Dataset Preview
The full dataset viewer is not available (click to read why). Only showing a preview of the rows.
The dataset generation failed
Error code: DatasetGenerationError
Exception: ArrowInvalid
Message: JSON parse error: Missing a closing quotation mark in string. in row 90
Traceback: Traceback (most recent call last):
File "/src/services/worker/.venv/lib/python3.9/site-packages/datasets/packaged_modules/json/json.py", line 145, in _generate_tables
dataset = json.load(f)
File "/usr/local/lib/python3.9/json/__init__.py", line 293, in load
return loads(fp.read(),
File "/usr/local/lib/python3.9/json/__init__.py", line 346, in loads
return _default_decoder.decode(s)
File "/usr/local/lib/python3.9/json/decoder.py", line 340, in decode
raise JSONDecodeError("Extra data", s, end)
json.decoder.JSONDecodeError: Extra data: line 2 column 1 (char 8611)
During handling of the above exception, another exception occurred:
Traceback (most recent call last):
File "/src/services/worker/.venv/lib/python3.9/site-packages/datasets/builder.py", line 1995, in _prepare_split_single
for _, table in generator:
File "/src/services/worker/.venv/lib/python3.9/site-packages/datasets/packaged_modules/json/json.py", line 148, in _generate_tables
raise e
File "/src/services/worker/.venv/lib/python3.9/site-packages/datasets/packaged_modules/json/json.py", line 122, in _generate_tables
pa_table = paj.read_json(
File "pyarrow/_json.pyx", line 308, in pyarrow._json.read_json
File "pyarrow/error.pxi", line 154, in pyarrow.lib.pyarrow_internal_check_status
File "pyarrow/error.pxi", line 91, in pyarrow.lib.check_status
pyarrow.lib.ArrowInvalid: JSON parse error: Missing a closing quotation mark in string. in row 90
The above exception was the direct cause of the following exception:
Traceback (most recent call last):
File "/src/services/worker/src/worker/job_runners/config/parquet_and_info.py", line 1529, in compute_config_parquet_and_info_response
parquet_operations = convert_to_parquet(builder)
File "/src/services/worker/src/worker/job_runners/config/parquet_and_info.py", line 1154, in convert_to_parquet
builder.download_and_prepare(
File "/src/services/worker/.venv/lib/python3.9/site-packages/datasets/builder.py", line 1027, in download_and_prepare
self._download_and_prepare(
File "/src/services/worker/.venv/lib/python3.9/site-packages/datasets/builder.py", line 1122, in _download_and_prepare
self._prepare_split(split_generator, **prepare_split_kwargs)
File "/src/services/worker/.venv/lib/python3.9/site-packages/datasets/builder.py", line 1882, in _prepare_split
for job_id, done, content in self._prepare_split_single(
File "/src/services/worker/.venv/lib/python3.9/site-packages/datasets/builder.py", line 2038, in _prepare_split_single
raise DatasetGenerationError("An error occurred while generating the dataset") from e
datasets.exceptions.DatasetGenerationError: An error occurred while generating the datasetNeed help to make the dataset viewer work? Make sure to review how to configure the dataset viewer, and open a discussion for direct support.
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Integrated Annual Report of Grupa LOTOS S.A. 2014
Lotos.pl
GRI CONTENT INDEX Report's Interactive Search
and its Report
Key data 2014
Letter from the Chairman of the Supervisory Board
Letter from the President of the Board
Membership in organizations
Ethics and corporate
Approach to management
Corporate supervision
The Supervisory Board
Enterprise risk management policy
Management segment
Exploration and production segment
Operational (refining) segment
Financial segment
Marketing segment
Key objectives
and prospects
Letter from the Vice-President of the Board
Segment performance
Interactive LOTOS Databook
Calendar of important events 2014
GRI and UN Global Compact Content Index
Ethics and corporate governanceThe BoardPowers of the Board
The Board of Grupa LOTOS represents the Company before third parties and manages its corporate affairs. In addition, individual Board members perform their duties in line with the division of powers and responsibilities resulting from their operational functions within the Company. Each member of the Board is authorised to represent the Company in court and out of court in relation to its business, with the exception of matters reserved for the General Meeting or Supervisory Board under the Commercial Companies Code or the Company’s Articles of Association, as well as matters falling outside the scope of ordinary management of the business where they require the Board’s prior resolution and matters within the powers of another member of the Board.
The Board operates on the basis of the Grupa LOTOS Articles of Association and its Rules of Procedure.
Articles of Association of Grupa LOTOS S.A. (PDF) Management Board Regulations of Grupa LOTOS (PDF)
Previous page:The Board
Next page:Composition of the Board
Composition of the Board
Remuneration of the Board
Avoidance of conflicts of interest
ECO print
Download PDF of the page
Compare to previous Report
Add to Briefcase
Show your Briefcase
Glossary of industry terms Glossary of social terms
Report's PDF Get IFRS
Statement XLS Downloads Centre Media Room Interactive
LOTOS Databook GRI Content Index
Report's Media Library
LOTOS Jazz Festival
New Lechia Gdańsk Football Academy centre in Kokoszki
LOTOS’s new offshore platform now in the Baltic
Tenth anniversary of LOTOS Serwis
Diagnostic video ultrasonography equipment for a hospital in Gdańsk-Zaspa
The 'White and green future with LOTOS' programme opens its eleventh academy
Final round of the Jasło Science League with LOTOS
First event under the ‘LOTOS Safety Belt Champions’ (‘LOTOS - Mistrzowie w pasach’) programme
LOTOS Junior Cup 2014 finals
Recap of the spring round of cruises under the Maritime Education programme
LOTOS Safety Belt Champions in Koszwały
LOTOS Kolej with a new locomotive
Motorcycle Rider Card Navigator and more
LOTOS Polish Open 2014
First transaction by Polskie Inwestycje Rozwojowe
Włodzimierz Karpiński, Minister of the State Treasury, visits the LOTOS PETROBALTIC offshore rig
Thirteenth ‘White and Green Future with LOTOS’ centre
Green light given to LOTOS share issue
LOTOS Kolej at the InnoTrans 2014 fair
A new branch of the Lechia Gdańsk Football Academy opens in Malbork
LOTOS Petrobaltic helps recover Douglas A-20 wreck from the Baltic Sea bottom
New image-building campaign at LOTOS
Polish shipyards to modernise the Petrobaltic platform
Tenth anniversary of the LOTOS Academy
Final gala of the pilot 'LOTOS Safety Belt Champions' programme
First screening of 'Dynamic people – the Process Operator'
LOTOS Trefl Gdańsk volleyball team at the Gdańsk refinery
Polish crude oil from Lubiatów reaches the LOTOS refinery
Grupa LOTOS Is the Major Sponsor of the Polish National Football Team
Strong performance after one year of operating DRAGON locomotives
Shortcuts to Report 2014
The Organization and its Report
Key data 2014 Letter from the Chairman of the Supervisory Board Letter from the President of the Board The Organization Integrated reporting Awards and distinctions Membership in organizations
Approach to management Ethics Corporate supervision The Supervisory Board The Board
Risk and opportunities
Enterprise risk management policy Management segment Exploration and production segment Operational (refining) segment Financial segment Marketing segment
Business strategy and model
Business model Strategic objectives Key objectives Employees Environment Brand
Results and prospects
Business environment Letter from the Vice-President of the Board Segment performance Sustainable development
Financial highlights - consolidated the LOTOS Group Consolidated Financial Statements for 2014 Auditor’s opinion Auditor’s report Management’s discussion and analysis Interactive LOTOS Databook
Calendar of important events 2014 GRI and UN Global Compact Content Index Glossary of industry terms Glossary of social terms Contact
Homepage Sitemap Download centre
Glossary of industry terms Glossary of social terms GRI Content Index
LOTOS website Investor relations Contact
Grupa LOTOS in social networking sites:
Place for your favorite pages of this Report. Here you can store, print and add notes.
Search the contents of the Report
Use the quick search box above or use the following sets of topics below.
The past year ushered in a series of challenges for the companies in the fuel sector. The decisions made by us have demonstrated that we are able to take rapid steps to adapt to a demanding environment and ensure the desired profitability for our projects.
Go to the page »
The segmental management model we have implemented enhances management efficiency, delivering cost and revenue synergies across the organization.
2014 ushered in a series of challenges for the companies in the fuel sector. The decisions made by the LOTOS Group have demonstrated that we are able to take rapid steps to adapt to a demanding environment and ensure the desired profitability for our projects.
The key factor that had a strong impact on both the global and Polish petroleum markets in 2014, with significant consequences for the LOTOS Group’s performance, was the price of crude oil, which also determined the price of petroleum products.
The LOTOS Group’s Strategy is designed to strengthen our position as a strong, innovative and efficient business which plays a major role in ensuring national energy security.
Our operations consist in crude oil production and processing, as well as wholesale and retail sale of petroleum products, among which are: fuels (unleaded gasoline, diesel oil and light fuel oil), heavy fuel oil, bitumens, aviation fuel, naphtha, propane-butane LPG and base oils.
At the LOTOS Group, we identify a range of diverse risks, which may affect all areas of our business. The key risks in terms of their impact on our operations are the financial risks as well as risks affecting the exploration and production area. In the analysis of the risks, we also factor in issues related to sustainable development.
With revenue of ca. PLN 28.5bn in 2014, we rank fourth in the group of 500 largest businesses in Poland.
We seek to reduce the environmental risk of our operations and continually minimise our environmental impact. We support initiatives designed to enhance energy sector security in a socially and environmentally responsible manner.
Our carbon emissions were reduced to levels seen only at the best European refineries. Grupa LOTOS refinery’s advanced environmental solutions have curbed our environmental impacts while delivering notable financial benefits, in the form of lower fees for the use of the environment, resulting from our commitment to reducing the amount of emitted pollutants.
In the management segment, we identify political, legal, reputation and social risks as well as the risk of misconduct.
Our objective is to ensure the availability of highly qualified staff required for successful implementation of the LOTOS Group’s business strategy and enhancement of the corporate culture based on adopted values. It is our priority to raise awareness and commitment among our employees and contractors to improving their work safety.
2014 was outstanding in terms of the number of CSR programmes and campaigns as well as activities undertaken by the LOTOS Group under the cross-sectoral cooperation model. It was also a period of initiatives aimed to establish a responsible supply chain.
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Lighter Side of News (Dec. 15, 2017) by HallR
KelsoT
I have to have a motto? NO ONE TOLD ME I HAD TO HAVE A MOTTO!
Quiz #2-10
1 KelsoT 417 98 15
3 SlickRick87 345 93 15
4 rouquinne 338 91 00
5 quarterrican 330 88 15
6 Vendy12 323 85 15
7 CoenM 322 83 15
8 gaufqwi 321 80 00
9 Nicole 317 78 15
12 Kloefkorn 304 70 15
14 HoH 285 65 15
19 MirandaM 272 52 00
20 ecpekkle 265 50 00
24 RautY 251 39 15
26 apeekrtr 245 34 15
27 JohnRoerty 241 32 15
28 PipkeR 233 29 15
30 griffism 216 24 15
31 HumbabaORiley 210 21 00
32 helene 200 19 00
35 Sims 172 11 00
36 MoyseyC 161 8 00
37 JJA 146 6 15
39 Prathima 0 1 00
The 2017 Heisman Trophy presented to the best player in college football was awarded last Saturday. Who won this year's Heisman?
What highly popular veteran singer, whose legal first name is "Troyal", has the current Billboard #1 Country Music Album with the boxed set compilation, "The Anthology Part I: The First Five Years"?
Multiple choice. The animated film "The Star", based on the nativity story about the birth of Jesus, is still playing in theaters. With regard to the source material of this film, what two gospels describe the nativity story: A) Matthew & Mark; B) Matthew & Luke; C) Mark & Luke; D) Luke & John?
Nominations for the 75th annual Golden Globes Awards were announced this week. Name one of the five television programs nominated in the category: Best Series - Musical or Comedy.
Black-ish, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Master of None, SMILF, Will & Grace
What is the name of the character seen here standing behind Gina Rodriguez at his titular Los Angeles movie premiere this week?
This week, Jack Morris and Alan Trammell were elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame. On what American League team did Morris and Trammell play together as teammates for 13 seasons?
The name of what horticulturalist and pioneer in agricultural science fills-in the blank in this recent story from The Santa Rosa (CA) Press Democrat: "Tickets go on sale at noon Dec. 15 for three newly scheduled shows at the _______ _______ Center for the Arts, including two live performances March 2 by the dean of American stand-up comics, Jerry Seinfeld"?
Luther Burbank
The Round of 16 draw for the 2017-18 UEFA Champions League was held on Monday. In this round, Bayern Munich will play Besiktas next February and March. What nation is Besiktas from?
Multiple choice. Actors Bobby Canavale and Rose Byrne recently welcomed a newborn baby son. This week, Cannavale revealed the name of the newborn. Cannavale explained that the name given reflects the Latin heritage of his mother, as well as being a tribute to a professional athlete who had a great year in 2017. What is the name of this baby boy: A) Jose; B) Giancarlo; C) Rafa; D) Christiano?
The mini-theme for #10 & #11 this week is titled: "It Helps to Listen to Podcasts". Here we go. This week, Dr. Elaine Aron appeared on the "Conversation with (redacted)" podcast to discuss the challenges of highly sensitive people. What singer-songwriter, known for such songs as "All I Really Want", "Head Over Feet" and "Thank U", is the host of this podcast?
What is the name of the company that produces the product seen here?
Finally, since "Star Wars: The Last Jedi" premieres nationwide today (Fri. Dec. 15), here's a question about the much anticipated film. What puppeteer, filmmaker and actor reprises his role as the voice of Yoda in this latest installment?
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Andrea Penrose
Bestselling Author of Regency Historical Mysteries
The Wrexford & Sloane Series
The Lady Arianna Series
The Peace Celebrations
Goethe and the Vickrey Auction
Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew
David Hosack and Botanical Gardens
Regency Science
The Montagne-Russe
The History of Chocolate
Charles Babbage and the First Computer
Satirical Prints
Regency Interiors
Regency Aviators
Quill Pens
The Pistols of Robert Wogdon
British Watercolors
The Horse Guards
Marie Antoine Carême
Exploring London
Thomas Lawrence
USA Today Bestselling Author of Regency Historical Mysteries
A New Year—and New Book News!
Yes, I’ve hit the ground running in 2023! My new Wrexford & Sloane mystery, Murder at the Merton Library, which is Book 7 in the series, is now up for
pre-order from all online book retailers.
Here’s the promo blurb:
A perplexing murder in a renowned library at Oxford University and a suspicious fire in the London research laboratory of a famous inventor set Wrexford and Charlotte on two separate investigations which put each of them —and everyone they hold dear—in harm’s way as past secrets entangle them in a dangerous web of lies and betrayals . . .
Responding to an urgent plea from a troubled family friend, the Earl of Wrexford journeys to Oxford only to find the reclusive university librarian has been murdered and a rare manuscript has gone missing. The only clue is that someone overheard an argument in which Wrexford’s name was mentioned.
At the same time, Charlotte—working under her pen name, A. J. Quill—must determine whether a laboratory fire was arson and if it’s connected to the race between competing consortiums to build a new type of ship—one that can cross the ocean powered by steam rather than sails—with the potential to revolutionize military power and world commerce. That the race involves new innovations in finance and entrepreneurship only adds to the high stakes—especially as their good friend Kit Sheffield may be an investor in one of the competitors.
As they delve deeper into the baffling clues, Wrexford and Charlotte begin to realize that things are not what they seem. An evil conspiracy is lurking in the shadows and threatens all they hold dear—unless they can tie the loose threads together before it’s too late . . . You can read an excerpt here.
My current Wrexford & Sloane Murder at the Serpentine Bridge, Book 6 in the series, released on September 27, 2022—and I’m thrilled to report that it hit the USA Today Bestseller List! (You can click here to order.)
Beyond the glittering ballrooms and salons of Regency London there are mysteries to untangle and murders to solve—and the newlywed duo of Lady Charlotte and the Earl of Wrexford once again find themselves matching wits with a cunning enemy . . .
Charlotte, now the Countess of Wrexford, would like nothing more than a summer of peace and quiet with her new husband and their unconventional family and friends. Still, some social obligations must be honored, especially with the grand Peace Celebrations unfolding throughout London to honor the victory over Napoleon.
But when Wrexford and their two young wards, Raven and Hawk, discover a body floating in Hyde Park’s famous lake, that newfound peace looks to be at risk. The late Jeremiah Willis was the engineering genius behind a new design for a top-secret weapon, and the prototype is missing from the Royal Armory’s laboratory. Wrexford is tasked with retrieving it before it falls into the wrong hands. But there are unsettling complications to the case—including a family connection.
Soon, old secrets are tangling with new betrayals, and as Charlotte and Wrexford spin through a web of international intrigue and sumptuous parties, they must race against time to save their loved ones from harm—and keep the weapon from igniting a new war . . .
An Inside Peek
Now, sometimes an author gets extraordinarily lucky, and history provides an amazing setting that proves the old adage: truth is stranger than fiction.
London threw an extravagant party to celebrate the end of the tumultuous wars against Napoleon that lasted over a decade. All the leaders of Europe came to party . . . and to jockey for power. Which makes it a perfect place in which set a diabolical mystery. You can read more about it and see wonderful images from the era here in the DIVERSIONS section of my website. (be sure to check out the other fun backstories to my books, along with the accompanying slideshows of vintage art.)
In Other Book News
I’m very excited to announce a new book project, one that takes me into a new genre—historical fiction! I’ve signed with Kensington Books to do a fictional biography of Lady Hester Stanhope, one of the most interesting and intriguing women of the Regency era. A firebrand who refused to be corseted by the conventions of Society, she was constantly challenging the rules that dictated what women could and couldn’t do. Her illustrious family—her uncle and her grandfather were legendary prime ministers of Britain, her father was a famous scientist and her cousin, Sir Sidney Smith was a swashbuckling war hero—put her in the epicenter of power, and she didn’t hesitate to flex her own intellectual muscle.
The more I research, the more I find fascinating facts and connections. Stay tuned for more updates!
And for fans of my Lady Arianna Regency Mystery series, I’ve also published a new book, the seventh in the series, and it’s now available for download on all major e-retail platforms. Look for the audiobook early in 2023.
A Swirl of Shadows takes Lady Arianna and Saybrook to
St. Petersburg . . . Here’s the promo blurb:
A traumatic personal crisis has left Lady Arianna bedeviled by guilt and questioning whether she has lost her nerve. Saybrook and her circle of friends can’t seem to help rekindle her fire. Even a challenge from Lord Grentham, Britain’s shadowy head spymaster, to undertake a vital mission to Russia in aid of her old friend, Tsar Alexander, fails to spark any interest . . . Until Grentham mentions that Arianna’s half-brother has gone in her place and may be in mortal danger.
