 2nd 2015 2:47 pm
I admire and think George Lucas is awesome. My feelings about the prequels have always been mixed. So much was right about the films. The design aesthetic, the music, the podrace, the film titles, the opening crawls (IMO,...I know that most people didn't like them), Ben Burtt's sound effects. On the other hand, there were vital things that were wrong, which made them bad films by any metric by which you'd normally judge narrative and acting. Despite all three episodes having things that made me cringe (mostly the acting and writing), I still defended the prequels fiercely to others until I saw Episode III. These films needed to be judged as a trilogy, and I still think they do, to an extent. However, following Episode III, I couldn't deny that the quality was different from the Original Trilogy and that the x-factor which determined their problems seemed to be George. These were bad movies, but they were bad movies which I liked. And I liked them, in part, because, as the DVDs were released, I tried to crawl into Lucas's likely high-functioning Aspie brain and figure out what the hell he was thinking. And when I emerged on the other side, to me, they were still Star Wars.
I really have hated the rift which has existed among Star Wars fans since 1999. It seems that you fall into one of two camps: prequel-gusher or prequel-basher. Very few have found the space in between. To give you examples of what I find fallacious about either position, I would point to two popular analyses of the prequels. In the prequel-gusher camp, I think that Star Wars Ring Theory tries too hard to find genius which, in all likelihood, just isn't objectively there. On the other side, you have Red Letter Media's Mr. Plinkett Prequel Reviews which, while very entertaining, miss just as much of what's good about the prequels.
I think that, if you're going to find any genius in the Star Wars prequels, then you have to start with where George Lucas was in his life when he made them. He was a middle-aged divorcee raising three kids, all of whom I believe he adopted. I would argue that the prequels, especially the Skywalker story arc, is a love letter to his kids, especially his son Jett. Surely Jett is the only reason that George made the otherwise baffling decision to make Anakin Skywalker a 9-year-old born into desperately disadvantageous circumstances.
With the prequels, George Lucas basically made the entire Star Wars saga into a 6-episode series with the overarching theme of "The sins of the father do not have to be the sins of the son." The core series stayed such for ten years. Despite their serious flaws, many story points in the prequels were communicated subtextually and are lost on most because they refuse to see past the serious flaws which the movies have. I'm sure most of us appreciate the use of visual and circumstantial parallels which place Anakin and Luke in similar situations in which they are given similar choices but ultimately end up in different places.
I think we would have gotten different films altogether if George had made them at any different point in life. Who's to say if they would have been better, though? He obviously had a lot of directorial "rust," having not directed a filim in 20-plus years by the time of Menace, and I think that is to blame for much of the phenomenon of great actors giving the worst performances of their careers. With regards to dialogue, writing that was even George's weakest area at the time of the original films. And while I think that some of his prequel collaborators bear a little blame for not giving him more feedback (I have only guesses as to why), the buck ultimately stopped with George.
With Episode VII, I think Mr. Abrams and Mr. Kasdan and Ms. Kennedy are trying to heal the rift among the fans. They want us in the theater in order to reaffirm to us that Star Wars can rise to the level of what most people have always said were its best moments. I seriously question the perceived prequel hate from J.J. Abrams in the marketing. I really think that George's "btfo" comments are part of the marketing, too: maybe not a year ago, but at least they are by now. I think that Episode VII will be scarce as far as prequel references go. But I hope that early Episode VIII and IX rumors which I've heard, which indicate that there will be more explicit prequel references to tie the trilogies together, are true. Think about it: they really have to, if the saga is to maintain any semblance of thematic symmetry.
The only other option is to remake the prequels. And I will admit that, with as prone to reboot franchises as Hollywood has been the past ten years, the idea thrilled a part of me at first. And, then, I thought about it: George Lucas is getting pretty old. He is loaded with money and has access to good healthcare, but I know he's a diabetic with weight control issues. This is the man who I think we will find out in less than two weeks basically gave (for $4 billion dollars) the franchise back to the subset of fans who claimed he never had any stake in it since 1997. I sincerely hope that Disney and Lucasfilm never insult him in the worst way imaginable, at least not while he's still with us.
tl;dr: Cut George Lucas some slack. He deserves praise, he deserves criticism. It's not all-or-nothing. I think the new filmmakers will heal the rift among fans as much as they can.
kmartnintendude wrote:
In the prequel-gusher camp, I think that Star Wars Ring Theory tries too hard to find genius which, in all likelihood, just isn't objectively there.
The Ring Theory isn't about the prequels. It's about the saga's composition and themes. All six movies. To say that it isn't objectively there is a lie because it's something observable. It's not gushing either, it's reasonable and well-argued, even if one doesn't like the movies.
To compare something like that to the RLM "reviews" which whatever the purpose are objectively fallacious (omission of facts, cherry picking, non sequiturs, strawmen, etc) is not very fair.
And as far as finding the space in-between, the same can be said about the OT, whose "flaws" are if not ignored, easily forgiven. Those same "flaws" are frequently used to trash the prequels over and over.
^This.
Alexrd wins today's internet.
Alexrd wrote:
Okay, my statement about Ring Theory was false, and the comparison to RLM's reviews weren't fair. That was due to stupidity on my part. I just dislike how the fanbase of Star Wars has been polarized like never before since the prequels. And I've seen lots of prequel lovers go to prequel haters, point to Ring Theory, and act as though that should shut them up and make them appreciate the movies. And I've similarly seen prequel haters point to RLM's reviews in recent months, and expect prequel lovers to acknowledge that the PT had serious flaws in story and acting (which I chalk up to flaws in direction). And, yes, the OT had lots of flaws as well, but I don't think those movies' issues were as prevalent and detrimental to the viewing experience. I like the prequels, but I can't commit to loving them as much as the OT.
Let's see...
Does the title contain the words 'Star Wars'?
Some action between villains and heroes?
Are there lightsabers?
Droids?
That's really all I need to enjoy these space operas. Anything else is gravy.
Ring Theory is the greatest analysis I've ever seen of the Star Wars franchise.
doafhat
The ring theory is interesting, but good intentions don't smooth over the very serious issues in the on-screen execution of the prequels for me. To use another example, I'm sure David Lynch and company put a lot of genuine effort went into adapting the story of Dune into a motion picture -- but that movie is ultimately still a mess.
I won't say people are wrong if they really enjoyed Episodes I-III, I'd be lying if I said they didn't have some redeeming qualities to them, but man... fart jokes, "Yippee!" and Video Game Kung-Fu Yoda existing in the same cinematic universe as "I love you" / "I know" and "Luminous beings are we, not this crude matter" is just something I really have trouble reconciling.
Posted: December 29th 2015 12:11 pm
Here is the complete Charlie Rose interview with Lucas: http://charlierose.com/watch/60665244
Posted: December 29th 2015 5:35 pm
Finally! Woo! Thanks for posting!
Only Lucas can buck Rose's black room and oak table.
Please watch the entire 55 minute interview, not just the 2 snippets that were inexplicably selected after I posted the complete link.
Posted: December 31st 2015 12:23 pm
http://www.theguardian.com/film/2015/de ... ce-awakens
Happy New Year George!
Yes you created all of this...
Yes the fans are totally & forever will be thankful for what you did & made...
Now please go quietly & with what respected dignity you have left & leave what YOU decided to sell to the other respected & dedicated directors & producers to continue the way they see fit...no point taking a sulky strop... The Force Awakens has broken box office takings globally...you should be proud!
I used to have a lot of time & respect for him, however the older he gets the more negative he becomes & his attitude doesnt come over as professional as it should be.
Stop acting like a dick George & grow up man!
CoGro
Posted: December 31st 2015 4:59 pm
Love him or not (that goes for his filmmaking, contribution to the arts, etc) this scorched earth game he's been running is very poor.
He isn't the first person to sell a cherished IP and he is wise enough to know the pros and cons of doing so. He is doing nothing but damaging the brand he basically devoted his life to build. It's very sad.
He's apologized for the "white slaver" comment, followed by an "Aw shucks, Disney's really super" statement, but I question his judgment in saying what he did in the first place. There wasn't anything to be gained in saying what he did so quickly after TFA's release.
One of the most common themes of the Lucasfilm transition has been the constant "There wouldn't be Star Wars without George Lucas" drumbeat, but at the risk of sounding incredibly sappy, let's not forget it's the fans that made Star Wars as successful as it has been. I feel like it's becoming increasingly evident that fans embraced Star Wars for reasons that Lucas doesn't really understand anymore.
doafhat wrote:
...fans embraced Star Wars for reasons that Lucas doesn't really understand anymore.
And for reasons that I don't think Lucas ever understood in the first place. And I've been one of his staunchest supporters.
Fantastic interview. The Charlie Rose talks always are. It's out of character to see Lucas throw a hissy-fit until you realize the Disney folks are the first people in 30 years to tell him "No, we're not doing this your way."
As admirable as Lucas is, his ego consumed him to the detriment of his work.
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line288
|
__label__wiki
| 0.642074
| 0.642074
|
Aaron Au
The Hard Corps An Army veteran assembles a team of bodyguards to protect a former boxer. Complications arise when the boxer suspects his sister may be romantically involved with the bodyguard.
IMDB: 5.3/10 4,778 votes
The Hard Corps
Elektra Elektra the warrior survives a near-death experience, becomes an assassin-for-hire, and tries to protect her two latest targets, a single father and his young daughter, from a group of supernatural assassins. >>Download Movie<<
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line291
|
__label__cc
| 0.710526
| 0.289474
|
uno police department
Chief's Welcome
Mission and Authority
Campus Safety Tips
Active Shooter Training Video
Safety Awareness and Educational Programs
Crime Victim Resources
Missing Student Policy
Anonymous Complaint Report
University Alert System
Weapons on Campus
Daily Crime and Fire Logs
Campus Crime Statistics
Crime Alerts
Annual Security & Fire Safety Reports/Clery Act
A victim of crime is a person who has suffered physical or emotional injury, or financial loss because of a crime. Victims of crime may have:
been injured in a violent attack
experienced a sexual assault
been the subject of a robbery
Crime often affects more than just the direct victim, witnesses to a crime and family members of a person injured or killed are also affected. The effects of crime can produce many different feelings for you, your family, friends and your community.
Have you ever been a victim or witness to a crime?
If so, you may be entitled to certain rights under Louisiana's Crime Victim Bill of Rights.
Louisiana's Crime Victim Bill of Rights
“Resources Available for Crime Victims” Brochure
How to exercise the rights granted to you as a victim and/or witness.
In order for a victim, or designated family member, to be eligible to receive notices and exercise the rights provided by law, the victim or designated family member must complete the Louisiana Victim Notice & Registration Form, which will be filed with the law enforcement agency investigating the offense of which the person is a victim of a crime.
The University of New Orleans wants you to know, if you become a victim of a crime, there are resources available here on campus and the metro area. A “Resources Available for Crime Victims” brochure has been published by the University of New Orleans to aid crime victims who wish to seek additional assistance. Hard copies of the brochure are also available at the University Police Department, Student Affairs, and Student Housing.
Emergency Contact: (504) 280-6666
The University of New Orleans
234 Computer Center
Parking & Traffic Section:
Email: unopd@uno.edu
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line295
|
__label__cc
| 0.700976
| 0.299024
|
Posts Tagged ‘Saint Patrick’s Day’
Doc Savage on Audible • AAF Week 5 • MCG Spotlight
Doc Savage is on Audible!
We love to read but we don’t always have time to! BUT, with audio books we can! With a cell phone, iPod, iPad or Kindle we can listen to the books, many of which are read unabridged, on our way to the job, exercising or any such repetitive task. Audible, now part of the Amazon Family, has a large selection of audio books to choose from. Recently Audible Studios began doing audio production of some of the old Pulp Stories like Doc Savage, The Shadow and others. These are not just books being read by one person. There are several voice actors, music tracks and even some sound effects, where needed, as well. Check out the Audible site to see what’s available AND to listen to audio clips of the actual audio books.
Before we get into the books, for those not familiar with Doc Savage check out the following YouTube videos:
Here’s a small sample of what you will find at Audible: There are 5 Doc Savage classic, Lester Dent (Kenneth Robeson) novels produced by Audible Studios. There are also several of the new Will Murray (Kenneth Robeson) novels produced by Radio Archives as well.
Doc Savage: The Fortress of Solitude
Pulp fiction’s legendary “Man of Bronze”, Doc Savage, stars in one of his most engrossing adventures. In this novel we meet Doc Savage’s greatest enemy, the diabolical John Sunlight.
Sunlight has set out on an evil mission of revenge and has armed himself with incredible scientific inventions that he managed to steal from Doc Savage’s own “Fortress of Solitude” in the arctic.
Doc must race to stop Sunlight before Doc’s own inventions are put to sinister use.
Complete narrative cast includes Jay Snyder, Jeena Yi, David Marantz, Marc Vietor, Carol Monda, LJ Ganser, Allyson Johnson, Angelo Di Loreto, Kevin T. Collins, Victor Bevine, Nick Sullivan, and Jonathan Davis.
Here’s what buyers of the audio book had to say:
***** An excellant Vintage Doc Savage Novel
What made the experience of listening to Fortress of Solitude the most enjoyable?
This was performed much like a radio play. With several cast members and sound effects, this added to the story enjoyment.
The choice of story. If there is a plan for dramatizing more of the Doc Savage novels, this was a good start. The introduction of the Fortress Of Solitude and the introduction of the villain, John Sunlight are legend in the pulp fandom.
Which character – as performed by the narrators – was your favorite?
Probably Doc himself, less for performance than for character. Although all performances were very enjoyable.
More Vintage Doc Savage novels please! 5 Stars! *****
***** Great pulp fun!
A marvelous performance of a classic Doc Savage pulp adventure, told by a talented troupe of players. I thought the actor portraying Monk Mayfair was especially effective, but everybody was good, and this was most definitely a fun read. I look forward to more in the series! (hint, hint)
5 Stars! *****
***** PLEASE MAKE MORE!
Loved listening to this. The only criticism I have is that the text was slightly abridged. The signal phrases were cut from the dialogue and sometimes it was hard for me to tell who was saying what.
Some of the newer Will Murray Doc Novels have also been produced for audio books. These can be had at either the Audible or Radio Archives sites.
***** Pure Pulp! More Please!
This is the first Doc Savage pulp adventure that audible studios has tackled. This is done by the same team that worked on The Shadow novel Partners in Peril. The material is from 1938 and will strike some as dated, but as long as you know what you are getting with this, you are in for a treat. This is the unabridged pulp novel from the mind of Lester Dent recorded by a full cast and mixed with some sound effects and music. It comes across as a blend of audiobook and a kind of modernized old time radio show, Great fun! Recommended. Dear Audible studios, more please! Keep ’em coming!
Other Doc Savage audio titles include:
The Land of Always Night, The Golden Man, The Polar Treasure and The Dust of Death. The newer Will Murray novels, which Murray completed from plots he discovered in the archives of Lester Dent include: Python Isle, The Jade Ogre, Flight into Fear, The Forgotten Realm, The Whistling Wraith, The Desert Demons, The Frightened Fish, The Infernal Buddha, White Eyes and Skull Island.
See more on the Audible website. ©1938 Street & Smith Publications, Inc. All rights reserved. (c) renewed 1965 by Condé Nast Publications, Inc. All rights reserved. (P)2017 Audible, Inc.
We are not part of Amazon or Audible
Neither do we get any kind of kick back or ad revenue from sharing this information. As usual, in our blog, we, as fans want to share with you, our reader and fellow fan, those things that interest us and that which we think will interest you as well. You’re welcome! 😉
Watch games LIVE on the AAF App for iPhone and Android
AAF Mid Season
Week 5 of the AAF season begins Saturday and when done we will be at the halfway point of the season! The Birmingham Iron and the Orlando Apollos are still on top of the heap but now the only remaining undefeated team is Orlando. Birmingham fell to the San Antonio Commanders last weekend. It was only a 1 pt loss but a loss nonetheless. Even so, the Apollos and the Iron will meet this weekend. Who will be on top of the AAF Eastern Conference when the dust settles? We shall see this Saturday at 1 PM (Central Time)!
So what can we say now at mid season? What have we seen? There have been some good games. Surprisingly the defenses have been more dominate in the first half of nearly every game we have watched but by the 4th Quarter the offenses start to come alive as the tired defenses can no longer keep up. There have been several close games. Having no kickoffs, shorter game clocks and no extra point kicks, since after each touchdown the scoring team must go for two, has definitely been factors in the game over all. One of the most surprising things has been the proficiency of teams making the two point conversions. We all agree here at the MCG offices it has been most interesting and entertaining. Will the NFL and NCAA adapt some of these new rule changes? Time will tell.
The AAF Winter/Spring Football season is nearly half over. Who will be the champions? Will it be the Iron or the Apollos in the East? And who will take charge in the West? Three teams are tied for 1st place. That has to change! After this weekend the picture should be somewhat clearer, but we still have several games yet to be played.
Most of Alliance of American Football games can be viewed on the NFL Network. A few early games were on TNT, and there is one on TNT this weekend. One very week has appeared on the pay subscription CBS All Access. Last week games began showing on B-R (Bleacher Report) Live. For full details and lots more go to the AAF website and your local listings, natch.
The AAF Standings going into week 5. Birmingham and Orlando remain on top but the Apollos are the only remaining undefeated team in the AAF! Now, the 2nd toughest team in the league, the Birmingham Iron, will try to change that at 1 Pm (Central) this Saturday. Can they do it?
Mid Season for the AAF is here in Week 5!
Don’t miss it! Check your local listings. Some the TV games are on the NFL Network. CBS is only showing the on their online CBS Direct Access service. One will be on TNT this weekend. You also can see games streaming live at AAF.com and B-R Live. And follow the action in real time on The Alliance app, available on the App Store and on Google Play.
New Man’s first mission was not against a super villain. We had him go up against a terrorist. This was 1990 when we were putting all this together. The U.S. hadn’t had much trouble with terrorists at the time. So our story was maybe a little ahead of it’s time. We were trying to establish a super hero in the most realistic way we could think of. We got a lot of positive feedback from those who saw it.
Project: New Man #1 had an initial print run of about 3,000 issues. We only have a few office copies left of that little collectors item!
I had a great time drawing this issue. I averaged 3 pages a day and once I drew 6 pages for that day. These were not your average 8 hour days, I worked 10 hours at a stretch usually. I like to use big panels on the 6 panel grid format, often utilizing 3-4 panels on a lot of pages and 1 panel splash pages through out much of the story in the tradition of my favorite storyteller/cartoonist: Jack Kirby.
Omni Spawn seems to get around! And he doesn’t seem to need to use the conventional methods Magistar uses… if leaping 5 stories to the top of another building can be called “conventional.” 😉
Mark’s Remarks: Okay, at long last I can reveal the age old secret of those wild panel layouts in the pages of Humants # 1. Freazie and I were doing Small Press books before we ventured into the Independent Market. The original art board size is just a little longer for regular comic book size than for Small Press. Freazie had started penciling part of the Humants first book for Small Press before Project: New Man. When we decided to go to the Independent Market with issue 1 of Project: New Man we began to make similar plans for the Humants book. So Freazie switched over, after we remembered to do so, to the larger comic boards. He shuffled the pages about a bit and the new pages ended up at the beginning of Humants # 1. So when I got all the pages to prepare for the printers, I had to cut the Small Press size pages and panels apart and paste them on Regulation Comic Boards so all the sizes matched. In doing so, I had to come up with some interesting ways to fill the space without it looking like we were correcting a mistake. Allan Lewis was a tremendous help with this! We borrowed an idea or two from Todd McFarlane and that’s The Rest of the Story as Paul Harvey would say! Whew! Just remembering all that was hard work! ?
Saint Patrick’s Day is almost here! 😉 Celebrate the Irish like never before by forking over your GREEN to our worthy cause! Be the first lad or lassie in your neighborhood to buy our digital books and download them for instant gratification! We have made available our dazzling digital color printed books from IndyPlanet OR if you had rather, just go right ahead and purchase the very inexpensive digital downloads for instant gratification from IndyPlanet. DriveThru Comics or directly and securely from this very site. Aye! There be a DIFFERENT kind of gold at the rainbows end! 😉
Are you ready for another weekend?!
Yeah. We know. Silly question! Ready or not it is here! And once again we have come to the end of our weekly MCG Blog Posting. Yes, we know it’s a sad time but be not discouraged. We will be back here next week, God willing. Have a good one! See you next Friday. 😉
Tags: AAF Mid Season, AAF website, Allyson Johnson, Amazon, Android, Angelo Di Loreto, App Store, Audible, Audible Studios, B/R Live, Birmingham Iron, Bleacher Report, Carol Monda, CBS All Access, David Marantz, Doc Savage, Google Play, Humants 1 Page 11, iPad, iPhone, iPod, Jack Kirby, Jay Snyder, Jeena Yi, John Sunlight, Jonathan Davis, Kenneth Robeson, Kevin T. Collins, Kindle, Lester Dent, LJ Ganser, Man of Bronze, Marc Vietor, Monk Mayfair, NFL Network, Nick Sullivan, Orlando Apollos, Project: New Man 1 Page 11, Pulp Stories, Radio Archives, Saint Patrick's Day, San Antonio Commanders, The Fortress of Solitude, The Shadow, TNT, Victor Bevine, Will Murray, YouTube |
Big Brother • AAF 2nd Half • Project: NewMan 1:12 • Humants 1:12
Big Brother is Watching Us!
No we are not referring to the popular TV show! In 1949 a book was published which was almost prophetic of the time we live in now.
Nineteen Eighty-Four, often published as 1984, is a dystopian novel by English writer George Orwell published in June 1949.[2][3] The novel is set in the year 1984 when most of the world population have become victims of perpetual war, omnipresent government surveillance and propaganda.
In the novel, Great Britain (“Airstrip One”) has become a province of a superstate named Oceania. Oceania is ruled by the “Party”, who employ the “Thought Police“ to persecute individualism and independent thinking.[4] The Party’s leader is Big Brother, who enjoys an intense cult of personality but may not even exist. …
In the year 1984, civilization has been damaged by war, civil conflict, and revolution. Airstrip One (formerly Britain) is a province of Oceania, one of the three totalitarian super-states that rule the world. It is ruled by the “Party” under the ideology of “Ingsoc” and the mysterious leader Big Brother, who has an intense cult of personality. The Party stamps out anyone who does not fully conform to their regime using the Thought Police and constant surveillance through devices such as Telescreens (two-way televisions).
There are some uncanny similarities in the novel and in our current reality. In the story national borders have been eliminated and replaced by super states, which later in the story are revealed to be essentially all ONE global super state. The well being of the community and the state are preferred over the rights of individuals. History, news and information is replaced by the propaganda media who rewrite history, manufacture stories and twist facts as well as manipulate images to promote their own narrative. Those who refuse to tow the party line are persecuted.
In this little article we want to isolate one subject and focus on it. That is INFORMATION. It has been said “information is power” and that seems to be true for the most part. According to several sources we’ve researched, the top 3 most visited web sites in the world are 1) Google, 2) Facebook, 3) YouTube. These are the three gate keepers of the world’s online knowledge. If all three were totally objective and forthcoming with unbiased information AND respected the rights of individuals, there would be no problem. However, in recent years it has been tested and proven, Google, for example, favored one candidate in the last presidential election during the U.S. election. In Google searches using the keywords “How to vote.” Google suggested one candidate as the words were typed in. Even typing in the the first name then the whole name of the other major party candidate… no suggestions were given. It was as if Google did not even know who the other well known candidate was. This is a blatant example of the world largest search engine deliberately attempting to influence an election for one candidate. This is just one example. Facebook executives also supported one candidate over the other. There are plenty of others we won’t take time to go into now. What happened to news and information services being objective and unbiased and allowing the consumer to make his own decision? To do other wise is to promote an agenda through the use of propaganda.
Sources: NaturalNews, Washington Free Beacon, TruePundit.
With the demise of ethical, unbiased information sources it is clear we need some alternatives to the mainstream. We can’t trust these companies to give us ALL the facts and options and that’s not the worst of it. Google, Facebook, and YouTube, as much as we enjoy their content, are always tracking our every move and profiting off our personal preferences. Want to know how all the robo callers who hound you everyday on your cell phone with unwanted offers for products get your number? What about all the spam emails and text messages? One of these three likely sold them your phone number. They profited off your personal information and violated your privacy. It’s not just them, they are just the most popular and the biggest, but there are many more who do the same.
Right now it’s just an annoyance but the potential for being used for far more dangerous means is obvious if not often oblivious to us as we go about our daily routines. Unfortunately, some have already been stalked through cyber sources and become victims and even killed. These examples are only the first of many more to come, we fear. Just a little aside: Remember our story from Project NewMan #1? It involved a man who went into a shopping mall with an arsenal of weapons opening fire on innocent shoppers. We did that story back in the early ’90’s, nearly 30 years ago. That was unheard of then. Now, such shootings, sadly, have become all too common.
To remain in a safe place online, we have found a few alternatives you might want to check out which we ourselves have been using OR come highly recommended:
1. Search Engines: DuckDuckGo is fast becoming a popular alternative to Google as a search engine. There main advantage: They do not track you or sell your information. ’nuff said! Bing is Microsoft’s answer to Google.
2. Browsers: Brave is a fast browser, at least as fast as Chrome and it has shields you can adjust to view no ads or certain ads you are genuinely interested in. It also supports some beautiful themes.
3. Encyclopedias: Encyclopedia Britannica Online is an online encyclopedia that doesn’t have the bias or inaccuracies of Wikipedia. All entries have been written and fact-checked by professionals but requires a subscription of $69.95 per year. Infoplease is a free online encyclopedia that is a part of Pearson Education, the largest educational book distributor in the world. Conservapedia is a great, free alternative to Wikipedia. We have used Wikipedia a lot but we have discovered Wiki doesn’t always tell everything or even get it correct, similar to Google. So we are adding Conservapedia as one of our online encyclopedias in addition to Wikipedia because a second opinion never hurts. 😉 Check out he excerpt below concerning Nineteen Eighty-Four and compare it with the Wikipedia excerpt above.
In the world of Nineteen Eighty-Four, individual, free nations no longer exist; the world has been divided up into three massive empire-states: Oceania, Eurasia, and Eastasia. Religion is not mentioned in the book and is speculated to have been stamped out. A worship of Big Brother, similar to Juche, is imposed as an alternative.
Oceania is, roughly, the English-speaking world: the United States, Canada, Britain, Australia, and South Africa. It is perpetually at war with either Eurasia or Eastasia, and allied with the other. The book describes a hyper-liberal dystopia where the government, known as the Party, monitors and controls nearly all aspects of every individual’s life. Extreme liberal fanaticism and ignorance are promoted by Oceania through relentless propaganda. This is practiced to the point that citizens unthinkingly (or, in Newspeak, use bellyfeel) accept everything said and done by the Party, and hate everything associated with the empire-state which happens to the enemy at the moment. Relationships among people, whether platonic or intimate, are discouraged or sometimes forbidden outright, as they distract from worship of the leader, Big Brother (who may or may not exist). It is later revealed that in reality all three empire-states have the same government and are essentially identical in their pursuit of a liberal, pagan social system.
Source: Conservapedia
4. Social Media: myPraize is the Christian Social Network which has been around almost as long as Facebook with more than a million users. Definitely as safe space. SocialGo is a pay social network a little more geared to business but in a more casual way than LinkedIN. Snabbo is free social networking geared to Baby Boomers, which explains the retro look. ;-). Diaspora is a decentralized social network. Instead of everyone’s data being held on huge central servers owned by a large organization, Diaspora exists on independently run servers “pods” all over the world. You choose which pod to register with, and you can then connect seamlessly with the Diaspora community worldwide.
Those are just a few we have searched out. There are others. We’ll update you more in future blog postings as we discover other alternatives. This may not seem that important now but it won’t be long before it becomes painfully plain that we all need to be more secure with our online presence. Enjoy safe, web surfing, wayfarer!
AAF Second Half of the Season
AAF season week 6 begins Saturday! The Birmingham Iron was beaten by the Orlando Apollos 31-14. Orlando now remains the sole undefeated team in the AAF. The Iron defense have been good all season but this Apollos offense has a lot of weapons! Of course the Apollos have a great defense as well and managed to get a pick six early in the game which gave them lot of momentum. A lot of credit goes to Head Coach is Steve Spurrier, legendary University of Florida Gators Head Coach from the ’90’s. Spurrier also coached the Washington Redskins for a few years and the South Carolina Gamecocks. Spurrier is now in his ’70’s and while he may not get around as well as he use to he still knows how to get his team moving!
The AAF Winter/Spring Football season is half over. We now start down the stretch to see who will be the first AAF Champion team of the inaugural season. Check out the latest standings, schedules, where to watch, and game highlights below.
If you are a football fan, support these teams, players and this league so we can keep it and them around. Having a Winter/Spring Football League helps shorten the the off season!
The AAF Standings starting week 6. The West is starting to tighten up as Orlando is king in the East. Things are starting to get interesting now!
AAF Begins 2nd Half of the Season!
5 games left in the regular season! Check your local listings. Some the TV games are on the NFL Network. CBS is only showing the on their online CBS Direct Access service. One will be on TNT this weekend. You also can see games streaming live at AAF.com and B-R Live. And follow the action in real time on The Alliance app, available on the App Store and on Google Play.
New Man is being lead on a fast and furious chase with very high stakes! The madman is in full stride and obviously trained very well. Dave has noticed this adversaries tactics are somewhat familiar.
One of the more detailed pages. I actually did more detailed backgrounds on most pages but the inkers wisely saw some of the panels were too detailed and was taking away from the story, so they did not ink everything. In telling a story with pictures one has to think “contrast” or balance the same as doing a static piece of art. The inkers also did a great job of spotting more black shadows than I had which added to the visual contrast overall as well as per panel.
Now let’s meet the rest of the team: Man Ark, Sojourner, and…
Mark’s Remarks: Maybe I am bias, but I like these pages. I thought these were some of Freazie and Al’s best work on Humants # 1. Of course there are always areas which could have been improved. That is always going to be the case with anything. So constructive criticism is always welcome and very much encouraged. It’s one of the best tools we have for learning in this business and fan feedback is the most valuable resource. Fan feedback was not always around in the comics industry for the most part. It was really a by-product of the Silver/Marvel Age of Comics. Comic books had letter columns before the ’60’s only in a few books. It was in the 1960’s when the letters to the editor really legitimatized comics fandom. Letter columns were a part of most comic books until recent years, when e-mail, forum pages, social network sites, and comment boxes on blog pages, more or less replaced them. Some comics still have LOC’s but they seem to be in the minority these days. I miss those, especially the ’60’s Marvel Comics Letters Pages. Stan Lee, Roy Thomas, and others, with great help from the fans, made the Marvel LOC’s almost as entertaining as the comic book stories they produced!
Saint Patrick’s Day is Sunday! 😉 So since it is the weekend we get to take it on Monday too! Celebrate the Irish like never before by forking over your GREEN to our worthy cause! Make the rest of your neighborhood GREEN with envy when you buy our digital books and download them instantly here! OR if you had rather, just go right ahead and purchase the very inexpensive digital downloads for instant gratification from IndyPlanet, DriveThru Comics. If you are really in the celebratory mood buy the stunning printed versions from IndyPlanet! Blarney!! So many ways to snatch up a DIFFERENT kind of gold at the rainbows end before some fun loving leprechaun makes off with the treasure! 😉
The Ides of March are upon us!
We have no idea how that relates to a comics website! But we had to say something, lest we say nothing! So once again the end of the rainbow for our weekly MCG Blog Posting. There were gold aplenty in this PRE-St. Patricks Day posting. Enjoy your GREENS! 😉
Tags: 1984, Australia, Baby Boomers, Big Brother is Watching Us, Bing, Brave, Britain, Browsers, Canada, Chrome, Conservapedia, decentralized social network, Diaspora, DuckDuckGo, Encyclopedia Britannica Online, Encyclopedias, ewspeak, Facebook, George Orwell, Google, Humants 1 page 12, Infoplease, information is power, Ingsoc, Juche, LinkedIN, myPraize, NaturalNews, Nineteen Eighty-Four, Oceania, Pearson Education, Project: NewMan 1 page 12, Saint Patrick's Day, Search Engines, Snabbo, SocialGo, South Africa., Thought Police, TruePundit, United States, Washington Free Beacon, Wikipedia, YouTube |
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line298
|
__label__cc
| 0.607951
| 0.392049
|
Metaphor Hacker
Blog on Request
Tag Archives: Religious belief
Extended writing, Knowledge, Metaphor, Religion
Religion, if it exists, is negotiation of underdetermined metaphoric cognition [UPDATED]
April 9, 2011 Dominik Lukeš 3 Comments
I am an old atheist and a new agnostic. I don’t believe in God in the old-fashioned Russellian way – if I don’t believe in Krishna, Zeus, water sprites or the little teapot orbiting the Sun, I don’t believe in God and the associated supernatual phenomena (monotheism my foot!). However, I am agnostic about nearly everything else and everything else in the new atheist way is pretty much science and reason. If history is any judge (and it is) most of what we believe to be scientific truths today is bunk. This makes me feel not superior at all to people of faith. Sure I think what they believe is a stupid and irrational thing to believe, but I don’t think they are stupid or irrational people to believe it. The smartest people believe the most preposterous things just look at Newton, Chomsky or Dawkins.
But one thing I’m pretty certain about is religion. Or rather, I’m pretty certain it does not exist. It is in many ways an invention of the Enlightenment and just like equality and brotherhood it only makes sense until you see the first person winding the up guillotine. Religion only makes sense if you want to set a certain set of beliefs and practices aside, most importantly to deprive their holders of power and legitimacy.