Arianna is furious. She only recently discovered that she had a sibling when her father’s illegitimate son was recruited to play a small role in their previous mission. Resentful of the minister’s attempt to manipulate her emotions, she still refuses to be drawn back into the fray.
But when the murder of a mysterious Russian baroness in London entangles her friend Sophia in the byzantine intrigue surrounding a stolen Imperial medallion and a legendary curse that may topple the Tsar from his throne if it’s not recovered, Arianna finds she can’t turn her back on family and friends—especially as the tensions within her closeknit circle are threatening to fray the bonds of all she holds dear.
And so Arianna and Saybrook—along with Sophia—head off to St. Petersburg, where dangerous deceptions and duplicity swirl beneath the sumptuous splendor of the Imperial Court. An American adventuress, an old nemesis, a possible traitor within their own allies . . . Suspects abound—treachery is everywhere, and when her brother goes missing, Arianna knows that for her and Saybrook to have any hope catching the cunning conspirators, she’ll have to learn to trust herself again. But the clock is ticking . . .
I recently joined with the fabulous fellow historical mystery authors Anna Lee Huber and Alyssa Maxwell to dish on our new books and the craft of writing, You can see the video interview here on YouTube!
And Team Penrose is happy to report on other news
The series as a whole has been garnering kudos throughout the book world, including this wonderful review from The New York Public Library: “[Penrose] mixes well-thought out mysteries, early forensic science, great details of the era and a slow burning attraction creating a compulsive read.”
I’m also delighted to announce that it has been included in the New York Public Library’s list of mystery series to get you through any crisis!
Secondly, for all those of you who have been writing and asking about future books in the series, I’m thrilled to announce that I’ve just signed a new contract to continue the adventures of Wrexford and Charlotte (and the Weasels, of course!) They—along with their family of friends—will be solving mysteries for three more books! So stay tuned!
And p.s.— if you’re looking for more reading entertainment to download, all of my Lady Arianna Regency mysteries are priced less than a Starbucks latte—and tickle your taste buds for far longer than 15 minutes! (Hint: there is chocolate involved in the stories!)
You can check them out here and read sample chapters. There are now seven novels and one novella in the series, which take you throughout England and Scotland, as well Vienna and Paris—and Russia!
And more adventures will be coming!
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As we’re all spending a LOT of time at home, I thought I’d share a little peek at what I’m up to these days. Here’s my writing room . . . it’s much neater than usual as I can’t whine about not having time to organize my research books and scribbled notes.
And during my daily plotting walks, I’ve been working out the final twists for the next book in the series!
From My Weekly Plotting . . .
I’ll occasionally feature a photo here from my daily plotting walks (I have an MFA in Graphic Design, so I always have my camera with me, looking to capture a snippet of natural beauty or bit of history. Many turn out to be inspiration for my scenes!)
You can also follow me and my plotting walks on Instagram
I’ll also be posting a snippet each week from current WIPs, so be sure to check in often and take a peek!
Snippet from the daily plotting walk
It was incredibly exciting to do my first foreign traveling since before the pandemic. Look for Lady Arianna and friends to be visiting Istanbul and the isle of Rhodes in their next adventure!
Snippet from the current WIP
“Here I go out for a quiet evening of scholarly discussion over port and brandy, and . . .” Expelling a martyred sigh, the Earl of Wrexford cast a baleful look Charlotte, who despite having changed into more conventional attire still had a streak of soot on her face and ashes in her hair.
“And all hell breaks loose,” he finished as Kit Sheffield entered the earl’s workroom.
Tactfully ignoring her husband’s grumbling, Charlotte hurried to help their friend out of his sodden overcoat. She gave it a quick shake, sending up an acrid fug of burnt wool and stale smoke, and then draped it over one of the work stools.
“Shall I pour you a whisky or a brandy?” she asked, offering Sheffield a wet cloth soaked in lavender-scented hot water.
He took it and flashed a grateful grimace before wiping the filth from his face. “I’m happy to quaff anything as long as it’s liquid,” he mumbled through cracked lips. The bright lamplight showed that his face was raw and red from the heat of the fire.
As their friend brushed a tangle of hair off his brow, Wrexford saw it was singed in several spots.
“Sit down, Kit,” said the earl, reaching out to steady Sheffield’s stumble. After settling him in one of the armchairs by the hearth, he added, “You look like bloody hell.”
Charlotte hurried to bring Sheffield a glass.
A good choice, noted Wrexford. Scottish malt was stronger than French brandy . . .
—Murder at the Merton Library, coming in September 2023
The Inspiration Behind the
Wrexford & Sloane Series
I confess, given that my academic expertise in science ended in 9th grade biology class (you know, the one with formaldehyde, dead frogs and very sharp knives!) it might strike you as rather strange that science plays a big role in the plots of my Wrexford & Sloane mystery series.
I have an art background, which may seem like the polar opposite of the world of laboratories, microscopes and bubbling chemicals. I thought the same thing until I read a marvelous book called the Age of Wonder by Richard Holmes. In it, he talks about how during the Regency era, the artists and scientists all thought of themselves as kindred souls. Exploration and discovery required imagination and creative thinking—painters, poets, chemists, astronomers—they all pushed themselves to think outside the box.
Hmmm, I thought . . . these are just the same qualities required to unravel diabolical mysteries. So it suddenly struck me that having a scientist and an artist could be a really fun combination. In the Earl of Wrexford and Charlotte Sloane, I’ve sought to create two lead characters who embody the intellectual curiosity—and gritty courage—of the times. They are opposites: a brooding aristocrat whose extraordinary mind runs on the rational new principles of scientific inquiry, paired with a struggling artist whose innate cleverness and intuition are the keys to her survival. Forced to work together, Wrexford and Charlotte find they make a formidable team, despite their differences. (Ah, but as science tells us, opposites often attract!)
Okay, now I have a second confession to make—I may not be a science expert, but I’m a total Regency history geek. So it was great fun researching science during the era. Like in our own times, new discoveries and new technology were changing society. The top scientists were the hot celebrities. All the trendy people flocked to hear the public lectures at the Royal Institution, the leading scientific society in London. And yes, there were science groupies! The charismatic Humphry Davy (he’s pretty dishy, isn’t he?), the most famous chemist of the day, routinely had love letters and invitations for private hanky-panky—often wrapped in frilly undergarments—delivered backstage! (There are several scenes in my book set at the Royal Institution—I hope they will forgive me for creating intrigue and skullduggery within their hallowed halls!) You can read more about some of the real-life scientists of the Regency in the “Diversions” section. Just click here.
Now, on to more Regency goodies …
I also hope you’ll enjoy doing more exploring in the Diversions section here, which features some fun background on the Regency
and some of the people and places who appear in my books.
Just a few other things on logistics: The BLOG button in the social media icons will connect you to The Word Wenches, where Mary Jo Putney, Christina Courtenay, Patricia Rice, Anne Gracie, Nicola Cornick, Susan Fraser King and I blog about books, history, the craft of writing, and just about anything else you can think of!
This website is in compliance with new EU policies. Please know that it does not collect any data on visitors. If you subscribe to my newsletter, you will receive an opt-in message to make sure you wish to subscribe. Your e-mail will then be stored with a listserver that promises compliances with all the latest regulations. It will never be shared with anyone else, and will only be used to send you my newsletters to alert you to new book releases, author news and special offers.
Only your e-mail will be stored. You may unsubscribe at any time, and your e-mail will be permanently deleted.
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b-seen Technology
BeoSound Shape, BeoLab 50, BeoVision Eclipse
By Redacción 01.12.17
The audio and video Danish brand has presented the following new products: a wall of immersive sound, a speaker as strong as sophisticated and the ultimate experience in televisions.
BeoSound Shape. A modular and wireless speaker system for wall mounting, it's configuration, both in terms of the shape and the number of units (starting from 6), colors and fabrics of the Kvadrat house, can be customized, and has Hexagonal integrated noise absorption panels to improve acoustics in indoor spaces even when switched off. The unique Bang & Olufsen algorithm is designed to create a clear and precise sound landscape with vocal performance in the center and instruments on the sides. An experience that they define as «a concert that comes out of the wall». The BeoSound Core connection center, hidden behind one of the panels, allows streaming music to be played through a mobile device and technologies such as AirPlay, Chromecast or Bluetooth, and with Multiroom, which sounds different music in different rooms at the same time.
BeoLab 50. It's an active speaker (no independent amplifier required), with 2,100 watts of power, inspired by the BeoLab 90, which marked a before and after in the design of the latest generation speakers. It stands out for the polished aluminum silver surfaces and the warm oak veneers, recognizable signs of the Bang & Olufsen equipment. It has the innovative Active Room Compensation technology; using an external microphone, it is able to measure its acoustic environment and apply the appropriate compensation filters to reproduce optimal sound in any of its listening positions. The exclusive and identitary Acoustic Lens Technology is integrated in its upper part to process the dispersion of highest frequencies sound, and thanks to the Beam Width Control, it is able to distribute the sound at an angle of 180 degrees, for those social moments, for example at a party or when projecting a movie, or it can be used in audio mode to direct the sound towards the best listening position.
BeoVision Eclipse. This is the first TV developed by Bang & Olufsen equipped with LG Electronics OLED 4K HDR technology, which provides absolute black and infinite contrast with a high chromatic range. Available in two sizes - 55 "and 65" -, its visual aspect combines the glass of the screen with removable fabrics of different colors or anodized aluminum to choose for the speaker. It integrates a 3-channel SoundCenter of 450 watts - apart from incorporating Internet radio and streaming music platforms - which also makes it an audio system. And if you choose to use additional speakers through the surround sound decoder, you get a cinematic experience at home. In its floor version, BeoVision Eclipse has a motorized support that allows it to move to adjust to our position.
www.bang-olufsen.com
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New England Patriots, New York Giants, New York Jets, New York Knicks, NFL
Julian Edelman teams up with Sam Morril to create a new kind of sports podcast
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JUNE 25: Julian Edelman visits “Extra” at The Levi’s Store Times Square on June 25, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by John Lamparski/Getty Images)
Patriots legend Julian Edelman and comedian Sam Morril on challenging Tom Brady, being friends with Bill Belichick and having bold NYC sports takes.
Put Julian Edelman in a hosting role, and he’ll be nominated for a Sports Emmy for Outstanding Personality/Emerging On-Air Talent within his first year.
Put Sam Morril on the street interviewing New Yorkers, and he’ll be nominated for a New York Emmy for Best Interviewer.
Put these two in a room together, and there’s connection and conversation that differs from the rest of the sports podcast landscape.
Edelman and Morril have teamed up to co-host “Games With Names“, a podcast that reviews the greatest games of all time from the perspectives of those who played in them.
“I think [Games With Names] is different because everything out there is looking for the best player or the best play — we’re looking for the best game,” Edelman told FanSided. “It’s something that’s very easy to engage with, because we’ve all had our moments where we’ve sat and talked with another fan or another player or a high school play that you played against, and you guys always heard different perspectives of their story. It’s to get the actual perspectives of the people involved in these awesome games over history. We just thought it’d be great content, and Sam’s hella funny, so you put that cherry on top, and we’re good.”
Their first episode, which debuted Aug. 23, revisits the 18-1 New England Patriots season back in 2007 when they were tragically felled by the New York Giants in Super Bowl XLII. Of course, that tragedy is a matter of perspective, as the two guests — Patriots linebacker Tedy Bruschi and Giants quarterback Eli Manning — possess vastly different experiences from that game.
Manning cemented his Hall of Fame case winning two Super Bowls over the Patriots, but those two losses prompted some to believe it was over for Tom Brady’s case for the Greatest Of All Time. Four Super Bowls later, the narrative has changed, but that’s the beauty of “Games With Names.” Everyone’s got a story to tell, and the story that’s told on the field is sometimes greater than fiction.
That’s why Edelman, a key component in the incredulous 28-3 Super Bowl LI comeback, is a perfect fit for hosting the show, according to Morril.
“Julian’s the difference,” Morril said when asked about how his current podcast project differs from past ones. “We really have the guy who says stuff, and I’m like, ‘Wow, he really knows the game so well.’ These guests that come on, they really revere him. It’s so cool to see. We’ve got Randy Moss, Adrian Peterson did an episode, Michael Vick, and they’re looking at Julian — I think we had Brandon Marshall say, ‘You were my favorite player.’ That’s epic. That’s what separates us, because Julian has this connection to fans: he’s kind of got this everyman quality, but he’s also a former star player. That’s what makes this show different. It’s like that barroom vibe, when you’re out with your friends and you’re like, ‘What’s the best game?’ or you’ve had a few too many — it’s that vibe, but with a guy who knows nothing when it comes down to me, and a guy with legit credibility with Julian.”
NEW YORK, NY – SEPTEMBER 13: Comedian Sam Morril visits Build Series to discuss ‘Amy Schumer Presents: Sam Morril: Positive Influence’ at Build Studio on September 13, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Desiree Navarro/Getty Images)
Edelman joked that the two met on JDate and had their first date at Arturo’s in the West Village, while Sam indicated that “it was either going to be an off-Broadway production of ‘Inglorious Basterds’” or the creation of their podcast. Although fans of the two can only hope they will team up for sketch comedy at some point, their podcast lets the world in on a funny, informative hang between friends. It just so happens that the people involved are central characters in sports history.
“It’s more of a conversation than an interview,” Edelman explained. “It’s more of like, everyone’s just in there kind of talking crap or explaining certain things. The tangents that we get on are insane. It’s just fun, and that’s what we wanted to portray to people that are listening. That they’re in here having fun with us just conversating.”
Just like he did with Tom Brady back in 2010, Julian Edelman sought out Sam Morril in his usual haunts to build chemistry for their show. Only this time, instead of a practice field in southern California, Edelman was hitting up New York comedy clubs and watching Sam’s sets.
“Honestly, it’s just spending time together,” Edelman said. “That’s always the way you build chemistry.”
“Sam’s a funny dude,” he continued. “When you work with comedians, it’s tough. Usually, I can get a little slapstick joke in there, and it’s like, ‘Haha, the dumb athlete, he can say something funny!’ But when you work with professional comics, these guys are always on. They always have something crazy funny to say, and when I’m trying to sit here and conversate, I just end up starting to laugh.”
“I will say that Julian is better at comedy than I am at running slants up the middle,” Morril quipped in response.
“Well, exactly — you don’t run a slant up the middle,” Edelman laughed.
During their interview, Edelman and Morril demonstrate why “Games With Names” works. Morril has Edelman cackling when he imagines Belichick having a heart attack over a muffed punt or calls Donovan Mitchell “thirsty” for the Knicks. But it’s Edelman who makes us laugh when he gushes over a heartfelt text from Bill Belichick.
As Morril says, Edelman had a serious career, but he doesn’t take himself seriously. When Edelman was racking up three Super Bowl wins and a Super Bowl MVP — he is one of only seven NFL wide receivers to ever receive the honor — as an indispensable aspect of New England’s success, he was also polishing his broadcasting skills hosting BurgerTyme and SmoothieTyme. Edelman’s avatar of choice, a squirrel just trying to get his nut, makes him equipped to navigate sports and comedy in a way few can. And Morril, a seasoned New York comedian and lifelong Yankees/Giants/Knicks fan, brings the perspective of a superfan who doesn’t pull punches.
Morril doesn’t hate Tom Brady “because [the Giants] beat him twice,” but Morril tries to goad the GOAT into gracing their podcast with his presence.
“Julian won’t say this, but I’ll say this: Tom Brady’s a coward,” Morril taunts.
“Take that back! You take that back,” Edelman shouts.
“I’ll take it back if he comes on the show,” Morril smiles.
“Tom, you’re the GOAT — but do you still have bravery?” Morril continues. “Maybe you’re a little old. Maybe you’re a little scared. Maybe you took some time off because your arm doesn’t have the same zip and you’re nervous. We can talk about that. We welcome you on ‘Games With Names.’ But until you come on, I can’t say you’re brave. Can’t say it in good conscience.”
“Tom, you’re the bravest man I’ve ever seen in my life, so if you’re listening to this, that’s everything of him, okay?” Edelman clarifies.
Brady will be an eventual get, even if Edelman is at the olive layer of the seven-layer dip that is contacting Tom Brady. For now, Julian and Sam have plenty of “meaty” content that will satisfy the hunger for a new kind of sports podcast.
GLENDALE, AZ – FEBRUARY 01: Tom Brady #12 and Julian Edelman #11 of the New England Patriots celebrate after defeating the Seattle Seahawks 28-24 to win Super Bowl XLIX at University of Phoenix Stadium on February 1, 2015 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images)
Julian Edelman and Sam Morril talk Tom Brady, Bill Belichick and NYC sports ahead of “Games With Names” podcast premiere
With a new episode dropping every week, listeners will be treated to a bevy of guests throughout the NFL season. Confirmed guests include Eli Manning, Tedy Bruschi, Paul Pierce, Michael Irvin, Randy Moss, Adrian Peterson, Michael Vick, and Brandon Marshall, but these are just a few of the major gets this season.
Edelman and Morril already have big plans to bring on guests from all sports and all walks of life. The two represent the ability to dominate different fields — in their case, sports, broadcast and comedy — and they seek guests who do the same. That’s what makes a potential guest like Adam Sandler an ideal fit, especially since he put his love of the game on full display with “Hustle.” Ironically, Spike Lee directed “He Got Game,” which just so happens to be the favorite sports film of Knicks tormentor Trae Young.
In addition to telling FanSided more about their show, Julian and Sam delve into the following topics:
Future episodes will feature Jets hero Joe Namath and his incredible Super Bowl III prediction, as well as comedy legend and Boston sports lover Bill Burr.
Morril hopes to bring Magic Johnson and Larry Bird on together to discuss the historic Celtics-Lakers rivalry. “Those two kinda saved the NBA,” Morril said.
Imagine Paul Pierce in his beautiful Los Angeles home, hookah in hand, telling us what really happened in The Wheelchair Game. Because according to Edelman, that’s exactly what we have to look forward to when Pierce joins the show.
Would Julian Edelman have won Super Bowl MVP if he signed with the Giants instead of staying with the Patriots? Discussing the “butterfly effect” of that alternate reality could be a future Twilight Zone episode of “Games With Names.”
Edelman confesses his most embarrassing lowlights from BillTube. Of course, one of them just so happened to be against the Giants when Edelman fumbled a punt and lost a game back in 2011.
Julian is “still too scared to ask [Bill Belichick] to do anything,” so it’s unclear if Belichick will one day join the pod.
Julian believes that Belichick will coach until he’s 75 or 76…or “do it to the day he goes.” Julian and Sam then depict different scenarios of Belichick coaching until his very last moment.
Sam shares bold predictions for the Giants season and an even bolder description of Saquon’s quads.
James Dolan apparently banned Julian from MSG for reasons unknown.
Julian and Sam laud Trae Young for embracing his villainous identity in New York, especially since Sam believes Trae’s lollipop hair meme is all too accurate. “It sucks to lose to a guy with the same haircut from ‘Rick and Morty.’ Like how is he this young and has Rick’s hair?”