But is it a useful concept for deliberation about human universals? I think on balance it is not. Religion is a collection of stated beliefs, internal beliefs and public and private practices. In other words, religion is a way of life for a community of people. Or to be etymological about it, it is what binds the community together. The nature of the content of those beliefs is entirely irrelevant to the true human universal: a shared collection of beliefs and practices develops over a short amount of time inside any group of people. And when I say beliefs, I mean all explicit and implicit knowledge and applied cognition.
In this sense, modern secular humanism is just as much a religion as rabid evangelicalism.
On the mundane nature of sacred thought
So, why the scientist asks, do all cultures develop knowledge system that includes belief in the supernatural? That’s because they don’t. For instance, as Geertz so beautifully described in his reinterpretation of the Azande, witchcraft isn’t supernatural. It is the natural explanation after everything else has failed. We keep forgetting that until Einstein, everybody believed in this (as Descartes pointed out) supernatural force called gravity that could somehow magically transmit motion accross vast distances. And now (as Angel and Demetis point out) we believe in magical sheets that make gravity all nice and natural. Or maybe strings? Give me a break!
What about the distinction between the sacred and mundane you ask? Well, that obviously exists including the liminality between them. But sacred/mundane is not limited to anything supernatural and magical – just look at the US treatment of the flag or citizenship. In fact, even the most porfoundly sacred and mystical has a significant mundane dimension necessitated by its logistics.
There are no universals of faith. But there are some strong tendencies among the world’s cultures: Ancestor worship, belief in superhuman and non-human (often invisible, sometimes disembodied) agents, sympathetic magic and ritual (which includes belief in empowered and/or sapient substances and objects). This is combined with preserving and placating personal and collective practices.
All of the above describes western atheists as much as the witchcraft believing Azande. We just define the natural differently. Our beliefs in the power of various pills and the public professions of faith in the reality of evolution or the transformative nature of the market fall under the above just as nicely as the rain dance. Sure I’d much rather go to a surgeon with an inflamed appendix than a witch doctor but I’d also much rather go to a renowned witch doctor than an unknown one if that was my only choice. Medicine is simply witchcraft with better peer review.
Leaving the merits of the modern world aside. The question remains why do humans seem to converge on similar content of their beliefs? Helen de Cruz and the commenters on her post about the naturalness of religious belief: http://www.cognitionandculture.net/Helen-De-Cruz-s-blog/does-atheism-challenge-the-naturalness-of-religious-belief.html give a great overview of the current debate on the topic.
They pretty much put to rest some of the evolutionary notions and the innateness of mind/body dualism. I particularly like the proposition Helene de Cruz made building on Pascal’s remark that some people “seem so made that [they] cannot believe”. “For those people” continues de Cruz, “religious belief requires a constant cognitive effort.”
I think this is a profound statement. I see it as being in line with my thesis of frame negotiation. Some things require more cognitive effort for some people than other things for other people. It doesn’t have to be religion. We know reading requires more cognitive effort for different people in different ways (dyslexics being one group with a particular profile of cognitive difficulties). So does counting, painting, hunting, driving cars, cutting things with knives, taking computers apart, etc. These things are suceptible to training and practice to different degrees with different people.
So it makes perfect sense on the available evidence that different people require different levels of cognitive effort to maintain belief in what is axiomatic for others.
In the comments Mitch Hodge contributed a question to “researchers who propose that mind-body dualism undergirds representations of supernatural entities: What do you do with all of the anthropological evidence that humans represent most all supernatural entities as embodied? How do disembodied beings eat, wear clothes, physically interact with the living and each other?”
This is really important. Before you can talk about content of belief, you need to carefully examine all its aspects. And as I tried to argue above, starting with religion as a category already leads us down certain paths of argumentation that are less than telos-neutral.
But the answer to the “are humans natural mind-body dualists” does not have to be to choose one over the other. I suggest an alternative answer:
Humans are natural schematicists and schema negotiators
What does that mean? Last year, I gave a talk (in Czech) on the “Schematicity and undetermination as two forgotten processes in mind and language”. In it I argue that operating on schematic or in other ways underdetermined concepts is not only possible but it is built into the very fabric of cognition and language. It is extremely common for people to hold incomplete images (Lakoff’s pizza example was the one that set me on this path of thinking) of things in their mind. For instance, on slide 12 of the presentation below, I show different images that Czechs submitted into a competition run online by a national newspaper on “what does baby Jesus look like” (Note: In Czech, it is baby Jesus – or Ježíšek – who delivers the presents on Christmas Eve). The images ran from an angelic adult and a real baby to an outline of the baby in the light to just a light.
[slideshare id=6059571&doc=schematicnostanedourcenost-101207060558-phpapp02]
This shows that people not only hold underdetermined images but that those images are determined to varying degrees (in my little private poll, I came across people who imagined Ježíšek as an old bearded man and personally, I did not explicitly associated the diminutive ježíšek with the baby Jesus, until I had to translate it into English). The discussions like those around Trinity or the embodied nature of key deities are the results of conversations about what parts of a shared schema is it acceptable to fill out and how to fill them out.
It is basically metaphor (or as I call it frame) negotiation. Early Christianity was full of these debates and it is not surprising that it wasn’t always the most cognitively parsimoneous image that won out.
It is further important that humans have various explicit and implicit strategies to deal with infelicitous schematicity or schema clashes, which is to defer parts of their cognition to a collectively recognised authority. I spent years of my youth believing that although the Trinity made no sense to me, there were people to who it did make sense and to whom as guardians of sense, I would defer my own imperfect cognition. But any study of the fights over the nature of the Trinity are a perfect illustration of how people negotiate over their imagery. And as in any negotiation it is not just the power of the argument but also the power of the arguer that determines the outcome.
Christianity is not special here in any regard but it does provide two millenia of documented negotiation of mappings between domains full of schemas and rich images. It starts with St Paul’s denial that circumcision is a necessary condition of being a Christian and goes on into the conceptual contortions surrounding the Trinity debates. Early Christian eschatology also had to constantly renegotiate its foundations as the world sutbbornly refused to end and was in that no different from modern eschatology – be it religion or science based. Reformation movements (from monasticism to Luther or Calvin) also exhibit this profound contrasting of imagery and exploration of mappings, rejecting some, accepting others, ignoring most.
All of these activities lead to paradoxes and thus spurring of heretical and reform movements. Waldensians or Lutherans or Hussites all arrived at their disagreement with the dogma through painstaking analysis of the imagery contained in the text. Arianism was in its time the “thinking man’s” Christianity, because it made a lot more sense than the Nicean consensus. No wonder it experienced a post-reformation resurgence. But the problems it exposed were equally serious and it was ultimately rejected for probably good reason.
How is it possible that the Nicean consensus held so long as the mainstream interpretation? Surely, Luther could not have been the first to notice the discrepancies between lithurgy and scripture. Two reasons: inventory of expression and undedetermination of conceptual representationa.
I will deal with the idea of inventory in a separate post. Briefly, it is based on the idea of cognitive grammar that language is not a system but rather a patterned invenotory of symbolic units. This inventory is neither static nor has it clear boundaries but it functions to constrain what is available for both speech and imagination. Because of the nature of symbolic units and their relationship, the inventory (a usage-based beast) is what constrains our ability to say certain things although they are possible by pure grammatical or conceptual manipulation. By the same token, the inventory makes it possible to say things that make no demonstrable sense.
Frame (or metaphor) negotiation operates on the inventory but also has to battle against its constraints. The units in the inventory range in their schematicity and determination but they are all schematic and underdetermined to some degree. Most of the time this aids effortless conceptual integration. However, a significant proportion of the time, particularly for some speakers, the conceptual integration hits a snag. A part of a schematic concept usually left underdetermined is filled out and it prevents easy integration and an appropriate mapping needs to be negotiated.
For example, it is possible to say that Jesus is God and Jesus is the Son of God even in the same sentence and as long as we don’t project the offspring mapping on the identity mapping, we don’t have a problem. People do these things all the time. We say things like “taking a human life is the ultimate decision” and “collateral damage must be expected in war” and abhor people calling soldiers “murderers”. But the alternative to “justified war” namely “war is murder” is just as easy to sanction given the available imagery. So people have a choice.
But as soon as we flesh out the imagery of “X is son of Y” and “X is Y” we see that something is wrong. This in no way matches our experience of what is possible. Ex definitio “X is son of Y” OR “X is Y”. Not AND. So we need to do other things make the nature of “X is Y” compatible with “X is the son of Y”. And we can either do this by attributing a special nature to one or both of the statements. Or we can acknowledge the problem and defer knowledge of the nature to a higher authority. This is something we do all the time anyway.
So to bring the discussion to the nature of embodiment, there is no difficulty for a single person or a culture to maintained that some special being is disembodied but yet can perform many embodied functions (like eating). My favorite joke told to me by a devout Catholic begins: “The Holy Trinity are sitting around a table talking about where they’re going to go for their vacation…” Neither my friend nor I assumed that the Trinity is in any way an embodied entity, but it was nevertheless very easy for us to talk about its members as embodied beings. Another Catholic joke:
A saussage goes to Heaven. St Peter is busy so he sends Mary to answer the Pearly Gates. When she comes back he asks: “Who was it?” She responds: “I don’t know but, it sure looked like the Holy Ghost.”
Surely a more embodied joke is very difficult to imagine. But it just illustrates the availability of rich imagery to fill out schemas in a way that forces us to have two incompatible images in our heads at the same time. A square circle, of sorts.
There is nothing sophisticated about this. Any society is going to have members who are more likely to explore the possibilities of integration of items within its conceptual inventory. In some cases, it will get them ostracised. In most cases, it will just be filed away as an idiosyncratic vision that makes a lot of sense (but is not worth acting on). That’s why people don’t organize their lives around the dictums of stand-up comedians in charge. What they say often “makes perfect sense” but this sense can be filed away into the liminal space of our brain where it does not interfere with what makes sense in the mundane or the sacred context of conceptual integration. And in a few special cases, this sort of behavior will start new movements and faiths.
These “special” individuals are probably present in quite a large number in any group. They’re the people who like puns or the ones who correct everyone’s grammar. But no matter how committed they are to exploring the imagery of a particular area (content of faith, moral philosophy, use of mobile phones or genetic engineering) they will never be able to rid it of its schematicity and indeterminacies. They will simply flesh out some schemas and strip off the flesh of others. As Kuhn said, a scientific revolution is notable not just for the new it brings but also for all the old it ignores. And not all of the new will be good and not all of the old will be bad.
Not that I’m all that interested in the origins of language but my claim is that the negotiation of the mappings between undertermined schemas is at the very foundation of language and thought. And as such it must have been present from the very begining of language – it may have even predated language. “Religious” thought and practice must have emerged very quickly; as soon as one established category came into contact with another category. The first statement of identity or similarity was probably quite shortly followed by “well, X is only Y, in as much as Z” (expressed in grunts, of course). And since bodies are so central to our thought, it is not surprising that imagery of our bodies doing special things or us not having a body and yet preserving our identity crops up pretty much everywhere. Hypothesizing some sort of innate mind-body dualism is taking an awfully big hammer to a medium-sized nail. And looking for an evolutionary advantage in it is little more than the telling of campfire stories of heroic deeds.
To look for an evolutionary foundation of religious belief is little more sophisticated than arguing about the nature of virgin birth. If nothing else, the fervor of its proponents should be highly troubling. How important is it that we fill in all the gaps left over by neo-Darwinism? There is nothing special about believing in Ghosts or Witches. It is an epiphenomenon of our embodied and socialised thought. Sure, it’s probably worth studying the brains of mushroom-taking mystical groups. But not as a religious phenomenon. Just as something that people do. No more special than keeping a blog. Like this.
Post Script on Liminality [UPDATE a year or so later]
Cris Campbell on his Genealogy of Religion Blog convinced me with the aid of some useful references that we probably need to take the natural/supernatural distinction a bit more seriously than I did above. I still don’t agree it’s as central as is often claimed but I agree that it cannot be reduced to the sacred v. mundane as I tried above. So instead I proposed the distinction between liminal and metaliminal in a comment on the blog. Here’s a slightly edited version (which may or may not become its own post):
I read with interest Hultkranz’s suggestion for an empirical basis for the concept of the supernatural but I think there are still problems with this view. I don’t see the warrant for the leap from “all religions contain some concept of the supernatural” to “supernatural forms the basis of religion”. Humans need a way to talk about the experienced and the adduced and this will very ‘naturally’ take the form of “supernatural” (I’m aware of McKinnon’s dissatisfaction with calling this non-empirical).
On this account, science itself is belief in the supernatural – i.e. postulating invisible agents outside our direct experience. And in particular speculative cognitive science and neuroscience have to make giant leaps of faith from their evidence to interpretation. What are the chances that much of what we consider to be givens today will in the future be regarded as much more sophisticated than phrenology? But even if we are more charitable to science and place its cognition outside the sphere of that of a conscientious sympathetic magician, the use of science in popular discourse is certainly no different from the use of supernatural beliefs. There’s nothing new, here. Let’s just take the leap from the science of electricity to Frankenstein’s monster. Modern public treatments of genetics and neuroscience are essentially magical. I remember a conversation with an otherwise educated philosophy PhD student who was recoiling in horror from genetic modification of fruit (using fish genes to do something to oranges) as unnatural – or monstrous. Plus we have stories of special states of cognition (absent-minded professors, en-tranced scientists, rigour of study) and ritual gnostic purification (referencing, peer review). The strict naturalist prescriptions of modern science and science education are really not that different from “thou shalt have no other gods before me.”
I am giving these examples partly as an antidote to the hidden normativity in the term ‘supernatural’ (I believe it is possible to mean it non-normatively but it’s not possible for it not to be understood that way by many) but also as an example of why this distinction is not one that relates to religion as opposed to general human existence.
However, I think Hultkranz’s objection to a complete removal of the dichotomy by people like Durkheim and Hymes is a valid one as is his claim of the impossibility of reducing it to the sacred/profane distinction. However, I’d like to propose a different label and consequently framing for it: meta-liminal. By “meta-liminal” I mean beyond the boundaries of daily experience and ethics (a subtle but to me an important difference from non-empirical). The boundaries are revealed to us in liminal spaces and times (as outlined by Turner) and what is beyond them can be behaviours (Greek gods), beings (leprechauns), values (Platonic ideals) or modes of existence (land of the dead). But most importantly, we gain access to them through liminal rituals where we stand with one foot on this side of the boundary and with another on the “other” side. Or rather, we temporarily blur and expand the boundaries and can be in both places at once. (Or possibly both.) This, however, I would claim is a discursively psychological construct and not a cognitively psychological construct. We can study the neural correlates of the various liminal rituals (some of which can be incredibly mundane – like wearing a pin) but searching for a single neural or evolutionary foundation would be pointless.
The quote from Nemeroff and Rozin that ‘“the supernatural” as that which “generally does not make sense in terms of the contemporary understanding of science.”’ sums up the deficiency of the normative or crypto-normative use of “supernatural”. But even the strictly non-normative use suffers from it.
What I’m trying to say is that not only is not religious cognition a special kind of cognition (in common with MacKendrick), but neither is any other type of cognition (no matter how Popperian its supposed heuristics). The different states of transcendence associated with religious knowing (gnosis) ranging from a vague sense of fear, comfort or awe to a dance or mushroom induced trance are not examples of a special type of cognition. They are universal psychosomatic phenomena that are frequently discursively constructed as having an association with the liminal and meta-liminal. But can we postulate an evolutionary inevitability that connects a new-age whackjob who proclaims that there is something “bigger than us” to a sophisticated theologian to Neil DeGrasse Tyson to a jobbing shaman or priest to a simple client of a religious service? Isn’t it better to talk of cultural opportunism that connects liminal emotional states to socially constructed liminal spaces? Long live the spandrel!
This is not a post-modernist view. I’d say it’s a profoundly empirical one. There are real things that can be said (provided we are aware of the limitations of the medium of speech). And I leave open the possibility that within science, there is a different kind of knowledge (that was, after all, my starting point, I was converted to my stance by empirical evidence so I am willing to respond to more).
Anthropology of religionCognitionCognitive scienceCris CampbellCultural anthropologyDurkheimEpistemologyGeorge LakoffHelen de CruzJesusLiminalityMagicMitch HodgeNeil DeGrasse TysonNeuroscienceReligionReligious beliefSupernaturalTrinity
All time post stars
Fruit loops and metaphors: Metaphors are not about explaining the abstract through concrete but about the dynamic process of negotiated sensemaking
5 books on knowledge and expertise: Reading list for exploring the role of knowledge and deliberate practice in the development of expert performance
Cats and butterflies: 2 misunderstood analogies in scientistic discourse
Linguistics according to Fillmore
Writing as translation and translation as commitment: Why is (academic) writing so hard?
Bohemica.com
Cogling.info
ConceptualMetaphor.net
Czechly.com
DominikLukes.net
EduVoodoo.net
HermeneuticHeretic.net
Researchity.net
TechCzech.net
Conceptual blending
Conceptual metaphor
Construction grammar
Generative linguistics
Interdisciplinary fields
James MacCawley
Literal and figurative language
Metonymy
Michael Hoey
Robin Lakoff
Roman Jakobson
Structuralism
William Croft
William Labov
Hacking Metaphors, Frames and Other Ideas
5 kinds of understanding and metaphors: Missing pieces in pedagogical taxonomies
Explanation is an event, understanding is a process: How (not) to explain anything with metaphor
What would make linguistics a better science? Science as a metaphor
3 burning issues in the study of metaphor
3 “easy” things that are hard for both humans and AI
Innovation is bad for business: 3 more ‘I’ words to compare innovation to
Does machine learning produce mental representations?
Not ships in the night: Metaphor and simile as process
Therapy for Frege: A brief outline of the theory of everything
How to read ‘Women, Fire and Dangerous Things’: Guide to essential reading on human cognition
10 ways in which music is like language and 8 (more important) ways in which it is not
What language looks like: Dictionary and grammar are to language what standing on one foot is to running
Anthropologists’ metaphorical shenanigans: Or how (not) to research metaphor
What does it mean when words ‘really’ mean something: Dismiss the Miss
What is not a metaphor: Modelling the world through language, thought, science, or action
5 things everybody should know about language: Outline of linguistics’ contribution to the liberal arts curriculum
Binders full of women with mighty pens: What is metonymy
Three books of the year 2013 and some books of the century 1900-2013
Pervasiveness of Obliging Metaphors in Thought and Deed
Storms in all Teacups: The Power and Inequality in the Battle for Science Universality
Sunsets, horizons and the language/mind/culture distinction
How we use metaphors
Do we need a gaming literacy: Literacy metaphor hack
Framing and constructions as a bridge between cognition and culture: Two Abstracts for Cognitive Futures
The complexities of simple: What simple language proponents should know about linguistics [updated]
Cliches, information and metaphors: Overcoming prejudice with metahor hacking and getting it back again
Pseudo-education as a weapon: Beyond the ridiculous in linguistic prescriptivism
Character Assasination through Metaphoric Pomposity: When one metaphor is not enough
Who-knows-what-how stories: The scientific and religious knowledge paradox
RaAM 9 Abstract: Of Doves and Cocks: Collective Negotiation of a Metaphoric Seduction
21st Century Educational Voodoo
Moral Compass Metaphor Points to Surprising Places
There’s more to memory than the brain: Psychologists run clever experiments, make trivial claims, take gullible internet by storm
The death of a memory: Missing metaphors of remembering and forgetting?
Killer App is a bad metaphor for historical trends, good for pseudoteaching
Language learning in literature as a source domain for generative metaphors about anything
You don’t have to be a xenophobe to think Britain being an island matters, but it helps!
The natural logistics of life: The Internet really changes almost nothing
When is subtle manipulation of data a flat out lie? Truth about Chinese prisons [UPDATE]
I object: A male feminist’s view on the Duchess of Cambridge’s Wedding dress
Poetry without metaphor? Sure but can it darn your socks?
Life expectancy and the length and value of life: On a historical overimagination
Why don’t metaphorical hawks kill metaphorical doves?
Are we the masters of our morality? Yes!
Comedian identifies a critical flaw in structuralism: Are distinctive features like leather sleeves
Epistemology as ethics: Decisions and judgments not methods and solutions for evidence-based practice
Do science fiction writers dream of fascist dictatorships?
The brain is a bad metaphor for language
Literally: Triumph of pet peeve over matter
The most ridiculous metaphor of education courtesy of an economics professor
Philosophers’ songbook #philbitescomp
Metaphor is my co-pilot: How the literal and metaphorical rely on the same type of knowledge
The Tortoise and the Hare: Analogy for Academia in the Digital World?
Why Chomsky doesn’t count as a gifted linguist
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line300
|
__label__wiki
| 0.578306
| 0.578306
|
Music and Exile
Symposia bridging the gap between public and scholarly debate on music and exile.
Proceedings at the Symposium
Stephanus Muller and Jean-Pierre de la Porte
Stephanus Muller and Carina Venter
Chats Devroop, Liz Gunner, David Coplan
Liz Gunner and David Coplan
Thomas Braun and Albrecht Dumling
Chats Devroop, Abigail Kubeka and Steve Gordon
Dorothy Masuka, Chats Devroop and Abigail Kubeka
A question from the audience
Roger Lucey, Dorothy Masuka, Chat Devroop
Pamela Tancsik, Sazi Dlamini and Lindelwa Dalamba
Sazi Dlamini and Lindelwa Dalamba
Steve Gordon and Zim Ngqawana
Elinor Sisulu and Sam Shakong
Marie Jorritsma, Cameron Harris, George King and Stephanus Muller
Albrecht Dumling and Annemie Stimmie
Phillip Miller and Thokozani Mhlambi
Stephanie Vos, Stephanus Muller, Sazi Dlamini, Lindelwa Dalamba and Pamela Tancsik
Akhona Ndzuta and Lefifi Tladi
Posted by MES at 2:50 AM
SYMPOSIUM PROVISIONAL PROGRAMME
SYMPOSIUM PROGRAMME
Friday 4 February 2011
Stephanie Vos, Henrike Grohs, Florian Uhlig
SESSION 1: Contexts of Music and Exile
Chats Devroop
SESSION 2: Debates in Music and Exile
Session chair: Stephanus Muller
Jean-Pierre de la Porte
Can musicology think about exile?
Carina Venter
The Exilic Fallacy: articulating Exile in a “damage culture”
SESSION 3: States of songs: past and present
Session chair: Chats Devroop
Liz Gunner
Songs of the Soldier, Songs of the Citizen-to-be — a glance at recent South African History
David Coplan
Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika and Africa's Transcendant Aspirations
SESSION 4: Sound worlds: crossing cultures
Session chair: Pamela Tancsik
Xoli Norman
Exile, memory and the state of blackness in the sonic landscape
Philip Miller
The making of the music for William Kentridge’s Black Box/Chambre Noire
Pre-concert talk at the Wits Theatre: Dr Albrecht Dümling
Café Berlin' concert at the Wits Theatre: Songs of Eisler, Brecht, Spoliansky and Weill.
Performed by Eva Meier (Voice) and Paul Cibis (Piano)
* Please note that the programme is subject to change
SYMPOSIUM PROGRAMME (continued)
Saturday 5 February 2011
SESSION 5: International connections: perspectives from global musical exile
Session chair: Jean-Pierre de la Porte
Thomas Braun
Karlheinz Stockhausen's vocal music in the context of music and exile
Albrecht Dümling
Hollywood, a place for elegies: Brecht and Eisler in exile
SESSION 6: Panel discussion: In conversation: musicians' experiences of exile
Chats Devroop, Dorothy Masuka, Abigail Kubeka, Roger Lucey, Steve Gordon
SESSION 7: King Kong connections
Session chair: Stephanie Vos
Pamela Tancsik
The musical King Kong: A story of success, exile and revival
Lindelwa Dalamba and Sazi Dlamini
Mbaqanga in the makings of a (South) African musical diaspora: the case of Gwigwi Mrwebi’s Band in England
Stephanus Muller
Stanley Glasser's Songs of Exile
SESSION 8: Exchanging the groove: Styles of jazz and exile
Session chair: Akhona Ndzuta
Lefifi Tladi
A comparative study of South African jazz in exile – Comparing the contribution of South African musicians in Europe versus the South African musicians based in America
Bongani Madondo
Mbizo, In-TENSE Brotherhood, African Rituals and the stylistic impact of The Blue Notes and The Brotherhood Of Breath On European Free Jazz
SYMPOSIUM UPDATE
Music and Exile: Songs, Styles and Subtexts
4 and 5 February 2011, 9:00-17:00
Goethe-Institut, Johannesburg
The Goethe-Institut in partnership with the Johannesburg International Mozart Festival invites you to the Music and Exile: Songs, Styles and Subtexts Symposium of 2011, a follow-up on 2010’s Music and Exile: North-South Narratives Symposium. The engaging discussions about music and exile that had opened up at the 2010 symposium will be continued in 2011, but with an emphasis on the role of songs in South African and global exile. The programme includes presentations and discussions by scholars, performers and composers, and covers wide variety of musical styles, including Western art music, jazz and popular music.
On the local front, the programme will feature a discussion led by Chats Devroop with musicians Dorothy Masuka, Abigail Kubeka, Roger Lucey and Steve Gordon about their experiences of exile. A session is devoted to the musical connections between South Africa and the United Kingdom that were forged through the South African jazz opera King Kong (performed in London in 1961), a key event that marked the first step not only to international careers but also to exile for many musicians, including figures like Miriam Makeba.
Casting the net slightly wider, the symposium will also reflect on instances of international exile such as German musician Eisler and writer Brecht’s exile in Hollywood during the Second World War, and the impact of the Second World War and ideas of exile on some of Stockhausen’s vocal compositions. Furthermore, the contexts and debates in international and local exile, the impact that cultural exchanges resulting from exile have on musical styles, as well as specific instances of music, place and displacement will be explored.
The line-up of speakers include, among others, Xoli Norman (writer and composer), Philip Miller (composer), Lefifi Tladi (composer, poet and artist), Jean-Pierre de la Porte (philosopher and research director at the Institute for Advanced Studies in Architecture and Infrastructure), Chats Devroop (Tshwane University of Technology), David Coplan (University of the Witwatersrand), Stephanus Muller (Stellenbosch University) as well as the German musicologist and music critic, Albrecht Dümling.
Members of the public are welcome and attendance is free. Kindly send an e-mail to reserve your place at the symposium to dpt@johannesburg.goethe.org. For more information, e-mail Stephanie Vos or Akhona Ndzuta at musicandexile@gmail.com.
A concert featuring the songs of Brecht, Eisler and Weill performed by Eva Meier and Paul Cibis on 4 February 2011 at 19:30 at the Wits Theatre, preceded by a pre-concert talk by Albrecht Dümling. For more information on the concert, visit www.join-mozart-festival.org.
Posted by MES at 11:57 AM
SONGS, STYLES AND SUB-TEXTS SYMPOSIUM
MUSIC AND EXILE: SONGS, STYLES AND SUB-TEXTS SYMPOSIUM
Goethe-Institute, Johannesburg
The Music and Exile: Songs, Styles and Sub-texts Symposium is a follow-up on 2010’s Music and Exile: North-South Narratives Symposium. The rich discussions about music and exile that had opened up at the 2010 symposium will be continued in 2011, but with an emphasis on the role of songs in South African and global exile. The programme includes presentations and discussions by scholars, performers and composers, and covers wide variety of musical styles, including Western art music, jazz, South African traditional and pop music.
Some themes that will be considered are the contexts and debates in international and local exile, and the impact that cultural exchanges resulting from exile has on musical styles, particularly on jazz. On the local front, the programme will feature a panel discussion with musicians Roger Lucey and Steve Gordon about their experiences of exile. A session is devoted to the musical connections between South Africa and the United Kingdom effected by South African musicians’ exile, including presentations on the South African jazz opera King Kong that was performed in London in 1961 (which for many musicians marked the first step to exile), Gwigwi Mrwebi and the adaptations of mbaqanga in the United Kingdom and Stanley Glasser’s Songs of Exile. To cast the net slightly wider than the local, the symposium will also reflect on instances of international exile such as German musician Eisler and writer Brecht’s exile in Hollywood during the Second World War, and the impact of the Second World War on some of Stockhausen’s vocal compositions.
The line-up of speakers include, among others, Albrecht Dümling (founder of the internationally acclaimed ‘Entartete Musik’ project), Sophia Serghi (composer from Cyprus), Mokale Koapeng (Johannesburg-based composer), Lefifi Tladi (composer, poet and artist), Jean-Pierre de la Porte, Chats Devroop (Tshwane University of Technology) and David Coplan (University of the Witwatersrand).
Members of the public are welcome and attendance is free. Kindly send an e-mail to reserve your place at the symposium to dpt@johannesburg.goethe.org.
The Music and Exile Symposium forms part of the Johannesburg International Mozart Festival, and is linked to a concert featuring the songs of Brecht, Eisler and Weill performed by Eva Meier and Paul Cibis on 4 February 2011 at the Wits Theatre. For more information on the concert and the symposium, visit www.join-mozart-festival.org.
Background on the Symposium
The Music and Exile Symposia form part of the Johannesburg International Mozart Festival (JIMF) and are held in partnership with the Goethe-Institute. The Johannesburg International Mozart Festival is a concert series that has taken place in Johannesburg annually since 2006 and the first symposium held in conjunction with the JIMF concert series was in 2010. The Symposia provide a ‘think-tank’ around topics related to the JIMF concert series and are intended to generate ideas and stimulate initiatives for future JIMF events. This approach strives to establish a productive dialogue between music practice and music writing and debate.
How does Mozart fit in? Constantly pushing the boundaries, departing from and developing the canon and creating new frameworks of experimentation, Mozart regarded almost anything as an invitation for his creative genius and even today remains one of the most versatile yet profound musical figures of all times: as composer, arranger, performer, conductor, teacher, writer, commentator and scholar. It is the ambition of the Johannesburg International Mozart Festival to reflect upon Mozart’s genius and ingenuity and to create a setting that might translate at least some of Mozart’s truly inspiring characteristics into the twenty-first century. The Music and Exile Symposia proceed from this philosophy of innovation, and aim to traverse the boundaries that frequently exist between different music genres, disciplines and discourses.
Visit www.join-mozart-festival.org for more information about the Johannesburg International Mozart Festival and the Music and Exile Symposium, and visit www.goethe.de/johannesburg for more information about the Goethe-Institute.
Music and Exile: Songs, Styles and Sub-texts
4-5 February 2011
The Johannesburg International Mozart Festival (JIMF) in partnership with Goethe Institute invites participation in a Symposium on the theme Music and Exile: Songs, Styles and Sub-texts that will take place from 4 to 5 February 2011. This event follows the Music and Exile: North-South Narratives Symposium that was held at Goethe-Institute in January 2010. Whereas the latter event had initiated the discussion on exile and had moreover focused on exile as a discourse, the rich discussion that opened up around this topic will be continued in 2011, but with a particular focus on notions of exile in vocal music and the way these are articulated by composers and performers.
South Africa has a rich history of song that has supported and reflected various notions of exile. Iconic figures like Miriam Makeba have become customary examples of the power that song has exerted on the South African and international soundscape as an expression of exile. But beyond these over-familiar icons are many other instances of exile that are often overshadowed by more famous presences. It is these lesser-known instances of exile that this symposium is aimed at. Exile is not only something of the past, and this symposium acknowledges the continuing relevance of this topic today. Current cases of exile include emigrations from South Africa as well as large-scale immigrations to South Africa due to dire socio-political or economic circumstances elsewhere, especially in Africa; and it is often women who bear the brunt of suffering, and whose voices are unheard. The interpretation of exile may be extended to include other instances of displacement, such as the voluntary migrations prevalent in a globalized world. All instances of displacement may profitably draw on discourses of exile if the latter are understood to embody politically motivated migration only. The notion of inner exile (without physical migration) is a case in point, where the senses of displacement and alienation experienced within familiar environments necessitate a nuanced interpretation of exile, inaugurating a set of themes that include considerations of ‘those who stayed behind’ and the practice of art forms that are at (or are pushed to) the peripheries of a dominant culture.
In line with the JIMF’s celebration of vocal music in its concert series of 2011 – which will feature works of its first resident composer, Mokale Koapeng – the symposium will engage with the role of songs (1) and choral music in voicing themes of displacement and exile. Textual and stylistic interrogations become important here, as references to exile or displacement can be embedded in subtext or metaphor, or implied by musical style, making the songs politically charged.
Themes that would link to the topic outlined above include:
o Definitions and meanings of exile and/or displacement
o Women in/and exile music
o The relationship between performance spaces and musical meanings
o Definitions of inner exile
o Music on the margins of contemporary culture
o Contemporary composition as an expression of exile
o The role of song in experiences and expressions of exile
o Black choral music in inner exile during the 20th century
o Relationships between music and text
(1 The word ‘songs’ for the purposes of the symposium is used in a very broad sense and is intended to encompasses a wide range of vocal music.)
o The importance of notions of textuality in music strongly reliant on text
o The role of style in the articulation of musical meaning
o Stylistic influences and adaptations as a result of exile
o The appropriation of styles as subtexts
o Folkloristic aspects of song
o Discourses around national anthems
o Song and resistance
o Contexts and subtexts in the controversial songs such as Umshini Wami, De la Rey etc.
Although the symposium will have a strong South African emphasis, it also aims to engage and find points of
intersection with international discourse on the topics outlined above. The discussion sessions that follow the
presentations are therefore of particular importance. The theme lends itself to interdisciplinary approaches and also to various modes of presentation (papers, panel discussions, interviews, personal reflections on creative output, creative responses to the theme like as performances etc.). Furthermore, the symposium situates itself between ‘academic’ and ‘public’ discourse, and strives to establish dialogue between these often-separated spheres of discussion.
We invite 20-minute papers or presentations as well as proposals for panel discussions or live interviews (please include a list of the proposed participants). Longer time slots could be considered depending on the programme – please contact us if you wish to request this. Send a proposal of your contribution (no more than 300 words in length) to Stephanie Vos at stephe.vos@gmail.com or musicandexile@gmail.com by 4 October 2010 to be considered for inclusion in the programme. For further information, contact Stephanie at +27 84 520 5919 or e-mail stephe.vos@gmail.com.
The Music and Exile Symposia form part of the Johannesburg International Mozart Festival (JIMF) and are held in partnership with the Goethe-Institut. The Johannesburg International Mozart Festival is a concert series that has taken place in Johannesburg annually since 2006 and the first symposium held in conjunction with the JIMF concert series was in 2010. The Symposia provide a ‘think-tank’ around topics related to the JIMF concert series and are intended to generate ideas and stimulate initiatives for future JIMF events. This approach strives to establish a productive dialogue between music practice and discourse.
Visit www.join-mozart-festival.org for more information about the Johannesburg International Mozart Festival and the Music and Exile Symposium, and visit www.goethe.de/johannesburg for more information about the Goethe Institute.
MUSIC AND EXILE: NORTH-SOUTH NARRATIVES SYMPOSIUM (27-28 January 2010)
MUSIC AND EXILE: NORTH-SOUTH NARRATIVES SYMPOSIUM (Programme)
09:00 Welcome and introduction
Session 1: Exile, Literature and Music
09:15 Muff Andersson
The nomad sings, the nomad walks, the nomad rests: the ‘condition’ of exile
09:35 Matildie Thom-Wium
‘My country, my dry, forsaken country’: On exile in Arnold van Wyk’s, NP van Wyk Louw’s and Ovid’s Tristia
09:55 Pamela Tancsik
Joseph Trauneck or the Wanderings of a Persecuted Man
10:15 Questions/comments/discussion
10:45 Tea
Session 2: Identities
11:15 Michael Haas
From Bach to Schönberg: How “German” was music from fin de Siècle Vienna?
12:05 Xoli Norman
The paradox of exile and the creative state
12:25 Stephanie Vos
Interpreting the notion of nationality in the case of John Joubert
Session 3: In conversation
14:00 Stephanus Muller, Steve Dyer, Warrick Sony, Michael Blake and Mokale Koapeng
Session 4: Exile in composition and performance
16:00 Jean-Pierre de la Porte
Exile on the spot: how does one recognize minor music?
16:30 Pre-concert talk by Mokale Koapeng (on Moerane)
The problem with Mosoeu Michael Moerane
17:00 Keynote address: Timothy Jackson
Biographical and Analytical Perspectives on Friedrich Hartmann's Song of the Four Winds
18:00 Symposium ends
20:00 Concert at the Linder Auditorium - Moerane, Hartmann and Mozart
Session 5: Places
09:00 David Coplan
S.A. Jazz in Exile: Exporting Sophiatown and District 6
09:20 Hilde Roos
Opera in exile: the Eoan Group
09:40 Gwen Ansell with Steve Dyer
So close to home: South African jazz in African exile
Session 6: People
10:50 Performers workshop: Timothy Jackson in conversation with Thomas Sanderling
Hartmann's Song of the Four Winds
11:40 Aryan Kaganof
Blue Notes from Johnny
12:00 Chris van Rhyn
The wingless flight – A consideration of Priaulx Rainier and her Requiem in the context of exile
12:40 Colette Szymczak
Jonas Gwangwa, musician and cultural activist
Session 7: Perspectives
14:15 Christine Lucia
The smell of a grass fire
14:35 Chats Devroop
Emotional displacement amongst South African Jazz Musicians who stayed behind
14:55 Mokale Koapeng
Composing in South Africa
1. The Music and Exile Symposia form part of the Johannesburg International Mozart Festival (JIMF) and are held in partnership with the Goethe Institut. 2. The Symposia provide a ‘think-tank’ around topics related to the JIMF concert series and are intended to generate ideas and stimulate initiatives for future JIMF events. This approach strives to establish a productive dialogue between music practice and discourse. 3. The Music and Exile Symposia proceed from [Mozart’s] philosophy of innovation, and aim to traverse the boundaries that frequently exist between different music genres, disciplines and discourses.
http://africlassical.blogspot.com/2010/01/johannesburg-international-mozart.html
http://associated.sun.ac.za/IMS-SASRIM/Programmes.htm
http://kaganof.com/kagablog/2010/01/25/music-and-exile-north-south-narratives-symposium-3/
http://kaganof.com/kagablog/2010/02/09/a-response-to-professors-luciamuller-and-jackson/
http://kaganof.com/kagablog/2010/02/13/jean-pierre-de-la-porte-responds-to-gwen-ansell/
http://whatsonsa.co.za/news/index.php/events-listings/details/3006-mozarts-anniversary-concert-at-the-linder-auditorium.html
http://www.artlink.co.za/news_article.htm?contentID=23684
http://www.citizen.co.za/citizen/content/en/citizen/lifestyle-features?oid=160412&sn=Detail&pid=40&Symphony-of-delights
http://www.domus.ac.za/content/view/57/5/
http://www.join-mozart-festival.org/pages/symposium.html
http://www.litnet.co.za/cgi-bin/giga.cgi?cmd=cause_dir_news_item&cause_id=1270&news_id=80140&cat_id=235
http://www.mediaupdate.co.za/?IDStory=21696
http://www.mio.co.za/article/call-for-papers-2010-09-06
http://www.moshito.co.za/article.php?a_id=263
http://www.publicityupdate.co.za/?IDStory=21696
https://faculty.unt.edu/editprofile.php?pid=1666&onlyview=1
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line302
|
__label__wiki
| 0.928177
| 0.928177
|
NYC Outlaw Roadshow: Oct. 20-22
October 19, 2016 by Holly Perry in Festival Coverage, Live Music
It's Outlaw Roadshow Eve! Nearly 30 bands are headed to the Big Apple to play a weekend full of free music that has been personally curated by popular radio show host and music blogger Ryan Spaulding and Counting Crows' frontman Adam Duritz. What makes the Outlaw different? Besides the fact that it's completely free to attend, it's an event that places a heavy importance on both the artists and the fans.
"The Outlaw has become more than just a music event for most of us, it's certainly greater than that for me. We're helping people find each other. We're recharging our batteries, finding focus and purpose. It's the best music and people- all in one place!" Ryan Spaulding, Executive Producer and Co-Creator of the Outlaw Roadshow, explains.
Straight from the executive team, here are some tips that will help you have the best Outlaw weekend ever!
1.) RSVP! "The shows are free but access is limited to legal venue capacity. Advanced RSVP will gain access over walkups at the door," Spaulding says.
"RSVPing helps create this beautiful energy online for bands and fans. It's not a money driven which sets us apart from most music endeavors. It's supportive and RSVPing is a great way to show your support for the Outlaw," said producer Barbara Rappaport.
But wait! There's more....
"Additionally we will contact fans who have RSVP'd with surprises and updates. Past examples include free swag, pizza, secret sets and schedule updates," added producer Lindsay Dolph Nie.
2. Arrive early, so you can catch all the acts! This isn't the kind of festival that only saves the best for last. "There will be significant rewards for early arrival all three days. That's all I can say at this point," Spaulding hinted. Consider us there!
And for the bands that kick off the evening, going on early doesn't make these bands any less energized to be there.
"All these bands are hungry. Every single band wants to put on their best show, play their best songs, and make an impact because it is New York City and this is the Outlaw Roadshow," says fine artist Felipe Molina, a fellow producer of the Outlaw.
3. Plan to stay late. It might be October, but the Outlaw Roadshow does not turn into a pumpkin at midnight. In fact, some of the festival's greatest moments and surprises have happened in that last hour before closing down.
"Friends from one band may join another on stage for special performances or covers. Spontaneous sing-alongs and impromptu parades around the venue have been known to happen. And very special, unannounced guests may take the stage! Every one of those things have happened before, and you truly just never know what special brand of crazy the day will inspire. And if you leave — you just might miss one of the coolest musical moments of your life," Frank Germano, long-time poster artist for the Outlaw Roadshow, says.
4. Download the festival app on your iPhone or Android. "The app is a great way for fans to learn about artists both before the show to figure out who they want to see, and after the show to go back and remember who they loved. Not only does the app have schedule information by day and stage, but each artist has a bio/intro, audio track, and links to Facebook, Twitter and their website. Fans can view Outlaw alumni from past years as well as listen to the podcasts from the Outlaw Radio Show," says Dolph Nie, who designed the app and updates it regularly.
5. Follow along on social media for news, band insight or even surprises! Ryan and his team do an amazing job keeping fans informed via Facebook and Twitter. Adam also loves to tweet out his favorite sets. Don't forget to share your experiences and give a shout out to the bands you loved!
Artwork by Man on Fire Design
Outlaw Roadshow, Bowery Electric, October 2016, NYC, Big Apple, New York City, Music Festival, Music, Music News, Frank Germano, Man on Fire, Felipe Molina, Ryan Spaulding, Adam Duritz, Counting Crows
Festival Coverage, Live Music
Album Artwork by Man on Fire Design
The Outlaw Roadshow 2016: Welcome to New York
October 13, 2016 by Holly Perry in Music
Owl love you, Outlaw Roadshow.
The Outlaw Roadshow kicks off in NYC at the Bowery Electric next week. What is the Outlaw Roadshow, you ask? It's a free weekend of music from Oct. 20-22, featuring celebrated indie artists such as K. Phillips, Kirby Brown, Brandy Zdan, Kim Logan, Town Meeting and so many more. (You can RSVP here.) You can trust the line-up is always on point, as it is personally curated by one of Boston's biggest music bloggers Ryan Spaulding and Counting Crows' lead singer Adam Duritz. No one knows music better than these two.
To get the party started, the beautiful people at the Outlaw Roadshow have a treat for you. Starting today, fans can download a brand new Outlaw Roadshow compilation album entitled The Outlaw Roadshow 2016: Welcome to New York for free exclusively on NoiseTrade.
Check out the track list below and click on the artist name to find out more about them.
1. Matt York - On My Own
2. High Fascination - Full Speed Ahead
3. The Harmaleighs - I Keep Ticking On
4. Kim Logan - Neighborhood
5. Julie Rhodes - Collector Man
6. Brandy Zdan - More of a Man
7. Brothers in Yarn - The Secret to My Insecurity
8. The Rationales - Trade You
9. Kirby Brown - Mystery
10. Andrew Leahey & the Homestead - Little in Love
11. K. Phillips - Hadrian
12. Town Meeting - Phoenix
13. Kathleen Sieck - I'm Not Afraid of the Dark
14. Nate Leavitt & the Elevation - When I Was With You
15. Alan Semerdjian - Break Down
16. Skunkmello - Rhinestone Shady
17. Brick Briscoe - Jack the Ripper
Outlaw Roadshow, NYC, Ryan Spaulding, Adam Duritz, October, Music, Free, Free Music, Download, Outlaw
The Outlaw Roadshow Hits New York City
September 25, 2016 by Holly Perry in Announcement, Festival Coverage, Live Music
If the Outlaw Roadshow had a theme song, it might be "With a Little Help From My Friends," by the Beatles. Since its official inception in 2011, the Outlaw Roadshow has spawned hundreds of lifelong friendships, countless hours of music good for your soul and dozens of sleepless unforgettable nights in cities like Austin, Nashville, New York City and even Tel-Aviv (yes, Israel!).
Just in time to celebrate the five-year anniversary in New York City, the team has expanded to include fine artist Felipe Molina and winemaker John Wright as producers, in addition to its founder and esteemed music blogger and radio host Ryan Spaulding, Counting Crows' front man Adam Duritz, artist and designer Frank Germano, Nashville expert Joe Clemons, and producers Barbara Rappaport and Lindsay Dolph Nie.
Ryan Spaulding making a band announcement in Nashville 2015.
The Outlaw Roadshow will take over the Bowery Electric in New York City from Oct. 20-22 in what promises to be the best outing yet, with K. Phillips playing a "homecoming" performance as one of the triumphant Outlaw family. After playing the Outlaw year-after-year, K. Phillips hit the road this summer with the Counting Crows and Rob Thomas, playing to sold out crowds at venues like Red Rocks Amphitheater in Colorado and The Greek in Los Angeles. With his bluesy swagger and signature hat, K. Phillips not only won over the hearts of critics nationally, but has continued to grow his fan base, which now includes Billy Gibbons (yes, that Billy- of ZZ Top) and Rob Thomas himself.
K. Phillips playing the Outlaw in 2015. Photo Credit: Frank Germano
K. Phillips is the type of talent Outlaw fans have grown to expect and anticipate. Over the years, the Outlaw has given fans the opportunity to check out intimate performances (for free) by major artists like the Counting Crows, Jesse Malin, The Suffers, and Lucy Rose, to name a few, all while giving non-stop access to the best bands you may have never heard of....yet.
OldJack's Dan Nicklin playing the Outlaw in 2015. Photo Credit: Frank Germano
Come discover America's best underground artists with a line-up personally curated by a team who loves music as much as you do. RSVP today right here.
Outlaw Roadshow, Outlaw, Nashville, Music City, New York City, NYC, music, K. Phillips, Counting Crows, Frank Germano, Ryan Spaulding, Man on Fire
Announcement, Festival Coverage, Live Music
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line303
|
__label__wiki
| 0.802439
| 0.802439
|
Home » Motorsports, News
Mustang FR500S with turnkey race package to be auctioned off at Barrett-Jackson for charity
By Drew Phillips - January 13, 2011 – 11:55 pmNo Comment | 1,809 views
SPX will auction off a Ford Mustang FR500S modified to World Challenge GTS specifications at the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Scottsdale, Arizona, on January 21. The auction will include a sponsorship package, various racing equipment and more. All proceeds from the sale will go directly to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
The winning bidder will have the opportunity of the lifetime as this turn-key package gives them the chance to sit on the grid as the World Challenge Sports Car Wars season opens at the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg with the IZOD IndyCar Series, March 25-27.
SPX, a company founded as an automotive components supplier that has grown to a global, Fortune 500, multi-industry company, has compiled a racing package to go along with the FR500S Mustang.
The winning bidder will receive race training at the Ford Racing High Performance Driving School at Miller Motorsports Park; a $20,000 cash sponsorship from SPX; Stand 21 tailor-made driver’s suit, gloves, shoes, underwear and helmet; an assortment of safety equipment including a HANS Device and SPEEDCOM two-way radio; and tools, including a floor jack, jack stands, a tire and wheel holder, tire tread and air pressure gauge, flood spotlight, battery-operated impact wrench, a stop watch, two 16-gallon gas cans and various hand tools along with a tool chest.
The FR500S is no ordinary “tuned” Mustang as SPX has joined forces with Ford Racing, Miller Motorsports Park, the Ford Racing High Performance Driving School, Stand 21, SPEEDCOM Communications, Capaldi Racing, Cragar Wheels and Pirelli to create a turnkey package that will take the winning bidder from the bidding floor at Barrett-Jackson straight to the starting grid for the 2011 World Challenge Championships.
Capaldi Racing is the shop responsible for modifying the new FR500S to the World Challenge rulebook. Modifications include a Carbon-fiber louvered hood, trunk and wing for less weight and better aerodynamics, Pirelli P Zero Racing Slicks mounted on Cragar racing wheels; Ford Racing Performance parts such as high-flow cylinder heads, camshafts, intake manifold, throttle body, oil pan, one-piece aluminum driveshaft, Brembo Racing Pro Series four-piston brake calipers, plus 14-inch slotted disks and racing brake pads. Most importantly, the Mustang received a modest horsepower increase from 325 to 400.
The Ford Racing High Performance Driving School, the only official Ford Racing driving school, located at Miller Motorsports Park in Tooele, Utah, will put the winning bidder (or their appointed driver) through a four-day race-training school that, should the attendee qualify for an SCCA Pro Racing license, will enable the Mustang to launch off the grid at World Challenge’s iconic standing start at the St. Petersburg Grand Prix.
The 2011 World Challenge season begins with races one and two of Sports Car Wars at the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg IZOD IndyCar weekend, March 25-27.
The World Challenge is North America’s top production car-based racing championship. Divided into three separate categories (World Challenge GT, World Challenge GTS, and World Challenge Touring Car), each race features a thrilling standing start, adrenaline filled door-to-door action and world-class drivers.
World Challenge features cars from the world’s most popular manufacturers – race-prepped versions of the cars driven on the streets. Sanctioned by SCCA Pro Racing, World Challenge races at North America’s premier road and temporary street courses. For more information about World Challenge, visit www.world-challenge.com.
[Source: SPEED TV, images courtesy of Barrett-Jackson]
2011 Shelby GT350 auction raises $200,000 for charity
Ford, Barrett-Jackson to auction off last retail 2014 Shelby GT500 Convertible for charity
Custom 2011 Mustang sells at Barrett-Jackson for $91,000
Second production 2011 Shelby GT350 to be auctioned for charity
Blue Angels Mustang sells at auction for $400,000
Photo Gallery: Ford Mustangs at RM's 2013 Monterey auction
Final 50 Year Limited Edition 2015 Mustang to be auctioned off for charity
1965 Shelby GT350R sells for $990,000 at RM auction
Historic 1965 Shelby GT350 R up for auction in January
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line304
|
__label__wiki
| 0.626763
| 0.626763
|
Tag: Data 4d 4D
But A Lot Of Online Toto Results Singapore Can Really Hurt My Computer, Right? Singapore Pools Outlet Is Certified To Have No Spyware, Adware Or Viruses By Several Web Protection Sites. That'S Not To Mention The Various Other Awards Onlinepoker Robot Has Garnered Due To Its Robust Design And Ability To Produce Results. In Fact, The Bot Is Seeing Five Stars From Several Download Websites And Editor'S Choice From Many Review Sites. You Should Really Get To Know The Toto Results Singapore That Is Impressing Singapore Toto Singapore Pools Everyday! Contrary To What Many Of Us Fear, The Typical Internet Singapore Online Lotterywill Tend To Be Very Liberal In Its Dispensation Of Justly Won Prize Money. It Is Not Likely To Attempt To Withhold The Money - Seeing That It Has A Reputation To Protect. And There Is No Surer Way To Ruin The Reputation Of A Singapore Online Poker, Whether Internet-Based Or Otherwise, Than To Make It Come To Be Seen As One That Plays Slots Machine Online With Justly Won Money. After All, The Objective Of Joining A Singapore Online Lotteryis To Win (And Get Prize Money). So If A Singapore Online Lotterywithholds Winnings, What Would Be The Point Of Joining It? It Is With This Kind Of Thinking In Mind That Most Internet Singapore Online Lotterymanagers Will Actually Go A Long Way To Ensure That The Winners Of Various Slots Machine Online On Offer Actually Get Their Rightfully Won Prize Money.
Forget About What You See On Tv. Life Of The Average Professional Poker Magnum 4D Is Not Quite Like The Poker Singapore Pools That You See On The World Poker Tour Or The World Series Of Poker. Prepare For A Long Grind.
Here'S What Industry Insiders Say About Singapore Pools
Also Besides Variance, There Are Also Other Factors That You Have Absolutely No Control In Poker. Do You Think Poker Is Going To Be Legal In Your Country Forever? Look At The U.S. And Black Friday As An Example. And Finally, Are Poker Games In Your Area Or Online Going To Continue To Be As Good As They Are? Nevertheless, You Can Use The Computer-Generated Codes Of The Poker Sites And Singapore Pools Outlets Against Them If You Understand How They Work. A Singapore Pools Outlet Is Confined To Making Decisions Based Solely On The Play Of The Game With Regard To Its Statistical Analysis Of Poker. In Other Words, A Singapore Pools Outlet Will Only Make Decisions Based On Known Patterns In The Game.
Only an Account Holder can place Bets using the 4D Account Betting System. The Account Holder is assumed to have read, understood and agreed to the Account Opening and Operating Terms and Conditions, the Betting Website Terms and Conditions, and the Sports Betting Game Rules (General).
For Example, The Traditional Credit Card Processors (Mc, Visa, Amex, Paypal, And Others) Decided To Discontinue Use Of Their Credit Card Services To Fund Singapore Pools 4D'S Online Poker Accounts. Today, There'S A Whole Cottage Industry That Has Sprung Up To Fill The Enormous Demand For Transferring Funds Between Bank Accounts And Online Poker Room Accounts, Processing Untold Millions Of Dollars Each Day.
Every Trick I Use To Do Quality Work In The Casino Games Industry
Turn Requirement - This Is The Way Often You Have To Take Part In The Bonus Sum Before You Withdraw The Bonus And/Or Your Personal Deposited Funds. In My Opinion, The Answer To The Question "Is Playing Poker Gambling?" Is It Depends. It Depends On The Toto Results'S Skill Level. If You'Re A Highly-Skilled Toto Results, Then Imho It'S Not Gambling It'S Playing A Sophisticated Game Like Chess, Where You Not Only Must Defeat The Opponents But You Must Also Use Strategy And Play The Odds In Order To Win.
4D King Prize
4D History Prize
4D Master Prize
4D Number Prize
4D Past Prize
4D Singapore Prize
4D Sgp Prize
4D Singapore Pool Prize
4D Today Prize
4D Money Prize
4D Winning Prize
4D Toto Prize
4D Lotto Prize
4D Lottery Prize
4D Lucky Pick Prize
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line306
|
__label__wiki
| 0.793766
| 0.793766
|
Home MMA News Editorial: Stuff I learned from Poirier vs Gaethje
Editorial: Stuff I learned from Poirier vs Gaethje
Muay Thai, April 17, 2018
Justin Gaethje and bullfights, the self-built heart of Dustin Poirier, and other thoughts from the UFC on Fox card
Looking back at a Fox card topped by Dustin Poirier knocking out Justin Gaethje in an unforgettable thriller
Poirier vs Gaethje
I feel some kind of way about watching Justin Gaethje fight. I’m just not sure exactly what it is. Watching him plow forward through unworldly beatings to drag his opponents into his world is exhilarating, and awful. It doesn’t feel much like an athletic contest, more redolent of the primal horror of a bullfight.
The basic rule that he dictates these bloodbaths by is “hit me and get hit back”, and Alvarez and Poirier beat Gaethje by messing with the triggers for the rule. On defense Gaethje raises his patented double forearm guard, where he waits for a big enough punch to roll and return with the right cross, or chew out the muscles of the leg with a kick. He’s also basically blind once it’s up, so they spattered soft shots in to bring his forearms around his face. Then Poirier gradated the power up and down, baffling Gaethje as to when was just the right moment to return, and Alvarez went to the body and darted in and out on an angle to make the counter miss.
Both of them managed to batter and bloody him to the tercio de muerte. Alvarez finished it with a clinch knee, and Gaethje’s frame twisted sideways as though he was still trying to roll through and counter, an evocative kind of full-body howl. Poirier threw a thunderbolt left to hit Gaethje as he was in the middle of throwing a leg kick, and Gaethje stumbled away on wobbly legs, and then immediately grinned and beckoned Poirier in to finish him off. Who did.
It’s not the peak of insight to point out that you can (or must) kill his body while the mind carries on sending messages down deteriorating nerve endings to non-responsive limbs to fight! fight! but even the edges of his style illustrate this odd disconnect. The backflips and rolling thunders just don’t fit– he’s a plodder really, a copper miner’s son through and through, who probably would have been described with words like “hale” and “strapping” in the past. The athletics feel like something that he takes his body to for the hell of it,rather than anything that comes naturally. A teenager who inherits a truck instead of the dirt buggy he always wanted, and goes around taking it off all the jumps he can anyway, until it’s eventually battered into uselessness.
It would be easier to watch the slaughter he brings himself to if he was malignant, but he’s a likable guy, emotional and even soft-hearted about his teammate Rose Namajunas. It would be harder to watch if he was stupid. You’d be able to think: someone should really stop this guy before he hurts himself. Instead, he’s perfectly articulate and honest about the whole thing.
“I didn’t come into this sport to win or lose… If you don’t see me fight live, you will regret it when I’m done. And it’s not going to be very long, I’ve got five left.I want to golf when I’m 60. I have a human services degree, I want to do social work. Hopefully I can buy a lot of houses and make money that way.”
So… how do you feel about a bull fight where the bull volunteers? More than that, how much is this a truth about combat sports made more terrible through compression? We can stand watching men and women take punishment over their careers, but he’s candid about folding years of damage into five more fights. There’s a contract between viewer and 99% of fighters- I’m going to get destroyed and you’re going to watch it– but few have deliberately laid it out in such a stark way.
Heart can be trained. A knock against Dustin Poirier is that he’s been someone who was happy to get into grimy fights, but who always needed to be winning them. If you watch his losses against Cub Swanson, and the Korean Zombie, they were competitive but there was a distinct air of desperation about the way that Poirier fought when the fight started to go south. Similarly, when he lost to Conor McGregor you got the impression that he was forcing himself forward despite a feeling of panic.
I don’t think Poirier was ever someone like Gaethje who has an endless reserve of fearlessness to fall back on, and this makes it all the more impressive that he was able to stay the course. In the third round, Gaethje landed his hardest punch of the fight, a cross to the temple that staggered Poirier, and had him limping from leg kicks. The tide was turning, and that has historically been bad news for Poirier. He looked stressed, on edge. Then he gathered himself in the fourth, and just put Gaethje down.
Being able to turn “a fight is slipping away” back to a win is not something that everyone can do, and changing that narrative after this many years shows how much he has steadily layered maturity and self-belief as well as craft. He has just worked, and trained, and fought, and worked, and trained, and fought, and has built heart where others come to it naturally.
As an aside and in retrospect, it also makes me less likely to believe that Alvarez was on the cusp of turning their fight around before the illegal knee, and more likely to believe that Poirier would have recouped and gone back to beating up the older fighter.
Poirier is still getting better. He’s clearly been trying to turn himself into a more technical fighter, and it’s been bearing fruit. His jab and hook are catching up with his cross, and he was quite difficult to hit to the head, an underrated development for someone whose only concession to defense used to be a preservative double forearms guard.
I don’t think there’s any elite fighter I wouldn’t be interested in seeing this iteration of the Diamond against. His clinch work, reach and tremendous power make him an intriguing fight for Nurmagomedov. Some might be dismissive of Poirier’s chances in a rematch with McGregor, and it’s true that durability and accuracy would make the Irishman a righteous favourite. However, Poirier is still at heart a southpaw pressure fighter with a viciously deep offensive toolbox near the cage, and the former champion’s main flaw is still that he reacts incredibly poorly when confined in space.
Of course, neither of these are likely to happen. Poirier is going to be tossed at an Alvarez match, or maybe used to defuse Ferguson once he recovers from injury to preserve a Nurmagomedov-McGregor match, or against the Barboza-Lee winner. It’s a shame, as he deserves more by this point. He’s starting to feel less like someone who can be turned away with the right obstacle, though.
Other fights:
Being defensively sound is useful: Brad Tavares and Alejandro Perez have developed (not unwarranted) reputations for being boring, with medium-pace outside games built around being difficult to take down and hard to hit cleanly. The advantage of this kind of approach is that it tends to get better over time, and works against a lot of styles.
Krzysztof Jotko is a kind of three-dimensional counter fighter, who works best when he is fighting off takedowns and going back and forth between wrestling and striking. Tavares forced him into a kickboxing fencing match, and it was Jotko who got forced into hard shots (primarily intercepting knees and kicks) in phase shifts, rather than being able to land his favoured uppercut. Similarly, Perez was coming off a boring nothing-fight with Iuri Alcantara, but against Matthew Lopez his cardio and wearingly consistent defense caused the prospect to exhaust himself until Perez could shut him down. Having these kind of styles may not make a fan-favourite fighter like Gaethje, but it does allow them to steadily get better over time, and maybe even grant frameworks which allow them to become more effective finishers.
Jackson-Winkeljohn woes: Michelle Waterson won a great fight against Cortney Casey, and that is good, but she also sort of didn’t deserve to win on most people’s cards? And that is not. Carlos Condit competed with Alex Oliveira until he was brutally submitted. In both cases these were wrestling-heavy performances, which has often been the card in the back pocket for the Jackson-Winkeljohn gym. However, Condit and Waterson are nominally strikers, and it’s notable how outdated their approaches on the feet look nowadays. It’ll be interesting to see how the new Brandon Gibson-trained generation comes up (Borg, Vannata et al), but also a little worrying that there just isn’t the embarrassment of riches of upcoming talent at the gym that there used to be.
Adesanya-Vettori was an almost-perfectly booked match unless you wanted Adesanya to build a Michael Page-esque hype train. Vettori got shown the limits of his slightly clunky standup, but also was able to gain some invaluable time with a world-class striker. It can only be useful to have it drummed into his head that he probably really should try and wrestle more in fights. Adesanya got a more skilled version of his last fight, against a tough non-specialist, and learned that he’s not going to be able to finish everyone in the UFC. It gives them both a more realistic look at their strengths, as well as giving them stuff to work on.
Source – link to original article
Condit: ‘Maybe my time has passed’
Valentina Shevchenko IG Photo – Поздравляю Тахира Гафурова с 20-ти летним юбилеем его замечательной программы Сп…
Frankie Edgar: Nate Diaz could ruin the party for Conor McGregor at UFC 196
Joanna Jedrzejczyk says she likely broke her hand during UFC 193 win over Valerie Letourneau
Muay Thai, January 24, 2017
Midnight Mania! Jones calls out Ortiz, Latifi rides an elephant
Muay Thai, September 8, 2018
Aljamain Sterling Shreds Cody Stamann’s Knee for the Win (UFC 228 Highlights)
‘The Ultimate Fighter’ house is up for sale at almost $5 million
Video: Watch the official Bellator 222 weigh-ins in New York
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line312
|
__label__wiki
| 0.846385
| 0.846385
|
Home MMA News Gustafsson: The Odd Man Out
Gustafsson: The Odd Man Out
Muay Thai, August 13, 2014
Short memories and quick decisions have left Gustafsson out of the light-heavyweight title picture. When UFC light-heavyweight champion Jon Jones and top contender Daniel Cormier had their now infamous shoving match on August 4, the fight world nearly came to a halt. Fans and media personalities immediately took to Twitter, first to challenge the legitimacy of the confrontation, then to try and get their hands on video footage of the altercation. Everyone wanted to see what has quickly become one of the most talked about events in some time. The two tore down the UFC press stage while security did their best to separate the hulking light-heavyweights. Between Twitter battles and off-air (now leaked) death threats, Cormier versus Jones has gone from an intriguing fight between a wrestler and a striker to one of the most talked about and riveting storylines in the sports history. One part of this story, however, has been forgotten. Before Cormier was granted the world title shot, former challenger Alexander Gustafsson was supposed to have the opportunity to strip Jones of his title. At UFC 165 last September, the heavy underdog in Gustafsson gave Jones the most physical and competitive bout of his career, even taking the decision on some media scorecards. Ultimately, though, it was Jones who walked away with the disputed decision, but it left fans craving a rematch. After a March win over Jimi Manuwa, the UFC confirmed that Gustafsson would be next in a rematch for the world title, but a knee injury forced Gustafsson out of the fight, leading to Cormier receiving what was supposed to be a September 2014 world title shot. With Jones’ injury, the Jones versus Cormier light-heavyweight championship bout has been rescheduled for January 3 in Las Vegas. The only problem, of course, is that by then the original top contender Gustafsson will be healthy and left without an opponent. Gustafsson is left in the unenviable position of either waiting for his world title shot, not likely to take place much before summer of 2015, or take a filler bout against a top contender. Neither option works to his favor. If he waits out, he’ll get rusty. This is the prime of his career and if he’s not fighting, he’s not making money. At 27, Gustafsson is just reaching the most important years of his fighting life, and to sit out an entire year for a world title shot seems ill advised. As a young fighter, he needs to continue fighting to improve and to support his family and lifestyle. On the other, why risk a sure thing? If Gustafsson takes a top contender bout, it’s likely to be against either Rashad Evans or Anthony Johnson, both of which have explosive styles which could cause the Swedish sensation trouble. We’ve seen too many fighters with sure title shots lose their opportunity thanks to a lack of patience. Gustafsson has been adamant in his displeasure over the January world title fight between Jones and Cormier. Since Tuesday’s announcement, he’s taken to social media to voice his disappointment. On Instagram, Gustafsson posted a photo of himself with Jones after their epic UFC 165 clash while they were receiving treatment in a Toronto hospital. In the comments, Gustafsson wrote “Apparently @UFC thinks that acting like clowns on a pressconference (sic) will hype a fighter more than doing the fight of the century, thats (sic) ridiculous.” As of publication, nearly 8400 people had liked his post. Gustafsson isn’t the only one in an awkward position. Many are arguing that with Jones’ injury, Gustafsson should be given the title shot he was granted, while it’s Cormier that should have to wait. Others say that Cormier versus Jones is the most talked about championship bout in years, and that is reason alone why it should go on. No matter which option Gustafsson chooses, he will have to work hard to get back into the UFC’s limelight. With tons of talent on the roster and new stars emerging every month, it’s on Gustafsson to re-establish himself as an elite level talent with elite level drawing ability. Fans forget quickly, which is why Gustafsson has fallen from favor and Cormier has risen in his place. Ultimately, the UFC has gone with Cormier, leaving Gustafsson to make a decision over his future. The soon to be healthy fighter has two unappealing options to choose from. One sees him risk his world title opportunity, the other sees him not be in peak condition for his eventual championship opportunity. Check out these related stories: Did Jon Jones Just Get Inside Cormier’s Head? Worse Things Have Happened in the MGM Grand Lobby Gustafsson Out—Daniel Cormier to Challenge Jon Jones For Belt
Read entire story…
On the Cusp: An Interview with Ryan Bader
UFC headed to Maine for Fight Night
Muay Thai, December 5, 2017
Morning Report: Floyd Mayweather Jr. says he ‘carried’ Conor McGregor to ‘make it look good for y’all’
The Ultimate Fighter 27, Episode 11 Recap: Lightweight Finals Set
Six images that defined UFC 222
Muay Thai, October 1, 2016
UFC Fight Night 96 predictions
Tito Ortiz vs. Chael Sonnen in the Works for Bellator
Cub Swanson Open to Fighting Jose Aldo, but Nothing is Signed
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line313
|
__label__wiki
| 0.708287
| 0.708287
|
Meet The Cobbler Who Makes 300k Monthly
Cobbler says shoe making, and repairs is a gold mine for job creation if only governments at all levels can exploit the huge potential in foot wears.