Julian contemplates Sam’s pitch to play one game with Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to lure Tom to do the pod — then retire once more. “That would be such a cowboy way of going out. I just got a little chill.”
Edelman and Morril are casual, but their camaraderie illustrates why the Greatest Games of All Time continue to captivate years later. Those unbelievable moments mean something different to everyone, and for the first time, there is a unique platform to field former opponents as they revisit them together.
And between these opponents, there’s two hilarious guys at the top of their game who know how to bring out the best in people.
“That’s what it is,” Edelman said, speaking to the ethos of their podcast. “We’re creating while we’re sitting and talking on your podcast. This is people loving people, people helping people.”
Who is going to get Victor Wembanyama?
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Will LaMelo Ball be available to play tonight?
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BEST OF EDINBURGH
About Edinburgh Royal Mile Blog Attractions Pubs Restaurants Shopping Entertainment Accommodation
Abbey Strand
Less than 100 metres long, Abbey Strand lies at the bottom of the Royal Mile, running down to the gates of Holyroodhouse.
View down Abbey Strand
The Queen's Gallery
Queen's Gallery
To the right of Abbey Strand is The Queen's Gallery, which was opened in 2002 by HM Queen Elizabeth II as part of her Golden Jubilee celebrations. The Gallery forms part of the Holyroodhouse complex and is used to exhibit works from the Royal Collection. (Admission charge applies).
Sanctuary marker
If you look carefully, you will see running across the road junction at Abbey Strand a number of "S" shapes. These mark the boundary of the religious sanctuary provided from civil law by Holyrood Abbey.
The sanctuary zone was fairly extensive, taking in the perimeter of Holyrood Park and Arthur's Seat and running as far east as Jock's Lodge. Those seeking asylum were principally debtors, known jokingly to the locals as the "Abbey Lairds".
Applications for sanctuary had to be made to the Bailie of Holyrood and a booking fee paid. Once accepted, letters of protection were issued which allowed applicants to live free from the threat of arrest within the sanctuary zone. As a result a small industry built up to service those granted sanctuary, eg inns providing food and accommodation etc. Some of these buildings can still be seen at Abbey Strand.
Interestingly, because legal proceedings were not allowed in Scotland on Sundays, those granted asylum were able to leave the sanctuary zone unmolested for 24 hours from midnight each Saturday night. In 1880 however a change in the law meant that debtors could no longer be imprisoned and as a result the need for people to seek sanctuary effectively ended.
Sanctuary buildings
Who goes there? Door at Abbey Strand
Heraldic Panel
We are almost now at the end of our walk down the Royal Mile. On the wall opposite the Historic Scotland Sanctuary Information and Bookshop you will see this colourful heraldic panel. This originally stood over the entrance to the gatehouse at this location. The initials IR5 stands for King James the Fifth.
End of Walk Down the Royal Mile
Palace of Holyroodhouse
As we arrive at the gates of the Palace of Holyroodhouse, here our walk down the Royal Mile comes to an end. We hope you have found it interesting and enjoyed this insight into the fascinating world of old Edinburgh.
Haste Ye Back!
A Walk Down the Royal MileEsplanade and Castle HillThe LawnmarketHigh StreetThe CanongateAbbey Strand
The National Museum of Scotland
The Scottish Parliament
© Best of Edinburgh
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Shufflehead: A Good Reason to Look at Your Phone
Author: Carlo Wolff Leave a comment
Shufflehead lets users remix and color line drawings with infinite possibilities.
I’ve never been as well-informed as I have been this viral year, but I’m not sure that’s a good thing. The confluence of protests following the murder of George Floyd, the coronavirus pandemic, and the Trump pestilence have had the perverse effect of making me even more of a news junkie than I was in less turbulent times. So much information makes my head hurt so, there are days the roof of my brain collapses. And we’re not even probing the malaise—okay, make that depression—the news creates. I’ve been looking for relief, for ways to be free of the news and the anxiety it generates. At the same time, I wish I was in the thick of it as a reporter. God knows there’s no shortage of material.
To ease my American pain, I’ve played around with the news, posting mash-ups of Trump’s pronouncements to my Facebook page, improvising on his language to strip it to its invariably mean but consequential essence. These mash-ups have been a way for me to keep the day’s horrors at bay, but since Trump has abandoned his pandemic updates, tracking down material for them has become a chore. I like to play; I do enough work.
Although I’m not a gamer, I like distraction, especially when it’s thought through. Welcome to ShuffleHead, a smartphone app I’ve come to enjoy for its amusement, its imagination, the way it spells (and sounds and looks like) relief. Kasumi, the protean Cleveland Heights artist, unveiled this nutty app this spring, smack dab in the middle of the pandemic. Its three-tiered juxtapositions are just wild enough to pique my imagination and see where they lead, and they’re anything but bad news. ShuffleHead is fun and safe haven.
Kasumi has said she doesn’t know what her brain knows, suggesting a mysterious and limitless ore to mine. Her willingness to plunder that mine, her curiosity and fearlessness, inform her art, whether cinema, installation, or app. While Kasumi productions are abstract and demanding no matter how kinetic, they are based on her feelings, her deep connections. Even as her multimedia, high-tech work blows our minds wide open, it seems to give Kasumi a form of closure. With ShuffleHead, she opens our minds in a new and entertaining way.
“I make art to make sense of chaos,” says Kasumi. “My process of cutting things up and making something new out of the parts is a way to begin to see how identities and even truth are constructed. The world is filled with meaning that humans project into it, and I take those pieces of meaning and try to make sense of them in relation to one another. So my works involve the connections between inner experience, sensation, emotion, and intention with their outer manifestations as signs and gestures.”
Whether it involves film, as in the aptly titled Shockwaves, or Kasumi’s first computer app, the onscreen flip book ShuffleHead, she will see the project to term, carving out a new market out along the way. That’s all part of the improvisation, the steps in her necessary, creative dance.
Kasumi’s 2014 film, Shockwaves, slammed animation into B-roll, leavening the mix with a musical score as remarkable as the imagery—weirdly familiar, though you can’t quite place where you saw it—from horror flicks, rom-coms, sci-fi. Her lexicon is broad, her apprehension of technology commanding, and the way she pokes the membranes of our minds—poking her own for a trial run—is unique. Not dominantly pleasant, but unique.
Where Shockwaves is immersive, menacing, and purposefully cerebral, her new, $3.99 ShuffleHead app—on Apple for now, with an Android version imminent—is softer, and more fun. It also is a form of mourning.
“About six years ago,” Kasumi says, “my older sister underwent devastating cancer surgery that left her, a black belt in karate, incredibly weak. I wanted to make something for her like the things-to-do books she’d made for me when we were little kids. I decided to make a mix-and-match book with absurd and funny characters—only requiring she turn page segments. After she died, I wanted to honor her by developing this project into something bigger. So I think the impetus for ShuffleHead was addressing that feeling of helplessness that occurs in coping with the sickness of a loved one; creating order out of chaos is therapeutic, probably a reason that people like jigsaw puzzles.”
Conceived by Kasumi, brought to life by Tony Calabro, Ian Ziegler and Matt Beckwith of the Cleveland “visualization services agency” Photonic Studio, ShuffleHead is a character creator, coloring book, story generator, and beat maker. It has a top, a middle, and a bottom. Rotate sections any way you like to generate different stories.
Kasumi designed all the thousands of images, including vamps on familiar icons like Jimi Hendrix and James Joyce; the Photonic trio, whom she knows from the Cleveland Institute of Art, where she taught from 2002 to 2015, helped shepherd ShuffleHead to market. It took more than five years of dealing with intellectual property, trademark and copyright issues, figuring out how to synch ShuffleHead’s different sections and how to deploy ShufflePacks, auxiliary collections that one can acquire to plump up the app.
Think mashup: You can put Elvis Presley’s head atop Franz Kafka’s, who’s sitting on an ice cream cone. Mix Marilyn Monroe and Albert Einstein, or plop the short-fingered vulgarian (Kasumi’s moniker) running our country on a grilling hamburger. Think of Kasumi as a hypertechnological turntablist jamming together unexpected connections, as she does in her other media. And imagine how daunting it is to craft something so complete and so consuming.
“Not everything worked initially, and we had to experiment and re-work lots of things many times…and then re-do them again and again,” she says. “One of the biggest challenges was to get everything to synch together perfectly—visually, musically, and grammatically.”
Imagine releasing such an absorbing app into the covid-19 atmosphere, a sullen suspension in which too many of us have too much time to burn.
One can view ShuffleHead, which Apple presents to a market 12 years and older, as a contemporary board game, a brain-teaser like Scrabble. But in the app age, games aren’t competitive the way they used to be. How you “play” them can be shared, but apps can’t be joined. Picture a kid playing ShuffleHead (ShufflePacks have characters that appeal to the young), marveling at what he or she puts together, the stories they tell. The kid can share with the next kid, but the transaction is between app and player. At the same time, ShuffleHead is weirdly organic; as long as Kasumi keeps feeding into those ShufflePacks, the app should grow like a weed. Or spread like a virus.
Speaking of virus, Kasumi has included the “short-fingered vulgarian” Trump as “one of the more nefarious members of the ShuffleBoard stable.” To round out the app’s “team of nasties,” she also has included Kim Jong-un, Vladimir Putin, Sean Hannity, Kellyanne Conway, and Mitch McConnell. Hopefully, the updates will thin this particular cast. For balance, she included such civil rights icons as Rosa Parks, Frederick Douglass, and Elijah Cummings.
“You play with it, you use it, you create with it,” Kasumi says of her latest brainchild. “I feel that when you make these characters out of other characters, it triggers new ideas and new sensibilities. For me, the idea that we’re mixing these things that you thought were completely incompatible is satisfying and funny. In a way, ShuffleHead is like a perpetual comic book. I think everything matches up, that we’re all part of the same system. It creates a kind of community in your head, and we’re learning how much of the same organism we actually are. One little thing on one side of the world has such implications across the planet.”
tagged with carlo wolff, Kasumi, Shufflehead
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Evaluation Articles
 African Evaluation Database
Electronic ID
Doctor H.V., Simelane S.E.
The impact of living standards on childhood mortality in South Africa: Evidence from cross-sectional data
Journal of Social Development in Africa
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-33845781518&partnerID=40&md5=1a607adea61ec999c28d1c427adafbd1
University of Western Cape, Department of Statistics, Private Bag X17, Bellville 7535, South Africa; University of Pennsylvania, Population Studies Centre, 3718 Locust Walk, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
Authors with Affiliations
Doctor, H.V., University of Western Cape, Department of Statistics, Private Bag X17, Bellville 7535, South Africa; Simelane, S.E., University of Pennsylvania, Population Studies Centre, 3718 Locust Walk, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
We employ questions on household characteristics collected in the 1997 and 1998 October Household Surveys (OHSs) in South Africa and those collected in the 1998 South Africa Demographic and Health Survey (SADHS) to examine the relationship between living standards and childhood mortality. Specifically, we examine whether childhood mortality is higher in poor households than in rich households, and whether between 1997 and 1998 the risk of childhood mortality changed. Principal components analysis is employed to combine household assets as a measure of socioeconomic status (SES). An index for SES is used in a negative binomial model to examine its association with childhood mortality. Results are inconsistent between 1997 and 1998. In 1997 the risk of childhood mortality decreases as we move from the lowest quintile to the highest quintile of the SES index. In 1998 higher levels of SES are associated with higher childhood mortality. A comparison of the findings from the 1998 OHS with those from the 1998 SADHS suggests that the 1998 OHS data may be less reliable because they yield results that deviate from the pattern shown in the 1997 OHS and the 1998 SADHS. Policy issues and recommendations for further research are discussed.
Author Keywords
Index Keywords
child mortality; household survey; living standard; mortality risk; policy development; principal component analysis; socioeconomic status; Africa; South Africa; Southern Africa; Sub-Saharan Africa
Copyright © 2023 - The Centre for Research on Evaluation, Science and Technology (CREST)
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Memories of the Nimda virus
This weekend is the tenth anniversary of the infamous and pervasive Nimda virus.
In this article, we take a look back in time at the outbreak. After all, as the US philosopher George Santayana warned a century ago, "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it."
Nimda first showed itself on 18 September 2001.
Those were heady days. The Code Red worm had appeared in July, taking everyone by surprise with its collateral damage - massive amounts of network traffic, dedicated only to redistributing the worm.
Microsoft's "Whistler" project had been released to manufacturing as Windows XP in August.
Terrorists attacked and destroyed the World Trade Center towers on 9/11 as a shocked world watched on.
And whilst US flights were grounded as a post-9/11 precaution, Australia suffered its own aeronautic outage as the country's second-biggest airline, Ansett, abruptly stopped operating, stranding passengers around the region - including a whole raft of Sophos Sydney colleagues who found themselves camping out at Melbourne airport with tickets to nowhere.
Nimda storms the internet
Boy, did Nimda show itself. It could spread every-which-way, and it did: by sending itself out to your email contacts; by breaking into web servers and infecting files all over your website; by spreading automatically across your network; and by parasitically infecting existing programs on your hard disk.
The result was that if an infected file made its way into your organisation and ran, you could end up with hundreds or thousands of infected computers on your network. And each infected computer - whether PC or server - might have hundreds or thousands of infected, damaged or modified files.
Coming just a week after 9/11, Nimda attracted plenty of speculation that it might be a form of cyberterrorism.
The virus code includes the text:
Concept Virus(CV) V.5, Copyright(C)2001 R.P.China
Since adjectives go before the noun in English, the country of China is known as PRC, not RPC. Does this tell us something? Is the error the sign of a mistake by a Chinese who knows only a bit of English? Are we looking at a Frenchman pretending to be a Chinese who knows a bit of English? Are we looking at a Russian pretending to be a Frenchman pretending to be a Chinese who knows a bit of English?
The answer is, as so often with malware and cybercriminals, that we just can't say. We couldn't know ten years ago when Nimda came out; and we often can't tell today.
Nimda as cyberterrorism
Perhaps, ten years on from Nimda, we can learn to tone down the finger-pointing a bit. It's certain that State actors around the world (that means "hackers paid by a country's intelligence services", not students at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art) are involved in what might tabloidally be called cyberspying.
But if we trot out the talk of cyberwar and cyberterrorism too much, we distract attention from the clear and present danger of plain-and-simple cybercrime - which almost certainly costs us billions of dollars a year - by making it sound comparatively unimportant. (Things can be simple and important. In fact, simplicity is often the key to significance.)
Nimda as a proof of No Good Viruses
One intriguing aspect of Nimda - to techies, at any rate - is its parasitism: the mechanism it uses to infect other files.
Basic parasitic malware of the day usually carried the original host file around tacked onto the end of the virus. More sophisticated viruses inserted their content as a new code section, or even - as in the CIH, or Chernobyl, virus - into unused parts of the executable.
Nimda took the simplistic approach - carry the original host around with you - but in a complicated way. It embedded the infected host inside itself as a Windows resource. And needless compexity is often the enemy of correct behaviour (if any behaviour by a virus can be called "correct").
Nimda, indeed, would happily reinfect files it had already hit. So you could end up with NOTEPAD embedded inside Nimda, embedded inside Nimda, embedded inside Nimda, and so on.
Not ad infinitum, of course, since only in Turing Machines do you get an infinite amount of memory. But the embedding could get very deep: a colleague and I ended up preparing samples which had been reinfected up to 250 times each to use in testing Sophos's virus cleanup code.
This sort of unintended side-effect is yet another reminder of why there is no such thing as a harmless virus, since even a virus which was supposedly "just for fun" might have unexpected bugs. And once a virus is in the wild, spreading of its own accord, there's no chance of issuing a recall notice.
It also reminds us that virus writers aren't always the programming genuises which they're sometimes made out to be, and why decent security companies don't queue up to hire virus writers - even if they're willing to overlook the business and moral issues of hiring a crook.
Nimda says we still make old mistakes
Of further interest in Nimda was its network-spreading technique. One problem facing a network-spreading virus is how to persuade users elsewhere on the network to run the newly-added files.
Nimda did this by dropping infected DLLs called RICHED20.DLL around your network. A DLL by this name is loaded as-needed by a variety of Windows programs when you start dealing with documents more complex than just plain text.
By putting an infected RICHED20.DLL into directories containing .DOC files, for example, the Nimda DLL would be loaded instead of the official DLL if the user were to browse to that directory and examine a document. This is because Windows loads DLLs from the current directory by default unless the programmer explicitly instructs otherwise.
And this is interesting because I wrote about sloppy DLL loading just two days ago! Two of the very latest Patch Tuesday updates from Microsoft fix bugs of exactly this sort.
Ouch. Ten years on, and we're still writing software which is incautious about how it chooses its add-on code libraries.
Nimda reminds us about patching
Another important lesson to be learned from Nimda is just how vital it is that we patch known holes inside our network quickly, so that if malware breaches our first levels of defence, it doesn't get open slather to roam internally.
Nimda greatly accelerated its spread by breaking into and infecting websites, using what is known as a directory traversal vulnerability in the IIS web server. Web servers aren't supposed to let you access files outside their own data directory, so they are supposed to watch out for character sequences such as "../../..", even if cunningly disguised.
The "dot-dot" element in a path name means "go up one level", and if allowed in a URI, could allow an outsider to access files which aren't supposed to be visible at all.
One month after Nimda, Microsoft issued security bulletin MS01-078, entitled "Patch Available for 'Web Server Folder Traversal' Vulnerability".
But this bulletin didn't actually announce the arrival of a patch. It was issued simply to remind everyone that a patch had been issued in MS01-057, more than a month before Nimda appeared.
Ouch, again. Ten years on, and at least some of us still have change control bureaucracy which dithers for weeks about individual patches. As I've written before, if you have a change control committee of that sort, you probably need to appoint a change control committee change committee.
Nimda shows us that prevention is better than cure
There. I've said it. I'll say it again, truism though it might be. Prevention is better than cure.
Label: Anvir/Virus, Apa Saja, Attack, Info, Malware, Microsoft, Nimda, Patch, Security, vulnerability, web-security, Worm
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When a crime novelist dies just after his 85th Birthday, an inquisitive detective arrives at his estate to investigate.He soon shifts to a web of red herrings and self serving lies to uncover the truth behind the writer's untimely death.Knives Out has a pofwer packed flow of performers and the beautifully casted protagonist ensuring that this movie elevates from being a murder mystery to a thrill.
Bob Biswas (2021)
Red Notice (2021)
Sooryavanshi (2021)
Rating : PG
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A detective investigates the death of a patriarch of an eccentric, combative family
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Jerin posted a review for Knives Out in Movies
Knives Out has its twists and turns at every corner, and dares the audience into questioning what they're seeing in front of their very eyes. Nothing is ever as straightforward as it seems, and Johnson is never satisfied with settling for a by-the-numbers and generic whodunit. He chooses to keep us delightfully bewildered and encapsulated with a cracking rollercoaster of a movie which is literally fun for the whole family.Each and every cast member lends their own personality to the piece, with passion and gusto.
Niki posted a review for Knives Out in Movies
I've never been this entertained by a movie because the actors did such an incredible job.Daniel Craig is not an Hercule Poirot or Miss Marple. There is also a bit of a mix with Peter Sellers from Pink Panther at times. Still, this movie is fun, as all the pieces fit together nicely in the end. All the actors playing the dysfunctional family give their best. I think that Marta, the nurse, has the funniest weakness in all whodunnit movies I have seen. I had hated Johnsons performance in Star Wars, but this movie is a hit.
Vinish posted a review for Knives Out in Movies
This flim is just confusing.I have been struggling to understand why this movie is rated so highly. The cast is great and they do a good job with what they are given. That being said, the whodunit part is poorly made, and I choose to believe that was intentional. Perhaps it's my fault for going in expecting a Jessica Fletcher, Hercule Poirot or Sherlock Holmes type story. I was disappointed by the clues, reveals, as well as the ending.
Rakesh posted a review for Knives Out in Movies
Featuring Daniel Craig, Chris Evans and Ana de Armas Knives Out is a thriller from Rian Jhonson. It picks up slowly and keeps you engaged throughout the movie with intriguing story line. The twist at the end is awesome. The whole taking and acting was top notch. A must watch for thriller movie lovers.
Acting, Story, Visuals
Mahesh posted a review for Knives Out in Movies
Riam Jhonson with huge cast has delivered a perfect thriller which keeps the audience glued to the screen. The plot is intriguing and makes audiences guess who did what. The twists were absolutely fantastic and thrilling. Though movie starts slowly, it slowly picks up and shows us what the director is capable of. Don't miss the movie if you really love this genre.
Sahil posted a review for Knives Out in Movies
Charming in every regard. Spot on performances by each and every member of the stellar ensemble. I didn’t know Craig had this in him...great respect for his mastery of a role that is not at all easy. He was over the top exactly the right amount. The comedic nuances and little bits of business here and there as well as the solid whodunit core should ensure the longevity of this delight. Well worth the viewers time and the ticket price.
Mannie posted a review for Knives Out in Movies
When renowned crime novelist Harlan Thrombay dies just after his 85th birthday, the inquisitive and debonair Detective Benoit Blanc arrives at his estate to investigate. From's Harlan's dysfunctional family to his devoted staff,Blanc sifts through a web of red herrings and self serving lies to uncover the truth behind Thrombey's umtimely demise.
Abish posted a review for Knives Out in Movies
Knives Out is a captivating and thrilling mystery drama and was a joy to see. The movie starts and for the first ten minutes was not at all interesting then the real mystery kicks in and Daniel Craig's accent in this movie is my only complaint as it was annoying and unauthentic in parts. The main characters are funny and entertaining throughout and give you a truly enjoyable cinema experience. Chris Evans' character makes you laugh at his sick and twisted jokes and really bumps the movie up a notch with his inclusion. Knives out is the perfect movie to watch if you want to test your brain.
Loki posted a review for Knives Out in Movies
This movie have everything. It is a mystery that in spite of telling you how it happened pretty early on, keeps the tension going by expanding how and why everything happens, with twists that are incredibly hard to predict. The acting is great, and Daniel Craig represents an imposing, but at times comedic detective.This movie is the all-star cast to be front and center, mainly because of the marketing campaign, but I was pleasantly surprised by the role given to Ana de Armas.she was cute and we'll acting. Overall knives out movie is awesome.
Sanki posted a review for Knives Out in Movies
The film was so poorly made and the ending wasn't even a surprise. There was no character development and it all seemed useless. There was no big plot twist and I just left the cinema feeling disappointed.Also, Daniel Craig had that awful accent that made him sound absolutely ridiculous.
Rolen posted a review for Knives Out in Movies
In Knives Out, Director Rian Johnson embraces the murder mystery genre wholesale and delivers a twisty-turner thriller that's both wildly entertaining and very funny. A superlative cast, witty screenplay, and brilliantly quirky production design are three of this movie's standout qualities. Daniel Craig, complete with Southern Gothic accent, and Ana de Armas are the leads, but they're surrounded by a cast of supporting actors performing at the top of their game.
Pandi posted a review for Knives Out in Movies
Knives Out is a not a film as much as a symphony where each instrument is tuned to the beat of the conductor. Each frame is carefully orchestrated and composed to perfection. The dialogue is metered and spoken with a contemporary Shakespearean beat.The cast not only fill their respective roles superbly, but embody their characters in a manner that appears nothing less than natural. Daniel Craig's performance as Benoit Blanc is only bested by Ana de Armas' embodiment of Marta Cabrera. Any reservations one may have about the choice of director, Rian Johnson, must be set aside.
Lambo posted a review for Knives Out in Movies
Knives out is full of interesting characters who are played by strong and well established Hollywood veterans. We have Christopher Plummer. Don Johnson. Jemmi Lee Curtis, Michael Shannon, Toni Colette and of course Daniel Craig, ohhhh Daniel Craig who created an extraordinary character who I hope to see more of and with the huge sucess of Knives Out this might be quite possible. Other played their roles great too, Anna de Armas, Lakeith Stanefield and many others complemented the rest of the cast really well. The setting of the movie transports you in time, it was a very clever choice of a place for an action to take place in. Creaky stairs, period Victorian house was a clever nod to the era in which brilliant Agatha Christie's books were written in. The movie takes inspirations from her novels and does a pretty good job at it.
Lime posted a review for Knives Out in Movies
This movie is entertaining, funny and at times thrilling. The story is smart and the editing is crisp. Everyone in the movie acted fantastically. Special mention goes to my all-time favourite Chris Evans (frankly he was the main reason I went to see this movie). He was amazing in the character of Hugh.Not only was he an absolute brat but he really is coming out of his shell as our beloved Captain America. Jamie Lee Curtis and Tonny Collet are amazing in their respective roles. The story has glimpses of Agatha Christie but it is fresh in its own way.
Nithin posted a review for Knives Out in Movies
Knives out movie is pretty damn good. It's a classic who-done-it crime and detective story set in modern day 2019. It's directed beautifully and the cinematography is on point. And it's actually very funny, which I don't think the marketing really shows.The performances in this movie are fantastic, especially by Bond himself, Daniel Craig. He carries this movie and honestly his character is an absolute joy to watch. The rest of the cast is great as well, notable performances from Ana De Armas and Chris Evans.The narrative and writing is also very well done by Rian Johnson. It's nice to see him doing films of his own instead of big franchise movies.
Babu posted a review for Knives Out in Movies
Knives Out is an enjoyable murder-mystery, both fresh and classic at the same time. Strong points include beautiful art direction and a fabulous ensemble cast ,Daniel Craig is particularly fun as well as the mystery plot itself, which kept most of audience guessing the entire time.Chris Evans just lacks short of matching up to De Armas but does an outstanding job as the spoiled Playboy Ransom. Jamie lee Curtis, Michael Shannon, Don Johnson, Toni Collette, Christopher Plummer and other artists do a good job in their Small roles.Knives Out is one movie made for everyone not just the regular thriller fans.
Prudvi posted a review for Knives Out in Movies
In the deliciously entertaining Knives Out, Johnson goes back to his roots with an updated homage to the Agatha Christie whodunnits he loved as a child, and to those “cheekily self-aware” screen adaptations in which Peter Ustinov would lead an all-star cast through a labyrinthine murder mystery.The setting is a gothic pile in modern-day New England where crime-writer Harlan Thrombey (Christopher Plummer) has recently capped his 85th birthday celebrations by dying dramatically in his attic study. It looks like an open-and-shut suicide, but could one of Harlan’s variously leechy family members (witheringly described as a bunch of “self-made over-achievers”) have slit his throat? After all, the old man spent the evening settling old scores and doing what?- worth finding out!!
Monu posted a review for Knives Out in Movies
What an excellent film by Rian Johnson; definitely feels like the film he was destined to make. Writing that is slick as hell, sublime performances (most notably Daniel Craig who brings his A-game in a wonderfully charismatic turn), superb editing and wonderfully atmospheric music - all tied together by masterful direction. Will probably be among the most fun you have at a theatre this year and fans of Agatha Christie and old murder mystery stories will have plenty to love here - a nostalgically entertaining time!
Pinki posted a review for Knives Out in Movies
Murali posted a review for Knives Out in Movies
Keeping a film’s secrets, when they’re as cunningly guarded as they are in the star-spangled whodunit Knives Out, isn’t just a pressing responsibility for a critic – it’s a cinch. Beyond its waspish wit, a dastardly roll-call of suspects and Daniel Craig’s dapper efforts as our presiding sleuth, the film gives nothing away until the bitter end, thanks to a head-spinning tricksiness of plotting that even Agatha Christie might have conceded was rather ingenious.The setting is a gothic pile in modern-day New England where crime-writer Harlan Thrombey (Christopher Plummer) has recently capped his 85th birthday celebrations by dying dramatically in his attic study. It looks like an open-and-shut suicide, but could one of Harlan’s variously leechy family members
Arun posted a review for Knives Out in Movies
Craig is delightful—I love the excitement in his voice when he figures things out late in the film—but some of the cast gets lost. It’s inevitable with one this big, but if you’re going to “Knives Out” for a specific actor or actress, be aware that it’s a large ensemble piece and your fave may get short shrift. Unless your favorite is Ana de Armas, who is really the heart of the movie, allowing Johnson to imbue “Knives Out” with some wonderful political commentary. The Thrombeys claim to love Marta, even if they can’t remember which South American country she comes from, and Don Johnson gets a few razor sharp scenes as the kind of guy who rants about immigration
Acting, Story
Direction, Visuals
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Result number 8 of 12: < Back Back to results list Next >
Date: Tue 25 Nov 1823
Author: ARNOLD Thomas Kerchever
Last updated: 13th March 2012
Cambridge.
Tuesday Nov. 25. 1823
I could not send you an account of the Fellowship Examination (and its glorious result for our year), as you told me, in your last letter, that you were going to leave Varese in a few days, and gave me no direction. The successful candidates were all elected unanimously; so much so, that Judgson <1> informed me the evening before, that I was elected. Barnes cut Mathematics entirely, and also the English Verse. The Examination turned principally upon composition.
It is reported that Bagshawe met Barnes drenched in liquor a few days after the first of October, and eagerly inquired who were elected. 'It's all straight' said Barnes - 'all right on that suit' - and poor Bagshawe could make nothing out about it. His favourite exclamation here was, 'What a quilting we have given that lower year'!! -
Fisher of Catharine Hall has been spending some days with us here - he says that this last summer has cured him of his taste for Polar Expeditions.<2> They had great difficulty in getting out of the Ice.
I hope you will pay Cambridge a visit. How long do [you]<3> think of remaining in England?
Reynolds & Monk are married - the latter to a French girl, who is, according to Higman, <4> no better than she should be. All reports agree in stating that she is utterly without money, beauty, sense &c. He wishes to get pupils, and has taken a house for that purpose.
You must come here to see the new buildings at our own College & Ben'et.
When the Shetland Pilot went aboard the Discovery Ships, Fisher asked how 'the old Queen was going on' - Then some one inquired about Buonaparte <5> - then they heard of Lord Castlereagh's <6> death &c. When Fisher was here, he had very dim notions about the cause of the Greeks, <7> and was very much to seek in the Spanish War. <8> Let us see you here speedily.
Yr sincere Friend
T. K. Arnold.
W. H. F. Talbot Esq.
31. Sackvile [sic] Street
1. William George Judgson (1780-1825), Senior Dean 1816-1821, Senior Bursar 1821-1825.
2. Alexander Fisher was the surgeon on Captain Parry's 2nd Arctic Expedition, 1821-1823.
3. Text written off the edge of page.
4. Rev John Philips Higman (1793-1855), mathematician.
5. Napoleon I, Emperor of France (1804-1814/15).
6. Robert Stewart, Lord Castlereagh (1769-1822), politician. In November 1819, Castlereagh introduced in the House of Commons the severe measures that became known as the 'Six Acts'. Castlereagh, as the government's spokesman for civil matters in the House of Commons, took the blame for the repressive measures and lost his popularity ever since.
7. A reference to the Greek War of Independence (1821-1829).
8. There was a Spanish Civil War from 1820 to 1823.
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Tech Industry Braces for Cost Cutting, Layoffs. Who’s Most at Risk.
1 The public market is hurting
2 It’s a bad time to be a high-burn startup in need of VC funding
3 ‘We’re on the precipice’
It’s about to get ugly for the tech industry.
Startups and public companies are readying for a wave of cost-cutting and layoffs amid rough market conditions.
Inflation is soaring, public market valuations are dropping, and venture funding is drying up.
A lot can change in a few months.
In January, buzzy B2B financial-services startup MainStreet flew its entire staff to Maui for a weeklong working vacation at a glitzy Hawaiian resort. It had raised $60 million in a Series A funding round in 2021, and was gearing up for a similarly hefty Series B in the coming months, company executives told employees.
But a month later, Russia rolled its tanks into Ukraine, exacerbating economic upheaval across the globe and feeding a growing pessimism about the economic stability of the tech sector. When MainStreet’s Series B materialized it was significantly smaller than envisioned, and earlier this week the company laid off around 50 employees — roughly a third of its total staff, as Insider previously reported.
enjoyed an extraordinary boom during the pandemic, extending a multi-decade bull run. Giants like Amazon and Apple soared to record-breaking market caps, while private companies received vast cash injections from venture investment firms flush with capital and hedge funds hoping to get in early on the next Airbnb.
But now, amid rising interest rates, supply chain snares and rampant inflation, there’s a growing sense among tech industry figures that the good times are rapidly coming to a close, and a once-in-a-generation down-cycle is here.
Ugly layoffs may be brewing across the board, some investors and industry watchers warn — from public tech giants to scrappy startups.
“This will be in the top three corrections of the last 20 years — joining the 2008/2009 Great
and the 2000 dot-com crash,” said David Sacks, cofounder and partner at Craft Ventures.
The public market is hurting
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos
Jonathan Newton / The Washington Post via Getty Images
Some of the major players are already dialing back costs and hiring.
On Tuesday, Facebook informed employees of an extensive hiring freeze of engineers at the company, as Insider previously reported, with its CFO Dave Wehner warning that reduced hiring targets “will affect almost every team in the company.” And at the end of April, Amazon’s CFO Brian Olsavsky told reporters that “we quickly transitioned from being understaffed to being overstaffed” — an unusual shift from a company that for years has focused on hiring relentlessly to meet demand.
Amazon’s founder Jeff Bezos has also issued warnings about the shifting market. “Most people dramatically underestimate the remarkableness of this bull run.,” he tweeted on April 30. “Such things are unstoppable … until they aren’t. Markets teach. The lessons can be painful.”
It’s an abrupt about-face for the industry. High-flying tech companies like
, Okta, Block and Twilio more than doubled their workforces from 2019 to 2021, and their stock prices similarly increased twofold from the beginning of 2020 to November 2021. But since then, their stock prices have each lost about half their value.
also doubled its stock price from 2019 to 2021 but experienced a 70% drop since November, and the
provider has started cutting whole teams, including its newly created publication Tudum. Online trading app and fintech darling Robinhood, which went public in July 2021, has been even more aggressive, laying off 9% of its workforce — around 300 employees — in late April.
Some market-watchers view the ongoing sell-off as a return to more rational valuations after a pandemic-induced frenzy. “It’s a course correction because that hype and the peak usage was unsustainable,” said Nitish Mittal, a partner in the technology practice at research firm Everest Group. “A lot of this is dependent on the central premise that people are at home and using these services a lot of the time — that is just unsustainable as we recover from the pandemic.”
Even before the pandemic, high valuations and cash-rich companies created an environment of high-demand for engineers and technical talent — prompting significant wage inflation in the sector. Keith Hwang, managing director of tech investment fund Selcouth Capital Management, questioned whether these some of high-paid engineers may now be at risk of job cuts.
“We are now reaching a point where I think we’ve become overstaffed on the programming side,” he said. “In the ’80s, it was more about everyone wanting to go into banking because banking, you can make $100K out of undergrad. And you saw what happened to that — banking essentially collapsed. And now you’re seeing the same situation in software. Everyone and their mother wants to be a programmer now.”
It’s a bad time to be a high-burn startup in need of VC funding
In private markets, MainStreet isn’t the only high-flying startup to feel the heat.
This week, celebrity video app Cameo laid off 87 employees — roughly a quarter of its staff. Thrasio, a startup that aggregates hot brands on Amazon and has raised more than $3 billion, let go off roughly a fifth of its workforce recently. And startup-support firm On Deck has laid off 25% of its staff, around 72 people.
The reason for much of this, industry insiders say, is a retrenchment of capital available for private funding rounds. Investment hasn’t tried up entirely — multiple venture capitalists, who wished to remain anonymous, said they were actively working on closing deals — but there’s a level of caution that wasn’t there at the start of the year.
Venture money into startups totaled $47 billion in April 2022—the lowest amount invested in private companies in the past 12 months, according to a recent report from Crunchbase.
Startups can no longer rely on blockbuster funding rounds to keep the lights on, and need to reconsider their spend and find ways to make their existing cash piles last longer. For some, that will mean sweeping layoffs. For others, that means shutting down.
In April, one-click checkout startup Fast, which raised $120 million in venture capital, revealed to investors that it planned to lay off more than half of its staff, and look for an buyer. A few days later, the $11 billion startup shut down entirely. Although CEO Dom Holland admitted to hiring too fast, insiders said the startup overspent on marketing and lavish executive retreats.
Gossip about further planned layoffs among private startups are already percolating. “The next 6-8 weeks is going to be a bloodbath,” tweeted JD Ross, cofounder of music investment platform Royal. “I’m hearing rumors about a ton of companies preparing to lay off 20-40% of their team.” Delian Asparouhov, a principal at Founders Fund, wrote: “sign of the times i now hear about layoffs more often than new rounds.”
“The closer investors are to the public market, the more dispirited they are because the public market correction in growth stocks has been severe,” said Sacks, PayPal’s founding chief operating officer who also co-founded startup Yammer and sold it to Microsoft in 2012.
CEO and Founder of Yammer David Sacks
Earl Mcgehee/Getty Images for SXSW
“The people who are most depressed are the crossover investors, like hedge funds and so forth, because they’re actually in the public markets and they’re getting marked down every day,” Sacks added. “If you talk to venture investors, the growth investors are most nervous and the earlier stage investors are more insulated. Seed investing is probably the most insulated. The public market correction has been trickling down into the private markets since the beginning of the year.”
His predictions are already being realized in the funding environment for startups. Seed startups raised $3 billion in April 2022, according to Crunchbase, a 14% increase year over year. However, the amount of money invested in late stage startups was down by 19% year over year.