Benjamin Daniel makes foot wears in Manchok, Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
Chances are high that most of us would consider him one of those Nigerians who make barely enough to survive.
But don’t be fooled. He smiles to the bank with about N300,000 monthly and confirmed it himself on Wednesday.
The cobbler said that shoe making, and repairs was a “gold mine for job creation” if only governments at all levels can exploit the huge potential in foot wears to get the youth gainfully employed.
Daniel said that with N10,000 daily, it was possible for a cobbler to earn about N260,000 monthly, if he or she is serious and committed to the work.
READ: 6 Ways To Ensure You Eat For Nutrients This Festive Period
“I make an average of N10,000 daily from selling all kinds of foot wears that I make ranging from N700 to N6,000, which takes me a day or two to finish, depending on the kind of foot wear.
“This is in addition to an average of seven to 10 footwears brought to my shop daily for repairs, which cost between N200 and N1,000.
“All in all, I am smiling to the bank with about N300,000 monthly. This is more than what most civil servants get as monthly salary,” he said.
According to him, the trade, if well tapped, can take thousands of idle youths off the streets.
WATCH Nollywood Actor Speak FIVE Nigerian Languages
“The country’s huge population is a ready market with enough space for millions of youths to tap from the lucrative trade,” he said.
Daniel, who said he had been in the business for 12 years, said it took him four and a half years to learn the trade.
He said: “I started making footwear in 2005, from just making a pair, sell and reinvest the money.
“Gradually I raised money to rent a shop and slowly increase my production from a pair to two.
“I kept growing slowly, and now I produce an average of 10 different foot wears daily and so far trained four youths who have set up their own businesses and are making huge money.
“Five youths are currently undergoing training and would soon graduate.”
Daniel is doing well for himself, but he still wants government support with capital to expand production capacity, to employ and to train more hands.
He also believes partnership between federal and state governments and the organised footwear producers would help bail out youths from employment.
FOR MORE FRESH STORIES, DOWNLOAD BOUNCE NEWS APP HERE
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line318
|
__label__wiki
| 0.642547
| 0.642547
|
PDP Reps Raise Alarm Over Plot To Arrest Key Members
House of Representatives members elected under the Peoples Democratic Party have insisted that there are moves by the ruling All Progressives Congress to muzzle opposition
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Caucus in the House of Representatives has raised alarm over what it described as a secret agenda to arrest scores of PDP functionaries as the 2019 elections draw near.
The allegation by the Caucus comes barely a week after the party leadership raised similar concerns.
Spokesman of the PDP, Dayo Adeyeye had on Wednesday last week alleged that the federal government has plans to arrest 50 members of the opposition.
The APC in reaction to Adeyeye's claim dismissed the allegation.
But the PDP Reps Caucus, who met on Tuesday in Abuja, insisted that there are moves by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to muzzle opposition.
The Caucus in a statement at the end of the emergency meeting called on Nigerians to resist such anti-democratic ploys aimed at neutralizing political opposition before the 2019 elections.
The Deputy Minority Leader, Chukwuka Onyema said despite the ruling party and the Federal Government denying the existence of such a plan, there are signs PDP stalwarts have already been listed for arrest.
ALSO READ:#AnambraElection: Obiano, Obaze, Nwoye, Chidoka List Priorities If Elected
Linking what it said were “politicised arrests” to growing disappointments in the APC’s change agenda and “the populace’s increasing evidence of official hypocrisy,” the caucus expressed disappointment that an institution like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) was part of the agenda.
The statement read in part: “It is one of those things that the APC government does not want any citizen to talk about at the moment but with ruthless efficiency and a devious Machiavellian determination, the APC government is now using the threat of arrest to intimidate and coerce the opposition.
“Although their party is trying to deny it, the APC government, lacking in genuine democratic ideals and seeing the failure of deceptive change, has begun a desperate programme to bludgeon democratic opposition by arresting key figures in various states.
“In spite of their deceptive denial, we know that they are starting their series of politicized arrests from the North Central Zone, with an audacious plan for the arrest and continuous harassment of scores of PDP loyalists in other zones before 2019
“Their very frantic preparation for 2019 has become really saddening when such agenda ropes in an institution like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for strong-arm tactics, media trial and timed annihilation of the opposition in desperate preparation for 2019.
“The question needs to be asked again: Has this APC government got the conscience to confess that their ‘Change’ magic wand has not worked”?
Onyema, who said Buhari has failed in the area of economic management, further stated that the president has treated allegation of corruption with levity.
” A minister in the ‘Change’ government gleefully announced how they got a website for N700 million; trillions spent in the past two years have not impacted positively on people’s lives and there are fears that their usual shoddy implementation could consolidate poverty across the land.
“An unprecedented woeful handling of the economy has resulted into worsening mass depression and unemployment but an insensitive APC Minister claims that they have created seven million jobs as many youth register for their peanut distribution programme while the high-paying jobs at Central Bank and other places are reserved for APC functionaries’ children."
ALSO WATCH: #AnambraDecides 2017: Meet The Candidates - Willie Obiano
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line319
|
__label__wiki
| 0.895193
| 0.895193
|
Home » Events » Improvisation and Innovation: A Critical Dialogue on Collaborative Filmmaking in Accra (Ghana) and Gapuwiyak (Australia)
Improvisation and Innovation: A Critical Dialogue on Collaborative Filmmaking in Accra (Ghana) and Gapuwiyak (Australia)
SteveFeldFilmingInGhana.jpeg
Steven Feld Filming in Ghana
Monday, 11 May, 2015
Filmmakers Steven Feld and Jennifer Deger meet in conversation to discuss the ways in which their respective collaborative screen media projects in African and Australian communities have produced a range of unexpected outcomes that reflect unique post-colonial histories and cultures of music and art-making, storytelling and research engagements and articulate contemporary representational possibilities, aesthetic potentials and political urgencies. The discussion, featuring film clips by both Feld and Deger will be moderated by Lisa Stefanoff, ARC Research Fellow at National Institute for Experimental Arts (NIEA), UNSW Art & Design.
This event is co-presented by the School of the Arts and Media (SAM), UNSW Arts and Social Sciences, and the National Institute for Experiment Arts (NIEA), UNSW Art & Design.
FREE ENTRY, RSVP required. Please send RSVP to niea@unsw.edu.au by 8 May.
Steven Feld is an anthropologist, filmmaker, musician, Distinguished Professor of Anthropology Emeritus at the University of New Mexico and currently the inaugural UNSW Roger Covell Fellow. After studies in music, film and photography, he received the Ph.D in Anthropological Linguistics at Indiana University in 1979. From 1976, he began a research project in the Bosavi rainforest of Papua New Guinea. Results include the Monograph Sound and Sentiment (republished 2012 in a 3rd and 30th anniversary edition), a Bosavi-English-Tok Pisin Dictionary, and essays, some published in his co-edited books Music Grooves and Senses of Place. From this work, he also produced audio projects including Voices of the Rainforest. Key theoretical themes developed in this work are the anthropology of sound and voice; acoustemology, particularly regarding eco-cosmology as relational ontology; emotive sensuality; and experimental, dialogic writing, recording and filmmaking. Work after 2000 has concentrated on related themes in the study of bells in Europe, Japan, Ghana and Togo, published in CDs, DVDs, and books like The Time of Bells, Skyros Carnival, and Santi, Animali, e Suoni. His most recent project concerns jazz in West Africa, published in the ten CD, four DVD and book set Jazz Cosmopolitanism in Accra. Feld's work has been supported and honoured by MacArthur and Guggenheim fellowships as well as book and film prizes.
Jennifer Deger is an anthropologist, filmmaker and curator, currently an ARC Future Fellow at the Cairns Institute, James Cook University. Her practice-led research explores digital media, social creativity and experimental museology with a collaborative methodology that works the intersections of ethnography, art and Yolngu ritual. A founding member of Miyarrka Media, a collective of Aboriginal and non-indigenous artists and filmmakers based in the community of Gapuwiyak in northeast Arnhem Land, Deger co-directed and produced the award winning documentary, Manapanmirr, in Christmas Spirit (2012) with Paul Gurrumuruwuy, David Mackenzie and Fiona Yangathu and, more recently, Ringtone (2014) which premiered at the Margaret Mead Film Festival with the installation Gapuwiyak Calling: Phone-Made Media from Aboriginal Australia. Other exhibited artworks include Christmas with Wawa (2008), Djalkiri # 1 and #2 (2009) with Susan Marrawakamirr and David Bukulatjpi, My Red Yolngu Heart (2011) and the exhibition projects Interventions: Experiments between Art and Ethnography (2009), and Christmas Birrimbirr (Christmas Spirit) (2011) with Miyarrka Media. Jennifer has published widely on Aboriginal visual culture, experimental ethnography and indigenous aesthetics, including her book Shimmering Screens: Making Media in an Aboriginal Community (University of Minnesota Press, 2006). Miyarrka Media are currently working on a co-authored book about phone-made media and shared anthropology.
D205 Seminar Room, D Block
Paddington Campus
Corner of Oxford Street and Greens Road
Paddington NSW 2021
Dr Lisa Stefanoff
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line321
|
__label__cc
| 0.724951
| 0.275049
|
Laura's bathroom
In Greve in Denmark lives Laura, a 13 year old girl, with her parents. Laura has muscular dystrophy and as Laura grows up, her need for independence grows.
A new bathroom for Laura
Laura's desire for independence is particularly strong when it comes to managing by herself in the bathroom. No teenager wants to be dependent on his or her parent’s help with toileting and bathing. The family experiences that neither of their existing two bathrooms meets with Laura’s current or future needs, so they wanted a functional and future-proof bathroom. At the same time, it was essential that the solution should be modern and stylish as well as having room for Laura’s dream of getting a make-up table.
At the municipality, the family was told to contact Pressalit for a one-on-one solution to uncover Laura’s needs in relation to products and best possible layout of the bathroom.
Ideas were concretized and drawn up by Pressalit. Everything was planned down into the smallest detail and a schedule was drawn up in collaboration between all parties and resulted in a completion without delays.
Laura’s mother, Helen used to shower together with Laura to help and support her in the shower. With the new bathroom Laura can now sit on the shower seat and wash her hair without help.
Laura often uses the adult change table to sit on while getting dressed because she feels safe on the table. By using the adult change table, she avoids losing her balance and falling.
Laura has gained increased independence in the bathroom and can now handle far more things on her own, where she previously needed help
Get case as pdf (3MB)
Improved quality of life
With an adult changing bench installed, Helen can now care for Laura’s needs in a good working position, no longer having to bend her back over a bed. “During the first week after the completion, I cried for joy of no longer having a backache” Helen, Laura's mother.
Pressalit Care products
Wall track
Shower seat, manually height and sideways adjustable
Adult changing table, height adjustable
Support arms, height adjustable
MATRIX MEDIUM wash basin with integrated hand rails
In the process leading to the final result, the overall focus was on Laura’s needs and future-proofing the bathroom. This means that the bathroom’s features can be changed in relation to potential changes in Laura’s needs.
Accessible kitchen
Pressalit SPACES app
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line325
|
__label__cc
| 0.702188
| 0.297812
|
Kirkley Hall
Kirkley Hall is a 17th Century Grade II listed building situated in the heart of the Northumberland countryside, yet only 8 miles from Newcastle city centre and 4 miles from Newcastle airport. The hall has several function rooms and beautiful gardens, including a Victorian garden and a sunken garden, which are open to the public all year round. The picturesque surroundings make the Hall an ideal venue for weddings, conferences and other business or social functions. Formally a traditional agricultural College, Kirkley Hall merged with Northumberland College in 2000. The College offers an education and training service for the agricultural and rural community of Northumberland and beyond.
NE20 0AQ
Visit the Kirkley Hall website
enquiries@kirkleyhall.co.uk
Opening Times : Telephone to check opening times and prices.
Last Admission : Last admissions: 5pm.
Bedern hall
Stockeld park
Burton agnes hall and gardens
Seaton delaval hall
The palace of holyroodhouse and the quee
Hutton-in-the-forest
Markenfield hall
Sizergh (national trust)
Newhailes
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line326
|
__label__cc
| 0.55251
| 0.44749
|
Live Stats / Audio / Video
OAC Championships
OAC Standings
Philosophy & Purpose
- Camps & Clinics
- Celebration of ONU Athletics
- Athletics Reverse Raffle
- ONU Homepage
- Polar Bear Club
- Ohio Athletic Conference
- NCAA
- Maps & Directions
- Media Center
- ONU Concussion Protocol for Intercollegiate Athletics
- ONU Intercollegiate Athlete Medical Paperwork
- The Inn at ONU
2018-19 Results
2018-19 Statistics (.pdf)
OAC Tournament
Team Photo
Snyder's season-high 17 points leads Women's Basketball in 64-42 win over Ohio Wesleyan
By: Jay Garneau
ADA —The Ohio Northern women's basketball team defeated Ohio Wesleyan, 64-42, in the final game of the Thanksgiving Classic at the ONU Sports Center on Sunday evening.
Junior Joanna Snyder scored a season-high 17 points on 7-of-11 shooting to help the Polar Bears improve to 5-1, while the Battling Bishops dropped to 2-4.
Senior Kara Dysert was two rebounds away from her second straight double-double, notching 10 points and eight boards, while junior Morgan Dumbaugh scored 11 points.
Today's game marked the second time this season the Polar Bears have allowed 42 points or less, not allowing any OWU player to score more than seven points.
The Battling Bishops jumped out to an 8-7 lead early in the game, but that was the last time they led. ONU responded with a 13-0 run capped off by a layup from sophomore Sara Kocian to take a 20-8 lead.
The teams went back and forth for the remainder of the half, before both sophomore Cenzie Yoder and Snyder sank pairs of free throws to give ONU a 39-24 lead heading into the break.
ONU added another 8-0 run to start the second half, including four straight points from Snyder, to take a game-high 23-point lead with 15:54 to play.
Ohio Wesleyan received a 3-pointer from Tavia Croom to cut the lead to 59-42 with 6:04 to play, but ONU pulled away with a 5-0 run to end the game, thanks to a layup from Dysert and a trey from sophomore Morgan Sperry.
Yoder totaled nine points, seven rebounds and five assists for ONU, while freshman Jordan Kimes added seven points, three rebounds and two blocks.
"We had a great team effort today; we played well on both sides of the ball," head coach Michele Durand commented. "We're happy to come out with two wins at home this weekend."
The Polar Bears dominated the rebounding battle 42-26, including a 15-9 advantage on the offensive boards.
Northern outshot OWU from the field, 25-of-55 (45.5 percent) to 17-of-52 (32.7 percent), as well as from the free throw line, 11-of-16 (68.8 percent) to 3-of-8 (37.5 percent).
Ohio Northern will open up Ohio Athletic Conference play on Saturday, when the team hosts Muskingum in a 3 p.m. game at the ONU Sports Center.
Ohio Northern University 525 South Main Street Ada, OH 45810 419-772-2000
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line339
|
__label__cc
| 0.655137
| 0.344863
|
CNN's GUT CHECK
Latest CNN Polls
News from Capitol Hill
White House demands teacher excellence for students most in need
CNN's Cassie Spodak
Updated 5:37 p.m. ET, 7/7/2014
(CNN) - President Barack Obama continued in his theme of a "year of action" Monday, as Secretary of Education Arne Duncan unveiled a new effort to ensure access to "effective educators" for all American children.
Duncan joined the President at the White House for a lunch with a group of teachers chosen for their expertise with high-need, high-poverty schools.
Follow @politicaltickerFollow @CassieSpodak
"There are a lot of kids around the country who are not getting the kind of teaching that they need - not because there aren't a whole lot of great potential teachers out there, but because we're not doing enough to put a lot of our teachers in a position to succeed," Obama said to reporters covering the event.
During a White House briefing Monday Duncan announced "Excellent Educators for All Initiative" and said that the U.S. has failed to provide the best teachers to students with the greatest need.
"Today race and family income too often still predicts kids access to excellent education," Duncan said. "That is simply unacceptable, and we must do better and do better together."
"Change can only come when we deal openly and honestly with the facts, and we need more states and districts to challenge the status quo."
The new initiative calls on states to consult with teachers, principals, districts, parents and community organizations in analyzing data and coming up with solutions that are targeted to the local population.
And the plan includes an investment of $4.2 million in setting up a technical assistance network to supports the development and implementation of these plans.
The Department is also seeking to put a spotlight on different schools that highlight "gaps in access to quality teaching for low-income and minority students" as well as the ways that specific schools overcome challenges and succeed.
In a statement, the Department of Education put some blame on Congress for a lack of substantial education reform and said the President was "moving forward on behalf of vulnerable children and families" in the absence of Congressional action.
In June a California judge struck down a state law on teacher tenure, dismissal and layoff laws, saying they keep bad teachers in the classroom and force out promising good ones. Duncan praised the ruling and pushed the importance of state's taking the initiative to reform their school systems.
"This decision presents an opportunity for a progressive state with a tradition of innovation to build a new framework for the teaching profession that protects students' rights to equal educational opportunities while providing teachers the support, respect and rewarding careers they deserve," Duncan said in a statement following the ruling.
Dennis Van Roekel, out-going president of the National Education Association, told CNN that plan is a good first step but that more details are needed. He says truly helping students means investing in early childhood development and school readiness, as well as maintaining a high bar when comes to building rich curriculums and conditions for learning.
"We need a whole new system of accountability. The kind of accountability that drives equity so that every student has what they need to succeed," Van Roekel told CNN.
That kind of reform, Van Roekel says, requires more than just a plan for reform.
"If they have a plan and no resources to implement it, that doesn't do anything," Van Roekel told CNN. "It's a very positive first step but we need to withhold judgment until we see what happens."
Van Roekel also downplayed a vote on Friday by the NEA Representative Assembly calling for Duncan to resign. He told CNN there is widespread frustration within the union with the Department of Education's reliance on mandatory testing but that ultimately they all have the same goal – to lift students up.
Filed under: Arne Duncan • Education • President Obama • White House
soundoff (17 Responses)
It starts with the family. If black kids had a home with a mother AND a father, they would do better in school. The education system is fairly equitable.
July 7, 2014 03:28 pm at 3:28 pm |
Silence DoGood
Obama: Equal access to education for all.
Tea Party: Put guns in the classroom.
Radical Religious Right: Take science out of the classroom.
Which approach will turn out the next generation of scientists and engineers to help our country compete globally?
you want to improve the situation 1000% in a second? get rid of the teachers unions that makes it impossible to get rid of bad teachers, even if they commit crimes, let alone just stink at teaching. but the teacher unions own the demorcat party lock, stock and barrel so the demorcats will never jeopardize that massive cash flow into their coffers. and the kids will continue to pay the price.
Rudy NYC
You're making the false assumption that black parents can afford a home. A study just came out that says that the American Dream for a family of four requires a minimum annual income of $130,000. We might see fewer of your black kids without a mother AND a father if there were more opportunities for those to climb the economic ladder. The same study also showed that only 1 in 8 families meet those minimum income requirements. In other words, your distasteful comment has not exclusive to just black families.
And all those Union Teachers voted for you.
ThinkAgain: If you don't like Congress, get rid of the repub/tea bag majority
@Dean: "It starts with the family. If black kids had a home with a mother AND a father, they would do better in school. The education system is fairly equitable."
25% of white kids come from single-parent families. Don't forget to generalize about them, too.
If you don't like the flood of money into politics, then just say so. But, that's really the problem, though, is it? The real problem is the money that flows to the other side. It's okay just as long as it flows in the right direction. Political money is what has broken government. Recent court decisions have made it legal to bribe politicians. We're all toast.
The liberals and Democrats and their lackeys in the unions have wrecked our school systems with their garbage liberal agenda. Kids spent WAY too much time on total rubbish that does nothing for them except indoctrinate them into leftist causes. Who cares if little Johnny can read, write and do math as long as he knows about the liberal causes?
"And the plan includes an investment of $4.2 billion in setting up a technical assistance network to > supports < the development and implementation of these plans."
College grads work at CNN.
Harry Legg
I demand excellence from my President and what I am getting is lies, failure and a bad economy.
Lynda/Minnesota
"In June a California judge struck down a state law on teacher tenure, dismissal and layoff laws, saying they keep bad teachers in the classroom and force out promising good ones. Duncan praised the ruling and pushed the importance of state's taking the initiative to reform their school systems."
The United States of America has been "reforming" school systems for well over 40 years now. If anything, stats are lower, progress is nonexistent, and initiatives have all but been thrown out the door.
While one side finger points the other side, nothing will ever get accomplished. What a freaking waste; to our children and to our country. It is a sad day in America when less education becomes the norm, and parents become submissive to a talking point of blaming teachers ... while their own little angels walk all over them (and their teachers) in open contempt and mockery.
Tampa Tim
It appears the big complaint from the RWNJs is that public employees have a process of evaluation and a legal right to know why they are being terminated. Contrast that to minimum wage RWNJs who post lies on behalf of the Kochs and Fox, who can get fired for wanting America to succeed.
Fair is Fair
2-Indy – It seems you are hooked on unnecessary republican wars, unfunded republican drug programs, record republican job loss, stock market under 7000, voter suppression, and government shutdowns. Quite a republican badge of honor you wear.
Wow... the only item you left out of your stale democratic talking point word salad was "Koch Brothers". Close, but no cigar.
There are so many more I could have included, but most people got the point. It has to be hard for you to try to justify republican stupidity.
sorry rudy, all the money and free election time labor flowing into the democrat party from the teachers unions was flowing in long, long before any recent court rulings about political contributions. nice try at conning people though. some things just never change with you.
joyfulmeme
Harry Legg-I demand excellence from my President and what I am getting is lies, failure and a bad economy
If you paid more attention to what the President actually does instead of what Fox tells you, you would know that the above statement is blatently false.
Just gotta love this.... liberals, Demorcats and their rotten union owners have been screwing up the schools and screwing over the kids for decades now. The LAST people we can trust to fix them are the very same people that have made them a disaster.
Sniffit
Keep talking RWNJs. Every word out of the drooling ideologue conservative menagerie is proof that we need both better funding AND better accountability in our public schools. You make our liberal case for us.
From CNN Politics
Here are the 4 congresswomen known as 'The Squad' targeted by Trump's racist tweets July 16, 2019 01:40 am
READ: House resolution to condemn Trump's racist tweets toward congresswomen July 16, 2019 01:52 am
Security reports reveal how Assange turned an embassy into a command post for election meddling July 15, 2019 07:31 pm
The Point: This GOP lawmaker's explanation of Donald Trump's racist tweet is unbelievable July 15, 2019 04:36 pm
House Oversight plans vote to hold Kellyanne Conway in contempt unless she testifies July 16, 2019 03:15 am
2020 campaign second-quarter fundraising totals released July 15, 2019 08:00 pm
CNNPolitics.com
Complete Coverage: 2014 Midterm Elections
Key races to watch in 2014
Farewell to the Ticker
GOP challenger Dan Sullivan leads Mark Begich in Alaska Senate race
Will Mitt Romney take the plunge again?
McCain on rise of ISIS: 'We predicted this'
Republicans pick approach to attack Hillary Clinton
Tampa Tim on DNC chairwoman: Walker 'has given women the back of his hand'
Rudy NYC on DNC chairwoman: Walker 'has given women the back of his hand'
The "Compassionate" GOP Solution on DNC chairwoman: Walker 'has given women the back of his hand'
rycher on DNC chairwoman: Walker 'has given women the back of his hand'
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line345
|
__label__wiki
| 0.737767
| 0.737767
|
Fairytales Told Twice
Fairytales Told Twice, and the Idylls of the King
Guest post by Benjanun Sriduangkaew
When working on Winterglass, I wanted to thoroughly remove it from its milieu (white, Christian, Finnish, heteronormative). One of my inspirations for that relocation of culture and narrative? It came by a very odd, sideways manner — through Nasu Kinoko.
In Nasu’s extensive (famous or notorious, depending on your perspective) Fate/stay night franchise, King Arthur is a bisexual woman.
From left to right: Gawain, Mordred, Lancelot, Artoria, Bedivere, Tristan, Agravain. Yes, Mordred is a woman.
It’s not that she is reincarnated in an American high school as a girl — how wishy-washy — she has always been a woman, though her gender was kept a semi-secret, known mostly to her knights. Her son Mordred in the red armor: also a woman. Sir Gareth, not pictured here: also a woman. It’s not a big change, and gender-flipping in retellings is a common enough trope (though oddly, when it comes to Arthuriana specifically, this seems to be the first of its kind and hasn’t been replicated since). But Nasu also made a number of other changes: in classic Arthuriana, the court at Camelot is celebratory, a place of pageantry and performative gallantry — there are jousts, there are quests for the grail, and King Arthur pulled the sword from the stone without knowing what it meant. In Nasuverse, Artoria pulls the sword knowing exactly what it means, and she grows into a king best known for her perfection, aloof and removed from her people, a monarch without emotion who’s dedicated entirely to her duty. Arthuriana regards the land as owing a duty to its king; King Artoria sees kingship as making her subject to her people—it is she who owes Britain duty, not the other way around.
Artoria contradicts classic Arthuriana for more reasons than just her gender: it is crucial to the King Arthur figure to not know what the sword in the stone means, and for him to have yanked it out in innocence; it is crucial for him, pre-kingship, to be reluctant and naive to the idea of leadership. Him turning out to be the rightful heir and rightful king is supposed to be a surprise to him. Artoria fundamentally differs from her source counterpart in that, not only does she know what the sword means, she is forewarned that kingship is a terrible, lonely burden and that her reign will likely end in tragedy.
Merlin, either in Mallory or de Troyes or The Vulgate Cycle, never quite gives Arthur the same warning.
The battle of Camlann
The Arthuriana of Nasuverse is meticulously researched: Gawain possesses the Belt of Bertilak, a version of Artoria owns and wields the lance Rhongomyniad, a wealth of obscure minutiae from Mallory and the rest are surprisingly included. But what King Artoria does not concern herself with, what this retelling of Arthuriana doesn’t rate in high regard, is England. King Artoria is transported to Avalon to rest until a time of need arises, but it’s not Britain that she comes to aid; she is instead summoned into a duel of mages in contemporary Japan (twice). While Fate/stay night and its various spin-offs occasionally brings the action to England, usually London, Artoria herself is always absent from such outings. She appears in the fictional city of Fuyuki fully acclimated to its culture; she sits on tatami and sleeps on futon; she enjoys Japanese food and (thanks to magic) speaks the language perfectly. Her version of chivalry more closely resembles bushido than the European concept, and she doesn’t distinguish her national identity as a Welsh from the Japanese characters’ understanding that she is simply British. Not once, in her various appearances, does she ask how modern Britain is doing.
In other words, King Artoria — Saber — isn’t all that British beyond surface details; Nasu Kinoko (and the bevy of writers who have joined him over the years) is not that interested in the Matter of Britain. Artoria and her Knights of the Round Table, despite their source material, are not there to tell a British story. Their myths and legends are there, essentially, as window dressing.
This more than anything is what keeps me interested: that a team of writers (ever-expanding) would take a body of legend that is considered quintessentially English and then discards its Englishness entirely. It’s not something that white, western writers do — even limp retellings like Avalon High cleave to British origins, with the protagonists’ parents as professors of Arthuriana studies. Several darker-and-grittier fantasy makes a point of distinguishing the various English/British identities, down to the regional distinction between Caledonian and Saxon and Scottish or what have you, all distinctions that Nasuverse never even thinks about because to Japanese writers, all white Britons are more or less the same, belonging to a single amorphous culture (so much so that Lancelot being French is beside the point, he’s lumped in with the rest of the Round Table). There’s a hundred stories that claim to subvert the story through telling it from the point of view of Mordred, or to make Guinevere a warrior queen or chieftain (this is very popular), or to gritty-it-up by making Arthur and his knights a bunch of hooligans (King Arthur: Legend of the Sword, the 2017 film). There’s a lot of ‘King Arthur was actually a Roman soldier named Artorius’. But no one thinks to make King Arthur a woman, because that goes just a little too far. (Sorry, but Avalon High’s reincarnation deal is too limp for me.)
Lancelot du Lake
This is what interests me: the deep and fundamental difference between a retelling and its source material, especially when the source material belongs to a dominant culture and the retelling does not, especially when the writers of a non-dominant culture mixes, matches, and uses the details of the dominant culture as surface dressing with no regard for what’s underneath — to the extent that the new creation is almost its own independent thing, a second canon, a Japanese Arthuriana.
Nasu Kinoko may have read a translation of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight but it was probably to mine what skills and powers Gawain would have as a Heroic Spirit. It’s irreverent, not in the satirical slapstick manner of A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court, but in simple disregard for anything English. This is a media property that mines Arthuriana for plenty of material while entirely decentering Britain and all things associated with it. Nasu’s Arthuriana is culturally removed from its source, and King Arthur is not just a bisexual woman but also an idealist who despises expansionism and colonization.
You couldn’t get any less British than that.
Labels: Arthuriana, Benjanun Sriduangkaew, fairytale, guest post, retelling
Recommend: Monsters of the World
Why do we need Monsters?
Recommend: progressive SFF movies
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line351
|
__label__wiki
| 0.87797
| 0.87797
|
New in Pride
Guyana’s President David Granger Insists Elections Must Be Credible
Jamaica Government In Talks With IDB For Funds To Commercialise Academic Research
Caribbean Court Of Justice Rules It Can’t Set Date For Fresh Elections In Guyana
Caribbean Court Of Justice Issues Definitive Orders In Guyana Cases
University Of Minnesota Establishes Reggae Studies Unit
Guyana’s President And Opposition Leader Hold Talks On New GECOM Chairman
CARICOM Heads Reiterate Position Of Non-Interference And Non-Intervention In Venezuela
CARICOM Leaders At Odds Over Capitalisation Of The Caribbean Community Development Fund
Guyana’s Ministry Of The President Says Cabinet Will Meet Until CCJ Provides Clarity
Jamaica And Cayman Islands To Strengthen Trade Relations
Pride News Canada's Leader In African Canadian & Caribbean News, Views & Lifestyle
Beauty/Grooming & Fashion
Parenting & Education
Pride Market
Home / International News / CARICOM Pays Tribute To Former Haiti President
Former President of Haiti, the late René Préval, seen at the "International Donors' Conference towards a New Future for Haiti" on March 31, 2010. Photo credit: UN/Paulo Filgueiras.
CARICOM Pays Tribute To Former Haiti President
in International News March 10, 2017 0
GEORGETOWN, Guyana, March 10, 2017 (CMC) – The Caribbean Community (CARICOM), today, paid tribute to former Haiti president, Rene Preval, who died last week of a stroke. He was 74.
In a condolence message, CARICOM Secretary General, Irwin La Rocque, described Preval, whose body now lies in state ahead of the official State funeral on Saturday, as “astute and consummate politician” whose “skill was amply demonstrated by the fact that he is the only Haitian President to serve fully his elected term of office on both occasions.
“This quiet, unpretentious Caribbean statesman and Haitian patriot never lost his common touch as he pursued the overall development of his country and his interest in the rural areas. As President, he played a critical role in promoting stability, development, democracy and the rule of law, following trying periods of political turbulence and the upheavals of natural and man-made disasters.
“Conscious of the importance of integrating Haiti more deeply into the Caribbean family, in his first term he met with CARICOM Heads of Government and initiated the process which led Haiti along the path to membership of the Caribbean Community,” the Secretary General added.
La Rocque said that Préval would be remembered by all who knew him and those who worked closely with him “as a fair and kind man, who respected the rule of law and understood the importance of executing the highest standard of democracy for the benefit of securing a stable and advanced Haitian society”.
In Haiti, the Chamber of Deputies noted that Préval’s “qualities of moderation, humility, sense of dialogue with the other powers and especially that of the measure at the helm of the State, have earned him two mandates to the Presidency of the Republic”.
President Jovenel Moise and his wife, will lead the mourners at Saturday’s funeral, to be held at the Kiosque Occide Jeanty on the Champs de mars, that will be followed by a civil ceremony, after which the body will be transported by convoy to Marmelade, a commune and former duchy in the Artibonite department of Haiti, where the last prayer will be delivered by the parish priest, Reverend Father Evans André Delavar.
Preval will be buried in that commune afterwards, according to the official statement released by the authorities for the funeral.
Pride News
Connect with Pride
Subscribe to our FREE e-Newsletter
About Pride
Pride News, Canada's Leading Caribbean and African News Magazine, has been established since January, 1983. Pride News, reflecting the ambitions, aspirations, accomplishments and achievements of the African & Caribbean Canadian community, is updated daily online.
Pride's Mission Statement: To act as a catalyst for the advancement, empowerment and happiness of peoples of African and Caribbean Heritage.