A number of veteran investors and entrepreneurs like Sacks have taken to Twitter in recent days to dispense wisdom. “An entire generation of entrepreneurs & tech investors built their entire perspectives on valuation during the second half of a 13-year amazing
run,” wrote Benchmark investor Bill Gurley. “The ‘unlearning’ process could be painful, surprising, & unsettling to many. I anticipate denial.”
‘We’re on the precipice’
Some investors are already drawing parallels to previous crashes in 2000 and 2007, issuing warnings reminiscent of Sequoia Capital’s infamous 2008 doomsday warning, “RIP Good Times.” In the midst of the financial crisis of 2008, investment titan Sequoia Capital cautioned founders to cut costs, and “spend every dollar as if it was your last.” The firm delivered a similar message to startups as the dot.com bubble burst in 2000.
“This is exactly what happened at the dot-com bust, where all these startups basically just couldn’t get funding because there was no funding. Everything dried up,” Hwang said.
“We saw a big implosion. It started with layoffs, and then it cascaded down into the economy … and that’s what it feels like right now, that we’re on the precipice of that.”
Others are cautioning against excessive alarmism.
“Big Tech taking a bit of a breather after a massive ramp up in terms of personnel over the past couple of years is a healthy step,” said Dan Morgan, senior portfolio manager at Synovus Trust Company. “I would be concerned if the large Silicon Valley tech companies started announcing massive layoffs like in 2001-2002. But, we are not anywhere close to that.”
Some expect this downturn to spark new innovations down the road. Mark Peter Davis, managing partner at VC firm Interplay, said that as employees at mature companies see their stock options go underwater as valuations drop — or they’re outright fired — he expects a “major uptick” in people setting out on their own.
“You’re likely to have a lot of great companies started in the next 12 months,” he said, adding that while layoffs are really difficult for individuals, “shaking lots of great talent out of the tree” will create opportunities for skilled workers to become entrepreneurs themselves.
“This will be one of those potential silver linings within all of this contraction,” he added. “There’s a real medium- to long-term optimism that comes out of this situation.”
Inbraces, Cost, Cutting, industry, Layoffs, Risk, tech, Whos
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Hindutva students’ wing ABVP mulls ways to commit Muslim genocide in India
Newly-leaked WhatsApp conversations of the BJP’s student wing Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) show how the Hindutva extremists are planning to carry out the genocide of Muslims in India.
The conversation appeared from Delhi Technological University’s (DTU) ABVP WhatsApp group called “ABVP DTU Freshers”.
Screenshots of the conversation revealed that many of its members had hd discussions on Muslim genocide, mass sterilization and mass conversion in India.
One member of the terror Hindutva group advised planning bomb blasts in Muslim-majority areas to “exterminate Muslims,” while another advocated for “buying or kidnapping” Muslim women to carry out “Bhagwa love jihad.”
Another student proposed that Hindu Mahasabha and other right-wing organizations “should create a course on how to marry Muslim females and convert them to Hinduism.”
A participant in the conversation called for the mass sterilization of Muslims in India. “They are sterilizing them and using artificial intelligence to track each person” the participant claimed.
Another member of the group called for mass conversation of Muslims. “Rather than thinking of mass genocide, think of mass conversion as Muslims were formerly lower caste Hindus who converted to Islam out of fear,” the person said.
The person also claimed that Muslims are converting Hindus to Islam in Punjab and Assam states.
Disclaimer: Hindutva students’ wing ABVP mulls ways to commit Muslim genocide in India - Views expressed by writers in this section are their own and do not necessarily reflect Latheefarook.com point-of-view
Students at AMU booked for discussing Babri demolition
Thieves of the soil
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Author: Athena
Character: Maximus Decimus Meridius “Gladiator”
Disclaimer: This is a work of fiction based on the characters established and defined in the movie and book titled Gladiator It is strictly for entertainment purposes. Please do not copy, publish or alter this work in any way without the written permission of the author.
Acknowledged thanks to Ilaria for her expertise, and the use of the characters, Sergius and Domitia ifrom the story, “No Longer a Boy”. Thanks to Sno for her beta.
Copyright 2003 Athena
Date 170 AD
A vigilant Maximus stood guard over Caesar’s daughter. For all the world, he wished he could draw her into his arms and kiss her deeply. He watched as the shadowy sunlight flickered through her fine hair. In the blur of the heat, it appeared to spark off flecks of gold into the air. Her graceful body swept through the cooling waves as her head tilted towards to the setting sun.
The trail of footprints in the sand stopped abruptly at the water’s edge. White foaming waves curled and lapped at Lucilla’s feet and shapely legs. She sighed with contentment.
Maximus raised his eyes to watch the sun begin to set over Poseidon’s Temple on the cliff top above. Its darkening shadow cascaded past the ragged rocks. The temple seemed to adopt an eerie stance as the sun set blindingly behind it. It was a perfect setting as the Gods retired for the evening.
Shifting his eyes back to the beach, he heard Lucilla’s soft voice calling him.
“Come and join me Maximus, it is so cooling,” the lady cooed.
The lady enchanted Maximus, but he could not join her. Charged with her protection it would be an act of treason to abandon himself and accept her request.
“My duty lies here, my lady,” Maximus spoke firmly, smiling a lop- sided grin. The gentleness in his voice did not escape Lucilla.
Marcus Aurelius had handpicked the 23-year-old tribune to accompany his daughter and guard her life. Maximus was honoured by the duty bestowed upon him. He had spent many hours with Lucilla and duty had spawned an attraction that was apparent to the both of them. The hours passed slowly between their meetings and it was as if time had sprung wings when they finally met. All too soon it was over and they were back in their separate lives.
Lucilla reached for Maximus’ hand as she trod the sinking sand beneath her feet. For a moment he held her to him, their eyes meeting, their breath close, but duty took over and he excused himself and released her gently. He had never beheld a more gracious woman.
Studying her protector she found him likened to the Gods she had learned of in childhood. He possessed strength, honour, a handsome face and a body that could have been chiselled from marble. She sensed his feelings for her and waited patiently for him to make the first move. Lucilla would have given everything to be loved by him, even though she knew it was forbidden.
Maximus checked the immediate vicinity before he spoke. “We must leave my lady, darkness is coming and you must return to safety.” He touched her gently whilst he helped her into the waiting carriage.
The two headed back towards the Legions’ camp in Sounion, just south of Athens in Greece.
Marcus Aurelius moved anxiously around his opulent quarters. The sun had set and his daughter should have returned by now. Hearing the noise of the carriage, he looked on as Maximus helped Lucilla alight. It was evident they had feelings for each other and as loyal as Maximus was, Caesar knew it was only a matter of time before nature overtook these two young people.
Lucilla bid Maximus and Caesar goodnight and made her way to her quarters. Her heart sang with the joy she felt in life. The joy was to be short lived. Caesar had other plans.
“Send the General to me!” Caesar ordered his guard.
The General arrived within minutes. In his mid thirties, he looked much older. His once good-looking face was scarred by battle and some felt his mind had been turned with all the years of killing. He had the unqualified respect of his Emperor and soldiers. In AD164-165 General Gaius Avidius Cassius captured the capital cities of Ctesiphon and Seleucia, but an epidemic forced the Romans to retreat and peace reigned. Nevertheless, he was undoubtedly a legend in his own lifetime.
“Sire.” TheGeneral saluted Caesar.
Caesar spoke with a sense of urgency in his voice.
“I have received a dispatch this day. There is an uprising in Armenia and it must be quelled. You must prepare to leave immediately. Order must be restored. Make your preparations and return to me later to discuss the battle plans.”
The General saluted and turned to leave. “Sire,” he bowed.
The General left swiftly and made ready the preparations to leave. He summoned Maximus, telling him that he was relieved of his duties and the legion would leave for Armenia as soon as they were ready.
Maximus reeled as the General relayed his orders. “What of my duties regarding Caesar’s daughter?”
“Those duties are revoked. Prepare to leave immediately.”
Maximus listened attentively, acknowledged the order and made his way to his quarters. He slept restlessly as his mind tussled with his new situation. He had hoped they would be stationed there for a while and his heart weighed heavily at the thought of not seeing Lucilla again.
He awoke early and took a last look around. A soldier never knew which battle would be his last, so he whispered a silent goodbye to the winds. As he did so, he noticed a bright-eyed robin staring at him from a tree. Unnaturally still, it appeared to gaze straight into his eyes. Maximus felt an unexpected warmth flood his body as he turned away. When he turned around again, the robin was gone. He heard no fluttering of wings. He was mystified.
By daybreak, they were ready to leave and began to break camp. The journey overland was as many before. The army travelled effortlessly, their movements disciplined and ordered. Morale was high, as usual. The army was undefeated. Victory was a forgone conclusion.
After many days marching, they finally had the city within their sights. The Infantry and Cavalry settled in their respective camps whilst the General and Maximus formed their battle plans. As much as they disliked each other, they respected the other’s ability when it came to battle.
The sleeping city would be stormed at daybreak. The Cavalry gathered at both gates whilst the Infantry prepared to storm the walls. Archers began the onslaught with their arrows of fire. Their stealth and cunning ensured that no one inside the walls knew what was happening until it was too late.
The legion stole silently into the slumbering city. Maximus led the secondary attack; crouching low, he moved like a panther,his sword at the ready. Fire was already gripping parts of the city causing fear and confusion. Citizens were killed as they slept. They were shown no mercy as they begged for their lives. Panic spread like wildfire as some tried to escape. By nightfall, the city was unnaturally silent and the stench of blood and death hung heavily in the air.
Carts were used to collect the bodies. The injured were killed. Only those who showed no resistance were allowed to live, with the exception of the woman Ayesha. The General had drawn his sword to spear her, but changed his mind. She would serve him well.
Order was restored. The city’s riches had been plundered and collected as taxes. Officers made camp in the empty houses.
Maximus took residence in one of the better dwellings. The battle had been long and hard and the Armenians had made a courageous, if pitiful attempt to save themselves. They were no match for the might of the Roman Army. The familiar scent of death and blood lingered on Maximus’ clothing. He blocked out the images of the dying women and children. Sitting heavily, he eased his weary body, as he summoned the strength to bathe in the warm water Cicerohad prepared for him.
Maximus scraped the dried blood from his body whilst he reflected upon the day. The warm water had turned muddy brown within seconds. “Roma Victrix”, he smiled to himself as he retired and slept the sleep of victory.
He arose early the next day and walked the short distance to the General’s new quarters. It was a comfortable dwelling set back off the road. As he entered the courtyard, he witnessed the cruellest of scenes. Four soldiers were beating and bullying a young woman, shoving her from one to the other whilst they laughed and mocked her. The largest soldier shook her aggressively shouting. “You will obey the General!”
The woman shook her head back, tossing a mane of black hair in an act of defiance.
“I would rather die!” She retorted.
The soldier laughed sadistically, looking round at the others. “Perhaps we should teach her a lesson, what do you think?” He snarled.
The woman was beautiful enough to have caused arousal in her oppressors. The second soldier nodded in agreement, as he removed his tunic and licked his lips in anticipation of what was to come.
The scene horrified Maximus. He watched in disgust as the soldier openly stroked his erect phallus.
“Soldier, what are you doing? STOP!” Maximus commanded, his voice low and filled with anger.
The four soldiers turned abruptly, shocked to see their superior officer in their midst.
The first solider stumbled his words out. “The General has ordered this, he wants her for his bed and she won’t obey him. He gave her to us… to change her mind.”
Maximus’ fury was plain to see as clenched his fists and stood squarely facing them.
“Go &endash; leave this place, NOW!” He ordered.
The first soldier did not wish to give up his prize so easily. “But, sir, the General orde……..”
Maximus did not allow him to finish. “I said, go now! I shall deal with the General. I take full responsibility for this.”
Maximus helped the woman to her feet, apologising for his men’s behaviour. The soldiers slunk away, obviously frustrated at the untimely intrusion. He beckoned a waiting handmaiden to tend the lady’s wounds. It was clear the lady was of noble birth and his heart went out to her. Maximus killed when he had to, but had no time for senseless cruelty.
Marching into the General’s quarters, he announced his presence as he stood to attention.
The General spun round. He was not surprised to see him. “You have come for your orders?”
“I have sir, but there is another matter I need to speak of first.”
The General looked bemused, “What troubles you Meridius?”
“I have just witnessed a scene of senseless brutality. The woman you have chosen.. and the soldiers who beat her – would have raped her had I not intervened. We are not barbarians sir, and we should not act as such!” His tone was defiant.
The General eyed the tribune, infuriated by his interference. He had planned to take the woman that night and was looking forward to the conquest. He glared at the young soldier.
Maximus possessed all the qualities he needed in a second in command and was the only one unlikely to betray him; but he was a little too moral for the General’s liking and needed to be taught a lesson. The General’s swift mind brought forth a solution. The tribune had interfered in business that was not his, and now he would pay the price.
Smiling to himself, he decided to teach this upstart a lesson. If he would defy his General, he would pay the price and perhaps lose some of his high-handedness into the bargain.
Speaking sternly and asserting his authority, he said, “I gave the soldiers an order. You have stopped them carrying it out, so now that order becomes yours. I want that woman in my bed and she will not come willingly. I command you to make her submit to my wishes. You have three days to make her ready and teach her the ways of Rome. If you do not succeed, she will die.”
Maximus was taken aback by these orders. He wondered what the Gods had in store for him. He had not expected this outcome, but could see the General was in no mood to be questioned.
“You have your orders. See to it they are carried out! You see yourself as so much more honourable than I, well, let’s see how honourable you are when three days have passed? Now leave me and attend to your duties. You have a busy time ahead of you.”
Maximus paced the nearby gardens, deep in thought. He often wished he were older and blessed with a little more wisdom. His hot head and honest nature were always getting him into trouble. He was not like the others and everyone knew it.
He calmed himself and made his way to the small room where the woman had been taken. He approached quietly so as not to frighten her further.
Watching her as she rose to her full height,Maximus breathed sharply as he witnessed her beauty. Her eyes and teeth appeared a brilliant white against her dark skin and her thick plaited hair resembled rope. She was older than he, nearer to the General’s age.
Her dark almond shaped eyes were curtained with thick lashes that sent shivers down his spine when she blinked. Her tilted nose appeared slightly misshapen above her full lips and Maximus could see she had taken a beating.
“What is your name? I am Maximus. I am not like the General, I shall not harm you.” His deep gentle voice did nothing to reassure the angry creature.
Maximus repeated the question. “What is your name lady? Let me help you?”
“I am Ayesha and I don’t want or need your help. I will not favour you or any of your kind. I despise you. You havetaken my home, and now you would have my honour. Over my dead body Roman filth,” she spat.
Maximus lowered his head and considered her seriously. “The General will have you killed if you do not submit madam;you would do well to co-operate.”
“I would rather depart this life.” Ayesha stated flatly.
Maximus stared hard. “That will happen if you disobey the General’s orders.”
“So be it!” Ayesha spoke defiantly, her eyes blazing with disgust.
Maximus sent for Cicero. He told him to attend to the lady and bring her to his quarters that evening. Watching them leave, his heart was heavy. He knew Avidius would not tolerate such disobedience, and was unsure he could persuade the woman. He had never encountered such spirit before.
The day passed slowly as Maximus tended his duties. There was much to do after the onslaught. The citizens were hostile and his duties proved difficult. Sometimes the glory of Rome was hard to reconcile. Some of his men were injured and needed his support. He comforted the dying and blessed the dead as he mourned their passing. Rarely had his mind been so filled with conflict.
Finishing his meal, Maximus prepared for his bath. He heard the door creak and the shuffle of feet as Cicero returned with Ayesha. Cicero was a compassionate man and said nothing as he stood beside his escort. Maximus noticed he was holding her up and acknowledged Cicero’s request to take over. Maximus looked aghast; she could barely stand on her own.
Already half undressed himself; Maximus slipped a strong arm around her waist. She winced as he touched her, but made no sound as he gently led her to his bed. The spirit and fire he’d seen previously had abandoned her. She simply stared straight ahead, her beautiful face expressionless.
“Where are you harmed?” Maximus pressed her gently.
Seemingly in a trance, Ayesha opened her dress revealing her bruised body. She was naked to his sight but it seemed not to matter, as if nothing was registering in her mind. Beauty shone from her marked body. She had refused to let anyone help her as her mind and body had slipped into shock.
“I’m sorry they did this to you, you are to stay with me now, but you will be returned to the General in three days.” Maximus murmured.
Just for a moment, he saw a flicker of emotion in her face, but as she drew in a deep breath, she stared blankly into space, her eyes blinking rapidly. Maximus spoke softly, trying to reassure her, and find some words to comfort her. Her plaited hair had come undone and trailed the floor as she sat down. She was the most beautiful vision he had ever seen.
Looking at the warm tub of water, Maximus slipped her dress from her shoulders, picked her up gently and carried her to the tub. To his surprise, she offered no resistance. He could feel the grime and swellings under his hands. She did not attempt to stop him as he laid her gently in the warm water. Watching her face relax he took pleasure in the comfort she was deriving from the warmth. Reaching for a cloth, he gently dabbed her arms and shoulders. Drawing the cloth across her neck, he watched the rivulets of water cascade down her full breasts. He felt himself become aroused and drew back. It was as if she sensed his reaction as her huge almond eyes fixed on his groin. Biting her lip, she choked back tears. The shock was wearing off and the reality of her circumstances was slowly dawning.
Drawing back, Maximus handed her the cloth and excused himself. What was he thinking of? She was his, he should just take her, she was a slave, and she must obey him. The General had ordered it.
Sitting on his bed, he found himself stroking his erect phallus. He waited for her to join him and when she did not, he returned to the bathtub. Ayesha had fallen asleep. Her long hair trailed the floor as her head hung over the end of the bath. Her rounded breasts peeked out from the water, the dark triangle of thick hair flattened and glistening below the water.
Maximus ached with desire as he woke her and helped her from the bath. “You will serve me,” he ordered her softly.
Ayesha looked directly into his eyes. “I will not.”
Maximus stood and threw his arms into the air, partly with frustration at her refusal and partly at her stupidity.
Ayesha recognised his frustration and acknowledged his kindness. “I cannot willingly give myself to any Roman. I am a lady of noble birth and I cannot concede.”
Wincing with pain, she caught her breath as her body crumbled to the floor. Her nakedness was driving Maximus wild as he gathered her into his arms and laid her on his bed. Covering her with a blanket, he lay beside her.
“Stay here tonight and rest. We shall talk in the morning.”
Ayesha studied his handsome face. She could sense the goodness in him. It shone out in contrast to the turmoil around her. Another time, another place, she could have loved this man. “I thank you, you are an honourable man.” As she spoke, she trembled and a flood of tears burst from her eyes. Embarrassed at her lapse and hurt beyond belief, she hid her face in Maximus’ chest. She felt his strong arms hold her gently and just for a moment, she felt safe. Quivering as he stroked her hair, she fought the urge to love him. He was the enemy – she must remember that.
They both heard a noise from outside the door. Maximus jumped up investigate. He found Avidius’ guard standing outside with his ear to the door.