@PrideNewsMag on Twitter
In @PrideNewsMag - @LegalAidOntario moves ahead with plans to replace ACLC with Black-led, Black-focused clinic >>… https://t.co/UAUkklD1wL 2017/09/29
Read about Former FIFA Official Austin “Jack” Warner Losing Fight Against US Extradition in @PrideNewsMag >>> https://t.co/WlEJlgffNH 2017/09/29
About Pride News
Inside Pride News
© Copyright 2016 Pride News Magazine. All Rights Reserved. | Privacy Policy | Sitemap |
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line352
|
__label__cc
| 0.654738
| 0.345262
|
Insider 09-13-2017
In today’s Insider I’ll be talking a bit about the art direction process for the soon-to-be-released book Forces of HORDES: Skorne Command. As with all of the Command books, we followed two key tenets when determining the list of new illustrations we would need. The first was that every new model would get an illustration, and the second involved combing through the existing model entries to identify pieces that didn’t fit the modern aesthetic I’ve been developing over the last five years at Privateer.
Before I go into detail on the new art in the Skorne book, I want to briefly talk about how this process played out in previous Command books. The older Factions generally received a lot of new art as compared to a Faction like Retribution that already had a lot of more recent pieces. As a result, some Factions got more new art than others.
The three key reasons old art gets replaced are as follows:
- Image dimensions don’t fit within the current book layout.
- The art doesn’t match up stylistically with our current art.
- Narrative development.
So what do these points mean? The first is obvious, but the other two may need a bit of explanation. For the sake of expediency, a lot of older art was completed in a way that minimized the time spent by eliminating background characters, complex environments, and so on. My goal with new art is to create more of a narrative in the illustration where we see characters interacting within the world and we can visualize the setting more clearly.
For those of you wondering how the decisions to replace specific pieces of legacy art were made, I’ll discuss a few examples below and go into the reasons we targeted certain pieces and the thought process behind the art direction.
Supreme Aptimus Zaal and Kovass
My goal with Zaal’s new illustration was both to create an image of Zaal in the middle of a fight and to come up with a way to tie his piece in with the Kovaas that would be seen on the following page. To do this, I have an Ancestral Guardian in the background of the Zaal illustration being taken down by a Temple Flameguard. The crumbling pieces then become the Kovaas in the second illustration.
Venator Reivers
Aside from the image dimensions issue, the older art often lacked action and featured only minimal background. The legacy artwork nearly always placed the Faction within their native environments. Knowing that each of the Factions typically has some of its forces on the move, I wanted to start branching out into other locations in the setting and seeing the Skorne, for example, encounter WARMACHINE Factions. In the case of the Venator Reivers, I wanted a little tongue-in-cheek nod to the Retribution forces book where it seems every illustration has the forest on fire. The idea is that they’re over the Iosan peaks and have begun moving into the woods. Atmosphere in an illustration can go a long way, and those burning embers floating across the shot also helps establish a foreground, middle ground, and background.
Void Seer Mordikaar
I apologize to the Ret players out there. I did pick on other Factions, but you’re now seeing two pieces in a row that highlight my campaign against the elves. I think that seeing these two examples side by side and reading the notes above, it’s obvious why we needed new art for this one.
The Skorne book is coming out very shortly, and there’s a lot more new art scattered throughout the book than I’ve showed here. I hope you’ve enjoyed gaining a little insight into the art direction process for this final Command book. For my next Insider, I’ll be going into some of the visual direction for the Trencher Theme Force art that you’ll be able to see in the upcoming first issue of No Quarter Prime!
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line355
|
__label__cc
| 0.603754
| 0.396246
|
New African American History Museum Opens in DC
Author: scott, September 23rd, 2016
How many LGBT items are in the new Smithsonian National Museum of African-American History and Culture and is it enough to please gay historians?
It’s a tough question to answer because some ostensibly gay items may not be presented as such. It’s now widely believed, for instance, that “A Raisin in the Sun” playwright Lorraine Hansberry was a closeted lesbian for much of her short life (she died at age 34 in 1965), but to what degree does this factor into her representation in the museum, for instance?
Slated to open this weekend with a ceremony Saturday morning in which President Obama will speak, the museum has yet to be assessed by the public. And curators acknowledge it’s impossible to please everyone. Descendants of the Quander family, whose roots can be traced back to slaves at George Washington’s Mount Vernon, have publicly expressed disappointment at not being represented in the inaugural museum displays, for instance. But whether there’s enough LGBT representation overall to please gay historians is yet to be determined.
By Joey DiGuglielmo – Full Story at The Washington Blade
Washington DC Gay Travel Resources
Categories: Gay Travel, Museums, USA, Washington DC Tags: african american, dc, district of columbia, gay travel, history, museum, washington dc | No comments
Beacon Hotel & Corporate Quarters: Gay Friendly Washington DC Hotel
Author: scott, May 20th, 2016
Periodically we’ll feature one of our properties here to let our readers know about some great gay friendly places to stay:
A Dupont Circle location, The Beacon Hotel creates an experience tailored to the lifestyle of leisure travelers, full service, where guests enjoy exceptional hospitality in a welcoming atmosphere. A fresh design, the latest in technology advancements flat panel televisions, WebTV and Wi-Fi connectivity.
See the Beacon Hotel & Corporate Quarters Expanded Listing on Purple Roofs Here
Gay Friendly Bed and Breakfasts, Hotels, and Vacation Rentals in Washington DC
Categories: Accommodations, Gay Travel, Purple Roofs Site, Washington DC Tags: accommodations, Beacon Hotel & Corporate Quarters, capital, Capitol, d.c., dc, district of columbia, friendly, gay, gay men, gay travel, gay Washington DC, hotel, lesbian, lodging, washington | No comments
8 Ways to Enjoy the Amazing Outdoors Near Washington DC
Author: scott, November 7th, 2015
Stepping out into Washington, D.C., the mighty American capital, is like walking onto a television set. With its striking landmarks, iconic memorials and generally smart appearance, it feels unreal. So much so, during a recent twilight tour of its greatest sights, the theme tune to Netflix series House of Cards started playing in my head.
But equally as camera-ready as the District of Columbia are the handful of ‘districts’ that surround it; the many pockets of Maryland and Virginia that comprise the wider Capital Region.
From buzzing cities such as Maryland’s Rockville and Richmond’s Virginia, to the plethora of landscapes along the curve of the Potomac River, the Capital Region as a whole offers boundless travel opportunities – especially for those who like to get out and about. Here, we count down just eight of them…
By Jamie Tabberer – Full Story at Gay Star News
Categories: Gay Travel, Outdoors, USA, Washington DC Tags: dc, district of columbia, gay travel, outdoors, washington dc | No comments
Washington DC Like a Local
Author: scott, March 23rd, 2015
Openly gay musician Billy Winn shares his love of the American capital, from gay neighbourhoods to phallic-looking buildings!
I’ve lived here since… 2009, when I moved here to go to Georgetown University.
I’ve stayed because… I got back into music, and because of all the changes I’ve seen since I first moved here. The vibe of the city as a whole has changed a lot. It’s become a lot more cultural and artsy – and it’s a really gay-friendly city.
My favorite queer bar has to be… I love Cobalt. They always have something different going on — from dance parties and drag shows to pop acts and celebrity appearances. Friday nights are the best!
By Billy Winn – Full Story at Gay Star News | Washington DC Gay Travel Resources
Categories: Gay Travel, USA, Washington DC Tags: billy winn, dc, district of columbia, gay travel, washington dc | No comments
Featured Gay Friendly Accommodations: Malolo B&B, Washington, DC
Periodically we’ll feature one of our properties here to let our readers know about some great gay friendly places to stay.
Your Home in the Nation’s Captial: Talofa! Welcome to Malolo Bed and Breakfast – DC. Malolo means rest in the Samoan language. We want you to enjoy and relax while visiting our Nation’s Capital. We are minutes from downtown DC where you can enjoy a day at the museums, catch a game or concert or go on a monument tour.
See the Malolo B&B Expanded Listing on Purple Roofs Here
Gay Friendly Bed and Breakfasts, Hotels, and Vacation Rentals in Washington, DC
Categories: Accommodations, Washington DC Tags: accommodations, bed and breakfast, dc, gay travel, Malolo B&B, washington | No comments
Attending Capital Pride in Washington DC
Author: scott, June 6th, 2012
As you all know we like to get to the bottom of everything (no pun intended!) so we reached out to our friends at Capital Pride to get the inside scoop on this awesome Pride Festival! Here is the skinny from our good friend Missy Toms, programmer of the festival.
What sets Capital Pride apart from other events of its type?
“Capital Pride is the third largest Pride in the nation. The Capitol Building is the backdrop for our main performance stage. We plan events for two full weeks in June, not just a parade and festival. Also, our parade has been voted the Best in DC four years running.”
What about this year’s Capital Pride makes it bigger and better than last year’s?
“All these things are happening at the festival.We have expanded our family area to include inflatables and fun activities. We have a Taste@Pride where people can purchase tickets for chef tastings and Barefoot Wines. Our arts section will include an Art Fair. We’ll have a demonstration area for groups like dog handlers and roller derby girls to perform.”
Full Story from GayTravel.com
Find more articles and gay wedding resources in Washington, DC.
To subscribe to this blog, use the rss feed on the right, or use the form at right to join our email list. You can also email us at info@purpleunions.com. Or find us on Facebook. We’re also tweeting daily at http://www.twitter.com/gaymarriagewatc.
Categories: Uncategorized Tags: 2012, capital pride, dc, district of columbia, gay travel, washington | No comments
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line357
|
__label__wiki
| 0.625223
| 0.625223
|
1 - 25 out of 20,455Page size: 25
" A word-web woven": autobiography in old English poetry
Holderness, G., 2007, In : E-rea: Revue électronique d’études sur le monde anglophone. 5, 1, p. 25-34
" Darkenes was before light":hierarchy and duality in The Taming of a Shrew
Holderness, G., 2010, Gender and Power in Shrew-taming Narratives. Wootton, D. & Holderness, G. (eds.). Palgrave Macmillan, p. 169-184
" What's the matter?" : Shakespeare and textual theory
Holderness, G., Loughrey, B. & Murphy, A., 1995, In : Textual Practice. 9, 1, p. 93-119
"A cheaper sort of member"? Welsh MPs, select committees and the representation of local interests in Parliament 1852-65
Cragoe, M., 1994, In : Parliaments, Estates and Representation. 2, p. 133-148
"Above the Sceptred Sway": Retrieving the Quality of Mercy
Ransome, W., 2008, In : Critica. 40, 119
"Author! Author!" : Shakespeare and biography
Holderness, G., 2009, In : Shakespeare. 5, 1, p. 122-133
"Can we work this out?": An evaluation of remote collaborative interaction in a mobile shared environment
Trendafilov, D., Vazquez-Alvarez, Y., Lemmelä, S. & Murray-Smith, R., 27 Oct 2011, Mobile HCI'11 - Procs13th Int Conf on Human-Computer Interaction with Mobile Devices and Services. ACM Press, p. 499-502 4 p.
"Characters create plot": Lajos Egris “The Art of Dramatic Writing” als Drehbuchtheorie und seine praktische Anwendung am Beispiel von Billy Wilders “Sunset Boulevard”
Magerstadt, S., 2002, Munich: GRIN Verlag. 26 p.
"Come vanno i titoli"? Informazione e investimenti a Londra alla fine del XVII secolo
Murphy, A., 2007, In : Quaderni Storici. 41, 1, p. 133-154 12 p.
"Discourses of Distinction": the reception of the Cornhill Magazine 1859-60
Maunder, A., 1999, In : Victorian Periodicals Review. 32, 3, p. 239-59
"Hamlet" (Open Guides to Literature)
Holderness, G., 1987, Open University Press.
"Hands off" during handover! A review of Iedema, R. and Ball, C. (2010) NSW Ambulance/Emergency Department Handover Project Report
Williams, J., 2012, In : Journal of Paramedic Practice. 4, 4, p. 172
Research output: Contribution to journal › Book/Film/Article review
"I've had to swallow my pride": help seeking and self-esteem
Clegg, S., Bradley, S. & Smith, K., 2006, In : Higher Education Research and Development. 25, 2, p. 101-113
"If the Food Looks Dodgy I Dinnae Eat It": teenagers' accounts of food and eating practices in socio-economically disadvantaged families
Wills, W., Backett-Milburn, K., Gregory, S. & Lawton, J., 2008, In : Sociological Research Online. 13, 1, p. n/a
"Knight-errant of faith" : Monsignor Quixote as "Catholic Fiction"
Holderness, G., 1993, In : Literature and Theology. 7, 3, p. 259-83
"Life doesn't stand much looking into": the secret of the Secret Agent
Holderness, G., 1986, In : Durham University Journal. June, p. 319-26
"Market" classification and political campaigning: some strategic implications
Baines, P. R., Brennan, R. & Egan, J., 2003, In : Journal of Political Marketing. 2, 2, p. 47-66
"Mine eye hath play'd the painter"
Holderness, G. & Banks, C., 2000, In : Shakespeare Yearbook Volume XI: Shakespeare and the Visual Arts. p. 454-73
"Mots d'escalier": Clio, Orpheus, Eurydice
Holderness, G., 2006, Shakespeare's Histories and Counter-Histories. University of Manchester Press, p. 219-40
"My Name Is Stanley": Twentieth-Century Missionary Stories and the Complexity of Colonial Encounters
Battell Lowman, E., 1 Mar 2011, In : BC Studies. 169, p. 81 89 p.
"Our Last Hope": Women's Votes for Hitler - A Reappraisal
Boak, H. L., May 1989, In : German Studies Review. 12, 2, p. 289-310 22 p.
"Pareto Boundary of the Rate Region for Single-Stream MIMO Interference Channels: Linear Transceiver Design
Cao, P., Jorswieck, E. & Shi, S., Oct 2013, In : IEEE Transactions on Signal Processing. 61, 20, p. 4907-4922 16 p.
"Pulled apart, pushed together": Diversity and unity within the Congress of South African Trade Unions
Brookes, M., Hinks, T., Wood, G., Dibben, P. & Roper, I., 1 Jan 2004, In : Relations Industrielles. 59, 4
"Rotten to the Core": Exposing America’s Energy-Media Complex in The China Syndrome (1979)
Shaw, T., 2013, In : Cinema Journal. 52, 2, p. 93-113 20 p.
"Saying is one thing: doing is another": the role of observation in marketing research
Boote, J. & Mathews, A., 1999, In : Qualitative Market Research: An International Journal. 2, 1, p. 15-21 6 p.
Previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 ...819 Next
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line364
|
__label__wiki
| 0.830273
| 0.830273
|
Search the institutions database Select country: Please select a country United Arab Emirates Austria Australia Azerbaijan Bangladesh Brunei Darussalam Canada Cameroon China Germany Denmark Algeria Egypt United Kingdom Ghana Hong Kong Indonesia Israel India Iraq Iran, Islamic Republic Of Italy Japan Kenya Kyrgyzstan Cambodia Korea, Republic Of Lao People's Democratic Republic Sri Lanka Luxembourg Myanmar Malaysia Nigeria Netherlands Nepal Philippines Pakistan Palestinian Territory, Occupied Qatar Russian Federation Saudi Arabia Singapore Senegal Syrian Arab Republic Thailand Turkey Taiwan Tanzania, United Republic Of Uganda United States Uzbekistan Viet Nam South Africa Zambia
Choose a country to view their institutions or view all contributing Institutions
Showing 299 institutions
Showing institutions 1-5. Pages: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60
21st Century Trust
25 Museum Street
London WC1A 1JT
View the full details of '21st Century Trust'
A*STAR I2R
1 Fusionopolis Way, #21-01, Connexis South
View the full details of 'A*STAR I2R'
ABC MEDIA RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CENTRE
SCF 36,Sector 7C
View the full details of 'ABC MEDIA RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CENTRE'
department of agricultural science, adeyemi college of education, pmb520, ondo, ondo stste, nigeria
View the full details of 'adeyemi college of education'
Agricultural Biotechnology Research Institute of Iran (ABRII)
Seed and Plant Improvement Institute's Campus
P. O. Box: 31535-1897
Mahdasht Road, Karaj, Iran
Phone: +98 261 2703536 (Extension: 216)
View the full details of 'Agricultural Biotechnology Research Institute of Iran (ABRII)'
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line365
|
__label__wiki
| 0.715037
| 0.715037
|
Save Our State > Communities and Quality of Life > Profiles in Courage
Joey Vento: An Assimilation Warrior
Profiles in Courage Citizen Warriors - Underdogs - Selfless acts - leaders of character
Jeanfromfillmore
Blunt. Brash. Bold. Politically incorrect. Unapologetically patriotic. Philadelphia cheese-steak king Joey Vento was all that and a side of freedom fries. The 71-year-old owner of Geno's Steaks died of a heart attack this week, but he reignited a national debate over radical multiculturalism that will burn for years to come.
Five years ago, Vento garnered national headlines when a local newspaper profiled his outspoken views on customers who couldn't speak English. He hung a sign in his order window that read: "This is America. When ordering, speak English." Though he never turned anyone away, the grandson of Italian immigrants informed hungry patrons that he reserved the "right to refuse service" to those he couldn't understand.
No menus in 10 different languages. No dumbed-down pictographs for the idiocracy. The choice at Geno's is simple: Sink or swim. Learn English or eat somewhere else. "If you can't tell me what you want, I can't serve you," Vento told the Philadelphia Inquirer. "It's up to you. If you can't read, if you can't say the word 'cheese,' how can I communicate with you -- and why should I have to bend? I got a business to run."
Vento's refusal to coddle triggered a tsunami of complaints from self-appointed civil rights leaders. The ululations of the aggrieved resounded from sea to whining sea.
For exercising his constitutionally protected free speech, both the Philadelphia City Council and Philadelphia Human Relations Commission launched political inquisitions against Vento. Yes, it really happened in the home of Independence Hall. Members of the government bodies demanded that Vento remove his bald eagle-adorned sign and threatened to revoke his business license. After 21 months of investigation, a marathon seven-hour hearing and hysterical testimony likening his innocuous 4-inch-by-9-inch sign to "Jim Crow laws," he was cleared of discrimination charges.
Plainspoken as ever, Vento understood full well why the multi-culti mob wanted to gag him: "I say what everybody's thinking but is afraid to say."
As a fellow Philly-born loudmouth, I cheered Vento on for years during his battles with the anti-assimilationists. He weathered the same old slings, arrows and accusations of being a "racist," "xenophobe," "nativist" and immigrant-basher -- despite the fact that generations of assimilated immigrants and naturalized Americans agree with him. The vast majority of Americans support English as the official language of the United States. Latino parents in California revolted against "bilingual education" mandates that stuck their kids in Spanish-only classes.
Generations of successful immigrant families in America know English is the language of success, not the language of oppression. Yet, politicians in both parties have pandered ceaselessly to the language-Balkanizers.
The Clinton administration gave us Executive Order 13166, effectively requiring all government agencies to provide translations into any language on demand. Rather than rescind the order, the Bush administration went after localities and forced them to provide foreign language materials. In 2004, the Bush administration ordered Harris County, Texas, to provide all voter registration and election information and supplies, including the voting machine ballot, in Vietnamese, as well as English and Spanish.
Under the Obama administration, the Department of Justice threatened to cut off federal funding to the state of Oklahoma over a state constitutional amendment proposal to designate English as its official language. The Obama DOJ also has ordered my home state of Colorado to protect the interests of "language minority populations" by funding free translators for any foreigners -- legal or illegal -- who sue in civil cases here. In the same vein, the Philadelphia Human Rights Commission that tried to silence Vento distributes pamphlets asking "Are you a victim of discrimination?" in seven languages.
"Progressive" politicians pandering for votes treat non-English speakers as hopeless victims of white hegemony, instead of beneficiaries of the American dream. By contrast, small-business man Joey Vento promoted a common culture, a common tongue and common sense. We need more assimilation warriors like him to challenge the infantilizing Babel Lobby.
http://townhall.com/columnists/miche...ior/page/full/
Find all posts by Jeanfromfillmore
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line373
|
__label__wiki
| 0.791484
| 0.791484
|
You are at:Home»Horse Racing»Horse Racing: Thursday 15th November – Aidenldrebin Selection
By Aidenldrebin on November 14, 2018 Horse Racing
1.10 Southwell – TAILS I WIN (nap)
This looks a useful two-year-old novice auction event for the track, with four previous winners bidding to defy penalties against some interesting sorts to have shown clear signs of promise without being able to win so far.
The selection, trained by Roger Fell, is a daughter of Shanghai Bobby who debuted in a 7f maiden at Dundalk 15 days ago (50/1 chance), settled into midfield from her wide draw and shaken up at the top of the straight, making headway approaching the final furlong and keeping on well for pressure to take fifth behind Excelcius (beaten 3 lengths). It was a promising first effort from this filly, beaten by a trio of more experienced colts that had all shown a reasonable level of form and a well-bred, once-raced improver from Ballydoyle, also coming from further back than the aforementioned quartet to fare best of the newcomers. She was purchased for €20,000 out of the Emmet Mullins yard last week, and it’s interesting she been brought straight here given her pedigree, being a half sister to four dirt winners in the US/Canada and out of a dirt winning half sister to other winners on the surface, whilst grandsire Harlan’s Holiday’s progeny enjoyed success on Fibresand. It is fair to say her handler isn’t renowned for his prowess with juveniles, but the majority would be long-term/handicap projects whereas this filly showed enough first time out to suggest she’s capable of winning a race such as this; no surprise to see her do just that here.
The Keith Dalgleish-trained Theatre Of War is a son of War Command who stepped up from her first two efforts when upped to 7f/switched to Tapeta when landing a novice auction event at Wolverhampton in July, but he was turned over at 4/11 under a penalty over the same course and distance in a similar event the following month. His latest outing came in a heavy-ground 7f novice contest at Ayr 55 days ago (7/2 chance), racing keenly and pulling his way to the front, attempting to kick on over a furlong out but shifting both ways under pressure and collared close home by Guildhall, going down by ¾ length. That form looks nothing special and this gelding clearly has his limitations; sure to give it his best shot once again, but potentially vulnerable conceding weight to most of his rivals.
Michael Wigham’s Anycity is a son of Zoffany who made a winning start to his career for Archie Watson in a 1m auction maiden at Chelmsford in August (7/4 chance), making all and pressed over two furlongs out, ridden and kicking on at the top of the straight, keeping on well for pressure to fend off the renewed challenge of One To Go and score by half a length. He has met with defeat twice since in novice auction events at Kempton (7f) and back over the course and distance he made his winning debut, attempting to make all both times but finding one too good on each occasion. This gelding has displayed a likeable attitude on all three outings, though hasn’t had many excuses the last twice, readily gathered in by a newcomer last time; likely to have competition for the lead this time should he be ridden the same way as his previous runs; has changed hands for 16,000gns since he was last seen.
The Mick Easterby-trained Elysian Flame is a son of Champs Elysees who built on a promising debut effort to land a soft-ground 1m novice event at Haydock four weeks ago (8/1 chance), waited with in rear until moving closer on the outer over two furlongs out, ridden to lead over a furlong out and keeping on well for pressure to score by a length from Coup De Gold. The manner in which this gelding made up ground to challenge was eyecatching, still looking rough around the edges, not doing a great deal once hitting the front but always holding on; new surface and a penalty to contend with here, but he’s thoroughly unexposed and likely open to significant improvement.
The Adrian Nicholls-trained Xtara is a son of Xtension who confirmed the promise of his debut effort in a 6f novice auction at Carlisle back in June by winning an identical event over the same course and distance 11 days later, but he couldn’t get the job when attempting to make all in a four-runner 6f contest at Hamilton the following month, having to settle for second behind Aurag. He again tried to make all when a creditable enough third in a 7f nursery at Newmarket some three weeks later, but his latest effort saw him finish only fifth in a similar contest at Haydock a fortnight later, racing keenly and fading out of contention inside the final furlong. He has been given plenty of time since then and the cheekpieces worn that day are discarded here; one of a few in the field that like to lead.
The Alan King-trained Peckinpah is a son of Excelebration who shaped with promise on debut at York in October and again ran with credit when contesting a 1m maiden at Nottingham 19 days later, taking a keen hold early but soon settled in behind the pacesetters, ridden to challenge well over a furlong out but able to only muster one pace as he came home in fourth behind Dalaalaat (beaten 3¼ lengths). He has shown enough in two runs to suggest a race of this nature is well within his capabilities, perhaps paying for his early exuberance last time; step back a furlong in trip perhaps not the worst move bearing that in mind and no surprise to see him in the thick of things.
James Given’s Cuban Sun is a daughter of Havana Gold who offered precious little on her first two starts, but she showed a lot more when 200/1 for a 1m fillies’ maiden at Nottingham last month, close up and sticking on well to come home in third behind Vivid Diamond (beaten 3¾ lengths). However, she failed to beat a rival home on her nursery bow back over 7f at Leicester 17 days ago, slowly away and quickly done with once the race began in earnest (beaten 16 lengths). The third at Nottingham is very much her standout performance so far, well placed in a race where prominent racers dominated; represents a stable that has enjoyed plenty of success at this venue.
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line374
|
__label__wiki
| 0.863209
| 0.863209
|
The Wonderful Library & Islamic Resource Center :: Quran Section :: Parables in the Quran Share
The Parable of a Dog (Surah Al-A'raf 7:175-177)
Subject: The Parable of a Dog (Surah Al-A'raf 7:175-177) Mon Apr 19, 2010 3:45 pm
As-Salamu-Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu
Story Bal`am bin Ba`ura
'Abdur-Razzaq recorded that `Abdullah bin Mas'ud (Radhi Allahu Anhu) said that Allah's statement,
And recite to them the story of him to whom We gave Our Ayat, but he threw them away "Is about Bal`am bin Ba`ura' a man from the Children of Israel.'' Shu'bah and several other narrators narrated this statement from Mansur who got it from Ibn Mas`ud. Sa`id bin Abi `Arubah narrated that Qatadah said that Ibn `Abbas said, "He is Sayfi, son of Ar-Rahib.'' Qatadah commented that Ka`b said, "He was a man from Al-Balqla' (a province of Jordan) who knew Allah's Greatest Name. He used to live in Bayt Al-Maqdis with the tyrants.'' Al-`Awfi reported that Ibn `Abbas said, "He is Bal`am bin Ba`ura', a man from Yemen whom Allah had given the knowledge of His Ayat, but he abandoned them.'' Malik bin Dinar said, "He was one of the scholars of the Children of Israel whose supplication was acceptable. They used to seek his lead in supplication in times of difficulty. Allah's Prophet Musa sent him to the King of Madyan to call him to Allah. That king appeased him and gave him land and gifts, and he reverted from the religion of Musa and followed the king's religion.'' `Imran bin `Uyaynah narrated that `Husayn said that `Imran bin Al-Harith said that Ibn `Abbas said, "He is Bal`am son of Ba`ura'.'' Similar was said by Mujahid and `Ikrimah. Therefore, it is well-known that this honorable Ayah was revealed about a man from the Children of Israel in ancient times, according to Ibn Mas`ud and several others among the Salaf. `Ali bin Abi Talhah reported that Ibn `Abbas said, "He is a man from the city of the tyrants (Jerusalem) whose name was Bal`am and who knew Allah's Greatest Name.'' `Ali bin Abi Talhah also reported that Ibn `Abbas that he said, "When Musa and those with him went to the city of the tyrants (Jerusalem), the cousins of Bal`am and his people came to him and said, `Musa is a strong man, and he has many soldiers. If he gains the upper hand over us, we will be destroyed. Therefore, supplicate to Allah that He prevents Musa and those with him from prevailing over us.' Bal`am said, `If I supplicate to Allah that He turns back Musa and those with him, I will lose in this life and the Hereafter.' They kept luring him until he supplicated against Musa and his people, and Allah took away what he bestowed on him (of knowledge). Hence Allah's statement,
but he threw them away; so Shaytan followed him up.''' Allah said next,
And had We willed, We would surely have elevated him therewith from the filth of this earthly life through the Ayat that We gave him knowledge of,
but he clung to the earth, he became interested in the adornment of this life and its delights. He indulged in the lusts of life and its joys and was deceived by it, just as life deceived others like him, without sound comprehension or a good mind. Muhammad bin Ishaq bin Yasar narrated from Salim, from Abu An-Nadr that when Musa entered the land of Bani Canaan in the area of Ash-Sham (Greater Syria), the people of Bal`am came to him, saying, "This is Musa, son of `Imran with the Children of Israel. He wants to drive us out from our land, kill us and replace us with the Children of Israel. We are your people and have no other dwelling area. You are a person whose supplication is acceptable (to Allah), so go out and supplicate to Allah against them.'' He said, "Woe to you! Here is Allah's Prophet (Musa) with whom the angels and believers are! How can I supplicate against them when I know from Allah what I know'' They said, "We have no other dwelling area.'' So they kept luring and begging him until he was tempted by the trial and went on his donkey towards Mount Husban, which was behind the Israelite military barracks. When he proceeded on the Mount for a while, the donkey sat down and refused to proceed. He got off the donkey and struck it until it stood up again and he rode it. The donkey did the same after a little while, and he struck it again until it stood up... So he proceeded and tried to supplicate against Musa and his people. However, Allah made his tongue mention his people with evil and the Children of Israel with good instead of his people, who protested, "O Bal`am! What are you doing You are supplicating for them and against us!'' He said, "It is against my will. This is a matter that Allah has decided.'' He then said to them, as his tongue was made to loll out of his mouth, "Now I have lost this life and the Hereafter.'' This Ayah was revealed about the story of Bal`am son of Ba`ura'
And recite to them the story of him to whom We gave Our Ayat, but he threw them away, until,
perhaps they may reflect. Allah said next,
So his parable is the parable of a dog: if you drive him away, he pants, or if you leave him alone, he (still) pants. Scholars of Tafsir have conflicting opinions regarding the meaning of this Ayah. Some scholars said that it refers to the end of Bal`am's tongue which flickered out of his mouth, as in the story narrated from Ibn Ishaq, from Salim, from Abu An-Nadr. Therefore, his example is the example of the dog, its tongue pants regardless of whether it is driven away or not. It was also said that the meaning here is a parable of this man -- and his like -- concerning their misguidance, persisting the wrong path and not being able to benefit from faith or comprehend what they are being called to. So his example is that of a dog which pants whether it was driven away or left alone. The person described here does not benefit from the advice or the call to faith, just as if the advice and call never occurred. Allah said in another Ayah,
It is the same to them (disbelievers) whether you warn them or do not warn them, they will not believe.(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:6) and,
Whether you ask forgiveness for them (hypocrites) or ask not forgiveness for them -- (and even) if you ask seventy times for their forgiveness -- Allah will not forgive them. [Surah At-Taubah 9] and similar Ayat.
It was also said that the meaning here, is that the heart of the disbeliever, the hypocrite and the wicked is weak and devoid of guidance. Therefore, it keeps faltering. Similar was narrated from Al-Hasan Al-Basri.
So relate the stories, perhaps they may reflect Allah said next to His Prophet Muhammad
So relate the stories, perhaps they may- the Children of Israel, who have knowledge of the story of Bal`am and what happened to him when Allah allowed him to stray and expelled him from His mercy. Allah favored him by teaching him His Greatest Name, by which, if He is asked, He will grant, and if He is called upon, He answers. But Bal`am used it in disobedience to Allah and invoked Him against His own party of the people of faith, followers of His servant and Messenger during that time, Musa, the son of `Imran, peace be upon him, whom Allah spoke to directly,
perhaps they may reflect, and avoid Bal'am's behavior, for Allah has given the Jews knowledge and made them superior to the Bedouins surrounding them. He gave them the description of Muhammad which would allow them to recognize him, as they recognize their own children. They, among people, have the most right to follow, aid and support Muhammad, in obedience to their Prophets who informed them of him and commanded them to follow him. Therefore, whoever among them defies the knowledge in their Books or hides it from the servants, Allah will place disgrace on him in this life, followed by humiliation in the Hereafter. Allah said,
Evil is the parable of the people who rejected Our Ayat. Allah says, evil is the example of the people who deny Our Ayat in that they are equated with dogs that have no interest but to collect food and satisfy lusts.' Therefore, whoever goes out of the area of knowledge and guidance, and seeks satisfaction for his lusts and vain desires, is just like a dog; what an evil example. The Sahih recorded that the Messenger of Allah said,
The evil example is not suitable for us: he who goes back on his gift is just like the dog that eats its vomit.
Allah's statement,
and they used to wrong themselves means, Allah did not wrong them, but they wronged themselves by rejecting guidance, not obeying the Lord, being content with this life that will soon end, all the while seeking to fulfill desires and obey lusts.
Reference: Tafsir ibn Kathir (abridged) English version.
The Wonderful Library & Islamic Resource Center :: Quran Section :: Parables in the Quran
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line381
|
__label__wiki
| 0.757925
| 0.757925
|
Seth Ward's Original Patent
The original 60 acre patent included "Powhatan's Tree" as the northern boundary marker. Today Deep Bottom Park is on the original property.
My great9-grandfather, Seth Ward, immigrated to Virginia around 1630 and settled on the north bank of the James River at what is today Deep Bottom Park, near Varina, in Henrico County. This website is dedicated to his descendants and the families with whom the Wards intermarried.
Genealogists have not been able to determine Seth Ward's parentage with any certainty. Nor is it known exactly when Seth Ward arrived in Virginia, but in 1634 he received a patent for 60 acres, which means he would have had to have settled on the James at least by 1631 given the three year residency requirement to qualify for a patent. My best guess as to my great-grandfather's parents (based on a will found in Abbington, Cambridgeshire, England) is that they were John Warde and Isabelle Bruster and that his grandfather was also named Seth Warde. There is, however, no definitive proof.
There is no evidence Seth Ward was an indentured servant and the circumstances of his early years in Virginia suggest that he either came on his own "adventure" or that he was a representative of a London merchant who decided to settle in Virgina.
By the second generation, the Ward family was part of the gentry who ruled Virginia through control of political offices such as Justice, Sheriff, Tobacco Inspector, Surveyor, County Clerk, and Delegate to the House of Burgesses, all positions held by Seth Ward's heirs. Included in our family tree are all the great names of Virginia history from Pocahontas to Jefferson. Among my ancestors are eight presidents, a Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, a Senator, members of the House of representatives, the first Attorney General of the United States, and many others of considerable accomplishment.
I have chosen to include everyone related to me either by blood or marriage in order to better grasp the social context in which my family was embedded. In many ways the history of the United States is reflected in the history of my family. The Wards begin to colonize the Carolinas in the early 18th Century, and after losing the family plantation in the 1790s the Wards move across the continent, pausing in Lynchburg, Nashville, and Texas before reaching California in the early 20th Century. If you are interested in reading about the Ward family in more depth, I am writing a social history that I would be happy to share. I am Dana Ward, Professor Emeritus, Pitzer College and can be reached via my college email address.
Seth Ward's son, Richard Ward, moved the family across the James to Sheffield in 1662, where five generations of "Seth Wards" were subsequently raised. Today "Drewy's Bluff", a Civil War monument, stands on what had been the Seth Ward family plantation. Sheffield was at the very top of the map at the curve in the James, ending at Falling Creek (beyond the map's top edge). Click on the map to enlarge it.
Top 100 Surnames in Our Family Tree
Adamson Anderson Archer Armstrong Arnold Austin Bacon Baker Best Black Blacknall Bland BLINCOE Blount Bolling Bradley Branch Brown Burr Burton Cavendish Chapman Clark COX Dabney Dickinson Doig Edwards Elam Eppes Farmer Farrar Ferguson Fitzgerald Fonville Foy GOODE Gragg GREER Hadnot Hancock Harris Harrison Hatcher hudson Huff Hughes Jakobsen Jefferson Johnston Jones Jordan Leftwich Ligon Marshall Martin McClanahan McClung McConnell Moore MURRAY NORVELL Novstrup Parker PAYNE Pegram Penn Perrin Pierce Pitzer Porter Powledge Randolph Reed Rhodes Robertson ROGERS Royall Rupert Scott Shull Smith South Spotswood Stewart Strange Tanner Taylor Thomas Vincent Walker Waller WALTON Ward Washington White Williams Wilson Worsham Wright
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line385
|
__label__cc
| 0.696745
| 0.303255
|
Crisis Line Telephone
10:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m.
Every night of the year
Listen to our Ministers and Volunteers
Night Ministry in the News
Photos - 50th Anniversary Service
Photos - 50th Anniversary Banquet
Videos - 50th Anniversary Service
San Francisco Night Ministry at 50
Proclamations for 50th Anniversary
Read Anne Lamott's Words
Night Ministry
Crisis Line Counseling
Open Cathedral
Tuesday Night Gathering
Van Ministry
Van Project Update
Interns and Field Workers
Interfaith Memorial Service
SF Cares
Sacred Space San Francisco
Other Collaborations
New Program
CPE Program
Eblasts/Newsletters
On the Streets of the Tenderloin, 'a Light in an Unlit World'
by Natalie Yemenidjian, KQED News, June 29, 2016
10:30 p.m.: Pastor Lyle Beckman, the S.F. Night Minister, waits for drag king Kit Tapata to finish her trivia hosting duties to talk about fliers for an upcoming fundraising. Helping others costs money and the Night Ministry relies on folks like Tapata. Beckman orders club sodas, but enjoys the community in local bars. As more neighborhood bars are priced out, he says the only people who talk to him at the new ‘sterile’ spots are the bartenders. (Natalie Yemenidjian/KQED)
Read the complete article.
Walking SF Streets with the Night Minister
KALW Article By IAN LEWIS with the rev. Lyle beckman • APR 18, 2016 - KALW
EXCERPT FROM THE ARTICLE about the San Francisco Night Ministry.
Many people living in need rely on churches for meals, support or simply a place to get off the street and rest. But like other types of service centers, churches close their doors at the end of the day. And for those without a home or family to turn to, the night can be a long and difficult time.
For the last 52 years, The San Francisco Night Ministry has stayed awake all night so that nobody in need has to face the night alone. They operate a crisis phone line, and they have ordained clergy literally walking the streets of San Francisco all night long.
Listen to the article by clicking here.
Let it Shine story
by Amy Gutierrez
What started in June as a project to teach my daughter and her friends how to cook soup became so much more! With God's grace and blessings, it blossomed and grew into a rich and generous opportunity for believers and non-believers to come together and demonstrate goodness and caring and serve the homeless in San Francisco. And, along the way, we were touched and grew thanks to the wisdom of those in the City. Isn't that what this journey is all about? All of us, regardless of faith or background, reaching out to help each other live a better life?
Every day, life presents opportunities to help someone in need. At first glance, the video may appear to be only about helping the homeless. After all, every night for the past 50 years, San Francisco Night Ministry has provided support ministers who walk the streets from 10:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m., offering face-to-face conversations to those who are lonely, anxious and afraid. In this video, those served included the 80 homeless people who enjoyed a warm cup of soup following the bilingual English-Spanish Open Cathedral service, highlighting a small portion of the over 10,000 meals served annually by the organization.
However, the experience of making the soup served many more than the homeless that evening. It also served my daughter and her friends, taught how to handle a knife, how to cut onions and how to clean up after touching chicken. They were also taught about heritage and family and how to make a healthy, traditional Filipino soup using a recipe my husband’s mother cooked for him when he was a young boy and felt ill. Thanks to the generous financial donation from Thrivent Lutheran Action Teams, they also learned that large companies can believe in social justice and supporting communities. Also, by listening to the homeless speak during prayer time at Open Cathedral, they were taught about the
importance of faith and that joy and laughter can exist during sad situations.
The experience also served my amazing neighbor Monique Ortiz, one of the many pastors who works with SF Night Ministry. For the past few years, she has scrambled around Thursday morning, pulling together a meal for those who gather for worship and for those who quickly assemble after, eager to gain fortification from the food provided. Her beautiful heart greets all of her parishioners each week, accepting them in their current physical and mental state, and sharing God’s love and goodness.
Creating the song served the souls of Alyssa McCoy and Ryan Filipo, gifted musicians who felt the spirit move within them as they worked together to write and perform their rendition of “This Little Light of Mine.”
The whole process of serving, from the shopping to requesting funds for the foods to teaching the girls how to cook to traveling to the city and meeting the beautiful community that meets weekly on 16th and Mission – all of it nourished my soul. As I continue to seek my calling and purpose and struggle with balance in life, I was brought to tears to hear the stories and the sincerity of those in the city. I was honored to meet them and learn more about their lives and their struggles, and to witness the power of faith.
I also recognize the power of letting my little light shine through the creative process of sharing a vision with others, seeking resources for assistance, learning how to use my Flipvideo camera and watching as God’s grace works wonders. From friends and neighbors who babysat my younger sons or shared an encouraging word, to Victoria Jones who volunteered her amazing video editing services, to Ali Samuels who helped serve food, to Veronica Sullivan who captured the final video scenes, to my sister Karen Sill and friends Heather Young and Shelley Rice who have served as cheerleaders and editors along the way.
I am clear that this experience is about far more than serving the homeless – it’s about capturing the opportunity to live generously, letting your light shine and watching as wonderful things unfold!
On the Streets of the Tenderloin, 'a Light in an Unlit World' KQED article by Natalie Yemenidjian - excerpt: 10:30 p.m.: Pastor Lyle Beckman, the S.F. Night Minister, waits for drag king Kit Tapata to finish her trivia hosting duties to talk about fliers for an upcoming fundraising. Helping others costs money and the Night Ministry relies on folks like Tapata. Beckman orders club sodas, but enjoys the community in local bars. As more neighborhood bars are priced out, he says the only people who talk to him at the new ‘sterile’ spots are the bartenders. (Natalie Yemenidjian/KQED) - Read the complete article
I'm pleased to announce that our own Gordon Schaeffer has received the prestigious Jefferson Award for his 48 years of faithful service as a Crisis Line Counselor. A film crew was in the office tonight to film a short segment about him and his work with us. Read the complete article on the Home Page.
The Episcopal Diocese of California wrote about the 50th Anniversary Service of Thanksgiving at Grace Cathedral. The story led their weekly e-blast and their magazine, the Pacific Church News. Celebrating 50 Years of San Francisco Night Ministry
San Francisco Chronicle columnist Carl Nolte featured the Night Ministry and the Rev. Lyle Beckman in his Native Son column on November 16, 2014 under the headline: Ministers who walk the Night Beat Have God on Their Side. Here is a link to the online version with a slide show posted on SFGate.com - Ministers walk San Francisco night beat, offering help
The San Francisco Bay Guardian's Best of the Bay issue chose the Night Ministry as a Local Hero. The story appeared in the newspaper's final issue, published on October 15, 2014. Click here to read the article
Governing Board Member Roy Mosley spoke about the work of Night Ministry at the Chinese Congregational Church on July 13. Read about it here
David Perry is the creator, host and producer of 10 Percent, the longest running LGBT TV show in Northern California history. As part of David's program, he speaks with the Rev. Diana Wheeler about the innovative Night Ministry program on the streets of San Francisco.
The Rev. Donald Stuart's Obituary in the San Francisco Chronicle.
A story about mental heath on KQED radio's California Report leads with work of the Night Ministry and an interview with Don Fox. Read it and listen to the radio broadcast:
After Years of Budget Cuts, More Psychiatric Resources Coming | State of Health Blog from KQED News
Nightlife - The Story of San Francisco Night Ministry - youtube
Peter Camarda interviews Rev. Lyle Beckman and Rev. Monique Ortiz of the San Francisco Night Ministry, an interdenominational church consortium that sends ministers onto the streets from 10pm - youtube
The San Mateo Times followed the Rev. Diana Wheeler onto San Francisco streets for a nighttime walk. Read the newspaper reporter's story, "Night Ministry brings solace to San Francisco's desperate streets."
Finding my Religion/ Rev. Don Fox walks the streets of San Francisco at night helping those in need - SFGate
The Night Minister of the Streets / His Congregation is San Francisco's homeless and dispossessed
The SF Night Ministry, Rev. Don Fox - youtube
Night Ministry Van Project Update
We Are On The Way to Meeting Our $20,000 Goal!
Within five short months the Night Ministry has been blessed by the donation of two vans similar to the ones shown below, and has also received $9,500.00 in donations, pledges and grants. The next phase of the Van project is to prepare these vans for ministry. Our $20,000 fundraising goal is for just that reason. Funds are needed for operation costs, insurance, signage and equipment as listed below.
Van Signage
Maintenance & Insurance
2 - 8'x10' Easy Up Coverings
2 Burner Portable Food Warmer
24 to 28 Folding Chairs
2 - 3'x6' Folding Tables
10 Heavy Duty Food & Clothing Bins
Portable Sound System
The Night Ministry also provides weekly outdoor worship and fellowship services: one in the Tenderloin and one in the Mission. The services are followed by a meal while providing blankets, socks, coats, sleeping bags and toiletries These services create the opportunity for conversation, prayer and crisis intervention. Our wellness program and community-building program extend our outreach to many more people in need. Our goal is to have our vans carry a greater supply of food, blankets, coats and various services to the streets of our beloved San Francisco.
We have become limited in our ability to reach the growing needs of people struggling on our streets. Night Ministry does not receive any public funding, nor do we charge anyone for our services. We are extremely thankful for the people who support and partner with us. We are asking for your help to meet the greater need. No pledge is too small. Thank you in advance for your consideration. Click here to donate.
Visual Representation of Finished Van
We know you have the heart to see the needs, and with your help, we can reach the people of our city in a bigger and better way. Please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for further information. All gifts are tax deductible.
Download a copy of the flyer.
A Joy and a Blessing
Timothy Smith, Night Ministry Intern
I have been an intern at Night Ministry for the past six months. My internship there is part of the field education program at School for Deacons in Berkeley, where I began as a student in their three-year program, in August 2012, after retiring from a 40- year career as an attorney and consultant. SFD requires second-year students like me to work as an intern with an organization having a social ministry in the community and to engage as fully as possible in their programs.
My experience with the Night Ministry over the past six months has been transformative. It has been a joy and a blessing to be able to work with caring and compassionate clergy and lay people at Night Ministry and to experience first-hand how they bring their own presence and the presence of the Holy Spirit to be with the homeless and the needy on the streets of San Francisco.
Cardboard House to Chapel
Working under the thoughtful, discerning, and compassionate tutelage of Lyle Beckman, the senior night minister in charge of SF Night Ministry, I've joined night ministers on their late nightly walks through such neighborhoods as the Tenderloin, lower Polk, the Castro, City Hall, North Beach, and Fisherman's Wharf. It has been deeply moving and personally fulfilling to bring my presence to the streets and to be with the night ministers as they pray with people on the streets and bring comfort, love, and hope to them.
A profound experience for me occurred one chilly, damp evening when I was accompanying a night minister on a walk in the neighborhood near the Castro Safeway where a large number of homeless people often congregate. As we walked down the street at about 1 :30 a.m., we encountered a man with long hair and a beard who was building himself a house made out of cardboard for the night. We caught his eye and began speaking with him. We quickly learned that he had been a substance abuser for a number of years. It also appeared that his homelessness had resulted from many years of substance abuse and that he had little, if anything, in worldly possessions. However, he was a very spiritual man and began talking with us about God's love for all of us despite our sins, the Catholic Church (to which he belonged as a youth), the Pope, religious tolerance. The discussion was quite lively. He then announced that he would change his cardboard house into a cardboard chapel, proceeded to make an altar inside the cardboard box, and invited us to pray with him. For the next 40 minutes we prayed with him on our knees by his makeshift altar inside the cardboard box. I believe that all three of us felt the power of the Holy Spirit while we prayed. As the man was thanking us afterwards for bringing our presence to him, I looked at him again and saw in him the face of Jesus.
Singing for Open Cathedral
I've also engaged as a lector, a prayer leader, and even a song leader (quite a stretch for me) for Open Cathedral. It is a church without walls or a roof, where night ministers conduct uplifting Eucharistic services on Sundays and week-day afternoons in open plazas by City Hall and the Mission BART station. Everyone is warmly welcomed to the Lord's Table, is treated with dignity, and after the service receives a bag lunch prepared by a different church each week. Already, the night ministers have successfully built community for Open Cathedral, which now has regular attendees at its services.
A deeply moving experience for me occurred at Open Cathedral near City Hall during one of the Sunday afternoon Eucharist services. Open Cathedral clergy from Night Ministry invite anyone on the streets to join in the service and treat everyone with dignity just as Christ treated the marginalized. The liturgy is normally conducted by Night Ministry clergy and volunteers charismatically led by the Rev. Monique Ortiz. However, the parishioners, many of whom are homeless, serve as ushers, lead singing, and actively engage in the intercessionary prayers. It is truly heartwarming to hear the parishioners, many of whom are struggling to sustain themselves, pray for God to bless and be with others who are also struggling to survive! On this particular day, the neighborhood participant who usually leads the singing during the service was not there. The clergy attending the service did not feel totally comfortable in leading the singing, although they tried mightily. Suddenly, an older; bearded man in a faded hoodie and trousers who had been sitting apart from the others, buried in his own thoughts, stood up and volunteered to lead the singing. He took the portable microphone and proceeded to lead the singing with a magnificent voice as smooth as velvet. Everyone joined in enthusiastically singing the selected hymns and the alleluias. This gentleman had helped to make the Eucharist even more special than it already was! I stood there and once again felt that I had experienced the Holy Spirit in action at Open Cathedral!
Daily Thanksgiving
I'm also training to become a crisis line counselor for the Night Ministry, which uses crisis line counseling as a forum where during the night troubled and lonely people can speak with someone who cares for them and who has been trained as a counselor to help them. I continue to be deeply touched by the dedication and faith of the crisis line counselors as they spend long hours into the night making themselves available to pray and to speak on the phone with troubled and lonely people. I thank God daily for the gift of being a part of the Night Ministry's program of caring and compassion for the homeless and others in need on the streets of San Francisco. I also thank Lyle and his colleagues for providing me with an opportunity to engage actively in a diverse ministry outside the confines of church walls. I look forward to continuing to engage in Night Ministry programs even after I complete my field education program for School for Deacons at the end of the current spring semester.
‘Troublemaker’ by Vicki Gray
Read our latest newsletter issue:
Newsletter 1 - 2018 - pdf format
magazine view
San Francisco Night Ministry - 50th Anniversary
Sign Up for Eblasts or Newsletters
Subscribe to receive important information about San Francisco Night Ministry
© 2014 San Francisco Night Ministry
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line386
|
__label__wiki
| 0.522802
| 0.522802
|
NoHo Complex to Replace Strip Mall, Apartment Building
Current structures would be razed at 11410-11420 W. Burbank Blvd. in North Hollywood.
A proposed development would raze a strip mall and vacant apartment building in North Hollywood to pave the way for an 84-unit apartment building, according to Urbanize.LA.
The proposed 25,000-square-foot project at 11410-11420 W. Burbank Blvd. would feature nine units of low-income affordable housing.
The existing edifice to be torn down is comprised of six residential units. According to city records, the building’s tenants were vacated in 2007.
There would be a reduction to required side-yard setbacks and an increase in allowable height at the property, which sits two blocks north of Metro’s North Hollywood Station. Metro is currently working with Trammell Crow Co. on a joint-development project to build more than 1,500 housing units and 600,000 square feet of office and retail space on parking lots surrounding the station.
AROUND THE VALLEYS
Valley Offices At a Premium
Trains, Buses, Housing
28-Unit NoHo Apartment Breaks Ground
REAL ESTATE QUARTERLY: Trending North
Vote on Controversial Burbank Project Delayed
Warner Center Site to Host Five-Story Apartment Building
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line387
|
__label__cc
| 0.707762
| 0.292238
|
A Party of Two Halves
Day 14. 4 July 2006
Tuesday. We are given a lie in this morning, and I don’t even notice the seven o’clock bells. We breakfasdt leisurely and head out to Chies at ten o’clock to finish up on our steps – a task that does not take long – placing th last couple of stobs in place before errecting a small piece of fencing above a precarious drop, to stop the local school kids going over when taking part in the nature walk that we have helped created.
Loris has not turned up with his ‘spike’ so we are forced to improvise, fashioning a fresh spike from stobs for each of three fence poles. The electric drill, loses its drill bit on one of the bars, and has to be rescued, and one of the posts split and doesn’t go in fantastically well but the other two will hold it, but its not a fence for keeping cattle in.
Job done, there is just time to take a group photo of Italians, English, Canadians, and Norwegians on the woodland steps, before walking back into Chies via the rest of the woodland track, dropping off a bit more wood along the way for another, later, project.
The girls disappear into the village, so say to help with lunch and party shopping, but in fact to spend our collected Euros on presents of bottles for Kate, Andy, and Janet. I mooch around Chies for a few minutes to get a picture of the carpenter’s shop – a fine, rundown but attractive, four-story building on the road down to the worksite – before sitting on a bench in the shade in the town square with Andy and Emi.
We return to the nursery school to prepare a last lunch in Alpago Janet whisks John and Kate away to her house to download some photos of the sheepfold to send the television station.
We eat our most extravagant lunch yet of bread and cheese, ham and sausage, salad and cake on the outside terrace, and this is followed by the opportunity for siesta or for packing as takes our fancy. I do a bit of both.
At three o’clock Emanuelle drives the bus to the lake – a new location a the suggestion of Giovanni The Deer – for a swim. Like before it is a stone shore, but it is a charming and secluded cove with opportunities for those who are brave enough to dive. It is cool but very refreshing and relieves any lingering aches in our muscles.
After the swim, Andy and Kate begin swimming stones across the water expertly, and soon we are all at it; they teach Sarah-Jane, Emi and myself how to skim. I manage to a few three-skimmers and one four- but that is all. As we sit, and rest, and skim stones, a thunderstorm brews up over the far end of the lake; and thunder rumbles around. We move off, rested, from the beach at Farra d’Alpago to the gellateria at Puos d’Alpago, enjoying a three-scoop bowl of pistaccio, lamponi and cioccoolata.
Returning to Lamasana, Emi and Andy leave us in the main square so that we can go and stock up on further provisions for the party ahead of us, from the local Coop.
Party tonight and all looking forward to it. Ariel borrowed for TV. ITALY v. GERMANY is mucho, mucho importente! Benetto, Ernesto and Janet arrive with antipasti and cake. Flour from Benetto’s cake grown from his own wheat and milled; his wife baked it. Vera brings stereo for music. Giovanni and his big smile arrive, I was surprised so many locals and not s local locals come. Desirée comes with lots to eat as well. The lady from the shop in chies comes with more food. She’s very rude and teaches us to swear – va fancuki. She already knows English swear words so we teach her more! She loves it. All tired (but still going), Loris and Alberto still to arrive it’s about midnight. Italy won 2, nil. All go to the bar in lamosano, great atmosphere. Loris smiling from ear to ear. Meet Tilli and Andy from pizzeria. All except Emi, Sarah-Jane and Caol go back to the house at 2.45. Tillie, Andie, Loris, Alberto, Emi, Sarah-Jane and I go to pizzeria for more prosecco and tiramisu Lamosano style. Knackered, I go to the house 4.45am. Sarah-Jane still has bundles of energy and goes off for coffee with the boys. A fantastic last night.
a contribution by Carol McLellen
Ernesto, Benito and Janet are amongst the fist to arrive bearing Antipasta and cake with them. The young Italian girls arrive too and make straight for television, which Emi has rigged up with an aerial borrowed from the local hi-fi shop, and now has the pre-match coverage to the Italy v. Germany World Cup semi-final. Jenny, as one of the more vocal and confident members of our group takes the lead in thanking il capo, Kate Fox and to Andy for their hard work organising the holiday for us, with a bottle of whisky and grappa respectively. To Janet we give a bottle of red wine.
The mayor arrives and another presentation is made; this time to us in recognition of our work. Emi and Desirée receive honorary mention as our local volunteers. A ‘main course’ of polenta and sausage, salami and cheese is folled by strudel from Vanessa, a reprise of Carol’s tiramisu, and a cake made by Benito’s wife from wheat grown and milled by Benito himself. Prosecco flows, as does red wine and limoncello.
A nil-nil result in the football at full time results in a tense half hour for Emanuelle that leads to huge relief and joy in equal measure as Italy go on to score not one but two goals in the closing minutes of the match. From our position on the hill we can hear the joy and excitement from the square and the Lamosano bar. We hear this even closer too as cars start driving between the villages of the Commune di Alpago blasting on their horns. Italy are through to the final and Emi is very happy.
Alberto arrives shortly brandishing his countries green, white and red flag and encourages us down to the bar, which we do. It is a slightly surreal experience – a party hosted by us to celebrate the end of our stay in Alpago has become a joint celebration with the locals and friends for Italy’s football success. As someone not interested in footfall at all, I do find myself pleased to be experiencing this event in this settling, amongst friends, and I am interested in what the result might be on Sunday.
By two o’clock we have, with the exception of Carol, Sarah-Jane and Emi, had our full, and tired, retire to the nursery school to destroy much of the evidence of the night’s party and retire to bed for a few hours sleep.
Day 15: Final farewells, and a parting of the ways…
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line392
|
__label__cc
| 0.533385
| 0.466615
|
Complete Piano Sonatas Vol.3 (Wiener Urtext Edition)
(previously Volume 2 UT50028)
Franz Joseph Haydn
Series: Wiener Urtext Edition
Department: Piano - Piano repertoire (other publishers)
Publisher: Wiener Urtext
Catalogue No: UT50258
When Christa Landon presented the first printed version of her edition of Joseph Haydn's piano sonatas, Haydn's sonata oeuvre was still overshadowed by the works of Mozart and Beethoven. Since then, Haydn's sonatas have progressed from the teaching rooms to the concert halls and Landon's edition has played a crucial role in that process. Since the Haydn anniversary in 2009 this 'legendary' edition has been thoroughly revised for, over the course of more than forty years, new sources have come to light and questions of authenticity have been resolved, not least because the editorial principles for 18th-century music have changed considerably. The new edition is published in four volumes, the content of each volume being compatible with the volumes of the previous edition. Volume 3 of the new edition comprises the 17 sonatas Hob. XVI:21-32 and Hob. XVI:35-39 contained in Vol. 2 of the previous Wiener Urtext edition, including popular works for music lessons such as Hob. XVI:27, 35 and 37. In the Notes on Interpretation, Robert D. Levin explains important aspects of Haydn's performance practice and, with the help of numerous examples, shows possibilities to embellish the pauses frequently used by Haydn.
The Wiener Urtext Edition is a critical musicological edition for practical use and is distinguished from many other Urtext editions by comprehensive textual information in German and English and partly also in French.
REASONS FOR WIENER URTEXT
• Reliable musical text on the basis of the sources reflecting the composers’ ideas as authentic as possible
• Significant text variants for performance practice
• Useful fingerings for musical practice
• Page layout for practical use with convenient page turns
• Clearly printed, reader-friendly layout on high-contrast music paper
• Sustainably printed with green power
Complete Piano Sonatas vol.4 (Wiener Urtext Edition) - Haydn, Franz Joseph
Sonata No.36 In C Hob.Xvi/21 Sonata No.37 In E Hob.Xvi/22 Sonata No.38 In F Hob.Xvi/23 Sonata No.39 In D Hob.Xvi/24 Sonata No.40 In E Flat Hob.Xvi/25 Sonata No.41 In A Hob.Xvi/26 Sonata No.42 In G Hob.Xvi/27 Sonata No.43 In E Flat Hob.Xvi/28 Sonata No.44 In F Hob.Xvi/29 Sonata No.45 In A Hob.Xvi/30 Sonata No.46 In E Hob.Xvi/31 Sonata No.47 In B Minor Hob.Xvi/32 Sonata No.48 In C Hob.Xvi/35 Sonata No.49 In C Sharp Minor Hob.Xvi/36 Sonata No.50 In D Hob.Xvi/37 Sonata No.51 In E Flat Hob.Xvi/38 Sonata No.52 In G Hob.Xvi/39
Reinhold, Hugo
Miniatur-Bilder, Op. 39 for piano
Preludes & Fugues for piano (24) Op 87 - vol.1
Contemplations (Piano Moods series)
Eben, Peter
Hands Together: 52 Czech Folk-tunes for piano
Zinck, Hardenack Otto Conrad
Sonata No. 8 in G minor for piano
Fasch, Carl Friedrich Christian
Sonata No. 5 in F major for piano
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line394
|
__label__cc
| 0.515436
| 0.484564
|
Scribbles By Ro
Simply Ro
Books By Ro
Category: Essays & Articles
Lay Down Your God-Guns; America Won
I appreciate that my long-time and dear friend, Tim, shared a piece from Time Magazine today on Facebook, as I’ve struggled to understand the intense demagoguery and proclaimed victim-hood of the Christian Right for nearly a decade now, especially on the issue of gay rights and my rights as a woman.
While I had hoped to obtain a better understanding of those whose views so clearly differ from my own, sadly, the opinions of the author, Rod Dresher, a senior editor and blogger at The American Conservative, leave me baffled still and even more so, resentful.
It’s easier, I guess, to begin with the one and only statement that I find true within this glorified piece of published self-righteousness that Time Magazine saw fit for their publication:
Voting Republican and other failed culture war strategies are not going to save us now.
Indeed, Sir.
The “alarm,” as sounded by the four dissenting conservative justices was clear, he warns, the “philosophical and historical groundlessness” as pointed out by Justice Scalia as a “threat to democracy.”
Groundlessness? Citing countless civil rights decisions by this court spanning decades is hardly groundlessness.
Clearly, Dresher espouses, the court has now embraced “extremism” and the evils of the Sexual Revolution, offering only but the “barest protection to religious dissenters from gay rights orthodoxy” from here on out.
Gay rights orthodoxy?
Interesting that Dresher uses this term ‘orthodoxy’ frequently in the piece …a good thing when it’s his religious orthodoxy he’s referring to; a bad thing in the context of gay rights, or the “All men are created equal” kind of orthodoxy that we Americans, as a rule (written and otherwise), tend to base our justice and democracy on.
And I would hardly call recognition of the civil liberties of all individuals under the Constitution, including those of gay individuals, somehow forcing others to live within the parameters of “gay orthodoxy”.
On the contrary, religious conservatives are free to continue to preach abstinence while their daughters become teen mothers, espouse the higher glory of family values while consorting with mistresses, and of course, speak evil of the gays while engaging in homosexual affairs from skanky hotel rooms without burden beyond public outcries of hypocrisy when exposed.
And I suppose I don’t need to bring up the recurring themes of sex with minors …boys in a position to neither defend nor protect themselves from men of faith in powerful positions as fathers, teachers, politicians and pastors, or priests, or the protectionism offered molesters (I’m sorry, sinners) within their clans who violate the young girls ever so close to their hearts.
Protection, I have to ask, from what? Protection to harm? Protection to discriminate? Protection to devalue and dehumanize?
Protection to withhold vital public services? Protection to dictate the values of your own onto women like myself, as if I should live under some twisted, envisioned American Taliban rule? Is that the sort of religious protectionism you seek, Sir? Good luck with that.
Is it protection to hate that you so require, as the ruling does nothing to prevent such. It only requires that you do so within the confines of your own home, your own family and your own personal religious practices so long as in doing so, they don’t infringe on the civil rights of another.
When you bring your hate to public commerce and education, housing, and yes, the public services of government through civil employment on behalf of all citizens, you are absolutely restricted.
You are, Mr. Dresher, free to continue speaking of your dissent, preaching your dissent and living your dissent how you see fit as long as your actions do not infringe the civil rights of others.
Friday’s ruling made clear that your religious beliefs offer you neither superior freedoms, consideration, or protection beyond that of every other citizen; man, woman, black, brown, or white, gay, or straight.
Per Mr. Dresher, “The fundamental norms Christians have long been able to depend on no longer exist.”
I would suggest, Sir, they never did. It was only by trying to impart your ‘norms’ on others that you have run into a very strong wall, a wall that only in a land called America could you be prohibited from accomplishing your goal.
“To be frank,” Dresher writes in part, “the court majority may impose on the rest of the nation a view widely shared by elites …”
More utter nonsense, but he at least goes on to acknowledge that it is also a view shared by a majority of Americans, which I guess is something given that he admits to being in a minority.
Nonetheless, he and his buddies Alito, Roberts and the ever-demented Scalia believe that their MINORITY view — stemming from various renditions of vastly different bibles that often compete, if not downright contradict each other at times – should rule over all.
In the case of the ACA, Scalia tried desperately to embrace a single sentence of specific wording within thousands of pages to represent more than the whole …the intent of the law.
In this case, he tried to construct an argument for which there is no wording at all to support his claim …no mention of such intent to constrain marriage to that between only a man and a woman.
Nor is there any evidence to support their testimony regarding harm to children of gay parents, where in fact, a plethora of evidence suggests just the opposite when gay parents are allowed to marry.
According to Dresher, the Supreme Court has effectively said, “homosexuality is equivalent to race.”
No, Mr. Dresher.
The Supreme Court has ruled that, like so many times before, those of different races, those with disabilities, those of lesser means among those with much, and even those of different religions, all are seen as equal in the eyes of the law and due certain undeniable CIVIL liberties under the Constitution of the United States …AS AMERICANS, without regard to a particular religion, or any religion at all for that matter.
Further, the court ruled that no state onto itself, as part of the United States, can decide for themselves to undermine this undeniable American right, no matter the majority, or the religious foundations for which they claim.
Finally, Mr. Dresher warns of the next wave of anti-religious activism; “…a long-term campaign to remove tax-exempt status from dissenting religious institutions.”
Let me suggest that the next ‘dog whistle’ has just sounded.
Well, now that you mention it …where do I sign up?
As you and others have so injected your beliefs and your unwelcome religious dogma into the daily lives of others …beyond what such tax exemptions were created for, let the dollar-chips fall where they may.
Your wars against women and ‘others’ have been of your own making and so too shall be the resulting consequences moving forward.
And please, just because the day may yet come when you and yours take it in the financial ass, know that it too won’t be because of the “Sexual Revolution”, but because it was time …and just, and because you have abused that which you were graciously granted for a ‘once-upon-a-time’ good cause.
I see no reason why I, as a taxpayer, should be asked to subsidize your bigoted ideology, or any religious organization’s revenue stream that is clearly not meant to support the community at large.
Of course, I object due to my own deeply held religious beliefs! Surely you of all people can understand and appreciate and respect my deeply held religious beliefs, right?
And of course, Mr. Dresher speaks of the “shunning and persecution of dissenters within civil society,” which I find an interesting choice of words.
Men like Mr. Dresher can equate being gay with those who commit lewd acts with animals and perverts, but calling them out for such harmful, inflammatory …what’s Scalia’s word for it …oh, “applesauce” is persecution.
Denouncing their religious zealotry is persecution. Fighting back when they would see those with differing views or religion harmed …that too is persecution.
Reminds me of the thief, or rapist who claims victim-hood because he was shot while in the act of breaking the law and causing harm to another.
I don’t recall signs in store windows that say, “Christians not allowed”, nor do I recall any case in which a gay physician refused to heal a Christian, although many Christians have refused treatment by physicians they deemed to be gay …or black …or of Indian or middle Eastern decent.
The only stones thrown at the heart of America I have witnessed have come from those proclaiming so loudly and vitriolic-ally to be GOD’S CHILDREN, as if chosen from the many above all others …somehow better, whiter, and more worthy.
My God, Mr. Dresher, does not know such distinction.
And certainly, my country could care less, for it’s laws were created for ideals of free men, not Gods …not yours, not another.
Those who penned their names to the Constitution had every opportunity to make such Godly proclamations, but despite being profoundly religious men with deeply regarded beliefs, they chose not to for a reason they made abundantly clear, and it is that reasoned thought and purpose, Sir, that the Supreme Court ruled as it did.
Not in favor of gays, or against the religious fabric of America, but because America was founded based on the principals and rights due all people, by all people, regardless.