The guard was a mere boy and Maximus questioned him as to why he was there. The boy told him he was supposed to listen for sounds of lovemaking and report back to the General.
Maximus frowned. It was obvious the lad was highly embarrassed, which was probably the reason Avidius chose him. Knowing it was pointless to argue he went back inside and closed the door behind him.
He could not help a grin crossing his face as he explained the situation to Ayesha. It seemed to ease the tension between them as Maximus asked her to ‘co-operate’. Ayesha smiled herself as she let Maximus lead her to the door.
“You must be convincing, my lady,” Maximus murmured, trying not to grin as he stroked her cheek with his hand and kissed her neck. Feeling her freeze at his touch he reminded her they were only play acting. Ayesha relaxed a little and even laughed when he said, “groan”.
Ayesha let out a small ooohhh. Maximus opened his eyes wide. “That would not convince anyone. It should be like this… ‘aaarghh’ as he pressed his lips against hers, seeking entry with his tongue. The two fell silent as they kissed. Maximus murmured an obligatory moan, as did Ayesha. His hand reached for her breast and she really did moan this time.
“Yes, that’s it, like that,” he growled as his knee pressed between her legs. He felt her instinctively push back against him as her face quivered against his thick neck.
She was almost naked and the contact of his knee was bringing her close to orgasm. Maximus continued to rub against her. He desperately wanted more intimacy, but told himself it could wait. He’d not expected her to respond and her breathing told him she was very close to orgasm. Whispering in her ear, he spoke, his voice ragged, “It is all right to let go. Let yourself come, there is no shame in it.”
“We are only acting,” she breathed, trying to stop the flood of feelings she was experiencing.
“Are we?” Maximus questioned as he pushed hard and felt her climax against him. “Are we?” He repeated.
“Moan,” he told her, as he felt her wetness on his bare leg. Ayesha complied, but this time she wasn’t acting. She fell against him, shocked and elated that her body had betrayed so badly. She vowed it would not happen again.
Maximus caught his breath and opened the door. He smiled contentedly at the guard, telling him to be on his way and report back to his master.
They returned to bed. Ayesha had regained her composure and play was over as she turned her back on Maximus and fell asleep.
Knowing he had lit a fire in her, Maximus left by the back door in search of his own release.
Ayesha woke in the early hours to find Maximus gone. Puzzled, she awaited his return. As her senses returned, she realised she was in her father’s old house. Her parents had died many years ago, but she had visited her uncle many times there. The City Elders had known of the impending invasion and had issued death potions, in case the worst came to the worst. Creeping silently, she made her way to a small jar by the window and clasped a handful of the sealed phials. She did not want to die, but perhaps it would be the only way?
Returning to bed and pretending to be asleep, she felt Maximus crawl in next to her and slip his arm around her. His heart was beating fast and he smelt… she knew that scent. He had had sex. Her heart softened towards him as she realised not only had he not forced her, but he had found his satisfaction elsewhere.
In the morning, they shared food and polite conversation. Ayesha was becoming more secure and less angry. Her demeanour had begun to soften somewhat.
“Thank you for your kindness Maximus. Was your lady satisfactory last night?”
Maximus’ face reddened at her candour and the fact his secret was out. He didn’t want to discuss it and simply nodded.
Breakfast over, Ayesha paced up and down the room. She knew she did not have a lot of time and fear was rapidly overtaking her. “Could you talk to the General?” She asked nervously.
“No, my lady, I am sorry. You are his,” he spoke, shaking his head. “I cannot disobey an order.” His voice was a matter of fact, but genuine.
Maximus was wracked with guilt and anger. He could not challenge his General, but he knew Ayesha might die by his hand. He had averted his eyes many times as he’d seen covered bodies leave the General’s quarters. The General was the cruellest of lovers with no regard for the women he used. It was not three weeks since a girl had been carried out unconscious. There had been talk of torture and ritual sex. Maximus shut his eyes tightly as he prayed to his God for answers.
The General had two women in his bed that night. He was always well prepared with a variety of ‘aids’ to enhance his pleasure. As he feasted on their bodies, he grinned evilly at the thought of Maximus seducing the lovely Ayesha. That ‘moral man’ would get his come-uppance. The General fucked the women fast and furiously, going from one to the other. One of the women made noises of pain which displeased him. She did not leave his quarters alive.
As the General committed his grotesque acts, Maximus prepared for bed with Ayesha. He was a skilled lover, he had been taught well by Sergius and remembered with affection his first love, Domitia. There had been many lovers since that time, and success had bred confidence in the young tribune.
But what if he convinced her, would he send her to her death?
Pushing aside his doubts, he ordered her to undress. Ayesha threw him a haughty glance as she turned her head away from him. Maximus moved deliberately as he yanked her dress from her body, leaving her naked. She was beautiful beyond description. He had no choice; the General would wreak revenge on both of them if Maximus did not carry out his orders.
Maximus removed his tunic and stood naked before her. Ayesha could not help but admire his body and handsome features. She felt herself grow wet just looking at him. She had been married, although it was some years since her husband died. Ayesha had been blessed with a loving relationship, which she missed. Looking at Maximus she felt a longing rise in her body. She remembered the feelings from the night before. They were just too strong to fight, but she must try.
“Lie down, my lady,” Maximus spoke firmly, gesturing at the bed.
Ayesha lay down and curled herself into a ball. Maximus lay beside her softly stroking her face and hair as his lips sought hers. She did not respond. Ayesha fought to control her body as it began to betray her yet again.
When Maximus could draw no response from his kisses, he moved his hand to her breast, caressing it firmly, taking the nipple in his mouth as it peaked beneath his skilled fingers. Sensing a gasp, he went to work on her other breast, using both his large hands to squeeze her nipples hard and biting them with his teeth. From the corner of his eye, he saw her legs part slightly. His hand circled her soft belly as his mouth sought hers again. He kissed her hard, his tongue probing her mouth and sucking hers so erotically, he felt her body jerk in response.
Ayesha had never felt anything like it. Her whole body was on fire as her tongue reluctantly danced with his. The hand on her belly moved lower, teasing and stroking her dark curls.
“Do you want me to touch you?” Maximus murmured huskily as his finger trailed the inside of her thighs. “Do you want to feel my hand inside you, filling you, bringing you pleasure?”
Ayesha fought back an answer, as she remained silent. She seemed powerless to stop him.
Undaunted, Maximus continued, one hand on her breast rolling her nipple, the other, dipping lightly into her soft folds. Finding her soaked, he smiled against her cheek. His tongue licked the inside of her ear and trailed her neck as she felt his fingers begin to explore her wetness. Circling lightly, he coaxed her bud from its hiding place whilst his fingers moved rhythmically inside her. Feeling her harden under his dextrous thumb, he increased his speed. Her body was sweating as she fought for control, but she had long passed the point where she had any. Moving determinedly Maximus increased the pace of his onslaught as his skilled fingers brought her to near orgasm. Her sex twitched violently as he brought her to the brink repeatedly, only to stop before her final discharge.
“Do you want this?” he asked huskily.
Still defiant, no reply came as Maximus left his fingers inside her and sought her bud with his mouth. Licking her delicately, he felt her buck hard as her sex convulsed around his fingers, gripping them like a vice. He felt a shuddering orgasm rip through her body and when he finally withdrew, he smoothed his hand over her body, resting his wet fingers on her quivering belly.
Ayesha lay trembling in the aftershock. Her husband had never loved her like this. She experienced both shame and pleasure as her body returned to reality.
Maximus was a soldier; a tactician and he had worked out his battle plan. Taking his erect phallus in his own hand, he stroked himself slowly, watching for Ayesha’s response. Licking his lips deliberately, he openly enjoyed his own sexuality as much as he had hers.
Her eyes fixed on the stroking motions of his strong hand. She could see fluid glistening from the slit of his engorged phallus. Ayesha looked in disbelief at his shameless act. His eyes were hooded as his tongue licked his lips. It was the most powerful act she had ever witnessed as she listened to the low moans coming from deep inside him. She wanted to mount him as she watched his face contort with pleasure from his already wet fingers. As his speed increased, he grew larger. Letting out a gasp, his head jerked back and Maximus let out a feral cry as his body stiffened and his seed spurted onto her naked thighs.
She had never seen this before; apart from the bullying soldier, it was surely the most erotic scene she had ever witnessed.
Breathing heavily, Maximus collapsed heavily onto his back, his body trembling as it calmed down. There was something explicitly sexual in this base act played out before this beautiful creature.
“Why?” Ayesha stammered.
“Because we are not all barbarians Ayesha. I put your pleasure before mine as a sign of my respect for you, and I did not force you. I believe I gave you great satisfaction.”
Ayesha nodded, confused and somewhat unfulfilled. She wanted him desperately, his large calloused hands, his sweet mouth and his generous sized phallus. It was all she could do to stop herself climbing on top on him and taking him inside her.
Maximus smiled as lay on his side and prepared to sleep. He knew his plan was working as he felt her body nestle into his back.
They both slept soundly and awoke wrapped in each other’s arms in the morning.
Ayesha felt a large hand stroke her tousled hair as Maximus lightly kissed the top of her head. “I care about you,” he whispered softly as his hand slipped down her body. She stopped him before he went any further; she felt sticky and soiled and her emotions were in turmoil.
Climbing off the bed, she drew the sheet around herself and found the warm water Cicero had left for them. Dabbing her bruised body, she touched her sex, remembering the ecstasy of the night before.
Maximus came up behind her. Stroking the back of her neck, he took the cloth from her and drew it across his aroused body. Turning her to face him, he took her hand and placed it on his hardened member. Her lower lip dropped as he claimed her mouth, his tongue licking the inside of her cheeks.
Ayesha felt herself flood as she took his velvet hardness in her hand. Maximus moved back and forth as if to encourage her, his hands reaching for the cheeks of her ass as he hoisted her off her feet, rubbing his hardness at her entrance.
Breathing ragged, Ayesha knew she could not resist this time.
“Take me to your bed.”
Maximus lifted her easily and carried her to the bed.
“Lay down, let me love you!” Ayesha breathed.
Maximus lay on his back and watched himself disappear into her warm welcoming mouth. His hands grasped her hair as she bobbed back and forth, sucking furiously. He felt his body respond instinctively as his mind clouded with desire. Pulling her off gently, he breathed, “please, just lick me, I don’t want this to be over so soon.
Ayesha pulled back, licked her lips and ran her tongue lightly up and down his length, circling the tip, watching him melt with desire beneath her. Her own fire was burning furiously as she ground into the blanket trying to find some release.
Maximus’ world went black as her fingers stroked his underside whilst her tongue licked his testicles. Once again, he stopped her -he wanted this to last.
Ayesha reached for his mouth, kissing him deeply, her hands savouring his broad shoulders and broad chest. His guttural noises told her he was close. She felt his fingers exploring her wetness as they had done the night before. This time, it was different. She abandoned herself completely, moving in time with his hand. “Lick me, please?” She begged.
Maximus needed no second invitation as he spread her wide and buried his head between her legs. His tongue flicked lightly over the sensitised area before plunging deep inside her. She tasted like honey as he drank from her body. He held her firm as he sucked hard, bringing her to a shuddering climax, licking, blowing, and teasing her to the brink of insanity. Ayesha let out a scream as her climax broke. Maximus held her quivering body while she recovered, but his own needs could wait no longer. In one swift movement, he pulled her on top of him and watched as he disappeared deep inside her. He remained still for a moment, savouring the exquisite feeling of her warmth.
Ayesha’s senses reeled as his broad girth filled her completely. She clung to his body, squeezing and contracting her walls, heightening both their pleasure. A second climax followed quickly as she gripped him like a vice. He grew harder and larger with every second as he raised his hips to meet her, caressing her breasts and body. Feeling him judder, she felt him become rigid and the spray of his seed deep inside her. He made an animal-like growl, the like of such she had never heard before as his noises rumbled to a slow halt.
Shivering, they both collapsed, trying to breathe, unable to move their spent bodies.
As Maximus’ breath returned, he heard Ayesha’s breathing deepen as she fell into a satiated sleep. Spent and exhausted, he followed suit.
When they awoke, they shared the sweetest of kisses as their naked bodies touched and comforted each other, but it was time to rise and work. Maximus had training and duties to attend to.
That evening Maximus returned. He could see Ayesha had spent the day worrying about her fate and whilst he wanted to ravish her, he wanted to get to know her.
Cicero had left their food and Ayesha suggested they dine in the small garden at the back of the house. Maximus had not even noticed it, but as they set their bowls on the sundial, they sat in the midst of greenery and scented flowers. It was a small haven in their time of turmoil.
Maximus said as little as possible about Avidius, not wanting to frighten her any more than he had to.
Ayesha told of how she grew up in this house until her parents died and her uncle moved in. By then, she had married her husband and was happily settled.
Maximus allowed her to continue without interruption; gladly listening to her life unfolding before him. Drinking wine, he relaxed and enjoyed the cool of the evening. Watching her was so pleasurable as she laughed a little with the effects of her wine. Suddenly she went silent and stared at him.
Furrowing his brow, he asked, “What?”
Shaking her hair loose, she untied the bows on her shoulders. Her dress slithered to the floor leaving her naked. Sweeping the bowls noisily from the sundial, she sat on top of it, spreading herself for Maximus to see.
Within moments, Maximus was naked as he kneeled down and scraped his beard along her inner thighs. His fingers exposed her as his tongue began its exploration. She writhed so violently, he stopped, grinned at her and spoke huskily, “Be still.”
His hands worked their magic on her body as her honey trickled over his face. Standing, he pushed her gently back as he twisted her nipples and kissed her thoroughly. The scent of the night and the cool air added to their abandon.
“I want to take you from behind,” Maximus breathed.
“I never…”
“Well, I have; turn over for me,” he spoke softly, his large hands caressing her back and buttocks, preparing her for their joining. His hand stroked her as he described what he was about to do. She shivered at his deep voice. He told her it would feel different and she would climax, but from inside. He watched her nod as he guided himself smoothly inside her.
Maximus was right. It felt much fuller this way and as he started to move, she became aware of his tip hitting a spot inside her. He didn’t reach it every time, but listened as she responded to his thrusts. Finding the spot, he repositioned himself at an angle that struck her with each thrust. Feeling her body convulse beneath him, he knew he had found what he was looking for. Ironically, he climaxed first. As his liquid shot into her, her sex convulsed as she climaxed around his softening phallus. It was a perfect coupling, even if they had to be fairly athletic to avoid pointed dial.
Wrapped tightly in each other’sarms they leant against the sundial. The sun was down and the sky had darkened. A chill filled the air as Maximus led Ayesha back inside. He was beginning to care deeply for her and experienced an unprecedented sense of dread at the thought of losing her.
They talked late into the night. Ayesha told of her soldier husband who had been lost in battle during the early years of their marriage. She told Maximus how she much she loved him and how she almost died herself when her daughter was stillborn.
“I have been so lonely. I loved my husband but I barely knew him, and as for my child?” Her eyes brimmed as she spoke, not looking at him. “The only consolation that I have, is that I came from a wealthy family and could keep myself in the manner I was accustomed to.
In the dim light, she posed a thoughtful question. “Enough of me, how did you become so skilled… in bed?”
Maximus related the tale of meeting *Domitia, thinking she was a boy soldier and finding himself having sex with her when the truth came out.
“It wasn’t very good for her the first time, and I thought there should be more to it, so I asked Sergius,” he spoke, blushing slightly at the memory. “Sergius was happily married and he taught me how women should be loved.”
“What about your father, could not have asked him, did he not instruct you?”
“My father was a soldier and I saw very little of him when I was growing up. From what I remember, he was a good man and I think he would have instructed me, had he not died.”
“So we both bear our losses?”
“Yes.” Maximus nodded
“You are indeed a most unusual man, Maximus. Sergius taught you well; would you like to demonstrate again?”
Maximus drew her into his arms and kissed her deeply, drowning in the pleasure of the two of them together. They made slow tender love until the morning broke. It was surely the most wonderful experience either of them had ever had.
As the time drew near for Ayesha’s departure, she knew she would have to come up with a plan. She wanted to keep Maximus in the dark about her plans. What he didn’t know could not hurt him.
When Maximus left that morning, Ayesha called Cicero to their quarters. She put forward her plan to poison Avidius, not kill him, but put him out of action and make her escape through the old underground tunnels.
Cicero listened intently and breathed a sigh of relief that something was being done. He knew how much his Master loved this woman and he would have done anything to help them.But he feared getting his master into trouble so he kept everything secret.
Ayesha planned an escape route to a distant relative in a neighbouring town. Cicero would meet her at the exit from Avidius’ dwelling and procure a sturdy steed for the journey. She planned to escape during the middle of the night, and be well on her way before anyone realised something was amiss.
The fateful morning arrived. Their last coupling proved soft and tender; they had ceased fighting their destiny. Maximus held Ayesha close. She felt a small tear trickle down her forehead, and marvelled at the mighty soldier who shed a tear for her. But she had vowed to keep her plans secret.
Trying to reassure him, she spoke. “I have some poison. I will use it if I have to, but I will give Avidius what he wants. I won’t fight him and I will try and please him &endash; and perhaps he will let me go when he has done with me?
Maximus winced at the thought of Ayesha in bed with him. Closing his eyes tightly, he prayed to his God.
A last lingering kiss, hands touching for the last time, Maximus watched as Ayesha was led away by the General’s guard. Burying his head in his hands, he sobbed softly as soon as they were out of earshot.
The General was busy but had ordered Ayesha to be prepared for him that night. Her day was spent bathing and preening her body. He was already part drunk when she was taken to him. She could see the lust in his eyes as he ordered her to strip.
Ayesha put her plan into action.
“Sir, I hear you are the most mighty of lovers, the greatest of all men.”
He smiled at her flattery.
“I am a little nervous in such a great presence, may I have a drink to relax me? I want to be sure to please you, sir!”
Avidius was delighted at the unexpected turn of events. Maybe he should have given Maximus more credit.
Pouring a drink for each of them, he beckoned her close. Turning towards her discarded garment, she reached for the poison and tipped a small amount into the General’s goblet. Drinking her own wine in one gulp, she watched Avidius mimic her action as he stroked himself and beckoned her head towards his erect phallus.
The sight of him turned her stomach, but she knew the poison would act quickly as she lowered her head and prepared to take him in her mouth. As she began to swallow him, she felt his upper body buckle as he toppled back onto his bed. His eyes stared venom at her; he knew what she had done. Just before he passed out, he spoke.
“You whore, I will kill you for this.”
Ayesha grabbed her dress and headed for a secret passageway leading to the tunnels. Down the secret stairway, through the dark dusty tunnels, her heart beat like a trip hammer as she ran like the wind. Her fear was so great she kept looking behind to see if anyone was following. Hearing a noise, she stopped in her tracks, but it was only a sleeping bat flapping from the shadows. It scared her witless.