That men of your cloth managed to insert “Under God” into the Pledge of Allegiance in the sixties does not alter the reality that it was never there before, nor intended by our founders.
That the same zealotry was used to insert the words, “In God We Trust” onto money does not alter the historical fact that it was never present before 1956.
In the name of faith and “religious freedom” conservatives have defamed and abused the spiritual essence of God, and the time to stop is now.
You’re right. Voting Republican and other failed culture war strategies are not going to save you now.
To read the full text of the article published in Time, visit: http://time.com/3938050/orthodox-christians-must-now-learn-to-live-as-exiles-in-our-own-country/
The comment box is open and I’d appreciate hearing your thoughts as well.
Yes! Please Share!
1 2 3 4 … 6 7 8
Healthcare Unhinged; The Making of an Advocate
DNC or RDC? It’s Corporate Either Way
My Affair With The Semicolon
Walking The Talk; A Gift From Rory
Interview of My Heart
A Writers Voice
A Boy In Men’s Boots
The Integrity Scale
Momster
Simply Uacceptable
Rosemary on Lay Down Your God-Guns; America Won
Raymond Alexander Kukkee on Lay Down Your God-Guns; America Won
Rosemary on My Affair With The Semicolon
Copyright © 2019 Scribbles By Ro | Theme by SiteOrigin.
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line396
|
__label__cc
| 0.615744
| 0.384256
|
Request an Assessment
How Are You Sabotaging Your Membership Growth?
I was always the chubby kid in school. Since I can remember, I’ve been embarrassed about how my body looks. I’m too self-conscious to leave my closet without a shirt on. Forget running in public or strolling at the beach without wearing a shirt. For decades, I’ve lived with this problem, telling no one. And yet, I love Cuban sandwiches. The bread, the meat, the cheese, and the dressing — these have been wonderful delights in my life. I totally understand that physical fitness is 80 percent about diet and only 20 percent about exercise. However, because I run, I figured I could eat my Cuban sandwiches — and don’t forget about the side of black beans. For decades, I’ve understood that Cuban sandwiches are one of the causes of my body weight challenge — leading to my ongoing embarrassment. However, I’ve been powerless in giving them up. Once or … Continued
Discover Your “Retention Point” to Turn Subscribers Into Lifetime Members of Your Vibrant Tribe
Since completing the Boston Marathon last April, I’m often asked, “When is your next marathon?” “My next marathon is going to be a Netflix binge-watching marathon,” is my current answer. “With all of our training, my wife and I fell behind on our binge-watching of the new season of ‘Orange is the New Black.’” But what makes a show binge-worthy versus a show you watch once and move on from? I was fascinated by Netflix data published by Wired magazine that shows when a series becomes addictive. The chart shows the length of each series in minutes together with cubes representing episodes. The gold cubes represent the “hooked episode.” This hooked episode is the episode after which 70 percent of the viewers complete the entire series. Some complete the series within a week, others savor the show over several months. Yet, after the hooked episode, 70 percent stick with the … Continued
How Many Subscribers Are You Losing to the “Credit Card Statement Moment of Truth”?
Have you ever looked at your credit card statement and said, “Holy crap, how did THAT happen?!?” when the balance is a lot higher than you expected? I put on several events a year and frequently travel for client engagements, so my typical balance due from new charges is between $25,000 and $50,000 . This is great for accumulating rewards points, but is bad for the checkbook balance. Your monthly credit card balances may be more or less, but it’s easy to lose sight of what a charge means to your customer. Just like you and me, your subscriber often spends more than he expected to spend in a month. When he bought your program and subscribed, he was excited and eagerly anticipated this new relationship. Then, 30–45 days later, he’s largely forgotten about the relationship — except for the sticker shock of the charge on his credit card statement. … Continued
Copywriting for Customer Engagement, Retention and Lower Churn
The biggest mistake I see in ongoing content is that it’s 100 percent “how-to” information. Too much how-to is boring, overwhelming, and monotonous. Plus, there are billions of pages of how-to content available for free on the internet. Yes, “how-to” is important, and when you ask your members, that’s what they always say they want; however, when you deliver content in the right way, it’ll result in a huge reduction of your churn rates. I was speaking about this with a client in December. On that call I created the following formula for content: Content = Vision + Clarity + How-To + Personality Throughout the month of January, I’ve had the opportunity to work with Money Map Press, an Agora affiliate and one of the largest financial publishers in the world, to implement this model within their editorial department. As a large publisher, they have several different experts who provide … Continued
Today’s Single Most Effective Technique to Recruit New Members
Unless you have a sales process that reliably generates new members, there won’t be any members to retain. While a lot of clients come to me because they have retention problems, I’m most often creating front-end marketing systems. When you recruit new members into your membership with the right type of offer, they are much easier to retain. More money is generated for premium-priced memberships and subscriptions through video sales letters (VSLs) than any other sales tool. There are a lot of ways to produce VSLs, from animated hands drawing cartoons, to a live-action person speaking directly to the camera, or, the most popular, a voiceover with words on the screen. For most high-volume marketers, voice over text converts higher than any other strategy, unless there’s something interesting happening in the video. Joe Schriefer has a successful VSL that features himself as a man on the street demonstrating how easy … Continued
Gamify Your Products to Increase Engagement, Improve Long-term Retention and Generate Great Testimonials
Your Members Don’t Exist to Solve Your Company’s Problems Your Membership Exists to Solve Your Member’s Problems
Facebook Uses Television Ads to Reach Their Users. Why Not Use Facebook?
Most Subscription Marketers Should Ignore My Advice: How to Decide if I Can Help You
Are You Fishing With Holes in Your Cast Net? Is Your Recurring Revenue Slipping Away?
Subscription Box Retention by FabFitFun – What Your Members Really Want Each Month
Subscription Box Secrets to Growing Monthly Recurring Revenue
How to Compete and Win Against the Biggest Publishers in the World
How to Create Great Content That Your Subscribers Want and Will Pay For
Yours FREE. Three Decades and Several Billions of Dollars of Subscription Revenue Growth Secrets
Membership Growth
Membership Retention
Robert Skrob on Retain More Members By Fostering Connection, Passion and Identity
John Barnett on Retain More Members By Fostering Connection, Passion and Identity
Robert Skrob on The $651,958.00 Email Series
John Barnett on The $651,958.00 Email Series
John Barnett on Amazon Prime vs. Costco Membership: Which Has Higher Retention, and What Does it Mean for You?
1400 Village Sq Blvd, Suite 30250 | Tallahassee, FL 32312
All rights reserved. Any publishing or further dissemination of press releases, photos
and data without prior written consent of the copyright infringement
Terms of Service | Earnings Disclaimer | Privacy Policy
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line397
|
__label__cc
| 0.57774
| 0.42226
|
Calculated in Death, by JD Robb
>> Saturday, October 19, 2013
TITLE: Calculated in Death
AUTHOR: JD Robb
PUBLISHER: Putnam
SETTING: Futuristic: 2060 New York
TYPE: Police procedural & Romance
SERIES: By my count, 38th full-length title in the In Death series
On Manhattan's Upper East Side a woman lies dead at the bottom of the stairs, stripped of all her valuables. Most cops might call it a mugging gone wrong, but Lieutenant Eve Dallas knows better.
A well-off accountant and a beloved wife and mother, Marta Dickenson doesn’t seem the type to be on anyone's hit list. But when Eve and her partner, Peabody, find blood inside the building, the lieutenant knows Marta's murder was the work of a killer who's trained, but not professional or smart enough to remove all the evidence.
But when someone steals the files out of Marta's office, Eve must immerse herself in her billionaire husband Roarke's world of big business to figure out who's cruel and callous enough to hire a hit on an innocent woman. And as the killer's violent streak begins to escalate, Eve knows she has to draw him out, even if it means using herself as bait...
It's been a while since I've been truly excited by a new In Death, but they're dependably enjoyable comfort reads, and that's exactly what this new installment turned out to be.
When the body of accountant Marta Dickenson is found at the bottom of the stairs of a building in renovation, Eve and her team immediately know it's not the mugging gone wrong that it appears to be. It looks like a hit to them, but one performed by a not particularly professional hitman. Evidence points towards the reasons for the murder being somehow related to the Marta's work, so there we go, perfect opportunity to involve Roarke!
The case is more interesting than it sounds. Going through an accountant's workload could be a bit (well, a lot) mind-numbing, but Robb keeps it interesting by focusing on the people and personalities involved as much as on the business dealings they're involved in. I ended up really enjoying the investigation, even if I did think the ramp-up in violence at the end was unnecessary. I think the original case alone was strong enough to stand on its own.
I particularly appreciated that there was a very real sense of tragedy here. Marta never becomes just "the victim". She was a real person, and it's clear her death is felt as a huge blow by the people who knew and loved her. I came close to tears quite a few times.
The "personal" side of this book was nothing huge, but it was still interesting, and showcases the many ways in which Eve has changed over the series. The premiere of the Icove film that has been rumbling on for several films is coming up, and though Eve is not at all excited about going, she's a lot more chilled out and relaxed about doing so than she would have been at the start of the series. I also liked that through the case, she got a little bit of a better sense of what Roarke's everyday life is about. And as in previous books, we got to see more of Eve the manager and leader at work, advising Trueheart of career development. Again, it sounds boring, but when you know the characters involved as well as longtime readers of the series do, it's not.
MY GRADE: A B+.
Posted by Rosario on Saturday, October 19, 2013
November 2013 wish list
The Girl of Fire and Thorns, by Rae Carson
The Arrangement, by Mary Balogh
Man Booker reading 6 - The Lowland and wrap-up
Man Booker reading 5 - The Testament of Mary
Man Booker reading 4 - We Need New Names
Man Booker reading 3 - A Tale For The Time Being
Man Booker reading 2 - The Luminaries
Man Booker reading 1 - Harvest and The Kills
Deadly Decisions, by Kathy Reichs
About Last Night, by Ruthie Knox
Practice Makes Perfect, by Julie James
World War Z, by Max Brooks
September 2013 reads
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line398
|
__label__wiki
| 0.590434
| 0.590434
|
Gerhard Becker Pretrial Hearing 8
Gerhard Becker, at a prior court proceeding.
UPDATE 9/23: correction on street corner; thank you Karen
UPDATE 9/22: spelling, clarity
There is pretrial hearing in the Gerhard Becker case today. A few months back, Becker's case was transferred to Dept. 104, Judge Perry's courtroom.
I was waiting on the northwest corner of Temple and Broadway for the light to change when I recognize Deputy Head of Major Crimes, Gary Hearnsberger standing beside me. DH Hearnsberger sat in the gallery during several pretrial rulings in the Kelly Soo Park trial.
It's still relatively early, just before 8:00 AM and the ground floor lobby of the Shortridge-Foltz Criminal Justice Center is eerily empty.
Up on the ninth floor, Becker is already here and it looks like his hair is even shorter than what I last remembered. I almost didn't recognize him at first, but a quick look at his crossed legs and I saw the ankle monitor.
Two camera operators are clearing security. I have no idea which case they are covering. It’s a team I’ve never seen before. They head down toward the left wing and take a seat. So it could be Dept. 105 through 108; any one of those courtrooms.
Down at the other end of the hall sitting on a bench I believe I see Mark Kassabian, one of Kelly Soo Park’s defense attorneys. Kassabian and his partner George Buehler, successfully defended Park against first degree murder charges.
Judge Perry’s courtroom opens. Judge Perry's bailiff peeks his head outside of Dept. 104, unlocks the door and gives a thumbs up to one of the deputy sheriff's manning the security station.
Becker's defense attorney Donald Re arrives. Becker gets up off his bench seat and greets his counsel. DDA Carney hasn't arrived yet. Re and Becker move to another bench. Re appears to be looking over some papers. A few moments later, Re smiles and pats Becker’s back.
Down at the end of the left wing of the hallway, it appears that two casually dressed female reporters are chatting with the two male camera operators.
In preparation before entering Judge Perry's courtroom, I put my phone on silent. Judge Perry has zero tolerance for any electronics inside his courtroom. In the hallway, I see a few familiar defense attorneys, but not a one that I could put a name to.
DDA Sean Carney arrives in the elevator bay. After he clears security, I smile and say hello. At the same time, I notice DDA Garrett Dameron (who is co-counsel with DDA Daniel Akemon on the Michael Thomas Gargiulo case) almost directly in front of me in the hallway. Unfortunately, I miss catching his eye as he and another gentleman head down towards the right hallway wing.
Sue, a producer for CBS 48 Hours (who I met last year cover Kelly Soo Park) stops by to say hello on her way towards Dept. 107. I tell her I'm covering Gerhard Becker. She's here for a post sentencing hearing in the Christian Gerhartstreiter (aka fake Rockefeller) case. It's 8:29 AM. I can't hang out in the hallway people watching any longer. I pack up my laptop and head into Dept. 104.
Judge Perry takes the bench right after I sit down in the front row. Although Perry is on the bench, they are not on the record yet. Judge Perry tells counsel, "Thank you for being here so early. ... You get a gold star. ... Have you figured out Mr. Carney, when you might be able to respond?"
It's a good guess that Judge Perry is talking about the prosecution's formal response to a motion filed by the defense. Carney replies, "By next Friday." After that, Re will have the opportunity to file a response to the prosecution's response.
The next order of business is trying to set the case for trial. I believe it's the court that states they want to "Get this thing going." Re states that he has a trial scheduled for October 10th and another trial scheduled for October 28th. Judge Perry asks Re when his trial on the 28th will finish. That case is a two week trial. Perry responds that he has a hearing on a specific date, but offers up a trial start date of November or December, on the 15th. I believe Re responds, "The fifteenth of December." (December 15th is a Sunday. Sprocket.)
Judge Perry's court reporter Beth, takes her seat and Judge Perry goes on the record. He states the appearances for the record. Re then asks the court for a moment to confer with his client privately. The court has no objection and Re and Becker exit the courtroom.
DDA Carney takes the time for a bit of small talk with Judge Perry. "How have you been, your honor?" Judge Perry responds and then asks Carney a question of his own. He asks him something to the effect of where is he currently assigned. Carney replies that he's still with the arson unit and replies, "It's a fascinating field." Then Carney and Judge Perry have an interesting conversation about arson cases. They discuss a former DDA (I believe with another county) whose name I don't quite catch. Judge Perry mentions that he was known as an arson expert and a "super guy."
Becker and Re return to the courtroom. They first set November 15th as the next court appearance date with the case calendar set at zero of 45. Judge Perry then asks, "This won't require testimony will it?" I'm not sure who it is who informs Perry, "It's a Franks hearing." Judge Perry realizes that there might be testimony. Carney assures Judge Perry that they can issue subpoenas for witnesses to be on call. Judge Perry then changes his mind. The next court hearing will be on November 14th. He tells counsel he realizes they are waiting for him to make a decision on the motion(s?) that (will be?) filed.
Judge Perry states, if there is testimony, it can continue on the fifteenth of November, and he'll clear his calendar. Judge Perry then muses, "I thought it was a 995..." Re jokingly tells the court, "If you'd like to rule on that your honor..." Everyone has a chuckle at that and Judge Perry replies, "We aim to please."
Judge Perry slowly and patiently explains to Becker his right to a speedy trial, and asks for his waiver. Re then mentions that he has another motion and I believe the court indicates they will handle that motion on the 14th also.
In closing, Judge Perry tells counsel, "Thank you for being here so promptly." Carney and Re chat in the well for a few moments. Judge Perry and his court reporter then begin a conversation.
Just then, Matthew McGough steps into the courtroom. Judge Perry looked surprised and happy to see Matthew. Judge Perry then addresses Matthew. "Ive got to talk to you! Where's our book?" (I took that to mean, Matthew has probably promised Judge Perry a copy when it's published. Sprocket.)
I think Judge Perry then added smiling, something to the effect of, "Where have you been? I feared you were sitting under a freeway overpass, taking donations." Matthew responds, "It hasn't come to that yet." Judge Perry then makes a "Puffft!" sound and adds, "Where's the book? I want Christmas gifts for people."
Matthew and Carney then greet each other. Matthew and I both compliment Carney on the presentation he gave at the 2013 District Attorney's Forensics Science Forum last week. All the presentations were excellent, but for myself, I especially enjoyed Carney's presentation. Carney appreciated the feedback. His objective wasn't to debate the case, but to add context.
Judge Perry interrupts and asks what we are discussing. DDA Carney explains that he gave a presentation at the conference on a famous arson, the Cameron Todd Willingham case.
Carney tells Judge Perry that the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards for investigating fires (921) was published a few months after this case occurred and most likely was not widely known until a few years later. The big question in the case, was the fire an accident or was it intentionally set. Matthew tells Judge Perry that Carney's excellent presentation had a journalistic tone and neutral point of view.
Judge Perry brings up a well known arson trial he presided over, the John Leonard Orr case. And for the next few minutes, Judge Perry gives a fascinating review of some of the highlights of this case.
Four people died. Two employees of the business as well as a grandmother and a child. One month later, there was another attempted arson. There was a civil suit and money awarded against the business. A few months later, fingerprint analysis (AFIS?) goes online and a fingerprint is matched.
Joseph Wambaugh wrote a book about the case, Fire Lover. There had been 75 fires in Oakland grocery stores. They had a name for the arsonist, "potato chip pyro," because he set the incinerary device in a rack of potato chips. It would go off like a bomb (because of the amount of oil in the bag). (Yes, you can start a fire with potato chips. Kids, don't try this at home. Sprocket.) At trial there was a witness, a CIA agent, whose job was to go to Russia and identify faces. He saw Orr's photo and identified him. Orr's incriminating novel is mentioned and that he wrote a new book on the travesty of his case. Orr sent a flyer of the new book to Judge Perry.
After Perry's interesting discussion about the Orr case, Judge Perry invites Matthew back to talk with him in chambers. While I wait for Matthew, I get the opportunity to talk to Judge Perry's new (to me) bailiff and his clerk, Melody. I tell Melody I'm always amazed at all the work that clerks accomplish. I tell her, "I don't know how court clerks do it."
Although the court reporter creates a transcript of the court proceedings, those documents are not part of the official case file. Court clerks have to type up a synopsis of the minutes of each case's hearing as well as the judge's rulings. Those minutes then must get into the appropriate case file. Clerks also field phone calls and log all motions that are filed each day for every case assigned to the court. When a case is in trial, there's more to do. They are the liaison with the jurors and their needs. They also have to keep track of the trial exhibits and take custody of them. I'm sure there's more behind the scenes, but that's at least the tip of the iceberg that I've observed when I've been in court.
When Matthew and Judge Perry finished their talk, Matthew came back into the courtroom and said jokingly over his shoulder to Judge Perry, "Thanks for the kick in the pants." Melody laughed. Matthew promised Judge Perry's staff that he would keep them posted. He promised them copies of the book when its published.
I asked Matthew about the status of his Stephanie Lazarus book. Matthew said, "It's coming along well." Apparently, he's still hard at work.
Labels: Christian Karl Gerhartstreiter, Daniel Akemon, Donald Re, Garrett Dameron, Gerhard Becker, Glenn Allen, Kelly Soo Park, Mark Kassabian, Michael Gargiulo, Sean Carney, Stephanie Lazarus
Bryan Barnes & Javier Bolden Prelim - USC Chinese ...
Michael Thomas Gargiulo, Pretrial Hearing 12
Lonnie Franklin, Jr., & Pretrial Hearings in New C...
Cameron Brown 3rd Trial, Pretrial Hearing 11
Joshua Woodward Trial: Pretrial 1
9/11 2013 Never Forget
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line406
|
__label__wiki
| 0.809166
| 0.809166
|
Letterforms
Prints etc
Poetry for the Palace, Queen's Gallery, Holyrood House, Edinburgh, 7 August - 2 November 2014
Was it for this the clay grew tall? City of London Festival, London, 2013
Open&Shut&Open, Royal Festival Hall, Poetry Library, 2007
The Darkling Plain, Royal Festival Hall, Poetry Library, 2005
Memory Language, The Lethaby Gallery, Southampton Row, London Institute, 2003
Memory Language, Atrium Gallery, Glasgow School of Art, 2002
Mixed Exhibitions
Concert: Letter Exchange exhibition Aldeburgh and touring, September 2017
Holy Writ: Modern Jewish, Christian and Islamic calligraphy, Lichfield Cathedral, 26 April - 15 June 2014
26 Words: the DNA of language, Freeword London 26 Nov 2013 - 31 Jan 2014
MetaMétier, Parsons School of Art, New York, 2001
MetaMétier, Glasgow School of Art, 2000
David Jones, Wolseley Fine Arts, London, 1999
Letter Forms and Letter Functions, Ruskin Gallery, Sheffield, 1998
Commercial Calligraphy, Asolo Museum Gallery, Asolo, Italy, 1998
Letter Arts Review, Univeristy Museum, University of Illinois, USA 1997
Literary Quotations, Wolseley Fine Arts, London 1997
Words Revealed, Midlands Arts/Irish Crafts Council, Birmingham, Dublin, Stornaway, 1996-97
Body Ornament, Designer Maker Exhibition, Warrington and toured 1996-97
Codes and Messages, Crafts Council, London and toured 1995-97
Words, Words, Words, Devon 1995
The Furnished Landscape, Crafts Council, London 1995
Letters of the Alphabet, The Gallery in Cork Street, London 1994
Letter Exchange, London 1990, 1991, 1994, 1995, 1998 (Tenth Anniversary).
Black and White, Devon 1992
Fine Words Fine Books, London 1991
Moments in Calligraphy, San Fransisco 1990
The Spirit of the Letter, Portsmouth and toured 1989-90
Calligraphy and Lettering in the Graphic Arts, New York 1986
The Royal Collection Trust, Windsor Castle, Berkshire
http://www.royalcollection.org.uk/exhibitions/poetry-for-the-palace-poet...
Stiftung Archiv, Akademie der Künste, Berlin
Blackburn, Museum & Art Gallery.
All book jacket/cover artwork, part of the Carcanet Press archive, John Rylands Research Institute, University of Manchester.
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line410
|
__label__wiki
| 0.758406
| 0.758406
|
MAKDA vs THE PARKING ADJUDICATOR. Picking up a pre booked job
Case No. CO/4743/2009
Neutral Citation Number: [2010] EWHC 3392 (Admin)
IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE
QUEEN'S BENCH DIVISION
THE ADMINISTRATIVE COURT
Royal Courts of Justice
London WC2A 2LL
Date: Monday, 29th November 2010
B e f o r e:
MR JUSTICE BURNETT
THE QUEEN ON THE APPLICATION OF MAKDA
THE PARKING ADJUDICATOR
Computer Aided Transcript of the Stenograph Notes of
WordWave International Limited
A Merrill Communications Company
165 Fleet Street London EC4A 2DY
(Official Shorthand Writers to the Court)
Mr C Morrison Appeared On Behalf Of The Claimant
Mr I Rogers (Instructed By Patas) Appeared On Behalf Of The Defendant
J U D G M E N T
1. MR JUSTICE BURNETT: This is an application for judicial review of two decisions of parking adjudicators, each upheld on review within the parking adjudication system. The claimant, Mr Makda, is a licenced minicab driver who operates through an office in Frith Street, London W1. Licenced minicab drivers, unlike those licenced to drive Hackney carriages, may not tout for work but must pick up only pre-booked fares.
2. At about 9.17 in the evening of 25 June 2008 Mr Makda drove to Dean Street, London W1, in response to a booking that had been made at 9.03 by telephone to the office. The customer who had booked the journey was called Laura. She wished to be taken to Streatham Place SW2. Mr Makda pulled up close to the junction with Dean Street, where he had been told that the passenger would be waiting. He did not leave his car. She, however, did not show up. Having established that she was not there, Mr Makda very shortly thereafter drove off.
3. A CCTV camera operator watched the car in real time for a total of 1 minute 30 seconds. Mr Makda was stopped on double yellow lines. The operator issued a parking charge notice for £120 subject to a reduction if paid within 21 days.
4. An almost identical event occurred on 3 July 2008 at about 9.25. On that occasion the CCTV camera operator watched Mr Makda for about 1 minute 20 seconds. Again, Mr Makda was responding to a telephone booking made to his control office. That booking had been made about 3 minutes beforehand and asked for a cab immediately in Dean Street. The destination was Kingsland High Road, E8. The passenger on this occasion was noted in the office as Noella Bible. Again, she did not show up and a parking charge notice was issued by the camera operator.
5. Parking restrictions in the City of Westminster are enforced by Civil Enforcement Powers, deriving from the Traffic Management Act 2004. Parking on a double yellow line used to be a criminal offence in Westminster, but this has not been the case for many years. The civil contravention is created by Article 5(1) of the City of Westminster Traffic Management Order 2002. It provides:
"No person shall cause or permit any vehicle to wait during the prescribed hours in any restricted street except subject to the provisions of the next paragraph for so long as may be necessary for the purposes of delivering or collected goods or loading or unloading a vehicle at premises adjacent to the street."
The exemptions relating to loading are then further refined within Article 5.
6. Article 12 provides the first of a number of further exemptions from parking restrictions. As material, it reads:
"Nothing in Article 5 of this order shall render it unlawful to cause or permit a vehicle to wait in any restricted street for so long as may be necessary for the purpose of enabling any person to board or alight from the vehicle or to load there on or unload there from his personal luggage."
7. The Civil Enforcement of Parking Contraventions (England) Representations and Appeal Regulations 2007 allow someone served with a penalty charge notice, or the owner of a vehicle concerned, to make representations to the local authority why he should not be liable to pay the charge. The grounds of such representations are set out in regulation 4(4). It is sufficient to record that one of those grounds is "that the alleged contravention did not occur."
8. A local authority is obliged to consider any representations made and respond to them. If the representations are not accepted, the reasons must be set out in a "Notice of Rejection" which is provided for by Regulation 6 of the 2007 Regulations.
9. Following the rejection of representations, the person concerned has a right of appeal under Regulation 7 to the Parking Adjudicator. The grounds of appeal are the same as those upon which representations could be made to the Local Authority. An adverse decision from the Parking Adjudicator may be reviewed by another parking adjudicator. The nature and extent of such a review jurisdiction is set out in paragraph 12 of schedule 1 to the 2007 Regulations.
10. The scope of that review power has not, it would seem, been the subject of detailed consideration, either by parking adjudicators themselves or in this court. As we shall see, Mr Makda was unsuccessful in his representations, his appeal and also on review.
11. The primary argument advanced by Mr Makda in these proceedings through his counsel, Mr Morrison, is that the exemption set out in Article 12 applied in the circumstances as described. In consequence, Mr Morrison submits that the adjudicators, both when considering the appeal and on review, were wrong to refuse to set aside the notice.
12. I should note that there was a subsidiary argument founded upon guidance issued by the Council, which suggests that camera operators cannot issue parking charge notices unless they observe a vehicle waiting for more than 2 minutes. That argument is not pressed in this application, not least because the guidance to which reference is made post dates the alleged contraventions with which I am concerned.
13. The sequence of events in respect of the first notice was as follows: the penalty charge notice itself was dated 2 July 2008. It was served by post. It stated that a camera operator was observing the vehicle in real time at 21.17 parked on double yellow lines in Dean Street. A rather grainy still appears on the notice. Mr Makda made representations to Westminster City Council, the essence of which were as follows:
"I am a minicab driver by trade. On the day in question I had a fare from Dean Street to Streatham Place SW2. I enclose the printout for the job, which was booked for 21.15 hours."
Westminster rejected the representations by letter dated 15 July 2008. The substance of that letter was as follows:
"I have considered all of the information you have provided but I am unable to cancel the PCN. This letter is therefore a formal notice of rejection to your representations. The PCN was issued because the vehicle was seen parked in a street when parking restrictions were in force. Yellow lines at the edge of the road mean that there are parking restrictions which apply to the entire road. The vehicle was observed by a CCTV operator, but no picking up/setting down activity was observed. The picking up/setting down exemption does not permit the vehicle to wait for passengers at any time. Whilst appreciating that you drive a minicab, I must, however, advise that there is no exemption for you to wait for passengers. The exemption means that passengers must be ready to board the vehicle upon its arrival. If passengers are not ready, the vehicle must move on to a legal parking space. The evidence you supplied shows a 2 minute wait from the appearance time. This is not permitted. The PCN was therefore correctly issued."
14. The author of the letter indicates that his understanding of the exemption is that it allows for no waiting at all for a passenger to show up. The clear impression given by this letter is that no tolerance is allowed for a passenger who may not know the identity of the driver or a driver who may not know the identity of a passenger to establish contact.
15. Mr Makda's representations to Westminster in respect of the second penalty charge notice which is dated 11 July 2008 were, for practical purposes, in the same terms. So too was the response from Westminster City Council, except that there was of course no reference to the timing of the first incident. I should say that the print outs from both jobs which were produced in due course by Mr Makda to the adjudicator identify the passengers in the way that I have described.
16. Mr Makda appealed to the parking adjudicator in respect of both penalty charge notices. As regards the first, he wrote this to the adjudicator:
"I work as a minicab driver. On the day in question I had a fare booked for 21.15 and arrived at the appointed time to pick up my passenger. The normal practice is for me to arrive at the designated place at the appointed time and the pre-booked passenger would come up to my window to confirm their name and destination. I cannot approach people to the street, as this would constitute touting. I agree with the council's view in their notice of rejection that the passenger should have been ready when I arrived. Unfortunately she was not there at the appointed time. There were some people at the car window, but none of them was the passenger that had booked the journey. As is sometimes the case, some passenger would book a fare and then decide not to travel or find and take a taxi without even calling my office to cancel. I absolutely refute the council's assertion that I was waiting for the passenger. I arrived at the booked time to pick up the passenger and it just happened that she was not there when I arrived."
The account that Mr Makda gave in respect of the second occasion on which he had been issued a penalty charge notice was similar, save that he gave no indication that people were at the window of the vehicle.
17. Both appeals were considered on paper by the same adjudicator, Edward Houghton. His reasons for rejecting the first appeal were these:
"the appellant's vehicle was waiting in a restricted street. This is unlawful unless some legal exemption applies, although there is an exemption allowing vehicles to wait whilst passengers board or alight from the vehicle. This does not extend to waiting for the passenger to arrive, inconvenient though this may be for chauffeurs and private hire drivers. The vehicle was therefore in contravention and it cannot be said that the PCN was issued other than lawfully."
As far as the second is concerned, he said this:
"It is not in dispute that as the DVD evidence shows, the vehicle was waiting in a restricted street indicated by double yellow lines. The appellant is a minicab driver and was waiting for a pre-booked passenger who was not on time. However, although there was an exemption allowing vehicles to wait whilst passengers board or alight from the vehicle, this does not extent to waiting for passengers to arrive, inconvenient though this may be for chauffeurs and private hire drivers. The vehicle was therefore in contravention and it cannot be said that the PCN was issued other than lawfully."
Mr Houghton went on to indicate that the circumstances were such that the council might consider exercising discretion to cancel the penalty. That suggestion fell on deaf ears.
18. As I have already indicated, both decisions were reviewed. The review of the first noted that the vehicle was visible in the CCTV footage for something over a minute and 20 seconds with no sign of anyone getting into the car. The second review was dealt with rather differently. Unlike the adjudicator considering the first review, who engaged with the facts and circumstances of the alleged contravention, the second reviewing adjudicator considered that a review was not appropriate because in essence Mr Makda was simply seeking to challenge the factual finding.
19. Article 12 of the 2002 order allows a vehicle to wait:
"for so long as may be necessary for enabling any person to board or alight from the vehicle and to load thereon or unload there from his personal luggage."
This provision admits of no difficulty in interpretation in almost all circumstances in which private drivers, Hackney carriage drivers or minicab drivers stop to let someone out of the car. The governing factor is plainly how long it takes to get out of the car, to unload the various things that the passenger has with him and then, in the case of a Hackney carriage or minicab, to pay. Similarly, in most cases of picking up, the driver knows his intended passenger or in the case of a Hackney carriage, is flagged down to the side of the road. In those circumstances the reverse process occurs. There is unlikely to be any difficulty in considering the facts to decide whether the vehicle concerned was stopped for longer than was necessary for those activities to be completed.
20. Even in cases where the driver and passenger are unknown to each other but the passenger is at the pick up site, ready and waiting, contact is likely to be made very quickly indeed. The time taken to make such contact in those circumstances, would, in my judgment, be necessary for the purpose of enabling that person to board the vehicle. But what if a driver pulls up expecting to find a passenger waiting for him but the passenger fails to show up or, as is not uncommon, has made other arrangements?
21. In the skeleton argument lodged on behalf of Mr Makda by his solicitors, it was submitted that any waiting for a pre-booked passenger is exempted by Article 12. It is fair to say that Mr Morrison has not supported that submission in oral argument. It is not a submission that I can accept. It overlooks two important features found within Article 12, one of which is explicit and the other which is clearly implicit from its context.
22. The explicit feature within Article 12 is the concept of necessity. So, for example if a driver were early for a rendezvous it could hardly be said to be necessary to wait in a restricted area until the pick up time. Neither would it in general terms be necessary for a driver to wait for a passenger who was late. A fresh rendezvous could, in almost all modern circumstances, be arranged. If that were not possible, then, using language which is perhaps not entirely apt nowadays, the driver would have to go round the block.
23. The implicit feature is in my judgment that the exemption in Article 12 is concerned with a time which is proximate to the getting into or the getting out of the vehicle.
24. For those reasons I do not accept the bold submission found in the skeleton argument. I deal with it despite Mr Morrison's not supporting it, simply to make the position clear in the event that similar arguments are advanced in other cases.
25. Mr Morrison has advanced an alternative construction. It is essentially this: that Article 12 is concerned with allowing a vehicle to wait to facilitate the immediate pick up or drop off of passengers. That, as it seems to me, comes closer to identifying the true meaning of Article 12. It is unnecessary to rewrite the language of Article 12, which is not lacking in clarity. In the context of a driver picking up any passenger at a pre determined time and place, it is in my judgment necessary for the purpose of enabling that person to board the vehicle for the driver and passenger to make contact with each other; alternatively for the driver to conclude that the passenger is not there.
26. Whether the time spent on that exercise in any given case was necessary is a question of fact. That will depend upon the myriad circumstances which can apply on the ground at the time. The fact that the passenger fails to materialise does not, in my judgment, mean that the exemption can have no application. The time spent by the driver seeking out his passenger by looking for him from the vehicle or waiting for his passenger to identify the vehicle is capable of being time necessary for the purposes of enabling the person to board his vehicle.
27. The reasons given by the adjudicator in respect of these two notices and supported on review in the instance in which the facts were considered drew a distinction between waiting whilst passengers boarded and waiting for passengers to arrive. Mr Makda "absolutely refuted" that he was waiting for his passenger to arrive on either occasion in a general sense. Although he did not express himself with the clarity with which Mr Morrison has been able to develop arguments, the point that Mr Makda was seeking to make was that he pulled up for as long as was necessary to make contact with his passenger. Having failed to do so, within fairly short order he drove away. I have already noted that in the review decision in which the facts were considered, the absence of a passenger seen on the CCTV was a factor that was given considerable weight.
28. In the course of argument this morning I have had cause to observe that adjudicators have an extremely difficult task. They perform what seems to me to be an important yet very difficult judicial function. It is important because thousands of appeals are adjudicated upon each year in circumstances where many people who appeal parking tickets will have no other cause to become involved with the judicial system. Mr Rogers, who appears for the parking adjudicator this morning, indicated that overall about 80,000 appeals are made each year. The task is difficult because a very large number of those appeals are dealt with on paper. They are dealt with on short submissions made by drivers or vehicle owners. Those submissions are inevitably not informed by reference to the underlying statutory provisions or legal concepts in play. Adjudicators are therefore in one sense expected to be all seeing and all knowing.
29. In the circumstances that are revealed in the papers before me and which I have sought to summarise, the subtlety of the argument being advanced by Mr Makda does not appear to have been fully appreciated by the adjudicators concerned. That is not altogether surprising and should not be taken as any real criticism.
30. However, taking the reasoning in the round, it is clear that Mr Makda's evidence was not explicitly rejected. The impact of his evidence on the true interpretation of Article 12 was similarly not explored in the decisions to which I have referred. It does not appear that the underlying interpretation of Article 12 which was being applied by the adjudicators accorded with the meaning I have sought to give it in the course of this judgment. That being the case, in the course of both decision making processes there was an error of law.
31. The question was not asked whether the time during which Mr Makda's vehicle was seen to be stationary in Dean Street was necessary for the purposes of enabling his passenger to board the vehicle, albeit that on both occasions the passenger failed to show. Mr Rogers helpfully suggested in the course of argument that were I to conclude that there was an error of law in the course of the decision making process, the proper course of action would be to quash both decisions of the adjudicators on review, quash both of the underlying decisions of Mr Houghton in respect of the appeals brought by Mr Makda and issue a mandatory order that in the circumstances both appeals should be allowed on the matters being remitted to the adjudicator. In the circumstances, that is the order I shall make.
32. Mr Morrison, Mr Rogers, have I covered everything in the course of that judgment that needs to be covered?
33. MR MORRISON: Yes, my Lord.
34. MR ROGERS: In the appropriate relief it may be, since Westminster are not here and have not intended to participate at all in this judicial review, it may be appropriate to order further declaratory relief in terms of liability to pay the penalty charges. Would your Lordship be minded to do that?
35. MR JUSTICE BURNETT: If there is a mandatory order that Mr Houghton's decisions on appeal are quashed, that the matters are then remitted to him with an order that he allow the appeals, will that not sort it?
36. MR ROGERS: Yes, what would normally then happen is my Lord might be aware that if the adjudicator allows an appeal he normally has to consider what direction to say make, and standard direction when one allows an appeal is the penalty charge be cancelled.
37. MR JUSTICE BURNETT: You are quite right. The subtleties of the directions had slipped my mind. Could I invite you and Mr Morrison to draft an order and to email it to my Clerk, or the associate later today so that we can have a look at it and ensure we have covered all bases.
38. MR ROGERS: My Lord, yes.
39. MR JUSTICE BURNETT: The critical thing, Mr Rogers, is that as far as Mr Makda is concerned, today should be his last engagement in the process. What is to follow may involve Mr Houghton in a little bit of paperwork, but nothing more than that.
40. MR ROGERS: My Lord yes, I understand that.
41. MR JUSTICE BURNETT: Yes, all right. Thank you very much.
42. MR MORRISON: My Lord, I am instructed to apply for a limited costs order. I am very care aware and I am sure you are too that ordinarily course costs would not be awarded, however I am instructed that until we received the defendant's skeleton argument we understood that they opposed the application for judicial review based on a letter explaining their grounds for the decision, page 165 to 168 of the bundle.
43. MR JUSTICE BURNETT: These are the summary grounds.
44. MR MORRISON: Yes and they renewed that opposition in a further short letter at page 173. I would not suggest that we should get any costs in respect of this hearing and the preparation for it, but my instructing solicitors are keen to secure some form of costs order for the preparation of the skeleton argument, since they understood at that point that the application was opposed. It is a limited order we seek. I appreciate that this is a
45. MR JUSTICE BURNETT: What are you asking for?
46. MR MORRISON: Unfortunately a cost schedule has not been prepared yet, so costs to be summarily assessed at a later date, the proportion of costs between the preparation of the skeleton argument up to the defendant's skeleton argument and the costs incurred after that, in a form of a recovery order.
47. MR JUSTICE BURNETT: All right.
48. MR MORRISON: Thank you.
49. MR JUSTICE BURNETT: Mr Rogers, has the position softened a little?
50. MR ROGERS: My Lord, I don't think it has. The page 163 it looks like the acknowledgement of the service may have it is said that the adjudicator, with the tribunal finding submission at 163, did use the words, unfortunately, "grounds for contesting", but when one reads the summary grounds, if one reads the summary grounds I don't believe there is any softening of the position at all. There is nothing in there that suggests that this is matter in which this decision was contested and nothing which would suggest that the Tribunal was departing from the normal position of the Tribunal being neutral. There is nothing in there contesting the substance of the points, indeed there is a letter written recently, there was recent correspondence suggesting that the claimant thought he was going to be applying for a costs order and the tribunal drew the claimant's solicitor's attention to the case of Davies v Birmingham Deputy Coroner, copies of which I have.
51. MR JUSTICE BURNETT: I am very familiar with it.
52. MR ROGERS: I appreciate your Lordship is very familiar with that. There is no reason to say this case falls outside the Davies guidelines. This is a case where the Tribunal has effectively played a neutral role throughout regardless of the slight differences in wording there.
53. MR JUSTICE BURNETT: I am just looking for the claim form. It is also a fair observation, is it not, that the original claim form did not quite raise the point with the clarity as has later emerged.
55. MR JUSTICE BURNETT: It is very difficult to make a generalisation, but it looked as though the matter was being challenged on factual grounds fairly substantially.
56. MR ROGERS: Yes, my Lord, and I did not draw up the summary grounds, but I notice that they stated effectively the claim raises no new point, it is essentially a challenge which the adjudicators and the reviewing adjudicator were ones they were entitled to come to on the evidence before them.
57. MR JUSTICE BURNETT: I am trying to remind myself whether the grounds mentioned Article 12 at all in terms.
58. MR ROGERS: It is certainly a case where the extent of the argument was really clear from the skeleton argument, which came later.
59. MR JUSTICE BURNETT: Yes, that is right.
60. MR MORRISON: They did not, my Lord, I am afraid the particular Article we relied upon was not available at the application for permission.
61. MR JUSTICE BURNETT: All right. There is an application made on behalf of Mr Makda by Mr Morrison for costs. This is a case which has, to put it mildly, evolved since it was first issued. The original claim form made no mention of the Article 12 point, which is what has occupied time this morning. The original claim seemed to be founded upon a suggestion that the adjudicator had come to a factual conclusion which was not truly open to him. The acknowledgement of service suggested, in fairly measured terms, that the application would be resisted on the basis that the findings and conclusions were open to the adjudicator. Much has happened since. Permission was originally refused on the papers, but allowed at the renewed oral application before Judge Thornton. He granted permission on the basis of what might loosely be called the guidance point, which has in fact not been pursued.
62. The real focus of this challenge became apparent when an extremely detailed skeleton argument was lodged and served by the claimant's solicitors, dated 19 April 2010. The arguments came into focus at that stage. The adjudicator, in compliance with the order made by Judge Thornton, responded to that skeleton argument. Mr Rogers settled that skeleton argument on 21 May 2010. The skeleton made it plain that the adjudicator was not taking up an adversarial position in these proceedings. In summary, the adjudicator was taking part to assist the court.
63. The nature of the arguments today have happily not engaged very detailed technical aspects of law relating to parking. Occasionally that does happen, and in those circumstances the attendance of the adjudicator can be vital to ensure that the court does not fall into error.
64. The principles in play in respect of the costs application of this sort are well known. They are conveniently set out in the decision of the Court of Appeal in Davies (No.2). that of course was a case which concerned a coroner, but the principles are no different. If a judicial respondent in judicial review proceedings attends to assist the court and does not take up an adversarial position then only exceptionally would be it right for the court to award costs against the judicial officer if the judicial review is successful.
65. In my judgment the parking adjudicator has remained on the right side of the line as far as Davies (No. 2) is concerned throughout these proceedings. Despite Mr Morrison's attractive submission, it is not a case in which it would be appropriate to order the adjudicator to pay the costs or any part of the claimant's costs.
Barrie's Segal’s Comments:
The general rule of law is now confirmed that taxi drivers, minicab drivers and any other drivers are allowed to wait for a long as necessary on single or double yellow lines for the purpose of picking up a passenger and/or their luggage. In the case of black cabs which can be hailed by a passenger in the street it is easy to see what time is taken and in the normal course of events that pickup time is clearly necessary.
The question arises (and this was dealt with by the court): what is the necessary time for a taxi driver or minicab driver to pick up a passenger when they receive a pre-booked cab fare. I have won many cases at the parking adjudicator arguing that there has to be a time period to pick up a passenger starts when the vehicle arrives, the driver looks for his passenger and the passenger comes from their premises, finds the cab and enters the vehicle. My view is that that is all part of the process of waiting for the purpose of picking up the passenger. I am pleased to say that the court confirmed my view.
Nearly all councils have taken the rigorous view ( in my view totally incorrect and illogical) that when a taxi driver or minicab driver receives a pre-booked fare the driver cannot wait at all and that the passenger has to be at the kerb ready to get into the vehicle. Some parking adjudicators have agreed with the councils’ view, but many parking adjudicators have not agreed. Indeed one parking adjudicator said that it was preposterous to suggest that a driver arriving to pick up a passenger should act like a Formula One driver performing a pit stop with the passenger diving into the vehicle and the vehicle taking off.
The High Court has now clarified the law on this issue and has stated that councils are wrong to adopt the position they have taken so far.
The learning judge stated that when a driver arrives at the destination, the time taken looking for the passenger or waiting for the passenger to identify the vehicle are all a necessary part of the process of picking up the passenger - and accordingly any parking tickets issued in those circumstances must be cancelled.
The judge also decided that if a driver arrives at the destination to pick up the passenger but the passenger then cancels the journey this is still nevertheless part of the process of picking up the passenger and accordingly any parking tickets issued in such circumstances must be cancelled..
Barrie Segal’s Final Comment: This is a very important clarification of the law which demonstrates that councils have been unfairly penalising licensed taxi and minicabs.
MAKDA vs THE PARKING ADJUDICATOR. Picking up a pre...
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line414
|
__label__cc
| 0.715961
| 0.284039
|
From June 11 to 15, Thales stands alongside land forces at every decisive moment
Thales Defence Cloud
A new generation complete solution for armed forces
A one-of-a-kind partnership
Discover and protect wildlife
Cyber@StationF - Season 2
Applications are now open for the 2nd edition of Thales' startup accelerator at Station F. Will you be the next to accelerate the future of cybersecurity?
On June 25, 2019 at 04:54 GMT+2
Social Media Galaxy
Getting the best of two worlds through dual technologies
Making Your Skies Safe - Stopping Dangerous Drones
With Cyberattacks, there are only two types of companies: those who know they have been attacked and those who don’t
Thales Alenia Space chosen instrument prime contractor in a Copernicus Land Surface Temperature Monitoring mission study
For an optimal management of water resources and crops
Togo acquires Thales Alenia Space’s advanced MEOLUT Next ground station to locate distress signals
Togo and Thales Alenia Space announced on June 18th 2018 the signature of a contract for a ground station to be installed in Lomé, Togo, to be used for the search and rescue (SAR) of persons in distress.
Build your career with Thales
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line416
|
__label__cc
| 0.669565
| 0.330435
|
PROQIS.com
Careers PROQIS.com
Follow us @BTOESInsights
BTOES Insights
Present a Poster
The Technology Excellence World Summit (TechXLive)
The World’s largest Technology Event & Marketplace for the Operational Excellence & Business Transformation Industry.
25 - 28 January, 2021
#BTOESInsights
Visit BTOES
This summit is being co-located at BTOES. Please visit BTOES agenda and view the TechXLive Track
Access The Largest Premier Cross-Industry Gathering of Business Transformation & Operational Excellence Industry Leaders & Senior-Executives. Solve your Greatest Challenges
View Speakers
View all BTOES Speakers
BTOES 2019 Highlights Video
The best moments from BTOES 2019
Take a look at some of our photo highlights from BTOES 2019
Thought Leadership, Visibility and Exceptional Leads
Schedule it now to avoid dissapointment
Get the Latest Info
Get announcements on the new forward-thinking speakers and agenda updates.
Just Some of Our Outstanding Speakers
Request to Speak
Ben Chance
Director, IBM Automation COE Offering Leader
Kristof Kovacs
Program Director, Transformational Leadership Development Program
Caroline Whalen
Senior Business Transformation consultant
Steven Remsen
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Enterprise Process Excellence (PEx)
Michael Greenidge
IT Director, Enterprise Applications
MIT Lincoln Laboratory
Sandra Lechiaro
Business Transformation Manager
Steven Hainey
Director of Supply Chain, Shakespeare Company
Newell Brands
Iassen Deenitchin
Head of Global Process Management
Dr. Mathias Kirchmer
Managing Director & Co CEO
BPM-D
Marco Chmura
Director of Quality & Transformation
Director, IBM Automation COE Offering Leader, IBM
As the Global Leader of IBM Automation’s CoE Offering, Ben collaborates with clients on their automation-led transformations with best practices from his many years of Automation CoE leadership.
His expertise includes designing and delivering CoEs that integrate IT and Business to enable rapid, scalable benefits realization from Cognitive Virtual Agents, Machine Learning and Robotic Process Automation using industry-leading platforms. His previous experience includes global leadership of industrialized software delivery systems and Agile transformations.
Recent Achievements:
Co-chaired an Enterprise CoE leading the first cognitive and robotic deployments inside a major North American bank; achieved over 30 FTE reduction in one year
Leads the engagement, initialization and delivery of Automation COEs across multiple clients
Led IBM’s consulting Agile Go-to-Market strategy, transforming GBS to market leader in under 18 months
Concepted and managed IBM’s Software Automation factory, from internal startup of <20 people to over 22,000 in just five years
Program Director, Transformational Leadership Development Program, IBM
Business Transformation & Operational Excellence World Summit (BTOES 2020)
Wednesday 20th March 2019 | 11:45 - 12:15 pm
Kristof Kovacs is a change agent, a transformational leader, and a developer of early career leadership talent in charge of executing on complex, organization-wide transformations. He started his corporate career in his home town of Budapest, Hungary as part of General Electric’s Financial Management Program. He transitioned from successful global financial leadership roles into management consulting and leading complex internal and client facing transformational engagements.
Currently he is heading up IBM’s Continuous Improvement mission for its $17B services business, improving quality, productivity, and competitiveness. He is the founder and program director of IBM’s first of a kind Transformational Leadership Development Program, an in-house degree level program to develop change agents of the future. Most recently he has been collaborating co-creating with ESPM University of Sao Paulo, Brazil to build out and globally scale a first of a kind master’s degree in business leadership coined Master’s in Business Transformation or MBT. He is a certified Management Consultant, Lean Master, and Six Sigma MBB. He and his wife and their two children live in Southern Maine, USA.
Senior Business Transformation consultant, IBM
Caroline Whalen is a Senior Business Transformation consultant at IBM in their Global Business Services. Ms. Whalen is the North America Program Lead for IBM's Transformational Leadership Development Program. Her accomplishments in this role include doubling the number of NA TLDP clients over the past year as well as redefining program opportunity management and recruitment processes. Ms. Whalen has professional experience and formal training in SAP, Microsoft Project, Advanced Excel, Lean, Agile, and more. Caroline started her career with IBM in their Enterprise Applications division working on SAP implementations. Within EA, she was responsible for Customer Master configuration and data testing. Caroline also held the role of Test Lead on the largest IBM SAP project in North America. Since transferring out of SAP, she has been working on management consulting engagements, specifically related to Lean and process improvement. Most recently, Caroline served as the site lead for a Lean implementation project at a headquarter location of a Fortune 500 insurance company.
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Enterprise Process Excellence (PEx), Intel
Steve Remsen is passionate about driving continuous improvement, advocating first principles thinking, and understanding how to harness and translate data-driven solutions into substantial and customer-oriented business results. As a senior internal technical consultant, he has successfully driven numerous continuous improvement projects across diverse functional areas of the Intel enterprise, ranging from designing functional materials on the nanometer scale to deploying strategic business process architecture on the global scale. An inspiring jack of all trades, Steve is currently a part-time MBA student at the University of Portland and holds a PhD in Experimental Solid State Physics from Northern Illinois University. He is also an Intel Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt candidate as well as a Prosci certified Change Management Practitioner.
IT Director, Enterprise Applications, MIT Lincoln Laboratory
Michael Greenidge is the IT Director/Sector Manager of Enterprise Applications at MIT Lincoln Laboratory in Lexington, Massachusetts. In his role, Michael provides strategic leadership and directions for developing, implementing, and supporting enterprise business applications.
Since joining MIT Lincoln Laboratory in 2009, Michael has contributed to a numerous improvement initiatives. Most recently, successfully directing a major initiative to move the Laboratory’s ERP environment to a modern platform in the Cloud. In his current role, he also serves as one of the leaders for the overall Laboratory Digital Enterprise Transformation program, where he is partnering with the Business Transformation Office to simplify processes, modernize business applications, and build an integrated data architecture.
Michael has nearly 30 years of experience implementing and deploying global and enterprise-wide business applications. Throughout his career, he has effectively applied his business and technical leadership to transform business application landscapes in support of an organization mission.
He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Rice University, a Bachelor’s degree in Physics from Texas Southern University and an MBA from Worcester Polytechnic Institute.
Business Transformation Manager, MIT Lincoln Laboratory
Sandra Lechiaro is a Business Transformation Manager, a key leadership role responsible for introducing enterprise transformation at MIT Lincoln Laboratory, with the recent creation of a Business Transformation Office. In this new capability, Sandra is bringing leadership to strategic projects that have an enterprise impact, by improving efficiencies and effectiveness of people, process and technology, that close capability gaps, minimizing operational risk and empowering the Laboratory’s “business of research”.
Sandra has spent most of her career at the Laboratory, in various key leadership roles in Business Operations and Contract Management, with her most recent role in Financial Operations focusing on business process improvement. She co-leads an Enterprise Applications Governance Board which brings strategic prioritization to IT investments, and a roadmap for long-term initiatives. With a deep understanding of the Laboratory’s unique culture, she is effective in building partnerships and cross-cutting teams across the organization to foster change management activities to minimize impacts and improve adoption.
Sandra holds a Bachelor of Science in Food Marketing from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, and her MBA with a concentration in Management of Information Sciences from Western New England University. She also earned Certificate from MIT’s Leader to Leader program, and a Certificate in Government Contract Management and is a Six Sigma Green Belt.
Director of Supply Chain, Shakespeare Company, Newell Brands
Steve is a passionate international speaker and writer having over 20 years’ experience in global multi-site supply chain planning for Fortune 100 & 500 manufacturing companies of retail consumable goods, chemical plants, and medical device products. He has also led numerous IBP / S&OP / SIOP implementations and enhancement projects over his career. Currently, as the Director of Supply Chain for Newell Brands – Shakespeare Company, he oversees the IBP process, production planning, procurement, warehousing, and logistics to service numerous omnichannel retailers including Walmart, The Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Amazon
Head of Global Process Management, ING
Business Transformation & Operational Excellence World Summit & Industry Awards (BTOES18)
Thursday 15th March 2018 | 13:50 - 14:20 pm
Iassen Deenitchin is Head of Global Process Management at ING. He joined the global banking group in 2016, with the aim to support the execution of the Accelerate Think Forward strategy through a common process management and improvement practice centred around the customer. Prior to that, Iassen was Head of Lean and Process Management at Raiffeisenbank International and an Associate Principal at McKinsey & Company. He holds an MSc in Financial Economics from the Norwegian School of Management and an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University.
Managing Director & Co CEO, BPM-D
Dr. Kirchmer is a visionary leader, thought leader and innovator in the field of Business Process Management (BPM), combining his broad practical business experience with his extensive academic research. He has added significant value to organizations of various sizes and industries in an international environment.
Most recently, Dr. Kirchmer co-founded BPM-D, a company focused on establishing and applying the BPM-Discipline for strategy execution in a digital world. BPM-D was named by CIO Review one of the 20 Enterprise Architecture solution providers to watch and by InsightsSuccess one of the 50 most valuable Tech Start-ups in the US. Before he was Accenture’s Managing Director & Global Lead for BPM and CEO of the Americas & Japan for IDS Scheer, best known for its ARIS software.
Dr. Kirchmer remains involved in academia as an affiliated faculty member at University of Pennsylvania, Widener University, Philadelphia University and guest professor at the Universidad de Chile. In 2004, he received a research and teaching fellowship from the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science. Dr. Kirchmer has published 6 books and over 120 articles.
Dr. Kirchmer holds a PhD in Information Systems from Saarbrucken University, Germany, a Master in Business Informatics from Karlsruhe Technical University, Germany, as well as a Master in Economics from Paris-IX-Dauphine University, France.
Director of Quality & Transformation, Morningstar
Thursday 21st March 2019 | 15:00 - 15:30 pm
Marco Chmura is Director of Quality & Transformation at Morningstar, whose mission is to create great products that help investors reach their financial goals. Marco’s spent the past 5+ years helping Morningstar achieve that mission by developing a process mindset and client-centric culture by championing the voice of the customer and mentoring/guiding leaders as they manage LEAN Six Sigma and Agile development projects. For the past year and a half, he’s also been responsible for helping Morningstar enhance the customer experience through the adoption of emerging technologies such as Robotic Process Automation, AI, ML, Chat, etc.
Attending Organisations
View Attendees
The Technology Excellence World Summit (TECHXLIVE) is the large-scale spin off event that has come out of the Business Transformation & Operational Excellence World Summit & Industry Awards (BTOES). TECHXLIVE is set to be the largest leadership-level event of its kind.
I was impressed at the diversity of industries that were represented at the conference. From technology to steel, to pharmaceuticals, there were a wide variety of companies who are really interested in learning best practices and sharing them with others.
Senior Manager, Consumer Care and Tech Support Strategy, Dell Inc.
The range of companies and industries that were represented resulted in superb exchange of ideas
Lead Master Black Belt, DuPont
This was a great opportunity to see first hand how other companies approach building quality into the design process. I have taken away numerous new ideas that I will incorporate into our model
VP Six Sigma Business Excellence, Cigna Corporation
The WCBF Global Six Sigma Summit and Awards Conference was our most successful marketing event for 2007. This was largely the result of the personal interest WCBF staff took in finding ways to optimize our visibility and facilitate contact with key prospects. VP Marketing, Instantis
Overall the summit was excellent, and I especially enjoyed, and had some good new learnings from a couple of the keynote speakers (Al Switzler and Norman Bodek) Good mix of topics on the panel breakout discussions. VP Operational Excellence, Intel
We are extremely excited to have received this recognition from WCBF for Best Emerging Business Improvement. I believe this terrific award recognizes that customers can depend on our ability to live our mission statement every day with on time delivery, lowest industry turn times, customer service of exceptional value, service and products of the highest quality. Also, I'd like to compliment WCBF for their excellent recognition program.
President and Chief Executive Officer , PAS Technologies
The summit was outstanding! The most beneficial event was definitely the round-table topic discussions with the speakers.
Lean Six Sigma Deployment Leader, Jabil
Incredible content from so many diverse speakers all of which tended to support the core ideas that flowed through the entire summit.
Chief Operations Strategy Officer, ComputerShare
Great meeting, good location and speakers.
Engineering Excellence, Ingersoll Rand
Summit was well-organized and the most beneficial aspect was the opportunity to network, communicate with and learn from other attendees and speakers.
Associate Director, Research Informatics, Christiana Care Health System
Great summit! Overall the summitt helped our organization KNOW we're on the right track.
BB Consultant, Southwest Airlines
Loved the summit. I met some wonderful people both practitioners and beginners as well as hearing some inspirational speakers.
Director of LCI, LEGO
Very well organized...probably the best I've been to in terms of organization considering the sheer size.
AVP Continuous Improvement and Consulting Head, Guardian Life
Excellent industry leading summit to showcase more industry perspectives - this is more important than general domain.
STSM, Sr. Manager, IBM
Great event - Networking and sharing experiences with participants who are really passionate about leadership and what leadership actually means.
Senior Manager Manufacturing Engineering, Varian Medical Systems, Oncology Systems
I really enjoyed it. I felt it was very well organized and extremely beneficial.
Associate Director, Continuous Improvement, Allergan
Hearing the diversity of thought and insights from the speakers - this event had a great, broad representation from multiple industries.
Senior Manager, TD Bank
50 Grosvenor Hill. London W1K 3QT. United Kingdom.
+44 203 435 8367 or +1 312 496 6621
info@proqis.com
Copyright 2019 Proqis ® | Site by Webstars
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line417
|
__label__wiki
| 0.844682
| 0.844682
|
TMIA OpEds
Three Mile Island
Peach Bottom
Pa PUC
Radiation monitoring
Water use: Susquehanna River
Chronology of problems at Peach Bottom, TMI, and Susquehanna
Join TMIA
TMI-2
THREE MILE ISLAND Unit 2: 1979-2008
Beginning of Three Mile Island (TMI) Unit-2 core melt.
By webEditor at Fri, 02/13/2009 - 22:16
Read more about THREE MILE ISLAND Unit 2: 1979-2008
Op-ed: Three Mile Island By the Numbers, What Exelon Won’t Tell You
Exelon has been targeting the media, elected officials,
By webEditor at Wed, 08/16/2017 - 21:44
Read more about Op-ed: Three Mile Island By the Numbers, What Exelon Won’t Tell You
TMI Alert Press Release - planned closure of Three Mile Island
for immediate release: 5/30/17
Three Mile Island Alert
By webEditor at Tue, 05/30/2017 - 12:51
Read more about TMI Alert Press Release - planned closure of Three Mile Island
Summary of Findings at Three Mile Island: 1979-2005
On March 30, 1979, Governor Richard Thornburgh recommended an evacuation for preschool children and pregnant women living within five miles of Three Mile Island (“TMI”). Data collected since the meltdown clearly demonstrate a significant nexus between radiation exposure and adverse health impacts to women and children.
A great deal of radiation was indeed released by the core melt at TMI. The President's Commission estimated about 15 million curies of radiation were released into the atmosphere. A review of dose assessments, conducted by Dr. Jan Beyea, (National Audubon Society; 1984) estimated that from 276 to 63,000 person-rem were delivered to the general population within 50 miles of TMI. David Lochbaum of the Union of Concern Scientists, estimated between 40 million curies and 100 million curies escaped during the Accident.
1979-1988: Katagiri Health Surveys begin and involve 250 residents living around Three Mile Island. This field research documented increased cancer incidences and moralities in population pockets exposed by radioactive plumes.
March, 1982, The American Journal of Public Health reported, “During the first two quarters of 1978, the neonatal mortality rate within a ten- mile radius of Three Mile Island was 8.6 and 7.6 per 1,000 live births, respectively. During the first quarter of 1979, following the startup of accident prone Unit 2, the rate jumped to 17.2; it increased to 19.3 in the quarter following the accident at TMI and returned to 7.8 and 9.3, respectively, in the last two quarters of 1979.” (Dr. Gordon MacLeod, Secretary, Pennsylvania Department of Health)
Penn State Professor Winston Richards reported, "Infant mortality for Dauphin County, while average in 1978, becomes significantly above average in 1980.”
1984: The first Voluntary Community Health Study was undertaken by a group of local residents trained by Marjorie Aamodt. That study found a 600 percent cancer death rate increase for three locations on the west shore of TMI directly in the plumes' pathway. The data were independently verified by experts from the TMI Public Health Fund.
1985: Jane Lee surveyed 409 families living in a housing development five miles from TMI. Lee documented 23 cancer deaths, 45 cancer incidences, 53 benign tumors, 31 miscarriages, stillbirths and deformities, and 204 cases of respiratory problems.
By 1985, TMI’s owners and builders had paid more than $14 million for out-of-court settlements of personal injury lawsuits including $12.250 million paid to 280 plaintiffs and Orphans Court Cases.
August, 1985: Marc Sheaffer, a psychologist at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in Bethesda, released a study linking TMI-related stress with immunity impairments.
August, 1987: Prof. James Rooney and Prof. Sandy Prince of Embury of Penn State University-Harrisburg reported that “chronically elevated levels of psychological stress” have existed among Middletown residents since the Accident.
April, 1988: Andrew Baum, professor of medical psychology at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in Bethesda discussed the results of his research on TMI residents in Psychology Today. “When we compared groups of people living near Three Mile Island with a similar group elsewhere, we found that the Three Mile Island group reported more physical complaints, such as headaches and back pain, as well as more anxiety and depression. We also uncovered long- term changes in levels of hormones...These hormones affect various bodily functions, including muscle tension, cardiovascular activity, overall metabolic and immune-system function...”
James Fenwick, a researcher at Millersville University, found statistically significant increases of kidney, renal, pelvis and ovarian cancer in women. (April, 1998)
June, 1991: Columbia University’s Health Study (Susser-Hatch) published results of their findings in the American Journal of Public Health. The study actually shows a more than doubling of all observed cancers after the accident at TMI-2, including: lymphoma, leukemia, colon and the hormonal category of breast, endometrium, ovary, prostate and testis. For leukemia and lung cancers in the six to 12 km distance, the number observed was almost four times greater. In the 0-six km range, colon cancer was four times greater. The study found “a statistically significant relationship between incidence rates after the accident and residential proximity to the plant.”
August, 1996: A study by the University of North Carolina-Chapel-Hill, authored by Dr. Steven Wing, reviewed the Susser-Hatch (Columbia University) study released in June 1991. Dr. Wing reported “...there were reports of erythema, hair loss, vomiting, and pet death near TMI at the time of the accident...Accident doses were positively associated with cancer incidence. Associations were largest for leukemia, intermediate for lung cancer, and smallest for all cancers combined...Inhaled radionuclide contamination could differentially impact lung cancers, which show a clear dose-related increase.
By 1996, the plant's owners, codefendants and insurers have paid over $80 million in health, economic and evacuation claims, including a $1.1 million settlement for a baby born with Down's Syndrome.
Thyroid cancer, 1995-2002: Dr. Roger Levin, chief division of otolaryngology/head and neck surgery, PinnacleHealth System in Harrisburg, and clinical associate professor of surgery, Penn State College of Medicine. Findings: In reviewing state health data, Levin found more thyroid cancer cases than expected in York County for every year except one between 1995 and 2002. One plausible reason could be people were exposed to radiation during the 1979 Three Mile Island accident, he said.
Eric Epstein, Chairman, Three Mile Island Alert 4100 Hillsdale Road
lechambon@comcast.net
Mr. Epstein is the Chairman of Three Mile Island Alert,
Inc., (tmia.com), a safe-energy organization based in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania and founded in 1977. TMIA monitors Peach Bottom, Susquehanna, and Three Mile Island nuclear generating
1979 Accident
Community in the Radius
By webEditor at Thu, 10/27/2011 - 17:57
Read more about Summary of Findings at Three Mile Island: 1979-2005
NEJM piece on nuclear plant accidents health impacts
Dr. Glatstein,
I was just sent the New England Journal of Medicine piece entitled: "Short-term and Long-term Health Risks of Nuclear-Power-Plant Accidents." (http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMra1103676?query=featured_home). You are listed as one of the authors.
Read more about NEJM piece on nuclear plant accidents health impacts
Video: TMI and Community Health
Accident Dose Assessments
Nuclear engineer and long-time industry executive, Arnie Gundersen gives a talk on his calculations of the amount of radiation released during the accident at Three Mile Island. Mr. Gundersen's calculations differ from those of the NRC's and official industry estimates.
TMI & Health Effects
TMI 30
By TMIA at Thu, 03/26/2009 - 21:21
Read more about Video: TMI and Community Health
Contents of UK Waste Site Nebulous, Some Say It's From TMI
By Matthew Legg Business editor
www.cumberland-news.co.uk
Nuclear chiefs have defended a controversial decision to question former employees of the Drigg waste dump to help them find
out what is in it.
Read more about Contents of UK Waste Site Nebulous, Some Say It's From TMI
|
cc/2019-30/en_middle_0006.json.gz/line418
|
Subsets and Splits
No community queries yet
The top public SQL queries from the community will appear here once available.