She and Cicero had worked their plans carefully and she found him and the steed waiting for her at the secret exit in a nearby cave.
“You are a loyal servant Cicero; Maximus will thank you well for this.”
Cicero smiled. He loved his Master and would have done anything to serve him.
Hugging him tightly and thanking him for his kindness, she mounted her horse and set off on her journey.
By morning she had arrived at her cousin’s dwelling in the neighbouring village. It was a small farming community, a valuable resource to the Army. It was allowed it to continue unharmed in return for regular supplies and rations.
Avidius slept a drugged sleep. His guards assumed he was having the night of his life. No one knew what had taken place until the morning came and Avidius woke feeling extremely unwell.
As the truth dawned and he remembered what had happened, he screamed for the guards and Maximus. Both arrived and stared in incredulity at the sight before them. It was evident that Maximus knew nothing of the girl’s plans. He was too honest to lie, the stupid brat.
In the midst of his ranting, a dispatch arrived from Caesar ordering him to return to Sounion to meet with him before he departed for Rome. There was no choice but to leave Maximus in charge of the Legion, Avidius knew he would do his duty.
As he handed down his orders, his face twisted as he spoke. “You have crossed me, Maximus and you will be punished on my return.” With that, he left for his meeting.
Avidius ordered the woman to be found. He despatched part of his private guard to search the neighbouring towns. The woman was to be killed on sight. His aide Brutus was ordered to take charge of the search and ultimate execution.
Maximus explained his circumstance to Quintus and asked his old friend to take command in his absence. Finding Cicero, Maximus managed to extract the truth from him. Hugging his servant, he thanked him and slipped into the saddle. He mounted one horse and tethered a second to the reigns of the first. Argento was asturdy mount. They would travel swiftly. Riding like the wind, he reached the village before the soldiers. Ayesha had left word where he should be taken if he arrived. Her cousin Petra approached him quietly and led him to the underground cellar where Ayesha was hiding.
The lynch party were hot on the heels of Ayesha. Brutus was a protégé of Avidius and had been schooled well. He was equally as evil as his Master and had always detested the pious Meridius. He was going to enjoy making him, and the whore, suffer.
Brutus arrived at the village but waited until nightfall, lulling Maximus andAyesha into a false sense of security before he struck.
Maximus and Ayesha took the time to plan a strategy. She was to travel to his uncle in Spain. Time was short; there was no time for loving. They stole kisses and embraces as they hurried their plans.
Petra was preparing the evening meal, when she suddenly felt an arm around her and a knife at her throat. She choked in shock. She had heard nothing.
“Where are they?” Brutus demanded.
The woman made no reply. Brutus left her half strangled on the floor as he rampaged through the small dwelling. Drawing back a curtain, he discovered a set of steps leading to the cellar. With his right arm raised, he summoned his men who bolted down the stairs behind him. Their armour clanking, they announced their presence to Maximus and Ayesha who were hurriedly loading up a cart in the cellar which lead to an underground tunnel. The pair spun round. Ayesha gasped in fear as she saw what the fates had in store for her.
Brutus had given strict orders that Maximus must not be killed. They overpowered him and led him away. “The General will deal with you later,” Brutus spat.
Maximus knew there was no point trying to reason with Brutus; he was no better than Avidius and they were almost equal in rank. He fought like a tiger as they dragged him away. It took five soldiers to hold him as Brutus’ eyes gleamed in readiness for the kill. Ayesha’s sad eyes would haunt Maximus for a long time. The remaining soldiers headed towards the trembling lady, but it was too late. Brutus watched in horror as she collapsed before him. She had swallowed her own poison and lay lifeless on the ground.
Maximus had known she would do that. As the tactician he was, he knew that they had covered every eventuality and he was relieved she had not died at the hands of Avidius’ mob. Whispering silent goodbyes, he quelled his sobbing heart as he was taken back to camp. Maximus knew his value to Avidius; he would have to take whatever punishment the bastard metered out, but he would be allowed to live.
On Avidius’ return, Maximus was dragged from his bed in the middle of the night and beaten to the point of collapse. Avidius took great pleasure administering the punishment. Reigning blow after blow, he spoke. “The next time you disobey me or meddle in my private affairs, I will have you killed.” Maximus knew he meant it and was lucky to escape with his life.
Life eventually returned to normal. Training, discipline and new plans all helped Maximus grieve his loss. He kept himself occupied and relived his nights of passion with Ayesha. Would he ever find that kind of love again, he wondered?
It took some time to recover from the loss of Ayesha, but Maximus allowed himself to gain strength from his experiences. He cried each night for his lost love and prayed to his Gods for strength and peace in her passing.
It was late one night, some months later, and Maximus had had a very hard day. He went to bed and, his heart in turmoil; he fell into a deep sleep.
He awoke to see a colourful robin perched at the end of his bed. He tried to speak, but no words formed as the robin spoke to him in an unearthly voice.
“Maximus. I am your guide. You need not fear. You must mourn your loss and let it pass. The Gods have determined your fate and Ayesha was not to be part of it. You have many tests ahead of you and the Gods will be with you. You are chosen and you are to go into the world and meet your destiny. Do you understand?”
Maximus nodded as he listened in wonder.
“We shall keep you safe until we meet in Elysium. Now grow in strength and go forth.”
Maximus awoke the next day. He felt much better. The sun was shining and the skies were clear. Avidius had found a new playmate and was leaving him alone. They would break camp soon and life would move on. He was a changed man. These life experiences had altered him, made him stronger and wiser. This had been what he had sought, although he wished there had been an easier way of achieving it.
As he walked the streets, he saw a robin perched in a tree. It looked straight at him. The Gods were with him. He would fulfil his destiny, whatever that may be.
Smiling, he entered a new era of his life. It would be some time before he would see the robin again, but see it, he would.
© Athena 2003
*Domitia and Sergius are characters taken from Ilaria’s story, No Longer a Boy.
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The Business Of endless lake online
Fort Worth Star Telegram”Two days before the 2022 NFL Draft, Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones declared to the world that he had turned over a new leaf regarding players with character concerns or red flags. ” It has also repeated false claims that it is “protecting” ethnic Russians in Ukraine from “genocide” perpetrated by Ukrainian forces. The Steelers signed safety Damontae Kazee to a one year contract. Poll/ 54% of Americans say the Supreme Court should uphold Roe v. They yahoo boys are gradually filling the Banking sector and you can see what’s happening there already. Sign up to view our weekly e editions each Wednesday with just a click. “This says that we are gaining equality and being treated like any other citizen of the state of Israel in all matters including the flyover which will go over our houses and not just certain cities,” he said. Biden blasts ‘radical’ Roe draft, warns other rights at risk. The latest global news, sport, weather and documentaries. But $40 mil suddenly doesn’t seem like that much now that, per NFL Network, the Green Bay Packers and MVP QB Aaron Rodgers have agreed to terms on a four year, $200 million deal with a huge $153 mil guarantee that makes him the highest paid player in NFL history. 120 from Commanders through Saints Brandon Smith, LB Penn StateRound 6: No. Many are expecting a trade from Los Angeles. Azov is a far right all volunteer infantry military unit founded in 2014 to fight pro Russian separatists in the Donbas region of eastern Ukraine. Where does every team stand after making their picks ➡️. We usecookiesfor a number of reasons, such as keeping FT Sites reliable and secure,personalising content and ads, providing social media features and toanalyse how our Sites are used. Kenneth’s – God and Nature. He’s a +200 2 1 favorite to go first. And indeed, rumors now have Dallas on the long list of teams at least thinking about chasing the Seattle all timer linebacker Bobby Wagner, cut this week by the Seahawks. On the ground, whenever and wherever news happens. As we reported earlier, large parts of the western city of Lviv are understood to be without power after Russian missiles hit three power stations. On Tuesday, Biden warned that a “whole range of rights” are in jeopardy if it holds. Vance’s win ends an exceptionally bitter and expensive primary contest that, at one point, saw two candidates nearly come to blows on a debate stage. Amanda Abbington says fiance Jonathan Goodwin now uses a wheelchair after a stunt went wrong.
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Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, the country’s highest ranking Jewish elected official, commented on Twitter that “it’s chilling to see Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov resort to antisemitism and Holocaust disinformation to defend Putin’s war crimes. The Forum isn’t just an arena. Potentially violent and abusive men are offering accommodation to Ukrainian women, BBC News learns. Nurse signed a multiyear extension with the Toronto Raptors in 2020 and has two seasons remaining on his deal. But he does have some skins on the wall as an NFL starter, and on Friday the DFW native visited with the Cowboys. 171 from Packers: Luke Wattenberg, C WashingtonRound 6: No. The use of Slapps is not confined to Russians but one of the most notorious recent examples, characterised as such by MPs as well as free speech campaigners, related to Putin’s People, a book written by the journalist Catherine Belton about the Russian leader. On 6–8 March 2017 Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, visited Israel for discussions on a wide range of important health topics. A decision to overrule Roe would have sweeping ramifications, leading to abortion bans in roughly half the states, sparking new efforts in Democratic leaning states to protect access to abortion, and potentially reshaping the contours of this year’s hotly contested midterm elections. And now the New Orleans Saints are doing the same thing, with NFL Network reporting that both the Panthers and the Saints have made trade offers to Houston with plans to personally meet with Watson in order to persuade him to waive his no trade clause. Find out more about how we use your information in our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy. 62 Bryan Cook, S CincinnatiRound 3: No. Inside the Lakers coaching search: Will they learn from problems of the past. Primary takeaways: Trump passes test as kingmaker in Ohio. Broadcasting from the BBC News headquarters in London, BBC WORLD NEWS brings you current news developments from across the globe. Nurses play an important leadership role in the multidisciplinary teams that implement hospitals’ guidelines for emergency response. A Steelers girls flag football pilot program, which aims to encourage local high schools to sanction girls flag football, officially kicked off on Sunday. @monetwitanisays I thought I was the only one that has been experience this although I experience this more with Yahoo Mail. Articles originally came from news services such as the Associated Press, Reuters, Fox News, Al Jazeera, ABC News, USA Today, CNN and BBC News. That’s why advocates say they’ll have the most to lose if abortion is outlawed in those states. No one should expect to make money from the picks and predictions discussed on this website. Associated Press research shows that if the Court allows states to ban abortions, minority women will bear the brunt of it. @wespitman1960 @Yahoo liver problems now in younger recipients. Applications are being accepted for the newest cadet class at the West Virginia State Police Academy. Mariupol Deputy Mayor Sergei Orlov told the BBC that the evacuees were making slow progress and would probably not arrive in Zaporizhzhia on Monday as hoped. @dean wescott @tlthe5th @Yahoo Russia has no right to talk after actively putting bounty’s on us service members in afghan. Then comes mandatory minicamp for veterans, June 14 16.
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MARCH 24 DRAFT ’23 SET The NFL has now locked into the dates for the 2023 Draft, scheduled to take place in Kansas City, announcing it will be held April 27 29. The Pittsburgh Steelers GM candidate would love to come back to the Steel City. 24 Tyler Smith, OT TulsaRound 2: No. Full coverage at TexansDaily. The Week™ is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Covering thought leadership in journalism. The app was one of the winners of 2014 Apple Design Awards. 📈 A good weekend in New York🤨 Patriots stick to their strategy📲 Grading every team’s 2022 class. The content on this site is for entertainment and educational purposes only. Vance has since said he was wrong and, like most of his rivals, tied himself to the former president, eagerly courting his endorsement and running on his “America First” platform, underscoring the extent to which the GOP has transformed in his image. They make it all possible. Com is a registered trademark of CBS Interactive Inc. “It makes it easier for your audiences to understand what happening in the video and makes the video more accessible for all audiences,” she said. 48 from Chargers Jaquan Brisker, S Penn StateRound 3: No. There are the dead soldiers, apparently Russian, four of them arranged in a Z like the military symbol found on Russian armored vehicles, visible to the Russian drones that continuously buzz overhead. And what https://gamesinto.com/717/08/16/endless-lake/ did the Titans get. ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported the Hall of Fame coach is “significantly involved” in the Lakers’ search for a replacement for Frank Vogel. And now, we’re in a pandemic that has brought another huge blow to the U. No one knows just how high the central bank’s short term rate must go to slow the economy and restrain inflation. The proprietary jackpot linking system from the small Las Vegas equipment provider AGS will provide larger jackpots for players of the Palms table games. “I have been trying to figure out the algorithm since we got on,” she said. 129 Jake Ferguson, TE WisconsinRound 5: No. Tell me you’re reporting the issue, DM me for my email. TikTok videos that touch on topics like climate change, social justice, student loan debt, and personal finance do well, too. Wade cas e that legalized abortion nationwide. The Pittsburgh Steelers add 10 more rookies to their roster. Many focus their attention on. Healthiest Communities. APRIL 30: KAZEE OUT Free agent safety Damontae Kazee is signing a one year deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers,.
Patrick Mahomes vs Ben Roethlisberger: wild card appearances, stats and records
His backing of Trump and Breitbart had caused controversy inside the hedge fund. I finally had to physically disconnect the lines to stop him calling into the system. A Division of NBCUniversal. The latest in the sports world, emailed daily. The content on this site is for entertainment and educational purposes only. 148 from Bears Khalil Shakir, WR Boise StateRound 6: No. All advice, including picks and predictions, is based on individual commentators’ opinions and not that of Minute Media or its related brands. Nurses play an important leadership role in the multidisciplinary teams that implement hospitals’ guidelines for emergency response. For weeks, much of upstate New York has been in the high alert orange zone, a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention designation that reflects serious community spread. As Depp Heard trial shifts to her side of the case, judge rejects motion to dismiss. By DAVID SIDERS and ADAM WREN. Visit BBC World News website >. Mike DeWine on Tuesday won his party’s nomination for a second term in office and will face Democrat Nan Whaley this fall after he overcame conservative anger of his strict pandemic policies and notable rifts with former President Donald Trump. The 2021 22 season did not go. Yahoo is part of the Yahoo family of brands. Clarence Thomas, Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett voted with Alito after hearing oral arguments in December, while Stephen Breyer, Sonia Sotomayor, and Elena Kagan are working on one or more dissents. News is a news website that originated as an internet based news aggregator by Yahoo. Upon launch, MediaWeek reported that Yahoo is hoping to skew more toward a female demographic with omg. For others, a devastating loss. Palestinian militant group claims responsibility for killing Israeli guard.
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US Iran standoff amid stalled nuclear talks – Jerusalem Studio 686Seven years after Iran reached a nuclear deal with the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, Germany and the European Union, the talks over the revival of the agreement which was breach. 107 from Lions through Browns Dameon Pierce, RB FloridaRound 5: No. OTAs May 24 25, June 1 2, June 6 7, June 9 10. The WHO’s 13th General Programme of Work GPW is designed to help the world achieve the Sustainable Development Goals SDGs – with a particular focus on SDG3: ensuring healthy lives and promoting well being for all at all ages by 2030. Health literacy is defined as the capability of an individual to access, understand, appraise and use health related information, and limited health literacy can have significant health consequences. @BedemasiAdam Yahoo boys please you guys should try and be pricing polo on the market. Mazars says it can no longer stand behind 10 years of the former president’s statements. They recently used music “The Juice by Mr Fingers” that’s been featured in nearly 27,000 videos in a TikTok following a journalist taking her mother to get a Covid 19 vaccine. Beijing has been on high alert for the spread of COVID 19, with restaurants and bars limited to takeout only, gyms closed and classes suspended indefinitely. Yahoo Messenger has now shut down, but users will be able to download their conversation history till the end of November. It has given people the chance to learn, connect, and even earn. In 2016, Bannon said he wanted to turn Breitbart News into “a platform for the alt right”.
Black Senator calls Joy Reid ‘vile’ for Supreme Court vote comments
Whatever the outcome, the Politico report represents an extremely rare breach of the court’s secretive deliberation process, and on a case of surpassing importance. Here’s how you can transfer email data and contacts from Yahoo mail and HotMail to Gmail. Senate race, JD Vance, won Tuesday after trailing in the polls just three weeks ago. The subway authority in a brief message said only that the measure to shut. “I don’t anticipate many places, if any, going back to mask mandates unless we see overflowing hospitals — that’s what would drive mask mandates,” said Professor David Larsen, a public health expert at Syracuse University in upstate New York, whose own county is currently an orange zone. APRIL 30: KAZEE OUT Free agent safety Damontae Kazee is signing a one year deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers,. How to live with COVID 19 was the main topic on the agenda at a virtual meeting of 34 Member States of the WHO European Region. Just when you thought the NFC QB path might be clear for Dak Prescott and company. For the second straight season, James ended the year dealing with an ankle injury. Lebanon Pre Election analysis – Jerusalem Studio 687Please join us on Tuesday 10 May 2022 at 9:15 PM for the full episode. After addressing the future in Round 1, the picks in Rounds 2 3 focused on the team’s present. We’ve heard now that the fire has been extinguished, but it is extremely concerning that forces are prepared to do this. And the only way they can do that is to convince the rest of league that they are not as desperate to trade Westbrook as everyone believes.
Thousands Turn Out for NYC Protests on Abortion Rights as SCOTUS Confirms, Condemns Leak
@tigr9773 @gnuman1979 @Yahoo They’re trying very hard to frame it as a culture war issue, but it won’t work. After toiling away for three seasons in the early years of the Cleveland Cavaliers’ rebuild following LeBron James’s departure, he became the sage veteran that the young Cavs. Tell me you’re reporting the issue, DM me for my email. The AR SDK – from RYOT, Verizon Media’s Emmy Award® winning content studio and innovation lab – makes it easier and more cost effective to produce XR content, supports monetization through AR ads, and provides access to state of the art AR audience engagement analytics. Chief Justice John Roberts said he had ordered an investigation into what he called the “egregious breach of trust” in leaking the draft document, which was dated to February. Vivienne Sievers, 14, right, protests outside of the U. One evacuee said she went to sleep at the plant every night afraid she wouldn’t wake up. @Gurpreet EC @Yahoo Your Mail Are Not Working. Updated by the minute, our Dallas Cowboys 2021 NFL Transaction Tracker: News and views on the roster building effort. It was reported that Rudy Giuliani was allegedly unmasked on season seven of The Masked Singer. Which ones transformed the most over the course of the weekend, for better or worse. The ONS figures reveal that in England, around one in 30 people in private households are estimated to have had the virus in the week to 26 February, or 1. President elect Donald Trump has announced two key White House positions: RNC chairman Reince Priebus as chief of staff and the controversial appointment of Stephen Bannon, executive chairman of Breitbart News, as chief strategist and senior counselor. But $40 mil suddenly doesn’t seem like that much now that, per NFL Network, the Green Bay Packers and MVP QB Aaron Rodgers have agreed to terms on a four year, $200 million deal with a huge $153 mil guarantee that makes him the highest paid player in NFL history. HBO became TV’s biggest feud in years. Sign up to view our weekly e editions each Wednesday with just a click. In February, Colombia’s Constitutional Court legalized abortion until the 24th week of pregnancy. But the Falcons on Saturday have agreed to terms with Cordarrelle Patterson, their do everything offensive star. 00 or more to receive this gift as our way of saying “thank you. You may click on “Your Choices” below to learn about and use cookie management tools to limit use of cookies when you visit NPR’s sites. There is the charred body of a man, unidentifiable, propped on an anti tank barrier made of crossed I beams outside a town that has been under the control of both sides in recent days. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. No one has heard any denial or any justification from Moscow. No, Elon Musk did not reinstate Donald Trump on Twitter. Police later identified the suspect in the battery as Kamara, and he was arrested without incident. Entertainment and Arts. Sportsnaut”There was some belief Baker Mayfield could be traded shortly before the 2022 NFL Draft began, and if not then, it would happen at some point possibly on Day 2 once teams knew whether they missed out on their draft targets. 70 from Panthers Chad Muma, LB WyomingRound 5: No. We stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Ukraine but also with our dear friends here in Poland, who are working really night and day, we can all see this, under incredible circumstances.
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Earlier on Tuesday, when the Seahawks traded Russell Wilson to the Broncos, an NFL source suggested to us that the next Seattle move would also be “end of an era” caliber. The 6 5, 320 pounder from Trinity High in Euless and then the University of Utah signed with the Colts last year but he tore his ACL in late August. It comes after the Kremlin accused the BBC of playing a “determined role in undermining the Russian stability and security”. The issue: you lied and damaged Johnny. 1 spot in the rankings. The main event of the NFL offseason will surely. South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a brief statement that the launch was made off the North’s eastern coast but gave no further details. The settlement reached in a San Francisco court covers about 1 billion of those accounts held by 200 million people in the US and Israel from 2012 through 2016. Israeli wedding goers in 2015 celebrated an arson attack that killed a Palestinian toddler and his parents. Media reports said the Bahawalpur bench of the Lahore High Court on Tuesday directed the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority to immediately block nine websites. The BBC will “temporarily suspend” the work of all its BBC News journalists and support staff in Russia. 217 James Houston, DE Jackson StateRound 7: No. Jones defended the pick during a press. “Subtitling has proven to really help us when we’re going through the editing process and making sure our content is accurate. ” he said to fellow members of his tribe in an audio message The Associated Press has reviewed. Lavrov responded: “I could be wrong, but Hitler also had Jewish blood. In this week’s Football Morning in America, Peter King goes inside the Ravens’ NFL draft room during a pivotal fourth round.
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First round draft pick Kenny Pickett will wear No. By NICHOLAS WU and BETSY WOODRUFF SWAN. Here inside The Star, Dallas does not really think that. Takeaways from the races. 1 headliner Deshaun Watson, the hometown guy opting for a Friday trade from Houston to Cleveland. Her hair was platinum and pulled tightly into a bun. Cam you tell me what my pw is at my email Jnglist07 Ty. From pushing into more populated areas as it fed on the state’s drought parched landscape. Hooker played 15 games for the Cowboys last season and registered one interception and 44 tackles. Humanitarian coordinator for Ukraine says 101 women, men, children, and older persons left the Azovstal steelworks. Predictions for Dallas rookies after 2022 NFL Draft ➡️. The Pittsburgh Steelers add a second rookie QB with their last pick. 167 Daron Bland, CB Fresno StateRound 5: No. The Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant has been seized by Russian military forces, according to regional authorities, after a fire sparked by overnight shelling burned for several hours at the largest facility of its kind in Europe. A decision to overrule Roe would lead to abortion bans in roughly half the states and could have huge ramifications for this year’s elections. @MarcusPun @Irminsul17 @Yahoo I’m hoping for circulatory issues that starve his brain of O2, to the point he is still aware of what he was but ends up a drooling bedridden idiot for another 10 years. Clutch Points”The Utah Jazz’s season came to a disappointing end once again Thursday night after a six game series with the Dallas Mavericks. The WHO’s 13th General Programme of Work GPW is designed to help the world achieve the Sustainable Development Goals SDGs – with a particular focus on SDG3: ensuring healthy lives and promoting well being for all at all ages by 2030. 203 from Bills Trestan Ebner, RB BaylorRound 6: No. The Los Angeles Lakers will need to find a new head coach before the start of the 2022 23 season.
Kendall Jenner ditches eyebrows, frees nipples at Met Gala 2022
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Police looking for suspect after Anthem man shot while recording car drifting video
We’ve had to plan within the constraints that we unavoidably face. Everyone has the right to expect clean care, whether that care is administered in a field hospital, a care home or a state of the art operating theatre. The network declined to confirm the news first reported by the New York Post’s Page Six. Ron DeSantis, who recently signed a law banning abortion after 15 weeks of pregnancy, suggested that the leak was a “judicial insurrection” intended “to whip up a lot of the public to try and make very political, potentially try to bully into changing one of their positions. Lakers report card: Russell Westbrook. It’s also expected that any deal involving Westbrook will bring back long term salary to Los Angeles. The Oakland Athletics’ efforts to get a new ballpark in the Bay Area received a boost as a key group recommended approval of a change needed to keep the ball rolling there. He was going to spend time with Gisele and his family. Based on Westbrook’s exit interview, that included throwing barbs at Frank Vogel, Anthony Davis, and LeBron James, the former league MVP likely isn’t going to be shedding any tears if he gets traded. MAY 2 HONEY GOES HOME Just days after the NFL Draft, it was revealed that the New Orleans Saints are expected to sign safety Tyrann Mathieu in the coming days. “That type of thing, that decision on off the field issues, I’m probably a little more. Associate Professor of Film and Media Studies, Colorado State University. Bleacher Report”The 2022 NFL draft was a wild one, filled with trades, surprise selections—in the New England Patriots’ case, a Strange pick—and an early run on wide receivers. Lately, in light of its much lauded record, one unit of. FM Lavrov could not help hiding the deeply rooted antisemitism of the Russian elites. @JerusalemOkorie It started from the political, to the entertainment down to yahoo boys, now Porta Potty dubia, yet the world keeps silent, thunder will soon strike anyone who is going to talk about set at home when the sickness of it starts to spread out,. What we didn’t see over draft weekend was a high demand for rookie signal callers. Meanwhile, Zelenskyy said in his nightly address on Monday that “such an anti Semitic thrust by their minister means Russia has forgotten all the lessons of World War II. Many, but by no means all, of Kharkiv’s 1 million residents have fled. Your California Privacy Rights. 226 from Giants through Bengals: Ja’Tyre Carter, OG SouthernRound 7: No. Civilians evacuated from the besieged city of Mariupol finally arrive in the relative safety of Zaporizhzhia. You can change your choices at any time by visiting Your Privacy Controls.
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Why We Love YouTube いいね 増やす (And You Should, Too!)
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TFG Book Club
Reviews Index
Tag Archives: Nick Hornby
May 12, 2015 9:43 am \ by Tina
High Fidelity by Nick Hornby
Number of pages:Â 323
My copy:Â paperback, bought from D’s Books in Siem Reap, Cambodia
Rob is a pop music junkie who runs his own semi-failing record store. His girlfriend, Laura, has just left him for the guy upstairs, and Rob is both miserable and relieved. After all, could he have spent his life with someone who has a bad record collection? Rob seeks refuge in the company of the offbeat clerks at his store, who endlessly review their top five films (Reservoir Dogs…); top five Elvis Costello songs (Alison…); top five episodes of Cheers (the one where Woody sang his stupid song to Kelly…). Rob tries dating a singer whose rendition of Baby, I Love Your Way makes him cry. But maybe it’s just that he’s always wanted to sleep with someone who has a record contract. Then he sees Laura again. And Rob begins to think (awful as it sounds) that life as an episode of thirtysomething, with all the kids and marriages and barbecues and k.d. lang CD’s that this implies, might not be so bad.
I’ve been wanting to read Nick Hornby books for a long time, but I never found a reason to pick any of them up. Sure, he was on my radar, but every time I’d be in the bookstore to get a new book, I just don’t stop by to check his books. Maybe it’s because I have a bias for female contemporary (romance) authors, or you know, I just never had a reason to, until now.
So we discussed this book last April in the book club. I started reading this as soon as I finished the previous book, and when my friends started finishing the book ahead of time, I wondered if I was having a hard time reading it because I was busy, or because I was just disinterested.
Don’t get me wrong -Â High Fidelity was very entertaining, and I thought Rob was a bit of an adorable music dork who was just starting to group. I liked the setting, and while I wasn’t super enamored with his friends, I thought they provided a pretty fun cast of characters. The song references weren’t exactly my cup of tea, but somehow all of them made me imagine this in a movie (even if I didn’t actually go and watch the movie version of this book).
But at the end of it all, I felt pretty apathetic over Rob. Perhaps it was his whining that got to me, which I tried to understand because I knew I also did that (and sometimes I still do that). Maybe it’s because of how he treated Laura, except Laura wasn’t so great either. I wish I can say that I couldn’t relate to him, but I have had my share of disappointments in romance – perhaps not like Rob’s, but don’t all romantic failures have some kind of common vein in them? I didn’t exactly dislike Rob like some of my other friends did, but I didn’t like him so much, either. I had no strong opinions about him (or his story, for that matter), which kind of made me pretty much apathetic to the book.
The ending was okay, and okay, I liked how there was that some sort of turnaround there for everyone. But I think that’s the extent of care I could give to this. Maybe I should watch the movie version of this for better appreciation? I would try to read another Nick Hornby book, but perhaps not anytime soon, and I would probably only do it if I was given a more compelling reason. Don’t take all of my words, though. I think it just wasn’t for me, and like Rob’s other relationships, I think that’s okay.
The best part of the book, IMHO, was the discussion. My adopted little brother did an excellent job with the discussion, and I actually bought a faux leather jacket to follow his whims as the moderator. ;)
Favorite dog-eared quotes:
…sentimental music has this great way of taking you back somewhere at the same time that it takes you forward, so you feel nostalgic and hopeful all at the same time. (p. 63)
…he’s worried about how his life is turning out, and he’s lonely, and lonely people are the bitterest of them all. (p. 151)
Rating:Â ★★★★★
It’s a Wonderful Book World
Posted in: Reviews \ Tagged: 2 stars, 2015, contemporary, F2F, Nick Hornby, TFG
Fall Like Rain
I wrote a novel! Wrote it under my pen name, and it's contemporary romance about friends and the friend zone. (And no, it's not about me :P)
Get it from Amazon or Smashwords ♥
Want print? Get it here! ♥
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Unknown Mortal Orchestra shares new...
Unknown Mortal Orchestra shares new single and video, “I Killed Captain Cook”
Unknown Mortal Orchestra has shared the new single “I Killed Captain Cook” alongside a video starring Ruban Nielson‘s mother, Deedee Aipolani Nielson, a Kanaka Maoli from Hilo and Miss Aloha Hula 1973, who also features on the single art.
The tender, acoustic track is told from the perspective of the Hawaiian that killed Captain James Cook, the English explorer largely responsible for the colonization of Polynesia, who attempted to kidnap Hawaiian chief Kalaniʻōpuʻu, and eventually met his demise in Hawai’i as a result. Nielson’s mother would tell him the story as a child with pride and the song is written for, and as a tribute to, her. The song also marks the first offering from Unknown Mortal Orchestra this year and serves as the first taste of a forthcoming double album in 2023.
Listen to “I Killed Captain Cook” and watch the video for it below:
Along with the release of “I Killed Captain Cook,” Unknown Mortal Orchestra has announced their first tour in 4 years with a headline UK and North American tour that is set to kick off in March 2023. See full tour routing below:
20/3 – Spokane, WA @ Knitting Factory Spokane
22/3 – Portland, OR @ Crystal Ballroom
25/3 – Seattle, WA @ The Moore Theatre
27/3 – Sacramento, CA @ Ace of Spades
28/3 – San Francisco, CA @ The Fillmore
31/3 – San Diego, CA @ The Observatory North Park
1/4 – Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Palladium
2/4 – Phoenix, AZ @ The Van Buren
4/4 – Denver, CO @ Ogden Theatre
5/4 – Kansas City, MO @ Uptown Theater
6/4 – St. Louis, MO @ The Pageant
7/4 – Minneapolis, MN @ First Avenue
8/4 – Chicago, IL @ Radius
10/4 – Detroit, MI @ Majestic Theatre
11/4 – Toronto, ON @ Queen Elizabeth Theatre
13/4 – New York City, NY @ Webster Hall
18/4 – Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club
21/4 – Philadelphia, PA @ The Fillmore
22/4 – Boston, MA @ Roadrunner
30/5 – Bexhill, UK @ De La Warr Pavilion
31/5 – London, UK @ O2 Academy Brixton
15/6 – Manchester, UK @ Albert Hall
16/6 – Leeds, UK @ Stylus
17/6 – Glasgow, UK @ SWG3 Galvanizers
Photo credit: Jenny Nielson
Tags: new music, new video, Ruban Nielson, Unknown Mortal Orchestra
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Liberia: Dr. Daniel E. Cassell Calls On Citizens To Commit To A Change In National Leadership
NewsPolitics
By Obediah Johnson Last updated Jul 27, 2022
MONROVIA – The Standard Bearer of the People’s Liberation Party (PLP) Dr. Daniel E. Cassell, says post-conflict Liberia continues to get old in age, but backward in terms of economic and infrastructural growth and development due to the failure of national government to find lasting solutions to the barrage of ills and vices that are strangulating the betterment of the nation and vast majority of the citizens.
Dr. Cassell observed that bad governance and economic backwardness remain the order of the day, while extreme poverty and hardship are seen on the faces of most of our citizens.
He emphasized that the post-conflict nation is engulfed with widespread stealing, looting and the depleting of the country’s coffers by a selective few in the public sector remain on the increase, leaving citizens destitute, and to survive at the mercy of God.
His assertions where contained in an Independence Day message delivered to Liberians from the United States of America.
Liberians in and around the world observed the country 175th Independence Day on July 26.
“Our country Liberia, which was once considered the “Beacon of Hope and a Sweet Land of Liberty” for many across the African continent turns 175 years old amid mountainous challenges which continues to strangulate the growth and development of our post-conflict nation and its citizenry. We as a nation and people are experiencing turbulent times since the inception of the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) led government of President George Manneh Weah.
“What do we have to be happy about or celebrate when the prices of basic commodities are astronomically increasing to the detriment of the ordinary citizens, most of whom cannot afford five United States dollars a day ($5.00 USD)?”
Going to bed hungry
Dr. Cassell observed that many parents cannot afford to send their children to school and a significant number of citizens continue to go to bed on empty stomach due to the harsh economic constraints and a record historically high rate of unemployment, because of the poor manner and form in which the country is being governed by the current CDC-administration.
He added that children are being forced into child labor as the only alternative, as they serve as breadwinners for their families, by selling between moving vehicles in the streets and other places and being deprived of the opportunity to acquire basic education as compared to the children of government officials who are learning in private schools locally and abroad.
“Should we celebrate and be happy during this year’s July 26th Independence Day when public officials, especially the President and his closed associates are accumulating ill-gotten, unexplained, and questionable wealth, while mysterious deaths and killings are on the increase?”
Dr. Cassell maintained that access to cheap and stable electricity is very rare, prompting the increase in acts of lawlessness and insecurity in present day Liberia.
Widen gaps
He claimed that the gap between the rich and poor, particularly those who are given authority to steer the affairs of the country and manage the natural resources, continue to widen daily due to the lack of job opportunities, mostly for young people.
He stated that foreign-direct investment opportunities have not come to realization under the current CDC-government due to the lack of trust and confidence from the international communities, and the consistent requests for “kickbacks” as a conduit for investment in the nation’s economy.
“Most of our citizens lack access and cannot afford the cost of basic healthcare services, as a result record number of children and adults are dying from medical problems that are preventable”.
“Public health centers across our country lack medicines, medical supplies and other essential medical equipment that are needed to save lives and guarantee quality healthcare delivery in an effective and efficient manner. While these public health centers are being robbed off those medical necessities, the private hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies of those in charge of our country’s health sector continues to flourish due to the diversion of medicines, medical supplies, and others essential medical equipment that are intended to benefit the less fortunate of our society, who cannot afford access to medical care at those private facilities”.
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Giving bootlickers jobs
Dr. Cassell observed that the “chanting of the ruling party’s battle cries, bootlicking and heaping undeserved praises are the only guarantors for jobs or handing of crumbs to our people by those political actors/actresses in authorities”.
“During the immediate past administration, “papa used to come home with plastic bag full with gifts for everyone at home”. But now, papa cannot even come home for fear of being bashed at by his wife or children for not even leaving food money home to feed his family. The pots of citizens are no longer boiling and no foods are being kept for strangers anymore”.
“Should we still celebrate when government officials, including the President, are dancing to “Buga music” and love and cherish the manner and form in which our less fortunate brothers and sisters line up at their compounds from the morning to evening hours just to beg for alms from them?”
“It is a known fact that Liberia is only getting old in age but backward in terms of infrastructural development, economic growth and building of our institutions as evidenced by the growing wave of societal ills, deprivation, marginalization, desperation, and poor national leadership”.
Dr. Cassell emphasized: “My fellow citizens, what do we have to celebrate as an aged-old country when these vices are visible and nothing is being done to curtail or eradicate them from our society?”
He said citizens only need to celebrate and be thankful for the gift of life that has been given them by the Almighty God and take a sober reflection on combating against these vices.
Commit to a change
He added that Liberians should reflect and make a critical decision on the needs of the country and how they can collectively tackle these challenges by committing ourselves to a change in national leadership for the betterment of their lives and the transformation of our country.
“Ahead of the 2023 elections, let’s commit ourselves to the liberation and emancipation of our people from bad governance to guarantee the equitable distribution of the country’s resources”.
He stressed that citizens should standup and combat against circumstances that are threatening the wellbeing of their people and ensure that Liberia regains its pre-war status.
Dr. Cassell said it is incumbent upon all Liberians to place the country on the right path by firstly maintaining the peace and tranquility and making a decisive decision towards a change.
Remain patriotic
Though times are tough, he added, that citizens should brave the storm and remain patriotic to ensure that our country moves from backwardness to prosperity.
“Let’s hold hands with our religious leaders to continue to pray for our nation and remain resilient and committed towards a cause that will bring about sustainable development and opportunities to our country and citizens”.
“As our national anthem states: “This glorious land of liberty will long be ours”, we must stand up against vices which have the proclivity to keep us backward and deprived our unborn generations their fair share of the national resources and democratically take back our country from the gang of thieves and looters”.
“Let’s do nothing to derail the peace and stability of our nation during these troubling times but remain steadfast and hopeful that the dawning of a new day is fast approaching in Liberia”.
Dr. Cassell, however, called on Liberians to see the PLP as the best alternative to make these dreams a reality.
Obediah Johnson 658 posts 0 comments
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US Invite Still Stands’: Ambassador Says President Weah’s Visit Still in the Cards
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